Left High and Dry

Kelly’s POV

I was playing with the wedding ring on my finger. I told him to go home early but he didn’t come home completely. He wasn’t even answering my calls.

Well, now Lexi was back, this house was probably not home in his eyes anymore.

My eyes turned to my pregnancy report on the table. What a mockery. I was still naive to hold a glimmer of hope that things would be different if I told him about the baby. But forget this baby was out of his plan.

Sure, Pierce was not the kind who would force me to have an abortion. But he couldn't cut out his obsession with Lexi either. He might stay in this loveless marriage if his parents asked. But all I had would only be an empty shell. That's not a Father what I wanted for my baby.

I wiped off the tears collecting at the corner of my eyes and collected the report. It was 5 am already when I looked at the clock on the wall. I tried to dial his number again, but still busy. What was he busy with? Was he busy making love with Lexi? He must have missed her a lot, didn't he?

I still remember the day when he came back after his first private vacation with Lexi. His joy was unmistakable. Nearly at once, I could tell they made love. The same day I returned to my room, I cried out loud as I took off my makeup. Nothing I did worked. I could never replace Lexi in his heart.

I felt like hundreds of pounds pressing my chest. I decided to get a shower to wash away all the miserable emotions but the moment I opened the wardrobe, our intimate clothes were snuggled together bringing me back to the memory of how Pierce and I had s*x here last time.

It was that time he didn't use contraception. He was so passionate that I thought he finally accepted our marriage. I once believed his return from this business trip would be a fresh start for us but actually, it was a start for us to fall apart now.

Unable to suppress my feelings any longer, I crouched down crying loudly. Why? Why am I always the one they choose to abandon? Why don't I deserve to be loved?

I didn't remember how I fell asleep. When the alarm clock went off, I subconsciously touched the pillow beside me. Cold as last night. He didn't come home yet. I sneered at myself as I caught my reflection in the dresser mirror. The dark circles under my eyes were so clear and my hair was a total mess, looking like a ghost.

See, Kelly? That's what happened when you stepped into such a loveless marriage without a second thought. You would only break yourself if you continue on the wrong path. Just get a divorce. Spare him and yourself. Your baby needs a strong mommy.

Suddenly a wave of nausea flooded my stomach and I realized I hadn't even eaten anything last night. Feeling sick again, I run to the sink and puke. I spit yellowish liquid and it tastes so bad. I washed my mouth immediately and stared at my own reflection in the mirror. I shook my head and cupped my forehead as soon as I felt like throwing up again. I spit yellowish liquid again and while I’m washing my mouth, I feel a warm hand caressing my back.

I immediately lifted my face and met a pair of brown eyes looking at me through the mirror. Standing behind me with a worried face was my husband Pierce. I’ve always been thankful that I have him as my best friend and husband but now…I’m losing him. Hopelessly losing him.

“Are you okay? Are you not feeling well? You should’ve told me.”

I stared at him through the mirror. “You didn’t answer my calls.

Guilt flickered in his eyes. “I’m sorry. I had some things to do. I stayed in the office all night.”

I wiped my face and walked past him. He followed me as I sat in front of the vanity and started combing my hair.

“Kels…”

“I woke up late. I failed to prepare breakfast.”

I tried to avoid his eyes. I felt like I would lose my temper and snap at him. There was no moment when I felt his selfishness so clearly as now. He called me his best friend yet he had never seriously confronted my needs. My feelings.

"Kels...... you know I'm not asking about this. I'm just worried about your condition......"

“Kels, are we still okay?”

I stopped combing my hair and slowly met his eyes. Through the mirror, again. Really? He’s asking me that? After he offered me a divorce without even asking if I was okay with it? He decided on his own. Just because his first love is back. I can’t believe him.

I faked a smile. “I just don’t feel well today, Pierce.”

He immediately squatted beside me which is not surprising because I know he truly cares. What surprised me is why is he still doing this after he buried a dagger in my heart.

“Are you okay?” He gently touched my forehead and neck. “Are you sick? Tell me how you feel, Kels.”

“My feelings don’t matter,” I couldn’t help but blurt out. He looked shocked because of what I said.

When I attempted to avoid him, he grabbed my wrist and made me face him. His face is mirroring his anger now. He’s completely lost his patience.

“What’s wrong with you, Kels? You’ve been acting like this since yesterday. Is this about Lexi? Or was it because I didn’t come home last night?”

I looked him in the eyes, annoyed. "You're the one who asked for a divorce! I told you to come back earlier but you just let me wait for the whole night. How do you want me to greet you this morning, Pierce?”

He clenched his jaws and shook his head. “Kels, I..."

"Enough. We can talk about the divorce after work today."

