The truth untold

by gips.inwonderland

Five minutes. That was all it took. Longest five minutes of her life. She stared at the two pink lines staring back at her. What was she supposed to do now? zikki - ex to lovers

It had been a few weeks since Rikki and Zane had broken up, and only a handful of days since graduation. Rikki had hoped the summer would be a time to catch her breath, but that hadn't exactly happened.

It was the time when most people were excited about the future, making plans, celebrating freedom, but for Rikki, it felt like a strange limbo—a space where everything had changed, but nothing had truly moved forward.

It had been a hard few months and the truth was, Rikki wasn't feeling like herself lately. She tried to push it down, to blame it on the stress of everything—the breakup with Zane, Sophie, the pressure of graduation, Sophie, the looming uncertainty of the future, Sophie, the comet... She found herself drained most days, tired and nauseous. It was a weight she couldn't shake.

That evening, she'd been invited over to Cleo's for dinner. She could always count on Cleo and Bella to take her mind off things, even if just for a few hours. As soon as she entered Cleo's apartment, the familiar scent of pizza filled the air, making her stomach churn.

"Hey, you okay?" Bella asked, looking up from the salad she was chopping. "You don't look so great."

Rikki forced a smile, trying to brush off the exhaustion that weighed her down. "I'm fine. Just tired. It's been a hectic few weeks, you know?"

Cleo, who had been stirring a pot on the stove, glanced over her shoulder. "You sure? You've been looking a little off lately."

Rikki sighed, sitting down at the table and resting her head in her hands. "I know, I know. I've just… I've been feeling kinda weird. But I think it's just stress. It's been a lot lately."

Bella raised an eyebrow. "I don't know, Rikki. Maybe you need to take a break. You've been going non-stop lately."

Cleo joined in, leaning against the counter. "I agree. You've been pushing yourself way too hard. Take it easy for once."

Rikki nodded, rubbing her temples. "I'll be fine. Really. I just need to rest."

Before anyone could say anything more, Rikki's vision started to blur; she felt the room spinning, the edges of her consciousness slipping away.

The next thing Rikki knew, she was blinking up at the concerned faces of Cleo and Bella, both looking as though they hadn't left her side.

"Rikki?" Bella said, her voice tight with worry. "Are you okay?"

Rikki's head was pounding. "What happened?"

"You fainted," Cleo said, her voice trembling. "We were really worried."

Rikki blinked a few times, trying to focus. "I'm sorry... I don't know what happened."

"You really don't look well, Rikki," Bella said softly, her voice now gentler. "How have you been feeling really?"

Rikki tried to sit up, but the dizziness hit her again. "I don't know. Just... I've been so tired. And nauseous, especially in the mornings."

Bella and Cleo exchanged a look, a silent communication between the two of them. Bella was the first to speak. "Rikki, do you think... maybe you could be pregnant?"

Rikki froze, her heart skipping a beat. "Pregnant?" She laughed, but it sounded forced, almost panicked. "No. No way. That's impossible"

Bella raided a brow "Did you and Zane never…?"

"Yes, we did" said Rikki shaking her head "But we have always been careful."

Cleo raised an eyebrow. "You're sure?"

Rikki rubbed her forehead, trying to shake the thought from her mind. "I'm sure."

But Bella, ever the practical one, was already standing up, pulling on her jacket. "I'm going to go to the pharmacy and grab a test. Just to be sure."

Rikki opened her mouth to protest, but Bella was already halfway to the door. Cleo turned to her with a look of quiet concern. "You should take the test, Rikki. It's better to know for sure."

Rikki's stomach churned at the thought, but she couldn't ignore the nagging feeling that had settled in her chest. "You're right. I guess I'll know soon enough."

Bella returned shortly after, handing Rikki the box, the bright pink packaging somehow making everything seem so much more real. Rikki's hands shook as she took it, her mind racing.

Five minutes.

That was all it took.

Five minutes of her life that felt like the longest stretch of time in existence. The seconds ticked by slowly, each one stretching longer than the last. Her heart hammered in her chest as she stared at the window, the small plastic test laying on the bathroom counter.

When the timer finally beeped, Rikki took a shaky breath and reached for it, her fingers trembling. She stared at the two pink lines staring back at her. The words, "Pregnant," flashed in front of her mind.

Her stomach dropped.

"No..." she whispered under her breath, her voice barely audible.

Rikki's eyes blurred with tears as she sat down against the wall, feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. What was she supposed to do now? She had spent so much time trying to move on from Zane, trying to focus on herself, but now this?

Outside the bathroom, Cleo and Bella were waiting, both of them looking at her with concern.

Rikki walked back slowly, her legs feeling like lead. She didn't know how to say the words out loud. She didn't know what to do.

Cleo looked up when she saw Rikki's face. "Rikki?"

Bella rose from her seat, walking toward her. "What did the test say?"

Rikki swallowed, the lump in her throat threatening to choke her. "I'm pregnant."

The silence that followed was heavy, suffocating. Cleo reached out to her, her hand gently resting on Rikki's arm. "Are you okay?"

Rikki's voice cracked. "No, I don't know what I'm going to do. I—I'm…Zane and I are barely on speaking terms, we're still figuring things out, and this just... it complicates everything."

Bella stepped forward, her eyes soft with understanding. "You're not alone in this, Rikki. We're here for you, whatever you need. You don't have to make any decisions right now."

Tears welled up in Rikki's eyes, and she felt her knees buckle, falling onto the floor as everything came crashing down. "I'm scared," she whispered. "What if I can't do this?"

Cleo knelt beside her, her hand on her shoulder. "You don't have to have all the answers right away. Take it one step at a time. And we'll be here every step of the way."

Bella nodded. "We'll help you figure it out. We'll be with you, no matter what."

Rikki's tears fell freely, but in that moment, she felt a small glimmer of hope. She didn't know what the future held, or how she would navigate this new, complicated reality. But with her friends by her side, she knew she wasn't completely alone.

The wind blew through her hair, and she pulled her jacket tighter around her, hugging her knees to her chest. The world around her felt distant, muted by the weight in her chest. It was strange—being here, in the same place where everything used to feel so right, yet now it just felt… wrong.

Her mind kept drifting back to the test and the conversation with Cleo and Bella. Telling Zane about the baby seemed impossible right now. Everything had been so complicated between them recently—how could she possibly drop a bombshell like that on him?

She barely noticed him until he was already there—Zane, standing a few feet away, his presence unmistakable. He didn't say anything at first, just watched her for a moment, as though unsure if he should even approach. The tension between them was thick, a silent wall built up by weeks of unsaid things.

Rikki finally glanced up, her gaze meeting his for the first time in days. His face was guarded, his eyes holding that familiar mix of concern and hesitation.

"Mind if I sit?" Zane's voice was low, unsure, as if he was testing the waters.

Rikki didn't respond immediately, but the soft sigh that escaped her lips betrayed her annoyance—and maybe something else. She shifted over slightly, leaving an empty space beside her, and after a beat, he sat down, the sand shifting beneath him as he did.

They sat in silence for a few moments, the rhythmic crash of the waves, the only sound between them. Neither of them knew where to start.

"So…" Zane finally broke the quiet, his voice awkward as he fidgeted with the hem of his sleeve. "How've you been?"

Rikki hesitated, glancing at him out of the corner of her eye. She wanted to say something snarky, something that would push him away like she had so many times before, but the words caught in her throat. Instead, she shrugged lightly, her gaze turning back to the horizon. "Same as usual."

Another long pause.

Zane shifted beside her, clearly unsure how to proceed. "I—I wasn't sure you'd want me here."

Rikki's lips twisted into a bitter smile. "I didn't know either."

Zane's gaze fell to the sand between them, and for a moment, he seemed lost in his own thoughts. When he spoke again, his voice was softer, almost regretful. "Rikki, I— I'm actually leaving for Oxford next week. I got into their program, and... I didn't want to go at first but maybe I should take this chance"

Rikki froze. She wasn't prepared for this. She hadn't thought he would be leaving so soon, so suddenly.

"Oxford?" she repeated, trying to keep the surprise out of her voice. "That's... great, Zane. I mean, really great."

For a moment, Rikki just looked at him, feeling a mixture of pride and sadness. She'd always known Zane was capable of greatness but hearing it from him now made her realize just how much time had passed—and how much had changed.

But then the weight of her secret settled back into her chest, pressing down, suffocating her. She didn't want to be the one to ruin his future. Not after everything.

Zane studied her carefully. "You don't seem happy. You okay?"

Rikki's breath hitched, her chest tight. She smiled a little, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just… it's been a lot lately, you know?"

"I get it," Zane said softly, leaning forward. "You've been working so hard on everything here, with the Moon Pool and all that. I just—well, I wanted to check in on you, you know? See how you're doing."

Rikki felt her throat tighten, the weight of his words heavier than she expected. He had always cared, but how much had that care changed over time? How could she tell him that she was about to bring a child into the world, his child, and risk everything they'd both worked toward?

She forced another smile, this time a little more convincing. "I'm managing, Zane. I'll be okay. And you… you've got a lot ahead of you. I'm sure you'll do great."

Zane nodded slowly, but there was a shadow in his eyes, a flicker of doubt. He stood up, glancing down at her with that familiar look of concern. "I'm going to miss you, you know. I know things were a mess between us, but I never stopped caring. I still love you, Rikki."

