Page 59 of Finding His Fox

Nate was completely engrossed in the show, finishing the popcorn without my assistance.

I couldn’t help but steal glances at him, captivated by the way his eyes lit up in surprise or anticipation.

Nate caught me looking and playfully nudged me, as if he knew I was more interested in him than the movie.

“Cal, this is the best part. The plot twist is coming up soon,” Nate pointed out.

“Should I make us more popcorn?” I asked.

“Would you do that for me? I’ll pause the movie,” Nate said.

I rose to my feet and planted a kiss on his cheek. “I’ll do anything for you.”

Nate blushed at my words, then reached out and gave my fingers a squeeze.

“I’ll be right back,” I said.

“Don’t keep me waiting.”

“I won’t.” I headed to the kitchen and opened another bag of popcorn.

As I waited for the kernels to pop in the microwave, I reflected on how my weeknights used to be spent alone, either sweating in my workshop or patrolling the woods.

Ever since Nate came into my life, everything had changed.

I cherished every moment spent with him and couldn’t imagine a life or a future without him.

With fresh popcorn in hand, I made my way back to Nate. By the time the movie ended, Nate was already half asleep. I gently nudged him.

“Don’t fall asleep on the sofa, sleepyhead,” I told him. “Let me help you to the bedroom.”

Nate mumbled something under his breath. As we entered my bedroom, he went straight for the bed, spreading his arms and legs like a starfish, leaving no space for me.

I chuckled. Nate could be quite the space-hogger at times. I was about to join him when my cellphone vibrated in my pocket, interrupting the moment.

Irritated, I fished it out and saw that it was Owen calling.

Glancing at Nate’s peaceful sleeping face, I hesitated for a moment. I really didn’t want to leave his side, but if Owen was calling in the middle of the night, it must be important.

Closing the door behind me gently, I made my way back to the living room and answered Owen’s call.

“Cal, I know it’s late, but there’s an urgent pack matter,” Owen said.

“An emergency?” I questioned.

“One of the cubs has gone missing from the pack compound. Mindy and Trey’s kid,” Owen said urgently. “He played hide-and-seek with the other kids after dinner, but he’s the only one who didn’t return to the compound.”

“Mitchell?” I asked, recognizing him as one of the kids from my wilderness camp. He was a shy but dependable kid. “Do his parents have any idea where he is or where he might go?”

“Mindy suspects Mitchell’s heading toward the lake. He and his friends often play there,” Owen replied. “I’m at the compound right now with Mindy and Trey. We’re searching for Mitchell here in case he didn’t stray far.”

“I’ll find him,” I assured Owen, ending the call.

Before setting out, I decided to check on Nate one last time. Nate opened his sleepy eyes as I entered the room.

“What’s up?” Nate asked, sounding groggy.

“I need to find a missing kid. Will you be fine on your own here?” I asked, a hint of worry in my voice.