Cross Roads

He intended to take a seat across from Templeton, but when he reached the table, he felt ill. “Gloria,” hate filled his insides as he continued. “You look very nice tonight, lovely gown and jewels.” He swallowed hard, restraining himself from jumping over the table and strangling her.

She smiled up at him but it was clear that he had surprised her. Quickly, she gained her composure and motioned him to join them. “What luck to see you, Ben, you can be the first to learn that I have moved into the penthouse.”  She put her hand on Templeton’s cheek and pulled him close to her, finding his lips for a short but passionate kiss. “Please sit and join us for a drink.”

Ben stood, frozen in his steps. “No, I’m not feeling very well, but thanks. I’m worried about Cue. He’s in a lot of pain, you know.”

“Oh, Ben. Don’t be so dramatic. He’ll be fine, and you can all go on workin’ hard at Sticks, makin’ strides and then losin’ ground. It’ll always be the same over there, never a great success. You should come to grips with that and start livin’ a little. Life can be good, if you let it.”

He was blind with anger but managed to say a few more words to her. “Mori was right about you from the beginning, only she’s a little off with her name for you. What does she call you… witch? I get it, Gloria. If things get a little tough, give up and give into...”