Healing (Zalex)

Chapter 15

Zack woke up to a lovely surprise. Alex had decorated the bedroom, it was stunning, with red and white heart-shaped balloons in the bedroom, scattered across the floor.

Zack crawled out of the bed, careful to avoid the balloons so he didn't pop any. "Lex" Zack called out anxiously. "What's all this?" He asked as he found Alex. 

"morning handsome" Alex said as he wrapped his arm around Zack's neck kissing his lips softly. "How'd you sleep?" Alex questioned.

"please answer my question" Zack whispered, almost begging. 

Alex looked up, a mischievous grin on his face as he revealed the bathroom set up looking romantic candles lining the sides and bubbles,  "Happy Valentine's Day, Zack! I thought we could use a break from all the chaos and stress. Plus, you could use a distraction, right?"

Zack couldn't help but smile at Alex's thoughtful gesture. "You're amazing, Lex. Seriously," he said, genuinely touched by the effort his best friend had put into creating a moment of joy amid the turmoil.

"Just a little something to lift your spirits," Alex replied, setting the tray down. "Now, sit down and enjoy breakfast. We've got heart-shaped pancakes, strawberries, and your favourite coffee."

Zack chuckled, sitting down on the bed. "You went all out, huh?"

Alex teased, joining Zack on the bed. "Today, it's just about enjoying each other's company and forgetting about the craziness for a while."

As they shared a quiet, intimate breakfast, surrounded by heart-shaped balloons and the warmth of their partnership, the outside world seemed to fade away. At that moment, Zack felt a sense of gratitude for having friends like Alex, Jack, and Rian who stood by him through thick and thin. It was a brief respite from the chaos, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there could be moments of light and love.

Zack sighed softly as he closed his eyes, taking in the calm. "Is it safe to assume that I'm now out of the chaos" he asked

Alex held Zack softly "no, never" Alex mumbled "yes they're all arrested now, but... you'll always be on the run, and you'll always be Zack Merrick" Alex said softly.

"what is I want to be Zack Gaskarth?" he asked quietly as he looked at Alex.

"I'm sure that can be arranged at some point" Alex replied reluctantly. His head spiraling with thoughts immediately. He wanted Zack he wanted to be with him forever, but the trauma and the danger that could put his family in, honestly held him back from.

"At some point?" Zack repeated "what do you-" Zack sighed but nodded as he stood up "um I'm going to have a bath" Zack said as he got up.

***

Alex's mind raced with conflicting emotions, torn between the desire to build a future with Zack and the fear of the dangers that lingered. He knew the challenges that came with Zack's lifestyle, the constant threat that shadowed them.

As Zack soaked in the bath, Alex contemplated the complexities of their situation. The arrest of those responsible brought temporary relief, but the underlying issues remained. He couldn't shake the worry for Zack's safety and the potential repercussions on their loved ones.

Deep in thought, Alex decided to join Zack in the bathroom. Leaning against the door frame, he looked at Zack with a mixture of affection and concern. "Zack, I want us to have a future together. But we need to navigate this carefully, considering the risks. I care about you too much to rush into anything that could jeopardize us."

Zack met Alex's gaze, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I get it, Lex. I don't want to put you or anyone in danger. Let's take it step by step."

Alex nodded, relieved to share the same understanding. They both knew that amidst the romantic gestures and stolen moments, the reality of their circumstances demanded caution. As they faced an uncertain future, the bond between them only grew stronger, a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity.