Justin listened carefully. Then he turned pale and his knees begun shaking. His head started spinning and he felt like throwing up any moment. It felt like a nightmare. He was sure this must be just a very bad dream. It just couldn’t be true. 

„You’re still with her, right?“ Eric asked.

„Yes.“ 

„Find a reason to leave her alone for a moment. Let’s meet in the hallway.“

„Okay.“ 

Justin finished his call with Eric. Eve was completely distracted from Jake, staring adoringly in his pretty little face. She felt nothing else, but pure love and happiness. 

Justin watched her for a moment, trying to figure out what to do next. His eyes were swimming. 

„Is Josh here?“ She asked, her eyes still focusing on her baby. 

„Pull yourself together. You can’t confront he with the truth. Not now…“ He was thinking. 

„Yes…“

Justin wiped away his tears and faked a smile. 

„Hey listen, I need to see the restroom. Can I leave you alone for a minute?“

She glanced at him, smiling back. 

„Of course.“

He hurried outside. The door closed itself. He bent his upper body, holding his thighs. His breath turned out of control and his dizziness gone worse. He grabbed the next wall and realized he needed to sit down urgently. His body slid down the wall slowly. 

„Dear god… why…“ He talked to himself, while tears were running down his cheeks again.

Eric and Kristin saw Justin sitting at the floor from distance. They hurried into his direction and stopped in front of him. He lifted his head, looking into their faces. 

Eric looked horrified. Justin noticed that his hands were shaking. Kristin was wiping her tears away with a tissue. Her make up was completely blurred. 

„Is my daughter in that room?“ Kristin sobbed, pointing at the door next to Justin.

He nodded. 

„Did you tell her what happened?“ 

Justin shook his head. 

„What are we doing now, Justin… I can’t tell her… I just can’t…“ Eric said with breaking voice. 

„I’ll talk to her. I’m her mother.“ Kristin replied. 

Both looked at her for a moment.

„You want us to join you?“ Justin asked carefully. 

„It’s up to you.“ 

Kristin tried to pull herself together somehow. She put away her tissue, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Then she walked towards the door. Justin stood up and looked at Eric. Both decided joining her. 

In the same moment the doctor and the nurses came outside, to give Eve and her baby some privacy.

„So? Daddy and grandma finally arrived?“ The doctor said happily, looking at Eric and Kristin. They glanced at the doctor, without responding. Then all of them entered the room, with Kristin walking ahead.

Eve smiled all over her face. 

„I can’t believe you came to Los Angeles, mom! It’s so good to see you!“ She cheered. 

Kristin cracked a smile. Justin and Eric tried their best to pull themselves together, as well. 

When Kristin arrived at her bed, she bent towards Eve and kissed her head gently. Then she looked at Jake and caressed his little head. 

„Oh Eve, your little boy adorable.“ Kristin said and started crying again. 

„I know. I’m so in love with him.“ Eve replied. 

Then she looked at Justin and Eric.

„Why you didn’t bring Josh?“

Both men just stared at the floor. Kristin took a deep breath. Eve frowned. 

„What’s going on?“ She asked irritated. „Where is my husband?“ 

„You need to be very brave, kid. Do you hear me?“ Kristin said. 

Eve looked at her, while her heart started racing. 

„Mom? What happened?“ She stammered.

„Joshua…“ Kristin’s voice was breaking. „He…“ 

„MOM! TELL ME!“

„He fell down the stairs in your house. It happened during the earthquake. Your housekeeper found him, lying unconscious on the floor.“

Eve’s world suddenly turned upside down. She felt like being trapped in a wrong reality. Nothing made any sense to her. Her whole body started shaking.

„What did you say…“ She whispered. 

„Joshua got seriously hurt, darling. He stopped breathing. The housekeeper gave him first aid until the ambulance arrived. It took them ages because of the traffic. As they finally arrived they needed to call for a helicopter as the situation was very serious. They almost lost him on their way…“

„Mom… no… please no…“ Eve whined. 

„In the emergency room they found out that his neck got fractured. They brought him immediately into surgery…“ 

„What…? Is this a joke…? His neck…?“ Eve said in pure disbelief. 

Her mind was suddenly drifting away. She was back in 2016 and heard the doctor explaining to her what happened to Tom after their tragical car crash.

„Your husband’s neck got fractured. He died before the ambulance arrived. I’m deeply regretting we didn’t have the chance to save him, Mrs. Miller.“ 

Justin and Eric were watching the scene with tears in their eyes. Kristin embraced her daughter’s head and kissed her hair gently. 

„You need to be very strong now, Eve. You need to be strong for your son.“ She whispered.

Eve stared at Jake, who was still sleeping peacefully in her arms. Then she looked at Justin.

„He will be okay. Please say he will be okay…“ She begged with breaking voice. 

Justin came a few steps closer and sat down at the edge of her bed.

„The best doctors work in that clinic. They’ll fix him.“ He said, trying to sound convincing. 

Eve stared at him and nodded. 

„They’ll fix him… they’ll fix him…“ She repeated. 

Three hours later Eve was sitting in the waiting room, with Jake on her arm. Kristin was sitting next to her, caressing her grandson’s head carefully. Justin and Eric were running up and down the hall. All of them were terribly nervous as Josh was still in surgery. 

„I can’t take it anymore…“ Eve suddenly sobbed. 

„Oh, darling. I know, it’s unbearable. But the nurse said they’re still operating.“ Kristin replied.

Eve started crying badly. This wasn’t her first mental break down since she learned about Josh’s accident. 

„What about making a short walk in the garden to catch some fresh air?“ Her mom suggested.

„No, I need to be here.“

„Just for few minutes to clear your mind, hm?“ 

Justin came closer and knelt down next to Eve. 

„Come on, M. I’ll go with you. The exit is right there. We’ll be back in a second, if necessary.“ He encouraged her. 

Eve finally agreed. Carefully she put Jake into her mother’s arms. Justin helped her standing up. She felt abnormally exhausted. He put his arm around her waist to support her and went with her outside slowly. 

Kristin and Eric watched them disappear. 

„Justin… why is this happening to me again? What did I do to deserve all of that?“ Eve cried. 

Justin stopped and turned into her direction. Then he cupped her face with both hands gently. 

„I can’t explain, M. But you don’t deserve any of this.“ He said calmly. 

„When I lose him…“ Eve said, not being able finishing the sentence. 

„You’re not losing him. He will be good.“ 

„His neck is fractured, Justin. Are you aware of what that means? Even if he survives this surgery…“

„Stop thinking about those stuff, M. You hear me?“ 

Eve suddenly embraced his waist and pushed herself close to his body. He put his arms around her, holding her tight. 

„I’m so scared, Justin…“

He kissed her head softly.

„I know. But things will be fine. He will be okay…“ 

 

Eric sat down next to Kristin. Then he looked at Jake and caressed his dirty blond hair.“ 

„He doesn’t look like any of them.“ Eric smirked. 

„That tiny creature just made his way through a very narrow birth canal. His little face is still crumpled.“ Kristin replied and gave Jake a loving smile. 

„I see…“

„I have a question.“ Kristin said next. 

„Okay, spill.“

„Who is Justin? He looks for familiar.“ 

Eric knew that Eve and Kristin just made peace few months ago. That’s why he wasn’t surprised that Kristin didn’t know about Justin. 

„He’s Jay’s best friend. They know each other since they’ve been teenagers.“

„So, they went together to school?“ 

„No, things were pretty different. They’ve been together in a band, touring all over the world, you know.“ 

„A music band?“ 

„Yes, did you ever heard from *NSYNC?“ 

Kristin shook her head. 

„That their band’s name. But at some point they split up and Justin continued doing music on his own.“

Kristin opened her eyes wide.

„That’s why he’s so familiar! He’s Justin Bieber, right?“ 

Eric chuckled. 

„Not exactly… its Justin Timberlake.“ 

„Timberlake it was… I always mix them up.“

Eric was still smiling. 

„My daughter loves him. Does he know that?“ 

Eric frowned. 

„You mean, she’s a fan, right?“

„A big fan.“

„Yes, Justin knows she is.“ 

„Life is crazy sometimes. Eve never expected meeting him in person. And now he just witnessed the birth of her child.“ 

„This is really crazy…“ 

„So… who are you, Eric? Are you a celebrity, as well?“ 

Eric smiled again.

„My job is managing celebrities. I’m Jay’s agent.“

„Why Joshua needs an agent?“

„Well, even if he stopped singing many years ago, he’s still famous. All members of *NSYNC are.“

„Are there more than just Joshua and Justin?“

„Yes, actually there’re five. All of them are still good friends, you know.“ 

Kristin and Eric got interrupted by Justin and Eve coming back from the garden.

„Any news?“ Justin asked. 

„Yes. I just learned who you are.“ Kristin replied. 

„Oh.“ Eve and Justin said at the same time. 

„Mom… please don’t embarrass me.“ Eve warned her. 

„Why should she?“ Justin asked. 

Eve took Jake back on her arm and kissed his head. 

„No fangirl stories, you hear me?“ She said to her mother.

Kristin smirked and gave Justin a wink. He smiled back sheepishly. 

In the next moment Mateo suddenly showed up in the hallway. 

„EVE!“ He yelled from distance, hurrying into her direction. 

He stopped standing in front of her and gazed at the baby.

„God lord…“ He almost whispered. „He’s so tiny. And beautiful.“ 

Then they hugged each other carefully, while Eve was still holding Jake.

„I’m so sorry, dear. I was so engrossed into conversation with our new client that I didn’t check my phone earlier. And then I got stuck in that damn traffic.“  

„It’s okay, Matty.“ 

„I can’t believe all of this… I’m in such a deep shock, Eve…“

She started sobbing again. 

„We all are…“

Mateo gave his attention to the others. 

„What a nightmare.“ He said and hugged Justin next.

Then he hugged Eric and finally turned to Kristin, not knowing who she was. 

„That’s my mom.“ Eve explained. „She just came from Germany to surprise me.“

„Hi, Mrs. Harper. I’m Mateo. You daughter and I work together.“ 

Kristin stood up and gave him a warm hug, as well. 

„It’s nice to meet you, Mateo. Please call me Kristin.“ 

In the next second the door to the OR area opened up and Josh’s surgeon appeared. 

Eve stopped breathing. Her whole body begun shaking again. Justin noticed and grabbed his arm around her. Everybody waited impatiently for the doctor to talk. 

„So far, he’s stabile.“

All of them sighed in deep relief. Justin pulled Eve closer and kissed her temple. 

„I told you.“ He whispered in her ear. 

The doctor continued talking. 

„While fixing the fracture, we found out that his spinal cord got bruised, as well as his wind-pipe. We did our best to fix the damage, but right now I can’t give you any prognosis, if there will be long-term effects.“

„What exactly does it mean, doctor?“ Kristin asked. 

„It means it will take time to see if his body will fully recover or not. You must understand, this surgery was very complex. Furthermore his body was undersupplied with oxygen after his fall. We can’t tell, if this caused any brain damage. That’s why needed to put him into artificial coma to give his body and brain time to recover.“ 

Eve was crying again. 

„For how long you’ll keep him in coma?“ Justin wanted to know.

„We don’t know, yet. What we need to do now are baby steps. As I said, he’s stabile. But the first 24 hours after surgery are always critical. Let’s focus on this first, before thinking about waking him up.“ 

„Can I see him?“ Eve sobbed. 

„Of course. But you can’t bring the baby into the intensive care unit.“ 

„Can I go with her?“ Justin asked.

„Sure, if Mrs. Chasez is okay with that.“

Eve immediately nodded. She put her baby into her mother’s arms again. Then the doctor brought her and Justin into the ICU. 

Being attached to mechanical ventilation, Josh’s upper body was moving up and down in a constant rhythm. His vital signs were monitored on a screen next to his bed. He was on a drip, which supplied his motionless body with anesthetic. There was a big patch at his throat, covering his surgical scar. His neck was stabilized by a fixture. 

When Eve entered the room and her eyes met him, she was very close having a physical breakdown. Justin immediately grabbed her waist, as she couldn’t hold herself on her legs anymore. Her face turned completely pale. She wanted to cry but her deep shock didn’t let her. 

Justin was shocked as well, but Eve’s condition distracted him from the terrifying view at his best friend. 

„Sweety, you need to sit.“ He said and helped Eve reaching a chair which was standing next to Josh’s bed. 

As she sat down he knelt down in front of her.

„Do you need a glass of water?“

Eve shook her head. Then she bent towards Josh and grabbed his hand carefully. 

„I can’t believe all of this…“ She said with shaky voice. 

Justin stood up slowly, while his eyes were filling with tears again. 

„I know that he’ll make it. I have no single doubt.“ He said, still trying to be supportive. 

„Justin… I completely forgot about our housekeeper… I need to thank her for saving him…“

„Of course. We can call her later.“ 

Eric informed Josh’s family and the other guys about Josh’s tragical accident, as soon as they brought him into surgery. While Eve and Justin were in the ICU, he called everybody once again to inform them about his current condition. Josh’s parents and siblings booked a flight to Los Angeles and were already waiting for departure. Lance and Michael weren’t in town but they canceled their plans to return home as soon as possible. Lucy, Joey, Karly and Chris were also on their way to California. 

Eve wished she could stay with Josh the whole time, but the nurse kindly asked her and Justin to leave for the night. Kristin, Mateo and Eric were still in the waiting room, when they left the ICU. A pediatric nurse took care for Jake in between. 

„Mom, can you please stay with me tonight?“ Eve asked. 

„Of course, kid.“ Kristin replied and hugged her. „You boys need to go home and have some rest. There’s nothing else you can do right now.“ 

Eric and Mateo nodded, but Justin hesitated. 

„I can’t go home. I just can’t.“ He said. 

„Justin, you need to have a shower and some sleep. Give yourself a chance to process all of this. You can come back in the morning.“ Kristin replied. 

„She’s right, dude.“ Eric said and padded Justin’s back. 

„Eve?“ He asked, waiting for her permission to go.

She nodded and smiled calmly. Then she came closer and hugged him.

„It’s okay, T. Thank you for everything. You’re my hero.“ She whispered. 

He was holding her close for a moment and kissed her head, before they released each other. 

„If you need anything, call me. Promise me that.“ He said. 

„Okay.“ 

 

The nurses prepared another bed for Kristin in Eve’s patient’s room. Jake’s crib was standing between them. He was sleeping peacefully after Eve fed him and changed his diaper. 

„Let’s try to find some rest, as well.“ Kristin suggested. 

She already changed her clothes into pajamas and gave Eve another pair, as she didn’t have own clothes in the hospital for the night. 

Both were terribly exhausted. But as they were finally lying in bed, they couldn’t fall asleep. After tossing and turning for a while, Kristin suddenly switched on her small lamp at her bedside table.

„Can we talk about Justin?“ Kristin asked. 

Eve looked at her and frowned. 

„Why you wanna talk about Justin?“

„Well, it wasn’t hard to notice, that he’s hopelessly in love with you.“ Kristin answered. 

„Really, mom? You wanna discuss this right now?“ 

„Do you have better plans?“ 

Eve sighed. 

„Okay, listen. I don’t see what you see.“

„So obviously you must be blind.“ 

Again Eve sighed.

„Then please explain to me how you came to this conclusion.“ 

„It’s pretty simple. It’s the way he looked at you, the way he touched you, the way he took care for you…“ 

„Which way, mom?“ 

„He was extremely protective and caring. And it was breaking his heart seeing you suffer.“ 

„What you saw was him being an amazing friend. Nothing more or less.“ 

Kristin shook her head. 

„Honestly spoken, he reminds me of Tom.“ 

Eve scoffed.

„Okay, now you’re losing your mind."

Kristin ignored her daughter’s cynical comment. 

„His self confidence is remarkable. When he enters the room all eyes are on him. But all he sees is you. And so did Tom.“ 

Eve turned silent for a moment. She thought about what her mom just said and asked herself, if this really could be true. 

„I love Josh, mom.“ She finally replied. 

„I know that, darling. But stop ignoring the fact, that his best friend is loving you.“ 

Somehow both women fell asleep for few hours after a while. Eve woke up in the morning, when Jake started crying. She needed a second to sort her mind. Then reality hit her hard. She wished so much waking up and realizing it was all just a bad dream. But unfortunately this wasn’t the case. 

She stood up and put Jake out of his baby bed. 

„Hey sweet little monkey. Let’s call for the nurse to bring you some milk, hm?“ She said. 

Kristin was awake as well and stretched herself. 

„Did you sleep?“ She asked her daughter.

„Yes. My body just resigned at some point.“

„While you take care for Jake, let me call the ICU and ask how Josh is doing.“ 

„Thank you, mom.“ 

Josh’s condition was unchanged. Eve and Kristin were deeply relieved that he was still stabile. After taking care for Jake, he fell asleep again. Eve dressed into some fresh clothes from her mother.

„Can you do me a favor?“ [M]

„Anything you want.“ [007]

„Could you bring my bag which I packed for the hospital, please? [M]

„Of course. Where do I find it?“ [007]

„In the closet. [M]

Justin arrived at Eve and Josh’s house short time later. As he let himself in, he saw the housekeeper tidying up the kitchen. When he came inside, she smiled at him friendly. 

„Good morning, Mr. Timberlake. Can I help you?“ She said. 

„Why are you working, Elena? Eve gave you the week off, remember?“

„I know, I know. But I didn’t finish the house yesterday. I just came to bring everything into order before making a break.“ 

Justin smiled calmly and came few steps closer. 

„Elena, don’t worry about the house. Eve told you to get some rest after all you went through. You need to process, like the rest of us.“

Elena nodded. 

„Let me finish the kitchen, okay? Then I’ll go home.“

Justin smiled again. 

„Hey ehm, I came for Eve’s hospital bag.“

„It’s downstairs in the hallway.“ Elena said.

„Really? She said it’s in her closet.“

„I believe Mr. Chasez went upstairs to get the bag before leaving the house. It was lying next to him…“ 

„Oh. I see…“

The same morning Lucy rushed into Eve’s patient’s room. When their eyes met immediately both started crying. Lucy came towards her and embraced her body tightly.

„I have no words… I just have no words…“ Lucy sobbed.

„Me, neither…“ Eve sobbed back. 

Kristin was watching the scene. In the next second Joey entered the room. He was very tensed, not knowing how to behave. The girls released each other. Eve looked at Joey and fell around his neck. He hugged her tightly, trying very hard not starting to cry.

In the next moment the door got open again. Karly, Chris, Lance and Michael came inside. They were under deep shock. The scene was the same as with Lucy and Joey. No one knew what to say. They hugged to give each other some comfort, hardly being able to process the big tragedy. 

Just short time later Josh’s family arrived. All of them were deeply traumatized. Karen rushed into Eve’s arms first. She was completely devastated. They held each other close for a while and just cried together. 

Justin, Mateo and Eric showed up as well. The room was full of people now, who didn’t know how to handle the unbearable situation. Jake’s birth gave all of them some comfort, but still they just couldn’t feel happy. They talked about the accident and about Josh’s current condition. Some of them asked, if they could visit him at the ICU. Some of them weren’t brave enough to see him this way. 

The day passed by slowly. When everybody was finally gone, Eve went to the ICU, to spend some time with Josh on her own. She sat down at his bed and grabbed his hand. Carefully she kissed his fingers. She couldn’t cry anymore, even if she wanted. There were no tears left. 

„Please come back to me. Please come back to me…“ She whispered. 

One week later.

Josh’s doctor asked Eve for a meeting. She showed up in time and waited for him in his office. Jake was at home with her mother. All of them left the hospital three days after Josh’s accident. Eve wished she could stay longer just to be close to him, but Kristin convinced her to leave the hospital. She was aware of, that she needed another environment to process the situation. Still she spent hours in the ICU with Josh every day. 

Josh’s family and their friends returned home after few days, as well. There was nothing they could do for Josh on the spot. Lucy was the only one who stayed in town. She asked her boss to let her work from home for a while and moved back into her apartment in Santa Monica. 

„Mrs. Chasez, thank you for coming.“ The doctor said, as he entered his office. 

„Good morning.“ She answered, being terribly tensed. 

„How are you?“

„Wrong question. But I’m sure you didn’t ask me to come for having small talk. So…?“ She replied impatiently. 

The doctor cracked a smile. Then he started to explain.

„This morning, we made an EEG.“

„What does it mean?“

„It means, we measured your husband’s brain activity.“

„With which result?“

The doctor made a short pause and cleared his throat before answering. 

„We realized that his brain activity is pretty low, Mrs. Chasez. That’s why we do not expect him to wake up from his artificial coma.“

Eve needed a moment to sort her mind. 

„I don’t understand…“ She said concerned. 

„What I am trying to say is, that he’ll remain unconscious.“

„But… you don’t know for sure, right?“

„Look.“ The doctor said next. „We will try to wake him up, as we’re positive his body can breath on his own. But obviously the lack of oxygen caused some serious damage in his brain and it didn’t recover, yet. There is hope he’ll make some progress at some point, but I can’t give you any prognosis how long this may take. Unfortunately we have no influence on brain recovery.“

Eve was processing hard. 

„But… he will wake up, right? He just needs time? That’s what you’re saying?“

The doctor smiled calmly. 

„Your husband is a strong man. There is a chance that he’ll wake up. But I can’t make any promises, Mrs. Chasez.“

Eve’s eyes filled with tears.

„When will you try to bring him back from his artificial coma?“ She sobbed.

„We’ll do it this afternoon.“ 

The same night Kristin fed Jake and was carrying him on her arm to make him fall asleep. Then she heard someone entering the house. In the next moment Justin appeared in the living room. 

„Hi.“ He whispered, coming closer. 

Kristin smiled. Jake just closed his small eyes. She put him into his crib carefully.

„Why you always let yourself in, Justin?“ Kristin asked. 

Justin smiled sheepishly. 

„I’m sorry. It’s a habit.“ 

Kristin smiled again. 

„So, what brings you here that late?“

„I just wanted to know how you’re doing.“ 

„Eve is in the hospital.“ Kristin explained. „They tried to wake Joshua up this afternoon, but unfortunately it didn’t work out.“

„Why not?“ Justin asked nervously.

„His brain is not okay, Justin. They don’t know, if he’ll recover. But the good news is, he’s breathing on his own now.“ 

Justin was lost in thoughts for a moment. 

„Is she alone in the hospital?“

„Lucy and Mateo joined her for a while, but they already left. She’s refusing to come back home. Maybe you should go and try to bring her back.“ 

As Josh wasn’t attached to the mechanical ventilation anymore, he got transferred to the progressive care unit. Eve was with him, caressing his hair gently. She imagined, that he was just sleeping peacefully. 

