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Ethan released me gently, then walked over to the table where the painting of Cedar Cove rested. He lifted it, his eyes scanning the familiar scene. “This painting… it’ll always remind me of my time here with you, no matter what happens.”
My heart swelled at his words, and for the first time since all of this had started, I thought we could find our way back to each other.
Nineteen
Ethan
My heart thudded in my chest, a mix of anticipation and nerves twisting in my gut as I stood at Natalie’s front door. Today wasn’t just about a trip to Dallas—it was about showing her the full scope of my life and hoping it would be enough to bridge the gap that had formed between us.
I knocked, feeling a strange blend of excitement and apprehension. A few moments later, the door creaked open, and there she was, standing before me with a small, tentative smile. Natalie looked beautiful in the soft light, her hair pulled back into a neat bun, and her outfit was perfectly chosen for the occasion—a fitted navy blazer over a white blouse paired with tailored slacks and low heels. The professional attire suited her, highlighting her natural elegance while signaling she was prepared to step into my world confidently.
"Morning, Natalie," I greeted softly, leaning in to kiss her cheek tenderly, savoring the touch of her skin under my lips. This simple act felt like a subtle yet significant move forward in our connection.
“Same to you,” she replied, her smile widening slightly. “I’m ready.”
I nodded, taking the bag from her hand and walking it to the car. “Let’s get going, then.”
As I stowed her things in the trunk, I couldn’t help but steal a glance at her. There was a new determination in her eyes, a resolve that was both encouraging and worrisome. Natalie had agreed to come with me, which meant she was willing to see my world, but it also meant that she was bracing herself for whatever she might find.
Once we were both settled in the car, I started the engine and pulled away from her house. The drive through Cedar Cove was quiet, and the streets were still sleepy due to the early hour. We made small talk at first—about how the fundraiser had gone and how Jude had refused to leave the petting zoo—but as we merged onto the highway, the conversation began to deepen.
Natalie glanced at me with a thoughtful expression. “I think it’s important to see this side of your life. I need to understand what it means for you and for us.”
Her words were measured, but I could hear the uncertainty beneath them. I knew this trip wouldn’t be a quick fix for what had happened between us, but I hoped it would be the start of something better.
We drove on, the landscape changing from Cedar Cove’s rural charm to Dallas’s sprawling urban skyline. As we approached the city, I could sense Natalie’s curiosity growing, though she remained quiet, taking it all in.
We arrived at the office parking garage, where the sleek design and modern amenities were in stark contrast to the simplicity of Cedar Cove. I glanced over at Natalie as we pulled into a spot, noting how her eyes widened slightly at the sight of the towering buildings and the bustling energy of downtown Dallas. I wanted to say something to ease the moment, but Iknew that words wouldn’t do much to bridge the gap between our two worlds.
“This is my reserved spot,” I said, keeping my tone light. “My office is just a short elevator ride from here.”
Natalie nodded, her gaze flicking between the various luxury vehicles in the garage. I could tell she felt out of place, but she did her best to hide it. We exited the car, and as we walked inside, I reached out, placing a gentle hand on the small of her back—a silent reassurance that I was here with her and wanted her to feel comfortable in this part of my life.
We took the elevator up to the office floor, and I could see Natalie’s anxiety returning. The building was modern, all glass and steel, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the Dallas skyline. As we stepped out of the elevator, I could sense her hesitation, so I guided her through the space and introduced her to a few key colleagues along the way.
“Morning, Mr. Sterling,” one of my senior project managers greeted me respectfully as we passed. His eyes briefly flicked to Natalie, curiosity clear in his expression, but he didn’t ask questions.
“Morning, John,” I replied, keeping things professional. “This is Natalie.”
“Nice to meet you, Natalie,” John said, offering her a polite smile.
“So nice to meet you, too,” she replied with a nod.
As we continued the tour, I noticed how each employee we encountered greeted me with a similar mix of respect and admiration. Clearly, they viewed me not just as a boss but as a leader they trusted and respected. I hoped Natalie was picking up on that—on the fact that this wasn’t just about money or power for me. This was about responsibility, about being a part of something bigger than myself.
We finally reached my office, a spacious corner suite with expansive windows that filled the room with natural light. I watched Natalie take it all in, her eyes moving from the view to the neatly organized desk, to the array of awards and accolades displayed on the shelves.
“This is where it all happens,” I said, leaning against the edge of my desk. “It’s a lot different from working in Joe’s shop, but it’s a part of who I am.”
Natalie nodded, her expression thoughtful as she walked over to the windows, looking out at the city below. “It’s impressive,” she admitted. “I can see why this is so important to you.”
I moved to stand beside her, the city stretching out beneath us. “It is,” I said quietly. “But it’s not everything. And I want you to see that.”
She turned to look at me, her eyes searching mine. “I’m trying, Ethan. I really am.”
There was a vulnerability in her voice that tugged at my heart. I knew this was overwhelming for her, but the fact that she was here, willing to see this side of my life, meant more to me than I could express.
“Come on,” I said, offering her a small smile. “I have more to show you.”
