Love Is More Than A Contract

When I got back to the party, I saw Brian and Laurel sitting very close to each other at the corner table. I stared from afar, watching as they leaned too closely to each other.

It hurt my heart, watching them sit so closely and exchange touches in public. They looked like they were not even trying to hide this. They are making me look like a fool; the love of my life and my best friend.

It’s a pain like no other.

“You know,” Ryan came up from behind me, making me jump, “you should join the party.”

“I don’t like being the center of attention,” I said, “I’d rather be on the sidelines.”

“I know what you mean,” he answered back with a soft smile, “Watching is always more interesting than being a part of the full picture.”

“Yeah,” I said, “it is.”

Silence took over for a bit.

“I know you heard,” Ryan whispered, “what was said in the car. I hope you know, whatever you decide to do, I’ve got your back.”

I looked at Ryan with wide eyes, “You didn’t tell Brian?”

“I owe you more than I owe him.” Ryan said, “And what he’s doing is wrong.”

“Aren’t you…” I looked around before saying the next thing, “scared?”

He looked around as well, “I may be working for a mafia family, but I still have my code.”

“I’m glad.” I smiled at him, “I just wished my best friend could have been trusted, you know?”

Ryan looked at me, his eyes trying to say something he can’t say out loud.

I smiled at him, encouraging him to say it. I could tell he was about to say it but his body language changed, became secretive. “What are my two favorite people doing here?” Brian’s voice came to my senses. I felt his arms slide around my waist.

“We’re just chatting, love.” I said, leaning back on instinct. It felt wrong immediately, like I was lying to everybody in this room. But, I guess, I was lying. I was pretending to be happy when I wasn’t.

“Hmm, okay.” He said as he kissed my neck lightly, “Why don’t you sit down over there, Angela. I have to talk to Ryan for a bit.”

I saw Ryan stiffen for a little bit; he looked a bit scared. “Can you dance with me first?” I asked.

“Oh, can it be later?” He asked, “I really need to talk to my…best friend.” His voice sounded dangerous. I needed to protect Ryan, especially after what he did for me.

“You won’t stop me from dancing with my future husband?” I said with as much of an innocent voice as possible.

Brian took a beat, looking between us before smiling again and taking my hand. He twirled me around, “Of course,” He said, “Anything for the love of my life.”

My heart sank at his lie. He brought it to the dancefloor, signaling the DJ to play something slow.

The song, “So Close” by Jon McLaughlin started to fill the room. We danced to the waltz beat, slow and…fake. I looked into Brian’s eyes, which I could tell wasn’t looking at me but behind my head.

I wanted to turn to look but I knew who he was staring at.

Suddenly someone tapped my shoulder, it was Laurel. “Hey, sorry, “she said, “Can I cut in? I have things to discuss with you, Angela.”

“You do?” Brian asked at the same time I asked, “Really?”

“Yes,” she said with a sly smile. I have no idea what she wants to talk to me about. I nodded at Brian and left with Laurel. We went to the table they were sitting at earlier.

“So,” Laurel started, her smile turning cautious, “I have something to tell you.”

“Should I be worried?” I asked.

“Oh,” she giggled – but something about it felt fake, “It depends on how you see things.”

I looked at her questioningly, waiting for her to continue what she was going to say.

“I just want you to know, I’ll always be your friend, okay?” She said, “No matter what.”

“Of course,” I said slowly, “I’m starting to get worried, Laurel.”

“You…” She paused before continuing, “I’ll be fine.”

I looked into her eyes, searching for answers. Then, it dawned on me that she didn’t want to be doing what she’s being forced to do either. She must have been sold too. However, her parents are rich; partners with the Rocha family. What could have happened?

“Laurel,” I said, “I’m also your friend, okay? I’m here…no matter what.”

Laurel looked like she was about to cry. However, she was trying her best to not let the tears fall.

Then something felt off. I looked at the glass of water on the table, that was shaking. I looked up to see the lights overhead swinging.

Then I realized, this was an earthquake.