Ariana Grande has shared photos with Ricky Alvarez on Instagram for the first time since their relationship ended in 2016. The unexpected glimpse comes as the former couple's renewed closeness continues to draw attention.

Grande and Alvarez dated from 2015 to 2016 before remaining close friends, with the former backup dancer continuing to be part of her life over the years. Their recent appearances together, however, have given that longtime friendship a new layer of intrigue.

The two have already been spotted together again this summer, while Alvarez has also been seen supporting Grande during her 'Eternal Sunshine' Tour. Now, Grande has given fans another glimpse of their reunion, and the timing has only added to the curiosity surrounding the pair.

Ariana Grande included Ricky Alvarez in a photo dump shared on Instagram on Wednesday, August 12, with the post marking the first time she has shared photos with him on the platform since their split. One photo shows the pair in coordinating outfits, with Alvarez's arm around Grande's shoulder and his hand holding hers. A second image shows Alvarez holding the camera while Grande looks toward him in another blurry mirror shot. 

The low-key nature of the pictures shared by Grande keeps the moment understated, but they arrive after several recent signs that the two have grown close again.

“Ricky has always been a friend and confidant,” and Grande “really trusts him,” a source told PEOPLE in July. The source also described Alvarez as someone who brings positive energy into her life, makes her laugh, and gives her a sense of comfort.

Grande and Alvarez were first spotted together again in Austin, Texas, on June 26, before Alvarez attended her tour stop that night. He was later seen dancing at Grande's Brooklyn show, where she also altered the lyrics of 'Thank U, Next' to sing, 'Wrote some songs about Ricky / We always find our way back.'

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But while those moments have fueled plenty of speculation, PEOPLE's sources have suggested that the pair are approaching their reunion with considerably less urgency.

PEOPLE reported in July that Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez are “taking things very slowly” amid their reunion. A separate source said Grande has always considered Alvarez a friend and feels that she can be herself around him. The insider added that they are not jumping into anything serious right away, while Grande is simply happy to have Alvarez back in her life.

 For now, her Instagram post offers another glimpse of that renewed closeness without putting a label on where the relationship is headed. Grande is also preparing to step back from visibility after her Eternal Sunshine Tour concludes in September. With so much happening at once, 

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Do you think Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez could find their way back to each other? Let us know in the comments!