“Kels!” He called and grabbed my shoulders. Confusion and pain were visible in his eyes. “Are you…in love with me?”

I was taken aback? In love? Yes! Ever since we were in high school. Ever since he became my best friend. Who wouldn’t fall for someone who has been protecting you ever since?

But of course, I can’t tell him. It would only complicate things more. I don’t even want him to pity me. I shook my head and pushed his arms away. “Are you on drugs? I’m not in love with you.”

I turned my back on him and entered the bathroom again. I locked it before going to the bathtub. I should focus on myself. I can’t let my emotions affect me but…but why are my tears falling again?

“You are so pathetic, Kelly! You can’t even tell him how you truly feel,” I whispered to myself as I wiped my tears angrily.

It took me almost an hour bathing. When I was done, I realized Pierce had already left. I shook my head in disbelief. He’s been constantly abandoning me. I can’t believe we’d reach this point. I thought we were okay. I was so stupid.

***

“Good morning, Miss Monroe…”

“Good morning, Vice President…”

I did not greet anyone back just like how I used to greet them back. I still feel pissed and my mood seems off. Irritation can easily take over me and I can’t control it. Probably because of Pierce’s divorce proposal or because of my pregnancy.

I was about to enter my office when I heard two girls talking.

“Did you see her? I bet she’s Mr. Anderson’s girlfriend. They seemed close.”

My forehead creased. Pierce’s girlfriend?

“Ah! It’s a waste that I didn't see her face but I feel like it’s Miss Lexi.”

“Lexi? Lexi Gilbert? The model?”

“Yes! I bet my whole month's salary on this. They look good together.”

“Come on! Miss Monroe and Mr. Anderson look better together.”

“Are you serious? They’re best friends. You know, some people are better off just friends. It’s Mr. Anderson and Miss Monroe.”

I squeezed my eyes closed and pushed the door of my office. I slowly closed it and rested my back against it. This is harder than I expected.

I took a deep breath and sat on my swivel chair. I opened the computer at the same time a notification popped up on the screen of my phone. My hands started shaking as soon as I saw the notification. It was Pierce’s social media update. He uploaded a photo of him and Lexi together. Eating in a fancy restaurant.

I balled my fists and gritted my teeth. Of course, there’s no way I can compete with her in his heart. She’s always the first one and I will always be the last in his priorities.

Down In the Dumps

Kelly’s POV

I was lying on the bed, n*ked under the white sheets. I’m watching Pierce intently as he watched me too while caressing my hair with his fingers. He was looking at me with care, with admiration. My heart is fluttering. He’s my best friend but I feel like we can be beyond that. I’m in love with him. So much in love with him that I feel like I would die if I lost him.

“Why are you staring at me like that?”

I swallowed hard as I felt the discomfort between my legs. I gave myself to him last night. After we got married.

“What if I get pregnant?”

He doesn't love me the way I love him. He only married me because of his grandparents. His grandmother is sick and our families are friends. We have been arranged to marry and I never thought he’d agree to this marriage.

He gently caressed my cheek as his eyes softened. “Kels, you know I’m not ready to be a father. I’m not even ready to get married. I just did this because of my grandparents. I know you have the same reason?”

I felt my heart breaking apart from what he said. I gave him a smile even when I was breaking inside. He moved closer to me, hugged me, and gently placed a kiss on my forehead. I sucked my breath and squeezed my eyes closed. This is insane! Really insane! Why did I even fall in love with my best friend?

“Kels…”

“Kelly, wake up…”

Someone shook my shoulders. “Kels, come on! Why did you sleep here?”

I slowly opened my eyes and lifted my face. I realized I fell asleep on my office table and my neck and back are now sore.

“Pierce?” I looked at the man beside me.

“You look tired. Have you been working overtime these past few days?”

I stared at his face. He’s here. Why is he here? From what I remember he went out with his first love. I felt a pang in my chest because of that thought.

“What time is it?”

He smiled. “It’s almost 4 PM. I came with someone.”

“Someone?” My forehead creased as I roamed my eyes and my mood instantly changed after I saw a familiar woman sitting comfortably on the couch while watching her. There was disgust in her eyes but when Pierce looked her way, she immediately flashed a sweet smile.

“I brought Lexi here to talk about our contract with her. She will be our new model.”

I looked at Pierce again with a blank face. Bummer!

“Come here, Lexi. Kels will talk to you about the contract.”

“Contract? She’s supposed to undergo an interview and pass it, Pierce.”

He looked at me and scratched his cheek. “About that, Kels. Can we let her pass without it? You know, for old time’s sake.”

“You’ll do that to just anyone for old time’s sake?”

Pierce’s expression immediately changed. He clenched his jaws and glanced at Lexi while my eyes remained on him, watching his reaction.