Rikki's heart twinged at his words, a bittersweet feeling rushing over her. She opened her mouth to say something—anything—but the words didn't come. Instead, she just nodded.

"I should get going," Zane said, his voice quieter now. He paused, as if thinking about saying more, but then he simply gave her a small smile and a kiss on her cheek. "Take care of yourself, Rikki."

While she watched him leave her chest felt hollow, a deep ache she couldn't explain. I must tell him, she thought, but the fear of what would happen if she did keep her silent.

The days passed, and Rikki found herself sinking further into a quiet state of panic. She couldn't stop thinking about Zane, about the conversation they'd had, and about the baby she was carrying. She had thought that keeping her distance from him would make everything easier, but now it felt impossible. She couldn't escape the reality of the situation any longer.

One night, after a long day of swimming, Rikki found herself standing in front of the mirror in her bedroom, the light flickering softly. She placed her hands on her hips, staring at her reflection, trying to make sense of everything that had happened.

How am I supposed to do this? she thought. How do I raise this child alone, knowing that Zane's the father, and yet... we're not together? We won't even be in the same country anymore soon…

She didn't have the answers, and for the first time in a long while, she felt completely lost. There was no going back now. She couldn't erase the truth. The baby was growing inside her, and sooner or later, she'd have to face the consequences of keeping it a secret from Zane.

But for now, she chose to keep the distance.

Maybe it's better this way. I can't mess up his future. I won't be the one to hold him back.

5 years later

The gala was buzzing with energy, guests murmuring excitedly about the latest discoveries and historic finds. Rikki scanned the room with a practiced eye, smiling politely at the various museum curators and wealthy patrons. She'd been to enough of these events to know how to play the part.

The gold coast lights glittered like diamonds in the night, but it was all so... routine.

Her life had changed so drastically in five years. Back then, she had been just a girl, pregnant, uncertain, and facing an unknown future. Now, she was a well-known name in the diving world—renowned for her treasure hunts, her discoveries, her collaborations with museums all over the country. Of course, it had helped that she was a mermaid—but the world didn't need to know about the things she could do

She could dive into the depths of the ocean without fear, but the one thing she couldn't dive away from was her past.

Her son, Chris, was the living reminder of everything she'd once had with Zane. The boy had his father's smile, his dark hair and the same eyes of him. Every day, she was reminded of the love that had been left unsaid, the goodbye that had been so final and painful.

The gala was in full swing, the soft hum of music blending with the murmur of conversation as Rikki stood near the edge of the crowded ballroom, a glass of champagne in her hand. She'd been trying to keep herself busy, mingle with some people she already knew, and pretend she wasn't uncomfortable in this elegant, high-society world. But truthfully, she felt out of place, disconnected.

She scanned the room absentmindedly, her gaze briefly sweeping across the sea of faces. Then, for a moment, her eyes froze. A man, tall and broad-shouldered, was standing by the grand staircase. From this distance, his figure was a shadow among the others, but something about him felt familiar.

No way, she thought, shaking her head slightly. It's just your mind playing tricks on you, Rikki. Get it together.

She took another sip of her drink, trying to push the feeling away, but her mind kept drifting back to the man. The way he stood there, confidently, like he belonged. The way his posture seemed so… him. But it couldn't be. Not after all these years.

Yet, as if the universe had decided to mess with her, the figure began to move toward her, weaving through the crowd with an easy grace. Rikki's breath caught in her throat.

No, no, no, it can't be him.

But it was. The moment their eyes met across the room, the world seemed to tilt.

Zane.

He walked up to her with that unmistakable confidence, his eyes locked on hers, and she could hardly breathe. He was wearing a sleek, black suit with a black shirt that made his eyes stand out in stark contrast. His jaw was sharper now, a day or two's worth of scruff darkening his chin. His hair was shorter, tousled perfectly, and his shoulders had filled out over the years. There was no mistaking it—he was even more handsome than she remembered, and in a way that made her feel like she'd just been hit with a wave of nostalgia... and something else.

He stopped in front of her, that same cocky grin tugging at the corner of his lips. For a moment, they just stared at each other, neither sure what to say, both of them painfully aware of the years that had passed.

"Rikki," he said, his voice smooth and deeper than before. "I didn't think I'd ever run into you here."

Rikki blinked, trying to steady her pulse. The words felt like they were stuck in her throat. This couldn't be real. She had to be dreaming.

"Zane?" she managed to choke out, her voice shaky despite herself. She swallowed hard. "What are you—how—?"

He laughed softly, the sound as familiar to her as his touch, but something about it now made her stomach twist. "I could ask you the same thing," he said, his gaze flicking over her, taking in the dress, the way she was holding herself. "You look… different. In a good way."

Rikki's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly masked it with a half-hearted smile. "Yeah, well, it's been five years. I'm sure you've changed too."

Zane's smile faltered for a second as he looked her over again. "I guess I have. Some for the better, some for the worse."

Rikki chuckled dryly, raising an eyebrow. "I guess we all do. But you—" She shook her head, her voice tinged with disbelief. "You look… you look great."

Zane shrugged, the grin never leaving his face. "Guess that's what a few years of hard work and… life can do to a person." He glanced down at himself—his black suit, the muscles visible under the fabric, and then back up at Rikki. "So, what about you?"

"Well, I've been busy"

"Mermaid club?" He grinned at her, lowering his voice

Rikki felt a sharp pang at the mention of the past, the old memories rushing back. She looked away for a moment, biting her lip. "Yeah, something like that"

The air between them was thick, charged with the awkwardness of years unspoken, unresolved feelings, and the strange newness of this version of Zane standing before her. There was an uncomfortable silence before he broke it again, his voice quieter this time.

"Look, I—uh… I didn't expect this," Zane admitted, his eyes softening. "I didn't expect to see you like this. Not after… well, everything. But, uh, it's good to see you again. Really good."

Rikki blinked rapidly, unsure of how to respond. She wasn't sure if it was the champagne, the shock or something else that had her feeling so unsteady in her own skin, but she cleared her throat. "It's, uh… a little... unexpected."

Another awkward silence stretched between them. She could feel the weight of the years, the things left unsaid, hanging in the air like an unspoken question neither of them wanted to ask. She took a small step back, unsure of how to handle this—this Zane—this stranger who was still somehow so familiar.

"Anyway," she said, her voice growing more distant, "I should probably get back to the party."

Zane nodded, his smile tinged with something unreadable. "Yeah, me too. But, uh… maybe we could catch up sometime? If you want."

Rikki's heart fluttered, but she quickly covered it with a quick, almost awkward laugh. "Yeah, maybe. We'll see."

With that, she turned to walk away, but her mind was reeling. The Zane she'd known was a ghost now, a version of him buried beneath layers of time and changes, yet his presence still affected her in ways she wasn't ready to admit.

Zane stood there for a moment, stunned. He couldn't believe how much Rikki had changed. She was still the same woman, but she was different in ways he hadn't expected. More grown-up, more confident. But there was something else too—something unspoken.

The mention of her being "busy" made his mind race. She hadn't given him much, but it was clear that her life had moved forward without him. It was almost as if she had built walls around herself—walls that he couldn't break down, not now. The brief encounter had left him with more questions than answers, but one thing was clear: seeing her again had brought back feelings he thought he had buried.

He watched her walk away, the weight of the past pressing in on him. He didn't know what had happened in the years since they'd parted ways, but whatever it was, he could see she'd survived. She was a different person now—a woman who had carved out a life for herself. But even in that brief moment, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was still so much between them left unsaid.

He couldn't help but wonder... what if they hadn't been apart all these years? What if... he hadn't let her go?

But Zane knew that was a question with no easy answer.

The room around him seemed to blur, his thoughts consumed by the woman he had once loved, and the reality that she was still very much a part of him, no matter how much time had passed.

The next morning, Rikki found herself staring out the window, the sun filtering through the blinds. It had been a long night, filled with too many thoughts and not enough sleep. After the gala, her mind had kept returning to the conversation with Zane—the way he had looked at her, the soft way he had spoken. She still felt that pull toward him, even after all this time.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her thoughts. It was Cleo.

"Morning," Rikki answered, trying to sound casual, but her voice gave her away.

"So, how was the gala?" Cleo asked, her tone full of curiosity.

Rikki hesitated. "It was fine. A little... strange. Zane was there."

"Zane?" Cleo was quiet for a moment, and then she asked carefully, "You okay? I mean, after everything?"

Rikki let out a deep breath. "Yeah. It felt like we were two strangers in the same room. He was polite, but that's about it."

But deep down, Rikki knew that wasn't the truth. Something had shifted between them. She couldn't deny the pull she still felt.

"You're sure?" Cleo pressed. "I know this is tough, but... maybe it's time to tell him the truth about Chris."

Rikki froze, her heart hammering in her chest. "I don't know, Cleo. It's... complicated. I haven't seen him in so long, and he has moved on with his life for sure. I don't want to mess it up."

Cleo's voice softened. "You're not messing it up, Rikki. He has a right to know. He's Chris' father, after all."

Rikki closed her eyes, feeling a lump form in her throat. I'm not ready to tell him, she thought. I've kept this secret for so long.

