Chapter 15: Her Heart's Guard.

 "I'm falling for you Lissa. I find you very attractive. You turn me on in the strongest way. I don't think I have been this forward with any other woman I'm just getting to know ..." 

Gently, he caressed her, telling her she was beautiful, that he wanted her; he needed her. Lissa moaned and opened her arms to him. 

He lay on top of her. His body weight was intoxicating. His smell, the feel of his warm, smooth skin made her weak. Lissa arched her body up to him. 

It was strange, but she couldn't see her lover's face. But his touch felt familiar, his voice was velvety smooth as he told her she was beautiful and he loved her. 

She lifted her head trying to catch a glimpse of his face, but it was a blur. What was clear was his hands caressing her body: Touching her breasts, her thighs, resting carefully on her belly. His chest was large, but she vaguely noted that it didn't look like Shane's. 

She looked at the hands: they were slender, neat and capable looking. The voice was soft and sensual, but reassuring. She felt his hands lovingly caress her buttocks. Lissa moaned.

 He was asking her something. She listened. "Can I make love to you?" His tender voice was filled with passion. She closed her eyes, biting her lips. "Yes please, make love to me," she whispered.

She felt his lips on her skin, kissing her, inching lower until they were at the apex of her upper thighs. She felt soft, moist lips kiss her mound. Lissa was breathless, moaning softly, her body slightly shaking. When she felt gentle hands slip between her thighs, brushing on her delicate folds, her body shuddered. Her loins felt tingly. 

***

Lissa woke up feeling disoriented. A low groan escaped her lips. She longed to be touched like that. Was she dreaming? It seemed so real? Except, she couldn't see her lover's face. Instinctively, she knew it wasn't Shane. She sat up and looked around the room. It was unfamiliar. She tried to remember. 

Ryan! 

Ryan saved her yesterday. He brushed his skin on her face and ignited a sensual fire inside her. Was it him she was dreaming about? She didn't know what his chest looked like. Was her mind subconsciously creating an image of it for her? And those hands! She thought about Ryan's hands, his fingers were long and slender, but she wasn't sure. 

She sighed. Ryan saved her and brought her to this hotel so she could stay here with her family. She realized that she was extra moist between her thighs. She wondered what he would feel like inside her. She wouldn't mind seeing him today. 

She lay back and closed her eyes. Would be it so bad to imagine him with her, doing all the things she dreamt of and more? Yes, her conscience told her, you're with someone else. Lissa hissed her teeth. Why did things have to be so complicated?

***

Ryan lay back in bed and thought of her. He wanted to see her. Just thinking about her was making him hard. He took a deep breath. These feelings were dangerous but he still wanted to see her. He reached for his phone on his night stand. He dialed her number. She answered after two rings. 

"Hello," she answered with that sexy, sultry timbre that stirred his loins.

"Good morning Lissa. How are you?" he said.

"Good morning, my hero," she said with a sexy sigh. "Thank you for yesterday." Ryan heard her pause, then said, "I have a confession to make."

"You do?" His voice dipped to a sensual, husky tone. "Okay, tell me," he responded.

"I-I find you very attractive. I think you're quite handsome," she released her breath slowly as she said the last part.

Ryan smiled. "Really?" he asked. He deepened his tone. "Thank you. I find you very very attractive too."

Lissa bit her bottom lip. "Your voice sounds really sexy right now," she told him. 

He chuckled softly. "So do you," he told her. "I wanna see you." 

Lissa took a deep breath, "God forgive me, but I'm thinking thoughts I should not," she said. 

"You wanna talk about it?" he asked. His voice caressed her senses. 

"I don't know if I should," she answered breathlessly.

He chuckled, then said, "You can if you want to, no pressure."

Lissa sighed. She closed her eyes. She wanted to but ... 

"You're really strong ... I mean you picked me up like I weighed nothing. Like I was a piece of paper. I kind of like that," she told him shyly.

"You aren't heavy, not to me," he replied, his voice soft. "Plus, I don't mind holding you. Matter of fact, I like holding you."

"I ... The thing is, you know I have someone else," Lissa said.

"I know," Ryan answered. "I don't want to violate what you and Sarge have, but I'm drawn to you in a strong way."

"I'm pregnant with his babies," she said with a sigh. "I love him."

"I know," Ryan answered. "To be honest, I've been attracted to you for a long time, but I figured you would never date a cop, so I pushed those thoughts aside. When you helped me through my rough patch I figured you would never see me in a romantic way. I suppressed it." He sighed. "Kudos to Sarge for seeing what he wanted and going after it."

"You've always liked me?" Lissa asked surprised. She didn't know this!

"Mhm," he said. "Sarge is blessed to have you." His voice was husky and sensual. Lissa bit her bottom lip as she listened to him. 

"I'm sorry," Lissa replied. She wasn't sure what to say.

He cleared his throat, then said, "Lissa, I know I will never have you, but if it's okay, I want to see you today." His voice was sending shivers down her spine.

"I want to take you to lunch. Afterwards, I promise to keep it strictly platonic," he told her.  "If you want me to, I can lift you in my arms today when we're together."

She was curious about him. "Just lunch?" she asked. She chuckled at the thought of being lifted in his arms. "Maybe one more time. I need a good 'liff up'," she said giggling.

"Just lunch," he replied. "As for the 'liff up' that can definitely happen," he teased, laughing a little.

"Okay, what time?" she asked smiling.

"Come for you at 12:00 noon?" he asked. She noted that his voice was soft but not as husky as before.

"Okay," she answered.

"Okay, see you then," he said then hung up.

