Chapter 11 - Healing the Wounds
Nathaniel reached over and gently took my hand.
His thumb traced the knuckles of my fingers.
“I don't want you to be my employee anymore, Clara,” he said quietly.
My heart sank into my stomach.
Was he firing me? After everything we had been through?
“I… I understand,” I stammered, pulling my hand back slightly. “I can pack my things tomorrow.”
Nathaniel blinked, then suddenly laughed.
It was a rich, deep sound that warmed the freezing air on the porch.
He reached out and took my hand again, holding it firmer this time.
“No, Clara. You misunderstand me.”
He leaned closer.
“I don't want you as an employee because I want you as my partner.”
My breath hitched.
“I have watched you love my son as if he were your own,” he whispered.
“I have watched you stand up to a murderer without flinching.”
He reached up and tucked a stray strand of hair behind my ear.
“I have fallen in love with you, Clara Delgado.”
Tears welled up in my eyes.
I had spent months pushing down my feelings for this strong, broken man.
“I love you too,” I finally admitted, my voice breaking.
He didn't say another word.
He leaned in and kissed me.
May you like
It was a gentle, slow kiss. A promise of safety, of healing, of a future.
For the first time in two years, neither of us felt broken anymore.
