A thousand reasons why

Scarlet POV

Coming back from my friend's wedding preparations, I wanted to surprise Aiden. At the busy airport, I enjoyed the view of the city. In the taxi, I felt the city's lively atmosphere.

My heart raced when I arrived at the hotel. In the elevator, I felt more excited with each floor. But at Aiden's room, I heard his voice and a familiar woman's voice, making me pause and feel worried

Curiousity and confusion washed over me as I opened the door, only to be met with a devastating sight

There, in the center of the room, were Aiden and Evelyn, my stepsister, entangled in an intimate embrace.

The scene felt like a nightmare as I watched them, my eyes welling up with tears

"Come on, baby...yes, baby, oh...I'm about to come..."

Aiden whispered breathlessly with Evelyn perched on top of him.

My voice caught in my throat, a whirlwind of betrayal consuming me

I couldn't believe my eyes

"Aiden!" I finally screamed, my voice shaking with hurt and fury.

Aiden jolted to his feet, shock written all over his face. I knew he never expected me here standing in the doorway.

"Scarlet, you're here...." 

He stammered, Scrambling to cover himself as he stood up.

"It's not what you think, Scarlet! I-let me explain!"

He rushed towards me, his hands outstretched in desperation.

I couldn't bear to look at him, my heart shattering into a million pieces.

"Save your pathetic excuses!" I growled, slapping him.

"And you," I said, returning my gaze to Evelyn.

"You're nothing but a conniving, selfish liar!"

Truly, I had never imagined her to stoop so low. Although I knew she was never honest from the beginning.

It was clear to me that my words did not affect her as she gave a grin, which just spurred my anger.

"I suppose the better woman won," she responded, a note of pleasure in her voice.

Her words were like a hammer that hit me, and tears streamed from my eyes, but I did not let them fall. I would never let her be the one to see me broken.

"I hate you! Aiden." I spat before turning on my heels and storming out of the room.

I hastily headed for the elevator, my vision blurred by tears.

I hit the button for the ground floor, where the hotel bar was located. As I stumbled into the dimly lit space , I made my way to the bartender

I sat down, making an effort to avoid the curious glances of the other patrons.

"Whiskey," I croaked, my throat tight with emotion. The bartender nodded, giving in to my need.

He poured me a generous amount of the amber liquid, which I promptly consumed in a single motion.

The burning sensation in my throat was so intense that it felt as though I was experiencing a surge of exhilaration, relishing the moment despite the discomfort.

"Another," I demand

The unflinching eyes of the men around seemed to be quivering at me.