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The doors slide open, and we walk through the halls. Once we’re in the parking lot, I scan my eyes around and make sure everything looks okay.
“I’ll wait here,” Tyler states as I walk toward Everleigh’s car.
After I start the engine and move around to the covered area, I tap the brakes a few times just in case that psycho bitch has decided to cut the lines. Though I blame it on my paranoia, nothing is out of the realm of possibilities.
I leave the car idle, then stand next to Tyler as we wait. His eyes move over the area too. “I’m really reluctant to let Everleigh out of my sight,” he admits, and I see the worry lines above his brows.
“I am too.” I ball my hands into fists, ready to fight anyone—man or woman—who tries to hurt her again.
Tyler frowns. “It’s hard because of work and my family. I can’t be around her twenty-four seven like I used to, so I’m struggling with it.”
“Listen, I promise I’ll do whatever I can to keep her safe, and if that means all of my clients get rescheduled until she’s fully recovered, then so be it. I can be her full-time bodyguard.”
He shakes his head. “I can’t let you take on all of the responsibility, Archer. I have a friend I could call to help keep an eye on her, but I’m not sure that’s a good idea after what happened to Eric. They still don’t know who’s responsible for his murder.”
“I guess none of us are truly safe, but the truth is you have a family now. Your wife and daughter have to come first. You gotta stay out of danger for their sake. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of Everleigh like she’s my own sister.”
Though I mean those words with my whole heart, I hate implying that Everleigh and I aren’t anything more than friends. I want to tell him I’m in love with her, but now isn’t the time. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect her from here on out.
He gives me a tight brotherly hug, knowing what I went through for Annie. “Itrustyou, man. I know you will. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” His words cut deep, and I feel as if I’ve betrayed him by not telling him the whole truth, but I push away the thoughts as soon as I see Everleigh.
I open the car door for her as she’s wheeled to the edge of the sidewalk. She meets my eyes, and I help her climb inside the car.
“Stay safe, sis,” Tyler says as he hands over her bag, then dips inside and hugs her.
“I will,” Everleigh tells him.
I hop in, and we wave goodbye. She winces a bit and readjusts her position. Knowing that this might be an issue, I grabbed a small throw pillow from the couch for her. After she places it against her side, she smiles in relief.
“You good?” I ask before driving away.
She nods. “Better now.”
I interlock my fingers with hers on the way. She rubs her thumb across mine. Tonight, I’ll get to hold her in my arms as we fall asleep, and that thought comforts the hell out of me.
Tyler follows us, and knowing that he’s close also eases my concern. I think it would be impossible for anyone to take us both on, considering we’re so accustomed to fighting.
Once we’re in Lawton Ridge town limits, Tyler honks a couple of times and waves, then turns off toward the gym. I notice the way Everleigh scans the downtown area, and I search around too, but the SUV isn’t in sight. I squeeze her hand as we drive to her grandmother’s house. As soon as we park, Mimi comes out with Sassy on a leash.
Her tail immediately wags when she sees Everleigh.
“Calm down,” Mimi says, opening the back door.
Sassy jumps in and pushes herself between the seats. “Aw, my sweet girl.” Everleigh coos as Sassy licks her face.
“How’re you feelin,’ honey?” Mimi asks.
“Better. Glad to be going home.” Everleigh grins.
“I’m sure you are. Hold on one second,” Mimi tells her, then runs inside. When she returns, she’s carrying a large bag. “I made some chicken and dumplings for you. I know how much you like those, and it’s the perfect weather. Also, I just fed Sassy, so she doesn’t need anything until tomorrow.”
“I love you. Thank you for takin’ care of my baby,” Everleigh says.
“I’m so happy you’re okay. Take care of her, Archer,” Mimi says as she leans in and hugs Everleigh.
“Yes, ma’am. You know I will.” I grin, and we say goodbye.
