DRIFTING EMOTIONS

CHAPTER 2

Tyler found himself visiting the coffee shop more frequently. For someone who didn't have many friends, he found comfort in the amazing conversations with Grace.

Tyler and Grace sat in the cozy corner of the coffee shop, he stirred his latte absentmindedly with his thoughts miles away.

Grace, sensing his turmoil, looked at him with concern. "Tyler, you seem like you're carrying the weight of the world. What happened with your dad?"

Tyler sighed, a mix of frustration and confusion etched on his face. "I confronted him about the whole 'rule' thing, you know? But instead of getting any clarity, he just spun more enigmatic tales. It's like he enjoys keeping me in the dark".

Grace raised an eyebrow. "What did he say this time?"

"He mentioned family responsibilities, a legacy, and this 'greater good' concept. It's infuriating Grace. I want to trust him, but he's not giving me anything solid". Tyler explained running his hand through his hair.

Grace nodded, absorbing his words. "That sounds tough. Have you tried pushing him for more details?"

"I did, but it's like talking to a wall. He's convinced that I'll understand everything in time, but I can't help feeling lost in the meantime" Tyler replied, frustration evident in his voice.

Amid the hum of the coffee shop, Tyler hesitated before continuing. "And you know what's even more annoying? He has previously mentioned that I won't inherit anything from him until I get married. Like what does that have to do with everything else?"

Grace's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, he said that? Why would marriage be tied to inheritance?"

Tyler nodded, his gaze searching for answers. "Exactly! It's like he's dangling this whole inheritance thing as if it's some sort of motivation for me to follow whatever rule he's talking about. It's making the whole situation even more baffling".

Grace placed a more comforting hand on Tyler's shoulder. "Tyler, that's a lot to process. Maybe he has his reasons, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating".

Tyler smiled “Hey, Grace. I've been curious, how do you manage to chat while you're working? Aren't you afraid of getting in trouble?”

Grace grinned, “Oh, they're pretty chill here. As long as I get my work done, they're cool with it.”

Tyler nodded, “Fair enough. I appreciate you taking the time to talk, though. You seem busy.”

Grace smirked…”Well, you're a regular, and regulars get special privileges”.

Tyler chuckled, appreciating the banter. “I'll consider myself lucky, then. It's just nice having someone to chat with during my coffee breaks”.

“And who said I'm not multitasking? I'm the queen of it” Grace teased.

As the weight of the conversation lingered, Tyler mustered a small smile. "You know, Grace, talking to you about this makes it a bit more bearable. Hey, can I get your number? Maybe we could grab hang out somewhere and have something else than coffee some other time...I could use the company, especially with all this craziness going on".

Grace smiled back, nodding "Of course, I'd like that, let me give you my number". She quickly typed it into his phone.

Tyler paced in his room, phone in hand, contemplating whether to make the call. Finally, with a deep breath, he dialed Grace's number. As the phone rang, his heart raced, unsure of what exactly to say to her.

"Hello?" Grace's warm voice came through the speaker.

"Hey, Grace, it's Tyler" he began, his tone a mix of uncertainty and determination.

"Oh Tyler, how are you doing?" Grace asked.

"I'm fine, I was wondering if you could come by my place in your spare time. I could use some company" Tyler said.

Grace's voice held a hint of curiosity. "Sure Tyler. Is everything okay?"

"I'll explain when you're here. It's just things have gotten even more complicated and I could use your perspective" Tyler admitted his words carrying the weight of the recent revelations.

There was a brief pause before Grace responded, "Of course, Tyler. I'll be there . Just give me the address".

Tyler quickly relayed his address and they exchanged goodbyes. As he hung up, a mix of relief and anticipation filled him. Whatever awaited them, having Grace by his side felt like a reassuring anchor in the sea of uncertainty.

Tyler opened the door, a mix of nerves and anticipation as he welcomed Grace into his home. The cozy living room was bathed in warm hues, and the faint scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air.

