Page 38 of Heartbeats and Hashtags
I nod slowly, understanding creeping in.
“Right,” I reply, teeth clenched. “I’ll pass the new information on to the team. And in the future, don’t click on any links online.” She flinches at my tone. I know I’m snapping, but I cant help it. I can’t work out if I’m pissed because she blatantly doesn’t want me or because this psycho has messaged again.Probably both.
Everly fidgets with her hands and looks upset, but for once I’m not sure if it’s because of the stalker or because I’m being an asshole.
EVERLY
The modern brunch spot Tanya selected boasts sleek white walls and gleaming metal accents, so it is very on-brand for trendy Miami locales. The hostess dressed, all in black, leads us past tables packed with beautiful people chatting and posing under brushed gold pendant lamps.
Tanya loops her arm through mine, shooting me a playful grin. Her father, Mr. Park, and a silent Cole are bringing up the rear. I'msogladto finally get some in-person friend time after being caught up in chaos. I feel like I’ve become desensitized to the threats and messages. However, the tension headache beginning to form justthinkingabout it disagrees.
We're shown to a choice window table overlooking the marina, yachts bobbing gently in the dazzling morning light. Mr. Park folds his hands neatly and offers me a warm smile that crinkles the corners of his eyes. He's been a fixture in my life since I was a child, almost like a second father.
Strict but loving, Mr. Park shepherded both Tanya and me into strong, independent young women. I'll never stop appreciating everything he’s done for me over the years. However, his fierce protectiveness can sometimes be a little…overwhelming.
“You look well, Everly,” he says in his clipped English, sharp eyes studying me fondly. “Tanya tells me this new job is keeping you busy, yes? Social media do-dah?” He flails his hands around. Explaining to some of the older generations what my job is can be a challenge. Heck, even people in my generation squint their eyes skeptically when I say I make content for a living.
I nod, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “Yes, it's actually going quite well. I guess people just love healthy recipes and workout routines.” I laugh a little, and Mr. Park remains composed. I see Coles's twitch, and I scowl at him.Asshole.
“Hmm.” Mr. Park cleans his glasses tentatively. “I guess they do. But some people too much, yes?” He gives me a pointed look, referring to the stalker.
I clear my throat and smooth down my outfit. I’m wearing a cute pair of light jeans and a crisp white T-shirt, casual. I'm unbelievably grateful to Mr. Park. He has gone above and beyond to provide me with over-the-top protection at a heavily discounted price. But under his scrutiny, I freeze up.
“Everly has dealt well with the threats. She has remained calm and unfazed yet sensible. I am sure our off-the-ground team will find the source soon, and we can put an end to the perpetrators,” Cole cuts in, his deep voice soothing my nerves. I look up at him, hoping to convey gratitude with my eyes, and he nods.
Before I think I add, “But Cole here has made the transition easier.” I gesture to Cole opposite me. He’s looking like agoddamninternational spy of…sex-botage in his crisp suit and earpiece, which I swear he’s only put on because we’re with his boss today.
Mr. Park's shrewd gaze assesses Cole for a silent moment.
“And you are keeping our Everly safe during all her travels?” he interrogates. “And I know those silly beach photos are just you doing your job.”
My heart leaps at the mention of the tabloid photos.
“Absolutely, her safety is my top priority,” Cole confirms without hesitation, meeting Mr. Park's stare steadily.
I resist the urge to roll my eyes. This testosterone showdown seems unnecessary, but I guess it's sweet in its own way. After a lengthy pause, Mr. Park gives a grunt of approval and a small nod before he turns his attention to me. We make our stilted small talk — my latest branding partnerships and Tanya’s big cases at the firm.
Soon, the food arrives, and it smells sofreakin’ good. Perfectly plated eggs Benedict and towers of pastries that have us all momentarily distracted. I resist the urge to reach for a pastry, jealousy creeping in after watching Tanya eat a Danish so easily.
Tanya and I fall into easy conversation punctuated by laughter while we eat. For a fleeting hour, it feels like old times.
I'm intensely aware of Cole sitting sentry nearby, but I try to focus on Tanya. Still, it's like I can sense his presence on some deeper level, attuned to the sturdy strength he exudes.
As we linger over the remains of our meals, Mr. Park leans back contentedly. “It is good to see you happy, Everly,” he says warmly, or as warm as he gets. “This life in the spotlight suits you.”
I smile through a pang of doubt.Does it really? But, seeing the pride in Mr. Park's eyes, I push the uncertainty away. I am fortunate he can't see inside my mind.
As Tanya and I sip our coffees, Mr. Park gestures Cole over to the side. They become engrossed in a discussion about security protocols and updates at Alliance Safety Partners.
Tanya leans in, eyes glinting impishly. “I can't believe you and Mr. Hunky Bodyguard finally slept together!” she whispers too loud.
“Shhh!” I glare at her, checking to make sure the others don't overhear. “We didn't sleep together. We just shared the same bed!” I clarify.
“Uh-huh, sure,” Tanya says with a wink. “You don't have to play coy with me, babe.”
I swat her arm.
“I'm serious! Nothing happened between Cole and me.” I lie. Nothingreallyhappened. Just the best kiss of my entire life.
