Between Truth and Dreams
Veronica wrapped herself tighter in her favourite woollen throw, relishing the calm and warmth of her little terraced house. Outside, snowflakes drifted down in lazy spirals, gathering silently on the window ledge, swirling as if caught up in a silent winter waltz. Shed just returned from a fitting for her wedding dressa long-awaited event that filled her with both excitement and a healthy dose of nerves. In her hands, she still clutched a bag full of carefully chosen accessories: delicate pearl earrings, a slender sparkly tiara and a few finishing touches meant to complete her bridal look perfectly. Her mind was a jumble of wedding thoughtsshe imagined her reflection in the new dress, the shimmer of her jewels in the light, and the eyes of her guests admiring her down the aisle.
A sharp knock at the door disturbed the stillness. Veronica jumped a little, clutching the edge of her throw. She glanced at the clockit was ten to seven. Who would show up at this hour? Could it be a forgotten delivery? Or perhaps Mrs. Benson from next door, needing a hand with something?
She moved quietly to the door and peered through the spyhole. She couldnt make out who it wasa tall man, but his face was hidden. So she hesitated.
Whos there? she called, striving to sound calm.
Its me, Will, came the muffled replya familiar voice from the other side. We need to talk. Please. Its urgent.
Veronica hesitated. She didnt really want to talk to Willbut what if something had happened to her friend Hannah? She fiddled with the lock and opened the door just a crack. Will was hunched on the step, snow melting into dark patches on his heavy coat. His face looked pale and troubled, eyes glinting with a feverish intensity shed never seen before. Veronica briefly wondered if shed made a mistake letting him init was obvious something inside him was not right.
Come in, she said, stepping aside and trying to mask her unease. What else could she doslam the door in his face? Ridiculous. Youre soaked.
Will stepped into the hallway, neglecting to wipe his boots. Dirty, melting snow instantly smeared across her light floorboards, but Will didnt even seem to notice. He stared blankly ahead, as though seeing something far off and invisible to her. Veronica hovered nearby, feeling an anxiety growing in her chest. She had no idea what had brought him here, but she sensed it wouldnt be good.
Veronica, he finally managed, twisting his gloves in his hands, I cant keep it in. I love you.
She froze, astonished.
Will, you she started, but her voice betrayed herwords trailing away unresolved.
He ploughed on, stepping closer, desperate not to lose his last chance to say what hed bottled up for months.
I know youre getting married. I know its mad! But I cant just be silent. Ive tried to move on, honestly, I havebut I cant. I shouldve told you ages ago. With Hannah well, I only ever went out with her to be near you. I wanted to see you more often. But I never loved her. Not once!
Veronica felt a cold wave rising within her. What? He dated her best friend out of selfishnessjust to get closer to her? Poor Hannah, who had fallen for him so sincerely.
Veronica let the throw slip from her shoulders onto an armchair, as though grounding herself in reality. The air in the house seemed to thicken, making it harder to breathe.
Will she tried again, searching for words. Do you realise what youre saying? I have a fiancé, I love him! Its all real, Will. Were planning our wedding, our life and besides, Hannah
He nodded but wouldnt break his gaze. There was pain there, but also a resolve, as if unburdening himself after carrying it alone for too long.
I know, but I cant bottle it up anymore. In a fortnight, youll be out of my reach for good. I get this isnt the right time or place. But if I dont say it now, Ill regret it forever. As for Hannahshe means nothing to me. Shes nobody, cant you see?
Veronicas insides twisted; her words came out flat, distanced:
How can you even say that?
Its how it is, Will insisted, determined. Hannah was the excuse, not the reason. I thought maybe, just maybe youd notice me. See that Im caring, generous, the sort you ought to be with. But now I knowwithout you, my life is pointless.
He dropped down on one knee, hands trembling as he reached into his pocket and produced a small ring. It sparkled under the lamp, delicate and fine, set with a modest gem.
Leave him. Leave your fiancé. Be with me. Ill make you happy, I swear.
She just watched him, numb. Memories tumbled through her head: Will laughing with Hannah at a party, holding her hand so gently, looking at her with a tenderness that had once warmed Veronicas heart for her friend. Was it all a lie? The picture of the past was breaking up, impossible to piece together again.
Get up, she said softly. Please, Will. Stand up.
He got up stiffly, hope flickering in his eyes and fading with each passing second.