Ryan sat up in bed. He was glad she admitted her attraction for him. He was happy. He could feel the natural chemistry between them. He was glad he was right. 

He never wanted something or someone as much as he wanted her. He however wanted to respect her wishes. Today, he would spend time with her, then tomorrow he would tell her dad how he really felt about her, and explain why he had to decline the position. 

His friend Jordan however, was a better candidate. He was ex US military, back home for good after two tours in Afghanistan, and needed something fulfilling to do. He did very well yesterday. He would recommend him instead. If he stayed around Lissa any longer he would fall in love with her and that would be very awkward for both him and her. 

His lips yearned to kiss and taste her soft, beautiful skin. His hands were itching to caress and explore her every voluptuous curve. His body craved to feel her. He wanted to know her intimately. 

Those wide hips and round butt! 

He imagined himself making love to her from behind and feeling all that softness pushed back on him. He would ensure he pleasured her the best way he knew how, and beyond that. Whatever she needed him to do to satisfy her, he was willing to do. He grunted and bit his bottom lip.  Lissa, if you only knew! he thought.

 He briefly closed his eyes. She belonged to someone else. It didn't make sense. Opening his eyes, he stared at the floor. He was looking forward to lifting her in his arms. He let out a sharp breath then bit his bottom lip.

If she were mine I would protect her. I wouldn't leave her side. I would play with her; cook with her; sing her a love song and play my guitar for her. I would keep her safe in the days, and in the nights I would caress her and satisfy her every desire. He sighed. He shook his head. This was just a fantasy, nothing more.

He got up, entered his bathroom and relieved himself. Afterwards he grabbed his soap, toothpaste and took a shower. Later, he would be bold to touch her more intimately, the first and only time, then let her go. He had no other choice.

***

He felt a hand grab his wrist and gently squeeze. There were whispering voices around him. Lequan opened his eyes. He moved his head slightly to the left and saw a pretty young woman in a nurse's uniform checking his vitals. He relaxed. "Um ... Miss where am I please?" he asked.

The young woman looked up at him. "Good morning," she replied, "you're at KPH." 

"Oh," he said.

She stared at him. His hair was neatly braided in cane rows, with his hairline neatly shaped up. He wore a gold earring with a Zirconium stone in the middle, in his left ear. He wore only one earring. He right ear was not pierced. He had thick, full lips that were nicely shaped, an angular jaw line with a nicely trimmed beard. 

His eyes were dark brown but attractive. She lowered her gaze to his chest and arms. The orderlies managed to change him into a pair of old pajamas they found in the storeroom. Very nice muscle tone, she mused. 

She smiled at him, then said,"You have a concussion, but you'll be fine. The doctor wants to keep you here for one more day then he'll send you home." Lequan touched his head and felt a gauze on his right temple. He touched it and grimaced in pain. 

She brushed his hand away. "Please don't touch that," she said sternly.

"It was really horrible what happened to you: those criminals knocking you out," she said her eyes wide. She sighed. "I hope to God they find that poor girl!" 

He was confused. What? What is she talking about? She was about to walk away, when he grabbed her arm. She looked at him surprised."Miss I'm sorry, forgive me but I don't know what you're talking about," he said.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you remembered," she answered. Her eyes were filled with sympathy. She took out her phone and scrolled to a social media post on a popular Jamaican YouTube blogger's channel. She showed him the video then pressed play. 

Lequan watched as two men: one on his passenger side and one on the driver's side held guns on them. He saw his colleague being slapped hard with the muzzle of the man's gun, knocking him out. He watched as the young woman was taken from the vehicle, and then himself being knocked out by the same guy on the bike. 

He saw the car tires being punctured, the motorcycle rider leaving the scene first, then the man who exited the car. The man who was driving the car lifted the girl, carrying her to his vehicle then drove off quickly. 

"Can you tell me what happened to my friend? The guy that was driving?" Lequan asked.

"He's actually awake. He'll be released later today. His injuries weren't so severe," Nurse Johnson replied. 

Lequan sighed. Mr Z wasn't going to like this. He looked up at the nurse and smiled at her. She was very attractive. "Thank you Miss?"

She smiled. "Ms Johnson."

He nodded and smiled at her. "Thank you Miss Johnson. Can you tell me where my phone is?" 

"Sure," she said. She left the room and brought it to him. "I kept it in my locker. It's an expensive phone, you can't be too careful. Here you go." While reaching for the phone his fingers accidentally touched hers. He watched her lower her head shyly and look away from him. He sighed inwardly. He had no time for relationships. He however had to admit that she was cute. He grabbed her hand. She looked up, her eyes wide. "Will you tell me your first name?" he asked politely. 

Nurse Johnson smiled. "My name is none of your concern," she answered. But Lequan could see she was not angry or annoyed at his question. 

He smiled at her. "Okay, Miss 'none of your concern' Johnson, my name is Temar, nice to meet you," he replied, teasing her. His smile widened and she could see he had beautiful white teeth. 

She blushed. "Can I have my hand back now?"  she asked. Her eyes instinctively focused on his lips. They looked full and soft.

Lequan laughed softly. He let her go. "Sure," he said winking at her. Nurse Johnson rolled her eyes, but she still had a smile on her face. She left the room. 

Lequan lay back and laughed. He unlocked his phone. It was nice of her to keep his phone safe for him. He would reward her for her kindness as soon as he could. He already started. He told her his real name. Temar was his real name and only his family, close friends and boss knew it, none of his work colleagues knew this name. 

He dialed N's number. He never had direct access to Mr Z's cell number. Mr N answered promptly. 

