Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Bobby unlocked the key to his bookstore, “Nash’s Nook.” The bell rang as he entered and instantly, the familiar scent of old paper and leather bindings filled the air. His shop was located in a quiet corner of LA, a location which he loved the most.

He turned the sign on his door “closed” to “open”. 

He then looked around his shop, wooden floor-to-ceiling shelves lined the walls, each brimming with classic literature, rare finds, and contemporary treasures he collected over the years or bought. Five rows each. The middle row led straight to the cashier desk. In other areas of the store, there would be all kinds of seating. Most of them were recommended by his part-timer because he was teased by her all the time for not keeping up with the trends. Either way, the inviting space had become a second home to many local book lovers over the years.

He walked over to the break room in the back of the bookshop, starting his routine he did every morning. The shop was open from 10am to 9pm on Mondays to Fridays and on Saturdays, ending at 10pm. The reason for that was because he hosted book clubs on that day and many book lovers would fill his shop. 

He started the day by brewing a fresh pot of coffee and settled against the counter with a book. Today, it was Charles Dickens' “Great Expectations” , one of his favorites. His reading was often interrupted by customers asking for recommendations, or getting engaged with discussions about their latest reads but he didn’t mind. These interactions were one of the reasons why he opened a book shop. It was the heart and soul of his past.

Bobby had read every single book in his bookshop. He loved reading, it was his comfort, an escape. Why? Because five years ago his daughter passed, his eight year old. Then right after that, was his divorce. Everything fell and it left a void that could not be filled. 

It left him in a dark place, but he had help. Then, he decided to open a bookshop because of his love for books. He found a way to cope through it, through the community. His bookstore became a place of healing, not just for him but for anyone who needed a quiet escape.

Suddenly, the bell chimed. Bobby looked up from his book and saw a regular, Mrs. Blevins. She was an elderly woman with red hair who loved classics and historical romances.

“Good morning Bobby!” She greeted him with a smile. She was wearing a yellow long-sleeved cardigan with white wide leg jeans. 

“Good morning Sue.” He replied. “Don’t tell me you already finished the book.”

“I finished and don’t blame me, you recommended it to me. You also know how giddy I get over these types of things.”

Bobby chuckled, giving her a soft smile. “I know. I know.” 

Yesterday, Sue had come in after reading a recommendation from her granddaughter, “It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover” and she didn’t like it. She said that the writing style of the present day is not as good as it was back then, so she asked for a recommendation. He told her to read “Persuasion by Jane Austen.”

“What did you think of it?” He asked, pushing his black glasses up from his nose bridge.

“It was amazing. I genuinely love rekindled romances.” 

“Well, I’m glad you liked it. I liked it too. Do you need me to recommend you another one?”

“No, just coming here to hang out with you.” She paused, looking at Bobby up and down, noticing something different. “And where are you going today? You're dressed up. Very handsome.”

Bobby smiled, his cheeks turned a light pink. “I’m not going anywhere.” 

Sue paused, she tilted her head and she looked at his outfit once again. Bobby was wearing a green cardigan with a white t-shirt underneath and blue jeans.

“You better not be lying, Nash. Are you sure it's not a date?” She said with a smirk.

Bobby chuckled and shook her head. “No, no, no. I’m not going on a date anytime soon. You say this everyday Sue and this is what I normally wear.”

“Well I can’t help it. You always look so handsome. I can’t believe that you still haven't found your lady yet.” 

Bobby felt his stomach drop hearing those words. He was afraid to open up again, ever since his divorce. He didn't feel ready, he didn't want to be used again. He gave her a forced smile.

“I’m not really looking for anyone yet.” He said. 

“I could set you up.” She suggested, her eyes brightening up.

“Oh, please don’t.” Bobby quickly said. He then changed the subject. “How is your grandson doing?”

“Josh is doing good! College is suiting him well. He’s majoring in communications.” 

“That's good. Communications is very diverse and he’ll be able to get a lot of jobs.” He said. The day went on, customers came in and chatted with him. He helped them find books and gave them recommendations. He would sit down with them and talk about their lives, catching up with them. It was this comfort that he found in all the interactions, coming together and having interests in the same thing, making new friends and regulars. It made him feel less lonely.

༺༻

“Please welcome, Athena Carter!” 

Athena Carter, the bestselling author in the US. She has won a nobel prize, an international booker prize, two booker prizes, two PEN America Literary awards and a national book award on one of her romance books called “Bound by the Heart.” 

She's been an author for 24 years and has made 23 books. She has a daughter and son and is currently single.

She is currently making the 3rd book in her series, called “Timeless Vows.” It is about  black woman in the 1800’s finding love and making breakthroughs in black history. She's loved because of the way she writes, simple but classical. People from all around the world get drawn in and feel a connection towards it. 

She writes about everything and nothing. Her genre of books focuses on a range of classical, romance, mystery and contemporary. Every once in a while she would publish poetry.

Today, she was speaking about her series and doing a book signing. The crowd roared as she entered the stage. She was dressed in a silk black dress that revealed her shoulders. 

Fans waved signs that said ‘We love you!’ ‘Your writing is amazing!’. They screamed and shouted. 

“Thank you everyone for coming! I appreciate all the love and support you guys have shown me over the years.” Athena said into the microphone she was given, as she sat down on a stool on the stage. “We can start with questions.”

Everyone immediately raised their hands and Athena chuckled. She points to a black female in a sunflower blouse and blue jeans. She looked to be in her early 20’s. The employer gave her a microphone.

“H-Hi.” She stuttered. “My name is Emma and I am a huge fan of yours. I have been reading your books for 6 years and I love the way you write. Especially the way you express your characters emotionally and we can actually feel it. The way you portray your stories so realistically and how you represent the black community.”

“Thank you Emma. I’m grateful for your support and I can’t believe you have been reading my books for the past 6 years. It just seems like yesterday that I published my first book.”

Emma laughs. “Well I have a question for your upcoming book that's a part of “Timeless Vows”. How long until it's going to be published?’

“I’m sorry to say this but it won’t be until next year in the spring.”

Everyone made a couple of ‘awwes’ and some of their faces dropped. Some of them were disappointed when they heard the next publishing date and had hoped it would be soon. 

“But, that is because I am also currently making a contemporary romance right now and it will be published late December.” She said, with a smirk, knowing the reactions she would receive from her fans.

Everyone started cheering again. Their expressions came alive with a smile. They waved their signs and were filled with joy.

A guy yelled. “What's it about?”

A female. “What is it called?” 

Another female. “What are you going to portray in this story?” 

A male. “What are the characters going to be like?”

Athena interrupted the talking with a bump to the mic. “I will not be giving any announcements about the book, whether it's about the plot, the characters, or any background information. You guys will have to wait and see but I know for sure that you guys will love it. It is called “Heartstrings.”

Fans squealed, shooting their hands in their air and started to talk to their friends or other fans about what the story might be, coming up with ideas and plots from the title. It made Athena smile. She loved writing and hearing everyone coming up with something made her think about the early days of being an author. She missed it.

“Alright everyone! Next question.” She said, smiling.

The questions went on for 20 minutes until it was time for book signing. There were over 1000 fans that were there and it went down 4 blocks outside in the city from the library where they were hosting the event.

“Mom?” May called out as she heard the front door open.

Hours had gone by and Athena had just returned home from her book signing. 

“Hey babies!” Athena replied back, entering the door as she just got back from the book signing. She walked into the living room to see her babies watching a movie on the couch.

“How was it mom?” Harry asked as he put a piece of popcorn in his mouth. May paused the movie.

“It was good. Tiring though.” She hung up her coat. “Did you eat dinner?”

“Yeah, we ate all the leftovers but we were still hungry so we called Aunt Hen to pick us up some Thai food.” May explained. “It was super good.” Harry added with a smile.

Athena chuckled. “I’m glad. Well, it's getting late and Harry, you have school tomorrow. So once you finish up the movie, make sure you brush your teeth and head to bed. I’ll be in the office if you guys need me.”

Harry gave her a ‘yes mom’. May resumed the movie. Athena stood there for a second, smiling at her two babies, overfilled with love and joy. She was right where she wanted, grateful that she escaped from him. From her past.

Chapter Text

Athena was working in her office when she heard a knock on her door. She looked over and saw her daughter through the glass door. She smiled softly, motioning for her to come in.

May is 20 years old. She is in college, majoring in film productions. She had about 2 and a half years left before she got her bachelor's degree. Her dream one day was to become a film director and work with actors all over the world. Athena was extremely proud of her for pursuing what she wanted and couldn't wait to see her grow more and more, to see her find her happiest.

“Hey mom.” May greeted her with a smile, opening her door as she stepped into the office. 

The office was modern, a minimalist comforting place for her. The room was large, with high ceilings and tall windows that allowed natural light to flood in. The walls were painted a soothing light blue, creating a backdrop for her work.

Bookshelves lined up all the walls, each one filled with classics, novels, trends, romances, mystery, all you could find and her personal favorites. The shelves were organized in sections and in between some of the books were her awards, her travels over the years such as – small sculptures, framed photographs and other decor.

In the center of the room was her desk. Her desk was made of beautiful dark polished wood that her dad made for her. It was large and smooth, providing a space for her belongings. The surface of the desk had light scratches, and worn edges, each of which told a different story. 

On one side of her desk, her macbook sat open, ready for Athena to pour her story into the digital pages. Beside it, a stack of notes, papers in varying sizes and colors were neatly arranged. Each of the papers filled with scribbled ideas, character sketches, and snippets of dialogue. Other papers were a mix of current drafts, research notes, and letters from fans, all serving as a reminder of the impact of her work.

Athena loved the experience of writing by hand, of planning first before anything else was put on the laptop. She often jotted down thoughts and ideas. 

On the upper left corner of her desk was a classic brass desk lamp provided for focused light for late-night writing. It creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere  when the sun goes down. Next to the lamp, the organizer held a collection of pens, highlighters, and sticky notes, all within easy reach.

Athena’s desk was not just a workspace; it was a reflection of her personality and passions. A framed photograph of her children, May and Harry, sat in the middle of her desk, reminding her of her greatest blessings and inspirations in life. Next to the photo, a small vase held fresh flowers—usually daisies or peonies, her favorites.

A small side table that sat next to her desk, held a stack of her current reads and a steaming cup of coffee.

On the wall behind the desk hung a large cork board, covered with a collage of her passions. There were quotes from famous authors, snippets of poetry, and visual prompts—postcards, magazine cutouts, and sketches—that helped Athena set her mind when writing. Strings of fairy lights were draped around the board, adding a whimsical touch and providing a soft glow.

Across her desk, were two plush armchairs upholstered in a deep, rich fabric. A soft, woven throw blanket was casually draped over the arm of the chair on the right. 

“Hey May.” Athena smiled softly. She had spent the whole morning having meetings with the company about deadlines, events, and the book.

May walked over and sat down on one of the chairs. She looked over her desk to see scattered papers and documents. “Wow Mom, you're really getting into this story.”

Athena sighed, shaking her head. “No, this is just my schedule for the year.”

May’s mouth forms an ‘oh’. 

“That’s quite a lot of events. I take it that you were arguing with the company about vacation times this year?” May said. 

Athena nodded. “Yep and we have time for a 3 week vacation.”

May’s eyes widened with excitement.“High five mom!” May’s expression turned into a huge smile. She put her hand up and Athena laughed. She gave her a high five, clapping her hand.

The Carter family always had one big vacation a year that was supposed to be out of the country. It was a yearly tradition, one that they all loved. 

“Yeah, but it means that I have lots of book signing events, guest talks, you know the deal.” Athena said. “You took Harry to school?”

May nodded. “Yeah, the whole drive he was talking about a new project that his science class was starting. He was super excited. They're starting the volcano reaction project or whatever it is.” 

Athena shook her head, knowing what it would mean for the next week. “That boy better not make a mess in the house.”

May chuckled. “I don’t think that is possible, considering he can’t even clean his room.”

Athena sighed. “You're right about that. I’ll talk to him later today when he gets home.” She then glanced at May’s outfit, and asked “Are you going to work today?” 

May nodded, her eyes lit up. “Yeah, I finished all my classes this morning. I’ll be heading there in a bit.”

Athena noticed how her mood changed when she mentioned heading there soon. “You seem excited.”

“Yeah, I am. I cannot wait to see my boss.”

Athena wanted to know what was so special about him. All she's heard from May is that he was her age, he’s grounding and calm, he's interesting but doesn't talk much about his life, he's passionate about books,  and one thing that is for sure is that he cannot resist May’s puppy dog eyes. 

But before Athena could say anything else her phone suddenly started ringing. She glanced at it and sighed, showing May who it was. 

The name read, ’Manager’.

May chuckled and started to get up. It was her signal that her mom was going to be working all day long. “Have fun, mom.”

Athena rolled her eyes, watching as her daughter left the room. She picked up the phone and got to work, getting ready for the day.

༺༻

“Hey Clark Kent!” A female voice greeted Bobby as she entered his shop, a voice he knew too well, his part-timer.

“Hey May.” He said turning towards her as she walked over to him, where he was behind the cashier desk.

May had been Bobby’s part-timer for over two years and the two of them had developed a tight bond. They had inside jokes, they talked about May being in college and the drama that was going on, all the boys she liked, everything at home and the trends on social media, which of course Bobby didn’t like. They talked about everything and nothing. 

“What did I tell you about calling me Clark Kent?” Bobby asked.

May shrugged. “I don't know what to tell you, but the glasses are really doing it for me, plus you just give it off.”

“Whatever you say.” Bobby rolled his eyes.

May laughed and asked. “Anyways, what are we doing today?”

“Well, we’ve got a new shipment of books that need sorting. And I thought you might like to set up a display for our winter reading recommendations.” He explained. He motioned for her to follow him and he led her to the storage room.

There were two boxes, both reading ‘classics’ and May sighed. “Bobby, why do you keep ordering classics?”

“They're interesting to read.” He simply said.

“Not everyone is old like you, we should be ordering the books that are trending online.” May replied with a small grin, acting like she didn't just call him old.

“May, you do realize this is my bookstore? This isn't your normal bookstore where we keep up with the trends. And, thank you for calling me old fashioned. It seems to suit me well.” Bobby said, returning her grin. Two can play that game.

May smiled, she loved hanging out with Bobby. She put her hands up and said, “Alright, alright.”

Bobby chuckled.“Anyways, start sorting these. I’ll be there to help you after I manage a few book orders.”

May nodded and grabbed the boxes, taking them to a seating area so she could sort them and put them on the shelves. Bobby went over to the cashier desk and got started on their book orders, prepared them, putting them in boxes so they could be sent out.

The morning went by, customers rolled in and talked with Bobby, browsed for books, asked for recommendations, what they would be talking about during book club in a few days. It was calming, and peaceful. 

The music in the background added a comforting backdrop when May and Bobby started working side by side on the winter display. They stacked them neatly on the display table, making it appealing for those who looked at it.

“Bobby, where do you think I put these new young adult novels?” May asked, holding up a couple of brightly covered books. 

“Let’s put them front and center.” Bobby said. “They tend to attract a lot of attention and since winter is here, most people want to stay home and relax.” 

May nodded and started arranging the books. As she worked, she got a message and checked her phone, her expression suddenly dropping. Bobby noticed it immediately. He got to know her over the past two years and he could tell when something was on her mind. He had gotten really close with her and he couldn't help but care.

He watched as she put her phone away in her pocket and kept working. Her face wasn’t as bright anymore. He felt concerned, and for a few moments he decided on asking her.

“Everything okay, May?” Bobby said gently, with a look of worry in his eyes.

May hesitated, Bobby always knew. She sighed, and said.”Yeah, I guess..just thinking about someone.”

Bobby said,”Darius?”

May slightly blushed and nodded. “Yeah.”

“How’s it going with him? You’ve been talking about it for a few days now.” He asked. May had told him about Darius and how they met, she was practically over the moon when she talked about him. “Did he do something?”

“No, he didn't do anything. He's really smart and funny," May said, her eyes lighting up. "As you know, he's in one of my film production classes and we always end up talking about plays and our favorite movies. He even recommended a couple of plays that I really enjoyed and even talked about the parts of film production and what parts we like the best."

“Sounds like he shares your passion for film.” Bobby noted, stacking another pile of books. “That's a good start.”

"Yeah," May agreed, then paused, her expression turning more serious. "But I'm not sure if he likes me the same way I like him. Sometimes I think he does, but other times I'm not so sure."

Bobby leaned against the table, giving her his full attention. "Why do you say that?"

May shrugged, her fingers tracing the edge of a book cover. "I don't know. We have been texting and talking on the phone but he doesn’t seem present but in a way he interacts with me like he likes me. All this back and forth is making me confused. I'm just afraid of getting my hopes up. What if he doesn't feel the same way? What if I just end up embarrassing myself?"

Bobby nodded, understanding her fears. "May, if you do feel confused, maybe you should take the step and talk to him about it, make it clear because I think everyone goes through that. It's normal to feel uncertain and worried about how someone else feels. But sometimes, you have to take a chance, even if it means risking a bit of embarrassment." 

May looked up at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "But what if he rejects me? I don’t- I'm not sure-”

Bobby’s expression softens and puts a hand on her shoulder, to try to ease her anxiousness. “Rejection is never easy, but it's a part of life. It's how we grow and learn about ourselves. And remember, May, if someone doesn't appreciate you for who you are, it's their loss, not yours.”

May smiled, feeling a bit more reassured. "Thanks, Bobby. I guess you're right. It's just hard to put myself out there."

Bobby gently squeezed her shoulder. "It is hard, but you're a wonderful person, May. You're kind, intelligent, and passionate about what you love. Anyone would be grateful to have you in their life."

May's smile widened, a warmth spreading through her chest. "Thanks, Bobby. That means a lot coming from you."

"Anytime, May," Bobby said sincerely. "And remember, no matter what happens, you have people who care about you and believe in you."

May nodded, Bobby was right and she knew she could talk to Darius, no matter what happened. She knows her mom, Bobby, Aunt Hen, and her brother were by her side. 

They continued working on the display in comfortable silence for a few moments, the atmosphere lighter and more relaxed. As they placed the last book on the table, May glanced at Bobby, her expression thoughtful. 

She wanted to know how Bobby knew what to say, but hesitated on asking because it seemed like it was breaching his personal life. Bobby never really went in depth with himself and May thought it was just because he didn’t have any interest in telling her. 

She didn’t know why, maybe it was because it wasn’t interesting or whatever, she never asked but she really liked having Bobby in her life. He was like the father that she never had. Athena had told her he passed away.

She took a deep breath and decided. "Bobby, have you ever been in love?" she asked, her voice soft. 

Bobby's eyes grew distant. He went slightly pale and his stomach dropped. He felt his breath hitch in his throat. He honestly didn't know what to say because he didn't know if he ever was in love, not after what happened with the divorce. He would say he was because he gave it his all, he gave her his heart but she never did. 

May suddenly felt like she said something wrong. “You know- I’m sorry- I didn’t mean to-” She apologized, but felt his hand touch her shoulder.

“Hey it's okay. You did nothing wrong. I just don’t really like to talk about it but yes I have been in love.” Bobby reassured her. He didn't quite look at her in the eyes but he answered.

She paused, she noted that love was a topic Bobby didn't want to talk about. Has he been through something? Was that why he looked like he got punched when she asked that question? Now she was concerned. But she wanted to ask more.

Her eyes were uncertain but she said,”I now know you don’t like to talk about it but can I ask something else, just one more thing?” 

Bobby stared at her for a moment, deciding whether or not to say yes. He thought of the conversation he had with his close friend the other day. 

“Bobby did you not notice?” Chimney said with a smirk, as he leaned against the bookshelf.

“Notice what?” Bobby asked, looking confused. He had just finished helping a customer pay for her books.

“She was flirting with you! She practically looked like she had heart eyes.” Chimney pointed out. He watches as Bobby’s facial expression drops.

“She was not flirting with me.” Bobby said, shaking his head. “She was just being friendly."

Chimney rolled his eyes. "Come on, Bobby. She was definitely interested."

His smile faded as he busied himself with organizing some papers on the counter. "I don’t know, Chim. I think you’re reading too much into it."

Chimney sighed, his expression turning serious. It's been five years and it's going to be six soon. He didn't know whether or not to talk about it but Chimney couldn't keep seeing Bobby hide the pain, or not live through. He’s been closing himself off to the world and he just wants him to live a little, to meet people, or just find people to talk to, to truly let in. Maybe even find love again.

He took a deep breath. "Bobby, I know it's been a while since the divorce and since you lost Brooke. I know it still hurts, hurts like crap, I mean, I don’t know what it's like- “

Bobby’s eyes squeeze shut. “Yeah you don't know what it's like Chim! My heart shattered into pieces when she died! I was supposed to protect her. I was used and my daughter is dead. You can’t stand here and tell me that it hurts because you don’t understand the pain I go through everyday. I see my daughter's smile everytime I sleep, the joy on her face everytime I see her favorite toy at the store or her favorite book. I saw the look on her face that morning when she told me she couldn't wait to see me when I got home. I see it all and it can’t replace anything. She was my baby girl.” Bobby felt tears welling in his eyes as he looked at Chimney. “Look, I appreciate and I’m grateful for  how you’ve helped me rebuild these past years, how you helped me crawl out of my dark place but Chimney this isn’t something that comes easy. Love doesn’t-”

Chimney felt absolutely helpless. He couldn't say anything to comfort him about what happened. “You're right, I can’t do anything about it and I know that the divorce and everything that happened…just, it changed your perspective. But it's been five years and you can’t keep closing yourself off. You deserve to be happy, and I know it will be a long time before you find someone you can trust or truly let into your heart again but all I want is for you to get out there and that's it. To let go and don’t keep that chain in your heart that is dragging you down.”

Bobby’s face tightened. "It’s not that simple, Chim. Losing Brooke... it broke me. And the divorce... put a hole into my heart. I gave her everything, my heart. I still can't believe what she did that day. All I can remember is the moment she told me that… and when collapsed into your arms sobbing. It-” He let out a shuddering breath.

"I know." Chimney said, placing a supportive hand on Bobby’s shoulder. " I’ve seen how much pain you’ve been through. But look at me, Bobby you can’t just hold everything in, it's going to eat you and consume you, then you will be right back into the hole again. I don’t want that, I want you to have fun. You’re an amazing guy, and you have so much love to give. Brooke would want you to find happiness again. She told you that everyday of your life when she was here."

Bobby looked down, his eyes filled with a mix of sadness and contemplation. "I just don’t know if I’m ready."

"Maybe you’re not ready for a full-blown relationship yet, and that’s okay," Chimney said gently. "But you can start by just putting yourself out there a little. Go on a date, have some fun. It doesn’t have to be anything serious. Or better yet, start by finding someone to talk to, make a friend, I mean you can talk to me of course but you know."

Bobby sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don’t even know where to start."

Chimney slightly smiled. "Just be open to the possibilities."

Bobby nodded but he wasn't sure he would. "Alright, Chim. I’ll try. "

"That’s all I’m asking for," Chimney said, patting him on the back. "Just give it a shot."

As they stood there, the bell above the door chimed, signaling the arrival of another customer. Bobby straightened up, ready to assist, while Chimney gave him an encouraging nod before slipping back into the aisles.

The interaction with the next customer went smoothly, but Bobby couldn’t shake Chimney’s words from his mind. As he watched the customer leave, he realized that maybe, just maybe, Chimney was right. Perhaps it was time to start living again, to open his heart to new possibilities and see where life might lead him. To heal from what he lost.

Bobby then gave her a nod, maybe he should talk to someone.

"Was it hard?" May asked, curious.

Bobby ignored the knot in his stomach and nodded slowly. "It was. Love is never easy, but it's always worth it. Even if it doesn't work out the way you hope, it shapes you and teaches you valuable lessons about yourself and life."

May smiled, absorbed his words, feeling a deeper understanding  of love and relationships. "Thanks for talking to me about this, Bobby. It really helps."

"Anytime, May," Bobby replied, giving her a reassuring smile. "And remember, the most important thing is to be true to yourself."

May nodded, she felt a warmth of love in her chest. She was really glad Bobby was in her life, showing her new perspectives. It also really deepened her relationship with Bobby, she started to see him more.

༺༻

Hey, Athena!” A familiar female voice rang through her house. It was a voice she knew all too well—her manager. 

Athena sat in her office, a sigh escaping her lips. “Hey, Hen,” she replied.

Hen had been her manager since Athena has been an author and her friend since highschool. 

Hen walked into the office, casually taking a seat and leaning back, her legs crossed comfortably.

“What brings you by?” Athena asked, her tone tinged with frustration as she continued typing on her MacBook.

Hen raised her hands defensively, sensing the tension. “Wow, what did I do now?”

Athena sighed again, softer this time. “Sorry, Hen. You didn't do anything wrong.”

Hen nodded, not pushing further. “I just wanted to see you. We haven't had time to talk lately. Also, you asked me to pick up Harry today. He's in his room.”

Athena nodded, grateful but weary. “Oh right, thanks for that. I'm sorry. I've been buried in organizing these upcoming events, my schedule for the year, and endless meetings. It's overwhelming.”

“Maybe you should take a break. How about a girls' night? You, Maddie, and I? Get the girls together again,” Hen suggested.

Athena opened her mouth to refuse, but Hen's glare stopped her.

“Look,” Hen said firmly, “as your manager, I help you publish your books and negotiate contracts. But as your friend, I make sure you have a life outside of work. You need to relax.”

Athena sighed deeply, shaking her head. “I just can't right now, Hen. I don't have the time. It's been a rough day.”

Hen's expression softened as she leaned forward. “Want to talk about it?”

Athena hesitated, then closed her laptop and looked at Hen. “I'm experiencing the worst writer's block of my life. I’ve never had it this bad before. It's driving me crazy. I can't get my plot to click. I don't even know who the characters are. It's so frustrating.”

Hen nodded, understanding. Athena was never one to have writer's block, out of all the authors that she has worked with, she was the one that always got to work immediately and effortlessly. She always knew who these characters were, what she was going to portray, and the plot. 

“This is for ‘HeartStrings’ right?” Hen asked.

Athena nodded. 

“How long has it been going on for?” 

“2 weeks.”

Hens eyes widened, Athena has never had writer's block for two weeks, it has always lasted at least a day.

“I know, somethings up.” Athena said.

Hen shook her head, trying to lighten up

“Athena, just take a breath. This is unusual, yes, but you’ll get it back once you have a girls night. I’ll talk to the company about lightening your event load. But right now, all I see is a pile of junk and we need to go out and have some fun. You need to let loose for just one night. If it doesn’t help and you still have writer's block tomorrow, then we’ll figure it out. But let’s focus on the here and now,” Hen encouraged. “You have 9 months before the deadline. Stop worrying.”

Athena managed a small smile, feeling a bit better. “Yeah, okay.” She did have 9 months, so what was she worrying about?

Hen smiled. “7 pm tonight at Serenity’s?”

Athena nodded. 

“Alright, be ready by then. I’ll pick you up.”

Athena smiled and touched her hand, squeezing it. “Thank you, Hen.”

Hen nodded. “Of course.” Suddenly, her phone started ringing. Hen answered it and after a few moments, stood up. “I have to go pick up my son.”

Athena nodded and said goodbye, watching as Hen left the room. She let out a deep breath and closed her MacBook, leaning back into her chair with her eyes closed. Maybe she did need a break. She had been working herself to the bone for the past week. She decided she wouldn’t work for the rest of the day.

Checking her phone, she noticed May hadn't replied to her texts for a few hours. Athena sent a few more messages but received no response, which made her a bit concerned and worried. She got up and decided to check on Harry. Walking down the hall, she knocked on his door. “Harry, can I come in?”

“Yeah, Mom,” Harry’s voice called from inside.

Athena opened the door to find Harry engrossed in a video game. “Hey, just wanted to check on you. Are you okay? How was school?”

Harry paused his game and looked up. “School was good. I need some supplies for a science project,” he said with a mischievous grin.

Athena chuckled. “Okay, well do you want to go to the store now to buy them?” She knew she was going to have a talk with him later tonight.

“Yeah, let’s go!” Harry said excitedly, immediately getting up.

“Have you heard from your sister?” Athena asked. “She hasn’t texted me back. I know she’s probably at work but I’m getting worried.”

“I haven't texted her, but she’s at work. Her shift is gonna end soon,” Harry said.

Thinking about it, Athena realized she had never visited May’s workplace. Since May wasn’t answering her phone, Athena's worry grew.

“Can we see May?” Harry suddenly asked. “I really want to see her boss.”

Athena was confused but curious. The two of them are always talking about wanting to go to the bookstore to see her boss. Whenever she was busy, May would pick up Harry from school and take him to the bookstore where she worked and every time they came home, they would talk and talk. 

They seemed to really like him.

“Sure.” She said.

Harry jumped in excitement, and they got ready to visit May and buy the supplies.

Chapter Text

Athena stood in front of the bookstore next to her son. For some reason, she felt an odd sense of comfort. ‘Nash’s Nook’ had quite a charm to it, an old fashioned charm, one she liked. 

She noticed that this wasn't any normal bookstore where you just go in and go out, but an inviting space. Looking through the windows of the store, she saw the warm atmosphere. Some customers were on their laptops, others were sitting down and talking to their friends. It was a place where you could find time to take a break. 

It seemed like whoever the boss was, came from a place of brokenness. It made her curious. She’s seen it before because she lived through it. She felt it.

“Come on, Mom.” Harry urged, tugging her to go in, interrupting her from her thoughts.

Athena chuckled. “Okay, I’m coming.”

The two of them walked inside. The bell rang above them and immediately, Athena felt a calmness wash over her. The smell of old paper and leather bindings, with a touch of vanilla hit her nose and the interior was unlike any bookstore she had ever seen. The wooden shelves were filled with classic literature, and other collected books. She saw a winter display that didn't particularly have trending books. The soft glow of vintage lamps cast a warm light, and the gentle hum of classical music played in the background.

It was a place like home, the closeness, the tightness of the store made it feel like a home. She really liked it, she could feel herself connecting with it. It was extremely quiet and for the first time in two weeks, she could hear herself think. She could envision her book. It was so clear, so radiant.

“Mom? Harry? What are you doing here?” May asked.

Athena looked over to see her appearing from behind a bookshelf, her daughter’s face lighting up with surprise.

Harry spoke up before Athena could answer. “We were going to get my project supplies but before we did, mom wanted to make sure you were okay because you haven't answered her texts so we decided to visit you.”

May’s face softened.“Sorry, Mom. My phone died and I didn’t have a charger.”

Athena nodded, her concern relieved.”I understand. It happens.”

May smiled and gestured around. “Well this is where I work.”

Athena glanced around again, her likeness of the place deepening. “I like it.”

“And I love it!” Harry added with a grin.

“It’s an awesome place. We have a great selection of everything but most of them are classics, and Mr. Nash—Bobby—creates the collection himself and he has read every single book here. He has a really big passion for books but you know how I keep telling you, he can’t keep up with the trends, so those aren’t the books he reads.” Athena let out a chuckle. “I help manage the cashier desk, organize the shelves, recommend books to customers, and sometimes I even assist with the book club on fridays.” May said.

“Yeah mom! He’s gotten me so many gifts, do you remember the controller I was asking for?” Harry said.

Athena nodded but he had stopped asking for it so she never got it.

“I was telling him what I really wanted for my birthday, which was the normal one, but he surprised me and got me the latest version! He even lets me watch movies on his laptop when the shop gets busy. Plus, he’s really good at science and said he would help me with my science project!” Harry’s excitement was palpable, his eyes sparkling with joy.

Athena felt a warmth spread through her heart, a smile tugging at her lips. She couldn’t believe that the man running this store was doing so much for her kids. Gratitude filled her, mingling with a twinge of guilt for not always being as present as she wanted to be.

Bobby Nash. That was his name. Her curiosity about him grew stronger. He creates the collection himself? It was interesting. She wanted to know more about the man who had not only created this comforting space but also made her children so happy. There was a strange anticipation building within her, wanting to meet the man responsible for this sense of comfort and joy.

“That sounds awesome, Harry,” Athena said, her smile growing as she looked at her son.

Harry turned to look at May and said,”Where’s Bobby?” 

May glanced toward the back of the store. “He’s in the office talking with a customer about their order. He’ll be out shortly…But in the meantime, you can look around.”

Harry nodded and headed, going straight to the couch to wait while May continued to organize the shelves. Athena decided to look around, wanting to see more. Bobby had great taste in books, as she walked down an aisle of books, it was just classics. She knew all of them, she's read all of them. She glanced at them and she widened her eyes, some of these were the first edition. How did he get all of these? It was rare nowadays to find them.

She got to a section on Charles Dickens novels and caught her eye on ‘Great Expectations’ . It was one of her favorite classics. She grabbed it, it was a first edition, and she couldn't believe it was still intact. She looked at it for a moment, feeling it.

 Just then, she put it back and looked up, only to bump into someone. Books fell to the ground.

“Oh—I'm so sorry. I didn’t see you,” said a male voice, charming and gentle.

They both knelt to pick up the books, and their hands brushed against each other bringing a peculiar feeling that you would compare to an electric shock.  

That made them look at each other and for a moment, they paused.

Athena's breath hitched. He was handsome, white, with a kind, strong face. He had this strong jawline with a hint of a stubble that gave him a rugged, yet approachable look. His eyes, a deep shade of brown, held a warmth and kindness that immediately put her at ease. They crinkled slightly at the corners, hinting at a deep story that held him and the glasses on his eyes gave him a more confident look. Literally out of a movie or even a book. It fit his body, well built. His lips curved into a gentle, sincere smile. She felt grounded by it and his hair, a mix of brown and gray strands, neatly trimmed. 

Athena couldn't help but smile back at him. She glanced at his shirt and it read ‘Bobby.’

Wow. Bobby thought. She was absolutely beautiful. She had a striking presence with her rich, dark skin. Her natural hair, voluminous, puffy curls that framed her face perfectly. Her eyes were deep and expressive, showing her strength and resilience. 

Bobby could tell she carried herself with a quiet confidence, her smile bright and genuine, it lit up her whole face. She had an easy grace about her, a blend of warmth and compassion. He felt calm, his thoughts felt easy.

He also felt himself getting flustered by her. He paused. Wait, why was he flustered?

The bell suddenly rang and two of them snapped out of their thoughts, eyes still making contact with each other, and quickly picked up the books.

“You're okay.” Athena replied back, handing it to him as they both stood up.

Bobby grabbed them from her. He was tall, and Athena felt a strange pull looking up at him. 

“I’m B-Bobby, Bobby Nash.” He introduced himself, with a smile.

Gosh. Athena thought that smile was something.

“Athena Carter.” She said, expecting to get a reaction from him since she was a famous author.

But she didn't. Then suddenly,

“Bobby!” Harry called out and ran toward him. Harry hugged Bobby, and he stumbled slightly from the impact, breaking the moment between the two. 

Bobby laughed, his hand tightened to keep hold of the books while the other ruffled Harry's hair. “Hey Harry!”

May appears beside her mom. 

“Careful Harry.” Athena said, her voice firm,  gesturing to the books in Bobby’s hands.

“Sorry Mom.” Harry said, backing away, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Bobby looked at Athena, realization dawning. She was Harry’s mom—and May’s, too. This was the first time Bobby had seen her, and he felt an unexpected feeling, puzzled. Maybe, a mix of curiosity and something deeper he couldn’t quite pin down.

Their eyes locked, and for a moment. The tension between them was palpable.

“Sorry about this, Bobby.” May’s voice broke the moment. “My mom was worried because I wasn’t answering her texts, so she came to check on me.”

“It’s okay. You’re all welcome here,” Bobby said, still holding Athena’s gaze.

“Thank you for helping the two of them for the past years. I’ve heard a lot about you and I wanted to meet the man my kids keep talking about,” Athena’s smile was warm, but there was an intensity in her eyes that matched Bobby’s own.

Bobby chuckled. “Of course, they're a joy. It's nice to finally meet you.”  

“Likewise.” Athena said.

Her voice. Bobby thought it was powerful, and rich. Everytime she talked, Bobby just had to look, he had to. It was so clear and precise. It was… comforting. 

Or maybe it was just everything about her. He wanted to know more.

There was a long, quiet moment between them and Harry and May glanced at each other with a look.

Then, Bobby broke from her gaze and looked at Harry. “Harry, I got you something.” He paused, then added, “May, can you get the books?”

May immediately took the books from his hands. 

“I’ll be right back.” Bobby walked to the back of the bookstore to his office.

Athena and the kids watched as he disappeared behind a door. Moments later, Bobby emerged with a small box in his hands.

“What’s that?” Harry asked, eyes wide with curiosity.

Bobby smiled as he approached them. “It’s a little surprise. I thought you might like it.”

He set the box on an open shelf and opened it, revealing a cutting-edge drone kit, complete with a sleek remote control and a detailed instruction manual.

May and Harry’s eyes widened in surprise. This drone was at least twelve hundred dollars. It's been trending on social media.

“No way…” Harry said in disbelief. “I can’t take this.”

“Yes, you can. I got it as a gift from a customer because I built a bookshelf for them. I didn’t want to take it but they insisted because they thought…” For a second Bobby's eyes flashed with grief, that only Athena noticed. “Well, I don't get excited over these things and I know how you’ve talking about getting this, and well, yeah.”

The attention to detail that Bobby had caught Athena off guard. His kindness and genuine care for her kids left her at a loss for words. She felt a pull towards him, probably because she had never encountered such warmth in a man before. 

And the grief in his eyes was deep, and expressive. Was it loneliness? Loss? What had left such an impact on him? What had hurt him so bad?

She was curious, and a tenderness she couldn't quite explain began to grow within her. Why was she feeling this way?

She wanted to understand. 

Harry looked to his mom, without any words, he asked her if he could with his eyes. Athena nodded.

Harry's lips grew into a huge smile and he hugged Bobby. “Thank you!” 

Bobby smiled warmly. “Of course. You’ve helped me more times than I can count.”

May stepped up and gave Bobby a hug, even though the gift wasn't for her. Bobby always did something special for them, and she couldn't understand why he cared so much.

“Mom can May and I set it up now?!” Harry asked, his face glowing with joy.

Athena chuckled. “Of course, honey. Just be careful.”

May looked over at Bobby. 

“You’re off shift, May. Don’t worry about it,” he said with a reassuring smile.

She smiled back and joined Harry on the couch.

That left Athena and Bobby standing together. Bobby locked eyes with Athena, and her gaze was soft.

They stared at each other for a moment before Athena spoke up. “Thank you for giving that to Harry or.” Athena chuckled. “All the times you have been there for the two of them.”

Bobby shook his head. “It's not a problem.” He paused. “I also want to apologize if I have overstepped the past years. I got them gifts before you could get them and it's-”

“No, don’t apologize. It’s okay. I’ve been busy with work, and I haven’t been there for them as much as I’d like. They don’t have a dad, and it’s a little hard.”

Wait a second. Athena thought. Did she just say the kids don’t have a dad? Why would she say that when they just met? But that wasn’t an issue for her... it was how comfortable she felt talking to Bobby and that made her scared.

“Don’t worry about it. You’re raising amazing kids and they know you’re providing for them. I know for a fact they’re proud of you,” Bobby said softly.

Athena felt a warmth spread through her.”Thank you.” The reassurance was…unusual for her. 

They lingered in the silence that followed, a shared understanding passing between them. 

Then, Athena broke the silence, her eyes scanning the cozy, inviting space around them. “I really like this place,” she said, her voice soft. “It's homey and calming. I can actually think here. It’s clear.”

Bobby’s face lit up with a smile. “I’m glad to hear that. That’s exactly what I was going for. I wanted it to be a place where people could feel comforted, find some quiet... have an escape.”

An escape . Athena felt the weight of those words, wondering what kind of escape Bobby was seeking.

She returned his smile, genuinely curious. “It definitely has that effect. What made you want to run a bookstore?”

Bobby’s breath hitched. Every time someone asked him that, it brought memories of his daughter to the forefront.

“Well, Books have always been a part of my life. My mom and dad were both English majors, so I grew up surrounded by them. They were my escape, my way of finding comfort. Reading let me be in my own world, and that grew on me.” His eyes flickered with grief for a moment before he masked it. “Then... well, I lost someone special. I fell into a dark place. With some help, I needed a new start. This bookstore became my way of creating a safe space, not just for myself, but for others too.”

Athena didn't bother to ask anymore questions about his grief. She could see the depth of pain in his eyes but she admired his strength. He had gone through something devastating and had found a way to keep going.

“That's beautiful Bobby.” She said, her voice soft and sincere.

Bobby smiled.”I hope so. So what do you do for work?”

Before Athena could answer, the bell over the door rang, and a group of people rushed inside, making a beeline for her. Outside the bookstore, a commotion had erupted. A crowd had gathered, waving signs and trying to peer through the windows.

Chapter Text

Athena turned around at the commotion, her breath catching in her throat as the crowd surged toward her. Startled, she instinctively backed up, only to bump into Bobby, his chest pressing against her back.

His hands went to her shoulders, steadying her. Athena sensed his initial panic, but he didn’t falter. He was likely confused, given what May had mentioned and considering his bookstore didn't keep up with trends, he probably didn't realize she was a famous author. Did May never tell him? But that wasn’t the point.

Fans swarmed her, excitement palpable as they clamored for autographs, thrusting books and papers at her, bombarding her with questions about her latest novel, her new book, practically everything. Flashes and clicks were heard. She kept trying to back up but they kept coming closer.

Athena felt the walls closing in, claustrophobia threatening to overwhelm her. She couldn’t speak, and her mind raced—where were her kids?

Then suddenly, Bobby’s hand shifted from her shoulders to guide her more securely behind the cashier desk, placing himself in front of her. He stepped forward, putting his body between her and the crowd, his voice firm and commanding.

“Back up!” Bobby called out. “Give us some space!”

Bobby was bewildered, but despite the confusion, Bobby's instinct to protect was clear. He could feel the panic radiating from Athena when he shielded her, his grip on her shoulders steady but gentle. 

His eyes darted around, trying to understand the situation while doing his best to keep her safe.

Athena took a deep breath, feeling a small sense of relief with Bobby acting as a buffer. She scanned the room quickly, searching for May and Harry, but they were nowhere in sight.

Bobby, still holding his ground, glanced over his shoulder. “Are you okay?” he asked, concern lacing his voice.

Athena nodded, though her eyes betrayed her unease. “I just need to find my kids.”

Bobby looked around with her. There was so much going on, so many people in his store. They were surrounded, fans everywhere he looked. He couldn't ask questions now; the only thing on his mind was keeping Athena and her kids safe.

“Mom! We’re here!” May shouted, pushing through the crowd with Harry holding her hand tightly, clutching the drone box with the other. They were being pushed and shoved.

Bobby felt his stomach drop. “Make some space!” He stepped forward, his hands out, making sure there was room. The crowd pushed back slightly, but it was still chaotic.

The fans had basically made a half dome around them.

Once May and Harry were close enough, Bobby quickly grabbed May’s hand and pulled her close, placing a protective hand behind Harry’s back to ensure they both got behind the cashier desk. He positioned himself like a shield, creating a safe haven for Athena and her kids.

Athena took charge, her kids safely behind the counter. She stepped beside Bobby, her voice firm and authoritative. “I need everyone to take a step back now!” she ordered. “Make some space.”

Bobby couldn't believe it. The moment she stood beside him, her presence commanding, her voice strong,

He felt his heart skip a beat.

Just then, bodyguards entered, efficiently backing everyone out. Some positioned themselves beside Athena and her kids, creating a protective barrier.

They directed the fans to move, to leave the store. The crowd outside Bobby’s bookstore had grown to over 200 people, all trying to catch a glimpse of Athena. 

In the chaos, some of the bodyguards began to push Bobby out, mistaking him for just another person in the way.

Athena then quickly grabbed Bobby’s hand, her grip tight and reassuring, fitting perfectly into his. 

“He’s with us,” she said calmly, her gaze locking with Bobby’s. “He owns the store.”

The bodyguard immediately let go, and the lead bodyguard directed his team. “Alright, stations everyone. Guard the exits. Keep the crowd controlled.” Four of them stayed with Bobby, Athena, and her kids, while the rest spread out around the store, guarding the entrance and exits, some even outside, managing the crowd.

Once every guard got to their positions, the lead bodyguard approached Athena. “What would you like to do?” he asked.

Athena took a deep breath, her mind already spinning with the implications of what had just happened. “I don’t want to make this into an event. Let’s just tell them to go home. I’ll need to talk with my manager about what caused this to occur,” she replied, already anticipating the flood of social media posts and the need for increased security measures in the future.

The lead bodyguard nodded and spoke into his earpiece, relaying orders for the bodyguards at the exits and around the store to go outside and disperse the crowd, instructing everyone to go home.

As the crowd outside slowly began to thin, May broke the tension with a laugh. “Well, that was quite the introduction.”

Athena turned to Bobby, a wry smile tugging at her lips.”I’m a famous author.”

He looked a bit dazed, like he had just been through a tornado. Realizing Athena was an author made him acutely aware of how out of touch he was…with the trends. 

Bobby chuckled, the sound warm and genuine, easing the residual tension. “I can see that now,” he said, his eyes twinkling. 

Harry, who had been quietly clutching his drone box, looked up at his mom with wide eyes. “Is it always like this for you, Mom?” His voice trembled slightly.

Athena knelt down, she didn't realize her hand was still in Bobbys.

She let go of it, still feeling his hand in hers. 

She shook her head and smoothed Harry’s hair affectionately. “Not always, sweetie. But sometimes people get very excited about my books. I’m sorry if it scared you.” She hugged her son, trying to calm him down.

Bobby watched the interaction, a sense of admiration growing within him. Athena was more than just a famous author; she was a dedicated mother, a strong, capable woman who navigated her chaotic world with grace.

And for some reason, he wanted to know more about her.

“It's okay Mom, it didn't scare me. There were just a lot of people.” He said. “I’m very proud of you!”

Athena felt her heart burst. “And I’m very proud of you and May for coming to me. You did a good job baby.”

Harry smiled, and Athena stood up, looking into Bobby's gentle brown eyes, feeling a surge of gratitude. Bobby wasn’t mad.

“U-Um, thank you for guarding my kids and, well, me. This doesn’t usually happen. Someone here probably saw us together, and, well, you know how social media works. I’m sorry if I startled you or made you feel different about us.” Athena stammered nervously.

Bobby shook his head. “If anything, it only made me more curious about you–I mean well, yeah.” He simply said. “And your kids, I would have done anything for them.”

Athena's heart skipped a beat at Bobby's words. His sincerity and the way he looked at her made her feel seen and appreciated in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time.

But in a way, she felt a bit scared, not because of him but because of that feeling. She'd let someone in before, and they only hurt her. Why was she even thinking about letting Bobby in when they had only just met?

May stepped forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “You know, Mom’s books are really good. You should read one.”

Bobby, still in disbelief and trying to catch up on what had just happened, chuckled. “Well, after today, I think I just might.”

May glanced at her mom, then back to Bobby. “Yeah, sorry for not telling you, Bobby. I’m really proud of my mom and who she is, but when your mom is famous, things can get weird. I didn’t want anything to change between us. A lot of people act differently when they find out she’s my mom or just in general. I want to protect her because she's my everything. I never thought you would act differently, especially since you don’t keep up with the trends and from how I’ve gotten to know you, but still, you know.”

Bobby nodded, understanding in his eyes. “I get it, May. Don’t worry about it. I love that you want to protect her because from how you are, how you were raised, she seems amazing.”

Athena felt her cheeks warm as she watched the exchange, her heart swelling with emotion. May never failed to make her feel loved, both May and Harry. She was so grateful to have them in her life.

And Bobby's sincerity was palpable, it touched her deeply. She could see that he was genuine, someone who could be trusted. Still, the fear lingered, a whisper reminding her of past hurts. She pushed it aside, focusing on the present, on the kindness in Bobby’s eyes.

“Thank you, Bobby,” May smiled. “Mom, I’m gonna go help Harry with the drone.”

Just then, the lead bodyguard approached. “Ms. Carter,” he said. “It's clear outside, so you're good to head out when you can. I’m going to assign some guards to you just in case.”

Athena nodded. “I’m going to be heading home later.” She glanced at May and Harry. “Harry needs some supplies from the store, then they are going to go home. I was wondering if you could go with May and Harry.”

The lead bodyguard nodded. “I’ll have Ravi guard them. I’ll stay here with you.”

Athena's gaze softened. She said okay and then turned to her daughter. “May, you are going to help Harry get his supplies at the store. Ravi will be there to guard you guys just in case there are more fans. I have to stay back and talk with Bobby. So I’ll meet you at home.”

Bobby felt his heart flutter. She wants to talk with me?

May nodded, understanding. “Sure, Mom.”

“Bye, Bobby!” Harry and May said together.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Bobby, since May is picking me up,” Harry added, grinning and waving goodbye.

Bobby smiled warmly. “I can’t wait.”

Ravi, one of the bodyguards, arrives to lead the two kids out, leaving Bobby and Athena alone in the now-quiet store. The lead bodyguard stood just outside, giving them privacy.

The two of them locked eyes, tension in the air. Athena then decided to speak.

“Bobby, um, the reason I wanted to talk to you is because, as you know, I have tons of fans, and social media is a huge thing. People are going to come visit your store because I was here, and since we interacted and you, um, protected me, things are going to add up. Rumors are going to fly—rumors like we’re dating or just about anything you can think of. So, over the week, fans are going to come in and question you. I just wanted to let you know before you get confused.”

Bobby nodded, understanding, though he couldn't ignore the flutter in his chest. “Okay, I’ll answer in the most sane way possible, and if anything happens, just know you’ll probably hear it from your kids first.” He said.

Athena let out a laugh, the tension easing slightly. “Glad to hear that,” she said with a smile.

Her laugh was like music to his ears , and Bobby couldn't help but be captivated by it. He smirked. “You know, May mentioned your books are really good. I’d love to read one… maybe test the theory, if they are really good.”

Athena’s eyebrow raised, she took a step closer to him. “They are exceedingly better than good.” She said, her voice soft but authoritative.

Bobby gulped, feeling his stomach jump. She was exceedingly better than beautiful. She was strikingly gorgeous. “Well, in that case, I’m even more intrigued. Maybe you could personally recommend one, and I’ll be sure to give you my honest review.”

Athena’s smile widened, a playful glint in her eyes. “I’d be happy to. And I’ll even throw in a personal signature, just for you. Consider it a thank you for saving me today.”

Bobby’s grin matched hers, the flirtation unmistakable. “A signed copy from the author herself? I feel honored. Maybe I’ll frame it and hang it in the store—‘Saved by the Author’ edition.”

Athena laughed again, the sound even sweeter this time. “You’re hopeless, Bobby. But sure, I’ll make it extra special, so special I’ll drop by tomorrow to give it to you.”

Bobby said. “I can’t wait.” His voice is gentle.

I can't wait? Athena thought. I can't wait to see you again. 

 “When I’m done reading, I’ll be sure to give it back to you with my comments written in it.”

“You wouldn't dare.” She put a hand on her hip.

Bobby’s smile widened, a hint of mischief in his eyes. “Oh, I would.” He took a step closer, just a few inches away from her.

Their gazes held for a moment, the connection between them undeniable. The air seemed to hum with possibility. They didn’t move or speak, they both knew but they didn’t ask.

Just as Athena was about to say something, her phone dinged. She took her phone out, seeing a message, it was Hen.

“Hey, just making sure we’re still on for tonight?”

Athena looked at the time. It was 5:47 pm and she knew she probably needed to head home and get ready.

“Yeah, we are,” she texted back. She then looked back at Bobby. She felt her stomach flutter at the way he was looking at her, like she was the only one he could ever see. She ignored it, she couldn’t feel this way.

“Well, it looks like I have to go now. I’ll see you soon,” she said softly.

Bobby smiled. “Okay. I’ll see you tomorrow. It was nice meeting you.”

“It was nice meeting you too.” Athena smiled back. She felt like she should hug him but resisted the urge.

She started walking over to the door and could feel his gaze watching her. Just then before she opened the door she turned and said. “Bobby, thank you again. For everything.”

Bobby’s eyes softened. “Anytime, Athena. Be safe.”

With a final smile, Athena stepped out of the store, her heart still racing. 

༺༻

Bobby had just gotten home from work. He had decided to close early after Athena left because of what happened today. He needed to prepare himself for whatever the week would bring and reflect on his feelings, on just practically everything

As he sat on his couch, remembering the day's events, there was so much going on, but one thing he couldn't stop thinking about was Athena. He remembered how his hand felt when it brushed against hers, how beautiful she was, and the captivating sound of her voice. It was only now that he fully realized who she was.

And especially he couldn't stop thinking about her against his chest, how she backed into him and how natural it felt to hold her, like a puzzle piece fitting perfectly into place. Her hand grabbing his made his heart feel like it was about to burst, and when she took charge, telling the bodyguards what to do, he found it very attractive. He wanted to know more. He wanted to know her, not just as a famous author but who she truly was.

He felt grounded when he told her about losing someone special. She seemed so genuine and caring. It was the way she carried herself, the way she cared for May and Harry.

Every woman he had met, other than the one that broke him, Athena did something. She did something, and he couldn't pinpoint what it was. He was drawn to her.

Then, when she told him that there were going to be rumors, rumors about the two of them, it was the fact that he didn’t mind. Bobby sighed, feeling things he shouldn't be feeling—it had been a long time since he felt this way about anyone.

Just then, a knock on his door interrupted his thoughts. He got up and went over to it, opening it. 

He sighed when he saw who it was.

“Your best friend is here!” Chimney says, as he walks into his house without even being welcomed in.

Bobby chuckled. “Make yourself at home.”

Chimney grinned. “I already did. Heard what happened today, just wanted to check on you.” He made his way to Bobby’s kitchen

Bobby followed Chimney. “Yeah, it was pretty chaotic but- yeah.” Bobby replied.

Chimney sat down on his high chair and leaned on the counter. “Just chaotic? There was a famous author at your store. Not just any famous author but award-winning, best selling Athena Carter. She's the #1 author in the US but I don't expect you to know that.”

Bobby sighed, settling against the counter across from Chimney. He couldn’t believe it; he was really old-fashioned. “Yeah, she's May and Harry’s mom.”

Chimney widened his eyes. “You were basically attacked by fans, and May didn't tell you after all these years?”

“She just didn't want anything to change, even if I don’t keep up with the trends. I’m guessing she's had bad experiences with telling other people,” he said, frowning slightly, wanting nothing more than for May to have a happy life.

Chimney nodded, understanding. “How was meeting Athena, though?”

Bobby froze. His mind flashed to when their hands brushed, and he saw her for the first time. “She was- she was genuine.”

Chimney raised an eyebrow. “Well, tell me more?”

“She was really good with her kids, and she seemed kind. I told her about how I started a bookstore.”

Chimney widened his eyes. “You told her about Brooke?”

Bobby shook his head. “No, I just told her about how I lost someone and she said that it was beautiful how I rebuilt or found something to help me. She was really understanding, confident and bold.  I don’t know, she's beautiful”

Chimney nodded, noticing as Bobby’s mood seemed to brighten when he talked about her. 

“And she doesn’t like crowds. Although she does have a sense of humor.” Bobby continued. He had basically been rambling. Bobby usually rambles when he finds something he enjoys, like books or movies, or more specifically, someone he likes.

Before Chimney could answer, he got a loud notification on his phone. He looked at it; it was on the top news sources.

“Famous Athena Carter and Her Lover?”

There were multiple pictures of Bobby and Athena at the bookshop. The first photo was the two of them in an aisle of books. Bobby had books in his hands while Athena was looking at him. They were both surprised but smiling in a way that gave off a comfortable vibe, as if they had known each other for a while.

The second photo was of the crowd of fans trying to get Athena’s autograph, pushing papers as close to her as possible. She was pressed against Bobby as he held her from behind, his hands on her shoulders. Bobby was looking at her, and Chimney could see the concern and instinct to protect her in Bobby's eyes.

The third photo showed Bobby guiding Athena behind the counter, trying to keep her safe. Athena looked at him with relief, gratitude, and something Chimney couldn't quite pinpoint—maybe yearning? 

Lastly, the final photo was of Athena grabbing Bobby’s hand. Bobby looked at her with so much tenderness. 

 There were other photos of what happened, capturing every moment from different angles.

Chimney chuckled; it seemed more than just chaotic. He showed Bobby the article.

His eyes widened. It was real, it was truly real. Athena was famous, and she was right about the rumors that were going to start.

“You see, from the way you talked about her and these pictures, I believe that you two could be lovers,” Chimney teased, indicating to Bobby that he might like her.

Bobby shook his head. “Oh boy.” He was going to have one heck of a week. “It happened so fast—you know, and I don’t know what you're talking about.”

Chimney sighed. “Bobby, you ramble when you like something. Remember that movie we saw, Sleepless in Seattle ? You kept going on and on. Or we could talk about your favorite books: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, or better yet, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I’ll even do you one better—your kid, for example. You go on and on about how much you love her, and you start speaking incoherently, jumping from one subject to the next.”

Bobby couldn't speak. Chimney could read his eyes well; he knew him. That was one of the things that came with being childhood best friends—they both could read each other, and he knew Chimney was right.

His friend watched Bobby and couldn't help but notice the fact that Bobby didn't care about the article and what it said but more about his interaction with her. His eyes seemed more lively thinking about her.

Chimney's expression grew serious. “But Bobby, you don’t seem to mind what the article said, and from what I see, the way you look at her in these photos and the way you talk about her tells me something.”

Bobby opened his mouth to protest but he couldn't.

“You like her. I can tell.” Chimney smiled.

“I don’t know. It's just—she…” Bobby couldn't find the words. “We just met, and you know, I would help any woman who was in that position.”

“I know you just met her, and I know that you would help any woman in that position, but come on. You have had encounters with women in these past five years, but never has one made you ramble or, I don't know…” Chimney said. He did know, though; Bobby had a tiny spark in his eyes, and he was right there. “But something I do know is that she likes you too.”

Bobby’s stomach dropped, and he shook his head. “She doesn’t.” He denied it. I can’t.

Chimney could tell that the past still weighed on Bobby, that it’s still in his mind, and he knew that it would never go away, especially the divorce. That day, when she had broken it off with him, he could vividly see the pain in Bobby’s eyes, the brokenness. Chimney wanted nothing more than to take it away from him. Bobby had changed from then on, with the death of his child and the love that was crushed; he had stopped looking. He had developed this mindset of: women will only use you.

“Why can’t you like her?” Chimney simply asked. “You also told me you would try. Bobby, I see the way you look at her.”

“But why?” Bobby asked. “What’s the point? Why do you want me to do this?”

“Because I see something in your eyes that has been missing. That I want back from you, not just for me but for you. Look, I don’t know what Athena did or what Athena said, or whatever, but she did something, and you are affected in a way that I want back.”

Bobby looked in his eyes; he was telling the truth and only the truth. He was just afraid to face it; he didn’t want to get hurt again.

“I just can’t like her, Chim. She's famous, and she is—”

“But she also seems genuine. I know you're afraid, Bobby, but she won't use you. Maybe I don’t know for sure, but not everyone is like her, especially five years ago. It was one woman, and not everyone is out to leave. You deserve to be happy, Bobby. You deserve to not be chained down.”

Bobby looked away, his gaze dropping to the counter..

“Bobby, if it doesn't work out, you will move on. And yes, she is a famous author. Yes, there are many variables to it—social media and all—but if you want to try with her, set boundaries, go slow, and if she doesn't understand, then move on. I’m here with you every step of the way, Bobby. You can even hit me if it just doesn't work out.”

Bobby sighed, the weight of Chimney’s words sinking in. Chimney was right; it was a risk. I mean, everything comes with a price, right? He couldn't deny the fact that Athena did have an effect on him in more ways than he could imagine. It's been a long time since he tried to heal from five years ago.

He also knew if it didn't work out, he had Chimney and more. He would grow, and yeah, it was his first relationship in a while, but maybe he should try. Try getting to know more and see. He knew that Athena also felt the tension, and he also knew, deep down, that this actually might work.

He was about to overthink it but stopped himself. He should go for it, break out of his shell.

“Okay,” Bobby said.

Chim’s smile widened. “Okay.”

Their conversation drifted off to Chim’s love life and activities. They spent the rest of the night talking and watching some movies. As the night came to an end, Chimney left.

Bobby got ready for bed, but just before he did, he couldn't help but get his laptop out and search up: Athena Carter.

༺༻

Athena had gotten home from the bookstore, and she could not stop thinking about Bobby. As she changed and did her makeup, all she could think about was Bobby. She put on a dark red silk dress that hugged her curves, and as she looked in the mirror, she couldn't help but imagine Bobby’s hands wrapped around her waist.

She thought of him holding her shoulders, his chest pressed against her back, and how he had held her earlier. Bobby had shown her the safety and grounding she needed during that moment when she was practically being attacked by fans. The way he led her behind the cashier desk with his hand on her back, looking her in the eyes and making sure she was safe, made her feel secure. He took charge, made sure no one touched her, and kept her away. It was like all that mattered to him at that moment was her.

Then she worried about her kids, Bobby had reassured her, he got them and made sure they were okay and with her. Her kids were her life, and knowing he put them first filled her with relief and gratitude. She yearned for his arms around her.

Athena hated crowds; they were always suffocating for her, which was why she always had bodyguards around. But Bobby made sure that it was different.

She felt flutters and thinking about it made her chuckle because it seemed like something out of a movie, but it was real. The moment he looked at her when the books fell, she felt like she was the only one in the room. She felt seen, his eyes so deep, like he could read her. His voice was deep and gentle, reassuring her. He was just so tender and soft.

It was everything—the tension, the ease with which she could look into his eyes and talk with him, the effortless teasing and laughing. It was just so easy.

She couldn't deny that she liked him. She couldn't deny that fact but it did scare her a bit.

“Athena!” Hen called out to her. Athena jerked slightly, refocusing as Hen’s voice broke through her thoughts. She realized where she was—the club. She was sitting in a private booth on the second floor.

She glanced around, the club was packed, pulsing with energy. Multicolored lights flashed across the room, casting vibrant hues on the dancing crowd. The music was loud, with a deep bass that reverberated through the floor and into Athena's chest. 

The DJ was elevated on a platform, hyping up the crowd with every beat. The dance floor was a sea of moving bodies, everyone lost in the rhythm of the music. The bar was lined with people, chatting and laughing as the bartenders skillfully mixed drinks. The air was thick with the scent of perfume, sweat, and alcohol.

She didn't even remember Hen picking her up or the talk between Maddie and her as they drove to Serenity's. She was thinking about Bobby, and she had to stop.

“Are you okay? I’ve been calling your name for over a minute,” Hen asked.

Athena nodded. “Yeah, I’m okay,” she said.

“Are you sure? You’ve been out of it for a while—during the car ride? All the way here? We haven't even danced or taken a shot yet.”

“I know. I’m sorry.”

“Are you thinking about what happened at the bookstore today?” Hen asked. She had asked earlier in the car, but Athena didn't say anything, just that she was there because she was worried about May.

Athena nodded.

“I’m sorry that happened. I know you hate crowds,” Hen said. “But Athena, I know something happened other than the fan attack. Please tell me. Is it about May?”

“No, no, just don’t worry about it, Hen. I’m okay, I promise.”

Hen looked at her suspiciously. She knew there was more to the story but didn't bother to push. She nodded and then took a sip of her martini.

“Wait, where's Maddie?” Athena asked.

“She went to the bathroom.” Hen looked around. “Speaking of which... it's been a while.”

Athena looked around the club.

“Wait, there she is, she’s talking with that guy over there.” Hen pointed to her in the corner of the dance floor.

Athena nodded and then turned toward Hen. She needed to dance; she came here for a reason, right?

“Let's go dance, Hen,” Athena said with excitement.

Hen broke into a grin and started getting up but then sat back down and took out her phone. “We can't forget the photo first!”

Athena chuckled. They always took a picture before any girls' night. “But Maddie isn't here.”

“Let's take one together. She's all the way down there, and I'm too lazy to get her. When we go down there, we'll take one with her.”

Athena rolled her eyes and scooted closer to Hen. Hen wrapped her arms around Athena's shoulder, the other holding the phone up. But just then, Hen got a notification on her phone.

“Famous Athena Carter and Her Lover?”

Hen and Athena both widened their eyes, reading the notification. Hen immediately clicked on it to see photos of Bobby and Athena, all different angles, all different timestamps at the bookstore. 

Hen realized what Athena had been thinking about earlier, and from the way these two were interacting, it told another story. She pieced the story together from the pictures.

Athena froze. She could not believe this story was out so soon. What was she going to do now? Bobby probably hadn't seen it yet because he had no social media, but he was definitely going to read the newspapers and magazines. Great. Athena thought.

“So, you wanna tell me what this is about? Who is this guy, and why have you been thinking about him all day?” Hen asked, smirking.

Athena rolled her eyes. “It's May’s boss, Bobby Nash.”

Hen paused for a moment, reading Athena's expression.

“You like him,” she said with a huge grin. “There's nothing wrong with that. Just finally!”

“I don’t know, Hen. Yes, I do like him, but...”

Hen caught that look on her face, the fearful look. Her stomach dropped, realizing that Athena had been thinking about that relationship from 26 years ago when they were in high school.

“Athena, I know you worry about him and if he's going to come back, but he isn't. It's in the past, and we dealt with him together. Whoever this Bobby person is, he's not that type of person. He’s not going to hurt you. All I see from him is concern. He has a protective instinct. Yes, I don't know for sure, but just give it a try.”

“I know, I shouldn't be thinking about that, but it's one of the reasons why I stopped dating. But with Bobby, he just really affected me in a way that makes me want to know him more. He's so kind and gentle. His voice is reassuring to me, and Hen, when I tell you, when he had his arms on my shoulder, my heart was practically pounding, and I had flutters, and he just made me feel so safe. I’m actually going crazy over this.” Athena sighed, running a hand through her hair.

Hen smiled, looking into Athena’s eyes. She really liked him. Whoever this Bobby was, she was going to see him herself to make sure he really was a safe person. Hen knew that Athena was going to try and get to know him and see where it took her, so she had to make sure this was going to end well.

“His bookstore is also unlike any other bookstore. It's just so classic,” Athena said.

Hen chuckled. “I can tell.” Hen grabbed Athena’s hand, her expression growing serious. “Look, from the way you look at him and the way you talk about him, I’d say give it a try. And I want you to go slow. Look for the signs. Tell Bobby that you want to take this slow, that you want to make sure this works because you also have kids. Your kids like him, I know that for sure. From all the times I picked up Harry from school or I had to babysit, they kept on talking about some Clark Kent at the bookstore.”

Clark Kent. That's it. Athena laughed. “Well, he does seem like Clark Kent.” She squeezed Hen's hand. “And yeah, it has been a long time since I have been in a relationship, and I do need to be careful.”

Hen nodded. “Just talk to him and get to know him. That's all there is to it. Why don't you see him tomorrow? May has work.”

“Well, I have to see him tomorrow, considering I told him I’d give him one of my books with a personal signature. He suggested that I could even make it the ‘Saved by the Author' edition.”

Hen laughed. “He didn’t!”

“He did.”Athena smiled, her cheeks warming.

Hen playfully bumped her shoulder. “Well, he is one fine man, I’ll tell you that.”

Athena chuckled. “Oh he is.”

The conversation comes to an end. Hen decided that they should go dance now and spend the rest of the girls' night on them. Athena nodded, smiling. Hen stood up first, extending her hand to Athena with a grin. Athena took it, feeling a surge of warmth from the support and friendship they shared.

“Come on, let’s show this club how it’s done,” Hen said with a playful wink.

For the rest of the night, Athena danced it off. The floor vibrated beneath their feet from the heavy bass of the music, each step syncing with the beat. The vibrant hues from the lights danced on their faces, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. 

Athena let the music wash over her, feeling the rhythm pulse through her body. She laughed freely, her worries and thoughts about everything dissolving in the haze of lights and sound. Hen and Maddie danced beside her, their smiles wide and their energy infectious. In that moment, surrounded by her closest friends, Athena felt a profound sense of liberation. She twirled, her dark red silk dress swaying around, and for the first time in a long while, she let herself truly let go. The night was theirs, filled with laughter, music, and an unbreakable bond of friendship that made everything else fade away.

Chapter Text

Athena sat in her last class of the day, staring at the clock as the seconds ticked by. She tapped her pen nervously on the desk, her mind wandering to what awaited her at home. The bell finally rang, snapping her out of her thoughts. She gathered her things quickly, eager to meet Hen in the hallway.

"Hey, Athena!" Hen's voice was always a welcome sound. "Wanna hang out for a while? Maybe grab a milkshake or something?"

Athena's face brightened at the suggestion. "Sure, that sounds great."

They walked to their favorite diner, chatting about their day. Hen was her best friend, she had met her in English Class her freshman year. She did everything with her and she could make Athena forget all her troubles, at least for a little while. They ordered milkshakes and talked about everything—plans for the future, gossip about their classmates, and silly jokes that made them laugh until their sides hurt.

Hours passed like minutes, and soon the sky outside turned from blue to the warm hues of sunset. Athena knew she had to go home, but she dreaded it. The joy she felt with Hen began to fade with each step closer to her apartment.

"See you tomorrow, Hen," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

Hen hugged her tightly. "Take care, Athena. If you need anything, you know I'm here."

Athena nodded and forced a smile before turning to walk the rest of the way home. As she reached her apartment door, her stomach churned with anxiety. She took a deep breath and opened the door, stepping inside.

Her boyfriend was there, his face twisted in anger. He held a broken vase, the flowers strewn across the floor. "Where the heck have you been?" he shouted, his voice echoing through the small apartment.

"I was with Hen," Athena replied softly, her heart pounding in her chest.

"With Hen?" he repeated mockingly. "You're always with her! Can't you do anything right? Look at this mess!"

"It was an accident," she tried to explain, but he was already advancing towards her, his eyes filled with rage.

"An accident?" he sneered. "You're so dang useless, Athena. You can't do anything without screwing it up."

Before she could react, his hand came down hard across her face, the impact knocking her to the ground. Pain exploded through her cheek, and tears filled her eyes.

"You're ugly and useless," he spat, towering over her. "You should be grateful I even put up with you."

She tried to scramble to her feet, but he was quicker. He kicked her in the stomach, and the force sent her sprawling back to the floor. The pain was unbearable, a sharp, burning sensation that made her gasp for breath.

"Please," she begged, her voice barely a whisper. "Please, stop."

He ignored her pleas, his face a mask of fury. Another kick landed on her ribs, and she curled into a ball, trying to protect herself. The room spun around her, her vision blurred by tears.

"You're nothing," he growled. "Nothing but a pathetic, ugly piece of crap."

Athena's sobs grew louder, her body trembling with fear and pain. She felt his foot connect with her side again, the force of the blow making her cry out. She could taste blood in her mouth, the metallic tang mixing with her tears.

"Please," she begged again, her voice hoarse. "I'm sorry. I'll do better. Just please, stop."

He finally stepped back, breathing heavily. "Get up," he ordered. "Clean up this mess and make yourself useful for once."

Athena slowly pushed herself up, every movement sending waves of pain through her body. She wiped the tears from her face, her hands shaking. She could feel the bruises forming, the sharp ache in her ribs making it hard to breathe.

She had to get out to escape.

☁♡☁

“Hey May!” Athena called out from the kitchen as she heard her daughter enter the house.

 It was early morning, and the birds were chirping. Sunlight streamed into the house, lighting up the rooms. It was quiet and peaceful, with only the gentle rustling of leaves outside and the occasional distant hum of a car passing by breaking the silence. The smell of freshly brewed coffee mingled in the air as Athena moved around the kitchen,

Athena had spent the morning getting ready and deciding what book Bobby should read. She had chosen the first book in her series, "Timeless Vows." After carefully putting her personal signature in the book, she couldn't help but add a small note.

“Hey, Mom,” May said as she entered the kitchen with a smile.

“Did you just get home from your classes?” Athena asked, pouring a cup of coffee.

“Yeah, it was tiring. We were practicing how to work a camera, and someone kept messing it up, so we had to redo it over and over again,” May explained as she put her jacket away in the closet.

“I’m sorry, baby,” Athena said sympathetically.

“It’s okay, Mom. At least we got to work on a camera. The teacher has been strict, but other than that, Darius asked me out!” May said with a smile as she sat on the high chair, leaning against the counter and picking up a croissant to eat.

Athena’s eyes widened. “That's great! I thought things weren’t clicking as well with him. You told me he was making you confused,” she said as she leaned against the counter across from May.

“Yeah, I talked with Bobby about it, and he told me to make things straight and clear things up. So I talked with Darius, and it turns out he does like me. He’s just been really nervous because he didn't want to show me too much and make me lose interest or show me too little and make me think he's not interested,” May explained, amused.

Athena chuckled. “Well, I’m glad it worked out. When did you talk to Bobby about it?”

“Yesterday,” May replied, taking another bite of her croissant. “He didn't want to pry, but he knew something was going on, probably because I was on my phone a lot. You know how I get. So I told him, and he actually really helped me.”

Athena smiled, feeling warm. “That’s good.”

May shrugged. “Yeah, but I said something yesterday, and I seemed to have struck a nerve with him. He didn't react in any bad way, but I don’t know. I feel bad, I shouldn't have pushed.”

“What do you mean?” Athena asked, curious.

“I asked him if he was ever in love, and he seemed to panic. He just froze. I have never seen Bobby like that, you know, over the past 2 years that I’ve known him. He's always so calm and grounding. But you know, Bobby and I never really talk about anything super personal, at least not on his side. He never shares much about his past or his personal life. Maybe something happened to him, or maybe he’s just a private person. I don’t know if he has friends or if he’s close to anyone. He just seems so closed off sometimes,” May sighed. “I want to do something, but it’s whatever.”

Athena felt a pang for Bobby. She knew there was something deeper, the grief of losing someone special that Bobby carried with him. She wanted to know who it was, and heard May talk about Bobby and him not wanting to share much about anything, she just wanted to break through and see who he was.

But she also understood the difficulty of opening up about such things. “It sounds like Bobby might have had some tough experiences in his past,” she said gently. “Sometimes, it’s hard for people to talk about their lives, especially if they’ve been through a lot.”

May nodded in understanding. “Yeah, I know. He's helped me so many times. When has there ever been a time where I could help him or comfort him?”

“The time will come, May,” Athena said simply.

May nodded, and took out her phone.

They both fell into silence, the birds chirping again outside. The sun rose higher, filling the house with a warm, golden light.

“What time do you go to work today?” Athena asked, breaking the silence as she glanced at the clock.

“In about an hour and thirty minutes,” May replied.

“Well, Harry has to get to school. I’ll drop you both off today and pick you up later,” Athena said.

May raised an eyebrow in confusion. “Aren’t you busy today?”

“No, not too much. Just writing and a couple of meetings, but that's all later in the evening. Plus, Bobby asked for a personal recommendation on one of my books and I told him I’d give it to him.”

May smiled. “Ooooh, which one did you give him?” She asked. “Whispers of Eternity.”

“Oh! That's a good one, Mom. Bobby loves classics, and he doesn't want to admit it, but he's a big sucker for romances. He's definitely going to be reading the whole series.”

Athena laughed. “Glad to know I picked a good one. Now go wake up Harry; you know that boy sleeps through his alarm.”

May let out a laugh and agreed, walking upstairs to wake Harry. Thirty minutes went by, and Harry was finally ready. He had eaten breakfast, and the Carter family was on their way to drop Harry off at school.

“Harry, I’m going to pick you up today,” Athena said as she drove.

“Awh man. I won’t get to see Bobby, and I told him I would yesterday,” Harry said, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

“I know you did. That’s why I’m picking you up first and then May, so you can see him,” Athena reassured him.

“Thanks, Mom! Also, I finished the drone last night. Can I play with it later when I get home?”

“When you finish your homework.”

Harry grinned and nodded, clearly excited. May let out a chuckle as they pulled into the carpool lane at Harry’s school. When the door opened, Athena smiled warmly.

“Bye, baby, see you later!” Athena said.

“Bye, Mom!” Harry waved as he got out of the car and headed into the school.

Athena watched him go before driving off, heading towards the bookstore. The morning sun was now fully up, casting a golden glow over everything.

“Do you know what you're doing at work today?” Athena asked May as she navigated through the light traffic.

“We're setting up for the book club meeting tomorrow. It starts at 8 p.m. You should come, Mom. We’re going to be talking about Pride and Prejudice.”

Really? Athena thought. It was a popular book, one that she had read, she wondered what Bobby thought about it. 

“Sure.” Athena agreed.

A few minutes later, Athena and May arrived at the bookstore. Athena parked the car, grabbed her book, and the two of them headed inside. The bell above the door chimed, announcing their arrival, and the familiar, welcoming atmosphere of the store enveloped them. The soft strains of classical music floated through the air, and Athena recognized it immediately as Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy. 

May looked straight down the aisle and spotted Bobby at the checkout counter, assisting a customer with her purchase. As soon as the bell rang, Bobby’s eyes met theirs, and his face broke into a warm smile that made Athena’s heart flutter.

She observed his outfit. He was looking fine today and she was not going to deny it. He was wearing a fitted black shirt that accentuated his toned muscles, paired with casual sweatpants. He didn't have glasses today and he looked softer.

“Hey, May,” Bobby greeted as he saw her first. His gaze quickly moved to Athena, and a smile of genuine pleasure crossed his face. Athena looked stunning in her simple white button-down blouse and wide, loose jeans. She held a book in her hand, and Bobby’s anticipation grew as he wondered what she had brought for him.

“Athena,” Bobby said warmly, his eyes lingering on her. He was happy to see her. 

Athena nodded, smiling back at him.

“Hey, Bobby!” May chimed in as she walked over to him, giving Bobby a side hug.

“How were your classes this morning?” Bobby asked as Athena walked over to join them.

“It was tiring, but Darius asked me out! ” May said excitedly.

Bobby’s eyes widened, but before he could say anything else, May cut him off.

“I took your advice and set things straight. He's taking me to dinner on Saturday.”

“I’m glad May. That probably means you are going to ask for the shift off on Saturday right?” Bobby asked.

May instantly got into action and put her puppy dog eyes because she knew Bobby would say no, not because she had a date but because he had a strict policy about not letting employees skip shifts without a good reason. But she knew that he could never resist her, never could and never will.

Athena could not help but shake her head. She was amused. She could not believe her daughter was doing this right now. She knew Bobby was going to give in.

“Yeah, Bobby, I do. If you could do that for me, that would be so wonderful. I promise I’ll cover extra shifts.” She pleaded, her voice tinged with a hint of desperation.

Bobby looked at her, he could not resist them. Her eyes were wide and sparkling, giving off a pleading look. She had a small pout and her cheeks were slightly flushed, giving her an innocent expression that was hard to resist. Bobby wanted to say no, but he said,  “Y-Yeah, of course May.” 

“Thanks, Bobby! I’m gonna go set up for book club and clean some of the books.” May quickly left to start her tasks, leaving Bobby dazed and unfocused. He knew he had just been played.

Athena let out a laugh, finding the whole situation adorable. “Wow, I see you couldn’t resist those puppy dog eyes.”

Bobby looked at Athena, slightly flustered. “What do you mean? I was just, you know, letting her have the shift off.”

Athena put a hand on her hip, amused. “Oh, really?”

Bobby nodded quickly, trying to maintain his composure. “Yes, really,” he insisted, though the slight blush on his cheeks betrayed his true feelings.

Athena smiled, shaking her head slightly. “Well, I'm sure she appreciates it.”

“Yeah, she deserves to have some fun,” Bobby said. “How are you?” His expression got slightly serious, and Athena knew he was referring to yesterday.

“I’m okay, a little tired. I had a girls' night last night to deal with it. You?” Athena replied.

“I’m okay. Did you have fun?”

“Yeah, it was good. I’m having writer's block, so my girl dragged me out. I love dancing and it let me let loose.” Athena said.

Bobby let out a deep chuckle that made Athena's stomach flip. “I’m glad you had a good time. Do you always get writer's block?” Bobby asked, trying not to imagine what Athena looked like when she dances.

“No, it's rare and it never lasts more than a day, but for some reason, it's been two weeks,” Athena said with a tinge of frustration.

“I’m sorry.” Bobby said, sympathetically.

“No, it's okay. I think I might have to change my place of work. Change up the scenery. I’m always in my office,” Athena said.

“Well... you're always welcome to do it here?” Bobby said nervously.

Athena paused. Was he inviting her to stay here and work?

“If you want, I mean, you could try changing it up here? You said you could think clearly here yesterday.” Bobby offered, though he just wanted to see her. 

He was right, she did say that yesterday and, this place could help her think, it was clear, and she really liked it. It would also give her a chance to know Bobby, to see who he is.

“Yeah, okay. But I’m going to need a space of my own because I take lots of notes, and plan quite a lot.” Athena smirked.

“Anything for a famous author like you, just give me a day.” Bobby said. He then glanced at the book in her hands. “Is that my personal recommendation?” His eyebrow raised.

Athena smiled. “As promised, it's the first book in my series called  “Timeless Vows”. I put my signature in there and I also couldn't help but put a personal note for what you did yesterday.” She handed him the book. 

Bobby took it, his fingers brushing against hers, sending a small shiver up her spine

Bobby took a look at it and the cover was absolutely beautiful, unique.

It features a golden-hued landscape of the American South in the 1800s, with sprawling fields and a majestic oak tree draped in Spanish moss. In the foreground stands a beautiful black woman in an elegant dress, with a determined yet gentle gaze. 