Short time later the door opened up.

„Here you are.“ Justin said calmly, coming few steps closer.

Eve looked at him and smiled.

„Wow, he’s looking better. No more ventilation. That’s a good progress, right?“ 

„They don’t know if he’ll wake up, Justin. And even when he does, no one can tell if he’ll ever fully recover…“ 

„I know. Your mom told me…“ 

Justin knelt down in front of her.

„I understand you wanna be with him. But your baby is waiting for you at home.“ He said calmly. 

Eve gave him another smile. 

„The nurse said, I can bring Jake here.“ 

Justin smiled back.

„That’s awesome. So, what about you and me coming back tomorrow with Jake?“ 

Eve agreed. The nurse wouldn’t allow her to stay the night anyway and she just realized how exhausted she was.

They left the hospital together short time later.

„I’ll bring you home. You can leave your car here.“ Justin said.

„I came by Uber. I was too excited driving on my own after the doctor called.“

 

On their way back to the Hills Eve and Justin didn’t speak for a while. Then she suddenly looked at him.

„What’s wrong?“ Justin said confused. 

„Shouldn’t you promote your new album?“ 

Justin raised his eyebrows. 

„My best friend is in coma, M… I can’t move on like nothing happened.“ 

„I’m aware of that fact, but I didn’t know you can just refuse doing it. I mean, aren’t there any contracts you have to fulfill?“

„Don’t worry about that. I’m making the rules. Luckily the times are over when I had to listen to my management.“ 

„I’m sorry.“

„For what?“

„I know you worked hard to make that album.“

Justin made a short break, before he continued talking. 

„There’s another reason why a promotion makes no sense a present…“ 

„Which one?“ 

„The rumors about you and me.“ 

Eve completely forgot about the paparazzo doing pictures from Justin and her after their lunch.

„Was there an article in the L.A. Sun?“ She wanted to know.

„Yes. They’ve been claiming you’re expecting my kid. As you’ve been hiding your pregnancy successfully to this point, it was a giant sensation for them. The article was pretty ugly, to be honest.“ 

Eve didn’t have the strength to work up into this. Those problems were ridiculous, comparing to what she was going through right now. 

„Did you made a counter statement?“ 

„I did and we even sued the magazine. But the damage is done. It was easy to calm people down after the first rumors about you and me. But now there are pictures. People worked up into this pretty bad.“

„So, what now?“

„Nothing. I did what I could. At some point they’ll get bored and leave us alone. It’s just a matter of time." 

„But your reputation…“ 

„I’ll be fine. Scandals happen sometimes. But I’m sorry for you, Eve. I wished I had the chance to stop the article from being published. But I just didn’t have the chance to react in time.“ 

„I don’t care about my reputation. All I want is my husband back.“

„Did you and Josh talk about getting public, concerning your marriage and the baby?“ Justin wanted to know next. 

„Yes, we talked about it with Eric. Josh agreed to share the news on social media after Jake’s birth.“ 

„Really?“

„Yes. Eric explained his fans would find out anyway. Josh understood it would be just fair, if the news came directly from him.“ 

Few minutes before they reached home, Eve fell asleep. Justin parked his Jeep in front of the house. Then he caressed her cheek gently. 

„M?“ 

She didn’t wake up. Justin decided to let her sleep. He left the car, opened the front door and then returned to the passenger door. Carefully he opened it and put Eve onto his arms. 

„What happened?“ Kristin asked irritated when Justin entered the house.

„She’s just sleeping. I didn’t want to wake her up.“

He went upstairs into the master bedroom and laid her down carefully. He put off her shoes and covered her body with the blanket. Then he sat down next to her for a moment, stroking her hair. 

„I’m so sorry, my love. I wished I could make things undone.“ He whispered. 

He didn’t know that Kristin followed him. She was standing in the doorway and watching him for a moment. Then she returned downstairs. 

„Good night, Kristin. See you tomorrow.“ Justin said, before leaving. 

He found her at the sofa, enjoying a cup of tea, while Jake was sleeping peacefully in his crib. 

„Justin, do you have a minute?“ She replied. 

„Ehm, sure.“ He said surprised. „What are you having on your mind?“

„Please sit.“ She answered, pointing at the sofa. 

He did what she asked for, waiting for her to talk. 

„I know.“ She finally said.

„You know what?“ He asked confused. 

„That you love my daughter.“ 

Justin immediately flushed. He didn’t know how to reply. 

„I’m happy, you’re not trying to deny that fact.“ She smirked. 

„Kristin…“

„Since when?“ She interrupted him.

Justin sighed.

„Dunno… it was a process…“

„Does Josh know?“

„Yes.“

„Was he okay with you and her seeing each other? I mean, you’ve been having lunch together before her water broke, right?“ 

„Look.“ Justin said, making a short pause. „The situation between all of us wasn’t easy at some point. But before they got married, I promised C that I could handle things. And he believed me.“

„Can you really handle things, Justin?“ 

„Yes, I can.“ 

„Good. Because one day my son in law will wake up.“

It was Saturday night. Another week passed by. Eve was sitting at Lucy’s yellow sofa, sipping her first glass of wine after giving birth.

„I can’t believe that I’m really saying it after all what happened when Tom died, but I’m grateful that my mom is here. She’s such a big help with Jake. I have no idea how I would have managed all of this without her.“ Eve said to Lucy.

„I’m really happy you two made such a great progress.“ Lucy replied, sitting next to her. 

„Josh made a great job with bringing us back together.“

Lucy smiled calmly. She decided changing the subject, not wanting to talk about Josh for a change. 

„It’s really nice having girls night with you, like back in those days.“

„Yes, it is. I must admit I really need this little break. Jake is such an easy baby but still, I can’t wait to sleep the whole night without any interruption for a change.“ 

„How is Mateo doing on his own with the firm?“

„He says he’s okay. But for some reason people love doing house makeovers at the beginning of the year. We have plenty new clients. It’s not fair letting him deal with all of that on his own. That’s why I need to come back soon.“

Lucy raised her eyebrows.

„But what about Jake? You decided staying home with him for a while. What made you change your mind?“ 

„I need distraction, Lu. Being at home the whole day makes me insane. All I do is thinking about Josh and the unbearable fact, that he still didn’t wake up. 

„Okay, I understand. But your mom is going back to Germany next weekend. So what will happen with Jake when she returns home?“ 

„I’ll take him with me. My old office just needs to be redesigned into a nursery. It was Mateo’s idea, when I learned I was pregnant.“ 

Lucy turned a little uneasy. She put her glass at the coffee table and looked into Eve’s eyes. 

„Talking about going back home…“

„I know.“ Eve interrupted her. „It’s okay. I can’t expect you staying in L.A. forever just because of me.“ 

„I really have a bad conscience, Eve. But my boss wants me back on the spot next week.“

„I understand. Please don’t worry.“

„But I do worry. When I go back and your mom go back, who will take care for you? Mateo is busy with your firm and Justin…“

Lucy didn’t finish her sentence. 

„What about Justin?“ Eve asked irritated.

Lucy sighed. 

„Don’t get me wrong. He’s amazing, helping you anywhere he can. But, I don’t know if it’s a good idea you and him seeing each other that often.“ 

Eve rolled her eyes.

„Are you trying again to convince me that he’s in love with me?“ 

„I’m shocked that I still need to convince you.“

„Lucy, I’m tired listening to this.“

„Okay, nevermind. But if you continue seeing him on a daily base, just do me a favor and keep in your mind, that he might not be so caring, just because he wanna be a supportive friend.“ 

„I really wished I could stay with you.“ Kristin sobbed.

She was at the airport with her daughter. Jake was in his stroller, giggling happily. After checking in, Eve escorted her to the security check. Then it was time to say goodbye.

„You need go back to dad. His sister can’t take care for him forever. I understand that.“ Eve said calmly. 

Kristin nodded. Then she came closer and hugged Eve tightly. 

„I just wished I would leave under different circumstances. I wished Josh would be awake by now.“

„You know what his doctor said. Brain recovery needs time. He will wake up, if he’s ready.“

Kristin released Eve and kissed her cheek. 

„Just don’t lose hope, okay? Promise me that.“

„I promise, mom.“

Eve went to the hospital after bringing her mother to the airport. She visited Josh every day for few hours, usually having Jake with her. She knew all nurses by name in the meanwhile. Sometimes they took care for the baby to give Eve a moment alone with her husband. When she was undisturbed, she laid down in his bed next to him carefully. She used to place her hand on his chest to feel his heartbeat. Then she talked to him about Jake and random things which he missed. 

After her daily visit, Eve met Lance and Michel at the entrance, who were just on their way to see Josh.

„Hi dear, how are you?“ Lance asked calmly and hugged her. 

Michel did as well. 

„I’m okay, thank you.“

„And how is this little man doing?“ Michael said next, smiling happily into Jake’s stroller. Jake smiled back, making funny noises. 

„It’s scary how fast he’s growing.“ Eve replied.

„Don’t tell us that. We needed to replace all clothes for the twins within one week. It’s unreal.“ Lance chatted. 

Then there was silence for a moment. 

„Eve, I’m sorry we weren’t around lately. But we’ve been having many obligations with current projects.“ Lance apologized. 

„Please don’t worry. I understand that life goes on. Besides, there’s nothing you could do right now. Josh’s condition is still the same. All we can do is being patient.“ 

„Honey, still we want to be there for you. As we’re in town in the next weeks, I promise we’ll be around more often.“ Michael said. 

Eve smiled.

„This sounds nice. Thank you.“ 

 

When Eve returned home, she immediately started feeling miserable. She knew she would miss her mother, but she didn’t expect this would happen that fast. 

As Jake fell asleep during the drive, she put him carefully out of his baby seat and brought him upstairs into his nursery. Then she went into the kitchen and made a cup of coffee. She sat down at the kitchen island and took a small sip. 

The silence in the house was unbearable. Out of the sudden she started crying. This wasn’t an unusual scenario. She still used to have mental breakdowns on a daily base. But this time, it was pretty bad. She asked herself how she should move on like this, not knowing, if Josh would ever come back to her. With every further day he was in coma she started worrying more, if there was truly a chance that he would wake up some day. 

„Can you come over?“ [M]

„On my way.“ [007]

Justin arrived ten minutes later, being worried. He rushed into the house and found Eve in the kitchen, still crying. He came close, pulled her from her stool and embraced her body tightly. 

„It’s okay.“ He whispered, while caressing her hair softly.

She cried like this for a while. He didn’t stop hugging her and gave her the time she needed to calm down somehow. Every time she was crying, he could hardly hold back his own tears. The fact that he couldn’t do anything but holding her, was deeply frustrating. 

When she finally stopped crying, they released each other slowly. Justin smiled calmly, still standing close. 

„I’ll make dinner for you.“ 

Eve cracked a smile. 

„But the fridge is empty.“ 

„That’s why you’ll come with me to my place. I’ll try a new recipe tonight.“ 

„Why?“

„Because I’m having the boys and they expect a warm meal.“

„Oh, Justin. I’m so sorry. I completely forgot you’re having the kids this weekend.“

„Don’t worry about it.“

„Did you just left them all alone?“ She wondered. 

„Josy is still there. She’s keeping an eye on them.“ 

Hours later Eve collapsed at Justin’s sofa. She was completely overeaten. This was the first time after Josh’s accident that she ate so much at once. Her mental stress made her feel sick mostly. She never expected being back in shape that quickly after giving birth.

Jake was sleeping in one of Justin’s guest rooms. Eve brought his baby monitor to watch him. Justin brought his boys into bed, before joining her at the sofa. He came with a bottle of red wine and two glasses. 

„As you’re not breastfeeding, this should be okay, right?“ He smiled.

Eve smiled back and nodded. He opened the bottle, filled the glasses and gave one to her. Then they looked into each others eyes and clinked. 

„This is good.“ Eve said, after taking a sip. „And your food was as well. I’m amazed about your progress.“

Justin frowned.

„What exactly do you mean with progress?“

„Remember when you almost burned down that place, trying to make pizza?“ She teased.

„I fell asleep.“ He defended himself. 

She chuckled. 

„All that drama afterwards with your burned hand…“

„Stop making fun of me. This was a very serious situation.“ He complained.

Eve laughed. 

„I know, it was. Poor Josy needed to clean up the mess.“ 

„I sincerely apologized to her for that.“ 

Eve took another sip, still being amused. 

„It’s nice to see you smile, M.“ Justin said, while gazing at her. 

„Thank to you and your clumsiness.“ She giggled.  

They looked at each other for a moment. 

„Hey ehm, what about a movie?“ He asked next.

Eve nodded. Justin switched on the telly.

„Any suggestions?“ 

„One of your movies, please.“ 

„No, M… you can watch that stuff without me.“ He contradicted. 

„Don’t be a grinch.“ 

„Don’t call me grinch just because I wanna keep myself from being teased for the rest of the night.“

„Why you believe I would do this? I like you movies!“

„But you like teasing me even more.“

Eve started pouting. 

„Don’t give me that look, M. It’s not gonna happen.“ 

One hour later Eve fell asleep, still holding her glass wine in her hand. Justin noticed, as she suddenly stopped making comments about his acting performance in The Social Network. 

„Thank god.“ He talked to himself and smirked. 

Carefully he took the glass out of her hand and put it onto the coffee table. Then he stood up and laid her down at the sofa, without waking her up. He took a blanket out of the sideboard and covered her body.

„Good night, M.“ He said and kissed her forehead gently. 

He switched off the lights and took the baby monitor to take care for Jake during the night.

When Eve woke up in the next morning, she needed a moment to remember were she was. Then she panicked. 

„JAKE!“

„Relax, Moneypenny! We’re all good!“ She heard Justin’s voice responding from the kitchen. 

Immediately she calmed down and took a deep breath. Then she stood up and joined Justin and the kids.

„I slept like a baby.“ She said.

Justin was having Jake on his arm and smiled at her. 

„Definitely you slept better than your baby. He was hungry every two hours.“ Justin replied. 

Eve came closer and took Jake on her arm. 

„You shouldn’t have done that, T. But, thank you.“ She replied and kissed Jake’s small head. 

„Anytime.“ Justin replied.

„Daddy, we need to hurry!“ Silas suddenly complained. 

He was sitting next to his brother at the dining table, just finishing his cereals.

„Do you have plans for today?“ Eve asked him.

„Yes! My friend is celebrating his birthday in the zoo!“ Silas explained. 

„This sounds amazing!“ 

„But daddy needs to bring me! And we are already late!“ 

„I understand. Daddy, you heard your son? You’re already late. I can stay and watch Phin, if it helps?“

„Really?“ Justin replied.

„Yes, sure. I owe you for the night.“ She smirked. 

When Justin brought Silas to the birthday party, he asked Eve to stay longer to hang out with Phin and him at the pool. As she didn’t have any other plans for the day, she agreed. 

Justin and Phin went upstairs to put on their swim trunks. Eve was already in the backyard and sitting at the edge of the pool with her feet inside. She was still wearing her airy yellow summer dress from the prior day. The boys showed up in the next moment. 

„You’re sure you can’t come in?“ Justin asked, before entering the pool. 

„Unfortunately yes. It’s too soon for me to join pool parties.“ She explained. 

„What a pity.“

Justin jumped inside and dived from one edge to the other. When he showed up again, Eve caught herself by gazing at his naked chest. He was in perfect shape. His wet muscles sparkled in the sunlight. He raised his hands and wiped away some water out of his face and his hair. 

„Jesus, Eve! Look away! What are you doing???“ She was blaming herself in her thoughts. 

Before Justin noticed, she lowered her head and gave her attention to Phin, who was just entering the pool with his swimming ring. 

„Are you okay, honey?“ She asked him.

„Yes. I can swim with my ring.“ Phin replied proudly.

Justin swam into Eve’s direction now and stopped in front of her feet.

„What about Jake?“ He asked. 

„You wanna swim with him?“

„Ya, why not? Maybe he likes it.“

„What if he pees into the water?“

„His number one is not what I’m afraid of.“ Justin joked. 

Eve stood up and brought Jake, who was lying on a blanket in the shadow. She dressed him off, before giving him to Justin. 

„If he poops, I’m not gonna recover from my laughter.“ She warned him. 

„Then I hope he poops.“ Justin replied. 

Hours later Justin needed to pick up Silas from the zoo. Eve stayed at home with Phin and Jake. Both kids were tired from being in the water. Phin finally fell asleep at one sun lounger and Jake closed his eyes short after, being on Eve’s arm. Carefully she put him back onto his blanket. Then she suddenly heard a female voice from distance.

„Anybody home?“ 

Eve turned around and saw Jessica entering the backyard. Her heart skipped a beat. 

 

„Hi.“ Eve said, while Jessica was staring at her surprised.

„Hi.“ 

Jessica came few steps closer. She looked at the sleeping kids, before giving her attention back to Eve. 

„Justin is picking up Silas from the zoo. He didn’t expect you to be here that early.“ Eve said.

Jessica needed a moment to figure out how to reply. Of course she knew from Justin what happened to Josh. Her face looked very tensed. 

„I’m so sorry for what happened, Eve. Please believe me, I wanted to send you a message. But every time I started typing I felt like… I don’t know…“ Jessica started explaining. 

„It’s okay.“ Eve replied.

„No, it’s not. I should have done something. I should have expressed my compassion because it’s truly breaking my heart…“

Eve tried hard not starting to cry. She didn’t expect Jessica being so kind, after all what happened in Cuba. 

„You really don’t need to apologize.“

Jessica came closer. Than she fell around Eve’s neck and hugged her tightly. Eve immediately responded. 

After releasing each other, Jessica started smiling. 

„I want you to know, what happened in the past doesn’t matter to me any more. I’m over it.“ 

Eve smiled relieved and nodded. 

„Now let me see your baby.“ 

Jessica went to Jake’s blanket and knelt down in front of him. 

„Nice to meet you, beautiful little man. You’re looking like your mommy…“

She watched the baby sleeping for a moment. Then she stoop up, looking at Eve.

„I met someone.“ She suddenly said, with a happy grin in her face. 

Eve raised her eyebrows, smiling back at her. 

„Somebody famous?“

Jess shook her head. 

„Just a random guy from Montana. But it’s good. He really makes me happy.“ 

„Does Justin know?“ 

„Yes. We talked about it before signing the papers.“

Eve’s heart dropped again. 

„You mean…?“

Jess nodded. 

„We’re officially divorced since last week.“ 

Before Eve could say anything else, Justin and Silas suddenly appeared. 

„Mommy!“ Silas shouted and run into his mother’s arms. 

Phin woke up in the same moment. Then he stood up and hugged Jessica as well.

„You’re early.“ Justin said. 

„Ya, sorry for this. But our flight got rescheduled. We’re leaving for Montana a little earlier as expected.“ Jess explained. 

„You know you can have the jet anytime you need it, right?“  

„I’m grateful for the offer, but no.“ 

„Okay. So, time to say goodbye. Come on, give me a big hug.“ Justin said to his sons. 

Both rushed into his direction. 

„Goodbye daddy!“ 

 

When Jess left with the kids, Eve stared at Justin. He knew that look in her face. Obviously she was having something on her mind. 

„So… you and Jess are okay again, hm?“ He asked. 

Eve nodded. 

„Some problems became completely trivial, after what happened to Josh.“ 

„Absolutely. But that’s not the reason, why you’re giving me that eager look, right?“ Justin replied. 

Eve sighed, before answering. 

„I just realized I was a shitty friend recently.“

„Why would you say that?“

„Because very obviously you didn’t feel like telling me about the latest events in your life.“

Justin gave her a calm smile, already knowing what she was trying to say. 

„It’s like you said, M. Some things became trivial.“ 

„Getting divorced isn’t trivial, Justin.“

„This papers just made official what happened long time ago. It’s really not a big deal. That’s why I didn’t talk about it.“

„I don’t believe you.“

Justin came few steps closer. Then he cupped her face.

„Stop worrying about me. You hear me? There is no reason doing that.“ 

„But…“

„M… that’s my last warning.“

Eve rolled her eyes.

„Fine.“

„Good girl.“

Then he kissed her forehead and released her face.

„Time for a little snack, don’t you think?“

Exactly one month after being away from work, Eve returned into the office. Mateo tried hard convincing her to stay at home with Jake for a little longer. But she explained that she needed her work as a distraction. 

As Eve and Eric decided not sharing the news about Josh’s accident with the public world, no one in the office knew about the tragedy. Just Sarah was informed about what happened, as she visited Eve at home few days after giving birth.

„It’s good to have you back.“ Mateo said, as he entered their office half our later. 

He hugged Eve close and kissed her cheek. 

„Thank you, Matty. You did an amazing job with Jake’s nursery in my prior office.“

„This wasn’t me, darling. All credit belongs to Sarah. Looks like she’s working on her next promotion.“ Matty explained.

„Oh, really?“ Eve said surprised. „It’s beautiful!“

„I know. I gave her some small projects while you’ve been gone and I must say, she did pretty well.“ 

Sarah entered the room in the same moment. 

„Morning, boss! Good to have you back!“ She cheered and hugged Eve close. 

„I just learned you designed Jake’s nursery. Good work, Sarah.“ Eve praised her. 

„Really?“ Sarah asked, flushing a little.

„Yes, really.“ 

Eve was engrossed in reading emails as her cellphone started ringing. She saw the number of Josh’s doctor in the display. Immediately her heart started racing.

„Hello?“ She answered the call with shaky voice. 

„Mrs. Chasez, good morning.“ The doctor replied friendly. 

„Did something happen?“ She asked nervously. 

„No, don’t worry. Everything is… unchanged. I just called to ask you for a meeting this afternoon. There are things I would like to discuss, concerning the further treatment of your husband.“ 

„Further treatment?“ Eve asked irritated. 

„I really would like to talk to you in person, if you don’t mind?“

„Yes, of course.“ 

Mateo listened to her conversation.

„What was this?“ He asked curiously, when she hung up. 

„The doctor wanna discuss Josh’s further treatment.“ Eve said.

„What does that mean?“

„I have no idea.“ 

Mateo was concerned after the doctor’s call and decided going with Eve to the hospital. Something was telling him, that she would need mental support. 

„You want me to join you inside?“ Mateo asked when they arrived. 

„This would be nice, thank you, Matty.“ Eve answered. 

The doctor was already waiting. They entered his office and sat down opposite of his desk. 

„Thank you for coming.“ He started to talk.

„Please, just say what you have to say. I’m nervous.“ Eve said impatiently. 

„Of course.“ The doctor replied. 

It wasn’t easy for him to have this kind of conversation. He knew how fragile Eve’s mental condition still was. After looking at her for a moment, he finally started to explain.