"Where are you?" Mr. N asked.

"I'm at KPH. The nurse says I have a concussion," he told N.

N sighed. "I saw everything on social media. Do you know if it's a rival gang that got to you guys?"

Lequan shook his head, though N couldn't see him. "No, I don't think so. One of them moved like a cop, the way he was holding his gun. The other I'm not sure," Lequan answered.

"What do you think happened?" N asked.

Lequan thought for a few seconds. "I think they could be plain clothes police assigned to guard the young woman. That's what I think," he said.

"You could be right," N replied. "Anyhoo Mr Z will be glad to hear you're alright. He says to lie low and act normal and satay until you're released from the hospital. Remember the original plan to lay low?"

"Yeah?" Lequan answered. 

"Mr Z says we're going back to that, especially since you're face is now on social media. We also don't want the public to think there's a kidnapping ring in Jamaica for them to put pressure on the police to swarm the road like bees," N chuckled. "His words."

Lequan smiled. He understood. "For how long?" he asked. 

N cleared his throat. "Next thirty days for now, then we'll assess and extend for another month if necessary."

"Okay, will do," Lequan responded. 

"The nurse here told me that Jack will be released from the hospital later this evening. Can you get one of the girls to pick him up?

N nodded. "Good idea. I'll arrange it. I'll call him and let him know one of our decoys will come for him later."

Lequan grimaced as he turned his head slightly to look out the window. "Okay. Thank you," he said.

"No problem," N replied. "Get some rest. Margaret, your mom has been given a cheque to pay for any of your hospital expenses. I think Mr Z will give her some more cash also."

Lequan was grateful. "Thank you. Please tell Mr Z my thanks, and thank you, I will," he replied.

"Good," N said then ended the call. Lequan put his phone down. He was glad Mr Z didn't seem upset. He smiled as he thought of the pretty young nurse. Maybe I have a little time after all. He grinned to himself. Fluffing his pillow, he lay back. He hoped she would check in on him later.

***

N knocked on Zavier's door and waited until he heard the words, "Come in." N pushed the door open, stepped into the room and closed it behind him. Zavier was on the phone with his wife. "What do you think about a vacation a couple weeks from now?" he asked her.

"Mhm, we haven't done a family trip in a while, we could all go but on the trip I'll make sure we have some alone time. What do you say?"

Zavier laughed. "Yeah," he voice dipped low. "Mmhm, sounds really good. I'll arrange it for the first week in July. We take July and August. What do you say?" 

N heard Zavier whisper something erotic to his wife and looked at the floor. Zavier laughed. "Okay baby, I'll make the plans." Zavier blew kisses on the phone then hung up. He was still smiling when he looked up at Mr N. N stepped closer to Zavier's desk. "Taking a family trip?" he asked.

Zavier nodded. "Mhm, I need the break, plus things have escalated, we need to cool off a little. You spoke to Lequan?"

Mr N nodded. "Yes, I told him to lay low for a while," he answered. 

Zavier took out a small key from the right pocket of his trousers. He pushed the key in the second drawer on the left side of his desk and pulled it out. He took out a thick coil of $1000 dollar bills and counted out $100,000. He handed it to N. "Make sure Maggie gets this for him, okay?" he asked. 

N took the money from him. Zavier retied the remaining money in a rubber band and placed it in the drawer. He locked the drawer and placed the key in his pocket. "Also tell Cherine I want her to make arrangements for the Seychelles for the first week in July. Booking for five people. We'll be back about the 29th of August. I'm just waiting until Zahir's classes are over for the semester."

Mr N nodded. "Will do," he said nodding. 

"You will be in charge while we're gone. Just keep things nice and quiet. If the cop resurfaces keep a watch on him, but do not engage until I get back," Z instructed.

N nodded. "Will do," he answered. 

Zavier smiled at him. "Okay, that will be all."

N smiled back. He nodded then left the room.

Zavier opened his phone and scrolled to a picture of Danae in a bathing suit. She was still very tempting. He smiled as he looked at her. It was twenty years now since they were married but almost three decades since they were together. She was a good woman. He didn't want to hurt her. If he was going to pursue 'revenge sex' with Becca he needed to be discreet. He thought about it. There was more than one way to skin a cat. 

He chuckled. What a silly thing to say. Who would want to skin a cat anyway? He leaned back in his chair. If he wasn't going to go that route, what could he do to cut Midnight down to size? He would think about it some more.

***

Lissa showered got dressed and called her mom asking where she was. She didn't remember what hotel she was in. Her mom told her. She also told her that Brandon was coming to get her. 

Fifteen minutes later there was a knock on the door. She opened it to see Brandon looking in on her. He looked sleepy. She grabbed her phone from the bed and followed him. They entered the elevator and he leaned on her. She patted his arm. 

"Still sleepy?" she asked him affectionately. 

He nodded then yawned quietly. "I was on the phone until 2 a.m talking to Zuzu."

Lissa looked at him feeling amused. "Is it serious between you and her?"

Brandon nodded. "Mhm, yep."

"You know you don't usually show us your girlfriends. Although she was a girl friend before becoming your girlfriend. So technically, she is a girl who is your friend, who is now a girlfriend." She smiled mischievously. Brandon hissed his teeth. Lissa laughed. 

"All you need to know is that I really like her and we're dating," he told her.

Lissa smiled up at him. "Okay," she said giving him a brief hug. "I'm happy for you," she said

Branno smiled. "Happy for me too." 

They exited at the first floor and walked into a small quiet dining area. Their parents were sitting at a table that already had four glasses filled with orange juice and a fruit bowl. Lissa smiled awkwardly at them. 

