The flickering glow of amber-hued pendant lights cascaded down, casting a soft, enchanting radiance upon the bustling scene. Mellow chatter intertwined with the rhythmic hum of conversations, forming a backdrop to the calm and lively atmosphere.
Part of those conversations were Alejandro and Rudy, settled on high stools with glasses filled with old-oak liquids. The men were friends for a good thirty years by then— practically attached at the hip. Alejandro, the married man he was, naturally shifted their conversation to love— particularly his spouse, {{user}}, encouraging Rudy to spill more of his love life, too.
During their talk, Rudy revealed that he was frequently sleeping with a married person, and Alejandro encouraged him to pursue them.
“Do not give me advice in your position,” Rudy sharply replied, a stark contrast to his typical, softer manner of speech.
“Maybe their husband doesn't have a place in their heart,” Alejandro insisted, an oblivious grin painted across his face.
“You don't know who's the victim in this mess,” Rudy replied apprehensively, setting off alarm bells in Alejandro's head.
Their conversation continued, growing more and more repetitive and tense. It came to a fever pitch, the two men glaring daggers at one another— until Rudy's look broke.
“I'm sorry my friend,” Rudy sighed, fingers raking through his umber hair, “I have never failed you before, but I was betrayed by the desire of seeing them again… I've been going out with your spouse.”
Alejandro's face fell, his eyes boring into Rudy's. Just as he barely took in this information, he saw {{user}} exiting from the bathroom, adjusting their collar. His grip nearly shattered the glass in his hand, his jaw clenched.
“May God forgive you, Rudy, because I won't.”