The Bank of Second Chances | Zarry

Chapter 32: The GodFATHER

The following day, Zayn and Harry were in a bit of a bind. Gemma and Doniya were both unavailable to help, and Niall was working the night shift at the hospital, leaving them with limited options for assistance. Zayn contemplated calling one of their parents but decided to reach out to Michael, instead.

Michael had been unusually quiet over the last two weeks, and Zayn hadn't pushed him to talk, nor had he had the time to. So he figured now was as good a time as any to reconnect.

"Hey, mate," Zayn said into the phone. "We could use some help tonight. Are you free?"

"For sure when do you need me? Whenever works for you just bring a bag and make sure you get a good nap in before you come, you'll need it."

"I'll be over in a bit. Coffee should be fine," Michael replied with a chuckle, though there was an edge to his voice that Zayn couldn't quite place.

When Michael arrived, he seemed eager, but there was something off about him. Before he could do anything Harry made him wash his hands immediately before touching the baby. Michael then went to retrieve Sunny and held his goddaughter, with so much care and love, yet he wasn't his usual, goofy self. Both Zayn and Harry noticed the difference but chose not to say anything immediately. They wanted to give him space to open up when he was ready.

Dinner that night was a quiet affair, with Michael still acting strange. After dinner, Zayn pulled Harry aside.

"Harry, I'm going to have a chat with Mike," Zayn said softly. "Something's off and I think he needs me."

Harry nodded, understanding. "Go ahead. I'll keep an ear out for Sunny and Arlo." Zayn kissed him and then he was off.

Zayn and Michael retreated to the kitchen for a private chat. Michael propped himself up on the island placing his head in his hands.

"What's going on, Mike?" Zayn asked gently.

Michael took a deep breath, tears welling up in his eyes. "I screwed up, Zayn. I really really fucked up.

I-I...

I was wasted.
I had a one-night stand.
She works with Niall.
She's pregnant.

Zayn took a deep breath because holy shit what a situation.

Before you ask Niall and I aren't official, he doesn't know, and... I don't know what to do."

"I'm not ready to be a dad Zayn... I have no idea what I'm doing."

Zayn listened, his heart going out to his friend. "It's a lot to take in," he acknowledged. "But being a dad, it's the most rewarding thing. It changes you for the better. I was scared too remember? But look at Arlo and Sunny. They're everything to me. I live and breathe for my kids and I would do anything for them. You'll find that kind of love, too. It's hard, but it's worth it."

Michael nodded, wiping his eyes. "I'm fucking scared, Zayn."

"It's okay to be scared," Zayn said, pulling Michael into a tight embrace. "We're here for you. Harry and I, we're not going anywhere."

At that moment, an ear-piercing scream from Sunny interrupted their conversation. They knew it was their cue to rescue Harry.

Michael gave Zayn one last tap on the back, and they headed out to save Harry from the tiny screamer.

"I never tell you this enough, but you know I love you right?" "I love you too Mike, you're going to be okay, I promise you."

—

Harry had already carved out a game plan for the night to ensure everyone got some sleep. He made sure to feed Sunny 30 minutes before putting her down, changed her diaper, dressed her in something comfortable, and gave her a pacifier. With the baby monitor on, they were ready for the night. Michael was sleeping on the couch since they no longer had a spare room.