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acute-crashout-jeyuso · 4 months ago

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Between the Ropes… a Jey Uso x Rhea Ripley fanfic.

Chapter 28: My, how you lie, lie, lie.

It was October 27th, 7:30 P.M. The sun had long since set over Pensacola, casting the streets in a golden haze under streetlamps, but the quiet home was warm with love. Rhea sat at the breakfast bar, her muscles still stiff and her eyes heavy from exhaustion. Her birthday party yesterday had been overwhelming, and the lingering effects of her accident still weighed her down, but she tried her best to keep up with the excitement.

Jey, Damian, and Kayden sat around her, sipping drinks and laughing softly as Rhea began opening her birthday presents. Each one had been handpicked with care, thoughtful gestures from her closest friends and family.

Liv, Dom, and Finn had gifted her a quirky, thoughtful bundle: a blind date with a series she hadn’t yet heard of, a couple of band shirts from her favorite metal groups, and a sleek set of makeup that Rhea already knew she couldn’t wait to try.

Joe and Galina had taken a more practical approach, bringing her a set of 12 gift cards—one for each month of the year, from different stores. Rhea loved the idea of having a little something special to look forward to every month.

Her face softened as she unwrapped Joseph and Almia’s gift, revealing a Versace Bright Crystal perfume set. The scent of luxury filled the air as she opened the sleek bottles, and she grinned at their impeccable taste.

Next, she found herself holding Damian’s gift: custom-made Terror Twins gear for her eventual return to the ring. The fabric was pristine, the details intricate, reminding her of the life she had built in the ring. Despite everything she had been through, a glimmer of hope flickered at the thought of returning one day.

Kayden’s gift was last in the pile, a self-care set filled with all the essentials—candles, lotions, bath bombs, and soft socks. Rhea smiled softly, touched by the thoughtfulness behind it. She knew Kayden understood the toll this year had taken on her.

As Rhea finished opening her gifts, a sudden alarm rang from Kayden’s phone, interrupting the cozy silence that had settled over the room. Rhea looked up, curious.

“What’s that for?” she asked, her voice raspy from lingering exhaustion.

Kayden checked her phone and sighed softly. “It’s time for Damian and me to leave. We have to catch our flight to Pennsylvania for RAW and for Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia.”

The mood shifted slightly, a bittersweet goodbye looming as the trio prepared to part ways. Damian stood first, pulling Rhea into a tight hug. “You take care of yourself, alright? And don’t push it too hard. We’ll be back before you know it.”

Rhea returned the hug, lingering in the comfort of his embrace. Damian, a brother to her, steadfast through her ups and downs. “I’ll be alright,” she whispered, though a part of her wished they didn’t have to leave.

Kayden followed, giving Rhea a quick squeeze. “Take care of yourself, girl. We’ll see you soon.”

Rhea nodded, waving as the two walked out the door, leaving her and Jey alone. The silence returned, but it was comfortable. Familiar. The sound of the door closing behind them marked a small transition in the night, and Rhea leaned back in her seat, letting out a long, slow breath.

Jey, sitting across from her, chuckled lightly. “You sure you opened all your presents?”

Rhea blinked, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah, I’m pretty sure. Why?”

Jey leaned back, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. “I beg to differ.”

Rhea looked at him curiously as he pulled out a brown box from under the table. It was plain and unassuming, the kind of box that held the most unexpected surprises. Jey pushed it across the table, his eyes twinkling with a secret.

Rhea hesitated, then slowly opened the box. Her breath caught in her throat as she gasped. Inside was the stunning Cuban link necklace, with a pendant in the shape of a bold “R” encrusted with diamonds. It shimmered under the kitchen lights, almost as if it was glowing.

“Jey…” she whispered, completely taken aback by the sheer beauty of it. She didn’t know what to say, her heart pounding as she carefully lifted it from the box, the weight of the necklace heavy in her hands.

“Do you like it?” Jey asked, watching her reaction closely. He moved around the counter and gently took the necklace from her, stepping behind her to clasp it around her neck.

Rhea’s fingers brushed against the cool diamonds, and she felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes. The necklace wasn’t just beautiful—it felt personal. A reminder of how far they had come together. Of everything they had been through.

“It’s perfect,” she finally managed to say, her voice shaky but full of emotion.

Jey pressed a soft kiss to the back of her head as he stood behind her. “Good. You deserve it, baby, now you got your five pieces: my chain, your chain, your necklace, your ring and bracelet.”

They stayed like that for a moment, Rhea’s fingers still resting on the pendant, the weight of the necklace settling on her chest as she leaned back into Jey’s arms.

For the first time in a long while, despite the chaos and pain, Rhea felt something that resembled harmony.

Jey carefully gathered the discarded wrapping paper, folding it into a neat pile before tossing it into the trash. As he straightened up, he glanced over at Rhea. “Hey, you want to help me pack?”

Rhea, still admiring her new necklace in the kitchen light, nodded. “Yeah, sure,” she replied softly, standing up and trailing after him as they made their way to the bedroom.

As they entered the room, the air felt heavier. Rhea didn’t like that Jey was leaving for a whole week. She understood, though—if she was going to take time off to recover, someone had to keep providing for the house. But the thought of the empty house without him gnawed at her. At least she had the animals to keep her company.

The familiar clatter of Barry, Bella, and Luna’s paws echoed through the hall as they followed her into the room. Storm, the aloof but loyal cat, perched herself on the window sill, watching the scene unfold with half-closed eyes.

Jey began pulling out shirts and ring gear from his closet, holding each piece up as Rhea sat cross-legged on the bed, the dogs circling her feet. She helped him pick out which shirts to pack, offering soft opinions and nodding when she liked a choice.

“I know it’s only a week but I just gotta ask’ ,” Jey said after a moment, folding a shirt and tossing it into his suitcase. “You sure you’re good?”

Rhea glanced up at him, her chest tightening a little. “I don’t like it,” she admitted, “but I get it. They need you out there.”

He paused for a moment, holding up another piece of ring gear before adding it to the pile. The house was quiet aside from the occasional soft bark from Barry or the flick of Storm’s tail against the window. The atmosphere felt too calm, too still—a setting oppposite to the whirlwind of their lives.

After a few more minutes of packing, Jey’s gaze landed on her. He walked over to the bed, placing his hands on either side of her face, lifting her chin slightly to meet his eyes. Without a word, he leaned in and kissed her, the warmth of his lips making Rhea close her eyes and lean into him.

