Chapter 9: I really like you

"Excuse me for a moment," Nathaniel said abruptly, rising from his seat before anyone could stop him.

He strode across the restaurant with purpose, his eyes locked on Killian and Emily's table. As he approached, the laughter and chatter around the table died down slightly, the employees sensing the change in atmosphere as the deputy director neared.

Killian looked up, startled to see Nathaniel—no, Steve—standing before him. His brows furrowed in confusion as Nathaniel's eyes flickered briefly to Emily, who was still clinging to his arm.

"Sir?" Killian asked, his voice unsure. "Is something wrong?"

Nathaniel kept his expression unreadable, though his aura was darker. "Nothing's wrong," he said coolly, his gaze briefly lingering on Emily before shifting back to Killian. "I just needed to speak with you for a moment. Privately."

Killian blinked, clearly confused by the sudden request. "Now?"