Page 26 of The Heart You've Borrowed

“Work and you are my life.” He shakes his head, laughing.

“You sound so boring.” Juliet laughs.

“What can I say? I’m a simple man.” Lio grins.

“I’m serious, you can’t just spend the rest of your life protecting me and being by my side at all times.”

“Charlie, it would be an honor to protect you for the rest of my life.” He winks at me.

“Whatever.” I roll my eyes, grabbing my wine glass.

“Well, that’s enough of that. Let’s eat.” Jackson smiles, setting down the plates of food.

***

That night we head back to my apartment. I feel safer knowing that there is a guard outside and cameras so I can keep an eye on things. As we pull up I see a man standing by the door and my heart starts to race.

“Don’t worry he’s the security guard.” Lio squeezes my hand as if he knows what I was thinking. I take a deep breath and close my eyes. It’s okay, it’s all okay. He can’t hurt me if he can’t get to me.

After we make our way into my apartment we both flop down onto the couch, sighing.

“I can’t believe it’s already Monday tomorrow.” He runs his hand down his face.

“Don’t remind me.” I groan.

“If you want you can always take a sick day, Jackson and I would totally understand.” He turns to look at me.

“No, I don’t need a day off. If I start hiding then that means he wins. I can still work and do my job.” I let out a breath.

“If you’re sure.” He squeezes my thigh.

“I am.” I nod.

“Do you mind if I shower?”

“Go for it.” I yawn.

“Why don’t you go get in bed, you look like you’re about to fall asleep sitting up.” He laughs.

“Yeah, I am exhausted.” I turn to face him.

“Go to sleep, I’ll be quiet. I’ll take the couch tonight.” He stands and heads into my bedroom where the bathroom is.

I groan before getting up and following. I wait until I hear the water running to change. I put on a baggy T-shirt and shorts before climbing into bed. I lay there, listening to the shower as I stare up at the ceiling. After a few minutes, the water cuts off and I turn my head to look at the bathroom door. A few moments later Lio comes out of the bathroom in just a pair of black sweatpants. My mouth dries at the sight.

God, how could I have been so stupid to not go for him back in high school? I always knew I had feelings for him but I never wanted to ruin what we had, I never wanted to give up the friendship we shared in case things didn’t work out. I hate myself for doing that. I should have just gotten over my fears and told him how I felt.

“Lio,” I whisper, he stops in the bedroom doorway, his back to me.

“Yeah?” He turns his head to look at me.

“Will you sleep in here tonight?” My voice cracks.

“As you wish.” He has a small smile, turning around and walking toward me. He silently gets into bed next to me and I turn to face him.

“Can I ask you something?” I pull the covers up around my shoulders.

“Of course.”

---