The sky transitions from a warm sunset glow to twilight blue with twinkling stars, symbolizing the "eternity" aspect. The title is in elegant, flowing script, with the author's name, Athena Carter, in bold below it, all framed by intricate, vintage-style borders.

His thumb ran across her name. He looked up at her, locking her gaze. “Thank you. I’ll be sure to read it tonight.”

She smiled, feeling a flutter in her chest. “I hope you enjoy it.”

They stared at each other for a moment. Athena then suddenly remembered the article from last night. She might as well tell him. But, what would he say about it? She felt her nerves jump a bit. 

“By the way, Bobby, I wanted to let you know about something,” Athena began.

Bobby looked at her with concern. “What is it?”

“I read an article last night about what happened yesterday,” Athena said. “The rumors.”

Bobby nodded immediately. “Yeah, I saw it.” He rubbed his neck nervously. The tension in the air was thick.

“U-Um, well I don't want you to—” Athena started.

“Don’t worry about it. We don't have to do anything, right?” Bobby said, cutting her off. It wasn’t that Bobby didn’t want to talk about it; it was that his feelings for her were so strong, he wouldn't be able to say anything if she asked anything about it. He would be frozen, wondering what she might want. He just wanted to live in the present and see her as much as he could.

Athena nodded. “Yeah, we don’t have to say anything. I just wanted to let you know about it.”

Bobby nodded, glancing towards May as he heard chairs move. He broke the tension. “Oh right, we have a book club tomorrow. We’re talking about 'Pride and Prejudice.' Would you want to come?”

Athena nodded. “Yeah, of course. May already invited me, and I thought it would be interesting to hear what everyone has to say about it.”

“Well, I would love to hear your thoughts,” Bobby said.

“And I would like to hear yours,” Athena replied, leaning closer.

Bobby’s heart was beating fast. They stared at each other for a moment before Athena got a message. It was from the company.

She then glanced at the time, and realized she had to go. “Well, I’m gonna go home so I can start my writing, plus I have a couple of meetings. If the writer's block isn't unblocking, I’ll come back.” Athena said, walking towards the door.

“Okay, I’ll see you then,” Bobby said, hoping that she would be able to come.

Athena nodded and said goodbye, feeling a mix of anticipation and excitement.

Bobby watched her go, smiling softly, his thoughts lingering on their conversation. Shaking off the distraction, the bookstore felt a little quieter. 

He went over to help May set up for the book club, even though it was tomorrow. He loved preparing early because, a day before the book club, a group of friends always came in to relax. He enjoyed doing the little things and seeing the joy on everyone's faces.

May was already busy arranging chairs in a circle when Bobby walked over to help. The soft strains of classical music provided a gentle backdrop as they worked, the familiar notes of Clair de Lune soothing the atmosphere.

“Do you think we have enough chairs?” May asked, stepping back to survey the setup.

Bobby counted quickly. “Should be enough. We can always add more if we need to.”

May nodded and started placing copies of "Pride and Prejudice" on each seat, along with some discussion questions. “I’m really excited for this one. Jane Austen always brings out interesting opinions.”

Bobby smiled, helping her arrange the books. “Yeah, it’s an interesting and popular book with lots of background details. The discussion will be absorbing.”

May looked towards Bobby, her eyebrow raising. “Absorbing? Who says absorbing?”

Bobby chuckled. “I guess I do. Why can’t I say it? What would you say instead?”

“Engaging, maybe? Absorbing just sounds so... formal,” May said, grinning. “It's a more trending term, or well it's more young.”

“Okay, engaging it is,” Bobby agreed, laughing.

They worked in comfortable silence for a few moments before Bobby spoke up again. “So, where is Darius taking you?”

“We’re going to that new Italian restaurant downtown,” May replied, her excitement evident. “I've heard they have amazing pasta.”

Bobby chuckled. “That’s a nice spot. I’ve heard good things about that place. Sounds like a perfect date.”

“Yeah, I’m really looking forward to it,” May said, her eyes shining. “After dinner, we’re planning to take a walk by the river. I’ve heard it’s really pretty at night with all the lights. After that, we might get some dessert at that little café across this bookstore.”

“That sounds wonderful,” Bobby said, genuinely pleased. “You deserve to have a great time. Darius seems like a good guy.”

“He is,” May agreed, placing the last book down. “We really talked and cleared things up for good. He’s showing a lot more interest now.”

Bobby felt a swell of pride. “I’m glad to hear that. Just be yourself and have fun. I’m sure it’ll be a great date.”

“Thanks, Bobby,” May said, giving him a quick hug. 

“Of course,” Bobby said, smiling. “You’ll have a fantastic time. And remember, if you need anything, I’m here.”

“Thanks, Bobby,” May said, her smile widening. “I really appreciate it.”

Bobby nodded, and the two of them continued working,  making sure everything was perfect for the book club tomorrow.

༺༻

A few hours had gone by, and Athena had come home and gone straight to her office. She had four meetings to get through—long meetings with her manager and the company about the contracts on her books, the sighting with Bobby, and how to prevent them from happening again.

Athena felt like she might as well be a self-published author at this point. The company had been negotiating with her, trying to ensure she stayed, but she didn't want to be controlled by what she could and couldn't do. She'd been through it before and refused to be controlled again. She knew her worth and what she deserved.

After finally settling everything, she prepared to write her book. She had everything laid out, ready to roll. But nothing came. She sat there, staring at the screen, looking around the room. 

She felt like she couldn't breathe. Maybe it was because she'd been working here for so long that it had just faded. She couldn't understand why she couldn't imagine or get the inspiration she needed.

Athena grew frustrated. Why isn't this working? She got up and took her things, resettling outside on the patio. She put her things down on the glass table and took a deep breath, letting herself feel the air. 

She put her hands on her keyboard, ready to type. But nothing came—no thoughts, no imagination. Her plot and her characters were just there, but she couldn't see them, visualize them, or write. There was absolutely nothing.

She moved around the house, trying to get her touch back. She went into her bedroom, her living room, her kitchen. Everywhere she tried, even putting on some music, but it didn't work. Writing has always been so easy for her. Maybe it was time to go to Bobby’s store. 

Yesterday, she could imagine her characters, she could see the plot. There was something about his store that helped her breathe and feel. She had been resisting because she felt so many feelings around him.

Athena sighed, packed up her things, and headed to Bobby’s store.

She arrived, and the bell rang above her. Athena carried her tote bag from Paris last year, a keepsake from her annual trip with her kids. It was filled with everything she needed. The store was quiet, calming, as usual. The song playing was different this time, "Gymnopédie No. 1" by Erik Satie. The familiar atmosphere washed over her, and everything shifted. Her head felt light, no longer suffocating.

She noticed that on her right, some of the bookshelves were pushed back, creating a big space for the book club. Chairs were arranged in a circle, each with a copy of "Pride and Prejudice" on them. It was a cute setup.

The store was empty of customers, but she could hear her daughter's voice and Bobby’s voice. A head popped out from behind a bookshelf; it was Bobby. He smiled immediately as soon as he saw her.

“Didn’t work out?” He said, greeting her, as he walked over.

Athena shook her head. “No.”

“Well, I’m glad.” Bobby said.

He did not just say that. Athena was about to raise her eyebrow when he continued

“Because, I got something set up for you.” He said as he motioned for her to follow him. He led her to the back of one of the aisles near his office, revealing a little space set up just for her. There was a desk with a comfy chair, a small bulletin board with fairy lights, and a large whiteboard on wheels.

“It’s not much.” Bobby said, nervously rubbing his neck. “But I wanted to make sure you had a space where you could work and where you got some privacy, hence the white board so fans don’t see you and–well have an event like yesterday, or whenever or whatever you want, you can move the whiteboard, and you can get a view of the store, to just watch and take a break every once and awhile.  You can even see everything and be reassured that nothing is happening or there's nothing alarming. You said that you also like to plan and have notes, so- the bulletin board.”

Athena could not believe that Bobby did this, she had never seen someone do this for her, going an extra mile. She couldn't help but think Is he trying to mess with me? A warmth rushed through her and her stomach fluttered. She was at a loss for words.

Bobby took her silence as something he did wrong. His expression grew worried, and he frowned. “I—I’m sorry if I went too far. You don’t—”

Athena took his hand, gently squeezing it. He was genuine. “It’s okay, Bobby. I love it. Thank you.”

Bobby’s mouth turned into a huge grin. Athena was overwhelmed by him. She was really starting to like him, which was good in a way, but also bad.

“I’m glad.” He said, his eyes bright with relief and happiness. “I’ll let you get to it and if you need anything else, let me know.” 

His hand let go of hers and he let her have her space. 

Athena smiled, her heart beating, she was really giddy and she had to tell Hen soon. She looked over it for a second, wondering how she could repay Bobby.

You don't have to repay him. Her mind said. He wants to do this for you without anything in return.

She took a breath, nodding and got to work,  setting up her space. She placed her tote bag on the desk and began to set up her things. She laid out her notebooks, laptop, and pens, organizing everything just the way she liked it.

She pinned some notes and inspiration pictures to the bulletin board, feeling the creativeness start to flow.

She opened her laptop, the familiar hum of the machine a comforting sound. The words began to come to her, ideas forming and characters taking shape. She started typing, the clacking of the keyboard blending with the gentle strains of "Gymnopédie No. 1.”

It was clear, she could see her story, her plot. She started typing and she couldn't stop. She would write notes down, scribble inspiration, and take out her papers to sketch. She was in the zone. 

She felt the words flowing effortlessly, the story unfolding before her eyes. The characters came to life, their voices clear and distinct, and everything around her faded.

Bobby watched her from a distance, smiling. She looked absolutely beautiful, the way she was so dedicated and passionate about her work. She did it so easily. He couldn't help but feel excited to read her book.

Hours flew by as customers came in, purchasing books, asking for recommendations, and chatting with Bobby and May. The music shifted to different songs, and books were organized and restocked. A group of teens came in, discussing upcoming books and hanging out in the book club area.

Nobody saw Athena; she was still busy typing, focused entirely on her work. The whiteboard covered her perfectly.

It came time to pick up Harry. May walked over to her mom, noticing how deeply focused she was. She softly knocked on the whiteboard. 

“Mom?” May said gently, trying not to disturb her too much. “Can I have your keys so I can pick up Harry from school?”

“In my purse, baby,” Athena said, unfazed, continuing to type.

May nodded, took her mom’s purse from beside her, and looked for the keys. Once she got them, she placed the purse back down in the same spot. May knew her mom was in the zone, and she had learned not to bother her when she was like this. It was where all of Athena's best ideas appeared, and she needed to stay undisturbed, to know she was unavailable unless something urgent happened.

May walked over to Bobby. “Hey Bobby, I have to go pick up Harry. My mom is a bit occupied.”

Bobby nodded, then May touched his arm, glancing over at her mom before turning her gaze on him.

“Also, if you could my mom...get her something to eat? Or try to make her eat. It’s just that it's noon, and I know she hasn't eaten. I'll pay you back. It's just my mom doesn’t really eat when she works, and she's had times where she's fainted and doesn't sleep either.” May's concern was evident. “Whatever you buy for her to eat, just put it on the desk. She's on autopilot, so she will see it and know it's there, you know. Don’t force her, just go with the flow.”

Bobby nodded, and he couldn't help but feel a mix of worry and irritation grow in him. Athena didn't take care of herself, and he didn't like that for some reason. She's fainted before and it’s serious. Why doesn't she pace herself? “You don’t have to pay me back, I got it.” Bobby said, reassuring May. 

May smiled. “Thanks Bobby.” Then she left.

Bobby glanced over at Athena, her fingers still flying over the keyboard. He decided to step out for a moment and grab some food for her from the nearby café. He returned with a sandwich and a smoothie, hoping she’d at least take a few bites.

He quietly walked over to her desk and placed the food down, making sure not to disturb her. Athena glanced up momentarily, acknowledging the food with a slight nod before returning to her work.

Satisfied that she had noticed, Bobby stepped back, giving her space while keeping an eye on her from a distance. He was determined to make sure she took better care of herself.

༺༻

Hours had gone by, and it was late—8 PM. Bobby and May were getting ready to close, cleaning up the drinks everyone left, and preparing the last few things for the book club tomorrow. Harry was sitting in Bobby’s office, waiting to leave, while Athena was still immersed in her work.

Bobby had given dinner to Athena an hour ago, but he hadn't been able to check on her since because the store had gotten busy and he was helping Harry with his science project. May had been checking on her too. Just as Bobby put a book back on the shelf, May came out from one of the aisles where Athena was, carrying an empty dinner plate.

He smiled bashfully; she ate.  

Bobby watched as May threw the plate away and went back to the office, probably to talk to Harry. He looked around his bookstore—it was clean. He went over to the entrance door and flipped the sign to "closed."

May and Harry came out from the office and walked over to Bobby.

“We are going home now Bobby. My mom is staying because well– she’s occupied as you see and when she is in the zone and writing, she doesn't leave. She doesnt pay attention, she's just off guard. Don’t worry too much, she's going to be done soon, from the way she's typing so it's not going to be a long wait. She told us to go home first and that she will get a bodyguard to pick her up.” May explained to him. May knew Bobby stayed late on Fridays to organize the book club area the way he liked, and decorate it.

Bobby nodded.”Okay, thank you for working today. Have a safe trip home.” 

May nodded, heading towards the door. “Bye! I’ll see you on Monday.”

Harry gives him a hug. “Thanks for helping me with my science project.”

Bobby hugs him back. “Of course kid. I’ll see you.”

Harry waves goodbye, following after May and they leave the store.

The bookstore was silent now, just the soft music playing. Bobby glanced over to Athena’s spot. He was irritated at the fact she didn't take care of herself. Why was he so irritated? She wasn’t his girlfriend. He ran a hand through his hair and sighed. His feelings for her were strong, and it was getting impossible to resist her.

He went over to his office and got the decorations he needed to make the book club area look nicer. He loved doing this; he liked the detail that was added and the way people commented on it. He also got a basket full of candy to put in the center of the area so people could snack on it.

It took him 30 minutes to perfect it. When he was done, he took a step back and absorbed the scenery. 

The area was adorned with soft, warm lights, peonies, and daisies placed in small vases around the chairs, which were arranged in a welcoming circle. A large, cozy rug was spread out in the middle, and the basket of candy sat invitingly at the center on the table with clipboards, paper and a pencil cup.

Satisfied, he then went to check on Athena and saw that she was standing up, putting away her things back into her tote bag. She was finished with her work and part of him ached about the fact she had to leave. He enjoyed taking care of her for the day. He walked over to her, and Athena smiled when she heard him coming.

“Finished?” he asked, with a smile.

Athena nodded. “Yeah, thank you for this. I haven't written like that in a while. I’m sorry for staying so late.”

Bobby shook his head. “You're okay, don’t worry about it. I’m glad you got the writing you need and you can do it for as long as you like,” he said. “How far did you get?”

“Well, I’m writing my rough draft as of now before the big stuff. I got three, almost four chapters done. It's supposed to have thirty chapters.”

Bobby was just shook by her once again. Three chapters in a day?

“That's good,” he said.

Athena smiled. “Did I keep you waiting long?”

“No, I stay late on Fridays because I decorate the book club space for tomorrow.”

“Could I see?” Athena asked, amused that he liked to decorate. She found it cute.

Bobby nodded and motioned her to follow him. They walked to the book club area, and Athena’s eyes widened in appreciation at the sight.

“This is beautiful, Bobby,” she said, taking in the warm lights, and the cozy setup.

“Thanks,” he replied, a bit bashfully. “I like making it special for everyone.”

Athena walked closer to get a better view and saw the peonies and daisies arranged around the book club area. Bobby watched as her eyes lit up upon seeing them.

She likes them. Bobby noted. 

Instinctively she reaches out to touch them. These flowers had always been her favorite, her grandma loved them and had talked about the beauty of them. Athena could remember her planting them in her garden and hearing her say they were the most beautiful flowers, full of life and color.  She brushed her fingers on the petals.

Bobby gazed at her, watching the happiness on her face. He knew that these flowers had a personal significance to her because of her expression. It was deep and he liked it, liked learning about her.

They stood there for a moment and suddenly, the soft strains of "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers filled the air. 

Athena perked up at the song. “Oh I love this song.” She murmured. 

Without a thought and before Bobby knew it, his mouth just spoke.“Would you like to dance with me?”

Her head jerked to him so fast, her eyes wide filled with surprise. Her heart was racing, did he just ask that? He wants to dance with me? She was filled with a mix of emotions. She couldn't help but want to. “Y-Yes. I’d love to.”

Bobby gently held out his hand and Athena took it. He led her to an open area in the bookstore. The blinds on the windows were closed, so no one could see anything.

As they settled, Bobby placed his hand on her waist, and Athena rested her hand on his shoulder. The closeness sent a shiver down Athena’s spine, her heart beating a little faster. She could feel the warmth of his hand through the fabric of her blouse, and the gentle pressure was both reassuring and exciting. She felt so cherished today. 

Bobby felt a flutter in his chest as he guided her into the dance. He could not believe he asked that but was glad she didn't say no. He couldn't help but notice how perfectly her hand fit into his. There was a connection between them, something he had never felt before and he wanted to show her so much more.

They began to sway to the soft rhythm of The Righteous Brothers. As they moved together, Bobby's other hand found Athena's, and they held each other in a comfortable yet intimate embrace. Athena's head was close to Bobby's, and she could feel the steady rise and fall of his breathing.

Bobby’s gaze shifted down to her eyes. 

They started talking, getting to know each other. “So, what inspired you to become a writer?” Bobby asked, his voice soft as they moved together.

Athena froze for a moment, her eyes briefly revealing a terrible memory before she masked it with a smile. She continued, “I’ve always loved writing—the escape it offers, the way it allows you to explore new worlds and understand different perspectives. I wanted to create that for others, to be in my own world and create the perfect one. But it wasn't until after high school that I started because my parents weren't supportive. They wanted me to become a lawyer.”

She paused, her smile becoming bittersweet. “My grandma, though, right before she died, she pushed me to follow what I wanted to do, to live the life I wanted and to be my happiest. So I did. But before I could, I went through a lot of hurt and changes. It was a tough time, but I pushed through with the help of one of my friends, who is now my manager. And here I am now, I guess.”

Bobby listened intently, his heart aching for her struggles but also admiring her resilience. “Your grandma sounds like an incredible woman,” he said softly. “It takes a lot of courage to follow your dreams, especially when the people closest to you don’t support them.”

Athena nodded. “She was amazing. I owe a lot to her. And to my friend. Without them, I don’t know where I’d be.”

“I’m glad you had them,” Bobby said. “And I’m glad you’re here now, sharing your talent with the world. You’ve created something truly special.”

Athena smiled, her heart warming at his words. “Thank you, Bobby. That means a lot.”

Bobby squeezed her hand in reassurance, and they continued swaying. 

Then suddenly, Athena looked at him with a curious smile. “What’s your favorite food?”

He chuckled. “That’s a tough one. I’d have to say pasta. There’s something comforting about a good bowl of pasta, especially with a rich, creamy sauce. What about you?”

“Waffles,” Athena said with a grin. “It's a comfort food, and you can add so many toppings and make it in so many different ways. There's so much flavor and it's a bonus when my kids also make them for me when they get in trouble and I’m gonna find out about it.”

Bobby laughed. “That's very interesting. I can see why and what I do know is that I will be able to make you the very best waffles you have ever tested.”

Athena's eyes widened. “You cook?”

“Oh I cook very well.” He said proudly.

“We’ll have to see about that.” She said.

“You don't believe me?”

Athena shrugged her shoulders, playfully and Bobby chuckled. “Okay, okay. What do you like to do for fun?”

Athena thought for a moment, her eyes sparkling. “I love reading, obviously. But I also enjoy traveling, going around the world and seeing the sights. Every now and then I also love to take a walk, maybe a jog, when I’m free. I love nature, it can be breather sometimes. What about you?”

“Like I said, I cook and I’m a big fan of cooking,” Bobby admitted. “I find it relaxing. I love reading, and especially gardening. It's peaceful to be out and see the progress of different plants, vegetables and fruits.”

Athena smiled up at him. “A man who can cook, garden and loves books. You’re quite the catch, Bobby.”

He blushed a little, his grip on her waist tightening slightly. “You’re pretty amazing yourself, Athena. Famous Author, loves nature, and has great taste in food.”

Athena rolled her eyes, smiling bashfully, her stomach in flutters. “Whatever you say, Nash.” 

He smiled, then asked, “What’s your favorite book?”

“That’s like asking a mother to pick her favorite child,” Athena laughed. “But if I had to choose, I’d say ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’ It’s such a powerful story. What about you?”

“‘The Great Gatsby,’” Bobby said. “There’s something so captivating about the Jazz Age and the complexities of the characters.”

Athena nodded. “Great choice. Do you have any hidden talents?”

Bobby chuckled. “I can juggle. Not very useful, but it’s a fun party trick. How about you?”

“I’m pretty good at playing the piano,” Athena admitted. “My grandmother taught me when I was young. It’s a great way to relax.”

“You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you?” Bobby teased, his eyes twinkling.

Athena grinned. “I try to be.”

They continue dancing, and the music starts to pick up.

Suddenly, Bobby twirled Athena out then pulled her back into his chest. She let out a laugh, a light, joyful sound that made his heart soar, like music to his ears. Her hand landed on his chest, she playfully hit him for not warning her and Bobby teasingly apologized.

Athena smiled, she had never met anyone like Bobby, and she wanted him.

When the music slowed again, they returned to their original position, swaying gently. Athena felt an overwhelming sense of comfort and safety in Bobby's arms, while Bobby was struck by how right it felt to have her close.

They danced in comfortable silence for a few moments. The connection between them grew stronger with every step, every glance.

“So, do you always dance with your customers after hours?” Athena teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Bobby laughed. “Only the special ones and you're not a customer, considering you haven't bought anything yet.”

“Oh, so I’m special?” she asked, raising an eyebrow playfully.

“Very special,” he replied, his voice soft and sincere. She has no idea how special she is.

Athena’s heart fluttered at his words. “Well, I have to say, this is the best after-hours activity I’ve had in a long time.”

Bobby leaned in a little closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. “I’m glad you think so. I’ve been looking for an excuse to spend more time with you.”

Athena’s cheeks warmed, a warm smile spreading across her face. “You don’t need an excuse, Bobby. All you have to do is ask.”

Bobby nodded, he was going to ask alright.

The song was nearing its end, the final notes softly echoing through the bookstore. They spent the rest of it gazing into each other's eyes, the world around them fading into a blur. 

Athena couldn't help but glance at his lips, wondering what it would be like to kiss him. Her heart raced at the thought, a mix of excitement and fear churning within her. She could feel the warmth of his breath, the closeness of his body, and the way his hand felt on her waist.

♫ Woah, my love, my darling

I've hungered, hungered for your touch ♫

Bobby did the exact same thing, his eyes flickering down to her lips and then back up to meet her gaze. His heart was pounding in his chest, a flutter of nerves and anticipation. 

He could feel the electricity between them, the unspoken desire hanging in the air. They were both so nervous, so afraid to take a step forward, to engage, to ask. The intensity of the moment was almost overwhelming, the silence filled with possibilities and unspoken words. 

Yet, neither of them moved.

The music slowly faded in silence, but they remained in each other’s arms, the moment too perfect to let go. Eventually, they stepped back, their hands lingering in the air between them.

“Thank you for this,” Athena said, her voice barely above a whisper. “It was wonderful.”

“Anytime, Athena,” Bobby replied, his smile warm and genuine. “Anytime.”

There was then a knock on the door and Athena knew it was the bodyguard. 

“I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“See you tomorrow,” Bobby confirmed. 

Athena gathered her things, her heart full. He watched her leave with a smile that lasted long after she was gone.

Bobby was going to ask her to dinner tomorrow, no matter what.

Chapter Text

To Clark Kent, 

Thank you for making us feel safe.Your kindness and this bookstore have been out of this world. Here's your “Saved by the Author” edition. I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed writing it. – Athena. 

This note is what Bobby read this morning when he opened the book Athena had given him. His heart burst with warmth, his fingers grazing over her beautiful handwriting. He felt so glad that she felt safe and that his bookstore had made a difference for her.

He chuckled when she called him Clark Kent. I guess I was Clark Kent in that moment. He sat there, staring at the note for a few moments, feeling a mix of joy and determination. He had one goal for this evening: to ask Athena out for dinner…as a date.

Bobby had driven to the bookstore early that morning to read the book she had given him and to set something up. Sitting in his office with a cup of coffee, he turned the page and inhaled the scent of fresh paper.

The story began with a vivid description of a small, quaint town and a black woman living there. Her struggles were immediately compelling, her goals drawn with such care and detail that Bobby felt like he knew her personally.

As he read further, he noticed the protagonist, a strong, determined woman, bore a striking resemblance to Athena. Her inner strength, resilience, and quiet vulnerability shone through every page.

Bobby was captivated, unable to put the book down. He was in awe of how Athena had written the story with such skill, her words painting a world that was both rich and real. It was as if the story had come to life.

Pages flew by as Bobby lost himself in the narrative. He laughed at the witty dialogue, felt his heart ache during the moments of sorrow, and cheered for the characters as they overcame their obstacles. The representation of the story struck him deeply, highlighting its powerful relevance in the real world today.

At one particularly poignant part, he had to pause and catch his breath. The protagonist had just faced a devastating loss but found peace in the small acts of kindness from those around her.

Suddenly, his alarm went off, reminding him it was time to open the store. He didn’t want to stop. He needed to see how the story ended, needed to follow these characters through to their conclusion, needed to see how the protagonist gained control and showed the people what was right.

Bobby sighed and set his bookmark into place. The one his daughter had made for him before she died. It was a butterfly, the wings hanging from behind, and three photos going down the bookmark with stars dotted all around them. The first photo was of the two of them having a picnic in the park. Brooke was six, she was staring at her dad with so much love while Bobby had two fingers up looking at the camera. 

The second photo was of them at home, making art together at a kiddie table. This was when Brooke was four and she was showing him what she had drawn, and Bobby had a big smile on his face. 

The last photo was of them at a father-daughter dance. Brooke was eight, in a beautiful pink flowing dress while Bobby was in his suit. He was kneeling down to her height and had his arm wrapped around her as she gave him a huge kiss on the cheek.

He had gotten halfway through the book. He couldn't believe he had read that much, but he could tell this was going to be his new favorite. Athena had really struck him with her presence, and he really liked her. He felt himself blush at the memory of their dance last night.

Shaking his head, he got up, placed the book in his drawer, and walked through his bookstore. He went over to the cash register first to turn on his vinyl player, immediately recognizing the song, "River Flows in You" by Yiruma.

He then walked over to the front door and turned the sign in front to “open.”He glanced over to the book club area, still looking good. Book Club always started at 8:30pm. Bobby had a signup genius for those who were attending, and only 15 people could attend because of how small his bookstore was and because he always liked having a smaller group so everyone could voice their opinions. His bookstore has always been popular, but it became even more popular ever since Athena came into his store.

Tonight, when everyone came in, he was going to start with having everyone introduced and getting to know each other, then what everyone thought about the book. Then he was going to talk about the main themes, characters, and plot points. After that, everyone would discuss a deeper analysis and explore different interpretations, addressing any controversial or complex aspects of the book. When everything settles, and everyone has said what they wanna say, they will vote for next book selection and then say goodbye. 

It was always a good time talking about books, especially what everyone thought because Bobby loved how unique everyone was, how they thought and it was really interesting. 

Since Athena was coming, he was probably going to need at least some bodyguards because she was a famous author and he didn't want anything happening. He hoped that nobody would post it on social media, and have an event like a couple of days ago.

He wanted to ask Athena if she could, but he didn’t have her number, so he could call May and ask for her….

Bobby shook his head, he can do it later, if he does it now then it just seems like he just wants to use Athena, even if is a valid reason to do it now.

He walked over to the “place” that he was setting up since this morning, it was a surprise for someone. He spent all morning trying to buy decorations and accessories for the person so it could look nice. He just wanted to make sure it looked good and that it was already ready. 

The bell suddenly rings and he quickly makes his way out of the “place”, closing the door to it. He looks to see who it is and his heart jumps when he sees Athena.

“Hey Bobby.” She greeted him with a smile. She had the same tote bag from yesterday.

“Hey there, I wasn't expecting to see you until later tonight.” He said surprised. His heart was pounding out of his chest as he tried to be normal. Here she was, beautiful as ever once again. She was wearing a dress today, a yellow sundress. 

“Yeah, I’m sorry. I can go if you want- I just wanted to get out of the house today, and I didnt want to be cooped up in my office working. If it's okay, could-” Athena said nervously. 

“Of course!” Bobby said quickly. “You're always welcome here, I don’t mind that you are here.” His eyes widened when he realized he cut her off. Athena looked a bit bewildered too.

There was a moment of silence as they looked at each other. 

“T-Thank you.” Athena said, going towards the back aisle where her spot was. 

But Bobby gently grabbed her hand and Athena looked back.

“Wait here for a second. I moved your spot so..I just have to set it up.” Bobby said, and Athena nodded with a smile, knowing wherever it was, she trusted Bobby.

Before Bobby could let go of her hand, he said with a shy smile. “What’s your favorite color?” 

Athena was confused, wondering why he had asked that. “I-It's navy blue or purple.” She said.

His smile grew huge, his eyes sparkled and he quickly let go of her hand and speedwalked to one of the back aisles of the bookshelves. “Wait there!” He yelled.

Athena couldn't help but chuckle, he was so cute. She wondered what he was doing. He acted a bit odd and jumpy, maybe he was nervous to show her something or whatever but she liked this side of him. She waited, she didn't mind waiting, she was here to work…and see Bobby.

A few minutes went by when Bobby finally came out. He walked over to her and he was nervous. 

“So.” He started. “Yesterday, you said that you needed a space to work since you plan a lot and write notes, from what I have seen. The little area you had yesterday when you worked, that wasn't any space. That was just something I came up with right then and there. If you recall, I told you to give me a day and well I set something up for you.”

Athena did remember that, but she thought he was just saying that just because or it was a joke. She was fine with what she had yesterday and she liked it. He set her something else?

“Yes, you did say that but Bobby I’m fine with what I had yesterday.”

Bobby frowned and said. “I’m not though, that wasn't even your space. I made it and there wasn't that much effort.” He pauses. “You deserve more…plus I have a feeling that we will be seeing more of each other.” 

Athena felt her stomach flutter. You deserve more. She repeated that in her mind, and Bobby wanted to do more for her. She knew he meant this as more than a friend and they both knew that. 

“Okay.” She said softly. 

She took his hand. “Lead the way.” 

Bobby smiled, and took her to the back of one of the aisles, this time, it was in front of his office. There was a bookshelf there, he gently opened the bookshelf, leading into a secret room.

Her eyes widened as he opened it. He led her in. She could not believe it, there were no words to describe what she felt. She was speechless. 

She gasped when she stepped inside. The room was transformed into a beautiful workspace, just for her. The walls were painted a soothing navy blue, her favorite color, creating a calm and focused atmosphere.

The tinted large window on the left wall let in plenty of natural light to see the bookstore, to see the entrance of the store and the cashier register.

In front of her was a sturdy wooden desk, big enough to spread out all her notes and drafts. The desk was adorned with a vase of fresh peonies and daisies, the same flowers she had admired in the book club area. A comfortable black chair with a soft, purple cushion was placed in front of it, inviting her to sit and write.

Behind the desk was a wall dedicated to a massive bulletin board, where she could pin up her notes, ideas, and inspirations.

On the right wall, it was a large whiteboard on wheels, perfect for brainstorming and plotting out her stories. Bobby had even strung up fairy lights around the edges of the boards, giving the room a warm and magical glow.

In the corner, there was a small bookshelf filled with classic novels, writing guides, and empty journals waiting to be filled with her words. A cozy reading nook with a navy blue armchair and a purple throw blanket was set up next to it, offering a perfect spot for her to take breaks and get lost in a good book.

“Bobby…” she whispered, her eyes wide as she gazed around the room. She really, really loved it. How did he do all of this? She turned to look at him.

“I hope it’s not too much. I just...” Bobby hesitated. He knew he had gotten carried away, or maybe even gone overboard, but his plan was to ask her out to dinner tonight. Perhaps he was too nervous to say it now, but he wanted to show her that this was real, that she was his priority, and that her kids would be too.

He wanted to create a space where she could write without distractions, a place that was entirely hers. The idea had come to him after noticing how often she got lost in her work, oblivious to everything around her.

“You did all of this in a day? Did you even sleep last night?” Athena asked worriedly.

“Yeah, I did sleep.”

“How long?”

There was a long pause. “I slept for four hours.” He looked down at his shoes.

“Bobby, you did not have to—”

He squeezed her hand. “I really did,” he said, looking back up into her eyes.

Athena felt her heart melt.

“I just wanted you to have a space where you could write, other than your office, if you needed another escape, or if you could see your kids whenever they come here,” Bobby explained. “Plus, you did get your inspiration back here, after two weeks.”

He was right. She knew May was planning to keep working here when she got a job in her film studies. She knew Harry loved spending time with Bobby and he wouldn't stop seeing him unless she had told him to and something happened between them.

She also wanted to see him more. He showed her something she hadn't seen ever, in any guy she had met.

She wanted nothing more than to give him a hug for everything he had done. She let go of his hand and wrapped her arms around him as much as she could.

Athena felt Bobby's arms wrap around her small frame, pulling her close. The warmth of his embrace enveloped her, making her feel so safe. His scent was intoxicating, comforting. Her head rested on his chest; she heard his heartbeat and felt his breath on her hair.

It was a simple gesture, yet it conveyed so much—gratitude, comfort, and a growing affection that words couldn’t quite capture.

They let go, and she said, “Thank you.”

Bobby nodded. They both knew something had shifted in their relationship.

Athena glanced around once again. “How did you do all of this? The wall is navy blue, and the pillow and blanket is purple. Also, why did you pick peonies and daisies? Usually, a man would go for roses.” She raised her eyebrow. “Wait, why do you even have a secret room in the first place?”

Bobby blushed, his smile turning bashful. “When I bought this place, this room was already painted navy blue, and this was just a regular door. But I changed the door into the bookshelf because my best friend told me it would be cool to have a secret room, so I made it. Mostly for hangouts and, well… a napping room.”

Athena laughed.

Bobby continued, “The purple pillow…well lets just say I bought every pillow color and blanket.”

“Bobby! Stop, you did not.” Athena hit him playfully.

Bobby chuckled. “Look, the ones I bought, I planned to give away to shelters or the homeless.”

Athena sighed, not being able to argue with him on that, he was involved with the community too. He was perfect, literally too perfect.

Bobby continued. “The peonies and daisies, well, I know they’re your favorite.”

Before Athena could ask how, Bobby cut her off.

“They're your favorite because you touched the ones in the book club area and you looked at them with meaning. I don’t know, I just knew.”

He was attentive. Athena found that really warming. He saw the little things. The fact that he saw that made her feel really special. He could read her too; it seemed like he knew she kept her guard up wherever she went, hence the tinted window.

He was just so different from every other guy. She was afraid to like him because of that. What if he didn’t want her? If he knew about her past, he wouldn’t want her. He shouldn’t be doing this.

Bobby watched her; she was happy. He then looked over to the window and saw multiple customers come in.

“I have to go now. I’ll check on you later.”

Athena nodded. “Thank you again, Bobby.”

Bobby gave her a soft smile before leaving to help out the customers. Athena settled down at the desk, her fingers grazing the surface as she took in the room once more.

The navy blue walls and purple accents created a calming, inspiring environment, while the peonies and daisies filled the air with their sweet fragrance.

She opened her laptop and began typing.

Bobby, now busy assisting customers, kept stealing glances towards the hidden door that led to Athena. He felt relieved that he made a place for her, just for her, here in his bookstore.

༺༻

“Mom, please answer! I need your help, come home now.”

“Mom answer.”

“Mom, it's urgent.” 

“It’s a life or death situation.”

“Get out of Bobby’s shop now and come home!!”

10 missed calls from May and 4 messages.

That is what Athena received as she was writing. She felt her stomach drop, a cold wave of panic washing over her. Her hands began to tremble, her heart pounding so loudly she could hear it in her ears. A thousand thoughts raced through her mind, each one more dreadful than the last.

What could possibly be happening? Why would May send such alarming messages?

Athena's breath quickened, her chest tightening with fear. She couldn’t bear the thought of something terrible happening to her children. The urgency in May’s messages was undeniable, and the sheer number of missed calls told her that this was serious—very serious. It all happened within 15 seconds. She felt an ache for her baby girl.

She tried calling her back but all May responded back was to get home. 

He's not back is he? Athena thought, he shouldn't be. She thought of the very worse case scenario, her past came back to get her kids. 

She had to hurry home. She shot up from her chair, her mind a blur of worst-case scenarios. She almost knocked over her laptop in her haste, barely managing to catch it before it hit the floor. 

She didn’t even take the time to gather her things. She rushed out of the secret room, her movements frantic and uncoordinated. She stumbled into the main area of the bookstore, her eyes wide with fear. Bobby looked up from the cash register, concern immediately flooding his features as he saw her distressed state.

“Athena, what’s wrong?” Bobby asked, stepping towards her.

“I have to go, Bobby. It’s May, she needs me. It’s urgent,” Athena managed to say, her voice shaking.

Without waiting for his response, she bolted out the door, her mind fixated on getting home as quickly as possible. She fumbled with her car keys, almost dropping them in her haste. The drive home was a blur of red lights and honking horns, her mind racing with every possible scenario of what could be wrong.

Every second felt like an eternity. Her hands gripped the steering wheel so tightly her knuckles turned white. Her breath hitched in her throat, tears stinging her eyes as she pushed the car faster. 

Finally, she pulled into the driveway, barely taking the time to turn off the engine before she rushed to the front door. Her hands shook as she fumbled with the keys, her heart pounding with fear and dread. She burst through the door, her eyes scanning the room for any sign of what might be wrong.

“May!” She called out. “Baby, what's wrong?”

She rushed upstairs to her bedroom and opened the door.

"Mom, thank goodness you're here," May said, her voice full of relief.

Athena's eyes quickly scanned the room, expecting to see something terrible. Instead, she saw May's room in complete disarray. Clothes were strewn everywhere, shoes scattered across the floor, and makeup products cluttered the dresser.

"May, what happened?" Athena asked, her voice still tinged with panic.

"I need help getting ready for my date tonight," May replied, her face flushed with worry.

Athena felt her heart drop in relief, the fear draining from her body, leaving her feeling light-headed and weak. She leaned against the doorframe, closing her eyes for a moment to steady herself.

"May, you scared me half to death!" Athena said with a stern voice, her voice trembling with a mix of relief and frustration. "You can't send messages like that! I thought something terrible had happened to you!"

May's face fell, realizing the gravity of her actions. "I'm sorry, Mom. I didn't mean to scare you like that. I was just so stressed about my date, and I didn't know what to do."

Athena took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She stepped into the room and took both of May’s hands, looking her daughter in the eyes.

"May, you have to understand that when you send messages like 'life or death' and 'come home now,' I think the worst. I was terrified something had happened to you. You can't do that. You need to be more specific and honest about what's going on."

May nodded, her eyes filling with guilt. "I'm really sorry, Mom. I didn't mean to worry you. I just... so caught up on what to wear, how to look and I was just so worried about this date going well. You know how I get, and I’m sorry. I will work on it in the future, I just…"

Athena pulled May into a tight hug, feeling the tension finally leave her body. "I understand, sweetheart. But next time, just call me and tell me what's going on, okay? I'll always be there to help you, but you have to be clear about what you need."

May nodded against her shoulder. "Okay, Mom. I promise."

Athena held her daughter for a moment longer before pulling back and giving her a reassuring smile. "Now, let's see what we can do about this mess and get you ready for your date."

May nodded, giving her back a smile. I might have overreacted.

“Let's start with your makeup and hair first.” Athena said, her voice soft.

May sat down at her vanity, and Athena started by applying a light foundation to even out her skin. She added a hint of blush to give her cheeks a natural glow and a touch of highlighter to make her skin look radiant. She carefully applied a soft, neutral eyeshadow that brought out May’s eyes, followed by a thin line of eyeliner to define them. A coat of mascara completed the look, making her lashes long and full.

“Close your eyes,” Athena instructed gently as she added the finishing touch: a soft, pink lipstick that complemented her perfectly.

When May opened her eyes, she smiled at her reflection. “Mom, this is perfect. Thank you.”

Athena smiled back, feeling a warm sense of pride. “You’re welcome, sweetheart. Now, let’s do your hair.”

She began by brushing May’s hair, making sure it was smooth and free of tangles. She decided on soft, loose curls that would frame May’s face beautifully. She used a curling iron to create gentle waves, then ran her fingers through them to give them a natural, effortless look. She finished with a light mist of hairspray to keep the curls in place without making them stiff.

May looked at herself in the mirror, turning her head slightly to see the curls bounce. “Mom, it’s beautiful. You did an amazing job.”

Athena felt a lump in her throat, overwhelmed with emotion. “You look stunning, May. Any guy would be grateful to go out with you.” Her daughter was absolutely beautiful.

May smiled. “Alright! Let's pick my outfit.”

They started with the first outfit: a simple, navy blue dress that flowed beautifully. Athena admired the way it complemented May's skin. "This looks lovely on you, May."

May looked at herself in the mirror, frowning. "I don't know, Mom. It's too plain."

Athena sighed but nodded. "Alright, let's try something else."

Next was a red dress with a fitted bodice and a flared skirt. Athena thought it made May look vibrant and confident. "You look stunning in this one."

May shook her head, her anxiety still evident. "It's too bold. I don't want to stand out too much."

Athena rummaged through the closet and pulled out a dark green dress with lace details. "How about this one? It's soft and pretty."

May twirled in front of the mirror, biting her lip. "It's too girly, Mom. I want to look more mature."

Athena rolled her eyes and felt a pang of frustration. “May, you look beautiful in all of them. You have great style.”

“Mom.. this is the date. Darius needs to see that I look good.”

Why was her daughter even questioning that right now? She doesn't need validation from anyone. Her daughter looked beautiful and she could practically pull anything off.

“Baby, you look perfect. Stop stressing,  you don't need any validation from anyone, and you just need to be yourself. Be comfortable, pick an outfit that makes you feel comfortable.”

May sighed, and nodded. She was right, it's just whenever she gets so anxious she acts crazy in ways.

She pulled out a black jumpsuit next. "This is stylish and sophisticated. What do you think?"

May scrutinized her reflection, then sighed. "It's too serious. I want something fun."

Athena finally found a floral sundress "This one feels just right for a dinner date and a walk. It's fun and cute."

May slipped it on and did a small twirl. "It's nice, but I don't know... I just don't feel right in it."

Athena could see the mounting panic in May's eyes. She stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on her daughter's shoulder. "May, we are not going to get anywhere if you keep saying no."

May took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "I just... I need a guy's perspective. I need to know what a guy thinks. How about Bobby? Please, Mom."

Athena was taken aback but quickly nodded. "Okay, let's go see Bobby. He might have some advice."

They hurried out of the house and drove back to Bobby's bookstore. As they walked in, Bobby, who was stacking books on the shelves, looked up, relief flooding his eyes.

“Athena, what happened? May, are you okay?” he immediately asked, walking over to them.

“I’m so sorry, Bobby. May called and texted me panicking, only to find out she was worried about what to wear for her date,” Athena explained.

“Yeah… sorry, Bobby,” May added sheepishly.

“It’s okay,” he said. “What's going on now?”

“I need a guy's perspective on what to wear for Darius,” May said.

“May, you do not need a guy's perspective. You look beautiful in anything and you should just be yourself,” Bobby reassured her.

“I know, I just.. I’m sorry. Bobby, if you could, just help me choose an outfit?” May asked..

Bobby nodded, and May went to get the outfits from the car. When she came back, all of them went to Bobby's office as she changed in the bathroom. She showed him each outfit, one by one.

“The floral sundress,” he said simply. “But if you want something more fancy, the navy blue dress would work. Since you're walking around after dinner, you should go with the sundress and wear sandals or comfortable shoes.”

Athena nodded in agreement with Bobby. “He's right, May.” 

“Sorry for doubting you, Mom. I just worry too much.”

“May, it's okay. You're beautiful in anything you wear. The most important thing is that you should not find validation in men but in yourself. Be yourself, be who you are because you are an amazing woman. Don't get caught up in some fantasy, and make sure you're safe,” Athena said, taking her daughter's hands.

“Okay, Mom. Thank you,” May said, understanding as she hugged her.

She let go and hugged Bobby. “Thank you, Bobby.”

Bobby nodded. “Of course, May. You look absolutely beautiful, and I hope everything goes well tonight.”

May said goodbye to both of them because it was time to go. They watched May leave, and Athena let out a breath of relief, stress from everything that had happened in the span of two hours finally hitting her. She closed her eyes, trying to process it all. She had been so worried about May, and everything had been moving so quickly.

She opened her eyes when she felt his hand on her shoulder.

“Hey, you okay?” Bobby asked her gently, concern in his eyes.

“Y-Yeah, she just really worried me. I thought something bad had happened, just to find out she needed help getting ready. May can overreact at times, and this was just...”

“I know, you're okay. She's okay,” he said, gently rubbing her shoulder with his thumb.

Athena let herself feel Bobby’s touch. He was reassuring, calm, and grounding. She nodded, feeling a bit more at ease.

Bobby wanted to comfort her in the best way he could; he knew what it was like to worry about those you care about.

༺༻

The bookstore hummed with the quiet buzz of conversation as members arrived and settled in for the book club. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet scent of pastries filled the air. Bobby stood at the front, his warm smile greeting everyone as they found their seats in the circle.

Athena sat directly across from Bobby, making eye contact with him. She had gotten some body guards to guard the entrance in case anything happened. Most people in the club were fans and asked to take pictures.

Bobby had asked everyone to introduce themselves first before they started.

“Alright everyone! Let's talk.” Bobby said as he sat down in the chair. “Let's hear some thoughts. What did you all think about it?"

A few hands went up. Carol, a regular, started. "I loved Elizabeth Bennet’s wit and strength. She’s so ahead of her time."

"I agree," chimed in another member, Tom. "But what really stood out to me was the character development, especially Elizabeth Bennet. Her strength and intelligence were something.”

"I think the romance is one of the most compelling aspects of the book," Sarah remarked. "The way Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship evolves from misunderstanding and prejudice to mutual respect and love is just beautiful."

"I couldn't agree more," added Tom. "It's refreshing to see a love story where both characters grow and change for the better. Elizabeth and Darcy's journey is so well-crafted. They challenge each other and bring out the best in one another."

Janet chimed in, "What I love most is how realistic their relationship feels. It's not an idealized, perfect romance. They both have flaws and make mistakes, but they learn from them and become stronger together."

Athena sat quietly, listening to the discussion, her eyes occasionally drifting to Bobby. She noticed how whenever Bobby spoke about the book, his eyes lighting up with every point he made. Bobby, on the other hand, kept sneaking glances at Athena, feeling a growing connection each time their eyes met.

Everyone's thoughts had gone silent as they finished the conversation and Bobby introduced the main discussion points. "Let's delve deeper into the themes and characters. How do you think Elizabeth's prejudices against Darcy evolve throughout the story?"

There was a thoughtful silence before Janet, another member, shared her thoughts. "Elizabeth's prejudices are rooted in her initial impressions and the misleading information she receives. Her journey is about overcoming those biases and seeing Darcy for who he truly is."

Athena couldn't help but jump in. "It's fascinating how Elizabeth's growth parallels Darcy's. Both characters have to confront their own flaws and grow from them. It's a beautiful depiction of mutual respect and love."

Bobby nodded, captivated by Athena's insight. "Absolutely. Their relationship is a testament to how understanding and communication can overcome misunderstandings and prejudices."

As the discussion continued, Bobby and Athena found themselves locked in a silent conversation, their eyes speaking volumes. The tension between them was palpable, each word exchanged deepening their connection.

By the time the clock struck 9:15, Bobby announced the group activity. "Let's try something interactive. How about a character role-play? Each of us can choose a character from the book and choose a scene to reenact with a partner."

“That's a great idea!” Carol said with excitement. Every member agreed and everyone started to talk about what character they wanted to play.

Suddenly, Sarah said, “Wait, why don’t Bobby be Darcy and Athena be Elizabeth? It would be such a good pair!”

“After all, Bobby did host the book club and Athena…” Tim said, looking at the two of them.

Bobby and Athena gazed at each other, their connection intense, and everyone nodded agreeing with Sarah. 

“Yeah! You're right Sarah. They could reenact the scene in chapter 58 where they both confess their feelings for each other!”

The members enthusiastically agreed. They waited for Bobby and Athena to say something, not understanding the underlying tension, the chemistry. 

It became silent until Bobby spoke.

"Shall we?" he asked, a soft smile playing on his lips.

Athena nodded, her heart racing. "Let's do it." She smiled back.

“Oh my gosh!! I can't believe it. You guys go first!”

They were both so nervous, their hearts pounding out of their chests. Athena could not believe this was happening right now. Bobby gulped, trying to breath as they both got up.

They went into the middle of the circle, books in their hands, standing directly in front of each other. They both knew they wanted this, both knew that this scene, there was more to it, it was real between them. It was just like the book.

As they enacted the scene, the room fell silent, everyone noticing something. When they reached the part where Darcy confesses his feelings, Bobby's voice softened, his eyes locked onto Athena's. He took a breath before speaking, adopting Darcy's serious demeanor.

Bobby began, his voice deep and filled with emotion. "If you will thank me," he replied, "let it be for yourself alone. That the wish of giving happiness to you might add force to the other inducements which led me on, I shall not attempt to deny. But your family owe me nothing. Much as I respect them, I believe I thought only of you."

Athena felt a shiver run down her spine. Bobby’s intense gaze and the sincerity in his voice made her heart race. She struggled to stay in character, feeling both Elizabeth's and her own emotions intertwine. Bobby continued, his tone steady and sincere.

“You are too generous to trifle with me. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged, but one word from you will silence me on this subject for ever.”

The tension in the room was electric. Athena's breath caught in her throat. She felt like she was falling into Bobby's eyes, the world narrowing to just the two of them.

She forced herself to speak, just as Elizabeth had. She looked directly into Bobby's eyes, her voice trembling slightly but growing stronger with each word.

Bobby felt his emotions come in, his emotions for Athena. They weren't reenacting the book anymore. He was truly confessing his feelings and as she said her lines, it was truly real.

They went on, until the scene was over. The room erupted in applause as Bobby and Athena finished their reenactment. The members of the book club were visibly moved, some with misty eyes and others with wide smiles.

“That was incredible!” Clara exclaimed, clapping enthusiastically. “You two brought so much life to that scene. It was like watching Darcy and Elizabeth in real life!”

Michael, a long-time member, nodded in agreement. “The tension was palpable. You could feel the emotions in the air. Seriously, Bobby, Athena, that was something else.”

Sarah, who usually sat quietly, was beaming. “I’ve read that part so many times, but seeing it acted out like that made it feel so much more real. You both did an amazing job!”

“I felt like I was in the room with them,” added David. “The way you looked at each other, the way you delivered the lines—it was perfect.”

Athena, still catching her breath, smiled shyly. “Thank you, everyone. It was... an experience.”

Clara leaned forward, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. “Have you two done this before? There was so much chemistry!”

Bobby and Athena exchanged a glance, both blushing slightly. “No, this was our first time,” Bobby said. “But the scene really spoke to us, I guess.”

“It was amazing,” Sarah reiterated. “You should consider doing more readings or reenactments together. You have a natural talent for it.”

Bobby and Athena thanked all of them and everyone else went with their partners, reenacting a scene. The whole entire time, Bobby and Athena never took their eyes off each other. 

They knew they had to talk about it. They both knew it was time, no matter how scary it was, or how afraid they were. They had to take the leap, there was something more between them and it was undeniable.

As the reenactments for Pride and Prejudice began to wind down, Bobby clapped his hands together to get everyone's attention. "Alright, folks, before we wrap up for the evening, we need to decide on our next book."

Michael, always quick with a suggestion, leaned forward. "I propose we read Wuthering Heights . It’s another classic with a lot of intense emotions and intricate relationships."

Clara nodded enthusiastically. "That’s a great idea. I’ve always wanted to dive into that one again. The dynamics between Catherine and Heathcliff are so complex."

Sarah, however, had another suggestion. "How about something a bit different? Maybe a modern twist. I was thinking of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. It's beautifully written and has that same kind of romantic tension we love."

David, usually the quieter one, spoke up. "I’m in the mood for some fantasy. What about The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien? It’s a classic but offers something different from our usual picks."

The group exchanged thoughtful looks, each weighing the options.

"Those are all great suggestions," Bobby said, smiling. "How about we take a quick vote? Raise your hand if you're interested in Wuthering Heights ."

A few hands went up, including Clara and Michael's.

"Alright," Bobby continued, "now, who’s interested in The Night Circus ?"

Sarah’s hand shot up, followed by a couple more members who seemed intrigued by the idea of something modern and magical.

"And finally, who’s up for The Hobbit ?" Bobby asked.

David’s hand went up, along with a few others who appreciated the idea of a fantasy adventure.

Bobby tallied the votes, noting the interest levels. "Looks like we have a tie between Wuthering Heights and The Night Circus . How about this – we’ll read The Night Circus in two weeks and then Wuthering Heights in the following two weeks?"

Everyone seemed satisfied with this compromise, nodding in agreement.

"Great," Bobby said. "So, in two weeks, make sure you sign up for The Night Circus . I know many people are fans of this book, so please don’t get mad if you don’t sign up on time to make it on the list."

The group murmured their agreement, excitement buzzing in the air about the new book choice. Bobby let them talk until it hit 10 and it was time to stop.

"Thank you all for a wonderful discussion. Have a great night, everyone. I can’t wait to see you in the near future," Bobby said with a warm smile.

Members slowly began to leave, thanking Bobby and Athena as they made their way out. "Great job, Bobby," Clara said with a thumbs-up. 

Athena stayed back, helping to tidy up and gathering her things. The rising nervousness was palpable as the bookstore grew silent. It was just the two of them now. Bobby looked over to Athena, and she was staring at him, their gazes intense once again. They stood in silence for a moment, the air thick with unspoken words.

Bobby spoke up first, breaking the tension. "You were amazing today," he said, his voice soft but sincere.

Athena smiled, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Thank you. You were great too. The way you led the discussion, especially the scene we reenacted... it was something special."

Bobby stepped closer, his eyes locked on hers. He could feel his heart pounding, and he knew he had to say what was on his mind. "Athena, there's something I've been wanting to ask you."

Athena's breath caught in her throat. She could see the intensity in his eyes and felt her own heart racing. "Yes, Bobby?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She knew what it was.

Bobby took a deep breath. This was it. This was the leap. "I... I really enjoy spending time with you. Not just at these meetings, seeing your kids, or you spending your day here to write. I really like you, spending time with you, everything that has happened, and I was wondering if you'd like to go out to dinner with me sometime?" Bobby said, his voice steady but his heart fluttering with nerves. “A-As a date.”

Athena felt a rush of emotions, her thoughts swirling. Her cheeks warmed. She had been drawn to Bobby from the start, his kindness, his attentiveness, the way he made her feel seen and appreciated. But the fear of past hurts lingered. She took a deep breath; the past didn't matter, she couldn't let it stop her.

"I’d like that," she said, her smile growing as she saw the relief and joy in his eyes.

Bobby's face lit up, and he couldn't help but grin. "That’s great! How about tomorrow night?"

"Tomorrow night sounds perfect," Athena replied, her eyes twinkling.

They stood there for a moment. "Is 8 pm good?" he said softly.

"7," Athena replied.

Bobby nodded. “7 it is. I can pick you up or you can come here?”

“I can come to the bookstore,” she said. “How should I dress?”

“Dressy casual. I’m taking you out to dinner, and then I have a surprise,” Bobby said.

“It better not be like today,” she replied.

“It's not, I promise.” He laughed.

“Good,” she said.

It grew silent again, and they began cleaning once more, their movements light and easy now, the tension replaced with a sense of happy expectation. They finished tidying up, and Athena went to get her things while Bobby grabbed his.

They walked to the door, and Bobby flipped the sign to “Closed.” He then opened the door, letting Athena walk out first. He then closed the door, locking it for the night.

They both stood outside, turning to each other.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” Bobby said with a small smile.

“I can’t wait,” Athena replied.

Her car then pulled up, and Bobby walked away.

They both knew that tonight was just the beginning of something wonderful.

Chapter Text

Athena stood in front of her closet, carefully selecting an outfit for the party. She pulled out a simple yet elegant dress, one that she felt comfortable in. It was a deep navy blue, modest in cut, and hugged her curves in all the right places without being too revealing. She smiled at her reflection, feeling a rare moment of self-confidence.

Just as she was about to put on her shoes, her boyfriend walked into the room. His eyes immediately narrowed when he saw her choice of clothing. "What the heck are you wearing?" he demanded, his voice dripping with disdain.

Athena's heart sank, and she turned to face him, trying to keep her voice steady. "I thought this dress looked nice. It's not too revealing, but it's elegant."

He scoffed, his expression turning to one of disgust. "Nice? Elegant? You look like a frumpy old woman. Are you trying to embarrass me in front of everyone?"

"No, of course not," Athena said quickly, her pulse quickening. "I just thought—"

"You thought wrong," He cut her off, stepping closer to her. "You're going to wear something that actually makes you look good. I don't want people thinking I'm with someone who looks like they just walked out of a homeless shelter."

Athena felt a pang of hurt at his words. She had chosen the dress because she felt comfortable and confident in it, but now that confidence was rapidly dissolving. "..... I just wanted to feel comfortable—"

"Comfortable?" he spat, his eyes blazing with anger. "I don't care about your comfort. I care about how you make me look. And right now, you look ugly."

Tears welled up in Athena's eyes, but she blinked them back, not wanting to show him how much his words hurt. "What do you want me to wear?" she asked quietly, her voice trembling. She didn't want him to hurt her just like before.

His expression softened slightly, but his tone remained harsh. "Wear that red dress I bought you. The one that shows off your legs. And don't forget the heels. I don't want you looking like a slob."

Athena nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. She turned back to her closet, pulling out the red dress he had mentioned. It was much more revealing than she was comfortable with, but she knew better than to argue. She quickly changed into it, feeling exposed and vulnerable as she looked at herself in the mirror.

He came up behind her, his hands sliding around her waist. "Now that's more like it," she said, his voice low and possessive. "You actually look decent for once."

Athena forced a smile, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Thank you," she whispered, her heart heavy with a mixture of fear and resignation.

"Don't make me regret bringing you to this party," He warned, his grip tightening on her waist. "I don't want to be embarrassed by you."

"I won't," Athena promised, her voice barely audible.

"Good," he said, releasing her. "Now let's go. And remember, you belong to me. Don't forget that."

As they left the house, Athena's mind raced with thoughts of how trapped she felt. She wished she could be herself, wear what she wanted, and not live in constant fear of Marcus's anger. But for now, she knew she had to play along, to keep the peace and avoid his wrath. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the night ahead, hoping she could get through it without any more confrontations.

When they arrived, the music was loud and the air thick with the scent of alcohol and perfume. She felt out of place, the forced laughter and superficial conversations grating on her nerves. Everyone greeted her saying she looked hot, but she wanted to look beautiful, wanted to be herself 

 She just wanted to go home but she had to come. Her boyfriend was in his element, charming and sociable, the life of the party. Athena, however, felt like she was suffocating, her discomfort growing with each passing minute.

Many guys came up to her to talk to her, to compliment her on how she looks, that they hope she's grateful to be his girlfriend. 

Some of the women forced her to dance and she felt touched, and she hated this.

As the evening wore on, he pulled her aside, his eyes gleaming with a predatory intensity. "Come here," he said, his voice low and commanding.

Athena hesitated, glancing around at the other partygoers, but she reluctantly followed him. He led her to a quieter corner of the house, away from prying eyes. The music was still loud, but the chatter of the crowd was a distant hum.

"Why are you being so distant?" Her boyfriend demanded, his grip on her arm tightening.

"I'm not," Athena replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "I'm just tired."

His eyes narrowed, his expression darkening. "Don't lie to me, Athena," he said, his voice dripping with menace. "I saw you talking to that guy earlier. Are you trying to make me jealous?"

"No ….  it's not like that," she protested, panic rising in her chest.

"Then prove it," he snarled, leaning in closer. "Kiss me."

Athena's heart raced, her mind screaming for her to get away. She looked into his eyes and saw only anger and possessiveness. She shook her head slightly, trying to pull away from his grip.

His expression turned to one of fury. "You think you can just say no to me?" he hissed, his voice low and dangerous. "You think you can embarrass me like this?"

Before she could respond, he yanked her towards him, his lips crashing onto hers with bruising force. Athena tried to push him away, but he held her tightly, his kiss harsh and punishing. She felt a wave of revulsion and helplessness wash over her, her heart pounding in her chest.

Finally, he pulled back, his eyes blazing with anger. "We're leaving," he said, his voice cold and menacing.

The drive home was tense and silent, the air between them thick with unspoken threats. Athena stared out the window, her mind racing with fear and dread. She knew what was coming; she had seen this side of him before.

When they arrived home, her boyfriend slammed the door behind them, the sound echoing through the house. He turned to face her, his expression twisted with rage. "You think you can make a fool out of me?" he shouted, his voice shaking with fury. "You think you can just disrespect me like that?"

".... please," Athena begged, her voice trembling. "I didn't mean to—"

"Shut up!" he roared, advancing towards her. "You belong to me, Athena. And you need to remember that."

He grabbed her by the shoulders, shaking her roughly. "Say it," he demanded. "Say you love me. Say you belong to me."

Athena's heart was pounding, her mind a whirl of fear and confusion. "I love you, …." she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I belong to you."

"Say it like you mean it," he growled, his grip tightening.

"I love you, …" she repeated, louder this time. "I belong to you."

Satisfied, his expression softened slightly. "That's better," he said, his voice still laced with menace. "Now, kiss me."

Athena hesitated for a moment, but remembered what happen at the party. She knew she couldn’t say no. She didn’t want him to hurt her again. She leaned in and kissed him, her lips trembling against his. The kiss was brief and mechanical, devoid of any affection or warmth.

When she pulled away, he shoved her back, the force of it making her stumble. "Don't ever forget who you belong to," he said, his voice cold and threatening. "If you ever try to leave me, I will kill you. Do you understand?"

Tears welled up in Athena's eyes, but she nodded, too terrified to speak. He glared at her for a moment longer before turning and storming out of the room.

As soon as he was gone, Athena collapsed onto the floor, her body shaking with sobs. She buried her face in her hands, the weight of his threats crushing her. Everything that he said, from the beginning to the end.

She felt trapped, she wanted to get out of this relationship. But she couldn't, she felt hopeless, like she was drowning and there was no one to save her. She was forced to be his and she could never get out. All she could do was cry. The fear and despair were overwhelming, and she felt utterly alone, trapped in a nightmare she couldn't wake up from.

☁♡☁

"My Bobby Nash? My Bobby Nash has a date?" Chimney said, surprised, his eyes wide. He really could not believe it. He was filled with joy when he heard those words come out of Bobby's mouth. After these last five years, his man was finally getting out there.

"I am not your Bobby Nash," Bobby replied, rolling his eyes.

"Oh, so you're Athena's?" Chim teased with a smirk, his eyes filled with mischief.

"I-I am not—if she wants me," Bobby stuttered. "Look, Chim, stop teasing me. You know how long this has taken me to get out there. So are you gonna help me get ready for this date or not?"

He looked at him with pleading eyes. This morning, Bobby was panicking about what to wear for the date. He didn't even remember the last time he dressed up or went on a date, and he wanted to make sure he looked good for Athena. He took a big step last night and wanted to show her a good time tonight, to get to know her and see where it might lead.

So he had told Chimney to come over at 12 p.m and all he had been doing was teasing him, but he knew he was secretly happy.

Chimney sighed. "Okay, okay," he said, starting to walk toward Bobby's bedroom. "Alright, show me all the outfits you're planning to wear."

Bobby nodded and headed to his closet, pulling out the first outfit: a pair of dark jeans, a plain white button-down shirt, and a navy blazer. He put it on and stepped out, giving Chimney a hopeful look.

Chimney examined the outfit and shook his head. "Nah, too business casual. You look like you're going to a job interview, not a date."

Bobby sighed and went back to the closet. He chose the second outfit: khaki pants, a blue polo shirt, and brown loafers. He changed quickly and came out again.

Chimney frowned. "Nope, too preppy. You look like you're going to a country club."

Bobby's frustration was growing, but he nodded and went back for the last outfit. This time, he picked out a pair of black slacks, a gray sweater, and black dress shoes. He changed and walked out once more.

Chimney took one look and shook his head vigorously. "Too formal. You look like you're going to a funeral."

Bobby groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Chim, I'm running out of options here. What am I supposed to wear?"

“You need something more you, Bobby. All of these outfits—you don’t seem comfortable,” Chim said, running a hand through his hair. “I mean, where did you even get these types of clothes? I get the black slacks, the jeans, the normal stuff, but the polo? You don't even buy clothes from there. And the gray sweater—you wear that on a daily basis. First of all, what are you planning to do on the date?”

“I’m sorry, it’s been a long time since I’ve been on a date but I’m taking her to dinner first,” Bobby replied.

Chimney waited for Bobby to continue, but he said nothing else. “That's it?” He questioned.

“Well—no, of course not, there’s more, but I’m not going to tell you. I told her to wear something dressy casual.”

Chimney rolled his eyes. “Okay then. Is this restaurant fancy?”

Bobby nodded. “Kinda.”

“Okay, I can work with that. Let’s go to the mall. I know exactly what to get you.”

Bobby agreed, and the two of them headed into Chim’s car. As Chim drove to the mall, they played some Celine Dion.

As they listened, Bobby asked, “How’s it going with Maddie?”

“It’s going really well. I asked her out on a second date,” Chimney said with a huge smile on his face. “She’s amazing, so sweet, so caring, and beautiful.”

Bobby smiled. “That’s great.”

“Yeah, I’m gonna meet her later today at the coffee shop across from your bookstore.”

“Oh, what are you planning to do?”

“Well, we’re gonna have some coffee, and then I’m gonna take her out to do some karaoke. I thought it would be fun since she said she’s never tried it before, and I haven’t either, so it will be a learning experience.”

“That’s good.”

“Yeah, it is.”

They stopped at a red light, and Chimney turned off the music, looking over at Bobby. Bobby turned his head in confusion. The air grew heavy, the easy conversation dissipating as a serious tone settled over them. Bobby could feel the shift in the atmosphere, the weight of what was coming next.

“I’m proud of you, Bobby.” 

Bobby’s eyes widened slightly at his confession.

“I’m so proud of how far you have come. I know this is a huge step because you told me you would try to make a friend. I never expected this, and I want you to know I’m proud of you,” Chim said, his voice filled with emotion as he locked eyes with his best friend.

Bobby gulped, feeling a lump form in his throat. The intensity in Chimney’s voice and eyes hit him hard, making the moment feel profound and significant. Bobby’s heart raced as he absorbed the sincerity in his friend’s words, the gravity of their shared history pressing down on him.

“I know that what happen with Brooke really hurt you and what .…. did, changed you. But seeing you grow and get back out there is amazing to me. I really hope that this works out between you and Athena, that this date ends well. I am proud of you for taking this risk,” Chim said, genuinely so proud of his best friend. “Just be yourself tonight and remember to take it slow.”

Bobby nodded, his eyes glistening slightly. “T-Thanks, Chim,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. He felt overwhelmed by the support from his best friend. It touched him deeply. They never really talked about emotional stuff, but when it came to it, it was always warming. He smiled to himself, feeling a mix of gratitude and nervousness; no matter what happened, at least he tried.

They finally arrived at the mall, the parking lot buzzing with activity. As they made their way inside, the hum of conversation and laughter enveloped them. The air was filled with the scent of various foods wafting from the food court, mingling with the occasional burst of perfume from department stores. Bright lights and colorful displays greeted them from every direction.

Families with children in tow, teenagers in groups, and couples holding hands filled the space, each immersed in their own world of shopping. The mall was alive, a cacophony of voices blending into a lively symphony of human interaction.

Bobby and Chimney navigated through the crowd, weaving past clusters of shoppers and dodging excited children. They passed stores with enticing window displays showcasing the latest fashions.

They headed straight to The Suit District, a store known for its sophisticated and stylish men's attire. The entrance was framed by sleek mannequins dressed in impeccably tailored suits, inviting them into a realm of elegance and refinement. The interior of the store exuded a sense of calm sophistication, a stark contrast to the bustling mall outside.

Rows of suits in various colors and styles lined the walls, each meticulously arranged. Bobby felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness as he took in the array of options.

An employee greeted them as they walked in and the two of them greeted him back before walking over to the dress shirts. Bobby watched Chimney look into them, he seemed to be trying to find a color. 

He spoke up, not wanting to get a weird color. “Chimney, if you're going to pick a color, do light blue please.” 

Chim nodded. “Go over to the fitting room, I’m about to fashion you up.”

Bobby did as he said and sat down to wait. After waiting for about five minutes, Chimney came over.

He gave Bobby the outfit he picked out and Bobby went to put it on. 

Bobby looked at himself in the mirror, he looked good. It was simple and comfortable to wear.

The dark gray dress suit he wore hugged his frame in all the right places. The jacket had a subtle sheen to it. It was a single-breasted design with a slim notch lapel, giving it a modern yet timeless look.

His light blue dress shirt added a perfect contrast to the dark suit, the crisp fabric pressed neatly with a slight sheen that spoke of its high quality. He had all of his buttons up. He wore polished black Oxford shoes perfectly.

The pants matched the color of his dress suit, it was a perfect fit, tailored to taper just right around his legs without being too tight, and they broke perfectly over his shoes. Bobby adjusted the cuffs of his shirt, making sure they peeked just the right amount from under the jacket sleeves.

Bobby reached for a tie he had grabbed earlier and decided to put it on, despite not telling Chimney about it. He thought it would look good. The tie had a subtle pattern of varying shades of blue. 

When he was ready, he walked out of the fitting room to show Chimney, who was sitting in a chair waiting for him.

“How do I look?” Bobby asked, extending his hands.

Chimney smiled, stood up, and analyzed Bobby's appearance before giving him a cringed look. “I did not give you the tie, lose it.”

Bobby frowned. “I got to wear a tie.”

“You look like a lawyer.”

Bobby glanced into the mirror in front of him and realized he did look like a lawyer. He let out a groan and took the tie off. Chimney chuckled, watching him.

Once Bobby took the tie off, he adjusted his jacket to make it settle. “All right.” He then looked back at Chimney. “How's that?”

Chimney put a finger up and walked over. “Uh, wait.”

“What?”

Chimney unbuttoned the top button of Bobby's shirt and adjusted it to make it look better. Bobby glanced down and then back up when Chimney finished.

Chimney backed up, spreading his hands. “That's better.”

Bobby's head tilted. “Not too much?”

Chimney shook his head. “Not too much. Perfect.” He made an "okay" sign with his fingers. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this nervous.”

“Well, it's kind of weird, once you get out of your own way, you start to see everything and everyone in a whole new light,” Bobby said.

“Alright.” Chimney chuckled.

༺༻

“You have a date?” Hen said, her eyebrows shooting up in surprise. “With the man who built you a secret room, danced with you, and protected you? Now that is a package right there.” She smirked. “You scored, girl!”

Athena playfully swatted her and said, “We don’t even know if I scored. He probably doesn't even like me.”

“Athena, stop thinking like that. After everything you’ve told me, and he asked you out? He clearly does. Don’t let the past get into your head. He’s gone,” Hen said, taking her hand. “Everything’s different now.”

“I know. I know. It’s just... It's been so long since high school,” Athena said nervously. She felt off, like something needed to be said first.

“Stop worrying. Yes, it  has been a long time. Just be yourself. He likes you, and we’ll take care of everything else when we get there. But first, let’s pick this outfit,” Hen said as she looked through Athena’s closet.

Athena sighed, shaking her head, and watched as Hen pulled out the first outfit for her to try on.

Hen handed over a chic, navy blue, shoulderless wrap dress. It had a V-neckline that added a touch of elegance. The dress hugged Athena’s figure perfectly, accentuating her waist and falling just below her knees.

Athena stepped out of the changing area and looked in the mirror. Suddenly all she saw was memories, memories of the past.

You need to wear something more revealing, all guys like it. 

“The one that shows off your legs.”

Athena shook her head. She shouldn't be thinking this right now. He’s in the past. He is in the past. It was a good dress, but she didn’t, she couldn’t breathe.

The memories continued to creepin, making her feel uncomfortable. “I don’t know, Hen,” she said, tugging at the hem of the dress.

“What’s wrong with it?” Hen asked, frowning.

“I keep thinking of…him. Maybe I need to wear something more revealing…maybe Bobby likes that,” Athena admitted, her voice trembling slightly. She was trying so hard not to give in.

Hen immediately took her hands. “Athena look at me.”

Athena looked into her eyes. 

“Athena, what did we talk about? Look at me.” Hen tilted her head with her finger so Athena could lock her eyes with her.

“You don’t like revealing clothes. You never did and I want you to feel comfortable. Be yourself. It’s not about …. Don't believe those lies in your head. I know they come up, I know it's hard, Athena, but don’t believe them. You are perfect the way you are. What do we say?”

“We don't put our validation in men. We are our own selves.”

Hen nodded. “Good. Just breathe Athena. If you're not ready for this, you don’t have to go on this date.”

“No, I want to. I just can’t get him out of my mind Hen. It's been these years and he's still taunting me. I just- I don't know.” She sighed, stepping away from Hen. 

Hen watched her, concern etched on her face, remembering the day she found out about her relationship. All she wanted was for it to go away from her mind. “Athena, you’ve been through so much. It’s normal to feel this way. But you’re stronger now. You deserve to be happy.”

Athena took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. “I know. I just need to remind myself of that.”

“Let’s try another dress,” Hen suggested gently.

Athena nodded, feeling a bit more grounded. “Yeah, let’s do that.”

Hen nodded understandingly. “Okay, let’s try another one.”

Next was a burgundy dress. It was shoulderless, and the subtle lace overlay added texture without being overly fancy.. But the memories wouldn’t leave her.

“This one’s nice, but...” Athena’s voice trailed off. She couldn’t help but think about how …. would have critiqued it, pushing her to wear something that showed more skin.

Why do I keep thinking about him now? Athena thought she was getting frustrated. She never really thought of him, just every now and then. She just wanted to get these thoughts out. Why were they so strong now? It's been over 26 years.

Hen knew she had to take it slow. She put a comforting hand on her shoulder. “We don’t have to settle on anything yet. One more?”

The final dress was a sophisticated emerald green sheath dress. It was shoulderless with a high neckline and hugged Athena’s curves in a flattering way. The hemline hit just above the knee, making it both classy and modern. But Athena’s mind was still clouded with past criticisms. 

“I think this is the one,” Hen said, hopeful.

Athena looked at herself in the mirror, appreciating the way the dress made her feel confident for a brief moment. “I can’t, Hen. I just can’t do it. I keep hearing his voice, telling me it’s not enough, or it’s too much.”

Hen sighed, seeing the conflict in Athena’s eyes. “Athena, you need to let that go. You’re not with him anymore. This is your chance to be yourself, to wear what makes you feel good.”

“I know. I know. I just don’t know why all of this is coming up and on top of that, what would my kids think? I haven’t been on a date in over 30 years, Hen. My kids don’t even know why. Like I have to make sure they are okay with me getting out there, if they're okay with having another person be a parental figure or ready to come into their lives.” Athena sighed, sitting down on her vanity stool.

Hen understood. “Athena, if it works out with Bobby, they will love him. May and Harry talk about him all the time, and they are both old enough to tell you when something is wrong. I know May will be over the moon because she's talked about you finding someone whenever she and I have a girls’ day. They are both proud of you and want you to be happy. I want you to be happy. Yes, this is the fight you have to go through in order to get your happy ending. This is for you. I know it's hard, but ignore all those doubts.”

Athena had grown so much over the past 26 years. Hen was really proud of her and she knew thoughts like this would come up, but what she also knew was that she would be able to overcome them, she would be able to step up.

Athena took a deep breath and stood up, looking at Hen with gratitude. “Thank you, Hen. I needed to hear that.” 

“Why don’t you talk to your kids about it today? Get the confirmation you need.” Hen suggested. 

Athena nodded. “Yeah, I can do that.”

“I’ll be here picking more outfits, so you go ahead.”

Athena said an ‘okay’ and made her way out of the closet. She walked through the house to find her kids and found them watching a movie in the living room. May and Harry were both cuddled up in blankets. It looked like they were watching inside out 2

“Hey babies.” She greeted them with a huge smile. Her kids were her world and it made her feel so warm every time to see them.

“Hey Mom!” Harry said.

“Hi Mom.” May followed.

“How are you guys doing?” She asked.

May pauses the movie. “We’re good.”

The two kids looked over to their mom to see her in that emerald dress. Their eyes widened, she was so beautiful, radiant even, and it was clear to May and Harry that their mom was going somewhere. She rarely dressed up unless she was going to an event or a dinner.. 

“Wow.” Harry said. “You look beautiful.”

“Where are you going mom?” May asked as she stood up to get a better look. Harry did so as well. 

Athena suddenly felt nervous. She swallowed hard, feeling her heartbeat quicken. "I have something to tell you guys," she said, her voice steady but with a hint of apprehension.

May immediately sensed the seriousness of the situation. "What’s going on, Mom?" she asked, her brow furrowing in concern.

"Sit down, babies," Athena said, gesturing to the couch.

May and Harry exchanged glances before settling onto the couch, their eyes fixed on their mother. Athena sat across from them, her hands clasped together in her lap. She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. The room felt suddenly smaller, the weight of the moment pressing down on her.

"I... I wanted to talk to you both about something important," she began, her eyes darting between her children. She could see the curiosity and concern etched on their faces, and it made her heart ache with both love and anxiety. She started beating around the bush. “As you guys know, we have never really talked about me getting out there or ever. It’s always been-”

“What do you mean by getting out there? Like going on dates or seeing people?” May asked.

Athena took a breath, trying to steady her nerves. “Yeah, going on dates. I know that in all the years that I have been your mom, I have never been out there. I have never seen anyone and about why I don’t date. I was just never ready because of things that happened in the past. Just things that happened a very long time ago. But I’m ready now, and someone asked me out. I just—”

May leaned forward, her eyes wide with anticipation. "Mom, are you saying you have a date?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and disbelief.

Athena nodded slowly, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Yes, I do. I’ve been asked out by a really nice man.”

May abruptly sat up, her face lighting up with joy. “Are you serious?!” she exclaimed.

Athena looked confused but nodded again. “Yes, May.”

May shot her hands up in the air and said, “Finally! Do you know how long I have waited for you to find someone? My whole dang life. I’m glad you're ready now, and I want you to know that I am okay with it. I’m comfortable with you going out and seeing other people. I’m happy.”

Athena felt a wave of relief wash over her as she looked at her daughter. She hadn’t realized how much this mattered to May.

May sat down and took her mom's hands, locking eyes with her. “I know that whatever happened in the past really hurt you, but I’m really glad you're taking a step out there, Mom. I just want to see you happy. I want to see someone support you and love you for who you are. To see you fall in love with someone who takes care of you. After all these years of watching you single parent us, all I have wanted was for you to find someone who could make you happy, other then us, but because we can never understand you in a way, what your going through, but someone who is your age, someone who can really understand you and see all of you. I feel like you get lonely sometimes, and I’m really glad you're finding someone.”

Harry, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up. “Mom, I haven't been here as long as May.”

Athena and May both let out a chuckle.

“But, we’ve seen how hard you work and how much you do for us. You deserve to have someone who makes you smile. We never said anything because we know you like to take your time and we just want you to go at your own pace.”

Athena's eyes filled with tears as she listened to her children. "Thank you, both of you. You don’t know how much it means to me to hear you say that."

“Of course, Mom. We’re proud of you. We have always known that some part of you wasn't ready and something probably happened, so we never said anything. I’m glad you're ready and Harry and I are here to support you with whatever happens,” May said.

Athena felt a surge of relief wash over her, her heart swelling with love for her children. "Thank you, babies. I just wanted to make sure you both were okay with it. It’s been a long time since I’ve done this, and I didn’t want you to feel left out or uncomfortable. I also want to be open with you guys about this, and not keep any secrets."

May gave her mother's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Mom, we want you to be happy. If this guy makes you happy, then we're all for it. You’ve done so much for us, and you deserve this."

Harry nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Mom. We’re proud of you. And we trust you to make the right choices."

Athena immediately brought the two of them into a hug, wrapping her arms around both of them. "I love you both so much. Thank you for understanding. I just want to take this step and see where it leads. It feels like the right time."

After a moment, she pulled back. May smiled brightly. "Well, then you better get back in there and find the perfect outfit! You’re going to look amazing.”

Athena laughed, feeling lighter than she had in years. “Aunt Hen and I are still working on that. I’ll make sure to choose something nice.”

“That’s good. Where's he taking you, Mom?” May asked.

“Dinner, and then he has a surprise,” Athena said, excitement evident in her voice. She couldn't wait to see Bobby.

“Is it tonight?” Harry asked.

“Yes, it is tonight.”

Suddenly, a loud voice shot through the house. “Athena! I found the one!”

Harry and May burst out laughing.

“Well, it looks like you have to go, Mom. We’ll see you before you leave and you can tell us everything tomorrow,” May said.

Athena chuckled. “I will, babies. I love you.”

“We love you too, Mom,” Harry said as Athena stood up.

