Between Truth and Dreams

Caught between Truth and Dream

Victoria nestled into a thick tartan blanket, relishing the gentle hush of her own home. Outside, snowflakes drifted lazily past the window, softly settling on the sill in a silent wintry waltz. Shed just returned from her wedding dress fitting an event shed anticipated with excitement and nervous delight. Still clutched in her hands was a bag full of dainty accessories: delicate earrings, a slender tiara, and other little touches to complete her bridal look. Her thoughts whirled with images of the celebration ahead how the dress would fall, the sparkle of her jewellery, the admiration in guests eyes.

A sharp ring at the door shattered the calm. Victoria jumped, tightening the blanket around her. She checked the time ten to seven. Who could it be at this hour? Briefly, she wondered if it was a delivery shed forgotten about, or perhaps a neighbour in sudden need.

Cautiously, she approached, peeking through the spyhole. The figure outside was unfamiliar tall, masculine, but the angle hid his face. Victoria hesitated, unsure whether to open up.

Who is it? she called, masking her unease.

Its me, Will, came the muffled but recognisable voice. We need to talk. Its urgent.

Victoria hesitated. She hardly wanted a conversation with Will but what if Tobys in trouble? She turned the lock and opened the door a crack. There stood Will, snow melting into wet patches on his dark overcoat. His face was pallid, eyes burning with a wild intensity shed never seen before almost unsettling. She had a moment of doubt: had she done the right thing letting him in?

Come in, she managed, stepping back to hide her concern. Slamming the door in his face seemed childish now. Youre drenched.

Will entered without even thinking to remove his boots, leaving streaks of muddy slush on the pale wooden floor. But he seemed oblivious, gaze fixed somewhere distant. Victoria watched silently, her unease mounting whatever had driven him here tonight, it promised to be difficult.

Victoria, he turned, fidgeting with his gloves. I cant do this any more. I love you.

She froze, not trusting her hearing.

Will, you she began, but her voice trembled and the words caught in her throat.

He closed the gap between them, desperate as if afraid he might lose his last chance.

I know youre getting married. I know its mad! But I cant keep quiet. I tried to get over you, tried to move on, but its impossible, he spoke with soft but steadfast conviction, each word costing him. I should have told you sooner. Toby Toby and I got together because I wanted to see more of you. I never truly cared about her. Never!

Victoria felt icy inside. Was he saying he got together with her friend only to be closer to her? Poor Toby she had genuinely fallen for him!

Victoria dropped the blanket over her chair back, as if the motion might bring her back to reality. The room felt stifling, air thick and hard to breathe.

Will do you hear yourself? she struggled to keep control. I have a fiancé. I love him. Were planning a wedding, a future and what about Toby?

He nodded, meeting her gaze with pain and, underneath it, an odd sense of relief.

I know but I cant keep it hidden! Soon youll be completely out of reach! He paused, wrestling with himself. I know this isnt the time or place, but if I didnt say it, Id regret it forever. Toby was just my way to be near you. I thought maybe, one day, youd see that Im a kind, generous, good man. That we should be together. Now Im certain: without you, nothing makes sense.

He sank to one knee, hands shaking as he fished a small ring from his pocket. It flashed in the lamp light fine banded gold, a modest stone.

Leave him! Leave your fiancé. Be with me. Ill make you happy, I promise.

Victoria just stared, snatches of memory spinning through her mind: Will and Toby laughing at a party, holding hands with such gentle affection, sharing looks that had once made her smile for her friends sake. Was it all a lie? The old picture shattered. She tried to piece it back, but nothing fit.

Get up, she whispered, almost inaudible. Please, Will. Get up.

He rose slowly, eyes flickering with hope, hope draining with every heartbeat.

You dont believe me? His voice broke, exposing raw vulnerability.

I believe youre truthful, Victoria replied, calm but certain. But it changes nothing.

She stepped away, needing room to steady herself. The right words were hard, but kindness demanded clarity.

Youre my friend, Will. But I love someone else. Im marrying him because hes the one for me. I need no-one else.

