"This was the boy I loved, A little bit messy, a little bit ruined. A beautiful disaster. Just like me."

***************

Natalie's POV

It's been a while since I woke up with a hangover rocking my head into oblivion.

It's been so long since I last got myself so wasted, but with the joke that has become my life, no one can blame me. I've been keeping so much inside, it was bound to come out and explode in one way or another.

I pressed my eyes tighter trying to wish this headache into nothingness, not quite ready to open my eyes and face another day. Oh god, what time is it even? I need to get up and go to work, I have so many appointments booked for the day.

A low moan of annoyance and pain vibrated off me and I glided my eyelids open, forcing myself awake only to be jolted back to reality faster than expected. Every nerve in my brain lightened up due to the scene presented ahead of me. I was definitely not prepared for this, nor did I remember how or when did it happen. My eyes grew a bit wide when they were directly met with Nikolas's face. My arm was thrown around his neck, his is lazily wrapped around my waist, our bodies plastered against one another. Our faces are so close, resting on the same pillow even.

He was fast asleep. Calm and soundless.

A few flashes of the night before rushed to the forefront of my brain and I wanted to groan out loud and scream at myself. Jesus Christ. How did I end up here?

I gulped down as my eyes flickered all over his peaceful face. His eyes were closed, the shadow of his eyelashes dark on his cheekbones and his lips were within a breath of mine. His soft dark hair was a beautiful mess over his head, a few strands brushing down over his forehead, asking me to push them away. I gulped down again, shaking myself back before I take it a notch too far and I started to plan my getaway.

My gaze drifted around me, around his room then down to his arm and the second I tried to make my escape, edging slightly backward, his arm moved, his palm instinctively pressing over my lower back and pulling me back. My eyes flickered up and watched as his own gradually fluttered open. They dropped down once and he lazily pried them open again, the hazy shade of green meeting mine. Ugh; I barely moved, why does he have to be such a light sleeper?

My jaw tightened and the urge to run away without having to talk with him and discuss last night intensified. Without uttering a single word, I pulled myself away, forcefully removing his arm from around me and I steadied myself on two feet by the bed's side. Another memory from last night flashed behind my eyes, one where I was taking off my clothes...oh god.

Panic rose in my chest and I immediately looked down at myself, I was still wearing my PJs by some god's miracle. My anxious gaze went to Nikolas, checking if he was fully clothed or not. He was still in one of his dress shirts, the buttons were undone though and I prayed to god that under that blanket he is wearing a pant.

"We...we," I could feel the hotness creep under my skin as I stuttered, my eyes meeting his, "We didn't have uh..."

His eyebrow raised and even though he understood me, he decided to play games now as he straightened his upper body up, "Have what?"

The bit of tease in his tone made me want to hurl something at his face, "We didn't have ss..se...x," I said and tucked a loosened strand of my hair behind my ear, "Right?"

Nikolas's lips twitched at my anxiousness, "You were drunk."

"That doesn't answer my question!" I pointed out. Oh god, oh god...At least I am not feeling sore or anything. I don't think we did it. Oh man, I am never drinking ever again!

He shrugged, "That's not my problem," he answered, being as infuriating as ever. Why can't he ever give me a clear answer to anything?

Air harshly pushed out of my nose and I shot him one of my glares. He pushed himself off the bed and I blew out a sigh of relief when I noticed that he was fully clothed. Phew. Thank god. Let this be a lesson to never drink this much again, Nate!

The second he stood straight, his tall presence hovered over me. He became too close and I blamed my headache and tiredness on the fact that I didn't step back right away. He tipped his head down, staring at me, his fingers pressed under my chin, and tilted my head up, forcing me to face him when I only wanted to bury myself ten feet underground as memories of last night kept invading my consciousness.

I gulped down at the way his eyes glistened when he spoke, "Natalie, when I am going to have sex with you, you're going to be fully sober. And you're going to want it," His voice was smooth, like velvet, caressing my skin and insides, "I don't want just your body in all of this. No, I want everything. Your mind and soul too. I am selfish like that."

My brain became all muddled with his nearness and words, his closeness consuming me into a whirlwind of want, regret, guilt, and heartbreak. Involuntarily, my eyes fluttered shut and he added, his head edging closer, and his voice dropping lower, "I will need you to remember every second of it, to never be able to erase my taste from your mind, you will want to willingly drown in it because I am going to devour you whole, Natalie, from the inside out," His thumb brushed over my lower lip and a low gasp, barely noticeable parted my lips, my eyelids snapping open instantly and meeting his beautiful dark gaze.

His eyes were so green right now, heavy like anchors holding me down. I felt soft like a noodle, about to collapse into the floor when he added, "You're going to come so many times that you'll forget there even was anyone before," I gulped down, his eyes were on my lips, his face inches away from mine I was sure he will kiss me and I was sure I wouldn't stop him, "It will make you think twice the next time you consider going out with your..." His eyes met mine, his tone all type of teasing, "...Friend." Oh, he is not going to let that go, is he?

His eyes were playful but they held within their layers so many genuine feelings...feeling toward me and I both loved and hated that. The corner of his lip slightly pulled up, the little smile breaking my restraints in ways it shouldn't, "You make my world spin a little faster, Natalie," He drawled and I couldn't stop my heart from beating fast, my chest from feeling knotted over all that he just told me. He leaned closer, his soft lips pressing a feather-like kiss over my cheek before he added, "One day I will make you feel just how unsteady you make me."

Too many words fought to come out of my constricted throat but my brain betrayed me and malfunctioned. If I make his world spin, he should know how he powerfully shakes mine, how the force keeps pushing me down, falling, and every time I try to get up, fighting against everything that is him, I just fall down again. Helpless. So very helpless when it comes to him, he has no clue.

Unsteady and light-headed, I took a step back, making his hand drop away, building distance for now till I am able to grasp everything and analyze where my place in this equation falls, "I will just..." I tried to say, pointing behind me and addressing my need to run out of here, "...go."

His lips twitched at my obvious anxious state and he nodded his head. I whirled around and rushed out of the room, almost tripping over Massie, who suddenly came into my path. I cursed her under my breath and quickly rushed out, not missing the smile creeping up the grump's face at my frustration. Ugh. It doesn't settle well with me when he is in a good mood, it means he will manage to ruin my day somehow or...ruin me whole, who knows.

I pushed him out of my thoughts for the time being, especially when I checked the time and noticed that I have to drag my ass to work as fast as possible. I took the quickest shower ever, in desperate need to get rid of the alcohol feeling and smell off me. The hangover rocking my brain still made me wonder if I will ever be able to help anyone deal with their problems today when I am obviously incapable to deal with mine.

Pathetic. That's the person I've become lately. Lost, so damn lost as I try to pave my way out of this madness.

I shook my head, trying to block everything for the moment as I quickly dried my hair. I walked back to the room and threw the robe over the bed and immediately pulled something out to wear. Considering I packed light when I came here, my options were limited. I placed on myself a plain white wool blouse and on top of it my black cord overall dress. Noticing how pale my face seemed to be, I applied a quick natural makeup, covering the darkness under my eyes and adding a calm nude color to my cheeks and lips.

Satisfied with the evident change in my appearance, I grabbed my black boots and bag before I left the room. I placed my boots on as I went down the stairs, making sure I don't trip while doing so. I headed for the kitchen, needing to grab water for my severe dehydration only to come halting to a stop the second I stepped in. The first thing I saw was the man occupying a huge space by the counter, the one ready to steal my breath away just like that. For the first time ever, he was dressed more casually.

The man can pull on any outfit like no other. His expensive suits and dress shirts always molded his body ever so perfectly but something about him wearing simple dark jeans and a white polar shirt rocked my world in ways it shouldn't. Something about his simple outfit now made him look younger, freer, and ready to break hearts the second he steps out.

