Chapter 40

Megra.

I try to get up, but I am still a bit drowsy. Nathaniel helps me from the bathroom floor, his grip firm but gentle, and I can't help but giggle as I stumble and land in his arms. The feel of his warmth against me is both comforting and familiar. We both laugh, the sound echoing off the bathroom tiles, a brief moment of lightness in the midst of so much uncertainty.

"This reminds me of the first time we met; at least you are sober this time," he says, his voice tinged with nostalgia.

"Don’t even remind me. Those were simpler times, Nathaniel." I reply, a wistful smile tugging at my lips. I pull away from him, my footsteps slightly unsteady as I make my way towards the kitchen. "You can't drive back to San Francisco now; it's too late. I refuse to be the reason you get into an accident."

Nathaniel smiles with a soft, grateful, and victorious look in his eyes. "Thank you," he says simply, and there's something in his tone that makes me feel like he's not just thanking me for offer