Page 49 of Deadline for Love

“You don’t want to conquer my heart; you want to steal it brutally.” This sentence slipped out of my mouth unconsciously, which made Nathan smile.

“Oh... So you’ve figured out my wicked plan.”

Then he leaned down and planted a long, soft, sweet kiss on my cheek—Nathan Blake... was about to steal my heart.

Chapter 17

We arrived back at Nathan’s place before I even realized it. He walked me through the process of getting through the building’s security so I could come and go without him.

And when we were finally inside, I was amazed to see more color in the apartment; I mean, really, the curtains were changed, decorations were put up, and new carpets and everything in my favorite pastel colors. Nathan’s modern touch was still there, but it all harmonized well.

“I took inspiration from your apartment. I want you to feel at home here.”

My heart leaped; it was a lovely surprise, and I felt genuinely welcomed.

“Wow. You did all that today?”

“I started early.” Nathan grabbed my hand and pulled me to the closet, showing me that he had created space for me and arranged my clothes. It looked as if we were already a couple. Seeing my clothes hanging next to his shirts made my heart beat faster as warmth spread through my body.

“Thank you, Nathan. But I should’ve helped you.”

He shook his head and smiled lovingly. “You’ve been under a lot of stress at work. Really, it’s the least I could do for you.”

I couldn’t help but cross the last few steps between us and hug him. My hands wrapped around his back, and I laid my head on his chest. His heart, beating slowly and firmly, began to beat faster, bringing a smile to my face.

His scent, body heat, and strong arms gave me the stability I hadn’t longed for in a long time. It was as if I was really starting to fall in love with him... Or maybe I already had.

“You should get some rest. I’m going to make dinner.” He planted a kiss on my forehead and then let go of me.

“And you’re welcome to anything of mine. I’d love to see you in my shirt again and again.” His whispered words made my stomach tingle. The butterflies had gone rioting, and I was sure I was blushing again.

He lifted my chin, and we gazed into each other’s eyes for a long time. Full of longing and honesty and something maybe akin to love. We got closer and closer until I felt his breath on my lips.

I assumed his hesitation was out of respect, as he had promised to give me time. However, I was slightly annoyed that I had put such a barrier between us.

“See you soon,” he whispered, letting go of me to leave the room.

When alone, I stared at my reflection in the mirror next to the open closet.

My cheeks had turned bright red, and my eyes were wide and shining like a love-struck teenager.

“You’re not yourself anymore,” I mumbled, rubbing my hair with a sigh. Maybe it was good that we were keeping a low profile; perhaps it was good if we just concentrated on our tasks for now. Maybe... I was just looking for a reason to convince myself I didn’t need a man.

I looked over at our clothes, my heart clenched again, and then I wondered if it wasn’t such a bad thought to have someone by your side who supports and respects you...

Armed with my sleepwear, I headed to the bathroom, where I finally knew how to use the shower. After a quick rinse, I joined Nathan, who had almost finished cooking. He cooked pasta that really smelled heavenly.

“I’m going to work out after dinner. A friend of mine has a studio here on the central floor. Let me know if you want to use it or work out with me.”

I just laughed. “That’s sweet of you, but I’m okay. I used to like running, but I probably haven’t done it in, like, a year.”

“Not that you need to work out, but there are treadmills, so you can stick to that if you want. I can also teach you some self-defense techniques. Just in case.”

I rinsed the last plate and dried it with a cloth before putting it in the cupboard; then, I looked over at Nathan and nodded. “Sure. That could really do me some good. But I’d rather not do it today.”

“Then it’s a deal. Just tell me when you feel up to it.” he added, “It sure feels good to have you here.”

I didn’t even have the chance to answer him because he left the apartment, leaving me speechless.

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