This winter is revealing its full splendor right now. So much snow has fallen that the gardens and streets have turned into enchanting landscapes. Soft white flakes are swirling endlessly through the air, landing gently on the rooftops and pavements, while the cold adds a unique freshness and clarity to the air.
In the apartment of Emily and James, the atmosphere feels entirely different warm and peaceful. Outside the large window, a snow-white spectacle unfolds, but inside, behind the tightly closed panes, everything stays cozy and calm. The table lamp casts a soft, muted light, creating a circle of warm glow around itself and pushing back the winter chill.
The couple settles on the sofa, wrapped in a fluffy blanket. On the television screen, another family comedy plays, one without much depth, just something to laugh at and unwind with. Emily watches the events closely, occasionally smiling faintly at thoughts of her own. James sits beside her, leaning back relaxed against the sofa, also watching the movie, but his attention keeps shifting to the snow falling outside the window. The sight looks incredibly beautiful.
The pleasant atmosphere breaks with a melodic ring James’s phone is ringing. He does not react right away, as if unwilling to interrupt this quiet family moment, but the call repeats. With a slight sigh, he pulls his smartphone from his pocket, glances at the screen, and sighs once more.
David is calling again, he says, turning to his wife. That’s the third time this evening.
Emily turns her head slightly toward him but keeps her eyes on the television.
He is probably inviting us over again, she replies calmly. He bought that cottage and wants to celebrate. For some reason, this person simply will not take no for an answer.
James swipes his finger across the screen to accept the call.
Hi, David, he says, trying to keep his voice cheerful.
James! When are you coming over? his friend’s voice rings with excitement. I told you, we are celebrating the purchase! Everything is ready: the sauna is heated, the table is set, friends are gathering. Enough sitting at home, right? Come with Emily, it will be fun!
James pauses for a moment, thinking over his answer. He glances at Emily, who at that moment shakes her head slightly. She says nothing, but he understands her silent signal perfectly: noisy gatherings, loud music, endless conversations and bustle none of this fits their plans now. They both want to spend these weekends quietly, in their cozy little world, where they can take their time and answer to no one.
James hesitates before replying. An excellent idea flashes through his mind, and he decides to use it right away.
Listen, he begins quietly, there is this thing… Emily has gone to her mom’s for a couple of days. I do not want to go alone, you understand. Someone might say something wrong about her… I do not want to argue with my wife over nothing. We will definitely get together sometime, but later.
A short silence falls on the other end, and then David responds with obvious surprise.
She has gone? And when is she coming back?
Tomorrow evening, James says with a slight longing in his voice. She decided so suddenly… And we had such big plans! We wanted to go to the cinema, walk in the park while the weather allows, maybe stop by the ice rink. But it did not work out. So let’s do it another time, okay?
David stays silent briefly, as if thinking, and then his voice turns strangely pleased.
Well, okay… But let me know when she gets back. I really want to see you both!
Of course, James agrees quickly. As soon as there is a chance, I will let you know. Maybe next weekend? If plans do not change, of course.
He says goodbye, sets the phone on the table between the armchairs, and exhales with relief. A smile appears on his face without effort.
Phew, I barely got out of that, he mutters, turning to Emily. Why is he so persistent? I clearly told him I do not want to go to his cottage! What is there to do? Watch their drunk faces? David just cannot relax any other way! Okay, let’s forget it. I much prefer spending time just with you.
He hugs her, feeling the tension from the last few minutes gradually fade. The apartment remains warm and quiet, snowflakes swirl slowly outside the window, and on the television screen their favorite movie continues unhurried, cozy, nothing like the noisy gatherings James dislikes so much.
Emily presses against James, feeling the warmth of his body and the calming rhythm of his breathing. The room still holds a cozy atmosphere: the soft light of the lamp, the slow pace of the black-and-white movie on the screen, the quiet ticking of the clock on the wall. All this creates a sense of security and peace, which daily life often lacks.
Me too, she says quietly, slightly raising her head to look him in the eyes. Let’s just watch the movie and go to bed. Nothing else is needed.
James smiles, hugging her shoulders tighter. He already pictures how in a couple of hours they will turn off the light, cover up with a warm blanket, and fall asleep to the distant sound of the blizzard outside the window. But their plans break with another call. And, most interestingly, from the same person.
James frowns, throws a quick glance at the screen, and reluctantly reaches for the phone. What now?
David, I already said… he begins, trying to speak calmly, but tension creeps into his voice.
James, David’s voice sounds unusually serious, even tense, I am at the Crystal Club right now, we decided to have some active fun with the guys before the sauna. And here… here is Emily. With some guy. They are drinking, she is hugging him. I did not want to interfere, but… you need to know. She told you she went to her mom! So she clearly lied!
James freezes. He looks at his wife in surprise, then shifts his gaze to the screen, wondering if his friend is playing a trick.
What? James asks again, and doubt shows clearly in his voice. Are you sure? Maybe you confused her with someone else? I can say with certainty that I know exactly where my wife is!
