Chapter 21 part 3
Hi lovelies! So glad you guys are loving this story. You're really the heart of it all and what encourages me to keep going! Hope you enjoy xo!
As the private jet touched down, Vanessa felt a surge of excitement. Zac had been tight-lipped about their accommodations for Coachella, promising only that it would be special. They were whisked away in a sleek car, driving through the sun-drenched landscape of Palm Springs.
When they arrived at a secluded, stunning house, Vanessa's eyes widened in awe. The property was a luxurious desert oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, lush gardens, and stylish outdoor lounging areas. The setting sun cast a golden glow over everything, adding to the magic.
"Wow, this place is incredible," Vanessa said, squeezing his hand as they walked towards the entrance.
"I'm glad you like it, baby. Only the best for you," Zac replied with a grin.
Inside, the house was just as breathtaking. The living area opened up to the pool, and the decor was a perfect blend of modern and bohemian chic. As they explored, Vanessa suddenly noticed a clothing rack in one of the bedrooms, filled with a stunning array of festival outfits.
"What's all this?" she asked, her eyes wide with surprise.
Zac smiled, clearly pleased with her reaction. "I had Stella and Laura pick out some outfits for you to choose from. I figured they'd know what you'd like better than I would."
Vanessa's heart melted at his thoughtfulness. "Stop it. You really went all out."
Before she could say more, there was a knock at the door. When Zac opened it, in walked Alan, Vanessa's makeup artist and other members of her glam squad. She greeted everyone excitedly but saved her most enthusiastic greeting for Alan, who she hadn't seen in a long time. "Alan!" she squealed, running to hug him.
"Nessa! It's so good to see you," Alan exclaimed, hugging her back tightly. He then turned to Zac, raising an eyebrow with a playful smile. "Girl, where have you been hiding this hunk?"
Vanessa laughed, blushing slightly. "Zac, meet Alan."
"Nice to meet you, Alan," Zac said, shaking his hand.
Alan looked back at Vanessa, eyes twinkling with mischief. "That's okay, I'd keep him all to myself too," he whispered to her.
Vanessa giggled, feeling a rush of happiness. "I'm so excited. I haven't been to Coachella in ages."
"Well, darling, thanks to your Prince Charming, you're going to attend it in STYLE." Alan struck a pose, in order to refer to himself, and paused for dramatic effect as Vanessa clapped.
Alan began setting up his makeup station. "Now, let's get you ready."
As Alan got to work, Vanessa glanced over at Zac, who was watching with a satisfied smile. She walked over and hugged him tightly. "You've gone above and beyond, baby. I don't know how to thank you."
Zac said, kissing her forehead. "You don't have to thank me. I just want you to have the best time."
Vanessa felt a swell of gratitude and love as she sat down to get ready. It was shaping up to be an unforgettable Coachella weekend.
Vanessa sat in the makeup chair, feeling the skilled hands of her glam squad work their magic. Her long, wavy hair was styled into loose, beachy waves, perfect for the festival vibe. Tiny braids were woven into her hair, adorned with delicate gold rings and small flowers, giving her a boho-chic look. Her makeup was equally stunning, with a glowing, sun-kissed complexion, shimmery gold eyeshadow, and a hint of glitter at the corners of her eyes. A subtle cat-eye and nude lip completed the look, making her feel like a festival goddess.
Vanessa's outfit was a perfect blend of comfort and style. She wore a flowy, off-the-shoulder white crop top with intricate lace details, paired with high-waisted white lace shorts. Her accessories included layered necklaces, hoop earrings, and a stack of colorful bangles.
Meanwhile, Zac had also put thought into his festival outfit. He wore a casual yet stylish ensemble consisting of distressed denim shorts, a fitted white t-shirt, and a lightweight, patterned jacket. Aviator sunglasses added a touch of flair, and a few leather bracelets on his wrist completed the laid-back, trendy look.
