Page 53 of Niall

We finished at the front desk and went upstairs and changed. I tugged on my sleeves, trying to fight down my nerves. Niall would be there. So would Finn. No doubt a couple of men behind them. Or in front.

Maybe both.

I shook my head at my nerves. Juan was dead. I was safe.

I simply needed my imagination to remember those facts.

Niall came in, offering me a smile. He cupped my face and kissed me. “I hear you were a star today.”

I smiled and nestled into his chest. “You always smell so good.”

He laughed. “Are you trying to distract me?”

“No, just saying you smell good.” It was true. He wore a cologne that had hints of fresh-cut grass and citrus—it was clean and rich and suited him.

He smiled and kissed me again. “Was it okay?”

“It was good.”

“Ready for the next part?”

I paused. He leaned down, pulling a face. “A short walk. Then, I’ll buy coffee. The fancy, foamy shite you like.”

I started to laugh.

I pressed a kiss to his mouth. “Eegit.”

He laughed. “Ah, the Irish is taking hold. I’ll dose you up again later.”

I moved away. “You’ll have to catch me first.”

His eyes gleamed. “Challenge accepted.”

Niall’s hand tightened on mine as we stepped out of the hotel. It was a nice day, although a bit cool. Perfect for a walk. I felt a tremor run through me as I stepped off the curb and crossed the street. Finn and Una were in front of us, their fingers entwined, walking at a good pace.

I drew in a deep breath as we entered the park. The air felt good on my face, crisp as I took it in. My hand was warm in Niall’s. Around me were the sounds of nature. Birds chirping, the leaves rustling in the breeze. I could hear the muted noises of traffic around the park, but as we walked, it became more distant. I felt my shoulders relaxing, my tension easing away.

I was outside. I had always loved the outdoors, growing up the way I did, surrounded by nature. Working daily in the campground. I had forgotten how much I missed it.

Niall looked down at me. “All right, then?”

I beamed up at him, hugging his arm. “Great.”

He wrapped his arm around my waist, tugging me close. “Great,” he repeated.

We stopped for coffee, Una and I waiting at the table. I wasn’t anxious or nervous, which surprised me, except I could see Tom not far away, and Niall was only steps from my vision.

“This is good,” I said to Una.

“It is.” She squeezed my fingers. “You have color in your cheeks, and your eyes are happy. I like seeing that.”

“I forgot how much I like it outside.”

“I’ll help you remember.”

“You’re a good friend, Una.”

“Back at you.”