Page 91 of New York Love Stories: Vol. 1

I turn to see my dad awake on the leather recliner by the roaring fire. “I thought you were sleeping.”

“I was, but I woke up because you called me.”

“No,” I say, shaking my head. “I’ve been quiet. I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“You weren’t disturbing me, but a father knows when his children need him. You may not have voiced my name, but you definitely needed my help. What’s on your mind, dear daughter?” A smile takes hold of my lips.

My dad’s voice is gentler since he had the heart attack, remaining positive and seeming to enjoy all the doting we’ve been doing. He’s also been following his doctor’s orders for calm to a T, so afternoon naps in the library have become a regular thing.

I find peace in his presence, and the surrounding books are my companions when I’m not working. I set my laptop down on the cushion next to me and angle his way, leaving out the back and forth I just had with Nick. The last thing I want to do is add my stress about men to my dad’s plate. “Work.”

“You used to call it fun. Now it’s work?”

“I don’t get to shop and match the perfect gift as much since running the company takes so much time.”

“That’s too bad. I’ve always heard that hobbies shouldn’t become your source of income. Passion isn’t built on monotony. When you love what you do, you suddenly look up to find that time has sped into the future.”

“Very true.” The darker colors of the room feel like a hug, wrapped around me and giving me comfort. Like my dad. I still have to tease, though. “I think the library is getting to you. You’re becoming quite the philosopher in here.”

“Maybe I should nap in the sunroom instead.”

“Then you’d be telling me to look on the bright side.”

He chuckles. “A sun pun. Very clever.” Lowering the chair, he sits upright. “Who needs a room to give good advice. Look on the bright side.”

Is there one?Yes.I tighten the topknot on my head while glancing out the window to find a hint of blue skies peeking through the heavy clouds. The snow has stopped, but I could use the sunshine. “I have my business, and it’s going strong.”

“Your mind may not be focused, but your heart is determined. There’s no stopping you.”

“It would be nice to have both on board at the same time.”

“The universe loves to challenge us in new ways.”

Getting up, I move closer, sitting in a chair across from him. “You’re too young to be this wise, Dad.”

“Don’t I know it.” He takes the glass and sips water before setting it down again. “Your mom takes good care of me.”

“She does.” Nothing feels hurried in this tucked-away room. It’s something I’ve always appreciated about it.

The sound of him shifting on the leather has me looking at him—to make sure he’s all right—but also, I’m seeking advice, needing my dad. I’m all over the place. He says, “I heard that you found out about Christiansen Wealth Management taking over.”

“Rumors on the street.”

“Or your mom.”

“Yes, Mom told me when you were in the hospital.”

He stares past me out the window. There’s no hurry to finish this conversation, so I take the time to get a good look at him. His hair is graying, the darker strands of his natural color losing the battle to the salt and pepper. He moves with ease despite the recovery. I can’t help but notice the similarities between him and the library. His whole demeanor is wrapped up in this room—worldly, comforting, and a wealth of knowledge.

His eyes connect with mine, and he says, “Not everything you hear is true, Natalie.”

“Is there a record you’re trying to set straight?” The twist of words reminds me of someone I used to know, so well that I can’t even sayI dowithout thinking of Nick.

“I think I need to consider how unhappy you are.”

“You didn’t make me sad. Scared me a little. Correction—a lot.” I give him a wink. “But you’re not to blame for anything else. Actually, you did so much for me, Dad. I feel like I haven’t thanked you enough. Thank you.”

“Come here, honey.”

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