My stare didn't go unnoticed by him, not when I was drooling at the eye-candy he is. His eyes met mine and I lost sense of why I was keeping my distance, of why I was pushing him away, of why I needed to leave him and never look back. His eyes were greener than ever, a shade no living plant can compete with. An utter perfection with flecks of warmth scattered here and there. How could one person be so perfect and imperfect altogether?

Natalie...work? Remember? Your job? Your income to pay bills? Yeah, of course, I will need that income to pay future hospital bills when they admit me for insanity because this man had made me fall half-mad.

I stepped forward, trying to not get absorbed into everything he is, his intoxicating aroma, shampoo, soap, and a bit of wood and spice. His hair looked wet from a recent shower and I felt a strange tingling awareness when I stepped closer to him. His eyes were focused on me and every move I made, taking everything I am in. His lips twitched slightly, his expression relaxed and he handed me something. I looked down at the water bottle and the pills, "For your headache," He explained, aware of the war raging in my head.

I took and swallowed them without questioning, gulping down the whole glass of water. Only then I realized the stupidity of my hasty action, "Did you just drug me?" I asked, my eyes narrowing at him as I placed the cup back on the counter.

His eyebrow raised, and he crossed his arms over his broad chest, "Why would I drug you?"

I shrugged, "Who knows," I said, "To sleep with me and rock my world."

He smiled, "I don't need a drug to rock your world." Definitely not. I am already dizzy and light-headed. I keep blaming my hangover, but I am sure his effect is stronger and more intoxicating than any alcohol I've consumed.

"God knows how many girls' worlds you've rocked," I said, trying to keep my tone neutral. The words left a bitter taste in my mouth and I tried my best not to reflect it on my expression.

He edged closer, again invading my personal space, "Natalie, I've never wanted to rock a woman's world the way I want to rock yours," He answered back. So, we are doing the whole teasing thing today, are we?

I tried to play it cool, totally and utterly not affected, "I bet you won't, but whatever," I said, acting nonchalant.

Instead of arguing, his smile widened, understanding how I was all jumbled inside due to him, his exhilarating smell, and his sudden good mood, "Yeah, what did you tell me yesterday," He pretended to think back with furrowed eyebrows, "Oh yeah, I have trouble...performing?"

My eyes widened and I gulped down, "I said that?" I mumbled lowly, ready to slam my head anywhere near. No drinks for me for at least a year.

He nodded and I pressed a palm to my forehead, harshly breathing out, "Must've bruised your ego, huh," I pointed out and he shrugged, so casually, not affected at all, "Not at all," He said, ever so confident. Smug Assho...ahem, anyways, I prefer him grumpy.

My eyebrow raised, "Not getting offended at this, it screams big dick energy," I said and winced right after, "God, why don't I think before speaking!" I scolded myself right away and Nikolas ran his thumb over his lower lip, trying to hide his amused smile, "I need to go to work," I announced, ready to whirl around and storm out of here before I utter more nonsense.

But he stopped me, "Wait, I will send one of my men with you," He said, his tone turning serious, more like the Nikolas I know and I shook my head, "What, no, I don't want you sending anyone with me."

His eyebrow raised, not satisfied, "Natalie, Joseph has not attacked yet because he knows you are under my protection, but the second you are alone, he will come at you," He shook his head, "I am not sending you alone."

I crossed my arms over my chest, "So what, your man is gonna babysit me there as I take care of my patients?"

He nodded his head like it was a normal occurrence and I shot him a glare, shaking my head and refusing, "No way." I won't let him win this argument!

He knew I could argue over this till I win, so he hefted out a low breath, his eyes dropping toward the expensive watch laying over his wrist, "Okay then," He said, his gaze flickering up and his hand curling over my arm, pulling me along, "I will go with you," He added, picking up his phone and keys as if he had figured out the best solution to satisfy us both.

My eyes widened and I pulled my arm out of his grip, "Uhm, actually, I prefer one of your men now."

"Too late," He said without looking at my side as he dragged me out of the house, picking up his black leather jacket and throwing my coat at me, ever the gentleman he is, before he pulled me out and locked the door behind us. I looked up at the sky and mumbled a few curses, praying to god to save me from this man.

"Stop whining to god about me and let's go, I don't have all day," And just like that, he was back to being Mr. grumpy pants. Cool. This means I am annoying and pushing his button. Awesome, I will push them more till he explodes and leaves me be.

"It's a two-way conversation by the way," I commented as we headed toward his car, with his hand still curled around my wrist, making sure I don't escape, "He whines about you to me as well."

His expression remained impassive as he said, "He is scared of the competition." Oh, the grump can make jokes, huh?

I rolled my eyes at his limitless ego, "You are no God," I pointed out the obvious. Looking like one? Yes, sure, no arguments there. But on the inside? Nope.

He nodded his head, agreeing, and only let go of my arm when he unlocked the car and opened the door for me, "Of course, you know exactly what I am," He said, a devilish edge to his tone.

I know exactly who he is.

I shook my head, undecided yet, "You're no devil either," If devils looked like this, then everyone will willingly walk through the gates of hell without turning back, I tell you.

His eyebrow arched slightly, "Then, what am I?" He sounded curious about the type of thoughts running through my head about him.

Not willing to feed into his wants, I shrugged, keeping it vague, "Haven't decided yet."

Amusement flickered over his face and he nodded his head toward the inside of the car, "Get in," He said, more like ordered and I got in only because I am already late, not because he could command me to do anything.

He closed the door and joined me after, roaring the engine and pulling us into the street. I kept looking at his side every now and then, my eyes narrowed slightly, unable to figure it out, "Why are you in a good mood lately," If you remove the fact that he was angry and jealous and broke Bella's vase, he is been...different. It's so odd. Did he forget that I slapped him? I could gladly do it again because...

He met my gaze for a second before he focused it back on the road, his biceps sweetly flexing from under his shirt as he used one hand to steer the wheel and I started fantasizing about how he could use that same hand to steer something else of mine. You will never be able to erase my taste from your mind...Damn it, I already can't. I wanted to facepalm and groan, I am so weak when it comes to him. Weaker than I anticipated and Isaac knows that very well, which is why he is winning this fucked up game.

"Would you rather me be miserable?" He pointed out, not comprehending my annoyance at his semi-happy state.

I shook my head, "No, it's just...different."

He switched hands on the wheel, using his right one to reach for me, he gently rested his big hand over my bare thigh, "Let's just say I figured out what's been keeping you away from me," He said and my eyes widened. Fuck, fuck, what did I say last night...

I gulped down, trying to keep myself intact, my gaze flickered from his hand sinfully grabbing my thigh to his face, "And?"

He met my eyes, his thumb lazily brushing over my exposed skin and I shivered. The slight tilt in Nikolas's lips nearly undid me at the seams as he added, "And I know exactly how to fix it."

The rest of the ride passed in silence, thankfully. If he keeps speaking words as such I might pass out. I purposely pushed his hand from over my thigh after because it was doing things to me it had no right doing and I squeezed my legs tighter together, gulping down and trying to kick my head out of the gutter.

The second he parked the car and turned the engine off, I grabbed my coat and went down so fast. Nikolas followed, shrugging over his leather jacket before he placed his black shades on. Oh my god, he's so handsome in black and white and those damn shades that my breath can't seem to get past my throat.

I looked down at myself then back at him and involuntarily, I smiled. We were matching in a way. Black and white.

Nikolas came to my side, his hand innocently resting over my lower back as he led my way, shaking me out of my dirty daydream of him, "You know it's December, right?" I pointed out addressing the cold weather and also dying to see those beautiful eyes he hid behind the darkness of the glasses.

He tipped his head down, and the gesture had the glasses slightly drop down his nose, enough to let me sneak a peek at his eyes, "You do know that you need to protect your eyes from UV rays even in winter," He answered in a matter of fact tone.

"Yeah yeah sure, protect those beautiful eyes of yours at all costs," I said, wholeheartedly meaning it, again speaking without thinking.

His lips tilted and I brought my hand forward and removed the glasses from over his eyes and placed them over my own, "I need to protect my eyes as well," I pointed out as we made our way toward the plaza's entrance.