"I'll think about it," Rikki replied, trying to sound reassuring. "But for now, I just... need some time."

"Well, I've got the afternoon free," Cleo said. "Why don't you come over? We can hang out and distract you for a while."

Rikki smiled, grateful for the distraction. "That would be great but I'm too busy today. What about Friday night? I'm free after five"

"Sounds great! Call me anytime if you need"

"I will" and with that Rikki hanged up the phone.

Rikki and Cleo were sitting on the sofa, a glass of wine in their hands. There was a soft hum of conversation between them, but Rikki's mind was elsewhere, tangled in the memories and confusion after seeing Zane again at the gala.

Cleo had been watching her friend closely, a knowing expression on her face. "You're quiet tonight, Rikki. What's on your mind?"

Rikki took a sip of her wine, avoiding Cleo's gaze. "I don't even know what I'm feeling anymore. I thought I had moved on, you know? But seeing him... after all these years… it's like everything just came rushing back."

Cleo nodded sympathetically "You're allowed to be confused. It's normal."

"I just… I don't know how I'm supposed to act around him. If he stays in town, I don't know how long I can keep it from him, Cleo."

Cleo raised an eyebrow. "Maybe you should consider telling him the truth"

Rikki's throat tightened. "Now? How am I supposed to do it?"

Before Cleo could respond, the sound of the front door creaked open, followed by a burst of laughter. Rikki's heart jolted at the familiar sound, and she froze. She recognized that laugh. It was unmistakable.

The voice of Lewis called out from the hallway, followed by another laugh. "Cleo, I brought someone—"

Then the sound of footsteps, and Rikki felt her breath catch in her throat as Zane appeared in the doorway.

There he was, standing in the living room like nothing had changed, his gaze meeting hers for the briefest moment.

"Rikki," Zane's voice cut through the quiet, and he paused, clearly surprised to see her. "I didn't know you'd be here."

Rikki's stomach twisted into knots. Her mouth felt dry, and she forced herself to meet his eyes, her heart racing.

Cleo shot Rikki a questioning look before glancing back at Zane, her expression shifting slightly. "Well, this is a surprise," she said, standing from the table. "Rikki and I were just talking about… stuff."

Rikki barely heard Cleo's words. She could feel the tension building, the years between her and Zane suddenly feeling heavier than she could have imagined. It was like being stuck in time, in that moment when everything had fallen apart, and yet, here he was again. And with him, that nagging reminder that he might one day discover the biggest secret she had kept from him.

Lewis was already moving to the kitchen, trying to release tension in the room. "I hope you two don't mind—Zane and I ran into each other outside, and I thought, 'Why not invite him over for dinner?'"

Rikki didn't trust her voice to speak, so she just nodded, her heart thudding in her chest. She couldn't look at Zane for too long. Not with so much at stake.

"Of course," Cleo said, trying to fill the awkward silence. She pulled out another chair at the table. "Come sit, both of you."

But as they all moved toward the table, the atmosphere shifted. Rikki's stomach was in knots, and she couldn't escape the thought that everything in her life was about to unravel. How long could she keep the truth from Zane? How long before he'd start asking the questions that she couldn't answer without everything changing?

The tension was suffocating as the four of them sat down, like old times, but it felt nothing like the easy camaraderie of the past. It was awkward, strained. Every word, every movement felt like a balancing act.

Zane sat at the far end of the table, his presence filling the room, and Rikki couldn't help but feel his gaze on her. There were so many things unsaid, things that could break everything open if he ever found out.

Rikki glanced at Cleo, who gave her a small, supportive smile, but Rikki couldn't shake the feeling of impending doom.

The first few minutes at the dinner table were strained. Small talk, polite questions, and glances that lingered just a moment too long. The wine helped, though. Cleo and Lewis took charge of the conversation, keeping it light and casual as Rikki and Zane shared only the occasional glance or nod.

But as the evening went on and the wine glasses were refilled, the conversation began to ease. Rikki laughed at something Zane said, her shoulders relaxing a little. She hadn't realized how much she missed the sound of his voice, the way he could make her laugh. They shared a few stories from the past, teasing each other about old times. The teasing was playful, and for the first time that night, it felt like they were treading into familiar, comfortable waters.

"Well," Zane said after a particularly funny story about their days in the ocean, "I don't know how I ever survived hanging out with you guys. You were such a mess."

"Speak for yourself," Rikki shot back with a grin, but it was a little more relaxed this time.

The teasing continued. Zane had a way of making her feel at ease, and even though she was nervous, she couldn't help but enjoy the banter.

Zane raised an eyebrow. "You always did have that wild streak in you. Reckless, but in the best way."

Rikki met his gaze, her lips curving into a teasing smile. "You're still trying to flatter me, Zane. What is it with you? You think a compliment will get you anywhere?"

"Maybe," he said with a shrug, his smile not fading. "But I've always found that a little honesty goes a long way. You're not exactly the easy type to impress."

The playful jab at her pride made her laugh. "Well, I'll take that as a compliment... I think."

Zane leaned in slightly, his voice dropping into a teasing whisper. "You always did like a challenge, though, didn't you?"

Rikki felt her cheeks flush slightly, her heart quickening. She didn't want to admit how much she enjoyed these little games they were playing, but the way Zane spoke to her made her feel like they were the only two people in the room. She had almost forgotten how easy it was to banter with him, how the sharpness of his words always kept her on her toes.

"You think you're a challenge?" she asked, raising an eyebrow as she shot him a sidelong glance. "I'm not so sure about that."

Zane's smile widened, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and something deeper. "Oh, I'm definitely a challenge," he said, his voice low and knowing. "But you always liked trying to figure me out, didn't you?"

Cleo, oblivious to the escalating tension between them, piped up from across the table. "You two are always so... competitive with each other. It's kind of hilarious."

Lewis laughed along with her, clearly enjoying the banter. "Honestly, I think the real question here is how much of this is actual teasing, and how much of it is just you two flirting."

Rikki almost choked on her wine, her cheeks heating up. She quickly put the glass down, trying to mask the awkwardness with a forced laugh. "We're not flirting, Lewis. It's just... old habits. You know how it is."

Zane's grin was a little too knowing as he leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving Rikki. "Yeah, old habits die hard," he said softly, his voice laced with a subtle challenge.

The air around them seemed to thicken, and Rikki felt a sudden, undeniable pull toward him. He was close—too close—and the tension was beginning to feel less playful and more... serious.

Cleo and Lewis continued talking, but Rikki and Zane were in their own world now, locked in a silent exchange of glances, words unsaid. It was as though the chemistry between them had only grown stronger with time, and it was starting to feel impossible to ignore.

Finally, as the conversation began to wind down, Zane stood up, breaking the spell. "Well, I think I've had enough hearing about how much trouble I was," he said pushing his chair back.

"I think it's time for everyone to head home," Cleo said gently

Rikki nodded, standing up from the table. Zane did the same, offering her a slight nod. "Can I walk you home?" he asked, his voice much quieter now, the flirtation gone.

Rikki hesitated, her thoughts racing. Her heart said yes, but her mind? Her mind was full of doubts. Should she really do this? Was this the right time to talk? The guilt came flooding back again, and she swallowed hard.

She finally nodded, though, her breath a little shaky. "Yeah, why not?"

Cleo shot a concerned look at Lewis, who gave her a reassuring smile, squeezing her hand under the table. "Let them go," he said softly. "They need to talk."

Rikki and Zane walked side by side, the silence between them comfortable but strained. The moonlight glinted off the ocean, casting a soft glow over everything. Rikki could hear the waves crashing in the distance, but all she could focus on was the man beside her.

They reached her doorstep, and for a moment, they just stood there, the tension thick in the air. Zane stepped closer, his eyes searching hers.

"You know," he murmured, "I never really got the chance to say goodbye before. I never thought I'd get another chance."

Rikki's heart raced. She could feel the heat of his gaze on her skin, the weight of his words heavy in the air. He leaned in slightly, just enough to make her breath catch.

"You want to come in?"

The words slipped out of her mouth before she could even think about it. He nodded.

Once inside Rikki's apartment, the door barely clicked shut before Rikki turned to face Zane, her heart racing as she caught his gaze—those deep, stormy eyes that once held her captive. There was a moment of hesitation, a flicker of uncertainty, but it was quickly overshadowed by an overwhelming need that had been simmering just beneath the surface. Without thinking, she leaned in, her lips crashing against his with a fervor that surprised them both.

Zane responded instinctively, his hands finding their way to her waist, lifting her effortlessly against the door. The weight of her body against him ignited a fire within him.

"Rikki…" he murmured between kisses, but the words were lost as she pressed against him, her body craving more.

"Touch me," she breathed, her voice thick with desire.

"Wait" he said trying to catch his breath. "Are you sure?"

She looked him right in the eyes. "I'm sure"

With newfound confidence, Rikki leaned in, capturing his lips once more as she held him tight, feeling the hardness of his desire pressing against her. Zane groaned into her mouth, the sound sending shivers of excitement racing through her.

"Let's take this slow," he murmured, his hands exploring her thighs as he kissed her deeply, pouring all his love and need into that kiss.

"Slow?" Rikki teased, a playful glint in her eyes. "You know I've never been good at that."

