Love on the Fast Track (Derek and Norah)

Chapter 196:

“What’s going on?” Sean asked as he placed a piece of lobster on Norah’s plate. “What’s next for us today?”

Norah looked up, slowly taking a bite of the lobster and savoring its sweet tenderness. “Phillip’s taking photos of us, probably for Susanna. Later, I plan to visit Alice in the hospital. What about you, Sean?” She still used his first name, despite their new intimacy.

Sean paused, his utensils suspended in midair, giving her a look that mixed a little complaint with affection. “Honey, now that we’re together, why do you still call me Sean? I want something more intimate, and only you can call me that way.”

“What should I call you?” Norah asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“What would you like to call me?” Sean responded, his expression hopeful.

Norah set down her fork and knife, thinking for a brief moment. “May I call you darling?”

Sean’s agreement was immediate. “Yes, that’s perfect.” His smile was so genuine and full of joy that Norah found herself captivated by the change in him. The man who had always seemed so distant and reserved was now showing her a level of attention that left her speechless for a moment.

meal, Norah leaned back, taking a moment to relax, and noticed an update from Susanna on

a heartfelt plea: “Please shower my brother and his

at gα ℓη σ

moment of Sean serving food to Norah,

air of tender care. Norah was eager to show Susanna’s post to Sean while he was still enjoying his meal. “Look, Susanna put this up,” she said, holding her phone out

his thumb affectionately brushing over Norah’s face

he murmured, a sense of pride washing over him. He wanted to announce to the world that Norah was

think my way of confessing was too simple?” he asked. He knew of others who went to great lengths with

and setting it aside. “To me, the sincerity of the moment is what counts, not the setting or the spectacle.” She had seen both ends of the spectrum, from hardship to luxury. Luxury wasn’t

you know, there’s a three-month trial period. If we find we’re

the park.” He had assumed their mutual affection was enough to solidify their bond, puzzled

concern, he asked, “Have I done something

gentler, her calm gaze meeting his.