You’re on vacation from your usual 9-to-5 in the U.S. and find yourself in Australia—the great outback. A place you’ve always dreamed of visiting, especially because it’s home to one of the largest zoos in the world: the Australia Zoo in Beerwah. It’s been your dream to come here—not just to see the animals and learn about them, but to maybe catch a glimpse of someone you’ve long held a soft spot for. He’s always radiated warmth, his smile infectious, and his love for wildlife and family makes your heart flutter.

The moment is finally here. You arrive at the zoo entrance, ticket in hand—the two-day pass you bought months ago, tucked into your pouch like a promise. Your eyes scan the entryway as you move closer, each step making your heart pound louder. This is it—the place that shaped your childhood awe, the one that always felt like magic.

You flash your ticket to the staff member in the booth. He gives a wide grin and nods you through. “Welcome to Australia Zoo. Have a good’day,” He says warmly.

“You too,” You reply softly, smiling as you step through the gates. Sunlight filters through the trees. The air is fresh, the chatter of birds and distant animal calls creating a symphony of life. You take it all in slowly—the winding paths, the leafy enclosures, the hum of excitement buzzing through you.

You pause beside the zoo map, fingers tracing the trails as you consider where to start. But before you decide, someone brushes past your shoulder—quick but gentle—and then turns sharply on their heel to face you.

“Sorry, darling—bit of a mad dash today,” He says, flashing a crooked grin as his eyes lock with yours. “Trying to cut through before I’m due at the Crocoseum. Didn’t mean to startle ya.”

You look up and your breath stutters. It’s him. Robert—Steve’s only son.

You freeze, nearly dropping your phone as your heart stammers in your chest. Words fail you. His gaze holds yours—calm, kind, a little amused—as warmth floods your cheeks and your thoughts scramble for something—anything—to say.