2 MY MIND DRAWN BACK

KAREN'S POV Now a brief talk about this fucked up relationship that I was stuck in. I literally had no idea why. Right in the mall, we met at the cash register, coincidentally. “Hi. I am Maxwell. Maxwell Macaulay. You're quite a sight and it's difficult to take my eyes off you.” He started. “That's nice of you to say. I don't really get much compliments.” I said shyly. “Oh, that's too bad. I bet a lot of people see you radiant skin, daily. They are probably too dumb not to appreciate such beauty. Permit me to settle your groceries?” He demanded. Since he was asking nicely, I thought it nice to give him a chance. Even though I have more than enough to pay my bills. “Oh, right. Sure. I don't mind.” I giggled. After the payment, he handed my bags over to me and insisted on walking me out. He offered to drop me, but I told him I had my own car, packed outside. “So, you look pretty young. What do you do?” He asked. “ I am a pharmacist and I work with Laura groups. It's a little place in a quiet place in town. But, I love working there. Plus, you are not old, either” I giggled “Amazing. I am a businessman and I currently manage my father's company and my own company. Well, if you don't mind, can I take you to dinner later this week? I must say, you've captured my heart in your love's nest. I am entangled.” He confessed. “Oh, please. Stop flattering me.” I replied to him coyly. “So, dinner this weekend? Trust me, I will blow your mind. I have a favorite spot in a beautiful restaurant. So, what do you say?” I rolled my eyes and weighed my options. I had nothing to lose if I accepted his offer and also had nothing to lose if I didn't. “Yeah. I guess an outing or two won't hurt. I'll see you on Friday.” “Here's my card, my number is there. Give me a call. Don't forget.” “Alright, I won't. You're charming enough not to be forgotten. Enjoy the rest of your day.” With that, we departed and didn't communicate for the next two days. I forgot to call him like he requested because I was busy with work. On the third day after our meeting, I picked up his card and dialed his number. As his phone rang, I had a flashback to when we ran into each other at the mall. His bright blue eyes sparkled with excitement. I could almost feel the connection between us as he shot glances at me. I registered his charming eyes into my brain and smiled at the thought of him. It's hard to believe that I am already head over heels in love with the guy I met three days ago. Love at times, could be tricky. “Hello…? Hello? Stop wasting my goddamn time. Is anyone there?” His voice rang out clear and loud enough to snap me out of my imagination. I had totally forgotten that I had dialed his number.“uhm, hello. Is this a good time to call? We met at the mall three days ago.” I stuttered. “Oh, shit!” And, bang! He ended the call and made me speechless.. I was taken aback at his rude approach and made the decision not to call him again. “That's definitely some red flags, girl!” I said out loud to myself. During my leisure at work, I always took my time to refresh my brain with some happenings around the world. One of the things I loved to listen to is the relationship podcast by Caroline Davis. She has been a relationship coach for over ten years and her counsels are top notch. I remembered a particular podcast I listened to, it was all about men and their intentions. She solely pointed out that men who are intentional about their woman would definitely craft out time for them. She said their responses, even when they are busy or sad, won't affect the emotional state of their lover. The way Max replied to me showed one thing. I know we are yet to start dating, but little things like this really matter. No matter how he could be, responding to me in such a way would be tagged as a big red flag. According to Caroline, she said women should take notice of little signs like that. Before they would delve into a relationship with any man. But, I thought otherwise and ignored her advice. I overlooked the red flag Thinking it was a bad mistake. I thought there was more to a relationship than just taking online advice. I knew better when I married Max and his family showed me hell. That was when I knew the importance of the red flags Caroline spoke about. MAX'S POV It was another hot afternoon at my parents house. The pressure to marry my ex girlfriend was getting stronger by the day. Even though I had repeatedly told them that things could no longer work out between Alexa and I. I explained to them how Alexa denied me right in the presence of her friends and kissed another guy while I was standing. “You have to marry Alexa. I won't tolerate any other lady in this house. You hear that?” My mum roared, her eyes beaming with anger. “Dad? Won't you say something? Please, let me know that I have my choice.” “Son, you know how important Alexa is to our family. You know her father is the highest owner of shares in our company. Breaking up with her will result in her dad’s withdrawal.” “Wow. It's not as if I don't love Alexa. In fact, I do! But, she is not sincere.” I complained. “I don't care what you think. You're marrying Alexa and that's final, young man.” I can't argue with my parents. I honestly loved Alexa, but her career and wealth has gotten into her head. I remembered when we were still together, we made love in every corner of my apartment. We were really into each other, but as soon as she started getting involved with the producers, a lot changed about her. She started giving me attitude and frequently ignored my calls. She did her worst when she kissed another guy deeply, at her last birthday party, while introducing me as a friend. I watched the event unfold in horror right in my presence. Alexa did not flinch nor feel guilty for her acts. Right there, I made the decision to abandon her and move on with life. Barely two months later, I met Karen at the mall. I know I told her to call me, probably, we'll be able to start a friendship that will lead to a healthy relationship and finally marriage. When I didn't get her call, I assumed she was not into me and I already started sending messages to Alexa again. I decided to return to her since I still love her dearly. When my phone rang, I was shocked to my spine when I heard Karen's voice from the receiver. I behaved like an angry sixteen year old and hung up on her. I knew it was rude, but I was not in the best moment to receive calls. I thought if I brought another pretty lady home, my parents would forget about Alexa. But now, merely informing them about my decision to ignore her sparked a huge reaction. I picked my phone to check on Alexa's Instagram page and her live video was nothing to write home about. She was busy partying with four guys, kissing them at intervals. Her behavior disgusted me but my parents would not listen. They were more concerned about the company than my affair. After I realized I had behaved wrongly to Karen, I contacted my best friend, who is a guru in tracking. I told him to get her location for me and he did within thirty minutes of searching. With her address in hand, the next thing was to get some gifts for her, to appeal to my terrible behavior. I made plans to visit the mall the following day and get them across to karen. After I was done with the shopping, I headed to the address on my screen. However, I was beyond shocked and totally speechless at what I saw.