Nadine

Nadine
Nadine
My face lights up the moment Hardin says he’s treating me to dinner at a fancy new restaurant just two streets away.
But there’s one condition—we have to go to therapy together. He promises to be there with me through the entire process.
A wave of emotions rushes over me, and I can’t hold them back.
Hardin is such a sweet soul, and I feel incredibly lucky to have a brother like him.
With teary eyes, I throw my arms around his neck, holding him tight.
"I’m lucky to have you," I whisper between quiet sobs.
"Enough of the tears! Go get dressed so we’re not late," he says, gently pulling away.
"Okay," I reply, quickly making my way to my room.
I don’t want to overthink my outfit, so I settle for jeans and a T-shirt. Nathalie is still coming over later, and we have plans, so I make sure I look presentable before stepping out.
Hardin is already dressed, and the moment he sees me, his face lights up with a playful smile.
"No wonder Mr. West is so determined to make things right with you," he teases with a dramatic squeal.
I glare at him, though we both know I could never stay mad at him for long. But at the mention of Logan’s name, I feel the heat rush to my cheeks.
"No, Nad, you can’t stay mad at me even for a second," he grins. "Besides, I can tell just by looking at you—his name alone makes you blush."
I stomp my foot in frustration as he chuckles softly. "I was only joking! Well… mostly."
"You’re impossible, Hardin," I groan. "Let’s just go before I change my mind."
"Okay, milady," he says with a dramatic bow, making me roll my eyes as we head out.
Soon, we are downstairs, and thoughts of Logan creep into my mind. The way he remains so calm and composed—it feels almost surreal.
"Hop in," I say as I slide into the driver’s seat. "I’ll be driving."
Hardin takes the passenger seat without argument. We put on some music, singing along without a care in the world. It feels freeing like I didn't realize how much I needed to let loose like this.


The therapy session went better than I expected. I don’t even realize when the tears start falling.
It’s like Daisy sees straight through me, piercing into the deepest parts of my soul.
Words spill out of me—things I hadn’t planned to say, things I hadn’t even admitted to myself.
But it’s a relief like I’m finally unburdening my heart.
I cry through most of the session as I talk about my childhood, my relationship with Logan, and the confusing, painful emotions I still carry. I’m conflicted, brutally wounded, and unsure of what I truly want.
Daisy advises me to take my time to heal—to understand that healing doesn’t happen overnight.
Just because Logan is changing now doesn’t mean I have to rush back to him. I need to figure out what I want first.
She tells me to watch and see if his changes are long-term, to set boundaries, and to see if he truly respects them.
If he loves me, he won’t push. And if I ever choose to give him another chance, it should be because I want to, not because I feel pressured.
Overall, it’s a powerful session. We even booked another one for the following week. A part of me is looking forward to it—it feels liberating.
"Thanks for making time for me on such short notice," I say sincerely, grateful for Daisy’s help.
"You’re welcome," she replies with a smile. "I couldn’t say no to an urgent request from a special friend." She nods toward Hardin.
"I’m honored, Daisy. Thank you so much," Hardin adds, placing a comforting hand on the small of my back as we step out.
"This is the exciting part!" I squeal in delight as we head toward the restaurant.
"I’ve been dying to try the food there!"
"Nathalie says the seafood is to die for! She won’t stop talking about the oyster Rockefeller. And oh my god, she also mentioned the grilled swordfish—"
Hardin just laughs in amusement as I continue rambling about different seafood dishes, shaking his head at my excitement.
"You love food. I wonder how you’re still so slim despite eating so much," Hardin teases.
"It’s called good genes," I say between laughs as we step out of the car and head toward the restaurant. He promised me this dinner if I went to therapy, and honestly, I don’t regret it one bit.
As we approach the entrance, an uneasy feeling washes over me. It’s as if someone is watching me, their gaze piercing through my skin.
I turn around quickly, scanning the area—but there’s no one. My nerves feel unsettled, and I can’t shake off the discomfort.
Hardin notices. From across the table, he studies me carefully. "Are you okay, Nadine? You look… shaky."
"I’m fine, Hardin. Let’s eat."
He doesn’t look convinced, but instead of pressing further, he reaches across the table and takes my hand, pressing a soft kiss against my knuckles.
"You’re strong, Nadine," he says gently.
"No one is taking you away again. I’m here for you… and I’m pretty sure Mr. West is, too." A teasing gleam flashes in his eyes.
Instantly, I yank my hand away and throw a napkin at him.
"Stop being a bully, Hardin! I’m just trying to enjoy dinner."
He chuckles. "I’m not bullying you, I’m just being nice."
I roll my eyes. "Must you always ruin the moment by bringing up Logan’s name?"
"I can’t help it, Nadine. That guy is smitten, and I know he’s making every effort to be better."
"Whatever, Hardin. Let’s eat," I say, shifting my focus to the luxurious seafood dish in front of me.
Pan-seared Maine lobster tail au poivre—it’s seared to perfection, served with a rich peppercorn sauce, truffled mashed potatoes, and steamed asparagus, garnished with fresh herbs.
The aroma alone is intoxicating.
Hardin went all out, even ordering a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc to pair with the meal.
The richness of the flavors is out of this world. As I take my first bite, I notice Hardin watching me with pure amusement, his eyes twinkling as I savor every morsel.
Just when I think this night couldn’t get any better, I feel a light tap on my shoulder.
I slowly turn around, curious to see who it is. The moment my eyes land on her face, my lips curl into a bright smile.
It’s been a while since I last saw her, and seeing her now fills me with warmth.