The kids resumed the movie, and Athena went to see Hen. When she entered the room, she saw Hen holding up a dress she hadn't worn in a long time. It really was the one. It was perfect.

“What do you think?” Hen asked.

Athena smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. “I think it’s perfect.”

All her doubts off her mind. Her past doesn't define her anymore and it never has. She just had to be herself.

༺༻

Bobby had arrived at the bookstore an hour early because he was nervous and he had to put the store back together after the book club meeting so it could be ready for work tomorrow. As he organized the shelves and displays, he made sure to pay extra attention to the details. The store felt calm and inviting, with the soft hum of the air conditioning and the faint scent of books filling the air.

Bobby also took a moment to ensure Athena’s secret room was clean and fresh. He straightened the cushions on the cozy armchairs and made sure the small table had a vase with fresh flowers. 

As he finished his preparations, Bobby took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He glanced at his watch; Athena should be arriving soon. He sat down in one of the armchairs, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. He couldn't help but smile. Tonight was a new beginning, and he was ready to take that step with Athena.

He suddenly heard the sound of a car and glanced toward the window, seeing an SUV arrive. She was right on time, 7:00 on the dot.

Outside, Athena arrived in her SUV, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. She had dressed carefully, choosing a maroon shoulderless dress that complemented her skin tone beautifully. 

The dress was a classic, form-fitting design that hugged her curves in all the right places. It was made of a stretchy fabric that felt comfortable and moved with her. The shoulderless design highlighted her toned shoulders and neckline. The dress was a knee-length hemline.

She paired the dress with a pair of black heels that added just the right amount of height and shimmer. She chose gold jewelry to complete the look: a simple pendant necklace that rested just above her collarbone and small hoop earrings. Her hair was styled in loose waves, framing her face perfectly, and she opted for a natural makeup look. Her bodyguard accompanied her to ensure her safety.

As she stepped out of the SUV, Athena took a deep breath, smoothing down her dress and checking her reflection in the side mirror one last time. The bodyguard gave her a reassuring nod before staying a distance so she could have privacy.

The moment Bobby saw Athena step out of the car, he felt his heart skip a beat. She couldn't be any more beautiful. She was amazing in every way. He got up and went outside, locking the door behind him.

Athena looked up and saw Bobby approaching. Her breath caught in her throat. He was really handsome, too handsome to be true. She smiled at him, feeling warm already. 

The dark gray suit fit him perfectly, accentuating his muscles, and was paired with a light blue dress shirt. His black shoes were polished to a shine, and he had a confident yet warm smile on his face.

“Right on time,” Bobby said.

Athena chuckled. “Well, I am known to be punctual, especially for a date.”

Bobby walked over to her. “Are you now?” he chuckled.

Athena nodded, her face serious but with a playful glint in her eyes. “I am.”

He stopped a few inches in front of her, locking eyes with hers. “You look absolutely beautiful,” he said, smiling.

Athena felt her cheeks warm, her stomach breaking into flutters. “Thank you. You clean up nice too,” she said with a smile

Bobby's smile widened, and he extended his arm. “Shall we?”

Athena took his arm, nodding, and Bobby led her to his car, which turned out to be a massive black RAM truck. Athena wanted to laugh at how big it was compared to her, and she couldn't help but wonder why he chose such a vehicle. She didn’t mind, though.

“Thank you,” Athena said as Bobby opened the door for her. Once she settled in, Bobby closed the door gently before getting in on his side.

As they started driving, Athena looked around, admiring the interior of the truck. “So, a truck, huh? Not what I expected.”

Bobby chuckled. “Yeah, it’s good for work, and I like the space. Plus, it’s kind of fun to drive.”

Athena smiled. “I guess that makes sense. It’s definitely a statement.”

Bobby glanced at her with a playful look. “Is that a good thing or a bad thing?”

“Oh, it’s definitely a good thing,” Athena said with a laugh. “Just unexpected.”

"You know, I’m originally from Minnesota. Up there, having a truck is almost a necessity. Snow, rough roads, you name it."

Athena turned to him, interested. “Minnesota, huh?”

Bobby nodded. “Yep, grew up in a small town. My dad had a truck, his dad had a truck—it’s kind of a family thing. When I moved here, I just couldn’t give it up. It’s like a little piece of home.”

Athena smiled. “I can see that. It’s practical and it suits you. What made you come to LA?”

Bobby suddenly tensed. He moved to LA five years ago. He had to leave after what happened, after Brooke died and his divorce. The memories of it all were too painful for him to stay.

“U-Um, I just needed a change,” he quickly said, his voice tight.

Athena frowned, not wanting to hurt him as she sensed she had touched on something sensitive. She didn’t push but decided to change the subject to ease the tension. “Well, I am originally from Florida,” she said, glancing over at him with concern.

Bobby visibly relaxed, grateful for the shift in conversation. “Florida, huh? That’s quite a change from LA. What brought you here?”

Athena smiled lightly. “I wanted a fresh start too, my parents weren’t supportive, like I said. I was running from people I wanted to and well, the opportunities out here were better for my career. I fell in love with the city pretty quickly.”

Bobby nodded, understanding. “I can see why. LA has a way of growing on you.”

They fell to a silence as they drove on but slowly feeling more comfortable with each other. Athena found herself glancing at him, noticing how attractive he looked all the time. But the way he drove, and the way his arms flexed—why did he look so dang good just driving?

Soon, they arrived at the restaurant. It was a charming and elegant Italian establishment with soft lighting and a welcoming ambiance. The exterior was adorned with twinkling lights, and the soft hum of jazz music spilled out into the night. Couples were dancing near a stage where a jazz band was performing, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Bobby parked the truck and quickly got out to open Athena’s door. “I hope you like Italian,” he said, offering his hand to help her down.

Athena took his hand, stepping out gracefully. “I love Italian. This place looks amazing.”

“Great,” Bobby said, his eyes shining with excitement.

They walked inside, where the host greeted them warmly and led them to a cozy table near the small stage where the jazz band was setting up. It was a private booth that Bobby had booked to ensure they had a more intimate experience without the interruption of fans or people taking pictures, and hoping Athena would feel safe and comfortable.

The restaurant's interior was just as lovely as its exterior, with soft lighting casting a warm glow over the elegantly set tables. The air was filled with the aroma of delicious Italian cuisine, and the sound of gentle conversations mixed with the music created a perfect atmosphere for their evening.

Bobby pulled out Athena’s chair for her before taking his own seat across from her. They shared a smile, both feeling the joy for a wonderful evening ahead. As they settled into their seats, the waiter approached with menus, and they both talked about what they wanted to order.

“Wow,” Bobby said, turning his attention to the menu. “There are so many options.”

Athena nodded, her eyes scanning the options. “Everything looks so good. I think I’m leaning towards pasta. The fettuccine Alfredo sounds amazing.”

Bobby smiled. “Good choice. I’m thinking about getting the steak. It says it’s served with a red wine reduction and roasted vegetables. Hard to pass that up.”

Athena looked up from her menu, meeting his eyes. “Sounds like a solid plan. And maybe we could share a side of their garlic bread?”

“Absolutely,” Bobby agreed, nodding as he closed his menu. “And how about a glass of wine to go with dinner? They have a nice selection here.”

Athena smiled. “That sounds perfect. Maybe a glass of Chardonnay for me.”

Bobby signaled the waiter, and when he approached, they placed their orders. “I’ll have the fettuccine Alfredo,” Athena said with a warm smile. “And a glass of Chardonnay, please.”

Bobby followed. “And I’ll have the steak with the red wine reduction, medium rare. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon for me, and we’d like to start with some garlic bread.”

The waiter nodded. “Excellent choices. I’ll get that started for you right away,” he said as he jotted down their order before walking away.

As the waiter disappeared into the background, Bobby couldn't help but let his gaze linger on Athena. She looked stunning tonight, and he felt a warm flutter in his chest. “How was your day?” he asked, his voice soft and genuine.

Athena turned to him, catching his warm, brown eyes with hers. A subtle shiver ran down her spine at the intensity of his gaze. “It was good,” she replied with a small, bashful smile. “I spent most of the day trying to find something to wear.”

Bobby chuckled, feeling a wave of affection. The fact that she had spent so much time preparing for tonight meant a lot to him. She didn’t need to worry about impressing him—anything she wore would have been perfect because it was her. “Well, if it makes you feel any better, I spent a good part of my day doing the same thing.”

Athena laughed, the sound light and genuine. “I guess we really like each other,” she said, a teasing smirk playing on her lips.

Bobby smirked back, his eyes locked with hers in a moment that felt both intimate and playful. After a brief pause, Athena broke the silence. “I told May and Harry I was going out on a date tonight,” she said, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability.

Bobby’s eyes widened slightly. He knew that if their relationship was going to work, it was important for May and Harry to be on board. He didn’t mind the idea because he planned on showing them what they deserved and how serious he was with their mother. “Oh... What did they say?” he asked, his curiosity tinged with concern.

Athena shook her head gently, sensing his worry. “No, it’s not that, not who it was. I told them I was going on a date because I haven’t been out there in a long time. A really long time,” she explained, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness.

Bobby leaned in slightly, his expression softening. “That’s understandable, Athena. It’s a big step, and I’m really honored that you chose to take it with me.”

Athena felt her heart swell at his words, the sincerity in his voice putting her at ease. “They were supportive,” she continued, a small smile forming. “May was excited, and Harry was, too. They just want me to be happy.”

Bobby smiled, relief washing over him. “They’re amazing kids, Athena. And they’re right—you deserve to be happy.”

Athena smiled, feeling reassured. Bobby had a way of making her feel valued, seen, and appreciated—something she hadn’t always experienced in her life. After everything that had happened today, his kindness and sincerity stood out even more. He never made her feel useless, worthless, or unliked. Bobby was just so genuine. He had come into their lives and effortlessly built something real, something she hadn’t expected but deeply appreciated.

“You know, I haven’t been on a date in a long time either,” Bobby admitted, his voice carrying a hint of nervousness. He hesitated for a moment, considering his next words. Maybe I should open up, he thought. It wasn’t about the past anymore, but about building something new . He knew he would always carry Brooke with him, and he had to let go of his ex-wife, of the doubts, Athena wasn’t her. She was different and Bobby saw something special with Athena—something worth pursuing.

Athena looked at him, her curiosity piqued. “Really? I wouldn’t have guessed.”

Bobby chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, it’s been a while.” He paused, his expression growing more serious. “You asked why I moved to LA, and I told you I just wanted a change. But the truth is... I moved five years ago to get away from a loss.”

Athena’s eyes softened, sensing the weight of his words.

Bobby took a deep breath, his voice faltering slightly as he continued. “I told you before that I lost someone special, and that’s what made me open a bookstore. That person was… It was my daughter.” His voice broke at the end, the pain still raw even after all these years.

Athena’s heart clenched as she saw the vulnerability in Bobby’s eyes. She reached across the table, gently taking his hand in hers, offering silent comfort. The realization that he had a daughter and had lost her hit her hard. She couldn't imagine losing her own children. The constant grief in his eyes suddenly made sense—he missed his daughter deeply, and the pain was still fresh. Understanding this only made her want to know him more, to help him, and to comfort him in the way he had always done for her.

“I’m so sorry, Bobby,” she whispered, her voice full of empathy. She could see the depth of his grief, the loss that had shaped him, and it made her ache for him.

Bobby looked down at their joined hands, struggling to keep his emotions in check. “She was everything to me, Athena. Losing her... it shattered me. I didn’t know how to go on, how to live in the same place with all those memories. So I left. I came here, hoping to find some kind of peace, some way to keep going.”

Athena gently rubbed his fingers with her own, squeezing them, letting her touch mingle with his, almost unconsciously. She didn’t say anything, just let him continue talking, knowing he needed to.

“My ex-wife divorced me. Things happened that left me more hurt, and after... well, after everything that happened, I didn’t think I was ready for something like this again. But with you, it feels different. It feels right,” he admitted, his voice full of sincerity.

Athena’s heart warmed at Bobby's words. She could see the honesty in his eyes, the vulnerability he was willing to share with her. “I’m glad you feel that way, Bobby,” she said softly. “I feel the same. It’s not easy to put yourself out there again, but I think... we both deserve a fresh start. I want you to know that I’m open to exploring this with you.”

Bobby felt a wave of relief as he saw no judgment in her eyes. They were two people who had been hurt but saw something special in each other. For reasons they couldn't fully explain, they wanted each other and no one else. Athena’s openness made him feel safe, like he could trust her with his heart. She might have questions, but her willingness to explore this without hesitation showed she saw something in him just as he saw something in her. The prospect of getting to know her even more excited him.

Bobby’s grip on her hand tightened slightly, his gaze locking onto hers with a mixture of gratitude and hope. “Thank you, Athena. That means a lot to me. More than you know.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of Bobby’s confession hanging between them, but also a newfound connection, a mutual understanding that they were both ready to take this step together. Athena felt a surge of emotion, not just for Bobby’s pain, but for the possibility of something beautiful growing between them.

The two of them eventually received their food and shifted the conversation to lighter, more comfortable topics. Athena had asked about Brooke, and Bobby shared a few stories, allowing her a glimpse into that part of his life and Athena did the same with May and Harry, with her writing. As they continued to talk, they delved deeper into each other's lives, discussing their passions, the little things that kept them going, and everything in between.

Athena listened intently, learning more about Bobby’s favorite things. She found herself observing him closely, picking up on small details—like how he tilted his head slightly when he was confused or curious, or how he would look down at his drink whenever he used a straw, never once glancing up. These little quirks were endearing to her, making her smile. Bobby had a way of making her laugh, of making her feel everything deeply, even emotions she hadn’t realized she could feel anymore.

Bobby, in turn, became equally fascinated by Athena’s mannerisms. He quickly grew fond of noticing the small things she did, like how she would tilt her head in thought, or how her hands moved expressively when she spoke. He admired the way she rested her chin on her palm, her eyes lighting up when they found common ground or when he said something that truly interested her. Each gesture, each subtle movement, became something he mentally filed away, eager to remember every detail about her.

Bobby held up the spoon with a playful glint in his eyes. “Last one’s yours,” he said, his tone light and teasing.

As their dinner wound down, the waiter had brought out dessert—a rich tiramisu. They shared it, savoring each bite as they continued their conversation, the mood between them growing increasingly warm and comfortable.

Athena grinned, leaning in slightly. “Only if you feed it to me.”

Bobby chuckled. “Well, if you insist.” He carefully brought the spoon to her lips, and Athena took the bite, savoring the sweetness of the dessert.

She was about to say something when Bobby pulled the spoon away, tapping the end of her nose gently with it, leaving a small dab of cream behind.

Athena gasped in mock outrage, her eyes widening in surprise. “Did you just—” She broke off, unable to contain her laughter as she wiped the cream from her nose.

Bobby laughed along with her. “Couldn’t resist,” he admitted, his smile wide and genuine.

Athena shook her head, still smiling as she playfully swatted his arm. “You’re impossible.”

“I try,” Bobby replied with a wink, still grinning as he set the spoon down. His eyes glanced towards the stage behind her where couples have swayed the night away to the jazz band. He knew that the dinner was beginning to weigh down.

He stood up, extending his hand to her. “Before our dinner draws to a close, would you care to dance with me?” he asked, his voice soft yet full of hope.

Athena looked up at him. The jazz music playing in the background was soft and smooth, setting the perfect mood. She took his hand, standing up with a smile. “I’d like that.”

Bobby led her to the small dance floor near the stage where the jazz band was playing a slow, melodic tune. He pulled her close, his large warm hand coming to rest at the small of her back.

Athena rested her head against his chest, closing her eyes and letting the music and the moment wash over her. She let herself sink into his touch.

The Nearness of You by Norah Jones drifts over them as they begin to move, swaying slowly together. 

For a few moments, quiet settles between them as they find their rhythm, both with each other and the music. 

Bobby tightened his arms around her slightly, holding her just a little closer. 

Athena moves her hand over his shoulder to his neck, fingers sliding into the short hair at his nape. It's done without thought, another thing that feels completely natural.

Just for a few minutes they were in sync, song after song. Each step, each movement, was a conversation without words, a silent exchange that spoke of trust and connection. Bobby could feel her warmth, her breath against his neck, and it made his heart swell with something he hadn’t felt in a long time—contentment.

Bobby leaned down to whisper in her ear. “I’ve got a surprise for you after this. Somewhere special I want to take you.”

Athena tilted her head up to look at him, curiosity sparkling in her eyes. That's right, he did have a surprise. “Oh? And where might that be?”

Bobby smiled, his expression soft and full of affection. “You’ll see,” he said simply, his tone playful but sincere.

Athena smiled back, she didn't press him. Instead, she let herself melt into the moment, savoring the feel of being held by him, of being with him. 

♫ If you would only grant me the right

To hold you ever so tight

And to feel in the night, the nearness of you ♫ 

As the final notes of the song faded, Bobby slowly released Athena from his embrace, but not completely. He kept his hand in hers. They exchanged a soft smile and Bobby gently led Athena off the dance floor and out of the restaurant. He had already paid before the date.

The night air was cool and refreshing as they stepped outside, a pleasant contrast to the warmth of the restaurant. The city lights twinkled above them, and the streets were quieter now, it was dark. 

As they began to walk, Bobby stayed close to Athena, his hand still holding hers. “The place I want to take you is just a few blocks away,” he said, his voice low and soothing.

Athena looked at him with curiosity. “Is it somewhere special?”

Bobby smiled, a hint of mystery in his expression. “I think you’ll like it. It's more fun than special. But I guess what makes it special is that it's an activity I wanted to do together, just to let loose before we end the night.”

Athena smiled. Whatever it was, she trusted Bobby.

The soft sound of their footsteps on the pavement, the occasional distant car, and the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze were the only sounds that accompanied their walk as it fell to silence.

As they finally rounded a corner, Bobby stopped in front of a small building with a glowing sign that read “Moonlit Greens.” Athena glanced up, her curiosity piqued as she realized they were going to do a mini-golf course. Behind the building, she could see a whimsical, glowing course. The course was spread out across a lush, green lawn, with brightly colored obstacles scattered throughout. The soft glow from lanterns hung along the path created a magical, almost dreamlike atmosphere.

“Mini-golf?” Athena asked, a smile tugging at her lips as she turned to Bobby.

Bobby grinned.“Yep. I haven't played mini golf in a while and I thought that after dinner, we could do something lighthearted and fun.”

Athena chuckled, appreciating the playful thought behind it. “I like it. I haven’t done this in years.”

“Perfect,” Bobby said, gently squeezing her hand before leading her . “It’ll be a first for both of us tonight, then.”

Bobby paid for their game and grabbed two golf clubs along with a pair of brightly colored golf balls—one neon pink and the other a vibrant blue. He handed a club to Athena and held up the pink ball with a grin. “Think you can beat me?”

Athena took the club with a playful smirk, glancing at the course ahead. “We’ll see. I might just surprise you.”

Bobby laughed as they walked to the first hole. “I’m looking forward to it.”

They started the game, and the lighthearted competition began. Bobby was clearly good at this, taking his time with each shot, but never missing a chance to tease Athena.

Bobby smiled, shaking his head in disbelief. “You know, for someone who claims to be rusty, you’re doing pretty well,” he remarked after Athena sank a tricky shot.

She gave him a sly smile, her eyes sparkling with confidence. “I told you, I’ve got some hidden talents.”

Bobby chuckled, leaning on his club as he watched her. “I’m impressed. But don’t get too confident—I’m still in this.” He said, raising an eyebrow as he prepared for his turn.

He lined up his shot, focusing on the ball with determination. But when he swung, the ball veered off course, missing the hole entirely. His cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Athena couldn’t help but laugh, her eyes locking with his. “Are you though?” she teased with a playful grin, finding his blush endearing.

Bobby sighed, shaking his head as he tried to laugh it off. “Just ignore that,” he muttered as they moved on to the next hole.

They eventually reached one of the more challenging parts of the course. Athena eyed the narrow path ahead, the hole positioned just beyond a small hill with a winding curve that made it tricky to aim. She lined up her shot, but Bobby noticed the slight hesitation in her stance.

“Mind if I give you a tip?” Bobby asked, stepping closer, his voice gentle.

Athena looked at him, smiling. “Sure.”

Bobby’s expression softened as he met her gaze. “May I?” he asked, gesturing toward her arms to indicate he wanted to adjust her form.

She nodded, giving him permission.

With her permission, Bobby moved behind her, carefully placing his hands on her arms, guiding her gently into a better stance. His touch was light, almost cautious, as if he was hyper-aware of the space between them. Athena could feel the warmth of his hands on her skin. Her heart was beating out of her chest.

“Alright,” Bobby said softly, his voice warm in her ear. “Try to keep your arms a little more relaxed, and aim slightly to the left. The curve of the hill will do the rest.”

As he adjusted her grip on the club, his fingers lightly brushing against hers, Athena’s heart skipped a beat. It wasn’t just the proximity—it was the care and attentiveness in his actions, the way he seemed to be fully focused on helping her succeed.

“Like this?” Athena asked, glancing up at him for reassurance.

Bobby nodded, his face close to hers. “Exactly. Now, just a smooth swing.”

Taking a deep breath, Athena felt more confident with Bobby’s guidance. She swung the club, and the ball rolled smoothly along the path, following the curve perfectly before stopping just inches from the hole.

Athena’s face lit up with excitement. “It worked!” she exclaimed, her joy bubbling over as she impulsively turned and hugged Bobby.

Bobby’s arms wrapped around her in surprise, holding her close for a moment before she pulled back, his hands sliding down to her waist without even realizing it.

 He couldn’t help but smile at her happiness, his chest fluttering because he made her happy. “Told you you had it in you,” He said.

  If I could see you happy all the time. He thought.

They stood there for a moment, closer than before, the success of the shot almost secondary to the connection they were sharing. Athena felt a warmth in her chest, not just from the accomplishment but from the way Bobby had helped her, how he had been so respectful and careful, asking for permission before making a move. She's never had that before.

“Thank you,” she said softly, her voice filled with sincerity.

Bobby’s smile softened, his hands still lightly resting on her waist before he stepped back, giving her space again. “Of course.”

They headed down the course so Athena could hit it into the hole. They were genuinely having fun, carrying with it the coolness of the evening air. The temperature had dropped gradually as they played, and Athena felt the chill immediately. She shivered slightly, her arms wrapping around herself as she tried to ward off the cold.

Bobby noticed immediately. He couldn’t ignore the subtle shiver that ran through her, and without a word, he walked over and slipped off his suit jacket. He draped it over her shoulders with a gentle touch, the warmth of the fabric instantly enveloping her.

Athena looked up at him, surprised and touched by the gesture. “Bobby, you didn’t have to…”

“I wanted to,” Bobby interrupted, his tone firm. “I can’t have you freezing out here.”

Athena says a thank you, her cheeks warming. She truly felt cherished tonight. Bobby’s jacket carried the scent of his cologne, wrapped her in a sense of security and closeness. It made her feel like she was in his embrace once again.

She lined up her shot, her focus sharper, and with a confident swing, sent the ball rolling down the course.

Bobby watched her, his hands in his pockets. The way she wore his jacket, oversized but perfectly fitting, her figure. The soft fabric framed her perfectly, and made her look even more beautiful. She looked good wearing it, wearing his clothes.

After a few more holes, they finally finish the course. They had an amazing time, enjoying every single moment. They laughed, they got to know each other deeper. They got to see sides of each other they have never seen before.

They put everything away and start walking back toward the car, Athena glances at her phone and realizes it's so late, 11 pm. Time passed by so quickly with Bobby.

“Thank you,” Athena said, her voice filled with joy. “I haven’t played golf in a long time and I really enjoyed it”

Bobby smiled, his hands resting comfortably in his pockets as they strolled side by side. “I’m glad.” he said. “It was fun with you.”

“Well, you make it so enjoyable.” She said. “I like being with you.”

Just, as Bobby was about to respond, Athena’s phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out and saw her bodyguard’s name flashing on the screen.  “S0rry, I have to take this.”

Bobby nodded, stepping back so she could have some privacy.

Her brow furrowed slightly as she answered. “Hello?” she said, her voice curious but calm. Bobby watched her closely, noticing the slight shift in her expression as she listened to the person on the other end of the line.

“Yes, I understand… How long?… Alright, thank you for letting me know.” Athena’s voice was steady, but Bobby could see a hint of concern in her eyes. She ended the call and sighed softly, slipping the phone back into her pocket.

“What’s wrong?” Bobby asked, his tone gentle.

Athena looked at him, her lips pressing together briefly before she spoke. “That was my bodyguard. There’s an issue with the car—it won’t start, and the backup vehicle is delayed. He’s trying to sort it out, but it might be a while.”

“I can stay with you if you want?” Bobby said. 

Athena shook her head. “No it's okay, I’ll probably call a cab or something.”

The idea of her waiting alone for a cab didn’t sit right with Bobby. It was late, she didn’t have her bodyguard and anything could happen. “If it’s okay, I could take you home?” he offered.

Athena hesitated, not wanting to impose, but the idea of spending more time with Bobby was more appealing than waiting around for her car to be fixed. She looked at him and saw only concern in his offer. She didn't feel scared either. 

“Are you sure?” she asked, nervously.

“I’m sure,” Bobby replied with a reassuring smile. “I’d be happy to.”

Athena nodded, grateful. “Thank you, Bobby. I appreciate it.”

He nodded and they walked toward Bobby’s truck. The evening had been full of unexpected surprises, but this one, she thought, might be the best of all. As they got into the truck and pulled away from the mini golf course, she couldn't wait to say goodnight to him.

As they drove, Athena noticed something odd—Bobby hadn’t asked for her address. A small pang of nervousness crept in, but before she could voice her concern, Bobby spoke up, his tone warm and reassuring.

“It might be a little weird that I didn’t ask for your address,” he began, glancing at her briefly before returning his focus to the road. “Scary, even, and I don’t mean to be a creep, but I know where you live because of May. One time, she left her MacBook at the store, and she needed it for school. She was busy at the time, so she told me to just drop by the house and put it near the front door.”

Athena’s tension melted away at his explanation. She instantly remembered that day and a conversation whilst she was in the kitchen with her kids and overheard them talking about it. 

She smiled softly, feeling more at ease. “I remember that. May was so relieved to have her laptop back.”

Bobby chuckled. “I’m just glad I could help. I didn’t want you to think I was some kind of stalker.”

Athena laughed lightly, shaking her head. “No, Bobby, I don’t think that at all. I trust you.”

A comfortable silence settled between them. The hum of the engine filled the space, but neither felt the need to break the quiet. Bobby’s hand rested casually on the steering wheel, while Athena gazed out the window, her thoughts swirling. The warmth of Bobby’s jacket still clung to her shoulders, a reminder of the unexpected but welcome closeness they’d shared throughout the evening. 

They finally pulled up to Athena’s house, the soft glow of the porch light greeted them. Bobby brought the truck to a gentle stop, and moved out of the car.

Athena paused for a moment, looking up at the stars scattered across the dark sky, feeling the quiet of the night settle over her. Bobby walked her to the door and once they reached the porch, Athena turned to face him.

Bobby offers her a smile. “I had a wonderful time tonight, Athena." 

"I did too." 

A pause lingers between them and Athena can’t help but wander to his mouth. Yes, she wants to, to kiss him. Tonight had been so cherishing, it felt rewarding, amazing. They had this deep connection and shared many things effortlessly. There was no pressure, no expectations. Not about what had to wear because he thought she was beautiful. He just let her be herself, he did so many things, he wasn’t abusive. It was just an ease between them that she hadn’t felt in a long time. 

Here he was, and she knew he wanted to kiss her because he was standing there glancing at her lips too. Maybe it was too early, maybe they hadn't gone out for a long time and they shouldn't kiss. But it felt too right. 

She stepped closer to him, her heart racing slightly. She looked up into his eyes, and before she could second-guess herself, she leaned in, placing a soft, tentative kiss on his lips. It was a soft, almost shy peck, but it held more meaning than she could have. She then pulled away only inches away from his lips to see if he would respond.

It was not a forced kiss, but a willing kiss.

Bobby froze for a heartbeat, surprised, but then his hand gently cupped her cheek, and he leaned in, kissing her back. His lips were warm and soft against hers, and the kiss was tender, unhurried, filled with the quiet affection that had been building between them all evening.

Their lips moved together and Athena instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck. Bobby’s hands found its way to her waist, pulling her even closer. 

The feel of her arms around his neck, her body pressed against his, was comforting and grounding. It was as if everything in that moment clicked into place, and the world around them faded away.

When they finally broke apart, their foreheads rested against each other, their breaths mingling in the cool night air. Bobby’s hand lingered on her waist, while Athena’s fingers gently played with the hair at the nape of his neck. 

They slowly let go of each other, hands embraced though. Their eyes met each other.

“Wow,” Bobby whispered, his voice full of awe. “I didn’t see that coming.”

Athena chuckled softly, her eyes shining with emotion. “Neither did I, but it felt... right.”

“It did,” Bobby agreed. “I’ve wanted to do that all night, but I didn’t want to rush you.”

Athena smiled, her heart swelling at his words. “You didn’t rush me. I wanted to... I wanted to see what this was, and I’m glad I did.”

Bobby grinned, his eyes locking with hers. “Me too.”

Athena squeezed his fingers. "Thank you for a lovely evening, Bobby." 

He nodded. “Of course. Goodnight.” 

"I'll call you.” She said, “Drive safe.”

Bobby nodded, not wanting to let go but did. It took everything for him to turn around.

Tonight had been one of the best nights for both of them, and they couldn't wait to do it all over again. 

Athena watches him drive away, feeling absolutely elated at how well this night had gone.

Two people, who had taken a step and would never realize how it would bring them together in the future. 

Chapter Text

Bobby stood in the doorway of their bedroom, his wife as she stood in front of the mirror, applying her makeup. She looked beautiful, as always, dressed in a sleek, black dress that hugged her figure perfectly. But as he admired her, a familiar knot of anxiety tightened in his stomach. He didn’t understand why things between them had changed so much, why she seemed so distant lately.

He had been trying to make things better, to bring them closer again, but it felt like the more he tried, the further away she became. He just wanted to spend more time together. He missed her.

“Hey baby,” Bobby started, his voice gentle, almost tentative. “I was thinking… maybe we could go out tonight, just the two of us. There’s that new chinese place downtown. I could make a reservation.”

Marcy paused, her hand hovering over her lipstick. She didn’t look at him, her eyes fixed on her reflection instead. “I have plans tonight, Bobby. I told you that.”

“I know,” he said, stepping into the room, his tone hopeful. “But maybe after? Or tomorrow night? We haven’t gone out in a while, and I miss spending time with you.”

She finally looked at him through the mirror, her expression hard to read. For a moment, Bobby thought she might agree, that she might see how much this meant to him. But then she turned away from the mirror, her expression darkening.

“Why are you always doing this?” Marcy snapped, her voice sharper than he expected. “Why do you keep pushing for these dates, these dinners? You know how busy I am. I have a lot on my plate, Bobby, and the last thing I need is more pressure from you.”

Bobby blinked, taken aback by the sudden shift in her tone. “I’m not trying to pressure you, baby. I just… I just want to spend time with you. We hardly talk anymore.”

Marcy let out a frustrated sigh, throwing her lipstick down on the vanity with a clatter. “And whose fault is that? I’m working my butt off to keep this family afloat, to give us a good life, and all you seem to care about is dragging me to some overpriced restaurant.”

“That’s not true,” Bobby said, his voice thick with confusion and hurt. “I know how hard you’re working, and I appreciate it. I just thought that maybe we could—”

“Could what, Bobby?” she interrupted, her eyes flashing with irritation. “Pretend like everything’s fine? Like we’re still some happy, carefree couple? Newsflash: we’re not. I’m tired, I’m stressed, and I don’t have the energy for these ridiculous date nights you keep pushing on me.”

Her words hit him like a slap in the face. He stood there, trying to process the anger in her voice, the resentment in her eyes. This wasn’t the Marcy he had married, the woman who used to laugh with him, who used to find joy in the simplest things, eager to always spend time with him, to kiss him. He didn’t understand where this was coming from, why she seemed so angry with him all the time.

“I’m sorry,” Bobby said quietly, his shoulders sagging. “I didn’t mean to upset you. I just thought… I thought it might help.”

Marcy shook her head, her expression softening slightly, but there was still a hardness in her eyes. “What would help is if you stopped expecting me to be someone I’m not anymore. Things have changed, Bobby. I’ve changed. And maybe you need to start accepting that.”

Bobby felt a lump form in his throat, but he forced himself to nod. “Okay. I’ll back off. I just… I miss you Marcy, I love you.”

Marcy looked at him for a long moment, and for a brief second, he thought he saw something—regret, maybe, or sadness—but then it was gone, replaced by that same distant look she had been giving him for months.

“Don’t wait up,” she said, grabbing her purse and heading for the door.

As the door closed behind her, Bobby stood alone in the room, the weight of Marcy's words pressing down on him like a heavy blanket. He didn’t know what he had done wrong, why Marcy had started pulling away from him. 

All he wanted was to make things better, to find a way back to the love they once shared. But the harder he tried, the more she seemed to slip through his fingers, leaving him feeling more helpless with each passing day.

Now, as he stared at the empty space where she had just stood, Bobby couldn’t shake the growing sense of dread in his chest. He felt like he was losing her, and he had no idea how to stop it. Was he not enough for her anymore? Did she still want to be with him? The questions swirled in his mind, each one more painful than the last.

This wasn’t the first time he had felt this way, and that only made it worse. It was as if history was repeating itself, relationship after relationship and the fear of losing Marcy, of not being wanted, was almost too much to bear. Marcy had shown him what true love felt like, or at least that’s what he believed. They had promised each other that they would make it work, that they wouldn’t give up on their love. But now, Bobby was left wondering why this was happening again. Why didn’t anyone want him?

☁♡☁

It had been almost a month since that unforgettable night—a night that had marked the beginning of something new for both Bobby and Athena. In the days that followed, they had seamlessly fallen into a rhythm, secretly finding ways to spend time with each other, stealing kisses and sharing quiet moments.

They decided to keep their relationship quiet, wary of the impact social media could have. It wasn’t that they were eager to spread the word anyway; it was still early and new. They wanted to tell only the people closest to them, but not the kids—at least not yet

Athena started going to the bookstore more to write her book…and to see Bobby, but it became a second place for her, and it helped her write. She could watch the customers and add more characters, she could envision it. Fans had come in and looked around. Bobby’s shop became more popular. She saw the interactions he made and how he was with everyone. 

What started as cautious steps into uncharted territory had quickly blossomed into something deeper, more meaningful.

Both of them found themselves caring more for each other with each passing day. They found comfort in one another, the kind that comes from knowing there’s someone you can trust, someone who truly understands. Whenever something happened, Bobby was the first person Athena reached out to, and she was the first person he thought of when anything was on his mind.

Even though they were telling their closest friends, nothing was official yet, they were moving slowly, both conscious of taking their time. It felt natural, unspoken, as if they instinctively knew that they didn’t need to rush. They both appreciated the pace— allowing their relationship to grow authentically.

Athena found herself leaning on Bobby more and more, craving the sound of his voice, the warmth of his hugs, the sweetness of his kisses, and the thoughtful gestures that spoke volumes. He was so observant, considerate, and understanding—it was all so pure. Yet, even as she melted into these moments, a part of her couldn’t help but hold back. She knew Bobby wasn’t abusive; he wasn’t like him, but the fear lingered.

What if she got too attached? What if, when she finally opened up about her past, he wouldn’t want her anymore? What if, one day, he came back? The thought of deepening their relationship was both thrilling and terrifying because this was getting really real. Athena felt things with Bobby—real feelings, intense feelings.

These worries gnawed at her, but for now, Athena pushed them aside, choosing to focus on the happiness she felt when she was with Bobby—the warmth and comfort of the present.

“Don’t you look beautiful,” Bobby said as Athena walked into his store, her tote bag in hand.

Athena felt a blush rising to her cheeks, thankful it wouldn’t show on her dark skin. “Thank you,” she replied softly as she made her way over to him.

She felt a flutter in her chest, a sense of giddiness that had become familiar in the past weeks. 

With the comfort that had grown between them, just this week, Bobby had greeted her with a peck on the lips—a gesture that had happened naturally, without thought.

 Now, five days into the week, Bobby’s hands found their way to her waist, gently pulling her closer. He gazed into her eyes for a brief moment before leaning in to kiss her. It was soft and sweet.

“How are you?” Bobby asked, his voice warm.

“I’m good,” Athena replied, her smile broadening. “I spent all night writing, and I’m halfway through my book now. And now, I’m here with you.”

His lips curved into a smile. “I’m glad you’re here.”

“Are you okay?” she asked, her eyes searching for any sign of unease.

“I’m better now,” Bobby said, his smile widening into a grin. “You always make my day brighter.”

Athena returned his smile as they made their way to the back of his office to relax and sit down. His shop wasn’t open yet, giving them about 30 minutes of alone time before the day began. 

As they settled on the couch, Bobby wrapped his arm around her, and Athena leaned back into him. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she asked, “Can I talk about my book?”

“Of course,” Bobby replied, his voice filled with enthusiasm. He wondered why she even asked—he was always happy to listen to her. For the past few weeks, Athena had started talking about her book with Bobby, about where the story was going. But she didn't tell him any spoilers because she wanted him to wait like everyone else.

Athena’s smile widened as she reached into her tote bag and pulled out her MacBook. Opening it, she began to show him the latest chapters she had worked on. 

“Well,” she began, “as you know, Aurelia is at a crossroads. She’s just discovered that the people she thought she could trust have been hiding something from her—something big.”

Bobby nodded, his fingers tracing gentle circles on her shoulder. “Yeah, I remember. Ezra, Harriet, Zora and Roza were all leaving her out of their conversations. Aureila felt as though they were distancing from her.”

“Yeah, exactly. Well, now she has to decide whether to confront them and risk everything or stay silent and keep the peace.”

Bobby listened intently, nodding along with her. “That sounds intense. What’s she going to do?”

Athena’s smile grew, a mix of pride and anticipation lighting up her eyes. “She’s going to confront them. Aurelia isn’t the type to back down, even when she’s scared. It’s going to be a turning point for her. I mean, with the war plot, the gladiators, her family abandoning her, and being in a mixed family, she has to confront them, no matter what happens. She’s been through so much and she’s not going to back down now. After years of feeling like she can’t be herself, of being beat down, of being hurt. She’s not going to let anyone decide that.”

“I like that,” Bobby said thoughtfully. “She sounds strong, like someone who knows her worth. Someone who knows that when they fall, they can get back up even stronger.”

Athena felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. “I hope so. I want her to be someone readers can look up to, someone who inspires them to stand up for themselves.”

“You’re doing a great job,” Bobby said softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “I can tell how much this story means to you.”

“It does,” Athena admitted. “Writing it has been therapeutic in a way, like I’m working through my own fears by helping her face hers.”

Bobby’s expression softened as he gazed at her, a deep understanding in his eyes. He knew everyone had fears, a past they carried with them. From how slowly they had been progressing in their relationship, he had come to realize that Athena had been through something difficult—something that still lingered in the background, influencing her life and her writing. He wanted to know more, and he couldn’t wait to get to know all of her but he knew he had to be patient. When the time was right, she would tell him. He didn’t want to push or risk leaving her feeling vulnerable.

“You’re stronger than you know, Athena,” Bobby said quietly, his voice full of sincerity.

She looked up at him, feeling a warmth in her chest. “Thank you. That means a lot coming from you.” She felt heard and understood.

Bobby squeezed her arm softly, giving her a gentle smile. Athena leaned back into him, her fingers tapping away at the keyboard as she made a few edits to her manuscript. Bobby watched her with a smile, appreciating the peaceful moment they were sharing.

After a few minutes, Bobby spoke up, trying to sound casual but unable to hide the slight edge of nervousness in his voice. “Are you busy tonight?”

Athena looked up from her laptop. “Not really. May is hanging out with Darius, and Harry is having a sleepover with his friends,” she said. “Why?”

Bobby took a breath, feeling a bit more anxious than he expected. “I was wondering if you wanted to have dinner at my place tonight?”

Athena hesitated for just a second, the invitation catching her off guard. They had a date at his place once before, on their fifth date. She could tell he was a little nervous about asking, likely because it had been a while since they’d spent time at his place, knowing anything could happen. But she had enjoyed that evening, getting to know him better in the comfort of his home. Hen had given her the advice to walk out if Bobby ever crossed a line, but he never had—he was always respectful and considerate of her boundaries, being attentive to however she felt, how she acted, if something was okay.

“I’d like that,” she replied.

“Great,” Bobby said, his smile broadening as relief washed over him. “I’ll cook something special this time. How does that sound?”

“Perfect,” Athena said, feeling a flutter of excitement at the thought of what the evening might hold. 

She then glanced at him with a playful glint in her eyes, recalling their first dance. “You know though, I’m really looking forward to trying those amazing waffles this time.”

Bobby laughed, catching on to her teasing tone. “Oh, really now? So you’re just using me for waffles, huh?”

Athena gave him a sly smile. “Maybe I am,” she teased, her voice light. 

Bobby shook his head with a smile. Athena leaned into him a little more as they continued to talk, the both of their hearts beating a little faster as the day went by.

༺༻

Their relationship wasn’t exclusive yet. They hadn’t put a label on what they had. So why was Bobby feeling this way? Was it because he had finally found someone after such a long time who felt good and refreshing, someone he didn’t want to lose? Was he starting to really like her, maybe even fall for her?

Over the past few weeks, security had increased around the bookstore since Athena had started being more public with her appearances. 

And as of now, Bobby was shelving some books, he noticed Athena talking to a man near the fiction section. 

The man was tall, well-dressed, and had an easy smile that seemed to light up Athena’s face.

 Bobby recognized him as one of the regular customers, though he hadn’t seen him in a while.

It was the way Athena’s smile brightened and the way she shook the man’s hand. The interaction seemed joyful, almost too joyful for Bobby’s liking.

From behind the counter, Bobby watched them, a slight frown creasing his forehead. He tried to focus on organizing some new arrivals, but his eyes kept drifting back to Athena and the man. 

They were standing close, the man laughing at something Athena said, and she was smiling, her eyes bright with interest. When the man’s hand casually brushed Athena’s arm, Bobby’s chest tightened.

She wasn’t his—not officially—but he couldn’t help the small pang of jealousy gnawing at him. Athena was gorgeous, smart, and kind. Of course, people would be drawn to her. She was a famous author, after all. But did she like him the way he liked her?

As he watched them, doubts began to creep into his mind. Bobby had been through enough heartbreak in his life to know that love wasn’t always enough. He had learned that people could leave, that sometimes, despite your best efforts, you weren’t enough to make them stay. What if Athena found someone better? Someone who didn’t have as much baggage, someone who hadn’t been broken before?

Bobby couldn’t believe he was thinking about these things so early in their relationship. He shouldn’t be this attached—not yet. They weren’t exclusive, so why did he feel so jealous? He hated this feeling—the vulnerability it brought with it. He barely knew anything about Athena’s past: where the father of May and Harry was, or if she’d had any other relationships. Was she talking to other people?

He tried to shake off the thoughts, but the jealousy lingered, unsettling him. He hadn’t felt like this in years—not since Marcy. 

It unnerved him to think that all the moments he’d shared with Athena could disappear in an instant. 

He could almost hear Chimney’s voice in his head, telling him not to let his past cloud his judgment with Athena. Chimney would tell him to live in the present and communicate with her instead of stewing in his doubts.

Finally, the man Athena had been speaking with walked away, leaving her standing alone, flipping through the pages of a book. Bobby’s thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a gentle touch on his hand.

“Hey, you okay?” Athena asked softly, her thumb rubbing his knuckles as she interlaced her fingers with his.

Bobby hadn’t even realized she had walked over to him. “Y-Yeah, I’m okay,” he stammered, trying to pull himself together.

Athena tilted her head, clearly not convinced. She studied him for a moment, her eyes filled with concern. “Are you sure?” she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Bobby managed a smile, slipping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. “I’m sure, Thena,” he murmured, trying to reassure her, but also himself. I don't want to let go .

Athena smiled at the mention of her nickname, a tender look in her eyes as she leaned in to press a soft kiss to his lips. “Okay,” she murmured against his lips before pulling away.

His hands tightened slightly on her waist, and before he could stop himself, the question slipped out. “Who were you talking to?”

“Oh, it was just a fan,” Athena explained, her tone light. “They were asking for my autograph and talking about how much of an influence I’ve been in their life.”

Bobby nodded, but doubt still echoed in his mind. It seemed like more than just a fan interaction. He couldn’t shake the feeling, no matter how hard he tried.

Athena kept looking at him, her eyes searching his face as if she could sense what he was feeling, trying to understand. It was like she could read him.

“Bobby, I—”

Athena was suddenly interrupted by the doorbell. They both looked toward the front door as it swung open, and Chimney burst in, his face flushed with excitement and worry.

"Bobby! You will not believe what just happened!" Chimney yelled, practically rushing toward them without even noticing Athena was there. He made a beeline straight towards Bobby.

Bobby instinctively took a small step back from Athena, his hands slipping from her waist but still lingering close. He turned to face Chimney, raising his hands slightly in a calming gesture. "Chim, whoa, what's going on?"

Chimney launched into his story like a bullet. "I just have to tell you this—I need some advice right now, Bobby. This is life or death."

Bobby chuckled, his earlier concerns momentarily forgotten. “I doubt it’s life or death, but go ahead.”

Chimney rolled his eyes, but his expression was serious. “Just go with it. Anyway, so Maddie and I were talking last night, and it started off as a regular conversation, right? But then, out of nowhere, she drops this bomb on me. She said she wants us to move in together!”

Bobby blinked in surprise. "Move in together? That's huge, Chim. How do you feel about it?"

Athena, who had been standing quietly beside Bobby, listened. She had heard about Chimney from Bobby, and this was her first time meeting him. She couldn't help but smile at the sight of their friendship—it reminded her of her own with Hen.

"I know, right? At first, I was totally caught off guard," Chimney continued, his words tumbling out in a rush. "I mean, it's not like we haven't talked about the future before, but this... this is different. It's real, Bobby. Maddie said she's been thinking about it for a while, and she feels like it’s the right next step for us."

Bobby nodded, understanding. "And what did you say?"

Chimney’s expression grew more serious, his earlier excitement giving way to uncertainty. “Well, I—I told Maddie I needed some time to process it, you know? I mean, I mean we’ve been together for a while, I love her but moving in together... that’s a big step. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t just saying yes because it’s what she wanted. I needed to be sure it was what I wanted too."

Bobby placed a reassuring hand on Chimney’s shoulder. “It’s okay to feel unsure, Chim. What you told Maddie was good—you’re being honest with her, and that’s important. Moving in together is a big step, but it’s also a chance to grow closer. If you’re not ready, that’s okay. But if you are... don’t let fear hold you back.”

Athena added gently, “Chimney, it sounds like you care a lot about Maddie, and that’s why you’re being cautious. But sometimes, taking that leap, as Bobby said, brings people closer. It’s okay to be scared—it means you’re taking it seriously.”

Chimney looked at her, his expression softening as he finally acknowledged her. "You really think so?"

Athena nodded. "Absolutely. You just need to talk to her, let her know where you're coming from. She'll understand."

Bobby smiled. “You’re not chickening out, Chim. You’re being thoughtful. But if you know in your heart that you want to be with Maddie, don’t let fear make the decision for you.”

Chimney nodded slowly, the tension in his shoulders easing. “Yeah... you’re right. I do want to be with her. I just need to talk to her, let her know where I’m coming from.”

Athena smiled warmly at Chimney. “And she’ll understand. Communication is key in any relationship.”

Chimney gave them a small, grateful smile. “Thanks, guys. I really needed to hear that. I’ll talk to Maddie tonight.”

Bobby felt a conviction in those words. He should talk to Athena about what was on his mind. He couldn't keep his feelings bottled up any longer

As the conversation wound down, Chimney finally took a proper look at Athena, his eyes widening in recognition. He blinked several times, processing what he was seeing. Then, with a smirk, he turned to Bobby.

“Wait, Bobby, isn't she... Athena Carter? The famous author? The one that makes you smile all the time and who you can’t stop talking about?”

Bobby’s face flushed a deep shade of red, practically turning into a tomato. He opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out.

Athena, noticing his flustered state, grabbed his hand, chuckling softly. “Glad to know I make Bobby smile a lot. Yes, I am Athena Carter, best-selling author,” she said, her tone playful. 

She then glanced at Bobby with a warm smile. She took a breath and said “And his girlfriend.”

Bobby whipped his head toward Athena faster than he ever had before, his eyes wide with surprise. Girlfriend? The word echoed in his mind, filling him with a mix of shock and happiness. All of his doubts vanished in an instant.

He hadn’t expected that. They hadn't even talked about it—about labeling their relationship, especially in front of someone else. Like officially introducing each other to someone. And that someone turned out to be his best friend, it was perfect. Hearing her say it made his heart race in the best way possible. It made everything official. She knew he was feeling jealous. She knew. She just knew.

Chimney smiled, taking in Bobby's stunned expression. He knew what had happened. “Well, well, Bobby, I didn’t know you were making such big moves. Girlfriend, huh? That’s a pretty big deal.”

Bobby finally found his voice, though it was a bit shaky. “Yeah, I guess it is,” he said, still processing the new label. He looked at Athena, his eyes softening. “I’m... I’m your boyfriend?”

Athena squeezed his hand, her smile reassuring. She nodded. “Yeah.” She said, “You are.”

Bobby realized that he didn’t need to worry about where they stood anymore—Athena had just made it clear. She saw him as someone important, someone she wanted in her life, someone she wanted to continue getting to know and that was all he needed.

Chimney, sensing the moment between them, decided to give them some space. “I’ll, uh, leave you two lovebirds to it,” he said with a wink, backing toward the door. “It was nice meeting you Athena, and I hope we get to talk more soon.”

Athena nodded. “Of course, it was great meeting you too.”

Chimney smiled and glanced at Bobby. “And Bobby, we’ll talk more later, okay?”

Bobby nodded, his focus still on Athena. “Yeah, later, Chim.”

Chimney gave them a quick wave before exiting the store.

Bobby turned back to Athena, his heart full. “I didn’t know you felt that way,” he said quietly, almost as if he was still trying to convince himself that this was real.

Athena smiled, stepping closer to him. “I do, Bobby. And I think you feel the same way, don’t you?”

He nodded, wrapping his arms around her. “Yeah, I do. More than I even realized.”

She gave him a kiss, just like earlier. “I’m glad,” she murmured against his lips before pulling away. They stared at each other for a few seconds, the air between them thick with unspoken words.

Bobby couldn't help but notice the softness in Athena's eyes, with a hint of understanding. It was the look she got when she wanted to say something important. Her hand fell to his chest, making small circles with her fingers.

“You know,” Athena began, her voice gentle, “I noticed something earlier.”

Bobby furrowed his brow, curious. “What do you mean?”

Athena smiled, brushing a strand of hair away from his forehead. “When I was talking to that fan... I couldn’t help but glance at you, and I saw it in your eyes.”

Bobby’s heart skipped a beat. “Saw what?”

“The jealousy,” she said softly. “I saw the way you looked at us. I could tell you were feeling something, but you didn’t say anything after I asked you if you were okay.”

Bobby’s face flushed slightly, and he glanced down, suddenly feeling a bit exposed. “I... I didn’t want to make a big deal out of it,” he admitted.

Athena gently tilted his head back up to look at her, her eyes filled with adoration and warmth. “Bobby, I get that. We never really talked about it, and I know we’re moving along pretty slowly. But I want to know how you feel if something’s bothering you. Especially if it's about our relationship. Don’t think you’ll come off as possessive or insecure because, Bobby, from the time we started getting to know each other until now, I have never seen that in you, and I have never felt that way with you.”

She chuckled softly, her fingers continuing their gentle motion on his chest. “Plus, considering the fact that you tried to ignore how you were feeling, it’s a bonus. It shows you care, and that means a lot to me.”

Bobby let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. “I just... I didn’t want to ruin anything by overthinking. I really like where this is going and I don't want to-.”

Athena shook her head, her smile reassuring. “You’re not going to ruin anything, Bobby. If anything, talking about it brings us closer. I care about how you feel, and I want us to be honest with each other. I mean there are times where we are both going to be vulnerable and not say anything.”

He nodded, feeling the weight of his doubts lift. “You’re right. I’ll do better, Athena. I don’t want to hide anything from you.”

Athena leaned in, pressing another soft kiss to his lips. “Good, because I’m not going anywhere, Bobby. I’m here with you and I also really like where this is going and I want to keep building this together.”

Bobby smiled, his heart swelling. “Me too, Athena. Me too.”

As they stood there, right in the bookstore, Bobby felt a sense of peace wash over him. Athena had made it clear that she wasn’t going anywhere unless he gave her a reason to. At that moment, he realized something significant—he was starting to fall for her. Really fall for her.

༺༻

Athena didn't expect to do that. She didn't expect to tell Chimney that she was Bobby’s girlfriend. She hadn’t planned to introduce herself as Bobby’s girlfriend, but when she saw that look in Bobby’s eyes as she talked with the fan, something shifted within her. She felt happy, genuinely glad that he felt so strongly about her. She recognized that look anywhere—that jealousy—and with Bobby, it was so pure, so innocent. It didn’t make her scared, it didn’t make her want to leave.

When she approached him earlier, she noticed the distress in his eyes. And when he didn’t immediately tell her what was bothering him, she knew he was wrestling with doubts. She understood because she had them too, about their relationship and where it was headed.

But Bobby was a breath of fresh air in her life, a gentle presence that she hadn’t realized she needed. He was kind, almost to a fault, the kind of man who would go out of his way to avoid hurting anyone. It amused her, how someone so big and strong could be so soft-hearted.

This made her realize something important: Bobby had been hurt before. He had a past, one that likely left him with scars. Despite that, he was different from any man she had ever met. His kindness, his gentleness, it was all new to her, and she found herself wanting more of it. She didn’t want this to end and didn’t want to hurt him.

Athena's feelings for Bobby were growing stronger with each passing day. She knew she wanted to be with him, to see where this relationship could go. The idea of losing him now, just when things were starting to feel so right, was something she couldn’t bear to think about. 

This is what a relationship should look like. This is what it was supposed to feel like. It wasn’t supposed to feel like 30 years ago.

Bobby opened the door to his apartment, he greeted her with a warm smile. “Hey there,” he said, his voice soft as he led her inside.

Bobby took her jacket and purse, hanging them up on the rack by the door. The familiar space of his apartment invited Athena in, wrapping her in a sense of comfort. The walls were adorned with pictures—photos of Chimney and Bobby, of Bobby and  Brooke, and even a few of the three of them together. These memories were mingled with famous quotes from authors and shelves lined with books, adding a personal touch to his home.

“Hey,” Athena replied, returning his smile.

Bobby gently took her hand, leading her into the kitchen. “How was the ride here?” he asked.

“It was okay,” Athena shrugged lightly.  “Nothing beats LA traffic.”

Bobby chuckled. “You’ve got that right. It’s like a battlefield out there.”

As they stepped into the kitchen, Athena couldn’t help but recall the small details, the memories they had already built together. She thought about their fifth date, when they had shared a meal sitting on the island stools, laughing as they moved around the kitchen, and even having their first food fight. The thought brought a smile to her face.

This time, though, something was different. She noticed ingredients neatly laid out on the counter, and she looked at Bobby with curiosity.

“Since you wanted to know what my waffles taste like,” Bobby began, a playful glint in his eyes. “ And I know these are going to be the best waffles you’ve ever had, I plan to prove that to you, so I thought we could make them together. That way, you’ll know exactly how they’re made, and you’ll always remember who taught you.”

Athena let out a laugh, shaking her head at his confidence. “Oh, Nash, you are bold. I’m going to be extra tough on how good these waffles are.”

Bobby grinned. “Challenge accepted.”

He guided her over to the counter, where he had already measured out the flour, sugar, baking powder, and other ingredients. “We’ll start with the dry ingredients,” he explained, handing her a large mixing bowl.

As Athena poured the flour into the bowl, Bobby moved behind her, close enough that she could feel the warmth of his body against her back. He reached around her, his arms brushing hers as he added the baking powder and sugar to the mix. 

Athena’s breath caught slightly at the proximity, the intimacy of the moment 

“You’re really good at this,” Bobby said softly, his voice close to her ear.

Athena chuckled, trying to focus on the task at hand despite the distraction behind her, so close. “I’m just following your lead.”

Bobby smiled, pressing a soft kiss to the side of her head before stepping back slightly. “Now for the wet ingredients,” he said, handing her the eggs and milk.

Athena cracked the eggs into a separate bowl and whisked them with the milk, Bobby watched her with a fond smile. “What’s one thing about your childhood that you wouldn’t trade for anything?” He asked, breaking the silence.

Athena paused, thinking about his question. “I’d say it’s the time I spent with my dad. He taught me how to fish, and even though we didn’t catch much, those moments were special. He made me feel safe, like nothing could go wrong as long as he was there.”

Bobby nodded, leaning against the counter as he listened. “That sounds nice. My dad and I used to build model airplanes together. It was one of the few times I felt like we really connected.”

Athena looked up at him, her eyes softening. “You’re the same way, Bobby. You have this way of making people feel safe, like they can just be themselves around you.”

“I think that’s something we both need,” he said quietly. “Someone who makes us feel safe.”

Athena’s heart fluttered at his words. “I think we’ve found that in each other.”

Bobby smiled, and for a moment, they just stood there, savoring the closeness between them.

“Alright,” Bobby said, breaking the spell with a playful tone. “Let’s see how our batter turned out. But first..”

Bobby reached into a cupboard and pulled out a small jar filled with a dark, rich liquid. Athena watched him curiously as he unscrewed the lid and carefully measured out a small amount, pouring it into the batter with a knowing smile.

Athena raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What’s that?”

Bobby grinned, stirring the mixture. “This, my dear, is the secret ingredient. A little touch of vanilla extract with a hint of bourbon. It adds a depth of flavor that you won’t find in just any waffle.”

Athena leaned in, catching a whiff of the warm, sweet aroma. “Bourbon vanilla?” Her eyebrow raised. 

Bobby chuckled. “It’s something I picked up a few years ago,” he explained. 

Without missing a beat, he dipped his finger into the batter and turned to her, holding it out. “Here, try.”

Athena hesitated for just a moment, then leaned forward, her lips latched onto his finger as she tasted the batter. The rich, sweet flavors immediately filled her senses, and her eyes widened in surprise. 

Bobby felt his stomach flutter at the intimate moment. It felt so natural, so right, to be sharing this with her.

“Wow,” Athena said as she pulled away, her eyes wide with genuine surprise. Bobby wiped his finger on the towel, watching her reaction closely.

“That’s really good,” she admitted, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

“Just really good?” Bobby teased softly, his voice warm and playful.

Athena felt her cheeks warm under his gaze and quickly looked away, suddenly feeling shy. “No, it was delicious.”

Just adorable, Bobby thought. She was shy over something so small. It was endearing.

His hand came to rest gently on her waist, drawing her closer. “I’m glad to hear that,” he said, his voice low. “But trust me, it’s going to be even better when you eat it hot off the griddle.”

“I’m looking forward to it,” she replied, her eyes following his movements as he continued to mix the batter with smooth, practiced motions. She couldn’t help but notice how attractive he was—the way his hands flexed with each stir, the focus in his expression.

He leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. “You want to fold it in gently so the batter stays light and fluffy,” he said, his tone full of gentle instruction. Athena listened, she melted.

Athena turned her head slightly to look at him, her eyes meeting his. “You’re quite the master at this,” she said.

Bobby chuckled, the sound vibrating between them. “Only for you,” he replied, his eyes filled with affection as he held her gaze.

The batter was finished, smooth and ready. Bobby handed her the ladle with a grin. “Now, let’s get these waffles going. Pour just enough batter to cover the surface,” he instructed, his hand still resting comfortably on her waist.

Athena carefully poured the batter into the waffle iron, the sizzling sound filling the room as the mixture spread out evenly. She closed the lid and glanced at Bobby, who watched her with a proud smile.

“That was perfect,” he praised her, his voice full of warmth.

Athena felt a wave of giddiness wash over her, and on instinct, she leaned into Bobby. “Thank you,” she said, her smile widening.

A few minutes later, the waffle iron beeped, signaling that their waffle was ready. Bobby opened the lid, revealing a golden, perfectly cooked waffle. The aroma was irresistible, wafting through the kitchen and making their mouths water.

Bobby took it out, cut a piece off and held it out to Athena. She took a bite, savoring the warmth and richness of the flavors. Her eyes lit up with genuine delight. “This is amazing,” she said, her voice in awe.

Bobby watched her with a loving smile, clearly pleased. “Told you it would be even better fresh off the griddle.”

Athena finished her bite, then turned to him, a playful glint in her eyes. She leaned up on her toes and gave him a kiss, her lips lingering on his. Bobby’s hands tightened on her waist as he bent down slightly to meet her, making sure she didn’t have to stretch.

“It’s the best waffle I’ve ever tasted,” she murmured against his lips, her voice soft. Bobby gave her another quick peck, tasting the hint of waffle on her lips, and smiled.

As they both pulled away, his gaze remained locked on hers, filled with warmth. “I’m glad. Now, why don’t we enjoy these with a movie?”

Athena’s smile widened. “Oh, you read my mind.”

They plated the waffles, added a few extra condiments, and moved into the living room. Bobby set up a cozy spot on the couch, arranging pillows and blankets to make it as comfortable as possible. They settled in together, selecting a romantic suspense movie to watch.

As the movie played, Athena leaned into Bobby’s side, feeling the steady rhythm of his breathing. The tension of the day melted away, leaving only the comfort of being in each other’s company. They occasionally fed each other bites of waffle, laughing softly at their playful gestures.

Halfway through the movie, a particularly intense scene had Athena gripping Bobby’s arm a little tighter. He noticed immediately and gave her a reassuring squeeze, pulling her closer.

“You okay?” he whispered, his voice gentle and full of concern.

Athena nodded, smiling up at him. “Yeah, I just didn’t see that coming.”

Bobby chuckled softly. “That’s what makes it exciting, right?”

She nodded, resting her head against his shoulder. “Yeah, but I think I’m more interested in being here with you than in the movie.”

“I feel the same way,” Bobby said, his fingers tracing a gentle pattern on the side of her waist.

They lapsed into a comfortable silence once again, letting the movie continue in the background. Every now and then, they exchanged a look or shared a soft kiss, savoring the quiet intimacy that had settled between them.

It was just them, lost in the moment, fully aware that they were now something official. The connection between them had deepened today, and they both knew there was so much more to build, so much more to discover.

They were falling for each other, slowly but surely.

But for now, they were content to just be together, letting the rest of the night unfold in the warmth of each other’s arms.

Chapter Text

The evening had started out perfectly. Athena and …. were out on one of their usual Friday night dates, wandering through the city of Santa Monica. The air was cool, and the lights of the surrounding buildings lit warmly against the dark sky. They’d spent the last hour walking hand-in-hand, sharing laughs and stolen glances. 

He was in a good mood today, and Athena liked it—it felt like the early days of their relationship, before the tension, before the arguments. His arm was draped casually over her shoulders, and Athena found herself genuinely happy.

Sure, he got mad sometimes, and sure, he hit her occasionally, but that was normal, right? Relationships had ups and downs. That’s what she told herself, even if her highschool relationships were not like that, they were going to be eventually. 

Athena smiled as she listened to him. talk excitedly about a new project at work. He was charming tonight, like the man she had first fallen in love with. He had taken her to her favorite restaurant earlier, the same place where they had gone out on their first date. The meal had been wonderful, filled with laughter and wine, the kind of evening that reminded her of how good things could be between them.

As they strolled down a quieter street, the buzz of the city fading slightly into the background. The streets were still busy, but the chaos of the crowded avenues had thinned. Athena felt a small sense of relief at the quieter atmosphere. Crowds always made her a little uneasy, especially when they were packed with strangers. She didn’t know why she didn’t like crowds, it was never really her thing. Didn’t grow up liking them.

She didn’t like the feeling of being surrounded, of losing her sense of space. But with …. at her side, she was doing her best to stay calm, to focus on the good.

As they walked, Athena caught the gaze of a man standing near the entrance of a bar. It was a huge bar filled with people. He was alone, leaning against the wall with a cigarette dangling from his lips. The moment their eyes met, something about his expression changed. His gaze slid over her like a predator sizing up its prey, his eyes roaming slowly and deliberately over her body. The way he looked at her—it made her stomach turn.

She felt her pulse quicken, a wave of discomfort washing over her. The man’s stare wasn’t just a casual glance; it was intense, almost like he was undressing her with his eyes. A lustful glance.

She tore her eyes away from the man, her whole body tensing up. The street, the people, the noise—it all became overwhelming. She didn’t feel safe. That man’s gaze had unsettled her in a way she couldn’t shake, and the crowd around them only made it worse. Everywhere she looked, there were men—some laughing loudly, others glancing in her direction, and it made her skin crawl. 

Instinctively, Athena moved closer to … pressing herself against his side. His arm was still around her shoulders, and she wrapped her arm around his waist, hoping to feel some sense of safety. She didn’t say anything at first, but her body language must have given her away because … glanced down at her with a curious look.

“What’s going on?” he asked, his voice edged with confusion. He didn’t stop walking, just kept moving forward, his pace steady.

Athena hesitated, not sure how to put into words what she was feeling. She didn’t want to make a big deal out of it, but the discomfort was gnawing at her, making it impossible to ignore. 

“There was a guy,” she finally said, her voice quieter than she intended. “Back there. He was staring at me. It... it made me uncomfortable.”

He stopped walking for a second and turned to look in the direction Athena had indicated. The man was still there, still watching her with that same lecherous grin. …. frowned but didn’t seem particularly concerned.

“That guy?” he asked, raising an eyebrow. “You’re worried about him?”

Athena nodded, her chest tightening with anxiety. “Yeah… it’s just… the way he’s looking at me. It feels wrong.”

He sighed, shaking his head as if he was dealing with a child who had made too big of a deal out of nothing. He turned back to Athena, and the expression on his face had shifted. The warmth that had been there earlier was gone, replaced by an air of condescension.

“Athena, seriously?” he said, his tone dripping with disbelief. “You’re upset because some random dude is checking you out? Are you really that sensitive?”

Athena’s stomach dropped at the sharpness in his voice. She hadn’t expected him to react like that. She had hoped for some reassurance, some acknowledgment of how uncomfortable she felt, but instead, he was treating her like she was overreacting.

“I’m not being sensitive,” she protested weakly. “It was like he wanted me…it just... it bothered me, that’s all. It made me feel really uncomfortable.”

But … didn’t seem interested in understanding. Instead, he shook his head, a scoff escaping his lips. “Gosh, Athena, you’re always doing this. Making a big deal out of nothing. So what? Some guy looked at you. Big deal. It happens.”

His words stung, hitting her like a slap to the face. “It’s not nothing,” she tried to explain, her chest tightening with anxiety. “The way he looked at me—he was staring like he wanted something from me. It made me feel exposed.”

“Exposed?” He repeated, his voice rising with frustration. “You’re overreacting, Athena. You think other women don’t get stared at? It happens all the time. You should be flattered, not acting like it’s the end of the world.”

Athena blinked. “Flattered?” she echoed, her voice barely a whisper. “You think I should be flattered by that?”

He sighed, clearly annoyed now. “Yeah, flattered. He was checking you out because you look good. Isn’t that what you want? Isn’t that the whole point of dressing up and going out? To look nice, to get attention?”

“That’s not the kind of attention I want,” Athena said, her voice shaking with frustration. “I didn’t ask for that. I didn’t want it.”

He let go of her hand and stopped walking, turning to face her fully now. His eyes narrowed, his lips curling into a sneer. “You didn’t want it?” he said mockingly. “Please, Athena. Don’t act like you don’t love the attention. You put yourself out there, dress up, and then act all surprised when a guy notices you? Come on, you can’t have it both ways.”

Athena’s heart sank, his words making her feel sick to her stomach. “I didn’t dress up for that,” she muttered, her voice barely audible.

He crossed his arms over his chest, shaking his head in disappointment. “You know, this is exactly why we can’t go anywhere without you ruining it. Every time we’re out, you find something to complain about. The crowds, the people, the noise, and now some guy staring at you. You’re exhausting, Athena. It’s like you can’t just enjoy yourself.”

“I’m not trying to ruin anything,” Athena said, her voice tight with emotion. “I just—”

“You just what?” He cut her off, his tone cold and biting. “You just want to play the victim? That’s what this is, right? You want me to feel sorry for you because some guy looked at you? Well, I don’t. You should be happy someone’s paying attention to you, because honestly, you don’t act like you’re grateful for anything.”

His words hit her like a punch to the gut, leaving her breathless. She opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out. The way he was talking to her, the way he was making her feel—like she was overreacting, like her feelings didn’t matter—it made her feel so small.

“I just wanted to feel safe.” She finally said. “I just… I wanted to feel safe with you.”

He let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. “Safe? You think you’re not safe because some guy looked at you? Dang it, Athena, grow up. You’re not a little girl anymore. You can handle a guy staring at you.”

Athena fell silent, her chest aching with the weight of his words. She had been vulnerable with him, had opened up about how she felt, and instead of comforting her, he was tearing her down, making her feel small and ridiculous.

“Gosh, you’re so dramatic,” He muttered under his breath. “Like I said, your playing to be a victim”

Athena didn’t respond. She couldn’t. The pain in her chest was too much, and she felt like she was being crushed under the weight of his criticism. Every word he spoke chipped away at her confidence, making her feel smaller and smaller until she didn’t know who she was anymore.

“Look,” He continued, his voice sharp and condescending. “You’re a grown woman. You should be able to handle a little attention. Guys look at you because you’re attractive. You should be happy about that. Most women would kill for that kind of attention.”

Athena’s stomach churned at his words. She wanted to stand up for herself, to tell him how wrong he was, how disgusting the man’s stare had made her feel. But the words wouldn’t come. She was too tired, too defeated. He had beat her down time and time again, and maybe it was supposed to be like this. But she didn't want anyone's attention, she wanted only one man's attention and she wanted it to be from the man she loved. She didn't want everyone's attention.

He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. “Honestly, Athena, you’re so exhausting sometimes. I can’t deal with this right now. Let’s just go.”

Athena didn’t argue. She didn’t say anything at all. She simply nodded and followed him as they continued down the street, her heart heavy and her mind swirling with a mix of shame, anger, and sadness.

She kept her head down, her body tense with the memory of the man’s stare and the sting of ... cruel words. She wanted to disappear from the men who looked at her like she was an object, from the man who was supposed to protect her but only made her feel worse.

Why was it like this? It was like he didn’t care about her. Not really. He cared about himself, about how she made him look, about the control he had over her. But her feelings, her fears, her discomfort—they didn’t matter to him. She was left wondering, was it really her fault? Was she being overly dramatic? Was he actually chipping away at her independence? Or was she just being whiny, like he said?

Her mind swirled with doubt. She couldn’t make sense of it. Was she really the victim here, or was he right? Maybe it was her fault. Maybe guys should look at her like that, maybe it was something she should learn to accept. 

♡

“Bobby, we should go on a double date with Maddie and Athena,” Chim suggested, breaking the silence in Bobby’s living room. The two were enjoying their usual Saturday morning tradition of catching up.

Chim sat across from Bobby, casually lounging on the couch with his legs crossed. He held a drink in one hand while Bobby cradled a cup of coffee, steam still rising from the mug.

“A double date?” Bobby repeated, setting his mug down on the table in front of him. “With Maddie and Athena?”

“Yeah, why not? Maddie’s been wanting to meet you, and Athena, well come on, I’d like to get to know her a bit more,” Chim said, leaning forward with a grin. “A chance to know more of the woman who's been keeping that smile on your face.”

Bobby felt his face flush at Chim’s words, a slight embarrassment creeping in. He rubbed the back of his neck nervously. “Y-Yeah, we can do that,” he agreed, though he still seemed a little uncertain. He paused, his thoughts wandering for a moment. “Why does Maddie want to meet me, though?”

Chim chuckled softly, setting his drink down. “She wants to know more about the people in my life. I’ve met some of her friends and her brother, and, well... you're like a brother to me. I figured it’d be nice to give her that same openness. You know, let her meet the people who mean a lot to me.”

Bobby nodded, his expression softening at Chimney’s words. “Yeah, okay. I get that.” He glanced down at his phone, contemplating the idea. “I’ll text Athena later and see if she’s free. When does Maddie want to do it?”

“I’m not sure exactly,” Chim admitted, “but probably tomorrow. It’s Sunday, and I know Maddie’s not busy, I’m not busy, and I’m pretty sure you’re not either.”

Bobby thought about it for a moment. Tomorrow was indeed a Sunday, and Athena usually spent her Sundays either working on her book or spending time with her kids. He hadn’t heard her mention any book signings, conferences, meetings coming up, so It seemed like a good possibility. Bobby figured it wouldn’t hurt to ask Athena. After all, they were getting to a point where they were growing deeper, being in each other's lives, eventually they would have to tell the kids. He wanted her to know more about his life too, including his friends and the parts of his world that mattered to him.

“Okay,” Bobby agreed, nodding slowly. “I’ll check with Athena and see if she’s available. I’ll let you know if she can make it or not.”

Chim smiled.. “Great. It’ll be fun, trust me. We’ll walk around the city, grab dinner, and tell some stories about you,” he teased, a mischievous glint in his eye. He winked. “Maybe we’ll even go bowling.”

Bobby groaned. “Chimney, you can’t do that.”

“What? Just making sure Athena sees what she’s getting into with you,” Chim retorted with a smirk, clearly enjoying Bobby’s discomfort.

“Oh, you really want to go there?” Bobby leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Let me just tell Maddie about the time the police almost arrested you.”

Chim’s face shifted from smug to slightly panicked, his eyes widening. “You wouldn’t!”

“Oh, I would.” Bobby’s grin widened.

Chim waved his hands in surrender. “Okay, okay! You win. No embarrassing stories, I promise.”

“Good,” Bobby replied.

Chimney rolled his eyes and the two of them fell into easy conversation for the rest of the morning.

༺༻

Athena arrived at Bobby’s apartment just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a soft golden hue through the windows. She knocked lightly, and moments later, Bobby opened the door, a warm smile instantly spreading across his face.

“Hey there, beautiful,” he greeted her, stepping aside to let her in.

Bobby had texted her yesterday after Chimney left to ask if she wanted to join him for a double date with Chimney. Athena had agreed without hesitation, looking forward to the evening. Chimney had chosen a restaurant in the city of LA, and the reservation was set for 6 p.m. It was just about 5 p.m. now.

Athena stepped inside, carrying a small bag. “I figured I’d get ready here so we can leave together,” she said, setting her things down on the couch. She turned to look at Bobby and smiled, her expression warm and relaxed.

Bobby wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close as he pressed a kiss to her lips. “I like that you want to get ready together,” he murmured against her lips.

Athena giggled softly, leaning into his embrace and kissing him once more. “Well, I figured it’d be nice for us to spend some time together before we head out.”

“Definitely,” Bobby agreed, his arms still around her. He held her for a moment longer before gently pulling back. “Do you want to start getting ready?”

“Yeah, I’ll freshen up first,” Athena said, heading toward the bathroom with her bag.

Bobby watched her disappear into the hallway, feeling a warmth in his chest. It felt so natural with Athena—sharing these little moments, getting ready for a date in the same space. Things had really grown between them and this became the norm.

As Athena began her makeup routine, Bobby headed to the bedroom to make sure his outfit was ready. He had already picked out a black button-up shirt and a pair of slacks, but as always, he was second-guessing himself. Was it too formal? Too casual? He wanted to look good for her, for the night.

“Bobby?” Athena’s voice floated from the bathroom.

“Yeah?” he called back.

“Can you grab my dress from my bag? It’s the black one,” Athena asked.

Bobby smiled, walking over to her bag on the couch. He found the black dress folded neatly inside and held it up. It was simple, elegant, and undeniably Athena.

“Here, darling,” he said, heading toward the bathroom door and handing her the dress.

Athena felt her cheeks warm at the term of endearment. She didn’t think he even realized he had called her that—it came out so naturally. And she liked it. “Thank you,” she replied, flashing him a smile as she took the dress and continued applying her mascara.

Bobby leaned against the doorframe, watching her. She was focused, precise, and utterly captivating as she worked on her makeup. He couldn’t help but admire her. “You’re beautiful, you know that?”

Athena glanced at him through the mirror, her lips curving into a playful smile. “You’ve mentioned it a few times,” she teased lightly.

Bobby chuckled, shaking his head. “Just making sure you know.” He paused for a moment before adding, “I think this is the first time we’ve actually gotten ready for a date together.”

“You’re right. It is,” Athena said, meeting his gaze in the mirror. “It’s kind of nice, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, it is,” Bobby agreed. “Feels... comfortable.”

Athena locked eyes with him again in the mirror. “It does.”

He smiled at her and continued to watch as she finished her makeup. Athena didn’t mind; the way he looked at her made her feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

When Athena was done with her makeup, she put her products back into her bag before glancing at Bobby. “Alright, my face is done. Now, for the dress.”

Bobby straightened up and respectfully closed the bathroom door, giving her privacy. He stood alone in his bedroom, briefly looking at himself in the mirror. Tugging at his shirt collar again, he couldn’t shake the thought that maybe he should change into something else.

A few minutes later, Athena stepped out of the bathroom, now wearing the black dress that fit her perfectly. Bobby’s breath caught in his throat as he saw her. The sleek fabric hugged her curves in all the right places, and her shimmering earrings added the perfect touch to her look.

“How do I look?” she asked, smoothing the dress with her hands as she turned toward him.

“You look... stunning,” Bobby replied.

Athena chuckled, feeling a flutter in her stomach. “Why, thank you. You clean up pretty nicely yourself—although I can see you’re still not sure about that shirt.”

Bobby glanced down at his shirt and gave her a sheepish grin. “You caught me. I was debating whether I should change.”

Athena walked over to him, her hands gently smoothing the front of his shirt. “No need. It looks perfect on you. Trust me.”

Bobby smiled, feeling the warmth of her touch and the certainty in her words. “Okay,” he said as he leaned down, brushing a soft kiss against her forehead.

Athena smiled back and grabbed her purse. “We should probably get going. Don’t want to keep Chimney and Maddie waiting.”

“Right,” Bobby agreed, reaching for his jacket and keys as they headed for the door.

They both settled in the car, Bobby drove through the evening streets, the city lights flickered in the distance, casting a warm glow over the car. Athena sat in the passenger seat, her gaze following the blur of people and buildings outside the window. She rested her hand on her lap, tapping her fingers absentmindedly, her mind wandering back to her book. 

Bobby glanced at her, noticing her silence. He spoke up, breaking the quiet atmosphere. "You’re quiet. Thinking about something?”

Athena turned her head slightly, her expression easing into a small smile. “Yeah, I guess I am. Just thinking about my book.”

“What’s going on?” Bobby said curiously, as he slowed for a red light. “You’re almost finished, right?”

Athena nodded, her fingers still lightly tapping her knee. “Yeah, I’m really close. Just a few more pages to write, and then I’ll be done with the first draft.” She exhaled softly, leaning back into her seat. “After that, it’s editing, revising, maybe making another draft. I usually do two to make sure it’s solid, then I’ll send it off to the publisher for processing.”

Bobby smiled, admiration in his voice. “That’s good. It’s been almost three months, and you’re already finishing up the first draft. I’m proud of you.”

She turned to look at him, her smile growing warmer. It always amazed her how supportive and gentle Bobby was,  it never failed to take her breath away. She took a slow breath before speaking. “Thank you. Honestly, it’s because of you that I’m finishing this fast. I usually take about six months, but ever since I met you, my writing’s been... more colorful.”

Bobby felt his heart swell, the warmth of her words sinking in. He reached out, giving her hand a gentle squeeze, his voice soft but filled with emotion. “I’m glad I could do that.”

He wanted to say more—much more. He was falling for her faster than he had ever expected but the thought of exposing everything left him momentarily speechless and a bit scared. Instead, he just held her hand, letting the quiet between them say what words couldn’t.

As the light turned green, Bobby began driving again, feeling Athena fidget with his hand. Her fingers traced gentle patterns against his skin, a sign she was still lost in thought. He didn’t mind her hesitation. If anything, it made him more curious. Whatever was on her mind was clearly weighing her down.

He waits, one thing that has been observed about Athena is that when she's with him and something on her mind she’ll say it eventually. He doesn't want to push her. He likes that she relies on him, that she finds comfort in him.

She fidgeted a bit more, her thumb brushing lightly over his knuckles. Finally, after a long silence, she let out a quiet sigh. “It’s the company,” she admitted.

Bobby glanced over, sensing this was weighing heavily on her. “What do you mean?”

“Well,” Athena started, “you know I’m not a self-publisher. I’ve always gone through a company to publish my books.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I know.”

She chuckled softly, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “Well, lately, they’ve been badgering me. I mean, I’m pretty famous, as you know,” she added with a wry smile. “So, they want me to stay, but they want it on their own terms. It feels like I’m constantly compromising. They want me to keep bringing in money, but I want to write books on my own terms.”

Athena paused, her voice carrying the weight of years of frustration. “I’ve been with this company from the start, and at first, it was easy going. It was great. But ever since I had the kids, I’ve slowed down. They keep scheduling meetings about deadlines, marketing, profits—everything. It’s overwhelming. I only get three weeks of vacation, and it’s all about the bottom line now.”

Bobby squeezed her hand gently, feeling the tension in her words. He could sense her frustration building, and it tugged at him.

