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Rachel's ears perked up slightly. Number 12. That was him.

She took a sip of her water, keeping her face neutral. "What team was that y'all were playing?"

Trevor barely looked up. "The Ballers. Pretty dumb name if you ask me."

Rachel smirked behind her glass. Yeah, okay, Mr. 'Elite Hoopers' isn't much better. She set her cup down, casually adding, "Have you played them before?"

"Nah, they're new to the league this year," Trevor responded.

New. That explained why she had never seen him before. Rachel nodded, pretending to be interested in the menu while her thoughts kept circling. Asking Trevor anything else about the mystery player would be too obvious. Especially with how bitter he was. So, instead? She would just find out herself. Rachel secretly decided she would look up the league website. Maybe they had a roster list or some kind of team info. Then, heck, maybe she'd check social media. People loved posting highlights. Maybe she could find something. Because no matter how much she tried to ignore it... She wanted to know who he was. And more importantly, why she couldn't stop thinking about him.

That night in her bed, Rachel lay in bed, phone screen glowing in the darkness, her fingers idly scrolling through the Buckhead Recreational Sports website. She had told herself she was just checking the league schedule. That was all. But the moment she saw it: The Ballers. Thursday, 8 PM. Her stomach did a small flip. Trevor's team had no game that night. Which meant she had no real reason to be there. Except... Except she wanted to be.

Rachel sighed, setting her phone down and rubbing her hands over her face. What am I doing? She had a boyfriend. A long-term one. Sure, Trevor wasn't perfect. He was self-absorbed, a little whiny when things didn't go his way, and could be predictable as hell. But he was good to her. And this? This was not safe. Rachel stared up at the ceiling, her thoughts at war with themselves. She didn't even know this guy's name. She had only seen him play for the first time tonight. Why did she care so much? She groaned, rolling onto her side, frustrated. But deep down, she already knew. It wasn't just about basketball. It was about the way he carried himself. The way he played so smooth, so in control. The way he made her forget, for just a moment, that she was even there for Trevor. Rachel grabbed her phone again, staring at the Thursday game listing. Would she really... go? Just to watch? Just to see him one more time? Her thumb hovered over the power button. Then, she sighed, locking her phone and tossing it onto the nightstand. She needed to sleep. She'd figure this out later. But deep down, she already knew. She was going.

*************************************************

On Thursday night, Rachel arrives to the gym right after the game between 'the Ballers' and their opponent tipped off. She slipped into the gym quietly, keeping her head down as she found a seat higher up in the bleachers. She had told herself all day that she wasn't coming. But here she was. Once she settled in and looked to the court, her eyes immediately found him. The mystery player. Tall. Smooth. Confident. And just as captivating as before. Rachel crossed her legs, feigning casual indifference, but the truth was she was locked in. Tonight, she wasn't just watching. She was analyzing. His footwork was insanely polished. His ball control was smooth and efficient. His shooting form was excellent and he was deadly from midrange. And on top of that, his court awareness was next level for a rec league. He wasn't just athletic. He was skilled. Rachel knew good basketball. And this guy? He was the real deal. She leaned forward slightly, watching as he got the ball on the wing, faked a drive, then smoothly stepped back into a jumper. Swish. Effortless. Rachel's lips parted slightly in admiration before she caught herself. Focus, Rachel. But then...it happened.

As he backpedaled down the court, his eyes suddenly lifted...right to her. For a split second, Rachel froze. Her heart stopped. Her stomach did an uncontrollable flip. Had he just...? No. No way. It was just a coincidence. Right? Rachel quickly looked away, pretending to check her phone, but her pulse was racing. Had he noticed her? Had he seen her last game too? Or was she just imagining things? She had no idea. But suddenly, sitting here felt a lot more dangerous. Rachel swallowed hard, forcing herself to stare at her phone screen like she hadn't just made eye contact with the one player she was trying not to obsess over. It was just a coincidence. He wasn't actually looking at her. Right? Rachel tried to refocus on the game, but now she was hyper-aware. And the more she watched... The more she swore he kept glancing her way. Rachel sat with perfect posture, legs crossed, trying to act completely casual. But every time he drained a smooth midrange jumper, or sliced through defenders for a layup, or sank a deep three with effortless confidence...his eyes flickered toward the bleachers. Toward her. Rachel's stomach tightened. No. Stop. She was imagining things. Wasn't she? Rachel pressed her fingers to her temple, willing herself to get it together. She had a boyfriend. She had no business sitting here feeling like a schoolgirl with a crush. And yet, the way this guy moved, the way he played, she couldn't look away. Her breath hitched slightly as he caught the ball, did a single head fake, and pulled up for a three-pointer. Swish. And just before he turned to run back down the court... His eyes flickered up again. Rachel's lips parted.

Oh, God. This was bad.

About an hour later, Rachel sat completely still as the final buzzer echoed through the gym. The Ballers had won easily. Not surprising, considering who was leading them. She forced herself to casually grab her purse, and start to walk down the bleachers, pretending to check her phone as the teams shook hands at center court. But she could feel it. A shift. A change in the air. Like someone was moving toward her. She didn't dare look up. But she didn't need to. Because within seconds. A deep, smooth voice cut through the post-game noise.

"You enjoy the game?"

Rachel's breath hitched. Slowly, she looked up, and there he was. Standing at the edge of the bleachers, looking directly at her, was him. The mystery player. Up close, he was even more striking. Tall. Broad shoulders. Light skin with a clean fade and a short beard that framed his strong jawline. And his eyes. A deep, unreadable gaze that locked onto hers like he was already reading her thoughts.

Rachel's pulse skyrocketed. For a second, she couldn't speak. Then she somehow managed to find her voice. "You played well."

Way to play it cool, Rachel.

A small grin tugged at the corner of his lips. "Appreciate that. Didn't think I had any fans."

Rachel bit the inside of her cheek, shifting slightly in her seat. "I was just... checking out the competition."

His grin widened just slightly. "Competition for who?"

Rachel froze. Damn. He was sharp. And now? He was interested.

He watched her carefully, intrigued. He had definitely seen her last game. And she came back tonight. She wasn't here by accident. And he wanted to know why. So, he asked, "What's your name?"

Rachel hesitated. This was a line. A step into something dangerous. But as she looked into his eyes, feeling the pull she couldn't explain... She answered anyway. "Rachel."

He nodded, a satisfied expression crossing his face. "Nice to meet you, Rachel. I'm Jalen."

Her heart skipped a beat. Now she had a name. And suddenly? Leaving felt impossible.

The moment Rachel had said her name, Jalen felt it. That feeling. The same warm pull that had stopped him in his tracks before. First with Sydney. Then with Kristen. Then with Megan. And now...Rachel. His stomach tightened.

No. No way. This wasn't happening. Not here. Not now. But it was. And deep down, he already knew. Rachel DeSantos was one of them. One of the eight women he was destined to conceive a child with. Jalen blinked, forcing himself to stay calm.

Rachel tilted her head slightly. "You okay?"

Jalen cleared his throat, forcing a small smile. "Yeah. Just... thinking."

Rachel raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Thinking about what?"

Jalen hesitated. What the hell was he supposed to say? "Thinking about how you're apparently meant to have my child?" The thought sounded so absurd.

Yeah, no. Instead, he exhaled through his nose and shrugged lightly. "Just wondering why you're really here."

Rachel stiffened slightly but recovered fast. "I told you. Checking out the competition."

Jalen smirked. "And yet, your man's team wasn't even playing tonight."

Rachel's stomach did a flip. Busted.

She looked away, exhaling a small laugh. "Maybe I just like basketball."

Jalen's gaze softened as he studied her. She was lying to herself. Maybe she didn't even realize why she was drawn to him yet. But he did. And that? That changed everything. Jalen felt his pulse pounding. This was dangerous. Rachel had a boyfriend. He could tell that she was already fighting whatever attraction she might have been feeling for him. And now? Now he had to pretend like she wasn't literally meant to be carrying his child someday. How the hell was he supposed to handle this? He needed to think. Needed to process. But before he could say anything else, Rachel grabbed her purse and turned towards the exit.

"I should go," she said.

Jalen blinked, surprised. "You sure?"

Rachel hesitated, like she was second-guessing herself. But then, she nodded. "Yeah. But... maybe I'll see you around."

Jalen didn't move. He just watched her turn and head toward the exit, her heels clicking against the gym floor. And as she walked away, he exhaled sharply.

Shit.

Rachel walked briskly out of the gym, making her way to her car. Her heart was still pounding. What the hell was that? She slid into the driver's seat, closed the door, and gripped the steering wheel tightly. This is done. I'm done. She wasn't coming back. She wasn't doing this. She had a boyfriend. Trevor was good and safe. And Jalen? He was dangerous. She got into her car and took a slow, deep breath, staring at her own reflection in the rearview mirror. She barely knew him. It was just basketball curiosity. It didn't mean anything, right? Then why the hell was her stomach still tight? Why was she still feeling the imprint of his deep brown eyes locking onto hers? Rachel groaned, tilting her head back against the seat. No. Stop. Done. She grabbed her phone, determined to focus on Trevor. But as she opened their last text thread, she hesitated. Their last conversation? Trevor ranting about his fantasy football team. Nothing about her. Nothing about their life. Nothing about how she was feeling. Rachel stared at the screen. And for the first time... She felt completely disconnected from him. Rachel exhaled and leaned back, closing her eyes. She could tell herself she was done with Jalen. That she was walking away. That this was over before it even started. But deep down? She already knew the truth. She wasn't done. Not even close. And that? That was what scared her the most.

Rachel texted Trevor. "Hey, can I come over?"

Trevor responds a minute later: "Yeah. What's going on? Are you okay?"

Rachel: "I'm fine. I just want to see you."

Trevor: "Well sure. Come over."

*************************************************

Fifteen minutes later, Rachel pulled into Trevor's apartment complex, took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. She had told herself she needed this. Needed to ground herself. Needed to remind herself why she was in this relationship in the first place. Because if she was being honest... She was starting to feel lost.

Trevor greeted her at the door, wearing his usual sweats and a T-shirt, a bottle of beer in his hand. "Hey, babe." He leaned in, kissing her cheek. "Come on in."

Rachel walked inside, setting her purse on the counter, feeling the weight of her own thoughts.

She didn't waste time. "Trevor, I've been feeling... off lately."

Trevor frowned. "Off how?"

Rachel crossed her arms, choosing her words carefully. "I just don't feel... seen. Or fully appreciated."

Trevor looked caught off guard. "What? Rachel, of course, I appreciate you."

Rachel nodded but pressed on. "I know you do, but... sometimes I feel like you're just going through the motions with me. Like I'm just... there."

Trevor sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Damn. I didn't know you felt that way."

"Well, I do."

There was a long pause. Then..., "I'm sorry," Trevor said.

Rachel blinked, surprised at how quickly he folded.

"I don't want you feeling like that," Trevor continued. "I'll do better, okay? I promise."

Rachel searched his face, feeling a wave of relief. Maybe she had been overthinking things. Maybe all she needed was for him to actually listen. And now that he had, maybe she could finally move on from whatever the hell had been distracting her. Trevor wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close, and she found herself closing her eyes. Rachel's thoughts were still racing. This is good. Trevor cares. Trevor is trying.

She pulled back and smiled at him, trying to believe it. "Okay."

Trevor grinned. "Okay."

Rachel leaned into him, willing herself to be fully present. Trevor pulled her into a deep kiss and Rachel responded in-kind by wrapping her arms around his neck. They continued to kiss until Rachel pulled back and led Trevor to his bedroom. They stripped off their clothes and climbed into the bed. Rachel kept her bra on. Trevor grabbed a condom and Rachel helped him by stroking his cock a few times until it got hard enough for him to strap it on properly before he climbed on top of her. She guided his cock to the entrance of her vagina where Trevor pushed inside of her. Rachel felt his cock slide back and forth inside just as she felt numerous times before. It felt fine. Rachel lay beneath Trevor, eyes closed, breath steady, trying, really trying, to be present with him.This was her boyfriend. The man she'd been with for two years. The man who had just apologized. The man who was trying. But as Trevor's hands moved over her skin, continued to thrust inside of her, he whispered sweet nothings in her ear, as he kissed along her neck... Jalen's face kept flashing in her mind. His intense gaze. His deep, smooth voice. His presence. And worst of all? The way he had looked at her after his game, like he knew something she didn't. She clenched her fists against the sheets, willing herself to focus. Focus on Trevor. Focus on the moment. But no matter how much she tried; she couldn't shake it. She felt... Disconnected. Detached, even as Trevor moved inside her. Her body was going through the motions, but her mind was elsewhere. And she hated it. She hated that Trevor was here, but Jalen was the one lingering in her head. This isn't fair. This isn't right. And yet, it was happening anyway. A few minutes later, Trevor came and then pulled out of her. He pulled his condom off, now filled with his semen, and tossed it in a trash can nearby. He then kissed her forehead after, satisfied and relaxed, completely unaware of the battle happening in Rachel's mind.

"You okay?" he murmured, brushing her hair from her face.

Rachel forced a small smile, nodding. "Yeah. I'm good."

But as Trevor drifted off to sleep beside her... Rachel stared at the ceiling. Her thoughts were louder than ever. Her stomach twisted. And deep down, she had never been more confused in her life.

*************************************************

The following week, Rachel's employer, WSB-TV Channel 2-Atlanta, needed a fill-in story and her boss Nick Dozier asked her if she could do a piece on one of the local basketball Rec leagues (like the one Trevor and Jalen are in). Rachel sat at her desk, staring blankly at her computer screen. This was not the kind of assignment she wanted. She had dreams of covering the NBA. Sitting courtside at Hawks games, interviewing pro players, breaking down strategy, and making a name for herself. But instead? A local rec league? Rachel sighed, running a hand through her dark brown hair. She knew what this was. A filler piece. Something quick and easy because they needed to fill airtime.

"I don't know if people will really gravitate toward this, Nick," she had said.

But her boss, Nick Dozier, waved her off. "Trust me, Rachel, people eat this stuff up. It's competitive, it's got drama, it's perfect for a feel-good sports segment. Just get the story done."

That was it. End of discussion. Since Trevor played in the league, Rachel got a quick quote from him the following evening at his apartment.

"Even though it's just a rec league, the competition gets intense," he told her, adjusting his tie before heading to work. "A lot of these guys used to play in college or overseas, so nobody wants to lose."

Rachel nodded, taking notes. But truthfully? She was just going through the motions. This wasn't the story she wanted. She didn't even want to go to the games on Thursday night. But she had a deadline. So, she'd go. She'd watch. She'd get the story. And then she'd be done with this. At least... That's what she told herself.

That Thursday night, Rachel arrived once again at Buckhead Baptist Church Gym. As soon as she stepped inside, she felt it. A tension she wasn't ready to acknowledge. The sounds of sneakers squeaking against the floor. The echoing of the basketball bouncing. The roar of players calling out plays. She took a breath and scanned the court. And that's when she saw them. One of the teams playing... The Ballers. Her stomach tightened. Her fingers gripped her notepad. Because there, in the middle of the action, moving effortlessly, playing with confidence, completely in control of the game, was Jalen. Rachel felt frozen. Because despite everything she told herself, despite the promises that she was done thinking about him, here he was.

Jalen was locked in. His game was smooth, his shots were falling, and his team was in the lead. Then, midway through the second half... Something shifted. Because when he turned toward the bleachers, looking over the crowd, he saw her. Rachel. Sitting with her notepad in her lap, wearing a fitted blazer over her blouse, trying to look professional. But Jalen wasn't fooled. Because as much as she would try to deny it... He saw it in her eyes. The way they lingered. The way she tensed when he looked at her. And that's when it happened. That familiar warmth. That pull. That unmistakable feeling that had already happened three times before.

Rachel looked down instantly. No. Nope. Not happening. She wasn't going to do this. She was here for work. She wasn't here for him. And she sure as hell wasn't about to sit here feeling something she didn't want to feel. But as the game went on... She kept glancing up. And every time she did? Jalen was already looking at her.

The Ballers won the game. Rachel snapped out of it, quickly jotting down her final notes, telling herself she'd just grab some quick interviews and get out of there. She had already planned to speak to one of the referees about the league's competitiveness. Maybe even the league organizer if he was around. She had zero intention of talking to Jalen. But as she stood up and gathered her things... She saw him walking toward her. Jalen had already toweled off, still wearing his jersey and shorts, his skin glistening with sweat.

He walked straight up to her, his expression calm but knowing. "Still just checking out the competition?"

Rachel forced a polite smile. "It's for work. Doing a piece on the league."

Jalen nodded, smirking. "Is that right?"

Rachel crossed her arms. "It is."

Jalen tilted his head slightly, studying her. "And here I was thinking you were just checking up on me."

