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

about it. “I have matters to attend to at work anyway. There’s also the matter of

the accounts, Christina chided herself for forgetting something so important.

at their easy conversation and the blatant

see me sitting

a waiter. “I want a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade.” Then, his unfathomable gaze flickered toward Christina. “Your throat must be feeling

he on about this time? Sometimes

a vicious kick at his shin beneath the table. “Stop running your mouth.” she hissed in warning.

imperceptibly, Nathaniel finally fell silent.

their meal, Nathaniel had his driver send

poured forth as soon as her friend was driven off. “Was that fun for you, Nathaniel?” she

concerned about you. Why am I getting yelled at?” Nathaniel did not

her

make me feel so at case while Nathaniel’s only irritates me? He revealed the details of our

you loud and clear. I saw what you were up to.” At that, she stood up abruptly without

out. Nathaniel caught up with got into

“Get

car. Besides, why can he get a ride but not me?” Nathaniel put on the seat belt.

be getting back as the children would

a jam

some time and

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

her elbow on the window, Christina massaged her temple and hummed along

the passenger seat. The sunlight poured in through the window and onto the side of Nathaniel’s chiseled face. His heavily-lidded eyes concealed his expression. Still and serene, he looked like a work of

honk yanked her out of

start, Christina hurriedly stepped on the gas when she noticed the car ahead had already become