Nikolas's hand moved from my lower back and to my waist, pulling me closer, plastering my side against his warmth and I decided not to fight it this time. I sank into his hold as we stepped inside the building and waited for the elevator to arrive. I could feel almost everyone's eyes following us, most of them were people working on other floors and who recognized me. They definitely didn't expect me to come hand in hand with someone that looks like this man.

One of the elevators arrived, so Nikolas and I first stepped inside followed by a girl I remember seeing work in one of the magazines a few floors below us. Her eyes flickered all over Nikolas, her lips slightly twitching and I totally understood that wanting look in her eyes. The way she fixed her blouse, pulling it down and discreetly edging closer to Nik's side, it all didn't go unnoticed by me and a low groan vibrated from my chest. I wanted to scratch her face. Thank god for the glasses I was still wearing, because behind them, I shot her one hell of a murderous glare.

My jaw tightened and I leaned closer to Nik. Yeah, maybe I didn't want him but I also didn't want anyone else looking at him, god, I was as crazy as him, I guess. My eyes flickered up to Nik and he was looking back at me, totally clueless about the other female in the elevator who was drooling all over him.

Involuntarily, my lips lifted into a smile because he was just so adorable, unaware of the attention he attracts from the whole female population. I tiptoed, pressing my lips to his cheek, one: because he is so innocent sometimes. Two: let that girl know who he was here with.

Nikolas's eyebrows pulled together, confused at my sudden action but he didn't question it for long, instead, he tightened his hold over me, aching for my attention only and I took full pride in that. The elevator stopped and I lowered the shades from over my eyes, my gaze focused on her as she walked out. Her eyes looked at me and I gave her a knowing look. She tried to act indifferent and impassive as she walked away and the elevator closed taking us higher.

I was such a hypocrite, I swear. I called him out for being jealous of Malcolm and look at me now...

I shook the thought away, my eyes falling on the elevator's mirror and my head tilted, the sight of us, side by side, his hand over my waist, both of us wearing black and white, it was just so fitting, almost like we were made for one another. Before I could let the dark part of my brain take over and erase that image away, I pulled my phone out and opened the camera. I placed the shades back on and Nikolas's eyebrows pulled closer as he observed what I was doing.

"We don't have any pictures together," I pointed out, smiling as I snapped a mirror selfie.

I expected him to whine about that, instead, I felt his hand over my face, removing the shades and pulling them up my hair. My thumb over the button kept pressing, taking many selfies at one, catching the moment when he dipped his head down and gently pressed his lips over my cheek. My heart lurched in my chest, warmness spreading all over my insides as I knew I captured the perfect shot.

I turned my head, looking at his face up close, my inside a gooey mess, unable to break free of this man even though I should. Any sane person knows that I should. Instead, my gaze flickered to his lips, soft and hard, inviting and beckoning me closer. I expected him to close the gap between us already and knock the breath out of my lungs but he didn't, "Aren't you going to kiss me?" The words scraped out of my dry throat.

He shook his head, the corner of his lip pulling up, "Natalie, I told you, next time I'll kiss you, you will have to beg for it."

His words brought back the same memory from last night and before I could comment on that, the elevator ding sound pulled us apart. The doors opened and I grasped back control as I stepped out, Nikolas on my side still. Seriously, what will I do to him all through the day?

I unlocked the door to my clinic just as I spotted Sarah in the hallway. Her eyes met mine and she jogged forward, a few files in her hands as she greeted me with a wide smile. Her gaze flickered to Nikolas beside me, his presence shocking her slightly, as the last thing she knew was that we broke up, we still are broken up, I guess.

How would I ever explain to her why he is here now?

Oh, Sarah, my uncle, you know the one who killed my mom and placed my dad in a coma, yeah the one and only, he discovered I existed and wants me dead too for some reason, so Nikolas is here playing my bodyguard...simple, right?

"Uh hey, Nikolas," She greeted, ever so sweetly, covering up her confusion and he regarded her with an acknowledging nod.

I opened the clinic door and ushered Nik to walk inside. He moved forward, looking around the room with a faint smile, probably remembering days of which he sat down there and me across, trying to analyze and figure out his secrets. Secrets I was better off not knowing. He switched from that into a protective bodyguard mood so quickly as he started to assess the outside world through the window glasses, making sure I was safe. Silly man.

I hung up my coat and placed my belongings on the desk as I listened to what Sarah had to say. She handed me the files in her hands, filling me in on the upcoming schedule as I have canceled and postponed most of my patient's appointments after my dear uncle attacked me, deciding to take a small break as it was necessary but I had to return back; as I said, I have bills to pay.

Sarah's slightly sad expression didn't go unnoticed by me as she discussed work and I interjected midsentence, "Did something happen?"

She let out a low sigh and she filled me in on the latest updates, "Kramer was here when you were absent yesterday, he made a meeting about how the business hasn't been as good as it once was," Kramer was the owner of Polygon Psychology Group, the one I've been working in since the day I graduated. Before graduation even, I started my internship here and carried on from there. The Polygon Group owned this floor in the plaza, with different clinics and different doctors assigned and categorized for various problems, it was all going great until now...

"He said they will have to cut off some employees," She added and the panic started to rise in my chest. My job was the only steady stable thing in my life, the one guarantee I never had to worry about, "He is gonna close some of the clinics and distribute the patients between those who will stay."

I was the youngest, the less experienced among the people on this floor, so of course, when he is going to cut off employees, he will remove me first, he won't let go of Dr. Anderson for example, the man had more diplomas and publications than I own clothes. Sarah's worried expression proved my theory right, he probably said something about me being part of the list that will be cut off, I can see it in her eyes.

My life can't fall apart any faster, can it?

I swallowed hard, and I tried to pave my way out of that stressful thought, I need to focus on my patients for the day and I can deal with unemployment later on. I flashed Sarah a smile, "It's okay, I will find a way to deal with this," I mumbled and she nodded her head, "Don't worry, I already started the search for other firms, if you'll leave, I am coming along," She said, being sweet supportive her.

My smile widened and I flashed her an appreciative look. She returned my smile and lightly caressed my arm, her gaze flickering to Nikolas on my other side, and nodded her before she left the room, making sure to give me the we-need-to-talk-about-the-hottie-in-your-office-later look.

A low sigh parted my lips and I leaned my back against the desk, skimming through the patient's files in my hand and I felt something weird clamor in my chest, something akin to relief. I expected myself to be more upset about the possibility of losing my job. I am of course, just because of the financial part. Other than that, I was never satisfied or happy with what I do.

"Are you okay?" Nikolas's voice came from somewhere so close and I felt his warmness as he leaned his back against the desk right by my side.

I didn't meet his gaze, my eyes aimlessly going through the words written on the paper, "Do you ever feel that you are doing everything wrong and you just don't know how to make them right again," I mumbled, speaking my troubled thoughts out loud. His silence had me look up and meet his face and I realized how silly my question sounded to someone like him.

His eyebrow arched, "Did you forget who I am."

I shook my head, "It's just," I sighed, my eyes going around my office, "I mean, I like what I picked up for a career, I remember my enthusiasm when I studied it, I just thought I will be able to make a difference one day," My shoulders slumped down, I was starting to see the world as only black and white when I once saw it so colorful, "I am not belittling anyone's problems but I really thought I would be dealing with much more important issues," I didn't expect to sit day and night and talk only about a rich woman's shopping addiction, or how her husband and she are unable to balance their polyamorous relationship, or how she is unable to take care of the kids and join all the clubs at the same time...

Again, I am not belittling anyone's issue, we all have different problems, and we all see our troubles as the worst there are but...this is not what I had in mind when I picked this field as my career, "So now when I think I might just lose this job, a part of me is relieved," I stated, "It's a little sad, because I am losing all of my motivation and all that drove me once before."

I wanted to help those in real need, those like him, those who have been through trauma and never were able to pave their way through it. Those that I can save before they trip and fall down the dark pit.

