I leaned into him, and for a second, it felt like it used to—like the world was small and simple and safe. He wrapped his arms around me, warm and familiar, and I closed my eyes.
“Zeus…” I whispered. “Can you stay with me today?”
If he stayed—if he chose me, just this once—I swore I’d let it all go. I’d forget the texts, the pictures, the lies. I’d bury the betrayal so deep it’d never touch daylight again. I wouldn’t mention Zoraya. Wouldn’t bring up the wrapper, or the desk, or how he left me sick and alone. I’d forgive him. Because I loved him.
But then his phone buzzed in his pocket. He looked at the screen—face blank, unreadable.
Then without a word, he stepped away from me. Just a few paces. But it felt like a chasm opened between us.
He answered. Then I heard her voice, tinny but unmistakable through the receiver.
Zoraya. “I’m vomiting, Zeus,” she said, her voice shaky. “I think I’m pregnant… Can you come with me to the clinic? I’m scared.”