Her dad stood up and hugged her, while her mother still sat. Sandra did smile at her however, reaching for her hand. Lissa sat down and squeezed her mother's hand. Brandon sat beside her. 

Her dad looked at her. "What do you feel like eating?" her father asked. 

"Scrambled eggs, French toast, maybe some Vienna sausage," she told him. Marcus nodded. "Okay," he answered. He signaled a waiter passing behind them. When the young man came by, Marcus gave him a $500 bill and told him their order, but also asked if he could also get the special for that morning. The waiter smiled and nodded. He walked away still smiling.

Lissa watched everything and shook her head. Her dad was something else. She sighed, wondering what Shane was up to this morning. She wondered what time it was in Miami. She missed him very much. 

She pressed the phone's power button. It was 10:30 a.m. It was a little over an hour before she would meet Ryan. She needed to let her family know. She cleared her throat. "Um ... mommy and daddy, Branno, um ... there's something I need to tell you." She said looking at her father. He was sipping his orange juice while scrolling on his phone.

He looked up at her now. "Okay," he replied.

"Well, um ... Corporal Stewart, Ryan, he," Lissa swallowed, then blurted out, "He's asked me to join him for lunch today." She felt her heart pounding. 

Branno looked surprised. He stared at her. He reached for a few grapes picking them off the stems, then popped one in his mouth and chewed. Sandra looked at her husband. Marcus smiled. He leaned over. "What time is he coming?" he asked. 

"About twelve," she answered feeling awkward.

"Well that's the least you can do, after what happened yesterday," Marcus answered.

Sandra was perplexed at her husband's behavior. She thought he would be annoyed. She was grateful for what the young man did but still, this was inappropriate, especially since Lissa was pregnant for Shane. 

"Okay," Lissa replied taken aback by her dad's reaction. I wonder. "The thing that puzzles me though is how he knew where to find me. I was knocked out and in a moving vehicle. I couldn't contact him or you guys. There was no way he could find me so quickly, unless he was following me the whole time since Branno and I left the house."

With eyebrows raised Marcus looked at his daughter. "How do you think he found you?" he asked amused.

"Daddy, I don't know, but maybe you do," she said staring at him intensely. 

Sandra touched her husband's arm. "Marcus, what's going on?" she asked.

Brandon continued to eat the grapes and watched what was unfolding.

Marcus sighed. 

"Since I found out that Shane was no longer in the country I wanted to make sure you are safe. Considering what happened at our house over a week ago. I had to do something. Your friend, Corporal Stewart, has top quality guard training under his belt, as well as being a police officer. So I called him the first night after he came to work for us and asked him to be your bodyguard, but more like a shadow. 

"He was supposed to watch you at a distance and make sure you're safe. At first, he declined, telling me his schedule wouldn't allow. But I pleaded with him to reconsider. He told me to speak to his superiors to hear what they had to say."

"Did you speak to them?" Sandra asked.

Marcus nodded. "They agreed for the next thirty days to relieve him of day duties but he would report to work for the night shift."

Oh, that's why he's free today, Lissa thought. "So the lunch is your idea?" she asked feeling disappointed. 

Her father shook his head. "No, I had no idea he was coming for you today. He's still reluctant to take the job," he told her.

"There was another guy with him yesterday," Lissa revealed.

"Well, I know nothing about that. They only partially released Corporal Stewart," he told her. "One thing I find interesting though." 

Lissa was curious.  "What?" she asked.

"When I first spoke with him, as I said he declined. I told him I would pay him whatever price he wanted. I just need you protected. He told me he would guard you for free," he looked at her pointedly. "Can you tell me what that means?' he asked.

Lissa shook her head. "I-I don't know," she answered. She felt flustered. 

"Do you know if this young man has feelings for you?" Marcus asked. All three of them looked at her: her dad, her mom and Branno. She shook her head. "I don't know. He says I'm attractive, but I don't know otherwise." 

She thought about her time counseling him. "Well, he was in a rough spot a few years ago, He lost his mom to cancer. I counselled him during that period and did my best to help him through it. Maybe he's saying that because he feels grateful for my help. He said he wanted to return the favor."

Marcus looked at his wife. Sandra looked at him. He looked at Lissa. "Okay, and what do you feel for him?" he asked.

"He's a colleague and friend," she answered. 

"And that's it?" 

Lissa smiled nervously. "Yes, that's it."

Marcus looked at her gravely. "Okay," he said. We'll see, he thought.

"How did you know Shane is off the island?" Lissa asked. She looked at her mother. Sandra shook her head then said, "It wasn't me."

"Actually, I overheard your conversation with Shane on the phone," Marcus answered. "The first day Ryan came by, I was coming to your room to commend you for recommending him, but when I got to the door, I heard you talking to Shane and listened to you cry when he hung up. Honey, I want the best for you." He reached over and squeezed his daughter's hand. Lissa smiled awkwardly. She had no idea her dad heard her crying. 

After breakfast, Lissa freshened up a little and decided to wear a sundress. It was the summer after all. It was a gift she got from her best friend Lauren when she came out to see her from Canada last year. She hadn't worn it yet. She wanted to try it out today. 

It was a cute little gold colored dress with rose pink, red and white flowers on the skirt. The dress hugged her bosom to the top of her torso then flared off just above her waist. It was a spaghetti strapped dress that showed off her shoulders. 

When she drew it over her shoulders and pulled it down, she realized it was shorter than the last time she remembered trying it on. She smiled at herself. She had put on weight since then. There was an adorable little paunch poking out in the dress, but not too obvious. She rubbed her belly. She had taken the supplements when she came back to her room, after eating breakfast. Her parents tried to keep the conversation light, but she could tell they felt uncomfortable about her going out with Ryan. 