He dropped his eyes, closing his fist around the ring.

If Id said all this sooner? Before you met him?

Victoria paused, then smiled gently.

My answer would have been the same, Will. Im sorry, I never saw you that way. Youre a good person, just not my type.

He stepped closer, desperation etched on his face.

Why not? His voice wavered but was firm. I know theres something between us. Ive seen the way you look at me.

Victoria edged towards the door. Frankly, she was beginning to feel afraid his stare was so intense. She found herself mentally rehearsing how to get away if she had to. If she pushed just right, maybe hed fall onto the sofa and she could bolt for the corridor

Theres nothing, Will. What you feel isnt love its obsession. Youve invented a story, a fantasy where Im perfect and everyone else is just a means to an end. Please, lets end this.

Will clenched his fists, not in anger, but in helplessness. He struggled for words, to defend himself, to change her mind.

Youre wrong, he said, meeting her eyes. Ive never felt this way for anyone. Its not an invention, or obsession! I love you.

Victoria bit her lip, steadying herself. Who knew what hed do if she raised her voice? But she couldnt simply listen, especially where her friend was concerned.

What about Toby? She searched his expression for a hint of guilt. Do you have any idea how much youve hurt her? You used her, and now you come to me wanting me to drop everything for you?

I know Im to blame, Will said quietly, staring at the floor. I know it was dreadful. But even if I could do it all again, I wouldnt change a thing.

You cant build happiness on someone elses heartbreak, Victoria replied, glancing at her phone she wanted to reach it. And you cant love a person you made up. You hardly know me we barely talked! Youre in love with an idea, not me. Realitys always messier.

She let the silence last, hoping hed take her words in, then spoke again.

You need to talk to Toby. She deserves the truth. You have to apologise.

Will stood perfectly still, his hands trembling slightly.

Why would I do that? I told you, I dont care for her. She just irritates me! But you youre different.

He looked up, and there was such raw pain in his eyes that, for a moment, Victoria pitied him. She clenched her hands, fighting the urge to show any softness; pity would give him the wrong idea.

Theres no future for you and me, any more than with Toby. And Im not going to keep quiet.

For a few seconds, Will stared at her and she shivered. At last, he said:

Im leaving. But I wont give up. Ill wait one day youll realise were meant for each other.

Dont, Victoria shook her head, disturbed by an edge in his tone. Dont wait. Get on with your life. Find someone real to love, not a fantasy. Please, go.

Will moved heavily towards the door, every movement betraying his struggle to let go. At the threshold he paused.

Thank you for being honest, he said, simply, without drama. But Im not saying goodbye.

He left, quietly drawing the door shut behind him. Alone, Victoria watched after him, feeling tension ebb away at last. She wandered over to the window outside, the street sparkled in lamplight, thick with snow. Will trudged away, head bent, hands rammed into his pockets every step an effort.

Victoria watched him disappear round the corner, heart shivering. Hed startled her enough to know she couldnt let this go. What if Will told Toby some tall story? Or if he lied, just to stay close? Or didnt leave them alone at all?

She found Tobys contact in her phone, heart ticking a little faster. When she spoke, her tone was careful, almost routine.

Hey, Toby. We need to talk. Its important.

Paper rustled on the other end Toby must have been busy, but her voice was full of concern:

What is it? You sound tense. Is everything alright?

Victoria paused to collect herself. She didnt want to overstate things, but she owed her friend straightforwardness.

Will was just here, she began, choosing her words deliberately. He confessed he only started seeing you to be closer to me. Said he never loved you, that you were just a way to get to me.

A long silence followed. Victoria pictured Toby sitting, gripping her phone, absorbing the shock. The quiet stretched until she was about to add something more, but then Toby spoke, voice trembling with disbelief.

Whats that supposed to mean? Did he really say How could he

Look, I hate to upset you, but I cant let you live in the dark either. Youre my closest friend! For once, Victorias nerves showed. He says he loves only me. He wants me to leave my fiancé for him. Toby, he wasnt himself tonight, I was genuinely afraid to have him in my flat!

