Page 16 of Always Right Here
“Why did you do that? You were supposed to be here as a guest.”
“Iama guest and I am perfectly capable of being a guest and keeping you safe at the sametime,” she replied. “Plus, between you and me, I think the guy’s going through something. He won’t really talk to me, but his energy has been a little off lately. He seemed a bit antsy to get out of here.”
I frowned, suddenly feeling terrible for how I’d judged him. It was true that we really had no idea what was going on in other people’s lives. I just hoped he was alright and made a mental note to give him a break from my questions and talking when he was on shift. Maybe I’d even extend a little kindness. Make him a meal to show my appreciation.
“Okay, fine.” I huffed. “Nothing has seemed off today. No messages or anything. Maybe the amount of people kept them away.”
“Good. I’ll check in with you in a little while.”
Chapter 15
Korie
After my quick sweep of the home, I grabbed a plate of food and joined Riah and her family on the couches in the living room, where her Aunt Pat was telling another one of her elaborate stories that had everyone doubling over in laughter.
“How’d it go?” Riah leaned over and whispered in my ear.
Her warm, sweet scent pulled me in. My jaw clenched as I resisted the urge to lean in, turn her face towards mine and claim her lips.
“Nothing out of the ordinary.”
She relaxed immediately, sitting back and melting into the couch. My chest puffed in satisfaction, knowing I was the one who made her feel secure. Seeing her smiling and so free was exactly what I was here for. But it was more than a job for me. I wanted to make her feel that forever. By any means.
“Kor!” Riah’s dad caught my attention and waved me over from across the room.
I gave Riah’s leg a quick, reassuring squeeze as I pushed myself up to join him.
“How’s everything going?” He asked. He was smiling, but I could see the worry behind his eyes. “Anything concerning happen?”
It was obvious Riah hadn’t told him about the text message and I didn’t feel like it was my place to tell. Plus, I felt like I hadit all under control. There was no reason to worry anyone further.
“It’s been going pretty well. Nothing concerning. We’ve been keeping a close eye on the camera and I barely let her out of my sight.”
“Oh, good,” he sighed with relief. “I’m worried about her starting work in a few days. I know she probably won’t be able to take you with her but…I don’t know. I just don’t want her without protection for so long.”
“I understand, your concern is completely valid. I have no problem keeping an eye on her from a distance after she starts work. Maybe have some of my guards drive around the building a few times a day. I’ll check in with her.”
He nodded, not completely convinced.
“Edward.” I placed a hand on his shoulder, looking into his eyes so he knew how serious Iwas. “I would never leave her without protection if I knew she was in danger. I’ve got her, I promise.”
Eddie joined our circle a few moments later.
“What are we talkin about?” He asked.
“How great of a job your best friend is doing at keeping my little girl safe,” Edward beamed like I’d taken a weight off of his shoulders. “Truly, I am so thankful, Korie.”
“Aw, it's nothing,” I waved him off.
“Seriously, Kor,” Eddie added, his normally goofy face turned serious. “I wanted to thank you for keeping an eye on her. I would do it myself but, with the baby and Chrissy and-”
“I get it,” I cut him off. “I am more than happy to do it. She…”
I found her across the room, holding her sides in a fit of laughter at whateverstory her aunt was telling. They didn’t know how much being around her had affected me. They had no idea that I would protect her for the rest of my life. They had no idea the lengths I would go to keep her safe.
“She’s worth it.”
When I turned back to my little group, their eyebrows were raised. They took a quick look at each other and smiles split their cheeks. They both lifted their drinks to their lips in sync, like mirrors of each other. Eddie cleared his throat, stifling a laugh.