Zane chuckled, the sound rich and warm against her ear. "Maybe this time we can try."

Their kisses deepened, and Rikki felt herself melting against him. Every touch ignited old embers, rekindling the passion they once shared. As Zane's fingers explored her body, Rikki lost herself in the sensations, the memories flooding back as if no time had passed at all.

"Fuck," he murmured against her neck, his breath hot as he pressed soft kisses against her skin. "You have no idea how much I've missed this."

"I think I do," she replied, her voice breathless as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. "I've missed you too."

The air in the room was thick with anticipation as she traced her fingers playfully over the outline of his arousal, the fabric of his jeans doing little to hide the effect she had on him. Her teasing touch sent electric shivers through him, a mix of longing and urgency that he hadn't felt in years.

With a slow, deliberate motion, she unbuttoned his jeans and slipped her fingers beneath the waistband of his boxers, feeling the heat radiating from his skin. That first touch against him made him arch his back, a desperate sound escaping his lips. The way she looked at him—so full of hunger and confidence—drove him wild.

"God, you're beautiful," he murmured, his eyes dark with need.

Her mouth curled into a smile as she wrapped her fingers around him, the softest grips that made him gasp. She relished the way he responded, his body tensing and relaxing under her touch, each moan a sweet melody that urged her on. Slowly, she sank to her knees, her gaze locked onto his as she lowered her mouth to him.

The warmth of her breath sent a wave of pleasure coursing through him and as she pressed her lips against him, a soft gasp escaped his lips, a sound that fueled her eagerness. She started slowly, her tongue flicking teasingly against the tip, savoring his taste and the way he responded to her every movement. With each deliberate stroke, she felt him harden further in her mouth, the sensation igniting a thrilling rush through her.

She took her time, alternating between gentle kisses and deeper, more fervent motions, her hands finding their way to his hips, urging him to guide her. The world around them faded away, leaving only the intoxicating rhythm of their breaths and the soft, intimate sounds that filled the air.

Zane's hands tangled in her hair, a silent plea for more, and she obliged, taking him deeper, her mouth warm and wet around him.

He was on the edge, teetering between pleasure and the precipice of release. "I'm—" he gasped, trailing off as he felt the tension build within him. She looked up, a playful challenge in her eyes, and he couldn't resist the urge to thrust into her mouth just as she hummed around him. The sensation pushed him over the edge.

With a shuddering breath, he released, and she took him fully, swallowing every drop as he cried out in ecstasy.

As she pulled away, a satisfied smile gracing her lips, he felt a rush of affection and desire flood through him. He reached down, lifting her up as their mouths collided, the kiss deep and fervent. She melted against him, and he could taste the remnants of his pleasure on her tongue.

With a soft smile Rikki took his hand, guiding him toward the plush sofa in the corner of the room. He followed her lead, laying her down softly, their lips never parting. As he kissed her deeply, Rikki could feel the urgency in his touch, a mix of tenderness and desire that made her heart race

He pulled back just long enough to remove his shirt and t-shirt, revealing the toned muscles beneath. Rikki's breath hitched at the sight, a smile playing on her lips as she ran her hands over his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin against her fingertips

Zane leaned in again closer to Rikki, his lips brushing against her skin as he captured her mouth in a passionate kiss. His hands explored her body, moving with a mix of urgency and tenderness. With a swift motion, he pulled her shirt over her head, revealing the soft curve of her skin beneath.

As he unclasped her bra, his lips left a warm trail down her neck, savoring every inch of her. They traveled lower, finding their way to her chest, where he paused for a moment, his breath warm against her. Rikki's heart raced as he captured one of her nipples with his mouth, swirling his tongue around it while his hand gently caressed the other, sending shivers of pleasure through her.

She arched her back, lifting her waist instinctively to feel him pressed against her core. The sensation ignited a fire within her, and she let out a soft moan, a sound that spurred Zane on. He looked up at her with a teasing smile, his dark eyes gleaming with mischief. "Impatient, are we?" he murmured, his voice low and seductive.

With a playful grin, he slid a hand under her skirt, fingers grazing her thigh as he ventured higher, teasingly slow. Rikki gasped, her body responding eagerly to his touch as his fingers slipped beneath the fabric, finding her already slick and ready for him.

"God, you're so wet," he breathed, his eyes dark with lust as he slid a finger inside her, feeling her warmth envelop him. She arched into his touch, her body betraying her ached in need for more.

"More," she whispered, her voice shaking with need. "Please…"

He added another finger, curling them just right, and her back arched off the couch as a moan tore from her lips. "Just like that," he encouraged, his own desire pushing him further. The sounds of her pleasure fueled him, and he couldn't help but lean down, his mouth finding her center, his tongue flicking over her sensitive nub.

"Ah! Yes! Just like that!" she cried out, the pleasure building within her as he worked his fingers in tandem with his mouth. She could feel the tension coiling tighter, her body teetering on the edge as he expertly brought her closer.

"Tell me what you want," he murmured between licks, his breath hot against her skin.

"I want you… I need you inside me," she gasped, her body demanding fulfillment

He looked up at her, eyes glimmering with mischief and lust. "You're going to beg for it, aren't you?" His fingers didn't stop their movements, and she felt the pressure mounting, threatening to spill over.

"Please," she whimpered, her hands tangling in his hair, pushing him closer. "I can't take it anymore… I need you to fuck me."

With a growl of approval, he pulled away, his fingers slick and glistening. He quickly shed his jeans, the urgency of the moment taking over.

The heat between them was undeniable, each touch igniting something deeper. Rikki's fingers traced the line of Zane's jaw as his lips found hers again, urgent and familiar. The pull between them was stronger than ever, but as their bodies pressed closer, Rikki's mind sharpened for a brief moment.

She broke away just enough to look up at him, her voice soft but steady. "Do you have a condom?"

Zane paused, his breath catching, and for a second, the world around them seemed to still. He met her gaze, a flicker of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I do," he said, his tone low and confident.

Without a word, he slipped his hand into the back pocket of his jeans. He pulled out his wallet and, with practiced fingers, flicked it open, retrieving a small foil packet.

Zane opened the condom with careful fingers, the sound of the foil crinkling adding to the charged atmosphere. He took a moment, his gaze locked onto Rikki's, as he rolled it onto himself, his movements deliberate and slow, ensuring she felt every ounce of his intention.

Once he was ready, he leaned in closer, his breath mingling with hers.

With one swift movement, he plunged into her, filling her completely as they both gasped at the sensation

"God, you feel incredible," he groaned, thrusting deeper, setting a pace that drove them both wild. Her moans echoed around them, urging him on, each sound pushing him further into the depths of their shared ecstasy.

"Don't stop…" she begged, her nails digging into his back, urging him to give her everything. "Just like that, just like that…" her heart racing as she felt the pleasure build to an unbearable peak.

"Let go for me, babe," he urged, his voice raw with need. "I want to feel you come around me."

With a final thrust, she shattered, pleasure crashing over her like a wave, her body clenching around him as he followed her into bliss before they collapsed together, breathless and intertwined.

For a while there was no sound in the room as Rikki and Zane laid together, tangled in each other's arms. The dim light from the lamp cast gentle shadows on the walls, adding to the peaceful stillness. Rikki's head rested on Zane's chest, her fingers lightly tracing his abdominals, as if she couldn't quite believe they were finally here, in this quiet, intimate space together after everything.

Zane's hand was curled protectively around her, his thumb gently rubbing the back of her hand, a slow, steady rhythm that felt like an unspoken promise. The heat from his body felt like a shield, comforting her in a way she hadn't expected. It wasn't just the physical closeness—it was the sense of security, of belonging, that seemed to radiate from him now.

"You're okay?" Zane's voice was soft, laced with care. He wasn't sure if he was asking her or reminding himself that they had both survived the years of distance, that they had made it back to each other.

Rikki smiled against his chest, her breath evening out as she let herself relax completely for the first time in what felt like forever. "Yeah," she whispered. "I'm okay." She pressed a kiss to his skin, right above his heart, a gentle touch that said more than words could.

He pulled her a little closer, his face buried in her hair. The weight of their past seemed to have melted away, and in this moment, it was just them, safe and whole.

Zane's breathing slowed as he drifted, but before he fully closed his eyes, he whispered, almost as if afraid the moment would slip away, "I never want to let go of you."

Rikki's smile deepened, her fingers tightening ever so slightly on his arm. "You don't have to," she murmured, already half asleep, content in the knowledge that they had found each other again in a way neither of them had expected.

And with that, the world outside faded away as they fell into a peaceful, shared slumber, wrapped in each other's warmth.

The shrill buzz of her phone cut through the haze of sleep like a sharp knife.

Rikki groaned, blinking her eyes open, and immediately regretted it. She felt really hot and something felt off. Her heart skipped a beat when she realized she wasn't alone.

Her body tensed as she registered the warm weight wrapped around her.

She turned her head slightly, and the sight of Zane's familiar face made the blood drain from hers. His messy hair, his scruff from the night before, the way his arm was draped over her waist. Memories from the night before slammed into her, disorienting her. The kiss. The laughter. The feel of him holding her close. They had been here before—this complicated, dangerous place.

Rikki's stomach twisted in that familiar, unwanted mix of longing and regret. God, not again.

