Morning sunlight peeked through the windows, illuminating Arianna's sleepy face. She stirred, feeling queasy and exhausted – familiar symptoms she hadn't experienced in years. Pregnancy! Zander noticed her sluggishness and sat beside her on the bed. "Hey, beautiful. Rough morning?" Arianna nodded, smiling weakly. "Morning sickness is back." Zander's face lit up with excitement. "Our little miracle is already making their presence known!" He gently kissed her forehead and helped her sit up. Throughout the first trimester, Zander cared for Arianna with devotion: * He cooked bland meals like crackers and toast to soothe her stomach. * Ran errands alone so she could rest. * Gave gentle massages to ease her back pain. * Even attended prenatal yoga classes with her – much to the amusement of their instructor and fellow moms-to-be. As pregnancy symptoms subsided, excitement for the baby grew. Arianna and Zander embarked on nursery preparations together: * They chose a
The hospital days with baby Ava were a whirlwind of emotions, sleep deprivation, and endless joy. Arianna and Zander navigated newborn care with guidance from nurturing hospital staff: * Learning diaper changing techniques * Mastering feeding positions for optimal latching * Deciphering Ava's tiny cries and coos Emily and Jackson visited daily, bonding with baby Ava over: * Gentle touches and soft whispers * Watching Ava sleep peacefully in her hospital bassinet * Helping choose Ava's going-home outfit Finally, discharge day arrived, and the family eagerly prepared to bring Ava home. As they walked through their front door, emotions overflowed – * Tears of joy from Arianna and Zander * Excited squeals from Emily and Jackson * Ava's gentle baby coos, already sensing her family's love Adjusting to new routines proved challenging yet rewarding: * Sleepless nights with feeding sessions every 2-3 hours * Diaper changes around the clock * Zander
Arianna's life was perfect – a loving husband Zander, three adorable kids, and a heart full of joy. But then, her phone buzzed with an unexpected message from Julian – her first love from college. Arianna's heart skipped a beat as she read the words: *"Hey Arianna, it's Julian. Long time no talk. How have you been?"* Fear gripped her – fear of Zander discovering the message and fear of her own emotions resurfacing. She quickly deleted the conversation log and didn't reply to Julian. Out of sight, out of mind – or so she hoped. However, Julian's message awakened dormant feelings Arianna thought were long buried. Memories of their college days, laughter, and love came flooding back. As she went about her daily routine – * Playing with Emily, Jackson, and baby Ava * Cooking dinner for Zander * Sharing sweet moments with her husband Arianna's mind secretly wandered back to Julian: * Wondering what his life was like now * Recalling the way he made her laugh
Zander received an unexpected call from his best friend from college days, Marco Ramirez – now a successful politician. "Zander, my friend! I'm finally being sworn into Congress! I'm hosting an inaugural party and would be honored if you and Arianna could attend," Marco exclaimed. Zander was thrilled to reconnect with his old friend and shared the news with Arianna: "Marco's inviting us to his inaugural party in Washington D.C.! We should go – it'll be fun to catch up with him and other college friends." Arianna agreed, and they booked flights and hotel rooms for the weekend event. Upon arriving at the luxurious party venue, they were greeted by Marco's warm smile and firm handshake: "Zander, my man! Arianna, you're even more beautiful than I remembered!" As they mingled through the crowd, Zander introduced Arianna to his college friends: * Alex Chen – now a famous tech entrepreneur * Maya Patel – a renowned journalist * Ethan Hall – a bestselling author Ariann
Zander's mind reeled as he stared at Marco, his voice barely above whisper: "She's not going to say I'm... the father of her child, is she?" Marco nodded slowly, confirming Zander's worst suspicion: "Yes, Zander. Sophia claims you're the father of her daughter, who's now 17 years old." Time stood still as Zander processed this bombshell. He had always been careful, but... "A paternity test," Zander stammered. "We need one. This could be a mistake." Marco handed him a folder containing photos of the girl and Sophia's letter: "Sophia's willing to do a test, but she's wanted to connect with you for years. Her daughter, Olivia, has been asking about her father." Zander's eyes scanned the photos – Olivia's eyes resembled his own. His world was crumbling. He thought of Arianna, their children – how would they react to this news? Marco placed a hand on Zander's shoulder: "We'll face this together, friend. But you need to tell Arianna. Soon." Zander nodded numbly, al
Zander returned home, lost in thought. He barely registered Arianna's warm smile and greeting: "Hey, love, how was your day?" He brushed it off lightly: "It was fine. Just busy with work stuff. My mind's still on it, actually." Arianna accepted his vague explanation, sensing something was off but attributing it to his usual work stress. Zander spent the evening in a daze, his thoughts consumed by: * Olivia's bright smile and curious nature * Sophia's regretful eyes and complicated past with him * His own identity – father to a 17-year-old girl he never knew existed Days passed, with Zander pretending life was normal while internally grappling with this revelation. Arianna noticed his distraction but remained patient, thinking he'd open up when ready. One night, as they prepared for bed, Arianna gently asked: "Zander, is everything really okay? You've been distant for weeks." Zander looked at her, feeling guilty for withholding the truth. He knew he had to tel
