Page 74 of Trust My Bodyguard

“Cry?” I glance over my shoulder and indeed, Sera has her head lowered. She’d never make it in the military if such a simple reprimand breaks her down.

“Go and apologize.”

I spin back to Nick. He can’t be serious.

“Else we won’t continue with this meeting.” His gaze is flinty. He’s dead serious.

I scratch the back of my neck. I’m doing this for Ivy’s sake. I’d stand my ground if we didn’t need to find the shooter as soon as possible.

I’m halfway to Sera’s desk when I look over my shoulder. The guys are watching me with stoic faces. For crying out loud.

“Sera.” I stop by her desk.

She looks up with big, sad eyes but thankfully, no tears.

“I’m… I’m—” I clear my throat.

Behind me, Nick shows me a thumbs up.

“Come back to the table,” I tell her. “The guys won’t continue the meeting without you.”

“I heard what Nick said, Brody. That is not an apology.”

For someone who is hurt, she seems quite fine enough to demand things.

“Fine. Sorry.”

“For?”

Fuck me. “For being rude to you,” I say in a rush. “Now get back to the table or I’ll—”

She raises a finger, silencing me. “Threaten me, and we’re back to square one.”

Wait a second. I thought I was the boss here.

Just then, a knock sounds at the door. I look over my shoulder and the guys shrug like none of them are expecting a guest. I go ahead and open up.

Ivy stands in the doorway, arms hugged across her midriff.

“Ivy.” I hold her elbow, pulling her in, and then I lean over to peek into the hallway. There’s no one there. I shut the door and turn to her.

“I didn’t see you when I woke up,” she says.

“I had this… thing.” I wave in the direction of the table. “How are you?”

Her face is drawn but the fearful look in her eyes from last night is gone. “I’m okay.” She wiggles her shoulders as if asserting the truth of that statement.

Nick clears his throat, reminding me we’re not alone. Which is good because I was seconds from pulling her into my arms to remind myself that she’s actually okay. That would only feed into the idea that Sera has already set in motion.

Ivy turns around. “Hi, everyone. I’m sorry. I’m still a bit shaken up.”

Sera rounds me to hug her. “It’s so good to see you. I’m relieved you’re fine.” She blocks my way and takes over ushering Ivy to the table. “The guys are already on it.”

“Hi, Nick. Hi, Zane.” She waves them as she sits down.

“I’m glad you’re alright,” Zane says.

“Yeah,” Nick concurs. “You’d look so weird with a hole in your head.”

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