Absolutely, David replies firmly. There is not a shadow of doubt in his voice. She is already drunk, laughing loudly. All this looks… not very decent, to be honest. And she is not even embarrassed by my presence! She is just brushing me off! Do you want me to give her the phone?
James closes his eyes for a second, trying to collect his thoughts. Many questions spin in his head, but he finds answers to none. What is really going on? How could his friend be so mistaken? Or… is there something else?
Go ahead, he says shortly, putting the call on speaker. He is even curious about what he will hear now.
Muffled bass from club music comes through the speaker, mixed with bursts of laughter and indistinct voices. Then, through the noise, a female voice breaks through so similar to Emily’s that James’s heart skips a beat.
Hello? Who is this? comes from the speaker with a slight hesitation, as if the person on the other end did not immediately realize they are answering.
James swallows, trying to calm the sudden dryness in his throat. He looks at Emily, who sits beside him with wide eyes, clearly understanding nothing.
Emily? he says, trying to keep his voice even. This is James. What is going on?
A short chuckle answers, and then the same voice, now bolder with a slight hoarseness, says:
Oh, James, you are annoying me! I want to relax, you know? I am tired of your boring life. I am going to have fun until I get bored!
Emily jumps up from the sofa, her face paling. She presses her palm to her chest as if to steady her rapid heartbeat and whispers almost inaudibly:
What nonsense! How could he confuse me with someone? And how does this girl know your name? What is going on?
And where are you?
What do you care? the voice in the speaker retorts with a challenging tone. Even though I am your wife, I am not obliged to report. And I do what I want!
Laughter sounds again in the background, glasses clink, and then David cuts in:
James, did you hear? I told you…
James sharply interrupts him, feeling anger, confusion, and a strange, almost childish urge to turn away and not see any of it mixing inside.
Stop, he says firmly, but a tremor still slips into his voice. I will sort this out tomorrow. Do not call again.
He quickly hangs up, throws the phone onto the sofa, and stares at the ceiling in complete bewilderment. If Emily were not sitting next to him right now… He could really have believed it!
Emily flops back onto the sofa and looks at her husband in bewilderment. That girl’s voice really does sound like hers! But that is not the main thing now! The main thing is something else where did she get the details to play like that? She was clearly instructed!
Well, this is something, she whispers, her voice a bit strained. Who was that? What is this circus?
James shakes his head, thoughtfully running his hand through his hair and messing up his already imperfect hairstyle. He has no answer only suspicions. Very bad suspicions…
I have no idea, he replies, looking somewhere to the side, as if hoping to find at least some answer there. But the voice… like two peas in a pod. Even the intonations, the laugh everything matches. This cannot be a simple coincidence.
And David so confidently said it was me, she says with a slight tremor in her voice. Imagine if I really were not home. You would have thought that I… that I was really there, in the club, with some man.
James turns to her, his gaze softens. He extends his hand, gently hugs Emily by the shoulders, and pulls her close. Her body trembles a bit, and he feels how important it is now to stay close and give her a sense of reliability.
I would still suspect something, he says confidently. You would not do that! I know you. I know how you feel about such things. This is all… some ridiculous mistake, a prank, I don’t know. But I will figure it out! If necessary, I will contact the club and ask to show the cameras. We will see what girl was there.
Emily presses against him, feeling the constraining cold gradually leave and warmth take its place not only physical but emotional too. She takes a deep breath, trying to even out her breathing.
Yes, she agrees, slightly raising her head. That is definitely not me. But who then? And why?
James shrugs, but the previous confusion is gone from his eyes now there is determination to figure out this strange story. He squeezes her hand tighter, as if to let her know they are together and will cope no matter what.
The next day, closer to noon, Emily sits in the kitchen, drinking tea and reviewing work emails on her laptop. The silence breaks with a call David’s name appears on the screen. She hesitates before answering: after yesterday’s events, it is not easy to get into the mood for talking to him. But curiosity wins she wants to understand what he will say.
Hi, David begins cautiously, as if walking on thin ice. Have you talked to James after yesterday?
Emily grips the phone in her hand. She decides to take the chance and get to the bottom of it find out exactly what David saw and why he was so sure it was her yesterday. After a small pause, as if choosing the right words, she replies:
Yes. We… argued. He accused me of something unclear, did not want to listen to explanations. He says I am lying to him.
A second of silence hangs in the receiver. Emily hears David exhale noisily, and then a note of satisfaction unexpectedly creeps into his voice barely noticeable but distinct.
Is that so, he draws out. Well, you know… I always said that James does not appreciate you. He never understood what you are really like.
Emily feels everything boiling inside, but she forces herself to speak in a restrained way. It is important to listen to the end and understand where he is heading.
What are you talking about? she asks, trying to keep her voice even.
David speaks quieter, almost in a whisper, and in this deliberate intimacy of tone there is something alarming:
That you deserve better! Emily, I have wanted to tell you for a long time… I love you. Really. And I am ready to take care of you. If you want to leave James I will be there. Always.
