Page 100 of What Comes Around

I nodded back. “You too.”

Knox continued, “She was the strongest candidate. Former military. Private sector for the last ten years. Excellent record.”

Lena stepped forward. “I’ll be with you during work hours, escort you home, and stay at the house when needed. We’ll go over routines and boundaries whenever you’re ready.”

I nodded. “Thank you.”

As Lena spoke, my gaze flicked briefly to Knox.

I wondered if he had chosen a woman on purpose.

Not because she was the best.

But because he did not want another man occupying my space.

Chapter 32: Under Watch

A week later, Amy and I sat in a small café near the office during my lunch break. Lena was a few tables away, pretending to scroll her phone but clearly watching every entrance and exit.

Amy leaned in. “Your bodyguard looks like she could break someone in half.”

I smiled. “She’s cool. I’m getting used to her.”

Amy raised a brow. “And Knox? Still staying with you?”

“Yeah,” I said, stirring my coffee.

Amy’s brows lifted. “He hasn’t left?”

I nodded. “And more clothes have appeared in my closet.”

Her eyes widened. “He’s secretly moving in?”

“It looks like it.”

“And no conversation about it?”

I shrugged. “He hasn’t said anything. And I haven’t asked.”

Amy stared at me. “And you’re just okay with that?”

I looked down at my coffee, tracing the rim of the cup with my finger.

“I don’t hate it,” I admitted. “I feel safer when he’s there. Apple is unhinged.”

“Unhinged is generous,” Amy muttered, already pulling her phone from her pocket.

“Speaking of which… look at this.”

She tapped the screen and turned it toward me. A video clip began to play. A teaser. The logo of a massive podcast flashed across the screen.

Call Me Mommy.

Apple sat in the guest chair, perfectly styled, perfectly lit beneath the studio lights.

The host leaned forward slightly. “Are you ready to talk about everything?”

Apple nodded. “Yes.”