„Your husband’s accident is four weeks ago, Mrs. Chasez. But unfortunately his condition is still unchanged. I am obligated at this point talking to you about the next steps. As your husband doesn’t have an advanced health care directive, it’s your responsibility to decide how long you wish to continue life support measures.“

Mateo immediately turned pale. He knew this conversation wouldn’t end good. 

Eve stared at the doctor with pure disbelief. 

„Did you really just ask me, when I want to let my husband die???“

The doctor realized as well, that the situation might run out of control. Still he needed to clarify things.

„Look.“ He continued talking. „We’ve been positive after his surgery that his brain may recover after some time. But as we did the latest EEG this morning, we didn’t see any kind of improvement. You must understand, that the chance to wake up from a deep coma like his, decrease with every further week.“ 

„Does it mean, you believe he won’t wake up anymore???“

„It’s not that easy, Mrs. Chasez. The truth is, we don’t know. Every patient is different. But if we look at the statistics, we need to face the fact, that his chances to wake up are under five percent.“ 

Eve’s heartbeat reached a critical condition. She didn’t know what to feel first. She was terrified about what the doctor just said. But at the same time she felt deep anger.“ 

„Breath, darling. Breath.“ Mateo said and squeezed her left hand. 

„I’m still waiting for explanation what exactly you expect me to do right now!!!“ Eve almost yelled. 

„We need to know, if you wish to stop artificial nutrition.“ The doctor answered. 

Eve stared at him like seeing a ghost. 

„YOU WANT HIM TO STARVE TO DEATH?!“ 

„I know this sounds cruel, but I guarantee you, that it’s not. Due to his unconsciousness we can assure you, he wouldn’t suffer in any kind. His natural death would happen two or three weeks…“ 

„DON’T YOU DARE FINISHING THAT SENTENCE! DON’T YOU DARE!“ Eve screamed. 

„Mrs. Chasez, please…“

„NO!“ She interrupted him again. „THE ANSWER IS NO! YOU ARE NOT LETTING HIM DIE!“ 

The doctor sighed. Mateo was in deep shock. He never saw Eve freaking out like that. She raised herself and rushed out of the room. 

Mateo looked at the doctor, being completely overwhelmed by the situation. 

„This was a natural reaction. She needs time to process.“ The doctor said calmly. 

Mateo nodded. Then he stood up and left his office as well. He found Eve in her car, crying badly. Slowly he opened the driver’s door. 

„Darling. Please come outside.“

Eve exited the car. He pulled her into his arms.

„Look… there’s no need to worry. If you want them to keep Josh alive, they will.“ 

 

„Hey Matty, what’s up?“ Justin asked, answering his phone.

„I need you in the hospital.“

„Why?“ 

„Because Eve is lying in Josh’s bed, crying for almost two hours. I’m not able handling the situation on my own.“ 

Justin arrived in the clinic half hour later. He found Mateo in the hallway, sitting at a chair next to Josh’s patient’s room. 

„Thank god.“ Mateo said and stood up, when he saw Justin coming closer. 

„What happened?“ Justin asked nervously. 

Mateo sighed. 

„Josh’s doctor talked to her about stopping life support measures.“ 

„WHAT???“ Justin shouted out loud. 

„Justin, calm down. I didn’t call you to make you freak out, as well.“ 

„How should I calm down, Matty??? This must be joke!!!“ 

„Unfortunately it’s not.“ 

Mateo explained to Justin what happened in the doctor’s office few hours ago.

Justin listened carefully. Than he took a deep breath and grabbed his face. 

„I can’t blame her for freaking out. This is insanity…“ 

„I know. But we need to calm her down somehow. The nurses are concerned about her condition. I’m afraid, they’ll bring her out of the room against her will and give her sedatives, if she doesn’t stop crying.“

Justin took another deep breath and nodded. Then he opened the door and went inside. Mateo followed him. Seeing Eve like this broke his heart. She was lost in her pain, not noticing him and Mateo coming closer. 

Justin stopped on the side of the bed where Eve was lying. Then he sat down at the edge and touched her arm gently.

„M…“ 

When Eve heard his voice, she immediately turned around and raised her upper body. Then she fell around his neck, still crying. 

„I’m with you, sweety.“ He whispered gently, while hugging her back.

Mateo was surprised about the fact, that she responded to Justin’s presence. He tried the same to comfort her, but without any success.

„They… they want…“ Eve stammered. 

She wasn’t able to speak in full sentences. 

„I know. But this is not gonna happen. I promise you, this is not gonna happen…“ 

Eve nodded and started to calm down slowly. It took a while until she completely stopped crying. Justin was holding her patiently the whole time. Finally she released him and looked into his face. Her eyes were red and swollen. He caressed the back of her head and gave her a calm smile. 

„You feel little better?“ 

She nodded again. 

„Can we go home now?“ 

„Yes…“ She whispered. 

„Hey, ehm… where’s Jake?“ Justin wanted to know, glancing at Mateo. 

„We left him with Sarah, as we planned to return into the office after the meeting with the doctor. She got things under control. I called her half hour ago.“ 

„Good. Then let’s pick up Jake and bring you home afterwards.“ Justin replied, giving his attention back to Eve. 

„This was too much for my nerves, Justin. I never felt so helpless.“ Mateo said, sitting at the sofa in Eve and Josh’s house. 

Both men needed a moment to rest. When they arrived at their house, Justin took care for Jake. He fed him, changed his diaper and made him fall asleep. At the same time Mateo helped Eve making herself ready for bed. It wasn’t that late yet, but she felt completely exhausted, not being able keeping herself awake any longer. 

„I’m close having my own mental breakdown, Matty.“ Justin confessed. „I’m watching her suffer since four weeks. And instead of making any progress, things are just getting worse.“

„Do you think she needs some professional help?“ Mateo asked carefully. „I mean, if those situations happen, she’s not able taking care for her baby. This is very concerning.“ 

„All she needs is her husband waking up.“ Justin replied. 

There was silence between them for a moment.

„I’m impressed how you deal with her, by the way. It looks like you’re the only one, who can bring her back to normal.“ Mateo said next.

„It’s because she knows, that I feel the same way. I understand her pain.“ Justin explained. 

„Maybe you should move in here again.“ Mateo suggested. 

Justin stared at him.

„Honestly, I had the same idea, but I didn’t want to make the suggestion on my own.“ 

„Well, you should. I would feel much better, if I knew that you’re around, in case she’ll break down again for some reason.“

Justin nodded. 

„I’ll stay the night and talk to her in the morning.“

„Good."

Eve felt like having a hangover, when she woke up. Her eyes and her head were aching. She noticed, that Jake’s monitor wasn’t standing at its usual place on her bedside table. She got a bad conscience knowing, that Justin has taken care for her baby once again during the night. 

Slowly she stood up and went into the bathroom. She needed to take a shower urgently, but she just couldn’t motivate herself. After peeing and brushing her teeth, she dressed into a random white shirt and grey sweatpants. Then she went downstairs. 

She heard Justin talking to Jake in the living room. He was lying at the floor next to her baby and played with him. Eve’s heart was melting when she saw both of them interact. 

„Your mommy is awake.“ Justin said to Jake, as he noticed her coming closer. 

Eve sat down in front of them at the floor and smiled. Justin raised his upper body and sat in front of her.

„Thank you.“ Eve said calmly. „Honestly, I don’t know how I should ever pay you back for everything you’re doing for me and Jake.“

„It’s my pleasure, M. And therefore I’m moving back in here. Don’t even try to contradict.“

Eve raised her eyebrows.

„But…“

„No, Eve. This is not negotiable.“ 

„Justin…“

„I said, don’t contradict.“ 

„This is too much. You have your own life. You have own kids you need to take care for.“

„Don’t worry about this. I’m gonna make this work for all of us.“ 

She stared at him for a moment, knowing there was no way changing his mind. At the same time she felt a deep relief. Being alone in that big house was making her feel miserable. The imagination having Justin around was giving her some kind of inner peace.

„Thank you.“ She finally said. 

Justin smiled and came closer to kiss her forehead. 

„I’ll bring my stuff later that day.“ 

„How is my bestie doing today, Matty?“ [Lucy]

„As you know, yesterday was a nightmare. But she got herself under control again.“ [Mateo]

„I’m still worried. Maybe she can stay with you for a while?“ [Lucy]

„It’s not necessary. Justin is moving back into their house.“ [Mateo]

„WTF?! Who’s brilliant idea was that?!“ [Lucy]

„Mine. Why are you freaking out?“ [Mateo]

„BECAUSE THIS IS JUSTIN!“ [Lucy]

„Believe me, he’s the only one who can handle her right now.“ [Mateo]

“Matty, did you forget about their history?! [Lucy]

„It’s history, Lu.“ [Mateo]

„Still, I don’t like what is happening.“ [Lucy]

„Both of them are in deep pain about what happened to JC. I don’t see any reason being worried.“ [Mateo]

„Okay. But if something happens, I’ll blame it on you. [Lucy]

In was Saturday morning. Justin was sitting at the kitchen island, finishing his breakfast. He was just wearing boxer briefs and a random black shirt. Eve was upstairs, changing Jake’s diaper. Then the doorbell rang. With full mouth Justin raised himself to open up. 

„Hi.“ He said to Eric, still chewing.

Eric frowned and scanned Justin from head to toe.

„What is going on here?“ 

„I moved in again.“ 

„Are you kidding me?“

Justin let Eric inside and returned into the kitchen. Eric followed him. Justin sat down at his stool and continued eating.

„T… answer my question.“ 

„I’m not kidding you.“ 

„Do you think this is a good idea? Living with your best friend’s wife, while he’s in coma?“ 

„What are you trying to say, Eric?“ 

„I’m trying to say, it’s not healthy what you’re doing.“

„Dude, listen. She’s got still mental breakdowns without prior warning. That’s why she can’t be alone with Jake. It’s not working.“ 

„Then why she isn’t with Matty?“ 

„Because Matty can’t handle things.“

„But you can?“

„Yes, I can.“

In the next moment, Eve returned downstairs with Jake on her arm. She was wearing a white tanktop and pink sweat shorts. Her hair was just put together into a messy bun. Eric noticed, that she lost more weight that she should.

„Hi, Ricky. What brings you here that early?“ She asked surprised and gave him a peck on his cheek.“

„I need to talk about some things to you.“ Eric answered.

„Which things?“

„I will explain. But first, coffee.“ 

Eric went to the coffee maker and started it. Eve returned to her stool and continued eating her breakfast. When his coffee was ready, Eric sat down at the kitchen counter as well and took a sip. Eve and Justin were waiting for him to talk.

„Eve. I told you that I talked to Jay’s clients and asked for new deadlines.“ 

„Yes, I remember.“

„Most of them were understanding, although I didn’t tell them what has happened to Jay. But time passed by and the deadlines are coming closer. When I announce another delay they will ask questions.“ 

„I see. So, which options do we have?“ Eve wanted to know.

„Honestly, I just see one. We should inform them about what happened to him.“

Eve immediately turned uneasy.

„But when we tell them, the news will spread like a wildfire, Eric.“

„I’m aware of that. But if we keep them in the dark and didn’t bring any results, his clients gonna take legal steps at some point. And we can’t let that happen, either.“ 

Eve looked at Justin. He looked back at her and noticed, that she was overwhelmed with the situation. 

„I can do some ghostwriting, if you want.“ He suddenly suggested. 

She opened her eyes wide.

„Really?“ 

Eric sighed. 

„T… come on. It’s nice that you wanna help, but you are not Jay.“

„I know the way he writes. Trust me, I can do this.“ Justin replied. 

„But that’s a full time job, Justin! When do you wanna do all of this, hm?!“ Eric asked.

„As I canceled my promotion tour, I got time.“ 

„Are you really sure? Please don’t believe I expect this.“ Eve said next. 

„He’s my best friend, M. I would do anything for him and you know that.“ Justin answered. 

Both looked at Eric now. He rolled his eyes and sighed again.

„Okay, fine. Let’s give it a try. But don’t screw this up, Timberlake. It’s Jay’s reputation on the line.“

 

The same day in the afternoon Eve visited Josh in the hospital, as she did every day. 

„Hi Monica, how is he doing?“ Eve asked the nurse, who was just taking care for Josh. 

„Good, my dear. Just gave him a fresh shave.“ Monica said. 

„Where?“ Eve asked. 

„Everywhere.“ Monica replied naughty. 

Both women giggled. 

Monica was in her early fifties, having short blond hair and a curvy body shape. She was Eve’s favorite nurse. Making inappropriate jokes became their thing. 

„You want me to take care for that handsome little man for a while?“ Monica suggested and smiled at Jake, who was lying in his stroller.

„This would be nice, thank you.“ 

When the nurse left with the baby, Eve put her sneakers off and laid down next to Josh. She kissed his lips carefully and made herself comfortable next to him. 

„I talked to Eric this morning. We decided still keeping quiet about what happened to you. Justin will take care for your clients. I trust him with this because I know, that you would do as well. So please don’t worry about your work. We got this under control, okay?“ 

Of course Josh didn’t respond. But Eve imagined that he heard what she was saying. 

„Oh, something funny happened, as well. Justin was playing with Jake, lying at the floor and holding him above his head. Out of a sudden Jake puked some milk straight into his face. It was terribly disgusting. But I couldn’t stop laughing.“

The door got suddenly open. Eve raised herself a little and saw Josh’s doctor entering the room. Since their last conversation, Eve didn’t see him again. If she was honest, she was still mad at him for asking, if she wanted to stop artificial nutrition.“

„Mrs. Chasez, it’s nice to see you.“ He said calmly, coming few steps closer. 

Eve sat down, wondering why he was there.

„I didn’t change my mind, if this is what you came for.“ Eve said harshly. 

„I didn’t expect that.“ He replied.

„So, what do you want?“ 

„I want to know how you’re doing.“

Eve scoffed. 

„I’m living my dream, doctor. Raising my kid without his dad is exactly how I imagined my life.“

„Why are you so cynical, Mrs. Chasez?“ 

„Is this a serious question?“ 

„Yes.“

„Do you think it’s easy waking up every morning, not knowing, if I will ever talk to my husband again? I am pissed off, because life is fucking with me for the second time! I already lost one husband out of a sudden and it took me years to get over it! I do not deserve something like that happening to me once again! I do not deserve that!!!“ 

Eve’s eyes were swimming. The doctor was still looking at her and gave her a moment to calm down. 

„I didn’t know you went trough this before.“ 

„Now you know. So please do me a favor and think twice before you try once again to convince me to let him go.“ 

The doctor nodded. 

„Please don’t see me as your enemy, Eve. It’s not my intention to give you a hard time.“ He said, before leaving the room. 

Another month passed by. 

Eve just returned from her lunch break with Sarah and Mateo. Jake was making a nap in his nursery. Eve tried to answer few emails before he would wake up. Working and taking care for her baby at the same time was more challenging than she expected. But luckily Sarah was helping her a lot. And even Mateo got used to the new situation and enjoyed making a break once in a while to look for Jake. 

Suddenly Eve’s phone was ringing. It was Justin.

„Hey 007, what’s up?“

„I need help.“

„Of course. What happened?“

„Jess is in town. She needs to see her agent to discuss her next project. She asked me if I could take the boys for few hours. I agreed before checking my schedule. The thing is, I have a deadline to keep. One of Josh’s clients is giving me a hard time. I need to finish his song but the boys just don’t leave me alone.“

Eve smirked. 

„I’ll be there in a half hour and take them to the park.“ 

„Thank you, M.“

„I thank you, T.“

Justin was at his place, as he preferred working in his own studio instead of Josh’s. In the afternoon Jessica showed up to pick up their kids. Justin didn’t change the code at the gateway and didn’t ask her to return the keys, yet. 

„Hello? Justin? Boys?“ Jessica shouted, after letting herself in. 

„Will be there in a sec!“ Justin shouted back. 

Jessica went into the kitchen. As she was thirsty she opened the fridge to get a drink. Justin entered the kitchen a moment later.  

„Why you have no food in the fridge?“ She asked confused, with a bottle of water in her hand. 

„I don’t need food.“ Justin replied. 

„Are you on special diet?“ 

„No. The thing is, currently I’m not living here.“ 

Jessica raised her eyebrows. 

„So, where do you live instead?“

„I’m staying with Eve.“

„Why you’re staying with Eve?“ 

„Because she needs company.“

Jessica needed a second to process. Then she shook her head.

„I don’t like that.“

„And I don’t care. We are divorced, remember?“

She sighed. 

„This is not about me.“

„Then what is this about?“

„Eve is your best friend’s wife.“

„And she got mental issues since his accident. All I do is helping her to get through this, Jess.“ 

„You really think that, hm?“

„Actually, I don’t like your tone.“ 

„Justin. I’m not telling you what to do or not. This is your business. But I don’t believe for a single second that you just try to be a caring friend.“

„Believe what you want.“ 

Jess rolled her eyes. 

„Where are the kids?“ She wanted to know next. 

„Eve took them into the park.“

„Why?“ 

„Because I have work to do.“

„Which work?“ 

„I’m writing for C’s clients.“ 

Jess scoffed. 

„That story is getting better with every second. You live in his house, with his wife and doing his job. What comes next? Adopting his kid?“ 

„You know what? This conversation is over. I need to finish my stuff.“

Then he turned around and left he alone. 

The same night Eve and Justin were sitting at the sofa in front of the telly, as they always did. 

Eve was engrossed in watching the series they just started and eating some popcorn. Justin gazed at her for a moment, being lost in thoughts. Then he grabbed the remote control and stopped the series.

„Don’t tell me you need to pee during the most thrilling scene!“ Eve complained with full mouth. 

„Can we talk?“ He asked. 

Eve looked at him confused. 

„If this about the junk food and ice cream I gave to your boys to keep them under control, I’m not apologizing. Three kids at once in public were a new challenge for my nerves.“

Justin smirked. He thought it was cute that she believed he might be angry because of this.“ 

„It’s not about junk food and ice cream.“ 

„Then what?“

He took a deep breath.

„Do you have the feeling I’m trying to replace C?“

Eve frowned. 

„Why would you say that?“ 

„Jess made some comments when I told her what’s going on. Now I wonder if you think the same.“

„This is ridiculous. All you do is helping me getting through this unbearable situation day by day. I am grateful to have you, Justin. Without you I would have already lost my mind.“ 

Further weeks passed by.

„Eve, I know we talked about this more than once. And I completely understand your point. But I just need to try once again…“

Eve interrupted Mateo, giving him a very annoyed look.

„Is this about my birthday tomorrow?“ 

Mateo nodded with an innocent look. 

„I’m not celebrating my birthday without my husband. Can we please just pretend it’s an ordinary day?“

„But it’s not.“

„Matty, please. For once, just let it be.“

It was Friday night. Both of them just finished their work and said goodbye to each other in the parking garage.

Eve visited Josh in the hospital, as she did everyday after work. His condition was still unchanged. She spent two hours with him before going back home. 

On her way she was thinking about her last birthday, which she’ve spent with Josh and all their friends in Cuba. He made such a big effort to make that day special for her. This year things couldn’t be more different. 

Justin wasn’t home yet, as she arrived. He was still busy in his studio. Eve fed Jake and made him ready for sleep. As the baby was finally in bed, she dressed into some comfortable clothes. Then she went into the kitchen and stared into the fridge, thinking about if to cook something or not. In the same moment she heard Justin entering the house. 

„M?“ He shouted, while taking his shoes off. 

„Kitchen!“ 

Justin showed up few seconds later with a family pizza box in his hand. Eve looked at him. Her face immediately lightened up, as she saw the pizza. 

„I love you!“ 

Justin raised his eyebrows.

„Does it mean we share one bedroom tonight?“ He asked sassy.

Eve smiled and rolled her eyes.

„I love you for bringing pizza.“ 

„Actually, I don’t care about your motives.“ 

„Stop it.“ She said, still smiling. 

She came closer, gave him a peck on his cheek and took the box out of his hand. She placed it onto the kitchen island and opened it up impatiently. 

„Oh yes.“ She said, licking her lips. 

Then she took a slice and tasted it.

„So good…“ 

Justin crossed his arms.

„Really?“ You can’t wait until I put out some plates out of the cupboard?“ He complained half seriously. 

„Since when we need plates for pizza?“ 

Still giving her a skeptical look, he came closer and took a slice as well.

 

„What about a glass of red wine?“ Justin suggested, when they finished eating.

„Absolutely.“ Eve replied, feeling overeaten but happy. 

Justin stood up, brought a bottle and filled two glasses. 

„You wanna watch a movie tonight?“ He asked next. 

„I feel like enjoying some time at the patio. What do you say?“ 

„Sure, sounds good.“

They went outside and sat opposite of each other at the outdoor table. The sky was almost dark but crystal clear. While sipping their wine, they didn’t talk for a moment. 

„How are you, Justin?“ Eve finally asked. „I realized everybody is only focusing on me. No one ever asks how you feel.“

Justin took a big sip, before answering.

„Mostly I feel anger when I think about the situation. I’m angry about the helplessness and the fact that we can do nothing but wait. Sometimes it’s so bad that I just want to scream and smash something up.“ 

Eve looked at him for a moment. She felt awful, that she didn’t ask earlier what was going on in his mind.

„What do you do then?“ She wanted to know.

„I bought a punching bag and hung it up in my basement.“ 

„Really?“ 

„Really.“ 

„Can I try it one day?“

Justin smirked. 

„Anytime.“

Eve stood up and went back into the kitchen. She returned with the wine and filled up their glasses. 

„If we’re lucky, Jake sleeps in the next hours. I guess we can have another glass tonight, hm?“ 

„I’m all in.“ Justin replied. 

Two hours later Eve was finishing her third glass and was definitely more than just tipsy. Justin drunk less then her to be able taking car for Jake, if necessary. 

„James…?“

„Yes, Moneypenny?“ 

„Usually… I prefer white wine. But you never bring white wine. It’s kind of frustrating. But finally I found my courage telling you this.“ 

Justin raised his eyebrows. 

„Why is everybody confessing their dislikes when drinking with me?“ 

„What are you talking about?“

„Imagine that… Lance doesn’t like Bourbon.“ 

„Oh! That scandal. Josh told me. I’m surprised you didn’t hunt him with torches and pitchforks for this.“

„We should have done that. But I see him with different eyes since then. Such a shameless liar…“ 

„Ya… he’s the worst.“

In the next moment the doorbell rang. Eve gave Justin a skeptical look. Then she checked her wrist watch. It was five minutes before midnight. 

