Behind the wall

Episode 3

The city lights flicker against the tinted windows. Daniel drives silently, his knuckles tight around the wheel. Beside him, Victoria, scrolls on her phone, dressed to perfection.

She’s distant, rehearsing confidence, but her eyes betray a trace of nerves.

“You look... nice tonight.” Daniel said quietly, glancing at Victoria through the mirror.

“Thanks. It’s just dinner.” Victoria replied not really looking up.

A beat. His jaw clenches. ‘Just dinner.’

“You nervous?” Daniel asked.

“No… Maybe a little. It’s just… Dad thinks Marcus is... different and Stable. He doesn’t need me for anything. That’s... rare.” Victoria sighs, then softens.

“If he makes you happy, that’s what matters.” Daniel swallows hard, his voice steady, but his chest burns.

Victoria glances at him briefly, then looks away. She doesn’t notice the storm in his eyes.

It was night time already, Daniel pulls up smoothly. He steps out, opening Victoria’s door. She smiles politely, still distracted.

“Wish me luck.” Victoria said walking away.

Good luck.” Daniel said softly.

She doesn’t catch the weight in his tone as she walks off toward the glowing entrance. Daniel lingers, watching her disappear inside before he sinks back into the driver’s seat, exhaling a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

Inside the restaurant. There was warm light, soft music, glittering glasses. Marcus was charming, well-dressed, confident, he greets Victoria with ease.

Their conversation flows, laughs and subtle smiles and the chemistry is undeniable.

The waiter pours them wine, and they toast.

“I have to say, your father was right. You’re even more fascinating than I imagined.” Marcus leans in closer and says to Victoria.

Victoria blushes, lowering her eyes. For the first time in a long time, she feels... safe.

Later. Marcus walks Victoria out, his hand lightly at her back. Daniel is already parked at the curb, watching through the mirror.

Marcus opens the car door with gentlemanly ease.

“I had a wonderful evening. Definitely hoping for a second round.” Marcus said smiling.

“I’d like that.” Victoria said smiling genuinely.

Daniel’s heart sinks, but he forces his face blank.

Marcus bids her goodnight, his cologne lingering in the air as he walks off, and Victoria settles into the car.

There was only silence on the way home, only the hum of the engine.

Victoria looks out the window, a faint smile still playing on her lips. Daniel stares straight ahead, his knuckles pale against the steering wheel.

He doesn’t speak. Doesn’t dare.

“He’s different. I think... this might actually work.” Victoria says softly, almost to herself.

“That’s good.” Daniel swallows, his throat tight.

And he drives her home, his eyes never leaving the road, his heart breaking with every mile.