When he pulled back, his dark eyes softened with concern. “Don’t worry,” he said gently. “I’ll be back before you know it.”

Rhea tried to smile, but the thought of being alone for the week tugged at her. With Jon and Trinity back on SmackDown full-time, she didn’t really have anyone to hang out with. It was the first time since her accident that she was going to be truly alone, and the idea made her uneasy. Even though she had the animals for company, it wasn’t quite the same.

“I know,” she whispered, her hand resting on his as it cupped her cheek. “I just… I’ll miss you.”

Jey smiled, brushing his thumb gently over her skin. “I’ll miss you too, but you’ve got this. Plus, you’ll have the gremlins keeping you company. They’ll keep you busy, trust me.”

Rhea nodded, taking a deep breath as Jey went back to packing. The reality of his absence slowly settled in, and the quiet of the house suddenly felt louder in her mind.

Once Jey finished packing, he stretched and wandered back to the bed, flicking through channels until he landed on a classic. “Scream,” he announced, settling on the film with a grin. He laid down on his stomach on the bed, pulling Bella close, her little body curling up against him, her tail wagging softly in her sleep.

Rhea followed suit, propping herself up with Barry and Luna beside her. Barry’s head rested on her lap, his eyes barely open, while Luna stretched out at her feet. The movie played in the background, but the room was peaceful in its own way, with the sounds of the occasional bark or the purring from Storm, who watched from her favorite spot on the windowsill.

As the movie progressed, Jey’s eyes kept drifting to Rhea, who seemed lost in thought. Finally, he couldn’t help himself. He turned and propped himself up in front of her, studying her face.

“What are you looking at?” Rhea asked, noticing the way his eyes lingered on her, a playful smile teasing her lips.

Jey’s smile widened, his voice low and full of affection. “An angel.”

Rhea blushed softly, and before she could say anything, he leaned down, pressing his lips to hers. The kiss was soft at first, but then it deepened, Jey pulling her closer. Rhea melted into him, their bodies shifting as they became lost in each other. Time seemed to stretch as their kisses lingered, the movie long forgotten in the background.

Out of breath, Rhea finally whispered against his lips, “I love you…”

Jey’s breath caught in his throat for a moment as he gently stroked her hair. His mind raced with memories, and then he pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, a mischievous glint dancing in his gaze. “Do you remember what you were wearing the night we first did it?”

Rhea chuckled softly, a little surprised by the question, but her memory was sharp. “Damian’s El Campeón shirt…” she replied with a grin, watching as Jey’s eyes filled with nostalgia.

Jey laughed softly, the sound deep in his chest, and pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her like he was trying to memorize every part of her in that moment. He didn’t want to think about leaving in the morning. He didn’t want to think about being away from her for a whole week. But there was something else on his mind, something he had been avoiding.

He hesitated, his hand gently stroking her back, his voice quieter now, almost cautious. “Rhe… can I ask you something?”

Rhea tensed slightly, sensing the change in his tone. She shifted, pulling back just enough to meet his eyes, searching them for what was coming next. “What is it?”

Jey took a deep breath, biting his lip before speaking. “Is it true what Finn and Liv told me? About… you asking about retirement?”

Rhea’s heart skipped a beat. She knew this conversation was coming, but she hadn’t been ready for it. She couldn’t deny the truth anymore, but it was hard to say it out loud, especially to him.

“I…” she hesitated, her eyes drifting away as she tried to gather her thoughts. “I’ve been reading into it. The injury… It’s a lot to deal with, Jey. On google, it says I could take six months to a year just to recover fully.”

Jey’s grip on her tightened slightly, his face betraying the worry. “But are you seriously thinking about it? About retiring?”

Rhea swallowed hard. “I don’t know yet… I don’t want to say yes, but I can’t ignore the damage, you know? I’ve been pushing myself for so long, and I don’t even know if my body can handle it anymore.” She looked up at him, her eyes soft but filled with uncertainty. “I need time to figure it out.”

Jey nodded, his thumb brushing over her cheek. “I just… I just want you to be okay. Whatever you decide, I’m with you. Always.”

Rhea felt the weight of his words sink into her, and for the first time that night, she allowed herself to let out a deep breath. They had so much to navigate, so much still ahead of them, but for now, she was grateful…

As the movie came to a close, Jey glanced at the clock on the nightstand and realized how late it had gotten. “You still want the TV on?” he asked, casting a sideways glance at Rhea, who was still snuggled against him.

“Yeah, I think so,” Rhea replied, her voice soft and slightly groggy. She wishes she hadn’t slept very late but damn could you blame her? Yesterday was an experience of a lifetime for her, and it was all thanks to Jey.

Jey watched as Rhea browsed through the options, and after a moment of contemplation, Rhea settled on Friday the 13th. Jey nodded in agreement, and as the movie began to play, he started to undress, pulling off his shirt and shorts, now just his briefs.

Rhea’s expression changed, a mischievous grin spreading across her face—one that resembled something from the Grinch, full of playful plotting.

Jey caught the look and raised an eyebrow, smirking at her. “Can I help you?” he teased.

Rhea simply motioned for him to come closer, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “I’m two feet beside you,” he replied, feigning innocence.

“Sir,” Rhea said, a mock-serious tone lacing her voice, “if you don’t come over here…”

Jey rolled his eyes dramatically but climbed into bed beside her, propping himself up on one elbow. “What’s up? You’re acting all mysterious.”

Rhea turned to face him, her expression softening. “Can tonight be a little bit more special?”

Jey furrowed his brow, a hint of confusion crossing his face. “What do you mean?”

“Something we haven’t done in a while,” Rhea elaborated, her smile growing as she watched him think.

“Go to Sonic for a late-night snack?” he suggested playfully, clearly missing the mark.

Rhea let out an exaggerated sigh, annoyance creeping in. “No, not that! Something that gets our hearts pumping with a grin.”

Jey pondered for a moment, a grin spreading across his face. “A workout? I know you haven’t worked out in a hot minute.”

Rhea stopped for a second, surprised at his response. He was right; she hadn’t worked out in forever, but that wasn’t quite what she had in mind. She shook the thought from her head and rolled her eyes dramatically. “Joshua, your window of opportunity for some cookie is almost gone.”

At that, Jey burst into laughter, the sound echoing off the walls of the bedroom. The playful banter felt good, lightening the mood in a way that eased the tension that had lingered beneath the surface.

“Cookie, huh?” he teased, waggling his eyebrows. “Is that what we’re calling it now?”