Emily stays silent, trying to process what she has heard. Many thoughts spin in her head: how long has David been thinking about this? Why say it now, after all this absurd story? Or… did he set it all up, knowing she supposedly was not home…
She takes a deep breath, gathers her thoughts, and replies calmly but firmly:
David, this is very unexpected. And, honestly, inappropriate. I love James, and we will sort out what happened. There is no need to interfere.
Sorry if I said something extra, he finally says, and the previous confidence is gone from his voice. I just… wanted you to know that you have someone to turn to. James acted meanly, blaming you for all the sins. I heard something from him out of the corner of my ear… It seems he just wants to leave you, so he is looking for a reason! I just want you to be safe!
Emily squeezes the receiver so that her fingers turn slightly white. She takes a deep breath, trying to stay calm not let emotions take over. The last thing she needs now is to snap and yell at this “friend”!
You know, David, her voice becomes icy, even, without the slightest hesitation, first of all, I was home yesterday. Second, James and I did not argue. And third, I know perfectly well that you set it all up. I just did not understand why. Now everything is clear to me.
For a moment, silence hangs in the receiver. She almost physically feels how David tries to find words, how he frantically searches for a way to wriggle out, change the subject, avoid a direct answer.
What?.. he finally squeezes out, and bewilderment slips into his voice. But just a second later he pulls himself together and speaks more firmly: What are you talking about?
About exactly that. You found a girl with a voice similar to mine. You asked her to act out this performance to call, speak in my voice, pretend that I am in the club with some man. Because you wanted to make us argue. Admit it, right?
Silence falls in the receiver. Emily waits, not rushing, knowing that now everything will be decided either David continues to lie or tells the truth.
Finally, David exhales sharply. His voice breaks, becomes louder, almost desperate:
Yes, I set it up! Because I love you, Emily! Because I see how James treats you. Because I want you to be happy with me!
Emily closes her eyes for a second. A wave of bitterness rises in her chest, but she holds back and does not let emotions break into her voice.
Happy? she laughs bitterly, but the laugh comes out dry, without a trace of fun. What made you think that I would be happy with you? Who are you anyway? An ordinary man who changes girls like gloves. Even if you were the only person in the world, I would not pay attention to you, got it?
David stays silent for a second, as if gathering his thoughts, and then speaks quietly, almost in a whisper, as if he himself does not believe what he is saying:
I thought… I thought that if you argued, you would understand that he does not deserve you. That you would pay attention to me! I am much better than James! And as for the girls… I was just trying to forget you! But no one can compare to you, you know! I will carry you in my arms, pamper you, adore you… Just choose me!
Emily feels anger boiling inside her not hot and impulsive, but cold and hard. She squeezes the phone in her hand, but her voice remains even, almost impassive:
You? Seriously? No way! You betrayed friendship, betrayed trust. And for what? For your illusions?
She speaks calmly, but each word sounds like a verdict clearly, without hesitation. There is no anger or hysteria in her voice, only firm confidence that she is right.
Emily, sorry… David’s voice trembles. There is no longer any push or self-confidence in it only bewilderment and regret.
But Emily has already made a decision. She is not going to give him a chance to justify himself or explain his actions.
No, David. There will be no forgiveness. And no friendship either. Do not call me anymore! Ever! And forget James’s number too, I will definitely let him listen to the recording of this wonderful conversation!
She presses the end call button and slowly lowers the phone to the table. Her fingers tremble a bit, but she pulls herself together, takes a deep breath, and looks out the window. Outside the glass, snow still falls quietly, as if nothing had happened.
At that moment, James enters the room. He immediately notices her serious face and becomes alert.
Well, what? he asks, stopping in the doorway. Anxiety sounds in his voice, but he tries to speak calmly.
Emily turns to him and says with a bitter smile:
Everything is clear now, she sighs. He set it all up. He admitted that he loves me and wanted us to argue. He offered golden mountains! Can you imagine? How mean he is…
James sits down next to Emily on the sofa, gently takes her hand. His fingers slightly squeeze her palm firmly, so that she feels support. In this simple touch is everything he wants to say: I am here, I am next to you, and I care about how you feel.
So he was never a real friend, James says quietly. Forget about him! We do not need to waste our nerves thinking about what happened. Honestly, I noticed warning signs a long time ago, but I had no substantial evidence. I was afraid that I was just imagining things. But now everything has fallen into place.
Yes, she agrees, moving a little closer and pressing her shoulder against his. But now we know the truth. And we know who we can trust.
Her voice sounds even, without strain. No resentment or bitterness remains in it only a slight relief that everything has finally cleared up. She closes her eyes for a second, inhaling the familiar, calming smell of home: warm wood, freshly brewed tea, and the barely noticeable scent of her favorite perfume.
