Love or Lust

"Family is a branch of a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one."

America

"Love you, Mummy and Dad. We will always be together, right?"

"Of course, my son. We love you."

"I love you too, Dad. You are the best dad."

"Ray... my son. Remember that I love you," Mrs. Grey uttered, her voice cracking as tears cascaded down her cheeks.

"Where are you, Mom?" Ray asked, alarmed.

"I love your father so much, but he just couldn't love me anymore. He wanted me out of his life... and I shall give him that." Mrs. Grey sobbed, which made Ray feel shivers run down his spine.

"He cheated on me, my son. He wanted you to hate me. My son, don't listen to your father. Ray, hate him for me. Don't ever love your father."

"Mom, what-"

She didn't let him finish as a loud crashing sound, as the car fell into the sea, came through the phone.

***

Ray woke up from his deep sleep, his hand clenched as he remembered his father's deed. Taking a deep breath, he calmed himself down.

He was about to go to the bathroom when he stopped at the parcel near his bed. Frowning, he unwrapped the big parcel, sliding the cover newspaper aside. He took out a big family portrait of his mom, his dad, and him in the middle, smiling.

He read the caption:

"YOU DON'T CHOOSE YOUR FAMILY. THEY ARE GOD'S GIFT TO YOU, AS YOU ARE TO THEM."

"Come home, son. I love you. Happy birthday to you, my dear."

His hand clenched at the side of the portrait. He stood up and banged the portrait against the wall, the pieces shattering on the floor.

"LOVE!! LOVE, BULLSHIT WITH YOUR LOVE!!" he shouted before going in for a relaxing warm shower.

He came out of the shower, wrapping a towel around his waist, shaking his head to dry his hair, showing off his super muscular body with six-pack abs.

He took the phone, which was ringing continuously.

"Hello, Mr. Ray. The flight is ready."

He cut the call and entered the walk-in closet to get ready.