Page 85 of Running Winter

"Are you fucking joking?"

My sister's voice met me first, and I stopped by the doorway to listen in.

"Raven, watch your mouth. Your mother had someone look after her too. It’s just the way it is... I don't want you going anywhere without him."

Dad's stern voice echoed around the house as my sister exhaled with frustration.

"I'm not a prisoner."

"No, but you are my daughter. Dangerous people would kill to get close to you. Leigh here will make sure no one does."

My eyes nearly popped out of my head.

Dad was entrusting Leigh to look after my sister? We barely knew him.

"Rafe, stop eavesdropping like a bitch and get in here," Dad barked, causing me to wince.

No matter how light I stepped, that man heard me from a mile away.

I strolled in, finding Leigh beside my sister who was scowling at him. Leigh didn't seem to pay much attention, but he nodded as I walked in.

"Leigh, this is my son, Rafe."

"Hey. Good to meet you," Leigh drawled, and I noticed he shared the same grey eyes that Rayna had.

"Likewise. What's going on?"

Dad folded his arms and nodded at Leigh.

"Raven needs a bodyguard for when she’s out and about. I don't trust her or anyone around her."

"Gee, thanks, Dad. You don't trust me?" Raven snapped, her long black nails resting on her arms as she folded them.

"You're too much like your mother, so no."

I glanced around for Mom, knowing she mustn't be close for Dad to be so bold.

"Just go with her wherever she goes when she leaves the house. If she gives you any shit, tell me. And Leigh?" Dad's lips twisted into a knowing smile as Leigh looked over at him quizzically. "If you touch my daughter in any way, I'll make you swallow your dick."

Leigh laughed, looking at Raven with a shake of his head.

"No offense, but she’s just a kid. But message received, boss. Loud and clear."

My sister's eyes darkened as Dad nodded with approval.

"See to it that it stays that way. Raven is a kid, despite what she thinks."

Raven let out an exasperated groan, stomping off to her room.

"I've got a date tonight. Is your henchman coming too?" Raven purred, and I stared at her.

"A date with who?" I snapped as Dad chuckled.

"Someone who doesn't value his kneecaps, I'd guess."

"I'm serious," Raven protested, her eyes darting from mine to Dad’s. "It's Jael's brother's best friend, so hardly a stranger."

"No."

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