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Her eyes widened, her throat tingling. “I just meant…”
He peered at her, and she closed her mouth. “I think we’ve been acquainted enough to know each other now. Even before we were this close, I watched after you, guarded you, and cared for you. I always will.”
She nodded, her face growing warm.
“I don’t want to invade your space. But I would feel better if you would pack a few overnight bags and stay with someone until I can get to the bottom of this.”
Her eyes widened, and she looked at her home, studying it. “I’m no longer safe here, am I?”
“Truthfully, I can’t answer that. However, no matter where you stay, there will be someone to keep you safe.”
“I guess I could call my parents.” It came out like a groan.
“Is your relationship with your parents a healthy one?”
She nodded. “Yes. My dad is a little annoying at times, but he means well.” She thought some more. “I would’ve called Tina or Chelsea before them, but I definitely don’t want to be the third wheel in their home.”
Langston smiled. “You could stay with me if you like.”
Her eyes widened, her mouth parting with a gasp.
“Or...” Langston added, unsure about her response. “What about your sister? I remember you mentioning her when we were at the Horseshoe?”
Lisa swallowed her surprise at his offer to stay with him. “She’s in Italy. She’s lived there for decades now. Our relationship is long-distance. I have a life here, a career; I can’t stay with her.” She licked her lips. “I don’t want to impose on your life, but if the offer stands, I wouldn’t mind staying with you for a while.”
His dark eyes twinkled, and he licked his lips. “The offer stands.”
She smiled. “Okay.”
They stared at each other longer than necessary, smiling and perusing each other’s bodies.
“So, should you go grab some clothes?”
“Oh yes!” She laughed. “Where is my head?”
Embarrassed, she fumbled with the door when the car rocked on Langston’s exit. He opened the passenger door and helped her out as she stood in the welcome aura of heat that his body disbursed.
“I’ll be right back.”
He nodded. “I’ll be waiting.”
Lisa dropped her eyes, her face blushing as she stepped past him.
Langston watched her enter, then took his gaze down her street. A multitude of emotions filled him—desire, lust, adoration, mystery, and a hint of fear. Not for him, for her. But he was ready to take on whoever tried to do her harm.
Seventeen
Langston
Over the next few days, Langston and Lisa got comfortable in the same environment. He watched her gloat at the space she made her own—a grand master guest bedroom, high tray ceilings, immense windows that stretched from one corner of the room to the other, and modern and contemporary furnishings that cast a dazzling light throughout the area.
Lisa sprawled out on the king-sized bed and kicked off her heels, relishing the plush comfort beneath her toes. Langston couldn’t help but smile at her contentment and the way she made herself at home.
One afternoon, Langston invited Lisa to join him in his private study. She eagerly followed him into the room, taking in the mahogany bookshelves that lined the walls and the oversized leather club chairs grouped together in the center of the room.
“This is your space.” Langston gave Lisa a warm smile. “Feel free to make yourself at home here. Anything you need or want, just ask.”
Lisa’s lips curved into a beaming smile at Langston, feeling grateful for his hospitality and kindness. Her heart swelled with gratitude. Never had she felt so cared for before. She walked toward the bookshelves and ran her fingers along the spine of one of the books, admiring the titles. “Wow, you really have an impressive collection here.”
