Page 55 of My Broken Bodyguard 2: Ritchie & Tori

“Yes, that motherfucker had cop killing bullets. That could penetrate a bullet-proof vest. I’ve since upgraded everyones’ vests. So that won’t happen again.”

Dad pulled me into a bone-crushing hug. “We won’t go without talking for so long anymore. Do you understand?”

I squeezed him back. “Dad, I missed talking to you. Just being in your presence makes me remember how much you love me.”

He pulled back and sniffled. “Don’t you ever forget that, son.”

“I won’t, Dad.”

“You should’ve told me you were going to war. I would’ve fought with you.”

Another wide smile hit my lips. “Take a load off. I’ll make us another drink.” I grabbed his empty glass.

He nodded.

“Thanks Dad.” I poured Scotch into both of our glasses.

“Uncle Arlis nursed me back to health.”

“I have to thank him for saving your life. I know you’re downplaying it. I bet your life hung in the balance.”

“It wasn’t easy. Sitting in the alley bleeding out, I realized I had to see her face every day. That one more day just wasn’t enough. Luckily, my cousin’s a sharpshooter. He came to my rescue. Catch saved my life. When I woke up after being sedated for a few days. I learned my woman had been kidnapped.” I walked toward the couch and placed the glass of Scotch in his hand.

“Son, I can’t believe you’ve been through so much.”

“That’s only half of the story. I was injured again, rescuing her from the crazy asshole who kidnapped her. I almost got blown to smithereens. Last night my friends and I made another bold move and drew out the guys who worked for her ex.” I tipped my glass toward the door.

“He’s across the hallway. The war is officially over. I need to ensure we don’t have any blow back from the suburban police department.”

A devilish smirk hit his lips. “Now, son, you know you’ve come to the right person. This is my area of expertise.”

I smiled. “Great. Tori’s father will take over the South Side. Ezra Costa Nick’s personal bodyguard will protect Tori while I’m away.”

I sent a text to Tori.

Me: Come to the office.

Tori: Ok.

“Dad, Tori is my future. She’s had some traumatic experiences that’s keeping her trapped in Chicago. I’ll get her the help she needs to ensure she’ll be able to join me in Jersey soon.”

“Ritchie, I’m happy for you.”

There was a gentle knock on the door, and I quickly stood up to answer it. My heart raced as I swung open the door to reveal the woman who had been starring in my dreams for weeks. Her intense gaze sent a wave of desire through my body, making me ache to possess her. “Please, come in,” I managed to say, trying to keep my voice steady. She gracefully stepped into the room, wearing a stunning golden dress that stopped at her knees. Her blonde hair brushed her shoulders, framing her radiant cinnamon face. Just then, my dad walked over to us.

“You must be Tori.”

“Yes, and you’re Mr. Toscana.” She stretched out her hand for his.

“Please call me Rich.” Dad pulled her into a hug. “It’s a pleasure to meet you,” he said as he stepped back.

“My son has brought me up to speed. Once he informs me of the plan for the future, I’ll know how often I’m to return to Chicago.”

“Dad, that means a lot to me.” I grinned.

“Rich, you don’t have to do that. The girls and I can manage.”

I placed my hands on her bare shoulders and firmly squeezed from behind.

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