Page 74 of Jenna's Protector

Ah, yes, Walt.

“Yes, of course.” I shove out my hand to shake, only to have Walt’s massive hand engulf mine. Despite the differences in our sizes, his handshake is surprisingly gentle. “Thanks for coming. I feel kind of silly, but I appreciate it.”

“Not a problem. Happy to help, and I hear you make the best scones on the planet.”

“I don’t know about the planet, but they’re pretty tasty.”

“Nice.” Walt glances at the counter, where Malia is taking orders. He pauses for a moment, then heads over with a confident stride. “Hey there, gorgeous.” He flashes a charming smile. “What’s a guy gotta do to get a cup of the best coffee in town?”

Malia looks up, slightly taken aback but intrigued. “Haven’t seen you here before, big guy.”

“Well, that is a mistake I intend to rectify. Name’s Walt. Friendof Carter’s.” He introduces himself, leaning casually on the counter. “I’ve heard a lot about your coffee and scones. Thought I’d see if the hype is real.”

“Well, you’re in for a treat.” Malia smiles, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

“Only if I have company while I enjoy them. You think your boss will mind?” Walt shamelessly flirts, leaving Malia speechless.

I shake my head at his antics and give Malia the ‘Okay’ sign. With as much time as I’ve been taking off, she’s due a little bit of fun, and it looks like Walt’s willing to give it to her.

Malia laughs softly. “I’ll get your order started. You can tell me if it lives up to your expectations.”

Walt grins, a playful glint in his eye. “If the coffee is half as sweet as your smile, I’m sure it will.”

Malia blushes, her smile widening. “Well, I’ll do my best not to disappoint. One coffee and a scone coming right up.”

“Thanks.” Walt leans on the counter and flashes a roguish grin. “I’m looking forward to it.”

Malia’s smile lingers as she turns to prep his order.

Oblivious to Walt and Malia’s interaction, Carter leans close and gives me a final kiss with a promise to return as soon as possible. I take a deep breath, squaring my shoulders, and turn to face the day ahead.

Walt and Malia hit it off immediately. He hangs by the counter all day, shamelessly flirting with Malia. A big man, his presence is reassuring. I hate to say it because I still think Carter’s being overly protective, but I’m glad to have Walt with us for the day.

I try to lose myself in the work, in the familiar rhythm of brewing coffee and greeting customers. The strange man with the dark eyes doesn’t come. Not that day or the next.

His absence is more unnerving than his presence. I glance at the street more times than I’m willing to admit, looking for his car. Now, I know I’m being paranoid, and I’m definitely jumpy.

My heart pounds with every shadow that passes by.

As the days go by, each morning brings another of the Guardians to babysit me. Blake, Gabe, Hank, Rigel, and Walt alltake turns, but soon, it becomes apparent Walt is here more often than not.

I can’t shake the feeling I’m being watched.

That doesn’t make sense.

It’s been days since the stranger stopped by, which suggests he was in town for business and has since moved on.

My imagination needs to dial it back a notch or two.

One night, after a particularly frantic day, by the time Carter arrives to walk me home, I’m wound tighter than a spring, my nerves frayed to the breaking point.

He steps into the café, his eyes immediately scanning the room until they land on me. The moment he sees my face, his expression shifts from casual to concerned.

“What’s wrong?” He strides over, not bothering with greetings. “Did the man show up?”

“No.” I shake my head, feeling like a fool. “It’s just been a busy day, which is good for business, but I gave Malia the day off. I’ve been non-stop all day, and I’m just overreacting. It’s silly, and I’m a little embarrassed, to be honest.”

Carter pulls back slightly, his hands resting on my shoulders, eyes searching mine. “Your instincts are good. If something feels off, it probably is. Let’s get you home.”

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