Chapter 2

After a thrilling match with my buddies, we rested on the sideline benches, quenching our thirst.

My pals teased, "We figured you'd forgotten us since getting a girlfriend. We were about to stop including you in our plans."

I expressed remorse and vowed, "My bad, fellas. It won't occur again. Count on me for future gatherings."

"That's the spirit! Let's head to the internet cafe for some gaming."

When I was with Xena, I struggled to fit into her social media world, but I had gradually drifted from my own circle for her benefit.

I centered my existence around her, placing her above everything else. In hindsight, I realized how misguided I had been.

Upon returning home near midnight, I entered the bedroom to find Xena perched on the bed.

She scowled and remarked, "Ezra, why are you so late? I was forced to order in for both meals. It was dreadful."

I accessed the wardrobe for fresh attire. "I dined out today too. The food was quite good, comparable to home-cooked meals."

Xena gazed at me, astonished. "You used to claim you'd prepare meals for me daily and that I should avoid takeout due to hygiene concerns!"

"I was mistaken. In this society, if cooking isn't your forte, you must adapt to restaurant food."

A glimmer of rage crossed Xena's face. "You claim you're not upset, yet you've been absent all day without contact, and you neglected to come home and cook for me!"

I responded serenely, "I'm not upset. I was simply spending time with friends. My phone died, so I couldn't call."

Observing my demeanor, Xena abruptly tossed aside the blanket and rose from the bed furiously. She grabbed me as I was about to exit, her voice shrill. "Can't you be more empathetic? I've explained we're like siblings! What's still bothering you? Ezra, my patience is wearing thin!"

I removed her hand. "I truly am not bothered. I'm exhausted. I'll rest in the guest room tonight."

With that, I took my clothes and headed to the bathroom to shower, disregarding Xena's calls from the bedroom.

That night, I experienced my first peaceful sleep in ages.

Xena was a restless sleeper, frequently kicking off the covers throughout the night. When we shared a bed, I never got adequate rest, having to rise multiple times to cover her.

Early the following day, Xena sat in the living area, arms folded, her expression clouded with anger.

I knew she expected me to apologize first and lift her spirits.

Previously, whenever she was displeased, I would plead for forgiveness, even if I felt blameless.

She would then list several demands, and only after I had met them all would she grudgingly forgive me.

This cycle had persisted for years, and I was weary of it.

I disregarded her, prepared myself, and departed. I had significant matters to attend to today.