„Justin… who is this?“

„How the hell I know? Do I have a crystal ball?“ 

„Did you plan anything for my birthday?“

„I swear, I didn’t.“

Eve sighed. Then she stood up and lurched inside the house. Justin decided to follow her, as she seemed to be more drunk as he expected. 

„What the hell?“ Eve asked as she opened the front door. 

Lance, Michael and Mateo were smiling sheepishly. 

„Surprise surprise!“ They cheered. 

„Go home.“ Eve replied boldly. 

„It’s not gonna happen.“ Michael said and let himself in first. The rest of them followed. 

Eve stared at Justin, giving him an angry look. 

„I didn’t ask them to come.“ He claimed. 

„But you didn’t stop them, either.“ 

He smiled sassy and shrugged his shoulders.

„I brought Tequila.“ Mateo said and hurried into the kitchen, with a shopping bag in his hand. 

„You really wanna toast with Tequila?“ Justin asked. 

„I brought lemons as well, so stop complaining.“ Mateo talked back. 

Then he put some shot glasses out of the cupboard and filled them up. When it turned midnight all of them started singing. 

„HAPPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRUMPY EVE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!“ 

Eve rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop herself from smiling.

„Lucky you I’m already drunk.“ She said. 

„You already filled her up?“ Mateo asked surprised, staring at Justin.

„It was her idea.“ 

Mateo handed out the Tequila.

„Congratulations, Eve. I love you.“ Mateo said, looking at her.

„We love you, Eve!“ Everybody else shouted. Eve smiled happily, finally appreciating that her friend’s showed up without invitation. After drinking the shots, everybody hugged her heartily. 

„Of course we brought presents!“ Michael cheered and put out an envelope out of his jacket. 

„This wasn’t necessary… but thank you.“ Eve said, looking at him and Lance.

Then she opened the envelope. 

„Yoga classes?“ She asked surprised.

„Yes, honey. We believe you need more time for yourself. As you told me once, that you enjoyed doing yoga when you lived in Germany, we believed this is a good idea to take care for yourself.“ Lance explained.

„And the best part is, we will watch your baby during the classes.“ Michael added. 

Eve smiled happily and hugged them again.

„This is really sweet. Thank you very much.“ 

„Here is mine.“ Mateo said next, giving her another envelope.

Curiously Eve opened it up. 

„Oh Matty…“

„I can’t wait doing this with you.“ 

„What is it?“ Justin asked curiously. 

„It’s a workshop with a very popular interior designer from New York. I admire him and his work since I started my first business. It’s nearly impossible to get those tickets. How did you managed this, Matty?“ She asked in disbelief. 

„Well, someone who likes banging me once in a while knows people.“

„No way! Eric helped you with that?!“ 

„Yes. That’s why this present is from both of us. Unfortunately he’s out of town this weekend, so he can’t be here tonight.“ Mateo explained. 

„I can’t thank you, enough. This is awesome, Matty.“ 

Eve hugged her friend tightly. Then she gave Justin an eager look. 

„For someone who asked for ignoring her birthday, you seem to have pretty high expectations.“ He teased her.

Eve gave him a sassy smile, still waiting for his present. He opened one kitchen drawer and put out a very flat white square box with a pink ribbon. 

„Technically that gift isn’t mine.“ He said, before giving it to her. 

Eve frowned. 

„Not yours?“

„Just look inside and you will know.“

Impatiently she opened the box. When she saw its content, she didn’t understand what this was about. There was a vinyl record with Jake’s newborn picture on the cover. She stared at Justin, waiting for explanation. 

Justin smiled at her calmly. 

„C told me, that he wrote a song for Jake. His idea was, giving it to you the day he was born…“

„Oh my god…“ Eve stammered, staring at him in disbelief. 

Justin continued talking.

„When I started writing for his clients, I found the file on his hard drive. I wasn’t sure if I should give this to you on his behalf. That’s why I asked my bros for their opinion. All of them convinced me, that you should have this. So, I put it on a LP and waited for the right occasion to give it to you.“ 

Eve was touched into tears. Carefully she put the LP out of the box. 

„Do you wanna listen to it, honey?“ Lance asked carefully. 

Eve nodded. 

„Okay, let’s go into the living room.“ He added. 

„May I?“ Justin said, taking the LP out of Eve’s hand. 

He switched on Josh’s record player while the rest of them sat down around the coffee table. Then Justin started the song and sat down next to Eve at the sofa. 

Eve wasn’t able to keep her tears under control, while listening to Josh singing a beautiful ballad for their son. The others turned very emotional as well. Justin put his arm around Eve’s shoulders. When the ballad ended, all of them kept quiet for a moment.

„Thank you, Justin. Thank you so much for letting me have it. It means the world to me.“ Eve finally said. 

She turned into his direction and hugged him close. Justin was glad, that she was crying happy tears for a change.

„You’re welcome, M.“ 

„It was truly beautiful. This man is an incredible singer. To be honest, you’re not even close to his voice range, Justin.“ Mateo said. 

Justin smirked.

„I’m aware of that.“ 

„He’s the best. Always was, always will be.“ Lance added. 

Michael just nodded, smiling calmly. 

Suddenly the doorbell rang again. Eve frowned, staring at Justin. 

„Don’t give me that look. I have no idea.“

„Relax, this must be Sarah. She was having other obligations tonight, but she said she would join us as soon as possible.“ Mateo explained.

Eve smiled. Then she stood up and let Sarah in. Sarah brought Champagne a beautiful bouquet of Eve’s favorite flowers. 

„Happy birthday, boss!“ She cheered and hugged her close. 

„Thank you.“ Eve replied happily.

„Why so serious, guys?“ Sarah asked irritated, when she entered the living room. 

„We’ve had an emotional moment. But you’re right. It’s time for party!“ Mateo cheered.

Then he stood up and went into the kitchen to bring the Tequila. 

 

Justin was the only one, who didn’t continue drinking. The rest of them got drunk pretty quick. Michael played his favorite Spotify playlist and danced with his husband. Mateo tried very hard to convince Eve dancing with him as well. Finally she gave in. She was completely drunk at this point. For the first time since Josh’s accident, she wasn’t thinking about him. Her dazed mind allowed her a little break from suffering. 

Sarah drunk too much, as well. She was sitting at the armchair and gazing at Justin. He noticed her glances, knowing exactly what she was having on her mind. 

„It’s not gonna happen.“ He said. 

„What a pity.“ She flirted. 

Then she stood up and sat down next to him at the sofa.

„You must know… I’m a JC girl, but tonight I would make an exception.“ She slurred. 

Justin chuckled. 

„A JC girl is Eve’s assistant?“ 

„Ya, she gave me a hard time at the beginning. But it turned out, that she’s an amazing boss so… I forgave her having my man.“ 

Again Justin laughed. 

„You’re such selfless person, Sarah.“

„I know I am… so… maybe there’s something… I can do for you?“

He raised his eyebrows.

„Thank you, but I’m good.“ 

Sarah licked her lips playfully. 

„You’re sure?“

„Very sure.“

Sarah suddenly sighed. 

„This is not fair…“

„What is not fair?“ 

„That you’re crazy for her, as well. Is she using some magic potion or something?“ 

Justin didn’t like, that their senseless conversation suddenly turned into this. It annoyed him, that everybody seemed to be aware of his feelings for Eve. 

„You know what… one dance won’t kill me. So…?“ He said and stood up in the next moment.

Sarah smiled self satisfied and stood up as well. In the next second Fifty Cent’s Candy Shop stared. Sarah’s face lightened up even more and she pushed herself close to Justin’s body. 

Eve was still dancing with Mateo but she got distracted, as she saw Sarah dancing with Justin. Of course Mateo immediately noticed.

„What’s wrong, darling? Are you jealous, that JT is giving his attention to another girl for a change?“ He teased. 

Eve just realized she was staring at them and looked back at Mateo.

„Don’t be ridiculous.“

„She’s hitting on him pretty hard, don’t you think?“

„I couldn’t care less.“

„Really? Because I believe you might need some earplugs tonight.“ 

Mateo grinned dirty. Eve stared at him, being anything but happy about what he just said. 

„Oh shit.“ Mateo squeaked. 

„What’s wrong?“ 

„You are really jealous. Good lord…“ 

Eve flushed. 

„Stop saying that.“ 

„Are you…“

„Matty, last warning.“ Eve interrupted him. „Don’t you dare…“ 

She stopped dancing with him and went into the kitchen. Then she opened the fridge and took a bottle of water. The song ended in the meanwhile. 

Justin showed up in the next moment. 

„Are you okay?“ He asked carefully, coming closer. 

Eve leaned against the kitchen island, took a big sip and nodded. 

Justin stopped, standing in front of her. 

„Really?“ 

She didn’t understand why, but he suddenly made her nervous. 

„I’m pretty sure that I will regret the Tequila next morning. But for now, I just enjoy the rush.“ She said, trying to sound casual. 

Justin smiled calmly. Then he cupped her face with one hand and kissed her forehead. She just realized he was doing this pretty often. But for the first time her heart made a summersault when his lips met her skin. Being completely confused about that fact, she stared at him with her eyes wide open. 

„Do you feel sick?“ He asked concerned. 

She shook her head, still staring. 

„Then what is it?“ 

„I don’t know.“ 

In the same moment Mateo entered the kitchen. Both felt kind of caught. Justin made a step back, looking at him. 

„Sarah is waiting for another dance. But it looks like Eve just made clear, that she’s not okay with it.“ Mateo said.

Normally he wouldn’t make those inappropriate comments. But the alcohol in his veins made Mateo speak out loud what he was thinking. 

„Matty, it’s enough.“ Eve warned her friend. 

Justin was asking himself, if Mateo might be right.

In the middle of the night, all guests finally shared a taxi home. Eve was still feeling weird. She was too drunk to understand, what was going on in her mind. But she also couldn’t ignore the fact, that Justin was suddenly giving her a thrill, which she couldn’t control. 

„Go to bed, birthday girl. I got this.“ Justin suggested, when she started tidying up the kitchen. 

„No. I can’t let you do everything all alone. You’re already taking care for Jake because I decided getting wasted.“

„It’s your birthday, M. I’m happy you enjoyed yourself.“ Justin replied. 

Eve looked at him.

„How I deserve you?“ She suddenly said. 

„It’s definitely too late for those deep questions.“ Justin joked. 

„But I mean it, Justin. You are too good to be true.“ 

He raised his eyebrows.

„I see what is happening here.“

„What happening here?“

„You and Tequila crossed a certain line.“

„Which line?“

Justin came few steps closer, grinning cheeky. 

„It’s better you go to bed now.“ 

Eve gave him an eager look.

„Are you afraid I might seduce you or something?“

Justin smiled even harder. 

„Is this your plan?“

„What? No!“

„No?“

„No!“

„Well, good for you, as I’m really hard to get.“ 

Eve raised her eyebrows.

„Oh really?“

„Yap.“

„I’ve had the impression Sarah was pretty close tonight.“

Justin’s smile couldn’t get any brighter.

„Oh… so this is about Sarah. Interesting.“ 

„All I’m saying is, that I have eyes. And what I saw was not somebody who is hard to get.“ 

Justin turned serious.

„Moneypenny. Go.To.Bed.“

„Or what?“ She provoked him. 

Justin came another step towards her, standing dangerously close to her body now. Gently he stroke some hair behind her ear and noticed goosebumps running down her spine. He moved his head closer to her ear and started whispering. 

„Remember what I’ve said, when you’ve been sitting on that kitchen island?“

Her heart accelerated and her palms turned sweaty.

„Oh fuck, Eve. It’s official. He’s making you wet…“ She was thinking. 

Trying hard to stay cool, she looked up into his eyes, before slowly stepping back. 

„Good night, T…“ She said.

Then she walked out of the kitchen.

„Good night…“ 

Half hour later Eve way lying in bed, not being able finding any rest. She didn’t like to admit it, but she was still turned on badly. This was the first time she longed for sex since Josh’s tragical accident. Her conscience couldn’t get any worse, thinking about the fact, that it was Justin who made her feel this way. But her urge was very hard to ignore. 

Luckily Eve was drunk. Otherwise she wouldn’t even think about the option which suddenly came into her mind. She stood up slowly, took the stool from her vanity table and went into the closet. With shaky legs she stood on it and started looking for a box, which she was hiding at the highest shelve. As she found the box, she returned with it into the bedroom and crawled under her blanket. Then she opened the lid.

„It’s worth trying.“ She encouraged herself, while staring at the pink dildo inside the box. 

Justin finished tiding up the kitchen. Then he looked for Jake, who was sleeping peacefully. After making himself ready for bed, he dressed his clothes off, slipped into pair of fresh boxer briefs and laid down in bed. 

„Fuck…“ He talked to himself after a while, as he was not able falling asleep. 

His mind was busy thinking about what just happened between Eve and him in the kitchen. He was glad that he didn’t drink with the rest of them. Otherwise the situation might end up differently. The fact that she acted jealous was giving him a deep thrill. He also remembered the goosebumps he gave her. His hand moved slowly into his boxer briefs. He stopped feeling ashamed to masturbate, while thinking about his best friend’s wife, long time ago. Not having her in real life was something he needed to accept. But in his mind there were no boundaries. 

„It’s not that bad…“ Eve was thinking, while her breath gone deep. 

She was careful at the beginning, not knowing how her body would respond to the sex toy after giving birth. But as she got used its size, she begun getting lost in her fantasy. 

In her imagination she was sitting at the edge of their bed, while Josh was kneeling between her tights. He kissed his way to her core and slowly started satisfying her the way only he could. She remembered how it felt like having his tongue between her lips. She made him teasing her clit by licking and sucking it gently. 

Her breath accelerated a little more. In the next scene she imagined him lying down on top of her. Her fantasy begun feeling so real, that she even believed to smell his tempting scent. He entered her slow but deep, while she moved her pelvis to his rhythm. 

Eve started smiling, as she felt her orgasm building up. She needed it faster now, impatiently longing for release. In her head Josh was thrusting her hard now. She felt his warm breath on her skin, while he was bringing her closer to the edge with every further thrust. 

„Oh Joooosh…“ She moaned, as she finally reached her peak.

A pleasant wave of endorphins rushed through her veins, while her breath was out of control. Few seconds later she opened her eyes, still smiling all over her face. 

„Why on earth you didn’t try that earlier?“

 

It was 11 AM when Eve woke up in the next morning. She was having a headache. 

Slowly she left the bed, went into the bathroom and took a long shower. 

Justin was with Jake at the patio, when Eve finally showed up downstairs. Jake just fell asleep at his arm after having some milk. 

When she entered the patio, both smiled at each other. Then she sat down next to him at the outdoor table. She kissed Jake’s little head carefully, before noticing Justin’s half full cup of coffee at the table.

„Can I have it?“ She asked with puppy eyes. 

He nodded, still smiling. 

„I bring Jake into bed and then I make you a fresh coffee and something to eat.“ He announced. 

When Justin left, Eve was asking herself again, how she deserved him. The sacrifices he made day by day to take care for her and Jake were unbelievable. She realized that it wasn’t okay taking advantage of him any longer. The chances for Josh to recover from his coma were close to zero in the meanwhile. No one dared talking to her about it, but she was aware of what people were thinking. She could see in their pity faces, that they already lost hope. However, it wasn’t fair expecting from Justin to stay with her any longer. She needed to learn taking care for herself and Jake. There was no other way. 

While Eve was lost in thoughts and sipping his coffee, Justin returned with a fresh cup in his hand. 

„Here you go.“ He said calmly, sitting down next to her and placing the cup at the table. „Now tell me what you wanna eat.“ 

She looked at him for a moment. He looked back, wondering what she was having on her mind. 

„It’s time for you to go home.“ She finally said. 

His heart immediately dropped.

„Why would you say that?“

„I can’t expect you staying with me forever. I need to learn dealing with my life on my own, Justin.“ 

„Is this about the conversation we’ve had last night?“ He asked carefully.

„No, it’s not. I just realized, that all you do for me and Jake is too much.“

„M, listen to me. All I do for you and Jake, I do on my own choice. I know that you don’t expect this from me. Still, I want to be there for both of you. Please don’t believe you’re a burden, because this is definitely not the case.“ He replied. 

„But we can’t live like this forever. I mean, you even try to save Josh’s career instead of taking care for your own. This is insane.“

„My career is fine. Even all the rumors about you and me didn’t stop people from buying my new music. And I didn’t even promote it in any kind.“

„Really?“

„It’s the truth. Believe me when I say, that I enjoy writing for Josh’s clients. So far, things run pretty well and all of them like my work. Tell me one good reason why I should stop now.“

„Because you deserve an own life.“

„This is my life. And I don’t wanna have it another way.“ 

She looked at him, processing what he’ve just said. 

„So, this is what you want? Living in a platonic relationship with me and being a foster dad to your best friend’s son?“

„Yes, I want that.“ He answered sincerely. 

She smiled calmly.

„You must lost your mind, Justin Timberlake.“ 

He smiled back.

„Does it mean you let me stay?“ 

She nodded.

„I’m grateful for everything you do. I just wished I could do something for you in return.“

„Don’t worry about that, M.“ 

Next Monday morning, Mateo was already waiting impatiently for Eve in their office. 

„Not that look, Matty.“ She said, when she finally arrived.

She parked Jake’s stroller in one corner and put him onto her arm. 

„What that supposed to mean?“ He asked irritated.

She sighed.

„Every time you look at me this way, you wanna talk about unpleasant things. And in this case I bet, this is about Justin and Sarah.“ Eve explained. 

She sat down at her chair, her baby still in her arms. 

„You are totally right. So… what the hell was going on with you? Was it just the Tequila or are you falling for Justin?“ 

„Matty. The way you exposed me in front of him, was not okay.“ She talked back. 

He rolled her eyes.

„I know, I know. And I’m sorry. I can’t control my tongue sometimes when I’m drunk. But now answer my question, girl!“ 

„It kind of hurt my ego when I saw him with Sarah. But this doesn’t mean anything.“ 

„How one earth this doesn’t mean anything???“ 

„My hormones are returning back to normal. That’s why I got a little confused.“ 

Mateo stared at her with big eyes.

„A little confused???“

„Yes.“ 

„So, you are saying, you have absolutely no romantic feelings for that gorgeous man, who is treating you, like you were the most precious thing in this world???“ 

Eve suddenly turned uneasy, thinking about the question. But she still managed keeping her pokerface. 

„No romantic feelings.“ 

Mateo stared at her for a moment, with a very skeptical look in his face.

„Okay, fine.“

At the same time Justin met Lance in the gym for some workout, although he was having an own sports studio in his house. Not having his best friend around anymore, made Justin open up himself to Lance in the last couple of months. Of course no one could ever replace the friendship he used to have with Josh. But still he longed for hanging out and talking to a friend once in a while.

„You know what? I never believed you and me would see each other that often like we did in the last weeks.“ Lance said to Justin, after they finished their warm up at the treadmill. 

„Is this good or bad?“ Justin asked. 

„It’s good. Weird, but good.“

„Why is it weird?“

„Dunno… you and me simply never been that close. And I was completely fine with that, believing we just don’t have much things in common. But here we are now. And it works pretty fine. I like it.“ Lance explained. 

Justin smirked.

„Ya, I like it, too. And I’m sorry, if I gave you the feeling not being interested in you. It’s just, I’m not the kind of guy who needs a big circle of people around himself. That’s why I always just focused on C. But I realize now, that I should have dealt with you and the other dudes differently. I should have been more openminded.“ Justin replied. 

„Don’t worry about it. I still love you.“

„Love you like a friend or love you like you love other men?“ Justin joked.

Lance chuckled, before turning serious. 

„Look, I’m aware of how hard this whole situation is for you. I mean, all of us are in big pain because of C, but we know for you it’s the biggest tragedy. Still, you’re not losing hope and you care for Eve and the baby like they were your own family. I’m amazed about your selflessness, T. You really impressed me from the day the accident happened.“

Justin took a deep breath and looked at his friend for a moment.

„Talking about hope. Recently I met C’s doctor in the hallway. I asked him for his genuine opinion, if there is still any kind of chance for him to wake up. The doc wasn’t allowed talking to me about this. But the expression in his face said more than thousand words.“

Lance listened and sighed.

„I’m aware of that. All of us are. But no one has the courage talking to Eve.“

Again Justin looked at him.

„You think I should?“

„I don’t know… I mean… it’s the doctor’s responsibility to have this conversation with her.“

„The last time he did, she completely freaked out.“

„Still, this is his job. Not yours.“ 

„I know.“

Before they started doing some weight training, Lance continued their conversation. 

„How do you feel about Eve, T?“

„What do you mean?“

„You know what I mean.“

Justin needed a moment to reply. Lance knew about his feelings for her. There was no reason lying to him.

„I love her more than I did before.“ He finally confessed. 

„Well, it’s not surprising me. You two are doing life together. And honestly spoken, you do pretty well. The question is, how does she feel about you?“

„All she wants is C. Nothing changed.“ 

„You’re sure about it?“ 

Justin thought about what happened between them in the kitchen after her birthday party. He didn’t know how she felt about him. But she behaved jealous because of Sarah. And he gave her those goosebumps. 

„No, but… I… I don’t wanna work up into anything…“ 

„Okay, that’s interesting.“

„Man, listen. I promised you to keep my hands off her. And I gave the same promise to C. Please believe me, I’m not planning to disappoint any of you.“ 

Lance suddenly grabbed Justin by his shoulders and looked deep into his eyes. 

„C won’t wake up. I know how cruel it sounds. But this is how things are.“ 

Justin needed to sort his mind. He stared back at Lance for few seconds. 

„Are you trying to say… that you’re giving me your blessing to make her mine…?“ He asked carefully.

„Not just me. We all do.“

Justin frowned, being completely confused now. 

„All of you…?“

„Yes, all of us.“

„What does that mean?“

"Recently I spoke to Joe on the phone and of course we talked about C at some point. I said I’m glad, that Eve is having you and told him how grateful I am that you take care for her so well. Then he asked me, if there was more between you and her than just friendship.“

„Did you tell gossip Joe how I feel about her???“ 

„No. I told him, that nothing was going on. But then Joe replied, maybe it would be better if something was going on. In his opinion this would make it easier for Eve to let C go.“

„What??? That’s what he said???“

„Not just him. I thought about it and then I agreed to his theory. Then we’ve been curious how Chris see things. We called him straightaway and asked for his opinion. After discussing the whole situation, we finally came to the same result. Eve will never let C go, unless she falls in love with someone else. And we’ve had no single doubt, that it can only be you.“ 

 

Justin stared at his friend with his eyes wide open.

„I don’t know what to say…“ He stammered. 

