Page 50 of The Player I Can’t Pick

Dad nods toward me. “This is a decent neighborhood, but I’ll still worry when I’m out of town.”

Guy doesn’t hesitate. “I’m changing the locks and adding a deadbolt today. And If Nicole needs anything, call me.”

Dad looks at him for a long second, and Guy continues. “And if we’re out of town on a series, she can call my family. They’ll come.”

My dad looks at Guy, not even trying to hide the surprise on his face. “Oh. It’s like that, is it?”

Guy looks directly at him. “Yeah. It’s like that.”

My heart stops. Dad studies him for another second before nodding. “All right.”

Guy shifts his stance. “That okay with you?”

Dad lets out a laugh. “I already told you. She’s grown. I don’t get a vote.” His expression turns more serious. “But I know my daughter. She doesn’t trust easily.”

Guy glances toward the kitchen, and I quickly look down at the plate in my hands. “I know.”

My dad clears his throat. “Then don’t give her a reason not to trust you.”

“I won’t.” The certainty in Guy’s voice makes my chest ache.

Dad slaps him on the shoulder before walking toward me. “I’m heading out, sweetheart.”

I hug him. “Thanks for everything.”

“You’re welcome. Call me if you need anything.” He smiles knowingly before kissing my forehead and walking out.

Then it’s just me and Guy standing in the middle of my apartment.

I cross my arms. “You told my dad to call you if I need anything?”

His eyebrows lift. “You were listening?”

“You weren’t exactly whispering.”

He walks toward me. “I meant it.”

“I have a phone. I can call you myself.”

“Good. Do that.”

I roll my eyes, but he keeps coming until he’s standing directly in front of me. “And if you don’t call me, your dad can.”

“You two are going to gang up on me now?”

“If necessary.”

I try not to smile, but I fail.

Guy cups my cheek. “There it is.”

“What?”

“My favorite smile.”

My heart squeezes. This is exactly what I’m afraid of. I can handle the possessiveness, the way he wants to protect me. Heck, I can handle the earth-shattering sex. It’s this part that scares me. Guy fits into my life like he already belongs here. The more he takes care of me, the harder it’s going to be when this ends.

CHAPTER 19