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Not in a creepy way.
More like he's cataloguing details nobody else notices.
He doesn't stand.
Doesn't smile.
Merely nods.
Which apparently counts as enthusiasm in Oliver Pax language.
“Don't mind Ollie,” Leandra says fondly. “He's just a giant grumpy bear. Aren't you?”
Oliver grunts.
Actually, grunts.
Then finally opens his mouth.
“Miss Perkins.”
I guess that means hello.
“Mr. Pax.”
His eyes hold mine for a second.
Assessing.
Measuring.
Then another nod.
That's it.
Good Lord.
Someone, please give this man a cookie.
Or a hug.
Maybe both.
I smile politely and turn toward the stage.
Behind me, I hear Alessio introducing himself.
“You're the bodyguard?” Chance asks.
“Yes, sir. Alessio Figueroa. Sigma International Security.”
Something inside me pinches.
Because I want him to say he's with me.
Not Sigma.
Me.
