The Unwavering Heart That Broke (Nathalie and Lance) novel Chapter 176

Madonna’s eyebrows knitted together. What was that kid even doing?

Maggie, hovering nearby, drew back a little. “Madonna, I don’t want to keep going. I’m sort of scared…”

Madonna looked up at her. “Didn’t you say you liked Lance? You’re really giving up already?”

Maggie bit her lip, hesitating. “I am scared, Madonna. I want to take a quick trip out of the country, clear my head. I’ll let you know what I decide when I get back.”

With that, she turned and walked away.

Madonna watched her go, frustration written all over her face. Seriously, how could someone be this useless?

...

Outside, the night was deep and the city had just started to sparkle with lights. A gentle, elegant violin piece played through the restaurant, the notes floating between tables that each held a single glowing lamp. Everything else was wrapped in shadows.

It was the perfect place for a romantic dinner.

Nathalie had come here with Lance once, a lifetime ago, it seemed. There had been a blackout. While everyone else hurried to leave, she and Lance had ended up kissing in the pitch dark.

“Ms. Blair, is there anything else you’d like?” Freddy’s voice pulled her back from her memories.

She looked up, smiled, and shook her head. “No, this is perfect.”

Freddy nodded and sent the waiter off.

He looked at her, his gaze soft and sincere. “I know I’ve said it a hundred times, but I really mean it. Thank you for tonight.”

Nathalie tilted her head. “What were you doing there by yourself, anyway?”

Freddy let out a small, helpless sigh. “I just wanted a few quiet minutes alone. Some time to breathe. I really didn’t think I’d end up having an episode right then.”

They had just finished when the sudden screech of a chair dragging across the floor cut through the soft music.

Nathalie stilled, glancing up to see Lance standing there. She had no idea when he’d arrived. Without a word, he pulled out the chair right next to her and sat down.

Her brows drew together right away. “Why are you here?”

Lance tugged at his tie, like he needed more air.

His lips pulled into a half-smile, half-scoff. “You never fail to surprise me, Nathalie. Since when are you and Freddy friends?”

Freddy blinked, genuinely puzzled. “Sorry… you are?”

Lance finally looked at him, but it was Nathalie’s hand he picked up, lacing his fingers through hers like it was second nature. “Lance. Nathalie’s husband.”

Surprise flashed through Freddy’s eyes before he caught himself. He obviously hadn’t realized she was married, but he quickly managed a polite smile and a nod. “Mr. Adams, nice to meet you. Ms. Blair helped me out earlier, and I just wanted to thank her over dinner. It’s nothing for you to worry about.”