Page 67 of The Forbidden Bodyguard

“I’m not going to let you marry that motherfucker. You are scared, and I understand why you won’t share what is going on. That’s okay, I’m still going to help.” His mouth lowers to mine, and I close my eyes as he kisses me like his entire heart is involved.

God.

Have I fallen in love with this man?

Because now I don’t know if I’m just a job or something more.

Everything is a jumbled mess.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

DECLAN

––––––––

Josh arriving early in New York is a godsend. I’m happy to see his face when the elevator opens.

“Hey, man.” I shake his hand, and Ryder follows him out of the cab. We slap one another’s shoulders and share a grin.

Josh and Ryder glance around, taking in the luxury space.

“White van across the road with two guys in it.” Josh walks over to the window when he spots Stella standing by the fireplace. “Ms. Voss. Good to see you again.”

She looks rattled but cute in her casual outfit. The sleeves are rolled up on the sweater, and her sweatpants look like they’re ten years old. It’s a stark contrast to her normal, polished self.

I like it.

That vision of us on the tropical island is looking better and better. Even staying here and watching her holding our baby with her hair in a messy bun.

God, I’d be a happy man.

The strange thing is that I’ve never thought about being a father. It’s occurred to me that one day I might, but no woman has ever had me seriously considering it.

Or rather, wanting it.

“Hi.” Stella crosses her arms, clearly unhappy with all of us. But because she’s been raised right, her manners kick in. “Would you like a drink?”

She’s already met Josh, so I introduce her to Ryder.

“Stella, this is Ryder. He’s my direct manager,” I say, and the two shake hands.

“Don’t worry about the drinks,” Ryder says. “You probably already know this is a bit of an intervention.”

I rub my temple.

Nice one Ryder, nice one.

“He’s been trying, but honestly, it’s not necessary.” She forces a smile.

“Sit.” Josh points toward the sofa.

I watch Stella’s mouth fall open.

She glances at me, blinking, and I nod. She walks to the sofa. Our sexual relationship has blurred the lines, and seeing Josh get a reaction like that, I realize I’ve been too soft.

Not that she would agree.

Tonight, the gloves come off, and it’s time she gave us names. To fucking protect her. I’m not letting her leave this house in that fucking white dress or the lingerie.