Page 103 of Love so Cold

Sebastian

Everything cool, Vic?

Victor

Yep, just swamped. Vote’s coming up again soon.

Lawrence

Yeah, when’s that happening?

I sigh, rubbing my temples. The development. Right.The thing I should be focused on instead of my non-existent love life.

Victor

Week before Christmas.

Sebastian

Wait, isn't that in a few days?

Victor

Yeah.

The chat goes silent for a moment, and I lean back, feeling the weight of their unspoken questions. They're all waiting for me to say more, to lay out some grand plan, but the truth is I'm scrambling.

Lawrence breaks first, his fiery temperament showing through:

Lawrence

You sure you're good, man? Sounds like a lot to handle solo.

I stare at the message, my throat tight. For a moment, I consider spilling everything. But old habits die hard, and the walls I've built over years in the system are too high to scale in a group text.

Victor

I'm fine. Got it under control.

Another lie. But it's easier than the truth.

Roman

Alright then. Guess we’re all a bit tied up this year.

Lawrence

Let’s aim for New Year’s

Sebastian

Sounds good

Victor

Sure

The conversation winds down, plans left vague. I stare at my phone, feeling hollow. Another Christmas alone. Just like old times.

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