Page 88 of Not the Bodyguard's Widow
“I need a bodyguard.” Her voice was unsteady.
He closed the door. “Why?”
Kimberly rubbed Clay’s back, gleaning strength from her little one. “My heart is in danger of breaking, and I’m hoping he will help guard it.”
He took a step closer. “Is there a particular bodyguard you have in mind?”
“I think there is only one who can adequately do the job.”
“Just adequately? We strive for much better than adequately.” He stood close enough that Kimberly could smell the spice of his aftershave.
She craned her neck to look up at him. He pulled out the chair next to her and slowly lowered himself into it. “How long do you need this bodyguard’s services?”
“Fifty or sixty years at a minimum?” Her voice squeaked.
“That long?”
“Longer—if you can manage it. I don’t think I have enough money to pay you what you’re worth...” Kimberly took a deep breath to make sure her next words came out right. “But I can pay you with all the love in my heart.”
“You didn’t answer my first question. Who do you want?”
“You. I want you. I love you. I think I have for a while. I just didn’t know it.” Great. She was tearing up.
Alex leaned forward over Clay and touched his lips to hers, then pulled back. “I’ll take the job on one condition.”
“Condition?”
“You pay me one kiss every day for the rest of your life.”
“Just one?” She should have brought the car carrier. Kissing over Clay’s head was more awkward than she could have imagined.
“I accept tips.” Alex smiled one of his heart-melting smiles.
“When can you start?”
Alex stood and offered her his hand. “How about now?”
Taking his hand, she stood, and Alex wrapped both Kimberly and Clay in his embrace. Kissing with a baby in between them was much easier when standing. Alex ended the kiss and rested his head on hers. “I accept the job. I don’t have a contract, but I have a ring. Will that work?”
“A ring? When did you get a ring?”
“The day after Mother’s Day. It just never seemed like the right time to give it to you. It’s in my truck.”
“Before you go get it, I do have a contract of sorts. And if neither of us signs it and we don’t file it, we will still be married.” Kimberly pulled his face down to meet his lips again.
“I have a paper shredder. I think we should shred your contract immediately.”
“Agreed. Do you mind terribly if we arrange a renewal-of-our-vows ceremony? I’d like to wear makeup and look you in the eye and know I mean every word.”
“Amish dress?”
“No way.”
“Deal.” Alex pulled her into another kiss, and Clay squawked. Alex planted a kiss on his head. “And what about this one?”
“I think he should grow up with your name and calling you Dad. Will you adopt him?”
“In a heartbeat.”
