Chapter 2: Encounters and Misunderstandings

The sound of the keyboard echoed through the half-empty office as Alex reviewed the presentation for the upcoming campaign for what felt like the hundredth time. The fluorescent lights flickered slightly, and the digital clock in the corner of his desk read 8:45 p.m. He sighed, stretching his arms over his head in an attempt to relieve the tension that had built up.

It was time to stop. He saved his files, shut down his computer, and gathered his belongings. As he stepped out of the building, the cool night air greeted him, clearing his mind a little after hours of work. As he walked through the city's illuminated streets, his phone vibrated in his pocket.

—"Hello?"

—"Alex! It's Jase."

Alex's heart skipped a beat at the familiar deep voice on the other end of the line.

—"Jase! What a surprise. How are you?"

—"I'm good, thanks. Listen, there's an art exhibition downtown this Saturday. I thought it might interest you. Want to go with me?"

Alex felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. Spending time with Jase had always been his hidden wish, though he knew he had to keep his feelings in check.

—"Sure, sounds great. What time should we meet?"

—"Let's say six o'clock at the main entrance of the cultural center."

—"Perfect. I'll be there."

Saturday arrived faster than Alex expected. He dressed with care, choosing a blue shirt that brought out the color of his eyes and dark pants that gave him a more sophisticated look. Standing in front of the mirror, he tried to calm the nerves creeping up on him.

—"It's just a hangout between friends," he told himself, though his reflection stared back at him with expectant eyes.

Upon arriving at the cultural center, he spotted Jase waiting at the entrance. He was wearing a black leather jacket over a white shirt and dark jeans, which only emphasized his imposing presence. His dark hair was slightly tousled, giving him a carefree yet attractive look.

—"Alex! Right on time."

—"I didn't want to keep you waiting."

They entered the gallery together, where the walls were adorned with various works by local artists. Vibrant colors and abstract shapes filled the space with a palpable energy. As they wandered through the exhibition, they discussed the pieces, sharing opinions and laughter.

In the middle of their conversation, a female voice interrupted their exchange.

—"Jase! What a surprise to see you here!"

Alex turned his head and saw a tall, elegant woman approaching them. Her chestnut hair cascaded in soft waves over her shoulders, and her green eyes sparkled with excitement.

—"Laura! I wasn't expecting to run into you here," Jase replied with a wide smile.

Laura turned to Alex, offering him a polite smile.

—"Hi, I'm Laura."

—"Alex. Nice to meet you."

The conversation between Jase and Laura quickly intensified as they reminisced about shared memories and caught up on each other's lives. Alex, feeling like an invisible spectator, tried to join in, but his comments got lost in the enthusiasm of their exchange.

He watched as Jase laughed easily at Laura's remarks, how his eyes lit up while talking to her. A sharp pang of jealousy and sadness struck him. He realized that, despite his efforts to stay composed, the situation was hurting more than he cared to admit.

Deciding it was best to leave before his emotions betrayed him, he waited for the right moment. Seizing a pause in the conversation, he turned to Jase.

—"Jase, I think I'll take a walk around the gallery. See you later."

Jase nodded absentmindedly, still engrossed in his chat with Laura.

—"Sure, see you later."

Alex walked away, his heart pounding in his chest. He wandered aimlessly through the gallery, but the artworks that had once fascinated him now blurred before his eyes. The excitement he had felt upon receiving Jase's invitation had turned into a bitter mix of disappointment and self-pity

He decided it was best to leave. Stepping out of the cultural center, he let the cool night air brush against his face. The city lights sparkled around him, but all he felt was a deep sense of loneliness.

As he made his way back to his apartment, he reflected on his feelings. He had always known his love for Jase was one-sided, but facing the reality of seeing him interested in someone else was far more painful than he had anticipated.

When he got home, he collapsed onto the couch, staring at the ceiling.