“Sunny is a trauma nurse here at Massachusetts General on a travel assignment,” Tyler says, taking a step forward with his hands still in his pockets. Dare I say there is a glimmer of pride that passes his eyes.
“Sounds,exotic,” Diane says, clinging to Mitchell’s arm. I notice that a lot about these women, they cling to their husbands like they are their life source.
“We very much appreciate the service you do to our community. I’m not sure if Sam or Tyler told you, but we are actually part contributors of Massachusetts General. Specifically the pediatric ward.”Oh, do I know.“I’m shocked you have the time to be at such an event as a working woman.” Mitchell takes a drink from a waiter, his words no doubt a jab at my place in society.
“I know it’s a big night for my family.” I motion to them. “So I wouldn’t miss it. Besides, if all these working people can do it, then I can too.” I meet Mitchell’s stare.
“Family,” He gives a humorous laugh. “So when does your contract end here?”
“End of February.”
“And then where will you go?”
“Wherever I feel like it. That’s the beauty of free will.”
“Indeed it is. Although everyone is always shackled by something.” Mitchell places his empty glass on a waiter’s trayand takes another one. His eyes scream,and I will find what shackles you.
“Sometimes people are their own shackles.” I bite back maybe a littletooharshly. All of a sudden, everyone finds interest in something else—the floor, the night sky, the surrounding mingling people, the bar.
“Let me refresh your drink for you, Mr. Caddell.” Anthony has the right idea about removing himself by taking off into the crowd. I’m feeling a little too petty for that.
“You’re a fiery one.” Mitchell smiles.
An arm wraps around my waist, moving me away from Mitchell. I look up to see Tyler standing between us. Mitchell’s face says he’s formulating a plan to discover more about me and Tyler’s reaction says he’s ready to be the roadblock to that plan.
“That’s our Sunny.” Tyler keeps his hand on my waist and the other in his pocket. “Mitchell, have you seen Mayor Hernandez yet? Last I saw him, he was inside. He’s very happy with the turnout tonight. We are up fifteen percent in votes already.”
I don’t need saving, Tyler.
Dropping his gaze to Tyler’s hand on my waist, a muscle flexes in Mitchell’s jaw. His eyes flick back to Tyler with a cold rage that has me shivering despite my proudness to stand tall.
“Shelby, darling!” Diane chimes as the barbie approaches the mess unraveling here. They give one another a hug and kiss like the French do, giggling over one another’s outfits and the event.
Tyler’s body stiffens and his grip on me becomes almost possessive. He’s unmoving from my side regardless of his bride to be approaching. I look down to hide my ever growing smile.
“How convenient,” Sam groans.
Macey downs the entirety of her wine in one swig and covers her laugh with a cough.
“Shelby, how lovely to see you.” Mitchell gives her a hugand kiss on her forehead.Wow, so he is human.“Where are your parents?”
“They’re inside saying hi to Mayor Hernandez.” She smiles. Scanning the group, her eyes land on Tyler’s hand around my waist. I smile because Iwanther to see it and know she’s no longer an option for him.
Tyler takes Shelby’s hand, pressing his lips to it as a way of greeting, but still keeps his free hand around my waist.Is this you making a statement, Tyler?If it is, I’ll gladly be the poster for it.
“Mr. and Mrs. Caddell.” Cole comes from the masses of people. He shakes both their hands and guides them towards the brewery. “Let me take you to Mayor Hernandez. He’s been looking forward to seeing you two all evening.”
Tensions are palpable. Eyes are staring.Handsare clutching.
“Tyler, have you seen Mayor Hernandez yet?” Mitchell shoots his son a look.
“It was the first introduction I made when I got here,” he assures.
“Tyler is truly so good at what he does! Born for it.” Shelby takes a sip of her drink and places a hand on Tyler’s shoulder. Though his blank stare remains, his body completely tenses.
What did she do to you?
He eyes her absently for a brief moment, then back to the parents who are now being escorted to the mayor by Cole.
