Love and Friendship

Seventeen

Everyone was stunned.

Nathan came to her wanting to hug her but she put out her hand stopping him.

She went to the couch and sat down. Everyone joined her on the couch staring between her and a nervous Nathan.

Nathan: I was hoping to talk to you alone.

Selena: No Nathan (she said tiredly). I want them to be here with me. I think it is time you tell us the truth.

Nathan looks uncomfortable but sat down quietly.

Nathan: Before I tell you, I need you all to know that this cannot leave this room. And I am putting you in serious danger.

Everyone looked perplexed.

Nathan: I... I am actually the son of Gareth Anderson.

Leo: The Billionaire slash Mafia King?

Nathan looked down and nodded.

Leo: But your name is Nathan James.

Nathan: I took my father's middle name Gareth James Anderson. I dont want people to know Im related to him. I want to lead a normal life for a while.

Nathan: I never liked to be in the business. But it is not an easy way out. I wanted to have a normal life. Without bodyguards or having my life controlled for me. I know that it is almost impossible to get out. And so I decided to make a deal with my father. I would attend college and enjoy life being normal and not being followed around if I promise to take over the business after I graduate. He will get out of my hair for 4 years of college in exchange for my loyalty.

Selena: (speaking softly) And marriage?

Tony and Leo stared at them shocked.

Leo: You're getting married?

Nathan: Ashley and I have known each other since we were young. She was the daughter of one of his partners. They wanted to merge their business and this was the best idea. Marriage. Between me and Ashley.

By this time, Selena was staring blankly out the window with tears slowly trickling down her cheeks. Nathan's heart breaks at the sight of her. He really didnt mean to hurt her.

Tony: So all this time you knew you are bethrothed to someone else and still date my sister?! (He was practically yelling)

Nathan: Yes.

Ava and Leo had to stop Tony from lunching forward to punch Nathan.

Nathan: Im sorry. I really am. Im very guarded. Because of all this I dont let people in. It will be so complicated and I really dont want to hurt anyone.

Leo: Then why did you Nate?! You knew this would happen and yet you put her through all the pain again. I did warn you Nate.

Tony and Leo started yelling at him all sorts of things. At this point, Nathan just stay silent taking in everything. He knew he was wrong. He shouldnt have let his emotions get in the way.

Selena looked at Nathan who just sat there looking down taking in all the insults from the guys. She knew deep down he was truthful and he did warn her of complications. He did ask her to trust him. Trust that he will take care of things.

Selena: Enough!

Her voice was loud enough to shut the guys up. Nathan looked up to her. She could see tears forming in his eyes. She stood up and walked towards him. She sat down on his lap which caught him by surprise and hugged him.

At this point, everyone was speechless. It was the least thing they expected of her.

Nathan hugged her back apologising profusely.

Selena: Thank you for telling me this. Im sorry for not trusting you.

Nathan pulled back to look at her.

Nathan: How do you do that?

Selena: Do what?

Nathan: Why arent you yelling at me? Telling me its over. Arent you mad?

Selena: Do you want me to?

Nathan: No I mean, I would really expect you to do that. I do deserve it. Normal girls would flip.

Selena: It doesnt matter what others would do. Yes I am angry but Im mostly sad these are the complications you meant. You did warn me but I choose you still. I choose to be with you. And we will face this together. No matter what.

Nathan couldnt help himself. He pulled her in for a kiss never wanting to let go.

Tony groaned.

Tony: Come on guys. Not in front of me.

They broke apart smiling.

Nathan: I really am sorry Tony. I never meant to.

Tony: Im still mad at you.

Nathan whispered to Selena:
Can we talk more in private? They are more things I hope to share with you.

Selena: Sure. Why dont you stay the night?

Nathan: Would Tony mind?

Selena: Tony, there are still some things I wish to discuss with Nathan. He's gonna stay the night ok.

Tony doesnt look happy but nodded anyway.

Tony whispered to Nathan:
You better behave. Thats my sister.

Nathan: Dont worry bro. You can trust me.

Despite the happenings earlier, they continued with dinner before heading back.

Tony decided to spend some time with Ava so he wanted to drop her back to her dorm.

Nathan: Hey baby, I wanna talk to Leo a while. Why dont you head in Ill join you later?

Selena nodded and went into her room.

Nathan and Leo sat on the couch.

Nathan: I need a favour from you Leo.

Leo: Yeah sure.

Nathan: Things are going to get complicated. I have a lot of things to look into. And I cannot guarantee she wouldnt get hurt again. I need you to help me look out for her. I might not be around a lot now that Ashley has returned and Im sure will make things even more complicated. I need you to protect her. I dont like the fact that you still have strong feelings for her but I believe that you care for her alot to protect her. And that is my utmost priority. I trust you Leo. More than I show.

Leo: Even without you asking, I will always protect her. Youre my friend and despite my feelings for her, Ill back off. But. If things get too much for her, I will pull her back Nathan. I will pull her back to me.

Nathan looked unhappy at the comment but he nodded.

Nathan: I understand. But I will fight for her. No matter what.

Leo: You know, I never took you to be part of the mafia let alone the successor of the King himself. You certainly dont have the character for it.

Nathan: Well, looks can be quite deceiving. But trust me, I can be if need be.

Leo smirked and left the apartment.

Nathan knocked on the door and when she didnt answer, he slowly crept in. Selena is already fast asleep.

Nathan: I guess the whole thing is taking a toll on her.

He washed up and climbed into bed and pull her close to him.

Nathan: Good night baby.