Page 9 of The Forbidden Bodyguard

“That’s not how it works, babe.” I shake my head. “I know you’re pragmatic, not nearly as emotional as me, but you should be in love before you take a serious step like this.”

Charlotte nods slowly, thinking as she tugs her bottom lip between her teeth. “No. You’re right. Love does exist; we’re just not the type to say it a lot.”

“David told you he loved you?” I ask, as only her best friend could.

Her parents are both superior court judges, and from what I’ve witnessed when in their home, I doubt they have ever told her how much they love her. They are kind, but not the cuddly type.

For the record, I’d like to state that Charlotte’s parents and mine have never met. They are from different worlds and different sides of the law. Her folks were not happy when we became friends. Until they met me.

Or rather, until they got to know me a little bit.

“He doesn’t have to say it, I know, Stella. Honestly,” Charlotte insists.

My mouth twists as I try to believe her.

“Okay. Then do something for me. Before you move in, tell him how you feel and watch his response. Listen to what he says back,” I challenge her. “I know a relationship is more than roses and platitudes, but it can’t only be about convenience.”

She glances down into her drink, fussing with it. “We’re busy; it makes sense. It doesn’t need to be a big deal.”

“He’s a stockbroker. Not a doctor. Can he not make time for you?” She glances away, so I reach out and touch her hand. “Charlotte, do you love him?”

“I don’t know if I need love.”

I blink; unsure I believe her. “Of course you do, babe. We all do.”

Her eyes meet mine, and I realize my error.

Last week I told her I was getting married.

She’s never met him.

Neither have I.

I can’t tell her or anyone why I’m doing this, but I wanted my best friend to know. To understand why she can’t be there and be my bridesmaid. That it’s nothing to do with our friendship.

It’s simply not safe.

Words I did not add.

She thinks it’s some family connection arranged by Dad that I’m against but obligated to fulfill. Which I am...but not in the way Charlotte assumes.

She was shocked.

“Why have you never told me this?”

“I was embarrassed. I hoped it would never happen.”

“That’s a bit bold coming from you, given you’re marrying a stranger,” she challenges.

Touche.

The trouble is that I don’t have a choice.

I never had a choice.

CHAPTER THREE

DECLAN