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I saw the shadow of someone stop behind me. An arm lifted. Maybe most people have a “fight or flight” instinct, but my adrenaline system must have been out of order because “stand and freeze” was my first reaction.
"Ms. Hart," a nasally voice said behind me. I braced myself for whatever was to come. “Allow me.” A small plastic package was held before me.
Oh, god! I took a deep breath and slowly let it escape. Pasting on my best smile, I turned as best as my trapped foot allowed me. "Thank you," I said as I accepted the tissue pack he offered me.
"I always carry extra, you know, during allergy season," he continued.
"That's very wise of you," I answered. "I appreciate your help, but if you'll excuse me, I'm late meeting someone." Unable to find a better solution, I pulled a couple of tissues from their plastic packaging and gingerly wiped the sticky mess from my fingers. I dropped my trash onto the overflowing pile next to me.
"Maybe I could escort you?"
Oh, for the love of Pete! I glanced around my surroundings and could have nearly cried in relief.
"I appreciate the offer, but I'm actually at my destination. You have a good day, now, ya hear?" I turned and headed for the entrance of a restaurant ahead on my left.
"Oh, what a happy coincidence! I'm heading in there myself. I'd love to buy you a drink."
Of, course you are! Where are the police when you need them?
Without answering, I left the bright sun outside and entered the dark restaurant. I had to stop and let my eyes adjust. I glanced along the bar in front of me, and my eyes landed on exactly who I was looking for. With a huge smile, I rushed over to the man sitting by himself at the end of the bar.
"Sweetheart! I'm so glad to see you!" I cried throwing myself into his side, nearly falling into his lap.
Strong hands settled on my hips and gorgeous green eyes stared back at me. A smile played around his mouth, but before he could say anything, I flung my arms around his neck and pulled his head down to mine. I only meant for it to be a quick peck of greeting, and I didn’t mean to draw too much attention. But when our eyes met, the grassy green of his eyes turned emerald. His arms pulled me tighter, effectively lifting me against him as his lips molded themselves to mine once again. I felt myself begin to get lost in his arms until someone cleared his throat behind me.
Remembering myself, I pulled back. My handsome guy set me back on my feet, keeping his hands at my waist as I rocked slightly in my heels. He looked over my shoulder and frowned.
"Oh, um," I mumbled. "This…gentleman….came to my rescue earlier and insists on buying me a drink." I stared hard into those beautiful eyes, hoping he'd catch on to my hint. I breathed a sigh of relief when he winked at me, understanding flashing in his eyes.
"Well, now" he answered, a mild southern accent turning his speech almost musical. "I appreciate you taking care of my gal here, but it's been so long since I've seen her, she feels like a stranger. I just want to keep her all to myself." He squeezed my waist and gave me another kiss on the lips. "I'm sure you understand, don't you, um…?" He held out his hand and arched his eyebrow as he stood, keeping me tight against his side. For the first time in a long time, I felt safe.
“Charlie,” my shadow answered, accepting the gesture, although he didn’t seem to want to.
“Charlie. All right, then.”
Charlie stared up from his disadvantage of at least eight inches to the man standing with his arm wrapped protectively around me. "Oh, uh, yeah. Sure. I understand." He slunk away, still casting a scowl over his shoulder as he moved toward the door. For good measure, I wrapped my arms around the solid man holding onto me until the door shut behind Charlie.
I started to sag in relief. "Thank you so much," I whispered as I took a step back. "He's been following me since I left my hotel."
"Well, sweetheart." He smirked, and I noticed he had a small dimple. "I'm always happy to help out where there's a need. But maybe you can just tell me one little thing.” Those green eyes narrowed their gaze on me. "Who the hell are you?”