Her phone buzzed again, and she grabbed it, trying to shake off the mounting panic. As she stood up trying not to wake him up, the first thing her hand reached for was Zane's shirt from the armrest, and without thinking, she pulled it on. It swallowed her frame, the fabric warm and comforting, but it only deepened the confusion swirling in her head.

"Hello?" Her voice was thick with sleep.

"Hey, kiddo," her dad's voice came through cheerfully. "You coming for breakfast? Buddy here is making pancakes."

Rikki's heart ached with a soft smile. She could imagine Chris pouring flour all over his grandpa's kitchen. She had to swallow down the sudden rush of emotions.

She couldn't let Zane find out. Not yet.

"Yeah, sure. I'll be there soon."

She ended the call, still standing there, trying to calm her racing thoughts. She needed to get it together. But as she turned back to the couch, she froze.

Zane was starting to stir, blinking his eyes open, stretching, as he became more aware of his surroundings. He looked up at her with that sleepy, satisfied smile, like everything was normal.

"Morning," he murmured, voice thick with contentment. "You look good in my clothes"

Rikki's stomach twisted painfully. She couldn't do this. She couldn't let him think everything was okay.

It wasn't that simple. Not anymore.

"You need to go." The words came out harsher than she meant.

Zane blinked, his smile faltering as he tried to read her expression. "What? Rikki... I thought—"

"No," she interrupted, her voice more insistent now. "You need to go now. I've got things to do."

Zane sat up, confusion flickering in his eyes, quickly shifting to something darker. "What, was it just meaningless sex for you?" His voice was low, thick with hurt, but there was an edge of disbelief too.

Rikki's chest tightened. She wanted to tell him it wasn't meaningless—that she still felt something for him. That she wasn't immune to the pull between them, to the shared history, to the passion they once had. But she couldn't. Not now.

"I…" She couldn't find the words. The guilt clawed at her, but she pushed it down. "I can't do this, Zane. I need you to leave."

He stared at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers for any sign that she might change her mind. But when she didn't budge, he sighed, his shoulders slumping. He stood up slowly, and the disappointment in his expression made Rikki's stomach churn.

He started dressing in silence, pulling on his jeans and then slipping into his t-shirt. The weight of the unspoken words hung in the air between them. Rikki turned away, trying to steady her breath, her heart racing, and reached for her phone to check the time.

When she turned back, he was at the door, his hand on the knob. "I'll wait for you to make up your mind," Zane said softly, voice quieter now. "I care about you, Rikki. Always have. Always will."

The words settled on her like a heavy blanket, suffocating her. She couldn't speak. Instead, she just nodded, her throat tight, her chest heavy. He took a step closer and leaned in to kiss her cheek, giving her one last look—one full of hope, of longing—and then walked out, the door clicking softly behind him.

Rikki let out a shaky breath. Her legs felt weak, and she leaned against the doorframe for a moment, trying to collect herself.

Rikki's phone buzzed, and the name "Cleo" flashed on the screen.

She swiped it open, and Cleo's voice was immediately on the other end, bright and curious, "So, how are you feeling after last night?"

Rikki hesitated, her fingers gripping the steering wheel of her car. She was on her way to her dad's place for breakfast, her son already there.

"I'm…confused, Cleo. Really."

"Why? What happened?" Cleo's voice was still light, but there was a flicker of concern in it.

Rikki sighed and leaned back against the headrest.

She could feel the weight of the night before in her bones, a dull ache of mixed emotions. "Well… Zane and I... We laughed, we talked... and then …" She trailed off, feeling that familiar sense of confusion. "When we were outside my house, he told me it was like we never called it over, Cleo. And...I don't know… we ended up having sex."

There was a long pause on the other end of the line. Rikki could practically hear Cleo's shock.

"You what?" Cleo exclaimed. "Rikki… I—how?"

"I don't know. It felt so right in that moment! You know it's never been the same with others but now it's just… it's a mess," Rikki muttered, her grip tightening on the steering wheel again. "It's like everything old came rushing back in one night, and now I'm… I'm just trying to figure things out."

Cleo's voice softened. "So, what do you think you're going to do now?"

Rikki's heart thudded in her chest, her mind racing through a million thoughts. The night had stirred up feelings she wasn't sure she was ready to face. But what really had her spiraling was the thing that Zane didn't know about their son.

"I'm leaving." Rikki took a deep breath, pushing aside the knot of guilt tightening in her stomach. "I'm accepting a job offer from a museum in Melbourne. It's a few weeks, maybe more, away from the Gold Coast. And while I'm there I can meet with the editor of my book. I think… I think I need some space. To get away from here, from him. When I come back, maybe Zane will be out of town again and I'll have some time to just… move on. Forget about everything."

There was a long, quiet pause. Rikki couldn't tell if Cleo was processing the idea of Rikki leaving—or if she was just lost in thought about the night itself. After a moment, Cleo spoke, her tone more subdued. "You sure that's the right move?"

Rikki nodded, even though Cleo couldn't see her. "Yeah. It's the only way I can think of to get a little distance. I need to focus on my son, on myself… I just can't keep pretending everything's fine when I haven't dealt with any of this."

"Rikki…" Cleo started, her voice soft, "You're doing what you think is best, I get that. But just… don't shut Zane out completely, okay? If you're thinking about leaving for good, make sure there's no unfinished business. With him."

Rikki felt a pang in her chest at Cleo's words. She knew there was unfinished business, but how could she explain that to Zane when she hadn't even told him about the most important thing—the one thing that would have changed everything?

"I'll figure it out," Rikki said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I just need time."

"Well… just know that I'm here if you need me, okay?" Cleo's voice was steady, even though Rikki could tell her friend was concerned.

"Thanks, Cleo," Rikki replied, managing a small, tired smile. "I'll let you know when I'm in Melbourne. And… we'll talk more soon."

"Take care of yourself," Cleo added gently before hanging up.

Rikki dropped her phone into the cup holder, staring ahead at the road. The weight of everything hung over her—Zane, the past, her son, the future—and she wasn't sure how to carry it all. But maybe, just maybe, getting away for a little while was the right thing to do. It was the only way to keep moving forward.

The sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore mixed with the laughter of children and the occasional call of a seagull as Rikki walked along the beach with Cleo. The sun was high in the sky, the warm rays reflecting off the water and casting a golden hue over the sand.

Chris, her four-year-old son, was happily building a sandcastle with Lewis just a few feet away. His small hands scooped up handfuls of wet sand and carefully piled them on top of each other, his little face scrunching in concentration. Rikki watched him for a moment, a gentle smile playing on her lips. He was so full of life, so bright. She couldn't imagine not having him in her world.

Cleo leaned in slightly, lowering her voice to match the peaceful atmosphere of the beach. "So, how's everything going? Melbourne treated you okay?"

Rikki shrugged, her eyes still on Chris. "It was good. I needed time to clear my head, I guess. I got some perspective on things... got a bit of space." She let out a soft sigh, trying to keep her emotions in check. It hadn't been easy being away from the Gold Coast for weeks, but the distance had allowed her to breathe again. At least, that's what she kept telling herself.

"I get it," Cleo replied, her voice thoughtful. "But you still haven't said much about the whole… Zane situation."

Rikki frowned, her hand instinctively reaching up to tug at her necklace. "I know. I've been trying to figure out what to do. I don't even know where to start."

Before Cleo could respond, a voice broke through the moment.

"Rikki?"

Rikki froze, her heart skipping a beat. She turned slowly, and there, walking toward her across the sand with that same confident stride she remembered all too well, was Zane.

The familiar pull of his presence was like a tidal wave crashing into her, threatening to drag her under. She tried to steady herself, but it was hard. His gaze was locked on her, unwavering, like he had been searching for her since the moment she'd left.

"Zane," she said quietly, her voice betraying the mixture of emotions she was trying to keep hidden. "I didn't expect to see you…"

"I know," Zane replied, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I was hoping we could talk, Rikki."

Before she could respond, Chris's voice rang out from behind her, loud and bright. "Mommy! Mommy, come look at my castle! I made it with Uncle Lewis"

Rikki's heart nearly stopped. She turned instinctively, her eyes searching for her son. Chris was grinning widely, as he beamed up running at her, clearly proud of his creation.

Zane's expression shifted instantly, his eyes narrowing as they shifted from Rikki to Chris. The moment stretched, and Rikki felt the weight of it hit her like a freight train. She didn't know whether to speak, whether to explain, or just to run.

"Rikki… is that…?" Zane trailed off, his voice low as he glanced from her to Chris, confusion flickering across his face. "You didn't tell me you had a son"

Chris's innocent question cut through the air like a knife. "Who are you?"

Zane blinked, his gaze snapping back to the kid. He opened his mouth, but the words seemed to catch in his throat. "I'm… I'm a friend of your mommy," he said finally, his voice rough, like he wasn't quite sure what to make of the situation.

Rikki's heart hammered in her chest. This was happening. He was standing here, and he had no idea.

Chris's eyes shone with curiosity as he tilted his head, looking up at Zane. "What's your name?"

"Zane," he replied, his voice almost distant. "And you are?"

"I'm Chris," he said with a smile

Zane was looking at him with a confused look; there was something about the way the kid looked—something almost… too familiar. He blinked, narrowing his eyes in disbelief. The kid had his dark eyes, his grin and even the same dark hair he had.

