Rewind

“I still remember the flashing lights and all of the questions, if that's what you're asking. No, I haven't forgotten the old days.” I stated as clear as I could. One thing I could never forget about the press, is that they like to twist my words around.

“ So would you ever consider doing a solo career or going back to the group?” The blond lady seated in front of me asked. Her back was sitting pin-straight in her chair and she held a notebook filled with questions in her lap. Her red dress was anything but flattering, exposing the top few inched of her chest.

“ I can't think of myself going solo... The boys and I still chat now and again, but of course, we all have our own families and loves to get on with. We're thinking of having sort of a reunion, but as I said, we all have jobs and families to tend to.”

“ So you don't want to?” I didn't think of any way I could have stated it more clearer.

“ I would love to sing with my best mates again, but I have a wife and I'm starting a new job in a few weeks. Plus, Perrie travels a lot, so it wouldn't be a reunion without the whole crew.”

“ Alright. Lindsey from Lincolnshire wants to know if you and Perrie are planning on having kids anytime soon.” I cringed at the memory.

“ We have tried to have kids, and we're still trying, but we'll see.” Last October, we lost our first baby about four months into the pregnancy. Perrie wanted to name her Kaccee.

“ So Zayn, we're running out of time, but we have time for one more question for you, if you don't mind.”

“ Go for it.” I rotated my ring on my left ring finger, looking down at it the whole time.

“ This one isn't from a fan, but from a mate.” I looked up from my ring to meet the interviewers eyes.

“ Okay...” I hesitated.

“ Simon Cowell wants to know if you would ever consider going solo. This isn't like our last question, though. He has a contract ready for you. Before you answer, just remember that Perrie has gone solo, so it wouldn't hurt you. The Little Mix girls are still tight, they just don't perform together.”

“ Um, wow. I might have to get back to you. I wouldn't want any of my mates to be mad... I'll have to think about it. Thanks Simon.” I smiled at the camera, even though I know I refuse to go solo out of respect for the lads. The day one of them goes solo, will be the day I accept.

“ Well then, that's it for this morning. Thank you Zayn. Give it up for Zayn Malik everyone! Former 'One Direction' performer.” She stood up, as did I, and rested her arm across my lower back. The camera guy called clear, then she let go quickly. Her performing smile disappeared as she yelled for someone to get her coffee.

“ You know, you're mighty stupid for not taking the deal. Simon probably won't offer it again.” She returned to her self-centered self as she was before the show.

“ I don't really think it's your call to make.” I snapped back.

“ If I were you, I would have taken the deal.” She carried on.

“ But you aren't me, so you wouldn't. Get over it and let me live my life.” I turned around and walked out of the studio door before I got the chance to grab my jacket off of the black chair I was seated in just a few moments before.

“ Perrie? Are you home yet?” I slammed the front door shut and fast walked to the living room.

“ In here, babe.” She called from the kitchen. I hugged her from behind and kissed her neck three times, as I did everyday when I returned home. Our days were pretty routine, unless she was on tour, then all of this would happen on a tour bus instead. I might not have a career in music anymore, but I support Perrie all the way.

“ Are we eating in tonight?” I asked. We usually picked something up because of our busy schedules, but today we were both off early.

“ Yeah. How was the interview?” She looked up from the bowl she was fiddling with.

“ Annoying, as usual.” She kept looking at me, like she was waiting.

“ Anything unusual happen?” She set the glass bowl down on the counter.

“ No. Why, is something the matter?” I asked, concern filling my voice.

“ Why the hell would you not take the job offer?” Her eyes bore into mine.

“ It's... complicated. Why would it matter, babe? I have a job. I;m starting in a few weeks,-”

“ Yeah I know. But Zayn, this could be your second big break, your second chance. No it won't be with the boys, but you'll be doing what you love.”

“ Per, don't worry about it. I declined for my own reasons. I have you, that's all I need.”

“ Zayn, you've already sacrificed enough...” Tears filled her eyes.

“ Sweetie, I said don't worry about it.” I pulled her into my chest to where her tears soaked my shoulder. Her arms were limp, with mine around her whole body.

“ Zayn...” She looked up from my shoulder. “ Zayn, I'm pregnant.” Her tears faded and turned into a half smile. I took in each second of what was happening.

“ I- Uh... Really?!?” I didn't wait for a response before I pulled her in again, this time lifting her off the ground and spinning her around. I'm finally going to be a dad. The painted nursery is finally going to be occupied. It won't be our sad room anymore. There will be life in it. I set Perrie back down and kissed her from nose to lips.

“ Please consider the job offer...” I held her tight and just shook my head up and down, lost in the moment. Baby Malik... Ha.

Notes