Love Forsaken, Never to Return

At some point that night, a thunderstorm rolled in, filling the air with flashes of lightning and booming thunder. Without thinking, I curled into Terence’s side and his arm instinctively came around me. “It’s okay. I’m here,” he murmured. For a fleeting moment, I felt the warmth of the man I once loved.

Then the door creaked open.

Standing there in a lacy slip was Pearlie, trembling like a frightened kitten. “Terry, I’m scared. Can I sleep with you?” Her voice wavered, but the sparkle in her eyes betrayed her true intentions.

Terence hesitated, glancing at me. But the way his arm slipped away said everything. A deafening crack of thunder followed as Pearlie launched herself into his arms, burying her face in his chest. His hands cradled her protectively, whispering reassurances.

I watched as the two clung to each other and retrieved silently.  The storm outside no longer seemed so terrifying.

The next morning, my phone buzzed with a call from the director. His cheerful tone was a stark contrast to the turmoil in my heart.

“Brigitte, you’ve finally agreed! Are you sure about this?”

“Yes, sir. I’ve made up my mind,” I said firmly.

“Make sure you’re prepared and inform your family. You know the risks involved in this project,” he said, his concern evident.

“I have no family left to inform,” I replied, my voice steady despite the weight of my words. “My brother gave his life for this project three years ago. I’ll finish what he couldn’t. I won’t back out now.”

“Okay, come when you're ready!” Mr. Harvey sighed before agreeing.

“I’ll be there in three days,” I said quickly and hung up, hearing the sound of footsteps behind me.

“Where are you going?” Terence appeared behind me without warning, startling me.

“Nothing, just going for a walk,” I said, offering a random excuse to get away.

But Terence, looking tired, pulled me over and pressed his hands on my shoulders. “Brigitte, stop being like. Pearl’s been terrified of storms since she was a kid. Don’t be mad, okay?”

“Okay,” I replied, keeping my tone indifferent.

“What’s the matter with you? You’ve been acting strange lately,” he pressed, his frustration clear as he pulled me into an embrace. “What’s wrong? If there’s something upsetting you, you can talk to me.”

I shook my head, refusing to answer. What was there left to say? He frowned deeply, his gaze piercing, but I stayed silent.

Then Pearlie appeared, her arms wrapping around Terence’s as she pouted. “Terry, I need to head back to campus. Can you drive me?” Her eyes darted to me, filled with smug defiance.

Terence hesitated for a brief moment, his gaze flickering toward me. Only when he was sure I wouldn’t react did he nod and leave with Pearlie.

After they left, I began packing. One by one, I burned every photo we had together, leaving no trace of the memories we’d once shared. While sorting through his room, I found a small lion plushie covered in dust in the corner. I had made it for him, embedding strands of my hair into the stitching as a token of love. Now, it felt like a cruel joke.

For the first time, I was relieved we never made it to the city hall to get married. At least I wouldn’t have to deal with the legalities of separation.

Three days later, I stood at the airport, my suitcase in hand. The sense of freedom was almost intoxicating as I approached the entrance. But before I could step inside, a hand clamped over my mouth from behind, dragging me backward. I struggled, my heart pounding in terror, as a cloth was tied over my eyes and my hands and feet were pinned down. I couldn’t move. I couldn’t scream. Darkness engulfed me.