Rachel's stomach flipped. Her heart pounded. But she didn't let it show.

Instead, she scoffed lightly. "Not everything is about you, Jalen."

Jalen chuckled. "If you say so."

For a moment, neither of them moved. The sounds of the gym faded into the background. Rachel knew she should end this conversation. She should say "Nice game" and walk away.

But she didn't. And neither did Jalen. Because even though neither of them wanted to admit it... They both felt it. That pull. That tension. That undeniable thing growing between them. Rachel swallowed hard. She was in danger. Because she could feel it happening. The same thing she had promised herself she wouldn't let happen. Unfortunately, for Rachel, she takes too long and realizes that the refs have already left for the night, which means she is unable to interview them for her story.

Shit.

Rachel clenched her jaw as she looked around the emptying gym. The referees were gone. Most of the players had already left. And the league organizer? Nowhere to be found. She had gotten so caught up in Jalen that she missed her chance to speak to the people she actually needed for her story. And now? Her only real interview option was standing right in front of her. Jalen. Jalen leaned against the bleachers, arms crossed, watching her carefully. He had noticed the moment she realized her mistake. And now, she was stalling. Trying to figure out a way out of this. But there wasn't one. Rachel let out a slow breath, finally looking at him.

Jalen raised an eyebrow. "Problem?"

Rachel sighed. "You know damn well what the problem is."

Jalen grinned, shaking his head. "Nah, I don't think I do."

Rachel gave him a look, then hesitated. She hated this. Hated that she had to do this. But her deadline was tomorrow. And like it or not, Jalen was her last shot at getting a decent interview. She had no choice.

Rachel groaned, rubbing her forehead. "I need a player interview."

Jalen shrugged. "Sounds like a good idea."

Rachel narrowed her eyes. "Would you just--damn it, Jalen, will you do the damn interview or not?"

Jalen chuckled, enjoying this way too much. Then he nodded. "I got you."

Rachel exhaled, trying to ignore the relief that washed over her. She pulled out her notepad and phone recorder, preparing herself for what should be a professional, straightforward interview. But she already knew. Nothing about this was going to be straightforward.

Rachel started with the basics. "Tell me about your experience in the league."

Jalen gave her a solid answer, talking about the competition, the talent level, how the league attracted former college and overseas players. Fine. Good. Safe. She scribbled down notes.

Then she moved to the next question. "What's your approach to the game?"

Jalen smirked. "Same as my approach to life--keep my composure, take my time, and when I see the right opening... go all in."

Rachel's pen stopped mid-sentence. She knew that wasn't just about basketball. Their eyes locked. Her heart pounded. But she refused to let him get to her.

Rachel forced herself to focus. "And what would you say sets you apart from the other players in the league?"

Jalen leaned in slightly. "I know what I want. And when I see it, I don't waste time pretending I don't."

Rachel swallowed hard. Okay. This wasn't just flirting. This was a challenge. A silent dare hanging between them. Rachel knew she should shut it down. Keep it strictly professional. But instead... She let the tension simmer. Let it linger just a little longer. Because as much as she hated to admit it... She liked it. Way too much. Rachel forced herself to regain control. She quickly asked a few safe questions like his favorite moment in the league, thoughts on team chemistry, etc. Jalen answered them perfectly. By the time she finished, she had more than enough material. This was supposed to be it. Interview done. Story secured. Time to leave. But as Rachel stood up to go...

Jalen casually asked, "So, you coming to my next game?"

Rachel froze. She turned back toward him. "Why would I?"

Jalen gave her a slow, knowing smile. "The same reason you came to my last one."

Rachel's chest tightened. She had no words. No excuse. No real denial that would sound convincing. Because deep down? She already knew she'd be right back here next week. Watching. Waiting. Even if she told herself otherwise. Rachel quickly gathered her things and turned for the exit.

"Goodnight, Jalen."

As she walked out of the gym, she could feel his eyes on her. And she hated how much she didn't want him to stop looking.

"Rachel wait!"

Oh God. Now what?

Jalen jogs up to her where her car was. "I'm sorry," he said, "I was a little too flippant back there. And I want to take your interview more seriously."

"Yeah? How so?" Rachel asks skeptical.

"I'd like to tell you about how my dad helped me relate basketball to life. How he used to take me to the outside courts as a kid and hoop with me. How he taught me a lot of lessons using basketball before he...," Jalen pauses, "Before he died."

Rachel froze. She had been ready to get in her car, shake off the tension, and pretend this night never happened. But now? She turned to face Jalen fully, watching the way his expression softened. This wasn't him flirting. This wasn't him teasing her. This was something else. Something real.

And it caught her off guard. "Your dad passed?" Rachel asked gently.

Jalen nodded, running a hand over his short beard. "Yeah. When I was ten."

Rachel's chest tightened. "I'm sorry."

Jalen gave a small shrug, his voice calm but weighted. "It was a long time ago. But he's the reason I love this game. He taught me how basketball is just like life. You gotta stay patient, take your shots when the timing is right, and know when to pass when the burden is too much to carry alone."

Rachel's grip tightened on her notepad. Because this was the story. This was the real insight she had been missing. And for the first time, she saw Jalen not just as the man who made her heart race... But as a person with depth, history, and loss. Rachel sighed, glancing toward her car, then back at Jalen. Damn it. She knew she should just leave. But her instincts as a journalist wouldn't let her. And maybe... neither would something else.

She hesitated before nodding. "Okay. Tell me about him."

Jalen's eyes softened. "You sure?"

Rachel exhaled, then steeled herself. "Yeah. I'm sure."

She wasn't sure if she meant the interview. Or something more.

A few minutes later, Rachel sat on the hood of her car, notepad resting on her lap, as Jalen stood beside her, leaning back against the driver's side door.

And for the next twenty minutes, Jalen told her everything. How his dad, Thaddeus, was a blue-collar worker but always made time to take him and Jamal to the courts. How he used basketball to teach Jalen about life. About patience, discipline, and strategy. How he was shot and killed when Jalen was just ten. How that loss forced Jalen to grow up faster than he was ready for. Rachel listened intently, barely writing at times because she was too absorbed in what he was saying. This was so much more than a filler piece. This was real. And yet... Rachel wasn't sure if she was more drawn to the story or the man telling it. As Jalen finished speaking, Rachel slowly closed her notepad. For the first time all night, she didn't feel tension. She felt warmth. And that scared her even more. Because Jalen wasn't just some guy she found attractive. He wasn't just some flirtatious temptation. He was someone she genuinely liked. And that? That was dangerous.

Rachel cleared her throat, trying to shake off the feeling. "Thank you for sharing that," she said, keeping her voice steady.

Jalen nodded, his gaze still on her. "Thanks for listening."

They held each other's eyes for a few seconds too long. Rachel needed to leave. Now. Before she forgot who she was supposed to be loyal to. She grabbed her bag and stood up from the car hood. "I should go. My deadline's tomorrow."

Jalen pushed off the door, stepping back to give her space. "Of course. Get home safe."

Rachel nodded, turning to open her car door. But then... She hesitated. Her fingers hovered over the handle. Because there was something she needed to say. Something she couldn't ignore anymore.

She turned her head slightly, her voice softer than before. "...I'll see you next week."

Jalen grinned. Because they both knew... She didn't have to say that. But she did. And now? Rachel was finally starting to admit the truth. Even if she wasn't ready for what that meant.

*************************************************

That night in her apartment, Rachel writes her article. She finishes it around 12:30 pm. Rachel exhaled deeply as she stared at her laptop screen. The article was finished. It would go live on the WSB-TV Channel 2 website tomorrow morning. She should have felt relieved. Satisfied. But she wasn't. Because no matter how many times she reread the article, no matter how well she captured the competitiveness of the league and the players' passion for the game, there was one thing she couldn't stop thinking about. Jalen. His voice. His presence. The way he looked at her like he saw straight through her. Rachel shut her laptop, leaning back against her pillows. She needed to sleep. But instead, she found herself reaching for her phone. And before she could talk herself out of it... She opened Instagram. Rachel hovered over the search bar. Her fingers typed before she could stop them. Jalen Moss. The results popped up instantly. His profile was right there. Public. Easy access. Rachel bit her lip, clicking on it. And suddenly, she was inside his world. Rachel scrolled slowly. The selfies with that confident smirk she had already memorized. The gym videos showing off his strength and discipline. The pictures of him with his crew, laughing and living life. The random but thoughtful captions, some deep, some playful. He wasn't just attractive. He was intriguing. Rachel's heart thudded. Because the more she scrolled... The more she knew this was dangerous. Rachel reached the top of his page. Her thumb hovered over the follow button. Just one tap. One small tap... And he'd know she was watching. Then her gaze dropped lower. To the message button. She could DM him. And say... what?

"Great interview."

"Thanks for sharing your story."

"See you next week."

Her mind raced. Because this was the line. A line she had no business crossing. But deep down? She wanted to. So badly. Rachel squeezed her eyes shut. Then dropped her phone on the nightstand. No. She couldn't do this. She wouldn't. She had a boyfriend. Trevor was a good man. And Jalen was a risk she wasn't ready to take. Rachel turned over, pulling the blanket over her head. But even as she tried to fall asleep... Her phone sat right there. And she knew. This wasn't over. Not even close.

*************************************************

The next morning at work, Rachel sat at her desk, staring at the email from her boss. Her article had blown up. Way more than she expected. Thousands of clicks. Dozens of comments. And now? WSB-TV wanted her to expand on it.

Nick Dozier's email was clear and direct:

Rachel,

Great job on the rec league piece. Numbers are strong, audience engagement is higher than expected. Let's take it further--bring a cameraman, get some footage, do on-camera interviews. We'll run the segment on Channel 2 Action News. Be sure to get another interview with Jalen Moss. The audience loved his story.

Best,

Nick

Rachel read it twice. This was huge. An on-camera segment. This was the kind of exposure she needed to climb the ranks in sports journalism. So why did her stomach feel tight? Then she saw the last line.

"Be sure to get another interview with Jalen Moss. The audience loved his story."

Rachel's chest squeezed. Of course. Of course, they wanted more Jalen. Because Jalen was the problem. And now she had to stand in front of a camera and interview him again--this time with an entire audience watching. Rachel leaned back, pressing her fingers to her temples. She had spent all night thinking about Jalen. She had spent all morning telling herself that it was just an interview. That her feelings were nothing. That she was in control. But now? She had to face him again. And this time, she couldn't just hide behind a notepad. This time, the world would be watching. Rachel let out a slow breath. She had no choice. She had to do the segment.

The next day, Saturday around noon, Rachel sat across from Trevor at their usual brunch spot, picking at her avocado toast as he scrolled through his phone. She needed to tell him. But for some reason, it felt harder than it should.

Rachel cleared her throat. "So... Channel 2 is expanding my rec league story."

Trevor looked up. "Oh yeah? That's awesome, babe. What's the plan?"

Rachel forced a smile. "They want me to bring a cameraman, get game footage, and do on-camera interviews for a TV segment."

Trevor grinned. "That's huge! Look at you, moving up in the world. I always knew you had it in you."

Rachel nodded, feeling the praise land... but also feeling the weight of what she hadn't said yet.

She took a sip of her mimosa, then braced herself. "They also want me to interview Jalen again."

Trevor froze mid-bite. Then he slowly set down his fork. "...Jalen?"

Rachel's pulse quickened. "Yeah. The guy I featured in the article. They liked his story."

Trevor's jaw tensed just a little. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Huh."

Rachel stayed quiet. She knew that look. It wasn't full-on jealousy. It wasn't anger. But it was something. Something she didn't want to unpack right now.

Trevor finally shrugged. "Well, I mean... makes sense. His story was solid. People love an underdog thing."

Rachel nodded quickly. "Right. Exactly."

Trevor grabbed his coffee, taking a slow sip. Then he gave her a pointed look. "So, you're gonna be seeing him a lot, huh?"

Rachel froze. There it was. She kept her tone light. "It's just work, Trev."

Trevor nodded... but he didn't quite look convinced. "Yeah, of course. Just work."

Rachel felt her stomach tighten. Because even though his words were casual... She knew he was picking up on something. And worse? So was she.

"Trevor if you want, I won't do it." Rachel says.

Trevor studied Rachel for a long moment, his expression unreadable. She had meant it. If he really wanted her to, she wouldn't do the interview. She'd tell her boss that she'd rather interview someone else. She'd put all this weird tension behind her. Because this wasn't worth jeopardizing her relationship. Right?

Trevor let out a breath and finally shook his head. "No, Rachel. I don't want that."

Rachel blinked. "You sure?"

Trevor gave a small smile, reaching across the table to squeeze her hand. "Yeah. It's your job. I'm not about to be that guy who tells you what you can and can't do."

Rachel felt her shoulders relax slightly. "I just... I don't want you to feel weird about it."

Trevor chuckled. "Well, you offering to drop it makes me feel a little weird."

Rachel bit her lip, suddenly realizing how bad that sounded. Shit. Did she just make things worse?

Trevor took a sip of his coffee. "Look, if you say it's just work, then I believe you. And if I'm being honest, I don't really see the big deal. Unless..."

Rachel tensed. "...Unless what?"

Trevor gave her a careful look. "Unless there's something you're not telling me."

Rachel's stomach twisted. Because he wasn't accusing her of anything. He wasn't angry. He was just... testing her. And the worst part? Rachel wasn't sure she'd pass the test.

Rachel forced herself to keep her cool. "Of course there's nothing I'm not telling you."

That was technically true. She hadn't done anything. She hadn't crossed any lines. But her mind? That was a different story. Because ever since she met Jalen... Her thoughts weren't as loyal as they should be. And now, as she sat here with her boyfriend, trying to convince both of them that everything was fine... She felt like a liar.

Trevor held her gaze for another second, then finally nodded. "Alright. Then I trust you."

Rachel swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded back. "Good."

Too good. Because now, she wasn't sure if she trusted herself.

On Monday, Rachel sat at her desk, staring at her phone. The DM was already typed out. All she had to do was hit send.

Rachel: "Hey Jalen, it's Rachel DeSantos. Channel 2 wants me to do a follow-up TV segment on the rec league, and they specifically want me to interview you again. Would you be open to it?"

Her finger hovered over the Send button. Why did this feel like such a big deal? This was work. This was professional. And yet, as she sat there, heart beating just a little too fast... It didn't feel like she was texting just another interview subject. It felt like she was reaching for something else. Something she shouldn't. Rachel let out a breath and hit send. No hesitation. No regrets. Right? Rachel set her phone down, trying to refocus on her laptop. One minute passed. Then another. Then. A buzz. Her phone lit up.

Jalen: "Hey Rachel, good to hear from you. A TV interview, huh? Guess I gotta make sure my fade is extra sharp. ;)"

Rachel smiled despite herself.

Jalen: "But yeah, I'm down. When and where?"

Rachel chewed her lip. Why did even his messages have this effect on her? She quickly typed back:

Rachel: "Thursday before your game? Maybe outside the gym so we get good lighting?"

His response came almost immediately.

Jalen: "Sounds good. I'll be there."

Rachel stared at the screen. She had gotten what she needed. But instead of relief... She felt like she had just set something in motion that she wasn't ready for. Because no matter how professional she tried to be... Jalen Moss was starting to feel way too personal.

That Thursday, Rachel arrived outside the gym fifteen minutes early, camera crew in tow, mentally running through her questions. This was work. This was just another interview. And yet... Her stomach wouldn't stop flipping. She had spent all week convincing herself that this was nothing. That Trevor was her boyfriend. That Jalen was just a subject. That this was no different from any other interview. But the moment she saw him walking toward her? Everything fell apart. Jalen approached casually, confidently, wearing a fitted black hoodie and joggers, hands in his pockets. Rachel's heart slammed into her ribs. Because how was it possible that he looked this good? The way he walked. The way he smirked when he saw her. The way his eyes held hers just a second too long. Rachel had to physically remind herself to breathe. This is fine. You are fine.

Jalen stopped in front of her. "So... how do I look? TV ready?"

Rachel almost laughed. Almost. "You'll do."

Jalen chuckled, shaking his head. "I see you like to keep a man humble."

Rachel swallowed hard. Because the way he said "a man" made something in her stomach tighten. She turned to the cameraman, trying to keep it strictly professional. "Alright, let's get set up."

Twenty minutes later, Rachel stood across from Jalen as the cameraman adjusted the angle. Professional. Stay professional. You are not here to flirt. You are not here to notice how good he smells. You are not here to wonder what it would feel like to... "CUT IT OUT, Rachel!" She thought angrily to herself.

She took a slow breath, then started.

"Alright, Jalen. You've been getting a lot of attention since the article. How does it feel?"

Jalen grinned. "A little weird, not gonna lie. But I guess I can't complain."

