HOW TO CATCH A BAD BOY

The blanket covering his body was a dark color that she couldn’t identify, but it was pulled up over his chest.

Elena’s heart was heavy, her mind still swirling with the image of Chandler kissing that woman at the hotel bar. It didn’t matter how many times she told herself that they weren’t a couple. It didn’t matter how many times she told herself that she had no reason to care or any right to be upset. The pang of hurt lingered, and she couldn’t shake off the feeling of betrayal.

Desperate to avoid facing Chandler, she slipped out of bed quietly, her movements cautious to avoid waking him. Rushing into the bathroom, she closed the door softly, seeking solace in the confines of the tiled space. The hot water cascaded over her, offering a brief respite from the emotional turmoil. As she dressed hurriedly, her thoughts raced, tangled in a web of hurt and confusion. She wished she could erase the sight of Chandler’s kiss from her mind, but it lingered, haunting her every thought.

Finally, she emerged from the bathroom, her expression a blend of emotions hurt, anger, and a hint of resignation. Chandler, already awake, stood in the middle of the room. His black boxer briefs were the only thing covering him and Elena resisted the urge to slap her hand over her eyes like a child. He turned to her, their eyes locking in an uncomfortable silence that spoke volumes.

“Good morning,” Chandler greeted, attempting to break the heavy tension hanging in the air.

Elena’s response was barely a nod, her lips pressed into a tight line as she struggled to contain her emotions.

“I’ll take a shower, then we can head back home together,” he offered, hoping to ease the palpable tension.

But Elena shook her head, her voice surprisingly firm, “It’s okay, thank you, Chandler, but I’ve already called a cab,” she said, her eyes avoiding his gaze.

Chandler’s expression shifted, a mixture of concern and regret etched on his face. He tried to insist, to mend the situation, “Elena, come on. I brought you here and it’s my responsibility to take you home. Please let me do that at least. Even if it’s the only thing I’m going to do right,” he said, but Elena remained resolute.

“There’s no need for that, Chandler and you know it,”

The ache in his chest mirrored the ache in hers, yet he respected her decision despite his desire for reconciliation. He was sorry. It didn’t matter if he’d been drunk. It didn’t matter if he didn’t kiss Jennifer back, all that mattered was that he’d ruined his chance with her, and he had no idea how to get her to forgive him. Trying to talk to her at the moment wasn’t an option as she was in no mood to listen. Reluctantly, Chandler relented, letting her leave, even though every fiber of his being wished for a chance to explain, to make amends.

With a heavy heart and unresolved emotions, Elena grabbed her bag , casting one last glance at Chandler before walking out the door, leaving the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.

———-

In a cozy corner of Elena’s bakery, the scent of freshly baked cupcakes wafted through the air, mingling with the aroma of vanilla and cocoa. Elena, with her sleeves rolled up, stood at the counter meticulously decorating the delicate treats. Her skilled hands moved swiftly, coaxing swirls of buttercream into artful designs atop each cupcake.

As she focused on her task, the soft jingle of the bell announced a familiar guest. Beth stepped into the bakery with a beaming smile. She sidled up to the counter, eyes alight with curiosity, taking in the array of colorful frostings, sprinkles, and edible decorations.

“Elena!” Beth exclaimed, her voice carrying an infectious enthusiasm. “These look amazing!”

Elena turned, a warm smile gracing her face. “Hey, Beth! Thanks for stopping by. I’ve been busy all day and bored out of my mind.”

Beth peered closer, watching Elena’s deft movements with fascination. “Can I help? I want to be a part of this cupcake magic!”

Elena chuckled, happy for the company. “Of course! I’d love your help.” She reached for an extra apron and tied it around Beth’s waist.

The two friends chatted away, catching up on some story that occurred in Beth’s office while Beth eagerly offered her assistance. Elena handed her a piping bag filled with creamy frosting, ready for decorating, but Beth’s attempts mirrored more abstract art than delicate confectionery.

Elena laughed good-naturedly as she watched Beth’s frosting attempts. “Okay, maybe decorating isn’t your forte, but you’ve got a talent for filling these bags!”

Grinning, Beth agreed, “Yeah, I think I’ll stick to the filling part!

With teamwork, they swiftly finished filling the remaining piping bags, sharing laughter and creating a few comically decorated cupcakes in the process. As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, the joyous banter and the scent of sweet treats filled the bakery, leaving behind the warm glow of friendship and the anticipation of a successful cupcake delivery the next day.

After the cupcakes had been packaged, they meticulously began wiping down the counters and neatly storing away utensils when Beth paused mid-sweep, looking at Elena with a playful glint in her eye. “So, are you going to spill the beans now, Elena. Or are you just waiting for me to ask first?”

Elena flashed an innocent grin, feigning ignorance for a moment, but she knew exactly what Beth was probing for. “I have no idea what you are asking,” she said.

Beth rolled her eyes. “Fine, since you want us to go that way. What’s the deal with you and Chandler? You’ve been keeping this under wraps for days now and I’m about to die of curiosity!”

Now it was Elena’s time to roll her eyes. “We both know that’s not possible,”

“Come on, Elena,” Beth pleaded, her curiosity bubbling over. “Stop teasing me! How was your date? Did you guys stare into each other’s eyes? Did the entire room disappear when he looked at you? Did you guys kiss? How was it? Oh my God… did you guys go through with it? Did you sleep with him?”

Elena gasped, and faced Beth with a bewildered look on her face, “No. None of that happened, okay. I didn’t sleep with him and take it easy with the questions, okay?”

Beth laughed, “Well then, say something.”