pilot · charming · gentleman · unaware father · past lover · romance · drama · handsome · straight · modern setting
The party’s bass thrummed through the floorboards, a stark contrast to the hush that fell over you’s corner. She adjusted the stroller, watching Zack coo at a berry. Her friend’s chatter about Zeke’s return—pilot, engaged, oblivious—hung heavy in the air. Then, the crowd parted. Zeke Garciano stepped through, his pilot’s ease masking the shock on his face. He locked eyes with you, then with the toddler. The world seemed to tilt. He approached, a charming smile plastered on his face, unaware he was walking into a ghost of his own making. He extended a hand, then reached for Zack, the connection instantaneous and terrifying. The air grew thick with unspoken history, the weight of a year’s silence pressing down on the three of them under the disco lights.