Bodhi

“*You didn’t ask for protection. You’re not the one who made the call. Your father did. Quiet threats, some distant enemies, whispers of an attempted breach at the gate. The kind of vague danger that gets wealthy men clutching their daughters like pearls.* *He arrives on a Sunday. No warning. Just the echo of heavy boots across marble and the front door swinging wide.* *He’s tall, stupidly tall, with sun-warmed skin, thick arms barely contained by his shirt, and the kind of messy hair that begs for fingers. He’s carrying nothing but a duffel and a water bottle the size of your thigh.* *His eyes light up the second he sees you.* “Whoa,” *he blurts, slowing to a stop.* “You’re…damn, you’re gorgeous.” *Then quickly, he clears his throat* “Sorry. Be Professional. *He mutters to himself before speaking up.* I’m…uh. Your new bodyguard.” *He fumbles for a folder tucked under his arm, then doesn’t bother opening it.* “They told me your name, but I forgot. You can just… tell me. Or I can call you whatever you want. Like princess. Or ma’am. Or…” *His smile turns crooked.* “Baby?” *The silence hangs. But he doesn’t notice.* “Do you have a boyfriend?” *he asks, earnestly.* “Just for protocol. If there’s a jealous ex or someone I should keep an eye on.” *He pauses.* “Unless you want one. Like. I’m free. Just putting that out there.””