The Hidden Heirs

each second to feel never-ending. He tightened and loosened his fists, attempting to regulate his breath. At last, the jangling of keys in the lock brought his focus back. Victo

s. I'm sure you both can make this work." "Talk?" Victoria sneered. "There's nothing to talk about. I'm leaving." "You're not going anywhere until we finish this," Alex said, his voice rising. "You used me, Victoria. You lied to me." Victoria smirked. "It's not my fault you believed the lies. You should have seen the signs." "You're unbelievable," Alex said, shaking his head. "You have no shame." "Why should I?" Victoria shot back. "You, your uncle, your aunt-all of you are just holding me back." Robert's face turned red. "Now, wait a minute-" "No, she's right," Alex interrupted, his voice filled with bitterness. "She's made it clear how she feels. Victoria, get out." Victoria's eyes flashed with anger. "You'll "The best thing?" Alex laughed bitterly. "I'm done with your games. Get out." Victoria dashed towards the door, snatching her purse. She slammed the door behind her, repeating, "You will come to regret this." There was a deafening silence that followed. Seated on the couch, Alex buried his face in his hands. Robert sat next to him, laying a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Alex, I'm sorry you had to go through that." Robert whispered. "She used me, Uncle Robert. She never loved me," Alex whispered, tears streaming down his face. "I know, son. I know," Robert said, pulling Alex into a hug. "Love can be scary stuff. You should see what it did to your father," Robert said jokingly, before returning to his serious demeanor. "But this doesn't define you. You're stronger than that." "I feel so lost," Alex admitted, his voice breaking. Alex couldn't stand the pain, he ran outside in hopes of finding and stopping Victoria from leaving. He entered his rusty car and drove for hours searching for her. He eventually gave up and stopped at a night bar. The bar light was dim, and only three people were left in the bar as t