Lance continued talking. 

„T, listen. No one is pushing you to make her fall for you. The only thing I am saying is, if you want more than just being friends with her, we are not standing in your way.“ 

 

Eve visited Josh after work. Jake was asleep in his stroller, when they entered his patient’s room. As always Eve dressed her shoes off to lay down next to Josh for a while.

„Hi.“ She said calmly and kissed his lips. 

Then she placed her hand on his chest to feel his heart beating. 

„Funny things first today.“ She announced with a big smile in her face. 

„We’ve had a video conference with Rachel, talking about figures. Currently she’s in Bali, living the best version of her life. However, at some point her boyfriend came into the room. She didn’t notice, as she was wearing headphones. Obviously he wasn’t aware of, that she was having a business call, because when he appeared in the background, he was just wearing very tight briefs and having a massive boner. Mateo choke on his coffee badly. Rachel was abnormally embarrassed when she noticed what just happened. And I didn’t know how I should ever recover from my laughter. It was hilarious.“ 

Eve imagined Josh laughing hard about the story. She was missing to hear him laugh so much. 

„Okay, now the spicy stuff. You remember that gift I received from Lucy in Mexico? Finally I decided giving it a chance. And it was surprisingly good…“

Eve got disturbed, as the door suddenly opened up. In the next second Justin entered the room. 

„Hey.“ She said surprised. 

„Oh. Sorry, M. I didn’t expect you still being here.“ Justin replied.

He came few steps closer. She sat down, smiling at him. 

„Ya, it was a long day in the office.“

Justin smiled back and looked into the stroller. 

„Mama, if you let him sleep now, he won’t be tired for bedtime.“ 

„You’re right. But I just wanted to have an undisturbed moment.“

„I can make a walk with him, if you like?“

„No, it’s fine. I guess I should go home now and let the two of you catch up.“

Both smirked. 

Eve stood up. Then she gave Justin a kiss on his cheek.

„What about Spaghetti Carbonara tonight?“ 

„Sounds good. But we need new Parmesan.“

„Okay, I’ll make a quick stop at the grocery store.“

„Oh, we run out of popcorn, as well. And I need shower gel.“

„The one you always use?“ 

„Yes.“ 

„Got it.“ 

„I’ll give you a call when I’m on my way home.“ 

„Good.“

When Eve left with Jake, Justin sat down at the chair next to Josh’s bed. He looked at him for a moment, before he started to talk.

„We need to have a serious conversation, dude…“ 

Justin made a pause, not knowing how to start his monologue. He thought it was ridiculous talking to his unconscious friend. But still he felt the urge sharing with him what was going on in his head, after his conversation with Lance earlier that day. Out of a sudden his eyes filled with tears. 

„I love your girl so much, that it kills me from inside. Still, I wish nothing more than you waking up. I would do anything to bring you back to her, because you are the only one who can make her happy the way she deserves. But I just can’t. I can’t bring you back and this kills me even more…“

He made a short pause, wiping away his tears. 

„The question is, will you give me your blessing to make her happy my own way? I remember what I promised you. I think about it every day. I don’t want to take her away from you. But she suffers so much, still hoping for a miracle to happen. If there was a chance to take away her pain and give her a good life, would you let me try?“

Eve was in the kitchen, preparing dinner. Jake was awake, sitting in his baby bouncer and watching his mommy. Suddenly her phone rang. She believed it was Justin, to tell her he was on his way home, but it was Lucy instead. 

„Hi.“ Eve answered her phone.

„Hi, what’s up?“

„I’m cooking and you?“

„I’m definitely not cooking.“ 

Eve smiled.

„Hey listen, can we still talk for a minute?“ Lucy added.

„Of course, did something happen?“

„Actually, yes…“

„Then spill.“

Lucy made a short break. 

„I really don’t know how to begin… so I guess it’s the best just telling you… that… Joey and I… are engaged…“ 

„OH MY FUCKING GOODNESS!!!“ Eve immediately screamed.

„Are you… good…?“

„YOU’RE GETTING MARRIEEEED!!!“ Eve cheered again. 

Lucy was deeply relieved, that Eve reacted this way.

„Thank god… I really was afraid telling you…“ Lucy confessed.

„Why on earth you were afraid?! This are amazing news, Lu!!!“

„I know, but… it’s not fair that good things happen to me, while you are… not okay…“ 

„Lucy, this is the biggest nonsense I’ve ever heard!“

„It’s not nonsense, Eve. This summer you and Josh should have your wedding party. My conscience is giving me a really hard time because of this…“ 

„There is no reason feeling this way. Thank to you, I already had the wedding of my dreams. Having this party is not that important to me and you know it.“

„Still I can’t feel happy as I should because all this things happened to you…“  

„Honey, please don’t do this to yourself. Just because my life is a giant shitshow, doesn’t mean I can’t feel happy for you.“

„Are you serious?“

„Yes, I am. Please don’t worry.“ 

„Okay. Thank you for being happy for me.“

„Of course! Now tell me everything!“

Lucy explained how Joey proposed during a romantic candle light dinner and sent her a picture of his engagement ring. 

„Do you already have a date?“

„We didn’t pick the date, yet. But we would like to plan the wedding in September or October at the latest.“ Lucy said.

„So soon?“ Eve said surprised. 

„Ehm… yes… are you okay with that…?“

Eve was thinking about Josh. If he wouldn’t wake up, he would miss the wedding of one of his closest friends. 

As Eve didn’t answer, Lucy turned nervous. 

„Eve…? Are you still there?“

„Yes… yes, of course.“ She replied. „I was just surprised it will happened that fast. But I’m incredibly looking forward it. Please don’t worry.“ 

Some time passed by. Eve was at the office, working on a new project, while Sarah took care for Jake and made a walk with him in the park. Mateo was downtown, meeting a client. Being engrossed in her work, Eve frightened as her cell started ringing. It was Josh’s doctor. 

„Yes?“

„Hello Mrs. Chasez.“

„Did something happen?“

„No.“

„Then what is it?“ 

„We need to talk.“

Eve’s heart skipped a beat. 

„No, we don’t.“ She replied coldhearted. 

„Mrs. Chasez…“ 

„I have nothing to discuss with you, doctor. Unless you find a way to wake up my husband.“ 

The same night, Eve brought some Chinese food, as it was too late for cooking dinner. When she entered the house with Jake in his baby seat, Justin was sitting at the kitchen island in front of his MacBook and surfing in the internet. 

„Hi.“ Eve said and came closer to kiss his cheek. 

„Hi…“

Justin looked tensed. He closed his MacBook and watched her putting out the food containers out of the plastic bag.

„Let me bring Jake into bed before we eat.“

Then she put Jake out of his seat and brought him upstairs. When she returned into the kitchen, Justin continued staring at her. 

„You’re acting weird tonight. Did something happen?“ She asked irritated. 

„You tell me.“ He replied. 

Eve sat down next to him at the kitchen counter and frowned. 

„I have no idea what you’re talking about.“

Justin thought how to start the conversation, without making her freak out. 

„I was at the clinic this morning, visiting C. That’s when I met his doctor.“

Eve rolled her eyes. She immediately felt annoyed. 

„Just do me a favor and shut up.“ She said, sounding more bitchy then she intended to be. 

„Since when we talk to each other like this?“ Justin asked, feeling offended. 

Eve got a bad conscience.  

„I’m sorry.“

„Why you hung up without listening to the doctor?“ Justin wanted to know next. 

„You exactly know why. And he does as well.“

Justin closed his eyes for a second and took another deep breath. 

„How long will you live like that, Eve?“ 

„Forever, if necessary.“

Justin grabbed his face, trying hard not losing control of the situation. 

„You can’t wait forever for him to wake up.“

„Why not, Justin?“

„Because it makes no sense.“

„Oh.“ She said cynically. „Since when you and I are not at the same page anymore?“ 

„Eve, please listen to me. It’s been almost a half year. Are you aware of, how incredibly small the chances are for him to wake up by now?“ 

Eve scoffed. 

„Well done, Justin. If your plan was ruining my night, you officially reached your goal.“ 

Her eyes filled with tears. She stood up, went into the living room and let herself fall at the sofa. 

Justin sighed. He knew there was no way this conversation would end up well. He went into the living room and sat down next to her. 

„Please listen to me.“ He said as calm as possible. „This situation is breaking my heart as much as it breaks yours. But it’s time to let go.“

Eve shook her head, while tears were running down her cheeks. 

„I’m fine with the situation, Justin. At least I can see him and touch him and telling him how my day was. It’s not how I imagined my life with him, but if this is how things are, I am okay with that.“

Now it was Justin who was shaking his head.

„This is not a life, Eve. Do you believe this is what he wanted for himself? Being in this unbearable condition forever?“ 

Eve started crying badly. Justin pulled her into his arms and held her close. 

„I can’t. I can’t live without him. Don’t you understand…?“ She whined. 

„That’s not true, sweety. You’re are already living without him for a very long time. You just don’t want to face the truth…“  

 

Eve went to bed early the same night. She barely ate anything and couldn’t focus on the series Justin and her started watching after dinner. She was thinking over and over again about the fact, that no one believed in Josh’s recovery anymore. Even Justin lost his hope. But letting Josh go was still something completely unimaginable for Eve. How could she ever forgive herself for doing that? 

When Eve was asleep, Justin took a beer out of the fridge and returned to the sofa. Then he started a video call with Lance.

„It’s time.“ He said, when Lance picked up.

„It’s time for what?“ Lance asked irritated. 

„To help her out of this tragedy.“ 

„You’re talking in riddles, dude.“

„I want her.“ 

„Old news. What the hell are you trying to say?“ 

„I’ll break my promise which I gave to you and C.“

„Good for you. Do you have a plan?“

„No. I guess I could need some help…“

Lance started grinning shady.

„You know what? I have an idea…“

It was Friday night. Eve just returned from the hospital and brought Jake into bed. She wondered were Justin was, as he usually finished his work earlier on Fridays. When she dressed into some comfortable clothes and returned downstairs, the front door just opened up.

„Here you are.“ Eve said, seeing Justin entering the house. 

He smiled at her, as she was coming closer. Then she gave him a peck on his cheek, as she always did. 

„Hey listen, I won’t be here for dinner.“ He started talking. 

Eve raised her eyebrows. She was truly surprised. He didn’t miss a single dinner with her since he moved in. In the same moment she realized, it was beyond normal that he was spending all his evenings at home with her. 

„Do you have plans?“ She asked. 

Justin turned a little uneasy. 

„Ehm, ya. I met my team this morning in the office. And then I run into an old friend.“ He started explaining.

„Which friend?“ 

„Her name is Denise. I met her at the set of one of my movies.“

Eve became very curious. 

„Is she an old flame?“ 

Justin chuckled. 

„Not exactly.“

Eve raised her eyebrows. 

„Not exactly?“

„I wasn’t single at that time, you know.“

„Oh. I see. But… you are now…“

„Ya… I am.“ Justin answered. 

Eve needed a moment to reply. Suddenly she felt completely uncomfortable. 

„Okay. So, I’ll just order a pizza or something.“

Then she turned around and went into the kitchen.

„Eve… why is this bothering you? He’s not yours…“ She was thinking. 

Justin followed her. She grabbed a menu out of one drawer. While staring at it, she was trying to process Justin’s date.“

„Why you need the menu?“ He asked, crossing his arms. 

„Hm?“

„You eat always the same. Without any exceptions.“

„But today I feel like trying something new.“ She lied.

„Oh really?“

„Yes, really.“

Justin noticed she was tensed and needed to focus not to smile. 

„So… you’re okay when I go out tonight?“

Eve’s heart dropped. She tried very hard to stay cool.

„Of course I am. Why shouldn’t I?“ She asked back. 

„Dunno. I just want to make sure, you’re not disappointed, that I won’t be around tonight.“

„That’s ridiculous. If you want to go out with your friend, then go out. Please don’t believe I expect you being with me at home every day. You have an own life and I’m totally fine with that.“ She lied. 

Justin looked at her for a moment. She was pretty convincing. Maybe a little too convincing.“

„Okay, so… I need to have shower and change my clothes.“

Eve cracked a smile and nodded. Then he disappeared upstairs. 

„Fuck. Fuck, fuck, fuck…!“ Eve was thinking. 

Half hour later, Justin appeared in the kitchen again. Eve was sitting at the kitchen island, still holding the menu in her hand. She was lost in thoughts, trying to understand why Justin’s date was giving her such a hard time.

„Are you still thinking about ordering something new?“ He teased. 

She looked at him and her heart dropped once again. 

„Oh no… oh no…“ 

Justin shaved his face. He was dressed completely in black, wearing jeans and leather shoes, a slim button down shirt and a sexy leather jacket. Eve couldn’t remember when she saw him dressed up for the last time. He was looking brutally handsome. 

„Stop staring, you needy idiot!“ Eve was blaming herself in her thoughts. 

Justin decided bringing her out of her comfort zone a little more. 

„You like what you see?“ He asked sassy. 

Eve felt caught and immediately flushed. 

„Ehm… sure… you look nice… Denise will be thrilled…“

„You think she will?“

Eve nodded. He gave her a sexy smile.

And you’re really okay when I go?“

„Yes, I’m good. Enjoy yourself.“ She lied again. 

„Okay, so… see you later.“

Then he turned around and left the house. Eve looked into the hall and made sure he was gone. Then she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. 

„FUCK!!!“ 

Mateo was at a birthday party when his phone suddenly rang. It was Eve. He wondered why she was calling him that late and looked for a quiet place to talk.

„Did something happen?“ He asked, being worried. 

„Yap…“ Eve slurred. 

Mateo frowned. 

„Are you drunk?“

„Tipsy.“

„Why you call me, being tipsy? You know I’m at a birthday party.“ 

„Because I’m losing my shit…“

Mateo sighed.

„Okay. Tell me what happened.“

Eve took a deep breath before answering. 

„Justin went on a date with an old flame…“

„Right now?“

„Yes. Right now.“

„And… is that a problem?“

„Yap…“

„Why is that a problem, Eve?“ He asked, already knowing the answer.

„Because I don’t like, that he is seeing another woman.“

„Damn it, Eve! You lied to me!“

„What?!“

„After what happened with Sarah, I asked you, if you have feelings for him. And you lied into my face, pretending this wasn’t the case!“ 

„Matty, stop blaming me! I am very obviously very confused right now!“ 

„You are not confused! You are in love with him!“

Eve was shocked. Could it really be true? Was she in love with Justin without noticing it?“ 

„What do I do now, Matty? The imagination him spending the night with her is driving me crazy.“ 

„Then why you let him go, for god’s sake?!“

„Because he’s a free man! He can do whatever he wants!“ 

„Does it mean, he didn’t ask you, if you were okay with that?“ 

„He did. But I lied and said I was okay.“

„Great job, you moron!“ 

„Calling me names is not helping!“

„Then write him and say that you changed your mind.“

„What?!“

„Write him how you really feel. This is the only option you have, Eve.“

„I can’t do that, Matty. I just can’t…“

„Okay, Nevermind. But don’t you dare whining, when he doesn’t come back home tonight!“ 

Mateo hung up. Eve was sitting at the sofa, with a glass white wine in her hand. She put the glass at the coffee table, grabbed a pillow and screamed inside of it. 

„This was a bad idea. It’s not working. Why on earth did I listen to you?“ Justin blamed Lance.

Both were sitting in the backyard in Lance and Michael’s outdoor lounge. Michael just brought some fruit cocktails and sat down next to his husband.

„The miserable look in your face is telling me, she still didn’t call.“ Michael teased.

Justin grabbed his virgin cocktail and took a big sip. 

„Nope.“ 

„It was a stupid idea.“ Michael blamed Lance, as well. 

Lance rolled his eyes. 

„Just give her more time.“ 

„For what?“ Justin asked annoyed. 

„To realize, that she shouldn’t let you go!“ 

„Come on, hon. We are too old for this. Trying to make your crush jealous, to find out if she’s loving you back? This is really low…“ Michael continued blaming. 

Justin grabbed his face.

„It is unbelievably low… why on earth I did that…?“

„Could you please stop freaking out? It’s too late for regrets!“ Lance replied. 

„I lied to her. God… I’m worse than a stupid teenager…“ 

Michael laughed. 

„Look what happened to you, Timberlake…“

„Stop making things worse!“ Lance warned his husband. 

„Okay, let me have a real drink at least. I won’t survive this night without alcohol.“ 

In the next second Justin received a text message. Everybody suddenly turned quiet and stared at each other.

„What the hell are you waiting for??? Check your phone!!!“ Michael squeaked. 

Hectically Justin unlocked his cell. 

Then his eyes and his mouth went wide open.

„I lied. I’m not good.“ [M]

„T??? Talk to me!!!“ Lance said impatiently. 

Justin gave him his phone, processing hard. 

„Oh my god… oh my god… OH.MY.GOD!!! IT WORKED!!!“ Lance started cheering. 

„NO FUCKING WAY!“ Michael replied, taking the phone out of his hand and reading the message.

„HOLY FUCK! YOUR STUPID PLAN REALLY WORKED!“ 

Justin was staring into space, hardly believing what just happened. 

„What now…?“ He stammered, when Lance and Michael calmed down somehow. 

Lance gave him a naughty smile. 

„Nothing. You let her wait.“

Half our passed since Eve sent Justin a message. She saw, that he read it immediately and wondered why he didn’t reply. Feeling hurt and embarrassed, that Justin just ignored her confession, she started regretting that she listened to Mateo. 

„You’re so pathetic…“ She was blaming herself, while taking another big sip of wine. 

Then she suddenly heard the front door opening up. Immediately she stopped breathing. Slowly she turned her head, seeing Justin entering the room. 

„Oh.my.god. He’s home. How on earth he managed this within thirty minutes?“

Eve was staring at him as he was coming closer. She felt paralyzed, having no idea how to behave. Justin sat down next to her, noticing her glass of wine. Then their eyes met. Eve was wondering, if he could hear her heart pounding wildly against her chest. Justin’s condition was quite the same. He looked calm from outside, but his heartbeat reached a critical level. 

„Do something! You can’t just stare at him like that!“ Eve was thinking. 

She suddenly looked away and put her empty glass at the coffee table. Then she moved closer to his body, crawled into his arm and rested her head at his chest. With her arm she embraced his waist tightly. Then she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. He smelled good. He always smelled so good. 

Justin didn’t expect her acting this way. But he liked her gesture of affection. He put his arm around her body and kissed the top of her head gently. They held each other like this for a while without saying a single word. 

„Will we talk about your text message, Eve?“ Justin asked after some time. 

Again her heart accelerated. She knew they needed to have this conversation and that she needed to be honest. 

„Okay…“ She replied.

„So, you lied…“ Justin said. 

„Yes.“ 

„Why you lied?“

„Because I’m a coward.“

Justin started smiling, thinking it was terribly cute how she explained herself. 

„What encouraged you writing me then?“ He wanted to know next. 

„Matty and the wine.“ 

„Matty?“

„Yes, I called him and asked for advice.“ 

„Why you needed advice?“

„Because I was jealous.“

„What made you jealous?“ 

„The imagination someone else having you.“ 

Justin smiled harder now and kissed her head again. 

„No one else is having me.“ 

„No one else?“ 

She noticed his heart accelerating. 

„Before I answer this, could you look at me, please?“ He asked. 

Eve raised her head slowly, being terribly excited. 

Justin cupped her face with one hand and looked deep into her eyes. 

„In case you’re still ignoring all screaming signs: I’m all yours, Eve.“

She felt like passing out any second. 

„Is this really happening???“ She was asking herself. 

Eve was breathing deep now, staring back into his eyes. Then she focused on his perfect shaped lips and was desperately longing to taste them. Slowly she was closing the gab between their faces. But before their lips met, Justin pulled back and kissed the tip of her nose instead. 

„Not like this.“ He whispered. 

Eve didn’t try to hide her frustration. 

„Why not, Justin?“ 

„Because you’re drunk.“

„Tipsy.“

Justin smiled calmly and caressed her cheek. 

„I know you well enough. You’re drunk.“

„Why does it matter?“ 

„Because when you kiss me, I want it to mean something.“ 

„It means something.“ 

Justin needed all his strength to resist. He wished for so long to feel her lips on his. But he knew this was not the right moment. 

„Look. Here’s the deal. If you still wanna kiss me tomorrow, I will let you.“

Eve’s face lightened up. 

„It’s almost midnight.“

He chuckled. She laid her head back at his chest and hugged him tight. He responded her embrace. 

„I’m relieved that we clarified things.“ She said.

„Yes. me, too…“

She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. In the next moment she fell into a deep sleep. 

Eve woke up in Justin’s arm on the sofa early next morning. She glanced at the baby monitor, standing at the coffee table and noticed, that Jake was still sleeping peacefully. 

Then she looked at Justin, thinking about what happened the prior night. Suddenly she felt butterflies in her belly. Without even noticing, she was smiling all over her face. She started caressing his cheek softly to wake him up. 

Justin opened his eyes and immediately started smiling. Waking up with her in his arm made him nothing else but happy. 

„Hi.“ He said calmly, enjoying her caresses. 

He turned his head a little to kiss the palm of her hand. 

„Hi.“ She replied, smiling back. 

„Are you good?“

Eve nodded. 

„Are you regretting what happened last night?“ 

She shook her head. His smile couldn’t get any bigger.

„Good. Because, if you wanna kiss me now, I won’t stop you. 

Eve giggled. 

„I better wait for the perfect moment.“

Justin raised his eyebrows.

„And that’s not now because…?“

She bit her lower lip playfully.

„That’s not how things work, Justin. We didn’t have a single date, yet.“ 

He scoffed. 

„You wanna date me first?!“

„Absolutely.“ 

„But yesterday you didn’t care about dating.“

„And you decided missing the chance. So blame it on you.“ She teased. 

Justin suddenly turned himself and made her lie on her back. He bent his upper body above hers and cupped her face with one hand. Both were still smiling at each other from one ear to another. Then he kissed her forehead gently. 

„Fine. Let’s date.“

Jake woke up in the next moment. Justin released Eve and she hurried upstairs. He stayed at the sofa and processed the new situation. His conscience was killing him when he was thinking about Josh. But resisting Eve was no longer an option.

While taking care for Jake, Eve was also lost in thoughts. It was unbelievable what she learned about herself in the moment, when Justin told her about his date. The fear to lose him to another woman really gave her a hard time. It also scared her, that he was able making her feel this way. But on the other hand it was thrilling her badly, that all he wanted was her.

