Chapter3
1152 Words
I felt weak in the knees. Daniella glanced up at me. “Is anything the matter?”
I forced a smile, my cheeks burning. “Oh no, it’s nothing. It’s a pleasure to meet you Daniella,” I breathed.
“Same here. Alright, I’ll leave you two love birds,” she teased then gathered her dress and walked away.
I caught sight of Tristan walking towards me and stumbled back, almost tripping on my dress.
Kyle’s strong arms caught me.
“What’s wrong? why do you look uneasy?”
“Nothing, just nervous, can I go upstairs to freshen up?”
He let out a short laugh, “You’re the prettiest woman in this room and you’re nervous? Babe, listen, you look stunning, you’re good okay?”
I nodded, but from the corner of my eyes, I noticed that Tristan was getting closer.
“Tristan?” Kyle called and the devil turned to face us.
My heart skipped a beat and I straightened my posture.
I could see the look on Tristan’s face when he saw me, it was like he had seen a ghost.
His steps slowed as he approached us, and we locked eyes.
Kyle and Tristan shook hands and then they exchanged a short side hug. Tristan didn’t take his eyes off me.
“It’s been so long Tristan, where have you been?” Kyle asked.
Tristan cleared his throat. “Just been busy with life.”
Kyle looked between the two of us, “Have you two met before?” He joked.
Tristan opened his mouth to speak but I beat him to it. “No, he just looked like an old friend of mine, but it’s not the same person,” I rushed out and forced a smile.
“Well this is Tristan, my buddy from high school, we go way back. Tristan, this is Marlene, my wife.”
“Marlene…?” Tristan repeated. I could sense something mocking in his tone.
“Nice to meet you too, Tristan,” I quipped, extending my arm for a handshake.
He shook my hand and his touch sent goosebumps across my skin.
I snatched my hand as quickly as I could and fought the urge to swipe it against my dress.
“Come, have a seat Tristan,” Kyle offered.
Tristan nodded then walked towards the table, not before shooting another glance at me.
“Kyle, babe, I want to use the restroom, I’ll be back.” He nodded and released me.
I took quick strides toward the restroom and locked the door, it took a few seconds for the situation to hit me.
I stared at the mirror.
“What the hell is that pig doing here?!” I seethed, washing my hands with soap under the faucet.
A woman came out of the bathroom stall, eyebrows raised.
I offered an apologetic smile, embarrassment washing over me. I dried my hands and stepped out.
Kyle was still welcoming guests at the entrance and catching up with some friends, this was my chance.
I walked up to the table where Tristan was seated. “What are you doing here?” I hissed.
He shrugged, “You heard your husband, I’m his childhood friend. So it’s Marlene now huh?”
“Just attend the party and leave our lives forever,” I warned. “I mean it, Tristan.”
He sneered, “Do you know how long I’ve been looking for you Layla?”
“Don’t call me that,” I deadpanned.
“Now, you’re here, on a platter of gold, I want you back.” He shrugged and popped an apple into his mouth.
My stomach churned, “I would never leave Kyle for you, I’d rather be with a monster than be with you,” I spat and walked away.
I could feel his eyes on my skin and I tightened my fist.
The event started with Kyle giving a heartfelt speech, and then different guest speakers had their moments on the stage too.
Then the host, Daniella, announced that it was time to unveil my new designs.
The hall fell into hushed silence as the music started playing. The models came out one by one, and for a second I forgot about Tristan.
He did not exist, the only thing that did was the life I had built, and I would do anything to protect it.
I smiled, jamming my hands together as Kyle adjusted his suit beside me.
After the walk, all the models lined up behind the host. “Let’s invite the face of the moment, the brilliant woman who created this design, Marlene Iyes.”
I ascended the stage as everyone cheered.
“Thank you very much for your support, it means a lot to be able to showcase my work in front of such a vibrant audience, designs by Marlene have much more in stock for you all.” I returned the mic and exited the stage.
The slow music started playing, indicating that it was time to dance. Kyle took me to the dance floor. “You did great honey.”
“Thank you.”
We reached the segment where we would have to switch partners.
Kyle spun me away, and I came to a stop in front of Tristan. I tried to move but a voice rang. “Awwn c’mon! Dance with the man!”
“Dance dance dance!” Some voices started chanting, including Kyle, who wore an innocent smile.
I faced Tristan, and a s**t-eating grin was plastered across his lips, “Come on, Dance with me…” He whispered and I stepped on his foot.
“Trying to run away as always huh? Typical Layla,” He grunted.
“It’s Marlene to you.”
“Does he know? That you’re my wife?” A knot formed in my stomach.
“I am not your wife, and don’t you dare—”
“Oh I will, you’ll be mine, mark my words.”
“I will kill you before that happens, mark my words,” I spat.
“Okay Tristan, I want my wife back, songs over,” Kyle teased as he walked towards us.
Tristan smiled as I retreated with Kyle, sparing him no second glance.
Soon the event came to a wrap, Kyle was seeing some guests off while I stood beside him. Then, Tristan approached.
“Hey Kyle,” He called.
“Ah, Yes?” Kyle responded, tone filled with enthusiasm.
“I was wondering if you know anywhere I could crash, the hotel I made reservations at just canceled my reservation, they’re fully booked.”
My breath hitched and I glared at Tristan who struggled.
“Forget that,” Kyle rolled his eyes, patting Tristan’s shoulders. “You can stay at my place.”
My heart dropped into my stomach.
“Right baby,” Kyle asked and both men turned to me.
“S-sure,”
- Writer
