The Mafia's Targe

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minded him to lock the door for safety purposes. With a nod, he waved her off quickly so he could get back to work. He needed to focus if he was going to finish the late night shift without driving himse

e, as if the atmosphere was flipped upside down. Instead of cigars and toxic air, it suddenly smelt sweet, like peppermint, a scent that allowed access to Nathaniel's lungs. It made him want to see the boy every day.

weaty palms, Nathaniel had hurried to helped Lucas find the book, tugging at the long sleeves of his favorite red sweater that was now drained

e plastered onto his face as if it was there permanently. It amazed him that he had never seen Lucas without that boyish smile. But Nathaniel was aware that he didn't hav

is physical self. It didn't matter that nobody loved him romantically, because he had Mrs. Lavender's black-furred kitten, Satan. The mewling kitten's nickname was Rumplestiltskin, one that Nathaniel had blessed upon the kitten.

hy smile upon his lips. « H-Have a nice day- I-I mean night ! U-Um goodnight ? » Nathaniel blurted out, his glimmering eyes wide

, gritting his teeth. He always embarrassed himself in front of Lucas, and he hated that f

from sorting out books all day, needing the extra cash to support himself in his small apartment. Plus, he just couldn't say no to M

him in a decent yet not so amazing university. He had recently graduated and was now working at the l