Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 653

+25 BONUS

Nate finally brought it up. Lena had thought about it before, so when he asked her now, she didn't even hesitate with her answer.

"What about you? Why not come back and work here?" she countered instead.

Nate stilled for a moment. "I can't right now."

He didn't offer an explanation, and Lená didn't push. Instead, she said, "I don't want to move overseas."

That was the end of it. Sensing her mood dip, Nate pulled her close. "I'll apply to come back next year." "Okay," Lena murmured, her eyes fluttering shut.

"You get some rest. I'll take a quick shower," Nate said, getting up and heading to the bathroom.

Lena opened her eyes but didn't move, staring blankly at the ceiling. She'd always thought long-distance

relationships were no big deal, but now she knew just how exhausting they could be.

Suddenly, Nate's phone buzzed. Lena glanced at the screen, spotting the name. "Nate, it's Retta," she called out. "Answer it," Nate replied casually from the bathroom, his tone completely unfazed.

smirked as she picked up the call.

end before Retta's voice came

in the shower," Lena replied, adding with a little extra cheer, "He

remind him that Prof. Ridley is coming the day after tomorrow. He needs to attend the meeting. He should head back as soon as

Anything else?" Lena asked, keeping her tone casual, though

about a reminder.

or waited. She'd called now, at

spoke again. "Lena, do you really think this kind of relationship with

wasn't

Lena answered. "But I'm not worried about forever. I'm focused on the love we have

Retta; she was just being real. Nobody could promise forever, but right now? Nate was

the windowsill.

up at the night sky, but something below snagged her attention-a

inside. She squinted, trying to make out the face, but before she could,

are you staring

+25 BONUS

Chapter 653

was fresh out of

his phone. She relayed Retta's reminder about the professor but left out the rest of their