Let Me Stay The Night

The pair arrived at a nearby restaurant famous for local delicacies. The waiter appeared with the menus, from which Christina ordered several items. Soon after, the table was filled with a myriad of delicious- looking food.

“I didn’t order these. Did you get the wrong table?” Christina asked curiously.

The waiter checked the receipt. “No,” he confirmed. “The last few items were added later on.”

While Christina was in confusion, a series of footsteps sounded ahead before heralding the appearance of a tall, strapping figure. The surrounding atmosphere became stern.

What’s Nathaniel doing here? How did he know I was having lunch here with Sheridan?

Arriving at their table, Nathaniel seated himself casually next to Christina. “Is this your first time here, Mr. Stone? Allow Christina and me to be gracious hosts.”

Although he was wearing a friendly smile, Christina could not help noticing how insidious it looked.

His arrival caused the atmosphere at the table to tense up.

Sheridan was no fool. He knew Nathaniel was staking his claim. “Then let me thank you in advance, Mr. Hadley. I will be sure to take you up on that offer.”

Nathaniel picked up his fork and slipped Christina some cod. “You must be tired after last night,” he said. gently. “Have some protein.”

Christina’s pupils dilated. What is he talking about? Why would he mention what we did yesterday while we were eating? There’s someone else here, for God’s sake!

Her ears turned red. Hanging her head, she continued eating, not daring to make eye contact with Sheridan.

It was not because she cared about what other people thought but because she found it difficult to be frank about that subject.

Having achieved his goal, Nathaniel was satisfied. “How long will you be with us, Mr. Stone? Let me make the arrangements for your accommodation.”

Sheridan knew very well what Nathaniel was suggesting. His expression did not change. “I’ll be heading back after the meal.”

“So soon?” Christina was certain that Nathaniel’s words must have made Sheridan uncomfortable.

made her feel worse.

have matters to attend to at work anyway. There’s also the matter of our secret… I’ll update you

recollection of the accounts, Christina chided herself for forgetting something so important. “Thank you for the trouble.”

expression stiffened at their easy conversation and the blatant mention of a

they not see me sitting

squeezed lemonade.” Then, his unfathomable gaze flickered toward

this

a vicious kick at his shin beneath

finally

had his driver send Sheridan back to the

that fun for you, Nathaniel?” she demanded, furious about the way he had conducted

Why am I getting yelled at?” Nathaniel did not think he did

raised her eyebrows.

only irritates me? He revealed the details of

loud and clear. I saw what you were up to.” At that, she stood

with got into the car with her.

“Get

he get a ride

the time and decided she should be getting back as

were stuck in a jam on

after some time and slammed the

This stretch is always congested.” As he spoke, Nathaniel played some music

window, Christina massaged her temple and hummed along to

window and onto the side of Nathaniel’s chiseled face. His heavily-lidded eyes concealed his expression. Still and serene, he looked like

blare of a honk yanked her out of her reverie.

she noticed the car ahead had already