Page 83 of Guarded Deputy

“Good, good.” I shift on my feet, wondering how I can delay my stay. “I should stay and make sure you don’t have any kind of reaction.” I run a hand through my hair. I’m usually smoother than this.

Lizzy laughs and nods. “Want to order pizza and watch a movie?”

“I thought you’d never ask.” I breathe easily.

“Give me that, and I’ll wash it with my stuff.” She reaches for my clothes.

“You don’t have to.”

“I know, but I’m going to put my stuff in anyway.”

“Okay. I’ll order pizza then. Same as the other night?” I look over at her, grabbing my phone.

“Yeah, thanks.”

I smile at her, feeling very domestic, and I like it. I don’t usually want this, the homey feel of a relationship, and yet with Lizzy, I can’t get enough of her. I want to mark her and this place like a fucking animal. I’m pretty sure that’s not sexy, but my instinct takes over when I’m with her.

She meets me on the couch and takes a seat, careful not to injure her leg more than it is. We look at each other for a moment before I pull her to me and kiss the top of her head and hug her tightly. Lizzy leans against my chest and inhales deeply.

“You smell good, like fresh cotton.”

I laugh at her comment. “That’s my detergent.”

“I like it.” She glances up at me.

“I like you.”

“Thank you again for getting rid of the peeping Tom.”

“Stop thanking me.” I squeeze her.

“Other guys in the past have laughed at me and made me sound crazy. I know it is crazy, but I can’t help it. It’s something beyond my control.”

“I know how fears work, so don’t excuse yourself. Those guys are assholes.”

“Yeah.” She sighs, looking away as she blinks rapidly.

“Let’s watch a movie.” I tap her back and smile at her.

“Action or RomCom?”

“What’s your favorite movie?” I want to know everything about her.

“Sweet Home Alabama.”

“Then, let’s watch that one.”

“Really?” Her eyes light up.

“Really.” I nod, kissing the tip of her nose.

That unfamiliar feeling from earlier where I’d do anything to protect her has expanded into doing anything that would make her happy, at peace, and safe. Lizzy has wormed her way into my heart, breaking my guard and making me believe that maybe a relationship could have a happy ending.

Just because I’m a product of my father doesn’t mean I am him.

Chapter 24

Lizzy