Page 35 of Spring Break with a Bodyguard
“Oh, I’m furious about several aspects of this situation,” Preston clarifies, his tone remarkably calm. “The unauthorized investigation. The reckless risks. The fact that my head of executive security was participating in amateur detective work rather than following protocols.” His gaze shifts to me, and I accept the rebuke with a slight nod.
“But,” he continues, turning back to Teddy, “I’m also impressed. You committed to learning the business from the ground up, and you did it. No shortcuts, no special treatment, even when it got difficult. That shows character.”
Teddy’s expression transforms like sunrise breaking over the ocean—stunned disbelief giving way to dawning joy. Her hand twitches toward mine under the table before she catches herself.
“So... my three-week experiment?” she asks cautiously.
“Is clearly unnecessary to continue in its current form,” Preston says decisively. “The objective has been achieved, albeit unorthodox. You’ve demonstrated initiative, perseverance, and unexpected leadership qualities.”
He stands, straightening his already immaculate suit. “The assistant manager position we discussed initially is yours if you want it. Though after today’s media coverage, you might consider a role that leverages your newfound popularity. Karina has already suggested a special project focusing on staff development and operational improvements.”
Teddy’s lips part in surprise. “I... need to think about it.”
“Of course,” Preston agrees. “Take the weekend. We’ll meet Monday morning to discuss next steps.” He checks his watch. “Now, I need to coordinate with Karina on the official statement. Javi, a word before I go?”
“Your assignment protecting Teddy technically ended the moment her cover was blown,” he says after we walk to the far corner of the room. “However, given the media situation, I’d like you to continue as her security detail through the weekend, until this dies down.”
My pulse quickens, though my face remains impassive. “Understood, sir.”
Preston studies me, his gaze uncomfortably perceptive. “Your reports during this assignment have been uncharacteristically brief, Javi.”
I say nothing, waiting for the direct question I can sense coming.
“Come on, Javi,” Preston says, dropping the formal CEO tone for the more casual one we use when sharing a scotch after hours in his office. “We’ve known each other too long for this. Is there anything I should know about your relationship with my cousin?”
The correct answer burns in my throat.Yes, Preston, I kissed Teddy. Yes, there are feelings involved that complicate everything. Yes, I’ve crossed every professional line I swore I never would.
Instead, I meet his gaze with the candor our friendship has earned. “Teddy conducted herself admirably under difficult circumstances. Any details beyond that should come from her.”
Preston holds my gaze for a beat longer than necessary, then sighs. “You know, when Brogan suggested assigning you to keep an eye on her, I thought it would be the simplest arrangement possible. You’re the most professional person I know.” The corner of his mouth twitches. “Should have known Teddy would find a way to complicate things.”
Preston’s expression suggests he hears what I’m not saying, but he simply nods. “Fair enough. See her home safely and keep the media at bay. We’ll reassess on Monday.”
With that, he exits, leaving Teddy and me alone in the conference room. The silence stretches between us, charged with everything we haven’t said about what happens next.
“So,” Teddy says, twisting her fingers in her lap, “I guess I’m not fired.”
A smile breaks through my professional mask. “Apparently not. In fact, it sounds like you’ve earned a promotion.”
She laughs, the sound washing over me like warm waves. “Only in my family would uncovering a theft ring qualify as a successful job interview.”
“The Hollisters have unique performance metrics,” I agree, allowing myself to relax.
Teddy’s expression grows more serious, her eyes meeting mine directly. “And what about you? Back to executive protection for Preston?”
The question touches on everything we’ve been avoiding—the temporary nature of our connection, the professional boundaries we’ve crossed, the uncertain future beyond The Sandpiper.
“Not right away,” I answer. “Preston has extended my assignment as your security detail through the weekend, until the media interest subsides.”
“My security detail,” Teddy repeats, a shadow crossing her features. “Back to strictly professional, then?”
The question hangs between us, loaded with implications. In eight chaotic days, we’ve moved from reluctant bodyguard and stubborn socialite to something that defies the neat categorization of my security training.
“That depends,” I say, reaching across the small space between us to brush a strand of hair from her face. “Is that what you want?”
Teddy’s breath catches at the contact. “No,” she says simply, her eyes never leaving mine. “It’s not what I want at all.”
The honesty in her voice breaks through my last hesitation. “Then we have the weekend to figure out what comes next. Away from The Sandpiper, away from housekeeping carts and theft investigations.”