Of course she was also thinking about Josh. Although nothing happened between her and Justin yet, she felt like a ruthless cheater. Opening up for Justin meant, that she was giving up on Josh. If she was honest to herself, she was having the same doubts as everybody else for a very long time now. She read a lot about coma patients in the last couple of months and knew all facts. After her recent argument with Justin about Josh’s condition, she started making peace with the circumstance, that he would never be okay again. But for some reason, which she couldn’t explain, it still felt completely wrong to let him go. 

After feeding Jake and changing his diaper, Eve took a quick shower and dressed into some fresh comfortable clothes. Justin did the same in the meanwhile. Then he started making breakfast. Eve and Jake joint him in the kitchen few minutes later. 

„So…“ Justin started talking, while making scrambled eggs. 

Eve raised her eyebrows, looking at him.

„So, what?“ 

„You and I go out tonight.“ He announced with a big grin in his face. 

She smiled back.

„With Jake?“ 

„I love my little bro. But it’s not a date when you bring another guy.“

Eve laughed. 

„I see your point. So, what do we do with him?“

„Lance and Michael will take him.“

„Did you already ask?“ 

„Not yet. But I’m positive they will do anything what’s necessary to give us some quality time.“ 

Eve frowned. 

„What makes you sure?“

Justin gave her a smugly look.

„Let’s say, both of them play in my team.“

Eve couldn’t be more confused.

„Justin, what are you talking about?“ 

„They like the idea of you and me…“ 

„Okay… but why?“

„Because it makes sense.“ 

 

Eve visited Josh in the afternoon in the hospital, while Justin was taking care for Jake. She was feeling very uneasy and needed a moment, before opening the door to his patient's room.

„Oh Eve… how will you explain to your husband that you’re falling for his best friend? This is completely insane…“ She was thinking. 

„Is something wrong?“ She suddenly heard a male voice saying.

She turned around and saw Josh’s doctor. Instead of replying, she just stared at him for a moment.

„Mrs. Chasez? Are you alright?“ He asked again. 

„I know, that nobody believes he will ever wake up.“ She suddenly said. 

The doctor frowned and crossed his arms.

„You included?“ 

Eve didn’t know what to say. She didn’t dare admitting, that she lost hope. Still the doctor knew what was going on in her mind.

„I’m proud of you, that you see things clearly now.“ He continued talking. 

„This doesn’t change anything, doctor. I’m not letting him go.“ She replied. 

„And I’m not trying to convince you to do so. But I know, that deep in your heart you are aware of how selfish it is to keep him alive for your own interests.“

Eve’s mouth got open.

„Did you really just say that?“ 

„Just be honest to yourself, Eve.“

Then he turned around and left her alone. 

Eve took a deep breath. Then she entered the room. Instead of lying down next to Josh, she sat down at the stool next to his bed. Then she took his hand and kissed its back softly. 

She sat there for a while, being lost in thoughts. She wondered if things between her and Justin could ever work out, if Josh was still there. How should she visit her husband every day, kissing his lips and lying next to him, when there was another man in her life? The imagination was completely surreal.

Then she started talking. 

„Justin is an incredible man. I owe him so much. He saved me from insanity, Josh. He saved me and our son. I never believed he could be this way. That he would always put us first. That he would never refuse a request. His whole life is turning around Jake’s and my wellbeing…“

Eve suddenly started crying. She cried for a while, still holding Josh’s hand. 

„I realized that I don’t wanna lose him, Josh. The imagination not having him in my life anymore is scaring me. I don’t want to lose him to someone else. I want him to be mine…“

As expected Lance and Michael agreed taking care for Jake the same night. When Eve was in her bedroom, making herself ready for her date with Justin, Lance showed up to pick up the baby. Justin opened the front door and let him in.

„Where’s Eve?“ Lance asked excited. 

„Upstairs.“ 

„And how do you feel?“ 

„Like having the first date of my life. It’s unreal.“ Justin confessed. 

He put Jake into his baby seat and kissed his little head before giving him to Lance. 

„When you feed him before midnight, he should sleep the whole night. I put his favorite toys and his soother into the diaper bag. He needs it to fall asleep.“ 

„Okay, daddy. Got it.“ 

Justin raised his eyebrows. He didn’t know how he should feel about being called that way. Lance noticed his irritation. 

„Don’t give me that look, bro. You’re taking care for that kid from the day he was born. And you’re crazy in love with his mom. That makes you his dad.“ 

Justin smiled. Then he looked at Jake and kissed his head once again. Jake smiled back happily.

„Eve already said goodbye to him. You can go.“ 

„Okay. I’ll bring him back tomorrow after breakfast.“

„Thank you, man.“ 

„Anytime.“

Eve was standing in her closet just wearing her underwear, not knowing which dress to choose. Then she grabbed her phone and started a video call with Mateo. He picked up immediately.

„Are you naked?“ He asked irritated, just seeing her face and her undressed shoulders. 

„Almost. And that’s why I need you.“ 

Mateo frowned. 

„Are you losing your mind now?“

„Yes, kind of. Justin and I are going out tonight and I need advice what to wear.“

„What the hell did I miss???“ Mateo suddenly squeaked. 

„I did what you told me and made him come back home to me.“ 

„No.Fucking.Way.“ 

„Yes.“

„WHAT HAPPENED THEN???“ 

Eve bit her lower lip and smiled sheepishly. 

„Well, not much. But it looks like he really likes me.“

„Liking you is a massive understatement.“

Eve smiled brighter.

„He said he’s mine.“ 

„And did you also say anything…?“ 

„I tried to kiss him but he didn’t let me…“ 

Mateo stopped breathing. 

„WHY THE HELL HE DIDN’T LET YOU???“

„Because I was drunk.“

 

„Good lord almighty! What is happening to that man?! Since when he’s so reasonable?!“ 

„I have no idea. But it’s damn cute, isn’t it?“

„I’m still processing.“ 

„However, I said I wanna date him and he agreed. Lance and Mikey are having Jake. And I have no idea what to wear…“ 

„Okay, okay. I understand. Show me what you got.“ 

Eve turned the camera into her closet.

„I don’t wanna see your dresses, dummy. Show me the underwear you’ve chosen first.“

Eve looked into the camera again.

„Why?“

„Because I’m afraid you put on one of your boring cotton panties.“ 

Eve rolled her eyes. 

„I’m not planning to sleep with him, Matty!“

„Why the hell not???“

Eve suddenly turned sad, not knowing what to say. 

„Oh darling… is this because of Josh?“

She nodded. 

„Okay, I got it. No sex for JT tonight. Show me the dresses then.“ 

„I know I’m acting like a disloyal asshole. But I need to tell you, that she’s falling for you badly. So don’t you dare screwing this up, Timberlake!“ [Matty]

Justin was in his bathroom doing his hair, when the message appeared in his display. He smirked. 

„So? I’m having your blessing?“ [JT]

„Yes, because all I want is her being happy again. And you’re the only one who can manage that.“ [Matty]

„I promise not screwing things up.“ [JT]

„Good. And keep your dick under control. Tonight is not the night…“ [Matty]

Justin was wearing and off-white button down shirt and a grey suit with white sneakers. When he was ready he went downstairs and waited for Eve in the kitchen. To distract himself from his excitement, he sat down at a stool with his cell in his hand. 

Short time later, he heard Eve coming downstairs. He stood up and went into the hallway. As his eyes met her, his mouth got immediately open.

Eve was wearing a black pencil skirt and a white crop top. Her hair was waved and put together into a lose updo. She decided to wear her nerdy glasses tonight and put on expressive make up with devil red lips. 

As she arrived downstairs, she smiled at Justin, who was still processing hard. Then she put on her black ankle strap heels. When she was ready, she came another step closer, standing in front of him now. 

„You look very handsome, Mr. Timberlake.“ She flirted, knowing very well, that her look just made him speechless.

Usually he was seeing her at home without any make-up and messy hair, wearing comfy sweatpants and random shirts. But tonight she wanted to look good for him and felt incredibly sexy in her outfit. Her self confidence was making his head spin.

Slowly Justin raised his right hand and touched her chin carefully. 

„You’re taking my breath away.“ He almost whispered, looking deep into her eyes. 

She felt countless butterflies in her belly and got lost in his gaze for few seconds. 

„This was my plan.“ She replied, with a naughty smile. 

He smiled back, liking her sass. 

„Are you ready to go?“

She nodded.

Then he took her hand, went with her to the front door and stepped outside. 

„Did you organize a driver?“ Eve asked surprised, seeing a black Mercedes S class parking in front of the house. 

„And some security.“ He replied. 

„Is this really necessary?“ She asked, being a little concerned now. 

„Going out on Saturday night in L.A. is something different than having lunch with you in a diner. And even then the paparazzo found us…“ 

Eve understood the struggle and gave him a calm smile. He went with her to the car and opened the backseat door for her. When they were sitting inside, he grabbed her hand again, raised it and kissed her fingers gently. 

„You’re so beautiful, Eve.“ He said. 

She flushed a little, still dealing with her butterflies. 

A bodyguard was sitting next to the driver. They wished the couple a good evening, but didn’t disturb them during the whole drive. Eve didn’t know where they were going and decided asking was senseless, as Justin wouldn’t tell anyway.

When they finally reached their destination, Eve was truly impressed. 

„Really? Wolfgang Puck’s Cut…?“

„Have you been here before?“ He asked. 

„No. Josh wanted to go once, but even with Eric’s help it was unreal how long they wanted us to wait for a table. How did you manage that, Justin?“ 

He smiled self satisfied. 

„Podwall knows people. But I am who I am.“ 

Eve looked at him and raised her eyebrows. 

„Bragger.“ 

Justin chuckled. 

 

All of them left the car at the Valet and went inside. The security guys stayed at the bar close to Eve and Justin’s table. 

When they got seated, Justin ordered a bottle of French red wine.

„Of course, Mr. Timberlake.“ The waitress said and left them alone for a moment.

„I didn’t forget you prefer white wine. But this is a steakhouse.“ He explained. 

„Of course, Mr. Timberlake.“ She teased and made him smile. 

Both ordered lobster rolls for starters and Tomahawk steaks with potato purée and mushrooms for main course. The food tasted delicious. Eve enjoyed every bite to its full extent.

„This was amazing, Justin. Thank you for bringing me here.“ She said, when she finished. 

„I hope you left some space for dessert. Their dark chocolate soufflé is mind-blowing.“ Justin replied. 

„There’s always space left for something sweet.“ She smiled. 

After having dessert, Eve felt completely overeaten but happy. 

„I got some news.“ Justin suddenly announced. 

„What news?“ Eve asked, finishing her glass of wine. 

„Lance asked me, if I was interested doing a gig in his club.“

„Really?“ Eve said surprised, believing that Lance’s club was not exactly the place where anyone would expect a performance from Justin. 

„I wanna support his business, you know.“

„This is really exciting! Will you play your new songs?“

„Ya, that’s the deal. Guess it will make the wave.“

„I bet it will. I can’t wait to see you back on stage.“ 

„So, you’re coming?“ 

„Did you forget for some reason that I’m your fangirl?“ 

He smiled sheepishly, shaking his head. 

„I’m flattered.“

„No, you’re not.“

„I really am. Knowing that you genuinely support what I do means a lot.“ 

„What about Jess? Did she like your music?“

„She liked it because she felt obligated to like it. It’s not the same.“

„I see.“ 

„Talking about Jess… I’m worrying about how she wanna react when she finds out…“ 

„Don’t worry about her. She believed something was going on long time before something was going on.“

„What do you mean?“ 

„When I told her we’re living together, she was sure I was having a hidden agenda.“ 

„Did you have a hidden Agenda, Justin?“ 

He shook his head. 

„I swear I didn’t. All I wanted was being there for you and Jake.“

Eve smiled. 

„Still, here we are now… dating.“

He smiled back, also finishing his wine. 

„And I’m enjoying this very much.“

„Same here.“

„Do yo wanna go somewhere else for another drink?“

She nodded, still smiling. 

Justin asked for the check. Their driver made sure that the car was waiting in front of the building. Then he brought them to Justin’s favorite bar called Lilly Rose.

„I never heard from that place before. This is really nice.“ Eve said when they went in. 

The security followed them with little distance. The bar was having a cheesy and colorful design, with lusters, old big framed pictures on the walls and cozy seats and sofas. The place was crowded, but Justin knew the owner and asked for a free table, when he planned their date. 

„They have excellent Bourbon.“ Justin explained, when they sat down next to each other on a red sofa in front of a small coffee table. „But they do girly cocktails as well.“ 

Eve smiled. 

„I go for a girly cocktail.“ 

Time passed by and both got a little drunk after a while. Eve couldn’t keep her eyes away from Justin. 

„He’s so abnormally hot in this suit. Why you didn’t listen to Matty and changed that boring panties…?“ She was blaming herself in her thoughts. 

„What are you thinking?“ Justin asked curiously, noticing that she got lost in thoughts. 

Eve flushed a little and bit her lower lip. He started grinning. 

„Tell me.“ 

Eve shook her head.

„Why not?“ 

„It’s embarrassing.“

„Okay, now I really need to know…“

Eve cleared her throat, thinking about, if she was brave enough to tell him. 

„What do you think I’ve been thinking?“

Justin liked her little game and moved his head closer to hers. Her heart immediately started beating fast. Then he came even closer, his lips almost touching her ear. His breath on her skin gave her a shiver. He smiled dirty, as he noticed. 

„You think… I look good…“ he whispered.

„Yes…“ She whispered back. „What else…?“

„You think I might look good naked, as well…“ 

Eve’s mouth got open. She didn’t expect him saying something like that. 

„That’s not what I think. That’s something I know…“ She replied boldly. 

Justin smiled harder. 

„It’s a while ago you saw me naked…“

„But I still remember every detail.“

„Every detail?“

„Oh yes…“ 

„Tell me what you’ve really been thinking, Eve…“

Again she bit her lip. 

„That I should have listened to Matty…“

„What did Matty say?“

„To choose my underwear wisely…“

Justin raised his eyebrows. 

„But you didn’t…?

Eve shook her head. 

„Do you wanna know a secret?“ 

„Yes.“

„I don’t care about underwear. In best case there isn’t any…“ 

„Is that true?“

He nodded.

„I’m gonna keep that in my mind.“

Both smiled sexy at each other. 

„I like what is happening here, Eve. But I don’t wanna rush things.“ Justin said and unintentionally killed the mood.

„Oh god… he must think you’re needy…“ Eve thought, looking away. 

Justin immediately noticed that he made her feel uncomfortable. Carefully he grabbed her chin and turned her face back into his direction. 

„I think you need more time.“ He explained. 

„Do I?“ She was asking herself. 

He kissed her forehead gently.

„Let’s go home, beautiful. It’s getting late.“

Sitting next to Justin at the backseat on their way home, Eve was still tensed. He was having his arm around her shoulders, but she didn’t dare leaning into him. Justin regretted that he made her feel this way. 

When they arrived home, Eve’s tension reached its peak. She looked for the keys in her clutch, standing next to him at the front door. Then she opened up. When they entered the house, she glanced at him shyly. 

„This was really nice. Thank you for taking me out.“ 

„M? Are we good?“ He asked carefully. 

„Of course we are.“ She said, forcing a smile. „Good night, Justin.“ 

Then she put off her shoes, turned around and went upstairs. He watched her disappear and deeply sighed, when he heard her bedroom door closing. 

Eve sat down at the edge of the bed, staring into space. Her tension eased down slowly. 

„Why is he keeping you on distance?“ She thought. 

There was a gentle knock at her door and brought her back to reality. Eve stopped breathing for a second. Then she went to the door and opened up. 

Justin’s excitement was almost killing him. He was standing in front of her, looking deep into her eyes, while she was waiting for him to say something. 

„Look… I don’t know how things work… I didn’t have a date in ages… you’re the first woman I’m dating after Jess… I’m sorry that I messed it up…“ 

Eve’s heart was immediately melting. His insecurity was nothing else but sweet. 

„You’ve been on a date yesterday…“ She said, smiling at him. 

Justin flushed. 

„Ehm… about that… things were a little different as I let you believe.“ Justin stammered. 

Eve frowned. 

„Little different?“ 

Justin grabbed his face and sighed. 

„I didn’t have a date. I was with Lance and Michael…“ 

Eve’s confusion couldn’t get any worse.

„I don’t understand.“  

„I let you believe that I have a date to see how you would react…“ 

„WHAT?!“ 

„It was Lance’s idea…“ 

Eve stared at him in disbelief. 

„This must be a joke, right?!“ 

„Unfortunately not…“

„How old are you?! Twelve?!“ 

„I’m sorry. I know it wasn’t fair, but…“

„I was a mess, Justin!!! You let me suffer for hours!!!“ 

„I really didn’t know what I was doing… please believe me it wasn’t my intention to make you feel bad.“

„Of course it was!!! You made me jealous on purpose!!!“ 

„I’m so sorry, Eve. Please forgive me…“ 

„NO!“ She said angrily and slammed the door in front of his face. 

 

Justin stared at the closed door, asking himself how on earth he could mess things up so badly. 

Eve rushed into her bathroom and slammed the door as well. She was out of mind and needed a second to calm down. 

„I know about your sneaky plan to make me jealous. Shame on you, Lance Bass!“ [Eve]

„How did you find out?“ [Lance]

„He confessed, but blamed it on you!“ [Eve]

„Rat.“ [Lance]

„Both of you are!!!“ [Eve]

„Are you really mad because of this?“ [Lance]

„YES!!!“ [Eve]

„So I better don’t ask about your date…“ [Lance]

„Right! You better don’t!“ [Eve]

Justin was lying on his bed, still wearing his clothes. Suddenly his phone rang. It was Lance. He immediately picked up. 

„Is something with Jake?“

„The baby is fine. But you’re obviously not…“

„Why would you say that?“ 

„Eve just accused me for my sneaky plan.“ 

Justin sighed with deep frustration. 

„Why you told her?“ Lance wanted to know. 

„Because I’m an idiot. I told her she was my first date after Jess and then she pointed out, I was having a date yesterday night. So I confessed that I didn’t.“

„Jesus, you’re really an idiot. How bad is it?“

„Pretty bad. She slammed her bedroom door into my face.“

„How on earth you could let that happen?!“ 

„Stop making me feel worse than I already do!“ 

Lance sighed. 

„You need a plan to calm her down.“

„I know. Any ideas?“

„Oh no, my friend. I’m not helping you again!“ 

„But you brought me into this situation!“

„You brought yourself into this situation!“ 

„Lansten!“

Lance rolled his eyes. 

„Okay, listen…“ 

Eve woke up late in the next morning. When she remembered what happened the prior night, her stomach dropped.

„Shit… you overreacted…“ She was thinking. 

She grabbed her face and took a deep breath. Then she stood up and made herself ready. After dressing herself into some comfortable clothes, she opened the door to go downstairs. Suddenly she saw a beautiful bouquet of pink peonies standing in a vase in front of her door. Eve’s heart immediately accelerated. There was also a small card on top of the flowers. Carefully she took the card, opened it and read the handwritten note:

I love you. T

Eve’s heart turned thousand summersaults. She was shocked and deeply touched and the same time. Her hands begun shaking. 

„You must be dreaming…“ She was thinking. 

She read the words over and over again, until she processed what just happened. Then she put the note at the flowers at her vanity table.

„What now, Eve? What will you do now?“ 

Justin was in the kitchen, waiting for his second coffee to be ready. He was wearing grey sweatpants and a black muscle shirt. His hair was a little messy and his beard was slowly coming back. He was lost in thoughts when he suddenly saw Eve entering the kitchen. He looked at her, while his heart skipped a beat. She stopped walking and stared back at him. He could see the excitement in her eyes. 

Out of the blue she rushed into his direction. She pressed her body against his and fell around his neck. Then she stood on her toes and kissed his lips. Justin immediately responded. He embraced her body and pushed her even closer to his chest. As she opened her lips for him, his tongue carefully slid inside and met hers. 

„He’s so delicious…“ Eve was thinking, being completely lost in the moment. 

Justin mind got dizzy, but in a very pleasant way. He tried to focus on not getting hard, but it was hopeless. She noticed his excitement and smiled into his mouth. 

„What…?“ He whispered, grinning back. 

„You like this a little too… hard…“  

„I do… what about you…?“

She bit his lower lip playfully, before kissing him again. 

„You said you don’t wanna rush things…“

„I changed my mind.“

Eve giggled. 

„I’m happy to hear that…“

He grinned again. Then he grabbed her thighs and lifted her up. Eve immediately looped her legs around his body, still kissing him. He made her sit at the kitchen island.

Eve giggled again. 

„Really? The kitchen island?“ She talked into his mouth with deep breath. 

„I know you like it… fangirl…“

Eve was more than ready for him. She grabbed the end of his shirt and dressed it off in a second.

„He’s hot as fuck…“ She was thinking and getting wetter as she already was.

„Not fair…“ He complained, giving her a sexy smile. 

„Spoiler… I’m not wearing a bra…“

„You never do at home…“

Justin dressed off her tank top in gazed at her perfect shaped breasts. She bit her lower lip, enjoying his reaction. He lowered his head and let his tongue run down her neck to her right nipple. 

„You taste so good…“ 

Eve leaned back and moaned quietly when he started sucking it gently. She grabbed her right hand into his hair, longing for more. Justin switched sides now, while his hardness slowly started aching. 

„I want you so bad, Eve…“ He groaned. 

Their lips met again, kissing each other hungrily.

In the next second the doorbell rang. 

„This must be a joke.“ Justin panted. 

„Damn it…“ Eve replied in deep frustration. „If we don’t opened up, he’ll let himself in…“

„I’m aware of that.“ 

Justin knelt down to pick up their shirts from the floor. They dressed themselves quickly. Then he helped her down from the kitchen island. 

„Tonight.“ He said and kissed her lips again. 

She nodded with a naughty smile in her face. 

The doorbell rang again. Justin went into the hall to open up.

„Your timing is an asshole!“ He blamed Lance. 

Lance gave him an innocent look. 

„Sorry, man. I can come back in two minutes, if it helps?“ He teased. 

Justin was deeply annoyed but his mood changed, when he looked at Jake, sitting in his baby-seat. He opened the belt and put him onto his arm.

„How are you, tiger? Did you have fun with uncle Lance and uncle Mike?“ 

Jake smiled happily and grabbed Justin’s nose. Justin kissed his head and brought him to Eve into the kitchen. Lance followed them. 

„Hi sweetheart! Mommy missed you so so much!“ Eve cheered and took her baby on her arm. 

„Are we good?“ Lance asked carefully, looking at her with puppy eyes. 

„Yes we are.“ Eve replied and smiled. 

Then she came closer and kissed his cheek.