You know, Emily suddenly smiles, and sparks play in her eyes, but this is even for the better. Now we have a solid reason not to go to all these parties. You will not argue with other friends because of him, will you? And this way we can just say that there is an unpleasant person to me at your event.
She says this lightly, almost jokingly, but there is some truth in these words. There is no longer any need to come up with polite excuses, weigh whether it is worth going, or worry that refusal might offend someone. Now everything has become simple: there is them, their cozy world, and everything else that which no longer matters.
James laughs sincerely, without a trace of the tension that had recently hung in the air.
Exactly. We will watch movies and drink tea, he agrees, slightly tilting his head to meet her gaze.
And not go anywhere, she adds with a slight smile, pulling the edge of the blanket toward her and wrapping herself in it, as if in a cocoon of safety and comfort.
Perfect, he nods, hugging her tighter.
So, among the snowflakes slowly swirling outside the window and the soft, warm light of the table lamp, their small world becomes whole and safe again. In this room, filled with quiet sounds and familiar smells, there is no place for lies, doubts, or other people’s games. Here there are only them two people who know that the most important thing is already there: trust, warmth, and confidence that tomorrow will be just as calm and cozy a day as this one…
David sits in the kitchen in complete silence, staring at an empty cup with long-cold tea. He does not even remember when he took the last sip all his attention is absorbed by the words that continue to sound in his head, like a broken record: Do not call me anymore. Ever.
But instead of remorse, instead of a feeling of guilt that could tell him he acted wrongly, a dull, heavy anger grows in his chest. It presses on his ribs, makes it hard to breathe evenly, and forces him to clench his fists so that his nails dig into his palms.
Why did everything go wrong?! he exclaims, sharply running his hand across the table and sweeping away crumbs from the cookie he was mechanically chewing while thinking.
In his head, the frames of yesterday evening replay over and over. Here he enters the club, having previously arranged with Jessica the girl he met a couple of weeks ago in a cafe. She immediately caught his attention: the same facial features, similar hairstyle, even her voice sounded almost like Emily’s. When he told her about his plan, she just smiled and nodded: Easy. I love games like this.
He remembers standing aside, watching her talk on the phone, pretending to be a drunk, bold Emily. She laughed, deliberately stretched her words, threw sharp phrases everything exactly as he had prompted her. At that moment he felt excitement, almost delight: here it is, the decisive moment! If everything works out, he thought, Emily will understand that James does not appreciate her. That there is someone who loves her for real.
And now… now he has received only a cold refusal and a bitter realization: the plan has failed. Worse than that he has lost everything.
It is not me who was wrong! he argues with himself mentally, pacing the kitchen and barely noticing how he bumps into a chair. It is them… they do not see, do not understand! James does not deserve her, and she blindly believes him!
He stops at the table, grips the edge of the countertop so that his fingers turn white. Memories flash before his eyes: how for years he watched Emily and James. How he envied their ease, their ability to laugh at little things, their warm glances that they exchanged even without noticing it. It seemed to him that he could give Emily the same only better, more sincere, stronger. And he chose the path he considered the only possible one.
He approaches the window. Outside the glass, snowflakes swirl slowly, settling on the windowsill, on the branches of bare trees. Everything looks so serene, so… calm…
Why do they have everything, and I have nothing?! escapes from him out loud. Why did she get James! I am more worthy! I am better in everything!
He understands that he has lost not only Emily he has lost a friend. James, who was always there, always ready to help, always believed in him. Now this friendship is destroyed and it is impossible to restore it. But instead of remorse, he feels only a burning irritation, a mixture of resentment and annoyance that burns from within.
The phone lies on the table, silent and alien. David knows: he will not call Emily. He will not try to explain, justify, or beg. That would be another defeat, another proof that he could not achieve his goal. But new thoughts are already ripening in his head bitter, caustic:
Let them live in their cozy little world. Let them think they have won. But I know the truth: James does not appreciate her as I could. And one day Emily will understand that. Maybe too late…
He approaches the window, stares at the falling snow and almost hisses, barely audibly, as if afraid that someone will hear:
You think you won, Emily? You think everything is clear? But the truth is that you just do not see beyond your cozy blanket and cup of tea. You do not see that there is a person nearby who loves you for real. But you chose an illusion. Well, enjoy it…
He sharply turns away from the window, notices a piece of paper on the table the one on which the day before he had sketched a plan for the conversation, written down what phrases Jessica should say, how best to build the dialogue. Without hesitation, he grabs it, tears it into small pieces, crumples it, and throws it into the trash can. This pitiful piece of paper reminds him of a grandiose failure!
Outside the window, the snow continues to fall, covering the world with a white blanket. David closes his eyes, trying to imagine how Emily is sitting next to James right now, how they are laughing, watching a movie, drinking tea. How warm and calm it is for them. How they feel protected in their small world, where there is no place for lies and manipulations.
