Page 66 of My Damaged Protector

“Maybe I shouldn't have assumed. Maybe I should have asked. Do you love my niece, Ian?”

I stare at her in disbelief. Unable to come up with any words.

Do I love Sarah? I have no freaking clue.

Do I care about her? Yes.

Do I have feelings for her? Definitely.

Do I think those feelings could amount to love? No fucking clue.

Why would she even think I love Sarah?

Is it something I said?

“Well, are you going to answer or not?”

Shaking my head, I blow out a quiet breath.

“I don't know what to say.” I finally offer.

It's better than nothing.

She nods at my words. A flippant look comes over her face. “You don't have to say anything. In fact, I think it's best that you don't say anything. You should do something instead.”

Okay, I have no idea what she's talking about.

“If you do love her, which I think you do, protect her and all that she holds dear to her heart.”

With that being said, she stands up and walks out of the room, leaving me more confused than I was before the conversation.

I was looking for answers from her. Instead, she gave me more questions.

Great.

Now, I'm going to spend the rest of the night thinking about if I love Sarah or not.

Standing up, I follow her into the kitchen.

“I'll take the tea,” I say when I'm inside.

She looks at me and smiles. “Good choice.”

She pours me a glass of iced tea. I thank her and walk back into the living room.

I've barely sat down when she comes back with half a pitcher full along with some ice and places them on the table beside me.

“Just in case you want more. You can sleep on the couch if you want, or I can make a room for you.”

“The couch is fine, and thanks for this.” I motion to the tray in front of me.

She nods and walks away.

A few minutes later, she's back with a pillow and a duvet, and she sets them aside for me.

“Good night, Ian.”

“Good night, Sheila.”

---