Page 21 of Heartbeats and Hashtags
Cole scratches the stubble on his jaw.
“Have you considered that maybe creating content just isn’t that fun for you?”
I open my mouth then close it. He is in no position to judge my job, and I don’t need to explain myself to him. I stare back.
The tense standoff lingers until shouting erupts from the hallway, puncturing our stalemate and making even Cole jump up off the desk. We both turn toward the sudden chaotic sounds outside the closed door. Cole's arm instantly shoots out, pushing me behind his rigid form as he stares down the closed door. My heart races as noises escalate outside. Instinctively Cole steps protectively in front of me, poised for danger. I shrink behind him, imagining the worst.
But as the commotion crescendos, Cole's coiled stance slowly relaxes. He peers through the glass panel beside the door, vigilance melting into an almost amused huff.
“False alarm,” he rumbles. “Seems a stray cat was the culprit.”
He turns toward me then, and the subtle wink of tension between his brows reveals his sheepishness at overreacting. Oddly that glimpse of fallibility — proof even unflappable Cole misreads things — comforts me.
“Apparently, cats are a force to be reckoned with,” I joke shakily, my own embarrassed relief bubbling out.
The corner of Cole's mouth quirks upward. “They are ferocious creatures when they want to be.” His low tone holds a reassuring note of camaraderie.
As the last of the tension dissipates, Cole gives my shoulder a steadying squeeze. “You alright?”
“Me? Of course, all good!” I plaster on a bright smile, waving off the cascade of fears I felt a moment ago. No need to dwell on my overreaction when the threat wasn't even real.Time to move on.
As the adrenaline fades, I feel Cole studying me, reading something in my panic.
“The threats have you more shaken than you let on,” he rumbles. It's not a question.
I wrap my arms around myself, feeling exposed by his discernment. I hate showing vulnerability almost as much as entanglements. But something about his steadfast presence makes suppressed truths slip out.
“I don't know how to do this,” I admit quietly. “How to handle feeling targeted and powerless to protect myself.”
Cole nods, considering for several moments.
When I expect another security lecture, he surprises me.
“Tomorrow then, your self-defense training starts,” he states.
I blink. “Training?”
“Basic techniques to protect and stand up for yourself.” He lifts his chin resolutely. “Build confidence and skills — more than just an extra safeguard.”
I open my mouth to protest. I have filming planned. But Cole forestalls my objection.
“It's non-negotiable if I'm to guard you effectively,” he says, holding my gaze. “I can't have you completely helpless out there.”
Pinned down by his green eyes, I frown at the suggestion I'm some damsel in distress. “I'm stronger than most men,” I counter.
Cole just lifts one brow.
“Think you can handle it then? Youdidjust cower behind me because of a cat.” He watches me carefully.
My stubborn pride flares at the challenge.Fine, if he expects some delicate flower, he’s got another thing coming.
I thrust my shoulders back.
“You just tell me when and where.”
A hint of amusement flickers in those penetrating khaki eyes. “Tomorrow then, 8 am sharp. We’ll see what you’ve got,Little Rose.”
Oh, it is on. Tamping down a thrill at the prospect of discovering Cole’s hidden skills, I turn on my heel, a small smile creeping in.
