Page 48 of Bound to the Bodyguard

I closed my eyes for a moment, picturing myself standing tall and unshaken, an immovable force against any threat. Warmth blossomed in my chest—a contrast to the chill of dread that had become all too familiar.

“Let that image guide you when anxiety tries to creep in. You’re building your fortress, Raven, one brick at a time.”

Opening my eyes, I found they were alight with a fire I hadn’t felt in ages. A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. Born from a well of hope that had been replenished by the words spoken here today. “I’ll look into classes first thing tomorrow.”

“Good.” Dr. Johnson’s approval was clear, both in my tone and the approving nod that followed. “You’re reclaiming your power, Raven. Remember, every step you take is a victory.”

“Thank you, Dr. Johnson.” As I stood to leave, there was a spring in my step, a physical manifestation of the psychological armor I was beginning to forge.

Walking out of the office, my mind was already buzzing with plans—not just for self-defense classes, but for a life lived boldly on my terms. The stalker had tried to cage me in shadows, but I would emerge into the light, stronger and ready to fight back.

I fished my phone from my purse. My thumb hovered over the screen, tapping the contacts icon with purpose.

“Hello, Krav Maga Academy? Yes, I’d like to enroll in your self-defense classes,” I spoke into the phone, voice steady and sure. There was no tremor of fear, only the clear ring of empowerment.

“Absolutely. We can start as early as this week. Would you prefer mornings or evenings?” the receptionist inquired.

“Evenings.”

“Understood. We’ll have everything ready for your first class on Thursday evening. Welcome aboard.”

“Thank you. See you then.” As I ended the call, a small smile danced on my lips—a smile of someone who knew the path wouldn’t be easy but was resolved to walk it, nonetheless.

I slid into the driver’s seat, allowing myself a moment to savor the sweetness of taking control. My heart still bore the imprints of anxiety, but they were now overshadowed by the etchings of courage.

Chapter 30

Raven

Ishifted on the plush couch, drawing my legs beneath me.

"Never imagined I'd end up here," I murmured, my eyes not meeting his. "From a cramped two-bedroom I shared with my sister to... all this." I gestured vaguely at the expanse around us.

Jerome's gaze was steady, a calm anchor. "You've come a long way, Raven. You should be proud."

"Sometimes I feel like I'm still that girl, you know? Scrambling for every opportunity, afraid it'll all slip through my fingers."

"Strength isn't the absence of fear," Jerome said. "It's moving forward in spite of it."

My lips curved into a half-smile. "Sounds like something out of your military manuals."

"Maybe," he conceded with a hint of a smile tugging at his own lips. "But it's also true."

The silence that fell between us wasn't awkward—it was thoughtful, laden with unspoken understanding. I studied Jerome's hands—strong, capable hands that had held weapons and now promised protection. Without thinking, I reached out, brushing against the back of his hand before settling into his palm.

Jerome's hand enveloped mine with ease, a gentle squeeze delivering a silent message of solidarity. His touch ignited a warmth that spiraled from my hand up to my chest.

"Thank you," I whispered, finally lifting my gaze to meet his. "For being here. For listening."

"Always.”

"Sometimes I wonder if I'll ever truly let go of that fear," I confessed. "Does it ever get easier?"

"Trust is earned, one day at a time," Jerome said, his thumb caressing the back of my hand in slow, soothing strokes. "And you're not alone anymore."

"Guess we're both works in progress, huh?"

"Seems so.”

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