Rhea giggled, trying to suppress her own laughter. “You know what I mean! I’ve missed… us.”

Jey leaned in closer, his voice lowering to a soft whisper. “So you want to get back to some of our old habits, huh?” His expression was both playful and serious, the glint in his eyes making her heart race.

Rhea nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. “Yeah, I just want to feel connected again.”

“Then let’s do it,” he said, his demeanor shifting into something more earnest. “We can take it slow; I just want you to feel comfortable.”

Rhea smiled, the warmth of his words wrapping around her like a blanket. “Okay, then. Let’s make tonight special.”

With a newfound energy, Jey shifted closer, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her into his arms. The light of the TV flickered softly around them, the sound of the movie fading into the background as they settled into each other, ready to rediscover the spark that had brought them together in the first place.

As Jey pulled Rhea into a kiss, it felt as if everything else melted away. The outside world and the uncertainties of the week ahead faded into nothingness. Rhea ran her hands up his back, feeling the smoothness of his skin glistening under the soft light from the TV. It was a moment of intimacy that she had longed for.

Just then, as Jey shifted his weight, Bella let out a startled yelp, breaking the spell of the moment. Rhea couldn’t help but chuckle as Jey pulled away, shaking his head with a grin. “Looks like we’ve got some audience members. Maybe we should give them a treat to get them out of here,” he suggested, his tone playful.

“Do it,” Rhea replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

With a resigned sigh, Jey sat up. He whistled for the dogs to follow him, calling out for Storm as well. “Come on, guys! Let’s get you some treats!”

The animals perked up at the sound of their names and eagerly followed Jey out of the room, tails wagging excitedly. Rhea waited until she heard the clinking of the treat jar in the kitchen before quickly opening her nightstand drawer.

Inside lay the black babydoll the girls had given her privately, a little surprise for moments just like this. She slipped it on and felt a rush of confidence, knowing Jey would love the change.

Quickly, she slid under the covers, the fabric feeling soft and delicate against her skin. Just as she settled in, Jey returned, a mischievous smile on his face. “The animals are going to be expecting more treats now,” he joked, his eyes sparkling as he caught sight of her.

Rhea couldn’t help but smile back, feeling a rush of warmth spread through her. “Well, they might have to wait a little longer. I think I’ll be keeping you busy for a while.”

Jey raised an eyebrow, his playful demeanor shifting into something more serious as he moved closer to her. “Oh, is that so?” he asked, his voice low and filled with promise.

“Definitely,” Rhea replied, her heart racing as she met his gaze, excitement swirling in the air between them. She pulled him closer, eager to rekindle the spark they both craved, knowing that tonight was just the beginning of something special.

With a smile playing on his lips, Jey leaned in again, their lips meeting as the world outside faded away once more. Jey’s lips were always so soft to Rhea, almost never dry. Jey’s kiss deepened as he grabbed ahold of Rhea, he felt the light garment and he broke the kiss. He lifted up the covers ever so slightly and smiled, flashing his pearly whites. “Each day.. you never cease to amaze me.” Jey said, running a hand up the lingerie.

There was something about her that was utterly intoxicating, a blend of strength and vulnerability that drew him in like a moth to a flame. Every time he looked at her, it felt as if he were taking a deep breath of something pure and exhilarating.

Her laughter was music to his ears, a sweet sound that danced through the air and wrapped around him like a warm embrace. The way her eyes sparkled with mischief and warmth ignited a fire in his chest, making him feel alive in ways he hadn’t experienced in a long time. When she smiled, it was as if the entire room brightened, and all his worries faded into the background.

Rhea was magnetic, a force of nature that captivated him with every glance and every touch. The way she moved, with a grace that was both fierce and alluring, left him mesmerized. It wasn’t just her beauty—though that was undeniable—it was the depth of her spirit, the way she made him feel understood and seen.

When she kissed him, it was like the world outside ceased to exist. The intoxicating mix of her soft lips and the warmth of her body against his sent his heart racing, as if he were tasting a forbidden fruit that he could never get enough of. With every kiss, every brush of her fingers against his skin, he felt a rush of electricity coursing through him, igniting his desire and pulling him deeper into her orbit.

Jey realized he was hopelessly enchanted, caught in her web of charm and spirit. It was intoxicating in the most beautiful way, a reminder that love could be both exhilarating and terrifying. But with Rhea, it felt right. It felt like home.

As he leaned in closer and caught her gaze , he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was the luckiest man alive, and all he wanted was to lose himself in her, to explore every facet of who she was, and to savor the intoxicating essence of.. Demi.

From the moment Jey walked back into Rhea’s life, she felt that pull—something primal that she couldn’t ignore. At first, it terrified her. The connection they shared felt overwhelming, as if a storm brewed just beneath the surface, threatening to consume her if she let it.

Every time he looked at her with those deep, soulful eyes, her heart raced, and a part of her wanted to run. She was scared of how easily he could make her forget everything else, how he could slip past her defenses and lay bare her vulnerabilities. It felt reckless to let him in, to surrender to the intense chemistry that pulled them together like magnets. It was like standing on the edge of a cliff, heart pounding, knowing that one step forward could lead to either the most exhilarating freedom or the most profound heartbreak.

But as the days turned into weeks and their bond deepened, she realized that the very thing she feared was the thing she craved the most. Jey became her anchor, grounding her in a way she hadn’t anticipated. He understood the darkness that clung to her and he didn’t shy away from it. Instead, he held her hand and faced it with her, his presence a comforting balm to her wounded soul.

What once felt like a terrifying plunge into the unknown transformed into a safe harbor. Rhea couldn’t imagine her life without him anymore. The thought of facing the world alone was suffocating; he was her lifeline, the one who made her laugh even when she felt like crying.

With him, she discovered a love that was both fierce and tender, a connection that gave her strength instead of fear. Jey wasn’t just a part of her life; he was essential to it. She couldn’t live without that intoxicating pull between them, the way he made her feel—alive, loved, and utterly free.

In embracing the chaos of their love, she found clarity. She learned to let go of the fear that once held her back and to embrace the beautiful uncertainty of what they had. Now, the thought of losing him was the only thing that scared her more than the pull itself.

Jey slid a hand up Rhea’s babydoll as he kissed her more passionately. Rhea was enjoying the moment until..

The sound of an iPhone alarm went off..

Jey broke the kiss and he looked at his phone but it wasn’t his, it was Rhea’s. Rhea rolled her eyes as she silenced the alarm.