And instead of a sincere wish for happiness, instead of an attempt to accept the situation, only stubbornness grows in him:
This should have been mine. All of this should have been mine….This winter is revealing its full splendor right now. So much snow has fallen that the gardens and streets have turned into enchanting landscapes. Soft white flakes are swirling endlessly through the air, landing gently on the rooftops and pavements, while the cold adds a unique freshness and clarity to the air.
In the apartment of Emily and James, the atmosphere feels entirely different warm and peaceful. Outside the large window, a snow-white spectacle unfolds, but inside, behind the tightly closed panes, everything stays cozy and calm. The table lamp casts a soft, muted light, creating a circle of warm glow around itself and pushing back the winter chill.
The couple settles on the sofa, wrapped in a fluffy blanket. On the television screen, another family comedy plays, one without much depth, just something to laugh at and unwind with. Emily watches the events closely, occasionally smiling faintly at thoughts of her own. James sits beside her, leaning back relaxed against the sofa, also watching the movie, but his attention keeps shifting to the snow falling outside the window. The sight looks incredibly beautiful.
The pleasant atmosphere breaks with a melodic ring James’s phone is ringing. He does not react right away, as if unwilling to interrupt this quiet family moment, but the call repeats. With a slight sigh, he pulls his smartphone from his pocket, glances at the screen, and sighs once more.
David is calling again, he says, turning to his wife. That’s the third time this evening.
Emily turns her head slightly toward him but keeps her eyes on the television.
He is probably inviting us over again, she replies calmly. He bought that cottage and wants to celebrate. For some reason, this person simply will not take no for an answer.
James swipes his finger across the screen to accept the call.
Hi, David, he says, trying to keep his voice cheerful.
James! When are you coming over? his friend’s voice rings with excitement. I told you, we are celebrating the purchase! Everything is ready: the sauna is heated, the table is set, friends are gathering. Enough sitting at home, right? Come with Emily, it will be fun!
James pauses for a moment, thinking over his answer. He glances at Emily, who at that moment shakes her head slightly. She says nothing, but he understands her silent signal perfectly: noisy gatherings, loud music, endless conversations and bustle none of this fits their plans now. They both want to spend these weekends quietly, in their cozy little world, where they can take their time and answer to no one.
James hesitates before replying. An excellent idea flashes through his mind, and he decides to use it right away.
Listen, he begins quietly, there is this thing… Emily has gone to her mom’s for a couple of days. I do not want to go alone, you understand. Someone might say something wrong about her… I do not want to argue with my wife over nothing. We will definitely get together sometime, but later.
A short silence falls on the other end, and then David responds with obvious surprise.
She has gone? And when is she coming back?
Tomorrow evening, James says with a slight longing in his voice. She decided so suddenly… And we had such big plans! We wanted to go to the cinema, walk in the park while the weather allows, maybe stop by the ice rink. But it did not work out. So let’s do it another time, okay?
David stays silent briefly, as if thinking, and then his voice turns strangely pleased.
Well, okay… But let me know when she gets back. I really want to see you both!
Of course, James agrees quickly. As soon as there is a chance, I will let you know. Maybe next weekend? If plans do not change, of course.
He says goodbye, sets the phone on the table between the armchairs, and exhales with relief. A smile appears on his face without effort.
Phew, I barely got out of that, he mutters, turning to Emily. Why is he so persistent? I clearly told him I do not want to go to his cottage! What is there to do? Watch their drunk faces? David just cannot relax any other way! Okay, let’s forget it. I much prefer spending time just with you.
He hugs her, feeling the tension from the last few minutes gradually fade. The apartment remains warm and quiet, snowflakes swirl slowly outside the window, and on the television screen their favorite movie continues unhurried, cozy, nothing like the noisy gatherings James dislikes so much.
Emily presses against James, feeling the warmth of his body and the calming rhythm of his breathing. The room still holds a cozy atmosphere: the soft light of the lamp, the slow pace of the black-and-white movie on the screen, the quiet ticking of the clock on the wall. All this creates a sense of security and peace, which daily life often lacks.
Me too, she says quietly, slightly raising her head to look him in the eyes. Let’s just watch the movie and go to bed. Nothing else is needed.
James smiles, hugging her shoulders tighter. He already pictures how in a couple of hours they will turn off the light, cover up with a warm blanket, and fall asleep to the distant sound of the blizzard outside the window. But their plans break with another call. And, most interestingly, from the same person.
James frowns, throws a quick glance at the screen, and reluctantly reaches for the phone. What now?
David, I already said… he begins, trying to speak calmly, but tension creeps into his voice.
James, David’s voice sounds unusually serious, even tense, I am at the Crystal Club right now, we decided to have some active fun with the guys before the sauna. And here… here is Emily. With some guy. They are drinking, she is hugging him. I did not want to interfere, but… you need to know. She told you she went to her mom! So she clearly lied!
James freezes. He looks at his wife in surprise, then shifts his gaze to the screen, wondering if his friend is playing a trick.
What? James asks again, and doubt shows clearly in his voice. Are you sure? Maybe you confused her with someone else? I can say with certainty that I know exactly where my wife is!