Rachel nodded. "A lot of people connected with your story. Especially the part about your dad."

Jalen's face softened slightly. "Yeah... I didn't expect to share that part of me, but I'm glad I did. If it helps somebody else, then it was worth it."

Rachel's chest tightened. Because even now, even with a camera pointed at him... Jalen wasn't just some smooth-talking guy. He was real. And that made him even more dangerous.

Rachel cleared her throat, pushing forward. "What do you hope people take away from your story?"

Jalen looked directly at her. And for a split second... It didn't feel like he was answering the audience. It felt like he was talking to her.

"I guess I just want people to realize that sometimes, the best things in life happen unexpectedly. You don't always see them coming, but when they do... you gotta decide whether you're gonna fight it or go with it."

Rachel's throat went dry. Because she knew. That wasn't about basketball. That was about them. The interview wrapped up, the camera crew packed their things, and Rachel told herself that she could handle this. She turned to Jalen, ready to thank him and move on. "That was great. Thanks for your time."

Jalen smirked. "Anytime."

Rachel should have walked away. She should have left it at that. But then...

"Can I buy you dinner after the game tonight? Nothing fancy, just the Three Dollar Café. I really want to learn more about you, and...maybe as a way of paying me back for letting you interview me?" Jalen asks with a mock grin.

Rachel froze. She should say no. She needed to say no. Because this wasn't just dinner. Not really. This was something else. Something she had no business stepping into. Rachel licked her lips, forcing herself to act normal.

"Dinner, huh? That's your way of getting repaid?"

Jalen grinned. "Hey, I gave you a good interview. Least you can do is buy a man some wings."

Rachel let out a small laugh, but inside? She was spiraling. Because it sounded innocent. But they both knew better. Rachel's brain was screaming. You have a boyfriend! This is dangerous! You know exactly where this leads!

But then there was the other voice. The one she had been ignoring. You want to go. You want to know him. You haven't felt this alive in... how long?

Rachel swallowed. She knew what the right answer was. But for some reason... She couldn't quite get herself to say it. She looked up at Jalen. He was watching her closely. Not pressuring. Just waiting. Rachel took a slow breath. Then, before she could stop herself...

"Okay."

Jalen raised an eyebrow. "Yeah?"

Rachel forced a smirk. "Yeah. But only because you did give me a good interview."

Jalen chuckled. "Right. Strictly business."

Rachel nodded. "Exactly."

But as Jalen gave her one last look before heading into the gym... Rachel knew. This wasn't just business. This was the beginning of something she wasn't sure she'd be able to stop.

About ninety minutes later, after witnessing 'The Ballers' claim another victory, Rachel sat across from Jalen in the cozy booth at Three Dollar Café, a basket of wings between them, feeling more at ease than she should. She had told herself that this was nothing. Just a casual dinner. But the more they talked... the more she realized Jalen wasn't like other guys. He wasn't just attractive. He was engaged. Curious. And most dangerous of all? He actually seemed to care.

Jalen grinned as he dipped a wing into ranch dressing. "So, let me guess... You were a point guard?"

Rachel blinked. "How'd you know?"

Jalen shrugged. "You just give off that energy. Smart, quick, playmaker vibes. Plus, you watch the game like a guard. You see everything."

Rachel felt her stomach flip. Because he was right. Trevor had never even guessed what position she played. Hell, he barely asked about her hooping days at all.

Rachel took a sip of her drink, trying to shake off the feeling. "Yeah. I played point all through high school and college."

Jalen leaned in, genuinely intrigued. "Why don't you play anymore?"

Rachel opened her mouth, then stopped. Because when was the last time she even thought about playing? Rachel hesitated. "I don't know... Life happened, I guess. Work keeps me busy. And, you know, I'm not in college shape anymore."

Jalen tilted his head. "That's a weak excuse."

Rachel laughed. "Excuse me?"

Jalen smirked. "You love basketball. I can tell. So, why'd you really stop?"

Rachel paused. Because the truth was... She wasn't sure. Somewhere along the way, she had just... let it go. And Jalen? He saw right through it.

Jalen leaned back, watching her closely. "You should start playing again."

Rachel rolled her eyes. "Right. Let me just casually show up at a men's rec league game and call next."

Jalen smirked. "I'm serious. Or better yet, start your own basketball sports blog. Cover the NBA, WNBA, everything you love. People would eat that up."

Rachel stared at him. Because somehow... she had never thought of that. Her entire career had been about waiting for opportunities. Waiting for someone like her boss to give her a shot. But Jalen? He was telling her to create her own.

Rachel slowly nodded. "That's... actually a really good idea."

Jalen winked. "I know."

And just like that... Rachel realized that she had never met a man like him before. And that was a huge problem.

Jalen wiped his hands and leaned forward, eyes locked on hers. "So, what's it gonna be? Are you gonna let life keep passing you by, or are you gonna lace 'em up again?"

Rachel swallowed. Because this wasn't just about basketball. She could feel it. Jalen was challenging her. Not just to hoop again. But to wake up. To stop coasting. To stop settling. Rachel's chest tightened. Because what if he was right? Rachel sat back in the booth, staring at Jalen like he had just rewritten her entire future. A blog? A basketball podcast on YouTube? She had never even considered it.

Jalen grinned as he wiped his hands on a napkin. "Think about it. You're already covering sports. You know the game inside and out. And people would kill to hear a real hooper's take on the NBA, WNBA, and everything in between."

Rachel blinked. "You really think people would care what I have to say?"

Jalen scoffed. "Rachel, you're a natural. You've got the knowledge, the charisma, the look. You just need to put yourself out there. And if TV won't give you the space you deserve, create your own."

Rachel felt her stomach flip. Because once again, Jalen was saying things that she had never even told herself. He believed in her. And that was terrifying. She took a slow sip of her drink, trying to calm the warmth in her chest. "You make it sound so easy."

Jalen smirked. "It is. You just have to take the first step. And speaking of first steps..." He leaned forward, eyes locked onto hers. "...I challenge you to a game of one-on-one."

Rachel froze. "...What?"

Jalen grinned. "You heard me. Lace 'em up. Let's see if you still got it."

Rachel stared at him, completely caught off guard. She hadn't played in years. She didn't even know if she could still play. And Jalen? He was one of the best hoopers she had ever seen up close, that wasn't a pro.

She shook her head with a laugh. "Oh, hell no. You'd wipe the floor with me."

Jalen leaned back, feigning disappointment. "Wow. So, you're just gonna let me win without even trying?"

Rachel narrowed her eyes. "I never said that."

Jalen smirked. "Then prove it."

Rachel hesitated. Because she knew... If she agreed to this? It was more than just a pickup game. This was about something bigger. Her confidence. Her passion. And the fact that Jalen was pushing her in ways Trevor never had.

Rachel took a deep breath. "Fine. But if I win, you gotta subscribe to my podcast and my blog when I start it."

Jalen chuckled. "I mean...I'll do that regardless, but deal. And when I win, you gotta come to more of my games."

Rachel raised an eyebrow. "Cocky, huh?"

Jalen grinned. "You'll see soon enough."

Rachel couldn't help but smile. Because suddenly, for the first time in a long time... She felt an exhilaration that she hadn't felt in ages.

*************************************************

Twenty-four hours later, Rachel pulled into the parking lot of a basketball gym in Doraville, Georgia, her fingers tightening around the steering wheel. This was a mistake. She knew it. And yet, she was still here. She stepped out of her car, duffel bag slung over her shoulder, the faint hum of city lights in the distance. The gym looked empty, except for one car parked near the entrance. Jalen's car. Rachel took a slow breath, steeling herself. Because this wasn't just basketball. This was something she couldn't name. Something she wasn't ready for. But as soon as she pushed open the doors and saw him standing at midcourt, spinning a basketball in his hands... She knew there was no turning back. Jalen had called in a favor and the maintenance guy gave Jalen the keys to the gym as long as he promised to be done and lock up by 11 pm.

Jalen looked up, grinning when he saw her. "You actually showed up."

Rachel smirked, dropping her bag near the baseline. "I keep my word."

Jalen bounced the ball once. "Good. Now let's see if you can actually hoop."

Rachel rolled her eyes as she pulled off her hoodie, revealing a fitted Nike tank top and black compression shorts. She laced up her sneakers, feeling a familiar thrill she hadn't felt in years. Jalen was already watching her. Not just in a basketball way. In a way that made her stomach flip.

Rachel straightened up, grabbing the ball. "First to eleven. Ones and twos."

Jalen raised an eyebrow. "Damn. No warm-up?"

Rachel tossed him the ball. "You need one?"

Jalen chuckled. "I like you."

Rachel's heart skipped a beat. But she shoved it aside. This was just basketball. Right?

Jalen checked the ball. "Your ball first. Show me what you got, super star."

Rachel took a deep breath, took a hard dribble, then went into a quick crossover, trying to shake him early.

Jalen barely budged, his body staying in front of her. Damn. He was fast. Rachel pulled back, then spun into the lane, hitting a smooth floater. Swish. Then all of a sudden... it all came rushing back. The thrill of the game, the lingering smell of sweat and hardwood. The feeling of a Spalding basketball. The killer instinct to want to destroy the person trying to guard you. She had forgotten for years. She had forgotten the game she truly loved at its core, and now, she was rediscovering it.

Jalen raised an eyebrow after her made basket. "Okay. That's one."

Rachel smirked. "Better start playing defense."

Jalen grinned. "Oh, I will."

And he did. Hard. Rachel had never had someone guard her this tight. He pressed against her, his body warm, every movement calculated. Every dribble felt like a moment too long. Every screen of his arm across her body felt like a touch too much. Rachel knew exactly what was happening. And she knew Jalen did too. And she loved it. This game was everything. The feeling of intense competition was like an old friend that she was getting reacquainted with and it felt so right. It felt like home.

By the time the score hit 9-9, Rachel was breathless. Sweat trickled down her back, her chest rising and falling. And absolutely exhilarated. Jalen was good but here she was going toe to toe with him. And Jalen was not going easy on her either, which made her only appreciate him even more. He was showing her a level of respect that only a fellow hooper would understand.

Jalen was now in front of her, grinning, also breathing hard. "One more bucket, Rach."

Rachel stared at him, hands on her hips. Rach. Trevor never called her that. No one did. Only Jalen. Rachel swallowed hard. "Don't go easy on me."

Jalen smirked, dribbling. "Oh, I won't."

Then he attacked. A quick step. A hesitation. A crossover. Rachel tried to stay in front, but he was too fast. He hit a fadeaway jumper.

Swish. Game.

Jalen held his follow-through, watching the ball sink through the net. Rachel stood there, heart pounding. She was trying to catch her breath, hands on her knees, sweat dripping down her temples. The game had felt... exhilarating. She hadn't felt this good since...her last college game. Her competitive fire that she hadn't felt in nearly six years had been reignited. She was now reminded why she truly loved this game. And it was Jalen who provided that spark.

Jalen grinned, stretching his arms above his head. "Damn, Rach. You got game."

Rachel rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling. "Yeah, yeah. You got me this time."

Jalen chuckled, stepping forward. "This time? That implies that you're down to lose to me again."

Rachel swatted his arm. "You're insufferable."

Jalen laughed, and before she knew what was happening, he pulled her into a playful hug. It was supposed to be lighthearted. Friendly. But then... Neither of them let go.

Rachel felt it instantly. The way Jalen's body heat wrapped around her. The way his breath slowed near her temple. The way his hands lingered at the small of her back. She should have stepped back. She should have said something. But she didn't. Because in that moment, everything felt too good. Jalen's arms loosened slightly, just enough for them to pull back a few inches. Plus the fire that was now burning inside of her from being in the heat of basketball competition against only made the energy between them more charged. And that's when it happened...

Their eyes met. The air shifted. The energy from the game, the adrenaline, the tension that had been building for weeks. It all came crashing down. Before Rachel even realized what was happening... Jalen's lips were on hers.

It was soft at first. Like testing a boundary. Like seeing if the other would pull away. But neither of them did. Instead, Rachel's fingers curled into the fabric of his hoodie. Jalen tilted his head, deepening it. A slow, heated, intoxicating kiss. One that sent electricity straight through Rachel's veins. She should have stopped. Their tongues were in each other's mouths. The sweat on their bodies rubbed and mixed together. She should have thought about Trevor. But in this moment? Trevor didn't exist. Only Jalen did. And the worst part? Rachel didn't want this to end. She couldn't fight it anymore. She'd truly fallen for this man. This man, Jalen, who seemingly dropped into her life from out of nowhere and had turned her entire world completely upside down.

Jalen barely had time to process what just happened. The kiss. The heat. The way Rachel's body melted into his. And then, she suddenly pulled away. Not in hesitation. Not in regret. But with a purpose. Jalen stood there, breathing heavily, watching as Rachel grabbed his hand and led him across the gym floor. She didn't say a word. She didn't have to. Because her intentions were crystal clear. It was surreal to Jalen feel her hand grab his both gently and firmly knowing full well what she was leading them to do. Still, he said nothing.

She led him to the dimly lit locker room and the moment they stepped in there; Rachel turned to face him. No hesitation. No second-guessing. Her eyes were dark with need, her breath shallow. And then, she crossed her arms over her torso and pulled off her tank top. Jalen's mouth went dry. Her sports bra followed revealing her bare breasts. They were nice breasts too. They weren't ridiculously huge, but they were a nice size and round shaped. Then went her shorts. Then her socks and sneakers. Rachel stood before him in just her navy blue panties, her toned, athletic frame on full display. Jalen barely got a chance to take her in before she stepped forward, pressing herself against his chest. Her hands went to the hem of his hoodie, tugging it upward, her fingers brushing against his warm skin. Still not a word was spoken. Jalen followed by tugging his sleeveless shirt off which exposed his bare torso and chest. Rachel then slipped her fingers inside of the waistband of his shorts and boxers and pulled them both down in one tug revealing his hardening cock.

Rachel's breath hitched when his cock was revealed. "Damn..." she said softly. She wrapped both of her hands around it and began to stroke it slowly and softly. Her touch sent jolts through him. His dick reached maximum hardness very quickly from her hands working him. Finally, Rachel removed her panties, now making her completely bare. She looked up at Jalen with an intensity in her gaze that sent a shiver down his spine. She didn't hesitate. Didn't second-guess. She was choosing him now. She gently pushed Jalen back so that he sat on the locker room bench so that he was straddling it. Then she simply climbed onto his lap, straddling HIM as he sat on the bench, her hands resting against his shoulders. Jalen's hands instinctively went to her waist, his fingers pressing into the soft curves of her hips. Rachel's breath was shaky, but her movements were sure. This was her choice. Her decision. And Jalen was completely at her mercy. Their eyes met, dark with unspoken tension, heavy with the weight of everything leading up to this moment. Then, slowly, Rachel reached down, guiding his rock-hard dick to the entrance of her vagina. And the second she inserted him in and slowly sank down onto it... she shut her eyes and gasped. A soft, shuddering sound that sent a fire straight through Jalen's veins. Her fingers gripped his shoulders tighter, her nails pressing into his skin. Her lips parted as Jalen's dicked pressed further and further into her as she continued to sink down into him. She did her best to adjust to his absurd size, being very deliberate and slow in her descent onto his lap. His cock reached so deep it was ridiculous. Rachel could take a lot, but this was a whole other level. It hurt, but this didn't discourage her. It only made her want to fuck him even more, as if determined to use the pain as fuel.

"Are you okay?" Jalen softly asked.

Rachel opened her eyes and looked into his. She could see in his eyes that he wasn't joking. He genuinely wanted to make sure she was okay. Okay with having his enormous toll he called a dick in her. Okay with doing this knowing there was still Trevor. She nodded her head a few times quickly before saying, "Yeah...I'm good." She then gave him a soft kiss on the lips and finished sitting completely down on his lap, pushing his dick now to the far depths of her pussy near her cervix.

Jalen clenched his jaw, his grip on her tightening, trying to hold back the wave of pleasure that came from feeling all of her. Rachel exhaled a long breath, adjusting, her lips parting slightly, eyes closed again. No more words were spoken. Because nothing more needed to be said. This moment spoke for itself. Then at long last, Rachel's hips rolled, her movements slow, deliberate, savoring every second of what she was doing. And Jalen let her take the lead. Let her feel every bit of him. He wanted this to happen on her terms, especially given delicacy of her situation.

