Three Week Later

The late afternoon sunshine felt warm on my face as Rowan, and I pushed Melody and Truett on the swings in Javier's yard. As they went higher in the swing, Melody's and Truett's squeals and gibberish speech were a great distraction. It was just what I needed after the day I'd had.

Life has been such a whirlwind of crazy lately; this was the first time I felt like I could slow down and take a breath in three weeks. Part of me felt like maybe Trey was right, and I had bitten off more than I could chew.

Three weeks ago, I ended up deciding to move in with Javier. Once that decision was made, we started moving all the boxes, only to realize there wasn't enough space for all the boxes. We didn't even get to figure out how to fix the space issue before we realized that Teagan was room-hunting to save on rent instead of renewing her lease, which was why she was trying to downsize and sell her stuff.

Of course, Matthew and Esmerelda insisted that Teagan bunk with them until she was back on her feet. So, after spending a good week moving Melody and me into Javier's place, we spent another two moving Teagan into Esmeralda and Matthew's place.

In mids of Montez moving season, work started picking up once word got out that Ray was one of our clients. Clients were coming in left and right. Trey even had to start turning down clients because we were so busy.

We haven't talked face-to-face since I ducked out of his house three weeks ago. Luckily we got a lot of Sharpay's party planning done before this whirlwind started. So, it was still good, even if I didn't have enough time to help Zeke as much as I would've liked in the last three weeks.

Zeke had texted me earlier in the week, wanting to talk face-to-face. We initially wanted to meet earlier in the week, but something kept coming up. Something popped up for him if something didn't come up for me. I invited him over tonight to help move some boxes, have dinner, and hang out. Hopefully, this time plans won't change again.

"So, is your friend still able to come over?" Rowan asked, knowing how many times our plans to meet this week had changed.

I nodded, "yup, he hadn't texted me that anything had come up, so it should be a go. Thanks again for letting me invite him over."

"Course," She turned to Melody. "And have you figured out a plan for what you'll tell him about Melody?"

I bit my lip. If I was completely honest, I haven't the slightest clue what I will tell Zeke tonight. "I was planning to wing it. If he asks, I'll tell; if he doesn't, I'll leave it."

"Are you sure you don't want me to take Melody with me tonight?" Rowan offered again, "I'm sure Maya wouldn't mind."

I shook my head, "no, the last time you two had three kids to look after, you barely got any work done. I don't want to be responsible for your publisher giving you the boot."

We both chuckled at that, "Admittedly, I'm a bit behind, but I don't think my publishers are ready to threaten me just yet. But if you're sure."

"I am. I'll figure it out, plus I have Javy to help me if needed," I assured her with as much confidence as I could muster.

"Speaking of your brother, I can't remember the last time I had a date night with him." Rowan's glances went towards the house.

"It's Montez moving season, coupled with summer frenzy and your looming deadline that has already been extended before." I pointed out. "You've both been understandably busy."

She smiled and shook her head, "thanks, but my hormones don't speak that kind of logic. All it knows is that it wants some alone time with him."

I pictured Rowan and Javier having alone time and gaged a little. "I think I just grossed myself out."

She chuckled, giving me an amused look. "Sorry, I didn't mean to give you that image. What I mean is that I could really use a date night with Javy."

"When," I asked.

She sighed, looking like she'd been defeated, "Monday night. My family can't clear their schedule, and I feel like I've been using your family way too much lately. The only reason I'm asking is that you're already going to be here, right?"

I blew out a raspberry, "and Javy can get the night off?"

"If you can babysit True, I'll make sure he does." She assured me.

I nodded, "Sure, I'll babysit True."

She squealed, throwing her arms around me. "Thank you."

Javier poked his head out, calling over to us. "Guys, the rice just finished. I'm grabbing the tilapia, baked green beans, and sweet potato fries from the oven."

"We'll be right there," Rowan called back as we pulled the swings to the simultaneous stop.

