She giggled, and the sound of her lighthearted joy rippled through my body in a warm, soothing wave. “How did you know?”
“It’s my job to know.” I pressed a quick kiss against her forehead before easing back. I shifted so that she was tucked by my side, my arm bracing her as close to my protective bulk as possible. With my free hand, I plucked the laptop bag from her shoulder and slung it onto mine.
“You don’t have to carry that,” she protested, eyeing the decidedly feminine, gold floral pattern embossed on the white leather.
“Yes, I do. That’s my job, too.” I rubbed my hand up and down her arm, warming her through her thick layers of clothing. “Come on, princess. Let’s get you that hot latte.”
I would get Ashlyn safely into the café, and then Joseph could protect her while I checked up on her stalker. The prickle on the back of my neck told me that the fucker was still nearby, watching us.
I was dimly aware of her sing-song goodbye to Jayme, and I managed a polite nod before whisking her away. As I ushered her off-campus, I tapped out a text to Joseph.
Date with our girl. Silver Spoon Café. Now.
As far as my best friend was concerned, he was about to join us on a spontaneous date; no need to upset him with the reality of the situation. He’d been so happy since we moved to Boston and left our violent lifestyle behind. I could handle this stalker on my own. I just needed Joseph to watch over our girl while I took care of the threat.
I could protect both of them. I could do all the dark, evil things necessary to keep them safe. As long as my family was happy, I could endure anything for them.