From the back, he’s even more drool-worthy.
Dark hair. A strong neck. Broad shoulders. Arms so chiseled, if I covered him in white paint and he stood very still, he’d be mistaken for an awe-inspiring sculpture.
My gaze trails lower to Nat’s legs.
Now that I think about it, Nat hasn’t worn shorts since I’ve run into him in Lucky Falls.
“They said the garage is down this trail.” I point into a little grove between the house. The garage is in the distance, made of glass and concrete and beautifully reflecting the moonlight.
“Let’s take our time,” Nat says, strolling at a slow pace.
“Sounds good to me.”
The path is well-lit with solar lights implanted in the ground to illuminate our way.
“Can you believe Chance McLanely is engaged and we got to be there?” I say, starting the conversation.
“I’m really happy for them. It’s obvious how much they love each other.”
“Chance gave up playing in the league for April. I’d say that’s about as hardcore committed as you can get,” I agree. “And April’s the sweetest.”
After the proposal, she and Chance returned to the house and April was shocked to see the room packed with friends and family.
The first person the mechanic ran to was her dad. He seemed uncomfortable when she held his hand and I sensed that the tears that fell down April’s face as she spoke to him was both from the joy of having him alive for this moment and the pain that he can’t recognize her.
It made me miss my dad and make a silent promise to call my parents when I get home.
“Is this something that you want?” Nat asks, slowing his pace as we stroll under the moonlight. “A wedding? A family?”
“Maybe someday,” I admit. “But not right this second. I just switched to auto mechanics and there’s a lot I want to accomplish there. What about you?”
“Things are kind of up in the air when it comes to hockey, but regarding my personal life? I’m at that stage where I’d like to settle down,” Nat says, looking at me in a way that makes my spine tingle.
Is… is he implying that he wants to settle down with me?
“But I’m not in a rush if the timing isn’t right.”
My heart beats my ribs like a rock-and-roll drummer took up residence in my chest.
“Have you thought about what type of wedding or proposal you’d want?” Nat asks, tilting his head.
“Not really. I’d be fine with anything.”
“How romantic, Riles.”
“It’s true.” I laugh. “I think what’s more important than a wedding and a proposal is finding a guy who’s committed enough to give up something he loves for me.”
“Is that your measurement of love? Sacrifice?”
“Among other things.”
“There’s a list?” He arches a brow. “How do I get my hands on it? Asking for a friend.”
I laugh even harder.
Nat lifts a tree branch so I can pass by safely. “Is there anyone in your past who came close to meeting that list?”
You.
