Page 38 of Keeping Knight

“It’s nighttime,” Rogue retorts. “It’s just safer that way.”

Micah looks at Rogue for a moment. A silent communication passes between them. Then he gives a quick lift of his chin. “True.”

“So that’s settled,” Sofia announces. “Ruby. How about if we head into the kitchen, first? I brought some snacks. And then we can hang out in the TV room?”

“Sure,” I reply. As Sofia takes off towards the kitchen, I flash Micah a quick smile before following her. “See you soon.”

“I’ll send Sampson in,” Micah calls after me.

As I leave the living room, Rogue says something unintelligible. A burst of laughter follows.

Rogue making fun of his friend for being overprotective, maybe? Because that’s one thing I’ve learned about Micah since the attack—how protective he is. I mean, I always knew he was protective in that chivalrous way, but now I’m discovering just how deep Micah’s protectiveness goes.

Granted, sometimes it verges on bossy. Like when he demanded I take a break during the meeting with his friends, or when he marches into my room to tell me I’ve worked long enough. But I know Micah well enough now to understand where it’s coming from. He’s not trying to be bossy. He’s trying to protect me.

Considering how amazing Micah is, I think I can handle a few moments of bossiness. And it’s not like I’m some shrinking violet who can’t stand up for herself. If I really didn’t want to take a break, I’d say so.

“Nico doesn’t like me going places at night,” Sofia explains once we reach the kitchen. “I don’t know how much Micah told you. But I was attacked earlier this year. Right on the street. So he gets—” Her lips snap shut. “Sorry. I shouldn’t be bringing this up right now.”

I set the gift bag on the marble island and turn to face her. “It’s fine. You can talk about it. Micah mentioned a little. No details or anything.”

“I’m doing much better,” she replies. “Although I’m still not crazy about walking alone at night. If Nico’s not with me, I’ll usually have a driver take me where I need to go. But it’s a process. That’s what my counselor says.”

“I’m so sorry that happened to you,” I reply.

Sofia’s eyes darken to a dark, forest green. “I’m sorry about what happened to you, Ruby. I guess…” She pauses. “I wanted to meet you because of Micah. Because he’s Nico’s best friend, and I’ve come to think of him as a brother. And I’ve never heard Micah talk about a woman before you. But that’s not the only reason.”

She slides onto one of the stools; her gaze still on mine. “I remember how it felt. After the attack. How scared and overwhelmed I felt. I know the circumstances aren’t the same, but I thought… Well, Micah is great. Really great. So is his condo. But you’re isolated, too. You can’t see your friends and family. I guess I just wanted to offer my support.”

Unexpectedly, my eyes sting. Everything Sofia said is true. I might not see my friends all the time, but before this, I had the option when I wanted it. I could meet Jordan for a drink after work. I could spend a lazy Sunday with Kylie, watching movies and gorging ourselves on junk food. If I wanted to get away from the city, I could fly out to Chicago to visit Grace. Now, it’s not safe to do any of it.

And that Sofia understands, really understands, is almost like a weight I didn’t realize I’ve been carrying has been lifted off me.

Swallowing thickly, I say, “Thank you. You’re right. I’m glad I’m here, and Micah has been amazing. But it’s still strange. A week ago, my life was chugging along like normal. And just like that, everything’s different.”

Sofia nods. “It’s scary. Stressful. No matter how great the guy is who’s protecting you.” After a beat, she smiles. “Micah’s a good one, isn’t he?”

My lips curve up of their own accord. “Yeah. He is.”

Reaching into the gift bag, Sofia pulls out a bottle of wine. Smile widening, she asks, “Want to tell me about it?”

I look at her friendly smile, and then at the bottle of wine she’s holding. Warmth expands in my chest. “Sure.”

As I head over to the cabinets to search for wine glasses and an opener, Sofia rummages through the bag. By the time I get back to the island, it’s half covered with snacks and goodies.

My eyes widen. “Sofia. This is too much!”

“It’s all necessary,” she replies. Gesturing at the assortment of items, she continues, “Cupcakes are very important. These are from my favorite bakery. Then we’ve got truffles—also very important—and aged cheddar to go with the wine. The tea is a special blend that’s supposed to help you sleep. The candles will make your room smell nice. Fuzzy socks… well, who doesn’t need those? And Micah mentioned you like paint-by-number, so I picked up a few. They looked like so much fun; I got one for myself.”

As I stare at all the gifts Sofia brought, she adds, “I know they won’t fix things. But maybe they’ll help a little.”

I set the wine glasses and the opener down. Then I give Sofia a hug. “They will. They do. Thank you.”

She picks up the wine opener and starts to uncork the bottle. “You’re welcome.” A mischievous glint lights her gaze. “Now. We have wine. Chocolate. Cupcakes. And the guys are on the other side of the condo. So you can tell me. What’s going on with you and Micah?”

I wait until she pours some wine into my glass, and I take a sip. “I like him. A lot.”

Sofia sits back down on the stool and grabs her wine. “And?” Her voice dips conspiratorially. “I won’t say anything to Micah. That’s not what this is about. I just want him to be happy. And he seems happy with you.”