Our Way

by T.L. Swan

If only I could have the closeness that I have with Nathan with a boyfriend—someone who could love me in every way. Someone who could be really mine. “You ready to go? The car is here,” he whispers. “I am.” I return to the table and to the people we were sitting with. “Lovely to meet you all.” “You, too.” Nathan goes around and shakes their hands. “Goodbye. Nice to meet you.” He takes my hand and we walk out the front to get into the back of the black Audi waiting for us. He holds my hand on his lap, and I smile out of the window at the glamorous ball as it disappears into the distance. “That was a great night. I enjoyed myself.” “Me, too.” He squeezes my hand in his lap. “Thanks for coming with me.” I rest my head on his shoulder. I feel so safe, and I’m feeling especially close to him tonight. I don’t know why, he just seems different. Or maybe it’s me. Maybe all this talk about not dating with the girls has me missing having someone special in my life and I appreciate our friendship even more. “Are you tired, baby?” he whispers softly. “Hmm.” I smile sleepily. He kisses my forehead, puts his arm around me and pulls me close. I snuggle into his chest. It’s warm and feels so good beneath my head. His aftershave wafts around me. Being inside Nathan Mercer’s arms is my favorite place to be.