Another pause. Victoria could hear Toby inhale slowly, trying to pull herself together.

I see, Toby said finally, voice contained, but the pain was obvious. So what now?

I dont know, Victoria answered honestly. Hell probably come to you soon, but I cant guess what hell say. Are you alone tonight? I really am worried.

After a few seconds, Toby replied in a small voice,

Dont worry. Ill be alright. Thanks for telling me.

Im sorry it had to be this way, Victoria told her gently. I truly am.

Dont be. Id rather know the truth than live in a lie, Tobys voice had steadied a little, though the hurt lingered.

They hung up, and for a while, Victoria just stared at the snow swirling in the lamplight. Out there, in this blanketed city, two people were muddling through their feelings, and all she could do was hope things would settle and everyone would find their way.

Victorias thoughts circled, refusing to settle. She tried to imagine Tobys state of mind how hard it must be, how much would have to be re-examined now. But she knew bitter honesty trumped sweet lies. Lies, in the end, always bite harder when uncovered.

***

Meanwhile, Toby just sat in her kitchen. Victorias words echoed, mixing with memories, flooding in waves sometimes overwhelming, then slipping back, leaving nothing but a bitter aftertaste.

She recalled Wills first invitation out how attentive hed been, holding the door, making her laugh, wearing that shy, sincere smile she thought so charming. She remembered his sweet whispers and the look in his eyes.

He never loved me, spun through her mind, splintering something inside. Not agonising pain, but the sharp sense of a world shed built crumbling quietly away.

She touched her teacup; stone cold now. She hadnt taken a sip since picking up the call. Silence reigned, just the ticking of the wall clock marking time as life insisted on moving forward.

She breathed deeply, trying to gather herself. What to do now? Call Will? Wait? Ask Victoria to come round? Nothing seemed like the answer. Just then, time was all she needed to process, accept, and figure out how to carry on in this changed world.

A knock at the door startled her. Shed just poured a second cup of tea, trying to piece herself together. She went to the door, peered through. Will was there. Toby hesitated, unsure whether to open up. What would he say? More lies? A heartfelt apology?

She opened the door. Will stood there, the snow melting on his coat, hair flecked white, cheeks pale, eyes red as if from lack of sleep or long exposure to the elements. His face showed resolve but beneath that, uncertainty.

Toby, he started, not waiting to be asked in, I need to come clean. I I never

Victoria told me, Toby cut him off tightly. Hearing the truth from him was far more painful than from her friend. I doubt you have anything left to add.

Will stopped. He started to raise his hand, then dropped it, eyes fixed on the carpet.

So she did call he murmured. I hoped I could explain before you heard it from anyone else.

Arms folded, Toby felt hurt welling up. She didnt want to cry or seem weak, but the words burst out anyway.

Why did you come here? she asked, fighting for composure. To say it again? Make me feel worthless? So Id hear I was just your stepping stone to someone else?

No, he took a tentative step forward, but she backed away. He stopped, met her gaze. I came to apologise for lying, for stringing you along, for using you.

He paused to find words that wouldnt cut even deeper.

I know its no excuse, know Ive hurt you. I dont expect you to forgive or understand. But I couldnt walk away without telling you I am sorry.

Toby was silent. She tried to assess her own feelings anger, grief, resentment No, it was mostly contempt now. Contempt for a man who had played so easily with someone elses heart.

You could have told me sooner, she said quietly. Been honest that you didnt care. But you went to Victoria, begging her to leave her fiancé. And now you tell me youre sorry?

Will gave a dry, bitter laugh, thrust his hands into his pockets.

I realised it was now or never. That shes slipping through my fingers! I didnt think.

He pulled a small jewellery box from his pocket the same ring hed offered Victoria. His hand shook as he opened it, holding it out to Toby.

Take it. As a sign I truly regret all this, he whispered.

Toby looked at the ring simple, elegant gold with a tiny diamond, twinkling in lamplight. Was this meant to be penance? Offering a ring meant for another woman

She looked Will in the eye with a cold, unflinching certainty.

Keep it, she said with level indifference. I want nothing from you.