“Damn thing.. all it says is ‘Take it bitch’.. like why would I ever label an alarm like that and why would I set it everyday?” She said. Jey stayed on top of her as he remembered something… something you’d want to remember before having unprotected sex with your twenty eight year old girlfriend who attempted to kill herself by drug overdosing on painkillers and suffering an hypoxic brain injury and being in a coma.

“I don’t have protection..”

“I got on birth control again..”

“A hypoxic brain injury occurs when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen for an extended period of time. This lack of oxygen can cause damage to the brain cells, which impacts various cognitive functions. In Rhea’s case, her memory might be affected, particularly her ability to retain new information or recall certain events. This can result in memory gaps or difficulty concentrating, and sometimes, emotional or behavioral changes. The brain is a complex organ, and recovery from this type of injury can vary. It may take months, even up to a year, for her to fully regain what she’s lost, and even then, some effects could be permanent. It’s a gradual process, and the more support and patience she receives, the better her chances of recovery.”

Jey pulled away from Rhea, his mind racing with thoughts he couldn’t shake. The weight of the doctor’s words hung over him like a dark cloud. Hypoxic brain injury, the doctor had said. Memory gaps or difficulty concentrating.. He had brushed it off at the time, thinking they could manage it together, but now… now he wasn’t so sure.

Rhea’s words from just a few moments ago echoed in his mind. She didn’t even remember that she’d gotten back on birth control. Jey’s stomach twisted in knots. He couldn’t keep going, couldn’t let them be intimate if she didn’t even remember the basics of what they had talked about. It wasn’t fair to either of them.

He glanced over at her, and she noticed the shift in his energy immediately. “What’s wrong?” she asked, her voice soft but laced with concern.

Jey hesitated for a moment, then decided to test something. He needed to know just how deep these memory lapses went. “Do you remember what you told me when I asked you about having a kid?”

Rhea raised her eyebrows, thinking for a second before answering, “I told you, whatever you decide.”

His heart sank. Wrong answer. The right answer was: ‘I don’t want you to ruin your body just to take care of me and our family. I can’t let you do that.’

Jey blinked back the tears that were threatening to spill over. He cleared his throat, trying to stay calm. “Okay… uh, who was the first to find out about our relationship?”

Rhea, with all the confidence in the world, responded, “No one. It came out from TMZ.”

Jey closed his eyes for a moment, the sting of disappointment settling in deeper. Wrong again. It wasn’t TMZ. It was Damian. Damian had been the first to find out—long before the press got their hands on the story.

He turned away from her, feeling the tightness in his chest. He wanted to scream, to cry, to punch something. But none of that would change anything. He couldn’t fix her memory; he couldn’t make it come back.

Rhea’s voice broke through his spiraling thoughts. “Why are you asking me all these questions, Jey? What’s going on?” Her tone was now laced with worry.

He couldn’t bear to tell her the truth right now. Not yet. “I’ll be right back,” he mumbled, pushing himself up from the bed and walking towards the bathroom.

As he disappeared through the door, Rhea stared after him, confusion washing over her. She replayed the conversation in her head. Those were the right answers… weren’t they?

Jey sat on the edge of the bathtub, his body tense as he tried to contain the silent tears streaming down his face. He couldn’t let Rhea hear him, couldn’t let her see just how broken he felt in that moment. It was all too much—the memory lapses, the confusion in her eyes, the weight of her injury, and the constant thought of if she would ever recover. He took several deep breaths, forcing himself to calm down, to pull himself together. Rhea needed him.

When he finally returned to the bedroom, Jey climbed back into bed and gently asked, “Can I just hold you?”

Rhea, without hesitation, nodded. “Of course.” She shifted closer to him, letting him wrap his arms around her. As he held her tightly, there was something different in the way he embraced her tonight—a protectiveness, as if he were holding on to her like she was his lifeline, afraid to let go.

“I love you more than words can describe, Demi,” Jey whispered into her hair, using her real name, a name only those closest to her called her. His voice trembled with emotion.

Rhea kissed his chest softly, her warmth grounding him, but Jey’s eyes remained fixed on the ceiling. His thoughts drifted, wondering how he would find the strength to help her through this, how he could help her remember the pieces she’d lost. His mind wandered to Julie and he closed his eyes, wishing—just for a moment—that she could appear to him. He longed for a sign, something that could give him comfort, something that told him they were going to be okay.

As time passed, Rhea’s breathing deepened, and her soft snores filled the room. Exhaustion washed over Jey, his own body finally succumbing to the emotional toll of the day. He drifted off, letting sleep claim him.

But as soon as he closed his eyes, he was pulled into a dream. He found himself back in the White Room—the same room that haunted his thoughts, a place that seemed to exist between reality and fantasy. It looked different this time. There was a lazy boy chair now, replacing the cold, hard bench that had been there before. Instead of a solid door, there was a screen door, letting in a faint breeze.

Jey stood still, confused by the changes. The room felt more inviting, yet still surreal. He approached the chair slowly, unsure of what he was supposed to find here. Everything felt eerily quiet, like something was about to happen—but he didn’t know what. He looked around, his heart pounding in anticipation, waiting for the next piece of this dream to reveal itself.

The screen door creaked open, and an intense, bright white light flooded the room, causing Jey to shield his eyes with his arm. As the light slowly dimmed, he saw her—Julie. His heart tightened as she walked into the room, her small figure glowing with a soft aura. She smiled up at him, her eyes warm and full of a wisdom far beyond her years.

“Still having doubts, I see,” Julie said softly, her voice both innocent and knowing.

Jey’s breath caught in his throat as he reached out to her, hesitant at first, but this time when his hand reached hers, it connected. The feeling of her hand in his sent a wave of emotion crashing over him. She was real in this place, even if just for a moment. He held on to her, savoring the touch.

“How come I can call on you, and you just… appear?” he asked, his voice quiet, filled with a mix of awe and confusion.

Julie looked at him, her expression calm. “The more calls you make, the more confusing I get,” she said, her words cryptic, but with a sense of truth that Jey couldn’t ignore.

Jey furrowed his brow, not understanding at first. But as he looked at her, it hit him. When she had first appeared to him, she hadn’t answered his burning question—whether Rhea would be okay. She had simply smiled, offering no direct answer. The second time he had called on her, she didn’t give him clarity either, but instead, a cryptic message about singing to Rhea, which had somehow helped wake her from the sedatives.