Rachel then reached up, pulling out her hair tie, letting her long, brown, sweaty hair cascade down her back and over her shoulders. Jalen's breath hitched as he watched her hair fall, completely mesmerized. She looked untamed. Unrestrained. And so god damn sexy. Her hands cradled his face, holding him close, their foreheads nearly touching as she continued to roll her hips, slow and deep, taking in every inch of him. Jalen groaned, his grip on her hips tightening, fingers pressing into her soft skin. Rachel's eyes, now open, were squarely on his. This was different. This wasn't rushed. This was her making a choice and fully owning it. Jalen could feel her warm breath against his lips, could see the way her eyes darkened with intensity, filled with desire, with certainty. Rachel bit her lip, tilting her head slightly, pressing her lips to his in a way that was deep, slow, and consuming. Jalen kissed her back with equal hunger, his hands trailing up her back, pulling her even closer. She moaned against his mouth, and the sound sending a shiver down his spine. Their tongues danced in each other's mouths. Rachel's rhythm never faltered. Steady. Intoxicating. Her fingers slid into his hair, tugging lightly, sending a jolt of pleasure straight through him. Jalen groaned against her lips.

"Rachel..." he murmured, his voice low, rough, filled with everything he was feeling.

Rachel pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes, her breath heavy, her pupils blown wide with pure want.

"No more talking," she whispered, rolling her hips again.

Jalen let go completely. Because she had just taken control of everything. And he was more than willing to let her have it. Rachel's hands slid from Jalen's face to his chest, her fingers splayed against his warm skin as she gently pushed him back onto the bench. Jalen let her, his hands falling to her hips as she settled over him, her thighs gripping his. She leaned down, her lips grazing his ear as she whispered exactly what she wanted. Exactly what she needed.

"I've wanted this since I first saw you," she whispered, "Now don't hold back..."

Jalen's fingers tightened against her skin, his breath hitching as her words sent a jolt of heat straight through him. Rachel pulled back, her dark brown hair falling over her shoulders, framing her sultry, determined gaze.

She didn't hesitate. She moved with purpose, her rhythm slow, deep, and deliberate, taking his cock fully inside her as deep as it could possibly go. Jalen groaned, his head falling back against the bench, his hands sliding up her sides, watching her completely give in. Rachel's eyes locked onto his, filled with something undeniable. She wasn't just having him. She was claiming him. And Jalen had never wanted anyone more. Jalen's grip on Rachel's hips tightened more, his breaths coming out ragged, his jaw clenching as he felt the heat coiling deep in his core.

Jalen sat back up so that their faces were inches apart again. He was close. Too close. And Rachel knew it. She could feel it, but she didn't stop. She didn't slow down. Instead, she rolled her hips deeper, locking her arms around his neck, holding him tight against her. Jalen buried his face against her shoulder, groaning, his fingers digging into her soft skin.

"Rachel..." he warned, his voice low, strained, desperate.

She leaned in closer, lips grazing his ear. "I know," she whispered. "I want you to."

And then it happened. Jalen let go. A deep, guttural moan left his lips as he buried himself fully inside her, his body tensing as the tip of his dick pulsated shooting streams of semen inside of her. Rachel gasped, her own body shuddering from the intensity of it all, the sensation of him pulsing deep inside her. She held onto him, her nails pressing into his back and her other nails into the back of his head, her breaths coming out uneven, shaky. Neither of them moved. Neither of them spoke. Because in this moment, as their bodies trembled against each other, as the reality of what just happened sank in... They both knew. There was no turning back now.

Rachel's breath was still shaky, her body still pressed against Jalen's chest. She didn't move. She didn't want to move. Her arms stayed wrapped around his neck, her bare skin still warm against his. Jalen's hands rested on her waist, his grip firm but gentle. He was breathing just as hard, his heartbeat still racing against hers. But he didn't rush her. He didn't push her away. He just let her stay. Rachel pressed her forehead against his, her dark brown hair falling around them like a curtain. She could feel his warm breath against her lips. She could hear the steady rise and fall of his chest. And she could feel everything she had just done. Every choice. Every touch. Rachel tightened her arms around him, burying her face in his neck. She didn't want this feeling to end. Didn't want to leave this moment. Because the second she did... The real world would come crashing back. And she wasn't ready for that. Not yet. Jalen shifted slightly, tilting his head so that his lips brushed against her temple. He didn't speak.

Rachel finally pulled back, just enough to meet Jalen's gaze. Her arms were still draped around his shoulders, her bare body still pressed against his. But now, she could see him. See the way his dark eyes searched hers. See the way his lips parted slightly, as if he wanted to say something but wasn't sure what. And in that moment, she realized that she was searching for something. Reassurance. Understanding. Some kind of unspoken answer. Because she had just risked everything. And now she needed to know... Was it worth it? Jalen studied her, his hands still resting firmly on her waist. And then he reached up, his fingers brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. His touch was gentle. Careful. Like he knew exactly what she needed in this moment. Rachel swallowed, her lips slightly parted, her breath still uneven.

Jalen's thumb traced lightly along her jaw; his voice low, steady. "You good?" he asked softly.

Rachel's heart skipped. Because in those two words, she heard everything. He wasn't just asking if she was okay physically. He was asking if she was okay with all of this. With what they'd just done. With where this could lead. With him. Rachel let out a shaky breath. She didn't have an answer. Not yet.

She lifted her hand, cupping the side of his face. "I'm good," she whispered.

Jalen exhaled, his tension easing slightly. And then, just as his lips parted to speak again... Rachel leaned in... and kissed him. Deep. Slow. Because right now she didn't want to think. She didn't want to question it. She just wanted to feel. Jalen felt Rachel's lips linger against his, her breath warm, uneven.

Then, barely above a whisper, she said, "Stay with me tonight... please."

Jalen froze. Not because he didn't want to. But because of what it meant. Rachel's eyes searched his, her expression open, raw, unguarded. She wasn't just asking him to spend the night. She was asking him to be there. To not leave her alone with the weight of what just happened. To let her hold onto this feeling just a little longer. Jalen exhaled slowly, his fingers trailing up her back, feeling the heat of her skin. This was dangerous. Too dangerous. But when he looked at Rachel, the way she clung to him, the way her chest rose and fell, still pressed against his, he knew he wasn't going anywhere.

Jalen brushed his thumb along her cheek, his voice low, steady. "Okay."

Rachel let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. She nodded slowly, gratefully, before sinking against him once more, her arms wrapping around his shoulders. She didn't need to say anything else. Because tonight? She just needed him. And Jalen? He would give her that. No questions. No expectations. Just this moment. Just them.

Jalen and Rachel dressed in silence; the air still thick with the weight of what just happened. Every now and then, Jalen would steal a glance at her, watching the way she fixed her hair, how she avoided his gaze, but not in a way that screamed regret. No, this wasn't regret. This was something deeper. Rachel tied her sneakers, exhaling slowly before looking up at Jalen, who had just finished locking up as promised.

10:49 PM. Late enough for the streets to be quieter. Late enough for reality to start creeping in. Rachel didn't say where they were going next. She didn't have to. Jalen simply followed her. Through the empty parking lot. Through the dimly lit streets of Buckhead. Straight to her apartment complex. After they park, Rachel beckons him to follow her inside.

They reach her room and enter. Jalen sees immediately that Rachel has a nice spacious apartment, and she keeps it nice and tidy. Jalen took in the room, his eyes scanning the posters of Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Magic Johnson, and Steph Curry, all basketball legends, all reflections of who Rachel was and what she loved. Her apartment wasn't just nice, it was personal. It had touches of her passion, her discipline, her ambition. And that made him admire her even more. Rachel, now barefoot, climbed onto the bed, her body sinking into the plush comforter as she exhaled deeply. Then, she turned to Jalen, her brown eyes soft, searching.

"Just hold me."

Jalen didn't hesitate. He kicked off his shoes, slid into the bed beside her, and wrapped his strong arms around her. Rachel nestled against his chest, her hand resting lightly on his forearm as he held her close. Neither of them spoke. The weight of the night, the emotions, the choices they had made, it was all there, lingering in the quiet air between them. Rachel closed her eyes, breathing in his scent, his warmth, his presence. She had never felt this safe. Never felt this seen. Jalen pressed a soft kiss against her forehead, his fingers idly tracing patterns along her arm. For now, there were no expectations. No planning for what comes next. Just this moment. Just them. Jalen felt Rachel's breath even out, the steady rise and fall of her chest pressing softly against him. She had fallen asleep in his arms. He didn't move. Didn't dare disturb the peace that had settled over her. Instead, he just held her. Letting himself soak in the quiet weight of the moment. Rachel had given in to exhaustion, emotion, and maybe even relief. But Jalen? His mind wouldn't stop. He stared at the ceiling, his fingers idly tracing small circles on her bare shoulder. This was bigger than passion. Bigger than just a stolen night. Rachel didn't know it yet. But the choice they made tonight? It may have already changed her life. And if that was the case, then soon she would have to face the truth.

Jalen's eyes were just starting to close, his body finally relaxing into the warmth of Rachel beside him... Then his phone buzzed. He reached for it, his screen glowing in the dark.

Sydney.

"Hey, we need to talk. It's important."

Jalen's eyebrows furrowed. Sydney never sent text messages like that unless something was serious. A sudden weight settled in his chest. Was something wrong? Did something happen? Or... did she finally find out?

Jalen typed quickly: "Can we talk tomorrow?"

Sydney responded almost immediately. "Yeah. But don't forget. It's important."

Jalen stared at the screen for a long moment. Then he exhaled quietly, placing his phone back on the nightstand. Rachel shifted slightly in her sleep, still tucked against him. Jalen looked down at her, his fingers grazing her back absentmindedly. He should have been at peace. He should have felt content. Instead? Something in his gut told him that tomorrow everything could change.

*************************************************

In the morning, Rachel blinked awake, the soft morning light filtering through her bedroom blinds. For a moment, she felt peaceful. Content. Warmth surrounded her. Jalen's arms were still wrapped around her, his body solid, steady, real. She could hear his heartbeat, feel the slow, steady rise and fall of his chest against her back. It felt safe. It felt right.

Then...everything from last night hit her. Her body stiffened. Her eyes widened as her mind raced back through every decision, every touch, every choice. She had slept with Jalen. Not just that, she had given herself to him completely. Letting go of everything she thought she knew. Letting desire override reason. Letting passion take control. And now? She had to face it. Rachel swallowed hard, her heart pounding. What the hell had she done? What did this mean for her? For Trevor? For everything she thought she had under control?

Rachel closed her eyes, inhaling slowly, trying to steady her racing thoughts. Her heart was pounding, her emotions a chaotic mix of desire, guilt, and uncertainty. She felt Jalen's warmth behind her, his arm still draped over her waist. The memory of last night played in her mind on a loop. The way he touched her. The way he made her feel. The way she let go. And now? Now, she had to face it.

She swallowed hard, her voice barely above a whisper. "Jalen..."

She felt his body shift slightly, his breathing changing as he stirred awake. His grip on her waist tightened for a second, instinctively pulling her closer before his eyes fully opened.

"Hmm?" he murmured groggily, his voice deep, husky from sleep.

Rachel's throat felt tight. She didn't even know what she wanted to say. Did she tell him she regretted it? Did she tell him she wanted more? Did she tell him she was scared as hell about what this meant for her life?

Jalen's hand grazed her arm, his voice still laced with sleep but suddenly more alert. "Rachel?" he said, sensing something.

She finally turned to face him, her brown eyes searching his. Jalen studied her, his gaze soft, concerned, waiting. He wasn't pushing. Wasn't assuming. Just letting her speak first. Rachel licked her lips, exhaling. Then...

"I... don't know what to do," she admitted, her voice barely above a breath.

Rachel sat up slowly, pulling the sheets around her as she hugged her knees to her chest. Her body was warm from Jalen's touch, but inside? She felt cold. Nauseous. Her mind wouldn't stop racing. She had just cheated on Trevor. A man who, while not perfect, had been good to her. A man who didn't deserve this. Her fingers gripped the blanket, her breathing shaky as the guilt pressed down on her. She could still feel Jalen beside her, his presence undeniable. But when he reached for her, she flinched, just slightly. Not because she didn't want him. But because wanting him was the problem.

Jalen exhaled slowly, watching her. "Talk to me, Rachel." His voice was gentle, careful.

She shook her head, staring down at the sheets. "I... I don't know how to process this." Her voice was strained, quiet.

Jalen leaned forward slightly, his forearms resting on his knees. "I get it." His words were calm, steady.

Rachel scoffed lightly, shaking her head. "Do you?" she whispered, finally looking at him.

Jalen met her gaze head-on. "I know what it's like to want something, someone, that you weren't expecting," he admitted.

Rachel swallowed hard. She wanted to deny it. Wanted to say this was a mistake. But the way her body still ached for him told a different story. The way her heart clenched at the thought of walking away told a different story.

Rachel buried her face in her hands, letting out a shaky breath. "What have I done?"

Jalen let out a slow breath, watching Rachel as she hugged her knees, her whole body tense with regret and conflict. "Rachel, you're not a bad person."

She snapped her head up, her brown eyes burning with frustration and guilt "Really, Jalen?! Because I feel like a piece of shit right now."

Her voice cracked, emotion pouring out of her in ways she didn't expect. Jalen didn't flinch. Didn't argue. Didn't tell her she was wrong to feel this way.

Instead, he just watched her, his expression calm but firm. "Feeling guilty doesn't mean you're a bad person," he said evenly.

Rachel let out a sharp laugh, rubbing her hands down her face. "You're really going to sit there and tell me that? When I literally just cheated on my boyfriend?"

Jalen leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "Yeah, I am. Because you didn't cheat on Trevor just for the hell of it. You didn't do this to hurt him."

Rachel froze.

Jalen held her gaze, his voice low, steady, certain. "You did this because something in you needed to. Because something was missing, and maybe you didn't even realize it until now."

Rachel's chest rose and fell, her breaths shaky, uneven. She wanted to argue. Wanted to say he was wrong. But deep down? She knew he wasn't.

Jalen's voice softened. "Rachel... you need to figure out what you really want. Not just what's comfortable. Not just what's safe. But what's actually right for you."

Rachel's throat felt tight. Tears burned at the edges of her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. She had been fooling herself for a long time, hadn't she? And now? There was no more running from it. Rachel threw back the covers and swung her legs over the edge of the bed, her bare feet pressing into the cool hardwood floor. She didn't look at Jalen right away. Couldn't. Her thoughts were too scrambled, too heavy. Jalen sat up behind her, watching her carefully. He didn't push. Didn't rush her. Just waited.

Finally, she inhaled deeply and spoke. "I need time to process this."

Her voice was quiet, but firm. She stared straight ahead, hands gripping her knees.

"I just... I need to be alone right now."

It wasn't entirely true. She didn't want Jalen to leave. Didn't want to be left alone with her thoughts. But she also knew if he stayed... She wouldn't be able to think straight. Jalen didn't react right away. He didn't sigh, didn't argue, didn't try to convince her otherwise.

He just studied her for a moment. Then, he nodded slowly. "Okay."

Rachel's chest tightened. That was it? No pushback? No What does this mean for us? Just... okay? Jalen stood up, reaching for his shirt and sliding it over his head. Rachel glanced at him from the corner of her eye, feeling a pang of something she couldn't quite name. Regret? Longing? Fear? All of it. Jalen walked toward the door, then paused.

Turning back to face her, he held her gaze. "Just one last thing..."

Rachel swallowed. "What?"

Jalen gave a small, almost sad smile. "You deserve to be fully loved and chosen."

Rachel's breath hitched. She could feel tears threatening, but she didn't let them fall. Jalen held her gaze for another moment, then, finally, he turned and walked out without another word. The door clicked shut behind him. And for the first time in a long time, Rachel felt completely alone.

Chapter 9

After leaving Rachel's apartment, Jalen texts Sydney asking if he can come over and she says, "Yes, come over now."

Jalen didn't expect her to say now, but he headed straight there.

Jalen pulled into the parking lot of Sydney's condo; his stomach tight with unease. When she told him to come over, her text hadn't felt like her usual laid-back, playful self. This was different. Jalen stepped out of the car, walked up to the door, and knocked. A few seconds later, Sydney opened it. She stood there in leggings and an oversized sweatshirt, her long blonde hair pulled into a messy bun. No makeup. No smile. Her blue eyes were sharp but guarded.

"Hey," she said quietly, stepping aside to let him in.

Jalen frowned. This wasn't Sydney. She wasn't teasing him. She wasn't smirking like she usually did. She looked... nervous. Sydney closed the door behind them, then crossed her arms.

Jalen studied her carefully. "What's going on?" he asked, keeping his voice steady.

Sydney exhaled deeply, running a hand through her hair. She paced once, then stopped, looking at him like she was still trying to figure out how to say it. Then... she just came out and said it.

"I'm pregnant."

Silence. Jalen froze. His heart stopped. His stomach dropped.

Sydney's gaze didn't waver. "And it's yours," she added, her voice steady but heavy with emotion.

