Chapter 11: Not at work but outside dating

Nathaniel's chuckle faded, and the teasing tone in his voice disappeared. There was silence after that.

The words Killian spoke finally registered in his head. He bit his lower lip and swallowed the lump in his throat, ready to take them back.

However, Nathaniel spoke first, "What was that, Mr. Arden?"

Killian froze in front of his apartment door, cursing himself internally.

Why did he even say that? He fumbled with his keys, the metal jingling in his hands as his mind raced. Was it just his exhaustion talking, or had he unconsciously admitted something buried deep within himself?

"I—uh," Killian stammered, his voice faltering as he unlocked the door and pushed it open. "It was nothing, sir. I'm just…just... tired, I guess."

He was exhausted yet he still didn't end the call.

Nathaniel's voice took on a more serious tone, his previous amusement vanishing. "Mr. Killian Arden, if there's something on your mind, you can tell me."