He realized now that each time she appeared, she wasn’t here to give him answers, but to guide him in her own subtle way. She was a manifestation of his deepest fears, hopes, and the love he never got to show her in life. But she wasn’t a key to fixing everything. Jey let out a deep sigh, the weight of the situation pressing on him. Julie was a reflection of the things he couldn’t control, the uncertainties that would remain with him.

“Is this still all in my head? Are you sure … I’m just not imagining you?” Jey asked, his voice shaky as he gazed at his daughter, desperate for something solid to hold on to.

Julie just smiled again, the same warm smile she always gave. “You already know the answer, Dad.”

Jey swallowed hard, feeling the tears welling up again. He wanted to ask more, to understand more, but he also knew that Julie’s presence was as much of an answer as he was going to get. She was his guide, but not his solution.

Jey looked down at Julie, his voice shaky as he finally voiced the question that had been gnawing at him since Rhea’s accident. “How do I help her when I don’t even know if I’m enough?” His eyes welled up with tears as he confessed the fear that had been buried deep inside him—the fear that no matter what he did, it might never be enough to help Rhea heal, both physically and emotionally.

Julie tilted her head, her small hand still in his, and looked up at him with a gentle expression that held the wisdom of someone far beyond her years. “You already are enough, Dad,” she said softly. “It’s not about fixing her. You’re not supposed to have all the answers.”

Jey’s heart clenched at her words. He hadn’t realized how much pressure he had put on himself to be the one who made everything better, to fill in all the gaps that Rhea’s injury left behind. But Julie’s words hit him like a revelation. He wasn’t supposed to fix Rhea. He was supposed to be there for her, to love her through the uncertainty, through the hard days when things didn’t make sense.

“But what if I can’t help her remember?” he whispered, the vulnerability pouring out of him now. “What if she forgets everything? Us… Julie, what if she forgets what made us?”

Julie squeezed his hand gently, her smile unwavering. “She won’t forget the important things. You, and what you have together, aren’t just in her memory, Dad. They’re in her heart.”

Jey blinked, feeling a warmth spread through him as the weight of those words settled into his chest. He hadn’t thought of it like that. The bond they shared went deeper than memory—it was something that lived in Rhea’s heart, something that wouldn’t disappear, even if some of the details did.

“I’m scared,” Jey admitted, his voice cracking. “I’m scared she’s gonna lose herself, that she won’t be the same.”

Julie nodded, her gaze steady. “People change, even without injuries. But she loves you, and you love her. That’s the part that never changes.”

Jey closed his eyes, tears slipping down his cheeks. He held Julie’s hand tighter, grounding himself in this moment. For the first time, it felt like he had some kind of clarity—like he could breathe through the fear.

“Thank you, baby girl,” Jey whispered, opening his eyes to look at her once more.

Julie just smiled that familiar smile, and in an instant, the room started to fade. The light dimmed, the lazy boy chair vanished, and soon, Jey was left alone again. His eyes fluttered open, finding himself back in the bed next to Rhea, her soft breathing the only sound in the room.

—

4:21 AM. October 28th, 2024

Jey pulled Rhea into a long, lingering kiss before whispering, “I love you,” against her lips. He gave her one last smile before heading off toward the gate. Rhea watched him as he showed his ticket to the flight attendant, a small ache settling in her chest. As he disappeared down the terminal, she sighed, already feeling his absence.

The week stretched before her like a blank page, uncertain and uninviting. She had two doctors’ appointments lined up—one today and another tomorrow—but beyond that, there wasn’t much left to occupy her time. The silence that would fill their home once she got back would be overwhelming, she was sure of it.

Rhea made her way out of the airport, her feet dragging as she walked through the parking lot. She spotted her Jeep, climbed inside, and sat there for a moment, staring out at nothing. There was a heaviness in her chest, a mix of exhaustion and isolation that clung to her like a shadow. She missed him already. She missed having someone around, especially after everything she had been through.

She started the car and drove back to their house, the familiar route feeling a bit too long. Once inside, she undressed, slipping into a pair of comfy pajamas. The house was quiet—too quiet. Jey’s presence usually filled every corner, but now it felt hollow, like the walls echoed with his absence.

Rhea slumped onto the couch, her eyes drifting to her phone. A new message from Jey lit up the screen.

Almia is still in town, if you’d like, text her. You should have her number in your phone; if not, I wrote it down for you on the calendar on the fridge. Your appointment with the neurologist is at 11 AM. Your appointment with the OBGYN is at 1 PM tomorrow on Tuesday. I love you. Please call me if you feel confused. Call Damian if I don’t answer. Remember I love you.

She read the message slowly, her heart sinking a little. It felt more like a list of reminders than a conversation. Each word was filled with care, but it also reminded her of the reason for the message in the first place—her brain injury, the memory lapses. The fact that he had to remind her of simple things, like the number on the fridge, or to call Damian if she couldn’t reach him, made her feel fragile, like she was a cracked vase, one wrong move away from shattering.

She didn’t want to feel fragile. Not anymore.

Rhea tossed her phone onto the couch beside her and stared at the ceiling. What now? The house was empty, the appointments were looming, and Jey wasn’t there to distract her from her thoughts.

Rhea unraveled the blanket from around her, feeling the softness brush against her skin as she nestled deeper into it. She glanced at the clock—5 AM already. The house was still dark, the early morning light barely breaking through the curtains. Deciding there wasn’t much else to do, she set her alarm for 9 AM and settled into the sectional. It wasn’t as comfortable as her bed, but it would do for the few hours of sleep she needed.

When her alarm rang, the sound echoed through the quiet house. Groggy, Rhea sat up, her body protesting the lack of rest. She rubbed her eyes and made her way to the bathroom, pulling her underwear down and sitting on the toilet. Everything felt mechanical, the motions of the morning routine dull and repetitive.

After finishing in the bathroom, she stepped into the shower, letting the warm water cascade over her. It was a brief moment of comfort, a temporary escape from the thoughts that constantly weighed on her mind. She stood there for a while, letting the water wash away the lingering exhaustion, before finally stepping out and drying off.

Rhea dressed in a loose band tee and a pair of sweatpants, not feeling the need to dress up for the doctor’s appointment. Today wasn’t about appearances, it was about making it through. She grabbed her wallet, keys, and phone, stuffing them into her pocket. Before heading out the door, she let the dogs outside, watching as Barry, Bella, and Luna bounded into the yard. They were always a source of energy and happiness, even on days like this.

As she watched them, her mind wandered back to Jey. He’d always been there for her on days like this, reminding her to take it easy, helping her get through the appointments. But today, she was alone. The thought weighed heavily on her, but she shook it off, taking a deep breath. She could handle this. She had to.