You dont believe me? His voice wobbled, raw with vulnerability.
I believe you, she replied, voice calm but resolute. But it doesnt change a thing.
She shrank back slightly, trying to put space between them so she could think. The words were hard, but necessary. She had to be clear.
Youre my friend, Will. But I love someone else. Im going to marry him, because I know hes the one for me. No one else matters.
Will dropped his eyes, clutching the ring in his fist. If Id told you soonerbefore you met himwhat then?
She considered it briefly, then answered gently:
My answer would have been the same. Im sorry, Will, but Ive never seen you like that. Youre a good man, but not for me.
Will stepped across the space between them with a desperate kind of energy, worried hed lose his last hope.
But why? His voice wavered, but he pressed on. You looked at meyou mustve felt it too, I know theres something between us.
Veronica sidled closer to the door. Truthfully, she was a little frightened nowhis gaze had turned strange. She started calculating her escape: if she pushed him, hed tumble onto the sofa and she could run into the hallway
Theres nothing between us, Will, she managed, voice evenno hint of fear. What you feel isnt love. Its obsession. You created this story in your head, cast me as your ideal, and everyone else as tools to get to me. Please, lets finish this conversation here.
Will clenched his fists, not in anger, but from frustration. He was lost for words, desperate to prove himself right.
Youre wrong, he insisted, fixing her with a pleading gaze. Ive never felt this about anyone. Its not an inventionits love. I love you.
Veronica bit her lip to hold back her emotions. Who knew how Will might react if she raised her voice? But she couldnt just listen in silence, not when it involved her closest friend!
And what about Hannah? she asked quietly, searching his face for a flicker of guilt. Do you understand what youve done to her? You played with her feelings, used her, and now you expect me to throw everything away for you?
I know Im at fault, he admitted in a low voice, staring at the floor. I know Ive done wrong. But even if I could do it differentlyI wouldnt. Id do it again.
You cant build happiness from someone elses pain, she murmured, glancing toward her phoneif only she could reach it. And you dont even know the real mewe barely spoke! Youre in love with an idea, not a person. Reality is always harder.
She waited a beat, letting her words land, then continued: You owe Hannah the truth, Will. She deserves honesty and an apology.
Will hesitated, hands trembling slightly as he forced composure.
Whats the point? I told youI dont love her. All she does is get under my skin. But you youre different.
He looked up to reveal such deep agony that Veronica almost pitied him. She clenched her hands, her sympathy growing. But she couldnt allow herself to show compassion. That would be a mistakehe might get the wrong idea.
I cant be with you. Nor should Hannah. You dont expect me to keep this a secret?
Will stared at her, and for a moment, Veronica shivered. At last he said, Ill go. But I wont give up. Ill wait till you realise were meant to be together.
Dont, she shook her head. Was there a threat in his words? Dont wait. Live your life. Find someone real to love, not a fantasy. Please go.
He moved slowly to the door, each step weighed down by regret, pausing on the threshold.
Thank you for being honest, he said, matter-of-fact, no drama. But I wont say goodbye.
And with that, he left, quietly pulling the door behind him. Veronica stood still, watching the door, feeling the tension ease away at last. She wandered to the window. Outside, the snowy street glowed under the soft golden streetlamps. Will trudged away, hunched, hands deep in his pockets, shoulders lowas if each step cost him a fortune in effort.
She watched him vanish round the bend, her nerves trembling. Wills behaviour had unsettled her, and she knew she couldnt just leave things be. What would he say to Hannah? Would he lie to keep close? Would he really give up?
She grabbed her phone, found Hannahs name in her contacts, and hit call. Her heart beat a little faster but her voice sounded matter-of-fact:
Hannah, hiits me. We need to talk. Its important.
A rustling from the other enda shifting of paper. Hannahs concern was clear in her voice:
Whats happened? You sound tense. Are you alright?
Veronica took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. She couldnt delay the truth any longer.
Will was just here, she began, choosing her words carefully. He told me he only started going out with you because of me. That he never loved you, that it was all just a way to get close to me.
A long silence. Veronica pictured Hannah, somewhere out there, clutching her phone, trying to absorb the blow. The quiet lasted so long Veronica thought to say more, but at last Hannah spoke, her voice trembling:
So what does that mean? Did he reallyhow could he
I hate upsetting you, but I cant let you go on not knowing! Youre my best mate! Veronica blurted, betraying her own nerves. He said he only loves me, wants me to leave my fiancé for him. Han, hes not rightI felt scared being alone with him!