The smell of baked fish and sweet potatoes hit the moment we entered the house. It was enough to make my mouth water and my stomach growl. Rowan and I quickly washed up the kids as Javier fixed the plates.

RRRIIINNNGGG RRRIIIINGGG

I could hear my phone go off from the bathroom, "Elly, phone!"

I didn't stop to consider who it was that would call me, "Can you get it for me?"

The plates were set, and Javier was preparing to give himself one of his daily injections when we returned. We've seen Javier give himself injections so many times; it's the norm for us. Most people would probably freak out or find it weird, but we were used to it.

"Elly, your friend Zeke called saying he left later than he originally thought, so he's going to be about ten minutes late."

I settled Melody in her seat and grabbed the milk from the fridge. "OK, thanks."

"Honey, I might have to work later at Maya's tonight," Rowan stated as she grabbed two cups from the cupboard. "So, if I'm not back by 9:30, just lock the doors and set the alarm."

Javier started clearing his medical stuff off the table. "OK, but if it's really that late, it'd probably be safer if you just stayed at Maya's tonight."

She sighed with a frown as she ruffled Truett's hair and snuggled him. Reluctantly she settled him into his seat. "Yeah, I'll consider it. Safety first, right?"

I could see the disappointment on her face. Javier wrapped his arm around Rowan's waist and kissed her. They leaned their heads on each other's forehead when they pulled apart. "Hey, our schedules won't always be this crazy."

"I'll believe it when I actually see it," She whispered back.

My heart welled up with happiness watching them. I wondered if Trey and I would be like that in several years or, better yet, if we're that in love now. Pushing the thoughts from my mind, I cleared my throat to remind them we were in the room.

They quickly pulled away as their cheeks turned rosy pink. Truett and Melody squealed, wanting a kiss too. Rowan was happy to oblige and kissed them on the head. They smiled and blew her kisses, too, making us all laugh. They giggled as they clapped their hands, cheering in gibberish.

Rowan gave Truett one last hug and kiss, reluctant to let go. I knew that Rowan felt like she didn't have enough time with Truett lately. With all the crazy scheduling lately, I've been feeling the same way with Melody.

"Oh honey, before I forget, date night Monday." Rowan informed Javier as she made sure she had everything in her bag, "I'll just meet you at work around 7."

Javier looked up from the milk he was pouring. "Who is watching True?"

I answered for Rowan, "I told Rosie I would if you could get the time off."

She threw her bag over her shoulders and kissed Javier goodbye, "Monday 7," She reminded him on the way out.

"Then there were four," I stated, placing the cups on the trays.

Melody giggled, holding up for fingers, "four," she spoke through the sippy cup in her mouth.

"That is four; good job!" I praised Melody as I brushed some hair from her eyes.

"Not for long," Javier reminded me, "Zeke should be there soon."

Truett whined from his seat as he attempted to get out, "E!" He squealed, clearly tired of waiting for food.

Javier got him to stop just as we heard the doorbell. I went to get it as Javier started plating the food.

"Zeke," I greeted, hugging him. "Come in."

"I was beginning to think we'd never be able to see each other again," Zeke joked as he removed his coat.

I rolled my eyes, pretending to be annoyed. "Funny," I took his coat from him and shut the door behind him. "This way."

He shrugged, "I guess I picked up a few things from Jason and Chad over the years."

I led him into the dining area, where dinner was set. Zeke's smile fell upon seeing Javier and the kids.

I cleared my throat, "so Javier Ezekiel."

Javier turned and wiped his hands. He stretched his hand out with a welcome smile. "Hi, Javy, please. Elly has mentioned you a lot; it's nice to finally meet you."

"Zeke," Zeke shook Javier's hand. "Nice to meet you…..uuuhhhhh Gabby has never mentioned you."

Javier raised a brow at me as if asking me why. I only gave an apologetic look and moved on to the kids. "This is Truett and Maria. But we call her Melody."