He crouched down to the boy's level, feeling a strange weight settle in his chest. "How old are you, Chris?"

"Four and a half!" he said proudly, holding up his small hand and puffing out his chest

Zane froze, the words slowly sinking in, his heartbeat quickening. Four and a half. His eyes flicked to Rikki, searching for some sign, some hint that would explain the rush of recognition in his chest.

Rikki felt a cold sweat break out on the back of her neck. She could feel the ground shifting beneath her feet, like everything in her life was about to crash down.

Cleo, sensing the tension, immediately took action. She leaned down to Chris and smiled brightly, offering her hand. "How about you show me that castle, champ?" she said, her tone warm and cheerful.

Chris nodded eagerly and took her hand, his little feet kicking up sand as they walked toward his sandcastle.

"Go ahead, buddy," Rikki said softly, trying to hide the tremor in her voice. She forced a smile, but her heart was breaking.

The moment they were a few feet away, Cleo turned, giving Rikki a silent look before moving away with Chris. It was like she knew exactly what was about to unfold.

As soon as they were alone, Zane's voice broke the silence. "Rikki, what the hell is going on here? Five years ago, you and I—how come…? He's him my son?"

Rikki's breath caught in her throat. She wanted to explain, to give him the answers he needed, but the words wouldn't come. She opened her mouth, but no sound escaped.

"I'm not even pissed about what happened between us, pass that I had one of the best nights of my life after ages and you kicked me out or that you disappeared for weeks after that" Zane continued, his voice rising, frustration lining every syllable. "But not telling me I had a kid? That's something else."

"I didn't—" Rikki started, but Zane cut her off, his anger growing.

"You didn't what?!" He laughed, but it was bitter, devoid of humor. "You didn't think I had a right to know? You didn't think I'd want to be there for him?"

Tears stung at the corners of Rikki's eyes, but she couldn't stop them. "I never wanted to hurt you, Zane. I never wanted this, believe me. I—" Her voice cracked as the truth spilled out, her emotions breaking free. "I didn't know how to tell you, you were leaving me and..."

Zane was silent for a long moment, his eyes flicking to the sand as he processed her words. He shook his head, as if trying to make sense of everything. "You should've told me. I had a right to know. I—" He stopped, frustration overwhelming him. "How could you keep this from me?"

Rikki's chest tightened. "I didn't know what to do. I didn't want to complicate things… especially after everything that happened between us."

"Complicate things?" Zane's voice cracked as he took a step back, looking at her like she had betrayed him. "This is my son, Rikki! And you didn't even give me a chance to be a part of his life."

Her breath hitched, and she barely managed to hold herself together. She wanted to scream at him, to tell him how hard it had been for her too—but the words wouldn't come.

"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice shaking. "I didn't know what else to do."

Zane took another step back, his eyes clouded with anger, pain, and confusion. "I can't do this right now."

With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Rikki standing there, her heart in pieces.

Cleo reappeared moments later, her expression soft with concern. She walked up to Rikki, her hand resting gently on her shoulder. "Come on, let's get away from here, okay?"

Rikki couldn't hold it in anymore. The sobs wracked her body, her chest tightening with the weight of everything she had tried to keep inside. Cleo pulled her into a hug, holding her tightly as Rikki cried, the weight of her choices, the past, and everything that had been left unsaid crashing over her all at once.

One week had passed since the argument on the beach, and Rikki had spent most of the time trying to pick up the pieces of her life. It hadn't been easy. She had tried to call Zane to explain, but he never answered. The silence between them felt like an abyss, and each day, it only grew deeper.

It was an afternoon, and Rikki was standing in the kitchen, making a cup of tea. Chris was playing in the living room, his laughter echoing through the house, and for a moment, it was easy to pretend everything was fine.

The doorbell rang.

Rikki froze, her hand still on the kettle. Her heart skipped a beat. She wasn't expecting anyone.

Chris, ever curious, dashed toward the door and pulled it open. Rikki heard the sound of his voice, calling out, "Mommy! There's someone at the door!"

Then, just like that, she heard a voice that sent a shiver down her spine. "Hey, is Rikki here?"

Zane.

Rikki's breath caught in her throat. She hadn't expected him to come to her door. She hadn't expected him to come at all.

Without thinking, she rushed out of the kitchen, her heart pounding as she made her way to the door. She saw Zane standing there, looking as hesitant as she felt. His eyes locked with hers, and there was a mix of something—guilt, apology, confusion.

"Zane," she said, her voice quiet. She didn't know if she was more surprised or relieved. "Come in."

Zane nodded, stepping inside. As he crossed the threshold, Rikki couldn't help but notice the dark circles under his eyes, the weariness that seemed to settle on him. He had been carrying a lot, just like her.

"Hey, I—" Zane stopped himself and sighed. "I'm sorry, Rikki. For what I said. For how I treated you. I was just… so hurt. I was angry, and I wasn't thinking straight. Especially after everything. I know I shouldn't have taken it out on you."

Rikki nodded, her heart aching. She had been expecting this, but hearing it from him—seeing the genuine regret in his eyes—still hit her hard.

"You were right," she said softly. "I should've told you sooner, but… I was so scared. I wanted to tell you that day on the beach, but then you told me you were about to leave for Oxford, and… I didn't want to ruin your future. I didn't want to tie you down. I thought you were better off without knowing. I thought it would be easier for you to just go and live your life."

Zane ran a hand through his hair, clearly wrestling with his emotions. "I get that now," he said quietly. "I've had time to think about everything, especially after talking with Lewis. I don't want you to feel like you had to do it alone. I know I messed up, but I—" He stopped and looked at her, really looked at her, his gaze softening. "I want to be part of Chris's life, Rikki. Even if it's just like a friend of yours for now, I need to get to know him. He's my son, and I've missed so much already."

Rikki's heart pounded in her chest, a mix of emotions swirling inside her. She had dreamed of this moment for so long, but now that it was here, it felt overwhelming. Chris's face flashed in her mind, his innocent joy and excitement whenever he talked about his "mommy" and her "friends."

"I… I don't know what to say," Rikki murmured, looking down at her hands. "I never meant to keep him from you, Zane. I just—" She took a deep breath, steeling herself. "I never imagined that you'd want to be part of his life after everything. I thought you would be angry with me forever."

Zane stepped closer, his eyes in hers while his hands searched for hers. "I was angry, Rikki. But I've thought about it, and I want to make this right. I want to be there for both of you, if you'll let me."

Rikki hesitated, her heart heavy with the weight of the decision. She glanced over at Chris, who was still in the living room, blissfully unaware of the gravity of the unfolding conversation. He was happy, playing in his own little world, and maybe, just maybe, that could change.

"I think," Rikki said slowly, her voice thick with emotion, "that we can give this a chance. If you're really sure… If you really want to try."

Zane nodded, his eyes lighting up with something almost hopeful. "I am. I want to be here for both of you."

Rikki swallowed hard, her throat tight. "Okay. If you really want to get to know him... you can join him in the living room while I grab some snacks. He's been working hard on his new coloring book, and I'm sure he'd love to show you."

Zane smiled, a soft, relieved smile. "Thanks, Rikki." He turned toward the living room, his gaze already shifting to Chris as he walked toward him.

Rikki watched them for a moment—Zane, standing there awkwardly at first, then kneeling down beside Chris, who greeted him with an excited "Hi!" Zane's hands were shaking slightly as he ruffled Chris's hair, but he looked genuinely happy, like this was a step toward something he had longed for.

Rikki's breath caught in her throat as she turned toward the kitchen, her heart in her throat. This could be the start of something new—for all of them.

She was finally letting go of the fear, allowing herself to believe that Zane could be part of Chris's life. And maybe, just maybe, it would be okay. It had to be.

It had been a couple of weeks since Zane since Zane first stepped back into their lives, and though there had been awkward moments and some tension—mostly between Rikki and him—things were slowly starting to settle.

Zane was no longer a stranger to Chris. He'd gone from the distant, confused man on the beach to a more consistent, involved figure in their lives.

At first, it had been tentative. Zane wasn't sure how to navigate this new role of being a father. And Rikki? She didn't know what to expect. But with each passing day, they found themselves adjusting to the strange new dynamic that was unfolding between them.

Zane started picking Chris up from school when Rikki couldn't, taking him to the beach, even showing him how to fix things around the house—things that seemed so small, but meant so much to both of them.

Rikki had to admit it: she was starting to see him in a new light. There was something different about Zane now. He wasn't the impulsive, stubborn guy she'd known in the past. He was quieter, more thoughtful, more patient. And seeing him with Chris… well, it made her reconsider everything.

One evening, as the sun was setting and casting a warm glow over their living room, Rikki found herself watching Zane and Chris laughing on the couch. Zane had been teaching Chris how to play chess. Though Chris had no idea what he was doing, he was thoroughly invested in the game, his little fingers moving the pieces with determination. Zane's laugh was light, carefree, and Rikki couldn't help but smile.

"You're cheating, Zane!" Chris exclaimed, leaning forward and narrowing his eyes in mock suspicion.

"I'm not cheating!" Zane said, holding his hands up in mock surrender, though his grin told a different story.