When Vanessa emerged from the dressing area, Zac's eyes lit up. "You look incredible," he said, his voice full of admiration.
"Thank you, so do you handsome," Vanessa replied, smiling brightly. "Are you excited? This is your first time at Coachella in ages!"
"I am! I know, I can't believe it's been so long. But I'm happy I'm here now."
"Me, too." She squeezed his hand. "Let's go!"
They headed to the festival, the excitement building with every step. Vanessa chatted animatedly about the lineup, listing the artists they were most excited to see. "I can't wait to see Frank Ocean, and Florence The Machine is going to be amazing. What about you?"
"Definitely Frank Ocean," Zac agreed. "And I'm looking forward to seeing The 1975. Their live shows are always epic."
As they wandered through the vibrant festival grounds, Vanessa noticed Zac glancing down at his phone frequently. "Are you looking for something?" she asked, curious.
"Not something, but someone," Zac replied with a mysterious smile.
A little while later, Vanessa's curiosity was answered when she spotted a group of familiar faces approaching. Nina, Shaun, Ryan, Stella, Laura, and other friends emerged from the crowd, all grinning and waving.
"Nina! Shaun! Ryan! Stella! Laura!" Vanessa exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. She ran to hug each of them, thrilled to see her friends.
"This was all Zac's idea," Stella said, smiling as she answered her sister's questioning looks.
"Hi, Stella Bella. Long time no see," Zac greeted Vanessa's sister with a big bear hug and kiss on the cheek. Since Zac and Vanessa's reunion, Vanessa had slowly updated her mum and sister about their budding relationship. However, they hadn't all officially met up yet. Zac had only communicated to Stella or Gina through Vanessa on the phone indirectly but this was his first time seeing Stella - the young lady he'd called a little sister for so long - in person.
"Hey, Zac Attack. Too long," she said as she returned the hug. Stella looked back to see her sister grinning at the two of them. She was happy to see her sister so elated after so long. She had memories of her childhood of both of them as a couple but she was looking forward to getting to know Zac all over again.
"He really wanted to make sure this weekend was extra special." Nina vouched for her friend too.
Vanessa turned to Zac, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Oh, he definitely has," she said, hugging him tightly.
Zac replied by simply kissing her forehead.
"Guys, before we do anything else, I need food," said Stella, her stomach growling audibly.
"OMG. I want pizza. That's all I've been thinking about for the past 48 hours," Vanessa chimed in, her eyes lighting up at the thought.
"Really?" Zac growled playfully into her neck, "THAT'S all you've been thinking about?"
"Hmmm.. yup," she teased back, giggling as he nipped at her neck.
As they approached the popular pizza place, the enticing aroma of freshly baked pies filled the air. The group lined up, and Zac wrapped his arm around Vanessa's waist, his hand casually slipping into her back pocket while he chatted with Ryan.
Eager to place her order, Vanessa stepped up to the counter. "Two slices, please. Pepperoni for you, babe?" she asked, glancing back at Zac.
"Sounds great," he replied with a grin.
Just as Vanessa reached for her card to pay, Zac skillfully maneuvered himself to steal it from her hand, slipping it into his back pocket. He then handed his own card to the young cashier with a smirk.
"Baby…" Vanessa whined, a pout forming on her lips.
"Babyyyyy," Zac mimicked playfully.
"I can get you pizza, you know," she insisted.
"Meh," Zac swatted her hand away as she tried to retrieve her card.
"Can I at least get my card back?" she asked.
"Meh," he repeated, making a noncommittal noise once again.
"You've planned this whole trip! I can't even get you food?"
"You can repay me in other ways…" he smirked, a mischievous glint in his eye.
"Hmmm… like this?" Vanessa leaned closer, the air thickening with anticipation. She grabbed his head and pulled him closer, but just before their lips met, she swiftly swiped her card from his back pocket. "Aha!"
"Damn it… you minx. I was gonna hold on to your card."
