*Nathaniel*I was miserable.Life had no meaning anymore. There was no reason to laugh or smile or do anything enjoyable. My life was insignificant now.She was gone. Walked right out on me while I was begging on my knees for her. Willow was officially done with me and it was killing me. The pain was almost unbearable.But whiskey helped with that.I had a nasty hangover the next morning, but I still went to the office. I still wanted to see Willow. Unfortunately she wasn’t there.“Willow will be taking today off for…personal reasons.” Jude stated. “Did she say why?”“As I said, it's personal.”“She probably doesn’t want to see you,” Orlando sneered.Everyone else was giving me a dirty look too. I’m guessing Orlando had spread around that Willow and I broke up and why. This felt shitty. “Where is she?” I asked Joy. “She didn’t come home last night and I know she’s not with her parents.”“I don’t know, Nathaniel,” Joy sighed. “I’m worried but she says she’s safe.”“You talked to h
*Willow*It was shockingly easy being with Vance again. We slipped back into our relationship like it had never ended. We had sex about five minutes after I had come back to him. It was amazing but there was something missing. I think it was what I felt every time I was with Nathaniel. That raw passion and absolute adoration. But I had to forget that. Nathaniel and I were not meant to be. I still didn’t even know if he loved me for real or not. Sure he was crying and begging on his knees, but that could have been just a show. I couldn’t let him manipulate me anymore. Vance had been right. No one was ever going to love me as much as he did. “I knew you’d come back to me, Willy,” Vance whispered after we had sex. “I missed making love to you.”“Yeah, I missed it too,” I said absently.Was that a lie? I mean twenty four hours ago I was having sex with Nathaniel and though I knew he had lied to me, it was still incredible. Nothing could top it.“Things are going to be so much better
*Willow*“Mrs. Harper.”“We’ve slept with the same man, I think you can call me Jen.”“Jen…how can I help you?” I whispered. “He told me all about you a few months ago. You're prettier than I thought you were.”“Thank you.”“Did he tell you we separated?” I nodded. “He lied, sweetie.”My heart sank. “What?”“Yeah, I forgave him for having an affair. He said he had a mid-life crisis and I trusted that and…now thanks to your friend, I know I shouldn’t have.”“I didn’t know, I swear. I would never purposely sleep with a married man!” I insisted. “Vance said it was over.”Jen’s face softened. “You really never knew about me at first, did you?”“No. I thought he had been divorced for years when we met.”“And what did he tell you this time around?”“That you knew about us and that he ended it with you. He said he and I could be together and he said I would meet your son.” I informed her.Jen laughed and fell onto the couch. “He was gonna let you meet our son? What is wrong with him? And sw
*Nathaniel*Being just friends with Willow fucking sucked. It felt like I was watching her life from the sidelines. The only good thing was that she was at least talking to me. It was kind of like we were dating without the kissing and the touching and incredible sex. It was better than her hating me, but worse than her not being my girlfriend. But she wasn’t with Vance, so I did my job.“Why don’t you present?” I asked. “I mean you are more charming.”Willow chuckled. “Yeah, I’ve been trying to tell you that for years.”“I’m finally listening.”“It’s about time.”“Willow?” Jude asked. “Can we talk?”“Sure, Jude.” Willow smiled before walking over to him and into his office. Jude had started shutting the door now. My next job was to get Willow away from that creep, but that was harder to do without risking my career or hers.“You have to be one of the smoothest fuckers alive,” Orlando said. “Meaning?” I asked. “She’s talking to you and laughing with you after everything you did!
*Nathaniel*I suck.I couldn’t even be friends with the love of my life properly. What on Earth was I good for? Was I just meant to be lonely and drink my feelings away for the rest of my life?How was I given a piece of perfection and then I fucking lost it?For all my life I had thought that Willow was my worst enemy, but she wasn’t.I was.No one had sabotaged me more than I had. No one made me look stupider or act like an idiot more than me. I was the culprit behind my downfall and no one else. What do you do after you lose the perfect woman?I only really knew one man who could relate to this.“What did you do after Scar chose Grayson over you?” I asked. Lee looked taken aback. I don't think anyone had asked him that. This family conducted itself as though Scarlett choosing Grayson over Lee wasn’t that big of a deal. That it was an easy, uncomplicated decision and that they were all still happy and best friends after it.“Um, I moved on.”“Okay, but what did you really do befor
TW: This chapter contains elements of abuse. Willow“Are you sure you’re not overreacting?” Levi asked as I sped to Mark’s house.“Yes, I am. She said she needed help. He’s hurting her.”“Mark isn’t like that, Will.”“Yes he is! He lied about not drinking, Levi. A-and Miranda admitted to me that he hurts her and she wants to leave him.” I said.“What? Did you say something to her?” Levi asked. “I didn’t, Levi. She’s scared and she doesn’t want to have a baby with him. She’s terrified, Levi, you should have seen her.”Levi was silent for the rest of the ride. I was sure he was mulling it all over in his head. We arrived at Mark’s house and I hopped out of the car before banging on the door. A few moments later, Mark answered. He forced a smile to his face. “Hey, guys, what’s up?” “I would like to see Miranda.” I stated. “I’m afraid she’s asleep, Willow.”“She called me, so can I please see her?”“Um…maybe it was a pocket dial?” Mark suggested. “She said my name. She wanted me t