She didn't know her dad had asked Ryan to be her bodyguard. She actually didn't mind. But why would she? Her life was in danger and from what happened yesterday, he and his friend, whomever he was, were more than capable of doing the job. 

She applied just a little eye shadow, nothing much just a tinge of magenta shade on her eyelids. The only other thing on her face was lip gloss. She smiled as she looked in the mirror. She looked nice to herself.

After half an hour had passed there was a phone call. She answered. "I'm outside in the car park," Ryan told her. "Okay," she answered.

"You told your dad I was taking you for lunch?" he asked.

"Something wrong?" she asked. 

"No, no I was actually calling to tell him myself, but he said you already let him know," Ryan responded.

"How did he sound?" Lissa asked feeling nervous.

"Actually cheerful," he answered. Ryan was surprised that her dad told him he could bring her back later than the 3 o'clock time he told him. He told him to bring her back by 6 p.m. He wondered what was happening. He told him thank you, but he was stunned. 

"Coming down now?" he asked.

"Yeah, I'm coming," she replied.

She grabbed a small bag from her duffle bag her mom had packed for her.  When she saw the dress last night she had forgotten about, she was pleasantly surprised to see it in the bag. Maybe it was providence of some sort because now she could wear it. 

She put the small black bag/purse under her arm. Wait! She almost forgot. She put on deodorant, and body spray. Oh! She forgot to spray a little of her perfume on her dress. She reached into her bag for it and sprayed it lightly on her dress, then a little between her breasts, on her neck and her wrists. She put it back in her bag.

Her mom didn't remember to pack the spray bottle with the lavender oil and water in it for her. She would ask Ryan if he could help her go for it today. She texted her dad to meet her in the hotel foyer with the house keys, she needed to go for something at the house. 

When he met her, he looked her up and down, then shook his head. He gave her the house keys and said, "I hope you know what you're doing. You look very nice by the way." 

Lissa grinned. "Thank you daddy." She kissed his cheek then walked out to the parking lot area. 

She called his phone and listened to it ring. She heard a phone ringing in the distance. He answered. "Where are you?" he asked.

"I'm in the parking lot, but not sure where you are in it," she answered. 

"Do you see a baby blue colored Subaru?" he asked.

"Yes," she said. 

"Take a step towards it and look to your right," he instructed her. 

She did as she was told and saw him walking towards her from the right. There were other cars parked around that side. She walked towards him. 

She looked at him. He was very handsome in a very bright, white t-shirt and dark tan blazer. He was wearing blue jeans with light brown boots. He was freshly shaven. He stopped in front of her and smiled. "You look gorgeous," he told her. Lissa grinned happily. 

"Thank you," she said. 

He extended his arm and she took it. He walked with her to his car and opened the car door for her. She slid in and watched as he walked around to his side and opened the door. He gazed at her intently. 

"You're really lovely today, Lissa. I like the dress. Can I hug you?"

She nodded. "Sure," she replied.

He reached for her, circling his arms around her waist. She circled her arms around his torso. Lissa could feel the warmth of his body permeating through his clothes. It was inviting. She was tempted to stay in his arms a little longer, but she released him as she felt him moving away from her.

"You smell really nice too," he said chuckling softly.

Lissa smiled. "So do you," she told him. She couldn't tell the brand, but she liked it.

"I was thinking of extending our date for longer, if you are okay with that?" he asked

"Till when?" she asked.

"I'l take you back by 6." His eyes took her in. She was so gorgeous.

She nodded. "Okay. Not a problem."

He smiled at her. Lissa felt her heart skip a beat. Gosh that smile! she mused. "Um, I actually need a favor," she said.

He started the car's engine then looked at her. "Okay, anything."

"There's something at my house I need to go get. Can you help me get it before you take me home?"

He nodded. "Not a problem."

"Thank you," she said smiling at him sweetly.

Ryan looked at her smile and laughed. "Has anyone told you that you're very seductive?"

She shook her head. "Nope." She was enjoying herself.

He looked at her then focused on driving out of the hotel's parking lot onto the main road. He turned left then increased his vehicle's speed. Lissa secured herself in the seat belt and relaxed. "So ... my dad told me that he asked you to be my body guard," she said smiling at him cheekily. He looked at her mischievous face and laughed. "Yeah, he did," he replied.

"You said no at first. You hurt my feelings. I know I can be difficult to deal with, but I wouldn't want princess treatment or anything like that." 

Ryan smiled at her. "It wasn't because of our misunderstanding, which from what you've confessed this morning, wasn't a misunderstanding. My instincts were right. I was feeling something between us and you were feeling it too," he answered her. 

Lissa smiled but wouldn't allow herself to be bated into that conversation. "So why?" she asked.

"It has to do with my work schedule. My shift can switch from day to night shift sporadically, and you know that it can be hectic because of the branch I'm attached to."

Lissa sobered up a little. "Oh, I understand. I wasn't thinking about that." He glanced at her. "Your dad spoke to Supe Dacres and he spoke on his behalf for your sake. I'll be with you for 30 days during the days, but I have to report to work in the nights."

"That does not leave much room for sleep does it?" she answered feeling rueful. "I'm sorry." 

"It's fine. Your dad is fairly reasonable. I'm supposed to be with you four days and other days I can do whatever I wish to do."

"And what do you wish to do?" she asked him.

