Shadows of the heart 18+

Chapter:4

Nathaniel POV:

Nathaniel Archibald strode into his office, his face still bearing the marks of the heated argument with his father. The tension between them had escalated, leaving him frustrated and on edge. He needed an outlet, a way to release the pent-up energy that threatened to consume him.

His friend, Dan, looked up his eyes narrowing at the sight of Nate's stormy expression. "What's with the scowl, Nate? You look like you're ready to take on the entire world."

Nate ran a hand through his hair, his gaze flicking around the room restlessly. "It's nothing, Dan. Just some family drama. You know how it gets."

Dan leaned back in his chair, his eyes sharp and perceptive. "Yeah, but you seem more wound up than usual. Something else on your mind?"

Nate hesitated, debating whether to confide in his friend. The incident at the café still lingered in his thoughts, leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. "It's...complicated," he finally admitted, his voice low. "I had a disagreement with my dad, and something else happened earlier today that didn't help my mood."

Dan's expression softened, and he nodded, respecting Nate's privacy. "If you ever need to talk, you know I'm all ears. No judgment."

Nate offered a tight smile, grateful for Dan's understanding. "Thanks, man. I appreciate it. I just need some time to process everything."

As the day wore on, Nate found it difficult to focus on work. His mind kept drifting back to the café, to the fear in the waitress's eyes when he had lashed out at her. He felt a twinge of guilt, knowing he had let his temper get the best of him.

Dan approached him again, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Hey, Nate. Why don't we blow off some steam tonight? We can hit a bar, grab a few drinks, and forget our troubles."

Nate shook his head, his gaze turning inward. "I don't think so, Dan. I'm not really in the mood for all that."

Dan raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Come on, Nate. You and I both know you're a ladies' man. Usually, this is your go-to move when you're feeling tense."

Nate sighed, his frustration evident. "Maybe I am, but not tonight. I just need to clear my head and relax, that's all."

Dan held up his hands in surrender. "Alright, fine. We'll do it your way. But we're still hitting a bar, and you're not leaving until you've had a few drinks."

Nate chuckled, a hint of amusement lightening his mood. "Deal. But no girls. I'm not looking for that kind of company tonight."

Dan's smile faded, and he nodded, understanding flashing in his eyes. "Okay, no girls. But we're not leaving until you've loosened up a bit."

---

Later that night, Nate found himself in a dimly lit bar, a glass of whiskey in his hand. The music throbbed around him, and the laughter and conversations of the crowd filled the air. He took a sip of his drink, the warmth of the liquor doing little to soothe his restless spirit.

Dan appeared at his side, his eyes scanning the room. "Feeling any better?" he asked, his gaze searching Nate's face.

Nate shrugged, his gaze fixed on the glass in his hand. "A little, maybe."

Dan's eyes narrowed as he studied Nate's expression. "You know, sometimes talking about it helps. Whatever it is that's bothering you."

Nate shook his head . "It's not something I'm ready to talk about. It's personal."

Dan nodded, his expression turning thoughtful. "Fair enough. But remember, I'm here if you need an ear."

Nate offered a weak smile,"Thanks, Dan. I appreciate it."

As the night wore on, Nate's eyes drifted to the entrance of the bar, his gaze landing on a familiar figure. It was the waitress from the café, her arm linked with that of a female friend. She stood out among the clubgoers, her oversized shirt and loose pants a stark contrast to their revealing outfits.

Dan followed his gaze, a confused expression on his face. "What's with the pajama party in the middle of a club?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement. "That's definitely a unique fashion choice."

Nate's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on the waitress. "I have no idea," he lied, his voice tight. "Maybe she just likes to be comfortable."

Dan's eyebrows shot up. "Well, each to their own, I guess. But it's definitely an interesting look."

Nate nodded, his eyes never leaving the waitress.