Absolutely, David replies firmly. There is not a shadow of doubt in his voice. She is already drunk, laughing loudly. All this looks… not very decent, to be honest. And she is not even embarrassed by my presence! She is just brushing me off! Do you want me to give her the phone?
James closes his eyes for a second, trying to collect his thoughts. Many questions spin in his head, but he finds answers to none. What is really going on? How could his friend be so mistaken? Or… is there something else?
Go ahead, he says shortly, putting the call on speaker. He is even curious about what he will hear now.
Muffled bass from club music comes through the speaker, mixed with bursts of laughter and indistinct voices. Then, through the noise, a female voice breaks through so similar to Emily’s that James’s heart skips a beat.
Hello? Who is this? comes from the speaker with a slight hesitation, as if the person on the other end did not immediately realize they are answering.
James swallows, trying to calm the sudden dryness in his throat. He looks at Emily, who sits beside him with wide eyes, clearly understanding nothing.
Emily? he says, trying to keep his voice even. This is James. What is going on?
A short chuckle answers, and then the same voice, now bolder with a slight hoarseness, says:
Oh, James, you are annoying me! I want to relax, you know? I am tired of your boring life. I am going to have fun until I get bored!
Emily jumps up from the sofa, her face paling. She presses her palm to her chest as if to steady her rapid heartbeat and whispers almost inaudibly:
What nonsense! How could he confuse me with someone? And how does this girl know your name? What is going on?
And where are you?
What do you care? the voice in the speaker retorts with a challenging tone. Even though I am your wife, I am not obliged to report. And I do what I want!
Laughter sounds again in the background, glasses clink, and then David cuts in:
James, did you hear? I told you…
James sharply interrupts him, feeling anger, confusion, and a strange, almost childish urge to turn away and not see any of it mixing inside.
Stop, he says firmly, but a tremor still slips into his voice. I will sort this out tomorrow. Do not call again.
He quickly hangs up, throws the phone onto the sofa, and stares at the ceiling in complete bewilderment. If Emily were not sitting next to him right now… He could really have believed it!
Emily flops back onto the sofa and looks at her husband in bewilderment. That girl’s voice really does sound like hers! But that is not the main thing now! The main thing is something else where did she get the details to play like that? She was clearly instructed!
Well, this is something, she whispers, her voice a bit strained. Who was that? What is this circus?
James shakes his head, thoughtfully running his hand through his hair and messing up his already imperfect hairstyle. He has no answer only suspicions. Very bad suspicions…
I have no idea, he replies, looking somewhere to the side, as if hoping to find at least some answer there. But the voice… like two peas in a pod. Even the intonations, the laugh everything matches. This cannot be a simple coincidence.
And David so confidently said it was me, she says with a slight tremor in her voice. Imagine if I really were not home. You would have thought that I… that I was really there, in the club, with some man.
James turns to her, his gaze softens. He extends his hand, gently hugs Emily by the shoulders, and pulls her close. Her body trembles a bit, and he feels how important it is now to stay close and give her a sense of reliability.
I would still suspect something, he says confidently. You would not do that! I know you. I know how you feel about such things. This is all… some ridiculous mistake, a prank, I don’t know. But I will figure it out! If necessary, I will contact the club and ask to show the cameras. We will see what girl was there.
Emily presses against him, feeling the constraining cold gradually leave and warmth take its place not only physical but emotional too. She takes a deep breath, trying to even out her breathing.
Yes, she agrees, slightly raising her head. That is definitely not me. But who then? And why?
James shrugs, but the previous confusion is gone from his eyes now there is determination to figure out this strange story. He squeezes her hand tighter, as if to let her know they are together and will cope no matter what.
The next day, closer to noon, Emily sits in the kitchen, drinking tea and reviewing work emails on her laptop. The silence breaks with a call David’s name appears on the screen. She hesitates before answering: after yesterday’s events, it is not easy to get into the mood for talking to him. But curiosity wins she wants to understand what he will say.
Hi, David begins cautiously, as if walking on thin ice. Have you talked to James after yesterday?
Emily grips the phone in her hand. She decides to take the chance and get to the bottom of it find out exactly what David saw and why he was so sure it was her yesterday. After a small pause, as if choosing the right words, she replies:
Yes. We… argued. He accused me of something unclear, did not want to listen to explanations. He says I am lying to him.
A second of silence hangs in the receiver. Emily hears David exhale noisily, and then a note of satisfaction unexpectedly creeps into his voice barely noticeable but distinct.
Is that so, he draws out. Well, you know… I always said that James does not appreciate you. He never understood what you are really like.
Emily feels everything boiling inside, but she forces herself to speak in a restrained way. It is important to listen to the end and understand where he is heading.
What are you talking about? she asks, trying to keep her voice even.
David speaks quieter, almost in a whisper, and in this deliberate intimacy of tone there is something alarming:
That you deserve better! Emily, I have wanted to tell you for a long time… I love you. Really. And I am ready to take care of you. If you want to leave James I will be there. Always.