Ryan looked at her. His eyes moved over her body, observing the voluptuous curves of her breasts in the dress. He smiled. "I'm doing one of the things now," he told her. 

"Being with me?" she asked feeling flattered.

He nodded. 

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a large vehicle charging towards them. He turned his head, realizing they had drifted over a little into the opposing line of traffic. He quickly maneuvered out of the way of the oncoming truck. 

He chuckled. "You are a profound distraction," he said. The horn of the truck blared loudly. They also heard the sharp sounds of car horns behind them.

Lissa's heart jumped in her throat. She hadn't even noticed that the car was drifting over to the right. "I'm sorry," she replied. She sighed. He reached for her hand and glanced at her briefly then focused on the road. 

He squeezed her hand. "It's okay," he told her. "God is merciful. I should be more careful." He released her hand and put his on the steering. He turned up Old Hope Road. She looked around her. "Where are we going?" she asked surprised.

He smiled but did not look at her or answer.

When she saw them pull up at the Hope Botanical Gardens, she laughed; smiling broadly at him. "What are we doing here?" she asked grinning.

He smiled at her. "I saw the way you were looking at the couple when we came here the last time. I thought I would do something nice like that for you," he said plainly. 

She looked at him. Oh lort! Handsome and thoughtful, a lethal combo. Her heart was fluttering again.

She looked away from him. Ryan smiled when he saw her head turn. He couldn't have her forever, but if he could spend a little time with her, that would suffice. He parked the vehicle and stepped outside. He opened the back door and took out a basket covered with towels. He also took out a bag. She was curious to see what was in the basket and the bag. 

He closed the door then came around to her passenger side for her. He opened the door and extended his hand to her. She took it and stepped out. She was very glad she chose to wear sandals. He held onto her hand and walked with her to a grassy area with a cluster of tress just behind them. They would receive the shade of the trees and the cool breeze that came with it.

He opened the bag and pulled out two sheets. A thick one and a thinner piece. He handed the thinner one to her. She held it and watched as he placed the basket on the grass and carefully spread the thick sheet on a section of the grass. He took the thinner sheet from her and spread it over the thicker one. He stretched his hand out for her. She gave her hand to him. 

"Take off your slippers," he told her. She bent down, unstrapped her sandals and daintily kicked them off her feet.  She stepped onto the sheets. He held onto her hand as she lowered herself onto them. He sat down with his feet facing outwards and unlaced his shoes and rested them outside the parameters of the sheets. He was wearing grey socks. Lissa giggled as she looked at him. 

"What?" he asked smiling at her. 

"Your socks," she said laughing. "What are you doing with cartoon character socks?" He chuckled as he watched her laughing at him. "What? My niece bought them for me for Christmas last year. I couldn't say no."

Lissa lay back and laughed. The fabric of the top sheet was very soft and comfortable. She stretched her legs out, still laughing. Ryan looked at her. Oh god she's beautiful, he thought. His eyes took in her thick, brown thighs and the flare of her hips. He looked at her face. She looked relaxed and happy. He was glad he could do this for her. 

"So what do you wanna do?" he asked her. He would try to work with her pace. 

Lissa turned on her side and stared at him. He looked very handsome. "I haven't seen the animals in a while. I want to go to the zoo," she said, her eyes showing her enthusiasm. 

"Now who's the big kid?" he teased. He pulled on his boots, tied his laces and waited for her to put on her sandals.

He picked up the basket and placed it on the edge of the sheets and looked at her. He inched closer, staring at her. She was still smiling. He reached out and touched her face. He saw her smile disappear as she looked at him. 

"Okay, let's go," he said pulling her to her feet. He put his arm on the small of her back. Lissa felt safe with him. She didn't mind him touching her there. 

They went into the ticketing area and he paid the fee. They pushed through the gate and he held her hand as they walked to the different enclosures to view the animals. 

The walls were freshly painted and several areas were given a nice face lift. She leaned on the protective railing for the crocodile enclosure and looked down at the reptiles at the bottom, lazing in the water. 

Ryan stood behind her and pressed himself on her. She stood up right when she felt the contact. She felt warm all over. She rested on him. Ryan sighed. He wrapped his arms around her shoulders and held her close. He inhaled her perfume and let out a soft breath. 

"Thank you for this," she said. "The place looks great and it's peaceful." There were other people walking around, but Lissa didn't care what they thought. In Ryan's arms, she felt sheltered and the moment between them felt special.

"I'm glad to do this. I haven't been here since I was a kid," he chuckled softly. He turned his head and gently nuzzled her neck. Lissa bit her bottom lip, trying to stop the soft guttural sound that almost escaped her lips. "Your touch is very reassuring. You make me feel safe," she told him. 

"Mhm?" he asked.

She nodded."Yes," she said, feeling stimulated by his closeness. The warmth and strength of his body; his cologne were intoxicating. She closed her eyes and let out a sigh. Ryan moved his hands down to hold the soft curve of her tummy. "The little ones are growing well?" he asked. His voice sounded intimate and very hypnotic. 

Lissa laughed softly. "Yeah, they are. I went to the OB GYN yesterday. I was just coming from there when that man kidnapped me."

Ryan gently nuzzled her neck and massaged her tummy.  Lissa leaned her head back and opened her mouth slightly. She let out a soft breath. An almost moan escaped her lips. "You're so beautiful," he whispered. "I wish you were mine." He turned her around to face him. Lissa opened her eyes and looked at him.

Gently, Ryan brushed his thumb on her right cheek and looked into her eyes. His gaze lowered to her lips. He slipped his left hand behind her head, and caressed the region between the back of her head and neck, while his right hand moved down to rest on her lower back. He saw Lissa close her eyes. "That feel good?" he asked, his voice husky. She nodded. 