„Thank you for watching Jake.“ 

„You’re welcome.“ 

„So… what exactly did I disturb here?“ He asked boldly. 

Eve immediately flushed. 

„Oh! Jake just pooped. What a pity, that I can’t have this conversation with you right now.“ She lied and hurried upstairs. 

Lance chuckled and gave his attention to Justin. 

„My dick hates you.“ Justin complained. 

„I can talk to him and ask for forgiveness.“ Lance joked. 

„No, thank you.“ 

„However, I’m happy things between you and her worked out.“

„Ya, me, too… I’m still processing all of this.“ 

„I better go now and let you finish what you’ve started.“ 

„You just brought Jake, remember?“

„Come on dude, that’s not your first baby. You should know how to manage getting sex anyway.“

Justin sighed. 

„There was not much sex after Silas. And after Phin… let’s better not talk about that misery…“ 

Lance raised his eyebrows.

„Okay, tell me. When did you have sex the last time?“ 

Justin looked at him for a moment, trying to remember. 

„Honestly, I don’t know. But I’m pretty sure it was the time when C was still with Jen…“ 

„That’s a nightmare, bro! Why on earth you didn’t hook up with someone when Jess left?“ 

„Because…“

„Because what?“ 

„I didn’t want anyone else but Eve.“ 

Lance smiled.

„Well, your persistence finally paid of.“

Justin smiled back sheepishly. 

„Believe me, I never expected this gonna happen some day.“ 

 

When Lance left, Justin went upstairs and found Eve in Jake’s nursery. She was sitting on the floor at the carpet and playing with her baby. Jake was lying at his belly and pushed over a blocks tower. Then he giggled and made his mommy laugh as well. Justin noticed, that Eve’s mood was different than it was before. Of course Jake always made her smile, but her face looked much happier today. He wondered if this was because of him. He wished nothing more than bringing genuine happiness back into her life. 

„Hey.“ Justin said calmly and sat down in front of Eve. 

She smiled at him. 

„Did you tell Lance what happened?“ She wanted to know. 

„You mean, what didn’t happen because his timing sucks?“ 

She smiled harder. Justin couldn’t resist her. He raised himself a little, moved closer to her body and made her lay down on her back. He pushed himself between her thighs and laid down on top of her. Eve chuckled as he started kissing her right ear and her neck playfully. 

„Justin, no… Jake is watching us…“

„You really want me to stop?“

„No. But it’s not fair turning me on again…“

„It’s not?“

„It’s not…“

He glanced into her eyes. His lips moved down her neckline to her belly. He lifted her top a little to kiss her soft skin. 

„Justin…“ She panted. 

„I’ll stop, if you say so…“ 

Jake was busy with his toys, not paying any attention. 

„This is cruel what you’re doing…“

His lips moved up again, meeting her left nipple through the thin fabric. 

„You are cruel not wearing bras at home. Your girls gave me a pretty hard time in the last couple of months…“

Eve laughed. 

„Really? I didn’t have a clue they’ve been provoking you that much…“

„They did… very naughty girls you have…“ 

He kissed his way up her neck and her chin, before their lips met. Justin pressed his pelvis against her core, getting hard again. 

„Babe… this is getting too hot…“ She moaned into his mouth. 

He stopped kissing her and gave her a sexy smile. 

„You’ll get no sleep tonight.“

Eve laughed again. 

„Oh really?“

„Just wait and see.“

She gave him a loving smile and stroke his hair gently. 

„We didn’t talk about your flowers, yet. And the card…“ She said. 

„No, we didn’t…“ He replied, looking deep into her eyes.

„That note you wrote…“ She said, not exactly knowing how to finish her sentence. 

„Shouldn’t be something you didn’t know before.“ He added. 

Eve smiled shyly. 

„Actually, you never told me how you feel about me.“

„That’s not true.“

„You just told me that you like me more than you should.“

„I believed it was obvious what I was trying to say with that.“ 

„I thought it was just an innocent crush.“ 

Again he smiled.

„It was never just an innocent crush.“ 

She was still playing with his hair.

„I’m falling for you like crazy, Justin.“

He kissed her lips softly.

„I know you do and it gives me a deep thrill. But even if I am few steps ahead, please don’t think I expect you saying or doing things you’re not ready for. I’m not pushing you, Eve. You set the pace, okay?“ 

„Okay.“ 

In the afternoon Justin drove to the supermarket to buy some groceries for dinner and took Jake with him. As Eve was undisturbed, she decided calling Kristin. For some reason she was afraid how her mother would react when she learned about her and Justin. 

„Hi mom.“ Eve said nervously, when Kristin picked up.

„Hello kid. It’s been a while.“ Kristin replied.

„I know. I’m sorry.“ 

„You’re fine. Now tell me how you’re doing.“

Eve started smiling. 

„I’m good, mom. I’m really… good.“

Kristin was silent for a moment, suspecting that something must have happened. Eve never said she was good since Josh was lying in coma. 

„You slept with Justin. Am I right?“ Kristin suddenly asked. 

Eve jaw dropped to the floor. 

„Mom… how on earth… I mean… no… I… I didn’t sleep with him… yet…“ 

Kristin sighed. 

„Since the day you let him move into your house, I knew this would happen sooner or later.“

Eve was still overwhelmed by the situation. 

„Why you knew that?“ 

„Because platonic friendships between women and men do not exist."

Eve didn’t know how to reply. 

„Do you believe you’re doing the right thing? I mean, you’re still a married woman.“ Kristin continued talking. 

„Well, yes… but… Josh’s condition won’t get any better, mom. We already talked about it.“ 

„So, you gave up on him. Is this what you’re saying?“

Eve was turning upset.

„Why you’re trying to give me a bad conscience?“ 

„Because I think you’re doing a mistake.“

„Why?“

„I don’t know. I just feel this is not right.“ 

After bringing Jake into bed, Eve and Justin started cooking dinner together. They did this countless times before, but now Eve enjoyed spending time with him differently. She was distracted from his presence, hardly being able to focus on her tasks. 

„M… the potatoes boil up.“ He said. 

„Oh shit.“

He chuckled.

„Are you good?“ 

„I am. But you’re making me kind of nervous.“ She confessed. 

Justin felt flattered.

„I like that.“ 

She smiled at him and rescued the potatoes. 

After eating together, Eve excitement reached its peak. This night definitively wouldn’t end up in front of the telly. Justin was sitting opposite of her at the dining table, piercing her with his clear blue eyes. 

„Eve…?“

„Yes, Justin?“ 

„You make me happy.“ 

She smiled all over her face. 

„You make me happy, too.“ 

He smiled back, getting a little nervous as well.

„I want you.“

Eve raised her eyebrows. 

„Is this a general statement or are you talking about sex?“ She asked naughty. 

His smile turned dirty.

„Both.“ 

Eve’s heart was beating out of rhythm now. She stared at him, thinking what to do next. Then she stood up, took the empty plates and brought them into the kitchen. Justin watched her walking away and stood up as well. Then he followed her. Her knees turned into jelly as she saw him coming closer. 

He stopped standing behind her and embraced her body tightly. His lips moved to her neck. He took a deep breath, smelling her scent. 

„I said that I want you and you start tidying up?“

She chuckled. 

„You’re the one being obsessed with cleaning. I didn’t expect you would leave the kitchen in this condition.“ She explained. 

„I’m not obsessed with cleaning. I’m obsessed with you…“ 

In the next second he took her onto his arms. Eve laughed, looping her arms around his neck. 

„You’re sure you can focus when the kitchen is a mess?“ She teased. 

„Believe me, I can…“ 

He hurried upstairs, went into his bedroom and laid her down at his bed carefully. Eve was still smiling all over her face. She spread her thighs to let him lie on top of her. His face was close to hers now. Both were staring lovingly into each others eyes. Eve noticed he was having something on his mind.

„Are you okay?“ She asked calmly. 

„I am. It’s just pretty hard holding myself back from saying things to you, which might be overwhelming…“

Eve thought it was adorable that he was struggling with those things.

„I’m in love with you, Justin. Being with you is what I want.“

Justin continued staring at her, processing what she just said. 

„Did I overwhelm you?“ She asked, giggling. 

Justin smiled, shaking his head. 

„I want to be with you more than anything else. My love for you and Jake is growing with every day…“ 

Eve bit her lower lip, feeling incredibly thrilled. Then she grabbed the back of his head to make him close the gap between their lips. They kissed each other gentle and slow for a moment. Eve’s urge for him was growing with every second. She felt his hardness being pressed against her core. 

„Justin, I need more…“ She moaned into his mouth. 

He grinned dirty.

„I can’t wait tasting your kinky piercing…“

 

Justin’s head slowly moved down her body. He got rid of her tanktop in a second and did the same to her shorts right after. Then he gave her a surprised look.

„No panties?“ 

„You said you don’t care about underwear.“ 

He smiled again and dressed off his shirt and his sweatpants. Just wearing his boxer briefs, he looked at her naked body for a moment. 

„Do you know how beautiful you are?“ 

She just smiled, feeling deeply flattered. 

Justin started kissing her right inner thigh softly. Eve closed her eyes, breathing deep. 

„Oh god… you gonna come before he even starts…“

Justin switched sites, kissing his way slowly to her core. Eve grabbed the sheets, trying to focus not hitting her peak too early. Before his lips met hers, he suddenly stopped.

„What’s the story about that piercing?“ He asked, his face still between her thighs.

„You really wanna discuss this now?“ She replied in deep frustration. 

Justin chuckled. Then he licked her piercing playfully. Eve moaned with pleasure. Finally his tongue met her clit. She felt her orgasm immediately taking control. 

„Oh Justiiiiin…!!!“ 

Justin didn’t expect her coming that fast and grinned self satisfied, while she was slowly returning back to normal. He returned on top of her and kissed her gently. 

„I’m listening.“ He said cheeky, while her breath was still deep. 

She gave him an irritated look.

„The piercing?“ 

Eve smiled. 

„It was my boyfriend’s gift when I turned 18.“

Justin raised his eyebrows. 

„He asked you for a piercing like that?“ 

„No. I wanted one in my belly button, but my old-fashioned parents were outraged about the idea. That’s why I’ve chosen another spot…“ 

Justin laughed. 

„I’m happy you kept it…“

„Of course I did… I benefit from it since then…“

„Oh… I see… you like getting a treat…“

„Yes I do…“ 

In the next moment they heard Eve’s phone ringing from distance. It was lying at the kitchen island. Both exchanged irritated looks, as it was almost midnight. 

„You wanna answer this?“ Justin asked. 

„No. This must be my mom, forgetting about time zones again. We’ve had a little argument this afternoon and I guess she wanna makes things right.“ 

The phone stopped ringing. Both smiled and kissed each other again. Eve grabbed his hair while their kisses got hungrier. Then her hands moved down his back, reaching the waistband of his boxer briefs. Justin helped her getting rid of them quickly.

„You really want this?“ He whispered.

Eve nodded, pushing her pelvis against his hard dick.

Then her phone started ringing again. Both sighed in deep frustration. 

„Damn it.“ Justin said. „I’m gonna kill that phone.“

„No baby… just let it ring…“ 

Justin didn’t listen. He stood up in the next moment and rushed out of the room. The phone stopped ringing in the meanwhile. 

One minute later he returned with the cell in his hand. Eve enjoyed the view at this naked body, not noticing the concerned look in his face. 

Justin came closer and sat down at the edge of the bed. 

„Honey… this was Josh’s doctor.“ 

Eve sat down next to him and frowned. Before she could say anything, the phone started ringing again. She looked at Justin, being completely overwhelmed. 

„You should pick up.“ 

Eve took the phone out of his hand and answered the call. 

„Yes?“ She said with thin voice. 

„Mrs. Chasez. My apologies for the late call. But something happened…“ 

Eve turned pale and stopped breathing. Her hands started shaking. Justin was vey concerned seeing her this way. Suddenly he saw tears running down her cheeks. She wasn’t able saying anything. 

„Baby… what is it? Tell me what happened?“ Justin asked as calm as possible. 

Eve didn’t react. She was in a deep shock, not able processing what she just learned. 

„Baby?“ 

Still there was no reaction. 

„May I talk to the doctor? Please give me the phone, Eve.“ Justin said next. 

As she didn’t seem to listen, he carefully took the phone out of her hand.

„Doctor? What happened?“ He asked impatiently.

„Is this you, Mr. Timberlake?“

„Yes. Eve is in deep shock. Please tell me what’s going on.“ 

„Your friend just woke up.“ 

Justin’s heart stopped beating.

„Say.That.Again.“

„He’s awake. Of course he’s disillusioned and confused, but his physical condition is remarkable. It’s a miracle, Mr. Timberlake. I suggest you and Mrs. Chasez come to the clinic. He needs to see familiar faces now.“ 

„Yes. We will.“ 

Justin hung up, trying hard to understand what just happened. Then he looked at Eve, who was still staring into space.

„He’s awake, Eve… C just came back to you…“ He stammered. 

Josh was sitting in his patient’s bed, after several doctors made some checks on him. They told him about his tragical accident during the earthquake and that he was in coma for six months. It was almost impossible for him to process this information. His head was pounding. Everything felt like a weird dream to him. 

Eve hardly found her way back to reality. She wasn’t able to speak. Justin helped her dressing into jeans and a random shirt. Then he made himself ready. Finally he took Jake carefully out of his bed and put him into his baby seat, while he was still asleep. 

On their way to the hospital, Eve suddenly looked at Justin.

„This is a dream, right? Am I dreaming, Justin?“

He looked back at her and took her hand. 

„You’re not dreaming. This is really happening.“ 

„But they said it’s impossible…“

„Yes they did. But for some reason you knew better. And you saved his life.“

As the doctors finished checking on Josh, Eve’s favorite nurse Monica made sure he was sitting comfortable. Every movement was incredibly exhausting for him due to his weak muscles. 

„Your wife is on her way. I can’t wait to see her face. She’s been here every day since your accident, praying to the universe to bring you back to her.“ Monica said happily. 

Josh gave her an irritated look.

„You mean, my girlfriend.“ He replied. 

Monica frowned. 

„I mean your wife.“ She responded. 

„I’m still dizzy, but what I know for sure is, that I’m not married.“ 

„You are married, Josh.“

„No, I’m not.“ 

Monica turned uneasy, realizing something must be wrong. 

„Look at your ring finger.“

Josh did what she said, staring at his ring with disbelief. 

„What is the last thing you remember?“ Monica asked. 

Josh got lost in thoughts for a moment, before he answered. 

„The ceremony.“

„Your wedding ceremony?“ 

„No. The ceremony at the walk of fame. We received a star at the walk of fame.“ 

„You got a star at the walk of fame?“

„Yes.“ 

„When did that happen?“ 

„End of April.“ 

„At that time you’ve been in coma, Josh.“

„It doesn’t make any sense.“ He said. 

In the same moment the door got open. Eve and Justin rushed inside. Justin was carrying Jake in his baby-seat, who was still sleeping peacefully. 

„Oh my god… oh my god…“ Eve stammered. 

Her whole body started shaking and her heart run out of control. Justin put Jake aside and grabbed her waist. 

„Are you okay?“ He asked calmly. 

Eve nodded, trying very hard to pull herself together. 

Both came closer while Josh was staring at them. As Eve reached his bed, she fell around his neck and started crying badly. Justin and Monica were watching the scene. 

Josh was completely overwhelmed. Eve released him, cupped his face with both hands and kissed his lips. 

„I missed you so much. I can’t believe all of this…“ She sobbed. 

Josh stared into her face, not understanding what was happening. 

„Baby? Are you okay?“ She asked, being irritated about his distant behavior. 

„Who are you?“ Josh asked back. 

Monica’s heart dropped and she pressed one hand against her lips.

„I’ll look for his doctor!“ She said and rushed out of the room. 

Justin watched the scene, trying hard to understand what was happening. 

„Josh? Did you forget who I am?“ Eve asked, feeling sickness rising up. 

He continued staring at her, not knowing how to respond. Then he looked at Justin. 

„Who’s kid is that, T?“ He asked irritated, pointing at the baby. 

Justin turned pale, glancing at Eve. He was deeply worried about her condition. She started breathing fast, feeling like having a physical breakdown any second.

„This is Jake.“ Justin answered.

„Jake?“

„Yes. Your son Jake.“

„This must be a joke…“ Josh replied in disbelief. 

Eve desperately grabbed his hand. 

„Please Josh… please don’t do this to me…“ She begged, while tears were running down her cheeks. 

Monica and Josh’s doctor entered the room in the same moment. Everybody looked at the doctor, waiting for explanation. 

„Mr. Chasez, can you tell me which year we have?“ The doctor asked calmly. 

„It’s 2018.“ He replied. 

Eve needed to throw up. Hectically she raised herself and rushed into the bathroom. Then she puked into the toilet. Monica followed her, feeling incredibly sorry for her. 

„He doesn’t know who I am… he forgot me…“

Monica didn’t know what to say. She pulled Eve into her arms, hugged her tightly and let her cry. 

 

Justin didn’t know what to do. He stared at the doctor who was asking Josh further questions. How was this possible? Why was Josh believing it was 2018? 

Josh was very concerned about his own condition. He felt lost and helpless when the doctor explained that he was obviously having amnesia. The doctor tried to calm him down. 

„Mr. Chasez, look. For coma patients it’s not uncommon to have trouble remembering things after waking up. In my opinion there is no reason to worry at this point. Your brain is under deep stress right now. Give yourself some time. We’ll make a MRT tomorrow to make sure your amnesia is just temporary. I know it’s sounds weird, but I suggest you try to relax and catch some sleep now.“ 

Josh nodded. The doctor gave him a calm smile. 

„I’m very glad to have you back, Mr. Chasez. Honestly, we didn’t expect this would happen. But your wife insisted not letting you go. She’s the reason why you’re still with us. I understand your struggle, as you can’t remember her right now. But please, do me a favor and be kind. She went through a lot in the past months.“ 

Josh just looked at the doctor, without responding. He left the room in the next moment, wishing everybody a good night. 

Josh gave his attention to Justin now. 

„So it is really true… I’m married…“ He stammered. 

Justin nodded, glancing at Jake. 

„And you’re a dad.“

Josh didn’t know how to reply. Suddenly being a father was something he just couldn’t handle right now. 

„How on earth did all of this happen, T?“

Justin smirked. 

„You want me to explain how you made the baby?“

„No… I mean… that woman… my wife… it makes no sense to me…“ 

„Dude… you and her… this is something real big. You’ve been crazy for her from the day you first met.“ 

„I just can’t believe all of this… I mean… she’s so…“ 

Josh didn’t finish his sentence. 

„So what?“ Justin asked. 

„Different.“

Justin frowned. 

„What do you mean?“

„I mean… look at her… she’s… she’s not… Jen…“ 

Justin suddenly turned uneasy. 

„C, listen to me. Jen is history, okay? Things didn’t work out.“ 

„Why not?“

„You realized at some point, that she wasn’t the one.“

Josh grabbed his face and sighed. 

„It make no sense to me… why should I got married at all? It just makes no sense…“

„You love Eve. Believe me when I say, that she’s everything to you.“ 

„Come on, T. Please be honest. Is this marriage just the result of an unexpected pregnancy?“ 

„No, it’s not. You proposed because you’ve been madly in love with her. And you were the one who wished for having a baby.“

Josh stared at Jake now, who was still asleep. 

„But he doesn’t even look like me…“ 

In the next moment Eve and Monica returned from the bathroom. Josh looked at Eve, feeling sorry that he made her cry. But he didn’t know how to behave. She looked back at him, trying very hard to pull herself together. 

Monica explained to her, that Josh’s amnesia wasn’t something uncommon. She tried to convince Eve, that he would surely get his memory back in the next couple of days and asked her to be patient and understanding. 

„I’m sorry that I overwhelmed you… I just… all of this is a lot for me, too… you know. I… I didn’t want to scare you… or make you feel uncomfortable…“ Eve apologized. 

„It’s okay. Don’t worry.“ Josh replied. 

„The doctor said C needs to rest.“ Justin said calmly. 

Eve looked at him and forced a smile. 

„Of course.“

She gave her attention to Jake and took his baby-seat.

„We’ll be back tomorrow. Good night, Josh.“

„Good night.“

Justin hugged his best friend, before leaving with Eve. 

„I can’t thank the universe enough for bringing you back to us. I love you, man.“ 

„Same here. Thank you, T.“ 

As Eve and Justin were gone, Monica came few steps closer, smiling calmly. 

„Come on, let me lay you down again. But don’t forget waking up in the morning.“

Eve hurried to Justin’s car without saying anything. He knew exactly what was going on in her mind. She was in survival mode. Instead of asking her how she felt, he decided it would be better bringing her and Jake home first. 

They didn’t talk a single word on their way back to the Hills. Eve knew Justin kept quiet to keep her from breaking down. 

As they arrived home, Eve brought Jake back into bed. When she left his nursery and closed the door, she finally lost control. Tears of pure desperation were running down her cheeks. As she couldn’t hold herself on her feet anymore, she leaned against the door and slid slowly down to the floor. She was used to heartache in the meanwhile. But this pain was different. It felt so bad, that she hardly was able to breath. 

Justin was in the kitchen, drinking a cup of tap water. His world was upside down. He didn’t know what to think or what to feel first. 

As Eve didn’t return downstairs, he decided looking for her. He found her at the floor in the hall leaning against the door and staring into space. 

Being terribly worried, he knelt down in front of her and grabbed her face carefully. She looked at him with the saddest eyes he’ve ever seen. Then he pulled into his arms and held her close. 

„I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry, my love…“ He whispered. 

Eve hugged him back. It took her a while until she slowly returned back to reality. Then she released him and looked into his eyes again. 

„Why…? I want to understand…“

„I know this was brutal. But the doctor said this isn’t unusual. He will be okay, Eve. Just give him some time.“ Justin explained. 

Eve listened to what he said. Then she thought about what happened between them just before the doctor called. 

„I’m a cheater… I don’t deserve any better…“ She said with thin voice.

„Please don’t say that, Eve. You don’t deserve any of this…“ 

She suddenly cupped his face with both hands. 

„I’m so sorry, Justin.“

„For what?“ 

„For hurting you.“

„You didn’t hurt me, Eve.“

„But I will…“ 

Justin understood what she was talking about. Josh was back in her life. And no matter, if he remembered her or not, she was his. She never stopped being his.

Josh woke up in the next morning and needed a moment to sort his mind. His head was aching. Obviously it wasn’t just a weird dream. He was still in the hospital, hardly being able moving his body on his own. He thought about what happened with Eve. It was completely surreal that he was married to a stranger and having a kid. At the same time he thought about his life, which he still remembered. How was it possible that Jen wasn’t with him anymore? Things between them just became serious. He remembered how excited she was, as he agreed moving together. It made him feel completely miserable thinking about the fact, that he lost her. His frustration about the whole situation couldn’t get any bigger. 

