Emotional turmoil

As I stroll through the spaceport city, I take in the breathtaking sight of the massive metal island that supports this bustling hub. It's a marvel of engineering, floating gracefully above the stars, and it makes me feel a sense of wonder that I haven't experienced in a long time. My staff is busy restocking supplies, and while their chatter fills the air, I feel a sudden urge to step away from it all and indulge in a little solitude.

Finding a luxurious dessert shop nestled in front of an elegant hotel, I can't resist the siren call of sweetness wafting through the air. The shop's exterior is inviting, with its gleaming glass displays showcasing an array of delicious treats. I push the door open, the soft chime of the bell overhead welcoming me into a world of indulgence.

After scanning the menu, I order a slice of their renowned dessert cake, my mouth watering in anticipation. The shop's ambiance is warm and cozy, and I choose a seat by the window, eager to watch the world outside while I treat myself. When the cake finally arrives, I'm momentarily taken aback by its exquisite presentation. I take a bite, and it's pure bliss—rich, velvety chocolate melting in my mouth, perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. I close my eyes for a moment, savoring the moment.

It strikes me how much I've deprived myself of simple pleasures like this during my time with James. Back then, my world revolved around his needs and desires, often pushing my own happiness to the background. But here, in this moment, I feel a sense of freedom, a quiet joy in allowing myself this indulgence.

As I enjoy my cake, I let my thoughts wander. The hustle and bustle of the city fades into the background, and for the first time in ages, I feel light, unburdened by expectations. I realize how important it is to take these small moments for myself—to savor life, one delicious bite at a time.

However, my reverie is abruptly shattered when I catch sight of a familiar figure outside the hotel. It's Zane. My heart quickens at the sight of him, but it's not his presence that sends a pang of unease through me; it's the beautiful blonde woman beside him. They're too close, their chemistry palpable as Zane wraps an arm around her waist, leading her toward the elevator.

I remind myself that we're friends, and this should be none of my business. After all, I have no interest in a romantic relationship with Zane—or anyone, for that matter. I cherish our friendship too much to complicate it with feelings that could threaten it. But as I watch him, laughing and leaning close to her, a wave of unexpected possessiveness washes over me.

I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself, and raise the milkshake to my lips, letting the cool sweetness ease the tension brewing inside. I can't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling in my chest—jealousy, confusion, and a hint of sadness. Why does it hurt to see him with someone else?

Zane wraps an arm around the blonde's waist, and it feels as if someone has plunged a dagger deep into my heart. The way he holds her, the ease of their interaction, makes it clear they share a connection I didn't know I was afraid of. I take another sip of my milkshake, trying to calm the storm within me, but it does little to quell the unease settling in my stomach.

I watch as they step into the sleek glass elevator outside, their figures framed against the bustling backdrop of the city. The elevator glides upward, I feel the weight of my longing settle heavily on my shoulders. The cake in front of me suddenly loses its appeal; the sweetness now tastes bittersweet. I force another bite, but it feels like a hollow gesture, lacking the joy it just held.

***

Honestly, my hand is worn out from taking matters into my own hands. I called Melissa here, the beautiful blonde woman currently undressing in front of me for a tryst. Melissa has been my on-and-off sex partner for the past five years, and I have to admit, she's not just a pretty face. She's an accountant in my office, sharp as a tack and ambitious, with a wit that matches her striking looks. There's something refreshing about her straightforwardness; she knows the score and doesn't delude herself with any notions of romance.

As I watch her lean, tall body slip into her underwear, I can't help but notice the stark contrast between her slender form and Leona's smaller, curvier figure. The comparison hits me harder than I expected. I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I'm here to distract myself, not to dwell on the reason why I need this distraction.

"Seem a little absent-minded, Zane," Melissa says, sauntering towards the bed with that confident sway of hers. Her voice is sultry, and she leans in closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

"That means you should work harder," I reply, forcing a light tone, though a part of me is struggling to focus. The last thing I want is for her to feel like a second choice, even if that's exactly what I've made her.

Just then, my intercom lights up, blinking insistently on my arm. Who's calling me? I flick my wrist to answer it, irritation flaring at the potential interruption. If it's Ethan, I'm going to—

"Hey, Zane," comes Leona's voice, cheerful and bright, slicing through the atmosphere of the room like a warm sunbeam. I freeze, my pulse quickening.

"Hey, Siren. Miss me already?" I say, forcing a casual tone, while Melissa shoots me an incredulous look, arching an eyebrow at my choice of words. I quickly motion for her to keep quiet; I'm not in the mood for judgment.

"Ha! I just found a dessert shop, and I'm eating all this cake and decided to share with my friend. You busy?" she asks, her enthusiasm infectious.

My stomach twists at the thought of Leona indulging in sweet treats while I'm here, tangled up in a different kind of distraction. This port city only has one dessert spot, right in front of the hotel. Dammit. I know I should say I'm busy, that I have plans, but—

"Nope, send me the location," I hear myself say, hating that I'm bending to the whim of a call I should ignore.

"Sure!" Leona chirps, and just like that, the call cuts off, leaving me feeling a mix of guilt and longing. I let out a heavy sigh, rubbing the back of my neck, trying to shake off the unexpected rush of emotions.

"Well, that's interesting," Melissa observes, her expression shifting from surprise to annoyance, crossing her arms as she leans back against the wall.

I get off the bed and start fixing my clothes, my heart racing in a way that has nothing to do with the present company. I glance at the mirror, adjusting my shirt, but my thoughts keep drifting back to Leona.

"You can't be serious, Zane. I literally came here on an express ship from the other side of the stars for some action, and now you're leaving me like this?" Melissa pouts, motioning to her naked form with an exasperated sigh. Her disappointment is palpable, and I can feel the weight of it pressing down on me.

I raise an eyebrow, the question hanging in the air. "How much?" I ask, trying to keep my tone neutral, even though part of me is still captivated by her presence.

"You think money will appease me?" she scoffs, looking at me like I've just suggested something ridiculous.

"100,000 merits," I offer, knowing it's a lowball figure for me, really really high for the average person though.

She looks away, pretending to think it over, but I can see the challenge in her eyes.

"500,000 merits," she counters, a smirk playing on her lips, and I can't help but marvel at her audacity. Greedy thing.

"600,000 merits," I say, giving in.

Melissa's expression shifts to one of delight. "A pleasure, boss," she says, her voice dripping with playful mischief, clearly pleased with the outcome.

I roll my eyes, a mix of frustration and resignation bubbling inside me. I can't deny that part of me appreciates her boldness. But as I walk towards the door, I can't help but feel the pull of something more meaningful waiting for me outside.