Page 52 of Edward’s Bunny
The Surprise
Edward
Ishook my head and walked out of my office. I couldn’t help but shake this surreal feeling that washed over me. I’d just asked my son’s best friend and practically my nephew how to be with a man. But there was no turning back now. I needed to focus on what was ahead—my time with Brian.
I checked my watch. I had to pick up the pace. It was nearing the hour mark that I’d given Brian, and I didn’t want to be late. I headed toward the stairwell. It’d be faster than the elevator, even though I was on the top floor. I’d hate the stop-and-go with employees leaving for the day.
I panted as I hit the last floor. I needed to step up my cardio. Perhaps I’d start taking the stairs all the time, I thought. I opened the door to the lobby, and Katie was standing by the elevator, holding a small leather carry-on. She turned and smiled before heading toward me.
"Here's your bag, Sire," she said, handing it over with a smile. "Everything's set for your trip. The helicopter and jet are ready, and the Four Seasons is expecting you."
"Thank you, Katie," I replied, taking the bag from her. "I appreciate everything you do for me. You’re the best.”
Katie smiled wryly. “It’s why you pay me the big bucks.”
I laughed. “Indeed. Has Talon arrived?”
She gave a slight nod. “Yes, Sire. He’s out by the car.”
“Thanks again. I’ll see you in a few days.”
“Have fun,” she said with a wave before walking back toward the elevators.
I headed out the entrance and scanned the front. My eyes widened in surprise. Talon was there, but gone was the frat boy look he’d sported at the restitution ceremony. In its place was a well-dressed, professionally looking man. I growled internally. He’d better keep his flirtiness to himself, I thought. I straightened my spine and squared my shoulders before walking up to him.
"Your Majesty," he said, dipping his head respectfully as I approached.
"Talon," I acknowledged, keeping my voice level. "I understand you're to be our security during our trip to New York."
“Yes, Sire, Mr. Doy briefed me,” he replied.
“Did he?” I tilted my head. “Did he inform you who you’ll be protecting?” I asked.
“You and an associate.”
“That associate is Brian. Is that going to be a problem?”
Talon furrowed his brow and shook his head before replying. “No, Sire. I like Brian. He’s seemed very nice.”
“Yes, I noticed how you liked him,” I scoffed before deciding it was time to lay down the ground rules. "Before we leave, there's something you need to know. Brian is my mate. This makes him the most important person in the world to me, and I will protect him with my life. Understand?”
Talon's eyes widened, but he quickly regained his composure. "I understand, Your Majesty. I won’t cross any lines and protect both of you with all that I am.”
I nodded, satisfied with the sincerity of his response. "Good. Let’s get going. Did you need to get anything?”
“No, Sire. I have my bag,” he said, walking toward the car and opening the door. I nodded and slid into the car. Talon ran to the other side, quickly started the car, and we were off. Pulling away from the building, I instructed Talon to head to Satchel Towers, where Hayden’s apartment was located.
A ripple of excitement pulsed through me at the thought of seeing Brian. Over these weeks, I’d come to realize that I loved him, and I never wanted to be parted from him. I just wished I knew if he’d felt the same way.
“Will Brian, I mean Mr. Bondar, be meeting us downstairs, or will we be going up?” Talon asked, pulling me from my musings.
“We’ll be going up. I’ve arranged for a helicopter to transport us to the private hangar so we can catch our plane.” I glanced at my watch. “It should be arriving about ten minutes after we arrive.”
Talon nodded, and we continued to drive in silence. He glanced over nervously a few times like he wanted to say something but didn’t.
I couldn’t take it anymore and asked. “What is it?”
He looked at me and bit his lip before turning back toward the road. “Is Brian really your mate?” he asked quietly.