“Do you want to talk about it?”
“That’s not in your job description,” I joke lamely.
“No, it isn’t. But right now, you look like you need a friend.” His voice drops so low, I can barely hear it. “We can be friends, can’t we?”
I’m filled with a rush of excitement, like a kitten opening its eyes for the first time and seeing the big, expansive world around it. “We can,” I answer, trying to keep my voice even. “You know, friends offer hugs to one another too.”
“Is that what you need right now?”
“Yes.”
Closing the distance between us, Art shuffles Poseidon’s reins into his left hand, and awkwardly raises his right arm for a half hug. Knowing Athena and Sefton will be all right on their own for a moment, I drop their leads and hug Art tightly with both arms.
He stiffens momentarily, then relaxes, patting my shoulder with his right arm. His shirt is damp with perspiration and a layer of dirt, but I still smell the clean sandalwood scent of his cologne. His body is rock-solid. Closing my eyes for a moment, I take a deep breath. He feels so right in my arms. I never want to let go. I choose to savor the moment.
This will probably be the first and last time I’ll ever receive a hug from Art. Protection officers aren’t supposed to do this. If it weren’t for Eric, he would probably have never offered me a hug in the first place. If there is one good thing that came out of today, it’s this. After a few long moments have passed, I reluctantly force myself to release him. I don’t have to step away from him. But I must.
My body is buzzing. Hugging Art is like having been given a taste of the forbidden fruit. I suddenly want more. I can’t lie to myself any longer. Art’s started to grow on me, grumpy exterior and all. I know him well enough to know now that he’s not as tough as he likes to seem. I’ve started to develop a deadly crush on him.
“You’re quiet, Princess. Tell me what you’re thinking.” His voice is softer and more tender than I’ve ever heard it.
I’ll tell you what’s going on in my head. I’m thinking that I want another hug and that I should’ve gone on a date with you instead of Eric.However, as much as I might wish those things could come true, it’simpossible. The best I’ll ever be able to do is fantasize over what could have been.
“I’m sad,” I admit. “I thought he’d be different. I should’ve known the red flags from earlier would lead to something like his stupid behavior with Poseidon.” I shudder. “I’m lucky you were here to save the day.”
Poseidon’s breathing has evened out. Art strokes his neck as the massive horse brushes his head against his shoulder. “Don’t let your time with that man or his words get into your head. You have loads of personality. I should know, I’ve witnessed it firsthand, like on the day we went ’round your flat.”
That’snotthe reason I’m sad, but there’s no point in correcting him. I can’t tell him I’m melancholy because I wanted a longer hug and I’m starting to develop feelings for him. I stay silent, not trusting myself to speak for a moment.
“I state the facts as I see them.” He focuses on Poseidon. “You were extremely diplomatic with Mr. Walsh. Far more than he deserved. Having listened to his running commentary back there, he didn’t give you much of a chance to contribute to the conversation. He didn’t give you a proper chance to show him who you are. It’s his loss.”
I chance a glance at Art through my eyelashes. Since the restaurant, he’s become more relaxed. This soft man underneath the exterior is what’s drawn me in. I’ve caught glimpses of it over the past few weeks, but it’s the longest he’s let it show.
“You know, Princess, this is just my opinion, but it doesn’t seem like you had much in common with him to begin with. So in that regard, the problem was him,notyou.”
He has a swoon-worthy deep baritone voice. I wish he used it more often. I could listen to him speak for hours on end. It’s calming and sends a rush of giddiness from head to toe. He’s trying so hard to make me feel comfortable and to ensure I’m not reading into Eric’s words.Compassion. That’s another quality you have in spades, Art. If you keep this up, I’m going to be in big trouble of losing my heart to you.
I wish the stupid non-relationship rule didn’t exist, I think bitterly. But I know why it’s there. I’ve heard the security staff discuss it before. A protection officer needs to be able to think clearlyand never risk having their actions clouded by personal judgments. Relationships cause messes. It’s easier to ban them than take any chances. In their line of work, it could be the difference between life and death.
Sefton nicks my shoulder, reminding me he’s standing right beside me and taking me out of my thoughts. “Thanks, Art.”
He clears his throat. “Come on, let’s start back. The horses need some water and electrolytes.”
We decide it’s best if Art rides on Poseidon and I ride Athena, leading Sefton. It’s an unusual way of riding, but I’ve done it before.
“Do you mind helping me up into the saddle?” I ask in a small voice.
“I would’ve thought a seasoned rider like you wouldn’t have any trouble mounting without a block.” He adopts a teasing tone as he adjusts the girth strap on Poseidon’s saddle.
“Normally, it wouldn’t be a problem, but the muscles in my lower back have tightened up,” I admit.
Art stops what he’s doing and narrows his eyes. There’s no need to tell him about my back injury. I’m sure it’s in my file. “How long has it been bothering you?”
“Since the chase with Eric.”
“Why didn’t you say anything?” He grimaces.
“Stubbornness? Pride?” I chuckle. “Actually, I didn’t start to notice it until after Eric left.”
