CHAPTER SIX

NATHAN

I sit on the edge of the bed in my hotel suite, clenching my phone and staring at the screen without seeing it. The restless night has drained me, my mind spinning with unanswered questions and the haunting memory of Amelia’s anger.

My fingers scroll through the photos—snapshots of our shared past. Her radiant smile beams at me, hazel eyes sparkling with the love and joy that once filled our days. I linger on a candid shot, her chestnut curls caught in the breeze, her face tilted toward the sun. The ache in my chest intensifies, a sharp, tangible reminder of the loss and confusion I’ve carried for years.

The piercing ring of my phone pulls me from the bittersweet memories. My father’s name flashes on the screen, and with a sigh, I answer, bracing for his inevitable interrogation.

“Why are you still in Dallas? Is there something I need to know?”

His suspicion seeps through the line, the unspoken accusation clear. It’s the same dance we’ve perfected over the years.

I force the lie out smoothly, a well-practiced deflection. “Everything is fine, Dad. I might have a lead on another company.”

There’s a pause, then a grudging acceptance. “Well, if you need anything…”

“I’m good. I should be home later this week.”

Frustrated, I end the call and toss the phone onto the mattress. The weight of his expectations, the constant pressure to prove myself—it’s a burden I’ve carried for as long as I can remember.

The blinking clock on the nightstand reminds me of today’s tasks. It’s time to face the truth, to confront the mystery behind Amelia’s anger and disappearance. I have to get to the bottom of this.

***

The shower washes away the effects of my sleepless night.

I dress in my suit, the crisp fabric a familiar armor against the emotional storm brewing inside. Each button fastened, every cuff adjusted, is part of the silent ritual of preparing for the challenges ahead.

Downstairs, the coffee shop buzzes with activity—the aroma of fresh coffee mixes with the clinks of mugs and guest chatter. I grab a cup to go, the warmth seeping through the sleeve.

Outside, I drive the rental to Amelia’s office and park along the tree-lined street. I sit for a moment, gathering my thoughts before stepping into the warm Texas sun.

The building is modest, tucked between trendy restaurants and boutiques. I push through the glass doors and am met by the receptionist, an older woman with a warm gaze and a knowing smile.

She gives me a raised eyebrow. “Can I help you, sir?”

“I’d like to speak with Amelia.” My words come out steady, though my heart races beneath the surface.

She gives me the once-over, pausing on my face. “Do you have an appointment?”

“No, but tell her Nathan is here. She’ll see me.”

“Wait over there.”

I sink into a comfortable chair, my leg bouncing impatiently as the receptionist whispers into the phone. She glances at me before hanging up and rounding the desk. “Follow me.”

We walk down a long hallway, and as we pass a large conference room, I catch sight of Jules, Amelia’s business partner. Her eyes meet mine, the warning in her glare unmistakable.

The receptionist gestures toward an open door, and I step inside. Amelia sits behind a glass desk, her eyes blazing with anger.

Her voice is cold and bitter. “What are you doing here? We have nothing to talk about.”

I step closer, resisting the urge to reach out to her, to close the distance between us. “That’s where you’re wrong. We have a lot to talk about.”

She’s holding a pen, and she grips it tighter. Her fingers tremble. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. We don’t need to rehash old news. You fucked up, and I’ll never forgive you for it.”

Gut punch.

The office phone rings, and she snatches the receiver. Her voice shifts into a clipped, professional tone as she speaks to the caller. I catch bits of the conversation—something about a client and a meeting.

She hangs up and raises her chin in defiance. “I’m busy.”

I shake my head, undeterred. “I’m staying until we talk. When will you be available?”

She taps her fingers against the keyboard. “I’m free for lunch at twelve-thirty. Half an hour is all you’ll get. And––”

I cut her off before she can change her mind. “I’ll take it. Where?”

She sighs, resignation seeping into her voice. “There’s a diner a block east of here—Kelly’s Café.”

“Perfect. I’ll see you then. And if you don’t show, I’ll be back.”

I turn, and as I walk away, her gaze burns into me, a silent challenge that sends a shiver down my spine.

Outside, the breeze rustles the leaves as I make my way to the car. My thoughts race ahead to our upcoming lunch—a pivotal moment, a chance to confront the ghosts of our past and uncover the truth behind her anger and disappearance.

As I pull into the busy street, determination settles over me like a second skin. I won’t rest until I understand why she left and why she looks at me with such raw, unyielding fury. And I’m not leaving Dallas until I get some answers.