"Welcome to my humble abode, make yourself comfortable," Tyler said with a smile, gesturing for Grace to step inside. "Can I get you something to drink, coffee, tea, or maybe something else?"

"Grace smiled, taking in the surroundings "Coffee sounds perfect...Your place is lovely Tyler."

Tyler mouthed a thank you.

As Tyler headed to the kitchen to prepare Coffee, Grace wandered around, admiring the personal touches that adorned the space. The walls were adorned with framed photographs, capturing moments from Tyler's life. Tyler returned with two mugs of coffee and handed one to Grace.

"Here you go. Feel free to make yourself at home".

Grace took a seat on the couch, sipping the coffee and Tyler joined her. The air filled with a blend of warmth and anticipation.

"So what have you been up to lately?" Grace asked, her curiosity evident.

"Grace", he began cautiously, "I've been thinking, my dad made it clear that I won't inherit anything from him and I won't take over his company until I get married. Adding to that, I've noticed our family doctor has been frequenting my dad's house lately, I think my dad is sick but of course he won't tell me about it. I think I should just do what he wants and with everything going on, I can't help but wonder if.....if having a contract marriage might be a way to make him happy since I am not ready for commitment. At least on the surface. It could also be a way for me to get closer to the truth, to find out what he's hiding. What do you think?"

"Well, I hope you know that contract marriages can be risky. There are emotional complexities and potential legal issues that might arise" Grace cautioned.

Tyler, leaning forward nodded. "I get that. It's just that with the current state of things, it seems like a practical solution. I need to take my position in my father's company as soon as possible".

"I understand, but emotions can't be compartmentalized. What if one of you develops real feelings, or what if expectations change?" Grace pointed out.

Tyler sighed, realizing the depth of her concern. "You're right. It's not as simple as it sounds".

Curiosity sparked in Grace's eyes as she asked, "Have you found someone interested in this arrangement?" Someone you trust enough for such?".

Tyler hesitated, then admitted, "I've been considering it but no, I haven't found anyone yet".

Grace leaned back, studying him. "Tyler, don't rush into something just for convenience. Take your time and find someone with genuine understanding. It's crucial".

Tyler looking earnest said, "You know, you've been very understanding and supportive lately which makes me feel that you might be the best choice for this".

Grace blinked, processing the unexpected proposal. "Tyler, are you sure about this?"

Tyler sighed, his gaze fixed on the floor. "I'm not entirely sure, but I feel trapped. It's just about my inheritance and unraveling the secrets that Dad is keeping. I hate the idea of dragging you into this but I trust you and I don't have anyone else to turn to. Maybe if we play along, we can get closer to the truth".

Grace took a deep breath, looking into Tyler's eyes with sincerity. "Tyler, I think we need to seriously consider the whole contract marriage idea before jumping into it. It's a big commitment and we should weigh the pros and cons together".

Tyler nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging Grace's concern. "You're right, we should take time to discuss it thoroughly and make sure we're both on the same page before making any decisions".

Grace stood up, a mix of emotions lingering on her face. "I perfectly understand what you're going through Tyler but I need some time to process everything so in the meantime, I need to be on my way " she said, giving him a gentle smile.

Grace, on the verge of leaving Tyler's house, suddenly receives a call. Her expression changed from joy to concern as she answered.

"Hello?" She whispered

Tyler notices the shift and watched as her eyes well up with tears.

Grace, is everything okay? Tyler asked with concern.

Grace shook her head, trying to compose herself.

"I...I need to go. Something came up."

Tyler couldn't hide his concern "hey, if you want to talk about it, I'm here."

Grace forced a smile but declined.

"Not now, Tyler. I appreciate it, but I'm just not ready to talk about it."

She grabbed her coat, while holding back tears.

"Alright, Grace. Take the time you need. I'll be here if you want to talk later." Tyler said not knowing what more to do.

Grace nods, silently grateful for his understanding, and leaves without revealing the weight of the heartbreaking phone call.