Rikki watched them for a moment longer, feeling something in her chest stir—a warmth, a connection, a sense of something real growing. It wasn't just the memories of their past; it was something new. Something they were building together. She had to admit she was starting to like the idea of this new version of their family, one that didn't feel so fractured.

As Chris leaned over to whisper something in Zane's ear, Rikki felt a small pang of jealousy—jealousy for the closeness they had, for the way Chris had come to accept Zane so easily, for the way Zane was becoming more and more of a constant in their lives.

The sound of Chris's laughter filled the room, light and carefree, and Zane found himself laughing back, his heart swelling as he watched the boy. It felt so strange but somehow right, being here with Chris, at this moment. Five years had passed since he'd last been in town, and a lot had changed. He'd been to Oxford, built a new life, but none of it had prepared him for the overwhelming realization that he had a son—a son who didn't know him as his father.

But here he was, playing with him, connecting in ways that were both familiar and completely new.

The doorbell rang, the sound breaking the moment.

"Grandpa!" Chris shouted, running to the door.

Rikki turned toward the door, her heart skipping a beat. She knew what was coming. Terry, her father, was here to take Chris out to dinner as he did once a fortnight. It was his ritual with his grandson, something that Chris always looked forward to. Rikki had never been able to say no to it, even though sometimes it felt like it was just another reminder of the family she didn't have—at least not in the way she once dreamed.

As Terry entered, he looked over at Zane, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly, a silent warning in his gaze. Rikki knew exactly what he was thinking. Terry had always been protective of her, especially when it came to Zane. After all, Zane had hurt her once. Terry wasn't about to let that happen again.

"Hey, kiddo," Terry said, ruffling Chris's hair as he grabbed his jacket.

"Almost ready to go, Grandpa!" Chris said excitedly, as he ran to grab his shoes.

Terry glanced over at Zane, his gaze lingering for a moment before he spoke, his tone casual but probing. "So, Zane… What's going on here? You show up out of nowhere after five years, and now you're playing with my grandson like you're some big happy family. What's your game?"

Zane didn't flinch. He'd anticipated this, and he was prepared. "I'm not here to cause trouble, Terry," Zane said, his voice calm but firm. "I'm just trying to make things right. I didn't know about Chris until recently. But now that I do, I want to be a part of his life. I want to make up for the time I lost. That's all."

Terry studied him for a long moment, his face unreadable. Then, with a nod, he seemed to accept Zane's words, but his wariness was still evident. He wasn't about to let Rikki's heart be broken again.

"I just don't want him to get hurt. And I don't want you to hurt Rikki again," Terry said, his voice low but earnest. "I remember how things ended between you two. Don't go reopening old wounds unless you're ready to handle them."

Zane's eyes softened. He had no intention of hurting Rikki again. "I understand," he said quietly. "I'm not asking for anything right now, Terry. But I want to be here for Chris, and if she'll let me, I want to be here for Rikki, too."

There was a long pause, the air heavy with unspoken words. Then Terry nodded, though his wariness didn't disappear. "Just make sure you're being honest with her, Zane. And with yourself."

Before Zane could respond, Chris came running back into the room, shoes on and ready to go. "Let's go, Grandpa!"

Terry smiled, "I'll take good care of him, don't worry."

As they left, Zane and Rikki stood in the quiet of the house, the silence thick with the emotions that neither of them had quite processed yet. Rikki shifted from one foot to the other, unsure of what to say next.

"Do you want to stay for dinner?" Rikki asked, the words came out more casually than she felt. She had a lot of questions, but something in her gut told her that she wasn't quite ready to dive into all of them.

Zane hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Sure. I'd like that."

The evening stretched on, and as they ate, they talked about everything and nothing. It was easy. Comfortable, almost. Rikki found herself relaxing in Zane's presence, remembering how it had felt before—when things had been simpler, when they had been a team. It was bittersweet, this sense of familiarity mixed with the years that had passed, the things they had missed.

Later, as the conversation quieted and the table was cleared, they moved onto the sofa and Rikki glanced at Zane. "I have something to show you," she said, getting up and walking toward the bookshelf. She returned with a photo album, its pages worn from years of handling.

"I thought you might want to see some pictures of Chris," Rikki said, her voice softer now, like she was offering him a piece of the past that she'd kept tucked away.

Zane took the album from her, his fingers lingering over the cover for a moment before flipping it open. The first photo was of Chris as a toddler, his messy hair sticking up in all directions as he grinned at the camera, his hands covered in what looked like cake frosting.

"His first birthday," Rikki said with a small smile. "He was so excited about the cake, he almost ate it all before we could sing."

Zane chuckled softly. "I can see that."

They spent the next hour going through the photos: Chris as a newborn, Chris with Cleo, Bella and Lewis, pieces of a life he had missed.

Rikki shared stories of Chris's milestones, the little moments that made up his childhood and Zane listened intently, a quiet ache settling in his chest

When the last photo had been flipped, they both sat back, exhausted but content. It had been a long evening of memories, and as the clock ticked past midnight, they both drifted into a quiet slumber on the couch. It was peaceful, the weight of the past and present mixing in the stillness.

The soft sound of Rikki's breathing filled the room as Zane woke up, his body still tangled with the warmth of the blanket they'd both shared. The couch, though comfortable enough, had become a place of quiet intimacy, an unspoken connection hanging in the air between them. He blinked a few times, adjusting his eyes to the dim light of the room. The clock on the wall read 2:15 a.m.

He turned his head slightly, surprised to find Rikki asleep beside him. She was lying on her side, facing him, her breathing steady and peaceful. There was something so vulnerable about the way she looked in that moment—like she had let her guard down for the first time in years. And for the first time in a long while, Zane felt a surge of hope.

His heart tightened with a mix of guilt and desire. He had come back to town thinking he had left the past behind him but somewhere along the way, his feelings for Rikki had resurfaced in ways he hadn't expected. He'd always loved her—he never stopped—but time had passed, and so much had changed. Would she want to go down that path again?

He took a deep breath, his eyes lingering on the way her hair fell gently across her face, the quiet curve of her lips. He knew he had no right to rush things, to think that they could just pick up where they left off. There was too much between them—too much pain, too many years apart. But as he watched her in the soft glow of the moonlight, he couldn't help but feel that maybe, just maybe, there was something still there.

He reached out, his hand trembling slightly, and brushed a strand of hair from her face. His fingers lingered against her skin for a moment longer than necessary, the warmth of her skin igniting something deep within him. He wanted to kiss her—so badly that it hurt—but he knew it wasn't the right time.

Zane leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss on her forehead, his lips lingering there for just a second, hoping that somehow, she could feel the sincerity and the depth of his feelings. When he pulled away, he sat back, silently taking in the moment. It was both painful and beautiful—this ache in his chest, the overwhelming need to be near her again.

But he didn't want to rush her. Not after everything they'd been through. Not after everything he'd done.

"You're the love of my life, Rikki," he whispered quietly, his voice barely audible in the stillness of the room. The words slipped from his lips before he could stop them, a quiet confession that echoed in his chest.

He quietly stood up from the couch, careful not to wake her. The apartment felt so still and calm, the quiet hum of the night surrounding him. He grabbed his jacket, unsure if he was making the right choice, but knowing that he had to leave.

As he reached the door, he hesitated for a moment, his hand resting on the handle. Should he say goodbye? Should he wait for her to wake up and say something—anything? His heart ached with the thought of leaving without saying more, but he knew that forcing it would only push her away.

He opened the door softly, stepping out into the cool night air. The silence of the street was comforting, but the ache in his chest remained. He had said the words he needed to say, and now, all he could do was hope that Rikki might hear them when the time was right.

As she heard the door closing, Rikki opened her eyes.

She sat up slowly, her heart pounding. She had been awake for a moment, and though she'd pretended to be asleep, she had heard every word.

It had been so soft, so sincere. She felt the warmth of his breath on her skin, the tenderness in his gesture, and in that moment, she realized just how much she still cared for him.

Her hand reached up to her forehead, where his lips had just been, her fingers grazing the spot where he had kissed her. The warmth of his touch lingered, and a tear escaped her eye before she could stop it. The emotions were too much—too overwhelming. The love she'd tried so hard to bury, the years of pain, the fear that things would never be the same.

Five years. Five years since they'd parted ways, and yet here she was, still longing for him. Still caring for him.

She wiped away the tears, struggling to make sense of it all. She had spent so many years convincing herself that she was fine without him, that she didn't need him. But now, as the pieces of their past came rushing back, she realized that she had never truly moved on. Not really.

Her heart was still tied to Zane, and no matter how hard she tried to ignore it, that truth was undeniable.

Few months later things were slowly falling into place. The boundaries Rikki and Zane had established with Chris were being respected, but there were still moments that felt like the past was never far behind. One of those moments came at dinner one evening.

Rikki, Zane, and Chris were sitting around the dining table, finishing up a simple meal of pasta. Chris had been chattering non-stop all evening, as usual, asking questions about everything from school to what they were going to do over the weekend. Rikki and Zane had gotten used to the rhythm of family life, with Chris often taking center stage, but tonight, something was different.

Chris, with his little hands folded on the table, paused in between bites and suddenly asked, "Mommy, are you and Zane like Auntie Cleo and Uncle Lewis?"

