Page 82 of Beautifully Broken Control

“Hardy har har.”

Doug appeared in the hallway, looking a bit startled. “What are you guys doing here in the middle of the day?”

I set my bag on the counter. “There was a gas leak at the Kettle. It’s going to be closed for a few days, so Jensen thought we might want the stock she can’t use.”

Doug nodded. “That was generous of her. Please, thank her for me.”

“I will.”

His gaze jumped from me to Cain and back again. “Actually, do you have a minute? I wanted to discuss something with you.”

I paused in unpacking the bag. “Sure. What’s up?”

“Can we chat in my office?”

“Of course.” I looked back at Cain. “Can you unload this stuff? I’ll be right back.”

A muscle in his cheek fluttered. “Sure.” His eyes narrowed on Doug.

Oh, boy.

I sighed and started for the back office. As soon as we made it inside, I sank into one of the two chairs opposite Doug’s desk. He took the other.

“How are you feeling, Kennedy?”

“So much better. Thanks for putting up with me missing so many volunteer days.”

Doug waved a hand in front of his face. “You don’t need to thank me, I’m just glad you’re okay.” He began to fidget in his seat. “That’s actually what I wanted to talk to you about.” My brows pulled together in confusion. “I’m worried about you, Kennedy.”

I gave him a gentle smile. “I promise, I’m fine. You can call my doctor if that’ll make you feel better.”

Doug’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed. “It’s not that. I’m concerned about your involvement with Cain. He doesn’t seem like the most stable fellow.”

My mouth opened, then closed, then opened again, but I struggled to find the right words. “Doug…I really appreciate you wanting to look out for me, but Cain is a good man. He’s just a little overprotective. That’s all.”

Doug snorted. “A little? He practically threatens anyone who goes near you.”

“I think that’s a bit of an exaggeration.” My temper pricked. I wasn’t a child. I could make decisions regarding my own life.

He reached out and grabbed my hand. “Kennedy, please. Just think about his behavior. It’s not normal.”

I pulled out of Doug’s grasp. “Our relationship is my business. We’re friends, Doug, but I didn’t ask for your opinion. I’m a grown woman who can make choices for myself.”

Doug’s jaw tightened. “Of course. Just know I’m always here if you need to talk.”

I rose from my chair. “Thank you. I need to get going, but I’ll see you later this week.”

I strode down the hallway, the weight of a day that wasn’t even half over seeming to feel heavier with each step.

Cain straightened from where he leaned against the counter. “What’s wrong?”

I shook my head as Cain pulled me into his arms. I let my forehead fall against his chest. “It’s just been a no good, very bad day. Can we go home and forget about the real world for a little while?”

“Of course, we can.” He pressed his lips to the top of my head. “I’ll even give you a foot rub.”

I lifted my face up to meet his gaze. “Sweet-talker.”

“Always.”

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