Will clenched the box, cheeks whitening, a look of desperation flickering.

Toby, please, his voice shook, but he steadied himself. I know Ive wronged you. Theres no good excuse. But I want to try to make amends.

She angled her head, as if searching for the man shed once loved. But only saw a stranger someone who hid the truth, who manipulated, who built love on lies.

Make amends? She laughed bitterly, joylessly. How? Marry me out of guilt? Stand in front of a bus so Id feel sorry for you?

He flinched. She watched him, knowing hed earned every word.

I want to start over, he managed, stepping closer, but stopped at her involuntary retreat. On honest terms. No more lies.

Toby shook her head, voice calm, words final.

You can only start over with someone you trust. I can never trust another thing you say. You didnt just betray me you crushed everything we had. Even if you genuinely regret it, it doesnt matter now.

She took a breath, bracing herself.

I need time. And distance. I dont want to see you, hear about you, or have you try to fix things. Theres nothing left to fix.

Will ducked his head, clutching the ring box, now pointless. He nodded.

I get it. I truly am sorry.

Turning to go, he glanced back, one last time.

If ever you want to talk…

I wont, she replied quietly, unbudging. I just

She was interrupted by another ring at the door. Who else now?

She checked standing outside was James, Victorias fiancé. Tall, neat, raven-haired and with a look as cold and implacable as a barrister before a trial. His face was composed, but tension simmered under the surface. He looked ready to settle a matter that had been awaiting his arrival.

Toby opened the door, stepping aside so he could come in. She saw Will retreat, as if hoping to evaporate into the wall itself.

I know whats been going on, James declared, fixing Will with a hard stare. I know how youve treated them. Both.

Will tried to speak, but James cut him off, voice steely.

Dont bother. Victorias told me everything. And you know what I think? Some lessons need more than words.

He advanced, and Will shrank instinctively towards the wall, hearing real threat in Jamess tone.

James, dont Toby started, still agonisingly attached to the man despite it all. She didnt want anyone hurt, not really.

James just waved her off.

Stay out of it, Toby. Havent you had enough? He needs to learn.

Toby hesitated, torn between wanting to stop James and letting things take their course.

Will pressed himself back, real panic washing over him. Only now did he realise just how far his selfishness had taken him. James was the kind whod never ignore a mess like this.

Look Will stammered, I already said sorry. To both of them. I

Sorry? James sneered, no mirth in the sound. Do you think “sorry” fixes it? You destroyed two peoples trust and expect sympathy in return?

He stepped right up to Will, fists at his side. Will tried to steel himself but knew it was hopeless.

Toby drew breath, meaning to intervene.

James, please, violence wont help. Let’s talk, calmly.

He hesitated for a moment, then glanced her way, a flash of doubt flickering before he wiped it away.

No, Im done with words.

He acted swiftly, efficiently accustomed to taking charge. One solid punch and Will sank to the floor, instinctively clutching his split lip, blood welling between his fingers.

Thats just the beginning, James said icily, standing over him. His voice was even, clinical a diagnosis, not a threat. If you go near Victoria or Toby again, it will be much worse. Understood?

Will didnt reply. He rose shakily, wiping his mouth, trying not to show how shaken he was. He glanced at Toby, hoping for a glimmer of pity, but she remained cool, almost detached.

Without another word, Will exited. At the door he faltered, perhaps to offer a defence or apology. But confronted by Jamess icy stare, he gave up, closed the door and was gone. Silence fell.

James turned to Toby, his expression softening slightly.

Im sorry about that, he said. Violence isnt a virtue, but some people only get the message that way.

Toby studied him, trying to make sense of it all. She never expected any of this to play out as it did, but she wasnt surprised, not really. Deep down, she knew Jamess reaction came from a place of protection, not spite.

You didnt have to she started, but trailed off. Although maybe you did. Thank you for standing up for us.

He gave a small smile.

I know how you must feel, his tone now kind. Betrayal hurts more than anything. But youre tough. Youll come through.

Toby nodded, feeling the first stirrings of calm after a long chaos. She was strong; she remembered that. Sometimes it just took a while.