Athena leaned back in her seat, staring out of the window. “They just keep badgering me to stay,” she repeated, “I had a meeting with them yesterday to give them an update on my book and even more compromises about wanting to push the deadline next month but there’s something off. We originally agreed for November. They’ve been insistent on me sticking with them, they keep making compromises for me to stay and I can’t help but feel like there’s more going on behind the scenes that they’re not telling me.”

Bobby’s grip on the wheel tightened. He didn’t like the sound of this. “What do you mean? Do you think they’re hiding something from you?”

Athena nodded, her brow furrowed in thought. “Yeah, I do. It just doesn’t add up. Their urgency feels suspicious to me. I’ve been thinking about self-publishing instead or maybe even looking into other companies. Going the self-publishing route would give me more freedom, but it’s a huge risk. I’d have to handle everything—marketing, distribution, production. It’s a lot to take on.”

She paused, her voice dropping lower as uncertainty crept in. “It’s scary, Bobby. I know I’d have more control, but what if it doesn’t work out? What if I fail?”

Bobby glanced at her as they reached another red light, his tone gentle but firm. “What does Hen think about all this? You’ve talked to her, right?”

Athena sighed and ran a hand through her hair. “Yeah, I talked to Hen. She’s been feeling the same way about the company. They’ve been weird with her too, so we’re both being cautious. Hen thinks I should leave them. She says I’m strong enough to make it on my own, and that I’ve built enough of a following to be successful as a self-publisher.”

Athena paused. “But it’s such a huge leap, Bobby. I’ve done my research, and it’s overwhelming. There are so many things I have to figure out. It’s a whole different ball game. What if it’s too much? What if I don’t make it?” She felt tears well up in her eyes. “It's so much. I don’t know–I’m not sure what I should–I don’t know.”

Her fingers unconsciously squeezed Bobby’s hand, her stress and anxiety palpable. As they pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, Bobby turned off the engine and shifted in his seat to face her. 

“I’m sorry.” She felt as if she gave him too much, felt as if she was pushing him away with all her worries and fears. 

Bobby squeezed her hand, rubbing her knuckles softly. “Athena, look at me,” he said gently, his voice filled with warmth and reassurance.

Athena kept her eyes down, too overwhelmed to meet his gaze. Sensing her hesitation, Bobby reached over and gently turned her face toward him. “Please, look at me, Athena,” he repeated softly.

Finally, after a moment, she lifted her eyes to his. He waited until she was fully focused on him before speaking. “You are a woman full of worth,” he began, his tone steady and full of truth. “You don’t need to settle for less than what you deserve. You’re amazing at what you do, and you’ve already proven that. Don’t let fear stop you from making the decision that’s best for you.”

Athena’s breath hitched as she listened, the weight on her chest easing with each word. She could feel the tension slowly slipping away.

“You’ve been carrying so much on your own,” he continued, his hand still holding hers gently.“Take a breath. You don’t have to rush into a decision right now. You're thinking too much. You're moving so fast that you’re worrying. So…what I want you to do is take a breath with me, come on.”

Bobby demonstrated, their eyes locked as he took a deep breath in, then slowly exhaled. “Breathe in...”

Athena followed his lead, mimicking his calm breathing. She watched him closely, the steady rhythm of his breath grounding her. 

His deep, comforting eyes seemed to make everything else melt away. In that moment, nothing else mattered—all she sees is him, all she hears is their breaths, and all she feels is the touch of his hands on hers.

“That’s it, baby,” he said softly, his voice like a balm to her frazzled nerves. “Thats it.”

Her heart skips a beat. He's never called her baby before, she likes being his baby . She really likes him, and she really likes falling for him. 

“One more time... In.”

Bobby inhaled deeply.

She inhales deeply.

“And out,” he continued, exhaling gently.

She exhales out.

The tightness in her chest faded. Her panic was gone, replaced by a calm.

“Good job, baby,” Bobby whispered, his words sending a flutter through her heart.

She wants him, not just for a few months but more.

“You are absolutely amazing, Athena,” Bobby said, his tone steady and full of admiration. “You are dedicated, and you’re a famous author, for crying out loud. You did all of that yourself—your own work, your own success. That’s all you.”

He leaned in closer, his gaze never leaving hers. “What I need you to do is think about what you want. And whatever you decide, I will be here to support you. I’m with you, Athena, through everything. Whatever you need, whatever you’re feeling, I want to be there for you.”

Bobby’s words lingered in the air between them, wrapping her in a blanket of reassurance. Athena blinked away the tears threatening to fall, her heart swelling with emotion. No one had ever been this patient, this gentle with her before. He was, offering her a space to breathe, to let go, to be vulnerable. These moments with Bobby were all firsts, and she's never had that experience, it usually came later in the previous relationships she's been in after they had gotten to know each other. Bobby was different, and it seemed to hit her hard every single time. She didn’t know how to react.

Athena opened her mouth, but the words caught in her throat for a moment. She took a shaky breath, her voice quiet yet filled with gratitude. “I... I don’t even know how to thank you,” she began, her eyes glistening as she met his gaze. “Thank you for calming me down. I’ve never had someone... I mean, you’ve been so steady, so understanding.”

Her voice wavered by the intensity of her feelings for him but she pushed forward. “You made me realize I need to slow down. I’ve been pushing myself so hard, I didn’t even realize it until now.”

She paused, looking down at their intertwined hands, feeling the strength of his grip and how grounding it was for her. Bobby was everything she had ever wanted in a man—patient, kind, supportive. He didn’t just offer advice; he was there, present in her struggle, ready to lift her up without hesitation. He put her first.

“You’re so good to me,” she whispered. “You make everything seem a little easier. You make me feel like I can handle this.”

Bobby gave her hand a soft squeeze. “You can handle this, Athena. You’re strong, and you can do anything you set your mind to. I know you can.”

Athena smiled, her heart swelling with warmth. “What do you think I should do?”

“It’s not my choice,” Bobby replied gently, “but I can lay out some options for you, and then you can decide.”

Athena let out a soft laugh, the tension easing from her shoulders. “Go ahead. I’m listening.”

“Well, first,” Bobby began, “you could stay with the company. Maybe there’s still some value in working with them, but you’d have to set some clear boundaries, I mean you're the author, you have the control. Make sure they respect your time and creative control. If you’re feeling like something’s off, though, you might want to dig deeper into that.”

He paused, watching her reaction as she took it in. “Or,” he continued, “you could start researching for other publishers. There are other companies out there, ones that might value you more and give you the freedom you need. It might take time, but it’s a solid option.”

“And finally,” Bobby said, his voice calm, “you could take the leap into self-publishing. It’s a risk, sure, but it gives you full control over everything—your schedule, your content, your vision. If anyone can handle that kind of challenge, it’s you, Athena. You’ve already proven you’re capable.”

He let his words settle,“Whatever you decide, I’ll be here. You don’t have to rush. Just take your time and think about what you want, not what anyone else is pushing you to do.”

She smiles, it was simple. She didn’t need to have all the answers now. “Okay.” She said, “I will. I do need to think about it.”

Bobby returned her smile, his eyes filled with warmth. “You’ve got it. And you’ve got me.”

They fell into silence full of tenderness, gazing at each other.

Without thinking, Athena leaned in, her heart full, and kissed him. It was a gentle, lingering kiss—one filled with all the emotions she hadn’t been able to put into words. She felt his hand cup the back of her neck, grounding her, as he kissed her back, his lips soft and reassuring.

The world outside the car seemed to fade away. Athena let herself get lost in the feel of him—the softness of his lips, the reassuring strength of his hands as he held her gently but firmly. Her heart raced, the flood of emotions making her feel both grounded and weightless at the same time. 

The moment was perfect—until there was a sudden knock on Bobby’s side of the window.

They broke apart, breathless, blinking in surprise as they turned toward the sound. There was Chimney, his grinning face peering in through the window, hands on his hips like he’d just caught them doing something scandalous.

“Uh, hello? Hey, lovebirds!” Chimney called out, his voice muffled but clear through the glass. “Tell me why, I literally go on my phone to check your location and find you two sitting here, making out in the car! We’ve got a table, and the food’s not gonna wait forever! I’m hungry, and so is Maddie! Get your butts out of the car!”

Bobby and Athena exchanged a sheepish smile before laughing, the tension between them breaking completely. 

“Guess we’d better not keep him waiting,” Bobby said with a grin.

Athena smiled, everything fading as they climbed out of the car. Chimney was still shaking his head with a grin.

They were gonna be faced with endless teasing, well more Bobby then Athena.

༺༻

The host led them to a booth tucked in the corner, where Maddie sat with a glass of water, scrolling through her phone. As Athena approached, her eyes widened in surprise.

“Maddie?” Athena blurted out. It was her Maddie? She didn’t expect that.

Maddie looked up, equally shocked. “Athena? Oh my gosh, Athena! Hi!” She set her phone down, her face lighting up. “What are you doing here?”

Athena blinked, still processing the coincidence. “I’m here for a double date, apparently. And... you’re Maddie?”

Maddie laughed, standing up to hug Athena. “Wait, you’re Bobby’s date? This is wild!”

Chimney and Bobby, who had just caught up behind Athena, exchanged confused glances.

“Hold on a second,” Chimney said, looking between Maddie and Athena. “You two know each other?”

The women answered in unison. “Yes.”

Maddie grinned, turning to Chimney. “Athena’s one of my best friends. We’ve known each other for two years.”

Chimney let out a hearty laugh, clapping Bobby on the back. “Best friends dating best friends? This is straight out of a rom-com!”

Bobby shook his head, smiling. “Small world.”

They all slid into the booth, Athena sitting beside Maddie while the guys sat across from them, the four of them settling into the unexpected yet perfectly comfortable vibe.

“I can’t believe this,” Maddie said, still chuckling. “I didn’t even know you were dating anyone, Athena!”

Athena raised an eyebrow, playfully nudging her. “And I didn’t know you were seeing anyone either, Maddie. Seems like we both kept some secrets.”

Chimney leaned forward with a grin. “To be fair, I didn’t even know you two were friends. So, this is like... double surprises all around.”

Bobby chuckled, glancing at Athena. “Guess we’ve all got some catching up to do.”

The waiter arrived at that moment, interrupting the conversation as he passed out the menus. “Good evening, everyone. Can I start you off with something to drink?”

Chimney, spoke up first. “I’ll have a beer, thanks.”

Maddie smiled up at the waiter. “I’ll have a glass of white wine.”

“I’ll take a beer too,” Bobby added, closing his menu after a quick scan.

Athena glanced at the wine list.  “I’ll have a glass of red wine, please.”

With the drink orders placed, the waiter disappeared. 

“So, how did you two even meet?” Maddie asked, looking at Athena and Bobby.

Athena smiled warmly at Bobby before answering. “We um..we bumped into each other his bookstore.”

“You have a bookstore?” Maddie asked.

“Yeah, I do,” Bobby replied, nodding. He assumed Maddie knew about May since Athena and Maddie were close, so he added, “You probably know that May works there part-time, but it wasn’t until about three months ago that I met Athena.”

Maddie gasped. “Oh my gosh! You’re Clark Kent!”

Bobby flushed red, surprised by the nickname. Was that what people were calling him when he wasn’t around? He glanced at Athena, who smiled knowingly at him. Her eyes softened as she locked gazes with him. He’s my Clark Kent.

Maddie started bringing the pieces together. “You’re the one all over the news articles with Athena, the one that talked about her having a secret boyfriend. Athena, you’re actually dating him now?” she said, half in disbelief but entirely excited.

Athena chuckled, her laugh soft and light. “Yeah, I am.”

Bobby shifted slightly, still a little shy under the attention. “I don’t know about the whole ‘Clark Kent’ thing, though.”

Chimney nudged him playfully. “Well, if the glasses fit…”

Athena chuckled, reaching over to take Bobby’s hand. “I think it fits perfectly,” she said, smirking. “I mean, you did save me.”

Bobby turned even redder, which only made Maddie laugh. “It’s nice to finally meet you, Bobby,” she said warmly. “The kids are crazy about you. They talk about you every time I come over.”

“They’re amazing kids. It’s also great to meet the woman who’s been dating my best friend, too. You make him really happy.”

Maddie’s smile softened as she glanced at Chimney. “I’m glad to hear that,” she said. “He makes me very happy too.”

Chimney’s smile widened, and just then, the waiter returned, breaking the tender moment. He held a small notepad and pen, looking around at the table. “Alright, folks. Have you had a chance to look over the menu? Are we ready to order?”

Chimney immediately said, “I’ll take the burger, medium rare, with fries on the side, please. Oh, and another beer.”

The waiter jotted down the order and turned to Maddie.

“I’ll have the salmon, with a side salad.” Maddie said, handing the menu back.

Bobby glanced at Athena before placing his order. “I’ll have the grilled chicken with roasted vegetables.”

Athena smiled and nodded. “I’ll take the pasta primavera with another glass of red wine.”

The waiter gave a polite nod. “Thank you. Your food will be out shortly,” he said, gathering the menus before heading back to the kitchen.

A few minutes passed as they continued chatting, the conversation flowing easily.  Maddie couldn’t help but notice how Bobby and Athena seemed so in tune with each other, exchanging little glances and smiles that spoke volumes.

“Maddie, how did you meet Chimney?” Athena asked.

Maddie glanced at Chimney and he chuckled. “She spilled coffee all over me.”

She widened her eyes. “I did not! It was an accident.”

“Well…”

Maddie shook her head, turning to Bobby with a fond smile. “I’m a freelance book editor, and I had just finished a really long week of work—editing this massive thriller manuscript. I was mentally exhausted and decided to treat myself to a cup of coffee at this little café near my office. You know, the one right in front of your bookstore.”

Chimney grinned, jumping in. “Yeah, I was heading to visit Bobby at his store and figured I’d grab him some coffee on the way.”

Maddie nodded, laughing softly at the memory. “Exactly. Chimney was in the café too, but I didn’t even notice him at first. I was completely caught up in my own thoughts, just trying to unwind. I guess I wasn’t paying attention, because when I went to grab my order, I ended up spilling my coffee—everywhere. And all over him.”

Chimney chuckled, adding to the story. “Oh, it wasn’t just a little spill either. She ordered the largest size, so I was drenched. Coffee was all over the counter, the floor—everything. I just stood there, wondering why anyone needed that much coffee.”

Maddie laughed, shaking her head at the ridiculousness of the situation. “It was a total mess. I was so embarrassed and didn’t know what to do. I felt awful, but Chimney just smiled and told me it was okay. He said I looked stressed, and he wasn’t wrong.”

Her expression softened as she glanced at Chimney, continuing her story. “He was so kind about the whole thing. He made this joke to help me feel less embarrassed, and we ended up talking while we cleaned up the mess together. He even bought me another coffee since mine was basically all over him by then.”

Chimney smiled warmly. “And then, she told me she had an extra shirt in her car because her brother, who’s a personal trainer, borrows her car sometimes and leaves his workout gear in there.”

Maddie nodded, her smile deepening. “Yeah, so I went out to get the shirt, and one thing led to another. We ended up spending the entire day together, just talking and laughing.”

“We exchanged numbers after that,” Chimney added. “We started texting, then hanging out more. We were friends for a few months before we finally started going on real dates.”

Athena smiled. “That’s adorable.” Bobby nodded with her, he had already heard about Maddie from Chimney. He was curious about her and Athena and how they had met.

“Are you one of Athena’s editors?” He asked.

Maddie smiled, nodding. “Yeah, I help her edit her books when I’m not swamped with other clients. That’s actually how we met. It was at a convention for authors, editors, and publishing companies. I had just started freelancing at the time, and I needed to find work to keep a roof over my head.”

Maddie continued, her eyes lighting up as she spoke. “Athena was looking for an editor because one of hers had bailed on her at the last minute and she was too busy to edit it on her own. We started talking during the convention. I showed her some samples of my work, and well... I was a bit of a fan of hers, so I was probably gushing a little too much.”

Athena laughed and chimed in. “You were gushing, but it was sweet.”

Maddie grinned. “Anyway, she loved my work, and next thing I knew, I was editing one of her books. That opened doors for me—I started getting clients from other well-known authors too. Ever since then, we’ve been friends. I’m really grateful to her. She’s helped my career and my life in more ways than I can count.”

Bobby smiled. She definitely has that effect.

Athena grabbed her hand. “It’s been a good partnership, and Maddie’s become one of my closest friends.” She glanced at Maddie, her tone filled with warmth. “I couldn’t imagine working with anyone else.”

Maddie blushed. “Well, it’s been an amazing journey. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Chimney, who had been quietly watching, smiled. Athena was truly a good match for Bobby—selfless, kind, and humble.

“Speaking of Maddie’s work,” Chimney chimed in, leaning forward, “earlier this morning, she got a really odd request from an author.”

Maddie chuckled, shaking her head. “Yeah, I did.”

Chimney continued, grinning, “They asked her to print the entire book in invisible ink.”

Athena raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Invisible ink?”

Maddie nodded. “Yep. They said they wanted to stand out in the book industry and they thought printing a book entirely in invisible ink would do the trick. The readers would have to use a special UV light to reveal the words, like some kind of puzzle.”

Bobby leaned forward. “Aren’t those things expensive? Even the way the book has to be made.”

“Yeah,” Athena said, shaking her head. “I can’t imagine most readers wanting to use a special device just to read a book.”

Bobby nodded. “Seems like more trouble than it’s worth.”

Maddie laughed softly. “That’s what I thought too. I told them it would take a lot of time and resources, but if they offered a reasonable amount of money, I’d consider it.”

Chimney smirked, the wheels clearly turning in his head. “And speaking of odd requests. Bobby, do you remember that time with the hamster?” 

Bobby's brow furrowed in confusion before his expression shifted to realization. “Oh no, not that story. Chimney stop.”

Athena asked. “What hamster?”

“I’m getting there!” Chimney grinned, looking at Maddie and Athena.. “So, Bobby here, being the upstanding man that he is, had a neighbor who asked him to pet-sit her hamster while she went on vacation. Harmless enough, right?”

Bobby covered his face with his hand. The women laughed.

Chimney continued, barely able to contain his laughter. “So, this hamster was named Muffin. Cute little thing, always running around on its wheel. Anyway, Bobby takes Muffin back to his place, and on the second day, he notices Muffin isn’t in her cage. She escaped!”

Maddie raised an eyebrow. “Oh no...”

“Oh yes,” Chimney said, eyes twinkling with amusement. “So Bobby, panicking, spends the entire afternoon searching his apartment for this hamster. He’s crawling under furniture, checking every nook and cranny. Hours go by, and no sign of Muffin. He starts thinking the worst, right? Like maybe Muffin found a way outside.”

Maddie leaned in. “Did he find her?”

Chimney smirked. “Oh, he found her alright. Turns out, Muffin had somehow squeezed herself into one of Bobby’s sneakers. He goes to put the shoe on, and bam! There’s Muffin, just chilling in there like it’s her new house.”

Athena burst out laughing, her hand covering her mouth. “You’re kidding!”

Bobby shook his head, his cheeks red with embarrassment. “I was terrified I’d squish her. I’ve never felt so much relief and panic at the same time.”

Chimney couldn’t stop laughing. “To this day, every time I see a hamster, I think of Bobby and that shoe.”

Maddie chuckled, looking at Bobby with sympathy. “I would’ve freaked out too. Hamsters are sneaky little creatures.”

Athena grabbed Bobby’s hand and squeezed it gently. “At least you saved Muffin. That’s all that matters.”

Bobby smiled sheepishly. “Yeah, but I never agreed to pet-sit again after that.”

The night went on and they continued to talk. The food arrived, and over the course of the meal, Chimney couldn’t help but throw a few more playful jabs Bobby’s way, and of course Bobby couldn't help but do it too. They got to know everyone a bit more, talk more about each other's lives. 

It was an amazing dinner and the women were both watching the two men and couldn't help but be glad. They were seeing new sides of their mans. To see the goofy and joyful side.

As the plates were cleared and the waiter returned with the bill, Bobby reached for it, only for Chimney to grab it first.

“Uh-uh, not tonight. I got this one,” Bobby said, pulling out his wallet before Chimney could protest.

“Bobby, seriously, you don’t have to– I’m the one who invited you out. ” Chimney  started, but Bobby cut him off with a wave of his hand.

“I insist. Besides, you’re taking us all bowling after this, right? Consider this my contribution to the night.”

Chimney raised an eyebrow but smiled. “Fine, you win this round. But next time, it’s on me.”

“Deal,” Bobby replied with a grin.

They stood up from the booth, gathering their jackets and bags. As they stepped outside, the crisp night air greeted them, refreshing after the cozy warmth of the restaurant. The city was alive around them, the lights twinkling and the streets still buzzing with activity. As they began to walk down the street, Maddie turned to Chimney.

“Hey, I need to use the restroom real quick before we head out,” she said.

Chimney nodded.

Bobby then added. “Yeah, I could use a quick stop too. We’ll meet you guys back here in a minute.”

Athena smiled at them. “No rush. We’ll be right here.”

As Bobby and Maddie headed back inside, Athena and Chimney were left standing together on the sidewalk.

Chimney glanced at Athena, a playful smirk crossing his face. “So, bowling? You any good?”

Athena laughed softly. “I guess you’ll find out soon enough.”

Chimney chuckled, leaning against the nearby railing. “Bobby’s got a competitive streak, you know. You might have your hands full.”

Athena shook her head with a grin. “Oh, I’m not worried. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”

Chimney smiled as they fell into a comfortable silence. He couldn’t help but glance at Athena and think about Bobby. There was a part of him that was a little worried about their relationship. 

He’d noticed how in sync they were tonight—the soft glances, the subtle touches, the smiles, and the constant reassurance they gave each other. But what he didn’t know was how things were really going between them. 

He could tell Bobby was starting to fall for her, and he knew Bobby would eventually let Athena in. Still, Chimney thought it was too soon, or maybe it was just the fear of seeing Bobby get hurt again, especially after everything he had gone through with Marcy and their daughter.

That thought nagged at him, the memory of Bobby breaking down in his arms appeared in his mind. The idea of Bobby going through that kind of pain again weighed on him heavily. What if Athena wasn’t as invested as she seemed? What if she was just putting on an act until she decided to leave and twist the knife?

Chimney shook his head, trying to push away the unsettling thoughts. He shifted his stance, leaning against the railing, his expression becoming more serious. “So, um... how’s everything going with you and Bobby?” he asked, trying to keep his tone casual.

Athena turned to look at him, sensing the shift in his demeanor. “It’s going really well,” she said with a small smile. “I really like him.”

Chimney gave her a nod, returning the smile. “That’s nice. You two seem like a good fit.”

“You think so?” she asked, a bit of curiosity in her voice.

“Oh, definitely,” Chimney replied. “I mean, look at him. He’s like a different person ever since you two got together. Happier, more relaxed. It’s good to see him like that.”

Athena felt a warmth in her chest at his words. “He makes me happy too. Bobby’s... well, he’s special.”

Chimney nodded, his smile fading slightly as his expression grew more thoughtful. “He really is. And I’m not just saying that because he’s my best friend. Bobby’s one of the best people I know.”

Athena could sense the weight behind Chimney’s words, and a slight knot formed in her stomach. She could tell this conversation was leading somewhere deeper, that people could tell their relationship was becoming more and more serious. It only made her want to be good enough for Bobby, so that Chimney could see it.

“Yeah, I can tell,” she said softly. “He’s open with me, sweet, and thoughtful. He makes me feel seen.”

Chimney nodded again, but his tone shifted as he spoke. “He’s all of those things, and he always has been. But... he also carries a lot on his shoulders.”

Athena’s throat tightened as Chimney’s words hung in the air. She knew Bobby had been through a lot, but the way Chimney spoke of it made her see just how heavy that burden really was.

“Losing his daughter, going through a divorce that broke him... that kind of grief, it changes you,” Chimney said, his voice low.

Athena nodded, remembering the small bits of Bobby’s past he had shared with her. He had told her about Brooke, mentioned the divorce but never in great detail. “Yeah... he’s mentioned some things.”

Chimney’s eyes softened as he looked at her. “Bobby doesn’t talk much about his past. He keeps a lot of it close to the chest. It’s why he put up walls for so long. I’ve seen him at his lowest, Athena... and it’s not a place you ever want to see him.”

Athena’s heart ached at the thought. She never wanted to be the cause of Bobby’s pain. She never wanted to hurt him.

“But then you came along,” Chimney continued, his tone growing more earnest. “And I’ve never seen him this happy. You’re good for him, Athena. You make him smile in ways I haven’t seen in years. He’s more open, more... himself.”

Athena felt her heart swell. “I’m glad. He brings out a lot in me too. I want to be there for him, Chimney. I really do.”

Chimney smiled softly, but there was still a seriousness in his eyes. “That’s why I wanted to talk to you. I can see you care about him, and I know he feels the same. But... Bobby’s been through a lot, and it’s not easy for him to let people in. I just... I hope you’re in this for the right reasons.”

Athena let those words sink in, she met Chimney’s gaze steadily, but there was that tiny heartbreak in his eyes. “I am. I’d never hurt him, Chimney.” Her breath was shaky. “I’m in this for the long haul.”

Chimney’s shoulders relaxed, and a look of relief passed over his face. “Good. I just had to say something, you know? Bobby’s been through crap, and seeing him this happy—it’s something I didn’t know if I’d ever see again.”

They stood there for a moment in silence, the weight of the conversation settling comfortably between them. It was clear to Athena just how much Chimney cared about Bobby, how deeply he wanted to protect him from experiencing the pain of his past again.

It was now clear that Bobby had been through far more than she had realized. When he told her he hadn’t been on a date in a long time, he truly meant it. That realization scared her. What if she hurt him? What if, despite her best intentions, she broke him in ways she couldn’t foresee? Athena didn't want that, instead she wanted to tear down his walls and l-love…love him in the way he deserved no matter what. The thought of Bobby loving her, of being his, was perfect. He wasn’t abusive like men from her past. He was like a breath of fresh air she hadn’t known she needed and it had been over 30 years since she’d been in a real relationship. She didn’t even know if she still knew how to navigate it.

Because eventually, though, Bobby was going to let her in. She could feel it. He was going to truly give his heart to her because that’s who he was—loyal and trustworthy. She could see that in him.

But could she let him in? Could she tear down her own walls after years of protecting herself from the scars of her past? How would she be able to tell him about what happened? Her ex could show up one day.

The doubts crept in. Was she enough for him? Could she be the one he deserved?

Her resistance, her hesitance, weighed heavily on her. Those years of living through an abusive relationship had left her with a shell she couldn’t seem to break out of. She kept thinking she was broken, unable to be loved the way Bobby deserved to love someone.

Athena wanted to be different with Bobby, but the question lingered in her mind: Could she?

Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted by the feel of a hand sliding around her waist. She blinked and jerked her head up, surprised to see Bobby standing beside her.

“All set?” Bobby asked, his eyes narrowing with concern as he noticed the unsettled look on her face. He gently pulled back slightly, his voice softer, “Hey, are you okay?”

Athena swallowed hard, pushing down the storm of emotions she had been grappling with. She forced a small smile, hoping it would be convincing. “Y-Yeah, I’m okay.”

Bobby studied her for a second longer, as if weighing whether to push further or let it go. Athena felt the tension rise, hoping he wouldn’t ask anything more. 

“Okay,” he said gently, though his concern lingered in his tone. “Let me know if you need anything.” He leaned down to give her a quick kiss on the lips, a gesture that felt both reassuring and grounding.

She nodded, grateful for his support but also battling the fear inside her.

Just then, Chimney and Maddie approached them, their voices breaking the silence. “You guys good?” Chimney asked, his arm draped casually around Maddie’s shoulders.

Bobby and Athena both nodded, exchanging a look of understanding.

“Good,” Chimney grinned, already shifting the mood with his usual playfulness. “Now let’s go see who’s the real bowling champ, because I’m not going to go easy on any of you.”

༺༻

Athena looked into Bobby’s eyes, feeling his hand rest comfortably on her waist. The glow of the neon lights in the bowling alley reflected in his gaze as he grinned down at her. “I’m just saying, I’m going to win this,” he teased, his voice filled with playful confidence.

She shook her head, teasing. “No, you're not. Don’t be so full of pride, Nash.”

“Oh, you're just scared,” Bobby said, leaning a little closer.

“I’m scared?” Athena raised an eyebrow, her voice dripping with challenge. “You’re scared you won’t be able to handle it when I win.”

They stood inches apart now, a fluttering tension between them, the kind that made their stomachs flip.

Bobby’s gaze softened, the warmth in his eyes deepening as he leaned in. “Well, we’ll just have to see about that, my darling.”

Then without hesitation, he pulled her closer, capturing her lips in a tender kiss. Athena giggled softly against his mouth, kissing him back as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Bobby, we got the lane!” Chimney’s voice broke through the intimate bubble they’d created.

The two of them pulled apart and headed over. It was cozy, with neon lights illuminating the lanes and a buzzing energy from the other players. Their row was set off to the side, giving them a bit of privacy to enjoy the game without too much noise around them.

They all gathered around the lane, their bowling shoes squeaking slightly on the polished floor. Chimney was already hyped, stretching his arms and bouncing on his heels like he was getting ready for an intense competition. Maddie smiled fondly, clearly used to this.

"Alright, who's going first?" Chimney asked, glancing between the group.

Bobby took a step back and smirked. “Ladies first,” he said, motioning toward the women.

Maddie and Athena raised an eyebrow,

“Oh, trying to play the gentleman card already?” Maddie teased, folding her arms.

Chimney chuckled, stepping near Bobby as if they were teammates. “I mean, come on…”

“Always,” Bobby replied smoothly, he then glanced at Athena with a wink. “But don’t worry, I’m just giving you the first shot so you won’t feel bad when I win.”

Athena rolled her eyes, grabbing a ball from the rack. “You’re going to eat those words,” she muttered as she stepped up to the lane.

She took a deep breath, eyeing the pins as she steadied herself. With a quick flick of her wrist, she sent the ball rolling down the lane. It curved slightly to the left before knocking down seven pins.

"Not bad for a start!" Chimney called out, clapping. “But can you finish the job?”

Athena shot him a mock glare, stepping up for her second shot. She rolled the ball once more, knocking down two more pins.

“Nine, huh? Not bad, but I expected more,” Bobby teased, his grin never fading.

Athena turned toward him, her eyes narrowing playfully. “Just wait until it’s your turn, Nash.”

Bobby smirked as he stepped up next, selecting his ball with a confident smile. “Alright, let me show you how it’s done.”

He took his stance, focused on the pins ahead, and with a smooth release, the ball shot down the lane. It curved slightly to the right and, with a satisfying crash, knocked all the pins down in one go.

“A strike!” Chimney shouted, laughing as Bobby turned back to the group, raising his hands. “Okay, okay, Bobby. You’re off to a good start, but don’t let it go to your head.”

Athena crossed her arms, pretending to look unimpressed. “This is just the start of the game, baby. You’ll have a downfall soon enough.”

Bobby’s smirk deepened. “We’ll see about that.”

Maddie stepped up next, giggling as Chimney gave her an exaggerated pep talk, like she was about to compete in a professional bowling tournament.

 She shook her head, rolling her ball down the lane. It knocked down six pins, and with her second roll, she brought down three more, earning a solid score.

“Not bad, Maddie!” Athena cheered.

Chimney was the last to go, and as expected, he played it up, rolling his shoulders dramatically. “Alright, everyone, watch a master at work.”

He threw the ball with way too much enthusiasm, sending it speeding down the lane—and straight into the gutter. The group burst out laughing as Chimney stood there, hands on his hips, shaking his head in disbelief.

“Oh, I see how it is,” he said, turning back to them. “The pins are scared of me.”

Maddie patted his shoulder, her laughter bubbling. “Oh sweetie, I’m sure that’s what it is.”

By the time Chimney finished his turn with a measly two pins, everyone was in good spirits, they teased and laughed. They took turns bowling, the competition heating up as the game went on, with Bobby still in the lead.

Athena stepped up for her next turn, she needed to win. As she grabbed her ball, she leaned into Bobby as he stood beside her  and glanced to him “You’re about to go down.”

Bobby widened his eyes, surprised by her boldness but enjoying every moment of it. “We’ll see about that.”

Athena confidently took her shot, the ball rolling down the lane perfectly. It curved just right, crashing into the pins and knocking them all down.

“Strike!” she shouted, throwing her hands up in the air.

Bobby was impressed, nodding his head. “Alright, alright, you’re getting there.”

Athena gave him a smug look. “Told you not to underestimate me.”

He shook his head. “Watch this.” Bobby grabbed a ball.

Bobby chuckled as he grabbed his own ball. “Watch this.”

He positioned himself perfectly at the lane, confident in his ability to strike again. But just as he was about to release the ball, Athena leaned in, on her tiptoes and whispered, “You’re looking pretty hot tonight.”

Caught off guard, Bobby’s face flushed red, and he released the ball awkwardly. It rolled down the lane, but with less power, knocking down only four pins.

Athena winked at him as he turned to look at her. “Oh, did I distract you, baby?”

“Nice one Athena!” Maddie said with a laugh.

“Bobby, are you seriously letting her get in your head right now?” Chimney said with mock disbelief. “Come on, man, step it up!”

 “You did not just do that.” Bobby groaned.

“Oh, I did,” Athena replied, giving him a teasing kiss on the cheek, Bobby’s head fell into her shoulder. He was still flushing by the compliment and he liked it.

The game continued, it was fun, Chimney kept saying he was going to win while Maddie was silently trying to prepare him for the loss.

“I’m telling you, Mads,” Chimney said, stretching his arm dramatically before taking his shot. “This is the one. I can feel it.”

Maddie chuckled, giving him a pat on the back. “Sure, Chim. Just don’t be too hard on yourself when the pins don’t agree.”

Chimney’s ball sped down the lane, only to veer sharply into the gutter. He stood there for a moment, hands on his hips, shaking his head. “That’s not even on me. This lane is cursed.”

Maddie covered her mouth to stifle her laughter. “Uh-huh. Maybe the next one will be better.”

“Maddie, I don't think you should encourage him.” Bobby said. 

Athena playfully hit him and he shut his mouth.

When it was finally Athena's turn, Bobby had tried to distract her, to return the favor. He leaned close, his voice low as he whispered, “You’ve got a cute little sway in your step.”

Athena blushed for a split second, her stomach fluttered but she wasn't going to be charmed. She quickly composed herself, turning to him with a smirk. “You’re not going to get me, baby.”

With that she scored.

The game progressed, everyone having fun. They cheered for each other’s strikes, groaned at gutter balls, and teased whenever someone missed a pin. By the final round, Bobby was still in the lead, but Athena had closed the gap.

“Chim, I love you, but maybe you should focus on hitting the pins instead of hitting the gutter,” she teased after another one of his failed attempts.

“I’m just warming up!” Chimney protested, grabbing another ball with renewed determination. “You’ll see.”

“Or failing.” Bobby said. 

“Bobby just be quiet.” Chim said, rolling his eyes.

The two women looked at each other, shaking their heads.

It was finally Athena’s turn. She stepped up, she took a deep breath, her focus solely on the pins. She rolled the ball smoothly, and with a loud crash, she knocked all ten pins down, securing another strike.

She spun around, her grin wide with victory. “And that’s game!”

Chimney groaned dramatically from the sidelines. “Man, I never even stood a chance.”

Maddie laughed, looping her arm through his. “It’s okay, honey. We’ll call it a learning experience.”

Bobby walked over to Athena, pulling her close with a proud smile. “You’re good, I’ll give you that.”

Athena smirked. “Told you not to underestimate me.”

He leaned down, giving her a soft kiss on the lips. “Guess I’ll have to step up my game next time.”

“I guess you will.” She smiled. “Do I get a prize?”

“What do you want?” He asked.

“To treat you.” She said with a twinkle in her eyes. “I want to take you out on a date.”

His eyes blink in surprise. Treat him? It wasn’t often that someone offered to take him out. The idea warmed him in a way he hadn’t expected, maybe because it was from her. Leaning in, he kissed her again, a little longer this time, 

When he pulled back, his smile was full and genuine. “Okay,” he agreed

The group gathered their things, exchanging goodbyes as the night came to an end. It had been a really good night—full of laughter, fun, and a few surprises.

Bobby drove Athena home, the soft hum of the car engine accompanied their quiet conversation. The streets were calm, bathed in the gentle glow of the streetlights.

“That was fun,” Athena said, glancing at Bobby from the passenger seat. “I can’t remember the last time I laughed that much.”

“Me neither,” Bobby replied, his hand resting on the steering wheel. He glanced over at her. “It was a good day.”

When they finally pulled up to her house, Bobby parked the car and turned to face her. “Thanks for tonight,” he said, his voice low and sincere. “For everything.”

Athena furrowed her brow slightly, confused. “For what?”

“For being you,” he replied, his gaze steady, full of quiet admiration.

Her expression softened at his words, her heart skipping a beat. She leaned over, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips, her voice soft as she whispered, “You make me feel this way.”

Bobby’s heart swelled, and he smiled at her. 

“See you tomorrow?”

“Definitely,” Bobby said, his eyes lingering on her as she stepped out of the car.

As Athena disappeared into her house, Bobby sat there for a moment longer, reflecting on the day. It wasn’t just about the bowling game, the teasing banter, or even the surprise date offer—it was the way she made him feel. She had a way of grounding him, making him feel lighter, happier, and more connected than he had in a long time.

With a soft smile still playing on his lips, Bobby shifted into gear and drove home, looking forward to seeing her again.

Chapter Text

The morning before Brooke’s Death.

The morning began quietly. Bobby stood at the stove, stirring a pot of oatmeal while glancing over at Brooke, who sat at the kitchen table, sniffling softly every now and then coughing. She had a little cold, nothing major, but it was enough to make him pause and reconsider whether sending her to school was the right choice. Despite the tissues piled in front of her, she wore her usual bright smile.

“Sweetheart, maybe you should stay home today,” Bobby said gently, placing a bowl of oatmeal in front of her. “You’ve got a little cold, and I don’t want it getting worse.”

Brooke looked up, her eyes big and hopeful. “But, Daddy, I’m okay! I don’t want to miss school. We’re doing our class presentations today. I’ve been practicing all week!”

His heart softened at her enthusiasm, but the cautious side of him was still unsure. He opened his mouth to insist she stay home when Marcy walked into the kitchen, her movements brisk, her expression impatient.

“Why is she still sitting here?” Marcy asked, her tone clipped. “Brooke, come on baby, finish up breakfast.”

Bobby straightened, turning to her. “She’s got a cold, Marcy. I was thinking she should stay home and rest. She’s not feeling her best.”

Marcy rolled her eyes, not even sparing a glance at him, walking over to Brooke and smoothing her hair. “It’s just a cold, Bobby. She’ll be fine.”

Bobby sighed, trying to keep his voice calm. “I don’t want her getting any worse, okay? She can miss one day of school. It’s not a big deal.

Marcy turned to him, her eyes narrowing. “You’re overreacting Bobby. She’s not going to get worse just because she’s got a sniffle. She’ll be fine. She’s tough, she can handle it.”

Bobby shook his head. The last time Brooke had a cold, it got worse, and she was crying. He didn’t want her to feel that way again.

“Come on, Bobby.”

What was happening to his wife? The arguments, the tension between the two of them was still going on. He didn't understand anymore. She’d dismiss his concerns, undermine him, and act like he didn’t know what was best for their daughter. She wasn’t even as nurturing or motherly to Brooke anymore, not as engaged. The Marcy he knew, would have done the same as him. Brooke had even been asking him what was going on with Mom.

“I’m not overreacting,” Bobby said, his voice firmer now. “She’s eight, Marcy. If she gets worse, something might happen in class and other kids could get sick. You know what happened last time.”

Marcy’s frustration was palpable. “It’s going to be different this time. You’re always like this—always making everything a big deal. You’re too soft, Bobby. She needs to learn to push through small things. Not everything requires coddling, Bobby.”

Bobby stared at her, the frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. She is literally eight. His daughter is sick. He wasn’t going to back down.

“I’m not being soft,” Bobby shot back. “I also know my daughter. I just don’t want her pushing through something when she doesn’t need to. I know what's best for her. She's not a machine. She’s a kid, Marcy. She needs rest when she’s not feeling well. I’m not going to send her to school sick just because you think it’s a lesson in toughness.”

Marcy scoffed. “No, you’re thinking about what makes you feel better. You’re the one who needs control. You're the one that's soft. No wonder everything falls apart when you try to make decisions. If she wants to go, let her go. Stop making her think she’s fragile.”

Bobby froze, did those words really just come out of her mouth? The Marcy who would have never beat him down, never even wanted Brooke to school was now beating him down and making her go to school. He felt a pang, it stung him hard. Everything was changing and he truly did not know what to do, he talked to her about it multiple times.

Brooke, sensing the argument brewing between her parents, looked between them nervously. “Daddy, I can go,” she said quietly, hoping to ease the tension. “I really want to. I promise I’ll be okay.”

Bobby glanced at her, his resolve wavering. Was she sure? Or was she asking because she didn't want to see her parents arguing? He knelt down beside her chair, taking her hand. “Are you sure, sweetheart? I don’t want you feeling worse.”

Brooke nodded, her eyes pleading with true excitement. “I can handle it. Please, Daddy. I really want to go.”

He sighed, he stared at her for a moment, his heart tugging in two directions. He didn’t want her to feel like he was holding her back, especially since she’d been so excited about her presentation. 

“Please daddy?” She said once more. “I really need to show everyone, even my friends. I’m also tough! Just like you said.”

“Listen to her Bobby.” Marcy added. Bobby felt his jaw set on fire. He couldn’t argue with Marcy, especially not in front of Brooke. Especially since his daughter wants to go. He was on a tightrope.

“Okay,” he said, wavering. He ran a hand through his hair. “But if you feel even a little worse, you have to tell your teacher, okay?”

“I promise,” she said, grinning as she hugged him. 

Bobby hugged her tightly, feeling a pang of worry still gnawing at him. But he let it go, at least for the moment, as he helped her get ready for school. He packed her backpack with care, slipping in her presentation poster, her lunch, and a little pack of animal crackers—the ones she loved so much. He smiled to himself, thinking about how her face would light up when she found them later. 

“Here,” he said, zipping it up. “I put something extra in your bag. Just in case you need a snack later.”

Brooke giggled, her eyes twinkling, her face full of love. She leaned in and kissed him on the cheek. “Thanks, Daddy. You always know what I like.”

His heart swelled, but the feeling still gnawed at him. He couldn’t take her to school himself; he had an early shift at work. That made the decision harder, trusting that she’d be okay without him nearby.

Marcy, standing by the door with her arms crossed, tapped her foot impatiently. “Come on, Brooke, we’re going to be late.”

Bobby glanced at his watch, that uneasy feeling in his stomach growing stronger. “Take care of her, Marcy,” he said, his voice low but serious. “I mean it.”

Marcy didn’t respond, only grabbing Brooke’s hand and heading toward the door. Brooke waved over her shoulder. her backpack bouncing. “I’ll tell you all about the presentation when I get home, Daddy!”

Bobby smiled, waving back. “I’ll be waiting, sweetheart.”

As the door closed behind them, the house fell into a heavy silence. Bobby stood there for a moment, his hands gripping the counter as the bad feeling in his gut twisted tighter. He didn’t know why, but something felt wrong—deeply wrong.

He shook his head, trying to brush it off. But as he grabbed his keys and headed out for work, the weight of that unease hung over him like a dark cloud, refusing to let go.

♡

“You can’t even stop smiling.” Hen teased, sitting across from Athena in her kitchen. It was early morning, and the two women—Hen and Maddie—had spent the night at Athena's house after a bit too much wine yesterday.

“She really can’t.” Maddie chimed. “You’re glowing Athena.” 

Athena was scrolling through her phones, showing them pictures when they stumbled upon a photo of her and Bobby on their date a week ago. 

Athena rolled her eyes playfully but didn’t argue. It was a selfie of them at a park. In the picture, they were having a picnic and Bobby was kissing her cheek while she laughed at the camera. Her laugh stretched wide, capturing the pure joy of the moment.

“Come on, it’s just a picture,” Athena said, trying to brush off the attention, but the warmth in her voice gave her away. She knew she was glowing, and her friends weren’t about to let her forget it.

Hen leaned back in her chair, raising an eyebrow. “Alright, alright, well then, when am I finally going to meet him? It’s been, what—six months since you two got together?”

Maddie’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Wait, you still haven’t met him?”

Hen rolled her eyes playfully. “Nope. I haven’t. Athena hasn’t introduced me yet.”

“Excuse me, you’ve been busy.” Athena said.

Hen gave her a pointed look. “Busy working with other clients. And considering the manuscript you just handed me to submit to the company, I’d say I’m even more busy now.”

Athena chuckled, leaning back in her chair. “Well, you’re my manager. I finished the book, didn’t I? I did what I needed to do.”

Maddie jumped in. “Wait, you’re really done? I thought you were still working on the ending last time we talked.”

Athena raised an eyebrow. “That was one month and a half ago, Maddie. I just turned in the final draft recently. We’re now working on the cover design and all the final touches before we publish in November.”

“Wow, that’s amazing,” Maddie said, nodding approvingly. “Are you gonna let me in on the plot though?”

Hen laughed. “When has she ever let us in on what she's writing about? She likes to surprise us.”

Athena shook her head, rolling her eyes as they drifted toward a framed photo of her and the kids sitting on the kitchen counter. A sudden wave of guilt surged through her, tightening her stomach. 

She realized that this was real—five months had gone by, and her kids didn’t know about Bobby. She widened her eyes. 

How had she let that much time slip away without telling them? How has it been a secret for so long? She wanted to share that life with her kids.

The plan had always been to wait, to ease them into the idea. That’s what she and Bobby had agreed on. But now, Athena realized she’d been so swept up in her time with Bobby—laughing, connecting, feeling alive again—that she hadn’t truly considered how much keeping him a secret would weigh on her. Her children were her world, and the fact that they were still in the dark gnawed at her conscience. It felt like she was betraying them.

Maybe there was another reason why she hadn’t told them. May had been asking for years who her father was. It wasn’t something Athena had done intentionally—keeping secrets—but she had a habit of holding things back, of not wanting to face the truth out of fear of the reaction. It was something that developed over the years. Her kids deserved to know, even if it scared her. Not everything could be about her and her fears.

Maddie and Hen exchanged glances, sensing the shift in Athena’s mood. Hen already knew what this was about.

“Athena?” Hen asked gently, leaning forward. “Are you okay?”

Athena blinked, trying to shake herself free from her thoughts. “Yeah, I’m fine,” she said, though her voice lacked conviction.

Maddie’s brow furrowed as she studied Athena’s expression. “You haven’t told the kids yet, have you?”

Athena opened her mouth, but no words came out. She let out a sigh and dropped her head into her hands. “No,” she admitted quietly. “I haven’t told them.”

Maddie’s eyes widened in surprise. “What? Athena, it’s been five months!”

Athena ran her fingers through her hair, frustrated with herself. “I know. I know it’s been five months.”

Hen gave a soft, sympathetic nod. “I’ve been gently nudging her about it here and there.”

“It’s just... I didn’t realize how much time had passed. Yes Hen, you have been telling me but I’ve been so caught up with Bobby, and that’s not an excuse. But I’m afraid they won’t trust me. Or worse, they won’t trust Bobby,” Athena said, her voice trembling slightly. “I don’t even think Bobby realizes it’s been this long. How did five months go by without me noticing?”

“Athena…” Maddie began, her voice soft and concerned.

Athena’s emotions were flooding in all at once, overwhelming her. “How could I have let this happen? How could I not have paid attention to my kids and this situation?” she asked, her voice shaking.

Hen reached out, taking Athena’s hand gently. “Athena, don’t beat yourself up. It’s been a long time—a really long time since what happened with…” Hen hesitated, glancing at Maddie. Maddie didn’t know about him—about her ex. “Well, you know... but you can’t blame yourself for being happy and not realizing it. You deserve to feel joy again, after all these years. You’ve healed, day by day, and I’m proud of you for that. You should be proud too.”

Athena nodded but didn’t look convinced. Hen continued, her voice steady and firm. “But you do need to talk to your kids. You have to tell May and Harry because they already adore Bobby. They truly do. I don’t know how they’ll react, but I know you’ve raised them to be loving, understanding kids. Whatever concerns they have, you can handle it. You’ll be honest with them, like you’ve always been.”

Athena sighed deeply. “Yeah, but Hen… they still don’t know about Michael.”

“Who’s Michael?” Maddie asked, confusion written on her face.

Athena hesitated before Hen quietly answered, “Their father.”

“I’ll explain everything later, Maddie,” Athena said softly, brushing off the question for now. “May and Harry have been asking about him for years, Hen. They want to know about their father, and I don’t know how to tell them.”

Hen’s eyes softened. “Then why don’t you just tell them? There’s no reason to keep it from them anymore. They deserve to know about Michael. There’s nothing wrong with it.”

Athena shrugged, her shoulders heavy with indecision. “I don’t know, Hen. I just don’t.”

Hen gave her a serious look. “Athena, you’ve been carrying this weight for too long. You need to stop trying to hold everything together by yourself. It’s okay to let go.”

Maddie reached for Athena’s other hand. “I haven’t known you as long as Hen has,” Maddie said, and they all chuckled. “but I agree with her. I don’t know everything you’ve been through, Athena, but you need to tell them about Bobby. He’s a part of your life now.”

Athena stared at her two friends, torn between her fear and the truth that had been nagging at her. 

Hen added gently, “Your kids love Bobby already and you can’t let the past or anything else hold onto you anymore.”

Let go.

Maddie nodded. “They talk about him all the time.”

You deserve more. 

I deserve more.

“Okay,” Athena whispered, her resolve building. “I’ll tell them. Today.”

“Tell us what?” a voice said from behind them.

The three women turned, startled, to see May and Harry standing in the doorway, their eyes curious and slightly wary.

She glanced to Hen and Maddie, who both nodded at her with quiet encouragement. 

Taking a deep breath, Athena faced her kids, her voice steady but filled with emotion. “There’s something I need to talk to you both about. It’s important.” 

May and Harry exchanged a look before stepping forward.“What’s going on?” Harry asked cautiously. 

Athena glanced back at Hen and Maddie. Hen gave her a reassuring smile. Maddie squeezed her shoulder for support before they both quietly stood up, leaving the room.

Once they left, Athena motioned for them to sit down across from her, the two of them did as she said.

When they settled, Athena took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, trying to gather her thoughts. “There’s something I need to talk to you both about,” she began, her voice wavering slightly but determined. “Something I should’ve told you sooner. And I want to apologize for not telling you earlier.”

May and Harry exchanged glances, their expressions softening, waiting for her to continue.

“I know you guys have probably noticed that I’ve been… different lately,” Athena started, carefully choosing her words. “I’ve been happier. And that’s because… well, because I started dating again after a really long time, like I told you guys.”

Both May and Harry nodded in understanding, though they didn’t say anything just yet.

“I’ve always tried to be open with you two,” Athena continued, her voice more firm. “I want you to know when something important happens in my life, just like I want to be there for you in yours.”

She hesitated for a moment. “So, something did happen. I went on a date, and it went really well. We’ve been going out ever since. And it’s someone you know. Someone you both know really well.”

A small, knowing smile started to form on May’s face, and Harry looked like he was beginning to piece it together. Their reactions made Athena pause, slightly confused, but she pressed on.

“It’s Bobby,” Athena finally said, her heart racing. “Bobby from the bookstore—the Bobby you two always talk about.”

For a moment, the room was silent. Athena’s pulse quickened as she waited for them to say something. She had no idea how they would react—whether they’d be surprised, upset, or confused. But what came next completely caught her off guard.

May glanced at Harry before turning back to their mother, a soft smile playing on her lips. “We know, Mom.”

Athena blinked, her heart skipping a beat. “What? You knew?”

May nodded, her smile widening. “Yeah, we knew from the start. We didn’t need you to tell us.”

Athena’s eyebrows shot up in disbelief. “How?”

May chuckled lightly. “Harry and I clocked it the moment you two met. Right after he helped us that day at the bookstore, we sensed it when you first met him.”

Harry nodded, grinning. “Yeah, it was pretty obvious. We saw how you both froze. Plus, we’ve seen him picking you up or dropping you off a few times, and whenever I visit the bookstore, he’s always in a great mood.”

May laughed. “Yeah, he doesn’t think we notice the smile on his face when he gets a text from you. I asked him who it was, and he turned red, saying it was Chimney who sent him a meme.”

Harry added, “We’ve always liked Bobby. He’s amazing. We’ve just been waiting for you to say something.”

Athena felt a wave of relief wash over her, though it was tinged with guilt. She let out a breath she didn’t realize she had been holding. “I should have told you sooner. I’m really sorry for keeping it from you for so long. I was just so caught up with spending time with Bobby.”

May leaned closer, her voice gentle. “Mom, it’s okay. We get it. You haven’t dated in a long time—like, really long. You didn’t date when I was younger, and now, with Harry… it’s just not something we’re used to hearing about.”

Athena nodded, her voice soft. “Yeah, I just… I met Bobby, and he made me feel something I haven’t felt in years. Are you guys really okay with this?”

May smiled warmly. “Of course we are, Mom. You found someone who makes you happy, and you committed to that. You always taught us not to settle, to find what truly makes us happy.” She paused, her tone becoming more thoughtful. “It’s just… it would’ve been nice to be part of that part of your life, you know? To hear about what Bobby’s been up to, help you pick out outfits for dates, maybe even do some girly things. We’re not mad at you, we just wish we could’ve shared in it more.”

Athena reached for her daughter’s hand. “You’re right. You’re absolutely right. I should’ve trusted you both more. Not telling you wasn’t fair. I didn’t want to complicate things or hurt you, but that’s not an excuse. I’m so, so sorry.”

Harry scooted closer to his mom. “We love you, Mom,” he said earnestly, looking up at her with wide, innocent eyes. “We just want to be part of your life. It kinda hurt a little that you didn’t share it with us. But we love Bobby. He’s great. We just want to know what’s going on, that’s all.”

Athena pulled both her kids into a tight hug. “You’re right. From now on, I promise, I’ll keep you in the loop. You both mean everything to me, and I want you to be part of everything.”

After a long, comforting moment in the embrace, May pulled back slightly, her expression turning more serious. “Mom… can I ask you something?”

Athena gave a small nod. She felt a pit form in her stomach.

May hesitated for a moment, her eyes searching her mother’s face. “Who’s my dad? Who’s our dad?” she asked quietly. “You’ve never really told me, either of us. We’ve always been curious.”

The question hung in the air, thick with unspoken emotions. Athena sighed softly, running a hand through her hair as she gathered her thoughts. She had known this conversation was coming, and she’d rehearsed it in her mind many times. Now, faced with it, the reality felt heavier than she’d imagined.

“May… your dad isn’t who you might expect. I had just published my sixth book, and I wanted more. I wanted more in my life. I wanted a family. I wasn’t dating at the time for many reasons, and I wanted to do that on my own terms. So, I made the decision to go to a sperm donor,” Athena began, her voice calm but thick with emotion. She kept her gaze on both of them.

May’s eyes widened slightly, but she stayed quiet, listening intently.

“I didn’t want to wait for the ‘right time,’ or for the perfect situation. All I wanted was you,” Athena said, her voice softening as she looked at her daughter. “You were everything I hoped for and more. I never regretted that decision, not once.”

Athena paused for a moment, trying to find the right words.

“But a few years later, your biological dad, Michael, came into the picture.” Her voice softened as she spoke his name, her mind drifting back to that time. “He wasn’t involved from the start. Like many sperm donors, he remained anonymous. When I was searching for one, he hadn’t shared his identity, and I respected that. But then, after some time, he found out that someone had actually used his sperm.”

Athena sighed. “He reached out, wanting to meet me and to be in your life. I was cautious. I wasn’t sure what his intentions were, and I was scared about what it might mean for you and me. But eventually, we got to know each other, and we grew closer.”

May’s eyes were wide with curiosity, but there was also a hint of sadness in them. “Did you… love him?”

Athena hesitated for a moment, then nodded slowly. “In a way, yes. But it was more of a friendship than anything else. It wasn’t the kind of feeling… I feel for Bobby. Michael and I were drawn to each other, but it was different. We spent time together, and during that time, I got pregnant with Harry.”

May and Harry exchanged a glance.

Athena continued, her voice growing quieter. “As we got to know each other, I was planning a day for him to officially meet you, May. I got to show him pictures of you, and talk about you. But before he ever got the chance to, he died. He was in a car accident.” Athena’s voice wavered as memories flashed through her mind. “Everything changed after that. I was pregnant with Harry, and suddenly, I was facing raising both of you on my own. I should have let him meet you sooner, but I was hesitant, and… well, I lost that chance.”

A heavy silence filled the room. Athena felt so much guilt, she blamed herself a bit. It was all on her all the time, she kept all this information and she always kept it to herself.

May stared down at her hands, her face thoughtful as she processed everything that Athena had just told her. Harry, too, seemed deep in thought.

“I never knew that…” May finally whispered. “I never knew any of that.”

Athena reached out and gently took her daughter’s hand. “I’m so sorry, guys. I didn’t tell you sooner because I didn’t know how. It’s a complicated story, and I didn’t want to overwhelm you. I just- But you deserved to know the truth.”

May looked up, her eyes glistening but she gave her mother a small, understanding smile. “It’s okay, Mom. I just… I wish I had known earlier, but I’m glad you told me now. I get why you waited, and I’m not mad.”

Harry leaned closer to Athena. “Does that mean Michael was going to be our dad? Like… for real?”

Athena nodded. “Yes, he wanted to be a part of our lives. He really did. And I know he would have been a good father to both of you. But… things didn’t work out that way.”

The room fell silent again. Would it have been different if Athena told them earlier, would it have changed anything? Her kids would still have a missing father. Micheal was gone. 

Athena squeezed both of her children’s hands.  “I just want you both to know that no matter what, I’ve always loved you with everything I have. And even though Michael isn’t here, you’ve always had me. I just need to work on being more open and it’s hard for me. I want you to know I am truly sorry for everything I have just told you now because I probably should have told you earlier.”

May nodded slowly, still processing everything, while Harry gave a small, reassuring smile. “We’ll be okay, Mom,” he said quietly. “We’ve got each other.”

After a few moments, May looked to her mom. “Can you tell us about him?” she asked softly. 

Athena smiled. “Of course.”

༺༻

“Okay, you better not embarrass me,” Athena said, shooting a playful glance at Hen as they started walking toward Bobby’s bookstore. The streets were busy, cars honking, and people moving in every direction.

It had only been a day since Athena opened up to her kids about Michael, and she already felt lighter. Right after telling them, she sent Bobby a quick text so he wouldn’t panic when they inevitably brought it up to him. Now, Hen had asked if she could meet Bobby, and Athena agreed.

“Don’t worry, I won’t embarrass you,” Hen reassured her with a grin. “Just don’t get mad if something slips out.” She gave a mischievous wink.

Athena rolled her eyes, though her voice wavered slightly. “That’s only if he’s feeling it.”

Hen’s smile faded into confusion. “What do you mean by ‘feeling it’?”

Athena sighed, her expression growing more serious. “I don’t know. The last two weeks… Bobby hasn’t been himself. I’ve asked him if he’s okay, but he always brushes it off. He’s distant. He’s not smiling as brightly, not as engaged. I can’t figure out what’s going on.” Her voice trembled with worry. She was scared—scared that Bobby might be pulling away, that he didn’t want her anymore.

Hen stopped walking, turning to Athena with a concerned look. “Athena… be careful,” she warned softly. “What you’re describing, it reminds me of that time. You know, right before… he started hitting you.”

Athena’s heart sank, the painful memories of her abusive ex flashing through her mind. But she shook her head, determined. “No, Hen. Bobby’s not like him. I promise. There were signs with my ex—things I ignored, things I was blind to. But Bobby isn’t violent. He doesn’t have that in him. If you meet him, you’ll see. I promise. I’m sure of him.”

Hen looked at her long and hard, as if trying to gauge whether Athena really believed it. “Okay,” she said. “This was another reason why I wanted to meet Bobby—just to be sure.”

Athena smiled softly. “I know. I wouldn’t expect anything less from you.”

Hen smiled and they continued walking. When they finally reached the store, Athena pulled the door open, and the chime of the bell rang above them, inviting them in. The homey atmosphere felt warm and the soft lighting casting a cozy glow on the shelves filled with books.

Athena’s eyes immediately landed on Bobby’s frame at the counter, and a smile tugged at her lips. He had his back to her, talking to Chimney. For a moment, her heart fluttered at the sight of him. 

Chimney noticed them, and he signaled to Bobby, who turned around. The second his eyes met Athena’s, they softened, and it made her heart melt—yet also drop.

Bobby looked terrible.

His skin was pale, his face drawn and weary, dark circles hanging under his eyes like he hadn’t slept in days. His normally sharp, neat appearance was gone, his hair a mess, his clothes carelessly thrown on. He gave her a soft smile, but there was no light in it—no life.

What the heck had happened to her man? She hadn’t seen him in a few days, but she hadn’t expected to find him looking like this. Last week, even if he wasn’t as engaged, he certainly didn't look like this.

“Athena!” Chimney greeted with his usual grin, breaking the silence as they approached.

Athena forced herself to chuckle, trying to focus. “Hey, Chimney.” She glanced toward Bobby, she tried to keep her voice steady. Something was really off with him.

“Hey, baby,” Bobby said tiredly. He pulled her in by the waist, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. “I wasn’t expecting to see you today.”

Athena tilted her head, her fingers brushing against his arm. “I wanted to see you… and introduce you to someone, if that’s okay? I should’ve probably texted first.”

Bobby shook his head slightly, he gave her a soft smile but her eyes were distant.. “No, it’s okay. You don’t have to text. I’m always happy to see you.”

Even as he said it, it wasn’t him. Normally, when Bobby saw her, his whole face would light up, but today… it was different. Athena bit her lip, the worry gnawing at her. His demeanor had gradually shifted over the past two weeks, but today was the worst she had seen him.

She stopped looking at him and glanced toward Hen, who stood beside her. “This is Hen, my manager—and best friend.”

Bobby blinked, managing a small smile as he extended his hand. “Oh, hi there. It’s good to meet you. I’ve heard great things.”

Hen smiled warmly, shaking his hand. “Likewise. It’s great to finally meet you too.”

But as Hen’s gaze flickered back to Athena, there was also a hint of concern in her eyes, a silent acknowledgment that Bobby’s condition hadn’t gone unnoticed.  Athena could tell Hen was checking in, making sure Athena saw what she did—Bobby didn’t look like himself.

Before anyone could say more, Chimney jumped in, grinning as he held out his hand to Hen. “Hey there, I’m Chimney. Bobby’s best friend and Maddie’s boyfriend.”

Hen laughed, shaking his hand. “Well, it seems we’re all connected in one way or another. I’ve heard plenty about you, Chimney.”

“Of course,” Chimney grinned, leaning on the counter, but Athena could see too, he was watching Bobby closely. There was a brief moment when Chimney’s playful expression faltered, replaced by a hint of concern before he covered it up again.

Athena’s stomach tightened. Chimney knew what was going on.

Hen looked around the store, really captured by it. She turned to Bobby, wanting to know more about him and said. “You built all of this?”

Bobby nods. “I did. It’s been up and running for about 5 years.” 

Hen smiled, her eyes scanning the shelves lined with classics and rare original editions. “How did you even collect all these original covers? I’ve never seen some of these in person before. What made you decide to open a bookstore?”

Athena’s heart clenched when she saw a flicker of emotion cross Bobby’s face—grief. She knew exactly why he opened this bookstore, and she knew it hurt him to talk about it. 

Bobby opened his mouth to respond, but the words seemed to get stuck. His throat worked, but no sound came out, and his eyes dropped to the floor.

Chimney, noticed immediately, and jumped in for him. “Bobby lost someone special, so he opened this bookstore in her honor. He’s been collecting those original covers since he was a kid. Trust me, Bobby’s always been the biggest book lover I know. He’d carry a book everywhere—at the park, on the job, even when we’d hang out. He’d still have his nose in a book.”

Hen chuckled. “That's cool.” She glanced towards Bobby again, and knew that he wasn’t feeling well today. Athena was so worried about him and it made her realize that Bobby really was good to her. It was the small gestures that Bobby did when Athena wasn’t looking, even when he wasn’t feeling great today. His hand was always on Athena, always glancing towards her, watching her. He was attentive, something Athena’s ex never had.

Chimney motioned for all of them to follow. “Well, it's less now, since he has priorities.” Winking to Athena which makes her smile. “But let me show you around. Bobby gets a bit shy, he doesn't like to boast about this.” 

Bobby rolled his eyes but followed, clearly grateful for Chimney stepping in. Athena stayed by Bobby’s side, her hand brushing against his arm as they walked behind Hen and Chimney.

Chimney started pointing out different sections and recounting funny stories about Bobby’s book collection. Hen laughed along, clearly enjoying the tour, but Athena’s attention was focused solely on Bobby.

She grabbed his hand, slowing them down, and Bobby looked at her with such a softness. “Bobby?” She says.

“Yes, baby?” 

“Are you okay?” Athena asked, searching his face. She could see it in his eyes, the way they darkened with sadness, but she wanted him to say it. She needed him to open up.

Bobby shrugged lightly. “I’m fine,” he said, but Athena could tell by his tone that he wasn’t.

“Are you sure?” she pressed, her voice quieter, more insistent. “I’m really worried. You don’t look fine. Please, talk to me. I want to help.”

Bobby’s heart clenched at her words. The way she looked at him, like he deserved everything. He wanted to let it all out, to tell her everything weighing him down. But he held back. He didn’t want to drag her into his sadness. She was his light, and the last thing he wanted was for her to feel the darkness that consumed him today. Athena cared so deeply, and he loved that about her, but the thought of burdening her with his pain seemed unfair.

He forced a weak smile, shaking his head slightly. “I’m okay, Athena. Really,” he said, though the words came out too soft, too hollow. “I’m just having a tough couple of days. But I’ll be fine in no time, I promise. And it’s not you, alright? You’re perfect.”

Her heart twisted. He was dodging the truth, and she knew it. It wasn’t about her, so what was it? Athena wanted to push harder, to keep asking until he gave her a real answer. But she also knew Bobby well enough to understand that he’d talk when he was ready. Forcing him wouldn’t help. With a deep sigh, she nodded and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close into a hug.

All she wanted was to comfort him and help him feel better. She felt his arms wrap around her, holding her tightly. His head buried into the crook of her neck and she felt him exhale deeply into her shoulder. He melted as soon as she held him and that made her smile, she knows she keeps repeating it over and over but she wants this and more.

He pulls away and looks at her, the moment she saw his eyes, they looked a bit lighter before it became dark again. 

Chimney’s voice pulled them out of their quiet bubble, telling more about what Bobby did with this store and the growth. Athena reluctantly let Bobby go, and the group continued walking, Hen was fully engaged.

“And over here is where Bobby keeps his first edition collection—some of these books are older than me. Can you believe that?” Chimney said. 

Hen was impressed. “Wow, Bobby, this place is a treasure trove.” She turns back to look at Bobby only to find him not there.

Their gazes meet him heading into his office. 

“Bobby?” Chimney called after him, but he didn’t stop. He quietly pushed open the office door and disappeared inside.

Athena’s stomach dropped, what happened? She moved to start walking to the office but Chimney stopped her and went instead.

Hen and Athena were left there standing. The tension was thick in the air. 

Hen stepped closer, placing her hand on her shoulder, her expression mirroring Athena's worry. “He’s not okay, is he?”

Athena shook her head, the knot in her stomach tightening. “No, he’s not.”

“He hasn’t said anything to you?” Hen asked.

Athena shook her head. “I don’t know what’s going on. He told me it wasn’t me and I can tell that it isn’t now. I’m worried Hen, I don’t understand.”

Hen didn’t know what to say, all she knew was that Bobby wasn’t himself and that was hurting Athena. 

She couldn’t say much and as Athena stood there watching the door, waiting for the two of them to come out, only Chimney appeared with an unreadable expression but the sadness in his eyes was unmistakable.

As Chimney approached them, he says. “He..um..he had to leave. He’s taking the rest of the day off.” He pauses, glancing between the two. “Sorry, he's just not feeling well today.”

He left? He left without saying goodbye? Athena was in disbelief. Never once did he ever leave without saying goodbye, never once in their relationship did he leave. She didn’t understand.

Chimney’s face fell as he saw the hurt in Athena’s eyes. “I’m sorry, Athena. He’s just… not feeling well. He usually takes a day off around this time every year. It’s been a rough few days for him. He’s going through something.”

Athena’s frustration bubbled up, mixing with her concern. “Chimney, please… can you just tell me what’s going on? I need to know.”

Chimney hesitated, clearly torn. “I wish I could, Athena. I really do. But it’s not my place to say. I’m sorry. You should text him, though. Reach out. He’ll need you.”

Before Athena could respond, Hen’s phone alarm buzzed, pulling them both out of the moment. Hen winced apologetically. “I’m sorry, Athena. But we’ve got to go. You have that interview today.”

Athena felt despair. She wanted to stay, to figure out what was happening with Bobby. She wanted to go after him, she really didn’t want him to leave. She was committed, she was in this with him. I lov- need him. 

She glanced at Chimney one last time, hoping for more clarity, but his face remained unreadable. Why was this happening now? 

She sighed, her heart heavy. “Okay. Let’s go.”

༺༻

Athena stood in front of Bobby’s apartment door, her heart pounding in her chest. 

She had left her meeting early, unable to focus. All she could think about was Bobby—how off he had seemed, how worried she was. She needed to check on him, needed to make sure he was okay after what Chimney told her. 

She texted him, she called him, she did everything but not a single answer from him. 

Taking a deep breath, she knocked gently. The sound echoed down the quiet hallway, and for a moment, she worried he wouldn’t answer. But after what felt like an eternity, the door creaked open.

Bobby stood there, and the sight of him broke her heart. She didn’t know what to say or do. He looked worse—much more worse than when she saw him earlier. He looked like he had been crying, his eyes rimmed red.

His apartment behind him was a mess, food packages, clothes, papers and books scattered everywhere, the usual neatness she had come to know from him completely gone. 

His eyes widened when he saw her. “A-Athena?” His voice was hoarse. “W-What are you doing here?”

“I came to check on you. I..I called and texted you. I was worried.” She said, “I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

Bobby sighed, running a hand through his hair, trying to focus. “I-I’m sorry, my phone died, I’ve just been all over the place. You should leave. Now is not a great time.”

He goes to close the door but she steps in and stops it. She closes the door behind her and she places a hand on his chest. She wasn’t leaving him like this.

“A-Athena-”

“I’m worried and right now, I’m not going to leave. I don’t want to because I can’t stand to see you like this.”

He blinks. 

“Are you okay? These past few weeks, you haven’t been yourself.”

Bobby’s eyes darted around the apartment, and suddenly, he seemed to panic. “Oh, baby, I’m sorry,” he muttered, moving hurriedly to start cleaning. “I—I didn’t mean for you to see this. I just—things got a little out of hand, and—”

What the heck was going on?

She grabbed his hand gently, pulling him to a stop. “Bobby, slow down,” she said firmly. “I don’t care about the apartment. I care about you. What’s going on? You haven’t been yourself, and I’m worried sick. Chimney told me you’ve been going through something, but I need to hear it from you.”

He looked at her, still frozen in place, His expression was one of deep frustration, guilt, grief, flashing in his eyes as he struggled to find the right words. “I-I don’t… I-I’m not-”

She rubs his chest. “Come on, sit down with me. Take your time. It’s okay.” She guided him over to the couch, sitting beside him, never letting go of his hand.

Bobby dropped his head into his hands, his shoulders slumping as he let out a long, shaky breath. “I don’t want you to see me like this,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

She rubbed his back soothingly. “I don’t care.” She said softly. “I want to help you, I want to stay. I don’t care how you look, I care about you. I-I lo-  I just don’t want to go on when you're like this. You're important to me.”

He looked at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of pain and hesitation.

“Whatever's going on, you don’t have to keep it inside.” She continued. “I want you Bobby. You're not alone. I want to help you, baby, so whatever it is, please tell me. I’m not afraid of you, of this, of any of it. I just want you to talk to me. I’m not going anywhere.”

Bobby swallowed hard, his lip trembling as he tried to keep his emotions in check. “I... I don’t want to burden you with this. I mean, look at me—I don’t even understand why you-.”

“You’re not a burden,” Athena said. “I’m here because I want to be.” She reached for his hand again, and this time, Bobby suddenly pulled her close. His arms wrapped around her tightly, holding on as if she was his anchor.

Athena didn’t say anything, she just waited, he needed this moment. She felt him tremble in her arms, his breath uneven as he struggled to keep it together. She gently rubbed his back, her hand slowly making its way up to the back of his hair, her fingers playing with it in a soothing gesture. She placed a soft kiss just above his ear. “I’m here, baby,” she whispered, her voice tender and reassuring.

Minutes passed, and she felt him calm, just slightly, though the tension in his body still remained. Her heart ached for him; she hated seeing him like this—so broken, so hurt. All she wanted was to take away his pain, to comfort him in any way she could.

Finally, Bobby pulled back, and Athena’s breath caught as she saw the tears brimming in his eyes. He was fighting so hard to hold them back, but the raw emotion on his face was unmistakable, on full display.

“It’s today,” he said quietly, his voice cracking. “Brooke… she died today.”

And with those words, the dam broke. Tears began to spill down his cheeks.

Athena cupped his face, her thumbs gently brushing away the tears. “Oh, baby…” Her heart sank. She couldn’t imagine what he was going through, the loss, the heartache that came with today.

“I-It’s the anniversary, and I don’t know how to... this time of the year-” His voice breaking even more. 

His shoulders shook, and before he could continue, she pulled him into her arms, this time, cradling him close.

Bobby buried his face into the crook of her neck, his sobs muffled against her skin. He clung to her as if letting go would shatter him completely. “I’m sorry,” he stuttered through the tears. “I’m so sorry for pushing you away.”

Athena held him tighter, shaking her head as she rubbed his back. “No. Don’t you apologize, baby. It’s okay,” she whispered, her voice soft but firm. “You were hurting. I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Her words seemed to reach him, and though his sobs continued, there was a slight shift, a tiny moment of release as he allowed himself to just feel. And in that moment, Athena knew that her being here was enough. All she had to do was hold him and let him know she wasn’t leaving.

༺༻

Bobby’s sobs had begun to subside, his breathing still shaky but more even. They stayed in that position for what felt like eternity, but it was comforting to the both of them.

He finally pulled back from Athena slightly, wiping at his eyes with the back of his hand. His face was red and blotchy, and he looked drained, but there was a weight that seemed to have lifted, if only a little. 

He was still her handsome man.

She kept rubbing her thumb gently over his hand. His grief was raw, even after five years, and that's recent. The pain of losing someone never quite erases. She’s gotten to know who Brooke was in these few months. It had been evident in the way he spoke about her—his eyes always lighting up when he shared stories about her, his voice carrying the joy she’d brought into his life. She was his daughter, she honestly wished she could have met Brooke.

Athena couldn’t imagine losing her own kids; just the thought of it made her heart ache. So she waited, patient and present, allowing him to speak when he was ready.

After a long time, Bobby’s voice broke the silence. It was low and rough. “Thank you,” he murmured, his gaze dropping down to their intertwined hands. His fingers gently traced the lines of her palm. “For being here with me… for not leaving.”

“Always,” she whispered, her voice full of warmth.

He took a deep breath. The tension in his shoulders rising and falling with each inhale and exhale. His lips pressed together, and for a moment, Athena thought he might close off again, but then his eyes lifted to meet hers. 

“I want to tell you about what happened with Brooke, and my divorce.” He said.

“You don’t have to,” she said softly. “I don’t want you to feel forced, Bobby. We can talk when you’re ready.”

Bobby shakes his head. “I want to.” He said, squeezing her hand. “I want you to know, you're in my life and I have a feeling..we won’t be apart any time soon.” 

Athena smiled softly. They weren’t leaving each other and that made her heart flutter. She let him continue. 

“I’m not sure where to start,” Bobby began, his voice steady but tinged with hesitation. “But I guess I’ll start with Marcy. That was her name—my ex-wife. We met in highschool school, junior year. We didn’t talk much at first, just casual conversations here and there, passing by in the halls. We only shared one class together. But by the time senior year came around, Chimney was pressuring me to get a date for prom. I didn’t want to go with someone I didn’t know, so I asked Marcy.”

He paused for a moment, as if reliving the memories. “We really got to know each other that night. She was kind, sweet, easygoing… After that, we were inseparable. We got into the same college, and we spent every day together. She had this way of caring about the little things—things that most people would overlook. She saw people, really saw them, and she saw me.”

Athena watched as Bobby’s expression softened. He smiled lightly.

“She was confident, amazing, and I fell in love with her. We moved in together after college. Marcy got her degree in law and business, and I studied English, planning to become a teacher. We were happy. I proposed, we got married, and a few years later, Brooke came along.”

His voice trembled slightly at the mention of Brooke. “Everything was great. We were both so attached to Brooke; she was our whole world. Marcy adored her, and for a while, we were the perfect family. We communicated, we shared everything.”

Bobby’s voice began to falter. “But then… Marcy started having trouble at work. There was this guy—her new partner. He was making her life miserable, and she’d come home stressed, crying. It went on for a few weeks. I was ready to go down to the law firm and give the guy a piece of my mind, but then one day, it just stopped. She said her boss had dealt with it, and things seemed to go back to normal.”

“But things weren’t normal. She distanced herself from me, Marcy started to change. She stopped being the woman I knew—the woman who cared about everything and everyone. She became bitter, distant. We started arguing, and I couldn’t figure out why. She was going out late, spending more time at work. She wasn’t the same person, Athena. She wasn’t caring for Brooke the way she used to, only doing the bare minimum when I asked her to.”

His eyes filled with tears again, and Athena gently placed her hand on his chest, offering comfort.

“I didn’t know what had happened to her,” Bobby continued, his voice thick with emotion. “I started questioning everything—if I was a good husband, a good father, if I was enough for her anymore. Brooke even picked up on it and started asking me what was wrong, but I didn’t have an answer.”

He took a shaky breath, his voice breaking.. “A week before Brooke’s birthday, she had a cold. It wasn’t anything major, but I wanted her to stay home from school. The last time she had a cold, it got worse—she threw up, and it turned into something more serious. I didn’t want her to go, but Marcy insisted. She kept saying Brooke would be fine, that it was just a cold. She kept going on and on about how soft I was, that I was overreacting, that I was treating her like some fragile doll. ”

Bobby’s hands trembled as he spoke, he looked into Athena’s eyes. “ I didn’t feel right about it, Athena. Something felt off. But Brooke said she was fine, she wanted to go to school, she had this huge presentation and Marcy was so sure everything would be okay. So… I let her go.”

Tears spilled down his face now, and Athena wiped one away gently, her heart aching for him.

“As the day went on, that feeling in my gut got worse. I knew something was wrong, Athena. I felt it. And then… I got the call from the school and checked the news. There was a shooter.”

Athena’s breath caught in her throat, her heart sinking as Bobby’s words hit her like a wave.

“I-I rushed to the school,” Bobby stammered, his voice cracking. “By the time I got there, there were parents, cops, ambulances everywhere. I tried calling Marcy, but she didn’t pick up. The police had taken down the shooter, but… he’d hurt some kids. Some were shot, but one… one died. I kept begging in my mind—just praying it wasn’t Brooke.”

His breathing grew shaky, and Athena squeezed his hand, grounding him as he continued.

“The principal was gathering the students, trying to match them with their parents. Some were being taken to ambulances. I-I couldn’t find Brooke anywhere,” Bobby’s breath hitched. “I-I saw her teacher, and she had tears streaming down her face. I ran to her, asked where Brooke was, but she… she didn’t say anything. She just went silent.”

His words broke off as he struggled to hold back tears. Athena gently wiped his face, her own heart aching for him. She rubbed his back soothingly, but Bobby pulled back, trying to gather himself to continue.

“Bobby,” she whispered, “you don’t have to keep going. Just calm down, baby.”

But he shook his head. “I have to, Athena.”

Athena sighed softly but nodded, giving him the space he needed.

“That’s when I knew,” he said, voice barely above a whisper. “Brooke… s-she got her classmates to safety. She made sure they were okay before—before she…” Bobby’s voice cracked, and he shook his head, unable to finish. His shoulders trembled as he fought the grief clawing at him. “I blamed myself. I spent days, weeks just blaming myself.”

Athena’s hand moved to his chest, her touch gentle as she listened.

“When Marcy found out, she didn’t do anything. She didn’t cry, didn’t help. I was the one planning Brooke’s funeral. I was doing everything—alone. I had no one except Chimney. One day, I just snapped. I yelled at Marcy, begged her to be the woman I married again. I wanted her back, I wanted her to care—but there was nothing. Then she told me…” Bobby’s voice grew bitter, his eyes dark with pain. “She told me she found someone else. The guy from work. She said I wasn’t good enough, that Brooke’s death was my fault.”

Athena gasped softly. How could anyone do that to him?

“She blamed me, Athena. She said I was annoying, that I was a failure, that I killed our daughter by sending her to school that day. And then—” Bobby paused, his voice filled with disbelief, “she showed up to Brooke’s funeral with him. She came with him .”

The room was heavy with silence, the weight of Bobby’s confession hanging in the air. Tears slid down his cheeks as he started crying again, and Athena immediately leaned in, gently holding his face between her hands.

“No,” Athena said, her voice soft but firm, yet filled with conviction. “Don’t you ever say that, Bobby. None of this is your fault. You were a good husband. You were a good father. You are enough. You are not a failure.”

