Page 69 of Deadline for Love

“We still could—”

“No, you should rest. We can work tomorrow. I don’t want to overexert you.”

Then he nimbly put his arms around my waist and pulled me to the edge of the bed before lifting me into his arms.

I was so consumed by this man. Everything he did made me want him more—love him more.

Chapter 26

The days passed, and I got used to my new routine. There had been no new letters for a while, and no murders had been reported, but the woman—Jessica Rue—was still missing. It was a stressful week, but Nathan was always there to remove all my worries and fears once I went home. Our relationship had been more profound than any other before, and the time with him was soothing. He taught me a few defense techniques and accompanied Nia and me when we would chase leads. It was a dark time in Steel Valley, but Nathan was my light. I hoped that I could give him that light, too.

Amara and Justin decided to have a small celebration to announce the pregnancy at their place. Only her parents, Justin’s family, and our small circle of friends were invited. It did us all good, and Amara’s joyful face warmed my heart. She had met the love of her life and was about to start a family.

Amara looked stunning in her bright green dress, her hair loose and hanging to her hips. Justin stood next to her in a black suit with a matching tie. They looked dreamily into each other’s eyes, seemingly in their world, and I adored it.

“You look like you’re about to cry,” Nathan’s deep voice brought me out of my thoughts and made me turn to look at him. He was standing next to me, dressed in a black suit that fit his body like a glove, and his brown hair was slicked back. He stared at me with a teasing grin, and I had to shake my head.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I mumbled, blinking a few times to will the tears to stop.

Nathan chuckled at me then wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him. “If you want to cry, you’ll do it with me holding you.”

“I told you I don’t need to cry.” My voice crumbled slightly, but I quickly composed myself. “Weren’t you busy with Eric?” I mumbled because Nathan was chatting with my colleagues a moment ago. Everyone was eager to talk to my husband, and I thought it was amusing to hear them tell him not to break my heart.

While he was held up, I stood at the meadow’s edge and took in the beautiful scene. I was just enjoying the moment, so I didn’t even notice him coming to stand next to me.

“Yes, I was, but then I saw my beautiful wife standing here alone and wanted to keep you company.”

He smoothed a strand of hair from my face and then kissed my cheek.

“You look beautiful.”

His compliment sent chills down my spine, and how he generally treated me filled me with the most beautiful feelings. I was happy.

I looked shyly down at myself; my pastel pink strapless dress was tight up to my hips and then went loose down to my ankles with a slit on either side. It wasn’t anything spectacular—but I thought it was cute.

“Thank you.”

I lifted my gaze and looked into his eyes, still staring at me lovingly… his features full of love and desire, it almost overwhelmed me.

“I mean it. You are exquisite.”

I swallowed hard and then placed my hand on his arm, which still had a firm grip around my waist.

“You’re also very handsome.”

“Then I’m glad I suit your taste.” He planted another kiss on my cheek and pulled me closer. Our bodies were locked together.

“Looking at it all, the idea of starting a family isn’t so daunting,” he whispered.

“Of course, not. I think it’s something extraordinary, especially if you have the right person to share it with. Everyone desires something like that.”

His expression changed. He looked troubled, and his gaze seemed far removed from the present. “Am I even allowed to wish for something like this?”

I stared at him in confusion. “What do you mean?”

He shook his head, his eyes cleared again, and he offered me a smile. “Nothing, I was just thinking out loud.”

I lowered my head, but Nathan put his hand under my chin and lifted my head, so I had to look at him.

---