Member-only story
When the Past Fucks Up the Present
A Relaxed Meeting Transforms into an Ethical Conflict
Mike reclined on his bed, gazing up at the ceiling, unable to drift off. The persistent scent of closeness and regret clung to him, even after a long, hot shower. “What just happened?” he whispered for what felt like the millionth time that evening.
It began simply enough. A message from his former partner, Jess, inviting him to get together. Mike thought twice but rationalized, “What harm could it do?” They had been physical a few times after their breakup. Nothing serious, just playful interaction between two unattached individuals. Or that’s what he believed.
When Jess arrived at the gym, dressed up in a way he recognized instantly, Mike sensed where the evening was heading. However, he was completely unprepared for the chaos he was about to encounter.
“Damn it,” Mike cursed softly, remembering the moment Jess picked up her phone immediately after they were intimate. Her sweet voice saying, “I love you, babe,” replayed in his mind, sending waves of nausea through him.
Sitting up in bed, Mike rubbed his face with his hands. The harsh reality struck him hard: he had been taken advantage of. Exploited to betray. Used in her boyfriend’s vehicle. “That’s just revolting, man. Absolutely revolting!”