“I-It’s okay if I have to undergo an interview, Pierce.”

Lexi stole my attention because of what she said. I looked at her with a stoic expression on my face.

“You must like cutting corners,” I said nonchalantly.

“Kels!” Pierce held my arm and looked at Lexi apologetically.

I clenched my jaws and looked him in the eyes. “You’re the President, Pierce. You can do whatever you want.”

His forehead creased as he slowly shook his head. “What’s our problem, Kels?”

“Nothing.” I shook my head and grabbed my bag as I pulled myself up. I pulled my arm back from him and smiled. “Break a leg.”

“Kels!”

I walked out of my own office with a heavy heart. I kept on clenching my jaws and gritting my teeth. He’s dumb. He’s just handsome but he’s dumb! He dared to bring his first love to talk to me about the d*mn contract? Studpid and insensitive!

“Kelly!”

I ignored him and continued walking. The employees around are watching us but I don’t give a d*mn. I went straight to the elevator and pushed the floor of the basement parking lot. I stared into Pierce’s eyes as the door of the elevator slowly slid closed and he stood in front, staring at my face.

I don’t wanna argue with him about Lexi. So I better leave now and let them do what they want. I just can’t accept the fact that Lexi is so shameless as to show her face to me after she came back like nothing and started treating my gullible husband like a dog.

Luke was already waiting for me in the car when I reached the parking lot. He was puffing a cigarette again but he immediately threw it and stepped on it after he saw me coming.

“Drive home,” I said coldly and entered the car.

I pressed my lips together and sucked my breath, trying to calm myself down. I shouldn’t be weak. For my baby.

“Luke…”

“Yes, ma’am?”

I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”

When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his b*tch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.

“KELLY!”

I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.

“What did you do?”

My forehead creased. “I cooked.”

He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”

“You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”

“Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”

I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”

“No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”

I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.

“If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”

“Don’t turn your back on me—”

“Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”

His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.

“You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”

Bear the Brunt

Kelly’s POV

I walked out and went to the bedroom. I grabbed a pillow and blanket. I turned and was about to leave when Pierce entered the bedroom and looked at me.

“Where are you going?”

I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”

“I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”

A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”

“Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”

“I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”

He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”

I tilted my head, “Are you not?”

His forehead creased. “I am not an *sshole, Kelly. Did you see me kissing her or fcking her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”

“Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”

“Kelly!”

“Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”

He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”

I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”

“Wait, Kelly…”

I pushed his hand away and shot him cold stares. “What?”

He looked down and licked his lips. He looked really guilty now and from that moment, I saw the man I fell in love with. I saw my best friend.

He sighed and walked towards me. He gently grabbed my wrist and wrapped his arms around my tiny body, giving me a warm and apologetic embrace.

I felt him kissing my hair as he whispered… “I’m sorry… I-I was stupid for lashing out at you. I was just…worried about Lexi. You know my father, he would ruin her.”

I squeezed my eyes closed. You’re afraid that she’d get ruined but you’re not even worried that you’re ruining me. I want to punch him. To hurt him and hit his head with the hope of waking him up.

“Stay here, please. Sleep beside me, Kels…”

That’s my cue. I pushed him away and hugged the pillow tighter. I looked him in the eyes and shook my head, “There’s no reason for us to sleep together, Pierce. I’ll be sleeping in the guest room.”

“Kels…”

I turned my back and left him in the master bedroom. I went straight to the guest room and dropped my exhausted body on the bed. I caressed my cheek, thinking I was crying unknowingly again but there were no tears. I’m in pain but I’m not crying anymore. Is this the stage of heartbreak where you’re getting used to the pain and you’re just accepting it wholeheartedly? Pathetic! I feel like this is just self-pity.

“Kels…” Pierce’s voice was followed by three knocks. He tried to open the door and I’m so stupid for forgetting to lock it.

He entered carrying a tray of food. He pressed his lips together and walked towards me. He stood beside the bed and looked down at me as if weighing my reaction.

“I brought your dinner. I heated it too. I’m sorry for interrupting your meal.”

My eyes landed on the tray of food. He never let me eat alone before. Even if he was full, he would eat with me especially if I cooked the food.

A bitterness crept into my heart. Quit reminiscing, Kelly! Those memories were just an illusion. Those times were borrowed.

He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”

“Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”

He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.

“I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”

I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”

He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”

I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.

***

Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.

“We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.

I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.

We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.

I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.

“I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”

“Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.

I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.

“Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a sl*t?”

Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.

“He’s not cheating, dad.”

“Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.

“I want a divorce, dad.”

“Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.

“LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.

“NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.

“Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”

“I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”

Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”

“Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.

I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”

Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.

"What did you say, Kelly?"