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Unable to say no to her sparkling eyes, I let Natalia pull me up and lead me to the bright, cheerful kitchen. She moved about getting out mixing bowls and ingredients familiar as her own.
"Can you make omelets?" She asked, getting a skillet heating on the stove. When I nodded, she beamed and started cracking eggs with quick, practiced motions.
We worked side by side prepping food, Natalia issuing playful orders and critiquing my chopping technique. Her lively energy was contagious. I felt myself relaxing, the shadows that clung to me easily banished here in her light.
"Perfect!" Natalia declared when I presented her a flawlessly folded omelet just the way she liked it. Her lips left a lingering, approving kiss on my cheek that made me grin boyishly.
I realized I had missed this - lazy mornings cooking together, stealing kisses over coffee. I wanted a thousand more ordinary moments just like this with Natalia.
We brought out the platter of fresh pancakes, eggs, and fruit just as Ashley came bounding into the kitchen. "Something smells amazing!" she declared, making an eager beeline for the food.
"All courtesy of Leonardo," Natalia informed her proudly. "He can cook and doesn't even mind wearing a frilly apron. I think I'm in love."
She shot me a playful wink as we all sat down to eat. I knew she spoke lightly, but the thought that I had impressed Natalia so mundanely made happiness balloon inside me. With her was where I belonged.
Over breakfast, there was more lively chatter and giggles between the two friends, drawing me in as well. I even endured Ashley's teasing interrogation about our "PG-13 slumber party" the night before with good humor.
Watching Natalia's eyes sparkle as she laughed and smiled, I realized this - not my flashy downtown apartment or collection of sleek cars - was the life I wanted. The chance of simple mornings and shared laughter with the woman who saw light within me still.
Being here together like this was the dream worth fighting for. Its crazy but I would burn my wretched empire to the ground if it meant keeping Natalia's spirit bright and free like this forever.
The lively breakfast chatter faded as I set down my coffee mug with a sigh. Natalia noticed the shift in my demeanor immediately.
“What is it?” she asked, brows furrowing.
I gave her a rueful half smile. “As much as I wish we could stay like this, duty calls. There are things I must see to.”
Natalia's face fell. “Can't it wait, just a little longer?” she pleaded, grasping my hand.
I brought it to my lips, hating to cause her distress. “I’m afraid not. Important matters that cannot be left unchecked.” My jaw tightened. “Especially with you in potential danger.”
Understanding flickered in Natalia's eyes, though sadness lingered. She knew I would not leave unless absolutely necessary for her protection.
Ashley tactfully started clearing dishes from the table. “I should get ready for school. But Leonardo, it was great meeting you,” she said kindly. “Please join us again soon.”
I was touched by her openness despite the aura of mystery about me. It must offer Natalia comfort having such steadfast loyalty near.
“The pleasure was mine. Thank you again for everything, Ashley,” I responded sincerely. Her cheerful strength reminded me there was still goodness left untainted in this world worth fighting for.
After Ashley departed upstairs, I turned back to Natalia, her lovely face clouded. I tilted her chin up gently. “This is not goodbye forever, my love. Only temporary parting. I will return the moment I’m able.”
“Or I could come with you now,” Natalia proposed boldly. Seeing my stunned reaction, she pressed on. “Wherever you’re going, I could help, watch your back...”
“Natalia.” I interrupted her firmly but gently. “Where I’m going is no place for you. Dangerous men who will show no mercy.” I cradled her face in my hands. “I cannot risk your safety, even for my own peace of mind.”
Natalia started to argue, fire in her eyes, but I stopped her with a deep, searching kiss. “Please, my love. Stay here where I know you are protected. It's the only way I can do what needs to be done without distraction.”
I saw reluctant acceptance bloom in Natalia's gaze. She knew with my focus divided, we were all at risk. As much as it pained us both, temporary separation was necessary.
Still, she clung to me fiercely until the very last moment. I imprinted the feeling of her in my arms, the warmth of her lips on mine. She would be my guiding light through the darkness ahead.
“Come back to me soon,” Natalia entreated, eyes glistening.
“Wild horses couldn't stop me,” I vowed. With a final searing kiss, I walked away before my will crumbled.
In the car, I allowed myself one last glimpse back at the cozy house that had felt more like home than anywhere I could recall. For the first time, I had a reason to look forward to coming back. A newfound sense of belonging I would fight tooth and nail to protect.
Natalia stood framed in the window, sun shining on her chestnut hair. She raised her hand in farewell.
