Those 7 years: Missing One Shot Chapter

28

Taylor's POV

The morning sun filters through the trees as we make our way to the zoo, a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds enveloping us. Leo bounces ahead, practically vibrating with excitement. "Look, Mommy! The animals are waiting for us!" he calls out, his eyes wide with wonder.

Travis walks beside me, his presence comforting yet somehow amplifying the butterflies swirling in my stomach. I want this day to be perfect for Leo, but as we step through the entrance, a familiar wave of anxiety washes over me. It's overwhelming, but I shove it down, forcing a smile as we pass through the gates.

"Are you ready for some animal adventures?" Travis asks, glancing at me with that easy smile that always makes my heart flutter.

"Absolutely!" I lie, hoping my voice doesn't betray my racing heart. I take a deep breath, looking around at the families enjoying their day. I want to feel that carefree joy, but the closer we get to the exhibits, the more anxious I become.

As we walk through the zoo, Leo's laughter fills the air. He points excitedly at the lions and the monkeys, his enthusiasm infectious. I find myself smiling genuinely, momentarily distracted from the knot tightening in my stomach. This is what I want for him—memories that will last a lifetime.

We stop for a moment at the giraffe exhibit, and I watch as Leo stretches his arms wide, pretending to be as tall as the towering animals. Travis joins in, crouching down to Leo's level and mimicking him. The sight of them together warms my heart, but the unease bubbling within me refuses to quiet.

"Can we get food now, Daddy?" Leo asks, pulling on Travis's hand.

"Of course! Let's find some snacks," Travis replies, glancing at me. "What are you in the mood for, Tay?"

"Anything sounds good," I manage to say, though I'm already feeling the pressure of being around so many people. The bustling crowds, the children's laughter, and the excitement all blend into a cacophony that feels almost suffocating.

As we make our way to the food stands, I try to focus on Leo's happiness. I watch as he jumps up and down, practically vibrating with excitement over the prospect of cotton candy and hot dogs. I want to indulge him, to experience the joy of this day, but anxiety claws at me, threatening to pull me under.

Once we get our food, I feel the weight of the crowd pressing in on me. "I'll be right back," I say, my voice shaking slightly. "I just need to go to the bathroom."

"Okay, I'll wait here with Leo," Travis replies, concern flickering in his eyes, but I shake my head.

"I'll be quick," I promise, forcing a smile before slipping away toward the restroom.

Inside, I lock the door behind me and lean against the cool tiles, trying to catch my breath. The moment I see my reflection in the mirror, my heart races. I can feel the familiar churn in my stomach, and before I know it, I'm leaning over the toilet, emptying everything I've just eaten.

My body shakes, each wave of nausea a reminder of the overwhelming anxiety that has taken hold of me. I'm aware of the sound of the bathroom door creaking open, but I'm too lost in my own turmoil to care.

"Hey, are you okay?" a soft voice calls, and I look up to see a woman about my age, concern etched on her features.

"Um, yeah, just... not feeling great," I manage to say, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand.

"You look a little pale," she says gently, stepping closer. "Do you need some water or anything?"

"No, I'll be fine. Thanks," I reply, forcing a smile that feels more like a grimace. "Just a rough day."