She pressed her forehead against his, her touch grounding him. Her voice thickened with emotion. “I’m so sorry, baby. I’m so, so sorry.”

Athena’s heart twisted inside her chest. She could hardly believe the cruelty Marcy had inflicted on him. It was unthinkable to her, how someone could treat Bobby—the kindest, most gentle, and loving man—so terribly. As a tear slipped down her cheek, she wondered how Marcy could have been so blind, so heartless. Bobby deserved so much better.

Now it all made sense—his hesitance, his self-doubt, his reluctance to talk to her about his vulnerability. He had been shattered by the woman he once loved, torn apart when Brooke died, and left with the belief that he wasn’t enough. That he wasn’t a good man.

But Athena knew better. She knew how amazing he was, and she would never let him forget it.

“Bobby, listen to me,” she whispered, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes, her hands still holding his face. “You are an incredible man. You are everything to me. You hear me? Everything. I don’t care what Marcy said or did. She was wrong. So wrong. You deserve to be loved, and I’m never going to stop reminding you of that. I’m not going anywhere.”

She paused, her voice steady and full of certainty. “I’m here, Bobby, and I’m staying by your side. I’ll tell you every single day how amazing you are, how much you mean to me. I will be here. I’m not leaving, and I’ll make you believe it. Every. Single. Day. I am this with you. I am committed to you.”

Bobby’s eyes filled with a mixture of surprise and emotion, his breath catching as her words sank in. He hadn’t expected this, not this level of unwavering support, this fierce devotion.

“Athena…” His voice was soft, fragile almost. He looked at her as if seeing her in a new light, as if her love was mending the pieces of him that had been broken for so long. His hand trembled as it reached up to touch her cheek, brushing away the tear that had fallen.

“I-I love you,” Bobby whispered, his voice cracking as he said the words for the first time. There was a deep sincerity in his tone, a weight to those words that made them feel like more than just a declaration. It was a promise, a surrender, and a release all at once.

Athena felt her heart swell, her chest tightening with emotion. She smiled, a tear slipping down her cheek again as she leaned closer, resting her forehead back against his. He loved her.

“I love you too, Bobby,” she whispered back, her voice full of tenderness. “I love you so much.”

Bobby smiled and gazed into her eyes, his heart full. He leaned in slowly, closing the distance between them. His lips met hers in a soft, tender kiss—a kiss that carried all the emotions he had kept hidden for so long. 

Athena kissed him back, her hand sliding up to the back of his neck as she held him close. They kissed in slow intervals. 

When they finally pulled back, their foreheads still resting against each other, they both took a breath, the air around them, breathed in each other.

Bobby let out a shaky sigh, his hand gently running down her arm. “Athena…” he whispered.

Athena smiled softly, her thumb brushing his cheek. “Let me stay the night?” She asked. “I want to wake up next to you. I want to be there with you.”

It was something they had never done before and after everything they had shared tonight, Athena wanted to be there for him. She didn’t want to leave him alone—not tonight. She wanted to hold him, all his pain and suffering away.

Bobby’s expression softened. His lips curled into a small smile, and he nodded, his hand squeezing hers gently. “I’d… I’d really like that,” he said quietly, his voice still heavy with emotion.

Athena’s smile widened. She leaned in again, pressing a soft kiss to his lips before pulling back just enough to look at him.

“Then I’m staying,” She said. "I’m not going anywhere."

Chapter Text

Athena sat at the small dining room table, her notebook spread open in front of her, fingers gliding over the pages as she worked on her English assignment. It was a personal narrative, something she loved. This was going to be one of the final grades to pass the class. The words flowed from her pen like water, each line making her feel more connected to herself, more in tune with the dreams she still held onto.

She smiled to herself, that familiar warmth whenever she was in her writing zone. This assignment was important to her, not just because it was for school, but because it was hers. Her world, her escape.

The front door creaked, the sound immediately sending a chill through her. Her hand froze. She glanced at the clock—he was home earlier than she expected. Her heartbeat quickened. She looked at her scattered notes and rough drafts, panic rising in her chest. He didn’t like it when she wrote. He didn’t like her "wasting time" on what he always dismissed as "nonsense."

Hurriedly, she gathered up the papers, trying to make it look like she had been doing something else. She stuffed them into her bag, her heart racing as she heard the sound of his boots thudding against the floor, coming closer. She barely had time to zip her bag shut when he appeared in the doorway.

"Hey," he greeted, his voice casual, as if nothing was ever wrong. But it always was.

"Hey," Athena forced a smile, trying to seem calm. She stood up to meet him as he crossed the room. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, planting a rough kiss on her lips. She stiffened in his hold, her pulse quickening for all the wrong reasons. He pulled back slightly, his dark eyes studying her.

"What were you doing?" He asked. His hand still gripped her waist, tighter than necessary.

Athena’s stomach sank. "Just, uh, cleaning up a bit. Nothing much."

He narrowed his eyes, his gaze sweeping over the table. His hand slid off her waist, and he stepped past her. Athena’s heart plummeted as he reached for her bag, curiosity lighting up his face.

"I thought I saw something here," he said, a small smile appearing across his lips.

"No, don’t—" Athena started, but it was too late. He unzipped the bag and pulled out her notebook, flipping it open with an exaggerated flourish. She stood frozen, dreading what was about to happen.

His eyes scanned the first few lines, and his smile faded. He flipped another page, then another. His lips curled, and he let out a sharp, derisive laugh.

"This? You’re still doing this?" He shook his head, tossing the notebook onto the table. The pages fluttered, landing awkwardly, some crumpling under the weight of his hand.

"I—I’m working on my assignment. For school," Athena said quietly, already knowing where this was going. She wanted to reach for her notebook, to protect it from what she knew was coming next, but she stood frozen in place.

"Your stupid writing," he spat, his voice rising. "I thought we talked about this. You’re wasting time on this trash again?"

"It’s not trash," Athena protested softly, her voice shaking. "It’s important to me, I need to finish it—"

He slapped the notebook off the table, sending it skidding across the floor. "Important?" His voice dripped with contempt. "You think this garbage is important? You’re pathetic if you think any of this means anything."

Tears stung at Athena’s eyes, but she blinked them back, forcing herself to stay calm, not to cry in front of him. She had learned the hard way not to cry.

"I’m trying to get my degree," she said quietly, barely able to meet his gaze. "It’s just for class."

He laughed again, cruel and mocking. "Your degree? You really think that’s gonna get you anywhere? You’re wasting your time. You’re wasting my time."

Athena took a small step back, her pulse pounding in her ears. She had heard these words before, this same rant, over and over. But tonight, something felt different. He was angrier, harsher. She had pushed too far, writing again, despite knowing how much he hated it.

"You’re so obsessed with this writing crap," he continued, stepping closer to her. "You’re too stupid to realize it’s never gonna go anywhere. It’s not like you’re gonna be some big writer, Athena."

"Please," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "It’s just for school, it’s not—"

Suddenly, his hand shot out, grabbing her arm roughly. Athena gasped, the sharp pain radiating through her skin as his fingers dug into her flesh.

"Stop making excuses," he snarled, his face inches from hers. "I told you to stop this. You’re not good enough. You’re never gonna be good enough."

Before she could say anything, he shoved her back, her body hitting the edge of the table with a dull thud. Her breath caught in her throat, tears spilling over now. She held onto the table, trying to steady herself, but the fear had overtaken her completely.

His eyes darkened, rage flickering in them. "You think you’re so special, don’t you? Like anyone gives a crap about your stupid stories."

Then, without warning, he hit her. The force of his hand across her face sent her stumbling back, her cheek burning with pain. She fell against the wall, her hands trembling as she pressed them to her face, her heart racing with terror.

"You’re nothing," he hissed, stepping closer again. "You’re nothing without me. You’ll never be anything. Remember that."

Athena could barely breathe, her body shaking as she curled into herself, pressing her hand to her cheek where the sting of his slap still burned. She didn’t dare look at him. She didn’t dare move.

He stood there for a moment, looming over her like a shadow, before turning away, his hand brushing through his hair as if to shake off the violence he’d just unleashed.

"Get rid of that damn notebook," he muttered as he walked away, his voice cold, uncaring. "Or I will."

When he disappeared down the hall, Athena finally let the sob escape her lips. She slid down the wall, her heart aching not just from the physical pain but from the crushing weight of his words.

She knew she should leave. She knew this wasn’t love. But she stayed, sitting there in silence, her body still trembling, as she stared at her notebook lying crumpled on the floor. The words she had once been so proud of now felt like they had been stolen from her.

♡

It was a quiet morning in Bobby’s apartment. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. In the bed, Bobby and Athena lay together, sleeping. 

Her head rested on his chest, their breaths mingled in the air. Her arm draped over him and their legs tangled beneath the sheets, as if it had always belonged there.

It was their first night ever spending together, and yet it felt completely natural—like this was exactly where they were meant to be, in each other's arms.

Bobby stirred first, slowly waking to the sensation of the warm weight on his chest. His lips curved into a soft smile. His eyes fluttered open to find her sleeping. She looked beautiful, her features relaxed, her soft hair spilling across his shirt. Her breaths soft and slow blew on his neck. 

He loved it. He loved her.

Wow, Bobby thought, staring down at her face. This is what she looks like sleeping. He could watch her like this forever, and the thought of waking up to this every morning just made him speechless.

He couldn’t believe this was real—that she was here with him, sleeping in his arms. Just last night, she had come to his apartment, filled with understanding and love. Instead of walking away from him, she stayed, she supported and told him she loved him.

After everything—after the weeks of heavy emotions, the grief, and the loneliness—this morning felt different. Lighter. His daughter's death wasn’t his fault, it never was. Athena validated him, made him sure of it. She had brought a calm into his life that he hadn’t realized he needed. Somehow, with her, all of the burdens he had carried for so long didn’t feel crushing anymore.

His heart swelled. He really did love her. He knew it now with complete certainty.  It wasn’t just a passing feeling; it was deep, real. She had entered his life, seen him for who he truly was—even the darkest parts—and still made everything brighter.

He was going to let go of his doubts—not just for her, but for himself.

His thoughts were interrupted by a soft noise from Athena as she shifted slightly, snuggling deeper into his chest. Her head rubbed gently against him as she stirred.

Instinctively, Bobby’s hand, rubbing slow, soothing circles on her back as she began to wake. He watched as her eyelids fluttered open, her expression hazy with the remnants of sleep. For a moment, she looked disoriented, unsure where she was but then she realized—wrapped in his arms.

Her eyes slowly glanced up, their brown eyes meeting in the soft morning light. Bobby’s heart skipped a beat. He reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind her ear and her lips curved into a sleepy smile.

“Good morning,” Bobby said, his voice still deep and raspy from sleep.

“Morning,” she responded softly, her voice drowsy. A couple of moments passed in comfortable silence before she asked, “Are you okay?”

Are you okay? That was the first thing she asked after everything and it made Bobby melt. She put him first.

He leaned down and pecked her lips softly. “Yeah, I’m okay,” he replied, his voice tender. “Because you're here. I feel better.”

Her hand moved to rub his chest. “Good… I love you,” she whispered.

I love you. The words hit Bobby in the chest, his emotions swelling to the surface. He had been waiting for this, for her to say those words again. 

“I-I love you too.”

She kissed him, soft and slow, and Bobby kissed her back. He wanted this moment to last forever. 

He wanted this —to wake up with her, to hold her, to feel her love—every single day. There wasn’t a doubt in his mind. This was where he belonged, and it wasn’t up for debate.

“I really like this,” she murmured against his lips.

“I really like this too, baby,” he whispered back, his voice gentle, full of affection.

Athena pulled back slightly, just enough for their eyes to meet. Her gaze was tender, but there was a quiet strength in it. “I know it still hurts,” she said, her voice low but firm. “And I want you to know I’m here. I’m not leaving. Whatever you need, whenever you need it… I’m with you.”

“Okay,” he whispered, his throat tight with emotion. It was all he could say, but he knew she meant it, it was the way she said it because she's told him over and over.

Athena smiled softly, her hand resting on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingertips. She leaned in and kissed him again.

For a brief moment, everything felt perfect. The world outside didn’t exist. It was just them, laying together, sharing kisses, hearts intertwined, in the quiet morning light.

But then, her phone buzzed on the nightstand, breaking the peaceful silence. At first, Athena ignored it, too wrapped up in Bobby, too lost in the moment. But then it buzzed again. And again.

A frown formed between her brows as she reached over, picking up the phone, glancing at the screen. Her face paled. She sat up, her heart skipping a beat as she saw the notification: several missed calls from Hen, and a string of urgent texts from her office.

“What is it?” Bobby asked, sensing the shift in her demeanor. His hand rested on her back, rubbing slow, soothing circles, but Athena didn’t respond right away. 

She was already dialing Hen’s number, her pulse racing as dread began to coil in the pit of her stomach.

The phone rang once, twice, and then Hen picked up. Her voice was frantic, full of tension. “Athena! Where have you been? We’ve been trying to reach you for hours.”

“I-I’m with Bobby. What’s going on?” Athena’s voice wavered, her stomach tightening with anxiety. She knew Hen wouldn’t be this panicked unless something was seriously wrong.

“It’s the company,” Hen said, her voice frantic on the other end of the line. “We got hacked. Big time. Everything—the servers, the files, the emails—it’s all compromised. And Athena… your work... it's gone.”

Athena’s heart dropped, her breath catching in her throat. “What? What do you mean my work is gone?” Her voice trembled, disbelief flooding her. This couldn't be happening.

“I mean everything,” Hen replied, her voice cracking. “All of your work, from the start to now—including the project you’ve been working on for months—it’s all gone. We don’t know who did it, but somehow it’s everywhere online. For some reason the company released it to the press and called the police. IT’s trying to handle it, but it’s a mess. We need you here. Right now.”

Athena’s world spun as Hen’s words echoed in her mind. Gone. All her work. Every piece of writing, every painstakingly crafted project, stolen and out of her control. It felt like the ground beneath her had disappeared, and she was plummeting into a freefall.

"No... no, this can’t be happening," Athena whispered, more to herself than to Hen. Her hands shook as she ran them through her hair, her mind racing in a thousand directions. Years of hard work, drafts, ideas—everything now exposed to the world in a way she had no control over. She felt the sting of panic creeping up her throat.

Even if the work had been published in her name, there was no telling what could happen to it now—what could be altered, corrupted, or ruined. All her manuscripts, designs, and drafts were stored digitally. It was all vulnerable. She couldn’t breathe.

“Athena?” Bobby’s voice cut through her spiraling thoughts. He sat up beside her, concern filling his eyes as he gently squeezed her hand. “What’s going on?”

She shook her head, barely able to speak. “I—I have to go, Bobby,” she stammered, her voice wavering. “I’m so sorry. I love you. I’ll be back, I promise.”

She moved to get up, but Bobby reached out and gently pulled her back to the bed, his hands framing her face. “Hey, calm down. What’s wrong, baby?”

Her heart raced as she forced the words out. “The company... my project... it got hacked. All my work... it’s gone, Bobby. It’s all been stolen.” Her voice cracked, tears welling in her eyes as she struggled to hold it together.

Bobby’s expression shifted from concern to shock, then to anger. “What? How? I—I don’t understand.”

“Neither do I!” Athena cried, her hands trembling as she gripped her phone. “Hen says it’s all over the internet. Years of work, Bobby—years of my writing, my projects—gone. I don’t even know what to do. The company makes me share everything on my laptop with them. It's all connected!”

Bobby’s heart clenched at the sight of her so distraught. He immediately pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as she trembled. “Hey, hey... it’s going to be okay,” he whispered, rubbing slow circles on her back. “We’ll figure this out. You’re not alone in this, okay? I’m right here with you. We’ll get through this.”

Athena buried her face in his chest, her breathing shallow and shaky. “What if it’s too late? What if everything is already ruined?”

“It’s not too late,” he said, his voice firm but gentle. “We’re going to figure it out. They could have backups, Athena. You’ve done nothing wrong, and we’re going to handle this.”

From the phone still in her hand, Hen’s voice called out, “Athena? Are you still there?”

Athena pulled away from Bobby’s embrace slightly, lifting the phone back to her ear. “Yeah, I’m here,” she said, her voice steadier though her chest still felt tight.

“You need to get to the office as soon as possible,” Hen urged. “The IT team is already working on damage control, but they need you to be here.”

“I’ll be there,” Athena promised, her resolve hardening. She hung up and turned to Bobby, her eyes wide and frantic. “I have to go,” she said, scrambling to get out of bed now.

Bobby nodded, already standing up to help her. “I’m coming with you.”

Athena shook her head quickly. “No, Bobby. You don’t have to. You should rest. I’ll call you as soon as I know what’s going on.”

But Bobby stepped closer. “I’m not letting you go through this alone, Athena. You’re shaking, and I’m not letting you drive like this. That’s why I’m coming with you.”

Her eyes softened. She was overwhelmed with panic but Bobby... “Okay,” she whispered. “Thank you.”

With that, Bobby kissed her forehead. “You’ll get through this.”

༺༻

Athena stepped into the building with Bobby beside her, and Hen was already there, pacing anxiously by the receptionist’s desk. The moment Hen spotted them, she straightened up and walked over quickly, her face etched with frustration.

“Hey. I spoke with them all morning, but it’s useless. They told me it wasn’t my concern unless I was a direct client,” Hen explained, barely containing her irritation.

Athena’s brow shot up. What the heck is going on here? For years, the company had always kept Hen in the loop—so why were they shutting her out now? She was her manager. Whatever she knows, Hen knows.

“That—what? That makes no sense, Hen. After everything we’ve gone through with this company, now they want to pretend they don’t know us?” Athena’s voice took on a sharp edge as anger started to build.

Hen shook her head.“I don’t know, Athena.”

Athena took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure, though her patience was wearing thin. She’d waited long enough for this confrontation—ever since the first signs of trouble had appeared weeks ago. Today, she was done waiting. Today, she was going to get answers.

The lobby felt cold and sterile, a far cry from the warmth she remembered when she had first joined the company. Back then, everything had seemed ideal, almost too good to be true. They had promised flexibility, creative freedom, and a supportive team that seemed genuinely invested in her success. They wanted to have a relationship, they wanted her for who she was. Now, it was clear they’d only been grooming her for exploitation. The more her fame grew, the more they squeezed every bit of productivity from her until there was nothing left but frustration.

As they neared the meeting room, Athena’s heart pounded, but her face remained calm. Bobby and Hen were right by her side. This was not the time to let her emotions take over; she needed to stay collected. Bobby gave her arm a reassuring squeeze as they walked in, though she could feel the tension in his touch—he was just as furious about this as she was.

Inside the room, the company’s top executives sat waiting. Their polished suits and impassive expressions only intensified the resentment Athena had been harboring for the past couple of years. They barely looked up when she entered, as if her presence was nothing more than a minor inconvenience in their busy day.

“Athena,” the head of the board, Mr. Gerrard, greeted her with a stiff nod, his voice devoid of warmth. “I assume you’ve come to discuss recent developments?”

The audacity. She wasn’t about to beat around the bush. Taking a seat at the long, sterile conference table, she noticed Hen sitting quietly beside her while Bobby stood protectively behind them both.

“Who’s this now?” He asked, eyeing Bobby. 

“That’s none of your business, not after everything that’s happened,” Athena replied, her voice measured and icy. “I’m here for answers. And I’m not leaving until I get them.”

The executives exchanged brief glances, clearly not expecting her directness. Gerrard leaned forward slightly, folding his hands on the table. “I understand you’ve had concerns. We’re prepared to discuss them.”

“Good,” Athena shot back, her voice sharp. “Because I don’t just have ‘concerns.’ I’ve been fighting battles—a few years of battling over vacation time I earned. I’ve been pushed to meet more intense deadlines with zero explanation. Do you know how many sleepless nights I’ve had because of the pressure you’ve dumped on me? I have kids at home—kids I hardly see because of this job even if I work from home—and still, you kept tightening the leash. And for what? My fame? Is that all this is to you?”

Her words hung in the air like a challenge, daring them to deny it. The executives shifted uncomfortably, and Mr. Gerrard cleared his throat, his face tense. “Athena, we’ve always valued your contributions. You’re a major asset to this company—”

"An asset? And Ms. Carter to you now." Athena’s voice cut through his words like a knife. "I’m a person. I joined this company because I thought we were partners. Back then, things were easy. We had mutual respect, we had a friendship but I couldn’t understand what stopped. But now, you’re just using me. Using my name, my talent, my success to build your own profits, and I’m done pretending like I don’t see what’s happening."

Mr. Gerrard opened his mouth to respond, but Athena wasn’t finished. She’d bottled this up for too long, and now every word poured out, sharp and unfiltered.

“Do you have any idea what it’s like to work here now? The constant pressure, the insane deadlines, the way you act like you own me? You’ve taken everything good about this company and twisted it beyond recognition. And now you think I’ll sit here and let you walk all over me because I’m famous? No. That’s not happening. I can bet you right now that other people in this company feel the exact same way. I’ve had your clients email me.”

Her voice, controlled yet simmering with anger, filled the room. Bobby watched the executives closely, his gaze flicking between them. Hen looked as though she wanted to jump in but held her tongue, her fists clenched tightly. 

Gerrard finally leaned back, his expression hardening. “Athena, let’s be clear. You’ve been compensated fairly for your work. No one has ‘used’ you. We’ve given you a platform, and you’ve thrived because of it. You have built your fame off of us. You’re here because of us.”

Athena shook her head, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. Why was he deflecting now? “Compensated? Is that what you think this is about? Money? You think that your platform raised me? Oh I know my worth because this is about respect, about trust—and you’ve broken both. You’ve kept me in the dark for months, maybe longer. More work, more pressure, and every time I ask why, you ignore me. I want to know what’s really going on.”

Silence fell over the room, thickening the tension until it felt nearly suffocating. One of the other executives, a man Athena barely knew, spoke up, his tone cautious. “Athena, we understand your frustration, but—”

“No, you don’t understand,” Athena interrupted sharply. “You don’t know what it’s been like. I’ve had to fight for every bit of personal time, every chance to breathe. And for what? So you can use my success to push your own agenda? I want answers. What changed? What’s going on behind the scenes? This isn’t about fame anymore. I need to know what happened to this company and what’s causing you all to spiral like this.”

The man fell silent, clearly unsure of what to say. 

Athena’s gaze was unrelenting as she continued. “My work—years of it, all my books. My first book, every book since—they’re all gone. You’ve taken everything. I have copies, but thanks to your contract, you own the rights. I was young then and you told me that I would have some ownership. I’ve given you everything, and now you owe me the truth. So start talking, or I’ll make sure the whole world hears my side.”

Gerrard visibly gulped, regaining a fraction of his composure as he leaned forward. His eyes, filled with fear and something darker, met Athena’s. She’d seen that look before—she knew how to read people, and he was cornered.

“You better start talking,” Hen said firmly, her voice low but resolute.

“There were… negotiations,” Gerrard finally admitted, his words careful, deliberate. “We were working on a deal with a new partner. But the deal fell through.”

Athena’s heart skipped a beat, her eyes narrowing as she absorbed his words. This was it—the truth she’d been waiting for.

"What kind of deal? With who? And when was this?"

Gerrard hesitated, glancing at the other executives before replying. “I’m not at liberty to disclose that.”

Athena’s eyes narrowed, her patience hanging by a thread. “Not at liberty? Are you serious? This is my career—my life—and you’re telling me I don’t have the right to know who’s been pulling the strings behind the scenes?”

Gerrard remained silent, but she could see his composure cracking. Whatever this deal was, it had gone terribly wrong, and they clearly didn’t want her knowing the details. 

She abruptly stood up, slamming her hands on the table, the echo of the impact resonating through the room.

They flinched. “Athena!-”

“Let me guess,” she continued, she was done, sarcasm lacing her words. “This ‘mysterious deal’ fell through, and now I’m the one paying the price. And the hacking? That wasn’t some random coincidence, was it? Whoever you were dealing with retaliated when things didn’t go their way. Isn’t that right?”

Gerrard’s jaw clenched, the tension in his face betraying the truth she had already pieced together. Athena felt a surge of anger rising within her, a controlled fury that she carefully harnessed, refusing to let them see her lose control.

“So let me get this straight,” she said slowly, shaking her head. “You made a deal with someone, it fell apart, and they retaliated by hacking the company. Now, all my work—all the years of dedication, the time, energy, and effort I’ve poured into this place—is at risk because of your incompetence? Twenty something years of my work, down the drain.”

Her words hit the room like a hammer, and the executives shifted uncomfortably. They had no response, no defense. And Athena could see, finally, that they knew they were guilty.

Athena straightened up, her chair scraping loudly against the floor. Hen followed her lead, rising to her feet, while Bobby stayed frozen in place, his eyes wide at Athena.

“This is unbelievable,” Athena’s voice broke the tense silence, rising with every word. “You risked my entire career for some shady deal, and now you won’t even tell me who’s responsible? I’m done playing your games. I’m done with this company.”

Gerrard cleared his throat, his voice soft but insistent as he spoke. “Athena, I urge you to reconsider. There’s still an arrangement we can reach—”

“No,” Athena interrupted, her tone unyielding. “I’m not interested in any more of your so-called ‘arrangements.’ I know my worth, and I know exactly who I am. The fact that you would even attempt this is beyond disrespectful. You crossed the line. And that’s it. I won’t let you get away with this—I’m suing you.”

Without another word, she turned on her heel and walked out of the room, Bobby and Hen following closely behind. The executives called out to her but she ignored them. It was her time. Her time to stand up. The moment the door closed behind them, Athena felt a surge of relief. She had done it. She had taken back control. For herself, for her worth.

As they stepped into the lobby again, Bobby gently grabbed her hand. “Are you okay?” he asked, his voice low and full of concern.

Athena took a steadying breath, feeling the weight of years of struggle lift just a little. “I will be,” she replied quietly. “I’m done letting them control me. Now, it’s my turn.”

He smiled, squeezing her hand. The three of them all walk out of the building and suddenly, thousands of fans and reporters are outside.

They swarmed them as they walked out, their phones and cameras aimed at Athena, shouting questions that blurred together into a single overwhelming wave of noise. Lights, flashes, all coming right at her, moving into her. 

Athena felt her heart drop. Her breath hitched and out of nowhere a reporter suddenly thrust a microphone close to her face. “Ms. Carter! What happened in there?”

“Ms. Carter! Over here!”

 Bobby was pushed aside by the crowd’s relentless movement. Hen was yelling at them to keep away. “No comments! Please!”

But they didn’t listen and the questions kept coming. 

“Are you officially leaving this company?”

“What happened? Who hacked you? Did you really get hacked?”

“Who caused the hacks?”

“Are you still going to publish your book? You can’t delay it!”

“Were you fired?:

The questions came fast, each one cutting deeper, their flashes blinding her and the cameras capturing every second. Reporters, the fans fought for her attention. 

“Is the man who came out with you your boyfriend? Who is he?” one reporter asked, as some of them directed their attention to Bobby.

“Bobby Nash. He owns the bookstore!” someone else answered, pulling Bobby into the spotlight with a barrage of new questions. Another microphone appears.

“Are you dating Ms. Carter? Are these rumors true?”

“How long has this been going on?”

It was shot back and forth, and most of all, it was all on Athena. Her heart pounded. She could feel her breath quicken, the sounds and faces blurring together as she struggled to focus. Crowds had always unsettled her, but today, after everything that had happened at the company, the anxiety felt magnified.

Where was Bobby? Is he okay?  She couldn't move. Where? What? Hen stay with me. Athena’s mind raced as she tried to find him in the sea of faces, but she couldn’t move, couldn’t see through the dense crowd.

Athena’s palms become clammy. She felt her chest tighten, her breath coming in short gasps as she tried to hold it together, but the crowd’s shouting grew louder. As she blinked against the blinding lights, she could feel the sting of tears welling up. 

Bobby kept pushing back against the crowd, his focus locked on Athena. He could see her edging away, Hen beside her, both trying to shield her from the swarming reporters who were pressing in from all directions. Bobby noticed the look in Athena's eyes—the fear, the way her breaths were coming faster. She was panicking.

Without a second thought, Bobby pushed through the crowd, his voice rising above the clamor. His face hardened as he stepped forward, shouting, “Back up! Everyone, back up! No comments!” His voice rang out like a command, cutting through the noise.

With one swift movement, he placed himself between Athena and the crowd, his arm held out defensively, his eyes flashing as he glared at anyone who dared try to push forward. He spread his stance wider, subtly shielding both Athena and Hen, making it clear that he wouldn’t let anyone get any closer.

The cameras kept flashing, questions kept flying, but with Bobby standing firm and his voice booming over the chaos, the crowd began to ease back slightly. Yet, fans and reporters still stretched as far as ten blocks down the street, the mob almost endless.

Athena felt the crush of bodies loosen around her just a bit, enough that she could breathe again. Hen reached out, squeezing her hand. Bobby glanced back at Athena, his gaze softening when he saw her. He knew exactly how much she hated crowds, saw how rattled she was. She met his eyes, feeling the calmness of his presence ground her, while the touch of Hen’s hand reminded her she wasn’t alone.

Hen glanced around, raising her voice so Bobby could hear. “I called the bodyguards and they are almost here! They just need to get through the crowd and push them back.”

It went on for a few minutes, waiting for backup. Bobby kept his ground and pushed anyone back that got close to them. Just then, a team of bodyguards in dark suits began pushing through the mob, their expressions set and determined. 

The crowd resisted, a few eager fans trying to shove past them, but the guards held their formation, forcing a narrow path through the chaotic swarm.

As the bodyguards reached them, the headbody guard took Athena's arm gently but firmly, guiding her forward, while others quickly surrounded Hen and Bobby. The flash of cameras exploded in bursts of light, snapping photos from every angle, yet the guards stayed locked in position, forming a wall of protection around the three of them as they began to move.

Bobby stayed close, his hand on Athena’s shoulder as they pressed forward. He could feel her trembling slightly, could see the uncertainty in her eyes as she clutched Hen’s hand tightly.

“Keep moving,” one of the guards said in a low, steady voice as they made their way to the SUV parked at the curb, its dark-tinted windows and sleek black body standing out like an island of calm amid the chaos.

The crowd surged forward. “Athena! One comment, please!” a reporter shouted, practically diving forward before a guard intercepted, pushing him back with a solid hand on his shoulder. Fans continued to shout, and a few reached out desperately, but the guards stayed vigilant, shoving people back as they started to form a tight barricade between the car and the fans.

They finally reached the SUV. A guard opens the door and turns to Athena first. “Get in,” he said. She nodded, ducking into the safety of the vehicle.  Hen climbed in right after, settling next to Athena and gripping her hand, her expression mirroring Athena's relief. Bobby waited until both women were secure, then stepped in, sitting across from them with his eyes locked on Athena.

He knew crowds had always unsettled her—prior to their first time meeting—but he’d never understood why. Reaching across the small space between them, he took her hand, his thumb brushing softly over her knuckles. "Are you okay?"

She nods. “Y-Yeah, thank you.” She smiled softly at him. Hen watched them, a knowing smile crossing her face; it was clear, she understood who Bobby was—he was someone who genuinely saw Athena, beyond her career.

Bobby’s brow relaxed as he looked over at Hen, the tension of the moment easing. "So, do you two just have bodyguards on standby or something?"  he asked, a hint of teasing in his tone.

The two women burst out laughing. "No, baby, not exactly," Athena replied with a chuckle. "We hired them a while back, around the time things got more intense with my career. Lou—the head bodyguard—actually started his own security company, but he’s also been a close friend since May was born. We met in a parenting class; he was there with his wife, and we just clicked. He helped me when I was figuring out how to be a mother, how to take care of my own baby, and we’ve been there for each other ever since. So now, anytime this happens, he's just there."

The front passenger door suddenly opens and in comes the head bodyguard, Lou himself climbed in. He exchanged a nod with the driver, who started the SUV moving before turning back to face the trio. "Everyone okay back here?"

Hen and Bobby both nodded, and Athena gave a small, appreciative smile. "Yes. Thank you, Lou."

"Of course," Lou replied with a nod. “That was one serious crowd out there. They weren’t taking ‘no comment’ for an answer, that’s for sure.”

Bobby shook his head, glancing out the window at the crowd still gathering as the SUV pulled away. "One serious crowd? More like a stadium," he muttered, watching fans still waving and cameras flashing from blocks away. He turned to Athena, his eyes twinkled "You’re absolutely amazing, you know that?"

Athena rolled her eyes with a playful smile, but couldn’t ignore the flutter in her stomach. “I know, darling. I know.”

Lou, seated in the passenger seat, turned slightly, catching their interaction in the rearview mirror with a smirk. “Oh, so who’s this now, Athena?” he asked, raising a teasing eyebrow.

Athena’s gaze flicked from Lou to Bobby, a warm smile spreading across her face. “This,” she replied, taking Bobby’s hand, “is Bobby Nash. My boyfriend.”

Lou nodded approvingly, a broad grin breaking across his face. “Well, well, it’s about time you found someone who can keep up with you, Athena. And Bobby, you better know what you’re signing up for.” 

Bobby chuckled, his grip on Athena’s hand tightening ever so slightly. “I think I’m ready, Lou,” he said confidently, glancing over at Athena with a soft smile. “I’ve already had a crash course in her world, and I’m definitely here for the long haul.”

Athena’s cheeks flushed, and she looked down briefly, trying to mask her smile. Hen nudged her shoulder, before turning to Lou with a grin. “Oh, don’t worry. We’ll keep him on his toes.”

Lou turned in his seat to face Bobby, an approving smile on his face. “You did good back there,” he said with a nod. “Kept her and Hen safe like a pro. You’re practically a natural at this.”

Bobby chuckled and Lous extended his hand, he introduced himself. “Lou Ransone.”

Bobby reached out, shaking his hand firmly. “Good to meet you, Lou.”

Lou nodded and released Bobby’s hand, glancing back at Athena. “Where to, boss?”

Athena leaned back into the seat. “Home,” she replied. “I want to see my babies.”

Lou nodded without hesitation, signaling the driver.

༺༻

As Lou drove away, Athena waved goodbye before turning back to Bobby, who seemed visibly tense. The three of them headed toward the house, but Bobby’s steps slowed as they neared the door.

“Athena, I… I just really want this to go well,” he admitted, his voice laced with nerves.

Athena turned to face him, her eyes softening. “Bobby, they love you. You see them at least four times a week—they talk about you non-stop.”

“I know,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck, “but this is different. I’m coming into your house as your boyfriend, not just Bobby the bookstore owner. We’re together, Athena. This is the first time seeing them since you told them about us.”

Hen rolled her eyes. “Oh please. You’re way more than just a bookstore owner to them, Bobby. You’ve been around for three years; they trust you, and every time they see you, they light up. You’re going to be fine.”

Bobby swallowed, his eyes darting to the front door. It wasn’t that he hadn’t spent countless hours with them—May and Harry adored him. But now, being officially introduced as their mom’s boyfriend felt like a bigger deal. They might view him differently.

Athena stepped closer, placing her hand gently on his chest. “Hey, look at me,” she said softly, and Bobby met her eyes. “They’re happy about this. You just need to breathe, okay?”

She began rubbing small circles on his chest, her touch grounding him. Bobby let out a breath, nodding as he felt the tension ease a little. Her reassuring smile melted the rest of his worry, and she leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips.

“You’re amazing with them,” she murmured.

Bobby gave her a smile, and the three of them walked inside together. 

As the door swung open, Athena immediately spotted her kids, May and Harry, getting up from the couch.

“Mom!” Harry’s voice filled the room as he sprinted toward her.

Athena knelt down to hug him, a warm smile spreading across her face. “Hi, baby,” she murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of his head.

“I missed you, Mom.” He squeezed her tight.

“I missed you too, sweetheart. Were you good for your sister last night?” she asked, brushing his hair.

“I was! May let me stay up a bit later and we watched movies. “I was! May let me stay up a little later, and we watched movies. Is Bobby okay? You said you had to stay with him because he wasn’t feeling well.” He pulled back, his big eyes full of concern as he looked up at her.

Athena felt her heart twist, guilt mingling with warmth at his concern. She realized she had been so wrapped up in everything—the company, the work chaos—that she hadn’t checked in on Bobby since this morning. Taking a breath to steady herself, she replied, her voice gentle but a bit unsteady. “Yes, baby, he’s okay. He’s still not feeling his best, but why don’t you go check on him yourself?” She smiled softly and nodded toward the doorway, where Bobby stood watching, a warm smile on his face.

His mouth widens into a huge smile and runs over to Bobby and hugs him tight. Bobby had to steady himself because of the impact.

“Hey Harry,” Bobby said with a smile.

Harry immediately jumps into words, talking to Bobby about how he is and everything. Athena watches, there was so much going on. Everything was in such a rush, she had to check on Bobby later, she had too. 

Someone touches her shoulder and she turns to see May. “Mom?” She says with a smile.

Athena smiles and immediately hugs her. “Hey my baby. How are you?”

“I’m good.” She replies

“How was your night with Harry? Thank you for taking care of him” Athena asked.

“It was good. We just watched some movies, and I made him mac and cheese for dinner,” May said with a nod. But then her smile faded, worry clouding her face. “Are you okay, Mom? I saw the news this morning. I saw everything. What happened? And is Bobby really okay? Your texts seemed rushed, like something was wrong.”

Athena sighed, the weight of it all settling back over her. “I’m okay, baby. But the company was hacked. Apparently, the executives made a deal without telling anyone, and now everything I’ve worked on is gone. All of my original work… just gone.” She took a shaky breath, trying to stay strong. “I’m suing them. It’s a lot to process. U-Um Bobby’s fine. He’s still..feeling down.” Realizing the extent of it now, she had to call the lawyers, had to get her work back, had to do this and that. She felt a pit starting to form. She had to work, to keep going.

“What? Are you serious?” May’s expression shifted to anger as she took in the news. “How could they do that? And what kind of deal? You’ve been telling me how things were getting strange there, but I didn’t think it would lead to something like this!”

“I don’t know all the details yet, but I’m going to talk to the lawyers. I promise you, I’m not letting this go without a fight. We’ll be okay,” she reassured her, squeezing her shoulders. “Don’t worry about anything. I’ve got it handled.”

May nodded, though her worry still lingered. “Okay, Mom. Just know I’m here for you.” She turned to Hen and gave her a hug. “I’m glad you’re okay too. You’re okay, right?”

Hen nodded with a reassuring smile. “Yes, I’m fine. I just have a lot to work through, like your mom,” she replied, squeezing May’s hand.

“Since you're my moms boyfriend now, you can stay the night, you can finally come over and help me with my projects now! Right?!” Harry asks.

Bobby chuckles, glancing toward Athena, and then back to him. “If your mom lets me.” 

Harry looks at his mom with wide eyes.

Athena shakes her head with a smile. “We’ll see Harry.”

For the rest of the day, Bobby stayed until dinner, falling into the rhythm of their family. As they led him through the house, Harry and May excitedly pointed out their favorite spots, showing him everything, from the shelves stacked with books on the living room shelf to the corner where they kept all their board games. They laughed and played, tugging him into rounds of Monopoly and a makeshift mini-golf game they’d invented. Bobby found himself totally immersed, savoring every story and laugh.

It made him feel lighter. In the afternoon, they brought out old photo albums. Bobby smiled as he flipped through pages of baby pictures, each one showing May and Harry, with Harry’s gap-toothed grin or May’s serious face as a toddler. They’d even managed to pull out some of Athena’s old photos, and she felt shy, rolling her eyes as the kids teased her about her hairstyles over the years.

When they finally showed him Athena’s office, he noticed immediately how the space mirrored her—a desk covered in neat stacks of papers, notes and reminders pinned to a corkboard, and shelves upon shelves of her work and books. She had so many, it was probably one of the reasons why they could talk for endless hours of books. The fairy lights were cute because she had a cute side to her. It was clear this was a place where she was in love with writing and she could find comfort in. It felt like a home. Later, she showed him through her bedroom. The soft colors, carefully chosen art, and stacks of novels on the nightstand all made her thoughtfulness and attention to detail stand out to him.

Most of all, Bobby sensed Athena relaxing. He could tell today had really put a weight on her, the stress and the hurt of what had happened at the company lurking at the edges of her mind. But he took every chance to make her laugh, to draw her back into the moment with the kids. By the time dinner rolled around, Athena looked like herself again, her worries set aside, at least for now.

It was exactly what he’d wanted: to give her a few hours of peace, to let her feel at home, surrounded by laughter and love, knowing they could face tomorrow’s problems—together. She had done everything for him, now he wanted to do the same.

“Thank you for today,” Athena said softly as she and Bobby stood outside her door.

“Of course,” he replied, his hands resting on her waist, his thumbs tracing gentle circles. They stood in silence for a moment, their eyes meeting in a quiet understanding.

“Are you okay? I never really asked,” Athena continued, her voice laced with worry. “I’m sorry. I just don’t want you to go home alone tonight.”

Bobby smiled warmly, reaching up to tuck a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. “Don’t apologize, baby. Being with you and the kids was the best part of my day. You actually helped distract me from… everything.” He teased, a hint of mischief in his tone, easing her concern.

Athena chuckled, her shoulders relaxing as she looked up at him.

“And yeah,” he admitted, his voice softening, “I miss Brooke. But today, with you, yesterday with you, I felt a little more closure. I feel lighter. I’ll be okay when I get home.” He took a breath, his gaze steady and sincere. “I love you, Athena.”

Her heart swelled, a happiness settling over her. “I love you too.”

They leaned into a kiss, before she pulled him into a hug. His arms wrapped around her, warm and secure, his embrace like a blanket she could melt into. The feel of his hands were reassuring.

“Please call me if you need anything,” she whispered softly in his ear.

“I will.” His voice was reassuring, but neither of them was ready to part just yet.

They finally pulled away, lingering in each other’s gaze. Bobby leaned in for one last kiss, before he said, “Just before I go, I have to say—you looked incredibly sexy talking to those executives today.” A smirk played on his lips.

Athena’s eyes widened before she mirrored his smirk. “Oh, really? I’m glad you think so because I’d say the same thing every time you’re protecting me, Bobby Nash.” Her hand taps his chest.

He chuckled, his smile widening. “Alright then,” he replied, with one last glance that held affection.

He turned and walked away, leaving her heart still racing, warmth lingering from their hug. 

༺༻

Nearly a week had passed since the hacking, and Athena’s life had become a blur of stress and exhaustion. She hadn’t been sleeping, eating, and every waking moment was spent coordinating with lawyers, police, and the next steps. Each day was a maze of calls, endless meetings, and stacks of paperwork as she fought to recover her work. 

When she left the house, reporters and fans hounded her, trying to catch any hint of her thoughts on the chaos she’d been thrown into. And somehow, through all this, she was still trying to be there for her kids, keeping her struggles hidden as best she could. Without her work, she felt empty, as if everything she’d worked for had been stripped away.

This loss had driven her to a razor-sharp focus, leaving little room for anything else. Bobby’s messages went unanswered, and even her friends had barely heard from her. Her current manuscript demanded every ounce of emotion she could spare, as if each word she wrote was her last thread to hold onto. 

Maddie had helped her with the design for HeartStrings. She was right there by her side, helping her polish every chapter, every scene. Athena had also started writing her next book in her series, Timeless Vows. She was doing everything.

Now, it was late—about 2 a.m.—and the house was silent. After finally replying to Bobby’s messages, he had come over earlier to check on her and spend time together. With May and Harry spending the night at a friend’s, Bobby had taken the chance to stay over, offering her some comfort. He was fast asleep in her bed, his calm breathing filled the rooms.

Athena had tried to join him, lying beside him just long enough to feel his warmth and listen to his breathing as he drifted off. But she couldn’t relax. As soon as his breathing slowed, signaling he was asleep, she slipped out of bed, the weight of everything pressing down on her chest. She felt like she was letting him down, letting her fans down, and worst of all, letting herself down. Her heart pounded with stress and frustration as she struggled for breath against the overwhelming feeling of failure.

Sitting at her desk, she was hunched over her laptop, her desk littered with scribbled notes and empty coffee cups. Her eyes burned, and her head throbbed but stopping wasn’t an option. She was burned out, but the drive to get her work back—her life’s work—kept her going. It gnawed at her that this was even happening, that everything she’d created, everything she’d poured herself into. 

Why was this even happening to her? She wanted answers so bad. 

“You think you’re so special, don’t you?” A voice echoed from her memory. “Like anyone gives a crap about your stupid stories.”

 She hadn’t thought of those words in a long time, but now they lingered, shooting up her fears. She rubbed her temples. She wasn’t enough without her books. Her phone sat beside her on the desk, her eyes darting to the screen every few minutes, waiting, hoping for any update—anything that might hint at progress in her case, any sign that the company was willing to work toward a resolution, or even a tiny step closer to justice.

Her hands trembled as she clicked through emails and legal notes, a mixture of exhaustion and desperation. She had barely slept in days, each night blurring into the next as she combed through every detail of her case. She wanted answers so badly.

She sat in front of her laptop, staring a blank document, she even had writers block. Frustration burned through her; it felt as if every emotion she’d been holding back was rushing to the surface—anger, despair, desperation. The thoughts in her head were relentless.

“Athena?” came a tired, raspy voice from behind her. She turned to see her handsome man sitting up, rubbing his eyes, and the sight of him brought a small, unexpected smile to her face.

His hair was messy, he had this daze on his face, still half-asleep. “What are you doing?”

She knew she couldn’t lie. “Working,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

 “You should be sleeping,” He murmured. 

“I’m okay.” She said.

But Bobby was’t fooled, he knew she had been working herself down to the ground.

Bobby had been supportive, but she didn’t look like herself. She didn’t see it, the spark in her eyes had dimmed, replaced by heavy bags beneath them,

He also knew how much this meant to her, how much her work meant to her and he didn’t want to tell her to stop, he just wanted her to slow down. 

He stood up and walked over to her and kneels down. He takes her hand. “Baby, you should take a break. I know that this is hard and you want to fight back but you can’t do it without energy.” He said. “I want you to sleep, I want you to take a break because this isn’t healthy either.”

Athena shook her head, her voice wavering as she insisted, “I’m fine, Bobby. I just have to work. I need to make sure everything is right. My fans, my career—everything depends on it. I need my work back.”

Bobby kept a gentle hold on her hand, letting out a sigh. “I understand that, but you’re overworking yourself. You can’t keep going like this. It’s going to break you.”

Her frustration flared. She pulled her hand back and ran her fingers through her hair. “I’m not overworking myself. I know what I’m doing, Bobby.”

“Really?” he challenged, a bit of edge slipping into his tone. “You’re barely sleeping, you’re not taking breaks, and you’re surviving on coffee. You’re not taking care of yourself at all, Athena. You don’t talk to anyone about the case, you're ignoring everyone's calls. You haven’t spent time with Harry and May. This is going to fry your brain. Why are you–”

“You think you’re so special, don’t you?” A voice echoed from her memory. “Like anyone gives a crap about your stupid stories.”

"I told you to stop this. You’re not good enough. You’re never gonna be good enough."

“Bobby, can you just stop talking!” she snapped, her voice raised, frustration clear. “Why are you even here if you’re not going to help me?”

His eyes widened, taken aback by her reaction. What was going on right now? He hesitated, then softened. “A-Athena, I’m here because I care about you. I just want you to take care of yourself, that’s all. I’m not asking you to stop everything, I’m not asking you to quit or stop working, I just want you to take a break. You haven’t slept in days… I’m worried about you.”

"I told you to stop this. You’re not good enough. You’re never gonna be good enough."

Her expression falters, the frustration melting into something raw and vulnerable. She looked away, blinking hard as tears welled up. “I… I don’t have a choice, Bobby. I have to work. I can’t just stop.”

Bobby took her hand again, his thumb gently rubbing across her knuckles. “Why, Athena? Let me help. You don’t have to go through this alone. What’s going on with the case? Please, baby.”

She felt a familiar burn in her eyes, memories clawing their way to the surface. A voice in her head urged her, Tell him about your ex. She shook her head, pushing it down.

Bobby’s hand shifted to her face, his touch gentle as he guided her to look at him. Her eyes were glassy with unshed tears, her lip quivering. He ached to see her like this but stayed patient, waiting for her to find the words.

Tell him about your ex. Do it. Let Bobby in. He loves you. Her mind told her. He has so much more to give. He is in love with you and loves you for you.

“He told-” The words caught in her throat, memories flashing like shards of broken glass.

Bobby’s eyebrow furrowed, “What-”

If you tell him about your ex, he’ll run, her mind countered, dark and biting. He’ll stop loving you because of how disgusting you are. 

She swallowed hard, her voice barely above a whisper as the confession slipped out. “I’m not enough without my writing,” she choked, tears finally spilling down her cheeks. “Without it, I’m nothing. I won’t be enough. Not for you, not for my kids. Not for anyone.”

Bobby’s heart broke into pieces hearing her say that. How could she think that? How could she say that? He couldn’t believe she thought so little of herself. “Athena, baby.”

She shook her head, her voice trembling. “I’m not enough, Bobby. I won’t be if I don’t work. I’m not enough. I’m not—”

But before she could finish, Bobby gently lifted her into his arms, holding her close. Athena’s tears came faster, and she buried her face in his neck, sobbing as he carried her to the bed and settled down with her in his lap. He held her tightly, rubbing her back, letting her finally release the weight she’d been carrying alone.

“You listen to me,” he whispered into her hair, his arms wrapping around her like a shield. “You are enough. Just as you are. Don’t ever speak those words again, you hear me?”

He pulled back, his eyes meeting hers as he gently wiped away each tear that fell. “Athena, your work doesn’t define who you are—you do. You are an incredible mother, an amazing friend, and my woman, my girl. To me… you’re everything. I just don’t understand how you could think you’re not enough. You’re more than enough for me. Just being with you, just being with the woman I love, that’s enough.”

“Your kids,” he continued, his voice soft but steady, “they’re so proud to call you their mom. Not because of the books you write or the success you’ve achieved, but because of who you are. You’re a fighter. You work so hard, and you’re here, strong for them, for everyone. That’s what makes you special.”

He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “I love you, Athena Carter. I love you so much. I know it’s hard, and I know your work is important to you, but it doesn’t define who you are. You define you. You’re worthy and I know that you’ve fought so hard to get where you are today. It’s not just your books, your job—it’s you who got here. And you’re strong enough to make it through this too. I know you’re going to get your work back, everything you’ve built. But not by tearing yourself apart.”

He held her gaze, his love for her clear and unwavering. The warmth in his eyes seemed to melt the doubts she clung to. But could she believe him? 

Memories of the past tugged at her, whispering that she wasn’t enough, that she was only valuable through her work. Yet here was Bobby, looking at her as though she was worth so much more.

Maybe she could start to believe it too—stop looking back, stop letting the past define her. She was exhausted, so tired of carrying the weight alone. So tired of just trying to live up to expectations. She just wanted to be better, to feel whole. Bobby made her feel whole.

He wiped the last of her tears and Athena just felt the dam let go.

She buried her head against his chest, the tension finally breaking as she whispered, “I’m sorry,” her voice cracking. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize,” he murmured gently. “We can talk about everything tomorrow.”

She let out a yawn, her exhaustion hitting fully. “I’m tired,” she admitted. “I’m so tired.”

“I know, baby,” he replied softly, guiding her down onto the bed. He pulled the blanket over her and brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. “Let’s get some sleep. Just relax. Let your mind rest.”

She curled into him, her hand clutching his shirt as her eyes grew heavier. Maybe, just maybe, she could finally let go for a while and rest. Tomorrow would come in its own time. For now, all she felt was Bobby’s warmth, steady and comforting.

Chapter Text

Athena stood in the dimly lit hallway, her hand resting on the metal of the doorknob, her entire body tense. The faint hum of the streetlights outside filled the silence. She could feel her heart racing in her chest, pounding so loud she half-worried it might wake him. She glanced back down the hall, where the bedroom door stood, half-open. His heavy breathing and snoring drifted into the hall, signaling that he was deep asleep—finally. For the first time in a long time, she was sure he wouldn’t be up soon, that he wouldn’t catch her at the last second like he always seemed to.

She clutched her purse a little tighter, its weight somehow feeling like the last bit of her own life she could hold onto. She had her keys tucked inside, a wallet with barely enough money for a single night somewhere—anywhere—but it was enough to get her out of here. 

The thought sparked something in her, something fierce and hopeful she hadn’t felt in so long. She had wanted this for so many months, dreamed about it at night, each night waiting for the right time, waiting for that perfect moment to get out. She’d rehearsed it in her mind, a step-by-step plan that somehow seemed foolproof in the quiet hours of her planning.  Now, standing here, the reality of it felt entirely different.

Her grip tightened on the doorknob as her thoughts began to swarm, a mix of doubt and guilt clouding her mind. She's attempted to escape before and every time he caught her because he had always kept her under a watchful eye. He’d always know where she was, calling, demanding to know when she’d be back if she’d stepped out for groceries or even to catch her breath. Hitting her. Over time, the restrictions had hardened into invisible chains that kept her rooted here, no matter how desperately she’d wanted to leave. But tonight was different. He’d slipped into one of his deep sleeps, the kind that even an alarm wouldn’t stir him from. She had an opening, maybe the only one she’d get, and all she had to do was take it.

And yet, her feet didn’t move.

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, trying to calm her nerves, to convince herself that she could do this. Just go, she thought. One step at a time. Just open the door and walk out. Don’t look back. But even as she stood there, the words felt flimsy, like they didn’t belong to her, like they were something she had read in a book or heard in a movie. Her own voice felt unfamiliar, drowned out by the years of his taunts and sneers echoing in her mind.

“You think you’re so independent?” He sneered on so many occasions. “Like you could actually make it on your own? No one’s waiting for you out there. No one cares.”

Those words had wormed their way into her, tightening their hold over the years, making her doubt herself in ways she hadn’t thought possible. It was partly true, her parents didn’t want her anymore, she didn’t have many friends except Hen. She knew Hen would want to help but not with this. If she found out, she would stop being friends with her.

Where will you go? Another thought slipped into her mind, almost instinctual. What if he’s right? What if you don’t have anywhere to go?

The questions stacked up, one after another, building a wall between her and the outside world. She looked down at her shoes, then back at the door. She was still holding the doorknob, her knuckles white from how hard she was gripping it, as if somehow that could hold back the flood of doubts threatening to consume her.

What if I fail? What if I can’t do this? What if…

The hallway seemed to close in around her, the walls pressing in until it felt like she couldn’t breathe. She let go of the doorknob, her hand trembling as she pulled it back, the weight of her own fears too heavy to ignore. She’d always thought the hardest part of leaving would be him, his rage, his anger, the fight he’d put up to keep her here. She hadn’t realized that the hardest part would be herself, that the doubts would burrow so deep she’d question whether she even deserved to leave.

She thought of all the times he’d belittled her, hit her,torn down every piece of confidence she’d once had, until she’d felt small and insignificant. He’d chipped away at her so subtly, so thoroughly, that now, even with the freedom only inches away, she couldn’t bring herself to take it. She should have realized the signs sooner.

“You’ll come crawling back,” his voice echoed in her mind, each word dripping with derision. “You’re nothing without me.”

She was rooted to the spot. She bit her lip, trying to push back the tears that prickled at the corners of her eyes, the frustration building up until it felt like it might burst out of her.

He’s wrong. I know he’s wrong, she told herself, but the thought felt flimsy, weak, like it didn’t quite belong to her. How long had it been since she’d believed in herself? Since she’d felt like she could stand on her own two feet without his approval, his validation, his constant judgment?

She could feel it in the pit of her stomach, a gnawing ache that had settled in long ago, a reminder that she was bound to him in ways she couldn’t quite shake.

And yet, part of her wanted to scream, to push against the walls that felt like they were closing in around her. She wanted to run, to finally be free of the weight of his words, his touch, his hold on her. She wants to become an author, to follow her dreams. She wanted to believe that there was more to her than the version he’d painted, that she was strong enough to leave, to rebuild her life without him. But each time she took a step forward in her mind, the doubts pulled her back, anchoring her in place.

That’s when she let her hand drop from the doorknob, feeling the metal slip away as she stepped back. Her purse hung limply at her side. She turned away from the door, her heart sinking as she walked back down the hallway, each step feeling like it carried the weight of a thousand regrets.

By the time she reached the doorway of their bedroom, the despair had settled over her like a thick fog, clouding her thoughts, making everything feel distant and numb. He was still asleep, sprawled across the bed, his snores filling the room. She watched him for a moment, the sight of him stirring a bitter mix of anger and helplessness within her. This was the man who had taken everything from her—her confidence, her independence, her dreams—and yet, here she was, unable to walk away.

She slipped under the covers beside him, and stared up at the ceiling, her mind racing with thoughts of what might have been, of the life she’d almost grasped, only to let slip away.

What was wrong with her? Why was she so useless? Why was she letting him take hold of her? Why couldn’t she?

♡

Athena walked into the downtown law office and was immediately greeted by the smell of coffee and fresh paper. After what had happened with Bobby two weeks ago, he made sure she got all the rest she needed and he encouraged her. She couldn't believe she had found someone so loving to help her with all this. 

She worked slowly, and took her time. She had spent the last week gathering as much information as she could, poring over her emails and company records, and piecing together the details of the deal her publishing company had made—the same deal that had gone south, leading to the hack and, ultimately, to the theft of her work. 

Now, she was meeting with Clara Moreno, her attorney, to share her findings and discuss the next steps. Clara had already promised to help her get the justice she deserved, but now, there was a new urgency. It wasn’t just about recovering her stolen work; it was about holding the company accountable for putting her in this position.

“Athena, it’s good to see you,” Clara greeted as she led her to a private conference room. "I hope you’ve been holding up okay, given everything going on.”

Athena nodded, trying to keep her exhaustion from showing. "I’ve been hanging in there. I’m more than ready to get some accountability here.”

"Good to hear.” Clara sat across from her and placed her files on the table, spreading them out. “Why don’t you go ahead and fill me in on everything you’ve found? I want to make sure we have as complete a picture as possible before we move forward.”

Athena took a deep breath. "All right. So, I managed to get my hands on more of the company’s records and some internal emails. What I found was… disturbing. Apparently, my publishing company had been in talks with a third-party firm, a tech company, to develop some kind of digital content expansion for my books. They were negotiating terms for months, and it was all supposed to be very hush-hush. But the deal fell through. And from what I can tell, right after things went south, this tech company may have orchestrated the hack. My files were accessed just a few weeks after those talks broke down.”

Clara leaned forward, a look of understanding dawning on her face. "So, you’re saying that this wasn’t a random hack—it was retaliation?”

“Exactly,” Athena replied, her frustration boiling to the surface. “They wanted access to my work, and when the deal didn’t go through, they hacked into the company’s servers and took what they couldn’t get through negotiation. But here’s the thing: my publishing company knew about the risk. They had been warned by their own cybersecurity team that this firm had a history of aggressive tactics, but they went ahead with it anyway. And when it all blew up, they tried to cover their tracks.”

Clara sat back, taking it all in. “That’s a serious claim, Athena. If your company knew there was a potential threat and still failed to protect your work, that could constitute gross negligence. Not to mention, if they attempted to cover up their knowledge of this, we’re looking at an even bigger issue.”

Athena nodded. “That’s what I’m hoping we can prove. I have some emails from their cybersecurity lead, warning about the risks and suggesting extra precautions, but they ignored it. They were so focused on the potential revenue from this deal that they just… didn’t care.”

"All right." Clara picked up her pen and made notes. “If we’re going to pursue this, here’s the plan: first, we’ll file a lawsuit against the publishing company for negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, and possibly fraud if they actively covered up their role in exposing your work. Now, in order to make this stick, we’ll need clear evidence of three things: that they had a duty to protect your work, that they knew about the risks and chose not to act, and that their failure to act led directly to the hack.”

Athena’s stomach twisted at the thought, but she nodded. “I’ve got emails, the deal records, and some of the correspondence between the cybersecurity team and the execs. Will that be enough?”

“It’s a good start.” Clara looked determined. "Now, let’s talk about our legal timeline. I’ve gone ahead and filed an initial complaint on your behalf, and we’ve secured a preliminary court date. It’s set for three months from now, which gives us time to gather more evidence and prepare for discovery. This is where we’ll formally request all relevant documents, communication records, and any information about their security practices, both before and after the breach. It’s also likely they’ll be required to provide the results of any internal investigation they conducted.”

“Will they fight us on that?” Athena asked, her voice tight.

Clara nodded, looking unfazed. “They probably will, especially if they’re trying to hide something. But if they refuse to provide records, we can seek a court order, and a judge will likely compel them to produce those documents if they’re relevant to your case. And if they’re caught withholding evidence, it’ll only damage their position further.”

“So what should I be doing in the meantime?” Athena asked, feeling a new sense of urgency now that they had a solid plan in place.

“For now, I need you to focus on gathering any additional documents you have that could support our case. This includes every email, contract, memo—anything that can show that the company knew about the risks associated with that tech firm and chose to move forward anyway. Also, make a list of any professional contacts who might be willing to testify on your behalf, especially if they can confirm that you had voiced concerns about security prior to the hack.”

Athena nodded, taking mental notes. “I can do that. And if I think of anyone who can back up my side of the story, I’ll let you know.”

"Good." Clara gave a small, reassuring smile. “We’re going to need all the support we can get. Now, in terms of damages, we’ll be pursuing both compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages will cover your financial losses—lost revenue, potential deals that were affected by the theft, even the emotional toll this has taken on you. We’ll need detailed records to back this up, including past earnings for similar projects and any contracts that may have been impacted by the hack.”

Athena swallowed hard. “I can pull those records together. And the punitive damages?”

“Punitive damages are meant to penalize the company for its negligence and to deter them from similar conduct in the future. They’re more challenging to win, but given the circumstances—especially if we can prove they were knowingly negligent—we have a good shot. If we establish that they willfully ignored the risks, a judge may be inclined to award a significant sum.”

Athena exhaled, feeling a strange mix of relief and tension. “Do you think they’ll try to settle before it goes to court?”

“It’s possible,” Clara replied, tapping her pen thoughtfully. “If they know we’re serious and that the evidence is stacked against them, they might attempt to settle to avoid the negative publicity of a trial. But if they do, we need to be prepared to negotiate carefully. I won’t accept a settlement unless it fully compensates you for the harm done and includes a written acknowledgment of their responsibility.”

Athena clenched her jaw, a spark of determination flickering inside her. “They put my career and my family’s future at risk. I won’t let them get away with this without being held accountable.”

Clara’s gaze was steady, her voice firm. “I understand completely, Athena. We’ll continue to build the case over the next few weeks, and we’ll be ready for the initial hearing in three months. If they decide to settle beforehand, we’ll consider it—but only if it’s in your best interest.”

Athena gave a small, determined nod. “Thank you, Clara. I don’t know what I would have done without your help.”

Clara smiled, placing her hand reassuringly on Athena’s. “You’re stronger than you think, Athena. We’re going to get justice for you.”

༺༻

Athena had a lot more to think about, a lot more to do, but after the meeting, she knew she needed to let it simmer. She needed to take her time with this—to breathe, to take a break, just as Bobby had been telling her. 

She was on her way home when her phone rang, Bobby’s name lighting up the screen. She answered with a small smile. “Hey, baby.”

“Hey, what's up?” His voice was warm, familiar. “I’m just calling to see how the meeting went. You on your way back?”

“Yeah,” she sighed, resting her head against the seat. “It went… about as expected. My lawyer went over everything again, and we’re moving forward with the lawsuit. The company’s still trying to push for a settlement, but I told them I’m not backing down unless they take real accountability.”

Bobby hummed in understanding. “And the court date?”

“They set one,” she said, gripping the wheel a little tighter. “It’s official now. We have a timeline, and it’s really happening. No more waiting, no more delays. It’s going to be a fight, but I’m ready.”

“I know you are,” Bobby said softly. “I just want to make sure you're okay.”

Athena exhaled, the weight of it all pressing on her. “I don’t know. It’s overwhelming. But I have to do this, Bobby. They stole from me, and they need to face the consequences.”

“You will,” he assured her. “And you’re not doing it alone.”

She closed her eyes for a moment, letting his words settle over her. “I know.”

There was a pause, then Bobby’s voice came through the line, warm and expectant. “You’re coming over to my apartment, right?”

Athena chuckled, shaking her head. “Yes, baby, I am. The kids are out with Hen and Denny—they’re going go-karting.”

“Good,” Bobby said, a teasing edge in his voice. “Finally, I get some alone time with you.”

Athena just shook her head with a chuckle. May had been checking in on her constantly over the past few weeks, badgering her with questions about the company, about the lawsuit, about how she was holding up. She had been trying so hard to make sure Athena was okay, to make sure she was happy, to bring some light back into her life.

“I swear, May’s been keeping tabs on me like she’s my mother,” Athena mused, rubbing at her temple. “She won’t stop asking if I’m okay, if I’m taking care of myself. Every time I turn around, she’s checking in.” She huffed out a small laugh. “She’s literally a mini you.”

Bobby chuckled on the other end of the line. “Smart kid.”

“She’s exhausting,” Athena countered, though there was no real bite in her voice. “I love her, but I can’t take two of you hovering over me every second.”

“Maybe if you actually took care of yourself, we wouldn’t have to hover,” Bobby shot back, teasing but firm. “You know we just want what’s best for you.”

Athena sighed, her fingers drumming against the steering wheel as she stopped at a red light. “I know,” she admitted. “Well, I’m almost there. I’ll see you soon, okay?”

“Alright, baby. I love you,” Bobby said, his voice warm and steady.

“I love you too.” She replied.

The call ended with a soft click and the light turned green.

Athena pulled into the parking lot of Bobby’s apartment, shutting off the engine with a sigh. She grabbed her bag, stepped out of the car, and made her way upstairs.

The moment she unlocked the door and stepped inside, Bobby’s voice rang out.

“Don’t look!”

Athena froze, her hand still on the doorknob. “What?” she asked, her brows furrowing.

“Just—don’t open your eyes yet,” Bobby said quickly, a hint of amusement in his voice. “I’m fixing something up.”

She immediately squeezed her eyes shut, a mixture of concern and curiosity settling in. “Bobby,” she warned, crossing her arms. “What exactly are you fixing up? What in the world are you doing?”

“Shh, just trust me,” he reassured her. She could hear him moving around, a few clinks and shuffling sounds filling the space.

Athena sighed dramatically. “I swear, you know I hate surprises.”

“It is a surprise,” Bobby admitted, his voice closer now. She could feel the warmth of him near her. “But it’s a good one. Just give me one more second.”

Athena bit her lip, standing there with her eyes shut, her heart beating a little faster. Whatever he was up to, she wasn’t sure whether to be excited or concerned.

“Alright,” Bobby finally said. She felt him move behind her, his hands settling her on her waist. She felt him kiss her neck and move her forward a bit. “You can open your eyes.”

Athena slowly opened her eyes, and her breath hitched.

On the kitchen counter in front of her was a bouquet of her favorite flowers, neatly arranged in a glass vase. Beside them were a few small gift bags, their glossy surfaces catching the light. But what made her heart clench was the book resting in the center of it all—the very same book she had given Bobby, the signed copy of Timeless Vows .

She looked at him and said, “What is all this?” Her hands coming to rest on his shoulders. 

His hands squeezed her waist softly. “I wanted to do something special for you. You’ve been stressed, and will be in the next few months, so this is just something I wanted to do to make you feel better. Think of this as a relaxing day, a break day.”

Athena raised an eyebrow. “What else did you do?”

Bobby chuckled. “Just focus on what's in front of you for now. Then I’ll show you. Relax darling.”

Athena sighed, she kissed him softly. Take it slow. She told herself.

“Alright.” She walked over to the counter, and took a closer look. The flowers were absolutely beautiful. She wanted to open the gifts first but the book.

“Why is this here?” She asked.

Bobby stepped closer, gently prying it open to a random page. Little sticky notes peeked out from between the pages, some of them scribbled on, others with arrows pointing to passages. “I loved your book,” he told her, his voice warm. “And I wanted you to know just how much. This is just a gift back to you.”

Bobby stepped closer, gently prying it open to a random page. Little sticky notes peeked out from between the pages, some of them scribbled on, others with arrows pointing to passages. “I loved your book,” he told her, his voice warm. “And I wanted you to know just how much.”

Athena blinked, looking down at the pages. The first note she saw read: This part made me laugh—your dialogue is so good, baby.

The next one: Dang, this hurt. Why’d you do this to me?

And another: This reminded me of you. I can hear your voice in every word.

Her throat tightened, emotions swelling in her chest. She swallowed hard, looking back up at him. “You—” She shook her head. “You did all this?”

Bobby nodded.“Every reaction, every thought I had while reading, I wrote it down. I wanted you to see what your words did to me. I also wanted you to know just how incredible of an author you are.” He reached up, tucking a loose curl behind her ear. “You’re now my favorite author, baby. You have a way with words that pulls people in…you pulled me in.”

Athena stared at him, her heart pounding against her ribs.Writing had always been her way of coping, a way to make sense of the chaos, to pour out everything she couldn’t say out loud. 

Her stories had held her pain, her fears, her hopes, all the things she had never been able to share with anyone. No one had ever truly understood that. No one had ever looked at her writing and seen her .

But Bobby did.

Even without knowing everything, without knowing every dark corner of her past, he somehow understood her in a way no one else ever had. He saw her as someone worth cherishing. He had always been so amazing to her, so steady and sure, but this… this was something else entirely.

He never failed to surprise her over and over. 

She swallowed hard.

Was he really real?

Emotion swelled in her chest, too much to put into words, so she didn’t try. Instead, she cupped his face and kissed him, pouring every unspoken feeling into it.

Bobby smiled against her lips, kissing her back just as tenderly. “You are unbelievable,” she murmured, her forehead resting against his.

He just kissed her again, “I just really love you.”

When they pulled away. She held the book to herself. “I’m gonna read all of it.”

He chuckled. “I look forward to it.”

Athena let out a breathy laugh and then turned towards all the gifts. “Okay, let’s see what else you’ve done.”

The first bag was small but she grabbed it and reached in.

 She pulled out a tiny keychain and immediately burst into laughter. It was a little cartoon version of Bobby, complete with a silly exaggerated face, his tongue sticking out. She clutched it in her hand, her laughter filling the room as she looked up at him.

“Oh my Gosh, baby, what is this?” she managed between laughs.

Bobby grinned. “It’s me, obviously. I figured whenever things get stressful and I’m not there, you can just look at my ridiculous little face and feel a little better.” He smirked. “Or, you know, if you’re mad at me, you can throw it across the room. Either way, I'm there and its small so you can clip it to your keys.”

Athena shakes her head as she turns the keychain over in her fingers. It was dumb. It was so dumb but it was perfect.

“You’re a fool,” she muttered fondly, clipping it onto her keys immediately.

“The fool you love,” Bobby shot back, kissing her temple.

She just rolled her eyes, but the smile never left her face as she reached for the second bag. This one was heavier, more practical. She pulled out a sleek, high-quality planner, the exact one she had been talking about needing for weeks. Athena blinked, running her fingers over the cover.

“Bobby,” she murmured. “I kept forgetting to buy this…”

“I know,” he said simply, leaning against the counter. “You’ve been busy, running around with everything going on. You’ve been talking about it for a few months. I figured I’d just get it for you before you forgot again.”

She’s thought this so many times; he's always noticed the little things.

She looked up at him, her voice softer. “Thank you.”

He just smiled.

Athena finally reached for the last bag, a quiet anticipation settling in her chest. This one felt different, it was way smaller but had some weight.

She pulled out a small jewelry box and carefully flipped it open.

Inside, nestled in soft velvet, was a delicate gold necklace with a small butterfly pendant.

Her breath caught.

For a long moment, she just stared at it, her fingers hovering over the tiny charm.

Bobby shifted beside her, watching her reaction carefully. “I, uh… I saw it, and it reminded me of you,” he admitted, his voice gentle. “You know, how strong you are. Butterflies, they go through so much before they become something so beautiful and free. And that’s you, Athena. No matter what happens, you always keep going.”

Athena’s fingers trembled as she traced the pendant.

It was the fact that Bobby didn’t know.

He didn’t know that during the darkest days of her life when she was trapped in that abusive relationship, when she felt like she would never escape, she would watch butterflies outside her window and dream .

Dream of being light enough to fly away.

Dream of being free .

A part of her  had clung to them as a sign that one day, she would make it out. That one day, she would be something more than the broken girl she felt like.

And now, years later, Bobby had unknowingly given her this.

Her throat tightened.

Bobby frowned at her silence, his brows knitting together. “You okay?”

Athena swallowed hard and nodded. “Yeah,” she said, voice barely above a whisper. “This just… it means more to me than you know.”

Bobby exhaled in relief, his smile gentle. “Here, let me put it on you.”

She turned, gathering her hair to the side as he fastened the clasp. The chain was warm against her skin, the butterfly resting just above her heart.

Bobby stepped back, his hands settling on her waist. “Now, whenever you wear it, just remember that I’m with you and nothing can hold you back.”

Athena let out a shaky breath, pressing her fingers against the butterfly.

He didn’t know . But in some way, he did . Bobby reminded over and over that he saw her in a way no one else could.

She looked up at Bobby, emotions swelling in her chest.

A slow, deep smile spread across her face. “You spoil me

Bobby’s smile softened as he leaned in closer. “You deserve it.”

She had made it. She had escaped. And now, she wasn’t just surviving. She was living.

Just then, Athena remembered that Bobby had more for her. She turned to him, shaking her head with a small laugh. “Bobby, this is already more than enough. You didn’t have to do all of this, and you still have more? Baby, I don’t know…”

Bobby chuckled, taking her hands in his. “This is a once-in-a-blue-moon kind of thing, alright?” He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “It will be a long time before I do anything again. But now, this next part? It’s actually going to make you relax.”

Before she could protest, he gently took her hand and led her down the hall.

Athena followed, her brow furrowing in curiosity as Bobby pushed open the door to his bedroom. But instead of stopping there, he led her further inside, straight to the bathroom.

And the moment she stepped in, she felt it, warm steam curling in the air, the soft scent of lavender filling the space.

Her breath hitched as her eyes landed on the bathtub, already filled with water, the surface shimmering with delicate bubbles. Small candles flickered softly around the room, casting everything in a golden glow.

Oh she really did need this. 

How could she deserve him?

A small wooden bath tray stretched across the tub. On it sat a steaming cup of tea.

She exhaled. She leaned into him from behind. “Okay, this is good.”

He smiled. “Go on in.”

She pulled back slightly, tilting her head up at him. “Wait… you don’t want to join me?” she asked, her lips curving into a small pout.

Bobby chuckled, shaking his head. “I would but this is your time, baby. Just to think. To breathe. To relax.” His fingers brushed against her arms. “But I can sit right here, keep you company.”

Athena chuckled softly, rolling her eyes. “Alright, alright. I’ll allow it.”

His grin widened as he reached for the hem of her shirt. “Let me help you.”

She let him and his hands move over her, slow and careful, undressing her piece by piece. There was no rush, no urgency—just the quiet intimacy of the moment.

When she stood fully bare before him, she never once felt unsafe. Never felt exposed in a way that made her want to hide. Because this was Bobby. And in his eyes, there was nothing but warmth.

His hand found hers, steady and sure, as he helped her step into the bath.

The second she sank into the water, a deep sigh left her lips. The heat seeped into her muscles, melting away the stiffness, the stress, the weight she had been carrying for weeks. 

Her head leaned back against the frame and she let out a soft murmur of satisfaction. She closed her eyes, letting herself feel the calm, the way everything seemed to slow down.

Bobby sat down beside the tub, resting his arms on the edge as he watched her. “Feels good, doesn’t it?”

Athena opened her eyes, meeting his gaze, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “So good.”

Bobby chuckled, reaching over to grab the cup of tea from the tray. “Here, baby.”

She took it, her fingers brushing against his. The warmth of the tea seeped through the ceramic, spreading through her palms, and as she took a slow sip, a deep sense of comfort washed over her.

She closed her eyes again, and just let herself feel everything.

Just having Bobby here, right by her side, was all she needed after the exhausting meeting that morning. The quiet, the warmth of the water, the soft flicker of candlelight, it all made her feel safe. 

She exhaled slowly, her shoulders sinking beneath the water, the steam curling around her skin like a weighted blanket. The tension that had been wound so tightly in her muscles was finally beginning to unravel, her mind slipping into a relaxed haze.

A few seconds passed in comfortable silence. She felt limp, like every ounce of stress had melted away, leaving only warmth in its place. Somewhere in the fog of her thoughts, she registered Bobby reaching out, his touch light as he took the cup from her hands and set it gently back on the tray.

Then, with the softest touch, his fingers brushed a stray curl from her face, tucking it behind her ear. His fingertips lingered against her damp skin for just a moment, tracing a slow, absentminded path down her cheek.

She sighed, her lips parting as she tilted her head slightly toward his touch. Gosh, how did he always know exactly what she needed?

For a while, there was only silence between them. The water sloshed gently.

Then, he finally spoke. “So, my book club’s meeting this Friday.”

She cracked an eye open, smirking a little. “Oh yeah? What’s the book this time?”

Bobby chuckled, shaking his head. “The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich. I picked it out this month. Thought it’d be a good one to get everyone talking.”

Athena smiled. “That’s the one about the Native American activist, right?”

“Yeah. It’s based on the author’s grandfather. Has a lot of history in it but also really strong character work.”

“I might have to read it so I can come this week,” she mused. 

He grinned. “I was hoping you’d say that.”

The conversation drifted from books to his store.

“The shipment’s been delayed again,” Bobby sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I swear, if I have to make one more phone call to those distributors…”

Athena hummed, her fingers skimming lazily across the surface of the water. “You’ll get it sorted. You always do.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he muttered, shaking his head. “But I’ve been thinking about rearranging the store a little. I want to set up a new section, something special.”

Athena raised a brow, tilting her head toward him. “Oh? What kind of special?”

Bobby smirked, leaning his arms on the edge of the tub. “A My Favorite Author section.”

Oh boy. Athena knew exactly where this was going. She narrowed her eyes. “Is this where I think it’s going?”

He nodded without hesitation. “You’re my favorite author. I told you that.”

Athena groaned, letting her head fall back against the tub. “Bobby, no. You cannot just put my books in your store like that.”

“Why not?” he challenged, completely unbothered. “I own the store. I make the rules.”

“My fans are going to question our relationship.”

Bobby rolled his eyes. “They’ve been doing that for months , considering you haven’t exactly addressed anything yet.”

She pursed her lips. He wasn’t wrong.

“You should be flattered,” he continued, leaning closer, his voice softer now. “And, baby, after reading your book, really reading it, I want people to see what you can do. I want them to walk in and see your name right there, front and center. I mean, come on, I’m just adding to the fame of your name.”

Athena chuckled, shaking her head. “Okay, okay.”

A warmth spread through her, deeper than the bathwater surrounding her. He was so obsessed with her—in the best, most healthy way. In a way, she was finally learning how to let herself be loved like that.

Then, her phone dinged.

She frowned slightly, tilting her head toward the sound. Bobby sighed, standing up. “I got it. And I’ll grab you something to wear while I’m up.”

“Thanks, baby,” she murmured as she watched him go.

Athena let her head tip back against the tub, staring at the flickering candlelight dancing across the ceiling. Exhaling as the warmth of the water held her, but of course it couldn’t quiet the thoughts creeping in.

She started to think about everything Bobby had done for her these past few months. The way he showed up, always, without hesitation. How he knew exactly what she needed, even before she realized it herself. How he listened, truly listened, not just to the things she said, but to the things she didn’t.

She had never had this before. Not this kind of love. Not this kind of care and she’s repeated this so many times in her head. 

Bobby has been slowly healing parts of her she thought couldn't be healed.

Every time she looked at him, she saw a man who gave his whole heart. A man who had been through his own pain and still chose love. Still chose her. And she had tried, she really had, but there were still parts of herself she kept locked away.

She wanted to give him everything, the way he gave to her so effortlessly. But there was a part of her, buried deep, that still hesitated. That still whispered she wasn’t worthy of this.

Because what had she done to deserve a man like Bobby Nash?

Tears burned in her eyes, her vision blurring as she stared at the soft candlelight. She swallowed hard, willing them back, but they kept coming.

He’s doing so much, and I haven’t given him all of me.

Her chest tightened. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to let go—God, she wanted to. She wanted to give Bobby every part of herself, to love him the way he deserved, the way she knew he already loved her. But every time she tried, the past clung to her like a shadow, a whisper of a time when love wasn’t safe. When love was something she had to endure, something she had to survive, not something she could simply have.

Bobby didn’t know everything.

He didn’t know about the nights she had stayed up, staring at the ceiling, reminding herself over and over again that she had escaped. That she was still here. That she was still trying—still pushing forward—even when it felt impossible.

He didn’t know about the nights she had curled up in the dark, pressing her hands over her mouth to quiet her sobs. The nights when the memories pressed in too close, wrapping around her like a noose.

He didn’t know about the cries, the pain, the bruises that had long faded but never truly disappeared.

She gritted her teeth, frustration bubbling up inside her, hot and suffocating. Why did her mind still do this to her? Why did her ex still have the power to steal her joy, even now, when she was free? When she was with Bobby, a man who had never once made her feel unsafe, who had only ever given her kindness, patience, and love?

Her fingers curled around the edge of the tub, gripping it so tightly her knuckles turned white. She blinked rapidly, forcing back the tears, refusing to let them spill.

Then she heard footsteps approaching.

She exhaled sharply, trying to pull herself together, trying to push everything down before Bobby could see it. Before he could see her.

The bathroom door creaked open, and Bobby stepped inside, holding her phone in one hand and a neatly folded set of clothes in the other. His eyes immediately went to her, his expression softening.

