“I don’t need a babysitter; it’s fine.” She says. I can tell, then, I’ve worded this all wrong.
“No, um, it’s just that—well, we’d feel better if youwere with one of us today. We couldn’t leave you alone before we knew someone was out there trying to hurt you, and now?—”
“Nothing’s changed.”
I met her eyes. As much as I can tell, she truly wanted to believe that. I’m not that kind of alpha. “Noa, that’s not true.”
She huffs, focusing on the syrup dripping from her fork. “I guess not.”
“How long do you work today?” Thorne asks as he washes the few dishes he used to make this impromptu breakfast.
“Half a day, I can do my appointments and then close up shop.”
“Then you’re free to spend the day with me?” Havoc asks in a low, almost shy voice, and I nearly blush from the anticipation of her answer, even though we all know what it is.
“Yes!” Her eyes light again, this time aimed at Havoc, whose white chocolate scent blooms in approval.
“Alright, then it’s settled,” I say, trying to calm my racing heart. Why does the thought of leaving her rip through my chest like this?
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
NOA
My gut turns as I watch Havoc stand by the door of my shop. I offered him a chair, but he refused, saying he needed to stay focused. Today, he dressed a bit differently. Havoc is in cargo pants and a black shirt, and I’m finding it’s just as sexy. I fear anything would look good on this 6’4 mountain of alpha.
Havoc could have at least sat back here next to me while observing as “bodyguard”. My customers wouldn’t mind. They’ve even smiled, some winked, when I introduced him.
Today had a lot of repeat customers, people I knew and was more comfortable with, and after last night, I needed this.
I was closing up shop early today. I needed to work on the Scented Scorpion merchandise I had licensedand get them on display as soon as possible, but since I’m going with Havoc to the Pack House, I wasn’t sure how I could work on it without my equipment.
I wonder if I could bring my sewing machine to Havoc’s shed. I’m sure it has electricity, right?
I bite my lip as I ponder asking him the question. I feel my cheeks getting hot, and there really is no reason. No isn’t a bad word.
Though I can’t help the embarrassment that washes over me at the word.
Gosh, Noa, he hasn’t even said no yet.
I turn on my heel. Heading back to my office to pack my things, unsure where I’ll be working. Maybe I could go into the house. I’m sure they won’t mind.
I see the mess of threads, bobbins, and fabrics everywhere in my workshop as I walk in to grab my sewing supplies, and I’m instantly filled with worry. But what if they do?
What if they mind?
I sigh as I zip up my bag and grab my purse, making my way to the front, where Havoc is. He stands, arms crossed, by the front door, and gosh, he looks so good. He looks so good, that it makes me even more nervous to ask, and I almost back down. Maybe I can pull an all-nighter at some point. Perhaps I could just stay here while I figure out my living situation? That way, I can still work comfortably?
“I love when you stare, but what’s wrong,sweetheart?” His gruff voice snaps me out of my daze as I meet his eyes again. I flush, giving him an embarrassed smile as he reaches for my bag.
“Wait, um,” I say, trying to get the words out before I chicken out. He waits, my bag still in his hand. I take a deep breath before asking my question. “Could I bring my sewing machine?”
I’m down to one now. I had two at home—one from Grandma and an industrial one —but both smashed to pieces. Now, if I want to get any kind of work done, I need to travel with this sewing machine from work until I can purchase a new one.
Nothing could replace Grandma’s. It was a vintage piece even in her time. I could try to have it repaired, but… I don’t know. With all the pieces I collected, I’m not sure it can be put back together.
“Where is it?”
“In the back.”