*Willow*Levi and I were still in shock when we got home. I knew Mark was bad news, but this exceeded anything I ever thought he could have done. Levi’s uncle would still be here if it wasn’t for him. How could he sleep at night knowing that he had murdered someone? His son’s uncle at that. How could he just smile in Levi’s face knowing what he had done?What a truly sick man. I was glad Levi was done with him now. Levi and I went to my room. I think we both just needed to talk out all the events of the night. “I’m sorry, Willow.” Levi whispered. “For what?”“I didn’t listen to you or my parents and that led to you being in a dangerous situation. Mark could have really hurt you and I’m just…fuck I’m so sorry.”“It’s okay, Levi.” I rubbed his arm. “He’s your biological father and you wanted to believe the best in him. I get that. He did seem really nice.”“Yeah, but you saw through that. Why didn’t I?” Levi asked desperately.“Sometimes, you’re too close to something to really see
*Willow*“Wait, what?” I asked. “Me and Joy slept together at the beginning of the summer. It just kind of happened, but it didn’t feel right to me and I told her that. Still she suggested we go on a date, which we did at the comedy club with everyone, but I couldn't stop thinking about you. I told Joy it wouldn’t work and that was that.”“So you’ve really liked me this whole time? You were never with her?” I clarified.“Yeah, Will. I’ve been trying to ask you out all summer.” Levi admitted. “A-and that’s why you told me about your family and not her. She wasn’t your girlfriend.”“I do love Joy, just not like that. I guess I did think it was weird that you keep urging me to tell her.”“Oh my god…why did she lie to me?” I whispered. “I’m her best friend.”“I don’t know, but I think you guys need to talk.”“We definitely do, I just…I don’t know what to say.”“You could say you really like me and want to be with me without hurting her feelings.” Levi offered.“That could work I guess,”
*Nathaniel* I was kind of nervous for Willow to come with me to counseling. I hoped it wouldn’t change the way she saw me. I knew I wasn’t a finished product just yet, but I was getting there and I wanted her to see that. “Thank you for being with us today, Willow,” Joel smiled. “Thanks for having me. I’ve never been to therapy before.” Willow smiled. “It’s not therapy.” We chorused. “Right, sorry.” She laughed. “So, what happens in…counseling?” “Well we talk about my issues and how I plan to fix them.” I informed her. “What do you got for me today Joel?” “Well, you’re back in a relationship, how does that feel?” Joel asked. “Honestly? Pretty fucking great!” “You’re allowed to say ‘fuck’ here?” Willow asked “Yeah, there’s like no rules here.” I grinned. “Um, I feel great about being back with Willow.” “Do you feel mentally ready?” “I think so.” “Why wouldn’t he be?” Willow asked. “Well, previously in your relationship, Nathaniel used you as a crutch. Almost like a
*Nathaniel*Being back in Willow’s room was amazing. Nothing was different. She even still had the photos of us up.“I missed being in here.” I kissed Willow as I reached around to unzip her dress. “Espcially your bed.”“Oh my bed missed you too, baby.” Willow smiled. “No, call me my special name.”“Stud muffin.”“Oh sweetheart, I love you.” I grinned. Willow’s dress fell to the floor and she stepped out of it before removing my clothes. I closed my eyes and just reveled in feeling her hands on me again. Finally I was just in my briefs and Willow was in her bra and underwear. I kissed her again as I lowered her down on the bed. “I missed you so much,” I murmured. “I know. Now make love to me, Nathaniel.” Willow smiled up at me. The rest of our clothes came off and landed on the floor. I was breathing heavily as I kissed down Willow’s body. I think anticipation was making me breathless. Her fingers ran through my hair as I hooked her legs over my shoulder, ready to blow her min
*Willow*I never thought Nathaniel and I could be together again.He had done too much. He drank too much, lied, and ruined my relationship with my mother. And now he didn’t really drink, was incredibly honest and he had fixed things between me and Mom.Mom and I spent hours at that restaurant, laughing and talking. Not about my accomplishments or beating Nathaniel. Just about any and everything. Sure, she was still a nut, but she was my nut and I was so happy to have her back. I had Nathaniel to thank for that.I couldn’t lie, I was starting to think that maybe it could work. But did he feel that way? Had I pushed him away too many times now and he was done trying?I wanted to know so desperately, but the wedding was actually happening and I had to focus on that. It felt like kind of a miracle that Lee was actually getting married today.“Where is your mind girl?” Joy asked. “Nowhere,” She raised her eyebrows. “Nathaniel.”“What happened?”“Nothing, but I might want it to again. H