Emily stays silent, trying to process what she has heard. Many thoughts spin in her head: how long has David been thinking about this? Why say it now, after all this absurd story? Or… did he set it all up, knowing she supposedly was not home…
She takes a deep breath, gathers her thoughts, and replies calmly but firmly:
David, this is very unexpected. And, honestly, inappropriate. I love James, and we will sort out what happened. There is no need to interfere.
Sorry if I said something extra, he finally says, and the previous confidence is gone from his voice. I just… wanted you to know that you have someone to turn to. James acted meanly, blaming you for all the sins. I heard something from him out of the corner of my ear… It seems he just wants to leave you, so he is looking for a reason! I just want you to be safe!
Emily squeezes the receiver so that her fingers turn slightly white. She takes a deep breath, trying to stay calm not let emotions take over. The last thing she needs now is to snap and yell at this “friend”!
You know, David, her voice becomes icy, even, without the slightest hesitation, first of all, I was home yesterday. Second, James and I did not argue. And third, I know perfectly well that you set it all up. I just did not understand why. Now everything is clear to me.
For a moment, silence hangs in the receiver. She almost physically feels how David tries to find words, how he frantically searches for a way to wriggle out, change the subject, avoid a direct answer.
What?.. he finally squeezes out, and bewilderment slips into his voice. But just a second later he pulls himself together and speaks more firmly: What are you talking about?
About exactly that. You found a girl with a voice similar to mine. You asked her to act out this performance to call, speak in my voice, pretend that I am in the club with some man. Because you wanted to make us argue. Admit it, right?
Silence falls in the receiver. Emily waits, not rushing, knowing that now everything will be decided either David continues to lie or tells the truth.
Finally, David exhales sharply. His voice breaks, becomes louder, almost desperate:
Yes, I set it up! Because I love you, Emily! Because I see how James treats you. Because I want you to be happy with me!
Emily closes her eyes for a second. A wave of bitterness rises in her chest, but she holds back and does not let emotions break into her voice.
Happy? she laughs bitterly, but the laugh comes out dry, without a trace of fun. What made you think that I would be happy with you? Who are you anyway? An ordinary man who changes girls like gloves. Even if you were the only person in the world, I would not pay attention to you, got it?
David stays silent for a second, as if gathering his thoughts, and then speaks quietly, almost in a whisper, as if he himself does not believe what he is saying:
I thought… I thought that if you argued, you would understand that he does not deserve you. That you would pay attention to me! I am much better than James! And as for the girls… I was just trying to forget you! But no one can compare to you, you know! I will carry you in my arms, pamper you, adore you… Just choose me!
Emily feels anger boiling inside her not hot and impulsive, but cold and hard. She squeezes the phone in her hand, but her voice remains even, almost impassive:
You? Seriously? No way! You betrayed friendship, betrayed trust. And for what? For your illusions?
She speaks calmly, but each word sounds like a verdict clearly, without hesitation. There is no anger or hysteria in her voice, only firm confidence that she is right.
Emily, sorry… David’s voice trembles. There is no longer any push or self-confidence in it only bewilderment and regret.
But Emily has already made a decision. She is not going to give him a chance to justify himself or explain his actions.
No, David. There will be no forgiveness. And no friendship either. Do not call me anymore! Ever! And forget James’s number too, I will definitely let him listen to the recording of this wonderful conversation!
She presses the end call button and slowly lowers the phone to the table. Her fingers tremble a bit, but she pulls herself together, takes a deep breath, and looks out the window. Outside the glass, snow still falls quietly, as if nothing had happened.
At that moment, James enters the room. He immediately notices her serious face and becomes alert.
Well, what? he asks, stopping in the doorway. Anxiety sounds in his voice, but he tries to speak calmly.
Emily turns to him and says with a bitter smile:
Everything is clear now, she sighs. He set it all up. He admitted that he loves me and wanted us to argue. He offered golden mountains! Can you imagine? How mean he is…
James sits down next to Emily on the sofa, gently takes her hand. His fingers slightly squeeze her palm firmly, so that she feels support. In this simple touch is everything he wants to say: I am here, I am next to you, and I care about how you feel.
So he was never a real friend, James says quietly. Forget about him! We do not need to waste our nerves thinking about what happened. Honestly, I noticed warning signs a long time ago, but I had no substantial evidence. I was afraid that I was just imagining things. But now everything has fallen into place.
Yes, she agrees, moving a little closer and pressing her shoulder against his. But now we know the truth. And we know who we can trust.
Her voice sounds even, without strain. No resentment or bitterness remains in it only a slight relief that everything has finally cleared up. She closes her eyes for a second, inhaling the familiar, calming smell of home: warm wood, freshly brewed tea, and the barely noticeable scent of her favorite perfume.