As dinner concluded and everyone prepared to leave, Olivia turned to Zander with hopeful eyes: "Dad... can we plan regular visits? I want to get to know you better." Zander's heart swelled with emotion as he hugged Olivia tightly: "Absolutely, sweetie. I want that too. We'll schedule weekly visits, maybe even sleepovers at our place soon?" Olivia beamed, nodding enthusiastically. Arianna smiled warmly at Sophia: "We'd love to have Olivia over often. Our kids are already attached to her." Sophia's eyes welled up with tears as she glanced at Zander: "This means everything to me... to us. You're giving Olivia the family she's always desired." Zander felt grateful for Arianna's openness and love. He turned to his family: "We're becoming a bigger, happier family. I'm blessed to have all of you." As they exchanged hugs and goodbyes, plans were made: * Weekly father-daughter visits between Zander and Olivia * Regular family dinners including Sophia * A potential s
Zander hesitated for only a moment before typing his response: "Thanks for inviting me to meet Ethan. Yeah, catching up just the two of us sounds great – when were you thinking?" Sophia replied promptly: "How about coffee tomorrow afternoon at The Cozy Cup? Around 2 pm?" Zander agreed, his heart racing slightly at the prospect of private time with Sophia. The next day, Zander arrived at The Cozy Cup early, nervous energy simmering beneath his casual exterior. Sophia walked in shortly after 2 pm, looking stunning in a yellow sundress. They hugged lightly, exchanging warm smiles before ordering coffee and sitting at a quiet corner table. Sophia launched into conversation about Olivia's excitement over Zander's frequent visits, but Zander sensed underlying tension – or maybe it was just his own awareness of their past intimacy. As they talked, Zander found himself leaning in closer to Sophia, inhaling her familiar scent and feeling an undeniable spark. Sophia touched
Arianna's voice was barely above a whisper: "Zander, do you think I've been distant lately... or that something's changed between us?" Zander's eyes locked onto hers, filled with perception: "Honestly, yes. I've felt it – slight withdrawals in your touch, less conversation about us. I assumed it was just stress from my career..." **Chapter 71: "A Direct Question"** Arianna's voice was barely above a whisper: "Zander, do you think I've been distant lately... or that something's changed between us?" Zander's eyes locked onto hers, filled with perception: "Honestly, yes. I've felt it – slight withdrawals in your touch, less conversation about us. I assumed it was just stress from my career..." He paused, studying her face: "But now I wonder – is it something more?" Arianna's heart racing, she felt like she was drowning in guilt – Baby JJ sensed her tension and stirred in her arms. Her mind screamed – Julian's name – as she searched for a response... Do you w
Arianna helped Ava with her homework while Jackson played video games nearby. Emily was at a friend's house for a study group. Zander walked in, dropping his briefcase on the floor: "Hey everyone, long day at the Capitol." Arianna smiled, giving him a warm kiss: "Welcome home. How was the congressional meeting?" Zander's expression turned serious: "It was intense. My party leaders just informed me – I'm being considered for a prestigious Committee Chairman role." Arianna's eyes widened: "That's amazing news! What does it mean for your schedule?" Zander's tone hinted at her worst fears: "It means I'll be traveling even more – 4-5 days a week – and when I'm in town, long hours at the office. Our family time... will be severely limited." Arianna felt a pang – this meant less time with Zander, possibly more time thinking of Julian... Arianna tried to sound supportive: "That's a huge opportunity for your career, Zander. We'll make it work as a family." But inside, she felt a
As the night wore on, Julian knew he had to leave to avoid suspicion. He gently woke Arianna, whispering: "I need to go – before morning. Sarah and Zander might get suspicious if I'm late or absent." Arianna nodded understandingly, her eyes still dreamy from their reunion: "I know. Be careful. My heart feels whole again with you back in it." Julian kissed her softly: "Mine too. We'll talk tomorrow – secretly – and start planning our future together." He dressed quickly. Julian slipped out of Arianna's house, into the still of the night. He drove home cautiously, arriving just before dawn broke – perfect timing. Inside, the house was quiet; Sarah still asleep upstairs. Julian crept into bed beside her, trying not to disturb her. Sarah stirred slightly, murmuring: "Work videos keep you up late again?" Julian smiled to himself – his secret was safe: "Yeah, just got caught up in a case briefing. Go back to sleep." Sarah snuggled closer, oblivious to the n
