Page 89 of Body

“He’s escalating,” Jack holds the newest note in his hand.

“Read it,” I demand.

“Baby, I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Chase coos.

“Read it, Jack. Now!” I implore. Chase wraps his arms around my waist and I take comfort in his strength leaning back into his embrace fully.

“Go ahead, Jack,” Chase confirms. “She needs to know what we’re dealing with.”

Bitch,

I told you that you couldn’t hide from me. You will be mine. Nothing and no one will stand in the way of our reunion.

XOXO

I close my eyes and try to contain my temper. A burning hot rage sweeps across me, and I start to pace the room. The satin robe Chase gave me in New York trails behind me. I pick it up and slam it in a circle as I turn and pace the other direction. Traitorous tears build, and I’m ready to scream at the top of my lungs. Why now? Why is this happening to me? Haven’t I suffered enough? Isn’t it my turn to be happy? Tears pour down my cheeks, and I wipe them away, bristling with irritation.

“Baby, it’s okay. I’m going to take care of you. Nothing is going to happen to you under my watch.” His arms wrap around me pulling me into the safety of his arms, his love. I nod against his chest and cling to him. I’m so tired of this.

“This ends here. Double the number of men. Jack, I want intel on this. Austin, she goes nowhere, and I meannowherewithout you. You are officially her shadow. If you can’t handle that responsibility, I’ll find someone who can.” His voice is tight, strained.

“Sir, I will do what it takes to keep her safe. I will protect her with my life.” Austin stands tall and puffs out his chest. His jaw is stiff, his hands clench into fists. Chase looks him up and down a moment. He gives him a manly nod that somehow communicates more than words would.

“Leave us,” Chase says over my shoulder then brings his forehead down to mine. Fresh tears pool and fall as he holds me and we breathe together.

“Gillian, I will handle this. You are safe with me. We’re going to have a long, beautiful future together. Okay?”

I nod.

“Don’t worry about this.” Chase nuzzles my neck and lays a sweet kiss just behind my ear. “I love you,” he whispers.

“I love you more.” After I’ve calmed down and he’s taken a round of ten breaths with me I feel a bit more like myself.

We settle on the couch and he holds me for a long time. “Now can we please celebrate our engagement? I can’t wait to tell the girls.” I smile as he cups the sides of my neck with both hands, tips his head back and laughs. He’s so beautiful when he’s smiling.

“That sounds like an excellent idea. But first, let’s celebrate privately.” He pulls me against his chest. One hand tunnels into my hair at the nape tipping my head back for a slow and deep kiss. Shivers rush through my body and down to my toes.

Chase and I spend the rest of the morning celebrating our love. He’s certain his team will solve the stalker issue sooner rather than later. For the first time in my life, I’m going to let someone else take care of me. Allow my safety and happiness to be protected in the hands of the man I love. No more living in the past and fearing the future. From now on, I will focus on the life I’m building with the people I love and feel secure in the knowledge that today, the present is beautiful.

The End…for now.

---