Looks like I will never amount to that. Maybe I just saw myself worthy of more when in reality I am unable to balance my own life, when the main reason I am after this is that I was never able to save the little girl in me, the one who lost her mother young, her father bedridden and her brother left and walked away. That girl was so alone for so long, and since I couldn't help her, I used to think that I can help those around her.

Emotions got jumbled up again in my chest and my fingers tightened over the desk's edge trying to keep myself balanced. Nikolas's hand rested over mine, his voice a soft whisper as he called for my name, shaking me back to him, "Natalie."

I lifted my gaze up and forced on a smile, blocking myself from getting emotional. There was more at stake here than my career, "If I lose my job here, will you hire me in your mafia thingy?" I said, my tone turning playful and in desperate need to change my mood.

His lips twitched, "Makes sense actually," He said, going on with my joke, "With all the trauma my men go through, I could use a psychologist around," He added.

I nodded my head, "Deal, we can discuss my salary later," I checked my phone when Sarah told me that my first case of the day was on her way here, "But for now, I need to treat my current less-traumatic patients."

I circled my way around and sat on the chair behind the desk. Nikolas pulled a chair and placed it by my side. I narrowed my eyes at him, "You will keep your mouth shut all through my sessions, agree?" I warned and his eyebrow arched at my tone, not liking how I order him around sometimes.

Charlotte knocked on the door and I gave Nikolas another warning look. He rolled his eyes and leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms over his chest, careless and bored already.

"Come in," I said, getting up to my feet when Charlotte walked inside. I greeted her with a smile and we shook hands, her gaze briefly going to the new audience in my office, her confused eyes questioning as she backed away and sat on the couch across from me, "Uh, who is he?"

My gaze fell on Nikolas, smiling as I said, "Uh, you mean Nikolas?" I said, "Don't worry, he is just my intern," I rested my hand over Nik's shoulder, sweetly smiling and taking pleasure in the what-the-fuck look he gave me. I pulled out a notebook and a pen, and I pushed them onto his lap, "Better take notes, or else you will fail this," I said with stern authority.

Nik's jaw tightened and I could swear he was planning to push that pen into my throat and shut me up. I gave him a wink before I circled my way around and sat closer to Charlotte, getting her more comfortable as we spoke. We caught up on her latest whereabouts and with every look I snuck at Nikolas, he seemed to be getting more miserable, wishing he didn't argue with me and allowed me to come work alone. Let him suffer.

"Actually, the main reason I came here is to discuss what happened last week," Charlotte said, straightening her back, getting more serious, her eyes flickering to Nik, who couldn't seem less bothered before they went to me, hesitant to speak.

"Of course, tell me all about it," I said, my tone soft and welcoming, allowing her to get comfortable and speak.

"So, Benjamin has been wanting to try this new thing in...bed for some time now," She started to say, discussing her husband and nervously tucking her hair behind her ear, "And we actually gave it a try but I feel it opened a can of warms on us."

I nodded my head, ushering her to carry on, "What happened exactly?"

"Well, he was always suggesting the idea of having a different...partners in bed, so we tried it," She said and I waited for her to elaborate more, "...swinger sex, I mean."

Her words were interrupted by the coughing coming from the man behind me, almost like he was choking on something. I turned around, my eyes glaring at Nikolas who just placed the cup of water back on the table, the water must've gone through the wrong pipe. He cleared his throat and wiped at his mouth. He looked at us, "Sorry," He mumbled before he picked up the notebook and the pen, "I should be taking notes," His lips twitched, fighting his smile, "Carry on," He added and I didn't know whether to chuckle at his stupid amused face or scold him for interrupting my session.

His eyes met mine briefly and he noticed how I was trying my best not to smile at him. He threw me a wink and my heart tripped before I turned back to Charlotte, giving her my full attention as we professionally discussed her messy sex life. Nikolas on the other hand, was behind my desk, finding my job more interesting than expected, a pen and paper in his grip, pretending to scribble something all along.

When our session ended and Charlotte left, I went back to sit beside Nik, "I don't know why you complain about this," He said, leaning back in his seat, "This was fun, I felt like I was watching it from how detailed she explained everything," He added and I playfully slapped his arm. Seriously, what's up with his good mood?

"The swinger sex topic got your attention, huh," I pointed out with an arched eyebrow and he shrugged nonchalantly. My eyes narrowed at him suspiciously, "Are you secretly into that?"

His expression shifted, and he gave me a dark look, "Like hell will I let another man touch you," He grumbled out and I could see him plan someone's murder in his head. Silly man.

I rolled my eyes at his drama, "I never said me, it could be any other girl."

He shot me another glare, "Like hell will I touch any other girl but you," There was a genuine intensity in his tone that showed me how honest he is, that he only thinks of me, that if there is no me, there won't be anyone else...could that be true?

The thought had the warmness spread beneath my skin, flushing my body whole. I pretended to focus on the notebook and the jumbled words ahead of me.

"You're cute when you blush."

Am I gonna have to tolerate him all day?

I turned to him, keeping myself strong as I held with a glare, "And you are annoying when you are happy."

**************

Nikolas's POV

Spending the whole day with Natalie? Fun.

Spending the whole day with Natalie as she listened to her patients? Boring as fuck.

After the swinger sex patient, the rest of them were plain and boring. I couldn't help but roll my eyes and grumble every now and then only to be elbowed in the stomach by a specific blondie.

After her fifth patient, my headache was hitting the roof. Natalie went out of the office to talk with that Sarah person and I used the little break to catch up on what was happening while I was away. I checked up on Emma, and she was still partially angry at me, but I will stay behind her till I earn her forgiveness. I called my men and checked on Nathan only to find out that the stubborn little thing is still refusing to eat anything. That won't last for long though, especially after what I am going to do tonight.

I called Ronald next, "Yes buddy," He answered and I rolled my eyes.

"I am not your buddy," I grated out.

"Yeah yeah sure, what's up?"

"I will not pass by the office today, so keep me updated if anything happens."

There was a short pause from his side, "Why aren't you going to pass by?"

"None of your business."

My words had him whine again, "You are with Nate, aren't you?"

"As I said, none of your business, do your job right, and don't let me kill you." I hung up after, not giving him more time to increase my headache.

I huffed out a low breath and looked around the office, waiting for Natalie to get back. More than fifteen minutes passed and she was still out. Thinking of the worst scenarios, as usual, I got up and walked out, looking around for her. My eyes fell on Sarah and Natalie was nowhere in sight. My heart knocked it up a notch and I paused by the woman's side, "Where is Natalie?" I shot out, hoping her answer will ease my worry.

She lifted her head up and she smiled, "Natalie likes to take her coffee break away from everyone," She answered and pointed her finger up, "She is probably on the roof."

My eyebrows pulled closer at that information and I headed for the elevator immediately. Away from everyone my ass, not when there was someone after her, I need her under my eyes all the damn time. I reached the last floor and stepped out of the elevator fast. There was a small stair from there and I climbed up, the roof's main metallic door was left ajar and I pushed it open, rushing outside into the cold air.

A breath of relief parted my lips when my eyes fell on her at one corner of the big roof. She was sitting, alone, on a big concrete rock, her gaze looking at the world ahead and beneath her, a cartoon cup in her hands and she silently sipped on it, steam climbing up from it and I stepped closer, invading her personal space.

Her eyes flickered to me when my steps got closer, shock flashed in them at first but then she relaxed, "You found my hiding spot," She mumbled, her nose red from the coldness, and why in hell wasn't she wearing her coat?

I took my jacket off and leaned down, placing it around her shoulders and letting her little self sink into its warmness before I took a seat beside her, "Do you always come here?"

She nodded her head, "After having many sessions after one another, I like to sit here and have my coffee or tea, all alone," She explained then she scoffed at something, "Alone. I think I really like to be alone."