"Here you go, baby," he said, setting them down on the counter. 

She forced a small smile, swallowing past the lump in her throat. “Thanks.”

Bobby didn’t say anything right away, but she could feel his eyes on her, watching, reading her the way he always did. He didn’t need words to notice when something was off.

She glanced away, hoping he wouldn’t see what she was trying so hard to hide. The last thing she wanted was for him to worry.

“Who texted?” she asked, her voice even, careful. Maybe if she steered the conversation elsewhere, he wouldn’t press.

Bobby hesitated for just a second before looking down at her phone. “May,” he said, his tone light but knowing. “She got home from go-karting and was wondering if she and Harry could have dinner with the both of us tonight.”

Athena let out a small breath. “Oh, that sounds nice.”

“She also said Harry won, and she swears he cheated.” Bobby smirked. “I told her I’d believe it when I saw the footage.”

Athena huffed a quiet laugh. “Of course, she did.”

Bobby held the phone up. “Want me to tell them we’ll be home soon?”

She nodded.

Bobby glanced back up. “Should I ask what they want to eat?”

Athena hummed. “Yeah.”

A few moments passed before Bobby chuckled, shaking his head. “May says we should just pick something up, but Harry’s insisting that I cook.”

Athena smirked. “Oh, is that so?”

“Yep,” Bobby said, amused. “Apparently, my cooking is now ‘legendary.’”

She rolled her eyes playfully. “Well, I can't argue with that.”

He typed out a response. “Alright, I told them I’ll cook. Now we just have to figure out what they want.”

Bobby began responding back to them, but his gaze flicked back to her every few seconds. She could tell he wasn’t entirely convinced, that a part of him still wanted to ask if she was okay.

She didn’t give him the chance. She sank a little deeper into the water, closing her eyes for a moment.

For now, she would just focus on him, her kids and herself. She needed to shut her mind.

༺༻

The kids had decided on spaghetti and garlic bread for dinner. The dinner table was alive with warmth and laughter. Bobby had done most of the cooking, but Harry had been right by his side, proudly buttering the bread and sprinkling the garlic. 

“This is really good,” May said, twirling spaghetti around her fork. “I gotta admit, Harry, you did a decent job helping.”

Harry grinned proudly. “Told you I was a great sous-chef.”

Bobby smirked, taking a sip of his drink. “I don’t know, buddy. You almost burned the garlic bread.”

Harry widened his eyes “You weren’t supposed to tell them that!”

Athena chuckled, shaking her head. “It’s fine, baby. It still turned out great.”

“Speaking of great… I got a 95 on my science project!” Harry said happily.

Bobby’s brows lifted. “That’s awesome, kid.” He held up a fist for Harry to bump. “See? Told you all that hard work would pay off.”

Harry nodded eagerly. “Yeah. And my teacher said I explained my hypothesis really well. Thanks for helping me with it.”

Athena glanced at Bobby, warmth spreading through her chest. 

May took a sip of her drink before casually dropping, “Speaking of things going well… Darious and I are doing really good.”

Athena raised a brow. “Oh really?”

May shrugged, but there was a small, almost shy smile on her face. “Yeah, I mean, he’s been really sweet lately. He took me out last weekend again, and we just talked for hours. It didn’t feel forced or anything.” She hesitated, then sighed. “I really like him Mom.”

Athena’s lips curled into a knowing smile. “Sounds like someone has it bad.”

May rolled her eyes but didn’t deny it. “Maybe.” Then, with a smirk, she glanced toward Bobby, then back at her mom. “But don’t be talking.”

Bobby flushed red, clearing his throat as he took a sip of water.

Athena let out a chuckle. “You're right about that.”

Harry made a gagging noise. “Gross. Love talk at dinner? Really?”

“One day, you’ll be talking about the same thing.” Bobby noted.

Harry just shook his head dramatically, muttering something about how disgusting romance was before turning his attention back to his food.

After a few more bites, Athena said. “You should bring him to dinner.”

Bobby raised an eyebrow. “Uh oh. Your mom’s going to tear him down.”

May laughed, shrugging as she took another bite of garlic bread. “Maybe. I’ll talk to him about it.”

Athena raised an eyebrow at May, smirking. “Oh, I wouldn’t tear him down. Just… ask a few questions.”

May laughed. “Yeah, that’s what I’m worried about.”

Bobby chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Interrogation is more like it.”

Athena gasped, placing a hand on her chest in mock offense. “I am a very polite woman.”

May and Bobby exchanged a look before both said in unison, “Sure.”

Harry snickered, shaking his head. “I don’t know, Mom. You do have that scary ‘I know everything’ look.”

Athena gave him that exact look, and Harry immediately straightened in his chair. “Okay, yeah. That one.”

Bobby chuckled, even with that look, she was still as beautiful as ever. 

Dinner carried on, the warmth of the evening settling over them like a familiar embrace. Conversation kept going, filled with teasing, upcoming events, and the comforting presence of family.

As they finished eating, May stood up, it was her night to wash the dishes. She started clearing the table. She gathered the plates, stacking them with ease before carrying them to the sink. 

With the kitchen taken care of, the rest of the evening unfolded in the living room, where board games were pulled from the shelves. 

They sat in a circle on the floor, the coffee table pushed aside to make room for the chaos that always followed family game nights, with Bobby. There was plenty of laughter, some lighthearted competition, and moments where they forgot about everything outside of that room.

Athena couldn’t help but notice how Bobby was really settling into their lives these past few months. How close each of her kids got with him, how involved he was with the family.

Now, with the way he laughed at Harry’s jokes, the way May casually leaned against him while plotting her next move in the game, the way he looked at Athena like she was the best thing to ever happen to him. It wasn’t forced, it wasn't something they had to work at, it just was.

When the night started winding down, Bobby and Athena exchanged a glance, silently agreeing that it was time to call it. Bobby didn’t want to overstay as usual. 

But before they could even stand, Harry leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, and with the most innocent expression, asked if Bobby could stay over.

Athena had started shaking her head before the words even fully settled, but Bobby hesitated. He wasn’t one to push boundaries, and he had always been mindful of not wanting to intrude, but Harry’s hopeful look made him pause. 

May chimed in, pointing out that it wasn’t a big deal, that he was here all the time anyway. Before Athena could protest again, Harry had already grabbed a spare blanket, placed it on Bobby.

Athena sighed, but deep down, she knew there was no fighting it. The decision had already been made for them. 

Bobby gave in with a small shake of his head, a chuckle slipping past his lips as he leaned back against the couch. Harry and May both grinned. 

With that settled, the night began to wind down. The board games were packed away, and the cozy atmosphere of the evening slowly shifted into the quiet calm of bedtime.

Athena stretched her arms over her head before standing. The warmth of the night had settled deep in her bones, and exhaustion was beginning to creep in. 

She ran a hand through her hair before glancing at Bobby. “I’m gonna go get ready for bed,” she said softly, her voice carrying just above the quiet rustle of movement in the room.

Bobby gave her a nod, his expression easy and content. “Alright, I’ll be there in a bit.”

She turned, disappearing down the hall, while Bobby stayed back to help the kids clean.

Harry and May worked alongside him, picking up stray game pieces and folding blankets that had been draped over the couch.

When everything was put away, May stretched with a yawn and muttered a quick goodnight before heading off to her room. 

Harry lingered for a moment, his usual energy now dulled by sleepiness. Bobby ruffled his hair gently before nudging him toward his bedroom, watching as the boy trudged off down the hall.

With the house now quiet, Bobby finally made his way toward the bedroom, shutting the door quietly behind him. 

Athena was sitting on the bed, her legs crossed, holding her phone. There was something different about her expression—her eyes were bright, and she had a small smile on her face, like she had just heard something she wasn’t expecting. 

He said as he walked over and gave her a kiss. “You look happy.”

She looked up, still holding her phone loosely in her hand. “I am. The lawyer just called.”

Bobby immediately straightened. “And?”

She let out a short breath, almost like she was still processing it. “They were able to get some of my original work back.”

Bobby blinked, not sure if he had heard her right. “Wait, seriously?”

She nodded. “Turns out, when they were going through the company’s internal files, they found a few of my manuscripts still in their system. Ones they hadn’t wiped or transferred yet. Legally, they had no right to keep them, so my lawyer pushed for their immediate return.”

Bobby sat down on the bed beside her. “So, just like that, they gave them back?”

“Well, not just like that,” she said. “They tried to make it difficult, but my lawyer didn’t back down. They knew they had no legal standing to hold onto them, so they finally caved.”

Bobby shook his head, taking a moment to let it sink in. “That’s huge. I’m happy for you baby.”

“I know,” she said, staring down at her phone. “I didn’t think I’d ever get any of it back. I thought it was all gone for good.” She took a slow breath, as if saying it out loud made it feel more real. “But now, I have something again. A piece of what they stole from me.”

Bobby reached out and took her hand, his grip steady and reassuring. “This is a win, Athena. After everything, you got some of your work back. That’s proof they don’t have as much control as they thought.”

Athena exhaled slowly, her fingers tightening around his. “It feels like I can finally breathe a little.”

Bobby nodded, his thumb brushing over the back of her hand. “Because you’re taking back what’s yours. You’re going to get everything back. And this” he gave her hand a small squeeze “this is just the start.”

A slow smile spread across Athena’s lips. Without a word, she tugged him down to sit beside her. Then, moving instinctively, she climbed into his lap, settling against his chest. Bobby didn’t hesitate, his arms came around her, pulling her close, his warmth seeping into her.

She rested her forehead against his for a brief moment before pressing a soft kiss to his lips. 

When she pulled back, she rested her forehead against his, her fingers tracing small patterns along the back of his neck. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Bobby’s brow furrowed slightly. “For what?”

“For everything,” she said, her voice steady but full of emotion. “For being here. For supporting me through all of this. For never making me feel like I have to do this alone. I haven’t thanked you enough.”

His grip around her tightened, his thumb brushing along her back. “Athena…”

She shook her head. “I mean it. You didn’t have to do any of this. You didn’t have to stand by me while I fought to get my work back. You didn’t have to be so patient while I tried to figure out how to navigate through everything. And you definitely didn’t have to step into my life the way you did, with the kids, with everything. But you did.” She exhaled softly. “You did, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to explain how much that means to me.”

Bobby didn’t say anything right away. He just looked at her, his expression unreadable for a moment before he lifted a hand and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “You don’t have to explain anything,” he said quietly. “I love you. That’s it. That’s the reason. I wanted to, it’s not a requirement to do all these things for you. It’s what I want to do.”

Her hand curled into his shirt, holding onto him as if grounding herself. His warmth, his steady presence, it was everything she had never allowed herself to want before.

He continued, his voice softer now. “Thank you, Athena.” He said. “You came into my life when everything felt so broken. When I wasn’t sure if I’d ever find this kind of happiness again. But you did more than just show up. You let me in. You let me love you, and you gave me all of you, even the parts you thought were too much.”

His words should have settled in her heart, should have filled her with the reassurance she craved. And yet, the moment he said it—that she had given him all of her—her mind twisted against her, like an unseen force waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

But you haven’t given him everything.

The thought came swift and cruel. A quiet, insidious whisper in the back of her mind. He doesn’t know about your past. He doesn’t know everything your ex did. Just wait until he does. Just wait until he sees all of it. You think he’ll still look at you like this? He’ll see the same broken girl who got beat up all because she failed.

Her grip on his shirt tightened. She willed the voice to go away, but it had already sunk its claws in. She blinked, keeping her expression neutral as best she could, even as a cold weight settled in her chest. 

Bobby meant every word he said. He loved her. He wanted her. She believed that. But belief didn’t silence the fear creeping into the edges of her mind.

She swallowed, forcing herself back to the present, back to Bobby, who was still looking at her with nothing but love in his eyes. 

She wanted to believe that was enough. That it would always be enough. But deep down, the fear of what he didn’t know, what he might come to know, loomed over her like a storm waiting to break.

She hugged him tighter, burying her face into his neck and inhaling his scent. The steady rhythm of his breathing, the warmth of his arms wrapped around her—it was grounding. She closed her eyes and tried to quiet her mind. She had escaped her ex. She was here. She was safe. She needed to focus on the good, on everything she had now

They stayed like that for a while, neither one speaking, just holding each other. Bobby’s hand gently traced slow circles along her back, his touch comforting. The silence between them wasn’t heavy; it was steady, reassuring, filled with a quiet understanding that words weren’t necessary.

After a moment, Bobby shifted slightly. “So,” he murmured, amusement lacing his voice, “are you gonna stay here all night, or are you gonna let me get ready for bed?”

A small chuckle escaped her, and she finally pulled away, though she wasn’t quite ready to lose his warmth. “Fine, fine,” she said, shaking her head. He lifted her gently off his lap and placed her back on her side.

Bobby smirked, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead before standing. “I’ll be back.”

As he grabbed his clothes and turned toward the bathroom, Athena called after him, “Can you grab my laptop really quick?”

He paused, glancing over his shoulder with a raised brow. “Planning on working?”

She nodded. “Just for a little bit. I’m finishing up Shaken Vows.”

At that, Bobby’s eyes lit up with interest. “No way—you’re actually done?”

“Almost,” she admitted. “Just a few more things to wrap up.”

He grinned. “Alright, I’ll bring it. I’ve been waiting, and now I finally get to read it soon.”

Athena let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. “You make it sound like you’ve been waiting years.”

“I have been waiting,” he said dramatically, grabbing his clothes. “You forget, I got sucked into this series because of you.”

He walked over to the wardrobe, spotting her laptop on top. Picking it up, he made his way back to the bed and handed it to her. Athena took it with a grateful smile. “Thank you.”

She opened it and leaned back against the headboard, her fingers brushing over the keyboard as the screen lit up. Bobby watched her for a second before shaking his head fondly, then walking away.

Athena’s fingers moved swiftly across the keyboard, the familiar rhythm of typing filling the quiet room. Her mind was focused, the words flowing naturally as she neared the final lines of Shaken Vows.

With one last keystroke, she stopped. She stared at the screen, rereading the final sentence, letting it sink in. 

A slow, satisfied smile spread across her face. It was done. Even if most of her original work was gone, she still had Shaken Vows and HeartStrings. After everything—after the stress, the long nights, and the self-doubt—she had finished.

Most of all, she couldn’t wait for Bobby to read it, both of them. But mainly HeartStrings.

She let out a deep breath and leaned back against the pillows, closing her eyes for just a moment. A sense of accomplishment settled over her. This was hers. No one could take it away from her. 

Her phone buzzed beside her. She glanced at the screen, expecting it to be Bobby or maybe May checking in. But when she saw the name, her stomach flipped.

Clara – New Update

Her heart rate picked up as she quickly unlocked her phone and opened the message. 

“Athena, we’ve made some progress. It’s not a huge breakthrough yet, but it’s a step forward. The company is starting to respond to the pressure. We’ve managed to get them to admit that some of the original contracts were mishandled. This could help strengthen your case. I’ll update you when we know more.”

She exhaled slowly, rereading the words. It wasn’t everything, but it was something. Everything was going good. Nothing bad was going on.

Her fingers hovered over the keyboard before she typed back, Thank you. Keep me updated.

Setting her phone down, Athena ran a hand through her hair, letting the weight of the day settle over her. Relief was a slow, steady warmth in her chest, one that she hadn’t felt in a long time. She leaned back against the headboard, exhaling as she closed her eyes.

Step by step.

Bobby’s voice replayed in her head. This is just the start.

A small smile tugged at her lips. He was right. Even if it wasn’t everything, it was something, and something was more than she had yesterday.

Just then, the bathroom door opened, and Bobby stepped out, dressed in pajama pants and a plain t-shirt, towel still in hand as he dried his hair. He glanced at her, his brows lifting slightly when he caught sight of her smile.

“That’s a good look on you,” he said, tossing the towel onto the chair.

“What is?” she asked.

He climbed onto the bed beside her, leaning against the headboard as he nudged her shoulder. “Smiling like that.”

Athena huffed a small laugh, shaking her head as she closed her laptop and set it on the nightstand. “Guess it’s just been a good night and a really good day.”

Bobby smirked. “Told you. Step by step.”

She turned her head to look at him, taking in the ease in his posture, the warmth in his gaze. Without thinking, she reached up and ran her fingers through his still-damp hair, and he closed his eyes at the touch.

“Ready for bed?” he murmured, his voice quieter now.

“Yeah,” she said, though neither of them made a move to actually go to sleep.

Bobby shifted, turning more toward her. “You sure? ‘Cause you were typing away like you were on a mission when I came out.”

Athena smiled. “I finished it.”

His brows shot up. “Really?”

She nodded. “Yes baby, you will get to read it very soon. I just need a cover design and to look over it. Maddie and I are planning on self publishing now. HeartStrings will most likely be out in a few weeks. Last paragraph, last line. It’s done.”

Bobby’s grin was instant. “That’s incredible. I mean, I knew you were close, but—Athena, that’s huge. You’re moving so fast.”

She shrugged, but her smile didn’t fade. “It feels good. Like I finally closed a chapter. And I got the message from my lawyer right after, so… today’s a win.”

Bobby studied her for a moment, then reached for her hand, lacing their fingers together. “Dang right it is.”

She squeezed his hand. “Alright,” She murmured, “we should really get some sleep.”

Bobby chuckled but nodded. “Yeah.”

Athena shifted to slide under the covers and Bobby followed suit. The second they were settled, he reached for her again, pulling her in until she was tucked against his chest.

For the first time in a long time, Athena felt a deep sense of calm settle over her, like a heavy weight lifting from her chest, even if just for a moment. 

There was peace in the way Bobby held her, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear. 

The world outside the room, with all its chaos, was momentarily muted. The hard work, the struggles, the never-ending fight, it all felt like it was moving in the right direction.

Everything was getting better. Today had been a good day, one of those rare moments where everything seemed to fall into place. 

She had finished her book, Shaken Vows. She was about to publish HeartStrings. Everything with the lawyer was going good, the case was building. The company, the one that had taken so much from her, was finally showing cracks. It wasn’t the big breakthrough she had been hoping for, but it was progress, something she could hold on to, something real.

Her kids were healthy and happy. She had support, Hen and Maddie. Most of all, she had the man who stole her heart and was reviving it piece by piece. And although, her mind, the battle, the past was still lingering, she just decided to focus on the good for now.

Athena closed her eyes tighter, breathing in the scent of Bobby’s skin, letting it anchor her to the present. In this moment, she allowed herself to just be. 

No worries about tomorrow, no more anxieties about the past. Her ex was not here. She had to let go. She felt good. With that she drifted off in the arms of the man she loved.

But really… as the quiet settled in over the Grant Family, everything good was temporary. Because there was creeping destruction looming over them that would be shattering them tomorrow. 

The storm was coming.

Chapter Text

Athena wished she could freeze in time. For the first time in what felt like forever, she wasn’t worrying about unread messages piling up on her phone, or whether she’d be home on time, or what kind of mood her boyfriend would be in when she got back. He was out of town on a business trip and wouldn’t be back until late tonight.

It was just her and Hen, like it always used to be.

She had missed this, missed laughing over stupid things, missed walking side by side without fear creeping in. But mostly, she had missed talking to Hen. They didn’t have the same classes. 

Her boyfriend had convinced her that Hen wasn’t good for her, that she shouldn’t waste time on people who didn’t “understand” their relationship. He had a way of making it sound like he was protecting her, like he knew what was best. Little by little, she stopped reaching out. And when Hen messaged first, she barely responded at all.

But tonight, he wasn’t here.

Tonight, she texted Hen, asking to meet up. She didn’t even think Hen would agree, not after how distant she’d been. But Hen had responded almost immediately—Yeah, of course! I’ve missed you!

“I swear, if I find another mustard-colored sweater, I’m buying it,” Hen declared as they stepped into their favorite boutique, the scent of lavender and fresh cotton filling the air. The shop was quiet, warm light filtering through the large windows, illuminating neat racks of clothing and small tables stacked with handmade jewelry.

Athena smirked, crossing her arms. “Hen, you already own five.”

Hen scoffed, flipping through the rack. “Okay, but do I own this one?” She held up a soft, oversized sweater, turning it to examine the sleeves.

Athena gave her a look.

Hen grinned. “You’re judging me.”

“I am judging you,” Athena said, amused. “But I’ll allow it because, honestly, at this point, I think mustard yellow is part of your personality.”

Hen gasped dramatically. “I take offense to that.”

Athena just laughed, shaking her head as she ran her fingers over the fabric of a soft cardigan. The moment felt normal. Easy. Like nothing had changed. Like she wasn’t constantly walking on eggshells, waiting for something—someone—to snap.

But then her phone vibrated in her pocket.

She stiffened.

She didn’t have to look to know who it was.

It was him.

Even from miles away, he had a way of reminding her that she was his. That no matter where she was or who she was with, she belonged to him. The feeling of control, of being watched, never truly left her, not even now, not even in this moment that was supposed to be hers.

Her fingers twitched at her side, torn between ignoring it and checking, because if she didn’t answer, there would be consequences. There were always consequences.

Athena could hear his voice in her head, cold and sharp as a blade.

"If you run, I’ll find you. If you leave me, I’ll make sure you never see the light again.”

Her stomach twisted.

She wasn’t going to leave. She wasn’t running. He had told her over and over—he was her everything. He knew what was best for her.

“Athena?”

She blinked and realized Hen was watching her, holding the sweater against herself in the mirror. “What do you think? Does this say chic and effortless, or does it say grandma with style?”

Athena forced a smile. “Chic, obviously.”

Hen smirked. “Good. Because I’m buying it.”

She turned back to the mirror, distracted again, and Athena exhaled quietly, forcing herself to relax.

After shopping, they made their way to their favorite ramen place, a small hole-in-the-wall tucked between a bookstore and a flower shop. The place was warm, filled with the scent of simmering broth and fresh noodles, and it had the kind of dim lighting that made everything feel a little softer, a little safer.

Hen took one sip of her ramen and groaned. “This. This is what happiness tastes like.”

Athena laughed, twirling noodles around her chopsticks. “Better than mustard sweaters?”

Hen gasped. “Don’t make me choose.”

They ate slowly, trading stories between bites. Hen complained about a group project where no one pulled their weight, rolling her eyes as she ranted about doing all the work herself.

“I swear, if I ever have to be in a group project again, I’m dropping out,” she said dramatically, stabbing a piece of tofu with her chopsticks.

Athena chuckled. “Yeah, yeah. You say that every semester.”

“And every semester, I mean it.”

It was easy to listen, to nod and laugh at all the right moments. Easy to pretend that her world wasn’t unraveling thread by thread.

But then Hen tilted her head and asked, “So, what about you?”

Athena blinked. “What?”

Hen shrugged, taking another sip of her broth. “What’s new with you? We don’t talk as much anymore.” She said it lightly, like an offhand comment, but Athena’s stomach twisted anyway.

“I don’t know,” Athena said quickly. “Just… school. Work.”

Hen squinted at her. “That’s literally always your answer.”

Athena forced a small smile. “Because it’s true.”

Hen hummed, but she didn’t push, at least, not yet.

They spent the afternoon wandering the city, stopping into random stores, taking silly pictures in front of murals, and getting bubble tea to-go. Athena let herself forget for a little while.

But when the sun started dipping lower, painting the sky in soft oranges and pinks, they ended up at a quiet park on the edge of downtown. It wasn’t big, just a small patch of green with a few benches, a fountain, and winding trails that led toward the river.

They settled onto a bench near the fountain, sipping their drinks as a light breeze drifted past.

Hen let out a satisfied sigh. “See? I told you you needed a day out.”

Athena smiled, but it felt fragile. “Yeah.”

Hen leaned back, stretching out her legs. “I missed this. I missed you.”

Athena froze, her fingers tightening around her cup. She should’ve known Hen would bring it up again. Hen turned to her.

“Athena, I really want to know why you’ve been so distant.” Hen’s voice was gentle, but there was no mistaking the concern behind it. “We used to talk every day, all the time. You’re my best friend, we’ve been friends since highschool Athena. And it’s been almost a year since we even hung out, and now… now you suddenly want to?”

Athena swallowed, her grip on the cup tightening. “Hen…”

Hen sighed, shaking her head. “It’s been months since we last sat like this, just the two of us. Months since we last talked the way we used to. And I get it, life gets busy, but Athena… I’m worried about you. I miss you.”

Athena forced a small smile, but it didn’t reach her eyes. “I’ve missed you too. I have just been—” She hesitated. Busy. Studying. Working on classes. The excuses were right there on the tip of her tongue, waiting to be used again. But Hen wasn’t going to let it go that easily.

Hen leaned forward, watching her closely. “No. Even when you were busy, you’d still call. Even when things were crazy, you made time. So what’s going on?”

Athena’s heart pounded. She could feel the weight of Hen’s gaze, the way she was searching for the truth. But the truth was dangerous. She didn’t want to lose her, Hen has been with her all her life, she was the first person she told everything to. But the truth was something she couldn’t say.

So she lied.

“It’s nothing,” she said, forcing her voice to sound steady. “Really. I’ve just been caught up with school and everything.”

But Hen did not look convinced at all.

"Is something going on with him? With your boyfriend?" Hen asked, watching her carefully. “Is he okay? Is he sick? Did something happen? Please, just tell me what’s been going on with you.”

Athena felt her stomach twist. She hated how Hen could see right through her, how her best friend had always been able to tell when something was wrong.

“Hen, nothing is going on. We’re fine. I told you, I’ve just been busy.” She forced herself to meet Hen’s eyes, hoping the lie would land.

But Hen didn’t back down. She shook her head, her brows furrowing. “I just don’t understand. And honestly, Athena, I don’t believe you.”

Athena’s breath caught. She swallowed hard, gripping her cup tighter as if the warmth could steady her.

Hen sighed, her voice gentler now, but no less insistent. “It’s more than that, Athena. I know it is. It’s different. And I don’t know if I did something wrong because I keep replaying everything that happened before you stopped talking to me. I don’t know if I upset you somehow.”

How could Hen ever think that?

“You didn’t upset me, Hen. I told you—I’ve just been busy,” Athena said, the words coming out too quickly.

Hen frowned, her lips pressing into a thin line. “You’re lying to me. Something happened. Something made you stop talking to me. I mean, I haven’t even seen him in a while either. We were all close. And now, it’s like—” She exhaled sharply, shaking her head. “Everything’s different, and I don’t know what’s going on in your life anymore. It’s like you disappeared. You’ve been with him since the start of college, and you’re still not married. I don’t even know what he’s up to anymore.”

Athena tightened her grip around her cup, feeling the ceramic dig into her palms. The warmth of the drink did nothing to chase away the cold dread creeping up her spine. How in the world did it shift from her to him? She can’t know what he is doing to her. He would just hurt her too.

“Nothing is going on between us,” Athena said, forcing her voice to remain steady. But it felt hollow, empty—like she wasn’t even convincing herself. “We’re just taking it slow. You know how nervous he gets when it comes to me.” She let out a small, breathy laugh, trying to make it sound natural. “You were literally there when he asked me out.”

Hen didn’t smile. She didn’t look reassured.

Athena met her gaze, pushing the lie out so fast she almost believed it herself. “I swear, Hen. Nothing is going on with… him and me. I’ve just been busy with classes and work. I haven’t had the time.”

Hen was silent for a long moment, her gaze unwavering as she studied Athena’s face. The quiet stretched between them, heavy, suffocating. Then, she sighed, shaking her head. She done, Hen had a look on her face. She was done.

“Athena,” she said softly, her voice laced with something between frustration and concern. “Stop lying to me. I know when you’re lying. I know you.”

The words hit like a punch to the gut.

Athena’s throat tightened, her fingers curling around her cup like it was the only thing keeping her grounded. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears. She wanted to say something—anything—to make Hen drop it, to change the subject, to make her stop looking at her like that. Like she was seeing right through her.

“I—” Athena started, but before she could finish, Hen’s gaze flickered downward, and her expression changed.

It was just for a second.

Just the briefest shift in her eyes, the smallest widening, like she had just seen something she wasn’t supposed to.

“Athena…” Hen’s voice was lower now, careful, almost hesitant. “What’s that on your neck?”

Athena froze.

Her stomach dropped. A cold wave of panic crashed over her, sending her heart racing.

Her hand shot up to her collar, fingers gripping the fabric, tugging it higher. But it was too late. Hen had already seen it—the faint, bluish mark just above the neckline of her sweater.

Crap.

She didn’t cover it well enough.

She had spent extra time that morning, standing in front of the mirror, layering foundation over the ugly bruise. Patting, blending, setting, reapplying. She had dabbed concealer over it twice, running her fingers over the skin, making sure the discoloration was gone. But makeup could only do so much. 

It had looked fine before she left, she was sure of it. But maybe the warmth of the day, the movement of her sweater, the sheer anxiety pressing down on her had made it wear off.

Maybe she should have used a thicker layer. Maybe she should have checked again before she met up with Hen.

Maybe she shouldn’t have come at all.

Her pulse hammered. She forced herself to breathe, to stay calm, to act like nothing was wrong.

“I—” Athena’s voice caught. Her mind scrambled for an excuse, something—anything—that would make Hen let it go. “It’s nothing.”

Hen didn’t blink. “It doesn’t look like nothing.”

Athena let out a breathy laugh, her voice too light, too forced. “I tripped,” she said quickly. “Bumped into a table. It’s stupid, really.”

Hen’s eyes darkened.

Athena knew that look. It was the look Hen always got when she saw through the crap. The same look she had when she called Athena out on a bad decision, or when she could tell she wasn’t telling the full story. Well, she's been doing it this whole time. But this…this was serious. She’s not backing down.

Hen reached forward, her fingers barely brushing Athena’s wrist before Athena flinched.

That one movement, small, instinctive, automatic, made Hen’s expression shift entirely.

It wasn’t just suspicion anymore. It was something deeper. Something colder.

Hen didn’t hesitate this time. She grabbed Athena’s wrist more firmly, her grip gentle but unyielding, and pushed up the sleeve of her sweater.

Athena yanked her arm back, but not fast enough.

Hen’s breath hitched.

There, against Athena’s brown skin, were faint bruises. Not just one. Not just some accidental bump against a table. They trailed along the inside of her wrist, wrapping around like fading shadows of hands that had gripped too tightly. 

Yellowish blotches mixed with darker spots where the bruising was deeper, where the fingers must have pressed down harder. Small, scattered marks dotted her forearm, too many to explain away. Too many to be ignored.

Evidence.

The realization sank in slowly, the weight of it pressing down on Hen’s chest. Her mouth opened slightly, but no words came out.

She looked at Athena—really looked at her. The tension in her shoulders, the way she curled in on herself, like she was trying to disappear. The way her fingers trembled slightly as she pulled her sleeve back down, as if covering the bruises could erase what Hen had just seen.

Athena didn’t meet her eyes.

Hen’s face was a mixture of anger, sadness, and something like heartbreak.

“Athena.” Her voice was barely above a whisper now. “Who did this to you?”

Hen sucked in a sharp breath. Athena watched as something shifted in her eyes—the moment she pieced everything together.

Panic clawed its way up Athena’s throat.

No. No, no, no.

This couldn’t be happening.

She tried to pull away, to stand up, to put distance between them, but Hen didn’t let her go. She didn’t say a word, just held her there, steady, unwavering. Her grip wasn’t forceful, but it was firm, unrelenting. It was the kind of touch that wasn’t meant to restrain, but to anchor. To say, I see you. I’m not letting you go.

But Athena didn’t want to be seen.

She shouldn’t have come. She shouldn’t have let her guard down.

She could already hear his voice in her head. If you tell anyone, you know what will happen.

Athena squeezed her eyes shut.

He was going to find out. He was going to be furious. And Hen—Hen was in danger now. He was going to hurt her best friend, and she couldn’t let that happen.

She swallowed hard, shaking her head. “Hen, please. Just—just let it go.” Her voice wavered, barely holding together. 

“Don’t.” Hen’s voice wavered, but it was firm. “Don’t lie to me. Don’t you dare push me away.”

Athena’s chest ached. She squeezed her eyes shut.

If she said it out loud, it would be real.

“Who did this to you?” Hen asked again, her voice softer this time, but no less urgent.

If it was real, she couldn’t pretend anymore.

Tears burned at the corners of her eyes. Her breath hitched as she opened her mouth—just a little, just enough for the words to slip out like broken glass.

“Was it him?” Hen pressed, her hands trembling slightly. “Is that why you've been so distant? Is it him?!”

Athena’s heart pounded so loudly she swore Hen could hear it.

“Y-Yes.” The word barely came out, soft, fragile. “It’s him.”

Oh my gosh.

What did she just do?

Hen’s whole body tensed.

Athena let out a shaky breath, and the tears finally spilled over. “He—” Her voice broke. “He doesn’t like when I talk to people. He doesn’t like when I leave. He gets mad sometimes. And—”

She stopped herself, gasping for air, her hands gripping her arms tightly as if holding herself together.

Hen’s face twisted, eyes flashing with something sharp and unfiltered—rage, heartbreak, disbelief.

“Athena,” Hen said, voice shaking, “That’s not—”

“It’s not what you think.” Athena shook her head quickly, the panic settling deep in her bones. “He doesn’t mean to. He loves me. He tells me all the time.” She sniffled, wiping at her face, trying to breathe through the storm inside her chest. “He just—he gets stressed, and sometimes I make it worse, and—”

“No.” Hen’s voice was firm, cutting through the air like a blade.

Athena flinched.

“That is not normal, Athena.” Hen’s hands balled into fists. “That is not love.”

Athena shook her head again, harder this time. “You don’t understand, Hen.” Her voice was desperate, pleading. “He takes care of me. He’s always there. He just—he wants what’s best for me. He says I don’t always know what’s good for me, but he does. And when I listen, things are good. When I don’t—” She cut herself off, staring at the table.

Hen’s expression crumbled. 

Her best friend was trying to justify it. She was trying to excuse it.

Hen’s chest burned with a mixture of anger and sadness so intense it felt unbearable.

“Athena.” Hen swallowed hard, voice thick with emotion. “Listen to yourself.”

Athena refused to look at her.

“He’s controlling you, You fell into his trap” Hen continued, leaning forward, her hands shaking from how tightly she was gripping them together. “He’s hurting you. And you’re telling me that’s okay?”

Athena bit her lip so hard she tasted blood. “He’s not always like that.”

“That doesn’t matter!” Hen nearly shouted. People in the café glanced over, but she didn’t care. “It doesn’t matter if he’s ‘not always like that.’ He should never be like that. Ever.”

Tears streamed down Athena’s face, but she shook her head stubbornly, gripping her own arms like she was bracing for impact.

Hen exhaled sharply, trying to steady herself. “Athena… this isn’t love. Love isn’t supposed to make you afraid.”

Athena’s shoulders shook. “He loves me, Hen.”

Hen’s voice broke. “Then why do you look so scared?”

Athena felt like she couldn’t breathe. She didn’t want Hen to get hurt by him. She couldn’t believe this was all happening, unraveling so fast. Tears, emotions—everything was rising, crashing over her like a wave she couldn’t escape.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice barely holding together.

Hen’s face dropped, the pain in her expression twisting like a knife in Athena’s chest.

“Athena… has this been happening since the two of you got together?” Hen’s voice was raw, hesitant, almost like she was afraid of the answer. “ Athena, it’s been three years. You guys have been together for three years.” Hen’s voice wavered. “Did I just… not notice all this time?”

Athena choked out a sob, covering her mouth with a trembling hand.

Hen inhaled sharply, blinking back tears. “Why didn’t you tell me?” she asked, voice cracking. “Athena…”

Athena pressed her hands against her face, her body shaking. “Because I can’t,” she cried. “He said—he promised he wouldn’t do it again. He said it was just—just stress. That he didn’t mean it.” Her breath hitched. “Hen, he’s going to hurt you. I can’t—”

Hen slammed her fist against the table, the sudden noise making Athena flinch.

“No,” Hen snapped, her voice thick with emotion. “I don’t care if he’s going to hurt me. I care about you. And I’m not just going to sit here and pretend like this is okay.” Her voice broke, but she kept going. “He meant it, Athena. He meant every time. And he’s going to keep meaning it until you leave.”

♡

Athena woke to the soft, persistent buzz of her phone vibrating on the nightstand. She let out a quiet, sleepy groan, barely lifting her head off Bobby’s chest as she reached out, fumbling for the device. The room was still dark, the only source of light coming from the faint blue glow of the screen.

She blinked blearily at the name flashing across it. Clara .

Her stomach twisted. Why was Clara calling at 6:00 AM?

Athena turned her head slightly, glancing at the clock. 6:02 AM . Too early for anything normal. Too early for anything good.

Bobby shifted beside her, his arm still draped around her waist, warm and solid. “Baby, who is it?” he murmured, voice thick with sleep. He tightened his grip on her, pulling her closer.

She hesitated before answering. The knot in her chest tightened as she pressed the phone to her ear.

“Hello?” Her voice was hoarse with sleep, but the unease was already creeping in.

“Athena,” Clara’s voice came fast, sharp with urgency. “I’m so sorry for waking you, but I need to tell you something. It’s important.”

Athena sat up slightly, the weight of Clara’s tone pushing the sleep from her body. “What’s wrong?”

Clara hesitated, and that silence—just a beat too long—made Athena’s pulse quicken.

“The court hearing,” Clara finally said, exhaling sharply. “It got moved up.”

Athena frowned, rubbing her forehead as she tried to make sense of that. “Moved up? What do you mean?”

“I mean, instead of three months from now, it’s happening today . In a few hours.”

Her blood ran cold.

“What?” Athena breathed. She sat up fully now, the blanket pooling around her waist. “That doesn’t make sense. They can’t just change the date like that—there are procedures, notice periods, legal requirements. How—how did this happen?”

“I don’t know.” Clara sounded just as frustrated. “I woke up to a notification from the court. There was a motion filed late last night—after business hours. I should have seen it coming, but I didn’t. I don’t know who pushed it through, but someone wanted this to happen now.”

Athena’s grip on the phone tightened until her knuckles ached. “Who has the power to do that?”

“I have no idea,” Clara admitted, her voice clipped. “But I checked the system, and there’s barely any information available. It’s like someone pulled strings behind the scenes.”

Athena felt her breath hitch. This wasn’t a mistake. This wasn’t some bureaucratic accident.

She swallowed hard, trying to force the panic back down.

“Athena?” Bobby’s voice was clearer now, concern laced through it as he sat up beside her. His hand found the small of her back, rubbing gentle, soothing circles. “What’s going on?”

Athena barely heard him. Her mind was racing. The investigation was still in motion. The company was literally breaking yesterday. But this? What was happening?

Athena’s heart pounded as she clutched the phone tighter. “Clara, what do we do? We weren’t supposed to go to court for another three months—we’re not ready!”

“I know,” Clara said, frustration evident in her voice. “That’s why I need you to come into the office as soon as possible. We have to regroup and figure out a strategy.”

Athena swallowed hard. “What do you mean by regroup?”

Clara exhaled sharply. “I mean, you need to find people to testify for you. Now . Witnesses. Experts. Anyone who can back up your case. This hearing isn’t just a formality, Athena—this could make or break everything.”

Athena felt lightheaded. “But we haven’t had time to prepare—”

“I know,” Clara cut in. “Whoever did this knew exactly what they were doing. They’re trying to catch us off guard, force us into a position where we’re scrambling. But we can’t let that happen.”

Athena pressed her free hand against her forehead. This was spiraling too fast. It felt like the ground was shifting beneath her feet, and she had no way to steady herself.

“I—okay. Okay,” she forced herself to say. “I’ll be there soon.”

“Good.” Clara’s tone softened just slightly. “We’ll figure this out, Athena. But you need to be ready to fight.”

The call ended, and Athena sat frozen, gripping the phone so tightly her fingers ached.

Bobby’s hand slid from her back to her shoulder, his thumb rubbing small, reassuring circles. “What’s happening?”

She turned to him, her throat tight. “The court date—it got moved to today.”

Bobby’s eyes widened. “What? Can they even do that?”

“They did.” Athena let out a shaky breath. “And now I have to find people to testify for me, and I have no idea where to start.”

Bobby’s brows furrowed, and she could see the determination settling in his eyes.

“You’re not doing this alone,” Bobby said firmly, his voice steady despite the chaos unfolding around them. “We’ll figure it out. Together.”

Athena wanted to believe him. She really did. But none of this made sense. Why was the court date suddenly moved up? Who had the power to make that happen? Her heart pounded in her chest, panic rising like a tidal wave.

“We—we need to get ready,” she stammered, shoving back the covers and scrambling out of bed. Her hands shook as she grabbed the first set of clothes she could find. “I have to find people. We need to. I haven’t even done anything—I haven’t planned anything.”

Bobby sat up, watching her with concern. “Athena, slow down—”

“I can’t slow down!” She turned to him, her breath shaky, her eyes wild. “The hearing was supposed to be three months from now. I was supposed to have time to prepare, to find witnesses, to figure everything out. And now it’s today? This morning? Bobby, this isn’t normal!”

He got out of bed and gently took her hands, grounding her. “I know. I know it’s not fair. But we’ll handle it. Clara said you need people to testify, right? We’ll start there.”

Athena swallowed hard, nodding. “Hen,” she murmured. “Hen will do it. Maddie will too. And maybe…” She trailed off, her mind racing. Who else could she ask? Who else would stand up for her?

“I can do it too,” Bobby said, his hands moving to her face, his thumbs brushing gently over her cheeks. His touch steadied her, even if only for a moment.

Athena let out a shaky breath. “Okay. We—we have to move fast.”

“We will,” Bobby assured her. “But let’s do this right. First, we get ready. Then, we figure out exactly who can testify. Once we have that list, I’ll start calling everyone to come over. You focus on gathering all the information we need.”

Athena nodded, her heart still pounding. “And then, once they’re all here, we go straight to Clara’s office.”

“Exactly,” Bobby said, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead. “We’ve got this.”

She wished she had his confidence. But deep down, the sick feeling in her stomach wouldn’t go away. Something about this still didn’t sit right.

As she pulled on her clothes, her mind kept circling back to the same thought.

Someone had done this on purpose. Someone had moved the court date up.

The two of them moved quickly, getting dressed in tense silence, their minds racing with everything that needed to be done. Athena pulled her hair up into a messy bun, barely paying attention to her reflection in the mirror. Her hands were shaking as she buttoned her blouse, her thoughts scattered. 

Bobby, rolled up the sleeves of his shirt, already deep in thought as he grabbed his phone. They didn’t have time to waste.

Once they were both ready, they sat at the kitchen table, a notebook and pen between them. Athena tapped the pen against the paper, her breath coming in uneven bursts. Bobby reached out, placing a steadying hand over hers. She exhaled slowly, trying to calm herself down.

“Alright,” she murmured, swallowing the lump in her throat. “Let’s go over this again and make a list. People who can testify. People who know what really happened.”

Bobby nodded, leaning forward with his elbows on the table. “We know that Hen will do it. She would be a good person to testify for you. She’s been your best friend for years, and she’s your manager. She’s handled everything with your books—your manuscripts, your contracts, your deadlines. She knows exactly what you’ve gone through.”

Athena nodded quickly, writing Hen at the top of the list. Her handwriting was a little shaky, but she forced herself to focus.

“Maddie,” she said next, not even needing to think about it. “I know she will do it too, she's been my friend for a few years, and she’s my book editor. She works on my cover designs, goes through my drafts, and has reviewed every single word I’ve written. She knows my work almost as well as I do.”

Bobby watched as she wrote Maddie beneath Hen’s name. “That’s two. Who else?”

“I’ll do it,” Bobby said firmly. “I’ve been with you through all of this. I saw how they manipulated you, how they tried to control your work. I know how much they took from you.”

Athena hesitated, gripping the pen tightly. “Bobby… are you sure?”

“Of course I’m sure.” His voice was steady, unwavering. “I’m not letting you do this alone.”

She swallowed hard before nodding, adding Bobby to the list.

“We need more,” she muttered. “People who were there. People who saw how they treated me.”

“Lou,” Bobby said with uncertainty. “I mean you told me he's been your bodyguard for years, but he’s also your friend, he's helped with the kids. He was in some of those meetings, right? He could have seen something.”

Athena’s stomach twisted as she thought about it. Lou had been there, watching from the sidelines, always keeping an eye on her, even when she didn’t realize she needed it.

“He was,” she admitted. “And if he knew something wasn’t right. I think he’d testify if I asked him.”

Bobby nodded in agreement. “That’s four.”

Athena tapped the pen against the table, trying to think of someone else. Someone from inside the company. Someone who had seen things firsthand.

And then it hit her.

“Linda,” she whispered.

Bobby frowned. “Who’s Linda?”

Athena inhaled sharply. “She worked for the company a few years ago. I still have her number. She left because they weren’t treating her right. I don’t know all the details, but I remember her being frustrated, angry. If she’s willing to talk, she might have insight into how they operated behind closed doors.”

Bobby considered this for a moment. “Do you think she’d do it?”

Athena bit her lip, her heart pounding. “I don’t know. But I have to try.”

She finished writing Linda at the bottom of the list and stared at the names in front of her.

Hen. Maddie. Bobby. Lou. Linda.

Five people. Five voices.

Would it be enough?

Bobby reached for his phone. “We need to start calling them now. We don’t have time to waste.”

Athena nodded, gripping the pen so tightly her knuckles turned white. She turned to walk towards her office so she could find everything she needed to prepare, Bobby following behind her.

༺༻

Athena could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she paced the living room. Everything was happening too fast. The call from Clara, the sudden change in the court hearing, the weight of having to gather everyone she could to stand by her side, it was overwhelming. She hadn’t even had time to process it all.

Bobby sat on the couch, watching her with concern. They had managed to call everyone. Even Linda had answered and told them she was coming.

His hands were clasped together, his leg bouncing slightly. “They’ll be here soon,” he reassured her. “We’re going to figure this out together.”

Athena swallowed hard, pressing her fingers against her temples. “This isn’t fair,” she muttered.

Bobby stood and placed his hands on her shoulders, grounding her. “I know. But you’re not alone in this. We’ll get through it.” His voice was steady, the same words he had been repeating for the past few hours.

Before Athena could respond, a sharp knock at the door made her flinch. She rushed over and pulled it open, relief washing over her at the sight of Hen. Her best friend stood there, brows knitted in concern.

“Athena.” Hen barely hesitated before stepping inside and pulling her into a tight hug. “Are you okay?”

Athena stiffened at first, then let herself melt into the embrace. “I don’t know,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just—I don’t know how this happened so fast.”

Hen pulled back, gripping Athena’s arms firmly. “It doesn’t matter how it happened. We’re going to fight this.”

Another knock. Athena turned quickly and opened the door to see Maddie standing there, holding a thick folder close to her chest.

“I brought everything I had on your book covers,” Maddie said, stepping inside. “Emails, drafts, contracts—anything that proves your work is yours.”

Athena swallowed hard and nodded. “Thank you.”

A moment later, Lou arrived, his usual no-nonsense attitude in place. He scanned Athena’s face carefully, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. “You good?” he asked.

“I guess,” she exhaled shakily.

Finally, Linda showed up. She hesitated for a moment at the doorway, arms crossed, her eyes flickering with old resentment. “I never thought I’d be involved with that company again,” she muttered. “But when you called and when I saw the news… I knew something was up.”

Athena smiled, something warm and appreciative. “Thank you. I know how hard it was for you to leave that place.”

Linda returned the smile. “That’s exactly why I’m here.”

With everyone now in the living room, Bobby clapped his hands together. “Alright, let’s figure this out.”

Athena took a deep breath and forced herself to focus. “I would like to thank you all for coming, I would have wanted it to be under different circumstances and I haven’t seen some of you in a while, I would have liked to catch up but we have no time,” she said. “I called you all because I need people to testify on my behalf. You know parts of the truth, and I need you to help me prove it.”

“We’re with you,” Hen said firmly, glancing around the room. The others nodded in agreement.

Athena looked at each of them before turning to Lou. “I need to know if you saw anything. I know we don’t usually talk much about my work, but you’ve been around for a lot of my meetings. Did you ever hear anything?”

Lou nodded but hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. “I wasn’t sure if it was useful, but yeah, I did.”

Athena’s heart skipped a beat. “Tell me.”

Lou crossed his arms. “Remember when you had me covering for you during those press conferences?”

She nodded, stomach tightening.

“Well, I overheard something. Two of the higher-ups were arguing about some deal falling through. They were scrambling, trying to figure out how to recover. One of them said something like, ‘If we can’t get the deal back, we’ll take what’s left.’ I didn’t think much of it at the time, but looking back now… I think they were talking about your work.”

Athena’s blood ran cold. “You think they planned this?”

Lou let out a breath. “I can’t say for sure, but it sounds suspicious as heck.”

Bobby clenched his fists. “That’s enough to push harder in court. If we can prove they stole her work as a last-ditch effort, it makes them look even worse.”

Hen nodded, her expression darkening. “And with all the proof Maddie has, plus what Linda knows from working there? This case just got stronger.”

Athena felt like she could finally breathe. She looked at her friends—her family—and felt something shift inside her. She wasn’t doing this alone.

Maddie flipped through the folder in her hands. “We should also go over what’s going to happen in court today. Since it’s an emergency hearing, the judge will expect fast answers and solid evidence. They’re not going to let this drag out. Clara’s probably already gathering everything she can, but we need to be prepared to answer any questions.”

Hen sighed. “Good thing we have plenty to show them. And we’re not going to let them twist this around.”

Linda nodded. “If they try to cover up what they did, I can tell them exactly why I left that company. I saw the way they treated people. They don’t get to play the victim here.”

Athena swallowed hard, emotion tightening in her throat. “Alright,” she said. “Let’s do this.”

Everyone nodded and headed out. 

The tension in the car was thick, nearly suffocating. Athena sat in the passenger seat while Bobby drove, his grip tight on the steering wheel. Hen, Maddie, Lou, and Linda had taken separate cars, following close behind. The sun was still up, but the day felt like it had already stretched too long.

Athena’s fingers tapped anxiously against her thigh. Her mind was racing, playing through every possible outcome.

Bobby noticed and reached over to squeeze her knee. “Breathe,” he murmured.

She let out a slow exhale, forcing herself to focus on the present. “I just don’t know what Clara’s going to say. What if this isn’t enough?”

Bobby shook his head. “It’s more than enough. They stole from you, Athena. We’re not walking in there empty-handed.”

She nodded, staring out the window, but the gnawing fear wouldn’t leave.

They pulled into the parking lot of Clara’s office building, a sleek, modern structure with large glass windows reflecting the afternoon sun. The rest of the group parked beside them, and soon they were all standing at the entrance, their breath shallow with nerves.

Athena hesitated before pushing the doors open. Inside, the lobby was quiet, the receptionist giving them a small nod before pointing toward Clara’s office. She was expecting them.

When they stepped into the office, Clara was already at her desk, buried in paperwork. She looked up the moment they walked in, adjusting her glasses.

“You got here fast,” she said, motioning for them to sit. “Good. We have a lot to cover before the hearing.”

Athena took a seat across from her, Bobby beside her. The others found spots around the room, some standing, some sitting, but all focused.

Clara sighed and leaned back. “I won’t sugarcoat it. This is going to be a fight. The company has already lawyered up, and they’re going to do everything they can to paint this as a misunderstanding or, worse, make it seem like you don’t have a strong enough case.”

Athena clenched her fists. “But we do, don’t we? With everything we brought?”

Clara nodded. “You have strong evidence. But strong evidence doesn’t always mean an easy win.” She glanced at Lou. “Athena told me you overheard something about a deal falling through. Can you repeat exactly what you heard?”

Lou crossed his arms. “Two of the higher-ups were arguing. One of them said, ‘If we can’t get the deal back, we’ll take what’s left.’ At the time, I didn’t think much of it, but now it sounds like they were talking about Athena’s work.”

Clara hummed in thought. “It’s circumstantial, but it supports our argument. If we can connect this conversation to the timeline of when Athena’s work was stolen, it strengthens our case.”

Maddie flipped open her folder, spreading out pages across the desk. “I brought every email, draft, and contract related to Athena’s books. Anything that proves she had ownership before they took it.”

Clara skimmed through the papers, nodding approvingly. “This is good. This helps establish your timeline, which is crucial. If we can show the court that your work was finalized before they had access to it, it proves they stole it.”

Hen leaned forward. “What’s the game plan for today? What do we say? What do we need to be prepared for?”

Clara pulled out a legal pad. “First, the judge will hear arguments from both sides. The company’s lawyers will try to discredit our claims. They might argue that Athena’s work was inspired by other sources or that they had legal rights to use certain materials. They could also try to twist things by saying there was an internal agreement giving them some ownership.”

Athena scoffed. “There wasn’t.”

“Exactly,” Clara said. “And that’s why we need to be prepared to shut that down immediately. If they bring up contracts, we need to show that there was never a signed agreement that gave them any rights to your work. That’s where your emails and drafts come in, Maddie.”

Maddie nodded. “I highlighted the most important ones. The timestamps show Athena’s work existed before they could have claimed ownership.”

Clara gave a small smile. “Perfect.” Then she turned to Linda. “You used to work there. I need to know—did you ever witness anything shady? Did they ever do this to anyone else?”

Linda hesitated before nodding. “Yeah. I saw them manipulate contracts before. They would pressure employees into signing things they didn’t fully understand, then use loopholes to take credit for their work.”

Athena’s stomach turned. “That could have been me if I had signed something without realizing it.”

Clara’s expression hardened. “Exactly. Linda, you’ll be important for establishing a pattern of behavior. If we can prove this isn’t the first time they’ve done something unethical, it damages their credibility.”

Hen crossed her arms. “And what about Athena’s public image? They might try to use the media against her.”

Clara sighed. “They already are.” She turned her laptop around, revealing a news article. The headline read:

Bestselling Author Accuses Former Publisher of Theft—But Is It That Simple?

Athena’s stomach dropped as she read the article. The company had already begun pushing their side of the story, claiming it was a “misunderstanding” and that they had been “collaborating” with Athena before she “unexpectedly” took legal action.

“They’re trying to control the narrative,” Clara said. “But that’s fine. The only thing that matters is what we prove in court.”

Bobby shook his head, jaw clenched. “This is disgusting. They’re trying to make it look like she’s overreacting.” He hated this. He truly hated what they were doing to Athena. 

“They always do,” Clara said simply. “That’s why we stick to the facts. We don’t engage with the media right now. Any statement you make, they will twist. The only thing we focus on is court.”

Athena took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay calm. “There’s one more thing.”

Clara looked at her. “What is it?”

Athena swallowed hard. “The company made a deal with another tech company months ago. I don’t know who. They never said the name, but I know it’s important. That deal fell apart, and then my work got stolen. We had a big fight about it. It’s connected.”

Clara’s eyes narrowed. “That’s big.”

“I’ve tried to dig, but they’ve kept it buried,” Athena continued. “But it has to be related. They wouldn’t have stolen my work unless they were desperate. I need to know who they were working with.”

Clara tapped her pen against the desk. “If we can prove that they had a deal that involved your work, and that deal fell through, it shows motive. It proves they had a reason to steal your work instead of negotiating fairly.”

Hen frowned. “But how do we find out who the other company is?”

Clara exhaled. “If they don’t reveal it voluntarily, we can demand it in court. If we push hard enough, the judge may order them to disclose the details of the deal.”

Athena’s hands curled into fists. “Then we push.”

Clara nodded. “Agreed.” She glanced at the clock. “We don’t have much time before we head to court. But this? This could change everything.”

Athena exhaled slowly, steadying herself as she looked around the room. Everyone met her gaze, their expressions firm with determination. No one was backing down. They were in this fight together.

For the next few hours, they worked tirelessly, preparing for the hearing. Clara led them through every possible scenario, what to say, what not to say, and how to handle the pressure of being on the stand. She broke everything down, making sure they understood the tactics the opposing lawyers might use.

"They're going to try to twist your words," Clara warned. "You need to stay calm and composed. Stick to the facts and don’t let them rattle you."

She turned to Athena first. "You’ll be their main focus. They’ll question everything—your timeline, your ownership, even your emotions. They’ll try to make it seem like this is personal rather than legal. Your job is to keep it about the facts. If they misrepresent something, don’t argue—just correct them and move on."

Athena nodded, taking in every word.

Clara then shifted her attention to Linda. "Your testimony is crucial because you worked inside the company. But we have to be careful. Only speak to what you directly witnessed. No speculation, no personal opinions—just facts. If they ask about company behavior, talk about what you saw with contracts, how employees were treated, and anything that stands out about how they handled Athena’s work."

Linda nodded firmly. "I can do that. I remember exactly why I left."

"Maddie," Clara continued, "your role is to verify Athena’s timeline. You’ve gone over her work, the edits, the designs—your documentation proves she was the sole creator. But be ready for them to challenge it. If they try to discredit your records, stay professional and emphasize the timestamps and files."

Maddie patted the thick folder beside her. "Everything is backed up. They won’t be able to deny it."

Clara then focused on Lou. "What you overheard about the failed deal is huge, but we need to frame it carefully. Don’t make assumptions, just state exactly what you heard."

Lou crossed his arms. "I remember it word for word. I’ll stick to that."

Clara turned to Bobby. “You are a character witness," Clara explained. "Your job is to reinforce that Athena is honest, hardworking, and not someone who makes false accusations. They might try to paint her as emotional or vindictive, so your role is to counter that with the truth."

Bobby smiled reassuringly at Athena. "We’ve got this."

"One last thing," Clara added. "Body language matters. Stay composed, don’t react visibly to anything they say, and always direct your answers to the judge."

Finally, Hen. Clara sat forward, eyes sharpening. “Hen, your testimony might actually be the strongest. You are her manager, that means you have been with her all these years, everything. You didn’t just witness what they did—you were actively involved in the business dealings. You handled Athena’s manuscripts, sales, and contracts. That makes you more than just a character witness. You can give direct evidence.”

Bobby ran a hand down his face. “That also means the company is going to come after her hard on the stand.”

“I don’t care,” Hen said without hesitation. “They don’t get to do this to Athena and get away with it.”

Clara nodded approvingly. “Then we need to go over everything you can provide. You were there when Athena argued with the company heads, right?”

Hen’s jaw clenched. “I was. They were cornering her, trying to get her to stick with them even after there work was stole. They didnt mean for it to happen. When she refused, they started getting desperate. That’s when they brought up ‘outside options’ and how Athena didn’t understand the bigger picture.”

Athena inhaled sharply. “Outside options… They had already made the deal with the tech company.”

Lou crossed his arms. “Yeah, and they never said who it was.”

The room went silent. Everyone had known that Athena’s stolen work had been involved in some secret deal, but the company never revealed which tech corporation was behind it. That was the missing piece.

Clara tapped her pen against her legal pad, thinking. “If they refuse to reveal the company in court, that works in our favor. It shows they’re hiding something. But if we can prove they were already making moves to sell Athena’s work before she even left, it strengthens the case that they stole it on purpose.”

Hen nodded. “I still have records from my emails with them. I also kept notes from that meeting. They were panicking. It was right after a big deal had fallen through. I think they saw Athena’s work as a way to recover.”

Clara’s gaze sharpened. “That’s exactly what we need.”

Athena let out a shaky breath. It was all coming together. The company had been in trouble. They’d needed something to regain control. They really just wanted to use her.

Hen sat forward, gripping the table. “And it wasn’t just the books. For months—no, years—this company has been trying to squeeze every bit of time and money out of Athena. They fought us on everything. Even vacation hours.”

Linda frowned. “Vacation hours?”

Hen nodded. “Yeah. Every time Athena tried to take time off, they made it a battle. They’d suddenly need her for last-minute projects or say they ‘couldn’t afford’ for her to be unavailable. They wanted her working nonstop, but they didn’t want to pay for the time she was owed. We had to argue for every single break, every holiday, even sick days.”

Athena shook her head. “I remember that. They always made me feel like taking a break would ruin everything.”

Hen clenched her fists. “Because they wanted to drain you. They saw you as a resource, not a person. And when they realized they couldn’t control you anymore, they stole from you instead.”

Linda, who had been quiet for a while, leaned forward. “If they bring up company policy or try to claim Athena’s work was ‘theirs’ based on some clause, I can counter that. I was there when they were cutting corners and pushing unethical deals. I can confirm this isn’t the first time they’ve done something shady.”

Clara wrote something down. “Good. If they try to undermine Athena’s claims by saying she didn’t fully understand the legal side of her contracts, we’ll have Hen to prove otherwise.” She turned to Maddie. “And you’ll back it up with proof that the creative work was all Athena’s.”

Maddie nodded. “I have emails, drafts, and all the revisions we made together. They can’t argue that the work wasn’t hers.”

Clara exhaled, setting her pen down. “Then we’re as ready as we can be. Everyone stay calm, stick to the facts, and let me handle the legal arguments.” She looked around the room, eyes landing on Athena last. “Are you ready for this?”

Athena took a deep breath. The fear was still there, but it was buried beneath something stronger, determination.

“I am.”

Bobby squeezed her hand. “Then let’s go.”

The group stood, gathering their things. As they stepped out into the hallway, Athena looked around at the people surrounding her. Everything was going to okay, she hoped for a good ending.

༺༻

The courtroom was larger than Athena expected. High ceilings, heavy wooden benches, and the faint scent of polished floors filled the air. The hum of whispered conversations faded as the judge entered, and the bailiff called for order.

“All rise.”

Everyone stood as the judge took their seat. Athena swallowed, gripping the table in front of her. Beside her, Clara adjusted her papers, completely composed. On the other side of the room, the company’s legal team—three attorneys in stiff suits—sat motionless.

This was it.

The case was officially listed as Athena Carter v. Blackwell Publishing, Inc. , a civil lawsuit alleging intellectual property theft, breach of contract, and wrongful conduct. But underneath that, it was about so much more. 

The judge, a middle-aged woman with a sharp gaze, glanced at the files before her. “We’ll begin with opening statements. Ms. Whitmore, you may proceed.”

Clara stood, walking toward the center of the room with measured steps.

“Your Honor, this case is about corporate misconduct, intellectual property theft, and deception. My client, Athena Carter, wrote and created original works under contract with Blackwell Publishing. These works, without her knowledge or consent, were taken and used in secret negotiations with an unknown third-party technology company. This is not only a violation of her contract, but a direct theft of her creative work. We are here today to hold Blackwell accountable.”

The judge nodded. “Defense, your response?”

Blackwell’s lead attorney, Mr. Graham, stood. His expression was neutral, but Athena saw the smugness behind his controlled demeanor.

“Your Honor, the plaintiff’s claims are based on misunderstanding. Blackwell Publishing had full rights to the materials in question as per the employment agreements signed by Ms. Carter. Any business decisions made with those materials fall within legal corporate transactions. Furthermore, Ms. Carter was compensated fairly for her time at Blackwell. This case lacks the necessary legal standing to claim ownership over assets that were, and remain, company property.”

Athena clenched her jaw. They were twisting it. Pretending it wasn’t theft.

The judge nodded. “We’ll move forward with witness testimony. Plaintiff may call their first witness.”

Clara stood.

“We call Athena Carter to the stand.”

Athena’s heart pounded as she walked to the witness stand. She took the oath and sat, gripping her hands in her lap to keep them from shaking.

Clara approached.

“Ms. Carter, can you describe your role at Blackwell Publishing?”

“I was a contracted writer,” Athena said, keeping her voice steady. “I created original content, including novels, research materials, and creative projects. My contract outlined specific rights, but I always had some ownership of my work.”

“Did you ever authorize Blackwell Publishing to sell your work to another company?”

“No.”

“Did the company ever inform you that your work was being used in business deals?”

Athena shook her head. “I found out through a phone call from my manager, Henrietta Wilson. Then, I had found out later my work had been used in a deal with a third-party tech company.”

Clara turned to the judge. “Your Honor, we have evidence confirming that Ms. Carter’s work was taken without her consent. We have internal emails and metadata proving this.”

The judge nodded. “These will be reviewed.”

Clara looked back at Athena. “ How did you react when you learned your work had been taken? ”

“I was in shock,” Athena admitted. “I trusted this company. I worked for them for years, and they just, took everything I created. Without asking. Without telling me.”

Clara paused for a moment, then turned to the defense table. “No further questions.”

The judge called for the defense to rise and begin questioning.

Graham stood, adjusting his suit jacket as he walked toward the witness stand with deliberate slowness, his expression composed and unreadable. He clasped his hands in front of him, as if he were about to ask something simple—casual.

“Ms. Carter, you claim your work was stolen,” he began, his voice smooth. “However, isn’t it true that you were compensated for your time at Blackwell Publishing?”

Athena sat tall in her chair, keeping her voice steady. “I was paid for my work, yes,” she said carefully, choosing her words with precision. “But that doesn’t mean they owned it.”

Graham gave a small nod, as if he were agreeing with her. “But your contract granted Blackwell certain rights, did it not?”

“Limited distribution rights,” Athena clarified, her voice firm. “And part ownership, under strict conditions.”

Graham’s lips twitched as if he had caught something. “So they do have part ownership,” he pressed.

Athena narrowed her eyes slightly. “Under the assumption that the company would act in good faith,” she countered.

Graham hummed as he took a slow step forward. “That’s an assumption you made, correct?”

“I trusted them,” Athena corrected, keeping her voice even. “That’s not the same as making an assumption.”

Graham tilted his head slightly. “So you trusted them—but you never had a guarantee?”

Athena exhaled slowly, refusing to fall into his trap. “Contracts are built on trust. If a company chooses to exploit loopholes rather than honor intent, that’s on them.”

Graham’s expression remained neutral, but there was an edge of something behind his eyes—frustration, perhaps. He took another slow step.

“You’re an experienced writer, Ms. Carter,” he continued, his tone shifting ever so slightly. “You’ve signed multiple contracts throughout your career. Are you saying that you, a professional, didn’t thoroughly review every clause before signing?”

Athena met his gaze head-on. “I reviewed every clause. But even the most thorough contract can be manipulated if a company is determined to take advantage.”

Graham nodded, as if considering her words. “So you’re accusing Blackwell Publishing of manipulation?”

Athena’s jaw clenched slightly, but she didn’t let it show. “I’m saying they acted in bad faith.”

Graham let the words linger before he spoke again. “Blackwell provided you with editors, marketing, and distribution, correct?”

“Yes.”

“And your books sold exceptionally well under their guidance, correct?”

“Yes.”

Graham’s voice was calm, but there was a sharper edge to it now. “So Blackwell made you a successful author. They invested in you. And yet, you stand here today claiming they somehow wronged you?”

Athena didn’t flinch. “Success doesn’t justify theft.”

A few quiet murmurs rippled through the courtroom, and Graham’s jaw tensed for a fraction of a second. He paced slightly before stopping and clasping his hands again.

“If Blackwell really was so unethical, why did you continue working with them for so long?”

Athena inhaled slowly. “Because leaving isn’t always an option when your career is tied to contracts. I tried to make it work. I tried to fight for fair treatment. But every time I pushed back, they pushed harder.”

Graham’s mouth pressed into a thin line. He glanced at his notes, flipping a page before looking back up. “Let’s talk about your allegation of theft. You claim Blackwell stole your work, but isn’t it true that you signed contracts granting them certain rights?”

“Limited rights,” Athena corrected. “Not exclusive ownership.”

“But you signed them.”

“Yes,” Athena said. “And those contracts were violated when my work was sold to another company without my consent.”

Graham exhaled sharply. “But you have no concrete proof of this alleged sale, do you?”

Athena’s grip tightened slightly on the witness stand. “Not yet.”

Graham gave a small, knowing smile. “Then for now, it’s just a theory.”

Athena’s voice was steady. “For now.”

Graham studied her for a moment, then gave a short nod. “No further questions.”

Athena sat back, keeping her expression unreadable. She knew what he had tried to do, corner her, trip her up, make her second-guess herself. But he had failed.

She wasn’t going to break.

The judge adjusted his glasses and looked toward the prosecution. “You may call your next witness.”

Clara stood up smoothly. “Your Honor, the prosecution calls Henrietta Wilson to the stand.”

Hen gave Athena a quick, reassuring glance before standing. She walked to the witness stand with a steady stride, her expression calm but determined. The bailiff swore her in, and she took a seat, straightening her blazer.

Clara approached the stand, her voice even and professional. “Ms. Wilson, could you state your relationship to the plaintiff?”

Hen nodded. “I’ve been Athena Carter’s manager and best friend for years. I’ve handled her contracts, business negotiations, finances, and career decisions. I was involved in every deal, sale, and agreement made regarding her work.”

Clara nodded. “So you were directly involved with Blackwell Publishing?”

“Yes,” Hen said firmly. “I worked with their executives, lawyers, and marketing teams on Athena’s behalf. I negotiated her contract renewals, fought for her rights as a creator, and handled her manuscripts from submission to publication.”

Clara paced slightly. “Can you describe how Blackwell treated Athena over the years?”

Hen exhaled, steadying herself. “At first, everything seemed fine. But over time, it became clear that Blackwell was taking advantage of her success. They pushed deadlines, restricted her creative control, and even tried to claim ownership over works that were legally hers.”

The lawyer nodded. “Was there ever a time when you had to argue on her behalf?”

Hen scoffed slightly. “All the time. For years, I had to fight for basic rights—proper royalties, transparency in sales, even something as simple as vacation time. They constantly tried to cut corners and exploit loopholes in her contract to keep her working while maximizing their profit.”

Clara tilted her head. “You mentioned vacation time. Can you elaborate?”

Hen’s expression hardened. “Athena was contractually entitled to breaks between books. But Blackwell pressured her into working non-stop. They’d withhold payments, delay approvals, or claim they were in a ‘tight financial situation’ just to get her to agree to extra work. It got to the point where I had to threaten legal action just to make them honor the agreements they signed.”

There were whispers in the courtroom.

Clara nodded. “And regarding the stolen work—how did Athena first find out?”

Hen turned to Athena briefly before answering. “I called her.”

Clara stopped pacing. “You were the first to tell her?”

“Yes,” Hen said, her voice serious. “I was reviewing Blackwell’s internal records when I found a discrepancy in the contracts. Certain manuscripts of Athena’s were listed in company filings—but they weren’t supposed to be there. That’s when I started digging and found documentation proving Blackwell had made a deal with an unknown tech company for rights to her work.”

Clara’s voice sharpened. “Blackwell never told Athena about this deal?”

“Never.”

“So they sold her intellectual property behind her back?”

Hen nodded. “Yes.”

Clara let the statement settle before taking a step back. “No further questions, Your Honor.”

The defense attorney stood slowly, buttoning his jacket as he walked toward the witness stand..

“Ms. Wilson,” he started smoothly, “you say you’ve been Ms. Carter’s manager and best friend for years. That must make you very emotionally invested in this case.”

Hen narrowed her eyes slightly. “I’m invested because I watched my best friend’s career get exploited. That doesn’t make my testimony any less factual.”

Graham nodded as if considering her words. “But your role isn’t just as a bystander, correct? You personally handled her negotiations, her finances, her contracts. Would it be fair to say that, in some ways, you share responsibility for any bad deals she may have signed?”

Hen didn’t flinch. “I fought for Athena’s rights at every turn. If you’re implying I failed her, you’re wasting your time.”

Graham gave a small, amused smile. “That wasn’t what I was implying. But you just testified that you handled her contracts. If those contracts were so unfair, why did you allow her to sign them?”

Hen exhaled through her nose. “Because companies like Blackwell intentionally obscure their intentions in legal jargon. They promise one thing, then write the contract in a way that allows them to do something completely different.”

Graham nodded again. “So you’re saying you, an experienced business manager, couldn’t see these loopholes ahead of time?”

Hen leaned forward slightly. “I caught as many as I could. But when a company lies about its intentions, it doesn’t matter how careful you are. Deception isn’t in fine print—it’s in bad faith.”

There were murmurs in the courtroom again.

Graham's smile thinned. “Let’s go back to the alleged stolen work. You claim you found documentation about this secret deal. But did you personally see Blackwell hand Athena’s work over to another company?”

“No,” Hen admitted. “But the paper trail was clear.”

“So, in reality, you don’t have concrete proof,” Graham countered. “Just suspicions based on internal records?”

Hen’s jaw tightened. “Evidence based on internal records.”

Graham gave a small shrug. “Yet you don’t even know which company was involved in this alleged deal, correct?”

Hen hesitated. “No. Not yet.”

Graham lifted an eyebrow. “So, you’re accusing Blackwell of theft, but you don’t know who they sold it to, how much they sold it for, or when the deal was finalized.”

Hen’s eyes darkened. “I know they did it.”

Graham spread his hands. “But no one here has seen these supposed documents—only you.”

Hen exhaled sharply, holding his gaze. “I’d be happy to provide them in discovery.”

Graham smiled faintly, then stepped back. “No further questions.”

Hen sat back, her expression unreadable. He had tried to make her doubt herself, tried to paint her as a biased, emotional friend rather than a professional, but she had held her ground.

The judge nodded. “The witness may step down.”

Hen stood, locking eyes with Athena for a brief moment before turning back toward her seat. Her heart pounded in her chest, but she refused to let it show. She had walked into this courtroom knowing what was at stake, and she wasn’t about to falter now. She had spent years fighting alongside Athena, negotiating contracts, reviewing sales reports, and battling for the respect Athena deserved. This was just another fight, and she wasn’t about to lose.

As she took her seat, she exhaled slowly, trying to steady herself. The courtroom was heavy with tension, every glance, every whisper adding to the weight of it all. 

They had expected this to be tough, but it was turning into a brutal battle. Clara had warned them, this wasn’t going to be fair. The defense would twist words, take things out of context, and do everything they could to undermine their case.

Athena sat stiffly beside Clara, her hands clasped so tightly together that her knuckles were turning white. She knew this wasn’t over. Graham was skilled, relentless even, and the way he had twisted Hen’s words made her stomach churn.

She stole a glance at Bobby, needing something, anything, to keep herself from spiraling. He was already looking at her, and when their eyes met, he gave her a small, reassuring smile.

It wasn’t much, but it was enough. It was enough to remind her why she was here, why she was fighting. It was enough to remind her she wasn’t alone in this.

Athena swallowed hard, her gaze drifting away from the courtroom for a moment as a wave of guilt settled deep in her chest. Her babies

She had barely spoken to them these past few weeks. Between the legal battles, the stolen work, and stressing over getting her work published, in a way she had missed out on so much. Too many late nights, too many hurried phone calls. She had meant to check in more, meant to be there, but every day had slipped away in a blur of stress and exhaustion.

And yet, they never complained. They understood. Even when she couldn’t be around, even when she barely had the energy to talk, they never made her feel guilty for it. Instead, they supported her, just like they always had.

She thought about the last time she had seen them, this morning—how May had hugged her so tight before she left, whispering, You’ve got this, Mom. How Harry had looked up at her with that quiet determination in his eyes, the same determination she saw in herself.

She was doing this for them.

Not just for justice. Not just to take back what was stolen from her.

But to prove to them that she didn’t back down. That she didn’t let people take advantage of her anymore. That she had fought her way out of an abusive relationship and she was going to fight her way through this, too.

Because what kind of example would she be if she just let this happen? If she let these people take everything from her without a fight?

She refused.

Her kids needed to see that their mother was strong. That she wouldn’t be beaten down. That no one—not him, not Blackwell Publishing, not some faceless tech company, was going to take away what she had built.

Athena sat up straighter, her jaw tightening as she refocused on the courtroom. She was here. She was fighting. And she wasn’t going to stop now.

She watched as Lou went up for his testimony.

Lou adjusted his tie, walking toward the witness stand with steady steps. He was used to watching from the sidelines, scanning for danger, ensuring Athena’s safety. 

But today, the threats weren’t physical. They were legal, corporate, and insidious. He took his oath, then settled into the chair, his sharp eyes sweeping over the room before finally landing on Athena.

Clara stood, smoothing out her blazer before stepping forward. “Mr. Ransone, could you state your occupation for the court?”

“I’m a private security consultant. I’ve been working as Athena Carter’s personal bodyguard for nearly a decade.”

“And in that time, you’ve been present during important events related to Ms. Carter’s work?”

Lou nodded. “Yes. I’ve accompanied her to business meetings, conferences, publishing events—you name it. My job is to keep her safe, but I see and hear a lot in the process.”

Clara clasped her hands behind her back. “Let’s talk about the work environment at Blackwell Publishing. From what you observed, how was Ms. Carter treated by the company?”

Lou exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Lately, they have been pushing her. Hard. I’ve seen Athena under stress before—when she’s on a deadline, when she’s working late, but this was different. There were times she came out of meetings, shaking, angry. They pressured her to sign contracts, to agree to things on the spot. And if she pushed back, they made her feel like she was being difficult.”

Athena kept her face neutral, but inside, she felt something tighten in her chest. He had noticed.

Clara nodded. “Did you ever witness any unethical behavior?”

Lou hesitated, then leaned slightly forward. “Yeah. One moment sticks out. There was a conference almost a year ago—I was there, keeping an eye on Athena. She had just finished speaking on a panel, and I was waiting outside one of the boardrooms when I overheard some of the Blackwell directors talking. They were arguing about a deal—something about how if it didn’t go through, then ‘you know what will happen.’”

Clara raised an eyebrow. “And did they specify who or what they were referring to?”

“No. At the time, I assumed they were talking about Athena. She was the biggest name at the company, and things were already tense between her and Blackwell.”

Clara glanced at the jury. “So, in your professional opinion, was there an unusual level of secrecy surrounding Ms. Carter’s work?”

Lou nodded. “Absolutely. Even as her bodyguard, I was sometimes barred from certain meetings. That never happened with any of my other clients. It was like they were hiding something, not just from Athena, but from everyone.”

Clara stepped back, satisfied. “No further questions.”

The judge turned to the defense. “Mr. Graham, your witness.”

Graham rose, adjusting his suit as he strolled toward the stand. He wore that same cool, calculated expression Athena had come to loathe.

Graham stood up, straightening his tie before strolling toward the witness stand with slow, calculated steps. He smiled, not warm, but measured.

“Mr. Ransone,” he started, voice smooth. “You’ve been Ms. Carter’s personal bodyguard for a decade. That means your main responsibility is her physical safety, correct?”

“Yes,” Lou answered carefully.

“Not contract negotiations. Not publishing law. Not corporate business dealings. Just security.”

Lou nodded. “That’s correct.”

Graham nodded. “So, just to clarify, you are not a legal expert, you are not an editor, and you are not someone who directly worked with Ms. Carter’s publishing contracts.”

Lou narrowed his eyes slightly. “No, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know what I saw.”

Graham smiled slightly, like he had been waiting for that. “Ah, yes. What you ‘saw.’ You’ve made some serious claims about Blackwell Publishing’s treatment of Ms. Carter. You stated that they pressured her, manipulated her, acted unethically. But you are not an expert in workplace dynamics or corporate ethics, are you?”

“I don’t need to be an expert to see when someone’s being mistreated,” Lou shot back.

Graham kept his expression neutral. “Let’s talk about that, then. You claim you saw Ms. Carter being mistreated. Do you have any documentation of this? Emails? Recordings? Anything tangible?”

Lou hesitated for a second too long.

Graham’s smirk widened just a fraction. “No?”

Lou exhaled through his nose. “I have my testimony. I have what I witnessed.”

“Your word,” Graham mused. “That’s all?”

Lou clenched his fists under the stand. “That’s enough.”

Graham ignored that. “Let’s discuss the conversation you overheard at the publishing conference. You stated that Blackwell executives were arguing over a deal, and one of them said, ‘if they don’t go through with it, then you know what will happen.’ Did they ever specifically mention Ms. Carter by name?”

“No,” Lou admitted, keeping his voice steady.

“So this conversation—one that never referenced Ms. Carter directly, one that you didn’t fully hear, and one that could have been about anything—you assumed was about her?”

Lou took a slow breath. “I put the pieces together.”

Graham raised a brow. “The pieces. And what were these pieces? A gut feeling?”

Lou’s frustration spiked, but he forced himself to stay composed. “I know how they operate. The secrecy. The way they kept Athena in the dark. I wasn’t going to ignore it.”

“But you weren’t in those meetings,” Graham countered. “You weren’t involved in decision-making. You weren’t privy to confidential information. So, Mr. Ransone, isn’t it fair to say that much of your testimony is based on assumptions rather than verifiable facts?”

Lou’s throat tightened. He could feel himself faltering. The way Graham was twisting his words made him second-guess himself, making it seem like he had nothing.

“I—” Lou started, but the words caught.

He glanced toward Athena. She wasn’t panicking. She wasn’t angry. She just looked at him with quiet trust. You’re fine. Keep going.

Lou took a slow breath, grounding himself.

“No,” he finally said, voice regaining strength. “I wouldn’t say it’s all assumptions. I saw the way they treated Athena. I saw the stress they put her under. Maybe I wasn’t in those meetings, but I saw what it did to her. I saw them control her. That’s not an assumption—that’s experience.”

Graham narrowed his eyes slightly, but his smirk remained. He hadn’t completely cracked Lou, but he’d made him stumble.

“No further questions, Your Honor.”

Lou let out a slow breath as he stepped down, his hands slightly unsteady, but his back straight. He had stumbled, sure, but he hadn’t gone down completely.

As he sat next to Athena, she gave him a small nod.

It was enough.

The judge shuffled some papers. “Next witness: Linda Bates.”

Linda walked up to the witness stand with quiet confidence, her heels clicking against the floor as she adjusted her blazer. She had been waiting for this moment. She had spent years under Blackwell Publishing, suffering under the same corporate greed that had taken advantage of Athena. And now, she finally had the chance to expose it.

She sat down, smoothing out her blouse as she met the judge’s gaze.

“Please state your name for the court,” Clara began.

“Linda Bates.”

“And your occupation?”

