Chapter 40: Nate

For an hour, I had Sophia in my arms; she'd fallen asleep.

My phone vibrates. I retrieved it from my pocket.

Training late, Mom texted.

No, I'm with a friend; I'll be there soon. I texted back.

Okay, come home soon.

I put my phone down and watched Sophia sleep. She's beautiful when she sleeps, and I find myself developing feelings for her.

I wish I could let her sleep more in my arms, but I must go.

"Sophia." I gently touch her shoulder.

"Hmm," she moans, her eyes open.

"I'm sorry, but my mom needs me," I say.

"It's okay," she says, sitting up and rubs her eyes.

"Should I take you home or leave you at the gas station?" I ask.

I'd hate to cause any more trouble for her and her mother.

"At the gas station," she says.

I nod.

As we arrive at her stop, she says, "Thank you, Nate, for being here for me."

"My pleasure, and feel free to call me whenever you need someone to talk to again," I say with a smile.

She's about to open the car door to leave.

"When are you coming back to school?" I as