All Chapters of True Love Rekindled: Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

Zander hesitated for only a moment before typing his response: "Thanks for inviting me to meet Ethan. Yeah, catching up just the two of us sounds great – when were you thinking?" Sophia replied promptly: "How about coffee tomorrow afternoon at The Cozy Cup? Around 2 pm?" Zander agreed, his heart racing slightly at the prospect of private time with Sophia. The next day, Zander arrived at The Cozy Cup early, nervous energy simmering beneath his casual exterior. Sophia walked in shortly after 2 pm, looking stunning in a yellow sundress. They hugged lightly, exchanging warm smiles before ordering coffee and sitting at a quiet corner table. Sophia launched into conversation about Olivia's excitement over Zander's frequent visits, but Zander sensed underlying tension – or maybe it was just his own awareness of their past intimacy. As they talked, Zander found himself leaning in closer to Sophia, inhaling her familiar scent and feeling an undeniable spark. Sophia touched

Arianna's eyes widened as she saw Julian's name on her phone screen. Memories of their passionate college days flooded her mind – Julian was her first love, the one who got away. They had parted ways after graduation, moving to different cities for careers. Arianna eventually married Ryan, while Julian remained a cherished memory. Julian's message stirred old emotions: "Hi Arianna, it's been ages! I've often thought about you and wondered how life turned out. Would love to catch up – coffee or lunch sometime?" Arianna's heart skipped a beat as she read the words. Her mind was already preoccupied with Zander's distant behavior; Julian's message added a complicated layer. She thought about responding – curiosity about Julian's life mingled with a hint of attraction still lingering from their past. Arianna's fingers hovered over her phone keyboard before she typed the words she'd been longing to say for years: "I'd love to catch up, Julian. Coffee sounds perfect. When and

Julian's hands gently framed Arianna's face, his thumbs stroking her skin as he deepened the kiss. Without breaking apart, he scooped her up in his arms and walked towards the lake house's secluded master bedroom. Arianna wrapped her arms around his neck, lost in the sensation of his lips and the familiarity of his embrace. The bedroom door closed behind them, and Julian laid her down on the plush bed, joining her beside it. Their kisses grew more urgent, passion unleashing years of pent-up longing. As they embraced, Arianna felt like she was home – in Julian's arms, her heart finally free. Julian paused, gaze locking onto hers, voice low and husky: "I've dreamed of this moment... holding you again." Arianna's whisper matched his intensity: "I've dreamed of forever with you..." Their lips met again, passion igniting like wildfire. Julian's hands explored Arianna's skin, rekindling memories of their past intimacy. Arianna's fingers traced Julian's jawline, his neck, his

Arianna's eyes widened in alarm as she heard Zander's voice outside the room: "I'll just check on my wife and son... " She rapidly gestured to Julian, whispering: "Behind the curtain! Now!" Julian sprinted to the curtain separating the room from the window and hid just as: * Zander entered, beaming with pride * Nurses followed with warm smiles Zander approached Arianna's bedside, cooing over the baby: "Our little Alexander is perfect! You were amazing during delivery." Arianna forced a smile, heart racing from Julian's hidden presence: "We're just relieved he's healthy, Zander..." Julian stood frozen behind the curtain, listening to Zander's every word: * His heart ached from being so close yet invisible as JJ's father * He wondered how much longer Arianna could maintain this secret As Zander sat beside Arianna, holding JJ's hand, Julian felt a surge of protectiveness... Arianna maintained a calm smile while chatting with Zander, all while thinking of a

Intermission arrived, and Julian stood up with the crowd. "I'll grab us some water," he told Sarah, already heading towards the hallway.Once out of sight, he quickly typed a response to Arianna:"My heart just exploded seeing that message. JJ calling me 'Daddy' even in drawings... kills me. Missing you both desperately."He sent the text, then deleted the conversation history – a habit born of paranoia.Just as he turned to return to the auditorium, he heard the water fountain behind him turn off. A woman walked out of the corner – Julian's heart sank – It was Emily, Zander's daughter and JJ's half-sister!Emily smiled politely at Julian in the hallway:"Hi, are you here for the play? My friend Maya's performing."Julian returned the smile proudly:"Actually, I'm Maya's father. I'm here to watch her shine on stage tonight."Emily's eyes lit up:"No way! Maya's always talking about you and her mom, Sarah. You must be really proud of her!"Julian chuckled, feeling relieved the conv