Another pause, then Hannah drew a deep breath, pulling herself together.
I see, she said quietly, keeping her composure though the pain was audible. And now what?
I really dont know, Veronica answered honestly. I think hell come to you soon, but what hell sayno idea. Are you home alone? Im genuinely worried about how hes behaving!
Hannah went silent for a moment, then spoke softly: Dont worry, Ill be fine. Thank you for telling me.
Im so sorry this is how you have to find out, Veronica said sincerely. I really am.
Its alright. Better to know the truth than live a lie, Hannah replied, voice steadier now though still edged with emotion.
They said their goodbyes, and Veronica put her phone down. The house returned to quiet. She leaned against the windowpane, forehead pressed to the cold glass, watching snowflakes whirl in the streetlamps light. Somewhere out there, two people were wrestling with their feelingsand all she could do was hope things would settle and everyone would find their own path.
Her mind churned with thoughts of what Hannah must be going throughhow hard it would be to accept the truth, how much shed have to rethink everything she thought she knew. But Veronica was sure that honest pain was better than comforting lies that always come out in the endmaking everything worse.
*******************
Meanwhile, Hannah sat at her kitchen table, Veronicas words echoing round her head, tangled with memories that stung anew with every replay.
She remembered when Will had first asked her out, so gentle and kind, opening doors for her, making her laugh at his little jokes, the bashful but genuine smile shed taken as a sign of something real. She recalled his hand in hers, the whispered I love you spoken straight to her face.
He never loved me, she repeated silently, the thought chipping away at her insides, not agonising but constanta world shed carefully built collapsing in slow motion.
She reached for her mug. The tea had gone cold. She hadnt touched it since she grabbed her phone. The only sound was the ticking of the old kitchen clock, as if marking the time until life might become normal again.
She exhaled slowly, trying to compose herself. What next? Call Will? Wait? Ask Veronica to come over? At that moment, nothing felt right. She needed space, and timetime to process and adjust to a world that was suddenly so different.
A knock at the door startled her. She was just pouring another cup, lost in a cloud of thoughts. Peering through the spyhole, she saw Will on the stepcoat wet, hair dusted with snow, face pale, red-eyed as if he hadnt slept or had wandered the cold for hours. There was resolve in his eyes, but also confusion.
Hannah, he began, not waiting for an invitation. I need to be honest. I I never
Veronicas already explained, Hannah cut in, keeping her tone measured. Hearing the words from Will himself hurt more than it had from Veronica. I doubt theres anything you could say that I dont already know.
Will faltered, hands falling to his pockets, head bowed.
So she called you he said, crestfallen. I was hoping I could explain first, that youd hear it properly before anyone else told you.
Hannah crossed her arms, defences going up as a wave of indignation washed through her. She wouldnt cry in front of himwouldnt give him that satisfaction. The words tumbled out, prickly and raw.
Why are you here? Do you want to rub it in? Make me feel worthless? Remind me I was just a way of getting to someone else?
No, he said, stepping forwardshe instinctively moved backso he stopped, eyes pleading. No. I came to apologisefor lying, for using you, for keeping it to myself for so long.
He looked for the words that wouldnt cut deeper. Its not an excuse. I know Ive hurt you, and I dont expect forgiveness or understanding. I just couldnt walk away without saying it face to face. Im really, truly sorry.
Hannah watched him impassively, picking through her swirling emotions. Anger, resentment perhaps, more than anything, contempt for someone who could toy so callously with anothers heart.
You could have been honest from the start, she murmured. Or told me you didnt feel the same. Instead, you ran to Veronica, begging her to dump her fiancé. And now you say youre sorry?
Will gave a sardonic laugh, shoving his hands deep into his pockets. I just panicked. I realised this was my last shot. That Veronica was going to slip away. I didnt think about the fallout.
He pulled out a little boxthe same one from earlierwith trembling hands and held it out to Hannah. Here. Take it. For what its worth, its all I can offer now.
Hannah looked at the ring: delicate, slim band of gold, a tiny diamond glinting under the lamp. An apology, or an insult? A proposal meant for another woman
She looked into Wills face, expression cold and detached.