"You are very beautiful. Very tempting," he told her. He pressed her body on his. "Let's go back to our picnic," he said, his voice low and gruff. She nodded. Ryan held her hand and led her through the gate back to the garden. They found their picnic area and were relieved to see that no one had moved their things. 

Ryan helped her to sit on the sheets then sat close beside her. He reached for her hand and kissed it. Lissa blushed. "You're too kind to me," she told him. He shook his head and said, "You deserve so much. Don't doubt that." 

He placed her legs over his lap and removed her sandals. He massaged her ankles and feet. He didn't bother pulling off his boots. He would allow them to stay on and have his feet stay outside of the sheets. Lissa leaned back, enjoying his touch. 

She watched as his hands skillfully eased the discomfort in her feet. She was happy. As he bent his head and concentrated on what he was doing, Lissa admired his hands: slender, neat and strong looking. She also observed his broad shoulders and chest, and his muscular biceps. He was strong, but his touch was gentle. She closed her eyes, savoring what he was doing to her.

Ryan's hands moved up to her calves and gently massaged them. Lissa bit her bottom lip. He knew how to touch her.

"Like that?" he asked. His voice was husky with desire.

Lissa smiled at him shyly. "Yes, that feels really good," she replied. She heard her voice shift to a more sultry tone but didn't care to hide it. His touch was turning her on. He pulled her closer to him and gently moved his hands up the back of her thighs, massaging each hamstring muscle carefully. 

Lissa couldn't help responding to him. She closed her eyes and made little sounds, biting her lip. It wasn't just that the massage felt good, but also his touch in that area of her body aroused her. 

Ryan watched her. He swallowed hard. Taking a deep breath, he moved his hands down to her feet and caressed them.

"How does your back feel?" he asked taking her in intently. 

"A little stiff," she answered. Her eyes were still closed.

"Okay, turn around," he told her.

"Turn around?"

"Mhm."

"Okay," she replied. She opened her eyes and looked at him. She was sure from the look on his face he wanted her. She turned her body around and he carefully pulled her up towards him and made her rest her back on his chest. His legs were on either side of hers. He put his arms around her. "Better?" he asked.

"Mhm," she said. 

He loved the scent of her body. He bent his head and smelt her. "You smell really good," he said.

He kissed her shoulders, Lissa leaned her head back. He moved his hands up to caress the soft skin of her arms, and tenderly kissed her neck and shoulders. He began teasing her by pulling on her skin as he kissed her shoulders. She leaned her neck to one side as he trailed soft kisses from her right shoulder up to her neck. 

"Hmm ..." he groaned. He turned her slightly sideways. She didn't resist. Very gently, he brushed his lips on her cheek. He heard a soft breath escape her lips. He listened to her breathing. He moved his lips along her cheek to her chin and kissed it. 

Lissa leaned back. Ryan helped her to lay down on the sheets. He lay beside her --his feet still outside of the sheets-- and cupped her face. Opening his mouth, he suckled on her chin, then moved his lips lower to her neck. She lifted her head to give him access. He kissed her neck slowly, heard her breath quicken and a moan escape her lips. 

Moving himself upwards, he lay over her but did not press his weight on her. He looked at her. Her eyes were closed. "Lissa," he whispered. She opened her eyes. "I think I'm falling for you," he said. He saw a conflicted look cross her face. He kissed her forehead. "I want to kiss your sweet lips, but only if you want me to." He lifted his right hand and stroked her face as he looked into her eyes. 

Lissa felt conflicted. Her heart was racing. Was this what my dream was about? She wanted him to kiss her but she needed to stay loyal, or at least try. She had allowed him to do quite a bit.  

She looked into his warm, chocolate-brown colored eyes and sighed, "I want you to, but I don't know." Ryan nodded. He sat up slowly. He cleared his throat, "That's fine."

"I-I'm sorry," she said sitting up. Ryan put his arm around her and squeezed her close to him. "It's fine Lissa. It's okay." He kissed her brow and rubbed his hand on her arm slowly, comforting her. "Hungry?"

She nodded. "Yes." 

He smiled at her. "Good. I made food."

"You can cook?" she asked smiling. He gave her a playful side eye. "Mi grow wid mi granny, what yuh expect!" he said laughing. 

Lissa looked into his eyes. If things were different. Maybe if he had approached her first. He was a great guy. She was now wondering if she made the right choice being with Shane. 

How can I think like that? He was there for me when I was going through my break up with Rick. I can't be disloyal. 

She reached up and touched Ryan's face. He grabbed her hand and kissed it. "You are everything I ever wanted in a man," she told him. "You are thoughtful and kind, and very gentle." She sighed. "But you know what it is." 

Ryan kissed the palm of her hand and nipped it gently. The bites sent shivers up her spine. She took her hand away from him. "If things were different, Shane would be here with me, and I wouldn't even know you liked me. You would find a beautiful girl to fall in love with."

He cupped her face. "True, but things are not like that. Sarge isn't here, but I am, and if you want me to, I won't leave you." He looked at her lips. He put his hand on the back of her head and pulled her close to his face. He looked into her eyes. He could see she was feeling weak for him. 

He leaned forward and brushed his lips on hers. He felt her body shiver. He groaned and pressed his lips on hers. He kissed her passionately, feeling her body fall on him. He pulled her to him and squeezed her in his embrace. He opened his mouth and kissed her more eagerly. 

