Dear Ex Wife Please take me back by The Every Woman

ATHENA

"I am safe," I say, forcing a weak smile, trying to play it off. I don't like worrying people. Zayan has become someone special to me over the years. He is one of the few people who actually cares about me, and it hurts me seeing him like this.

His mother is not my biggest fan but Rose, his sister inlaw always tells me it's not just me she's like that with everyone.

So I guess I no longer felt bad whenever we hang out. But truly, I am grateful to Zayan, without him, I don't know if I would have found the strength to meet Anna and uncover the truth about my son.

"I mean, technically I'm breathing, so that counts, right?" I try to lighten the mood, but fail miserably because his glare only increases.

His jaw is clenched, his brows drawn so tightly they almost touch. He stares at me like he can't decide if he wants to hug me tighter or scream until the walls shake.

"You almost died," he says. "Again."

Speaking of which, I need to investigate who was powerful enough to back Leah up.

"I didn't, though," I reply quickly, trying to lighten the mood again. "And hey, now I get unlimited hospital Jell-O. Win-win?"

He doesn't even blink. "If that's you trying to be funny, then know that I don't find it amusing."

I sigh, my smile slipping.

“Zayan, I'm okay. Really."

"No, you're not." His voice breaks a little. "You just don't want anyone to see it. I don't blame you, I would never do that, but I just hope you can now put it all behind you and focus on bonding with your son."

I bite my lip.

I still have so many questions. Will I be able to sweep everything under the rag and move on?

"I just have to find out one more thing." My eyes plead.

"Which is?" Zayan studies me.

to know who was backing up Leah and

mean there is someone else?" He asks and I

out? Who was following me around? I never put much thought into it because I assumed it was

be her. Didn't you say she was around and was looking for a way to slander your name." Zayan explains

makes sense but why is

Am I overthinking things?

respond, or even figure out what to

once more.

And everything goes still.

Noah.

Ariana.

Eli.

lan.

Izzy

the room instantly. No words, no movement, just the suffocating weight

must be the reunion of

me and Zayan, narrowing just slightly. Ariana keeps her gaze on the floor, which is odd because my ex-mother-in-law is always all over me. If I can dare to, I must say she looks a little

because

thought. I

Eli, who, as usual, is unreadable. My heart beats faster and faster as I

do I

me like he's just remembered we're not

to speak, he glares at Zayan before offering me a small smile, "How are

dryly,

house," Ariana says quietly, placing

side table. "Figured you might want them." She offers me a smile, but doesn't

"Thanks."

into