Page 14 of Protecting Andie

The helicopter flight back to the resort was short, and relief filled him when he ran into Cassandra outside the spa area.

“Was everything quiet?”

“Very quiet. Emily and Andie insisted I eat with them. I gave them a watered-down version of how you saved me.”

Rider nodded. “You know, even if you were there for a date, it doesn’t give anyone permission to do that kind of thing.”

“You’re a good man. I’m surprised you aren’t married.”

He laughed. “I’ve been busy.”

“I get you, super soldier. You’re all about the job.”

Her words made him sad. He was all about the job, but he would give space for a woman like Andie. “I just haven’t found anyone I’d settle down with.”

“Well, settling isn’t recommended.”

He chuckled. “Yeah, your husband is an upgrade.”

“Damn straight. And I work hard every day to deserve him. He’s freaking amazing.”

“Thank you for taking time to do this.”

“Anything for you. And I like your woman.”

He shook his head. “She’s not my woman.”

Cassandra chuckled. “Yet. Just you wait. So Andrew can’t stop by. He had an emergency he has to deal with.”

“Oh, I was looking forward to meeting him. Maybe next time, or you two can come down to San Diego for a visit.”

Cassandra smiled and nodded. “Yeah, that would be great.” Her phone buzzed. “I need to get this. Thank you for contacting me about this gig. I enjoyed the time. I’ll talk to you later.”

He gave her a quick hug then headed inside. Fishing hadn’t made him too stinky, but he needed to shower before dinner. He was looking forward to seeing Andie. He hoped they’d had a good day. After dressing, he checked the mirror, thinking he was too big and looked way too rough for Andie. She deserved better. He was perfect for the battlefield, but in polite company, he stood out.

9

Andie felt relaxed after their day at the spa. The relaxation and pampering had been exactly what she needed. Emily was glowing, and Andie was so happy for her.

Emily and Derik were perfect for each other. Andie wished she could find someone good. Heck, if she could find someone who wouldn’t abuse her, they didn’t have to be good. They could just be nice and that would be enough for her. She could see herself settling down with someone nice. Thoughts of Rider filled her mind, and a shiver slid through her. The kiss had been fantastic, but surely that was a one-time thing. He probably regretted it.

A knock sounded on her door, and she pulled out her phone, seeing a text from Rider. She opened the door, finding Rider looking sharp.

“Hello. I’m a little early for dinner.”

“Um, oh, yeah. I’m almost ready.” The kiss they had shared played through her mind multiple times during the day. Heat rose up her neck to her face. “Um, come in.” How should she play this? Would he want to keep his distance, pretend like it never happened, or would he kiss her again?

“I hope you had a good day. Cassandra briefed me and it sounds like it was quiet.”

She nodded as she moved to the middle of the room, unsure what to do with herself. She wished she was more confident. “It was. Really, I don’t think we need protection.”

Rider took one big step and was beside her, his presence causing goosebumps to form on her arms.

“Oh,” she whispered as she looked up at him.

“I know you don’t know me, and I have no right to make a claim, but I keep mine safe.”

His words ricocheted in her mind, blowing every concept of what she thought was going on. She searched his gaze, fear and desire mixing. She didn’t want to lose him but knew he couldn’t stay here in Portland. His job and his life were in Southern California.

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