Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 653

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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.

picked

pause on the other end before Retta's voice came through. "Where's

a little extra cheer, "He told me to take the call if

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

know. Anything else?" Lena asked,

about a reminder.

could've texted or waited. She'd called now, at this

think this kind of relationship with

there it was. Retta wasn't

about forever.

Nobody could promise forever, but right now? Nate was the only one she cared about. Retta went silent for

Nate's phone on the windowsill. With a quick tap, she opened the automatic

night sky, but something below snagged her attention-a sleek black car

was rolled down just enough for her to spot a figure inside. She squinted, trying to make out the face, but before

are you

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Chapter 653

out of

Lena said, turning back to him and handing over his phone. She relayed Retta's