My eyebrows pulled closer and her gaze fell onto the cup she is holding with both hands, "I am such a friendly person on the outside but in truth, I really have no friends," She said, just speaking out thoughts troubling her mind. She looked at me, "Do you know that my only friends are Sarah, her brother Malcolm," Here we go again, "And her husband."

She shook her head, "That's all," She said, "No family members, nothing, that's how I spent my whole life, not that I never had a chance to be friends with people but I think I don't like to," Her lips lifted into a smile, "I am such a loner, aren't I?"

I edged closer to her, my arm pressing against hers, "I guess we are more alike than we thought," I said and she chuckled softly, "I guess so."

She stared at me for a long second, "Who is your best friend?" She asked, out of the blue.

I didn't need to think about that one, "Would it be too pathetic if I said it's Alex?"

Her smile widened and shook her head, "No, it's actually so heartwarming."

"Since you two didn't grow up together," She added, "Who was your friend before him?"

My eyebrows pulled together, "Uh, no one," I answered.

"Really? No one at all?"

I shrugged, "I mean I had men I can depend on sometimes, but a friend? No."

"Aight," She mumbled as she brought the cup to her lips and took a sip of the warm drink, "After Alex, who would you consider as a friend?" She asked, just making a random conversation with me, "And don't say Emma."

I tried to think of it and winced almost instantly, "Oh shit, the first people that came to my mind were Roman, Ronald, and Jeremy, and I suddenly feel like I want to throw myself off that edge," I grumbled out, not satisfied with my own thoughts.

Natalie laughed and I shook my head, shaking the horrifying thought away, "Don't tell anyone I said this," I warned and she shook her head, "Promise, won't tell a soul," She imitated closing her mouth with a fake key and she threw it off the edge.

It was so refreshing to just sit and speak of random things with her. It was peaceful and relaxing. The thought of spending the rest of my life with this woman, always having her by my side, always getting the chance to sit and speak of everything and anything, it was too surreal and too good to ever happen. Even if the possibility of it was a far-fetched dream, it doesn't mean I will ever give up on it.

"Since we are both such loners," I said, my eyes caressing her beautiful face, "How about we be loners together?" I suggested.

Her eyes narrowed at me, "Mr. Viarchi, are you indirectly asking me to be your girlfriend again?"

I nodded my head, "Yes."

Her throat bobbed slightly and she pulled her lower lip between her teeth nervously biting at it, "I told you, Natalie, you make my world spin, and truth is, I don't want it to stop spinning," I spoke honestly with her, "Because when it does, I stop breathing."

I saw so many words fighting to come out, her lips parted ready to speak but she stopped herself, "My offer will stay standing Miss Blake," I used her same previous tone as I spoke, "You don't necessarily need to answer me now."

A low breath pushed out of her lips, glad I didn't put her under the spot, and gave her time to think it through, "Okay," She whispered lowly, nodding her head in agreement.

"How many sessions do you have left?" Please say one or two.

"Two," She answered. Thank god.

"How about we go to dinner right after?" I said and without thinking, she eagerly nodded her head, "Yes, I am already starving!"

I smiled at her enthusiasm, "Great, I know just the place."

************

"I would've killed myself if I was a therapist," I commented as I pulled the car into the street, wholeheartedly meaning it after the horrible day I had.

Natalie chuckled and nodded her head, "I can imagine."

She relaxed into her seat, having spent the better half of the day with me made her let go of the guard she used to pull around. She was so much more like her old self, laughing, smiling, and indulging me in every conversation I brought up and I reveled in every bit of it.

"What do you think you would've been if you...weren't what you are now?" She asked, curious.

I tried to think it through, lines etched my forehead when I found no apparent answer, "I really have no clue."

"Hmm, nothing that you would like doing?"

I shrugged, "I am not sure," I answered, "If I didn't have the life I had, I would be a different person, and I don't really know what that person would've liked."

She pressed her cheek against the seat, and stared at me for a long second, analyzing my face and trying to get the answer herself, "I could imagine you as a businessman, a ruthless one...but I think it would get boring for you with time," She shook her head, disagreeing with her own theory. She hummed before she figured it out, "I think I know what you would've been."

Now, I am curious about what she saw me as, "What?"

"It might sound funny to you now," She started to say and I gave her a confused look, "You won't say a fashion designer or an artist or something, will you?" I said and she chuckled, shaking her head at the silly thought, "No, not that much."

"Then what?"

"A doctor," She answered and yeah, it was funny.

"So you went from me killing people to me saving them?" I said with an arched eyebrow.

She nodded her head, "Exactly," She answered, fully believing in it, "But not just any doctor, a surgeon...a neurosurgeon to be exact," She added, profiling me whole, "You would go into the hardest of surgeries and yet come out successful," The mere thought that she saw that much potential in me had my chest tighten for some reason.

"You look smart," She added, "You look like you would always want a challenge, so a surgeon's life would suit you."

I sighed, "Maybe in another lifetime, who knows," I said and she nodded, "In that lifetime, hopefully, I won't be so terrified of blood and I would be a doctor too," She smiled at the thought, "I could be a resident doctor in your team."

I looked at her, "Am I allowed to date one of my residents?" I asked and she chuckled, "Yes, sure, we would find our way around that."

"Good," I said and her smile was so beautiful, I wanted to kiss it, to savor it, to sink and die in it.

Our conversation went on and on till we arrived at the restaurant. I handed the valet the keys and we stepped inside. Natalie looked at the familiar place with a knowing smile, remembering the previous time I brought her here, that day before I left for London, "You didn't happen to reserve the whole place like last time, did you?"

I shook my head, "I didn't have enough time to do that," I said as the hostess led our way, "Will one table suffice for the night?"

She nodded her head with a genuine smile, "Yeah, perfect."

The spot I picked was at one of the corners, away from everyone so I can sit side by side with her and not across from each other. A long couch with a table was positioned ahead. We sat down, the waiter handed us the menu and Natalie sank into it, eager and hungry for food.

"I want pasta," She announced going through the different types before she settled on one.

The waiter came back to our side, his eyes on me, "Pronto per ordinare, signore?" He asked for our orders and I answered him with the same language, giving him mine and Natalie's order before I picked up the wine.

The second the man walked away, I felt Natalie's eyes on me, gaping, "Wow, you speak Italian so fluently?!" It was both a question and a statement, astonished at the fact.

My lips tilted at her innocent face, "Natalie, you do know where I come from, right?"

She nodded, amazed, "I know, but your English is so perfect like no one would think you are capable of speaking any other language like this, " She was so adorable.

I smiled, "It's called being bilingual."

"Wow," I don't know what was so astounding about me speaking Italian but she found it quite mindblowing for some reason, "So you spoke both languages at home?"

I nodded and she rested her elbows over the table, her head between her palms as she excitedly stared at me, "Say something," She requested, "Say something in Italian again, please," She fake pouted, her eyes wide like a puppy, full of amusement and excitement, "Pretty please."

I shook my head and she scooted closer to me, flashing me her most innocent cute looks, knowing very well she wins me over in a mere second, "Please, say something again."

I let out a sigh and said one of the most common words, "Grazie."

She shot me a hard glare in return, "That means thank you, even I know that."

So, I am getting out of this one easily, am I?

She flashed me another cute look, "Just one sentence, one full sentence only, like you spoke with the waiter, that's all I am asking for."

When I stayed silent, "Nicky, please?" She added and my eyebrow raised, annoyed by her nickname, "Nicky?"

She smiled, ever so sheepishly, "If you don't say something in Italian, I will call you Nicky for the rest of your life."

Knowing she is crazy enough to actually do that, I edged closer to her, my voice low, my eyes on her beautiful ones as I spoke, meaning it, "Sei la cosa migliore che è entrata nella mia vita," My fingers gently ran over her cheek as I added, "la mia bella ragazza delicata."

Her lips parted, so very astonished, "Woah, that was so hot!"

"What does it mean?"

I shook my head with a small smile, "Nothing important."

Her eyes narrowed at me, "You didn't just swear at me in Italian, did you?"

