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.

picked up

the other end before Retta's voice came

replied, adding with a little extra cheer, "He told me to take the call if it

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

Lena asked, keeping her

about a reminder.

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

really think this

wasn't

know," Lena answered. "But I'm not worried about forever.

she was just being real. Nobody could promise forever, but right now? Nate was the only one she cared about. Retta went silent for a moment, then hung up without another

phone on the windowsill. With a quick tap, she opened the

at the night sky, but something below snagged her attention-a sleek black car parked outside. It was definitely not one she

She squinted, trying to make

you

+25 BONUS

Chapter 653

was fresh out

handing over his phone. She relayed Retta's reminder about the professor but