Jalen finally breathed in. This was it. The first of the eight. The prophecy was happening. And Sydney had no idea about it. Jalen stood there, silent. His mind was racing, but his body wouldn't move. He could feel Sydney's eyes on him, watching him closely, waiting for a reaction. Waiting to see if he was going to run. But he didn't. Instead, he exhaled slowly, forcing himself to stay grounded. Then...

"How do you feel about it?" he finally asked.

Sydney blinked, startled by the question. Her arms were still crossed, her weight shifting slightly. She wasn't expecting that. She let out a sharp exhale, then rubbed her forehead.

"I don't know," she admitted, her voice tired but honest.

"I mean... I'm 25. I have a good job, a nice place, a solid life... but I wasn't planning for this."

Jalen nodded slowly, letting her speak.

Sydney let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "I keep thinking about how my mom is going to react," she muttered. "She already thinks I should be married by now. And now, I'm about to be a single mom? With a Black father? She's going to lose her mind."

Jalen's jaw tightened slightly at that, but he didn't react. Sydney wasn't saying it to be offensive, she was just being real. And she was right. Her mom probably was going to lose her mind. Sydney looked up at him, her blue eyes searching his.

"And you?" she asked. "How do you feel about it?"

Jalen inhaled deeply. He didn't know how to explain what he was feeling. On one hand? This was exactly what the Beyonder had said would happen. But on the other? This was Sydney. A real woman. A real pregnancy. A real baby. This was his child. And he had to decide what to say next. Jalen stepped forward, closing the space between them. Sydney's arms were still crossed, her posture tense, but she didn't back away. Didn't flinch. She was waiting for something. For him to speak. For him to react. Instead of answering right away, Jalen reached for her hands. Gently. Slowly. Sydney's fingers were cold, but she let him take them.

Jalen held them firmly, grounding both of them. And then said, "No matter what happens... you won't be alone in this."

Sydney's breath hitched. Her blue eyes widened just slightly, like she wasn't expecting that. Like some part of her had prepared for the worst. Prepared for him to say he wasn't ready. That this was too much. But instead? He was right here. Not running. Not making excuses. Just standing with her. Sydney swallowed hard, blinking quickly like she was trying to keep her emotions in check.

Her fingers tightened around his. "You mean that?" she asked quietly.

Jalen didn't hesitate. "Yeah. I do."

She exhaled sharply, her shoulders relaxing just a little. Jalen could feel the weight she had been carrying, the fear, the uncertainty, start to shift. Because now she wasn't carrying it alone.

Sydney bit her lip, her voice softer now. "I really needed to hear that."

Jalen gave her a small squeeze. "I meant it," he said again. "We're in this together."

For the first time since he arrived, Sydney's lips curved into something close to a smile. Faint. Wary. But real. And in that moment, Jalen knew that this was the beginning of everything changing. Sydney led Jalen to the couch, sitting down first before pulling him beside her. Jalen stayed quiet, watching her, letting her find the words in her own time. She inhaled deeply, running a hand through her messy blonde waves.

"I found out yesterday," she started, voice soft but weighted. "I'd been feeling weird for a while, but I just kept telling myself it was stress... or maybe my cycle was just being weird. But then I realized I was late. Like... really late."

Jalen nodded, listening closely.

Sydney let out a dry laugh, shaking her head. "I stared at that stupid test for so long, hoping I was imagining it. Hoping maybe there was a mistake. But those two little lines just... stared right back at me."

Her voice wavered slightly, and Jalen could feel just how much she had been carrying this alone. She looked over at him then, blue eyes filled with vulnerability.

"I didn't know how to tell you," she admitted. "I didn't even know how to think about it myself."

Jalen reached for her hand again, this time giving it a gentle squeeze.

"You won't have to go through this alone, Syd," he reaffirmed, his voice steady. Sydney swallowed hard, then nodded.

Jalen exhaled, grounding himself. "What do you want to do next?" he asked. "Do you want to make a doctor's appointment? Do you want to tell your parents? Or do you just need more time to process?"

Sydney stared at him for a moment, searching his face. Then, finally, she let out a breath. "Right now?" she murmured. "I just... want you to hold me for a while."

Jalen didn't hesitate. He opened his arms, and Sydney immediately curled into him, resting her head against his chest. Her body was warm, her breathing uneven. Jalen felt her exhale deeply, as if she was finally letting herself rest. And as he wrapped his arms around her, he realized This moment was bigger than both of them. Sydney sank deeper into Jalen's embrace, her body finally relaxing as she let herself be held. For a few moments, neither of them spoke. Just the sound of their breathing, the weight of the moment settling around them.

Then, quietly, she admitted, "I'm scared, Jalen."

Jalen's arms tightened around her, his fingers gently tracing soothing circles on her back. "I know," he murmured. "Talk to me."

Sydney exhaled, her cheek still pressed against his chest. "It's not just my mom," she admitted. "It's my whole family. My friends. The circles I grew up in." She pulled back slightly, just enough to look up at him. "You don't understand how these people are, Jalen. I was raised in a world where image is everything. Where women are expected to be perfect wives and mothers with a ring on their finger before they even think about having kids."

Jalen stayed quiet, letting her get it out.

Sydney swallowed. "I mean, they already thought I was a rebel for breaking up with Greg. But this?" She let out a dry laugh. "An unwed pregnancy with a Black father? They're gonna have a damn aneurysm."

Jalen felt that. He had already known her world was different from his. But hearing her say it out loud made it hit even harder. He reached up, brushing a few strands of blonde hair from her face.

"Sydney..." he said softly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead.

She closed her eyes, like she was soaking in the comfort of the moment. When he pulled back, he held her gaze. "No matter what they say, no matter what happens, I'll be right there with you. Even if they want nothing to do with me. We're gonna figure it out together."

Sydney searched his face, her blue eyes wide, vulnerable. "Really?"

Jalen didn't hesitate. "Yeah. I promise."

A single tear slipped down Sydney's cheek. Not from fear. Not from sadness. But from relief. Because for the first time since she saw that test turn positive, she truly felt like she wouldn't have to go through this alone.

*************************************************

The following week, Kristen Stanley finishes moving into her new apartment in the Lindbergh area of Atlanta. She has officially ended things with Rob. She's no longer engaged, and she has finally moved out of the house they shared. Unfortunately, the very next morning, she throws up, which makes three days in a row now.

Kristen clutched the edge of the sink, her body trembling as another wave of nausea washed over her. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to breathe through it, but it was no use. Her stomach lurched again, and she barely made it to the toilet in time. Kristen sat back against the wall, panting, pale, and shaken. Her heart hammered. Her mind raced. This wasn't just stress. This wasn't just a stomach bug. Her hands trembled as she reached for her phone. She knew what she had to do. But the thought of seeing those two pink lines? It made her stomach twist even more. Still, she had to know. And if she was right? Then everything was about to change.

*************************************************

Friday, that same week, Chris departs for his "business trip". Megan sees him off at the mansion pretending everything is normal. Megan stood on the grand marble steps of the mansion, watching Chris drive away. She forced a soft smile, waving like the perfect wife. Like she wasn't seconds away from leaving his world behind forever. The moment his car disappeared down the driveway, she exhaled sharply, her heart hammering in her chest. This was it. No turning back. Megan rushed inside, her red-bottomed heels clicking against the polished floors as she grabbed the three large suitcases she had packed in secret over the past two weeks. She had planned everything. She knew how long she had before the house staff returned. She knew the cameras inside hadn't been installed in certain hallways yet. And she knew Chris wouldn't be back for days. She was in the clear. Megan dragged the suitcases outside and toward the waiting Uber. The driver, a middle-aged woman with kind brown eyes, gave her a small, knowing smile.

"Got everything?" she asked.

Megan nodded quickly, not trusting her voice. She climbed inside, heart pounding, hands gripping her phone tightly. The driver pulled away. And just like that, Megan was free.

Twenty minutes later, Megan arrived at the address Jalen had given her. A discreet women's shelter, tucked away in a quiet part of the city. A place for women like her. Women who needed a new beginning. Megan stepped out of the car, gripping her suitcases tightly. For a moment, she just stood there. Breathing in the reality of what she'd just done. Then, she walked inside. The receptionist, a woman in her late 40s with gentle eyes, greeted her with a warm smile.

"Welcome, sweetheart," she said softly. "You're safe here."

Megan's throat tightened. Safe. For the first time in years. She swallowed hard, then nodded. She had no idea what the future held. But she did know one thing. She was finally in control of her own life. At least to an extent.

Megan calls Jalen from the shelter to let him know she made it safely. She uses their phone since she had left her cellphone behind so that Chris couldn't track her.

Jalen was in his apartment, sitting on the couch playing Call of Duty, when his ringer vibrated. An unknown number.

He frowned but picked up anyway. "Hello?"

There was a brief pause on the other end. Then...

"It's me."

Jalen instantly recognized the voice. He sat up straighter, heart picking up speed.

"Megan?"

"Yeah," she exhaled. "I made it. I'm safe."

Jalen let out a slow, deep breath. Relief washed over him. "Damn, I'm glad to hear that," he said sincerely. "You good? How was the trip?"

Megan let out a soft laugh, a mix of exhaustion and disbelief. "I can't believe I actually did it," she admitted. "I'm here. I left my phone behind so Chris can't track me. This place is... nice. Quiet. They already told me they'll help with the next steps."

"That's good," Jalen nodded, even though she couldn't see him. "That's really good."

Megan went quiet for a second. Then, in a smaller voice, "Thank you, Jalen."

Jalen felt that. Felt the weight of what this moment meant for her. For them. "You don't have to thank me," he said, voice firm. "You did this, Megan. You got yourself out."

She let out a slow breath, "Yeah," she murmured. "I did."

They sat in silence for a moment, the reality settling in. Then Jalen asked, "You need anything? Money? Supplies?"

Megan smiled softly, even though he couldn't see it. "I'll let you know," she promised. "Right now, I just... needed to hear your voice."

Jalen leaned back against the couch, rubbing his hand over his jaw. "I'm here," he said simply. "Whenever you need me."

Megan sighed, relief evident in her tone. "I know," she whispered, "I'll be in touch soon."

And with that, she hung up. Jalen stared at his phone for a long moment, letting the reality of it sink in. She was out. She was free.

*************************************************

Kristen stood frozen; her breath caught in her throat. The small white stick in her hand. Two bold pink lines stared back at her, clear as day. Her stomach tightened, and for a moment, the world around her blurred. This was real. Kristen sat down on the edge of her bathtub, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on her chest. Her hands shook as she set the test down beside her, staring at it like it might somehow change if she just kept looking. But it didn't. It wouldn't. Positive. She ran a hand through her long dark waves, heart pounding. This wasn't supposed to happen. She and Jalen had been careless. Passionate. Wild. She had been so consumed with wanting to feel claimed by Jalen. And now... this was the consequence. A monumental one at that. Kristen's mind raced. She had just left Rob. She had just moved into her own place. And now she was pregnant. She was carrying Jalen's child. What the hell was she supposed to do now?

Kristen covered her mouth with both hands, but it did nothing to muffle the sobs that tore from her throat. Her body shook violently, her breath coming in sharp, uneven gasps as the reality of everything crashed down on her. The relationship she ended. The uncertainty of her future. And now, this life-changing revelation. Tears streamed down her face, hot and relentless, as she curled her knees up to her chest, wrapping her arms around herself like she could somehow hold herself together. But she couldn't. Not right now. The emotions poured out of her, no longer containable. Grief, fear, exhaustion, loneliness. Her life had already been turned upside down. Now, it felt like the floor had completely disappeared beneath her. She had no idea where she was going to land. She had no idea what to do next. But she did know one thing. She couldn't do this alone.

*************************************************

Jalen was midway through cooking dinner when his phone buzzed.

Kristen.

His stomach tightened. They had talked a few times since her breakup with Rob, but she had been mostly distant. Understandably so.

Now, she was calling him. He answered immediately.

"Kristen?"

At first, all he could hear was ragged breathing. Then a choked sob.

"Jalen..."

His whole body stiffened. She was crying so hard he could barely make out the words.

"Kristen, what's wrong?" His voice was urgent, steady, but his heart was pounding.

She tried to speak, but her voice kept breaking. Jalen felt his chest tighten. "Kristen, slow down," he said gently. "Take a deep breath. Talk to me."

There was a pause--a long, shaky inhale, then a trembling exhale. And then, in a small, broken voice, "I'm pregnant."

Jalen felt like the air had been knocked out of him. His hand gripped the counter. His mind raced. It hadn't even been a full week since Sydney told him the same thing.

"Jalen..." her voice cracked again, bringing him back to reality. "I don't know what to do. I-- I'm scared, I--"

"I'm on my way," Jalen said immediately.

Kristen let out a shaky breath on the other end. "O-okay..."

"Just hold tight, alright?" Jalen reassured her. "I'll be there soon. Text me the address."

And with that, he grabbed his keys and walked out the door. Twenty minutes later, Jalen barely knocked before Kristen flung open the door. Her eyes were red and swollen, her face streaked with tears. She looked exhausted, like she hadn't slept in days. The moment she saw him, she completely broke.

"Jalen..."

Her voice cracked, and before she could say anything else, Jalen pulled her into his arms. Kristen collapsed against him, gripping his shirt like it was the only thing keeping her from falling apart completely. Sobs wracked her body, and Jalen just held her tighter. His heart clenched. He had never seen her like this. Not Kristen, the strong, sharp, put-together woman he had gotten to know. But right now? She was just a woman completely overwhelmed, completely vulnerable. And he wasn't going to let her go through this alone.

"I got you," he murmured, his lips against her hair. "Let it out. I got you."

Kristen buried her face in his chest, her entire body shaking. For minutes, they just stood there. Jalen holding her, Kristen crying into him, finally letting out everything she had been bottling up. The end of her engagement. The fear of starting over. The shock of this pregnancy. It was all too much. And Jalen was the only person she could lean on right now. Slowly, her sobs faded into heavy breaths, and Jalen felt her body relax just slightly against him. Kristen's hands were still clutching his shirt, like she was afraid to let go. Jalen rubbed slow, soothing circles on her back, his voice low and steady.

"We'll figure this out," he whispered. "Together."

Kristen pulled back just enough to look at him, her tear-filled eyes searching his.

"You mean that?" she asked, her voice raw.

Jalen nodded without hesitation. "Yeah. I do."

Kristen swallowed hard. And for the first time all night, she breathed. Jalen sat on Kristen's couch, rubbing his hands together, trying to steady his thoughts. Kristen was finally calmer, curled up next to him, her head resting on his shoulder.

But Jalen's mind was spiraling. How the hell was he supposed to tell her about Sydney's pregnancy? She was already fragile, shaken, overwhelmed, and scared. And here he was, about to drop something on her that could make everything so much worse. And it wasn't just Sydney. There was Megan. And Rachel... Jalen clenched his jaw, exhaling sharply. The weight of it all felt suffocating. Kristen noticed his tension. She pulled back slightly, her brows furrowed.

"Jalen?" she asked softly. "What's wrong?"

Jalen's heart slammed against his ribs. He needed to tell her. But not tonight. Not when she had just broken down in his arms. Not when she was barely holding it together. So instead, he forced a small smile, reaching up to brush a stray tear from her cheek.

"Nothing," he lied. "I'm just worried about you."

Kristen searched his face, like she didn't quite believe him, but was too exhausted to press. Instead, she let out a small sigh, resting her head back against his chest.

"Just... stay with me tonight," she murmured.

Jalen felt his chest tighten. He knew he was running out of time to tell Kristen the truth about everything. Jalen stays with Kristen, but all night, he wrestles with the weight of what he has to tell her. The emotional turmoil that Kristen had been dealing with all day had completely wiped her out, and she had fallen asleep very quickly next to Jalen in her bed. He lays awake, staring at the ceiling, his mind racing. Kristen's soft, steady breathing beside him only made the weight in his chest heavier. He had barely processed Sydney's pregnancy, and now Kristen was carrying his child too. He ran a hand down his face, exhaling slowly. How the hell was he supposed to tell her? She was already emotionally drained, if he told her now, it might push her past the breaking point. But waiting? That only made it worse. She deserved to know the truth. Kristen stirred slightly in her sleep, curling closer to him, seeking his warmth. She trusts me. She needs me. Jalen clenched his jaw. And I have to be the one to hurt her. His stomach twisted. He wasn't a coward, but for the first time in a long time, he truly didn't know what to do. Sydney had taken her pregnancy news well. She was scared, sure, but she leaned on him. Kristen? She was already fragile. She had just escaped an engagement where she felt unseen, unloved. She had just broken down in his arms, overwhelmed by the sheer weight of everything. And now he had to drop this bomb on her? He wanted to believe there was a perfect way to tell her, a way that wouldn't break her heart. But deep down, he knew that no matter what he said, this was going to hurt. His fingers absentmindedly traced circles against Kristen's back, feeling the rise and fall of her breath. Not tonight. She needs rest. That's what he told himself. But was that the truth? Or was it just an excuse? Jalen sighed heavily, feeling trapped between doing the right thing and wanting to protect Kristen from even more pain. He had to tell her. And he had to tell her soon. But when? And how?

