Page 80 of The Hitman and the Psychic

“Nice to meet you, too, Nate,” Mom said, taking his hand.

He smiled. After shaking her hand, he shook my dad’s hand, and Felicity introduced her husband, Ryan, then continued to pull him around the room, introducing him to the rest of our family. I watched him closely to see what else he was going to do, or if he’d start to crack under the pressure of meeting so many people, but it didn’t seem to faze him.

My mom came to my side, glancing between me and Stone. She spoke softly, but it was still loud enough that Stone could hear her. “So how long have you two known each other? You didn’t tell me you were dating.”

I opened my mouth to tell her we weren’t dating, when she knocked her shoulder against mine. “Does he know you’re still married?” She raised a brow at me.

My stomach twisted. “Mom! Of course he knows. And we’renotdating. I’m—Stone’s bodyguard.” There, I’d done it. No more misconceptions.

Stone laughed. “Oh, she guards my body, all right.”

I just stared at him, embarrassment flooding through me in waves. He said that, in front of mymother.

“We’ve only started dating. We met through her work. In fact, I’m helping her with an investigation.”

“Oh.” Mom raised her eyebrows, giving him the once-over, taking in his total hotness and handsome features. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity and a little awe. “That’s wonderful.” She leaned in to me, barely lowering her voice. “I’ll bet he’s a good kisser.”

“Mom! Jeez.”

“What?” She straightened, smiling at Stone. “You need some happiness in your life. I’m glad you found someone, especially after all you’ve been through. And don’t get me started about Brandon. That man can rot in hell, for all I care.” She leaned in again. “So, was it good?”

A blush stained my cheeks. “Mom! He’s standing right there.”

Her eyes narrowed, and a sly smile spread over her lips, but she shrugged like I was an idiot and muttered, “Well… if you haven’t kissed him, then something’s wrong with you.”

“Okay, everybody,” Felicity said, saving me from further embarrassment. “Let’s get this party started.”

Felicity explained where the food was, and how to proceed. While everyone hurried outside to the deck, and the grilled hamburgers and hot-dogs, I darted a glance at Stone.

He caught me looking and grinned. “I like your mom.”

I rolled my eyes. “I guess you heard all that?”

He snorted. “Of course. And she’s right.” Grinning, he leaned close to me. “But luckily, I know there’s nothing wrong with you.”

“Well,that’sa relief.” I shook my head. “You want a hamburger?”

“Sure. And I want some of that chip dip you made. Is it a special recipe?”

“Yes… it’s actually a family favorite. My Grandma used to make it.”

He took my hand again, his touch sending little butterflies through my stomach, and I didn’t even fight him as we followed everyone outside like we were a real couple. Warmth spread over me, filling a big hole in my heart. But was this all an act? Just a fun way to tease me? Or was that sparkle in his eyes just for me?

Soon our plates were full of food. I was hoping to sit somewhere safe, preferably with the kids at their table, but my sister motioned for us to take the spots beside her, and we sat down to eat.

We’d only taken a couple of bites before the questions started.

“So, Nate,” my father began. “What do you do for a living?”

I’d never known a boisterous group of people could get so quiet. All of the adults glanced toward Stone, waiting with bated breath.

“I’m the security specialist for a large corporation.”

“Oh. You mean like cybersecurity?”

Stone smiled. “I’ve got a tech specialist for that. My main concern is the security of the building and grounds, as well as the personnel.”

“Wow. Must be a high-class corporation.”

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