Help Me

Triston’s face seemed to be deep in thought, his hand stifling the cigarette onto his wooden desk.

“Why is he here?” I refrained from a smart comment,

“It doesn’t matter.” I reminded him, “He’s here- so get out there.” Triston smiled to himself,

“He’s an idiot.” My eyes remained on him. He looked so happy. “Alright, let's go.” He lifted his hand to me. I moved my hand up to take his. His hand was so warm. Blazing hot. Triston stared at me, his brow raised. “Why are you so cold?”

“Doesn’t matter.” I led him forward. “Let’s go.”

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Triston and I walked hand in hand to our living room. At our sight, Marcus stood up.

His voice was bubbling, “Triston!” I let go of Triston, allowing him to hug his brother, as I rubbed my hand.

“Marcus, what are you doing here?” Triston asked, “I had the driver waiting to take you to your house-”

Marcus shook his head. “This is my house.” He exclaimed. “I grew up here!” I smiled at his soft words, “Besides, I need to come see my family!” I sat down on the couch, crossing my legs.

“Have you made your way to see your fiancé's family?” Marcus shrugged,

“That’s where she went. Besides, her family is always going on about something.” My head tilted at that,

“Belle’s family-”

“Belle?” Marcus repeated after me, “No-no, me and her broke up a year ago sis.” My eyes grew large. I wasn’t told this at all. “Did-didn’t Triston tell you?” Triston turned back to me,

“Of course I told her, remember Iris?” I got the suggestion, “This is Alexadrea.” I heard him remind me. Well, tell me for the first time.

“Now I recall,” I lied. “How is she?”

“She’s great.” Marcus gushed, “You know she’s an actress, right? Just like you, sis,” I hadn’t been an actress since what I had done. I gave up all that to keep Triston.

“Really?” I smiled at him, “That’s great. What is she on?” Marcus tilted his head,

“Just been an extra in some movies… She’s working on her portfolio.” My eyes moved to Triston, trying to see what my answer should even be.

Triston replied, “Well, everyone has to start.” He pointed behind him, “Come on, let’s sit.” Marcus had taken the seat in front of me, Triston at my side. His hand rested on my thigh, my body freezing at the touch. Rosy had come in, placing a drink in front of everyone. My own seems like a non-alcoholic version of it. I pulled it up, sipping slowly. “So Marcus, tell us about her? You only ever mentioned she was an actress. How long have you known her?” Marcus brightened at the sound of being able to talk about her.

“She’s twenty.” He sat back in his seat,

“So young.” My mouth let out, feeling Triston’s grip tighten. “I mean- compared to us.” I tried to correct it.

“I know-I know but she’s so beyond her years.” Marcus smiled, “She’s kind and caring, always willing to be with me- even through med school.” Triston gave a gentle smile,

“As long as she makes you happy.” Marcus agreed to that,

“The happiest six months of my life.” I stayed quiet at his words. I was never one to tamper with love. Triston, however, seemed to have been shocked by this,

“So quick-”

“When you know, you know.” I felt myself say more to Triston than to Marcus, “And where are we having the wedding?” I asked.

“We’ve rented out a private island.” Marcus was delighted as he spoke, “ I’ve rented everyone their private beachside bungalows. She’s still trying to finish all the logistics, but that’s what she’s told me.” He rocked his head, “But we should be leaving tomorrow to catch the yacht to take us.”

“That sounds amazing.” Triston said slowly, “You’ve already sent out everyone’s invitations?” Marcus nodded,

“Of course.” He sat up in his seat, “Triston?” He asked, “I was trying to invite Oliver-” The name nearly made me throw up in my place. “But I’ve called him- and nothing.” Marcus reached into his coat pocket, fishing out an invitation. “Do you know where I could send it to? He needs to be there- he’s family!” Triston took in a deep breath,

“I think he wants to sit this out,” Triston spoke slowly, his hand coming off of me. “It’s alright. It’ll be family only.”

Marcus shook his head, “He’s like a brother to us, Triston.” Marcus seemed upset by the notion of not knowing where Oliver was. “What a shame?” He sighed, resting on the seat. “Triston- I did have something I needed to ask of you?” Triston's face didn’t seem fazed by his words. I, however, noticed his body to be frozen. His jaw had tightened. I knew why. I cheated on Triston with Oliver.

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Marcus had left after asking Triston to be his Groom of honor. A shoo-in for his big brother, but an honor nonetheless. I was seated on my bed. I hadn’t felt well since our earlier conversation,

“Iris.” My eyes moved up, and at the doorway stood Triston His face was gray. If I were feeling bad, I could only imagine what he was feeling. “Do you want to come to this?” I was silent, eyes down at my legs.

“I want to for Marcus.” My voice was soft, “But-” I looked up at Triston. “If you don’t think it’s okay. I can stay here.” At my feet, I saw two large black loafers. I felt his hands grab hold of my chin, moving my head up to face his.

 “You’re going with us.” His eyes were different today. Not the same cold, uncaring eyes. These were hurt. The eyes of the man I hurt so long ago. “Marcus loves you. So please, help me.”