Free In the Shadows (The Blaisdell Chronicles) by Katie Welsby Page A

in fact.”
    “Not really,” I mumbled, moving behind the counter, in a vain effort to hide my embarrassment. Perhaps he wouldn’t mention what happened. He might have put it down to my surprise from the fireworks. I could work with that. I tried to appear relaxed.
    “Can I get you something? A sandwich or a Panini perhaps?”
    He took a step closer, shaking his head. Awareness prickled my skin. How could he have such an effect on me?
    I gestured to the glass counter. “We have muffins. Fresh today. We have blueberry, chocolate chip or cherry. Or perhaps you might like a cupcake? I can personally vouch for their yumminess.”
    He shook his head. He didn’t seem like the cupcake type anyway.
    “A pastry then? Danish or apple cinnamon swirl?”
    “No. Thank you.”
    I swallowed hard. “Then, what do you want?”
    He regarded me for a few moments and sighed. “The way I spoke to you was wrong. I was rude and didn’t behave in a gentleman-like manner. I’m sorry.”
    I nodded once, folding my arms. He hadn’t mentioned me making an idiot of myself. Perhaps it was best not to say anything either. I remembered my question from yesterday; that he’d refused to acknowledge our first meeting. Would he lie again?
    “Do you admit we’ve met before?”
    His mouth opened to protest, but I cut him off.
    “Please, don’t take me for a fool.”
    Walking around the counter and edging closer made him step back a little, enough to heighten my curiosity. That familiar scent filled my nostrils again and I had the urge to see under his fingertips.
    “Why did you lie?”
    “I have my reasons,” he replied, silent amusement in his expression.
    Still wanted to keep a reticence between us. My brow furrowed. As if he had sensed my trail of thoughts, he pivoted on his foot.
    “Thank you for accepting my apology. Now I must take my leave.” He smiled warmly over his shoulder.
    I had to stop him. “Wait. I still don’t know your name.”
    He paused and looked back. “Forgive me. Nathan Harlow.”
    Nathan. I closed my eyes, imagining his warm hand on my cheek again. My eyes opened, and I realised he was standing right in front of me, so close. If I didn’t move…
    His voice lowered. “I ’m afraid wasn’t completely honest just now.”
    I swallowed the lump in my throat. “Oh?”
    “I came here for another reason. I was worried about you.”
    “You were?”
    His face came closer, his head dipping. I tilted my head to the side slightly, hoping he’d notice my silent invitation. He blinked and inhaled sharply. “Lucy, I—”
    There was a clatter as Jen pushed open the door, laughing as Alex followed her in.
    “Hey, Lucy, look who I bumped into.” She turned to Alex. “I’ll just get your pastry and coffee.”
    Alex came over, stopping in the same spot Nathan had occupied just a moment ago. “All right, Lucy?” He stared at Nathan, whose body had frozen and jaw was clenching. Alex flashed his brightest smile.
    “Nathan, isn’t it? My father told me all about you. I’m Alex.”
    Alex offered his hand, but Nathan just blinked at it, his muscles tensing.
    As moments passed by, Alex chuckled in embarrassment. “Won’t you say anything?”
    “Nathan?” I said softly. My hand was reaching for him, but instead he stomped past us, slamming the door shut. I frowned at Alex, but as he moved to speak, Jen pushed her way between us.
    “Here you go, Alex.”
    “Thanks. I just realised I’m late for something. See you around.” He took the bag and polystyrene cup and left the coffee shop, in the opposite direction Nathan had taken. Jen came to stand beside me at the glass window.
    “Who was that you were talking to?”
    “Nathan,” I answered truthfully.
    “Nathan. Hmm.”
    “He’s just my neighbour.” I played down that part. There was a lot more to Nathan than I knew.
    Jen stared for a moment, before thankfully, she didn’t prod me anymore, and continued to tell me some jokes Alex had told her, but her voice