I nodded, "That's exactly what I did."

She shot me a glare before she backed into her seat, "Even swearing in Italian is hot, damn it," She mumbled to herself and I couldn't hide my smile at her crazy self.

Even after our food arrived, Natalie kept requesting form me to speak more Italian words for some reason. I dismissed her so many times that she finally gave up.

When we finished our food and left the restaurant, I saw Natalie typing something into her phone, on google translate to be exact, she paused by the hostess and said good evening in Italian, "Buonasera," She mumbled with a cute accent that made me want to take her home, throw her onto the bed and do unspeakable things to her. Why was she so perfect?

We walked out and I stopped the valet from bringing my car right away, "We will be back in a bit," I said.

My eyes fell on Natalie beside me when she asked, "We aren't leaving?"

"I thought we could walk for a bit," I suggested, looking ahead, "They said there is a carnival of some sort over there," Natalie followed my eyesight, falling into the bright lightening colors at a close distance, "We can pass by since we are already here."

She nodded her head, "Yeah sure," She said, coming close to my side as we walked there side by side. She tucked her hands into her coat pockets and I wrapped my arm around her waist, pulling her closer to me and warming her up. She didn't fight against my closeness and for that, I was beyond grateful.

We walked through the carnival, watching the many games positioned on each side, a band of some sort on one corner was playing, people in different costumes everywhere, and food stands here and there. Natalie looked all over the place in astonishment, taking every detail like a little girl. Her eyes fell on one of the stands, "Oh my god, I love that game," She said, her hand wrapping over my arm and pulling me along.

We paused by the shooting game stand, where a couple ahead of us were playing, aiming the gun and shooting at the various object on the shelf, they missed three and shot two only, earning a small gift in return. Natalie swayed on her feet, excited as she waited for them to finish up. Meanwhile, I bought her a couple of tickets to play.

She squealed when I handed her the ticket and rushed forward, grabbing the gun and aiming it at the shelf, squinting her eyes at the glass bottles standing there, "You are holding it wrong," I commented, just trying to help.

"Shut up," She dismissed me, so focused on her target, and I followed her aim, "You will shoot the mirror," I pointed out how wrong her direction was and she grumbled, "I won't shoot the-" She tried to say as she pulled the trigger, allowing the shot to go out and crash into the mirror and shatter it, just like I expected.

Her eyes widened, "Oh god, I am so blind," She scolded herself and I nudged her away, taking the gun from her, "Leave this to professionals, baby," I said and aimed, shooting all ten of the bottles placed on the shelf, without missing any.

"Oh, awesome!" The owner clapped his hands, enthusiastically. He pointed at the upper shelf where the toys were displayed, "Since you got them all, you get to pick a toy from the upper shelf," He said, addressing the better-quality ones.

Natalie beside me gasped and inched closer, "Oh wow, I never got to pick anything from the upper shelf," She mumbled lowly, and considering her terrible aim, I am not surprised. A smile broke over her face, "Which one am I gonna get?"

My eyebrow raised, "I am the one who won, I get the gift," I said and she turned her gaze to me. She glared at me, "Oh, are you a soft boy on the inside who needs a teddy bear?" She mocked and my eyebrow arched.

I pulled her back to my side, "Which one do you want?" I said and her smile was back instantly, "You pick," She said, challenging me, "Let's see if you know my taste."

I looked back at the stuffed toys and it was as easy as ever. I turned to the man, "Last on the left side," I said and he climbed over the ladder, picking it up. He went down and handed me the stuffed colorful unicorn toy. I immediately pushed it into Natalie's hold and she hugged it to her chest, "Yay, I was gonna pick this one too!"

Of course, she was gonna pick the unicorn...god, this girl.

She hugged it so tight and rubbed her chin on top of it, "Ahh, it's so sooooft," She said inching it closer to my face, "Look," She rubbed against my cheek and I winced, pulling back, "Take it away from me."

She chuckled and kept it between her arms, looking down at it as she wondered, "What am I gonna name you?"

What's with this habit of hers to name everything? She even named the stupid plant in my office...Oh, speaking of that. I pulled my phone out and texted Jeremy, 'Water the plant.'

Two seconds later came his reply: 'Already did ;)'

Then another one after: 'Bella misses you :('

I hefted out an annoyed breath; 'Go back to work.' I texted.

'Yes, sir🫡.' Came his reply and I pushed the phone into my pocket.

Natalie's eyes were on my screen, reading my texts and she smiled, "You are taking care of Bella, aren't you?" She asked, ever so sweetly.

"No," I grumbled.

She gave me a pointed look, "After you broke her vase, you better," She said.

"That was a dick move," She added, addressing me when I was angry and jealous.

My jaw tightened, "I really was a dick, wasn't I?" I mocked but she believed them and nodded, "Yes, a big one. Huge even, a gigantic enormous dick."

Her eyes widened when she heard her words out loud, "Wow, that sounded so wrong," She mumbled, her cheeks flushing and I tried to hide my smile at her bluntness.

She tried to play it cool, only to end up ruining the situation even more, "Not that you've let me see it anyway, so I can't judge," She added, "Although I do have my pre-assumptions -"

She forced herself to stop talking and facepalmed, "Oh god, someone make me shut up," She grumbled under her breath and I pulled her and her unicorn along the street before she speaks more.

She kept hugging the toy, wondrously looking all around her, "Oh, those pretzels look so good," She commented, addressing the pretzel-stand on our right. Not being able to deny her anything she wants, I inched closer and bought her some.

Her smile reached her ears when I handed them to her, "One could've been enough," She said, addressing the five different ones I got. She lifted her eyes up to me, "You are really spoiling me today," She said as she took a bite.

"I would spoil you every day, if you let me," I said and she tried to look busy eating and chewing so as not to comment on that.

She pushed the pretzel to my face, "Want some?"

I pulled away and shook my head, "No."

"Come on, it's delicious," She insisted and I shook my head again.

She tore out a small piece using her hand and inched it closer to my mouth, "Open up," She ordered and I pushed her hand away, "I told you I don't want."

She groaned and pushed it back to my lips, "Just eat it," She stressed out, "You gonna love it, I am sure," When I still didn't budge, she gave me the puppy look, "For me, please?"

I sighed and opened my mouth. Satisfied that she won, she stuffed the thing into my mouth and resumed eating herself as I chewed on the weird pastry. We roamed the whole street, and after it started to get colder, we decided it was time to go back.

We climbed into the car and before I started the engine, I leaned closer and tore a small piece of her second pretzel. I pushed the thing into my mouth and Natalie's smile widened, "You liked it!" She pointed out, so happy and I rolled my eyes at her.

She chuckled and relaxed into her seat, Mr. unicorn in her lap as I started driving, "Are we going home?"

Is it possible she sees my house as...home?

I gave her a lookover, "Is it okay if we make one stop before that?"

She nodded, "Yeah, sure."

"Great," I said and drove us to my destination.

Half an hour later and I parking the car by the factory, "Do you have work to do?" Natalie asked as she left the stuffed unicorn inside and went down, looking over at our surroundings.

I shook my head, "No, I want to show you something," I extended my hand forward, asking for her hand.

She looked at it then back at my face, confused, "Show me what?"

"Come with me and you'll see," I said and she inched closer, placing her hand in mine, trusting me for some reason.

I pulled her closer, my hand so tight over hers as we rounded our way behind the factory, heading for the building on the other side. Natalie looked so confused, so unaware of what I was hiding behind closed doors.

We climbed up the stairs, "Where are we?" She couldn't help but ask.

"I want you to meet someone," I said as I unlocked the door and walked inside, my hand still over hers.

I ignored my men in the other room and reached Nathan's room. There was a lot we needed to talk about concerning this. I will still need to keep him hidden here, I can't risk Isaac finding his location, but at least, it was time for her to finally meet him.

I opened the door and Natalie, partially scared and confused stayed put in her place, "Come here," I urged her and she gulped down. She took a step closer, her eyes warily drifting around before they fell on the couch across from the bed, the one where Nathan was seated.

