Page 82 of Property of Yak

“Trust me, Yak. It’s for your own safety,” I sigh.

It’s for Ray’s safety too, but I don’t say that part out loud.

“Explain it to me, Angel,” he demands.

“And me too,” Henry mutters, reminding me that this isn’t exactly a private conversation.

“Because Officer Overstreet is downstairs, and the last thing I need is you two meeting right now,” I tell him bluntly.

“Julie…”

I shake my head even though he can’t see me.

“I’m serious. I need you to sit this one out and let the cops handle it. If Ray is here, then that means my dad isn’t far behind. If you show up now, it will only create more problems than whatever is going on right now.”

“I don’t like this,” he mutters.

“Neither do I, but you know it’s for the best, just like I do. You have a lot going on right now, Yak, and we both know if my dad and him knew about you, it would only add more to your plate,” I say softly. “Besides, Henry won’t let anything happen to me, right?”

My boss nods. “She’s safe with me. She’s the best paralegal I have. I’ll guard her with my life.”

“You fucking better,” Yak barks.

“Watch your language. Jesus,” I hiss.

“Julie, isn’t that your dad?” Henry adds, tipping his phone screen back toward me.

I look at the screen and nod.

“Yak, my dad is here. I’ll let you know when the situation is clear and call you later,” I tell him.

“I’m coming over tonight,” he informs me.

I sigh. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

“Take care of my girl, VanDuran,” Yak mutters.

Henry nods. “I won’t let anything happen to her.”

“Bye,” I say before hanging up.

The words “I love you” are on the tip of my tongue, but it’s too soon. I can’t say that. Not right now.

“Well, that was interesting,” he sighs.

“Sorry about that. I usually try to keep my work and personal life separate but…”

Henry shakes his head. “Hey, don’t sweat it. If I had a woman I was crazy about, I would do whatever I could to make sure she was safe at all times too.”

“Yeah, well, let’s hope my dad sees it the same way too,” I sigh.

Henry winces. “Yeah, how did the chief of police’s daughter end up dating a one-percenter?”

“Trust me, it wasn’t planned.” I pause. “But I don’t regret it.”

“Well, if it comes to it, let me know if you need a lawyer. I have a feeling things might get messy when this all comes out.”

“Thank you. I just might have to take you up on that.”