Page 6 of Piercing Eyes

The question catches me off guard. “For the most part, yes.” I hear the hesitation in my voice and rush to add, “I really don’t think he would do anything scary.”

“Well, I’m still not comfortable with this.” He looks at me carefully. “How would you feel about having security keep an eye on your place?”

“That’s really not necessary.”

“But would it make you feel safer?”

“Well…yes.”

“Good. I’d rather be safe than sorry.” He pulls out his phone, his fingers moving quickly across the screen. “I know a company that handles personal security. They’re discrete, professional?—”

“Aiden.” I reach out and touch his arm without thinking. “This is too much.”

He keeps typing, seemingly unfazed by my hand on his arm. I should tell him he’s being overprotective, that I can handle this myself. But watching him take control of the situation, seeing how seriously he’s taking this—I can’t bring myself to stop him. Maybe having someone watching my back isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Aiden: Hey. Just checking in to let you know that the security detail is in place.

Me: Thank you. I really appreciate this.

Aiden: Marcus will keep an eye on things. He’s one of their best.

Me: You didn’t have to do any of this.

Aiden: Look, I know this is your personal business and I don’t want to overstep...

Aiden: But your safety matters.

Me: Thank you. It means a lot.

Aiden: Of course. And hey, I have selfish reasons too. Can’t afford to lose the best assistant I’ve ever had.

Me: I’m the only assistant you’ve ever had.

Aiden: Details, details. But seriously, I realize I haven’t said this yet—you’re doing an incredible job. Everything runs so smoothly with you handling things.

Me: I’m glad to hear that. Is there anything you’d like me to do differently, though?

Aiden: Are you kidding? You’re so efficient I actually have free time now. It’s weird.

Me: Sounds like someone needs a hobby.

Aiden: Any suggestions?

Me: Knitting? I hear it’s very therapeutic.

Aiden: You mean like...sweaters and stuff?

Me: You could start with potholders.

Aiden: What other suggestions you got?

Me: Pottery? Origami? Rock climbing? Woodworking?

Aiden: I actually tried pottery once. Let’s just say there’s a reason I stuck to baseball.

Me: Wait, something you’re not good at? I’m shocked.

Aiden: Ha. Hate to break it to you, but I’m not perfect.

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