Thank you, she managed a frail smile. And for defending us even like that.

Victoria cares deeply about you, James added, reminding her there was support. She wanted to come, but I thought it wise if I handled things.

Shes my best mate, Toby replied warmly, gratitude in her voice. And Im glad she has someone like you.

The room fell still. Outside, the snow continued falling, covering London in gentleness, as if to soften the sharpness of the day. Toby breathed in deeply, sensing at last a flicker of peace. Thered be healing ahead within herself, her emotions, her life. But she now had what shed been missing: the assurance she wasn’t alone, that people around her cared enough to see her through.

When James left, Toby locked up and sank onto the sofa.

Its over, she thought. The idea was strangely liberating, even if a dull ache persisted inside. She could see, through the pain, the faint outline of a new beginning. It was time to learn how to trust again, to wish and love once more but now, with open eyes; not invention, but reality.

***

Meanwhile, Will wandered the night-shrouded streets of London without noticing the cold. The snow melted on his face, stung his battered lips, but none of it mattered. The dull pain was nothing compared with what gnawed within: a vast, heavy emptiness.

He knew hed lost everything. Toby irretrievably. Between them there could only remain bitter questions and wounds that wouldnt heal. Victoria lost long ago, when he started building castles out of sand and lies. Hed destroyed all hed ever really had, and was left with only himself, and the knowledge of his own failure.

Next day, Will turned up at work with a split lip and a stubborn bruise. His colleagues watched and whispered, but no one dared ask outright. Not that he cared. He only wanted to make it through the hours, ticking off tasks until the day ended, keeping invisible.

Within a week, he requested a transfer to Manchester. His boss raised his eyebrows but, catching sight of Wills grave expression, signed the forms without question. Will knew he couldnt stay. Everything here streets, shops, coffee chains was shadowed by his mistakes.

Before leaving, he visited a jeweller and returned the ring. The assistant said nothing, only processed the refund. Will offered no explanations. He simply took the cash and left, feeling some minuscule burden slip away.

He wired the money to Tobys account with a single line: Sorry. This is yours by rights. There was no justification, only this honest scrap.

On the day he left, Will stood in the frosty courtyard, waiting for his taxi. Snow veiled the city, cushioning even his memories. Will looked skyward, breathed in lungfuls of cold, and felt the world stand still a moment, as if weighing his last chance at reflection.

I ruined it all, he whispered. Not complaining but acknowledging. The past was fixed; the price, forever his.

The cab arrived. Will took a final look at the block of flats where hed once felt joy, hope, love. Now it was just a building without weight. He got in and asked for the station. As the taxi drove away and the familiar corners blurred behind snow, Will gazed ahead into uncertainty, knowing hed have to learn how to live from the beginning.

Meanwhile, Toby sat in a small, comfortingly bustling cafe with Victoria and James. Three mugs of hot chocolate steamed on the table, the perfect thing for such a day.

Their conversation flowed gently, at ease at last. They talked about the future what awaited each of them. Victoria, glowing, described her wedding plans, beaming shyly as she shared stories of James. Toby listened, warmth gradually growing in her a sense that life truly does move on, that theres real happiness to be found.

James, ever serious, was at his gentlest, responsive but quiet, his quiet support anchoring the trio.

You know, Toby said at last, eyes drawn to the windows where snow still danced, Im not even angry with him any more. Its just a shame, really.

Her voice was calm, free of resentment. She was done with pretending, done with regret. It was just acceptance.

Victoria smiled, squeezing her friends shoulder.

Youve nothing to be sorry for, Toby. You deserve something real. Not lies, not games.

Toby nodded, believing it not as empty comfort but as truth.

I know. And I will find it.

There was no bravado, only a quiet surety: the past was gone; the future, a road waiting to be explored.

Outside, the citys snowfall carried on, gently erasing the traces of old pain, making a blank page for whatever new stories might unfold. Inside, in the lamplit calm of the cafe, three friends sat, knowing that after everything, the most important thing was this simple certainty: life goes on.