Weeks later, Derek's phone buzzed late at night. The name on the screen made his chest tighten: Elena.
Zara noticed immediately, her heart skipping a beat. "Who is it?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
Derek ran a hand through his hair, exhaling slowly. "An old fling. Years ago. Nothing serious. But… she doesn't know how to move on."
Zara's stomach sank. Jealousy and fear swirled inside her. She wanted to trust him completely, and she did—but the pang of doubt was sharp.
Derek held up his hand, reassuring her. "Zara, she's part of my past. You're my present. I promise—nothing will come between us."
His eyes searched hers, earnest and unwavering. Zara took a deep breath, letting his words sink in. The distance had already tested them, but this… this was different. Yet she wanted to believe him, and she did.
They spent the rest of the evening on a video call, Derek recounting funny stories from his day, Zara laughing despite herself. The tension began to ease, replaced by the comfort and warmth they had built together.
By the time they said goodnight, Zara's heart had settled slightly, though the memory of Elena's name lingered. Trust wasn't just given—it was nurtured, strengthened by every word, every gesture, every late-night call.
In the quiet moments before sleep, Zara knew one thing for certain: Derek was worth every mile, every challenge, every test that distance and temptation could throw their way. And she was ready to fight for him—and for them.