Page 100 of The Bodyguard

“They just...clearly Gina isn’t a friend anymore,” she says, and her cheeks are pink.

She’s embarrassed.

I’m almost relieved to hear her say that after my conversation with Gina in the hallway of the Dufort Hotel.

“She hasn’t wished me congratulations or asked to catch up outside of work. Maybe I should’ve made the effort.”

“Is she your only friend?”

I’m partly concerned and also curious in case I need to consider them for the investigation.

Savannah shrugs. “I never was the kind of person who had a big group of friends, and I spent all my time on my art and working at the diner.”

“Or not trusting people because of the way your family treated you.”

She stares at me. Then nods. “I don’t understand why they are like they are.”

“Because they’re assholes,” I mutter.

“They want money. Many actors share their financial gains, and I would be happy to if I felt they loved me,” Savannah says. “But I’m not sure they do.”

I didn’t want to comment, but it certainly didn’t look like love to me.

My parents were kind and caring people. They encouraged us growing up, and I never questioned if they loved me. My brother is a mechanic with a wife and two kids. They live in Colorado near my folks.

So to me it’s black and white.

But love is complex. People are broken. They might love her but not know how.

I’d know how to love her properly.

Not an option.

“You don’t give money to people who are abusing you, Savannah. No matter what their surname is.”

She nods sadly.

“Growing up, they didn’t believe in me. I get it. I’m sure it’s a nightmare learning your kid thinks she can be a movie star instead of pursuing a solid career. But they were cruel.”

“Tell me.”

“Well, you heard Dad on the phone. He’d tell me I was talentless and make fun of me in front of his friends. They’d all laugh.”

Watching the pain on her face, I do a mental check on my weapons cabinet. One skillful slice of my best knife would resolve that fucker.

But her wounds will last forever.

“Do you think I’m crazy?”

“Savannah, the entire world is acknowledging your talent. As did you. That’s why you kept going and reached this level of success.” I brush the hair off her face. “You don’t need me to tell you.”

“I want to hear it.”

“No. You want to hear them say it. I could tell you a thousand times and it wouldn’t change the pain you feel.”

Her eyes drop to my chest.

“You are right. They should have encouraged me, guided me, and taught me to become a whole person so I could take on the world.”

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