Josh needed his whole strength to push the bottom to call for a nurse. One minute later Monica entered his room.

„You’re still here?“ He wondered. 

„Ya, double shift.“ Monica explained, coming closer. „How do you feel?“ 

„Unchanged. I still can’t remember…“ Josh answered.

„Don’t stress yourself. I bet you’re hungry, hm? Let me bring you some breakfast.“ 

„Sounds good, but I need another favor.“ Josh replied. 

„Which favor?“

„I need my phone.“ 

„Oh, ya. It must be somewhere. We found it in your pocket, when you arrived in the hospital.“ 

Monica opened his cupboard and found his cell in a drawer. 

„Here you go. I’ll look for a charger. We should have one somewhere.“ 

Eve woke up in her bed, still being dressed. She felt Justin’s arm around her waist and his warm breath in her neck. He was holding her tightly from behind, also wearing his clothes from the prior day. She remembered that he carried her into bed. Then she asked him to stay, as she didn’t want to be alone after all what happened. 

„Eve… what did you do? He shouldn’t be here with you…“ She blamed herself in her thoughts. 

Carefully she turned around into Justin’s direction. He was still sleeping peacefully. She raised her hand and caressed his cheek softy. 

„He doesn’t deserve being hurt. He was so good to you. You just can’t break his heart…“

Justin opened his eyes. 

„It feels nice when you wake me like this…“ He whispered. 

She looked at him with sad eyes. 

„I feel torn, Justin…“ 

„It’s my fault. I brought you into this unbearable situation. I should have kept my promise…“

„Which promise?“ 

„C said to me, no matter what would ever happen, I couldn’t have you. And I agreed…“ 

„But we believed he wouldn’t coming back…“ 

„He said, no matter what…“

„This makes no sense, Justin.“ 

„I shouldn’t let all of this happen…“ 

„Please don’t say that.“ 

Justin raised his upper body, still looking at her.

„You belong to him. I would never expect from you choosing me. I don’t want you worrying about me or my feelings, because I knew with what I was dealing. I always knew it was him who you wanted. Still I tried to make you mine. It’s not you to blame for what happened. This is all on me. Do you understand?“ 

Eve looked at him for a moment, processing what he just said. 

„It’s not that easy, Justin. You’re right when you say, that I belong to him. He’s my husband and I love him with all of my heart. Losing him was something I just couldn’t accept. But I needed to live my life without him for a very long time. And just because of you I managed not falling apart. You gave me and Jake all your love and support, without asking for anything in return. That’s why I fell in love with you. I can’t switch off my feelings now and pretend nothing ever happened between us.“ 

Justin stared at her, not knowing how to reply. He wished just to kiss her and tell her how much it meant to him what she just said. But he also knew this would make things even more complicated as they already were. 

„There is no choice, Eve. You are his. The rest doesn’t matter anymore.“ He finally said.

„How can you say that?“ She replied, feeling hurt. 

„That’s how things are. Now let me bring you to the hospital.“ 

On their way to the clinic Eve made several calls. She talked to Karen first, who was barely able processing the good news. Her and Roy announced to book a flight to Los Angeles straight away. Eve also informed Josh’s siblings, Eric, Lance, Chris, Lucy and Mateo. All of them reacted the same way. First they needed some time to realize this was really happening. Then they freaked out and announced coming to see Josh as soon as possible. As she finished her last call, Justin just stopped his car at the main entrance. 

„Why you stop here?“ Eve asked irritated. 

„I think you should have some time with him alone.“ Justin answered. 

„But I’m sure he wanna see you, as well.“ 

„I’ll organize some breakfast and coffee and join you later.“ 

There was a coldness in his voice which Eve never noticed before. Deep in her heart she knew, this was his way to protect himself from getting more hurt than he already was. But still it was making her feel miserable that he was acting this way. 

„Okay.“ She finally replied and exited his car. 

Then she opened the backseat door and took Jake’s baby-seat outside. She also packed a bag for Josh with some clothes and toiletries. 

„See you later, Justin.“

„Ya, see you later.“ 

 

Justin watched Eve walking into the building. Then his eyes filled with tears. He felt desperate and lost, but also angry at himself and the rest of the world. With squeaking tires he left the situation. His heart was beating fast. With shaky hands he grabbed his phone out of his pocket and dialed Lance’s number.

„Dude, hi… I… good lord… Michael and I are still processing…“ Lance said in deep excitement. 

„I know… it’s unbelievable.“ Justin sobbed. 

Lance immediately noticed what was going on.

„T? Where are you?“ 

„I’m just cruising around…“ 

„Okay. Let’s meet somewhere and talk.“

„There’s nothing to talk about.“

„You called me. It means you need to talk.“ 

Eve knocked at Josh’s door, being deeply excited to see him again. She was prepared that he still wouldn’t remember her and forced herself making peace with the circumstances. She was aware of that she needed to keep her expectations low. Instead of feeling pity for herself, she needed to be grateful that he woke up and returned back to life. 

„Hi.“ She said calmly, entering the room.

„Hi.“ Josh replied, forcing a smile. 

He felt uncomfortable being alone with her and didn’t know how to behave. She noticed and felt the same, not knowing what to do next. 

„Ehm… I brought you some clothes and toiletries. And glasses. Unfortunately your favorite ones broke when you fell down the stairs.“ She said nervously. 

„Thank you.“ He replied. 

Eve put the bag with his stuff aside and gave her attention to Jake, who was busy with his teether. She opened his belt and put him out of his seat. Hoping their baby would be the ice breaker, she came few steps closer.

„You two didn’t have the chance saying hi to each other, yet.“

She sat down at the edge of Josh’s bed with Jake on her lap. It felt so natural for her sitting close to her husband. But she noticed, that he was terribly tensed. 

Instead of saying hi to his son, Josh just stared into his big blue eyes. He realized these eyes weren’t his. No feature in the baby’s face seemed to be his. 

„How old is he?“ Josh asked just to say something. 

„He was born the day of your accident.“ Eve answered. 

Josh gave her an irritated look, waiting for more explanation. 

„I had lunch with Justin. Then my water broke on our way back to my office. You’ve been at home working, when we called you. Short time later the earthquake happened.“ 

Josh was processing hard. 

„So… I missed his birth?“

„Yes. You never met him before.“ 

The imagination how she must felt giving birth on her own and learning about his accident was brutal. This was surely what the doctor meant when he said, that she went through a lot. 

„This is… wow… I’m sorry…“ Josh stammered. 

„Don’t worry about it. All what matters is, that we have you back.“ 

Josh looked at her for a moment, forcing himself to remember anything. But it was hopeless.

„Are you German?“ He asked next.

Eve cracked a smile and nodded. 

„Looks like I’ll never get rid of that accent.“ 

Josh thought she was having a beautiful smile. He smiled back without even noticing. Then he suddenly changed the subject. 

„Oh ehm… the nurse gave me my phone and a charger. But I can’t unlock it.“ 

Eve took his phone from his bedside table and entered the code. Then she gave it to him, still smiling. 

He raised his eyebrows. 

„You know my code?“ 

„Yes. It’s my birthday.“ 

„Oh.“ 

This was just another topic at Josh’s long list of open questions. Why did he change his code into her birthday and let her know? He never shared his code with anyone before.

Justin was waiting in his favorite diner for Lance to arrive. He was sitting in a quiet corner and sipping a cup of coffee. Lance showed up short time later. Both hugged each other, before Lance sat down opposite of him. The waitress brought Lance another cup of coffee. When they finally were undisturbed, he started talking. 

„You’re looking not good, man. But I understand…“ 

Justin took another sip and didn’t reply. 

„Nobody expected this would happen.“ Lance continued talking. „Absolutely nobody…“ 

„I know…“ 

Lance turned nervous, having a burning question on his mind. He knew it wasn’t his business, but he just needed to know. 

„Did you have sex with Eve?“ 

Justin shook his head slowly, avoiding eye contact.

„We’ve been very close. But then the doctor called…“ 

„Are you serious?“ Lance asked in disbelief. 

„Yes, I am…“ 

„Honestly spoken, I feel relieved… I mean… it’s good you didn’t sleep with your best friend’s wife, right?“

„Right…“

Lance felt incredibly pity for him. Justin didn’t deserve suffering like this. But Josh didn’t deserve losing his wife to his best friend, either. 

„He doesn’t remember her…“ Justin continued talking. 

Lance frowned. 

„What do you mean?“

„He’s having amnesia and doesn’t have any clue who she is.“

„Are you kidding me???“ 

„The doctor said it’s temporary. But for her it felt like losing him all over again. He simply forgot her…“ 

„Holy shit… this is cruel…“

„It is…“ 

„Does it mean he doesn’t know who he is, either?“

„No, it’s not that bad. He believes we’re having 2018.“

„This is weird.“ 

„I know.“ 

Lance looked at him for a moment.

„And the doctor was sure this is just temporary?“

„That’s what he said…“

„So, it’s just a matter of time till his memory comes back?“ 

„Right.“ 

Lance took a deep breath. 

„I really wished there was a happy end for you and Eve. But C is back. And I couldn’t be more grateful for that miracle.“ 

„Please don’t think I’m not grateful that he woke up.“ Justin immediately said. „I wished for nothing more than that. You have to believe me.“

„I believe you. Still it’s okay, that you feel shitty because of losing Eve. The whole situation is… just… unbelievable…“ 

Justin’s eyes filled with tears again.

„I don’t wanna feel this way, man… it kills me…“ 

Lance felt awful, not knowing how to help his friend out of this. 

„Did you have the chance talking to her?“

„I told her not to worry about me. Then I started distancing myself.“ 

„How did she react?“

„She was hurt.“ 

„Do you think this is the right way dealing with her feelings for you?“ 

„I know this isn’t fair. But I want to make it easy for her to go back to him without any regrets.“ 

„Everything looks good.“ The doctor said, after making a MRT of Josh’s head. „Still you need to be patient. You’ve been in coma for a very long time. Don’t force yourself remembering things. Your memory will come back when your brain is ready.“ 

Josh nodded.

„Good. All you need to do right now is focusing on your physiotherapy. I want to see you walking to the bathroom on your own by the end of the week.“ 

Eve was waiting for Josh to come back from the MRT in his patient’s room. Suddenly she realized that she completely forgot informing her own mother about the sudden events. Hectically she grabbed her phone and dialed her number. 

„Before you say anything, I’m sorry that I upset you when we spoke the other day.“ Kristin said, as she picked up. 

„Josh woke up.“ Eve replied, ignoring Kristin’s apology. 

There was silence on the other side. 

„Mom?“

„I knew this would happen. I felt it…“ Kristin said quietly. 

„You’re kind of scaring me…“

„It wasn’t my intention scaring you. This are amazing news, darling. I’m so relieved… you have no idea how relieved I am…“

Eve informed her mother about the current situation, trying to sound positive that Josh’s memory will be back soon. No one of them mentioned Justin. Kristin didn’t want to upset her daughter again and Eve didn’t want to explain, how awkward the situation between them suddenly was. 

When she finished talking to Kristin, the door got open. Lance and Michael came inside. 

„Where is he???“ Lance asked in deep excitement. 

„MRT. He should be back any moment.“ 

Both hugged Eve tightly. 

„How are you doing, dear?“ Michael wanted to know. 

„I wished I knew… I’m still processing, to be honest…“ Eve answered. 

„Justin told me about his amnesia.“ Lance said carefully. 

Eve focused on not starting to cry again.

„Everything feels so… unreal… I don’t know how to explain…“ She stammered. 

Lance hugged her again. 

„I know, honey. I know…“

In the next moment two nurses wheeled Josh’s bed back into his room. 

Lance and Michael immediately freaked out and fell around his neck. Josh was grateful seeing some familiar faces. 

„You gave us such a tough time… you have no idea what we went through.“ Lance said. 

„Believe me, I wished I didn’t…“ 

„It’s so good to have you back. I’m so incredibly grateful…“ Michael added. 

Eve watched the scene, envying Lance and Michael. Josh was truly happy to see them and felt completely comfortable in their presence. 

Suddenly Mateo rushed into the room. All eyes were on him. 

„I still can’t believe it!!! Oh my fucking goodness!!!“ He squeaked. 

Josh stared at the stranger, not knowing how to react. 

„Matty, ehm… Josh has trouble remembering current events.“ Eve said, before he hugged Josh. 

„What the hell are you talking about?!“ 

„He doesn’t remember you.“ 

Mateo stared at Josh, not believing what he just heard. 

„Are you kidding me?!“ 

„It’s true. I have no idea who you are.“ Josh replied. 

Mateo’s confusion reached its peak. 

„What?!“ 

„It’s temporary.“ Eve explained. 

Mateo sorted his mind. 

„Wait… does it mean he doesn’t remember you, as well?!“

„I don’t.“ Josh answered. 

Mateo’s mouth got open. 

„How can you not remember your wife?! This must be a joke!“ 

 

„Matty, please. This is not helping.“ Eve said. 

„What about these guys?! You forgot them as well?!“

„No, I didn’t. I just forgot about the events of the past few years.“ Josh explained. 

Mateo was in deep shock. He looked at Eve, slowly realizing how awful the situation must be for her.

„Jesus Christ… I need to sit…“ He said and let himself fall at a chair next to Josh’s bed. 

Lance and Michael watched the scene.

„Matty is Eve’s partner. They do business together.“ Lance said to Josh. 

„First of all I’m her best friend.“ Mateo corrected him. 

„That’s Lucy.“ Michael teased. 

Mateo gave him a warning look. 

„What kind of business?“ Josh asked, looking at Mateo and then at Eve.

„We are interior designers.“ Eve answered. 

Suddenly the door got open again. Justin showed up with three coffees and a paper bag from a bakery in his hands.

„Looks like you’re having a party, bro.“ He joked, coming closer. 

Eve’s heart skipped a beat. She stared at Justin, but he didn’t look back. Instead he put the coffee and the paper bag aside and bent down to Jake, who was sitting in his baby seat. Jake immediately started giggling and raised his little arms. Justin smiled back and took him out of his seat. Then he kissed his head gently. 

„How do you feel today?“ Justin asked Josh.

„I have a headache. But the MRT was fine.“ 

„I’m happy to hear that.“

The atmosphere was suddenly tensed. Lance, Michael and Mateo thought the same, wondering how Eve and Justin would deal with the new circumstances. 

„Someone needs a fresh diaper.“ Justin noticed. 

Eve looked at him again, but Justin continued ignoring her. He grabbed Jake’s diaper bag and disappeared with him in the bathroom. 

Josh was a little confused, seeing his best friend taking care for his son. He knew that Justin was loving kids. But still it made no sense why he was changing his diaper instead of letting Eve doing it. 

„You and I need to have a serious conversation.“ Justin said to Jake, while dressing him off. „I wished things were different. I really wished they were. But I need to tell you, that I won’t be around for a while. It’s not like I don’t love you anymore. Please don’t think that. But your daddy finally woke up. It’s a miracle, you know? I’m convinced he will be the best dad you could ever imagine. That’s why it’s time for me to step back, okay? But I promise to visit you. We can still hang out once in while…“

Jake was smiling happily at him, making funny noises. Justin finished changing his diaper and kissed his little head again. 

„I’ll be there for you anytime you need me. I really love you, little bro. But your dad and your mom are your family. You belong to them.“ 

Justin’s eyes were swimming. He lifted Jake up and hugged him tightly for a moment.  

When Justin left the bathroom, he noticed that Eric just arrived. He was sitting at the edge of Josh’s bed, listening to the latest news. Of course he was shocked learning about Josh’s loss of memories. But his joy about his sudden recovery was much bigger. 

„Listen. Justin took care for your clients in the past months. Nobody knows what happened to you. We didn’t share the news with the public world.“

Josh looked at Justin, who was still holding Jake.

„You’ve been ghostwriting for me?“ 

Justin nodded. 

„Nobody noticed so far, so I guess I wasn’t that bad.“

„That’s awesome. Thank you, man.“ 

Justin cracked a smile.

„Anytime.“ 

Then he put Jake back into his baby-seat. 

„Hey ehm, I’m sorry that I can’t stay, but I have to take care for few things.“ He said, looking at Josh. 

„Ya, sure. Don’t worry.“ Josh replied. 

Eve was looking at Justin, but he continued ignoring her presence. Then he turned around and left the situation. Eve felt terribly hurt, trying hard to hide her disappointment.

Lance, Michael and Eric left after a while as well, to give Josh some time to rest. 

Before Mateo left, he asked Eve to come with him outside to talk to her privately. As Jake fell asleep in his baby-seat, she let him with Josh in his room and followed Mateo into the hallway. 

„Darling. Tell me how you manage pulling yourself together, because this is just another nightmare.“ He said concerned. 

Eve was fighting against her tears. 

„Are you talking about Josh’s amnesia or the fact that Justin acts like I stopped existing?“ She stammered. 

Then she lost the fight and started crying. Mateo pulled her into his arms and hugged her close.

„God almighty… why are you punishing that girl so much?“ He whispered. 

When Eve pulled herself together somehow, she informed Mateo about what happened the night before Josh’s doctor called and all the things which happened right after. 

„Oh Eve… but… honestly? I can’t blame Justin. He just tries doing the right thing, because he knows you and Josh belong together. Mateo said. 

„But it hurts. I lived with him. I fell in love with him. I really believed we would continue doing life together. And now it’s suddenly over…“ 

In the afternoon Josh’s parents and siblings arrived. They couldn’t be more happy about seeing Josh being awake again. Countless happy tears have been cried. Later that day Lucy and Joey arrived. Josh didn’t remember Lucy and was very surprised, that one of his best friends got engaged in the meanwhile. Finally Chris and Karly showed up, also being completely out of mind about Josh’s unexpected recovery. All of them spend the rest of the day in the hospital with Josh. 

Lucy noticed that Eve was tensed. But she didn’t get a chance talking to her in private. 

In the evening Monica showed up, asking everybody to go home. Josh was brutally exhausted and needed some rest urgently. 

„What about you and me having dinner tonight?“ Lucy asked Eve, before leaving. 

„Ehm, ya. Let’s do this. I’m gonna ask Justin, if he can watch Jake.“ Eve replied, forcing a smile. 

„Good. Just give me a call when you’re ready, okay? I’ll pick you up.“ 

Eve nodded and hugged her friend close.

When everybody was gone, Eve decided to leave as well, as Josh looked very tired. 

„I let you catch some sleep now.“ She said calmly. 

„Thank you. It was a long day.“

„If you need anything please just let me know.“ She said, pointing at his phone. 

„Ehm ya, sure.“

„Good night, Josh.“ 

„Good night, Eve.“ 

When Eve left Josh’s room with Jake, she suddenly remembered that her car wasn’t there, as she came with Justin in the morning. She wondered why he didn’t show up again at some point to meet Josh’s family and the other guys. 

As she reached the lobby, she let herself fall at a sofa and called an Uber. While she was waiting, Josh’s doctor crossed her way, just finishing his work for today. 

„Mrs. Chasez.“ He said, to catch her attention. 

Then he came closer and stopped standing in front of her. 

„What can I do for you, doctor?“ She said with cynical tone. 

She was mad at him and didn’t try to cover it up. It her opinion he completely failed as a doctor. Of course he noticed her anger. Then he sat down next to her at the sofa. 

„I’m just a human being, Mrs. Chasez. I do mistakes.“ He said calmly. 

Eve scoffed. 

„He would be dead. If I listened to your nonsense, my husband would be dead. You completely misjudged the whole situation. There is no apology for this.“ She hissed.

Eve needed someone to blame for her heartache and it was very easy blaming the doctor. He told her there was no chance for Josh to wake up. Because of him she lost hope at some point and gave up on him. Things with Justin would never have happened, if he didn’t convince her that Josh wouldn’t come back.

„Please listen to me, Eve. The chances for your husband to wake up were lower than winning in the lottery. I really mean it when I say, that this is a miracle.“ He tried to explain. 

„Are you finished justifying your incompetence?“ She replied arrogantly. 

The doctor sighed. Then he stood up, still looking at her. 

„If you wish, I’ll give your husband’s case to another doctor.“ He suggested. 

„Oh. Just give it to the cleaning lady. It can’t get any worse.“ 

The doctor heard enough. He turned around and left the situation.

When Eve arrived home, she noticed Justin’s car wasn’t there. She wondered where he was the whole day.

After bringing Jake into bed, she saw the door to Justin’s bedroom being wide open. She went to the door, switched the light on and glanced inside. Something seemed to be different but she didn’t know exactly what it was. Slowly she went in. Justin was always very tidy, but the room looked like no one was living here. Finally she entered the bathroom. As she noticed, that all of Justin’s toiletries were gone, her heart suddenly dropped. Hectically she returned into the bedroom and opened his closet. It was empty as well. 

„No… please no… what did you do…?“

Again she started crying. She was terribly hurt and angry at the same time. How he dared moving out without telling her? How could he be so cold?

With shaky hands she grabbed her phone out of her pocket and dialed Justin’s number. But he didn’t pick up. She hung up and threw her phone across the room, before breaking down mentally. 

One hour later Eve’s phone rang. She was lying at Justin’s bedroom floor, just staring into space. She didn’t react. Few minutes later it rang again. And then again. 

Another half hour passed by. Then the doorbell rang. Eve was still absentminded, not reacting. The doorbell rang again two times before she heard someone entering the house.

„Eve??? Where are you???“ She heard Lucy’s voice yelling. 

„She must be upstairs.“ A deep male voice was saying. „Where the fuck is Justin?“ 

Eve heard steps coming closer. In the next moment Lucy and Lance entered the guest room. 

„Oh my god!!! What happened to you???“ Lucy said nervously and knelt down in front of her best friend.

„I’m sorry.“ Eve whispered. „I forgot about our dinner.“ 

Lance was also shocked seeing her like this. 

„You scared the shit out of us! Why you didn’t answer your phone?“ He asked. 

„I’m sorry…“ 

„Eve, what is wrong with you? Please talk to me!“ Lucy begged. 

„Justin moved out. He just left, like nothing meant anything…“ She whispered. 

Lucy frowned and looked at Lance. 

„What the hell did I miss???“ She wanted to know. 

Lance bit his lips, not knowing how to reply. 

„Explain to me!“ 

„They… she… she fell in love with Justin…“ Lance stammered. „But I had no idea it was that bad…“ 

Lucy eyes and mouth gone open wide. 

„You must be kidding me…“