Melody and Truett waved hello to Zeke as he sat down. Zeke smiled, greeting them back. Javier and I joined them as soon as we finished plating the food.

I set a plate in front of Zeke, "let us know what you think."

Zeke glanced at the food on the plate, "looks good. Did you make it?"

I shook my head, "Javy did the cooking tonight."

Javier and I sat down next to each other, "it was nothing; the oven did most of the work. All I did was add seasoning after busting everything out of the bags."

"Bus! Bus!" Melody and Truett chanted together as they banged their utensils on their trays.

We all laughed as we watched them cheer. We dug into the food as we continued to talk. Thankfully Javier noticed I was uncomfortable with Zeke knowing too much about me, so he asked Zeke plenty of questions. But Zeke would still ask me questions every now and again. I would give him simple answers and avoid elaborating about myself. By now, Zeke no doubt noticed that I wasn't too comfortable talking about myself, so he wasn't bothered by the simple answers I gave. Once or twice I'd avoid answering altogether.

Dinner ended before long, and Zeke gave Javier a hand, moving the boxes in the living room as they talked about sports. Halfway through dinner, they started talking about sports and have been talking about it since. As much as I love basketball and any other sport, I didn't think I'd be able to talk about sports for as long as they have. It had to be a guy thing.

The few people that Javier lets in are few and far between. It wasn't that he wasn't friendly or had trouble making friends because he's the nicest guy ever. He has a heart of gold and sympathizes with everyone. It's just he'd been hurt before, so he knows better. I was happy to see them getting along so well.

Melody and Truett were nodding off on the couch by the time the bedroom was set up. Javier offered to put the kids down, giving Zeke and me a chance to talk one-on-one. I could tell from the look in Javier's eyes I was not going to avoid it any longer tonight.

After praising Javier's cooking again, Zeke joined me in the kitchen and gave me a hand clearing. He handed me my lipstick and bracelet as we finished washing the dishes. My spirit lifted seeing my bracelet.

"Thank you; I thought I'd lost it," I struggled to put the bracelet back on.

"Here, let me help," Zeke offered, "was this a gift from Javy?"

"My dad. It's a tradition in my family that every member gets one." I shook my head as I adjusted the bracelet to ensure it was secure. My eyes fell on my lipstick, and I frowned as a thought occurred. "Does Sharpay know that I was over at your place?"

Zeke shrugged, "it's fine. I handled it, and she doesn't know who came over."

That didn't sound too good, and I hated that Zeke was lying to Sharpay. I gave myself a mental beating and reminded myself to be more careful. "Thanks."

"What I'm really curious about is how you escaped Ryan?"

I snickered at the memory from three weeks ago. "Oh, that, some very quick ducking and, my favorite, the jacket throwing to cover myself."

Zeke chuckled as he shook his head, "You really were desperate," He noted.

"I prefer to think I was lucky," I handed him a drink and led him out to the back porch. I could tell he had something on that he wanted to talk about all night. "You can ask me if you want."

He studied me for a moment, trying to see if I was really OK with it. "I'm not sure if I want to know."

"If you didn't want to know, you wouldn't have been wondering all night." I pointed out.

"You must have like mind-reading powers."

I shook my head, leaning on the back porch fence, "just really, observant-especially when it comes to my friends."

Zeke blew out a raspberry, "Is Javy why you left so suddenly?"

I knew what he was thinking and that he had the wrong idea. It wasn't that I wanted to lead Zeke astray, but I also didn't want him to know who my dad or brother was. I didn't want any of my friends to know.

I wasn't ashamed; I'm actually really proud of everyone in my family. I just wasn't up for second-guessing if my friends were my friends because of my dad and brother. I already second-guess myself enough without all my friends knowing. I wasn't ready for that kind of pressure on my plate, and I wasn't sure I'd ever be.

