The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2870

"I'd rather put on a little show for my folks than have them heartbroken just to keep you happy," he added.

Regina fired back immediately, "That's not what I'm about, Nolan. It's not just about me being happy, you know. Lies beget lies and weave a web of deceit. Got through today, sure, but a lifetime of playing house? Really?"

Nolan just gave her a withering look that screamed, 'As long as it keeps my family smiling, why the heck not?'

"You're being unreasonable, Nolan. Lies can't just become truth. How long do you think we can keep this up? Now's the time to come clean, while we can still walk away without too much of a mess." She said.

That was particularly true for Regina. She hadn't felt much warmth growing up so she was worried that she’d harbor some improper expectations in Nolan's loving family environment.

"I get what you mean, but don't forget the debt your family owes me. You said you'd pay it back, remember? I'm just asking for a small favor here, and you're making mountains out of molehills. Can I even count on you to repay me? Or should I just chalk it up as a loss?" Nolan said.

Regina swallowed her explanatory words no matter how aggravated she felt. She knew full well this mess was her father's doing.

"Fine, it was foolish of me to suggest such a stupid thing. Pretend you never heard it. If you have any demands in the future, just let me know. I'll fix this," Regina conceded.

Leaning against the car window, she looked so small despite wearing an oversized sweater.

Since they didn't end up living together, Nolan dropped her off at her old neighborhood, a secret kept from all.