I closed the door behind us and Natalie kept moving forward. Lines etched her forehead, her gaze on the kid only, taking all of his features in and trying to place them somewhere. Seconds only and it hit her. She halted to a sudden stop crashing into my chest behind her, her eyes wide and she brought her hand to her mouth, coming to terms with this fact.

I rested my hand over her arm steadying her and she whirled around, looking at me and before she could ask it, I answered, nodding my head and affirming her theory. She turned around and rushed to his side, crouching down and looking at him up close, unable to make sense of the truth that he exists and that he is pretty much real and here.

She brought her hand forward, she rested it over his cheek, "Oh my god, you are real," She stuttered breathlessly and tears misted her eyes as her shaky fingers caressed his cheek, "Nathan."

Nathan's confused eyes flickered from her to me as I sat down by his side, "Is she your sister too?" He asked, considering I made Emma meet him the day before.

"God, no," I said back.

"I am your sister," Natalie whispered back, bringing his gaze to hers.

A frown pulled between his eyebrows, "You are?" He asked, so confused and unable to comprehend it all.

Tears flew down her eyes, the ones that flickered all over his face, they slightly dimmed, probably thinking how many years has passed with him away. She sniffled and inched closer, wrapping him in her arms, "Oh my god, I can't believe this," She choked out and I silently allowed her to have this moment with him, not interfering, "You are alive," She mumbled, closing her eyes and tightening her grip over his little body.

When she pulled away, she held his face between her hands, smiling through her tears, "I thought I will never see you," She whispered, probably recalling threats coming from Isaac.

My jaw ticked at the thought that he was able to get closer to her and threaten her to stay away from me, that he went to the extent of using Nathan against her. He was a fool to do so, especially when Nathan was with me. He didn't expect me to tell her about this and man, do I love to prove him wrong.

Nathan's eyes watered because he couldn't understand. He was too young to comprehend it all. Natalie brushed the one tear that left his eye and my chest tightened, I was hoping her closeness could help him get used to being here, and that he would stop asking for his...father.

"Shush, don't cry, you are safe, I promise."

He shook his head, "I want my dad," He told her, "Let him take me to my dad," He added, addressing me.

Natalie shook her head, "But Nathan, he is not your dad-"

"Everyone just stop saying that!" He screamed, and a few more angry tears slipped down his face.

Natalie nodded her head, "Look, I know, I know," She tried to explain, wrapping his hand with hers, "He raised you, and you love him, but if you went back to him, I would never see you again," She added, "Do you know that you have a brother too?"

He nodded, wiping at his cheeks with the back of his hand, "Yes, Ronald," He said, "I saw him once."

Natalie smiled, "Yeah, don't you want to be with us?"

He nodded, "But I want my dad too."

Natalie's expression softened, her head tilting to the side, "You have a father here too," She whispered, pressing a hand to her chest, "My dad, Ronald's dad, he is your dad as well."

He shook his head, refusing the idea, "No, no," He said, stubbornly, "Your dad is different from mine," He added, frustrated, "I want only my dad, why won't you let me go back to him?"

"Because Nathan, he is dangerous, you won't be safe with him, we are your family."

Nathan shook his head, "No, I was safe," He sniffled, "I was safe," He closed his eyes and cried, "I miss him, I want to go back..." He placed his head in his hands and cried.

Natalie's scared eyes flickered to me, helpless at the situation, still trying to make sense of everything and just as confused and lost as the little kid. I inched closer to him, my hand falling onto his shoulder, "Nathan," I called and he sniffled, lifted his head, and turned to me.

"Didn't Isaac keep telling you that I was going to hurt you?" I asked and he nodded his head.

"Did I hurt you since you got here?" I asked, trying to speak his language.

He shook his head.

I nodded, "Don't you see it?" I said, "He took you away from your real family," I looked at Natalie, "From Natalie, from Ronald, from your real father, I know that he loves you and he never hurt you but he had no right to take you away."

"But I want him," He mumbled so weakly and I had no idea how to ever make him see otherwise. I've been there before. I've ovserved how Lilly saw me as her father, and how it wasn't easy to convince her otherwise, how to this day she still calls me only dad. So, I get where he is coming from but it doesn't make this situation any better, so I had no choice but to lie.

"How about this then," I suggested, I needed him to at least eat, to relax, to not be a prisoner in here because that's not what I intended. I am not Frank, at least not in that sense. I am not capable of hurting a little kid, despite of who he is, "You stay with us for a while, you get the chance to be with your sister, your brother, and even yo...their father," I added, trying to settle it down with him.

Maybe with time, he would understand, maybe he could get used to them and finally be able to see them as his family, "And after that, I will take you back to Isaac."

His eyes widened, "Really?" He asked.

I nodded and Natalie's gaze met mine, understanding that we had to take it step by step with him, "Yes, really."

He looked back at Nate, seeking assurance from her too. She gave him a warm smile and nodded her head, "Yes, we will."

"You promise?" He asked her, so hopeful, so young and innocent and I hoped I'd be able to do right by him.

Her smile wavered, hating to build lies in his head but she nodded nevertheless, "I promise."

He looked back at me and I smiled, "I promise too."

His young hopeful mind believed in us and he wiped the tears from over his cheek, "But if we will do this, you gonna need to eat your food every day," I pointed out, staring at the tray full of food over the table, "And you will stop breaking everything in the house for god's sake," I added playfully with an arched eyebrow.

I extended my hand forward to him, "Do we have a deal, little one?"

He stared at my hand before his hazel eyes flickered up to my face, "You won't hurt me?"

I shook my head, "I would never."

He nodded his head and placed his little hand in mine and shook it. A smile pulled up my lips at the little man he is.

"So, will you eat your food now?" Natalie asked, bringing the tray closer to him and pulling out the sandwich. He nodded his head and took it from her, taking his first bite and I breathed out a low sigh of relief.

Natalie kept watching him, his every move, astonished by the little thing that he is. She brushed her hand over the side of his hair, smoothing it away as he ate his food. She inched closer, sitting on his other side, her arm going around his shoulders, keeping him closer to her and savoring the moment for as long as she could.

When he was done eating, Natalie helped him get washed up and climb into bed, she stayed by his side, unable to leave yet, the turn of events still so fresh and new for her to grasp. She ran her hand through his hair till he fell fast asleep. She inched her head closer and dropped a kiss over his temple, "Sweet dreams," She mumbled, dropping another kiss.

When she stood up from the bed, I walked to her side, "Is it crazy that I love him so much already?" She whispered, adoringly staring at him.

I shook my head, "I don't think so because I feel that too."

She turned her head looking at me, "It's not gonna be easy," She whispered, addressing the way we are going to deal with this.

I nodded, agreeing, "But we will do it anyway."

Softness crossed her eyes and I won't say I was not shocked when I felt her arms sneak around my waist, pushing herself into my embrace. My arms instinctively wrapped around her frail body, pulling her closer to me, my chin pressed over the top of her head and she sank further into me.

With her head pressed into my chest, she spoke, "How can I see him every day without Isaac knowing anything?"

"I'll take care of it," I assured her, "Every day, I will bring you here, as much as you want, just never come alone, okay?" I was careful with every move I made, the last thing I needed is Isaac discovering any of these places existed.

She edged backward, her sad eyes looking up at me, "Nikolas, I can't fight Isaac on my own," She said, worried lines cut into her forehead, "I need you," She said and I nodded without hesitation. I brought my hand up to her face, caressing her cheek, "We will do this, together."

"Just promise me one thing," She requested ever so weakly and I nodded, "Keep him safe, please."

"I promise," I assured her, "Once I get rid of Isaac, it will all get better."

She looked back at him, laying on the bed and fast asleep, "I so badly wish I can take him and keep him with me, I want to see him every second, talk to him, know him more," She whispered wistfully but she knew that wish presented risks we can't begin to deal with now. Isaac is one thing, at least he won't physically harm Nathan but if Joseph was to find out about him, that would be another can of worms opened on us.