With one last look at the dogs playing in the yard, she headed to the car, bracing herself for the day ahead.

—

Jey finally made it to his hotel in Pennsylvania, exhausted from the trip. He checked in, grabbed his room key, and dragged his bags inside, throwing them down on the floor. Without a second thought, he plopped onto the bed, feeling the weight of the day settle into his bones. As he lay there, he pulled out his phone and decided to FaceTime Rhea. The phone rang for a bit before she finally answered.

“Hold on a sec,” Rhea said quickly as she adjusted the phone. Jey could see she was driving, and she pulled up to a stoplight before placing her phone on the magnetic holder in her car.

When she finally settled, she smiled, and Jey couldn’t help but smile back. It was always good seeing her face, even if it was through a screen.

“What you up to?” Jey asked, trying to hide the concern in his voice as he noticed she was clearly driving.

“I’m on my way to the doctor’s,” Rhea said, glancing quickly at the road before looking back at him. “The neurologist appointment you reminded me about earlier.”

Jey nodded. “I just got to the hotel, figured I’d check in on you.”

“I’m good, just feeling a bit off today. But I’ll be alright. You’re settled in?”

Jey sighed. “Yeah, settled, I guess. Just not the same without you here, you know?” He rubbed his face, trying to shake off the lingering stress. “You sure you’re alright to go to the appointment alone?”

Rhea smirked, a teasing look in her eyes. “I’m not a baby, Jey. I can handle it.”

“I know, I just… I worry.”

“I know,” she said softly, glancing at the road again as the light turned green. “But I’ve got this. You just focus on your work. We’ll talk more after the appointment, yeah?”

“Yeah,” Jey agreed, still feeling that knot of worry in his chest. “Just let me know what the doc says, okay?”

“Will do,” Rhea promised before blowing him a kiss through the screen. “Love you.”

“Love you more, I’ll hit you up later.” Jey replied, his voice low, as he watched her focus back on the road. “Later lovebug.” The FaceTime call ended.

Jey set his alarm for an hour, hoping to catch up on some sleep. He closed his eyes and tried to relax, but his mind kept wandering back to Rhea and her doctor’s appointment. He tossed and turned for a bit before he heard a knock on the door. Sighing, he sat up, mentally reminding himself to use Rhea’s under-eye cream when he got home—he was starting to look as tired as he felt.

He got up, dragged himself to the door, and opened it. Standing in the hallway was Kelani Jordan, NXT’s Women’s North American Champion. Jey blinked, clearly confused. “Kelani?” he asked, furrowing his brow. “What are you doing here? How did you get my room number?”

Kelani smiled sheepishly. “Hey, Jey. I was hoping to get your input on some new wrestling moves I’ve been working on. You know, get your advice and maybe we could meet up privately to go over them?”

Jey stood there for a moment, processing what she was saying. He was still confused—why would she come to him of all people? And how did she even know where he was staying? “Uh… I mean, yeah, I guess. But now?” he asked, rubbing the back of his neck.

Kelani explained, “I’m going to be on RAW tonight, and I figured it’d be the perfect opportunity to get some one-on-one time before the show. I really respect your opinion, and I thought you’d be the best person to ask.”

Jey, still not fully understanding the situation, nodded. “Well honestly now, I really need some rest. I’ve had a long day.”

Kelani nodded, understanding, and smiled. “Of course. How about I just find you at the arena?” Jey nodded. “Thanks, Jey. I’ll catch you later.” She said smiling while walking away.

Jey closed the door and shook his head, still baffled by the whole interaction. He glanced at his phone, making sure his alarm was still set, and then climbed back into bed, hoping this time he’d be able to get some much-needed sleep.

—

The doctor told Rhea everything looked okay so far, and for a brief moment, hope flickered in her chest. “Great,” she said, almost too eagerly. “So that means I can wrestle in like six months tops, right?”

The doctor paused, taking off his reading glasses, and Rhea’s heart sank a little. He didn’t answer right away, just looked at her with the kind of gaze she hated—the one full of pity and concern. “Mrs. Addams,” he began carefully, Rhea put a hand up, “Just call me Demi.” The doctor nodded. “Demi… do you fully understand the extent of your brain injury?”

Rhea gave a small shrug, brushing it off. “It’s like taking a bump, right? Just got to recover.”

The doctor sighed, clearly frustrated by her nonchalance. “A hypoxic brain injury isn’t like a simple concussion, Demi. It’s a lack of oxygen to the brain, and it has long-lasting effects. You may feel fine on the surface, but inside your brain is still healing. You’re more susceptible to damage, and another head injury could be catastrophic. You can’t afford to push yourself right now.”

Rhea sat back in the chair, chewing on the inside of her lip. She hated this—feeling vulnerable, feeling limited. “But I feel great,” she argued, her voice a little too sharp. “I even partied till six in the morning the other day with my friends and family.”

The doctor raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “And that’s exactly why you need to start taking this more seriously. People who’ve just woken up from a coma don’t ‘party’ a few days later. You need to slow down, Demi. If you keep this up, you’re risking permanent damage.”

Rhea looked down at her hands, her fingers playing with the edge of her shirt, frustration and fear bubbling up inside her. “So… what now?”

The doctor’s tone softened, but his message was clear. “The receptionist will set you up with a follow-up in a month. Until then, no drinking, no wrestling, minimal workouts. And based on what I saw in your scans, no traveling either—not until I see you again next month.”

Rhea felt like the world had just stopped turning. No wrestling and no traveling. It was as if everything that made her feel like herself was being stripped away. She had fought so hard to get back to this point, to feel normal, and now it felt like she was being benched—again.

Her mind spun. How was she supposed to tell Jey? How could she sit still while the rest of the world kept moving? She thought about her friends, her family, her career. Would they all move on without her if she couldn’t keep up? Would she just be left behind? The idea of being stuck, of watching everyone else live while she was forced to stand still, made her feel claustrophobic.

She took a deep breath, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill. This wasn’t just about the injury anymore. It was about losing the only thing that made her feel alive. And that terrified her more than any diagnosis ever could.

Rhea handed her card to the receptionist and completed the copay, but her mind was elsewhere. The doctor’s warnings echoed in her thoughts, each one heavier than the last. She clenched the appointment card for her follow-up in one month, feeling the weight of everything she couldn’t do. No drinking, no wrestling, minimal workouts, no traveling. It felt like her entire world was being fenced in.

