Discerning The Duality Of A Triptych: Rey

To complete this triptych, it is time for you to know more about Rey. I already mentioned him before, in another story together with Lanie, but don't worry, I know the chances are slim that you'll still remember that.

Rey and I are best friends since high school. He's a few inches shorter, skinny, and a bit bony. He's cute in his own way; some may find him attractive, while others may not. A timid and shy guy he is, he doesn't talk much, unless drunk. It's kinda difficult for him to express himself. During conversations, it is normal of him not to be inquisitive and responsive. However, in spite of that, he is a very patient listener. He absorbs much of whatever you tell him; he's like a wall, but with an unbreakable attentiveness, or perhaps a memory journal. While Lanie is reliable for giving sensible advices, Rey never fails in providing a sympathetic ear.

Another good thing about him is his loyalty—it is unwavering. I can't think of any instances where he ratted me out to anybody. He's pretty much a keeper, really. When he falls in love, he does it slowly but surely, as well as very deeply. He has this belief that when one chooses to love someone, life will surely find a way to make everything fall into place, to make it happen. In my opinion, it sounds ridiculous and unrealistic. But I have no choice, I have to respect my friend's ideals.

How is he connected to Theo? Well, coincidentally, they are best friends too. But they started later, during first year in college. They were both Marketing students in this reputable university for the rich. After graduating, they both worked in the same company. They had the same colleagues, including Justin. And as the douchebag abused Theo, Rey quietly watched in the background, helpless and heartbroken as well.

Yes... My friend was secretly in love with Theo, for more than 4 years, since they first met. So seeing him suffer at the hands of some bastard had a huge impact on Rey, and yet he could never bring himself to stop the injustice—a regret that still haunts him until today. He told me all of that after coming out to me, 2 months before Justin finally dumped Theo.

After the inevitable breakup, Rey suddenly had the courage to reveal to his best friend his true feelings. He asked the devastated Theo to use him as a rebound guy, that he would take care of him, to make him feel the warmth of being properly loved. He literally begged Theo to consider his proposal, though deep inside, Rey was hoping that, somehow, this would develop into something more, that he will forever be his.

Because Theo was extremely distraught, he took Rey's offer, much to the latter's relief and joy. However, it didn't go as smoothly as expected. Rey did his best to nourish Theo back to life, to recover his old self, and to retrieve his wasted enthusiasm, but Theo still yearned strongly for Justin. There were several instances when Theo would stalk on his ex, like going to places where he might bump into him, all without Rey's knowledge.

The first time I met Theo was a month after they began their relationship. I will never forget that day. I gave him one careful look, measuring him up, and this was my first impression: he's lifeless and empty, like someone devoid of a soul. Initially, I didn't like him. He was pulling my best friend down with him.

On the other hand, I gave Rey a long hard look as well. The last time I saw him 3 months ago, he was still healthy and pretty much alive. Now, he looked like he aged several years older; he seemed tired and unhappy. Actually, the two of them looked pitiful. As Theo stared at something far-off, I saw Rey looking at him intently, full of love yet brimming with worry.

That was the first time I saw Rey in that state. And after that meeting, my best friend began to contact me frequently, asking for advices or blowing off some steam, usually when Theo takes him for granted. I was his shock absorber for the next couple of months. I know I shouldn't complain, but his rants became too troublesome for me. He had changed, Rey was not in his right self anymore, all because of that stupid Theo.

Thus, I decided to intervene.

To be continued...