Alexa's car weaved through the city streets before turning into the familiar grounds of Carbel University. I watched from a distance as she parked and walked briskly toward the teaching building.
Her pace slowed as she reached a secluded area just outside the building. I squinted, trying to make out what she was doing.
Then, a figure emerged from the shadows. A man.
My breath caught as I watched him stride confidently toward her. He stopped just inches away, his grin sly. "Mrs. Colby," he said, his voice carrying an unmistakable intimacy. "Why are you so late? I've been dying to see you."
Alexa didn't pull away. She let him slide an arm around her waist, though her expression was cautious. Her eyes darted around, scanning the area for anyone who might be watching. When she seemed satisfied, they were alone, she reached for his hand and clasped it tightly.
"Why didn't you tell me sooner that it's your birthday today?" Alexa's voice carried a mix of exasperation and tenderness. Her fingers brushed over the man's hand, her gaze warm and affectionate.
The man chuckled, his lips curling into a self-assured smirk. He tilted his head to look down at her. "How could I? You only ever think about your husband. I wouldn't want to distract you."
The words stung like a whip, but I couldn't tear my eyes away.
He lifted his hand, cupping the back of Alexa's head and leaned in. His lips met hers, unhurried yet commanding. For a fleeting second, Alexa froze, her eyes widening in surprise. Then, slowly, her eyelids fluttered shut and she melted into the kiss. Her arms rose to loop around his neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened with fervor.
I was paralyzed. My breath hitched and hot tears began streaming down my cheeks, unbidden and unstoppable.
The cab driver noticed, his glance in the rearview mirror filled with muted sympathy. He fumbled for a tissue, handing it back to me. "Don't take it to heart, mister. Women... well, they're all the same sometimes. If she's stepping out, maybe it's time you find someone, too."
His words barely registered. My world felt like it had shattered into a thousand pieces, each sharp fragment slicing into my chest. I stared numbly ahead at the figures before me.