Rikki, caught off guard by the question, blinked and looked at her son. "What do you mean, sweetie?" she asked, her voice faltering just slightly, already knowing the answer was probably going to be awkward.

"You know," Chris continued innocently, his eyes wide with curiosity, "they kiss and stuff." He made a gesture with his hand, as though illustrating it for her.

Zane nearly choked on his beer, his eyes going wide as he sputtered and coughed. He quickly wiped his mouth with his sleeve, clearly trying to stifle the laugh that was bubbling up. Rikki, on the other hand, turned beet red, her cheeks flaming. She glanced at Zane, then back at Chris, unsure of how to navigate this conversation.

"Well," Zane finally managed, recovering his composure, "your mom and I are just... friends. We've known each other for a long time. But we're not... like Auntie Cleo and Uncle Lewis."

Rikki nodded quickly, hoping to put an end to it before the conversation got any more awkward. "Yeah, buddy. Just friends."

Chris seemed satisfied with that answer, though his eyes were still twinkling with amusement. "Okay, but I like it when it's the three of us together," he added, smiling brightly before shoveling another bite of food into his mouth, clearly moving on from the subject as if nothing unusual had just happened.

Rikki and Zane shared a look, both of them trying not to burst into laughter, though they were both clearly still flustered. The conversation shifted as Chris continued to talk about his latest school project, but the underlying tension between Rikki and Zane lingered, unnoticed by their son.

Later that night, after Chris had gone to bed, Rikki and Zane found themselves on the porch, sitting in the cool night air, each of them nursing a cup of tea.

The silence stretched for a moment before Zane cleared his throat and looked at Rikki, his voice soft but filled with emotion. "You know, I've been thinking a lot about what happened earlier with Chris. And I've been thinking about us."

Rikki met his gaze, her chest tightening a little. "I've been thinking about it too. It's just... it's so complicated, Zane. I mean, it's not that I don't care, but I don't want to rush into anything. We've been through a lot."

Zane nodded, his eyes intense, his voice quieter now. "I get that. I really do. But I've told you this a hundred times, Rikki. I still love you. I still care about you. I'm here, and I want to be with you. If you're willing to give us another chance... I'll do whatever it takes."

Rikki's heart thudded in her chest. She knew he was right. She had never stopped loving him, and maybe she'd just been too afraid to admit it to herself until now. She knew the risks, but sometimes the heart wanted what it wanted.

Without another word, she leaned in, her lips brushing against his in a soft, tentative kiss. It started sweetly, but there was an undeniable spark between them that quickly grew into something deeper. Their lips moved together with a familiarity that made Rikki's heart race, a mix of passion and longing that they had both tried to suppress for so long.

When they pulled away, breathless, they looked at each other, both smiling despite the overwhelming rush of emotions.

"We can try this again," Rikki whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "But we need to be careful. Maybe we don't tell anyone yet... just us."

Zane grinned, his face lighting up with hope. "Just us, huh? I can live with that."

They shared another sweet, lingering kiss before pulling back and settling into a comfortable silence, the world around them feeling like it had just shifted into something new.

As weeks passed, things between Rikki and Zane were more settled. They'd found their rhythm, a slow and steady pace; they shared moments—quiet kisses in the kitchen, long talks on the couch when Chris was with her dad, and the laughter that had always been present between them.

One evening, they were in the kitchen, a familiar moment of quiet intimacy. Rikki was chopping vegetables for dinner while Zane leaned against the counter, watching her with a soft smile on his face. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, and without another thought, their lips met in a kiss, as though they couldn't hold back any longer.

The kiss deepened, the air thick with the unspoken feelings they had been carrying. Neither of them heard the door open, or the soft footsteps behind them.

Until they heard a voice, filled with mischief and amusement. "I knew it."

Both Rikki and Zane jumped apart, their faces flushing as they turned to find Chris standing in the doorway, his hands on his hips and a big grin on his face. His eyes were wide with excitement, clearly pleased with himself for having figured it out.

"I knew you guys were like Auntie Cleo and Uncle Lewis," Chris said, pointing at them with a satisfied grin.

Rikki's heart skipped a beat, and she looked at Zane, who was trying his hardest not to laugh. It was clear from Chris's expression that he wasn't surprised, and somehow, that made Rikki feel a little lighter, a little less worried about hiding what was now so obvious.

Just as she was about to say something, her dad appeared in the doorway, looking between Rikki and Zane with a knowing smile. "I take it the secret's out?" he said with a wink.

Rikki blinked, her cheeks still burning. "Dad, I—"

He held up his hand in mock surrender. "No need for explanations, Rikki. I've seen this coming for a while now. You two have always had something special."

Rikki opened her mouth to protest, but her dad was already turning to leave. "Anyway, I'll leave you to it. Just don't make it too obvious, okay?"

As he walked away, Rikki looked at Zane, both trying to hold back their laughter. It was clear now. The secret was out—well, at least to Chris and her dad.

But maybe that wasn't such a bad thing after all.

The sun was beginning to dip low, casting a warm golden light across the backyard. Rikki, her hands busy tying the final ribbon on the birthday decorations, took a deep breath. It had been a whirlwind of emotions—this whole "co-parenting" thing, Zane back in her life, and now, Chris turning five. It was a lot to take in, but it felt...right. She was starting to realize that maybe they were meant to be here, together, with their little boy.

Inside the house, the sounds of giggles and the clatter of toys echoed through the hallway. Zane was crouched on the floor next to Chris, his hands shaking slightly as he fumbled with the pieces of the massive dinosaur he had bought for him. Chris had picked it out himself, eyes wide with wonder, and Zane couldn't help but smile at how thrilled he was to see his new "dino."

"You sure this goes here, buddy?" Zane asked, holding up the leg of the plastic dinosaur. Chris was perched beside him, eagerly watching, his little fingers pointing, occasionally trying to "help" by handing over the next piece.

Chris grinned up at him, his face lighting up with that innocent, unfiltered joy that Zane had come to adore over the past few months.

"Yeah, right there!" Chris said confidently, his tiny hands still eager to assist.

Before he could fully process the word, the front door creaked open, and the familiar voices of their friends filled the room.

"Looks like we're in time for the big moment!" Bella said cheerfully, followed by Cleo and Lewis.

Chris' face lit up when he saw them.

"Uncle Lewis!" he shouted, running toward them. "Uncle Lewis, come see the dino daddy bought me!"

The room went silent.

Rikki, standing just outside, froze in the doorway. She could hear her son's words, and without even meaning to, she stepped back just a little, as if her heart might overflow in the next second.

Zane's face was a mixture of shock, happiness, and a deep well of emotion that he could barely process. He looked over at Rikki, his gaze meeting hers, and in that single moment, time seemed to stand still.

Rikki's lips trembled, and her eyes filled with tears. The sound of the door closing softly behind their friends faded into the background as she felt her heart swell with something beautiful—something she couldn't quite name, but something that was unmistakably real.

Zane blinked rapidly, fighting back the tears that were threatening to fall. He crouched down beside Chris, still processing the enormity of the moment.

"That's right, buddy. I got you the biggest dinosaur," he said, his voice unsteady.

Chris smiled sitting on Zane's lap and hugging him, proud of his newfound "daddy" as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

Cleo, Bella, and Lewis exchanged glances, sensing the weight of the moment. Cleo stepped forward first, giving Rikki a soft smile.

"You two…you really are a family," Cleo whispered, her voice full of warmth and understanding.

Rikki could no longer hold it in. The tears fell, quiet but full of meaning, as she leaned against the doorframe for support. This was her family now. It wasn't just a dream—it was real, in front of her. Zane, the man she once thought she'd lost forever, had stepped up. And now, here he was, sharing this new life with her and their son, and the little boy was claiming him with all the sweetness and trust only a child could have.

Cleo and Bella held Rikki tight; they'd been there since the beginning and had always been a huge part of her and Chris' life.

Hours later, the garden was alive with laughter, friends milling about, the music soft in the background, and the air filled with the scent of cake and balloons.

Chris had his face painted like a superhero, and everyone had gathered around for cake and presents.

The day was perfect, but as the party went on, Zane found himself stealing glances at Rikki. It was still strange, sometimes, how far they had come, but also how easy it felt to fall back into each other.

As the party started to wind down, and the guests began to say their goodbyes, Chris yawned, rubbing his eyes. Zane, ever the doting parent, bent down to scoop him up.

"You ready for bed, champ?" he asked softly, cradling Chris in his arms.

Chris nodded, his tiny body relaxing in his arms. Zane carried him upstairs to his room, tucking him in with a gentle kiss to his forehead.

Downstairs, Rikki waited by the door, the soft glow of the fading sun casting a peaceful light across the room. Zane joined her, his hand instinctively reaching out for hers. Without a word, they both knew this moment was something special.

They stood there for a moment, just looking at each other. No more words were needed. They were together. As a family.

When Zane pulled her into a gentle kiss, Rikki melted into him, feeling the weight of everything that had happened in their journey together.

"I never imagined this," Rikki whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Us... all of us."

Zane smiled, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. "I couldn't have imagined it either. But I wouldn't change a thing."

As their lips met again, the warmth of the moment settled in. It wasn't just the return of love. It was the quiet understanding between them.

They were a family, and no matter what the future held, that was the only thing that mattered.