Page 69 of Thirsty Bodyguard Summer

Cassidy remained near the door while another agent held the corridor. The mark on her arm had begun to darken beneath the work lights.

I caught her eyes in the mirror.

“Give me one minute.”

The wardrobe assistant checked the mirror. “You have forty-five seconds.”

“I respect your optimism.”

She stepped out.

Cassidy crossed to me. “The route should open in five.”

I touched the inside of her uninjured wrist.

“You put yourself between that weapon and me.”

“It was my job.”

“You got hit.”

“I also won.”

“You did.”

I lowered my voice. “I wanted to get to you.”

“I saw you start.”

“You told me to move back.”

“And you listened.”

“I hated it.”

“You stayed where I needed you.”

I looked at the darkening mark again.

Cassidy placed her palm against my chest. “I needed you to trust me to handle the danger.”

“You had it.”

Her hand stayed over my heart.

“What do you need from me now?” I asked.

“Perform because you still want it. Not because Melanie tried to take it.”

“I want it.”

“Then go earn the four-year wait.”

I covered her hand with mine.

“Will you be at the wing?”

“Yes.”