When Her "Death" Couldn't Break Him (Cecilia and Nathaniel)

Chapter 2090

The manager blinked, surprised, then nodded as comprehension set in.

"Of course. With everyone else heading home, we'll be grateful for the help, and you'll pocket the overtime," he said.

Magnus inclined his head. "Thanks."

On his way back to the floor, Magnus mapped out a strategy. If he worked nights,

he could ride back with Denise during the day, visit her parents, and still chip away at his debts.

With more money, he could also prepare more gifts for Denise's parents.

Subsequently, he worked harder than ever.

That evening, the supervisor released the pair ahead of schedule.

Denise and Magnus caught a rickety city bus bound for the hospital, the sunset glinting off its dusty windows.

Magnus balanced bulging bags of fruit and tonics on his knees, palms slick with nervous sweat.

"Really, you didn't have to buy so much," Denise said with a small laugh. "My parents aren't well. Some of that fruit is off-limits for them."

"I'm playing the part of your boyfriend, remember? Proper etiquette matters. If I'm going to lie, I might as well lie convincingly so your parents can rest easy," Magnus answered.

"All right," she sighed. "How much did all this set you back? I'll pay you."

transactional. Think of them as my first gifts to Mr. and Mrs.

that, Denise let the matter drop,

bus hissed to a stop outside the hospital's main entrance, its neon sign flickering against the

was the kind of cold that stung like pins pressed straight into

His teeth knocked together as he managed a shaky laugh. "It's freezing.

bones owed

asked, turning just enough for the street lamp to catch the teasing gleam in her

was wrapped in layers-wool scarf, quilted jacket,

hard. "Yeah. Absolutely

simply reluctant to admit that he was shivering from nervousness

feel tropical by comparison," she said, tugging

corridor, the heat in his face

was the first time he would stand eye to eye with

rewriting his opening line. Should I call

shake hands

turned out, his

gowns. replaced by casual sweaters, lit

.net

asked, her smile warm enough to thaw any icicle still

an honor to meet you." His voice came out steady, polite,

less

bag toward them, nearly dropping it in his haste. "I

supplements. They're nothing