“Huh, that’s an easy way to put it rather than Keller listing off the things I’m forbidden to say.” I smirk. “I upped my swearing during the training just to press his buttons.”
Lara smiles. “You sure are giving him a run for his money. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him as concerned as he was when I nailed you in the head with the broom.”
I nudge her shoulder with mine. “I’m glad you can joke about it now.”
“Me too. But he was... he was distraught. I offered to watch over you that night, but he insisted it be him.” She pauses and says, “He’s very protective of you.”
You matter most.
I still think about what Keller said. I matter most.
I’d like to believe that there’s something there, something between us. I saw a glint of arousal in his eyes when I told him about my piercings. And when I unleashed my sexual history, there was no mistaking the way he shifted in his chair or how he clenched his jaw tighter. But I also know if Keller actually felt something for me, he’d never act on it. I haven’t known him long, but his loyalty and pride toward his country are too strong. He would never mess anything up that would put Torskethorpe in jeopardy.
“He’s protective of his country. I’m part of that,” I say.
Lara brings her legs to her chest and says, “I don’t know, there’s something different about him when you’re around. I’m not sure what it is, but it’s there. Who knows, maybe you’re right, maybe he’s being extra cautious, given the circumstances we’re in. But he does seem to stick close to you.”
He does, but I don’t think it’s because he finds me attractive or anything like that. I truly believe it’s because he’s doing a job.
“Well, I’m glad we’re able to get some girl time. I don’t have anyone to really talk to about all of this. I can’t explain this to my friend back in Miami, Timmy Tuna. I don’t think I could explain this to anyone. But you get it because you’re living it with me.”
“I’m here, whenever you need to talk, and not just as your bodyguard, but as your friend.”
“That means a lot to me, Lara.” I wrap my arm around her and give her a hug as she leans against me. “I can’t imagine getting close to the one you’re protecting is a smart choice, though.”
“We run things differently here in Torskethorpe.” She winks.
“I’m starting to realize that.” I stare up at the bright sky. “I can’t believe it’s nine at night and it’s still light out. Crazy.”
“You’ll get used to it, but we should probably start heading back. Keller will start to worry.”
“Yeah, you’re probably right. Plus, I have to finish my Netflix binge.”
We both stand from the rock and head back to the castle together.
“What are you watching?” she asks.
“BingingBridgerton, of course. I have to educate myself. I already watchedThe Crown, so I have that aspect of the royal life covered, butBridgerton, that’s a whole other lifestyle.”
“You realize that’s not what our country is like, right?”
“Yes.” I secretly smirk. “But how would I be able to get through these training sessions without driving Keller nuts withBridgertonreferences?”
“Oh, Lilly, I truly think we’ll be great friends.”
“I think so too.”
* * *
“I’ve been thinking,”I say as Keller slows down next to me on our jog back to the castle. This morning workout thing is not my jam, just going to make that known.
There’s nothing appealing about dragging my half-dead carcass out of bed, slipping on workout clothes, and jogging about on grassy trails. The only thing that keeps me going, that pulls me from my slumber, is the knowledge that I’ll get to see Keller’s ass in a pair of running shorts jog in front of me. Or I get to watch his large, muscular pecs bounce up and down while he pedals backward, watching me attempt to catch up to him. The jiggle is nice. The jiggle pulls me forward.
“You’ve been thinking?” Keller asks. “Why does that feel like a bad thing?”
We pause outside the castle, where Keller picks up our boulder. Great, absagain.
I wave my hand at him as I try to catch my breath. “No, do your pushups first.” I lean my hand against the stone wall of the castle and take a deep breath.
