Page 16 of Her New Bodyguard: Colton

JULIA

If someone had told me last week that a hulking bodyguard would be taking me to a safe house, I would have been terrified.

To my surprise, the safe house and the bodyguard were both lovely, and the only 'hardship' was that there was no dishwasher so we had to wash everything by hand.

I ran a cloth over the counter, then gave the sink a good scrub, getting everything spotless. Colton helped wash up, then went out and chopped some wood for the fireplace.

Colton and I made a fabulous chicken penne together for dinner, talking endlessly about light things like books and music. It was obvious he was being very careful to keep me relaxed and cheerful.

I was a bit unsettled after hearing what went on with Ashley and Bethan, though. I had always enjoyed their company when we were thrown together at events for Dad's bank. It was a relief to know that they were all right.

After I washed my hands, I stared out the back window of the cabin to watch Colton chop wood. Such a massive, powerful frame, and utterly graceful as he swung the ax through the air, landing perfectly in the center of a log.

He was so capable at everything. And he always knew exactly what I needed.

I had never felt so cared for. The thought of going back to my old life without him was impossible.

Which meant I was going to have to show him how I felt.

Colton came back inside with an armload of wood, then built a small fire. He scrubbed his hands, then joined me on the couch.

"You seem very at home out here," I observed.

"Definitely. Fresh air. Peace and quiet." He stretched out as if he were yawning, wrapping an arm around me while I laughed at his cheesy move.

"And the most beautiful girl in the world curled up beside me," he said softly. "I have everything a man could possibly want."

Taking a slow breath, I knew it was time to speak up. "I never really thought about what I wanted," I said slowly. "But now that I've spent some time with such a good, caring man, I think I know what I need."

Colton leaned closer, brushing his lips across my forehead. "You've dreamed of settling down with a doctor or lawyer, then? Somebody who works long, expensive hours and can give you a giant house?"

Giggling, I shook my head, rubbing my forehead against his lips. "Not even close."

"Oh! You've dreamed of dating a pilot. Somebody who can show you the world. Yes?"

"No."

His lips brushed mine in a dreamy kiss. "Is there any hope at all that you would be seriously interested in a humble security guard?" Colton whispered. "I make a decent living, but the hours can be weird, and I can suddenly be gone for a week."

He kissed me again, murmuring, "Even if I got that promotion, there would still be times I'd have to do fieldwork."

Although I hated the thought of Colton putting himself in danger, I smiled. "I would never stop you from doing whatever you wanted to do. Sure, I might worry, but I'd also understand."

"Are you saying that you really want to be my girlfriend?" he asked. As I stared into those deep green eyes, his concern surprised me.

"Well, sure. I mean, you can't think that these feelings are temporary, can you?"

Colton shook his head. "My feelings for you are definitely real, Julia. And gigantic. But I also know that we've been thrown together in an intense situation. I want to make sure you're comfortable."

My heart fluttered. Even his urge to go slowly was based on his need to care for me.

"I'll be honest," I said, leaning back a bit to watch his expression. "I've always been nervous around guys. Dad was often a jerk to Mom, and I didn't want to choose anyone until I knew they were a truly good person."

"But you didn't choose me," he said softly. "I was assigned to you. I don't want you to be overwhelmed by the situation, and make a decision that might not be the best for you."

I shook my head, smiling. "No. What I'm saying is that for the first time, I'm listening to my gut and my inner voice." I poked him lightly on the forehead. "Like they teach in yoga class, and you will learn too when I take you to class someday."

His eyes shone. "What does your inner voice say about me?"

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