Page 195 of Heart of Frost and Scars

But until they confront it, their relationship with me will never be healthy.

“Let’s go.” He stuffs a helmet on my head and straddles the bike, firing it up.

I climb onto the seat and lock my arms around his muscled torso. The instant he takes off, I’m transported back to the hills. With the wind in my hair and his body vibrating between my legs, I’m on the snow machine again.

Despite my turmoil, I love it.

I love this man, with his untamed temper, his unconditional loyalty, and even his surly protectiveness.

But we need to find a balance.

Something has to give.

The days that follow are more of the same. I work back-to-back shifts, and Leo shows up at the start of every one, sometimes with Kody in tow.

Each time I step into the hospital, I brace myself for the inevitable confrontation. Leo’s eyes track my every movement. He never seems to sleep, his vigilance unyielding. Kody is quieter but no less present, his brooding figure a shadow in the background.

As I step out for a break during my third shift, I find Monty in the lobby, talking to the head of security.

His icy blue eyes meet mine, and I sag.

What now?

I stride over, my voice tight with exhaustion. “What are you doing here?”

“Just checking on things.” He clasps his hands behind him, his attire all business, from the crisp white shirt and suit jacket to the shiny expensive shoes. “Making sure everything’s secure.”

“Is that really necessary? I have enough security.”

“Clearly, it is.” He glances toward Leo and Kody, who stand a few feet away, glaring back. “I’m trying to keep the peace.”

“This has to stop.” I rub my temples. “I can’t work with all this…drama. They’re going to get me fired.”

“I know.” His expression softens. “I’m trying to help.”

“You want to help? Make them leave. They won’t listen to me.”

“I can instruct security to escort them out and prevent them from entering again.” He quirks a brow. “Is that what you want?”

I shake my head, though I’m not entirely certain. I want them to be able to visit during my breaks or stop by if they need something.

As I turn to head back to the ER, I catch a glimpse of them, their expressions dark and aggressive.

Changing directions, I make a beeline for them and stop just out of arm’s reach.

“A mat placed outside an exterior door for wiping shoes before entering.” I rest my fists on my hips, watching their features twist in confusion. “A person who is physically weak and ineffectual.”

“I don’t understand.” Leo tilts his head.

“What is a doormat?”

“That’s not—”

“Not me? You’re walking all over me and treating me like I have no common sense, self-preservation, or opinions of my own.”

“Keeping you protected,” Kody growls, “does not turn you into a doormat.”

“I love you both. So much. If you love me a fraction as much, please leave until the end of my shift. Or stay outside. I’m trying to do my job, and I’m asking you to respect that.”

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