#Chapter 335: Of Sticks & Grenades

Olivia Nathan opened the sliding door that led to the backyard, the cool night air hitting my face like a splash of cold water. The stars were out, twinkling overhead, and the silhouette of the old oak tree with its treehouse stood like a sentinel in the far corner of the yard. For a second, I hesitated at the threshold, half-expecting him to reveal some grand romantic gesture, roses leading to a candle-lit table or something equally cliche. Instead, Nathan just stood there, hands in his pockets, looking back at me. “Well? Coming?” “Where are you taking me, Nathan? Don’t tell me you’ve buried some relationship-fixing treasure in the backyard.” He chuckled. “No, nothing like that. Just follow me.” I stepped out onto the patio and followed him into the yard. The grass was slightly damp beneath my feet, an earthy smell rising from the ground. Finally, he stopped near the old oak tree and turned to me. “You remember this tree, don’t you?” “How could I forget?” I ask