"Oh my! Alexa, you didn't tell me you were coming," Loisa said, smiling brightly.
"So I'm supposed to tell you before I come now? Can't I surprise my best friend anymore?" Alexa replied, her tone slightly sharp.
"No, love, I'm sorry," Loisa pouted. "I was just really surprised, that's all."
They hugged each other warmly.
Loisa and Alexa had been best friends for years.
"Loisa, I'm going abroad to further my education," Alexa said cheerfully.
"So… you're really going to leave me?" Loisa asked, her smile faltering. She turned away and walked toward the king-sized bed, sitting down with her back to Alexa.
"No, Loisa. It's not what you think. Seriously."
"Oh really? Then what is it? Huh?" Loisa turned, bitterness creeping into her voice. "Tell me."
"Look, Loisa, the reason I planned on going abroad was to—"
"I wish you a safe journey," Loisa cut in coldly. "And a good life ahead. You can go now."
Alexa flinched. "Loisa, I thought you'd be happy for me. But instead, you sound jealous, angry—even hateful. Why are you acting like this?"
Loisa's heart sank. Jealous? Hateful? The words stung deeper than she expected.
Alexa continued, her voice trembling. "Why are you so jealous that I'm leaving the country to chase my dreams? I thought you'd support me…"
Loisa's eyes welled up with tears. How could my best friend say this about me? After everything?
"Oh? You have nothing to say now? It's obvious—I was right," Alexa snapped.
Loisa stood up slowly. Her voice cracked. "Do you know what hurts the most? The fact that you had the guts to come here and tell me about your departure just one day before you leave. You hid it from me this whole time."
She walked toward the door and yanked it open. "What do you take me for? A fool? Or a best friend? You know what? Get lost. I don't ever want to see you again."
"Really?" Alexa asked quietly, tears gathering in her eyes. "You want me to leave?"
"Yes. Leave. Now. And don't come back," Loisa said, pointing to the open door.
"Loisa, I didn't mean to hurt you… I swear, I didn't do it on purpose," Alexa whispered, guilt washing over her face.
"I don't want to hear a single word from you," Loisa shouted, her voice rising.
Alexa broke down. "Loisa, I said I'm sorry."
Loisa looked away, her chest heaving. "Our relationship… is over."
Alexa stepped forward and hugged her tightly. "Loisa, no. Please. I know you still love me. I didn't mean for it to happen like this. I'm sorry."
Loisa sighed, her anger melting into sorrow. "Fine. I forgive you. And I'm sorry too… for acting out."
They hugged each other tearfully, holding on like they never wanted to let go. Then, hand in hand, they stepped outside.
Loisa helped Alexa get a taxi back home, then returned inside quietly.
Meanwhile…
Alpha Kim stood by the window, his back to the large oak desk. His silky black hair brushed the collar of his shirt.
His secretary knocked and stepped in.
"Good morning, sir. You have a meeting at 10:00 a.m."
Kim remained silent, eyes fixed on the distant skyline. She gently closed the door and left.
A few minutes later, Frank entered.
"Good morning, Alpha," he said with a grin.
Kim turned, smiling back, his perfect white teeth gleaming. "Morning, Frank. How was your night?"
"It was fine. Yours?"
"Lovely. We have a meeting with the board this morning, so get ready."
"Got it. I'll tell the secretary to bring the files," Frank said, smirking. "Hey, have you forgotten Andy's birthday is tomorrow?"
Kim raised a brow. "Hmm, how about we go together?"
"Nope. I've got a lot to do," Frank replied, popping the "P".
"Alright. You can leave now."
Frank started toward the door, then turned back. "I'll still come to the party… but I might be late. Don't miss your Beta too much."
Kim chuckled. "Just go, Frank. I have work to do."
Frank laughed and left, closing the door behind him.
Kim finished some paperwork and headed for the meeting. Ten minutes later, it ended smoothly. He and Frank exchanged a few words before returning to their respective duties.
At the Airport…
Alexa stood in line, suitcase in hand, waiting to be attended to.
She was slender and elegant, with silky black hair, long lashes, and expressive brown eyes. A natural beauty.
Eventually, she reached the front of the line and boarded the plane. As she settled into her seat, she sighed deeply.
Finally. I'm starting a new life. I have to stay focused, make good friends, and come out of college with flying colors.
She closed her eyes, repeating her goals like a sacred utterance.
A gentle tap on her shoulder made her open them. A smiling flight attendant leaned down beside her.
"Good afternoon, miss. Can I get you anything?"
"Just a cup of coffee, please," Alexa replied softly.
The attendant nodded and returned shortly with a steaming cup.
Alexa took a sip, staring out the window as the plane began to move.
New beginnings... she thought. I won't waste it.