| Taylor Residence |
After reading Kofi's late-night text, Zac quietly stepped out of the room, his mind racing. He dialed Kofi's number, needing to understand what his message meant. As Kofi explained the scene he had walked into, Zac's heart tightened. Anger brewed within him—how could Fatima hide something so serious? The urge to confront her surged, but as he returned to the bedroom, he found her sleeping in a deep, peaceful slumber. Her face looked serene, her breaths soft and steady, a gentle reminder of the toll recent days had taken on her. In that moment, Zac's anger softened. He knew how much she needed this rest, and despite everything, he settled back into the bed and wrapped his arms around her, letting her sleep - vowing to address the situation in the morning.
Early the next morning, Fatima stretched her arms as her eyes fluttered open. A warm smile graced her lips when she saw Zac watching her with a familiar, adoring look.
Fatima: some things never change.
She teased softly, hinting at his long-standing habit of watching her sleep. He chuckled before, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
Zac: I can't help it, you just look so beautiful.
Fatima: (smiles) thank you.
They laid there quietly for a moment, savoring the calm before the day's hustle. The sunlight crept through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over the room, and for a fleeting moment, it felt like they were in their own little world.
Zac: so… how did you sleep?
Fatima: I slept really good, and yourself?
Zac: I did too. It felt good to have you back in my arms, even if it was just for one night (chuckles).
Fatima: I gotta admit, falling asleep in your embrace is one of the most peaceful places on earth.
Zac's eyes softened even more, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He then scooted closer to her, pulling her into his arms as he whispered…
Zac: then stay here a little longer.
He didn't even give her a chance to respond, instead he began trailing soft kisses along her collarbone - his touch gentle and affectionate. The warmth of his lips moved slowly, each kiss igniting a familiar spark. He flipped her so that she was on her back and then he hovered over her, his gaze intense as he leaned in closer, ready to deepen the moment… Until Fatima placed a gentle hand on his chest - stopping him. She looked up at him, her expression tender yet firm.
Fatima: I'm sorry Zac. I'm not ready to let you back in.
Zac paused, searching her face, then he nodded slowly. He gave her a reassuring smile as he returned to his side of the bed.
Zac: it's okay, I understand. I just want you to know that I'm gonna do everything in my power to win you back.
Fatima: I hear you. So what do you have planned for today?
Zac: not much, I just have to swing by the office for an afternoon meeting, but I'm free for the rest of the day. You?
Fatima: I have to run a few errands in preparation for LA.
Zac: (nods) have you decided on a babysitter to watch Ry while we're in LA?
Fatima: (frowns) excuse you? If I'm gonna be in LA, best believe that my baby is gonna be right there with me!
Zac: (chuckles) Ti, we're going there to work! Also, I don't think it's wize to bring him to an award show. It's gonna be too much commotion for his little ears.
Fatima: Zac, I'm not saying that we should bring him to the show. All I'm saying is that whoever we decide is gonna watch him, will do so from a hotel room in LA! I'm sorry, but I'm not gonna travel without my baby! Shit, I'd rather not go.
