Page 199 of Micah

I’m not lying to her.

“I do work on weekends. But I can work remotely.”

“For the ranch?”

“For my other clients and yes, for the ranch’s network. So I'm staying.”

She sighs toward the ceiling.

“You are impossible.”

“I've accepted that.”

She points a finger at me.

“I don't need a bodyguard.”

“I know.”

“I've handled this place by myself for years.”

“I know.”

“I'm capable.”

“I know.”

Her eyebrows lift.

“Then why are we having this conversation?”

I lean forward, resting my forearms on my knees.

“Because last night changed things.”

Her expression softens.

“Those men got too close, Princess. If I was even a second later...”

I don't finish the sentence.

I don't have to.

She remembers.

I remember.

Neither of us ever will forget.

“Please, let me stay. I won't take no for an answer, Sloane.”

My voice stays even.

Quiet.

Certain.

“I can’t just leave. Not today.”