"Till when?'
"For good," he replied with a playful grin.
Vanessa playfully whacked his chest.
"Can I get some pizza too, dad?" teased Ryan from the back.
Zac shook his head, laughing. "You're older than I am, dude."
"I know, but your paycheck is bigger. Haha," Ryan quipped.
"Ha," Zac said dryly, but graciously got everyone's pizza orders.
As they waited in line, Stella was busy chatting animatedly with Vanessa, recounting some hilarious festival antics from years past. Zac, listening with a smile, suddenly turned to the cashier.
Before Stella could request her pizza preference, Zac interjected. "One pepperoni with extra basil, right?" asked Zac looking back at Stella.
"Just a margherita with extra basil for me these days. Not much of a meat eater. But hey! What? You remember I always have extra basil?" Stella asked incredulously.
Had Vanessa said something to him? she thought. At the same time, Vanessa hugged Zac closer, touched by his thoughtfulness in remembering her sister's pizza order after all these years.
"Of course, Stella Bella." His eyes softened before they got more amused. "Besides, how could I forget? The ONE time we forgot I remember Gina made me go out and get a bag from the grocery store and decorate the pizza just so you wouldn't find out and throw a fit before we all had to go to the movies."
"DAMN really? Sorry. But not sorry. I was a diva. What can I say? Haha."
They all shared a laugh before they headed out.
The gang settled into the VIP section, where the atmosphere was more relaxed and exclusive.
The area was adorned with comfortable seating, shaded cabanas, and a bar serving an array of colorful cocktails. Vanessa and Zac found a spot on a large, cushioned sofa. Vanessa, feeling carefree and happy, sat on Zac's lap, her arm draped around his shoulders. They laughed and talked, sharing drinks and stories with their friends.
Nina and Shaun were deep in conversation, while Ryan and Stella were engrossed in recounting a hilarious incident from his last vacation. Laura and a couple of other friends joined in, creating a lively, warm atmosphere.
Vanessa held a colorful, fruity drink in her hand, taking a sip and savoring the refreshing taste. She looked at Zac with a playful glint in her eye.
"Mmmm… You have to try this," she said, holding out the glass to him.
Zac shook his head, smiling. "No, that's okay, baby. You enjoy."
Vanessa pouted slightly, not willing to take no for an answer. "Come on, just one sip. It's really good."
He laughed softly, giving in to her insistence. "Alright, alright." But instead of taking the drink for himself, he lifted the glass to her lips, his eyes never leaving hers.
Vanessa giggled, leaning forward and taking a sip from the glass. The second her lips left the rim, Zac leaned in and kissed her, tasting the drink indirectly through her. The flavors mixed with the sweetness of the kiss, creating an intoxicating blend.
"You were right," Zac murmured against her lips, his voice dropping an octave. "It's really tasty."
Vanessa blushed, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink. Zac's eyes darkened with desire as he looked at her, the intensity of his gaze making her heart skip a beat. The world around them seemed to disappear once more, leaving just the two of them in their private bubble.
He kissed her again, deeper this time, savoring both the taste of the drink and the feel of her soft lips against his. Vanessa responded eagerly, her hands gripping his shirt as she pulled him closer.
A few minutes later, a rolled-up napkin hit Zac on the shoulder, and they both turned to see Ryan grinning mischievously.
"Oi! Get a room, you two!" Ryan called out, laughter in his voice.
Vanessa and Zac broke apart, both of them breathless, blushing but smiling. Zac returned the favor by throwing the rolled-up napkin back at Ryan.
"It's time for the first set!" exclaimed Laura as everyone agreed enthusiastically, finishing their drinks and gathering their things.
As they made their way out of the VIP section and into the bustling festival grounds, Zac became more conscious of the public setting. The crowd was thicker here, with fans, cameras, and a palpable buzz in the air. Subconsciously, Zac untangled himself from Vanessa, staying a few feet behind her as they moved through the throngs of people. Vanessa, caught up in the excitement, didn't immediately notice the change.
