I reply sulkily, “Yes. ”
He smiles and says, “Good. CCTV goes straight to our security room which Ghost or Trick will monitor. Panic button makes our security room go bananas. As soon as it goes, we’ll be half a minute away. Tighter than Fort Knox, baby. ”
I must admit that sounds good. It makes me feel safer. But what am I meant to be afraid of?
I ask cautiously, “How much is all this going to cost, Nik? It looks awfully expensive. ”
Nik’s face turns serious as he replies, “You ain’t payin’ a dime, baby. Don’t even try to argue with me about it. You wouldn’t need any of this shit if it weren’t for me. I take care of what’s mine. ”
My heart squeezes.
That’s a bit sweet. But it must cost in the thousands of dollars. I don’t like that.
I try to argue, “But…”
Nik cuts me off with a deep kiss and immediately my traitorous body responds.
No fair you big meanie.
He pulls away slightly and says firmly, “No. ”
Well, I guess that’s the end of that argument.
It takes an hour to install the cameras, panic button, and new door sensor.
Hurrah!
Our doorbell actually goes Ding Dong again. I need to bake a cake to mark this wondrous occasion!
I kiss Nik, pat Ghost’s cheek, and thank the other men.
They all leave and I slump. I didn’t even do anything and I’m exhausted.
Hmmm.
I wonder what would happen if I press the panic button right now?
I look around. When I’m certain no one can see me I peek under the counter. My fingers twitch.
You know the saying curiosity killed the cat? I’m sure it was written about me.
I slide my fingertips from the top of the counter down and just as I come into contact with the button…
I jump two feet into the air when the phone rings. My hand slaps my chest, I breathe heavily and my legs shake.
Seems I’m as skittish as a cat too.
I answer and before I say hello I hear, “Don’t even think about it. ”
That’s Ghost!
I stand tall, frown, and put a hand on my hip. I lie, “I wasn’t going to press it!”
Ghost sounds amused as he says, “Uh huh,” then hangs up.
I make an exasperated sound and stare at the phone. Damn fool of a man hung up on me!
Looking up, I scowl right into the camera.