*Willow*I had no idea what to expect for this lunch.I wasn't sure what to wear at all, but Nathaniel assured me a nice summer dress would do. I trusted him even though this was super weird. “Do you know what Nathaniel has planned for me tomorrow?” I asked Julian.“Maybe.”“Well what is it?”“A surprise. Sorry Willow, I am sworn to secrecy.” Julian stated. “It's a good thing though right?” I asked. “Of course. I think Nathaniel is way past hurting you at this point. He got tired of himself too, but he’s doing so much better.”“I can really see that.”“You like what you see?” Julian raised his eyebrows. “You still crushing on him?”I forced a laugh. “What? No, no. I mean…why? Does he talk about me like that still?”“Not sure. He’s really trying to focus on being a good person and not just for you, but himself.”“That’s good. It’s what he should be doing. He shouldn’t be thinking about me.”“You’re right,” Julian smiled. “But he definitely still does.”--I got to the restaurant ear
*Willow*I was so disgusted with Jude.I thought he was different. I thought he would actually help me out of the kindness of his heart and because he believed I was something great. But no, he wanted to fuck me.“What a creep,” Levi shook his head. “I’m sorry that was happening all summer.”“I didn’t even realize it. I was so oblivious and I just wanted to succeed.”“I completely understand. I mean I didn’t see how awful Mark was.”“True enough. I just hope I still get to prove myself to other people.” I sighed. “Hey, you’re going to. The great part is he really did introduce you to important people. Your name is still on their minds, you just don’t have to deal with that jerk.” I smiled. “Hm, you're right about that.”“I have been known to be very smart.”We pulled into Katherine’s driveway and rang the bellMiranda answered with a smile on her face. “Hi guys!” We hugged before entering the house. “Willow, I’m so glad you’re here, I need your help.”“With what?”“Well remember th
TW: This chapter depicts elements of sexual harassment.*Willow*I was frozen in my seat, unsure of what to do. I truly didn’t think that Jude had feelings for me like this or that he thought I had them for him. “Jude, just wait-”“I can give you everything you want Willow. And you can do the same for me.”He kissed me again, wrapping me tightly in his arms. I think this was wrong. He was kind of my boss and I didn’t want to wreck that professional relationship. But I also wasn’t sure how to tell him that.Jude’s lips moved down to my neck as he moaned loudly. I could feel his erection through his pants. What the fuck should I do?I was relieved when my phone rang.I shoved Jude away and answered. “Hello?”“Hey, just wanted to make sure you’re okay. Are you coming home?” Scarlett asked. “Yes, yes! Right now actually see you soon. Bye.” I hung up. “Um, Jude that was my sister and-and she really wants me home.”“You’re an adult, Willow, you don’t have to listen to her.” Jude looked m
*Willow*“You know, you two are much more affectionate than usual.” Katherine pointed out. “We just feel more comfortable around other people, I guess.” Levi smiled. “Yeah, that must be it.” I kissed his cheek. I think I was throwing myself into my relationship with Levi a bit. I just didn't want to think about Nathaniel and all that was going on with him. It was easier to focus on me and Levi. “You guys are so good together,” Miranda smiled. “I’m glad Willow has a nice guy.”“You’ll have one when you’re ready too,” I assured her. Miranda already seemed so different. She wasn’t nearly as jumpy or fidgety now that she wasn’t with Mark. While Mark was at work, we went to their home and got all of Miranda’s stuff out. Mark had been constantly calling both Levi and Miranda and they blocked him. They were both done with him and I was so happy about that. “I’ve started reaching out to old friends from when I was in grad school. I’m hoping they’ll forgive me for just ghosting them.” M
*Nathaniel*Therapy was weird. Every day after the internship, I would go to therapy to talk about my feelings and it was strange. I did like that so much attention was on me, but I could tell my therapist didn't think I was digging deep enough. I hadn’t even told him about my relationship with Willow yet. I just told stories of me drinking too much, leaving out that Willow was here for a few of them and saved me. “This isn’t therapy, Nathaniel, it’s counseling.” He reminded me. “Whatever, it still feels weird. Why can’t we just get to the root of the issue and get it over with?” I asked. “Because you don’t want to go deeper.”“It's hard.”“Lucky for you I’m a very patient man and know how to deal with Watson men.”“Maybe that's what it is. It’s weird that you actually know me.”Joel chuckled. “I guess me being your godfather does make things a little strange.”“You think?”Joel was basically my dad’s best friend. He was his sponsor while my mom was pregnant with me and really he
*Willow*God that was so fucking humiliating. Nathaniel sure knew how to cause a scene, didn’t he?“Wait…you two are seeing each other?” Scarlett asked. “Um, kinda.” I muttered. “Willow, is it so hard for you to sleep with someone outside of this house and family?” Mom practically sneered.Even though I was no longer with Nathaniel, Mom still didn’t want to talk to me unless it was something mean being said. This was the woman I was desperate to have back in my life.“It was me, Bianca.” Levi informed her. “I’ve just really always liked Willow.”“Oh I believe you did start it, Levi. My daughter can’t seem to resist a boy when he gets her on her back.”“Mom, come on!” Scarlett snapped. “You’re only defending her because you were the same way.” Mom shook her head. “So I'm not dreaming?” Skyler asked. “You two are together?”Levi smiled. “Yeah, Mom we are. I mean we’re testing the waters anyway.”“Exactly.” I nodded. “Willow, I thought you were a nice girl, but you broke my son,” S