The Glossy Eyes

Chapter 53: An unexpected savior

Alannah gently held Nathaniel's bruised face in her hands, her fingertips tracing the edges of his wounds with utmost care. She examined each mark, her expression filled with concern and tenderness. Nathaniel, unable to take his eyes off her, watched her intently, his heart overflowing with love and gratitude.

"You know," Nathaniel whispered, his voice laced with a playful tone, "you look so beautiful right now that I could just die."

Alannah's eyes widened in shock, and her hand instinctively flew towards his chest, delivering a gentle but reproachful slap. Nathaniel winced in pain, but it was quickly overshadowed by the worry that filled Alannah's gaze.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it," Alannah quickly apologized, her voice trembling with concern. She carefully caressed the spot where she had hit him, her touch filled with regret.

Nathaniel chuckled softly, despite the ache he felt, and gently clasped Alannah's hand in his. "I know, love. I was just trying to lighten the mood." He gazed into her eyes, his voice turning more serious. "I'm sorry if it upset you. I promise, I'll be here with you."

Alannah's tears continued to fall, her emotions overwhelming her. She shook her head, unable to find the words to express the depth of her fears and the joy she felt in having him back by her side. Nathaniel understood her silence and gently pulled her into an embrace.

"I'm here, Alannah," he whispered softly, his voice filled with love and reassurance. "I'm sorry for making light of the situation. I'm not going anywhere."

Before Alannah could say anything in response, the door burst open, revealing Adrian with a bored expression on his face. "Okay, Cara Mia. Times up for all the sappy crap."

Alannah tightened her grip on Nathaniel's arm, instinctively protecting him from this unexpected interruption. She glared at Adrian, her eyes filled with defiance.

"Fuck off," she declared firmly, her voice laced with determination.

Nathaniel gasped, his eyes widening as he looked at Alannah in astonishment. He couldn't believe what he had just heard. Adrian, momentarily taken aback, burst into laughter.

"Well, well, it seems you've got yourself an angry kitten, Nate," Adrian chuckled, his amusement evident.

Alannah's anger only intensified, her brows furrowing as she stared daggers at Adrian. She refused to back down, her protective instincts in full force.

Adrian composed himself, wiping away his laughter, and said, "Okay, okay. Let's get serious now. Don't you want to know what actually happened?"

Nathaniel, feeling a mixture of curiosity and frustration, attempted to sit up, only to wince in pain. Alannah immediately rushed to his aid, supporting him and helping him settle into a more comfortable position. Nathaniel looked at Adrian, his eyes filled with a mix of anticipation and apprehension.

"What is it?" Nathaniel asked, his voice laced with urgency.

Adrian glanced at Alannah and then back at Nathaniel. He paused for a moment, considering his next words carefully.

"Do you want me to tell everything in front of her?" Adrian questioned, a note of sincerity creeping into his voice.

Nathaniel nodded, a newfound trust and respect evident in his gaze as he looked at Alannah. "Yes," he replied firmly. "She deserves to know everything."

Adrian's smile widened, a genuine expression of happiness replacing his mischievous demeanor.

"I'm glad you found someone you can trust, Nate," he remarked, his words carrying a sense of genuine warmth.