"Sweetie, I'll give you a glimpse of my physique via video chat once I'm back at my lodgings this evening."
The notification from my partner appeared shortly after his departure for a work-related journey.
We'd been in a relationship for half a decade, and his method of "keeping tabs" on me during his absences remained consistent. He steered clear of nightlife spots, and if he indulged in alcohol, he made sure to inform me. Even when staying at hotels, he insisted on ringing me before retiring for the night to ensure my well-being.
At 21:00, right on schedule, Clayton Ledger initiated the usual video call.
"Irene, this accommodation is enormous. I wish you were here with me. It's unfortunate they won't allow it, but next time I'm away for work, I'll bring you along..."
In the video feed, Clayton appeared drowsy, attempting to reassure me of his solitude in the room.
However, he was unaware that moments earlier, I had received another video.
It was from Matias Adher. Bare-chested, with a glazed expression, a woman in a rabbit costume was kneeling before him, planting kisses on his abdomen, her grin mischievous.