Keep it, she said, cool and level. I dont want anything from you.
Wills fingers closed over the box. He paled even further, despair flickering in his eyes.
Hannah, please his voice trembled, but he fought for control. I know Ive wrecked everything. I know theres no excuse. But I want to try and put things right.
She tilted her head, searching for any hint of the man shed once loved. But all she saw was a strangersomeone whod hidden the truth, played with her heart, built love on deceit.
Put things right? she repeated, letting out a bitter laugh. How do you plan to do that? Marry me out of guilt? Throw yourself under a bus so I feel sorry for you?
Will flinched as if struck, but didnt look away. He seemed to understand she had every right to her anger.
I want a fresh start, he said, stepping closer only to freeze as she recoiled. An honest one. No more lies, no more games.
Hannah shook her head, movements deliberate and final.
You can only start again with someone you trust, she replied, voice unwavering. And I dont believe a word you say. Not anymore. You didnt just lieyou destroyed everything between us. Even if you mean what youre saying now, its too late.
She paused, breathing in deeply before finishing: I need time. And distance. I dont want to see you or hear from you. I dont want you to try to fix anythingtheres nothing left to fix.
Will hung his head, still clutching the pointless ring. Now it was just another weight to carry.
I understand, he said quietly. Sorry for hurting you like this. I really am.
He turned for the door, but before leaving, looked back one last time.
If ever you want to talk
I wont, she cut in, certain and unwavering. I
She never finished. The doorbell rang again. Who could it be now?
She checked the peephole. On the step stood AlexVeronicas fiancé. Impeccably dressed, dark hair carefully styled, face calm but the muscles in his jaw tense. He looked composed but determinedas though he had business here, not small talk.
She opened the door wordlessly. Alex didnt smilehe only asked, voice muted and steely:
May I come in?
She nodded and stepped aside. At once, she saw Will blanch, instinctively shrinking back.
I know what happened, Alex said, staring Will down. And I know what you did to both of them.
Will made to respond, but Alex cut him off sharply.
Quiet. Youve said enough. Veronica told me everything. And Ive decided words arent enough to fix this.
He advanced, Will backpedalling towards the wall, seeing now what his selfishness had really cost. For the first time he understood: this was never going to be swept aside. Alexs eyes had that cold, certain lookhe wasnt going to let this go.
Alex, dont Hannah tried to step inregardless of everything, shed truly loved Will once, and couldnt stand to see him hurt.
But Alex waved her off, not looking at her.
Not your concern, Hannah. Its time he faced consequences.
She stood back, unsure whether to intervene or keep her distance.
Will pressed himself against the wall, fear mounting. He realised, far too late, the mess hed madehow every corner of their lives was tainted by his own blind want. Now Alex stood before him, the man ready to do what needed to be done.
I know Ive messed up, Will managed, voice timid. Ive said sorry to both Nicky and Hannah. I
Sorry? Alex barked, coldly humourless. You think an apology fixes this? Youve shattered their trustnow you want us all to sweep it under the rug?
He stepped closer; Will balled his fists, bracing himself, knowing fighting back was pointless.
Hannah let out a steadying breath. She wasnt sure how to stop it, but knew she couldnt remain silent.
Alex, please, she said, her tone calm but firm. Hurting him wont fix anything. Lets just talk.
Alex paused, finally acknowledging her presence. He glanced at her for a second, and some doubt flickered in his expression, but it vanished.
No, this has to be made clear.
With precise, controlled force, Alex struckWill collapsed onto the carpet, clutching a split lip as warm blood dripped through his fingers.
This is just the beginning, Alex said flatly, looming over him. If you go near Veronica or Hannah again, itll be worse. Do I make myself clear?
Will said nothing, hauling himself up as best he could, dignity in tatters, body trembling. He wiped his bloodied mouth, glanced at Hannah for a trace of sympathy, but found only calm detachment.
He left without a word. The click of the door left behind a heavy silence.
Alex turned to Hannah, his features softening slightly.
Sorry for that, he said, taking a small step closer. I know violence isnt the answer, but sometimes its the only language some people understand.
Hannah looked at him, absorbing the scene. It wasnt at all what shed expected, but she could see Alex had acted to protect, not out of cold malice.
You shouldnt have she started, but falteredthere were no right words. But maybe you did. I dont know. Still, thank you for standing up for me.