I shook my head, "no, I left because there were some things I needed to work through."

Zeke's hung his head, and we were silent for a moment. I see the imaginary wheels turning in his head as he no doubt debated if he should ask me what he wanted to. Zeke spoke up. "Are you still working through them?"

Now it was my turn to be silent.

Staring out into the open yard, I let the silence linger between us for a brief moment before slightly nodding. It was so dark I wasn't even sure if he noticed my nod.

"I'm always going to be working through them." I took a sip of my drink before continuing. "Nothing will ever change that. I can only hope that I have more good times than bad."

"You seem to be doing pretty well now, and clearly, you're happy." Zeke noted, "you both do."

I took a sip of my drink before confirming his observation, "I've been in worse places, that's for sure. We've both been worse."

Zeke's expression immediately fell, and I knew he was disappointed. The why wasn't a mystery to me either. Troy and I were the it couple of high school. Everyone thought we would be, married-especially our friends. After tonight Zeke probably thought that was no longer true, and that couldn't have been an easy pill to swallow.

A moment later, Zeke was smiling again. "I'm happy you found your happiness Gabby; you really deserve it."

I could tell he was still disappointed, but he really meant what he said. He really was happy for me as my friend. It only made my guilt worse.

"Javy is my best friend, and in a way, I'm always going to love him." I immediately realized how that sounded and that I'd dug myself into a deeper hole. I tried again to explain, "But that doesn't mean I can't love Troy too."

"How can you have more than one love?" Zeke wondered with confusion in his voice.

I sat on the porch swing behind us, and Zeke sat beside me. "You love Sharpay, but does that mean you don't love your parents or that you don't love the guys like they're your brother?"

Zeke shook his head in response, "Course not. I'll always love my parents, and the guys will always be my brothers."

"And in a way, I'll always love Troy, whether we're together or not. That's not going to change just because I love Javy too." I tried elaborating, hoping he'd understand. "They're both really special to me, and I'll always love them in different ways."

I noticed Zeke's eyes soften in the porch light, and I knew he was starting to understand what I was saying. Zeke noticeably eased up after learning that Troy was still important to me as we talked. I relaxed, knowing that Zeke wasn't so disappointed.

"The little ones are down for the count," Javier greeted, meeting us on the back porch. "What were you talking about?"

"Zeke was telling me about his wedding," I got up and sat down again on Javier's lap once he sat.

The three of us continued to talk and laugh until I got a good night's text from Trey. Ever since I decided to move in, Javier Trey has been surprisingly OK. Every night he would text me a message just to say goodnight. A couple of times, he called just cause we wanted to hear Melody and my voice. But overall, he's doing better, and we've been talking more. It let me know there was hope.

As I was typing a reply, I noticed the time. "Zeke, did you tell Sharpay when you'd be home?" I asked, showing him the time.

Zeke's eyes bugged out, realizing how late it was. "Oh no, I have to go. Sharpay is going to flip. Thanks again for dinner."

We walked him to the door, "Be careful," I told him, giving him a final goodbye hug. "Oh, I almost forgot, why did you want to talk face-to-face?"

"Oh no, how could I have forgotten? In short, Jason and Kelsi need a favor, but it's a long story. Next week, do you want to go shopping for Ryan and Sharpay's birthday gift together? I still have to grab Ryan's gift." Zeke asked as he got his jacket on. "We can meet at the mall, say around noon, on Monday. We can also talk then."

I nodded, shoving my hand in my pockets, "yeah, that works. Monday noon, see you then."

He quickly rushed out, and I shut the door behind him. We heard Melody's breath get a little rapid, so Javier went to check on her.

I blew out a breath, knowing that tonight, I had dug myself deeper into the hole I had started digging years earlier, and I dragged Javier with me. Knowing Javier, he wouldn't mind, but that didn't make me feel better. I was going to have a huge mess to clean when the cat was finally out of the bag.