Page 124 of Nate

“No shit?”

“Was that sarcasm?” she asked.

“Yes. Yes, it was,” Nate laughed as she narrowed her eyes at him. “Ready to head back?”

Markie let out a sigh. “Yes, I should probably go home. My cat must be wondering where I am.”

“You’d think she’d be used to it by now. You’re here most weekends.”

“True. But I still feel guilty leaving her alone.”

Nate raised an eyebrow. “Do you feel guilty leaving me alone?”

“Of course, I do.”

“But your cat comes first?” He shook his head playfully.

“Nathanial – whatisyour middle name - Jefferson?” Markie teased.

When Nate pulled her in for a hug, she couldn’t help but laugh.

“My middle name is James,” he revealed.

“Nathanial James Jefferson. I like it. Why didn’t you tell me before?”

“Because I knew you’d use it when you got mad at me.” He shrugged.

“Well, don’t give me a reason to get mad.”

Nate chuckled. “Yeah, like that’ll happen.”

Markie stood up. “You know what? You’re right. You’re a man. It’s inevitable.”

Nate laughed as he stood, grabbed the fishing poles and loaded them onto the back of the ATV before offering Markie a hand to get on behind him. They rode back to Nate’s house.

As they climbed into his truck, Nate couldn’t help but feel nervous about leaving her alone. But it was unavoidable.

He drove Markie home and parked next to the stairs leading up to her apartment. They climbed the steps together and when they reached the door, Markie turned to face him.

“Do you want to come in for a bit?”

“I wish I could, but I need to get home. I probably won’t get much sleep tonight.” Nate sighed. “Promise me you won’t open this door for anyone.”

“I promise.” She leaned in and kissed him, moaning as he deepened the kiss and then pulled away.

“Please be careful going home. Text me when you get there,” she reminded him.

“I will. Sleep well, baby. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Nate grinned. “I know. Close the door and lock it.”

Markie smiled. “Alright.”

Nate watched as she closed the door and locked it before descending the stairs.

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