In the morning, Jalen goes out and gets breakfast from Chick fil'A and brings it back to Kristen's apartment before she wakes up. Kristen stretches as she wakes, the smell of food hitting her before she even fully opens her eyes. She turns over to see Jalen setting down a Chick-fil-A bag and two cups of orange juice on her nightstand.

"You got breakfast?" she asks, her voice still groggy from sleep.

"Figured you'd need something in your stomach after the kind of day you had yesterday," Jalen says with a small smile, sitting down on the edge of the bed.

Kristen sits up, running a hand through her messy hair. "You didn't have to do that, but... thank you," she says sincerely.

Jalen hands her a bag, and she pulls out a chicken biscuit, taking a slow bite as she lets herself wake up. Jalen watches her, his mind still heavy with the weight of what he needs to tell her, but for now, he pushes it aside.

"I wanted to ask you something," he says after a moment, taking a sip of his drink.

Kristen raises an eyebrow, still chewing. "Yeah?"

Jalen leans back slightly against the headboard, his expression thoughtful. "Tell me about the end with Rob. How did you get to the point where you finally decided you were done?"

Kristen exhales, setting her biscuit down on the wrapper. "It wasn't one thing. It was a lot of little things that added up over time," she admits. She shifts, pulling her knees up to her chest as she thinks.

"At first, I made excuses for him. Told myself he was just stressed, that his job was demanding, that things would get better once he settled in. But months turned into years, and I realized... I was waiting for a version of him that didn't exist. I kept hoping he'd wake up one day and start treating me like I mattered more than his career, but he never did."

Jalen nods, letting her talk, not interrupting.

"I started feeling like I was just a... placeholder in his life. Like I was supposed to wait in the background, supporting him while he got everything he wanted. And the more I tried to bring it up, the more he made me feel like I was the problem for wanting more." She looks down at her lap. "And maybe I started believing that for a while. That I was asking for too much. That I should just be patient and let him focus on his goals."

Jalen studies her quietly. "What changed?"

Kristen sighs. "You."

Jalen's brows lift slightly. "Me?"

Kristen nods. "Not just you, but... the way you made me feel. From the moment I met you, I felt seen in a way that I hadn't in years. And it wasn't just about attraction or sex. It was the way you listened. The way you took me seriously. The way you made me feel like I deserved to be appreciated." She pauses, looking at him directly. "That's when I knew. That if a man I barely knew could make me feel more valued in a matter of weeks than the man I was engaged to had in years... then I was in the wrong relationship."

Jalen swallows, feeling the weight of her words.

Kristen glances down. "Leaving was still hard. He tried to guilt-trip me, make me feel like I was abandoning him. And I won't lie... there was a part of me that almost caved. But then I realized, if I stayed, it wouldn't be for love. It would be because I was afraid to be alone. And that wasn't a good enough reason."

Jalen lets out a slow breath, nodding. "I respect you for that. I'm proud of you. For knowing your worth and walking away."

Kristen smiles faintly, but then her expression grows softer. "Why do I feel like you asked me that for a reason?"

Jalen tenses slightly, gripping his cup a little tighter. This is it. This is his moment. He could tell her about Sydney now. About everything.

But then Kristen leans into him, resting her head on his shoulder. "Whatever it is, you can tell me," she says quietly.

Jalen exhales, staring at the ceiling. He had to tell her. But he just needed a little more time. Jalen takes a deep breath, shifting slightly so he can look at Kristen more directly. He reaches for her hand, squeezing it gently.

"Kristen," he starts, his voice steady but sincere. "I want you to know that no matter what happens, no matter what you need, I'm going to be here. Every step of the way. Through this pregnancy, through raising our child. You won't have to do this alone."

Kristen's lips part slightly, her eyes searching his for any sign of hesitation. She doesn't find any.

"Are you sure you're ready for all of that?" she asks softly, her voice carrying a vulnerability that she rarely lets show.

Jalen nods without hesitation. "I am."

Kristen swallows, and for the first time since seeing that positive test, she feels a sense of calm settle over her. She had been bracing for panic, for uncertainty, for Jalen to maybe even feel trapped by this, but instead, she finds reassurance.

Her fingers tighten around his. "That means everything," she whispers.

Jalen tilts his head slightly, studying her expression. "I know this isn't how you pictured your life going right now. And I know you're still processing all of it. But whatever you decide, however you need me, I'm in this with you. One hundred percent."

Kristen exhales, her shoulders relaxing just a little. "I don't know what the hell I'm doing, Jalen. I wasn't expecting this, and I feel so... lost. But knowing you're here? It helps."

Jalen gives her hand another squeeze. "Good. Because I'm not going anywhere."

Kristen lets out a soft laugh, though there's still emotion thick in her voice. "Guess we're in this together now, huh?"

Jalen smirks. "Looks like it."

Kristen leans into him again, letting the warmth of his presence settle the storm inside of her. Unfortunately, this comfort would be short lived. Jalen knows that he can't put this off any longer. He has to tell her the truth about everything and the longer he waits, the worse it will be.

He says to Kristen, "I have something very important that I need to tell you, and... it won't be easy for me to say or for you to hear."

Kristen puts her chicken biscuit down and looks at him intently. "What is it?" She asks nervously.

Jalen takes a deep breath and begins. He starts by telling Kristen about Sydney Swanson and how they met at a party before he had met Kristen and how they had a passionate night together that night. He tells her that he and Sydney have continued to see each other, even though they are not in a relationship together. He then tells her that he has discovered as of last week that Sydney is pregnant with his child.

He then goes on to tell her that after finishing the project at Georgia Wellness and hearing Kristen say that she needed time to figure things out, he then met Megan Westward at his next project, which was the result of a referral by Kristen's boss Jim Harbor. Jalen then proceeds to tell Kristen about everything that happened with Megan, including the affair, and how she just escaped from her husband. He tells Kristen that as a result of their encounters that there's a possibility that she may be pregnant too, although he has not confirmed that yet.

Finally, Jalen tells Kristen everything about Rachel DeSantos, including how they also had an encounter in the gym not long ago.

Jalen finishes by saying, "All this doesn't change how I feel about you, Kristen, nor does it change my commitment to being here for you and the baby. But I also care about the others too, and I will also be there for them."

Kristen sits in stunned silence, her food forgotten, her fingers gripping the edge of the bed as she processes everything Jalen just told her.

Sydney. Megan. Rachel.

Her mind races, piecing together the timeline, the implications, the sheer weight of it all. Not one. Not two. But possibly three other women. And Sydney. Sydney is already pregnant.

Jalen watches her carefully, his expression unreadable but his body tense. He knows this isn't easy for her to hear, but he refuses to shy away from it. She deserves the truth.

Kristen finally exhales, setting her breakfast aside and rubbing her temples. "So let me get this straight," she says slowly, her voice steadier than she expected. "You and Sydney were already seeing each other before you met me. She's pregnant with your child. Then, after I said we needed space, you met Megan. Had a whole affair with her while she was still married. Helped her escape her husband. And now there's a chance she's pregnant too. And then, on top of all that, you had... an encounter with this Rachel girl? Just recently?"

Jalen swallows, nodding. "Yeah. That's... the truth of it."

Kristen lets out a breathy, humorless laugh. "Jesus Christ, Jalen."

He doesn't respond. He lets her sit with it, lets her process it in whatever way she needs to.

Kristen shakes her head, eyes fixed on a random spot on the wall. "And you're saying that none of this changes how you feel about me? That you're still going to be there for me and the baby?"

Jalen leans forward, his voice low and firm. "That's exactly what I'm saying. I meant what I said, Kristen. I'm in this with you. Just like I'm in it with them. I care about all of you."

Kristen lets out another breath, but this time, it shakes slightly. "I don't even know what to say to that. I mean, I knew this wasn't exclusive. I knew that. But I didn't expect..." She trails off, rubbing her hands over her face.

Jalen stays quiet. He doesn't push.

Finally, Kristen looks up at him, her blue eyes sharp. "What exactly are you expecting from me here, Jalen? Am I supposed to just... accept this? Be okay with the fact that you're about to have multiple kids with multiple women, and I'm just one of them?"

Jalen meets her gaze, his expression unreadable. "I'm not expecting anything from you, Kristen. I'm telling you the truth because you deserve to know. And whatever you decide...however you feel...I'll respect that."

Kristen holds his stare for a long moment, searching for something in his face. Some sign that he's just saying what she wants to hear. But it's not there. Finally, she exhales sharply, standing up from the bed and pacing across the room. "This is insane," she mutters. "This whole situation is just... insane."

Jalen doesn't argue. Because he knows she's right.

Kristen turns back to him, arms crossed tightly over her chest. "I need time to think."

Jalen nods. "I get that."

"Do you?" she challenges, her voice sharper than she intended. "Because I don't think you understand just how much this complicates everything for me, Jalen. I just got out of a relationship where I felt like I wasn't a priority. And now, I'm realizing that I'm about to have a baby with a man who, whether he means to or not, is going to be stretched between multiple women and multiple children. How the hell am I supposed to feel about that?"

Jalen's jaw tightens. He stands up slowly, meeting her frustration with calm. "You're supposed to feel however you feel, Kristen. I'm not here to tell you what to do or how to react. But I am telling you that I will be there for you. That hasn't changed. And it won't."

Kristen stares at him, her emotions warring between anger, confusion, and something else she can't quite name. Finally, she lets out a shaky breath, rubbing her temples again. "I just... I need space, Jalen. I need time to wrap my head around all of this."

Jalen nods, though there's a flicker of something in his eyes--maybe regret, maybe relief that at least she's not kicking him out right this second.

"Take all the time you need," he says quietly.

Kristen nods once, not looking at him as she turns away, arms still crossed tightly. Jalen watches her for another long moment, then finally exhales and heads for the door. As he steps out, Kristen finally lets herself sit down on the bed, staring at the floor, her mind spinning.

"What the hell am I going to do?"

*************************************************

The next day, Megan meets with a lawyer referred to her by the shelter, a twenty-nine-year-old woman named Karla Silva. Karla specializes in helping women in cases of abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

Megan can clearly see that Karla is very pretty and has an elegant appearance. She has an oval-shaped face with well-defined cheekbones. Her eyes are almond-shaped and expressive, often highlighted with natural or soft glam makeup. She has a straight nose and full lips, adding to her graceful appearance. She has long dark brown hair with blondish tips. She has a warm, radiant complexion with a natural glow.

While Karla could be mistaken for a white woman, her roots are actually from Mexico, and she is fluent in both English and Spanish. At least that's what the lady from the shelter told Megan. Today, Karla's hair cascaded down her shoulders and back in loose waves. She's wearing a light purple colored blouse tucked into a grey pencil skirt and nude-colored patent leather high-heeled pumps.

She is eager to help Megan after hearing her story and agreed to take her case pro-bono. She is also very familiar with who Chris Westward is and his shady tactics as a defense attorney.

Megan sits across from Karla in the modest but well-organized office space of the women's shelter's legal aid division. Karla's presence is immediately calming yet professional, her warm brown eyes studying Megan with a mix of empathy and quiet determination.

Megan feels a little self-conscious at first, still adjusting to the reality of being here, actually taking these steps to free herself. She glances down at her hands before looking back up at Karla, who gives her an encouraging nod.

"I want to start by saying," Karla begins, her voice smooth but firm, "that what you're doing right now? Seeking help? Taking control of your life? That's brave. And I want you to know that I take cases like yours very seriously."

Megan swallows, nodding. "I appreciate that. I just... I don't even know where to begin."

Karla leans forward slightly, resting her hands on her desk. "Let's start with the basics. I know you've been gathering evidence on Chris. Proof of his affairs, financial manipulation, anything that can strengthen your case. Can you tell me exactly what you have so far?"

Megan takes a deep breath and pulls out a small notebook she's been keeping. "I have screenshots of texts between him and at least three different women. Bank statements showing that he's been spending money at hotels and high-end restaurants on dates that obviously weren't with me. I also have a few voice recordings of him dismissing me, calling me ungrateful for wanting my own money, for asking to have any independence at all."

Karla listens intently, nodding along. "That's a good start. Infidelity alone won't get you much in terms of leverage, especially with a prenup in place, but the financial control? That's huge. Judges don't look kindly on a spouse who intentionally withholds financial independence as a form of control."

Megan sighs, running a hand through her hair. "I just need a way out that doesn't leave me with nothing. I need a fresh start."

Karla gives her a reassuring smile. "That's exactly what we're going to work toward. First, I want to get a better sense of the prenup you signed. Do you have a copy?"

Megan nods. "I left everything at the house, but I remember where he keeps it. I can get it."

Karla tilts her head. "Getting it yourself could be risky. Do you have anyone who could retrieve it for you without raising suspicion?"

Megan hesitates, thinking of Jalen. Would he do it? Would she even ask him to?

"I... might," she says slowly.

Karla nods. "That document will be key. If there are any loopholes or unfair clauses, we'll find them. In the meantime, I want to start filing a claim for financial coercion. If we can prove that Chris deliberately kept you dependent on him as a means of control, we can argue against the prenup being fully enforceable."

Megan's eyes widen slightly. "You can do that?"

Karla smirks. "I can do a lot of things, Megan."

For the first time in a while, Megan feels a flicker of hope. She isn't alone in this anymore. She has a lawyer. She has a plan. She has a chance. And hopefully soon, she'll have her freedom.

Megan suddenly covers her mouth. Karla's eyes widen slightly as Megan then lurches forward, grabbing the small trash can beside her desk. The sound of retching fills the quiet office, and Karla immediately stands, moving around the desk to kneel beside Megan, gently rubbing her back.

"Hey, hey, take deep breaths," Karla soothes, her voice calm and steady. "You're okay."

Megan coughs, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand, her whole body trembling slightly. No. No, no, no. This couldn't be happening. Not right now. Karla reaches for a box of tissues on her desk, handing one to Megan, who gratefully takes it. After a moment, Megan leans back, her face pale, her stomach still churning.

Karla watches her closely. "Megan, is this... something that's been happening a lot?"

Megan swallows hard, her throat burning. She hesitates, then slowly nods. "The past few mornings... but I just figured it was stress, you know? Everything going on with Chris, trying to get out... I thought my body was just reacting."

Karla tilts her head slightly, her sharp eyes assessing Megan in a new way. "Megan... when was your last period?"

Megan blinks. Her breath catches in her throat.

Oh, shit.

Her mind races, mentally counting back the weeks. She had been so consumed with planning her escape, with making sure she covered her tracks, that she hadn't even noticed.

Karla sees the realization dawn on Megan's face and exhales softly. "Megan... do you think you might be pregnant?"

Megan looks up at her, her heart hammering in her chest. Yes. She does. And she knows exactly who the father is.

"So, you and Chris have had sex recently? Was it consensual?" Karla asks.

Megan doesn't answer right away. After about 30 seconds, she says softly, "No. Chris and I haven't had sex in over a year."

Karla's expression shifts instantly. Her professional composure remains intact, but there's a flash of something sharper in her eyes. Concern, understanding, and something bordering on anger.

She exhales slowly, carefully choosing her next words. "Megan, that means... if you're pregnant, Chris is not the father."

Megan nods, staring at the tissue in her hands, twisting it between her fingers. "I know," she whispers.

Karla sits back slightly, absorbing that information. "And the man who could be the father... do you trust him?"

Megan's head snaps up, her blue eyes wide, and for the first time since the conversation started, there's no hesitation. "Yes," she says, firmly. "I trust him completely."

Karla watches her for a beat, then nods. "That's important." She leans forward again, her voice gentle but steady. "Megan, before we go any further with legal proceedings against Chris, I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me."

Megan swallows.

"Has Chris ever forced himself on you?"

Megan's breath shudders. Her fingers tighten around the tissue in her lap, and she feels the weight of the question pressing on her chest.

"...No," she finally says, her voice barely above a whisper. "Chris has never done that me. But he's controlled me. Isolated me. He's made me feel like I was nothing without him." She exhales shakily, blinking away the sting in her eyes. "And I let him."

Karla's face softens, and she reaches forward, taking Megan's hand in hers. "You didn't let him, Megan. He manipulated you. That's not the same thing."

Megan nods, but it doesn't feel like enough. The realization that she might be pregnant is already overwhelming, but now, she has another layer of complications to consider.

"What do I do now?" she whispers.

Karla squeezes her hand gently. "First, we confirm whether or not you're pregnant. I can have someone here at the shelter get you a test today if you're ready."