Rhea walked out of the office and made her way to her Jeep, her muscles tense with frustration. As she slumped into the driver’s seat, she grabbed her phone, flipping through her contacts. She paused when she saw Almia’s name. Maybe brunch would help her get out of her head. She typed quickly: “Hey, any chance you’re free for brunch? Could really use the company.”

Almost immediately, Almia responded: “Absolutely, let’s meet at Nick’s Boathouse. You will love their onion rings!”

Rhea smiled faintly at the screen. She didn’t feel like being alone. With a sigh, she punched the address into her GPS and pulled out of the parking lot. The hum of the Jeep’s engine and the occasional chirping of her phone were the only sounds breaking the silence. The familiar Pensacola air hit her face as she rolled down the windows, and for a moment, she let the sea breeze sweep away the weight on her shoulders.

But in the back of her mind, the doctor’s words still haunted her. No traveling… It felt like she was being grounded, forced to face this reality of her body’s limits. She wasn’t used to feeling powerless. The fight in her wanted to rebel, to push through the boundaries, but she knew deep down this wasn’t something she could bulldoze her way through.

Meanwhile, backstage at RAW, Kelani Jordan strutted through the hallways with a smug smile tugging at her lips. Her title glistened on her shoulder, but her eyes weren’t on the gold. She was hunting for something else—something much more thrilling.

Kelani had heard the rumors about Jey and Rhea, the affair that started with secrecy and ended up splashed across headlines. If he could cheat on his wife with Rhea, he could definitely cheat on Rhea with me, Kelani thought, a spark of excitement lighting in her chest.

She recalled catching glimpses of Jey’s private moments with Rhea—the way he looked at her, how she pulled him close with nothing more than a suggestive smile. Kelani had watched, waiting for her turn, because if Rhea could seduce him, then she could do it better.

She had already positioned herself earlier, asking Jey for his help with some new moves. It had been the perfect excuse to get close to him. And tonight, she’d take it even further. After RAW, she planned to visit his room under the guise of “getting more advice.” But she had much more in mind than that. She’d put on something irresistible, something that would remind him just how tempting life outside of a committed relationship could be.

Men like Jey, Kelani thought, don’t change. If he cheated once, he’ll cheat again. It’s just a matter of time.

She had seen enough to know Jey had a weakness for women who threw themselves at him. And she planned on doing exactly that. After all, she had already witnessed Rhea get pulled into his room with nothing but a flash of her lingerie a couple of months ago. What could Rhea do that I can’t? Kelani’s smile deepened.

Her plan was simple—show Jey that she was an option. Plant the seed of doubt in his mind and let it grow. She didn’t care about the consequences. All she wanted was her turn, and tonight, she’d make sure to get it.

—

Jey snored loudly, nestled comfortably on the bed in his hotel room, fully enveloped in the bliss of a much-needed nap. He had finally allowed himself to unwind into a much needed rest after his flight, but just as he was sinking deeper into sleep, a loud knock echoed through the room. Jolted awake, he glanced at his phone—only three minutes remained until his alarm would go off. Frustration bubbled up as he contemplated whether to lash out at whoever was on the other side of the door.

With a groggy sigh, Jey stumbled to the door and called out, “Who is it?” To his surprise, it was Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez, looking cheerful and slightly mischievous. Jey swung the door open, and they stood there, a whirlwind of energy, asking if they could come in.

“Only if you insist,” Jey replied with a teasing tone, stepping aside. “Not like I was napping or anything.”

As they entered the room, Liv wasted no time getting to the point. “So, we need to ask you something. Did Kelani come to your door earlier?”

Jey nodded, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes. “Yeah, she said something about wrestling moves.”

Raquel smirked, crossing her arms. “Well, that’s a lie.”

Jey’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean?”

Liv jumped in, eager to explain. “We were in the breakfast area earlier and we were discussing strategy with Dom and when me and Raquel went to the bathroom, Dom swore on his wife that he overheard Kelani on the phone. He said she was saying something about how she was going to use and do you.”

Jey’s heart raced slightly, not fully grasping the implications. “Use me for what?”

Raquel took a step forward, her expression serious. “We think Kelani might be trying to sleep with you.”

A laugh escaped Jey’s lips, disbelief evident in his eyes. “First off, do you two know how much in love I am with Rhea to even consider that?” He shook his head, still chuckling. “Like, I’m not just going to throw everything away for some quick fling.”

Liv rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Yeah, we know. But you know how she is—she has that charm and confidence that can be really convincing.”

“Plus, she’s been very… forward lately,” Raquel added, a knowing look passing between them. “And she knows you’re single this week, so she might think she has a shot.”

“I’m not single. Me and Rhea are engaged. She just can’t travel due to her injury.” Jey leaned against the wall, a slight frown replacing his earlier amusement. “Drama don’t ever stop..” He paused, collecting his thoughts. “Me and Rhea have something real. I’m not about to risk that.”

Liv and Raquel exchanged glances, both clearly wanting to support their friend but also concerned about the situation. “We just wanted you to know,” Liv said gently. “We’re looking out for you, and we care about Rhea. Just be careful, okay?”

Jey nodded, appreciating their concern. “I will. Trust me, I’m not going to let anything come between me and Rhea.” He took a deep breath, trying to shake off the anxiety that had crept in. “Thanks for looking out for me, though. I really appreciate it.”

Raquel smiled, her demeanor softening. “You know we’ve got your back. Just keep your head on straight.”

“Yeah,” Jey replied, feeling a renewed sense of determination. “I love Rhea, and that’s not going to change because of some games someone else wants to play.”

Jey felt a weight lift off his shoulders. Sure, there would always be temptations in the world of wrestling, but he knew where his heart truly lay. All he had to do now was make it back to Rhea and show her just how much she meant to him.

—

Rhea and Almia sat at a cozy table in Nick’s Boathouse, the sun glinting off the water as the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore provided a peaceful background. Almia’s two kids, 5-year-old Zion and 3-year-old Za’khi, were happily munching on their kids’ meals, their attention on their food while Rhea and Almia enjoyed their conversation.

“How long are you staying in town?” Rhea asked, sipping from her drink, feeling a rare sense of calm.

“About three more days,” Almia replied, cutting a piece of her salad. “But I don’t have much planned, so if you need company, I’m all yours.”

Rhea felt a small sense of relief. “I’d love that, actually. I think I’m going to need some company.” She looked down at her hands for a moment, the thoughts from her doctor’s visit still weighing heavily on her, but she pushed them aside for now.