Alex gave her a brief, reassuring smile.
I know what youre feeling, he replied, voice gentler. Betrayal hurts. But youre strong. Youll get through this.
She nodded, feeling the storm inside finally start to ease. She really was stronger than she thought. Sometimes, it just takes a while to remember.
Thank you, she managed a small smile. And thank you for protecting meeven like this.
Veronicas worried sick about you, he added gently, as if to remind her she wasnt alone. She wanted to come herself, but I convinced her I should handle things first.
Shes my dearest friend, Hannah sighed, warmth softening her tone. And Im glad she has someone like you.
The room fell quiet, snow blanketing the city outside, the hush smoothing the ragged edges of an awful evening. Hannah breathed out, finally feeling a strange peace within herself. Hard work lay aheadhealing, learning, learning to trust again, to livebut she wasnt as alone as shed thought.
When Alex left, Hannah sat down on the sofa, slowly releasing her breath.
Its over, she thought, the relief almost sweet. There was still a pulse of pain left, but somehow it felt like an end and a beginning. She would have to piece herself back together, to learn to trust and to dreambut next time, more wisely, without illusions.
******************
Meanwhile, Will trudged through the snowy streets, numb to the cold. Flakes swirled round him, melting as soon as they touched his skin. His lip throbbed, but physical pain was nothing compared to the cavern growing inside. Hed lost both womenHannah, for good, and Veronica long before, when he lost himself to fantasies built on self-deceit. Now he was utterly alone, and hed earned it.
Next day at work, Will turned up with a bruised eye and swollen lip. His colleagues watched him, whispering among themselves, but nobody dared ask. He didnt carehe just had to make it through the day, do his job, and keep his head down.
Within a week, he handed in a transfer request to another city. His manager raised a brow, but signed the paperwork, seeing in Wills eyes that nothing would have changed his mind. Will knew he had to goevery corner of town was haunted by memories of his mistakes.
Before leaving, he went into a jewellers and sold the ring. The assistant looked surprised but didnt ask questions. The refund felt like another weight off his shouldersa painful but necessary letting go.
He transferred the money straight into Hannahs account, attaching a message: Sorry. This is rightfully yours. No explanations, no justificationsjust honesty, at last.
On the morning of his departure, he stood outside his old flat, waiting for his cab as soft snow carpeted the avenue. For a moment, the silence felt like the world was giving him a chance at absolution.
I ruined it all, he admitted under his breathnot as a complaint, but as the acceptance it was. What was done was done, and he would have to live with it.
The cab arrived. Will gave one last look at the building that had once meant happiness. Now it was just bricks and mortar. He got in, quietly told the driver to take him to the station.
As the car rolled away, snowflakes blurred the shapes of his old life, leaving the road ahead just visiblea long, uncertain path, but one hed just have to travel.
Meanwhile, Hannah sat in a cosy café with Veronica and Alex. They each nursed mugs of rich hot chocolate, a comfort for the wintry weather.
Their conversation was easy, gentle. They talked about the futurewhat each was hoping for, new plans forming on the horizon. Veronica chatted about her upcoming wedding, sharing snippets of excitement and nervous laughter, especially when Alex’s name cropped up. Hannah listened, and gradually, hope and warmth unfurled inside herlife truly goes on, and there are bright things ahead, even after darkness.
Alex, always reserved, was extra attentive, listening and offering just enough encouragement to keep things flowing.
You know, Hannah said, gazing out into the swirl of snow beyond the glass, I dont even feel angry with him anymore. Just sad it turned out this way.
Her words were even, free of bitterness. No bravado, no wallowingjust a simple truth.
Veronica squeezed her shoulder encouragingly, her touch a firm support.
Youve nothing to regret, she replied, voice gentle but sure. You deserve real happiness. Not games and lies.
Hannah nodded. She believed herand not because Veronica wanted to comfort her, but because it was plain, hard-won truth.
Yes, she agreed, looking from the window to her friend. And Ill find it.
Her voice was steady, with no need for drama. This wasnt the end, but a beginninga chance to leave the past behind and walk forward, whole.
Outside, the snow kept falling, blanketing the city in white, covering old stories and smoothing the way for new ones. The air inside was warm and safe, the hot chocolate sending up gentle wisps of steam as three friends settled into the knowledge thatwhatever lay behind themlife does go on, and that made all the difference.
