Yes, go see Lily

I decided to go in for one drink. I parked up and made my way towards the entrance of The Clock Bar. Once I stepped inside, I scoped out the room, I spotted Lily dancing with a group of girls near the bar. She must have only just finished but she already looked pretty buzzed. They were all laughing and having a great time.

I leaned against the wall, watching her from afar. The music was loud, making it impossible to hear anything being said over it. All I could do was watch her move, swaying to the beat. She looked carefree and happy, surrounded by her friends.

I took a deep breath and pushed my way through the crowd towards the bar. When I finally reached it, I ordered a drink and leant against the counter, nursing it slowly. I tried not to look in her direction but couldn't help stealing occasional glances. Eventually, she caught sight of me and made her way over.

"Hey Alex!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around me in a tight hug. "What are you doing here?" she asked, pulling back to look at me properly.

"Just thought I'd come see you," I replied, shrugging casually.

"How's work been?"

She rolled her eyes. "It's been crazy, like usual. But it's nice to finally relax tonight."

"I can't stay long" I said, taking another sip of my drink. "I still have work tomorrow morning."

"Aww, come on! Stay and dance with me?" she pleaded, grabbing at my hand. I wasn't drunk enough to dance without feeling self-conscious, but I allowed her to lead me onto the floor anyway. I stood awkwardly beside her while she bounced and swayed along to the music.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Jake, another bartender at The Clock Bar, watching us intently. He was tall and athletic, with an undeniable charm. I tried not to notice how he looked at Lily whenever she danced close to him, but it was hard not to feel jealous nonetheless.

I clenched my jaw, suddenly acutely aware of how sweaty and tired I felt.

Lily must have sensed my unease because she suddenly let go of my hand and stepped back, smiling apologetically. "Sorry," she mouthed across the crowded room. I **** a weak smile in return, feeling guilty for being so irritated with her. But deep down, I knew that I deserved better than this – both in life and in our relationship.

Jake sauntered over to us just then, carrying two drinks in his hands.

He handed one to Lily, then nodded at me politely. "Evening, Alex" he greeted, shooting me a knowing glance. I felt my temper rising again, but managed to contain it. "Hi, Jake," I replied coolly, trying not to sound too hostile. Lily, however, was clearly delighted by his attention. She launched into a conversation with him without missing a beat, leaving me standing there awkwardly.

I watched them chat, feeling increasingly annoyed by the second. I took another glance at my watch. If I stayed much longer, I wouldn't have anytime left for sleep before my early morning meeting. I drained what was left of my drink and made my way towards the exit. Before I could leave, Lily appeared at my side once again.

"Wait, don't go yet!" she cried, grabbing at my arm. "Come sit with me for a bit longer."

"Lily, I really can't," I repeated, shaking my head firmly. "I've got a lot to do tomorrow."

As I made my way back to my car, I couldn't help but feel frustrated with our situation. Everything seemed to be falling apart, and I didn't know how to fix it.