“I am a full-time author.”

Clara nodded. “And were you formerly employed by Blackwell Publishing?”

Linda took a breath. “Yes. I was signed under them for over fifteen years.”

“And why did you leave?”

Linda’s fingers curled slightly against her lap. “Because of mistreatment. Because they no longer saw me as a person, only a product. I watched them exploit me, my creativity, and my time until I was nothing but exhausted. They took everything I had and demanded more.”

Clara stepped closer. “When you say ‘exploit,’ can you elaborate?”

Linda nodded. “They constantly pushed unreasonable deadlines, threatened contract penalties if I didn’t comply, and took more control over my stories than they were ever supposed to. And I wasn’t the only one.” She turned slightly, glancing at Athena. “I saw it happen to her too. I saw them squeeze her dry, the same way they did to me.”

Clara paced slowly. “Did you ever witness Blackwell engaging in unethical practices?”

Linda’s lips pressed together. “Yes.”

The courtroom was silent, waiting.

“Go on,” Clara urged.

“There were times they altered contracts after they were signed, adding clauses that weren’t there before and pressuring authors to accept them anyway,” Linda explained. “They also withheld royalties, using ‘accounting errors’ as an excuse. I remember one quarter, I was missing thousands of dollars in sales revenue. When I confronted them, they told me it was an internal miscalculation and that I would be compensated in the next payout. But that never happened.”

Clara’s expression darkened. “And did they do anything specific to Ms. Carter that you personally witnessed?”

Linda exhaled slowly. “Yes. I remember overhearing one of her calls with her manager, Hen, about her vacation time. Blackwell was refusing to let her take a break, even though it was in her contract. They were using loopholes to keep her working non-stop.”

“And did Athena ever express frustration about this?”

Linda gave a sad smile. “Frustration isn’t the right word. She was exhausted. She was breaking. But she kept going because she thought she had no choice.”

Clara let that sit with the jury for a moment. Then she asked, “Did you ever experience similar struggles?”

Linda nodded. “Yes. They made me rewrite entire sections of books, even after final drafts had been approved, just to push deadlines further. And when I finally pushed back, they threatened to bury my career. That’s when I knew I had to leave.”

Clara turned to the judge. “Your Honor, I’d like to submit copies of Blackwell Publishing’s altered contracts as evidence. These contracts show post-signature changes and discrepancies between agreed terms and final enforced clauses.”

The judge took the documents, glancing at them before nodding. “Accepted.”

Linda felt a small sense of relief. At least this was out in the open now.

Clara turned back to her. “No further questions.”

Athena allowed herself a small smile. So far, things were going well. Each testimony had held its ground, despite Graham’s relentless questioning. There had been moments of doubt, moments where the pressure had nearly cracked them, but they had pulled through. 

She felt this small relief in her.

Graham stood, adjusting his tie as he made his way toward the witness stand. He clasped his hands behind his back, exuding the same calm confidence he had with every witness before.

“Ms. Bates,” he started, voice smooth and deliberate. “You left Blackwell Publishing several years ago, correct?”

Linda straightened her back. “Yes.”

“And in that time, you’ve been very vocal about your dissatisfaction with them. Blog posts, interviews, social media rants—this isn’t the first time you’ve spoken out against them, is it?”

“No. I have spoken out before,” she admitted, keeping her tone even.

Graham nodded like he had expected that answer. “Because you have a personal issue with Blackwell Publishing, don’t you? After all, they were your former employer, they controlled your publishing career, and you felt mistreated. It must have been frustrating.”

Linda narrowed her eyes. “Frustration doesn’t begin to cover it. They took advantage of me, just like they took advantage of Athena.”

Graham hummed in thought, tapping a finger against his chin. “And yet, despite all this mistreatment, you stayed with them for fifteen years. A decade and a half. If things were as unbearable as you claim, why not leave sooner?”

Linda’s fingers curled slightly on the armrest of the stand. “Because they kept stringing me along. They convinced me I needed them, that I wouldn’t be successful without them. They made it feel impossible to leave.”

Graham smirked slightly. “Ah. So you’re saying you were manipulated?”

“Yes.”

He tilted his head. “And that manipulation—was it documented?”

Linda blinked. “What?”

Graham lifted his brows. “You’re making very serious claims, Ms. Bates. You say Blackwell Publishing ‘convinced’ you that you had to stay. Do you have emails proving this? Audio recordings of them coercing you? A legal document that states you were forced to remain under their contract against your will?”

Linda clenched her jaw. “No, but—”

Graham didn’t let her finish. “So you stayed with them for fifteen years entirely by choice, correct?”

She hesitated. “It wasn’t that simple—”

“But you weren’t legally obligated to stay.”

“No, but—”

“You weren’t physically prevented from leaving.”

“No.”

Graham gave a satisfied nod. “So despite claiming they ‘exploited’ you, you willingly continued to work with them for over a decade.”

Linda felt frustration bubble up, but she swallowed it down. “You’re twisting my words.”

Graham gave a small chuckle. “Am I? Or are you realizing that maybe you weren’t as trapped as you thought?”

Linda stiffened, gripping the armrest tighter.

Graham didn’t stop. He circled slightly, shifting the focus. “Let’s talk about Ms. Carter now. You testified that you witnessed her struggling under Blackwell’s pressure.”

“Yes.”

“But you were not her manager, correct?”

“No.”

“You were not present during her contract negotiations?”

“No.”

“You were not part of her financial discussions with the company?”

Linda exhaled. “No.”

Graham raised an eyebrow. “Then what exactly makes you qualified to testify about her experience?”

Linda lifted her chin. “Because I lived it too.”

“But not in the same way.”

“No, but I saw it happen to her.”

“You assumed it was happening to her,” Graham corrected.

Linda’s grip on the stand tightened. “No. I saw it firsthand. I heard the things they said to her, the way they manipulated her deadlines, the way they stretched her too thin.”

Graham nodded slowly, as if considering her words. Then his expression hardened. “And yet, despite this so-called manipulation, despite how terribly you claim she was treated, Ms. Carter stayed with Blackwell Publishing for years. Just like you did.”

Linda’s stomach twisted.

Graham pressed on. “Tell me, Ms. Bates, if she was truly being mistreated—if she was so miserable—why didn’t she leave?”

Linda opened her mouth, but the words didn’t come immediately.

Graham took the silence as an opportunity. He tilted his head, voice softer now. “Maybe, just maybe, she stayed for the same reason you did. Because she wanted to. Because, at the end of the day, she needed Blackwell just as much as they needed her.”

Linda felt her breath hitch.

She shook her head. “That’s not true.”

“Isn’t it?” Graham countered, stepping closer. “You and Ms. Carter both claim to have been victims of this ‘exploitation,’ but neither of you ever tried to escape it. And now, years later, after finally breaking away, you sit here in this courtroom, pointing fingers at the very company that helped build your careers.”

Linda’s throat felt tight. “They didn’t build my career. I did.”

Graham gave a slight smile. “But they published your books.”

Silence.

Graham pressed in. “They distributed your work. They marketed your name. They gave you the platform to become the ‘famous author’ you are today.” He let that sink in before delivering the final blow. “So tell me, Ms. Bates—if Blackwell Publishing is as terrible as you claim, why do you still benefit from the foundation they built for you?”

Linda inhaled sharply.

Tears welled in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. She had walked into this courtroom feeling strong, feeling ready. But now—now she felt like she had lost control of the narrative. Graham had twisted it all, made it seem like she was ungrateful, like she had been a willing participant in her own suffering.

She swallowed the lump in her throat,  and took a steady breath.. “I didn’t ask for their so-called ‘foundation.’ I built my success through my own work, my own talent. Blackwell Publishing only ever took advantage of that.”

Graham raised an eyebrow, feigning curiosity. “Oh? And yet, you continued to publish with them for fifteen years. You renewed contracts. You accepted their paychecks. You attended their events, shook hands with their executives, smiled for their cameras. If they were so exploitative, why play along?”

Linda clenched her fists. “Because I thought I didn’t have a choice.”

Graham pounced on that. “Thought? So you admit you weren’t actually forced to stay? That there were no legal restraints, no threats, no coercion keeping you under Blackwell’s roof?”

Linda’s heart pounded. “It’s not that simple.”

Graham tilted his head. “But the law is simple, Ms. Bates. It deals in contracts, evidence, documented facts. And the fact is, you chose to stay with Blackwell Publishing.”

Linda shook her head. “I was manipulated.”

“Manipulated,” Graham echoed, as if tasting the word. Then, with a knowing smirk, he added, “Or are you just looking for someone else to blame?”

The words hit deeper than she wanted to admit. Graham was twisting everything, making it sound like she had been a willing participant in her own suffering—as if the years of stress, exhaustion, and mistreatment were her fault.

She opened her mouth, but nothing came out.

Graham gave a slow nod, like he had gotten exactly what he wanted. He turned to the judge. “No further questions, Your Honor.”

The courtroom was silent.

Linda sat frozen for a moment before finally standing. She forced herself to walk back to her seat, her face carefully blank. But as she sat down, staring at the table in front of her, she felt it.

The sting of failure.

Linda swallowed hard, her hands clasped tightly in her lap as she stared down at the table. Her whole body felt numb. She had walked in with confidence, ready to take a stand, but Graham had torn through everything, twisting her words, making her feel small, like none of it had ever mattered.

She had failed.

She forced herself to glance to the side, almost afraid to meet Athena’s eyes. But when she finally looked, Athena was already watching her. There was no disappointment in her expression, no anger, just understanding.

Athena gave her a small, reassuring nod.

Linda’s throat tightened. She blinked rapidly, willing the tears away, but it was useless. She let out a shaky breath, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’m sorry.”

Athena shook her head. “You did your best,” she murmured. “That’s all that matters.”

Linda bit her lip, gripping the edge of her seat. She had wanted to be stronger, to hold her ground, to stand beside Athena in this fight without wavering. But Graham had pulled the rug out from under her.

She wiped at her eyes quickly, not letting a single tear fall. “I wanted to do more,” she admitted.

Athena leaned in slightly, her voice low but firm. “You did enough.”

Athena reached across the table and gently squeezed Linda’s hand. “Hey,” she said softly, her voice steady despite everything. “You were honest. That’s what matters.”

Linda let out a shaky breath, still gripping the edge of her seat like she was trying to keep herself from falling apart. “But he—he twisted everything. I should’ve—”

“You told the truth,” Athena cut in, her tone firm but kind. “That’s all you could do. And you didn’t back down. I’m not mad, it's what people like Graham do.”

Linda looked away, swallowing hard. “It didn’t feel like enough.”

Athena gave a small, knowing smile. “Because you wanted to win. I get it. But you being here, standing up for what’s right—that means something.”

Linda’s lip trembled, but she pressed them together, nodding slightly. She still felt like she had let Athena down, but the warmth in Athena’s eyes told her otherwise.

Athena gave her hand one last squeeze before letting go. “You did good, Linda.”

Linda blinked rapidly, forcing herself to sit up straighter. She inhaled deeply, exhaling slowly. She wasn’t going to cry. Not here. Not now.

Now that Linda had finished her testimony, Athena felt a shift in the courtroom. A pit formed in her stomach, heavy and unsettling. She kept her expression calm, Linda’s testimony had been strong, but Graham had twisted her words, breaking her down in a way that left Athena uneasy.

It wasn’t just Linda. Lou had been caught in Graham’s web, too. He had held his own, but there were moments where Graham had made him falter, moments where his words had been turned against him.

Athena exhaled slowly, steadying herself. They still had two more witnesses left. They still had a case to fight. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that, piece by piece, Graham was chipping away at everything they had built.

The bailiff called the next witness, and Bobby stood. He buttoned his suit jacket, straightening his posture as he walked confidently to the witness stand. His expression was calm, collected, he wasn’t here to fumble. He was here to tell the truth.

Athena watched him intently, her heart hammering in her chest. Bobby had seen everything, the late nights, the exhaustion, the battles Athena had fought just to keep her work from slipping through her fingers. If anyone could paint the reality of what Blackwell Publishing had done to her, it was him.

He took his seat, raising his right hand as the bailiff approached.

“Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God?”

“I do,” Bobby said firmly.

The judge nodded. “Proceed.”

Clara approached the stand, her expression professional but warm.

“Please state your name for the record.”

“Robert Wade Nash,” Bobby said clearly.

“And what is your relation to Athena Carter?”

“I’m her boyfriend,” he said without hesitation. “But more importantly, I’ve witnessed firsthand what this company has done to her.”

Clara nodded. “Mr. Nash, can you describe Athena’s mental and emotional state throughout her experience with Blackwell Publishing?”

Bobby’s jaw tensed slightly, but his voice remained steady. “It was brutal. I’ve seen Athena at her highest and at her lowest, and this company pushed her to some of the lowest points I’ve ever seen.”

Clara took a step closer. “Can you elaborate?”

“She poured everything into her work. She trusted them. And for a few months, I watched them take advantage of that trust. Late nights, constant stress, contracts being dangled over her head like a threat—it wore her down. There were days she couldn’t even sleep because she was too anxious about what they’d do next. And when she found out her work had been stolen, it broke her.”

Athena swallowed hard, gripping the edge of the table. She remembered that night all too well. The phone call from Hen. The realization that her work had been taken right out from under her. Bobby had been there, holding her as she tried to process it.

“What happened when she found out?” Clara asked.

“She froze,” Bobby admitted. “I could see it in her eyes. She didn’t cry, didn’t scream. She just… shut down. Like the weight of everything finally crushed her. She’d spent years fighting to keep her work safe, and in one moment, it was gone.”

The courtroom was silent. Everyone was listening.

Clara nodded. “And during her time with Blackwell Publishing, did you witness any form of manipulation or coercion?”

“Absolutely,” Bobby said without hesitation. “They guilt-tripped her into signing contracts she wasn’t comfortable with. They made her feel like she owed them everything, even though they were the ones profiting off of her talent. And when she started asking too many questions—when she started pushing back—they treated her like she was being difficult. Like she was the problem.”

Clara let that sit for a moment before moving to her final question. “Mr. Nash, in your opinion, did Blackwell Publishing treat Athena fairly?”

Bobby let out a breath, shaking his head. “Not even close. They used her. And when they couldn’t use her anymore, they took what they wanted and left her with nothing.”

Clara gave a firm nod. “No further questions, Your Honor.”

The judge turned to Graham. “Cross-examination?”

Graham stood, straightening his tie as he approached the stand. His movements were slow, calculated.

“Mr. Nash,” he started, his tone smooth, “you say you’ve witnessed how this situation has affected Ms. Carter, correct?”

“That’s correct.”

“You care about her, don’t you?”

Bobby’s expression didn’t waver. “Of course.”

“You love her.”

“Yes.”

Graham clasped his hands behind his back. “So would it be fair to say that your testimony is influenced by personal bias?”

Bobby’s lips pressed into a firm line. “It’s influenced by what I’ve seen with my own eyes. I don’t need bias to tell the truth.”

Graham nodded slowly, as if he expected that answer. “Mr. Nash, you claim Blackwell Publishing manipulated Ms. Carter. But isn’t it true that she voluntarily signed multiple contracts with them?”

“She did.”

“And she was compensated for her work, correct?”

“Yes.”

Graham raised an eyebrow. “So what exactly is the issue here?”

Bobby leaned forward slightly. “The issue is that she signed those contracts under false pretenses. She trusted them. They led her to believe they had her best interests in mind. But in reality, they were setting her up to be exploited. They wanted every dime in her.”

Graham tilted his head. “And you know this because?”

“Because I was there,” Bobby said plainly. “We had marched into the building the moment she found out her work was gone. I saw the pressure they put on her. I saw how they talked down to her, how they dismissed her concerns, how they made her feel like she had no other option but to comply. It wasn’t a fair deal—it was a trap.”

Graham exhaled sharply, changing tactics. “You mentioned that Ms. Carter was ‘pushed to her lowest points.’ That she was anxious and exhausted. But wouldn’t you say that’s common in any high-pressure industry?”

Bobby didn’t even blink. “There’s a difference between normal stress and being intentionally manipulated.”

Graham narrowed his eyes slightly. “Mr. Nash, do you have any direct evidence that Blackwell Publishing acted in bad faith?”

“I have Athena,” Bobby said simply. “I have her story. And if you actually listened to her instead of twisting her words, you’d see that it’s the truth.”

A murmur rippled through the courtroom. Athena’s breath caught in her throat. Bobby wasn’t backing down.

Graham studied him for a long moment before finally exhaling. “No further questions.”

Bobby stepped down from the witness stand, walking back to Athena’s side. He placed a reassuring hand on her back, rubbing slow circles between her shoulder blades.

She glanced at him, her heart full. “You did amazing,” she whispered.

“So did you,” he murmured back.

Athena smiled then glanced back up to the judge. Maddie was the last witness. Maddie stood, smoothing out the front of her blouse before walking to the stand. They sweared her in. 

Clara approached the stand, a confident look on her face. “Please state your name for the record.”

“Maddie Buckley.”

“And what is your profession?”

“I’m a book editor.”

Clara nodded. “And how long have you worked with Athena Carter?”

“For about two years,” Maddie said. “I’ve been involved in every stage of her writing process—outlining, drafting, revising. I know her writing inside and out.”

Clara took a step closer. “So would you say you’re familiar with her style, her voice, and the way she crafts her work?”

“Absolutely,” Maddie confirmed. “Athena has a distinct voice. She’s meticulous with her words, and her stories always carry her signature style. I can recognize her work instantly.”

Clara paced slightly. “In your time working with Athena, have you ever seen any indication that she needed outside help to complete her books?”

“No,” Maddie said without hesitation. “Athena writes every word herself. She pours herself into her work, refining every draft until it’s exactly the way she wants it. She doesn’t need a ghostwriter, and she doesn’t need anyone rewriting her work.”

Clara nodded. “Can you describe any experiences where Blackwell Publishing tried to interfere with her writing process?”

Maddie exhaled sharply, recalling the many frustrations Athena had endured. “They tried to take control at every step. They would demand revisions that stripped away Athena’s original vision, sometimes without even consulting her. I remember one particular incident where they sent back a draft that had been completely rewritten by someone else, without Athena’s approval.”

A murmur ran through the courtroom.

Clara’s eyes darkened slightly. “And how did Athena react?”

“She was furious,” Maddie said. “Rightfully so. She had spent months perfecting that manuscript, only for it to be gutted. She fought back, of course, but they made it difficult. They tried to convince her that their changes were ‘improvements.’ That she needed to trust them. But the truth is, they wanted control. They wanted to make her work fit their mold, not hers.”

Clara let the words settle before moving forward. “You mentioned that you’ve worked on every stage of Athena’s writing process. Would you say, without a doubt, that Athena is the sole author of her works?”

“Yes,” Maddie said firmly. “Without a doubt.”

“No further questions, Your Honor.”

The judge turned to Graham. “Cross-examination?”

Graham stood, adjusting his suit jacket as he approached the stand. His expression was neutral, but his eyes were sharp, searching for any weakness.

“Ms. Buckley,” he began smoothly, “you said you’ve been Athena Carter’s editor for two years, correct?”

“That’s correct.”

“Would you say you’re a close friend of hers?”

“Yes,” Maddie admitted. “We’ve become friends over the years.”

Graham tilted his head. “And would you say that friendship influences your testimony today?”

Maddie didn’t hesitate. “No. I’m here to state the facts.”

Graham hummed, as if considering her answer. “You claim that Athena’s writing was altered without her consent. But isn’t it standard practice for publishing houses to provide editorial feedback?”

“Feedback, yes,” Maddie said. “But there’s a difference between feedback and complete rewrites.”

Graham clasped his hands behind his back. “Ms. Clarke, as an editor yourself, wouldn’t you agree that sometimes authors resist necessary changes to their work?”

“Some do,” Maddie admitted. “But Athena is not one of those authors. She understands the editing process, and she’s always open to genuine feedback. The problem wasn’t the editing—it was the control. They weren’t suggesting improvements. They were trying to erase her voice.”

Graham narrowed his eyes slightly. “Ms. Clarke, are you aware that many publishing contracts give companies the right to make changes as they see fit?”

“I am aware,” Maddie said steadily. “But those contracts don’t give them the right to steal an author’s creative identity.”

Graham exhaled through his nose, realizing he wasn’t going to shake her. “No further questions.”

Maddie stepped down, walking back toward Athena with confidence in her stride. She had done her part. She had told the truth.

Athena gave her a small, grateful smile as she sat back down. “You were incredible,” she whispered.

Maddie let out a breath, finally allowing herself to relax. “I meant every word.”

The judge cleared her throat. “We will now proceed with closing arguments.”

Athena exhaled slowly. This was it, the final stretch. Everything had gone well, even with some stumbles along the way. The witnesses had spoken, the truth had been laid bare, and yet, that pit in her stomach remained.

Because no matter how well things had gone, she knew better than to expect a perfect outcome.

She felt Bobby’s presence beside her, steady and reassuring. She knew that, win or lose, she wasn’t alone. But the thought did little to quiet the worry gnawing at her. Her work—her original work—was still out there, stolen, in the hands of someone she couldn’t even name. No matter what the ruling was, that wouldn’t change.

The judge turned her attention to Clara. “Plaintiff, you may present your closing statement.”

Clara stood, smoothing the front of her blazer before stepping toward the jury. Her tone was measured but firm, her eyes sweeping across the faces before her.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury,” she began, “you have heard testimony after testimony about the manipulation, deception, and exploitation that Blackwell Publishing has engaged in. You have seen the evidence of how they sought to control their authors, strip them of their rights, and claim ownership over work that was never theirs to begin with.”

She let the words settle, her expression tightening. “Athena Carter was not just another author on their roster. She was their target. They tried to silence her, undermine her, and when she fought back, they stole what was rightfully hers.”

Clara took a slow step forward. “Blackwell Publishing has built its success on the backs of writers like Athena. Writers who pour their hearts, their souls, their very lives into their work—only to have it taken from them. And when Athena refused to bow to their demands, they made sure she would suffer the consequences.”

Her gaze locked onto the jury. “This case is not just about contracts and legal technicalities. It’s about ethics. It’s about justice. And it’s about sending a message, to Blackwell, to every publishing house that thinks they can get away with this, and to every writer who has been made to feel powerless.”

She turned toward the judge. “The evidence is undeniable. The truth is clear. Blackwell Publishing must be held accountable.”

With that, Clara nodded and returned to her seat. Athena’s heart pounded in her chest. It was out of their hands now.

The judge nodded to the defense to go. 

Graham stood, adjusting his jacket before stepping forward. His expression was calm, almost calculated.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are not here to debate the ethics of the publishing industry. We are here to look at the facts.”

He clasped his hands behind his back. “The plaintiff, Ms. Carter, entered into a contractual agreement with Blackwell Publishing. She reaped the benefits of that agreement—fame, financial success, a platform to share her work with the world.”

His voice remained smooth, unwavering. “And yet, when disagreements arose—when she was asked to make changes that every author faces, she claimed she was being manipulated. She claimed she was being controlled. But the truth? The truth is, Ms. Carter wanted complete and total creative control in an industry that simply does not work that way.”

Graham let the words hang before continuing. “Blackwell Publishing is not perfect. But imperfection is not a crime. What the plaintiff wants is to paint my client as a villain while ignoring the simple reality that this is business. And in business, hard decisions have to be made.”

He gave the jury one final glance. “You must ask yourselves, was Athena Carter truly a victim, or is this simply a case of an author who refused to compromise? The answer, I believe, is clear.”

With that, he returned to his seat.

Athena clenched her fists. The judge thanked everyone while she had to go decide. 

The courtroom felt suffocating. The walls pressed in, the air thick with anticipation. Athena sat frozen, hands clasped together so tightly that her knuckles had turned white. 

Minutes dragged on, stretching into an unbearable eternity as the judge reviewed her notes, flipping through documents, eyes scanning every detail one last time before delivering the ruling.

Athena’s heart pounded violently in her chest, the rhythmic thud almost deafening in her ears. She wanted to look at Bobby, at Clara, at anyone, but she couldn’t. She kept her gaze locked on the table in front of her, her fingers trembling against the polished wood.

Bobby was rubbing her back, trying to calm her, but she couldn’t.

Her mind raced. Had they done enough? Was it enough?

She thought of her kids once again, of the nights she had stayed up long past exhaustion, staring at her laptop screen, rewriting chapters, pouring her soul into every word she created. She thought of the mornings she had barely seen them because she was caught in conference calls, negotiations, legal battles that never seemed to end. They had been so strong, so supportive, but was it worth it?

And what if she lost?

Athena swallowed the knot forming in her throat.

Would they think she had failed? Would they see her as someone who fought so hard only to come up empty-handed?

No, she told herself. No.

She had done everything she could. She had fought when others would have backed down.

But what if that wasn’t enough?

The whispers of the courtroom had faded into silence, and still, the judge had yet to speak. Athena’s nails dug into the palm of her hand, a grounding sensation against the growing panic in her chest. She glanced at Clara, who sat still, her expression unreadable, then at Bobby, whose steady gaze never wavered.

Then, finally, the judge straightened in her chair.

The room stilled.

Athena sucked in a slow, quiet breath.

This was it.

 The judge adjusted her glasses, scanning the courtroom before delivering the decision. Her voice, firm and unwavering, echoed through the heavy silence.

“After careful consideration of the evidence presented, this court finds that Blackwell Publishing engaged in unethical and unlawful business practices, including contract violations and misrepresentation of intellectual property ownership. Effective immediately, Blackwell Publishing will be shut down, and its assets will be frozen pending further legal proceedings.”

A rush of emotion swept through the room. There were gasps, murmurs—some in shock, others in quiet triumph. Athena’s breath hitched as relief crashed over her. She had won. The company that had tormented her, stolen from her, twisted her work for their gain, was finally going down.

But the judge wasn’t finished.

“ However ,” she continued, and Athena’s stomach twisted.

The judge’s gaze remained impassive, flipping through the final pages of her ruling.

“Due to the involvement of a third-party entity in the unauthorized theft and distribution of Ms. Carter’s works, this court cannot mandate the return of the original manuscripts to her at this time.”

Silence.

Athena’s vision blurred for a second.

“What?” The word barely escaped her lips, breathless, disbelieving.

The courtroom didn’t erupt in noise, but there was a shift—whispers threading through the space, shifting glances exchanged. Athena could hear Bobby inhale sharply beside her. Someone muttered under their breath. But all she could focus on was the pounding in her head.

This wasn’t happening.

She felt Bobby’s hand on hers, grounding her, but it was distant, like she was hearing everything through layers of water. The judge’s words replayed in her mind, sharp and unforgiving.

She had won the case, but not what mattered most.

Her work. Her books. The stories she had bled for. The ones that carried her pain, her joy, the deepest parts of her soul—gone. Stolen. Held hostage by someone they couldn’t even name.

Blackwell was finished, but the real thieves? Untouched.

Athena’s hands clenched into fists in her lap. She fought to keep her expression neutral, to push down the overwhelming sense of loss pressing into her ribs. This wasn’t the end. It couldn’t be.

She couldn’t breath. 

༺༻

The words echoed in Athena’s ears, but they barely registered. Around her, the courtroom erupted into movement—chairs scraping against the floor, hushed conversations, the shuffle of documents being gathered, and the distant sound of footsteps as people began filing out. Lawyers exchanged handshakes, reporters whispered to one another, Blackwell executives stood stiffly before making their exit.

Athena didn’t move.

She sat still, staring blankly at the judge’s bench, her hands gripping the edge of the table. Her fingers were numb, but she couldn’t let go. It felt like if she did, she’d fall apart completely.

They had won.

Blackwell Publishing was officially finished. It was over.

But the manuscripts, her work, her stories, her years of effort, were still out of reach. 

A strange sensation crawled up her spine. A hollowness. A slow, creeping realization that she had fought so hard, burned herself down to the bone for this, and she still wasn’t whole.

The weight in her chest pressed harder. Tears were welling up but she kept them down.

She barely heard her name being called.

Bobby was next to her, his warm hand covering hers, but she couldn’t feel it. Hen, Maddie, Lou, and Linda hadn’t moved either, standing nearby, watching her carefully. They were talking, but their words blurred together.

It was like everything around her was moving too fast, and she was stuck.

Her breath hitched.

This wasn’t how it was supposed to feel.

Athena turned sharply, scanning the room with wide eyes, searching, desperate for something to ground her. Her gaze landed on Clara.

She was already watching her, expression unreadable.

Athena barely realized she had spoken until she heard her own voice, hoarse and unsteady. “What now?”

Clara exhaled, stepping forward. “Athena—”

“Clara, what do we do?” Athena’s voice rose slightly, panic creeping in. “They still have my work. I don’t—I don’t have anything. I thought—” She shook her head quickly, trying to catch her breath. “I thought I’d get it back.”

Her vision blurred for a second, and she realized she had stopped breathing properly.

Bobby’s grip on her hand tightened, a silent reminder that he was still there. Hen rubbed slow circles on her back, grounding her, but it wasn’t enough.

Clara’s face softened, but her voice remained steady. “Athena, listen to me.”

Athena forced herself to.

Clara took a seat across from her, leaning in. “I know this isn’t the outcome you wanted. I know how much this hurts. But this isn’t the end.”

Athena swallowed, shaking her head. “I don’t even know who they are.”

“Yet,” Clara corrected. “We don’t know who they are yet.”

Athena blinked, her breathing still uneven.

“This ruling shuts Blackwell down,” Clara continued, her tone firm. “That means we have access to their records. We subpoena everything—emails, contracts, financial reports, any internal documents they have. We go through every file, every deal they made, every correspondence. If there’s even a single thread leading to this third party, we pull it.”

Athena’s hands clenched into fists.

“And if they covered their tracks?” Her voice was quieter now.

Clara held her gaze. “Then we dig deeper. Someone is profiting off of your work, and people always leave a trail. It might take time, but we’ll find them.”

Athena inhaled shakily, trying to process it all. She wanted to believe it. She wanted to trust that there was still a way forward.

But her body felt exhausted, her mind heavy with everything she had endured these past few months.

And Clara seemed to notice.

The lawyer exhaled, her expression shifting slightly. The sharp focus in her eyes softened just a fraction.

“But not right now.”

Athena frowned. “What?”

Clara leaned back slightly, measuring her words carefully. “You need to take a break, Athena. Just for a few days.”

Athena tensed. “No, I—”

“Yes.” Clara cut her off, voice firm but not unkind. “You’ve been fighting this battle nonstop. This meeting came out of nowhere. We did our best, we tried to be as prepared as possible. But for these next steps, you need to have a calm mind. You haven’t had a moment to breathe, to process any of this.” She gestured toward the now-empty courtroom. “You won today. Maybe not in the way you wanted, but you still won. And now you need to take care of yourself before you completely burn out.”

Athena opened her mouth, nothing came out. Because deep down, she knew Clara was right.

Athena inhaled sharply, her fingers curling into fists at her sides. But, she couldn’t stop now. She wasn’t going to.

The idea of stepping back, of letting this rest for even a second, made her stomach churn. This wasn’t over. Not even close. Her books, the stories she had poured her heart into, the words that had come from the deepest parts of herself, were still out there, in the hands of someone she couldn’t see, couldn’t reach. And that was unbearable.

She wasn’t going to sit around and wait. She wasn’t going to take a break like Clara suggested. How could she? How could she just breathe when the thing that mattered most had been ripped from her hands?

No.

If no one else could find them, she would. If no one else could track down this faceless third party, she would.

She didn’t care if she had to dig through every contract, every email, every single scrap of paper that had ever passed through Blackwell’s doors. She didn’t care if she had to spend nights awake, tracking every lead until her eyes burned from exhaustion. She had already spent years being stripped of her voice, first by her ex, then by Blackwell. She had fought tooth and nail to get it back. And she refused to let someone take it away from her again.

No one was going to stop her. Not Clara. Not the courts. Not even Bobby, no matter how much he tried to tell her to rest.

Her work was out there. And she was going to get it back.

But Clara was watching her closely, waiting for a response.

So, she nodded, forcing herself to lie. “ Okay.”

“Alright, we can meet in a few days, and I’ll let you know everything that I find.” Clara said. Athena nodded and everyone said their goodbyes to Clara.

As soon as Clara stepped back, the others closed in around Athena, their presence grounding her even as her thoughts still spun.

Linda was the first to speak, her voice hesitant but full of concern. “I’m so sorry, Athena.”

Athena blinked, her exhaustion momentarily lifting as she turned to face her. “What?”

Linda swallowed hard, looking guilty. “I should’ve done better on the stand. I should’ve—”

“Linda, stop.” Athena cut her off, shaking her head. “You did fine.”

“No, I didn’t,” Linda insisted. “Graham twisted my words. I should’ve been stronger. I—” She trailed off, biting her lip. “I just didn’t want to make things worse for you.”

Athena exhaled, reaching out and squeezing her arm. “You didn’t. This wasn’t your fault.”

Linda looked down, nodding slowly, though she didn’t seem entirely convinced.

Maddie stepped in, her expression soft but firm. “She’s right, you know.” She turned to Athena. “You held your own up there today, even when things got rough. And for what it’s worth, you’re still the strongest damn person I know.”

Athena let out a small, breathy laugh, though it barely carried. “I don’t feel strong.”

“That’s usually when you are.” Maddie gave her a knowing look before glancing at the others. “But Clara’s right. You need rest.”

Hen nodded. “Agreed. You’ve been running on fumes, Athena.” Her voice was gentle but firm. “You can’t fight a battle if you’re too exhausted to hold your sword.”

Athena hesitated before nodding slightly.

Lou, who had been mostly quiet, finally spoke up. “You know we’re not going anywhere, right?” His usual sarcastic tone was absent, replaced by something softer. “You need anything, you call. No hesitation.”

Athena swallowed, looking at all of them.

She wasn’t sure what she had done to deserve people like this in her life, but right now, she didn’t have the energy to question it.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

Maddie sighed, checking the time. “I should get going. I’ve got a deadline breathing down my neck, and I already pushed it to be here.”

Linda nodded. “Same. I have a meeting in the morning.”

Lou stretched, cracking his neck. “And I need to sleep before my brain stops working altogether.”

Hen hesitated, her gaze lingering on Athena. “You sure you’ll be okay?”

Athena glanced at Bobby beside her, then back at Hen. “Yeah,” she said, her voice quiet but steadier. “I will be.”

Hen studied her for a moment before nodding. “Alright. But I’m calling tomorrow.”

One by one, they left. Linda gave her one last lingering look before following Maddie out the door. Lou tossed a lazy salute before heading off, and Hen gave Athena’s shoulder a squeeze before finally going.

Then, it was just her and Bobby.

The courtroom was empty now, the air thick with the weight of everything that had just happened. Everything rushed back, everything bad rushed back into Athena’s mind.

The judge’s ruling still echoed in Athena’s ears, a cruel twist she hadn’t been prepared for. She stood frozen in place, staring at the judge’s bench, as if willing the words to change, as if she could will this nightmare to be undone.

Behind her, Bobby remained quiet for a long moment, his presence steady but heavy with unspoken words. She could feel his gaze on her, the weight of his concern thick in the air between them. 

He had known her long enough—loved her long enough—to understand exactly what was running through her mind. And that terrified him. Because he knew Athena wasn’t going to let this go. She wasn’t going to rest, wasn’t going to step back. She was going to push herself until she had nothing left. And Bobby wasn’t sure how much more of that she could take

Bobby’s chest felt tight as he watched her. Athena stood there, rigid, shoulders tense, hands clenched at her sides like she was holding herself together by sheer force of will. But he could see it, the exhaustion pulling at her, the weight of everything pressing down until she was barely keeping her head above water. It was devastating.

He had seen her fight before, had seen her push through impossible situations with nothing but sheer determination. But this was different. This wasn’t just a battle for justice, this was personal. This was her. And it was breaking her.

Bobby wanted nothing more than to take this pain away from her, to carry the burden himself if it meant she could breathe, if it meant she could sleep for even a few hours without the weight of loss crushing her. But he knew Athena. She wouldn’t stop. Not now. Not until she had her work back.

His stomach twisted because this wasn’t just about the trial anymore. There was something else, something deeper, something she hadn’t said out loud. 

He could see it in the way she refused to let go, in the way her desperation bled into everything she did. It wasn’t just about her stolen words—it was about proving something, about reclaiming something that had been taken from her before.

And Bobby had a feeling this wasn’t just about Blackwell. Maybe there was something deeper to this, that he didn’t know about.

“Athena.” His voice was gentle, but firm.

She didn’t move.

“Athena, listen to me.” He stepped closer, close enough that she could feel his warmth against her skin. “Don’t do this to yourself.”

Her fingers twitched. She knew what he meant. She knew exactly what he was about to say.

“You heard Clara. You need to take a break,” Bobby continued, his voice calm but edged with something heavier. “You need to stop for a second and just breathe.”

She finally turned to face him, her eyes dark with determination, jaw set tight. “I can’t , Bobby.”

“Yes, you can.”

“No, I can’t! ” She took a step forward, her voice rising. “You don’t get it. This isn’t just some case I can let go of for a few days. This isn’t something I can just… pause . ” Her voice cracked slightly, but she forced herself to push through. “This is my work. My stories. My words. And they’re out there in the hands of someone I don’t even know. How am I supposed to sit back and do nothing?”

Bobby ran a hand through his hair, his frustration evident. “Athena, no one is telling you to do nothing. But you’re going to drive yourself into the ground if you keep pushing like this. You just finished one battle. You won.”

She let out a bitter laugh. “Won? Is that what you think this is?” Her voice shook with anger, with disbelief. “I didn’t win, Bobby. Blackwell is gone, but I didn’t get my work back. I didn’t get what mattered. The most important part was ripped away from me, and now I’m supposed to just wait?”

His hands curled into fists at his sides. “You think I don’t understand how much this means to you?”

“No, you don’t!” she snapped, her body trembling with emotion. “You don’t understand what it’s like to have something you built from the ground up stolen from you! You don’t understand what it’s like to have the one thing that kept you alive ripped away and handed to someone else like it means nothing!”

His expression hardened. “You’re right. I don’t know what that feels like. But I know what this looks like.” He gestured toward her, frustration flickering in his eyes. “I know what happens when you get like this, Athena. When you push and push and push until there’s nothing left of you. You don’t eat, you don’t sleep, you stop living . I’ve seen it.”

Her hands clenched at her sides. “I have to do this, Bobby.”

“No, you don’t,” he shot back. “Not like this. Not alone.”

Tears burned in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. “What am I supposed to do, then? Just sit around while someone else controls my work?”

“You’re supposed to trust that we’ll figure this out together.”

She let out a shaky breath, shaking her head. “I can’t.”

“Athena—”

“I can’t, Bobby!” she shouted, her voice breaking, raw with emotion. It all came spilling out, everything she had been holding in, everything she had been trying so hard to control. “I need this! I need to fix this! I need my books back! It’s all I have, Bobby! It’s all I have left of me!”

Bobby’s chest tightened at her words, at the sheer desperation in them. “No,” he said firmly, his voice steady despite the storm between them. “That’s not all you have left.”

Her eyes flashed with frustration as she looked at him. “Then what, Bobby? What do I have? Because everything that mattered to me is gone!”

“You have me,” Bobby shot back, stepping closer, refusing to let her pull away from him. “You have your kids. Hen, Maddie, Linda, Lou—you have people who love you, Athena. People who are standing by you, fighting with you.” His voice softened, but his intensity didn’t waver. “You are more than your books. You are more than what they took from you.”

She clenched her jaw, shaking her head, her arms wrapped around herself like she was trying to physically hold herself together. “You don’t get it,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “Those stories—they’re pieces of me, Bobby. My work, my words, they’re everything I’ve ever poured my soul into. I built them from nothing, and now they’re just... gone.”

Bobby exhaled sharply, raking a hand through his hair, frustration and heartbreak twisting in his chest. “They’re not gone,” he said, his voice firm, unwavering. “We don’t know that. We still have so much to figure out, so many leads to follow. This isn’t over, Athena. Not even close.”

She let out a shaky breath, her fingers digging into her arms. “It feels over,” she admitted, her breath hitched.

Her hands trembled as the weight of everything came crashing down. She had been holding on so tightly, fighting with everything she had, but now it was unraveling, slipping through her fingers. And Bobby, he was the only one here. The only one trying to catch her before she shattered completely.

Tears welled in her eyes again, blurring her vision, but this time, she couldn’t stop them. She hated it. Hated how vulnerable she felt. Hated that she was breaking right in front of him. “Why is this even happening?” she whispered, her voice so fragile it barely carried in the empty courtroom. “Why is this happening to me?”

Then her body gave out.

Her legs buckled, the last of her strength leaving her, but before she could hit the ground, Bobby was there. His arms caught her, strong and steady, pulling her into him. She collapsed against his chest, her sobs breaking free, raw and unfiltered. All the frustration, the fear, the helplessness poured out of her, and she clung to him like he was the only thing keeping her from drowning.

Bobby held her tightly, one hand cradling the back of her head, the other wrapped around her waist, securing her against him. “I’ve got you,” he murmured, his lips brushing against her hair. “I’ve got you, baby. Just breathe.”

But she couldn’t. She couldn’t breathe. It was too much. All of it was too much. The weight of everything crushed her chest, suffocating her beneath the grief, the anger, the unbearable loss. She just wanted it to stop. She wanted the pain to vanish, the fear to dissipate, the helplessness to disappear as if it had never existed.

Bobby felt her trembling, felt every broken sob that shook her body against his. His arms tightened around her instinctively, holding her close, as if he could physically keep her from falling apart. "I know, sweetheart," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I know. But you’re not alone. You’re not alone."

She didn’t respond, only buried herself deeper into him, and he felt his chest ache in a way that words couldn’t describe. His body hurt—not from exhaustion or strain, but from the sheer agony in her cries. The way she gasped between sobs, like she was trying to breathe but couldn’t find the air. The way her fingers clung desperately to him, as if she was afraid he would disappear too.

Bobby swallowed hard, but the lump in his throat wouldn’t go away. His eyes burned, stinging with the threat of tears he refused to shed. Not because he didn’t want to cry, but because he needed to be strong for her. He needed to hold her together when she felt like she was falling apart.

But gosh , the pain in her voice, he could feel it seeping into his bones, crawling under his skin like something venomous. It wasn’t fair. None of this was fair.

He felt something dark and unrelenting settle in his chest, something cold and sharp, a deep, burning hatred for the people who had done this to her. For Blackwell, for the third party who had stolen her work, for anyone who had ever made her feel like she wasn’t enough. For anyone who left a scar on this beautiful woman he's gotten to know.

Bobby exhaled shakily and pressed his lips against her forehead again, lingering there, as if he could will his love into her, as if he could make her believe that she was still whole, still worth everything. He adjusted his grip, pulling her fully into his lap, cradling her like she was something fragile but so, so precious.

“It’s okay,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve got you. I’m right here.”

She didn’t say anything, just curled into him and the weight of her pain still pressed against him. He ran a hand up and down her back, murmuring soft reassurances into her hair.

Bobby wished, more than anything, that he could take this pain away from her. That he could erase every single moment that had led to this. But all he could do was hold her. And he would. For as long as she needed.

Athena needed this so badly. Her work. Her books. Her core. They weren’t just stories; they were pieces of her, carved from the deepest parts of her soul. Losing them felt like losing herself. And the worst part? She could hear the echoes of her past in the back of her mind, taunting her, reminding her of every cruel word her ex had ever said.

You’ll never make it without me.
You’re nothing on your own.
No one cares about your stories.
Watch these books be the only thing that wants you.

She gritted her teeth, trying to push the thoughts away, but they clung to her, sinking into the cracks she had tried so hard to seal. She didn’t want to let his words win. She didn’t want to believe them. But after everything, after fighting so hard just to have her work stolen from her hands, how was she supposed to convince herself they weren’t true?

It was so easy too. That just a phone call could ruin everything.

She hated that even now, even after all this time, he still had power over her. He wasn’t here anymore. He wasn’t in her life. And yet, his voice still poisoned her thoughts, still twisted her fears into something unbearable.

All she could feel was the gaping hole inside her where her words used to be. And she didn’t know how to fill it.

༺༻

It had been over a day since the hearing. Athena was still asleep, exhaustion keeping her wrapped in a deep, much-needed rest while Bobby spent time with the kids.

After her breakdown at the courthouse, Bobby had brought her home, making sure she was okay, making sure she had everything she needed. He had been by her side through it all—helping her change into comfortable clothes, making sure she ate something, holding her when the weight of it all became too much again. He had stayed with her until she finally let herself sleep.

The kids had been just as determined to take care of her. The moment Athena walked through the door, they had surrounded her with gentle hugs and soft words, their worry evident in the way they never strayed too far. They spent the evening by her side, playing board games, watching movies, talking to her about anything and everything to make her feel even a little better.

Now, it was late morning, and the house was quiet except for the faint sounds of breakfast being made. Bobby moved through the kitchen, flipping pancakes on the stove while the kids sat at the table, waiting eagerly. He had wanted Athena to sleep as long as she needed, to have at least a moment of peace before facing everything again. 

Then, just as Bobby flipped another pancake onto the growing stack, he heard the soft creak of the bedroom door opening. Then, light footsteps padding against the floor. He glanced over his shoulder, and there she was.

Athena stood in the hallway, rubbing one eye sleepily, her other arm wrapped loosely around herself. Her hair was a little messy, strands sticking up in soft waves from sleep. The oversized shirt she was wearing—his shirt—draped over her frame, the sleeves hanging past her hands. She looked small, barely awake, and yet somehow, she was the most adorable thing ever.

A slow smile tugged at his lips as he set down the spatula. Without a second thought, he crossed the kitchen, closing the distance between them.

"Morning, sweetheart," he murmured, his voice low, warm

Athena blinked up at him, still caught between sleep and wakefulness, her lips parting slightly as if she was about to respond. But before she could, Bobby cupped her face gently and leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss against her lips.

She melted into him instantly, sighing against his mouth, her hands resting lightly against his chest. 

When he pulled away, brushing a thumb over her cheek. "Sleep okay?" he asked, his voice softer now.

Athena let out a small hum. "Better," she admitted. "Because of you."

She then mumbled, “What are you doing?” Her voice was still thick with sleep, her words slightly slurred as she rubbed at her eyes again.

Bobby chuckled.  “Making breakfast for May and Harry,” he said, nodding toward the stove where pancakes were still sizzling in the pan. “Figured I’d let you sleep in a little.”

Before she could respond, the sound of fast-moving footsteps filled the air. In the next second, Harry came rushing into the kitchen, his face lighting up the moment he saw her.

“Mom!” he shouted, launching himself forward.

Athena barely had time to react before Harry wrapped his arms tightly around her waist, hugging her with all his strength. A surprised laugh escaped her as she caught him, her arms immediately encircling his small frame.

“Hey, baby,” she murmured, pressing a soft kiss to the top of his head as she smoothed down his unruly curls. “How are you doing?”

“I’m okay,” Harry mumbled against her shirt. “May’s working on her classes, but I wanted to see you.”

Athena’s heart swelled at his words, and she hugged him just a little tighter.

Bobby, watching the scene unfold, felt something deep in his chest settle. After everything that had happened, after watching Athena break down in the courtroom, after holding her through the worst of it, seeing her standing here, holding her son, looking just a little more at peace, it meant everything.

He cleared his throat, shaking himself out of his thoughts. “Alright, buddy, go get your sister. Breakfast is ready.”

Harry immediately perked up. “Pancakes?”

Bobby chuckled. “Yeah, pancakes. Now go on.”

Harry grinned and took off down the hall, calling for May as he went. A few moments later, she appeared, stretching her arms above her head as she walked into the kitchen.

“Morning,” she greeted, her eyes immediately flicking to Athena.

“Morning,” Athena replied, offering a small smile as she took a seat at the table.

Bobby placed a plate in front of Athena before setting the rest of the food on the table. As they all dug in, a comfortable silence settled over them, broken only by the soft clinking of silverware and the occasional hum of approval from Harry as he happily devoured his pancakes.

After a few moments, the quiet turned into soft conversation. It felt normal, something they hadn’t had in a while.

Athena glanced at May, tilting her head slightly. “How are your classes going?” she asked, curious.

May perked up a little, wiping her mouth with a napkin before answering. “They’re good,” she said. “My film classes have been really interesting. We’re learning more about cameras, how to operate them properly, how different angles affect storytelling, it’s been fun.”

Athena smiled, seeing the excitement in her daughter’s eyes. “That sounds amazing,” she said. “Are you still thinking about getting into directing?”

May nodded but then hesitated, pushing her food around with her fork. “Yeah, but…I’ve also been thinking about scriptwriting,” she admitted. “I love the technical side of filmmaking, but there’s something about writing a story from the ground up that feels really special.”

Athena’s smile widened. “Scriptwriting, huh? That’s a big deal.”

Bobby, who had been quietly listening, grinned. “Sounds like you take after your mom.”

May let out a small laugh. “Maybe a little.”

She reached over, gently tucking a strand of hair behind May’s ear. “I think you’d be amazing at it, sweetheart.”

“Thanks mom.” 

Athena smiled and nodded before looking down to eat her food.

But May’s eyes lingered on Athena, studying her. After a moment, she set her fork down and asked softly, “Mom?” She said, “Are you okay?”

Athena looked back up and May looked genuinely worried.

Athena hesitated. It was a simple question, but the answer was complicated. She wasn’t okay—not really. 

She exhaled, nodding slowly. “I’m okay, sweetie.”

May didn’t look convinced, but she didn’t push. Instead, she hesitated for a moment before asking, “What’s the next step for your work?”

Athena opened her mouth to answer but quickly realized she didn’t know what to say. She felt lost. She knew she had a meeting with Clara soon, but beyond that… she wasn’t sure. There were too many unknowns, too many pieces missing, and the weight of it all pressed heavily on her chest.

Before she could stumble over an answer, Bobby spoke up, his voice steady.

“Right now, your mom is taking a break for a few days,” he said, his tone firm but gentle. “Then she’ll go back to Clara’s office to figure out the next steps.”

May nodded, seeming satisfied with that answer, but she still reached across the table and took Athena’s hand in hers, squeezing it gently.

“You deserve the break, Mom,” May said softly. “And you’ll get your original work back. I know you will.”

Athena swallowed hard against the lump forming in her throat. Her fingers tightened slightly around May’s, grounding herself in the warmth of her daughter’s touch. Across the table, she could feel Bobby’s gaze on her—steady, warm, reassuring. When she looked down, Harry was watching her too, his small face full of trust, like he had no doubt that everything would be okay.

It made her feel at ease, gave her a sense of hope. Her kids were hopeful, still proud of her, still believing in her even when she was struggling to believe in herself.

The conversation shifted to lighter topics, and breakfast continued with laughter and warmth filling the space. But soon, May had to leave for class, gathering her things before giving Athena one last squeeze on the shoulder. Harry, full from breakfast, retreated to his room to play, leaving Athena and Bobby alone in the quiet of the house.

Athena found herself sorting through the mail, absentmindedly flipping through envelopes and bills, barely paying attention, until her eyes landed on a sleek, elegant envelope with embossed lettering. An invitation.

She furrowed her brows and opened it, skimming the details. It was an invitation to an author’s gala, tomorrow night. Her stomach twisted at the realization that it had been sent a week ago. Guess she’d been too caught up in everything to even notice.

She stared at it, debating. It was such short notice, barely enough time to decide, but… maybe this was something she needed. A night to breathe, to be around other authors, to remind herself of the world she was still a part of. And besides, she still had Shattered Vows to write. Maybe being in that environment would help her refocus.

She honestly didn’t know what to do, given everything. She still felt that ache in her chest. 

As she mulled it over, Bobby came up behind her, drying his hands after finishing the dishes. Without a word, he leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her shoulder, then another to the side of her neck.

His eyes drifted to the invitation in her hands. “What’s that?” he murmured. 

Athena exhaled softly, still staring at the invitation. “It’s for an annual author’s gala,” she said. “It was sent a week ago, but I completely missed it.” She let out a small, humorless laugh. “Guess I’ve been a little preoccupied.”

Bobby’s gaze lingered on her, his eyes searching hers, reading the hesitation in her expression. “Do you want to go?... Is this something you feel up to?”

She bit her lip, looking up at him. “I’m not sure.”

“Okay.” He nodded, stepping closer. “Talk to me.”

She hesitated for a second before sighing. “I think it could be good for me. Meeting other authors, being in that space again… Maybe it’ll help clear my mind.” Her voice wavered slightly as she lowered her gaze. “But at the same time, I don’t know if I can. What if it just makes everything worse? I don’t have my work, Bobby. It feels like I’m not even connected to that part of myself anymore.”

Bobby reached for her hands, intertwining their fingers. “Athena, your work isn’t just the words on a page. It’s in you. No one can take that from you.” He squeezed her hands gently. “You built yourself up once, and I know you’ll do it again. This gala isn’t about what you’ve lost, it’s about reminding yourself of what’s still yours.”

She swallowed, his words settling deep within her. She still didn’t believe him, but it was Bobby she was talking to.  She nodded. “Okay. I’ll go.”

Bobby smiled.. “Good. Then we should probably find you something to wear.”

She blinked. “I don’t have a dress.”

“Then I guess we’re going to the mall,” he said, grinning as he leaned down and kissed her.

Athena smiled softly before heading toward Harry’s room. She peeked inside, finding him sitting on his bed, still playing his video games with his headphones. As soon as he saw her, he opened an ear for her.

“Hey, baby,” she said. “Bobby and I are heading to the mall for a bit. Want to come?”

Harry barely glanced up before shaking his head. “Nah, I’m good. Have fun, though.”

Athena chuckled. “Alright, we will.”

With that, she went to get ready, changing into something comfortable before meeting Bobby at the door.

The drive to the mall was easy, the radio playing softly in the background as they talked about everything and nothing. The past few weeks had been heavy, filled with stress, but in this moment, with the windows slightly rolled down and the warm breeze brushing against their skin, it felt lighter. Normal.

Once they arrived, Bobby took her hand as they strolled inside, the familiar hum of the busy mall surrounding them. The blend of different stores, food court chatter, and the occasional giggle from kids running past made the atmosphere feel lively.

“Alright,” Bobby said, glancing around. “We’re here for a dress, but… since we actually made it out of the house, why not just look around for a bit? No rush.”

Athena smirked. “So, what you’re saying is, you want to go shopping?”

Bobby gave her a pointed look. “I don’t hate shopping.”

“You say that, but I’ve literally seen you avoid stepping into a mall.”

Bobby scoffed. “I avoid it when it’s for pointless reasons. But this?” He gestured around. “This is a mission. We are here for a purpose. And if we happen to browse around a little, well… I’m with you. You want to shop.”

Athena laughed, squeezing his hand. “Alright then, let’s browse.”

They started with a tech store, because of course Bobby had to mention something about May telling him to keep up with the trends and get something that was cool. 

He checked out the latest gadgets, picking up a sleek-looking pair of headphones and putting them on to test the sound. Athena leaned against a display shelf, watching as his eyebrows furrowed in concentration.

“Well?” she asked.

He pulled them off, nodding in approval. “Not bad. But overpriced. I don’t know what teens are doing these days.”

Athena chuckled. “So, you’re not getting them?”

“Nah, I’ve got better ones at home,” he said, setting them back.

“Uh-huh,” she teased. “And yet, you spent ten minutes testing them?”

Bobby turned to her, a playful glint in his eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry. Did I take too long? My deepest apologies.”

Athena smirked, looping her arm through his. “Come on, let’s go before you start making a PowerPoint presentation about overpriced headphones and teenagers who have bad taste.”

They wandered into a bookstore next, which was, of course, both of their weaknesses. The familiar scent of paper and ink filled the air, the shelves stacked high with stories just waiting to be read. The soft hum of quiet conversations and the occasional rustling of pages made the space feel cozy, almost like stepping into another world.

Athena let go of Bobby’s arm, immediately drawn to the nearest display table. She picked up a novel, flipping through the first few pages, already lost in the words. 

Bobby, meanwhile, wandered toward the non-fiction section, running his fingers along the spines of books about history, philosophy, and classics, of course. 

A few minutes later, he turned and found her completely engrossed in a book, her lips slightly parted as she read. He smirked, stepping closer. “You do realize we came here for a dress, right?”

Athena glanced up, blinking as if she’d just remembered where she was. “Huh?”

Bobby chuckled. “That’s what I thought.”

She huffed, setting the book down reluctantly. “Fine, I’ll save it for later.”

He grinned. “That’s growth.”

They continued browsing, pointing out books to each other. Bobby then held up her book. “This one’s got your name written all over it.”

She just rolled her eyes.

Then, she picked up a cheesy romance novel with a dramatic cover and wiggled it in front of him. “And this is so you.”

Bobby gave her a deadpan look. “Hilarious.”

She grinned, placing it back.

After nearly an hour of wandering through the bookstore—because of course they lost track of time—they finally left. 

They walked hand in hand through the mall, stopping at random places. Somehow, they ended up in a home décor store, Athena admired a set of elegant wine glasses, running her fingers along the rim of one.

“These are pretty,” she mused.

Bobby raised an eyebrow. “When was the last time you even drank wine?”

She gave him a look. “I drink wine at least once a week Bobby.”

“Right, you do.” He had forgotten.

Bobby then saw a shoe store he wanted to go to and dragged her there insisting that she help him pick out a new pair. He’d been talking about it for weeks.

“This pair,” he said, holding up a pair of black sneakers. “What do you think?”

Athena tilted her head. “They look just like the ones you already have.”

He gave her a look. “These have a different sole.”

Athena snorted. “Wow. Such a big difference. This is why May is always talking about you being old. ”

“I’m not old. Who are you calling old? Comfort is just important,” he said, slipping one on to test it out.

After a few more minutes of playful debate, they left the store, Bobby ultimately deciding against getting another pair of shoes that, in Athena’s words, looked exactly like his old ones.

They continued to go to different stores and mess around like teenagers.

Eventually, every time they passed a dress store, they made sure to go in and take a look. Athena would skim through the racks, picking up dresses she liked, but none of them felt quite right.

They were in a boutique dress store, Bobby held up a sparkly red gown. “What about this?”

Athena made a face. “I am not wearing that.”

“Why not?” he teased. “You’d look stunning.”

She crossed her arms, giving him a look. “I’d look like I belong in a Vegas show.”

Bobby laughed. “Alright, alright. No to the sequins.”

Athena kept skimming through the racks, pulling out different dresses and trying them on just for fun. Some were elegant, some were over-the-top, and some were so ridiculous she had to stifle laughter. 

She didn’t care, though. It had been so long since she let herself just enjoy something without the weight of her stolen work, the lawsuit, and everything else pressing down on her.

At one point, she stepped into a flowing pastel blue dress, the fabric soft against her skin as she turned toward the mirror. She gave a small twirl, watching the way the skirt flared out. It was light, delicate, pretty, even.

Bobby, leaning against the entrance to the fitting room, watched her with a soft smile, his eyes warm as they traced over her figure. “You look beautiful.”

She caught his gaze in the reflection, and her heart gave a familiar flutter. She loved that look, loved the quiet way he admired her without saying too much.

Athena ran her hands down the fabric, exhaling. “It’s nice,” she admitted, “but it’s not the dress. Doesn’t really feel like me.”

Bobby nodded easily. “Then we keep looking.”

They decided to head toward a fancier dress store when Bobby suddenly grabbed her hand and pulled her toward a small, tucked-away corner.

Athena barely had time to react before she saw it—a photo booth.

She turned to him, unimpressed. “You have to be joking.”

Bobby grinned at her. “Come on, when’s the last time you took pictures in one of these?”

Athena let out an exaggerated sigh. “You are so cheesy.”

“And yet, you love me anyway,” he said easily, pulling her inside before she could protest further.

The booth was small, forcing them close together as Bobby inserted the money. The dim light above them cast a soft glow over Athena’s face, and she looked at him with a raised brow, still skeptical but undeniably fond.

The screen lit up. The countdown started.

Three… two… one…

Click.

In the first picture, Athena smiled at the camera, just doing what was expected. But Bobby, he wasn’t looking at the camera at all. He was looking at her . Not just looking, watching . Like she was the only thing in the world worth paying attention to.

The camera flashed again.

Click.

This time, Bobby's hand reached behind her head, to turn it and he kissed her lips, she smiled into the kiss just as the camera went off. 

Click.

They both stuck their tongues out, making silly faces, their laughter nearly shaking the tiny booth.

Click.

The last one was softer, just them smiling, close together, Athena leaning into him. Bobby’s arm was around her, his thumb rubbing absentminded circles against her arm. It wasn’t posed or planned. It was just them .

The photos printed, and Athena grabbed them, looking down at the strip with a soft, unreadable expression.

At first, she took in all of them, laughing a little at their goofy expressions, admiring the smile on her face when he leaned in to kiss her. But then her eyes landed on the very first picture.

She had been smiling at the camera. Just doing what she was supposed to. Meanwhile, Bobby hadn’t even glanced at the lens—his eyes were completely on her.

Her chest tightened. He always looked at her and she never got tired of it.

Something about it made her pause longer than the others.

Because it wasn’t just a stolen glance. It wasn’t just a casual look.

It was him .

It was the way he always looked at her. The way he had looked at her in the courthouse when she broke down. The way he looked at her in the mornings when she was still half-asleep in his shirt. The way he looked at her when she was rambling about a new book she was reading or ranting about something frustrating.

Like he couldn’t believe she was his . Like she was worth something.

She traced her finger over the image, her heart squeezing. Bobby truly loved her.

Bobby nudged her gently. “Worth it?”

She swallowed, forcing a smirk to cover the emotion threatening to rise. “Yeah… worth it.”

He grinned, throwing an arm around her shoulders as they finally headed into the store, hand in hand.

The store was elegant but not overwhelming, no flashy sequins or over-the-top gowns. Instead, the dresses were simple but refined, with delicate details that made them stand out. Flowing fabrics, soft colors, intricate embroidery, it felt right.

“This is it,” Athena murmured, scanning the racks. “This is where we’ll find it.”

Bobby glanced around, nodding in agreement. “Yeah, these actually look like you. ” He turned to her, his expression thoughtful. “What’s the theme of the gala, anyway?”

“Enchanted Garden,” she said, still looking at the dresses.

His lips quirked. “Fancy.”

She chuckled. “A little. It just means floral designs, soft colors, and a dreamy atmosphere.”

Bobby smirked. “Sounds like an excuse for rich people to drink fancy wine under twinkly lights.”

Athena rolled her eyes but smiled. “Maybe. But it also means I need to find something that fits the theme.”

“Well,” Bobby gestured toward the dresses, “then let’s get to it.”

They split up, scanning the racks, occasionally holding up dresses for each other’s approval. Athena snorted as he held up a bright gold, ruffled monstrosity. “Absolutely not.”

“You sure?” he teased, grinning. “I think it screams ‘Enchanted Garden.’”

“It screams something , ” she said dryly, pushing it back onto the rack.

They continued browsing, until finally, Athena’s fingers brushed against a gown that made her pause.

It was breathtaking, soft ivory with floral embroidery that looked like vines weaving across the fabric. The material was light and airy, with sheer sleeves that added to its elegance. It wasn’t too extravagant, but it had something going. It was green so it could match the garden vibe.

Bobby noticed her hesitation. “That one?”

She nodded slowly. “I think so.”

“Then go try it on,” he said, giving her a little nudge toward the fitting rooms.

Athena took a deep breath and stepped inside, drawing the curtain shut behind her. She slipped out of her clothes and carefully pulled the dress on, smoothing the fabric down as she turned toward the mirror.

It was… stunning.

The soft green complemented her skin tone, the floral embroidery giving it an almost ethereal look. The fabric draped in all the right places, hugging her waist just enough before flowing down in gentle waves. She turned slightly, taking in the way the light caught the embroidery, making it shimmer subtly.

She felt beautiful and she knew that Bobby, Bobby would think so too.

“Athena?” Bobby’s voice came from outside. “How’s it going in there?”

She opened the curtain and stepped out.

Bobby’s expression shifted instantly, his eyes widening as he took her in.

His gaze swept over her slowly, his usual teasing demeanor absent. Instead, there was something softer. 

“Wow,” he breathed. “You look… absolutely beautiful.”

Athena felt warmth spread through her chest. She glanced down at herself again, smoothing her hands over the fabric. “I really like it,” she admitted. “I think this might be the one.”

But what if there was something even better? She really did like this dress, but it was a lighter green, she wanted a bit more darker.

“I want to try on one more,” she said, glancing around the store.

Bobby raises an eyebrow. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing baby. It does look really good, but I want to go for a darker green. Plus I just want to compare. “

He smiles. “Okay.”

She wandered back toward the racks, scanning the dresses until her eyes landed on another green gown. This one had a deeper shade, closer to gotham green, with embroidered gold accents that resembled delicate leaves scattered across the fabric. It had an off-the-shoulder design, more structured than the first but still flowing enough to match the theme.

This one was different, but just as beautiful.

She grabbed it and turned back to Bobby. “Okay. One last try.”

He smirked. “Alright, let’s see if it tops the first one.”

With that, she disappeared back into the fitting room.

Athena slipped into the second dress, smoothing the fabric down as she turned to the mirror. The deep gotham green was rich and regal, the gold embroidery catching the light just enough to make her feel like she belonged in a storybook. The off-the-shoulder design framed her collarbones and shoulders elegantly, and the fit hugged her in just the right way.

She stepped out of the fitting room, and the moment Bobby saw her, his expression changed. His eyes darkened slightly, his lips parting as he took her in.

“Okay,” he said slowly, his voice low. “This one.”

Athena laughed, spinning once so the skirt flared around her. “You think?”

“I know .” He stepped closer, hands instinctively reaching for her waist. “You look incredible.”

She smiled, tilting her head. “Better than the last one?”

Bobby didn’t even hesitate. “Not even close.”

His hands slid further around her waist, drawing her in until their bodies were just inches apart. Athena could feel the warmth of him through the fabric of the dress.

Then, before she could react, he leaned in and kissed her.

It wasn’t just a quick peck, it was slow, lingering, like he couldn’t help himself. Like he needed to kiss her.

Athena made a small noise of surprise before laughing against his lips, pressing a hand to his chest. “Bobby—”

He pulled back just enough to meet her gaze, his hands still firm on her waist.

“What?” he murmured, tilting his head.

“We’re in the store.” She gave him a pointed look, even as her heart pounded.

Bobby just shook his head, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. Then, without another word, he took her hand and gently tugged her back toward the fitting rooms.

“Bobby,” she whispered, barely containing her laughter.

He didn’t stop until they were inside the fitting room, the curtain drawn shut behind them. His hands found her waist again, pulling her against him, and his breath was warm against her ear as he whispered, “You are so sexy.”

Athena let out a soft laugh, shaking her head as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “You’re ridiculous,” she murmured.

But she kissed him anyway. 

Bobby’s hands tightened around Athena’s waist as he pulled her in, his lips moving against hers with slow, deliberate intensity. Athena melted into him, her fingers threading through his hair, tugging him even closer. The fitting room was small, but the warmth between them made everything else fade away. His kiss was deep, slow but hungry, like he was savoring every second.

Athena let out a soft sigh as he tilted his head, deepening the kiss, his lips parting against hers with just enough pressure to make her heart race. Her body pressed flush against his as his hands roamed up and down her sides, tracing the delicate fabric of the dress before gripping her hips firmly.

He pulled back just enough to murmur against her lips, “You’re so dang beautiful.”

A shiver ran down her spine at his voice, low and rough. She barely had time to respond before he kissed her again, this time more urgent. His lips moved down her jaw, pressing slow, teasing kisses down the side of her neck. Athena gasped softly, gripping his shoulders as he kissed a sensitive spot just below her ear.

“Bobby,” she whispered breathlessly, biting back a laugh. “Baby, we are at the store. ”

Bobby just shook his head, a smirk playing on his lips as he kissed her again, this time deeper, his hands sliding over her waist. “Don’t care,” he muttered against her lips before backing her against the wall of the fitting room, trapping her between him and the mirror.

Athena let out a quiet laugh, but she didn’t stop him, she didn’t want to. She kissed him back, arms wrapping around his neck, losing herself in the warmth of him. The world outside didn’t exist. It was just them, the soft rustle of fabric, and the sound of their breathing mixing together.

But then, knock, knock.

“You two done in there?” a voice called, barely hiding their amusement.

Athena froze, eyes wide, while Bobby, completely unbothered, just let out a small chuckle.

“I mean, we were,” he said, grinning.

Athena smacked his arm, her face burning. “Oh my gosh,” she muttered under her breath.

The worker outside snickered. “Hate to interrupt, but if you’re done making out, maybe let the rest of the store breathe?”

Athena groaned, covering her face. Bobby, on the other hand, was thriving, smirking as he pressed one last kiss to her lips before finally stepping back.

“Thanks for the reminder,” he called back, completely unfazed.

“Hey, no judgment,” the worker replied, clearly amused. “You both are packages.”

Athena shook her head, still flustered as she adjusted the dress. Bobby grabbed her hand and kissed the back of it with a wink. “C’mon, let’s buy this dress before they actually kick us out.”

Still flustered but smiling, Athena let him lead her out, only to find the store employees giving them knowing smirks. She avoided eye contact as Bobby just grinned, completely unashamed.

As they stepped out of the fitting room, Athena tried to keep her head down, still recovering from the teasing. But before she could make a quick purchase, one of the workers gasped, eyes widening in recognition.

“Wait a second… no way,” the young woman said, looking between Athena and Bobby like she had just solved the biggest mystery of her life.

Another worker turned, their eyes going just as wide. “Oh my god, you’re Athena Carter! You wrote the Timeless Vows Series!”

Athena blinked, taken aback. “Uh—yeah?”

The first worker practically bounced in place. “I knew it! I knew you looked familiar, but I didn’t want to be that person who gets it wrong. Oh my gosh, I love your books!”

Athena smiled, a little overwhelmed but touched. “Thank you. That really means a lot.”

“And you’re the guy from the bookstore, right?” The second worker turned to Bobby, their eyes shining with excitement. “You own Nash’s Nook. You're the guy all over the internet. Are you two dating?”

Athena and Bobby looked at each other, considering that they just came out from making out. There was no way that they would believe them if they said no.

Bobby smirked, slipping an arm around Athena’s waist like it was the most natural thing in the world. “That would be correct.”

The workers lost their minds.

“No way! This is like… the perfect romance story in real life! The bestselling author and the charming bookstore owner? That’s straight out of a novel!”

Athena, flustered beyond belief, laughed. “I guess when you put it like that…”

The first worker clasped their hands together. “Okay, I need to ask—could I maybe, possibly, if it’s not too much trouble… get an autograph?”

The second worker chimed in. “Me too? I have a copy of Timeless Vows in my bag, I swear I was just rereading it on my break!”

Athena exchanged a look with Bobby, who was just grinning like this was the best thing ever. She shook her head with an amused smile. “Yeah, of course. I’d be happy to.”

The worker squealed before dashing to the back to grab their book, and Athena took the offered notepad from the other one.

Athena finished signing the notepad with a quick signature before handing it back with a warm smile. "Thank you for reading my work. It really means a lot."

The worker clutched the signed paper to their chest like it was priceless. "Are you kidding? Thank you for writing it! I can’t wait for your next book!"

The other worker, now holding a well-worn copy of Timeless Vows, practically shoved it toward her. "Same here! I’ve read this book so many times—can you sign it to Emily?"

Athena chuckled, flipping to the title page. "Of course." She carefully wrote out a personalized message, making sure to add a little heart at the end before handing it back.

"You’re the best," Emily said, still looking starstruck.

With a final round of thanks and goodbyes, Athena and Bobby made their way to the register. As she placed the dress on the counter, Bobby leaned down, murmuring, "You’re famous, you know that?"

Athena rolled her eyes, but there was a blush creeping onto her cheeks. "I’m not that famous."

"Uh-huh," he smirked. "Tell that to your adoring fans back there and the ones that keep attacking us."

She nudged him lightly, but Bobby just grinned as she paid for the dress. The cashier handed her the bag, still beaming, and with that, they were on their way out of the store.

As soon as they stepped back into the busy mall, Athena exhaled.

Bobby slid an arm around her waist, pulling her close as they walked. "You enjoyed that kiss, didnt you?”

She let out a small laugh, leaning into him. "Maybe just a little."

As they walked through the mall, the scent of fresh pretzels and sizzling food filled the air, making Athena realize just how hungry she was. Bobby must have noticed too because he gently stirred in the direction of the food court. "Wanna grab something to eat before we keep shopping?"

She nodded, smiling. "Yeah, that sounds good."

As they strolled through the mall, the scent of various foods filled the air, freshly baked pretzels, sizzling stir-fry, the unmistakable aroma of fried food that always seemed more tempting after a long day of walking. Athena let herself take it all in, her fingers loosely intertwined with Bobby’s as they made their way toward the food court. It had been a good day. A really good day.

For the first time in a long while, she felt like she could breathe. There was no looming stress weighing on her shoulders, no suffocating thoughts of stolen work, legal battles, or the overwhelming uncertainty of what came next. This day had been normal, waking up to the warmth of her family, sharing breakfast and casual conversation, laughing with May and Harry. It was simple, but it was theirs.

And then there was Bobby.

She still couldn’t grasp the fact that he was in her life, and that he always grounded her. He had a way of making the world feel a little lighter, even in the moments she wanted to sink into the weight of it all. She had spent so long fighting, fighting for her work, fighting for her peace, fighting to prove that she was stronger than everything that had tried to break her. Even the simplest things, even her feelings. She didn’t have to fight. She could just be. He did it for her, he took it off.

She glanced up at him as they walked, the way he was casually scanning the food court, as if today wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. And maybe that was the best part of it. She didn’t need grand gestures or extravagant outings, just this. Just him. Just a day where everything felt right.

Athena’s gaze drifted across the food court with him, lazily scanning the options. Burgers, pizza, sushi—nothing stood out yet, but she wasn’t in any rush. The air smelled of fried food and sweet sauces, and the hum of conversation blended with the occasional clatter of trays. 

“Baby, what do you think of orange chicken?” Bobby asked, pointing toward the Panda Express counter.

“Yeah, that sounds good,” Athena said, her voice light, her focus still half on him.

But then, everything stopped.

Everything had slowed down.

In her body, and everything around her.

Her gaze locked onto a store just slightly tucked away in the distance. Her breath hitched, her body tensed, and it felt as if the air had been sucked from her lungs. The voices, the clatter of trays, the laughter from a nearby table, all of it faded into the background as her vision tunneled in on one person.

Him.

Jeffery Hudson.

Her ex.

The one she had escaped from. 

Athena’s stomach dropped, a cold wave of dread crashing over her. It had been years since she had seen him, years since she had last heard his voice or felt the weight of his presence suffocating her. And yet, in an instant, it was like no time had passed at all. The fear was just as sharp, just as suffocating. Her body remembered before her mind could process it—her muscles locking up, her chest tightening, the instinct to shrink, to disappear, taking over.

She felt herself go pale, her hands trembling at her sides. The warmth, the happiness from before, it was gone, stripped away in an instant. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears, drowning out everything else. She felt like she was sinking, like she had been pulled under deep water, unable to breathe.

He hadn’t seen her. Not yet. But he was there. And that was enough to send ice through her veins.

The dress slipped from Athena’s fingers, the delicate fabric pooling onto the tiled floor like a ghost of something fragile, something lost. Her grip had gone slack, her entire body frozen in place. It was like her mind had detached from her limbs, like she was no longer in control of herself.

And then—he looked up.

Jeffrey’s gaze locked onto hers.

The moment their eyes met, it was like a hand closed around her throat. A slow, suffocating grip that she had spent years escaping, only for it to tighten once more. His face hadn’t changed much. The same cold, calculating eyes, the same sharp jawline, the same expression that had once made her feel so small. He blinked, as if processing what he was seeing, as if he wasn’t sure if she was real or just some ghost from his past.

Athena couldn’t move. Couldn’t breathe.

She felt the walls closing in, the noise of the mall warping into a distant hum, her own heartbeat slamming against her ribcage so hard she thought it might shatter.

“Athena?”

Bobby’s voice cut through the fog, gentle but firm. She felt him bend down, picking up the dress from where it had fallen. His warmth was so close, so steady, but it wasn’t enough to break the ice crawling up her spine.

“Baby?” he tried again, concern lacing his tone now.

She grabbed his hand.

She didn’t think. Didn’t explain. She just moved.

Her fingers tightened around his wrist as she yanked him away, her legs propelling her forward even though she felt like she could collapse at any moment. She had to get out. She had to move. 

She didn’t know if Jeffrey was following, didn’t want to know. All she knew was that the panic was rising fast, her chest heaving as her breaths came in short, desperate spurts.

“W-We have to go Bobby.” She said.

Bobby's eyebrow raised as they moved through the mall. “What do you mean, baby slow down, what's going on?”

Athena’s pulse pounded in her ears, drowning out everything else, the mall’s noise, Bobby’s voice, even her own frantic thoughts. Her only focus was getting out. Away. As far as possible.

Bobby’s grip on her hand tightened as he tried to slow her down, but she didn’t stop. Couldn’t stop. Her feet barely felt the ground beneath them as she pushed forward, weaving through the crowd with tunnel vision. The air felt too thick, her chest too tight, her body stuck in that fight-or-flight response she thought she had buried years ago.

“Athena,” Bobby’s voice cut through, firmer this time. He tugged slightly, trying to get her to turn, to face him, but her strength, born from pure panic, kept them moving in one direction. Forward. Out. Away.

He stumbled slightly, catching himself as she gripped his hand harder. “Baby, stop—what’s wrong?”

She couldn’t.

Her breath was ragged, her lungs barely keeping up. She knew she was moving too fast, knew people were glancing at them, but none of it mattered. All she could see was Jeffrey. Even though she wasn’t looking anymore, his presence was burned into her mind.

How was he here? How the heck was he here? 

Bobby tried again, stepping in front of her just enough to slow her down. “Athena, please.” His voice was softer this time, but filled with concern.

She risked a glance up at him, just for a second, and the moment he saw her face, his whole expression changed.

The worry deepened.

His brows knitted together, his lips parted like he was about to say something, but all that came out was a quiet, “Baby…”

“W-We have to go,” Athena choked out, barely recognizing the sound of her own voice. It was thin, unsteady—almost lost beneath the rush of blood in her ears.

Bobby didn’t question it this time. He let her pull him, her grip like iron as they hurried through the mall, weaving between shoppers who barely noticed the storm raging inside her. The dress, still clutched in Bobby’s free hand, crinkled as they moved, but she didn’t care. Nothing else mattered.

The second they reached the car, Athena yanked the door open and slid into the passenger seat, her hands gripping her knees as she tried to steady herself. “Drive,” she said, breathless. “Bobby, drive—now.”

She was shaking.

Her fingers curled into fists against her legs as her breathing came in short, uneven bursts. She felt like she was suffocating, like the car wasn’t big enough, like the walls were closing in.

“Baby—”

“Bobby, please,” she begged, her voice cracking. “Just—just go.”

But the engine didn’t start.

Instead, Bobby reached over, his warm hand covering hers, grounding her. “Athena,” he murmured, his voice so soft, so careful. “Talk to me.”

She squeezed her eyes shut, willing the tears to stop, but it was too late. They were coming fast, spilling over before she could even take another breath. A broken sob slipped past her lips, and she felt herself unraveling.

Bobby’s heart clenched at the sight of her breaking. He reached up, brushing away her tears with his thumb, his touch gentle, his gaze filled with nothing but worry. “Hey,” he whispered. “I’ve got you. Just breathe, baby. Please.”

But how could she? How could she breathe when every doubt, every nightmare, every horrible moment she had spent years trying to bury had just slammed into her all over again?

“Just go!” Athena suddenly yelled, her voice raw, cracking under the weight of her panic. The tears wouldn’t stop, hot and relentless as they streaked down her face. Her hands shook as they gripped the dashboard. “We need to go! Now!”

Bobby flinched at the outburst, his confusion deepening. He had never seen her like this—never seen her so afraid, so desperate. “Athena, baby, what’s going on?” His voice was softer this time, careful, like he was trying not to spook her. “Talk to me.”

But she couldn’t.

She couldn’t form the words, couldn’t make sense of the hurricane inside her. If she tried to say it out loud, if she tried to explain, she’d fall apart completely.

She needed Hen.

Her breath hitched, sharp and uneven, her chest tightening like a vice. She pressed her palms against her temples, squeezing her eyes shut as the edges of her vision blurred.

No, no, no, not now.

Not here.

Bobby’s hands tightened on her shoulders, his grip firm but not forceful, his touch meant to steady her, to bring her back. “Athena, slow down. Just breathe, baby.”

He cupped her face, thumbs brushing against her damp cheeks, searching her eyes for something, anything, to hold onto. But there was no calming her. The fear had already taken root, digging deep, suffocating her from the inside out.

Her breath was coming too fast, shallow and ragged. Her chest felt like it was caving in, her body trembling so hard she thought she might collapse.

“Bobby,” she gasped, her voice breaking as she clutched at his arm, nails digging into his sleeve. “Start the car. Now. I won’t ask you again, or I’m going to run home.”

Bobby didn’t hesitate after that. He could see it, the terror, the desperation, the way she was unraveling right in front of him. His heart clenched, breaking at the sight of her like this, because he had never seen Athena afraid. Never.

The only thing that went through his mind was: What is going on? I need to keep her calm. I need her to calm down.

He turned the key, the engine roaring to life as he peeled out of the parking lot. His hands gripped the wheel so tight his knuckles turned white, but his eyes kept flicking toward her, chest tight with worry.

Athena fumbled for her phone, her fingers numb and shaking as she scrolled to Hen’s number. She could barely breathe, barely see through the haze of panic clawing at her throat, but she needed Hen.

