Chapter 124
KATE
I woke up a little late, it was already past noon, and I had to get ready for lunch with my dad. Since I didn't have my car, I called a taxi, even though James had insisted on driving me.
I think my happiness was visible to anyone who saw my smile when I saw my dad sitting at the table in the Italian restaurant. He always had the ability to make me happy and calm with his serenity.
I approached the table and kissed him before sitting down.
"Are you alright?" I asked.
"Great. I had forgotten how busy this city is. I'm sorry for waking you up early today, dear," he replied.
"No problem. I actually missed your concern a little. But about New York... It's a bustling city, but it has its calmness and beauty," I said.
"Sometimes I wonder if you don't miss home?"
"A lot... especially the people. But my life is here now."
"I understand."
He was always so understanding, but I knew he would prefer to have me close.
I still had to tell him about Ryan. Sooner or later, I would have to tell him.
"Dad..."
"Yes?"
"It's strange, but I think I should tell you that I met someone."
"Hmm, who is he?"
He was trying to pretend he wasn't curious and worried, but I knew him well.
"I met him at work." How could I tell him the truth? That Nathan had been my boss. "Well, at my old job, actually."
"That's not surprising, considering you're a bit obsessed with work."
"Well, you're partially right. Actually, I met him before I knew I was going to work with him."
"So, does he work for a reputable company?"
The waiter approached with the menus and placed them on the table. I stared at the dishes described on the menu for a minute. "I'll have a Caprese salad, and you, Dad?"
"A Chicken Parmesan and your best wine, grazie," he said, handing over the menu, and I did the same.
"I had forgotten how much you liked Italian food."
"Maybe it's because you're a bit far away, but don't worry, I understand why. Will you tell me more about this boy?"
'Boy' that was a word someone who knew Nathan wouldn't use. It didn't suit him. I guess I couldn't run away anymore; sooner or later, I had to tell my dad.
"His name is Nathan, Nathan Ryan. He..."
The fact that I had a relationship with Nathan when he was still my boss would always make me think that people would think terrible things about me. That they would always see me differently than I would like. And now, my dad. He was staring at me with great attention. "He was my boss. That University test, I think I mentioned something before."
"Dear, I thought I had taught you not to care about judgments. I'm your father, nothing would make me change what I know about you," he said, offering me a tender look. He could always read me and guess my feelings since I was little. I rarely could hide anything from him.
"I'm sorry, but anyone would think that..."
"It doesn't matter, my beautiful. What matters is that it's something true for both of you and that he treats you with respect and care, of course."
"I missed you so much."
"I missed you too. You know, I think I had heard about this Ryan guy before."
"Really?"
"Well, I think most people in this country must have heard about him. It seems he's involved in a lot of business."
During the rest of lunch, I told him more about the Nathan I knew. Besides, he was going to have to come up with an explanation for my father about his lie when he went to Dallas. He was in hot water, and I enjoyed imagining him getting nervous in front of my father.
My father told me how business was going and the latest news from home before I accompanied him back to the hotel. Later, he would catch a flight home. We had a long farewell, and we agreed to spend Christmas together. It wasn't far away, but we still didn't know if I would go to him or vice versa.
I returned to Nathan's apartment and took a long shower while reflecting on the anger I felt for him leaving me. And worse, the desire was still killing me. I dried myself, put on one of his shirts, and went to the living room. I wasn't hungry; in fact, I felt a bit nauseous and sleepy. I turned on the TV and flopped onto the huge sofa. The news was on.
"Miss, excuse me."
I got a little startled. James was standing next to the sofa. Damn it. Nathan was right about the house never being empty.
"Any problem?"
"Mr. Ryan on the phone."
He handed me the cell phone.
"Oh, sure. Thanks."
I had been ignoring all his messages since earlier; I didn't feel like talking to him. I wanted to punish him in some way for leaving me.
"Excuse me," James said before leaving.
I sighed, staring at the phone before answering.
"Hi?"
"'Hi?' Are you trying to get on my nerves?"
He was irritated, what a surprise.
"What do you want?"
"I understand you're upset, Kate, but ignoring my messages is very childish."
Fuck it, I don't want to argue with him right now.
"I was busy, I was with my father."
"Of course, you didn't have a damn minute to talk to me."
"I thought you were too busy."
"I hate it when you're sarcastic."
"You already arrived?"
I heard a sigh.
"I just arrived. I don't want you to be mad at me, not now."
"It's okay."
No, it wasn't okay. He traveled right after we got back together, after several months apart.
"I know it's not. I'll do everything I can to come back as soon as possible."
"Good job."
"Kate, you're starting to annoy me."
"Is that so? Too bad you're far away, aren't you?"
"Kate..."
"I'm exhausted, and I have to work tomorrow. I'm going to bed. Good night, or rather, good morning. I hope you can solve your problems."
"Is that how it's going to be?"
"Yes, that's exactly how it's going to be. Bye!"
I left the phone on the couch and turned off the TV before going to the bedroom. But as soon as I lay down, I could smell him on the sheets. Damn it.
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