While Sarah cracked eggs and hummed along to music at the kitchen island, Julian seized the moment to sneak a quick text to Arianna: "Close call just now. Sarah almost walked in on us talking. Finish our conversation tonight - alone?" He hit send, eyes darting towards Sarah – still oblivious, whisking eggs. Julian quickly closed the messaging app, pretending to scroll through work emails on his phone. His heart raced slightly, wondering if Arianna would see the text before Zander woke up... A few seconds later, his phone buzzed slightly – Arianna responded already! Julian's eyes locked onto the screen: "Yes, tonight. Zander's attending a fundraiser dinner. We'll finally finish talking..." Julian exhales internally, relieved and excited for tonight's private conversation. Sarah walks over, wiping her hands on a towel: "Hey, coffee or orange juice with your waffles?" Julian smiles naturally for the first time since sneaking the text: "Coffee, please. Need the caffeine aft
Intermission arrived, and Julian stood up with the crowd. "I'll grab us some water," he told Sarah, already heading towards the hallway.Once out of sight, he quickly typed a response to Arianna:"My heart just exploded seeing that message. JJ calling me 'Daddy' even in drawings... kills me. Missing you both desperately."He sent the text, then deleted the conversation history – a habit born of paranoia.Just as he turned to return to the auditorium, he heard the water fountain behind him turn off. A woman walked out of the corner – Julian's heart sank – It was Emily, Zander's daughter and JJ's half-sister!Emily smiled politely at Julian in the hallway:"Hi, are you here for the play? My friend Maya's performing."Julian returned the smile proudly:"Actually, I'm Maya's father. I'm here to watch her shine on stage tonight."Emily's eyes lit up:"No way! Maya's always talking about you and her mom, Sarah. You must be really proud of her!"Julian chuckled, feeling relieved the conv
Julian forced a reassuring smile: "Work's just been overwhelming lately. This new case has me swamped – long hours and stressful deadlines." Sarah looked concerned but accepting: "I had no idea it was that bad. Do you want me to plan something relaxing for us this weekend – just the two of us?" Julian felt a pang of guilt for deceiving her, but relief that she bought his excuse: "That sounds perfect. I'd love some downtime with you." Sarah leaned in for a gentle kiss, and Julian returned it, feeling like he was living two lives: * One with Sarah – comfortable, predictable, and deceitful. * Another with Arianna – passionate, secretive, and true to his heart. As they turned off the lights, Julian's mind sank to Arianna. Days turned into weeks, and Julian's routine remained: * Family time with Sarah and kids: dinners, school events, and weekends at the beach house. * Secret moments with Arianna: stolen phone calls, hidden texts, and occasional clandestine meetin
Arianna's eyes widened in alarm as she heard Zander's voice outside the room: "I'll just check on my wife and son... " She rapidly gestured to Julian, whispering: "Behind the curtain! Now!" Julian sprinted to the curtain separating the room from the window and hid just as: * Zander entered, beaming with pride * Nurses followed with warm smiles Zander approached Arianna's bedside, cooing over the baby: "Our little Alexander is perfect! You were amazing during delivery." Arianna forced a smile, heart racing from Julian's hidden presence: "We're just relieved he's healthy, Zander..." Julian stood frozen behind the curtain, listening to Zander's every word: * His heart ached from being so close yet invisible as JJ's father * He wondered how much longer Arianna could maintain this secret As Zander sat beside Arianna, holding JJ's hand, Julian felt a surge of protectiveness... Arianna maintained a calm smile while chatting with Zander, all while thinking of a
Arianna decided to keep the pregnancy a secret from Zander about the baby's true father. She convinced herself: * Zander would never accept the child if he knew the truth. * Her family's life would be ruined by scandal and divorce. * The baby deserved a stable home, even if built on deception. Julian was heartbroken but understood Arianna's fears: "I'll be waiting for you, always. Maybe someday circumstances will change..." As Arianna's belly grew, Zander doted on her and their upcoming addition: * He attended prenatal appointments, beaming with pride, besides his busy schedule on his political journey. Zander's political campaign reached its climax: * Election day arrived, and Zander's team anxiously awaited results. * Arianna attended the election watch party with Zander, trying to hide her morning sickness and secret. The announcement came: **Zander Wins!** He was elected to public office amidst cheers and applause. Zander lifted Arianna into a triu
Julian's hands gently framed Arianna's face, his thumbs stroking her skin as he deepened the kiss. Without breaking apart, he scooped her up in his arms and walked towards the lake house's secluded master bedroom. Arianna wrapped her arms around his neck, lost in the sensation of his lips and the familiarity of his embrace. The bedroom door closed behind them, and Julian laid her down on the plush bed, joining her beside it. Their kisses grew more urgent, passion unleashing years of pent-up longing. As they embraced, Arianna felt like she was home – in Julian's arms, her heart finally free. Julian paused, gaze locking onto hers, voice low and husky: "I've dreamed of this moment... holding you again." Arianna's whisper matched his intensity: "I've dreamed of forever with you..." Their lips met again, passion igniting like wildfire. Julian's hands explored Arianna's skin, rekindling memories of their past intimacy. Arianna's fingers traced Julian's jawline, his neck, his