Megan nods slowly, the weight of the moment sinking in. "Yeah... I think I need to know."

Karla stands and gives her a reassuring look. "You're not alone in this, Megan. No matter what happens, we'll figure it out together."

Megan exhales deeply, her mind racing, her body tense. If she really is pregnant, this changes everything. The only person she really wants to talk to about it... is Jalen.

24 hours later, Jalen is with Sydney. Jalen and Sydney are sitting on her couch, half-watching TV while Sydney leans into him, absently running her fingers along his forearm. She's been doing this a lot ever since she told him about the pregnancy, seeking comfort in the small things. And truth be told, Jalen doesn't mind.

He's just about to take another sip of his drink when his phone buzzes. He glances down. It's Megan.

His stomach tenses. She hadn't called him directly since the night she escaped Chris. He knew she was settling into the shelter, getting her legal situation in order, but something about this call feels different.

Sydney notices the shift in his expression. "You gonna answer that?" she asks.

Jalen hesitates for half a second, then nods, swiping to accept. "Megan?"

There's silence on the other end for a moment. Then, finally, her voice comes through--soft, hesitant. "Hey, Jalen."

Jalen immediately sits up straighter. "Hey. What's going on? Are you okay?"

Sydney watches him, her eyes sharp with curiosity. Jalen feels her shift slightly but keeps his attention on the call.

Megan takes a breath. "I need to see you."

Jalen frowns. "Are you safe?"

"Yes," Megan assures him quickly. "It's not about Chris, well, not entirely. It's... something else. Can you come?"

Jalen can hear something in her tone. Uncertainty. Vulnerability. Something serious. He glances at Sydney, who is clearly listening but not saying anything.

"Yeah," Jalen finally says. "Tell me where."

Megan gives him the details, and they hang up. Jalen exhales, running a hand down his face.

Sydney raises an eyebrow. "That sounded intense."

Jalen nods. "Yeah. I think it is."

Sydney studies him for a moment. Then, instead of questioning him further, she just sighs and leans back. "Go. Just keep me posted."

Jalen gives her a grateful look before grabbing his keys.

*************************************************

Later that evening around 9 pm, Jalen sits across from Megan at a diner a few blocks from the shelter. Megan watches Jalen carefully as she stirs the straw in her untouched Coca-Cola. The diner is quiet for this time of night, just a few patrons scattered around. The fluorescent lights above cast a pale glow over Jalen's face, highlighting the sharp tension in his expression.

"I need that prenup, Jalen," Megan says softly. "Without it, Karla can't find any potential loopholes to help me."

Jalen shakes his head immediately. "No. No way. I'm not letting you go back there."

Megan sighs. She figured he'd say that. "Jalen, I know it's dangerous, but I'd be in and out. I know exactly where--"

"I said no, Megan." His voice is firm, his eyes locked onto hers. "Chris is unpredictable, and if he finds you there, there's no telling what he might do. You just got out. I'm not letting you walk back into that house."

Megan swallows, biting her lip. The last thing she wants is for Jalen to be upset with her, but she also needs that document.

Jalen exhales, rubbing his hand over his chin. He leans forward on the table. "Tell me where it is," he says, calmer now. "I'll figure out a way to get it."

Megan hesitates. "Jalen--"

"Just tell me." His tone leaves no room for argument.

She takes a breath. "It's in Chris' home office, bottom drawer of his desk. It's in a black leather folder labeled 'legal.' He never locks that drawer because he's too arrogant to think anyone would go through it."

Jalen nods, mentally filing away the information. "Okay. I'll handle it."

Megan frowns, concern lacing her features. "How? You can't just waltz in there."

Jalen leans back, considering his options. "I'll find a way. Chris trusts me--hell, I just did a whole project for him. If I say I left something behind in the cellar and need to grab it, I can probably get in and out without raising suspicion."

Megan stares at him, clearly uneasy. "I don't like this."

Jalen smirks, trying to ease her nerves. "Oh, now you don't like a risky situation?"

Megan glares but then sighs. "Just... be careful, okay?"

Jalen reaches across the table and takes her hand, squeezing it gently. "I got this."

Megan squeezes back, holding his gaze. She trusts him. She then exhales slowly, her heart pounding. She's been trying to keep herself steady, but now that they've settled the prenup situation, now that there's nothing left to talk about except the possibility pregnancy, her nerves hit full force.

Jalen picks up on the shift in her energy immediately. He studies her, his brows slightly furrowed. "Megan... what is it?"

She swallows, glancing down at their still-joined hands. She wants to hold onto this moment of comfort just a little longer before she shatters everything.

Then, softly, she whispers, "I think I'm pregnant."

Jalen freezes. His fingers instinctively tighten around hers before he slowly pulls back, sitting up straight. His expression is unreadable, but his eyes search hers, looking for, what? Confirmation? Doubt? An explanation?

Megan forces herself to meet his gaze. "I--I don't have official test results yet, but I've been sick in the mornings. I'm late. And today, I--" She swallows. "I threw up in my lawyer's office. She asked me when my last period was, and that's when it hit me. I hadn't even thought about it until then."

Jalen rubs a hand down his face, taking a slow breath. He processes her words carefully, methodically. First Sydney. Then Kristen. Now Megan. This was... a lot. Did he know this probably would happen? yes. But given all the pregnancy news he's had recently it still felt like a lot.

Megan waits, bracing herself for his reaction. The silence stretches on long enough that panic starts creeping in. "Jalen, please say something."

Jalen finally looks at her, his jaw tightening for a moment before he exhales. "I--damn, Megan. I don't even know what to say."

Megan's stomach twists. "Are you mad?"

"No." He shakes his head quickly. "Not mad. Just..." He gestures vaguely, like he's trying to find the right words. "This is big, Megan. This is--this is life-changing."

Megan swallows hard. "I know."

Jalen leans forward again, looking her in the eyes. "What do you want to do?"

Megan lets out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. He's not running. He's not panicking. He's asking what she wants.

"I don't know yet," she admits honestly. "I just found out, and with everything going on with Chris... I haven't had time to process."

Jalen nods slowly, absorbing it all. "Okay. Then let's take it one step at a time."

Megan blinks. "You're... you're okay with this?"

Jalen reaches for her hand again, squeezing gently. "I told you before--I'm with you in this. No matter what. I meant that."

Megan's breath catches. God, how did she ever get so lucky to find him? A single tear slips down her cheek, and Jalen reaches up to wipe it away with his thumb.

"We'll figure this out. All of it," he promises.

Megan nods, biting her lip to keep more tears from spilling. She has no idea what's going to happen next.

Jalen suddenly realizes that he has to tell Megan about Sydney and Kristen's pregnancies. Jalen takes a deep breath. He knows he can't keep this from Megan. Not when she just trusted him with something so life-changing.

"Megan... there's something else I need to tell you."

She picks up on his shift in tone immediately, her blue eyes narrowing slightly. "What is it?"

Jalen hesitates for only a moment before deciding to just say it. "You're not the only one who's pregnant."

Megan blinks. "What?"

Jalen exhales. "Do you remember those two women I told you about? Sydney and Kristen? Well, both of them are pregnant too."

Megan's lips part slightly in surprise. Megan's expression then stills. She processes that for a long moment, her fingers absently running along the rim of her glass.

Jalen braces himself, expecting an explosion of anger, betrayal, something.

Instead, Megan exhales through her nose and leans back in her seat, shaking her head with a half-laugh.

"Wow," she mutters, staring at the ceiling for a second before looking back at him. "You weren't kidding when you said you're a complicated man."

Jalen lets out a dry chuckle. "No. I wasn't."

Megan studies him for a beat. "So let me get this straight. Three of us are pregnant. At the same time."

"Yeah," Jalen admits. "And I know how that sounds."

Megan arches an eyebrow. "Oh, you think?"

Jalen sighs. "Megan, listen. This doesn't change how I feel about you. At all. I still care about you deeply, and I meant what I said--I'm with you, no matter what. I'll be there for you and for our baby. Just like I'll be there for Sydney and Kristen and theirs."

Megan watches him carefully. Testing him. Measuring him. Jalen doesn't waver. Then, something shifts in her expression. Slowly, she smiles.

Jalen tilts his head. "What?"

Megan shrugs, still smiling as she shakes her head. "Nothing. I just... I admire you, Jalen."

That throws him off. "Admire me?"

"Yeah." Megan leans forward, resting her arms on the table. "You could've hidden this from me. Or tried to downplay it. Or worse, ran from it completely. But you didn't. You're sitting here, telling me everything, taking responsibility for it all. You're not trying to make excuses, you're just... owning it."

Jalen's jaw relaxes slightly. She's not mad.

Megan shakes her head again, a small smirk playing on her lips. "And honestly? The way you're handling this--it's kind of attractive."

Jalen raises an eyebrow. "Oh yeah?"

Megan leans in a little closer. "Yeah. I mean, don't get me wrong, this is still completely insane," she teases, "but I respect that you're not running from it. You care about all of us. You're stepping up. And I've never had that before."

Jalen exhales, relief flooding through him. He wasn't sure how she'd take this, but somehow, she took it better than he ever expected.

Megan smirks. "I guess I'm officially in the club now, huh?"

Jalen chuckles. "I'd rather not think of it as a club, but I guess so."

Megan places her hand over his on the table. "I'm glad you told me. And I know we still have a lot to figure out, but... thank you for being honest with me."

Jalen squeezes her hand gently. "Always."

Megan nods, her expression softening. No matter how crazy this all is, she trusts him.

And right now, that's all that matters.

*************************************************

Email from Jalen to Chris the next day:

Subject: Quick Check in the Wine Cellar

Hey Chris!

Hope you're having a great day! I was wondering if it's okay for me to stop by your mansion and check something in the wine cellar? I want to make sure I cut one of the wall barriers correctly. You deserve perfection from my work and I want to make sure you got it.

Let me know if it's okay and if so, when I can stop by.

Thanks!

Jalen Moss

Jalen knows that Chris is dealing with his wife being "missing". He of course is playing dumb in the email pretending that he has no idea.

Chris is already in a foul mood when he sees Jalen's email pop up in his inbox. He's barely gotten any sleep since Megan vanished. He's gone through every contact, every possible lead, and nothing.

Now, here's this contractor, suddenly wanting to come back and check his work?

Chris glares at his screen, debating whether to even respond. But the lawyer in him, the manipulator in him, knows better. If Megan's disappearance ever turns into something bigger, he needs to maintain appearances. Act normal.

Finally, he types back:

Subject: RE: Quick Check in the Wine Cellar

Hey Jalen,

Appreciate the thoroughness. Everything looks great to me, but if it helps you sleep at night, sure, come by and check your work. I'll be out of the house most of the day tomorrow, but the staff will be there.

Just make it quick.

Best,

Chris Westward

Jalen smirks as he reads the reply. Perfect.

He now has the green light to get inside that house. And more importantly, to get Megan's prenup.

That night, Jalen has a phone call with Megan, and he fills her in on his plan. Megan lets him know where the cameras are and the patterns of the staff that work at the mansion. Jalen leans back on his couch, his phone pressed to his ear as he listens to Megan walk him through every detail of the mansion's layout.

"There are cameras covering every main entry point, the hallways, and the common areas," she explains. "But Chris never had any installed in the master bedroom or his office. He didn't want any footage of himself... doing shady shit, I guess."

Jalen takes notes, nodding. "So, his office is where the prenup is?"

"Yeah. Third drawer on the right side of his desk. It's in a manila folder labeled 'Legal -- Personal'."

Jalen exhales. "Damn, he just left it sitting in his desk?"

Megan scoffs. "Chris is arrogant. He never thought I'd have the nerve to leave him, let alone come back and take something from him."

Jalen smirks. "Yeah, well, let's keep proving him wrong."

Megan hesitates. "Are you sure about this, Jalen? If you get caught--"

"I won't." He keeps his voice steady. "You already mapped out the staff's patterns. I'll be in and out before anyone notices."

Megan exhales slowly. "Okay. Just... please be careful."

"Always."

*************************************

The next day, the plan is put in motion. Jalen pulls up to the mansion, his work truck parked in the long, winding driveway. Act normal. Act like you belong here.

He steps out, toolbox in hand, and walks toward the entrance. One of the house staff, a middle-aged woman, opens the door before he even knocks.

"Mr. Moss," she greets him politely. "Mr. Westward isn't here, but he said you'd be stopping by."

"Appreciate it," Jalen says with a casual smile. "Just need to double-check something in the wine cellar."

She nods and steps aside, letting him in. Jalen makes his way through the house, acting like this is just another job. Step one: Get to the wine cellar.

Jalen heads downstairs, pretending to examine his previous work. He places a small leveler against the wall, runs his fingers along the trim, and even taps on a panel or two, just for show. Now comes the tricky part. Step two: Sneak into Chris's office. Jalen glances at his watch, waiting for the right moment. From what Megan told him, the housekeeper usually does a round of cleaning on the second floor around this time, meaning the office should be empty. Heart pounding, he leaves the wine cellar and moves swiftly through the hallway. He knows where the cameras are. He angles his head down, keeping his face partially obscured.

He reaches Chris's office and slips inside, shutting the door quietly behind him. Step three: Get the prenup and get out.

Jalen moves fast, heading straight to the desk. He yanks open the third drawer on the right and... there it is. 'Legal -- Personal' written in crisp, bold letters on the folder tab.

He snatches it, tucking it inside his jacket.

Almost done.

Just as he turns to leave... A noise. Footsteps. Right outside the office. Jalen freezes, his pulse hammering.

Shit.

The doorknob twists. Thinking fast, Jalen drops to the floor and rolls under the large mahogany desk just as the door opens. From his hiding spot, he can see the polished dress shoes of an older man, Chris's butler. Jalen holds his breath, his muscles tight. The butler steps inside, muttering to himself as he moves to the bar cart in the corner. He clinks a few bottles around before pouring himself a drink. Seconds stretch into an eternity. Jalen needs him to leave. Finally, after what feels like forever, the butler picks up his glass and strides back toward the door.

Please, please, please--

The door closes.

Jalen stays frozen for a few extra seconds, just in case.

Then, carefully, quietly, he crawls out from under the desk.

No time to waste. He checks the hallway. Clear.

Move. Jalen walks back toward the wine cellar at a normal pace, just in case anyone is watching the cameras. He spends another three minutes doing actual work just to sell it. Then he packs up his tools, thanks the housekeeper, and walks out the front door like nothing happened. Only when he's safely in his truck does he allow himself to breathe. He pulls out his phone and texts Megan:

"Got it"

*************************************************

Three days later Megan meets with Karla Silva again, this time with the prenup in hand.

Megan sits in Karla Silva's office, gripping the manila folder tightly in her hands. Her heart pounds as she stares at it, the key to finally breaking free from Chris.

Karla, dressed in a sleek navy blouse and a fitted black pencil skirt, sits across from her, her expression calm but sharp with focus.

"You have it?" Karla asks.

Megan nods and slides the folder across the desk. Karla takes it, flipping it open and scanning the contents.

Silence.

Megan watches Karla's eyes dart across the pages, occasionally pausing as she reads specific clauses. After a minute, Karla leans back in her chair and exhales.

"Wow."

"What? What is it?" Megan asks, her fingers twisting together.

Karla taps a perfectly manicured nail against a paragraph in the document. "Your prenup is... brutal. It's designed to leave you with absolutely nothing if you try to walk away."

Megan swallows hard. She already knew that. It's what had trapped her in that house for so long.

"But," Karla continues, flipping to another section, "Chris made one huge mistake--this prenup only holds up if he hasn't violated any of the marital clauses."

Megan frowns. "What does that mean?"

Karla gives her a knowing look. "It means if we can prove Chris has broken any part of this agreement, the prenup could be null and void. And Megan... based on what you've told me about his affairs, his financial control, and--frankly--his emotional abuse, I'd say there's a lot to work with here."

Megan feels her stomach twist in a mix of nerves and hope. "So... I might not be screwed after all?"

Karla smirks. "Not if I have anything to say about it."

She closes the folder, tapping it against her desk. "Now, tell me--you've been gathering evidence, right? Screenshots, emails, any financial documents?"

Megan nods. "Yes. I have proof of him transferring money to women he's been seeing. I have texts that make it clear he's been cheating."

Karla's smile grows. "Good. Because if we can prove he's been unfaithful and using marital assets for extramarital affairs, then we can flip this prenup on its head."

Megan exhales sharply, still trying to process what this means. "So... I could actually get something? I wouldn't have to walk away with nothing?"

Karla leans forward. "Megan, if we do this right, you could walk away with a hell of a lot more than nothing. You might even be entitled to alimony."

Megan's lips part in shock. "Alimony? But the prenup--"

Karla nods. "The prenup only applies if Chris held up his end of the deal. If we prove he didn't? The courts could force him to compensate you."