She needed her now.

The phone barely rang once before it was answered.

“Athena,” Hen’s voice came through the speaker, urgent. “I was about to call you.” There was a pause, then—“Jeffrey’s out of prison.”

Athena felt it like a physical blow. Like a punch straight to the gut that knocked the air from her lungs.

Her whole body went cold, her vision tunneling, the panic attack slamming into her full force.

She gripped the phone so tight it hurt. The world was closing in, her breath coming in short, sharp gasps. Her heart pounded against her ribs, too fast, too loud.

“I saw him.”

It was all she could get out before everything tilted, her mind spiraling, drowning in the terror that had taken hold.

The silence on the other end of the line lasted only a second, but it was long enough to feel like forever. Then Hen’s voice came through, firm but filled with concern.

“Athena, what do you mean you saw him?” Hen’s tone sharpened. “Breathe. I need you to breathe, okay?”

But Athena couldn’t. Her chest was too tight, her breaths coming too fast, too shallow. The phone trembled in her grip, her knuckles white as she clutched it against her ear.

“I—” Her voice broke, her words stumbling over each other. “I w-was at the mall— I—I saw him, Hen. He looked right at me.” Her whole body shook, the image of Jeffrey’s face burned into her mind. “How? How is he out? He—he wasn’t supposed to—”

Bobby’s voice broke through the haze, soft but desperate. “Baby, please breath for me,” he pleaded, his hand squeezing her thigh as he drove. His other hand gripped the wheel so tightly his knuckles had turned white. “In and out, please baby.” His voice cracked on the last word, because he had never seen her like this.

Hen’s voice cut through next. “Athena, listen to me,” she said, steady but urgent. “He was released early. Good behavior.”

Athena let out a broken, disbelieving laugh. “Good behavior?” The words felt foreign, bitter on her tongue. “How? He—he’s not—”

“I know,” Hen soothed, her voice softer now, but there was something simmering beneath it, something protective. “I know, Athena. But listen to me—you’re not alone in this. I need you to focus on breathing, okay? Just in and out. Bobby’s with you. You’re safe right now.”

Bobby didn't know what was going on, and he kept glancing at her every few seconds, his hand never leaving her thigh.

But it didn’t feel that way. It felt like she was still back there, like she was that scared, broken woman all over again, standing frozen as Jeffrey looked at her, like he still had control over her.

Hen’s voice grounded her again. “Are you going home?”

Athena swallowed hard, blinking against the fresh wave of tears threatening to spill. She nodded before realizing Hen couldn’t see her.

“Y-yeah,” she stammered. “Bobby’s taking me home.”

“Good,” Hen said immediately. “I’m coming to you. I’ll be there soon.”

There was a beat of silence before Hen’s voice came through again, softer this time. “Athena… did you tell Bobby about Jeffrey yet?”

Athena’s stomach twisted violently. Her breath hitched, and for a second, it felt like the world was closing in even tighter.

No. He didn’t.

She had never told him. Not a single thing about Jeffrey. Not about the years of pain, the bruises that took too long to fade, the scars—both the ones on her skin and the ones buried deeper, the ones that never really healed. Bobby knew she had been in a bad relationship before, but that was it. She had never let him see the truth.

And now? Now it was crashing down all at once.

Her grip on the phone tightened. “No,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Hen sighed on the other end, and Athena could picture the way she’d be shaking her head, concern and frustration mingling together. “Athena…”

“I couldn’t,” she choked out, her free hand pressing against her chest as if that could hold everything in, keep everything from breaking loose. “I can’t.”

Bobby. Sweet, gentle Bobby. Bobby, who loved her in ways she never thought she deserved, who looked at her like she was something good, something whole.

He would leave.

The thought hit her so hard, she nearly doubled over from the weight of it. Everything was just crashing down.

They had been together for almost a year. Nearly twelve months of laughter, of quiet nights wrapped in each other’s arms, of feeling safe for the first time in so long. And she had never told him. Not once. Not a single word about Jeffrey.

He didn’t know about the bruises that used to bloom across her skin like poison. He didn’t know about the nights she had spent curled up in a locked bathroom, pressing a hand over her mouth so no one would hear her cry. He didn’t know how many times she had convinced herself that this—this nightmare—was just how love was supposed to feel. He didn’t know that his words and his thoughts still affected her while she was with him. He didn't know she spent years trying to escape. 

And if he found out now?

Athena squeezed her eyes shut, her fingers tightening around the phone.

He would look at her differently. He would see her as weak, as broken, as someone who had let herself be torn apart piece by piece. He would see the scars, the ones she had spent years hiding, and he wouldn’t see her anymore, he’d see the damage .

He would leave. He had to.

Because how could he stay? How could someone like him, someone so kind, so steady, so good, possibly want to be with someone as shattered as her?

She couldn’t let that happen.

She had to end it before he could. Had to push him away before he had the chance to look at her and realize she wasn’t worth staying for.

But the thought of leaving Bobby shattered her into pieces.

She wanted a future with him. She wanted lazy Sunday mornings tangled in sheets, coffee cups in hand, laughter echoing through their home. She wanted to have more kids with him, to watch him be a father with her. She wanted to grow old with him, to build a life, a love that lasted.

He was so good. Too good.

And she wasn’t.

Bobby deserved someone stable, someone whole. Not someone who flinched at shadows, whose past had its claws wrapped around her throat, tightening every time she thought she had finally escaped.

She had convinced herself she was past this. That she had moved on, built something new, something safe. But the past had caught up to her, sinking its teeth into everything she had worked so hard to rebuild.

And she hated it.

This week, everything— everything —had been too much. The stolen work, the stress, and now Jeffrey. It felt like the universe was trying to break her, trying to remind her that no matter how far she ran, she would never truly be free.

Her breath hitched, her fingers curling into her lap, nails digging into her palms just to feel something real.

She needed to be strong. For her kids. For her future.

And maybe that meant letting Bobby go.

Bobby noticed. “Athena?” His voice was gentle, but there was an edge of panic to it now. He squeezed her hand, his eyes flicking toward her between glances at the road. “Talk to me, baby. Please. I want to know what's going on?”

But she couldn’t.

Not yet.

“Hen,” her voice cracked, “I need you to hurry.”

“I’m almost there.”

Somewhere along the way, the call ended, and everything blurred. Athena didn’t know what Bobby was saying anymore, his voice was just a distant hum, drowned out by the pounding in her ears. She needed to get home. She needed to figure this out.

The drive felt like it stretched on forever, but at the same time, it wasn’t long enough. Because as soon as they pulled up to the house, she knew what she had to do.

Hen wasn’t there yet, but Athena didn’t wait. She pushed open the car door, practically running toward the house, desperate to get inside, to escape the weight crushing her chest.

Bobby was right behind her.

Before she could reach the door, his hand closed around hers, pulling her to a stop.

“Athena.” His voice was firm but gentle, filled with confusion and worry. “Talk to me. Please.”

She flinched, not because she was afraid of him— never because of him—but because everything inside her was unraveling too fast, and she didn’t know how to stop it.

They stood there, just the two of them, the world feeling too quiet, too still.

“Athena.” Bobby’s grip softened, but he didn’t let go. “You’re shutting me out. Who were you talking to on the phone? What did you see? Who did you see?” His voice dropped lower, more urgent. “Are you okay?”

She wasn’t.

And that’s why she had to do this.

Athena sucked in a sharp breath, forcing herself to look at him. She had to get it over with before she lost the nerve, before she let herself believe, hoping that he would stay.

She shook her head, words tumbling from her lips too fast, too desperate. “Bobby, I can’t do this anymore.”

His brows furrowed, confusion flashing across his face. “Do what?”

She pulled her hand away, putting space between them, her heart hammering. “Us,” she whispered, then forced herself to say it louder, firmer. “I can’t do this. ”

Bobby took a step closer. “Athena, what are you talking about?”

Her chest ached, but she pushed through it. “You’re amazing. You came into my life and showed me what love is supposed to feel like. You love me in a way I never thought I’d deserve.” Her voice cracked, but she kept going, rushing the words out before she could stop herself. “But you can’t be with someone like me.”

Bobby shook his head. “What? Athena, I don’t—”

“It’s not you,” she cut in. “It’s me.”

His eyes searched hers, desperation creeping into his expression. “Athena, please. Don’t do this. I don’t understand.”

She could feel herself breaking apart, her body screaming at her to take it back, to hold on —but she couldn’t.

The look on his face shattered her.

And it left a hole so deep she didn’t know if she’d ever fill it again.

Athena felt like she was suffocating. Like her own words were choking her, strangling her before they even left her lips.

But she had to do this.

Her chest ached, her heart thundering so loud it drowned out everything else. She forced herself to look at Bobby, to take in every detail of his face, the concern, the pain, the confusion. Oh my gosh , she was about to destroy him. And in doing so, she was about to destroy herself.

Her fingers curled into her palms, her nails digging in so hard it almost hurt, grounding herself in the only way she knew how. She had to do this quickly, had to get the words out before she lost what little strength she had left.

“Bobby,” she started, but her voice cracked.

She swallowed, her throat tight, her breath shaking.

“Bobby, you… you have been everything to me.”

He took a small step forward, his hands twitching at his sides like he wanted to reach for her, like he wanted to pull her in and fix whatever was breaking. But he didn’t. He just waited.

Athena clenched her fists tighter. “You have helped my kids, you have loved them, been there for them in ways I never thought anyone would.” Her vision blurred, the tears rising too fast. “You have made my life brighter, safer, happier. And I love you for that. I love you, Bobby.”

As she spoke, every memory of him flashed through her mind like a film she never wanted to end.

The nights he stayed up talking to her kids, playing board games with them. The way he never hesitated to help with their homework, never made them feel like a burden, never treated them as anything less than his own family. Even after everything he had lost.

The nights he stayed with her, just being there. Keeping her company in the quiet, making her feel safe, making her feel seen.

The bookstore. Where they first met, where she had handed him her signed copy, where their “first date” wasn’t really a date at all, just an extension of their book club discussion that lasted hours after everyone else had gone home. Where they spent time together after closing, walking through the aisles like he had built the place just for her. And in so many ways, he had.

The way he carved out space for her there, tucked her into a quiet corner where she could write without fear, without pressure, without Jeffrey haunting every word she put on paper.

The way he looked at her when she wasn’t paying attention. Like she was something precious. Like he was grateful just to love her.

The night he confessed his own past to her. The night they said I love you .

The way he never pushed, never demanded more than she could give. How he always let her lead, how he waited for her at her pace, how he made her feel safe in a way she never thought possible.

His arms, his love, his nature—all of him—was everything she had never let herself believe she could have.

His lips parted, his brows furrowing. “Then why are you—”

“Because you don’t know me.” She cut him off, shaking her head. “Not the real me. Not the parts I’ve buried, the things I’ve hidden from you. The things I can never tell you.”

His face twisted with confusion, with hurt. “Then tell me.” His voice was soft, but there was an edge of desperation to it. “Athena, tell me. I want to know.”

She squeezed her eyes shut, shaking her head. “You think you do. But you don’t. You can’t.”

Bobby stepped closer. “Yes, I can.” His voice was firm, unwavering. “Athena, I love you. I love all of you. The good, the bad—everything . ”

Her breath hitched.

His eyes were red, glassy, his jaw tight like he was fighting back tears. “Don’t do this,” he whispered. “Please. We’re doing this together. You don’t have to carry it alone.”

Her hands shook as she forced herself to meet his gaze.

That was the moment it truly hit her.

He wasn’t going to leave.

He wanted to stay.

He wanted her.

But he couldn’t.

Because one day, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, he would see the truth. He would see how damaged she was, how broken beyond repair. And then he would leave.

Athena sucked in a sharp breath, forcing the words out even as they ripped through her. “I can’t do this anymore.”

Bobby’s face twisted in pain, his body tensing. “What?”

“I can’t,” she repeated, shaking her head. “I shouldn’t have let it get this far.” Her voice broke. “You deserve better. You deserve someone who isn’t—”

“Don’t,” Bobby cut in, his voice shaking now too. “Don’t say that.”

Her throat closed up, but she pushed forward. “I am not the person you think I am. I have been trying so hard to keep this together, to be normal, to be good enough for you. But I’m not. I can’t be.”

Bobby’s eyes shone with unshed tears. “You are good enough for me. Athena, please—”

“No.” She shook her head, stepping back. “It’s not you. It’s me . ”

A tear slipped down Bobby’s cheek. He didn’t even wipe it away. “I don’t believe that.”

She let out a choked, bitter laugh. “You should.”

Silence stretched between them, thick and suffocating.

Then, finally, Bobby spoke.

“I want you.” His voice was barely above a whisper. “I want all of you, Athena. Every piece, every scar, every part of your past—none of it changes how I feel about you.” He took a shaky breath. “You don’t have to be strong all the time. Not with me.”

Athena squeezed her eyes shut, her heart shattering into pieces she would never be able to put back together.

The fear was louder.

Then, out of the corner of her eye, she saw Hen’s car pull up.

It was time.

She turned back to Bobby, her vision blurred with tears, and reached for him one last time. Her hands cupped his face, her fingers trembling as she memorized the warmth of his skin, the feel of him beneath her touch.

And then she kissed him.

It wasn’t desperate, it wasn’t rushed—it was final . It was every “I love you” she never got to say, every moment she wished could last forever, every goodbye she never wanted to give.

When she pulled back, tears slipped freely down her cheeks, her breath shaking as she tried to hold herself together. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “For everything. For loving me. For loving my kids. For being the boyfriend I never thought I’d have.” A broken laugh left her, tears falling harder now. “For seeing me in ways I didn’t know I could be seen. For this part of my life. For all of it. For letting me just be without asking for anything in return. For every gift, every moment, every bit of love you’ve given me.”

Her chest ached as she forced the words out. “For helping me through this lawsuit. For standing beside me even when I fell apart. For holding me through every tear, every failure.” She swallowed hard, the pain almost unbearable now. “For making me feel safe.”

Her hand trembled as she reached up, brushing her fingers against his cheek, wanting to remember the warmth of him, the softness of his eyes.

“Thank you, Bobby Nash, for everything .”

Bobby shook his head, his grip tightening around her wrists like he could keep her from slipping away. His eyes shone with unshed tears, his voice breaking as he begged, “Athena, don’t do this. Please—”

But then, headlights cut through the night.

Hen was already getting out of the car.

Athena felt her chest squeeze, felt her entire body scream at her to stop, to take it back, to let herself hold onto him. But she couldn’t.

She had to go now, or she never would.

She let go.

Her feet felt like lead as she turned away, as she walked toward the house with steps too fast, too unsteady.

Bobby tried to follow. “Athena—”

But then Hen stepped in front of him.

She didn’t speak right away. She just looked at him, her eyes heavy with sorrow, like she already knew how much this was breaking him.

Bobby’s heart pounded. He reached for her, gripping her hand. “Hen, please. What’s going on? Tell me.”

Hen hesitated. Her fingers curled against his like she wanted to hold on, wanted to give him something.

But she didn’t.

Instead, she shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’m sorry, Bobby. I can’t—I’m sorry.”

Then she let go.

Bobby stood there, frozen, as Hen turned and followed Athena inside.

The door clicked shut.

And he was left standing there, staring at the house, his chest hollow.

Broken.

And alone.

Chapter Text

After the break up…

Bobby didn’t even remember getting in the car.

Everything blurred the moment Athena walked away. The moment the door shut. The moment Hen told him nothing and left him standing there like a stranger outside the home that used to welcome him.

As he sat behind the wheel of his car, frozen. The door to Athena’s house had already clicked shut minutes ago, but he couldn’t bring himself to move. His fingers gripped the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles had gone pale, aching from the pressure. His heart thundered in his chest like it was trying to break through his ribs. Everything felt distant and muted, like he’d been thrown underwater, sounds muffled, movements delayed, air thick and heavy.

She was gone.

No warning. No real explanation. Just gone.

He blinked hard, jaw clenched so tightly it ached, but it didn’t stop the sting in his eyes. He didn’t even know when the first tear had fallen—he just suddenly felt the warmth of it roll slowly down his cheek, tracing the edge of his face like it was mocking him. He sucked in a sharp breath through his nose and wiped it away quickly, angrily, like maybe if he rubbed hard enough, he could erase the ache in his chest too. But it stayed. Heavy. Sharp. Unrelenting.

“Don’t do this,” he had said. “Please.”

He could still hear the crack in his own voice. Still see the tears on her face when she kissed him goodbye. Still feel the way her hands trembled against his. The way her lips had brushed against his like a silent apology. Like she didn’t want to go but had convinced herself she had to.

"Thank you for everything…"

Her voice echoed in his mind on an endless loop, soft and final, cutting him open every single time. Like the closing chapter of a story he never wanted to end. Like a farewell wrapped in gratitude instead of truth.

And now, sitting there in the silence of his car, he couldn’t breathe past the weight of it. Couldn’t think straight. Couldn’t stop the storm brewing in his head.

Why?

The question screamed at him over and over again.

Why did she leave? What did I do? What didn’t I do?

He gripped the steering wheel tighter, his knuckles going white again. His mind was spinning with a thousand thoughts, all of them tangled and loud and desperate.

Was I too much? Not enough? Did I say something wrong? Miss something? Was she lying the whole time about how she felt?

Did she love me at all?

That one hurt the most.

He’d thought she did. He knew she did. He saw it in her eyes, heard it in her voice every time she called his name, every time she laughed at something dumb he said, every time she held his hand like she didn’t want to let go. But now… now he didn’t know what to believe anymore.

He’d been hurt before. Broken, even. And Athena… she wasn’t like that. She had never been like that.

She had promised him—promised—that she would remind him every single day how worthy he was. That he wasn’t too damaged, too complicated, too much. She was the one who told him that his heart, even with all its scars, was still good. Still worthy of love.

She had been there the night he told her everything, every shameful, painful detail about what happened with Marcy. How it ended. How hollow it left him. He had never talked about it with anyone in that much detail before. He had never let anyone see how deeply it haunted him. But Athena didn’t flinch. She didn’t pull away.

She held him while he cried.

She ran her fingers through his hair and whispered, “You’re safe. You’re not alone.”

She told him she loved him—soft and sure, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

And it had felt real. It was real. He knew it in his bones.

So why?

Why would she just walk away now, like none of it mattered? Like it hadn’t happened? Like he hadn’t mattered?

He kept replaying every second in his head, trying to make sense of something that never could.

Because he knew Athena. Knew her better than anyone.

He knew the way she looked at him, like he was something fragile and precious, like she was afraid to believe he was really hers. He knew the way she hesitated sometimes when he did something thoughtful or unexpected, like no one had ever loved her like that before. Like she didn’t know what to do with the kind of love that didn’t demand anything in return.

There was always this flicker in her eyes, surprise. Awe. Soft disbelief.

Every time he left little notes in her notebooks.

Every time he brought her coffee while she worked late into the night.

Every time he touched her like she wasn’t a burden, but a blessing.

He saw it, felt it. She had never been looked at that way. Never been loved like that.

And he would’ve spent a lifetime teaching her how.

But now she was gone, and none of it made any sense.

Because if it had been a lie… it wouldn’t have hurt this much.

And if it had been real—if she knew it had been real—then why did she leave?

Why did she say she wasn’t good enough?

Why did she say he didn’t really know her?

Why did she build something with him only to tear it down without warning?

He didn’t have the answers. Only the echo of her goodbye and the weight of everything she left behind.

Maybe he should’ve seen it coming. Maybe he’d ignored the signs. Maybe he’d been too wrapped up in the way she made him feel to notice her slowly slipping away. Or maybe… maybe there were no signs at all. Maybe she just woke up one day and decided she didn’t want this anymore.

That thought alone gutted him.

His heart felt like it had been yanked out of his chest and stomped on, and he wanted her. He loves. He wanted to run back to her house and beg her to talk, to explain, to tell him anything other than “thank you.”

What if it was me? What if I scared her off? What if I wasn’t strong enough for her? What if she never saw forever with me at all?

What if… she just didn’t believe he was worth staying for?

That thought lodged itself deep in his chest, burrowing into the same place where hope used to live. He felt the burn of another tear sliding down his cheek, and this time, he didn’t bother wiping it away.

He just let it fall.

He truly just didn't understand, she was talking to Hen on the phone about someone. The pain of her cries. Who did she see at the mall? What “good behavior” was she talking about? What made her so scared that she had bursted into a panic attack? 

Not good enough for him.

That’s what she’d said. That’s what she truly believed.

And it shattered something deeper in him, because she couldn’t have been more wrong.

She was everything.

Every version of her—messy, complicated, loud, quiet, broken, healing—he loved it all. He didn’t care what she’d been through. He didn’t care what she’d done before she met him. He didn’t care about the past that haunted her.

He just wanted her.

And now she was gone.

Because somewhere deep down, she didn’t believe she was worthy of being loved like this. Because she was scared. Because something in her had convinced her that she would ruin everything good in her life before it had a chance to last.

But he didn’t believe that. He never believed that.

And he wished she had told him. Really told him. Instead of walking away with a kiss and a thank you and tears she refused to explain.

He hit the steering wheel once, hard, frustration burning behind his eyes.

Why didn’t you just tell me?
Why didn’t you let me fight for you?

He knew her. Maybe not every chapter of her past, maybe not every shadow she carried, but he knew her heart. He knew her soul. He’d seen her gentle, seen her fierce. He’d seen her brave and scared and messy and brilliant. He’d seen her when she broke down crying in the middle of a late-night writing session and when she lit up talking about her characters like they were pieces of her own spirit.

And he had loved every version of her.

But she still pulled away.

“I’m not good enough,” she had said.

“It’s not you, it’s me.”

And gosh, he hated how cliché those words sounded, how they felt like something out of a bad romance movie, except this wasn’t fiction. This was his life. His heart. Shattering in real time.

How many times does he have to say this, think this? 

He didn’t care about her past. Didn’t care what she’d done or who she used to be. All he wanted was her. The woman in front of him. The woman who carried stories in her bones and pain in her silence. The woman who made him laugh when he didn’t think he knew how anymore. The woman who came into his life like a storm and left him standing in the wreckage, still loving her.

Why couldn’t she see that?

Thank you for everything…

Her voice replayed again and again in his head, cutting him open every time.

He couldn’t sit still anymore. He shoved the car into drive, his foot slamming the gas pedal harder than necessary. The tires kicked against the road as he pulled away from her street, vision blurry. 

The night swallowed him whole, the glowing streetlights casting long, distorted shadows across his dashboard. His fingers trembled on the steering wheel as he drove, and every second felt like he was slipping further from something he didn’t know how to hold onto in the first place.

He didn’t even know where he was going at first. His mind raced in every direction—should he go home? Should he go back? Should he call her again and beg for her to come outside? Should he yell, scream, cry, something?

But all he could do was drive. His body was on autopilot.

And then he realized—Chim. He needed Chimney. He needed someone to say something, anything, to keep him from collapsing. Because if he went home, if he sat in that quiet apartment where Athena’s jacket still hung on the coat rack and her tea mug still sat in the sink, he was going to fall apart. 

His chest heaved, and his breath stuttered as more tears slid out, this time faster, harder, unchecked. His vision blurred again, and he reached up to swipe at his eyes, his palm trembling as it touched his face.

He didn’t cry like this. Not often. Not like this.

But this wasn’t just about losing her. It was about losing everything. The future he’d started to let himself hope for. The laughter in his kitchen. The nights curled on the couch. Her hand in his. The bookstore memories. Her kids calling him Bobby like he belonged.

The car came to a hard stop in front of Chimney’s apartment building. He didn’t even remember parking—he just knew he was there, and he couldn’t breathe. He slammed the door behind him, hands shoved in his jacket pockets, shoulders hunched, the cold night air hitting him like ice against his overheated skin.

The stairs felt endless as he took them two at a time, his legs moving faster than his brain. The ache in his chest grew heavier with every step. He reached Chimney’s floor, turned the corner, and finally stopped in front of the door.

His fist hovered for a second, shaking slightly in midair. He didn’t know what he was going to say. He didn’t even know how to say it. All he knew was that if he didn’t talk to someone right now, he was going to come undone.

So he knocked.

Hard.

Once. Twice. Then again, faster, frantic.

He heard footsteps shuffle behind the door. A pause. Then it opened.

Chimney’s face appeared, slightly surprised, bleary-eyed like he’d just woken up from a nap, but the moment he saw Bobby—really saw him—his expression shifted instantly.

“Bobby?”

Bobby tried to speak, but nothing came out.

His jaw moved slightly, but all he could manage was a short, trembling exhale. The weight of everything he’d been holding in finally started to spill out the only way it could—through the tears slipping silently down his face. He wasn’t sobbing, wasn’t shaking—just unraveling, one slow tear at a time.

Behind Chimney, Maddie appeared in the apartment, holding a cup of tea and pausing mid-step when she saw him. Her eyes widened softly in surprise, brows furrowing in concern.

Bobby caught sight of her, and his voice cracked when he tried to speak. “I— I should go,” he stammered, barely able to meet her eyes. His voice was broken glass, rough and weak and sharp at the edges. “I didn’t mean to— I shouldn’t have come—”

But Chimney didn’t let him move.

Without a word, he reached out and grabbed Bobby’s wrist, firm and steady, anchoring him in place. Then, without asking again, he pulled him gently but firmly into the apartment and shut the door behind them.

Chimney didn’t need to ask right away. He knew that look. That hollow stare, the way Bobby’s shoulders had slumped like he’d finally collapsed under something he’d been carrying too long. He knew that Athena had just done something.

Chimney felt his heart break once again, for his best friend.

He guided Bobby to the couch, helping him sit like he wasn’t sure his legs could keep him upright anymore.

“What happened?” Chimney asked softly, crouching in front of him. His voice was calm but laced with urgency. “Talk to me, man. What happened?”

Bobby sat there, hands limp in his lap, tears still falling silently. He blinked hard, struggling to find words, his throat tight with everything he hadn’t said since Athena walked away.

Chimney waited patiently, eyes locked on his, not pushing—just being there, steady, grounded, ready to listen.

And finally, Bobby opened his mouth.

Bobby’s breath hitched.

His hands were shaking now, knuckles going white as he gripped the edge of his jeans, like holding on physically could somehow ground him in this moment—this nightmare that didn’t feel real.

“She—” His voice cracked again. He swallowed hard, fingers curling tighter. “She broke up with me.”

Chimney blinked. “What?”

“One minute—” Bobby’s voice was rising now, panicked, unraveling. “One minute we were at the mall. Just… normal. She was fine. We were talking, laughing. She was on the phone with Hen, and I—I didn’t think anything of it, but something changed. She started rushing home, she was panicking, I could hear it in her voice—something about behavior—she said she saw someone and—God, Chim, I didn’t know what was happening.”

He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, burying his face in his hands for a second before dragging them down, eyes wide and wet. “And then we’re outside her house and she just—she says it’s not me. That it’s her. That I don’t know her. That there are things I can’t know.”

His breathing was uneven, shallow, like he was trying to speak around the ache in his chest. “And then she’s thanking me. Thanking me for loving her—for her kids—for everything—and then she just walks away. And Hen—Hen was there, and she didn’t say a damn thing either, she just went inside too and left me standing there like none of it ever meant anything.”

“I’m so sorry,” Chimney said quietly, voice gentle but helpless. He sat beside him now, hand on his shoulder, but Bobby barely registered the touch.

“No, Chim,” Bobby said, shaking his head hard. “No—because I don’t know what I did. I don’t know what I missed. You’ve seen her. You’ve seen the way Athena looks at me. The way she used to smile at me like I was the only person in the room. The way she would—she would reach for my hand without even thinking. That wasn’t fake. That wasn’t something she just decided to stop feeling.”

His voice broke, and he looked at Chimney, eyes wild and shattered. “This isn’t happening right now. This—this isn’t real.”

And then the words tumbled out like a final breath: “She was the one.”

His voice cracked under the weight of it.

“She was it for me, Chim. She was it. I never thought I’d get something like this again. Not after Marcy. Not after everything. But she made me believe I could. She promised me I was worthy. That she would remind me every day.”

His chest heaved again, tears spilling over.

“She held me, Chimney. When I broke down, when I told her everything, about Marcy, about the guilt, the grief, the way I thought I was broken, she held me like I wasn’t broken. Like I was whole. She told me she loved me. She meant it. I know she did.”

And then—he broke. Fully.

His hands came up to his face, the sob ripping from his throat before he could stop it.

Chimney didn’t speak. He just reached over, pulled Bobby into a hug, and let him cry. Let him fall apart.

Because there was nothing else to do when a man loses the one person he thought would finally be his home.

Chimney didn’t say anything at first. He just held him.

Bobby’s shoulders were shaking against him, sobs muffled into his shirt. It was the kind of heartbreak that didn’t have words. The kind that cracked through bone, not just skin.

“I’ve got you,” Chimney said softly, his hand gently rubbing circles on Bobby’s back. “It’s okay, Bobby. You don’t have to hold it in.”

But Bobby was unraveling too fast to stop. Everything came out in pieces, fragmented breaths and broken sentences.

“I didn’t even see it coming,” he said through clenched teeth. “I didn’t see anything coming. She was fine, Chimney. She was fine. We were just walking around like any normal day, and then suddenly she’s different—she’s shutting down—I didn’t even have a chance to fix it.”

“I know,” Chimney said, nodding, voice low and steady. “I know. Just breathe, okay? You’re not alone.”

Bobby pulled away, just slightly, enough to meet Chimney’s eyes—red, wet, full of disbelief.

“I don’t understand what happened,” he whispered. “I keep trying to replay everything in my head, trying to figure out where I went wrong. What I missed. But I didn’t… I didn’t do anything different. I just loved her. That’s all I did.”

“I know you did,” Chimney said, eyes soft. “Anyone could see it.”

“She said it was her,” Bobby continued, his voice cracking again. “She said I don’t know her. That there are things I can’t understand. But I would’ve. I don’t care what it is—her past, whatever she’s scared of—I would’ve taken it all. I would’ve carried it with her. I wanted to.”

Chimney gave a small nod, squeezing his shoulder. “Of course you did. That’s the kind of man you are.”

“But what if that wasn’t enough?” Bobby asked, voice quiet and hollow. “What if she left because I couldn’t make her feel safe enough to trust me with it?”

“No.” Chimney shook his head. “Don’t do that. Don’t blame yourself for her walls. You don’t get to beat yourself up for something you didn’t even get the chance to understand. She’s hurting, Bobby. I don’t know why, but I do know she loves you. That wasn’t fake. Anyone with eyes could see it.”

Bobby’s eyes dropped to the floor. His heart was still pounding in his chest like it didn’t know what to do with itself anymore.

“I was gonna marry her, Chimney,” he said softly.  “I wanted- so-” His voice breaks.

Bobby felt tears fall and they just kept going. He sobbed into Chimney again,

“I know you did,” Chimney said again, his voice almost a whisper now.

For a few minutes, neither of them spoke.

Bobby leaned forward, elbows on his knees again, hands dangling between them like he didn’t know what to do with them anymore. Empty. Wrecked. But somewhere underneath all of it was still that flicker of hope. Still that ache that said he wasn’t ready to give up on her, not yet.

“She wouldn’t have let go if it wasn’t killing her to do it,” Chimney said after a while, his voice gentle but certain. “Whatever it is… it wasn’t easy for her either. Maybe she’s trying to protect you from something she thinks you shouldn’t carry.”

“I didn’t want protection,” Bobby murmured. “I wanted her.”

Chimney sighed softly, then pulled him into one more hug—firm and grounding.

“I know, man,” he said quietly. “I know.”

They sat in silence for a moment, just the sound of Bobby’s heavy breathing filling the room. His hands were clenched, his shoulders still trembling beneath the weight of it all.

Then a voice came from the kitchen—soft, hesitant, but kind.

“I’m sorry, Bobby…” Maddie said gently, stepping into the living room, her eyes full of quiet sympathy. “I didn’t mean to intrude, I just… I heard everything.”

Bobby quickly wiped his face, sniffing hard, trying to piece himself together even though the cracks were still visible in every part of him. “No, it’s… it’s okay.”

Maddie hesitated a moment, glancing at Chimney, then took a seat on the armrest beside him, her voice soft but steady. “I know that Athena loves you. I know that she does and I just can't believe that she would break up with you. But hearing you talk, I know it’s not the same, but… I’ve been where you are. Wondering what you did wrong. Searching for the moment it all slipped through your fingers, and trying to understand how something that felt so real could fall apart.”

Bobby looked at her slowly, his jaw still tight, but his eyes aching for understanding.

“And sometimes,” Maddie continued, “it really isn’t you. Sometimes people pull away not because they don’t love you… but because they love you too much, and they’re scared that their past, their pain, their mess will eventually hurt you. So they leave before it does.”

“But I would’ve stayed,” Bobby said quietly, almost like he was telling it to himself. “Through all of it. I would’ve stayed. I wasn’t afraid.”

“I know,” Maddie nodded. “And maybe deep down… she knows that too. But some people have lived with their fears for so long, they don’t know how to let someone help carry them. They only know how to run.”

Chimney looked over at her, a flicker of admiration in his eyes.

“She loves you, Bobby,” Maddie said softly. “You don’t just forget someone like you. People don’t run from someone they don’t love. They run because they’re scared they don’t deserve to be loved like that.”

And somehow, those words hit Bobby harder than anything else had.

His throat tightened again, fresh tears pooling in his eyes, but he didn’t stop them this time. He just let them fall, let them speak the grief his voice couldn’t find anymore.

“She was it for me,” he whispered again, broken and raw. “She was it.”

Maddie reached for his hand and squeezed it gently.

“I still think she is.”

Bobby shook his head, his voice cracking beneath the weight in his chest. “She didn’t even give me an explanation,” he said hoarsely. “She didn’t even—” He stopped short, his breath hitching like the words got stuck in his throat. He swallowed hard, but it didn’t help. Nothing helped.

“She just…” His hands trembled again, reaching up to run through his hair, gripping it like he was trying to hold something in place—anything. “She kissed me goodbye like it was nothing. Like we didn’t—like we weren’t—” His voice broke entirely, and he had to pause, squeezing his eyes shut as the tears spilled again, faster this time, trailing over his cheeks in waves he couldn’t stop.

“I just wanted to see her,” he whispered, more to himself than anyone else. “I just wanted to see Athena.”

His chest heaved with every breath, like his body was trying to keep up with the storm building inside him.”Chimney, what do I even?,” he said, breathless.

Chimney’s heart clenched at the sight of him.

“Bobby…” he said softly, his voice thick with emotion. It was gutting to see him like this again, like all the healing Bobby had worked so hard for had just been pulled out from underneath him in one cruel moment. He hadn’t seen him this destroyed since the day he told him everything about Marcy. And this was somehow worse. Deeper.

He’d told Athena not to hurt him.

He warned her.

He had seen how much Bobby loved her. He had seen the change in him—how alive he’d become again with her. How she made him laugh without trying, how she steadied him when his doubts crept in. She had promised to stay. Promised to show him he was worthy of love again. And now…

“You don’t understand, Chimney. One minute we were walking in the mall, laughing, talking—then we were in the car, she was on the phone with Hen, she was crying, she was–I don’t even know. Chimney, she was breaking. She said something about someone she saw. Something about behavior—she was panicking.”

He looked up at Chimney and Maddie, eyes glassy, red-rimmed, frantic. “Then we get home and it’s like she’s not even the same person anymore. She said it wasn’t me, that it was her. That I couldn’t know everything. That there were parts of her I wasn’t supposed to see.” His voice dropped again, cracked and wounded. “But I didn’t care. I didn’t care what her past was. I just wanted her. I just… I wanted her.”

More tears fell. He didn’t even bother to wipe them away anymore. “I’m not ignorant,” he said quietly, brokenly. “I know what love feels like. I know the way she looked at me, like she couldn’t believe someone was loving her like that. I know it was real. So why?”

His voice dropped to a whisper again. “Why didn’t she fight for us?”

“She didn’t even let me try,” Bobby said, his voice shaking. “She just… let go.”

The final words unraveled him.

His chest caved in as the sob hit him—raw, sudden, uncontrollable. He dropped his head, hands trembling in his lap before they rose to cover his face, but it was no use. The grief tore through him, full force now. His shoulders shook violently as the sobs came faster, deeper, guttural from somewhere so buried even he didn’t know he’d been holding it in that long.

He couldn’t breathe. He couldn’t think. He just cried.

Chimney didn’t hesitate. He pulled Bobby into him, wrapping his arms tightly around him, anchoring him in the storm. Bobby didn’t resist. He collapsed into the embrace, burying his head into Chimney’s shoulder like he couldn’t hold himself up anymore. His hands clutched weakly at Chimney’s shirt, like he needed something—anything—to hold on to while the pain ripped through him.

“It’s okay,” Chimney murmured, voice gentle and steady as he rubbed a hand up and down Bobby’s back. “I’ve got you, man. I’ve got you.”

But Bobby couldn’t stop.

The grief just kept coming. The heartbreak. The confusion. The unbearable weight of not understanding why.

He didn’t care about holding it together anymore. Not here. Not in front of Chimney. Not when everything inside him felt shattered.

He just wanted Athena. 

♡

A week goes by…

Bobby woke up.

At first, he wasn’t even sure what stirred him—the light, the quiet creak of the world outside his window, or the ache in his chest that had made a home there ever since she left. His eyes cracked open slowly, dragging against the heavy swell of exhaustion that hadn’t let him rest all night. 

The morning sun had slipped through the crack in the curtains, casting soft golden streaks across the floor, and for a moment… just a moment… he forgot.

Just a second of stillness where he could almost believe it had all been a bad dream.

But then he turned his head.

The pillow beside him was untouched. Cold. Untouched for seven days now. And the ache came rushing back in, crashing against his ribs like a wave he was too tired to stand against.

Seven days.

One hundred and sixty-eight hours.

And somehow, the pain hadn’t dulled even a little.

It was still sharp. Still raw. Still clawing at his insides like something trying to rip its way out.

His body was heavy, bone-deep exhaustion wrapped around him like a second skin. He laid there, staring up at the ceiling, trying to will himself to breathe evenly. But even that felt like too much effort.

It wasn’t just her absence that hurt. It was the silence.

The way the apartment echoed in her absence. The way the rooms felt too big without her voice filling them. The way his mornings felt too quiet without her rustling through the kitchen, humming softly under her breath. The way the air itself felt colder, like even the light had dimmed since she walked out that door.

He sat up slowly, hands bracing the mattress, spine stiff and reluctant. His muscles ached like he’d run a marathon in his sleep. He dragged a hand down his face and exhaled a shaky breath, one that stuttered in his chest before it left his lungs.

He didn’t want to get up. But he had to.

The bookstore wouldn’t open itself.

Routine was the only thing keeping him tethered to reality lately. It was the only thing that made him feel human, made him feel like he wasn’t completely unraveling. And even that was starting to slip through his fingers.

He swung his legs over the edge of the bed and sat there for a minute, hunched forward with his elbows on his knees, staring blankly at the floor. The silence around him pressed harder now, like it was crawling beneath his skin.

She used to be here in the mornings.

Every morning.

Wrapped in his sheets. Her hair tangled, her eyes soft from sleep, her legs tucked around his as she pressed against him. She used to smile before she even said good morning. That quiet, sleepy smile—the kind that made him feel like he could breathe.

Now the bed just looked like a wound he had to sleep in every night.

When he finally stood up, his body protested, everything stiff and aching from nights of restless sleep. He shuffled toward his dresser and opened it slowly, grabbing one of his shirts.

But there it was. Her shirt. Still folded. Still right there beside his. The one she used to steal. The one she wore on slow Sundays when she didn’t feel like dressing up for the world. The one she used to curl up in when they spent the day reading side by side on the couch, legs tangled, hearts settled.

He stared at it for a moment, and his chest twisted. He didn’t have the heart to move it. He didn’t have the heart to pretend she hadn’t worn it so many times it still smelled like her.

In the bathroom, it was the same story.

Her toothbrush. Her perfume. Her brush still resting on the counter like she might walk in at any moment and pick it up again. Her lotion beside the sink. Her earrings still resting in the little dish by the mirror where she always left them. Her presence echoed in everything she left behind.

Even her purse was still hanging by the door.

She hadn’t come back for it. Not once.

No texts. No calls. No messages.

But he had tried.

Gosh, he had tried.

He had texted her. Every day. Asking if she was okay. Asking if they could talk. Pleading, without saying it outright, for her to come back. For her to see him. For her to see what she was leaving behind.

He had called her, listening to the dial tone stretch into silence. Hearing her voicemail over and over like it was the only part of her he was allowed to have now.

He had even driven to her house. Knocked on her door. Stood there like a fool in the rain, hoping maybe, just maybe, she’d open it and everything would make sense.

But no one answered.

Not her. Not her kids. Not a single sign of the life he used to be a part of.

May did text, she told him she was coming into work today. Maybe that could be an opportunity to ask what happened, but then again, did her kids even know what really happened?

And still… her things remained. All around him. Like ghosts. Like she’d vanished into thin air and left her entire soul behind in fragments he couldn’t gather.

He leaned against the sink, gripping the edge so tightly his knuckles turned white. His eyes locked on the mirror in front of him, staring at his own reflection like he didn’t even recognize the man staring back. His face looked hollow, worn down by the weight of a heartbreak he couldn’t begin to understand. His eyes were sunken, dark circles shadowing beneath them. His mouth was drawn into a thin, grim line. His shoulders hung low, burdened by a heaviness he couldn’t shake.

His throat burned as the tears welled up again, blurring his reflection. He squeezed his eyes shut, but it was too late—the image had already formed in his mind. He could see her there, so vividly, like a memory refusing to fade. Athena, in his bathtub, her hair piled in a messy bun, soft laughter echoing from the other room, bubbles clinging to her skin as she sank deeper into the warm water with her favorite book in hand. The way she’d call out to him, asking him to join her, teasing him with a smile.

His heart twisted violently in his chest.

Now the tub was empty. The house was silent. And all he could do was stand there, staring at a stranger in the mirror, wondering how everything had slipped through his fingers.

He looked like a man who had lost everything.

And maybe he had.

Athena hadn’t just been his girlfriend. She had been his peace. His anchor. The person who made him feel like maybe, just maybe, he deserved a little happiness after all the pain he’d lived through.

He remembered everything. It was clear as day.

It replayed through his mind over and over, the whole conversation. She had kissed him goodbye with tears in her eyes and left him with nothing but a handful of half-truths and a hole in his chest.

He didn’t understand. He still couldn’t understand.

Bobby clenched his jaw and turned away from the mirror.

He missed her.

He missed her more than he thought was humanly possible.

But more than anything… he missed knowing why.

He stepped out of the bathroom slowly, his heart dragging behind every step.

There was no answer waiting for him. Only the sound of his keys jingling in his hand, and the ache in his chest growing heavier as he headed toward the door. 

Another day. Another morning without her.

He thought about the week,  as the week dragged on, each day bleeding into the next with grief and hollow silence, Bobby had done a lot of thinking. A lot of crying. 

A lot of pacing around his apartment in circles, wondering what he missed, wondering where it all slipped through his fingers. But in all that time, through all that pain, one thing had become crystal clear to him: he wasn’t going to give up on her because he had a hope. 

He couldn’t.

He wouldn’t.

He wasn’t going to move her things out of the apartment. Not her shirts, not her toothbrush, not her purse still hanging by the door.

Because deep down, in the quiet corners of his heart—he knew. He just knew. His stuff was still in her house, too. His books, his sweater, his coffee mug on her kitchen shelf, he hadn’t even needed to check to know they were still there.

Because she loved him.

She loved him.

He had felt it, deep in his bones, in every brush of her fingers, every soft smile she gave him when she thought he wasn’t looking. She was in love with him, and he knew that with every piece of his heart. That kind of love wasn’t something you imagined. It wasn’t something you could fake. He’d seen it, felt it, so clearly that sometimes it stunned him breathless.

So what happened?

Why was she suddenly pulling away like none of it mattered?

He just needed to figure out why. Why she was pushing him away when everything in her eyes that day screamed that she didn’t want to. He had watched the way her lips trembled when she said goodbye, the way her hands shook when she let go of his. That wasn’t indifference. That wasn’t detachment.

That was pain.

That was someone breaking her own heart while trying to walk away from his.

She didn’t want to let him go—he saw it all over her face in that moment. Her eyes had begged him not to follow, not to fight it, but her heart… her heart had hesitated. Her heart had clung to him like it didn’t know how to stop loving him.

And people don’t just throw that kind of love away.

Not really.

Not unless something was chasing them.

Not unless something bigger than the love itself was pushing from behind.

Something had happened. Something she wouldn’t say. Something she couldn’t say.

Because love like that… doesn’t just disappear.

Maddie was right, she was running because she was afraid.

So no—he wasn’t going to start packing her things into boxes like it was over. He wasn’t going to erase her from this space they’d shared. He wasn’t going to let go until he saw her again, until she looked him in the eye and gave him a reason. A real one. Not a vague excuse, not a distant goodbye.

He needed to hear it .
He needed to know why .

Until then, he couldn’t close the door on them. He wouldn’t try to forget. He wouldn’t try to move on.

Because this wasn’t over. Not for him. 

Not when he still loved her like this.

Not when everything inside him was still tethered to her.

Not when he knew—he just knew—that somewhere, deep down, she was still tethered to him too.

Bobby grabbed his keys and stepped out of the apartment, the cold morning air biting at his skin. He slipped behind the wheel, turned the ignition, and let the silence of the car wrap around him. The city moved quietly outside his window, but inside him everything still screamed.

The drive to the bookstore was short, familiar, but it felt longer—heavier lately.

When he pulled up outside the store, he stepped out slowly, unlocking the door and walking inside. 

The soft chime of the bell echoed through the quiet space. He stood there for a moment, just taking it in—the smell of old pages, wood polish, and the faint scent of her perfume still lingering somewhere in the air. Maybe it was just in his head. Maybe he just wanted it to still be here.

His eyes drifted to the center of the store, right near the reading nook. He could still remember the night after book club, the way she had smiled at him, the way she had taken his hand without saying a word. They had slow danced there—right where he was standing now. No music, no rush. Just her arms around him, her head on his shoulder, and the soft sound of his heart beating like it finally belonged somewhere.

His chest tightened.

Then his gaze shifted to the back of the store—to the door tucked behind the register. Her space. Her writing nook. Her sanctuary.

He hadn’t touched it. Not once.

Her notes were still spread across the desk. Her drafts pinned on the corkboard. Her pens, her journals, her favorite mug still sitting beside the window where she liked to think. It looked like she had just stepped out for a minute… like she’d be right back.

Bobby stood there for a moment longer, then shook his head softly, trying to break the trance. He needed to stop thinking about her—for just a moment. Just long enough to get through the day.

He turned away and headed into his office. The small space was quiet, tucked in the back of the store with a desk littered in paperwork, receipts, and his half-empty coffee cup from yesterday. He slid into his chair, turned on his computer, and began sorting through the inbox.

But even as the screen lit up in front of him, his eyes didn’t stay there for long.

They drifted, drawn instead to the corner of his desk. Just like every single day of this week.

A framed photo of him and Athena stared back at him. Smiling, warm, happy. Her head resting on his shoulder, his arm wrapped around her like she belonged there—because she had. There were more scattered across the shelves behind him and tucked between books on the wall. Candid shots from little date nights. 

He stared at them for a moment, a dull ache blooming in his chest. It was like the pictures were mocking him.

He swallowed hard, tore his eyes away, and forced himself to look back at the computer screen.

But it didn’t help.

Because her smile was still burned into his mind.

A few invoices had come in, images of books marked for shipping, inventory sheets, payment updates. He clicked through them all, making mental notes of what needed to be done. There were messages from regular customers too, requests for new titles, thank-you notes from last week’s orders, and a few inquiries about upcoming book club meetings.

He responded to each one carefully, his fingers moving automatically over the keyboard. He double-checked shipping lists, approved orders, and printed a few packing slips. It helped, staying busy. 

By the time he was finished, he glanced up and realized it was nearly time to open the store. He stood, stretching the stiffness from his back, and walked toward the front.

The light outside had softened, the sun casting a faint golden glow across the sidewalk. He reached the front door, hesitated for a second as he looked out into the quiet street, and then slowly reached for the sign hanging on the glass.

With a flick of his wrist, he turned it over.

“OPEN.”

Another day had begun.

༺༻

“Hey, Sue,” Bobby greeted softly, offering her a faint smile as he stepped toward the front counter.

Sue turned at the sound of his voice, her face brightening instantly. She held a worn paperback in her hand, the cover slightly bent from where she’d no doubt been thumbing through it over the past few days.

“Well, there’s my favorite bookstore owner,” she beamed. “Bobby, this book—this one was something else.”

He chuckled gently, the sound a little tired but genuine. “Yeah? Tell me everything.”

“Oh, I just flew through it,” Sue said, eyes sparkling. “I kept telling myself, ‘Just one more chapter,’ and then suddenly it was two in the morning and I was halfway through the epilogue. The characters felt so real—especially the way they handled loss. It made me cry, Bobby. That doesn’t happen very often anymore.”

Bobby nodded softly, leaning a bit on the counter. “That’s the best kind of story,” he said. “The kind that stays with you long after you’ve closed the last page.”

Sue smiled warmly. “Exactly. You always know what to recommend.”

Bobby glanced at the book in her hands. “Was it the ending that got you, or something else?”

“Oh, it was the journey,” she replied, cradling the book like something delicate and dear. “The little moments between people. The quiet kind of love. It felt… honest. Like life, you know? Not overdone. Just real.”

Bobby nodded softly, his heart aching a little at the word honest .

Sue’s eyes wandered over to one of the displays near the front window—the one he had carefully set up weeks ago, showcasing some of his favorite authors. Her gaze lingered on the stack in the center.

“You know,” she continued, pointing toward it, “I picked up one from that display you set up last week—the one you said was your favorite author. That name caught my eye… Athena Carter.” She turned back to him with a curious smile. “I’d never heard of her before. But goodness, she has a way with her words.”

Bobby’s breath caught for just a second. His heart thudded slowly and heavy in his chest.

Sue didn’t know about him and Athena. She didn’t have social media, just like him. Didn’t keep up with gossip or news. To her, Athena Carter was just another name on a book cover, not the woman Bobby had once held in his arms every night. Not the woman whose voice he still heard when everything else went quiet.

Sue didn’t notice the shift in him—she was still talking, still smiling. “I only meant to read the first few pages, but I ended up finishing the whole thing in one sitting. The way she writes—so thoughtful, so layered. There’s something unique about her style. It’s like she’s not just telling a story… she’s reaching right into your chest while doing it.”

Bobby swallowed hard, his fingers curling slightly against the edge of the counter.

“Yeah,” he said quietly, voice tight with emotion he didn’t know how to name. “She’s… she’s one of a kind.”

Sue chuckled softly, unaware of the storm quietly unraveling inside him. “I can see why she’s your favorite. I’m going to go back and read more of hers. That kind of talent, well, it’s rare.”

He gave her a faint nod, but the emotion swelling in his throat was harder to keep down now. Because it wasn’t just any author she was talking about. 

And the irony of it all wasn’t lost on him—the way even now, even here, her words were still finding a way to reach him… even through someone else.

There was a beat of silence between them, comfortable but soft. Then Sue tilted her head slightly, her smile fading just a little.

“You look tired, sweetheart,” she said gently, her voice lined with concern. “Are you alright?”

Bobby hesitated, his smile faltering before he quickly tried to piece it back together.

“Yeah,” he said, voice low. “Yeah, I’m okay.”

But Sue didn’t look convinced. Her eyes lingered on him—kind, wise, knowing eyes that had seen far more than they ever spoke of. She didn’t push him, though. Didn’t press. She just reached out and gave his arm a gentle, comforting pat.

“Well,” she said softly, “you let me know if you ever need someone to talk to. Even an old lady like me’s still got good ears.”

Bobby managed a quiet laugh, though it caught in his throat a little. He swallowed down the ache again and gave a gentle nod.

“Thanks, Sue,” he said sincerely. “I really mean that. And for the record… you’re not old.”

Sue chuckled, shaking her head with a smile that wrinkled the corners of her kind eyes. “You’re sweet, Bobby. Flatterer,” she teased, patting his hand once more.

With her book in hand and warmth in her step, she headed toward the door. “I’ll see you next week,” she called back, glancing over her shoulder.

“Looking forward to it,” he replied, watching the door swing open, the bell above it chiming softly as she exited into the morning light.

The quiet returned quickly, almost too quickly, settling back around him like a heavy blanket. Bobby exhaled and rubbed the back of his neck, about to return behind the counter when the door chimed again, this time louder, sharper.

“Yo!” came a familiar voice. “You look like someone stole your favorite record.”

Bobby turned to see Chimney walking in, dressed casually in his usual hoodie and jeans, holding a cup carrier with two coffees.

“Morning to you too,” Bobby muttered with a faint smirk. Chimney had been such a bother this week—hovering, checking in, always showing up unannounced. Not that he didn’t usually stop by, even when nothing was wrong. But lately, he’d been around more than ever, and Bobby knew exactly why.

He was worried. He was scared that something might happen to him, that Bobby might spiral or disappear into the weight of everything. And so, he showed up, quietly and constantly, like he always had.

Bobby had told him multiple times that he was fine. Reassured him, brushed it off, tried to carry himself like everything was normal. But it was Chimney. He wasn’t fooled easily. He never had been.

He’d always been there, his best friend, steady and persistent, refusing to let him fall too far without someone to catch him.

Chimney raised a brow, walking up and handing him one of the cups. “Brought you your usual. Thought you could use something stronger than that weak bookstore brew you always drink.”

Bobby accepted it with a quiet nod of thanks, but Chimney was already watching him carefully—reading him like a book, as he always did.

“You alright?” he asked, tone softening slightly. “You’ve got that look again. Plus you look terrible as usual. I mean considering…”

Bobby let out a small laugh, shaking his head as he rolled his eyes. “Thanks for the vote of confidence.”

But he didn’t answer right away. He just stared at the coffee cup in his hands, the warmth of it grounding him for a moment.

“I’m fine,” he said eventually.

Chimney didn’t buy it for a second. “Uh huh,” he muttered, sipping his drink. “And I’m the Tooth Fairy.”

Bobby gave him a weak chuckle, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Want to talk about it?” Chimney offered. “Or do I just stand here awkwardly until you do?”

Bobby hesitated again, looking around the quiet shop, the shelves, the cozy lighting, the empty stool by the register. Then finally, he sighed and shook his head, voice low.

“Sue was in here just now.”

Chimney looked up. “Yeah. I saw her coming out. How’s she doing?”

“She’s good. Said she read one of the books from the display, the Athena Carter one.”

Chimney paused.“Oof. That must’ve hit hard.”

Bobby nodded faintly. “She said Athena had a way with words… said her writing felt honest. Real. That kind of love—the quiet kind, the in-between moments. It got to her.”

Chimney exhaled through his nose, his voice quieting. “Yeah… that sounds like Athena’s writing.”

Bobby swallowed and glanced toward the front window where the display still stood. “It just made me think… even now, even when she’s not here, her words are still showing up in my life. Still finding ways to… reach me.”

Chimney leaned his elbows on the counter beside him. “It’s not gonna go away that quick, man. Not something like this.”

“I know,” Bobby murmured. “Believe me, I know.”

There was a beat of silence between them, heavy but understanding. Then Chimney shifted his weight and looked at him sideways.

“You still haven’t moved any of her stuff, have you?”

Bobby shook his head. “No. And I’m not going to. Not until she gives me a reason to.”

Chimney looked down at his cup, thoughtful. “That might take a while.”

“I don’t care how long it takes,” Bobby said quietly. “Her toothbrush is still in my bathroom. Her purse is still hanging by the door. Her notes are still in the back room. My stuff is still at her place, too. That’s gotta mean something.”

Chimney looked at him carefully. “You really think she’s coming back?”

“I don’t know,” Bobby admitted. “But I’m not giving her up. Not yet. I’ve been calling. Texting. I even went by her place again last night.”

“And?”

“Still nothing. No answer. Like no one's home. She's there though. I know it.”

Chimney’s face softened a bit, though his tone stayed steady. “I just don’t want you to get your hopes up too high, Bobby. I know what you’re feeling, but you’ve got to protect yourself, too.”

“I’m not asking for miracles,” Bobby replied. “I just want a reason. I want to hear it from her. Not silence. Not disappearing. I deserve that much.”

Chimney gave a slow nod. “You do.”

They stood in silence for a moment, the soft hum of the bookstore filling the space around them. Then Bobby glanced toward the clock on the wall.

“May’s coming in today,” he said, his voice a little steadier. “She’s covering the afternoon shift.”

Chimney’s eyes widened slightly. “What?”

“Yeah.”

“How?”

“I don’t know,” Bobby sighed. “She texted me last night. Said she wanted to help out at the store, talk to me too. I don’t even know how to work around this. I just—I miss Harry and May. They haven’t called or texted. And that’s not like them. Especially Harry—he used to call me almost every other day. Now it’s just… silence. It’s been so quiet.”

Chimney’s expression softened. “You think Athena told them something?”

“I don’t know,” Bobby said, shaking his head. “That’s the thing—I don’t know what she said, if anything at all. It’s just been nothing. No communication. No closure. It’s like… she broke up with me and everything else just collapsed with it.”

“Do you think they even know what really happened between you two?”

“I honestly don’t know,” Bobby admitted. “Like I’ve told you… it’s been so quiet this past week. Athena ended things, and then everything just went still. I don’t even know how to act around May now. I don’t know what she knows, what she thinks. I don’t know how to talk to her without making it weird. I’m just… waiting.”

Chimney nodded slowly. “Well… since May’s coming in today, maybe you’ll finally get some answers. Maybe she’s just trying to figure out where she stands in all of this too. It’s hard, Bobby. Watching people you love fall apart and not knowing what to do with that. What if Harry’s doing the same thing? Processing it his own way.”

Bobby’s eyes dropped to the floor. “Yeah… maybe.”

He didn’t want to lose them.

Bobby didn’t want to lose the relationship he had built with May and Harry.

They weren’t his kids—he knew that—but in a way, they had become part of him. Before Athena, he had come into their lives as a friend, someone steady, someone kind. And over time, that bond had grown into something deeper.

Especially these past few months. Even though he’d known them for over two years, it was these recent months that had brought them closer—really close. He’d shared dinners with them, helped with school projects, stayed up talking with May when she couldn’t sleep, and cheered Harry when he played video games. He remembered it all, every detail, and now every single memory felt like a bruise pressed too hard.

It would hurt three times more to lose them too.

The memories came rushing in like a tide. Harry’s laughter echoing through the living room, May’s sarcastic jokes that always made him laugh, the warmth of their presence around the house.

Gosh , he could feel the tears burning again, rising fast and hot behind his eyes.

He just missed it all so much.

He ached. Deeply. Quietly. Completely.

His chest tightened as more memories crept in, ones with Athena, woven so tightly into the ones with May and Harry that he couldn’t even separate them anymore.
The nights spent cooking dinner together, Athena humming softly while he chopped vegetables. The way she would lean against the kitchen counter, wine glass in hand, laughing at something he’d said.

Game nights with the kids sprawled out on the floor, Athena curled up beside him on the couch. Sunday mornings when Harry would barge into their bedroom way too early, dragging him out to make pancakes while Athena just shook her head, smiling from under the covers.

He could still feel her hand slipping into his during walks. Still hear her voice in the quiet moments. Still see her curled up in the bookstore’s reading nook, pretending to be there for work when really, she just wanted to be close to him.

It all came flooding back, warm and sharp at the same time—so real it almost hurt to breathe.

He didn’t even realize a couple of tears had fallen until Chimney gently touched his arm and handed him a tissue.

Bobby blinked, startled by his own emotion, his vision slightly blurred from the sting of it all. He grabbed the tissue with a small nod.

Chimney didn’t say anything. He didn’t have to. He then glanced toward the door just as the bell above it jingled. A small group of customers trickled in, chatting softly among themselves as they made their way toward the shelves. He straightened up a little.

At the same time, Bobby’s phone buzzed on the register and Chimney saw the message. 

May: On my way. Be there in 10.

He glanced over at Bobby, quietly folding the tissue in his hand, eyes distant and rimmed with fresh redness. Chimney didn’t say anything about how he looked–but truthfully, it had gotten worse. The dark circles beneath Bobby’s eyes, already heavy from sleepless nights, looked even more pronounced now, shadowed further by the tears he hadn’t meant to shed. His face was pale, his expression weary.

Chimney motioned toward his phone. “Hey,” he said gently, nudging Bobby’s shoulder. “Go wash up a bit. May’s almost here.”

Bobby looked at him, sluggishly blinking like he’d just remembered he was still in the room. “Yeah,” he said quietly. 

“Just take a minute,” Chimney added. “You don’t have to say anything… but at least don’t look like you’ve just been through a thunderstorm.”

There was a faint huff of a laugh from Bobby, tired and dry.

Without another word, Bobby nodded and headed toward the back, leaving Chimney to hold the store for a moment. The customers wandered through the aisles, and Chimney exhaled, keeping one eye on the door.

Then his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw Maddie’s name on the screen. A small smile touched his lips as he opened the message.

Maddie: Hey, just checking in. How are you doing?

He thumbed a quick response.

Chimney: I’m okay. Just holding down the fort for now. I just… I just want Bobby to be okay.

There was a short pause before another message popped up.

Maddie: Has he said anything?

Chimney: Bits and pieces. He’s trying to hold it together, but… you know how he is. Quiet pain.

He hesitated, then typed again.

Chimney: Have you talked to Athena at all?

Another pause. Then:

Maddie: I’ve tried. I even reached out about HeartStrings—asked if she needed help with edits or revisions. She just said no. Nothing else. No small talk. No check-in. Just cold silence.

Chimney’s jaw clenched slightly as he read her words. He hated this. All of it. The silence. The confusion. The ache in Bobby’s eyes every time her name came up.

Maddie: I even texted Hen about it. Hen isn't saying anything, just that, it's a Bobby and Athena situation. I know she knows.

Chimney sighed hard through his nose, his fingers tightening slightly around the phone. He wanted so badly to fix this—for Bobby. To reach across whatever wall Athena had built and shake her and ask why. Why she shut him out. Why she left without a real explanation. Why she let Bobby unravel like this while pretending he didn’t matter anymore.

It wasn’t fair.

Every time something good found its way into Bobby’s life, something always seemed to rip it away. Chimney had watched it happen too many times. Somehow, Bobby was always the one left behind, always the one people broke up with. He didn’t understand why—because his best friend was one of the kindest, most selfless people he knew. And yet, the world had found a thousand different ways to hurt him.

He’d already lost a daughter who had been shot by a school shooter. He’d been cheated on by the woman he thought he’d grow old with. She had brought the person she cheated on him with to Brooke's funeral. Who does that? Who puts it in his face like that? He’d spent six long years trying to pick up the pieces of his life after that. And even now… it still hurt him. That kind of pain didn’t just disappear—it settled in deep, lingered like a shadow.

And just when things had finally started to feel whole again—when Bobby had opened his heart back up, when he found joy again in Athena, in her family, it all came crashing down. Athena had been the light in his life, the steady warmth that made everything feel safe again. And now that light was gone.

He thought about how, every day this past week, Bobby had looked worse—his face a little paler, his frame slightly smaller, his shoulders slumped with a quiet weight that words couldn’t touch. The exhaustion etched into his features went beyond just sleepless nights; it was the kind of tired that settled deep in the bones. He barely ate. He barely spoke. And Chimney could see it, clear as daylight, Bobby was hurting. He was aching in that deep, hollow way that didn’t just come from heartbreak, but from the unraveling of something sacred.

Chimney felt a deep, burning frustration swell in his chest, an anger that wasn’t even for himself, but for Bobby. It simmered beneath the surface, heavy and bitter, because watching someone you care about fall apart like this, someone who didn’t deserve any of it—was unbearable. He hated seeing Bobby like this. He stared down at the screen, his heart heavy, thumbs hovering over the keyboard.

Chimney: I just don’t get it. He deserves more than this. He deserves better.

Another text sat unsent for a moment, a message he wanted to say aloud.

Chimney: I wish I could talk to her myself. Just once. Just to understand what the heck happened.

But he deleted that one before sending it. It wouldn’t change anything.

Instead, he tucked his phone away and took a steady breath. His eyes swept across the bookstore—teens hunched over textbooks in the corner, customers quietly browsing through shelves, the low hum of pages turning and soft footsteps filling the space.

Because the truth was, he wanted to fix everything for Bobby. If he could’ve taken even a fraction of that pain off his shoulders, he would’ve in a heartbeat.

Just then, Bobby stepped out from the back. He looked a bit fresher, his hair combed, his shirt smoothed out, but the exhaustion still clung to him. The dark circles under his eyes hadn’t gone anywhere, and there was a pale tinge to his face that hadn't lifted. But at least he was upright, present, trying.

Chimney opened his mouth to say something, but before he could, the door chimed softly.

May walked in.

The sound of the bell echoed faintly through the store, and for a moment, time seemed to pause. Bobby turned toward the door, his tired eyes finding her instantly—and despite everything, a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. It was faint, worn, but it was real.

May smiled back, warmth flickering in her eyes, and without hesitation, she crossed the floor and wrapped her arms around him.

Bobby folded her into his arms, holding her close. She sunk into his embrace like she had been carrying something heavy herself, and for a brief moment, it felt like a piece of home had returned to him.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he murmured quietly. “How are you?”

“I’m okay,” May said softly, pulling back just enough to look at him. “I missed you.”

But even as she said it, her eyes studied his face—really looked.

Oh, Mom…

Bobby wasn’t okay. 

She gulped, her chest tightening.

“I missed you,” Bobby said softly, his voice a little raw. “So much.”

May nodded, her eyes flickering downward for a second, like she didn’t know where to look. They were already dancing around it—what had happened with her mom, the silence, the distance. Neither of them had said it outright, but it was thick in the air between them.

“How’s Harry?” Bobby asked gently.

“He’s good,” May replied, glancing up at him again. “He misses you.”

Bobby’s smile flickered—grateful, aching, and sad all at once. He nodded slowly, like he didn’t trust himself to say much more without cracking open again. “I miss him too,” he said softly, voice rough around the edges. He cleared his throat gently, trying to steady himself. “How are your classes going?”

May’s face lit up just a little, the smallest spark of excitement breaking through the tension. “Actually… I got an internship,” she said, her voice picking up with energy. “With a directing company. It’s real. I’m going to be working on a real film.”

Bobby’s brows lifted, surprised and impressed. “What? May, that’s incredible.”

She nodded, eyes shining with pride. “I’ll be an assistant to the director. I mean, I won’t be doing anything too major—probably getting coffee and running errands at first—but I’ll get to be on set. I’ll be watching the whole process. It’s what I’ve always wanted.”

Bobby let out a soft breath, his smile deepening. It wasn’t the forced kind he’d been using lately—this one was real. “That’s amazing, May. I’m so proud of you. Really.”

May beamed under his praise. “Thanks. I haven’t told a lot of people yet… I wanted to tell you in person.”

That alone made his heart clench. 

“You’re going to do great,” he said, voice gentle. “You’re going to be incredible out there.”

May glanced over Bobby’s shoulder and spotted Chimney still standing by the front counter, quietly giving them space. She lifted a hand with a warm smile.

“Hey, Chimney.”

Chimney smiled back and walked over. “Hey, May. It’s good to see you.”

“You too,” she said genuinely. “It’s been a while.”

“Yeah, way too long. I heard about the internship—congrats! That’s huge.”

May’s eyes lit up again. “Thank you! I’m honestly still freaking out a little. It doesn’t feel real yet.”

“You’ll kill it,” Chimney said confidently. “And when you're some big-shot director one day, just remember us little people at the bookstore, alright?”

May laughed, the sound easing some of the tension in the air. “Deal.”

Bobby chuckled softly beside her. The three of them talked for a few more minutes—about her classes, the internship, random things like the weird customer who’d come in earlier asking for books on psychic raccoons. It wasn’t deep, but it was warm. Normal. Something Bobby hadn’t felt in a while.

Eventually, Chimney glanced at his watch and sighed. “Alright, I gotta head out—shift starts in twenty. Maddie’s probably already yelling at me through the airwaves.”

Bobby gave him a faint look, a flicker of amusement behind his tired eyes. “Tell her I said hi.”

“Will do,” Chimney replied, grabbing his jacket from the hook behind the counter. As he shrugged it on, he stepped a little closer to Bobby, lowering his voice so May wouldn’t hear.

“Text me if you need anything, okay? I’ll be right over—no matter what.”

Bobby met his eyes, a quiet gratitude sitting heavy in his expression. “Thank you,” he said softly. “Thank you for being here.”

Chimney gave a small nod and squeezed his shoulder once before stepping back. “Always.”

With one last glance toward May and a small wave, he turned and made his way out the door. The little bell above it chimed gently as it closed behind him. 

The quiet settled in again, and Bobby stood still for a moment, eyes lingering on the door as if expecting Chimney to walk right back in. He finally exhaled, long and slow, then turned back toward May, trying to find his footing again in a space that suddenly felt a little too still.

There was a hint of awkwardness between them—a shared awareness that at some point, they might actually talk about what happened. About Athena. About everything. But not yet. Not now.

For now, Bobby just wanted to ease into something simpler. Something normal. Something that didn’t ache.

He gave her a faint grin. “Ready to work?”

May smiled, a little more gently this time, and nodded. “Yeah. Let’s do it.”

“Well, we’ve got a lot to tackle this week,” Bobby said, rubbing the back of his neck. “We need to reorganize the front tables—some of the new releases got mixed in with the staff picks. Plus we’ve got a few online orders to pack and ship. Book club’s this week too, so I want everything in order by then.”

“Oh,” May perked up. “Book club. That’s right.”

“Yeah,” Bobby said with a small chuckle. “And we need a new display for Book of the Month. I was thinking something like—maybe The Outsiders or Fahrenheit 451 . Something that brings people back a little.”

May’s face lit up. “Oh, I love that. What about Of Mice and Men ?”

“That’s good too,” Bobby said, clearly pleased. “We’ll take a vote, but those are great picks.”

May nodded, already heading toward the front counter to grab her name tag. “I can start organizing the shipping stuff while you figure out the display. Sound good?”

“Perfect,” Bobby said, following after her with a little more energy in his step.

The two of them settled into a steady rhythm—Bobby started pulling together ideas for the book display, arranging some of the older titles and handwritten signs from the storage cabinet in the back, while May worked behind the counter, printing labels and stacking packages for shipment. The hum of the store filled the air—soft chatter, pages flipping, the occasional ring of the door chime as new customers wandered in.

Every now and then, a customer would walk over, asking for a recommendation or help finding a title. Bobby and May worked seamlessly, like they had done this a hundred times before and they had. The tension from earlier had softened, not completely gone, but easier to breathe through.

Bobby leaned on the counter beside May for a second, watching her tape up one of the packages. “Harry’s at school?”

May nodded, glancing up with a faint smile. “Yeah. Mom’s picking him up today.”

There was a small pause—just a breath—but before it could linger too long, May quickly added, “Anyway, you should’ve seen the chaos at my internship yesterday. We had a last-minute call sheet change and no one could find the director.”

Bobby chuckled, letting her steer the conversation. “That bad, huh?”

“Oh, worse,” she laughed. “But it’s exciting. I’m learning so much. They’re actually letting me assist on one of the short film shoots next week.”

“That’s incredible,” Bobby said, genuinely happy for her.

She smiled softly at him, then bumped his shoulder. “Thanks.”

Bobby leaned back a bit, watching her work, then tilted his head slightly. “So… what’s going on with Darius?”

May’s eyebrows lifted, a smile tugging at her lips. “We’re really doing well. Like… really well.”

“Oh?” Bobby grinned. “Tell me everything.”

May chuckled and leaned against the counter.

 “So, get this—a few days ago, I had the absolute worst day at the internship. Nothing was going right. Equipment went missing, one of the assistant directors snapped at me, and I was seriously ready to cry.”

Bobby looked over at her, concern flickering in his eyes. “Oh no. What happened?”

“Well,” she said, a smile forming, “Darius showed up at the studio out of nowhere with two tickets to this local theater showcase. He said, ‘You need a night off and I’m not taking no for an answer.’”

Bobby’s smile started to grow. “That’s thoughtful. Good guy.”

“He really is,” May said, her eyes soft. “And then—get this—we walk out of the theater, and it’s pouring. Like, movie-level downpour. We didn’t even have an umbrella.”

“Oh no,” Bobby laughed.

“I was gonna run for it, but he just grabbed my hand and said, ‘Come on, it’s just water,’ and we ran all the way back to the car like a couple of soaked idiots. I couldn’t stop laughing.”

Bobby chuckled with her, shaking his head. “That’s a good memory.”

“Yeah,” May said softly, still smiling at the thought. “It really was.”

Bobby watched her for a moment, and for the first time in days, a genuine warmth returned to his expression. Her happiness was like a small light cutting through the heavy fog he’d been carrying. It reminded him of Athena, her joy used to brighten a room, how her laughter used to pull him out of his darkest days.

There was so much of Athena in May, her strength, her spirit, her heart. And in this quiet moment, it almost felt like a piece of Athena was still here, sitting across from him, tucked inside her daughter’s smile.

It felt as if everything was normal.

May leaned against the counter again, eyes drifting a little as if her thoughts were already somewhere else—somewhere softer.

“He just makes me feel… calm,” she said. “Like, when everything’s chaos, he’s just there. Steady. He doesn’t try to fix things or tell me I’m overreacting—he just listens. I didn’t think I’d need that so much until I had it.”

Bobby looked at her, his heart tugging with something between pride and nostalgia. “That’s rare,” he said gently. “Don’t let that go easy.”

May smiled softly, her eyes dropping for a moment before glancing back up. “And… when he kisses me,” she said with a quiet laugh, her cheeks flushing pink, “it’s like everything just pauses. Like the world just goes quiet for a second.”

Bobby chuckled, a warm, low sound. “That’s a scene straight out of a movie.”

He meant it—sincere, lighthearted—but there was a flicker in his chest, a small ache that settled behind his ribs. Because for him, that feeling had always been Athena. She was his movie. 

But he didn’t let that show. Not right now. This was May’s moment, and she deserved to have it, every bit of happiness, every sparkle in her eyes.

She laughed, brushing her hair back. “I know, I know—it’s cheesy. But it’s true.”

“Nothing wrong with cheesy,” Bobby said, still smiling. “Cheesy usually means you’ve got the real thing.”

Before the moment got too sentimental, May perked up. “Oh! Speaking of cheesy, you want to hear what happened in class the other day?”

Bobby nodded. “Always.”

“So,” she began, already grinning, “we were doing a group presentation on visual storytelling, right? And one of my classmates decides to get all theatrical—like full-on, movie trailer voice. He’s narrating the entire thing like we’re in some dramatic documentary.”

Bobby raised a brow, amused. “Seriously?”

“Dead serious. He even brought music. Played this intense instrumental track on his phone while he talked. The professor didn’t know whether to laugh or grade him higher.”

Bobby let out a full laugh. “Please tell me you recorded it.”

“I absolutely did,” May said proudly, pulling her phone from her pocket. “You’ve gotta see this.”

He just shook his head, still laughing. “I missed this. I missed you.”

May’s smile turned gentler, more heartfelt. “I missed you too.”

May slid her phone across the counter, tapping the screen to pull up the video. “Okay—watch this part right here,” she said, barely containing her laughter.

Bobby leaned in beside her, eyes focused on the screen as the video played. Sure enough, the dramatic voice of her classmate echoed through the phone, paired with an overly intense orchestral soundtrack.

“Oh my gosh,” Bobby chuckled, pressing a hand to his mouth. “He’s so serious. He really committed.”

May burst out laughing. “Right?! He even did a dramatic pause before talking about camera angles like it was a crime scene analysis.”

Bobby laughed harder, shaking his head. “That’s amazing. You better give that guy an A just for the performance.”

“Trust me, he’s milking it,” May said through her giggles. “But it made my whole day.”

They kept laughing, both of them lighter than they’d been in days. 

Eventually, May glanced at the small stack of packages behind the counter. “By the way, I’m done with the packaging. Everything’s labeled and ready for pickup.”

Bobby blinked, pleasantly surprised. “Already?”

She grinned. “I’m efficient, what can I say?”

“Alright then,” he smiled. “You up for helping with the display?”

“Of course,” May said, rolling up her sleeves a little. “We settling on The Outsiders ?”

Bobby nodded. “Yeah. Feels right—classic, nostalgic, brings people in.”

“Perfect,” May said. “Let’s make it stand out.”

They got to work side by side, slipping into a familiar rhythm as they arranged stacks of The Outsiders on the display table. Bobby added some old-school flair—weathered bookends, a handwritten “Stay Gold” sign, and a few vintage props from the back storage. May carefully positioned the books, adjusting angles and spacing with a practiced eye.

They talked casually as they worked, joking about customers who always asked for the same three books, laughing at how dusty the back shelves had gotten, and debating whether The Outsiders was more of a “fall” or “spring” vibe.

But then, somewhere in the middle of arranging a second layer of paperbacks, the conversation shifted.

“You know,” May said after a quiet pause, fingers lingering on the spine of one of the books, “I’ve been thinking about using one of these displays as inspiration for a short film idea.”

Bobby raised a brow. “Yeah? Like what?”

“Something romantic,” she said, a little shyly. “Kind of subtle and quiet, like those moments in stories where no one says the big thing out loud, but it’s right there underneath everything. I think I want to tell a story like that.”

Bobby smiled gently. “That sounds beautiful. You thinking about writing it for class?”

“Maybe,” she said. “Or maybe… I don’t know. I’ve also just been thinking about telling Darius something—something real. But I’ve been holding back.”

Bobby’s hands stilled slightly, but he didn’t say anything yet. He waited.

May glanced at him. “There’s just this thing in my head. I know it's only been a few months but I keep wanting to tell him I love him. But I keep stopping myself. I get scared that if I say it out loud, it’ll change everything. What if he doesn’t feel the same yet? What if it pushes him away?”

Bobby took a slow breath, eyes softening. He knew that fear too well. He knew it with Athena only after a few weeks.

“May,” he said quietly, “if something is true in your heart, it deserves to be said. Even if it’s scary.”

She looked down at the table, hands fidgeting with a bookmark. “But what if I ruin it?”

“You might not,” he said. “You might bring him closer. Sometimes when you take that leap… it opens doors you didn’t know were there.”

He hesitated, then added more softly, “And sometimes… holding it in is what creates the distance.”

May looked at him again, her expression thoughtful, vulnerable. And Bobby knew she wasn’t just asking about Darius—she was asking about life. About risk and love and everything in between.

“I think,” he said, carefully, “sometimes we let fear make decisions for us. And by the time we realize it, we’ve already lost something we didn’t mean to let go.”

May swallowed, slowly nodding. “I wouldn’t want us to break up.”

Bobby felt a sharp pang in his chest. Her words echoed too closely to what had been haunting him—Athena. It felt like she had stood in that same place, back at the house, when she broke up with him, holding something back, afraid to say the words that might’ve changed everything. Maybe that fear was what made her pull away. 

That was what ended them.

It was silence. Fear. The kind that creeps in quietly and builds walls between people before either of them even notices. He knew, deep down, Athena hadn’t told him everything. Not even close. She’d been trying so hard to stay strong, to hold herself together, that she couldn’t admit she was scared.

But Bobby had seen it. He’d always seen it.

Especially after what happened at the mall.

Something changed after that day—something cracked in her. He remembered the way she looked afterward—not just the tears or the cries, but the way she moved like she was trying to hold her entire world together with shaking hands. Like something from her past had come rushing back and she didn’t know how to stop it. He never got the full picture, but he knew someone had come back. Someone she hadn’t expected. Someone who reminded her of a part of herself she wasn’t ready to face again.

And instead of letting him help her through it, she pulled away.

She was scared. Not just of the person, not just of the memories—but of what it would do to them. Of the damage it might cause. Of the burden she was convinced he couldn’t carry.

But she was wrong.

Maddie told him that, “Sometimes people pull away not because they don’t love you… but because they love you too much. And they’re scared their past, their pain, their mess will eventually hurt you. So they leave before it does.”

And now Bobby knew just how painfully true that was.

Because that’s what Bobby had wanted from Athena—just for her to let go of the fear and trust him enough to let him in. He would’ve taken all of it—the past, the pain, the heaviness. He would’ve stayed, without hesitation, because he had fallen in love with her—truly—with all the pieces of her, not some perfect version she thought she had to be. He would’ve carried every part of her if she had just let him.

He missed her so much it ached in places he didn’t even know could hurt. If she had only spoken. If she had just reached for him instead of retreating into silence. Maybe things would’ve been different. Maybe they still could be.

May gave him a faint, grateful smile. “Okay,” she whispered. “I will.”

And for a moment, the two of them just stood there—quiet, still, carrying the weight of their own hearts, but somehow feeling a little less alone.

After a beat, May took a breath and gently nudged him on the arm. “Alright,” she said with a soft grin, trying to lighten the air again. “Let’s finish this display before I start getting all teary.”

Bobby chuckled, grateful for the shift. “Yeah, yeah. Back to work.”

They moved around the table, arranging copies of The Outsiders , finishing up the small props and pieces of decor to give it warmth—an old leather jacket slung over a stand, a tiny toy car.  It was starting to come together, piece by piece, something nostalgic and inviting. 

By the time they had finished, May suddenly paused, a question clearly lingering on her tongue. She glanced over at him, her fingers stilling on the edge of a display shelf.

“Hey… can I ask you something?” she said gently.

Bobby looked up. “Of course.”

When he saw the look on her face, he knew it was time.