Page 68 of Guarded Deputy
“Nope.” He finishes off his pizza without any more attacks and moves the half-empty pizza box to the side along with our plates and tugs me closer, keeping his arm around me.
“I doubt that.” I challenge with a smirk.
“Are you the one with a collection of broken hearts?”
“Highly doubtful. You’ve had first-hand experience on the mess I am when it comes to the opposite sex.”
“It’s charming.” He laughs.
“Right.” I shove him playfully, but that only allows him to tighten his hold on me and pull me closer until I’m cuddling into his side.
His fingers brush my hair away as his eyes search mine. “You really are stunning.”
I smile at his words and rest my head on his shoulder, looking up at the sky. “The stars are so bright in this area.”
“They are.” His fingers comb through my hair in soft strokes, making my skin break out in goosebumps. My body grows heavy at the constant sensation as I take in the bright dots.
“Tell me more about Mr. Braden.” I hope I’m not pushing the limit, but he sounds like an important person in Nate’s life.
Nate’s muscles tighten beneath me. When he remains silent, I think he’s going to ignore my request but then surprises me.
“I wasn’t the best kid. I got into trouble, did things I’m not proud of.”
I reach for his hand on his chest and lace my fingers with his as I give him the time to collect his thoughts.
“I didn’t have support at home. My mom did her best to raise us, but she had to work like a dog in order to keep a roof over our heads, food on the table, and clothes on our backs. I was resentful, angry, and I took it out the wrong way, mingling with people who didn’t have my best interest at heart.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” I whisper, looking up at him.
“It’s fine.” He shakes his head.
“What about your dad?” I risk asking.
Nate grunts but remains silent.
“Sorry.”
“You don’t have to apologize, but I don’t like talking about it.”
“Then don’t.” I sit up and smile softly, hoping he sees the sincerity in my eyes.
“I want to. I haven’t given many people the chance to get to know me, but I want you to.”
“Why me?” I tilt my head.
“Because something about you makes me feel safe.” He cups my cheek, and I lean into his touch, getting lost in the roughness of his palm.
“You make me feel safe, too.” I blink my eyes open to find him looking at me.
Nate leans forward, pressing his lips to mine in a chaste kiss. When he leans back, his eyes shine with deep emotions, and his thumbs brushes my cheek. Staring into my eyes, he takes a deep breath.
“My dad abandoned us when I was a kid. I haven’t seen much of him since then, and it made me harbor a lot of anger, confusion, and hatred. I took it out by going out, stealing, and treating people like shit. My mom deserved a better son, and fortunately, Mr. Braden took me under his wing. She got to see me become a real man and make something out of my life before she passed.”
“I’m sorry.” I frown, tears trying to build in my eyes but I don’t want him to think I pity him. I feel for him, for the pain he must’ve felt, for the pain I’m familiar with when it comes to losing a parent.
“My dad died,” I blurt out.
Nate’s brows furrow, and my heart snaps as I get ready to tell him about my dad.