Page 23 of The Forbidden Bodyguard

“Tony...” I almost barf using his name. “Wants to speak to me privately.”

“And you’re okay with that?”

I don’t have a choice.

“Yes.”

Fuck, no.

“Okay.” Declan nods as he pulls out his phone and starts scrolling. “We have the address. The team back at head office pulled up information about the property, but what I’m looking for from you are any details on what you expect to take place during the meeting that would help me prepare.”

I want to know that, also.

“I’ll see what I can find out.”

Declan turns his mug. “What is your goal during this meeting?”

I choke on my coffee and start coughing.

The goal is to stay alive and not find myself floating in the Hudson River along with my father. I simply want to get in and out without any trouble. I’ve had several nightmares of Tony holding me at gunpoint while I’m forced to say my wedding vows.

I shiver.

“Ah,” cough, cough. “To meet my betrothed and enjoy the evening with him.”

My stomach lurches.

“I’m just nervous and being careful.” I shake my head and smile, but it probably looks more like a grimace. “I’m going to be his wife, so I shouldn’t be nervous.”

“But you don’t feel safe.” Declan's eyes meet mine and there’s an intensity to them that has me drawing in breath.

I plant a better smile on my face once I catch myself and consider my response.

Shame rushes through me as I feel his judgment.

Declan is older and can probably see right through my bullshit. And here I am lying while I protect my horrible father while also imagining my bodyguard naked.

And I’m pretty sure he knows.

That said, I don’t know anyone who could live with themselves if they knew their father’s life hung in the balance, if they’d just do this one thing.

One thing?

Like marry a man who is hardly the pillar of society.

Imagine if I said no, and then a week later I was told Dad was dead or missing? That doesn’t mean I haven’t woken up every morning and almost said I won’t do it. I have. But the picture of standing beside my mother at his graveside stops me every time.

“Getting married is a big step for any girl.” I brush it off and toss back the rest of my coffee, then let out a weird half laugh. “I’m sure it’s just nerves.”

I don’t wait for a response.

I can feel his eyes on me as I slide off the stool, plonk my cup in the sink and head to my office, where I log in.

––––––––

STUDYING MY CALENDAR for the week, I can’t help focusing on Thursday where I’ve blocked out the time to meet with Tony Marino.

God.