Tomas.
I continued my story to Jennifer-Flashback-
We started to date without me even noticing it. Our conversations became frequent, and we often had dinner or lunch together during my spare time. Sometimes, I even joined her on set when she was filming a scene for a movie or something similar. I have to admit, I was genuinely enjoying this unexpected closeness. She never rushed me for anything, and she certainly didn’t annoy me at all. All she ever asked for was a few hours of my time, which I was more than willing to give.
One day, during the second year of my college, after we had spent more than a year together without even sharing an intimate moment, I received an unexpected letter from a girl in my same year. When I opened my locker to grab my book for the next lecture, I noticed it was ajar. Curiosity piqued, I took a look around to see if anyone was watching and then opened the letter.
The note was filled with an overwhelming sense of longing and affection. The words were so passionately written that they shattered my emotional boundaries.
*Tomas, I know that you have a girl. I know she’s famous, different, and popular. She’s an idol, and any guy would fall for her. But I’ve been watching you all the time, every second of my life. I’m sure that you’re not in love with her, and I know that maybe I’m not the right girl for you either. But you deserve someone better, a girl who could break down your walls, kidnap your heart, and settle in the space between your chest. Don’t pretend anymore. Do what you truly want. You are Tomas Charl, for God’s sake-the most desired guy in college. Someday, you will be the most sought-after man in the country. I am the girl you’ve never noticed, but I hope that one day, I will get a chance to meet you.*
This letter was the most confusing yet captivating message I had ever received. I was determined to find out who had written it. Who was this girl? I searched for her everywhere, hoping for another letter, but nothing ever came. That letter turned out to be the first and the last from her, and she never introduced herself or even approached me as she had suggested.
After reading that letter, I reconsidered my decision to maintain a fake relationship. Now everyone believed I wasn’t gay; I had no feelings for Selena. It was time to end this charade.
I decided to call Selena. “Selena, hi-”
“Hi, Tomas. It’s been over a week since you called. I didn’t want to disturb you; I know you’re busy with work and exams,” she replied.
“Oh yes, Selena, that’s true, but I want to meet you tonight-”
“Oh sure, but I have a shoot. It’s an advertisement.”
“That won’t take long, will it? Could you come meet me after?” I asked.
“Okay, I’ll come. I’ll be waiting,” she said cheerfully.
“Okay, bye, Selena.” I hung up and got ready to head to her location, wearing my casual outfit.
When I arrived at the studio where the shoot was taking place, I was met by a busy atmosphere filled with models and crew members. A man approached me.
“Sir, are you a model?” he asked.
“No, I am not,” I replied.
“Why not? You could be an amazing model,” he insisted.
Just then, Selena spotted me and came over. “Hey, Tomas! I see the director wants you to model?” she teased, giggling.
“Oh yes, but I’m not interested, sorry,” I said, trying to avoid the director’s gaze.
“Can you wait, Tomas? Tell me what you want after this scene,” Selena said, her expression turning serious.
“No, Selena, I need to talk to you now,” I insisted.
“Okay, tell me now, Tomas,” she urged.
“Selena, I can’t fake this anymore. We’re wasting time. I tried to fall in love with you, but I didn’t. I’m sorry… I can’t date you anymore.” I blurted out honestly.
Her face flushed with shock, and she looked nervous. She cleared her throat, “Um, but Tomas, I love you. Please don’t leave me. I can’t live without you.” Her voice rose as she expressed her feelings, catching the attention of everyone around us.
She knelt down and took my hand, pleading, “Please, Tomas, I love you. Don’t break up with me.” Her dramatic display attracted even more eyes.
Looking around, I felt the weight of their stares. I was tempted to change my mind, but no, I couldn’t do it. I recalled the letter from the unknown girl, and her words encouraged me to stand firm.
“No, Selena, I can’t. I’m sorry. Please forget me. You’re famous, and so many rich and successful men desire you. I’m sure I’m not the right one for you.” I said firmly, turning my back and walking away.
What happened next was beyond my expectations. I didn’t realize the chaos that ensued after I left. When she knelt, the photographers captured countless images of us. Then, in a moment of desperation, she attempted to harm herself and was rushed to the hospital. When the news broke, it created a media frenzy.
Selena used those photos to gain sympathy and enhance her fame. Every newspaper in the country reported on the incident, framing me as the heartless womanizer who callously broke Selena’s heart during a shoot.
At that moment, everyone began to talk about the notorious womanizer, Tomas Charl. The girls flocked to me, eager to date me. Being popular was like a magnet, and I thought, why not? I’m a man, after all. Having some fun and casual flings with girls wouldn’t hurt anyone. My reputation was already tarnished; at least I wasn’t gay.
I started dating numerous girls, each weekend bringing a new face. Most were just looking for a chance to capture a few photos with me to boast to their friends that they dated me. During this time, I didn’t meet any genuinely good girls. All these years, Mark remained my best friend. We hung out together, even joining me on dates.
He graduated and began working for me at my company. On my graduation day, he insisted we celebrate at a nightclub and strip club. I had never been to such a place before.
“I don’t know, Mark! Why this place?” I questioned.
“Tomas, it’s your graduation day! We need something new. Plus, most of our college friends will join us. I promise you’ll love it. We need to change the type of girls we’re dating,” Mark said enthusiastically.
“Okay, Mark, let’s do it. I hope they have some attractive girls there,” I laughed.
“Yes, everyone’s been talking about a girl named Maya,” Mark mentioned.
“Then my target is Maya, huh?” I grinned at him.
“I guess so. You’re the prince, so you should get the best. I don’t mind settling for the runner-up,” Mark replied with a sigh.
“Alright. Let’s meet after work. I’ll change and see you at midnight, Mark.”
“Okay, Tomas. I’ll wait for you.”
As I told the whole story step by step to Jennifer, she listened intently, never interrupting me once.