Page 36 of Jenna's Protector

“I think,” she begins slowly. “That you have to do what feels right for you. If joining the Guardians is what your heart tells you to do, you should listen.”

The car falls silent, a comfortable silence filled with unspoken understanding. As we continue down the winding road, the sun rises high into the sky, and a sense of peace washes over me. The tension in my shoulders eases, and my breathing slows.

“You askedmewhat I thought about you joining Blake’s organization, but what doyouthink about it?” Jenna’s voice breaks through my thoughts.

“Blake’s always been the daredevil. Even as a kid, he was the one climbing the highest trees or jumping off the pier. He’s an adventurous individual…” I pause, thinking about my brother. “He’s the kind of person who doesn’t think twice about the unconventional.”

“Unconventional?”

“Joining a private security firm. Guardian HRS ismorethan that, but it’s still kind of on the edge of things.” I shake my head, knowing I’m explaining this wrong.

“What does that mean?”

“It’s not part of the military. Not part of the police force. Not along any conventionalprotect and serveorganizations. Ithinksome of them are deputized Federal Marshals, but I could be wrong about that.” I shrug this time, still not expressing myself well. “I guess I like to play things safe.”

“Safe?”

“Go with the standard way of doing things.” A nervous chuckle escapes my lips. “I’m more grounded. I want to make a difference in my community and help people. That meant becoming a cop or a firefighter. Blake shares that passion, but he wants more action and more suspense. Higher stakes.”

“Do you ever regret not following Blake into the Navy?” Jenna nods, a thoughtful expression on her face. The question hangs in the air for a moment.

“Sometimes,” I confess, the words heavy with a truth slowly growing inside me. “Especially with cases like this. I’m hitting a wall,and I can’t help but wonder if I’d be more effective with the Guardians’ resources.”

“You’re making a difference. Never doubt that.” She squeezes my hand. “But just because something’s comfortable isn’t always a good reason not to consider changing things up.”

Her touch sends a jolt of electricity through me. We’ve been dancing around this growing connection, the lingering glances and subtle touches, but with the case consuming my thoughts, I haven’t had the chance to explore what it could mean.

After an hour or so of driving, we pull up to the gates of Guardian HRS. A familiar figure strides out to meet us.

“Welcome to the Guardians.” Blake, my mirror image, grins widely as he opens the gate, waving us through. “Park your car over there. We’re taking alternate transportation.”

I park the car, and we climb out. Max bounds ahead to greet Blake, his tail wagging so hard his whole body shakes.

“Hey, boy.” Blake ruffles Max’s fur, laughing. “Well, well, Carter. You didn’t tell me you were bringing such a hottie. Way to go, bro.”

“Blake, this is Jenna, and Jenna, this is my incredibly tactless twin brother, Blake.”

“Nice to meet you.” Jenna blushes but extends her hand.

“The pleasure’s all mine.” Blake winks, shaking her hand. “Seriously, Carter, how’d you always land the pretty ones?”

“We’re working on a case together, you idiot.” I roll my eyes. “Try to behave, will you?”

“Ah, you know I never behave.” Blake cups his mouth in a mock whisper to Jenna. “I’m the black sheep of the family. Walk on the wild side and all that. And hey, if things don’t work out with Carter, I’ve been told I’m a lot of fun.”

“Knock it off, Blake. Jenna’s with me.” My jaw tightens.

“Alright, alright,” he chuckles. “Message received loud and clear.” Blake holds his hands up, backing away with a massive smirk.

Jenna’s eyes widen at my possessive tone. A faint blush creeps up her cheeks. She glances at me, and a small, pleased smile tugs at her lips. Her hand brushes against mine, sending a reassuring warmth through me.

I cringe inwardly, pissed at myself for revealing my feelings like that.

“Relax, bro. Just having a bit of fun.” Blake laughs, clapping me on the back. He throws an arm around my shoulders and gives me a squeeze before playfully shoving me away.

“Just keep your hands to yourself.”

“No promises,” Blake grins. “Now, let’s get this show on the road. Hop in the golf cart. It’s the best way to get around.”

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