The group navigated their way to the main stage, where the music was already pumping. As the first band started playing, everyone began to pair up with their significant others. Vanessa, dancing along and enjoying the music, reached back to find Zac's hand. To her confusion, he was busy on his phone, a slight frown creasing his forehead.
"Zac?" Vanessa called, trying to get his attention.
He looked up briefly, distracted. "I need to make a quick call," he said, disappearing off to the side.
Vanessa's smile faltered, a frown replacing it as she watched him walk away. Nina noticed the shift and put a comforting arm around her. "Don't worry," she said with a reassuring smile. "He's probably planning something sweet for you guys."
Vanessa nodded, trying to shake off the unease. "Yeah, you're probably right," she said, though she couldn't help but feel a bit disheartened. She turned back to the stage, attempting to enjoy the music and the company of her friends, but her thoughts kept drifting to Zac.
The band transitioned into a slower song, couples swaying together under the night sky. Vanessa couldn't help but glance around, searching for Zac. When he finally returned, he still seemed a bit stressed and distracted.
Vanessa took a deep breath, deciding to give him the benefit of the doubt. As the song played on, she tried to immerse herself in the moment, hoping that whatever was bothering Zac would pass and they could enjoy the festival together as they had planned.
Zac was fighting an internal battle. He had tried to create a bubble where they could enjoy the festival away from prying eyes, but the reality of Coachella meant that, after a certain point, everyone was smushed together in the throng of festival-goers. The clicking of iPhones around him made him self-conscious.
Zac knew people had seen Vanessa and him out in public now, and it would be all over the internet in a second. The only thing he had control over was keeping their relationship private. Yes, the public could know they were friends, but he didn't want them to know more just yet. He knew this might happen given the magnitude of Coachella, but he didn't think it would make him feel this way so soon. He didn't want to upset Vanessa, but he didn't know what to do either.
Seeing his turmoil, Ryan pulled him aside. "Dude, you okay?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.
"Yeah," Zac replied, running a hand through his hair. "Just didn't think there would be so many people... and cameras."
Ryan gave him an incredulous look. "This is Coachella, dude. What did you expect?"
"I know that," Zac said, feeling a bit silly. He had really thought there'd be a way for him and his friends to enjoy this without it making news headlines.
Ryan sighed, patting Zac on the back. "Buddy, look. You knew this was gonna happen sooner or later. I'm sorry if it's a lot right now, but screw everyone, man. Come on. Just have fun. And go dance with your lady!"
Zac took a deep breath, trying to let Ryan's words sink in. He looked back at Vanessa, who was now standing a bit away, her eyes scanning the crowd for him. He could see the worry in her eyes, and it tugged at his heart.
"You're right," Zac said, nodding. "Thanks, man."
Ryan smiled, giving him a reassuring nudge. "Anytime. Now go, make this night memorable."
Zac made his way back to Vanessa, determined to push aside his fears. As he reached her, she turned to him, relief washing over her face. "Hey," she said softly, "Everything okay?"
Zac nodded, pulling her into a hug. "Yeah. Sorry about that. Just got a little overwhelmed."
Vanessa cupped his face in her hands, her eyes filled with understanding. "You sure? Do you need anything? We can leave if you like. Seriously. Just say the word."
Zac was touched. Knowing how long Vanessa had waited to be at Coachella there was no doubt in his mind that if he really needed her she wouldn't think twice and leave in order to make sure he felt alright.
"Not at all, baby. Thank you. I'm just glad I'm here with you." Zac replied. "So let's just forget everything and have some fun, okay?"
Zac made a conscious effort to stay present and engaged. As the music played, he pulled Vanessa close, swaying to the rhythm with her. The night air was filled with laughter and joy, and slowly, Zac let himself get lost in the moment.