I pressed a kiss over the top of her head, "I know."

She sniffled and whipped at her cheeks before she inched closer and kissed his head again. Forcing herself to walk away, we both left the room. She looked at the two men guarding the place, "They won't hurt him, right?"

I shook my head, "They know what I would do if I see one scratch on him," I said, my voice hard and clear for them to hear as well.

With that, we both left the house and went back to the car. Natalie slumped over the seat, emotionally drained, "I still can't believe all of this," She whispered and I understood the toll all of this must be bringing on her. Isaac's threats, Joseph's attack and now adding the fear and worry she will need to carry around every time she is going to be away from Nathan.

"It will be okay, Natalie," I said, hoping with all my power that I won't screw this up. There was a kid's life at stake here. I can't mess this up no matter what. It was also Natalie's life at stake too, the life of the woman that I...

I shook my head, deciding not to go there yet. I will keep things under control. I have to.

Natalie gave me a small nod, sinking further into her seat as I drove us back home. She kept silent all through the ride, her eyes focused on the outside world, too many thoughts and doubts fighting and pushing in her brain.

When we walked inside the house, I was thankful Ronald wasn't here. The last thing I needed was to explain to him that I have Nathan. He will make a scene, I know him.

Natalie paused in her steps, turning around to face me, "Thank you for today," She whispered, "For making sure I was safe, for the dinner, and," She raised the unicorn up, "For winning Mr. unicorn for me," She said with a beautiful tilt in her lips.

"Haven't figured out a name for him yet?"

She nodded, "Actually I did, but you won't like it."

My eyebrow raised, "What is it?"

She hugged the stuffed animal and looked down at it, "Nicky," She said and my expression fell.

The fuck...

Her smile widened at my expression, "It suits him."

"I doubt that," I grumbled.

She inched closer till there was only air seprating us, "Thank you," She said again, this time addressing the last stop we made before we got here.

I shook my head, hating to take credit when I was no hero, "Natalie, you know that my intentions behind this aren't exactly pure-"

She nodded her head, understanding, "I know, Isaac cares about Nathan," She said, making me more curious about the conversation she had shared with Isaac behind my back, "And you want to use that against him."

I nodded my head; Did a part of me want to take him in order to reunite him with his family? Yes. But the main reason I took him was so I can break Isaac down. I will never deny that.

"But you won't let anything bad happen to him, right?" It wasn't a question but a statement, "I know that you are a lot of things Nikolas but hurting a child is not you," She trusted in me that much at least.

I shook my head, "I would never."

She smiled, "That's all I care about."

Her gaze flickered all over my face, "I had fun today."

I nodded, "So did I."

"Do you still want an answer to your proposition?" She asked, a hint of tease curling her lips.

I swallowed hard and nodded my head, dreading her rejection.

She edged closer, her eyes on my lips, "Kiss me," She said, more like demanded.

"That's not an answer," I interjected.

"It's mine," She replied back, "Now kiss me."

I shook my head and her eyes grew slightly wider, "You really gonna make me beg."

A smirk pulled up the corner of my lips, "Yes."

Her eyes narrowed at me, "I am not gonna beg."

"Then, I am not kissing you," I said, faking confidence and pulling on my restraints as I walked past her and headed to my room, feeling her fuming on the spot.

**************

Natalie's POV

He is an asshole.

A big gigantic asshole.

He left me standing there and walked away as if nothing happened, as if I didn't indirectly accept to be his girlfriend again, as if I didn't ask him to kiss me. Anger clouded my senses and I whirled around so fast, I acted on the fury and rage rushing through my chest as I followed him.

I stepped into his room, "Nikolas!" I shot out, unable to grasp he could actually be such an asshole.

The second he turned around, I was marching forward. I left him no time to react as I went up on my toes, my arms sneaking around his neck and I pressed my lips into his. I won't beg, but I can take matters into my own hands, or lips.

He froze slightly, not expecting me to do this, especially not after I slapped him the last time but I didn't care, I wanted him now. I didn't care to think of logic, of what's right, of ethics and morals, and all that shit.

Today, I want to do wrong.

And him, he is just that, everything wrong and forbidden, everything sinful and desired. It didn't take me more than a second to break him down. A low groan rumbled from his chest and he parted my lips, seeking access. His taste filled me, going like a shot of crack to my heart.

A soft noise left me as I kissed him back with all I'd got. I could feel myself fighting against this, ready to pull back and call it a night but I refused, I refused again, and I indulged in all types of irrationality.

Nikolas eased back slightly and he stared down at me with smoldering heat that was almost frightening. He's looking at me like I'm something else, something extraordinary, something perfect...I was far from perfect.

Like he can't believe I'm trembling in his arms because I was.

His big strong hands held my face as his lips started to crush over mine harder. Groaning, he started kissing me a little bit faster, and I wanted to hate this but I couldn't. I couldn't get enough, couldn't work my mouth fast enough to get all of him that I wanted. I pushed my hand into his hair, his soft luxurious strands.

His hand on the back of my neck tightened, pulling me closer, and crushing my breasts against his chest. He sucked on my tongue, slow and greedy, like he wanted to savor me whole and eat me alive. He was kissing me like he wanted me more than the whole world he wishes to conquer, more than the desire to get rid of the monsters surrounding us, almost like I was more important to him than anything else.

I kissed him back with the same intensity. My walls got crumbled at my feet and I fell weak and vulnerable against this man once again.

My fingers tugged at the hem of his shirt, hurriedly pulling it up and off him. He helped me, grabbing it in one fist and pulling it over his head, throwing and discarding it somewhere. My chest was heaving as I stared at him, at his chest and his scars, all the mess they had created. My hand pressed over his hard chest, my fingers fluttering over one scar, I wanted to kiss it, to kiss every little imperfect perfection over his body, I wanted to taste all of him tonight.

Heat enveloped my skin, I was burning deep down to my bones. My hand dropped from him and I moved it to my dress, pulling the straps down and letting it fall into the ground. I was left in my wool shirt only and Nikolas's stepped closer, he took my blouse in one hand and pulled it over my head in one smooth yank before his lips descended and claimed mine again.

I clung to him as he lifted me up in his arms, our mouths never unlatching. He swiftly pulled me up with his hands on my ass and my legs curled around his hips, his delicious hard bulge pressing to the apex between my thighs as his mouth worked on mine. My body trembled with his nearness and my mind raced at the mere thought of what was going to happen next.

My bare back hit the mattress of his bed and I gasped at the sudden cold sensation. Nikolas eased back slightly, looking down at me with a smile that slowly turned wolfish.

I was incapable of holding my own smile as I looked up at his handsome face. Dark hair rumpled from my hands, those green eyes liquid. He's everything I never knew I wanted and everything I shouldn't come near.

I tightened my arms around his neck, "Let's see some of the world rocking you were talking about," I couldn't hold back the teasing in my tone, and that alone pulled his lips into a devilish smirk.

"Are you sure, Natalie? Because I am not the gentleman you think I am."

I rested my hand over his cheek, my finger caressing his face and I shook my head, "I don't think you are a gentleman at all."

His eyes are on my lips, on my heaving chest, and on my eyes, "What do you want, Natalie?"

"You," My hand moved to the side of his neck, caressing his scar, "I want you, all of you."

I looked back into his eyes, "And what is it that you want, Nikolas?" I breathed out.

His throat bobbed slightly, and a bit of darkness flashed into that beautiful forest, "Everything you are willing to give and more."

I nodded, reaching for his lips again, "Then take it," I murmured into his softness and hardness, "It's all yours."

*************************************

It was a long fluffy chapter. We haven't had those in a while.
Hope you liked it! ;)

The beginning of the next chapter will be *ahem* a bit mature, so skip if you are a kid xD

What's your thoughts on everything?
On Nikolas?
On Natalie?
On little Nathan? ;)

See ya soon!