If We Fall Again

Chapter 19

Elise carefully arranged her belongings at Nate's house, making sure everything was in its place before heading home. Andrew, Nate’s younger brother, was going to stay with them for a while, and she felt it was best to give them space to reconnect. She had been staying over frequently, something that Julie deeply appreciated.

As Elise was folding a blanket, Julie walked in, smiling warmly. "I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you’re here to help with Noah," she said, leaning against the doorframe. "Nate never trusted anyone to take care of him, which is why I’ve always been the one watching over him. I don’t think he’s ever considered hiring anyone else."

Elise nodded. "I can see that. Nate’s protective. He wants everything done a certain way, especially when it comes to Noah."

Julie laughed softly, "That guy doesn’t trust easily, but he’s been different with you back in his life. You’re giving me some time to breathe again." She paused, her eyes softening. "It’s nice to see him let go of some of that weight."

Elise smiled back, a little uneasy. "I’m glad I can help, really." She hesitated, then added, "But I think it’s good for you and Nate to have some time without me around all the time, especially now that Andrew’s here."

Julie gave her a knowing look. "You don’t have to feel like you're intruding, Elise. You’re family now."

Before Elise could respond, the door to the room opened, and Nate walked in. His gaze moved from the room to her half-packed bag. "Why are you leaving tonight?" he asked, his tone a mix of frustration and confusion. "Andrew’s here, yeah, but that’s no reason for you to go."

Elise turned to face him, offering a small smile. "You and Andrew need time to catch up. It’s been a while since you’ve seen him, and I think it’ll be good for you two to spend the evening together. Plus, Julie’s here tomorrow to help with Noah, so I’ll see you both at the bar then."

Nate frowned, walking over to her, his arms crossing defensively. "You don’t need to go. Stay, at least for tonight."

"I think it’s better if I give you guys space, Nate," Elise said gently. "It’s just for tonight."

He sighed, clearly not liking the idea but relenting. "Fine. But I’d rather you stay." Nate’s eyes softened as he spoke, and despite his usual gruff demeanor, there was a tenderness in the way he looked at her.

Elise smiled and reached up, giving him a quick kiss. "I’ll be back tomorrow."

Nate walked her out to the car, holding her hand until she got into the driver’s seat. He leaned down for a goodbye kiss before she started the engine. "Drive safe," he muttered, his voice low. Elise smiled to herself, seeing that tough exterior he always carried melt away when it came to her.

As she pulled away from the house, Elise thought about Andrew. She still hadn’t told Nate about their brief relationship years ago, and the thought gnawed at her. It was something that could complicate things between her and Nate, especially now that they were finally starting to build a life together. She decided to call Sam, hoping her friend could offer some advice.

"Hey, Sam," Elise greeted when Sam answered the phone. "Guess what? Andrew is back in town."

"Andrew?" Sam asked, confused. "Who’s Andrew?"

"Andrew is Nate’s younger brother," Elise explained, gripping the steering wheel a little tighter. "And I used to date him."

There was a pause on the other end before Sam’s shocked voice came through. "Wait—what? Nate’s brother is the guy you dated after you left him? Does Nate know?"