Megan lets out a shaky laugh, disbelieving. After years of feeling powerless, she's finally seeing a path forward.

Megan looks at Karla and sees that there is something else that's been on mind.

Karla exhales and asks, "Megan, can you tell me more about how you got pregnant?"

Megan blinks, caught off guard by the sudden shift. "I... what do you mean?"

Karla folds her hands together. "I mean, I know you told me that you and Chris haven't been intimate in over a year. And that he's definitely not the father."

Megan's stomach tightens. She knew this question was coming eventually.

"He's not," Megan confirms, her voice quieter.

Karla nods as if she expected that. "Okay. And was this pregnancy... something you wanted?"

Megan hesitates. She hadn't planned this. But when she thinks about that night with Jalen, about how he made her feel truly alive for the first time in years, she knows her answer.

"Yes," she says softly. "I mean, it wasn't exactly intentional...well, maybe it was.... But... either way, I don't regret it."

Karla watches her carefully. "And the father? I know you said you can trust him. But is he truly in the picture?"

Megan exhales, glancing down at her hands. "Yes. He knows. And he's... he's different. He's been supportive, and he's going to be there for me and the baby."

Karla's expression softens slightly. "Well then he must care a lot about you. That's good." Then she pauses before adding, "Megan, I need to ask you this because it could matter legally--Chris doesn't know about the pregnancy, does he?"

Megan shakes her head immediately. "No. And I need to keep it that way."

Karla nods, understanding. "Okay. Then that gives us another layer of protection. If Chris finds out, he might try to use it against you, especially if he gets desperate. But legally, it shouldn't impact anything--especially if we prove he broke the prenup first."

Megan exhales, relieved.

Karla sits back, tapping her pen against her desk. "Alright. We move forward as planned. Gather every piece of evidence we can, keep Chris in the dark as long as possible, and when the time is right..." Her lips curl into a confident smirk. "...We take him for everything he's worth."

Karla pauses again before asking, "Megan, would you be comfortable telling me who the father is?"

Megan hesitates. She knew this question was coming too. She glances down at her hands, fingers twisting together in her lap. It's not that she's ashamed, not at all. But saying Jalen's name out loud, in this setting, with Karla watching her so intently... it makes everything feel even more real.

Karla gives her a patient look, her tone gentle but firm. "Megan, I only ask because if Chris finds out, he might try to weaponize this against you. If the father is someone with resources, someone who will actually stand by you, that could change how we play our strategy."

Megan takes a deep breath, then finally looks up. "...His name is Jalen Moss."

Karla's eyes flicker with recognition. "Jalen Moss... wait." She tilts her head, searching her memory. "That name sounds familiar."

Megan nods. "You may recall me mentioning him briefly in our prior conversations. He's a contractor... he's the one who actually built the wine cellar at Chris's mansion that I mentioned to you before."

Karla's expression shifts in an instant. "Wait--you mean Jalen Moss was contracted by your husband to build this wine cellar and you had an affair with him, which catalyzed your escape? And now you're having his baby?"

Megan bites her lip. "...Yeah."

Karla leans back in her chair, exhaling sharply. "Wow." She lets out a short laugh, shaking her head. "Megan, do you realize how insane this is?"

Megan gives a small, guilty smile. "Trust me, I know."

Karla studies her for a moment. "And Jalen... he knows everything? About the baby, about Chris, about your escape plan?"

Megan nods. "Yes. He's been helping me through all of it. He's the one who went back to the mansion and got the prenup for me."

Karla raises an eyebrow. "Wow... So he's all in?"

Megan doesn't even hesitate. "Yes. He's not running from this. He's been nothing but supportive."

Karla lets out a slow breath, tapping her fingers against the desk. "Okay. That actually works in our favor."

Megan frowns. "How?"

Karla leans forward. "If Chris ever catches wind of this, he might try to accuse you of cheating and use it against you in court. But if we establish that your marriage was already broken beyond repair, that Chris was abusive and controlling, and that you were already in the process of leaving, then this pregnancy can't be used against you. Especially if the father is willing to vouch for you."

Megan exhales, feeling a bit of the tension in her chest loosen. "Jalen would do that."

Karla gives a small smile. "Then that's another advantage in your corner."

Megan leans back in her chair, finally allowing herself to breathe. She hadn't been sure how Karla would react to all that when she finally found out, but now? She feels more confident than ever.

*************************************************

The following Saturday morning around 10:30 am, there is a knock on Jalen's apartment door. He happens to be home and is not expecting anybody. When he opens the door, there stands a beautiful dark brown-haired woman smiling, dressed in professional attire and black high-heeled pumps.

"Hi Jalen. I'm Karla Silva. I'm sorry for showing up unannounced like this. I am Megan Westward's attorney, and I was hoping I could talk to you for a bit about her case.

Jalen looks at her, and then all of a sudden, it happens again. The warm familiar pull feeling comes over Jalen as he looks at Karla. Jalen's stomach tightens as the familiar warm pull washes over him.

No. No, no, no. This can't be happening again.

He keeps his face neutral, but inside, his mind is spiraling. Karla Silva. Megan's attorney. A woman who is actively working to take down Chris Westward. A woman with serious intelligence, confidence, and power... is one of the eight women. And now she's standing at his door, completely unaware that she's supposed to be a part of something much bigger than she could ever imagine.

Jalen swallows, forcing himself to stay composed. "Uh... yeah, sure. Come in."

Karla gives him a polite smile and steps inside. Her heels click softly against the hardwood floor as she walks in with effortless grace. Jalen can't help but notice how well put-together she looks. Her hair falling in soft waves, her silky white blouse tucked neatly into a fitted black pencil skirt. She exudes an air of power and control, yet there's something warm and inviting about her presence.

Jalen clears his throat, trying desperately to push past the undeniable pull he feels toward her. "So, uh... what can I do for you?"

Karla sits down on his couch, crossing her legs, her sharp eyes studying him. "First of all, let me just say... Megan trusts you. A lot. And based on what I've seen from her, that's not something she does easily."

Jalen exhales. "Yeah. I trust her too."

Karla nods. "That's why I wanted to meet with you. Because I need to understand you. I need to know what kind of man you are. What your intentions are."

Jalen stiffens slightly. "My intentions?"

Karla tilts her head. "Yes. With Megan. With... this situation."

Jalen already knew what she was really asking. She wanted to know if he was serious. If he was actually going to stand by Megan, or if he was just another man passing through her life. And Jalen knows his answer.

"I'm not going anywhere," he says firmly. "I told Megan I'd be there for her. And I meant it."

Karla watches him carefully, studying his every word, his every movement. After a long pause, she finally smiles, small, but genuine. "Good."

Jalen exhales, relieved that she seems to believe him. But before he can even relax, Karla leans forward slightly, her expression shifting.

"Now," she says. "There's another thing I need to know."

Jalen tenses. "What's that?"

Karla's eyes lock onto his, and in that moment, he feels it again, that undeniable force pulling them together. "...Who are you really, Jalen?"

And just like that, Jalen realizes something else. Karla isn't just going to be a part of this. She's going to make him fight for it.

"What do you want to know about me?" Jalen asks.

"Let's start with where you're from, and how you got into contracting." Karla responds.

Jalen exhales, grateful that she's starting with something normal. "I'm from Riverdale, Georgia," he says, settling onto the couch across from her. "Born and raised."

Karla nods, listening intently. "And contracting?"

Jalen leans back, running a hand over his beard. "I got into it after college. I went to Georgia Perimeter for my associate's degree, but school wasn't really my thing. I liked working with my hands, actually seeing the results of my work. My uncle's in construction up in New York. Queens, to be exact. I helped him out on a few projects when I was younger, and that's when I realized it was something I could see myself doing long-term."

Karla tilts her head slightly, taking in every word. "So, you decided to start your own business?"

Jalen nods. "Yeah. Took me a while to get it off the ground, but I built up my clientele over time. A lot of residential jobs, some commercial work here and there. But lately... business has been booming."

He chooses his words carefully, making sure to keep the conversation as surface-level as possible. Because what he can't tell Karla is that his business booming has coincided with the Beyonder's prophecy, and the chain of events that led him to Sydney, Kristen, Megan, Rachel... and now her.

"And how old are you?" Karla asks.

"Twenty-nine."

Karla watches him closely. "That's impressive. A lot of small businesses don't make it past the first few years."

Jalen shrugs. "Yeah, well... hard work, good networking, and knowing how to navigate Atlanta's construction scene helps."

Karla nods slowly, her sharp eyes still locked onto his. "And what about your personal life?"

Jalen's heart slows. He knew this was coming. "...What about it?" he asks, his tone careful.

Karla leans back against the couch, crossing her legs. "You're clearly a good-looking guy. Successful, charming." She arches a brow. "I imagine you don't have much trouble in the dating department."

Jalen forces himself to keep his cool. The way Karla had called him a "good-looking guy" sent a chill down his spine. And not in a bad way. He could lie. Say he's single. Say he's casually dating. Say anything to deflect. But he knows Karla will see through it. And something tells him that if he lies to her now, he'll never get another chance to earn her trust. So instead, he takes a breath and says, "...My personal life is complicated."

Karla's lips curl slightly, but she doesn't look surprised. "Complicated how?"

Jalen meets her gaze. And just like that, he realizes something. Karla isn't just here to assess him as Megan's lawyer. She's trying to figure out who he is for herself. And for the first time since this all started... Jalen wonders if Karla is the one woman who might actually make him fight for her.

"I'll just come clean," Karla says, "Megan has confided to me that you have... other situations... beyond just hers. But what's interesting is that she insists that you're a good man and the most respectable one she's ever met. How does a man involved with multiple women still warrant that kind of admiration?"

Jalen exhales slowly, staring at Karla as he processes her words. So Megan told her. Of course, she did. Karla doesn't look judgmental, but she does look curious. She's not here to condemn him. She's here to figure him out, and Jalen knows this is a test. He leans forward slightly, resting his elbows on his knees. "That's a fair question."

Karla lifts a brow. "I thought so."

Jalen lets a few seconds pass, choosing his words carefully. "I won't pretend that what I have going on is... traditional. I'm not gonna sit here and act like it's what most people would call 'normal.'" He looks her in the eyes. "But what I can say is that I don't lie. I don't manipulate. I don't play games. I'm upfront with everyone I'm involved with, and I don't make promises I can't keep."

Karla listens, silent, waiting for him to continue.

"Megan, Sydney, Kristen, Rachel..." Jalen pauses, watching Karla's expression closely, but she doesn't react to the names. She already knew. Megan told her everything she knew. He continues, "...they all know about each other...well, I haven't told Rachel about the others yet but that's going to be my next conversation with her," he says. "I didn't force anything. I didn't deceive anyone. And I never took advantage of any situation. Every connection I have... it happened naturally."

Karla tilts her head, still unreadable. "So, you're saying that you're not actively pursuing multiple women. You're just... letting things unfold?"

Jalen nods. "I'm saying that I care about all of them, and I don't take that lightly. But at the same time, I'm not naive. I know this isn't sustainable forever. I know at some point; things will have to change. But until then... all I can do is be honest."

Karla is silent for a long moment, her bright brown eyes locked onto his. And then, finally, she says, "...That's interesting."

Jalen lets out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. "That's all you've got?"

Karla shrugs. "I'm a lawyer, Jalen. I don't deal in emotions, I deal in facts. And factually speaking, most men in your position wouldn't handle things the way you are."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning that most men who get involved with multiple women either lie, cheat, or manipulate their way into those situations. But you?" She leans back against the couch. "You're doing something different. And I'm trying to understand why."

Jalen studies her, realizing something very important. Karla isn't looking at him with judgment. She's looking at him with intrigue. This isn't about her disapproving of him. This is about her wanting to understand him. And that means one very dangerous thing. Karla Silva, Megan's lawyer, a woman who operates on logic, reason, and careful analysis, is genuinely curious about Jalen Moss. And if curiosity is the first step to attraction... Then this was going to get more complicated fast.

"I didn't even hear about this Rachel girl," Karla says, "Megan only told me about Sydney and Kristen. So that's four women that you say you did not aggressively pursue or charm but rather things just happened and led to things happening. You understand how that might be hard to believe, right? That these women are just entering your life and happen to end up falling for you without you deliberately charming them into it?"

Jalen leans back, exhaling. He knew this was coming. He meets Karla's sharp, unwavering gaze and gives her a small, tired smile. "Yeah, Ms. Silva. I do understand how that sounds."

Karla crosses her legs, her black patent leather pumps dangling slightly as she watches him. "So, explain it to me."

Jalen rubs his beard for a second, thinking. "Alright. Let me put it like this." He leans forward slightly. "Have you ever met someone and just... felt something Like, an unexplainable pull? Like the universe..., fate, whatever you wanna call it, was nudging you toward them?"

Karla doesn't answer immediately.

Jalen's lips twitch slightly. "Because that's what's been happening to me."

Karla's brow lifts slightly. "So, what, you think the universe is just dropping women into your lap?"

Jalen chuckles, shaking his head. "Not exactly." He looks her in the eyes. "But I do know that every time I've met one of these women... I've felt it. This undeniable pull. And every time, things have played out in ways that I never could've predicted."

Karla is silent, her expression thoughtful.

Jalen continues. "I didn't go into that party looking for Sydney. I didn't take the Georgia Wellness job looking for Kristen. I damn sure didn't expect Megan to be waiting for me at her husband's mansion. And Rachel?" He shakes his head. "That was a whole different level of unexpected."

Karla rests her elbow on the arm of the couch, her fingers grazing her chin. "So, you're saying you're just following the path that's been set in front of you."

Jalen nods. "Pretty much."

Karla watches him for a long moment before sighing and shaking her head. "I gotta admit, Jalen. You're hard to figure out."

Jalen smirks. "I get that a lot."

Karla doesn't laugh. She just keeps studying him. "...And you're telling me that you're not in love with any of them?"

Jalen pauses. And Karla notices.

"Ah," she says, nodding slowly. "That's what I thought."

Jalen doesn't answer. Because honestly? He doesn't know the answer himself. And judging by the way Karla's gaze lingers on him, she knows it too. Which means this conversation is far from over.

"Ms. Silva, I can't answer that question, but what I can promise you is that I am not using or deceiving any of these women. I care about all of them and I will never abandon any of them as long as they'll allow me in their lives."

Karla watches him carefully, her expression unreadable. She doesn't blink. She doesn't break eye contact. Jalen knows she's analyzing every single word he just said, measuring it, weighing it, trying to determine if it's the truth or just a well-crafted lie.

And finally, after what feels like forever, she exhales, sitting back against the couch. "...You really believe that, don't you?"

Jalen nods without hesitation. "I do."

Karla tilts her head slightly. "So, if, let's say, five years from now, all four of them still want you in their lives, what does that look like?"

Jalen exhales slowly. "I don't know."

Karla lifts a brow. "You're a planner, Jalen. I don't believe you haven't at least thought about it."

Jalen chuckles. "I have. But every time I do, I come back to the same thing. I can't control what happens next. I can only be honest, be present, and take things as they come."

Karla watches him, then shakes her head slightly. "You're a strange man, Jalen Moss."

Jalen smirks. "I get that a lot."

For the first time, Karla actually cracks a small smile. But just as quickly, her face turns serious again.

"I appreciate your honesty," she says. "I really do. And to be honest, I don't think you're a bad man, Jalen." She leans forward slightly. "But that doesn't mean you're not playing with fire."

Jalen nods, fully aware of the truth in her words. "I know."

Karla stands up, smoothing her pencil skirt, her heels clicking softly against the floor. "I've taken enough of your time."

Jalen stands too. "You came here for answers. Did you get what you were looking for?"

Karla pauses at the door. Then, she turns slightly and looks at him with something he can't quite place.

"...I got enough."

Jalen nods.

*************************************************

Karla gets back into her car and exhales.

WOW.

She leans her head back against the headrest, closing her eyes for a moment. She's dealt with a lot of complicated men in her career. Lying men. Manipulative men. Abusive men. Men who would do anything to avoid taking responsibility for their actions. And yet... Jalen Moss is different. He's honest. He's accountable. He's taking on something most men wouldn't even try to handle. And that? That's rare. Karla exhales sharply, shaking her head.

"Still doesn't make any damn sense," she mutters.

She thinks about Megan, how she speaks about Jalen with genuine admiration. She thinks about the way Jalen spoke about all of them, not as conquests, not as burdens, but as women he truly cares about. She thinks about how his presence alone carries something she can't quite explain, that undeniable pull, the feeling like he's supposed to be something important in her life. And now? Now she's sitting in her car fighting the very same thoughts and feelings she just questioned him about.

Karla scoffs at herself. "Unbelievable."

She puts her car in drive and pulls out of the parking lot.

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