You know, Emily suddenly smiles, and sparks play in her eyes, but this is even for the better. Now we have a solid reason not to go to all these parties. You will not argue with other friends because of him, will you? And this way we can just say that there is an unpleasant person to me at your event.
She says this lightly, almost jokingly, but there is some truth in these words. There is no longer any need to come up with polite excuses, weigh whether it is worth going, or worry that refusal might offend someone. Now everything has become simple: there is them, their cozy world, and everything else that which no longer matters.
James laughs sincerely, without a trace of the tension that had recently hung in the air.
Exactly. We will watch movies and drink tea, he agrees, slightly tilting his head to meet her gaze.
And not go anywhere, she adds with a slight smile, pulling the edge of the blanket toward her and wrapping herself in it, as if in a cocoon of safety and comfort.
Perfect, he nods, hugging her tighter.
So, among the snowflakes slowly swirling outside the window and the soft, warm light of the table lamp, their small world becomes whole and safe again. In this room, filled with quiet sounds and familiar smells, there is no place for lies, doubts, or other people’s games. Here there are only them two people who know that the most important thing is already there: trust, warmth, and confidence that tomorrow will be just as calm and cozy a day as this one…
David sits in the kitchen in complete silence, staring at an empty cup with long-cold tea. He does not even remember when he took the last sip all his attention is absorbed by the words that continue to sound in his head, like a broken record: Do not call me anymore. Ever.
But instead of remorse, instead of a feeling of guilt that could tell him he acted wrongly, a dull, heavy anger grows in his chest. It presses on his ribs, makes it hard to breathe evenly, and forces him to clench his fists so that his nails dig into his palms.
Why did everything go wrong?! he exclaims, sharply running his hand across the table and sweeping away crumbs from the cookie he was mechanically chewing while thinking.
In his head, the frames of yesterday evening replay over and over. Here he enters the club, having previously arranged with Jessica the girl he met a couple of weeks ago in a cafe. She immediately caught his attention: the same facial features, similar hairstyle, even her voice sounded almost like Emily’s. When he told her about his plan, she just smiled and nodded: Easy. I love games like this.
He remembers standing aside, watching her talk on the phone, pretending to be a drunk, bold Emily. She laughed, deliberately stretched her words, threw sharp phrases everything exactly as he had prompted her. At that moment he felt excitement, almost delight: here it is, the decisive moment! If everything works out, he thought, Emily will understand that James does not appreciate her. That there is someone who loves her for real.
And now… now he has received only a cold refusal and a bitter realization: the plan has failed. Worse than that he has lost everything.
It is not me who was wrong! he argues with himself mentally, pacing the kitchen and barely noticing how he bumps into a chair. It is them… they do not see, do not understand! James does not deserve her, and she blindly believes him!
He stops at the table, grips the edge of the countertop so that his fingers turn white. Memories flash before his eyes: how for years he watched Emily and James. How he envied their ease, their ability to laugh at little things, their warm glances that they exchanged even without noticing it. It seemed to him that he could give Emily the same only better, more sincere, stronger. And he chose the path he considered the only possible one.
He approaches the window. Outside the glass, snowflakes swirl slowly, settling on the windowsill, on the branches of bare trees. Everything looks so serene, so… calm…
Why do they have everything, and I have nothing?! escapes from him out loud. Why did she get James! I am more worthy! I am better in everything!
He understands that he has lost not only Emily he has lost a friend. James, who was always there, always ready to help, always believed in him. Now this friendship is destroyed and it is impossible to restore it. But instead of remorse, he feels only a burning irritation, a mixture of resentment and annoyance that burns from within.
The phone lies on the table, silent and alien. David knows: he will not call Emily. He will not try to explain, justify, or beg. That would be another defeat, another proof that he could not achieve his goal. But new thoughts are already ripening in his head bitter, caustic:
Let them live in their cozy little world. Let them think they have won. But I know the truth: James does not appreciate her as I could. And one day Emily will understand that. Maybe too late…
He approaches the window, stares at the falling snow and almost hisses, barely audibly, as if afraid that someone will hear:
You think you won, Emily? You think everything is clear? But the truth is that you just do not see beyond your cozy blanket and cup of tea. You do not see that there is a person nearby who loves you for real. But you chose an illusion. Well, enjoy it…
He sharply turns away from the window, notices a piece of paper on the table the one on which the day before he had sketched a plan for the conversation, written down what phrases Jessica should say, how best to build the dialogue. Without hesitation, he grabs it, tears it into small pieces, crumples it, and throws it into the trash can. This pitiful piece of paper reminds him of a grandiose failure!
Outside the window, the snow continues to fall, covering the world with a white blanket. David closes his eyes, trying to imagine how Emily is sitting next to James right now, how they are laughing, watching a movie, drinking tea. How warm and calm it is for them. How they feel protected in their small world, where there is no place for lies and manipulations.
And instead of a sincere wish for happiness, instead of an attempt to accept the situation, only stubbornness grows in him:
This should have been mine. All of this should have been mine….