Almia smiled, glancing over at her boys to make sure they were okay, then leaned in slightly. “You know, I’ve been dying to ask…” She paused, as if weighing her words carefully. “How did you and Jey really become a thing?”

Rhea blinked, a little taken aback by the question, but she couldn’t help the small smile that crept onto her lips. It was a question she knew people were curious about—especially considering how their relationship had unfolded in the public eye. But the real story wasn’t as glamorous as people might think.

“Well,” Rhea began, “it actually started way back when I was still in NXT.” She glanced over at Zion and Za’khi, who were completely engrossed in their meals, and then looked back at Almia. “Jey and Jimmy came down to NXT to give a speech to the locker room. I remember it like it was yesterday. Everyone was buzzing about it. But something about what Jey said really stuck with me.”

Almia leaned in, intrigued. “What did he say?”

Rhea’s eyes softened, thinking back to that moment. “He talked about how important it is to really own who you are. He said if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. You have to bring your own fire, your own energy, because no one is going to do it for you.” She smiled slightly, remembering the intensity in Jey’s voice. “That speech, it pushed me. That’s when I really leaned into developing the Rhea Ripley persona.”

Almia nodded, clearly interested. “So, you guys hit it off after that?”

Rhea laughed softly, shaking her head. “Not exactly. I would see him here and there, but we never really talked. It wasn’t until last year at Fastlane that we actually had a real conversation. And even then, it was just friendly, you know? Nothing too deep.”

“But something must’ve happened,” Almia pressed gently, a knowing look in her eyes. “Because look at where you guys are now.”

Rhea exhaled, leaning back in her chair. “Yeah… well, in February this year, things just… shifted. I can’t even explain it. There was this connection between us that I hadn’t felt before. It started off as something casual, just two people spending time together. But it grew into something more, something we couldn’t really control.” She glanced at Almia. “It’s like everything just clicked, but it was never planned.”

Almia studied her for a moment, then smiled. “It sounds like it was meant to happen.”

“Maybe it was,” Rhea admitted quietly, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass. “I didn’t expect any of this. But when I’m with him… it just feels right, even with everything that’s happened.”

Almia reached across the table, placing a comforting hand on Rhea’s. “That’s all that matters. Sometimes things happen when we least expect it, and you just have to go with it.”

Rhea nodded, grateful for Almia’s understanding. As they continued their conversation, Rhea couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the people in her life who supported her and for Jey, who, despite all the ups and downs, was the one person who made her feel like she wasn’t alone in any of it.

—

Matthew Addams sat stiffly across from his lawyer, Hilary Vein, in a sleek, dimly lit office. Papers were strewn across the table, but the weight of the conversation was heavier than any legal document. Hilary leaned forward, her sharp eyes fixed on Matthew, as she asked the burning question, “Is there any concrete evidence we can use against Demi? We need something that proves she provoked you—that this was a crime of passion, not premeditated violence.”

Matt paused, his fingers nervously drumming against his leg. He’d spent countless hours thinking about how to turn the situation to his favor, but it wasn’t easy. Still, he knew there was one surefire way to hurt Jey—and maybe sway the court. He drew in a breath, glancing at Hilary before finally speaking.

“Demi and I,” he started, his voice steady but tense, “we were still being intimate. Up until three weeks before the incident. That’s why I didn’t see any signs of an affair. I had no idea about Jey or anyone else.”

Hilary arched an eyebrow, unimpressed. “Can you prove it?” Her tone was firm, skeptical.

Matt smirked darkly and pulled out his phone. He tapped the screen a few times, then handed it to her. Hilary’s eyes scanned over a few suggestive images of Rhea, her expression unchanging.

“This doesn’t prove you were intimate, Matt,” she said, sliding the phone back across the table. “It’s going to take more than a few risqué photos to convince a judge.”

Matt remained silent, his gaze unwavering. He tapped the screen again, swiping to the right, then turned the phone back toward her. This time, Hilary’s eyes widened slightly as she saw the video —one that couldn’t be misinterpreted. The video clearly showed him and Rhea, entwined in bed, unmistakably intimate, with a timestamp from just weeks before the attack. “Tell me you love me…” Matt’s voice was heard on the video. “I love you Matthew Addams..” Rhea’s voice replied. “You will never leave me?” Matt said. “Not in a million years for nobody..”

“The time and date don’t lie,” Matt said, his voice low, almost triumphant. “It was right before everything went down. She didn’t want me, but she still came back to me.”

Hilary’s expression shifted as she analyzed the conversation, weighing the potential impact it could have in court. “This… this could work,” she muttered, more to herself than to Matt. “But we need to be careful how we use this. It could paint a different narrative if we’re not strategic.”

Matt leaned back in his chair, feeling a twisted sense of satisfaction. He wasn’t just going to fight this charge—he was going to drag Demi and Jey down with him. If he couldn’t have her, no one would.

—

Flashback - August 2024

Jey lay beside Rhea, their bodies close after a night of deep connection. The moonlight filtered softly into the room, casting gentle shadows on the walls. His arm was draped over her, and she rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his breathing. Everything felt peaceful, but beneath that calm, Jey had questions swirling in his mind—questions he couldn’t ignore any longer.

He tilted his head slightly to look at her, catching her gaze as she glanced up at him. The moment was quiet, but heavy with unspoken thoughts. After a pause, Jey broke the silence. “Are you still fucking Matt?” His tone was calm, but there was an edge of vulnerability in it, like he wasn’t sure he wanted to hear the answer.

Rhea’s heart skipped a beat. The question hung in the air, and she could feel the weight of it pressing down on her. She hadn’t expected him to ask so directly, not after everything they had shared in recent months. She froze for a moment, knowing that the truth wasn’t as simple as she wished it could be. But she couldn’t let Jey know that—not now.

She swallowed, then nodded slightly, forcing her voice to stay calm. “No, Jey. I haven’t been with Matt since a week before my return.”

It wasn’t the truth. Rhea knew she was lying, and guilt tugged at her immediately. But admitting the truth felt like it would shatter everything they had, and she wasn’t ready for that. She needed this with Jey, even if it meant keeping a part of herself hidden.

Jey looked at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers for any sign of hesitation. When he didn’t find one, he sighed softly, relief spreading across his face. “Okay,” he said, his voice quieter now. He gently pulled her closer, his hand resting on her shoulder.

Rhea leaned into him, the warmth of his embrace comforting, but the lie lingered in her mind. She wished things could be simpler, but for now, she pushed the guilt aside. All she wanted in this moment was to be with Jey.

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