Page 9 of Protected By the Billionaire Ex-SEAL

Honey Lee Baker, like my sister, is one of the sweetest people I know, which is probably why they’ve been tight from childhood. You can call her a ball of sunshine and no one will bat an eye, which is probably why everyone in this town likes her.

“Oh, everything’s good. The kids at preschool are great as usual, and Aaron’s been busy with renovations. Did I tell you that we’re expanding the school?”

“Yes, you mentioned it.”

“How was Nashville? Did anything exciting happen?”

An image of the pleasure on Raven’s face while I moved inside her flits in, an invisible hand around my cock. I grit my teeth and shrug.

“Same old Nashville. Clara and Nick said hi.”

“Oh, I miss the kids.”

“They miss you, too. You should visit.”

“Maybe.”

“Or you and Aaron should…” I waggle my brows. She laughs.

“Working on it.”

“Nice.”

I grin again. Years ago—hell, maybe even a year ago—I don’t think I would have been able to boldly say that, considering I’ve harbored feelings for this woman for years and it tore me apart when I found out that Aaron got with her before I could even confess. But it feels like a lifetime ago as the more time I watch them, the more I realize that what Aaron gives her now is something I don’t think I have in me to give.

Letting go was difficult, but it was ultimately the best choice.

“Anyway, I’m glad you’re here. Are you sure you want to take this on as a first assignment?”

I nod. “Yep. There’s no perfect first assignment than in Sweet Haven before I proceed with my business in Nashville.”

“Oh, good. I knew you wouldn’t change your mind, but I guess I was just worried.”

I recall our exchange over the phone. “Your cousin, right?”

“Yeah. Her sister’s away and her parents are older, so she turned to me for help.”

“Hmm. Stalker?”

“Yes, her ex. I know I didn’t fill you in on the details, but it happened so fast and she needed help right away. I know that she needs professional protection from him, and you’re the first person I thought of.”

“It’s okay. The details can come later. I’m flattered you thought of my agency.”

“Of course. You can ask her now. She just got here a while ago, and it’s perfect that you’re here, too. You guys can get acquainted and talk about it.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. Sit down. I’ll go get her.”

I sit in the living room and wait while she disappears. I scan my mind for the details I do know, which include the fact that her cousin tried to avoid the ex as much as she could and even got a restraining order, but he still managed to break into her home and harass her. I know her cousin called the cops, but the guy disappeared, and it became a source of paranoia for her until she finally snapped and left her city.

And that’s where I come in.

When I hear the murmuring voices closing in, I stand up, ready to offer my usual lieu of comforting assurances and a promise that she doesn’t need to worry now because I’ll keep her safe. But my words die in my throat when I glimpse the person stepping into the living room…not Honey Lee, but the woman beside her.

The familiar, equally shocked woman.

“Christian, this is my cousin, Raven Jones. Raven, this is the guy I was telling you about. This is Christian Benson.”

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