In the vibrant, pulsating atmosphere of the festival, the crowd buzzed with excitement and music. Amidst the revelry, a joint began to make its rounds among the attendees, carried by the hands of friends eager to share in the experience. Vanessa's gaze followed its path with curiosity, her eyes lingering a little too long.
Zac, noticing her interest, raised an eyebrow and gave her a knowing look. Almost as if reading her mind, he reached out to take the joint as it was passed along. Before handing it to Vanessa, he took a cautious puff himself, ensuring it was safe. Only then did he pass it to her, a subtle smile playing on his lips, as if to say, "I got you."
Vanessa took the joint, the familiar sensation bringing back memories of their carefree Coachella days. As she inhaled, a wave of nostalgia washed over her, mingling with the present moment. But almost immediately, the realization hit her—she was a mom now, and she hadn't indulged in anything like this in ages. Guilt started to creep across her face, her expression shifting from enjoyment to worry.
Noticing her change in demeanor, Zac leaned in close and whispered reassuringly, "Hey it's okay. You're okay. You're allowed to enjoy yourself. Kai is safe. I'm right here with you. And I'm never going to let anything happen to you, okay?" aiming to ease her mind and bring her back to the moment they were sharing.
Vanessa nodded at him and pressed a kiss to his clothed chest.
"Can you believe we're back here?" Vanessa said. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of nostalgia and excitement.
Zac pulled her closer, his arms wrapping around her waist. "Nah, it's crazy. I never thought I'd be back here. I've missed this, but mostly, I've missed you," he replied softly, his lips brushing against her ear.
Zac trailed his fingers up and down her arms, lightly grazing her skin. She responded by wrapping her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. They moved together, their bodies perfectly in sync with the beat of the music. Zac's hands slid up her back and into her hair, playing with the loose waves and sending shivers down her spine.
They continued to dance, their movements growing more intimate and fluid. Zac's touch was gentle yet electrifying, his fingers tracing light patterns on Vanessa's skin. She felt completely captivated by him, every touch sending waves of warmth and excitement through her.
Vanessa looked up at Zac, her eyes reflecting the festival lights. "Mmmm, that's more like it" she whispered, her voice barely audible over the music.
As the music shifted to a slower, more sensual tune, Zac tightened his hold on Vanessa's waist, guiding her movements with his own. He leaned down, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, "You feel incredible."
Vanessa blushed, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink. "You too," she replied, her voice filled with affection.
They swayed together, their bodies pressed close, moving as one. Zac's hands continued to explore, one hand sliding up to the nape of her neck, tangling in her hair. He pulled back slightly, just enough to look into her eyes, his gaze intense and filled with love.
Vanessa felt her heart skip a beat. She reached up, her fingers trailing down his cheek. "I love you," she said softly.
"I love you too," Zac replied, his voice equally tender.
Zac's smile widened, his eyes darkening with affection and desire. He leaned in to kiss her softly, a slow and lingering kiss that spoke volumes. Maybe it was Ryan's advice, maybe it was the few drinks they'd downed, or maybe it was just the intoxicating feeling of Vanessa in his arms, but in that moment, Zac forgot about every prying eye watching them. He just wanted to kiss the woman he loved.
His lips moved gently against hers, each touch igniting a spark that sent warmth coursing through their bodies. Vanessa responded eagerly, her hands sliding up to tangle in his hair, pulling him closer. The kiss deepened, becoming more passionate, more consuming. Zac's hands roamed over Vanessa's back, holding her tight against him. He could feel her heart beating in sync with his, a rhythm that matched the pulsing beat of the music around them. He broke the kiss briefly, just long enough to rest his forehead against hers, their breaths mingling in the cool night air.
As they stood there, holding each other tightly, the music, the crowd, the festival – all of it melted away, leaving just the two of them in their own world.
Unbeknownst to the lovers, the ominous click of an iPhone in the distance shattered their private paradise. Their lives were about to change as the camera's lens sealed their fate.