Slipping his tongue inside her mouth, he could feel her body trembling. He lay her down slowly on the sheets while kissing her. He brushed his fingers on her face, and kissed her gently, pulling on her lips and using his tongue to tease her. He heard her moan softly. 

Ryan groaned when he felt her arms circle and tighten around his neck. "Mmh ... Lissa," he whispered. "Mmh, you taste really good," he said gruffly. He lowered his head to her neck and suckled it gently. She gasped and moaned a little louder. 

Ryan loved the way she sounded, even her moans were a turn on for him. He trailed soft kisses down to the top of her cleavage as far as the neck of the dress would allow him. He gently kissed them then used his tongue to playfully lick on the skin. She shivered and moaned. "Ryan please, I-I ..." 

He moved his hand down, and cupped and squeezed her buttocks. Lissa moaned and said, "Oh god! Ohh!" Ryan grunted, "Lissa, I want you." He kissed her more passionately. He slipped his hand inside her sun dress and cupped her bottom, feeling the lace of her underwear and wanting to slip it aside to feel her bare skin. She arched her body, moaning softly as he massaged her. "If you only knew," he whispered passionately. She opened her eyes and gazed at him, then closed her eyes again as he continued to caress her. 

With her eyes closed and soft lips parted, she looked even more beautiful. He could see that she was enjoying his touch. He wanted to pull her panties aside and caress her firm, voluptuous flesh. No, I'm not going to. I'm not going to expose her. He remembered they were still in public. No one had passed by the way they were, but he needed to be mindful.

He stopped and looked into her eyes. He brushed his fingers on her cheek and gave her soft pecks, then reluctantly sat up. He wanted to have her. He would take her to his apartment if she wanted him to, and show her that he could make her feel good. That what he felt for her was real.

He reached for her hand and pulled her up as well. He hugged her, feeling her body tremble. Her breathing was shallow. Her head was resting on his shoulder. She was weak with desire. Ryan rubbed her back to comfort her.

"When was the last time you were properly satisfied?" he asked.

"What do you mean?" she asked feeling dazed. Her voice was a raspy whisper.

Ryan moved back so he could see her eyes. He touched her face and looked deeply into them. "I'm talking about loving you to the point your eyes roll back and your body is shivering in ecstasy."

Lissa blushed and looked away from him. "It's been awhile," she told him. He brushed his hand on her thighs. "I want to do that for you," he told her.

"I can't ..." 

Ryan sighed. "I'm willing to do anything you want me to. I want to satisfy you," he spoke to her, his voice soft. Lissa looked into his eyes and saw that he was serious. She felt her heart melting for him, but she couldn't give in. "Ryan, I'm sorry..." she replied.

He bent his head and touched his brow to hers. He closed his eyes. Taking deep breaths, he said, "Let's eat." 

Taking sharp breaths, Lissa nodded. "Okay," she said.

***

He made sandwiches for them. There were ham and cheese sandwiches, corned beef and plain cheese. He brought a bottle of sparkling wine as well as fruit. As they ate he played some songs on his phone for them to listen. 

He engaged her in conversation and told her about his childhood growing up, how he used to climb mango and ackee trees; tied out goats, fed chickens, etcetera. He told her some of the mischief he and his siblings got up to. 

He had two brothers and a sister. He was the second child. Lissa observed the way his eyes shone as he recalled his childhood. She smiled as she listened to him. He paused and looked at her.

He sighed. "Lissa, I'm very sorry about today, about earlier. I got carried away. Can you forgive me?"

She nodded, smiling at him. "I already have. I was a willing party as well. I can't put the blame on you."

He took a deep breath then let it out slowly. "Okay then, have you forgiven yourself?"

She nodded slowly, reflectively. "I have. It was a moment of weakness for both of us, but if we're careful, we'll be good," she told him.

Ryan smiled at her. "You know I really like you. You have a good heart," he said. "And that's why I'm gonna decline being your bodyguard," she told him.

With alarm she looked at him. She didn't say a word but stared at him.

"I'm falling for you Lissa. I find you very attractive. You turn me on in the strongest way. I don't think I have been this forward with any other woman I'm just getting to know. I'm really sorry about today. It was wrong of me to do what I did. I would never want to hurt you. 

"The truth is, if I stick around I will be tempted to touch you, and I don't want to violate your space again. So when we get back, I'll explain to your dad that I can't continue. I'm sorry." Ryan stood up and stretched. "I'm gonna use the restroom. I'll be right back."  Lissa watched as he walked away from her. She lay back with a heavy sigh. 

She cried softly. She was angry with herself. What the hell is wrong with me? Why am I crying? What he said makes sense! 

His kisses ignited a fire inside you. You liked it. 

Yes, I liked them, but it's not right! 

Is it not? How do you know Shane isn't somewhere locked down with a woman right now? 

She swore loudly. This distance between her and Shane was torture. I should have gone with him when he asked me. If I had, I wouldn't be in this situation now, with this handsome, sexy guy wanting to make love to me. 

Yes! To take you in his arms and make you feel wanted. To satisfy your every erotic desire ... 

"Shut up! Shut up!" Lissa shouted at herself. "Just shut up!" She covered her face with her hands and screamed a low anguished sound. 

Hands touched her wrists. "Lissa?" Ryan said. She moved her hands away from her face and looked at him. He saw that she was crying and pulled her to him. Holding her close, he stroked her face slowly. He turned her to him fully and began stroking her back. He rocked her back and forth in his arms. He said no words, but continued to comfort her until she stopped crying.

"I never meant for this to happen. Am I the reason you're crying?" He put her away from him and lifted her face with his thumb and index finger. "Talk to me," he spoke softly.

She sighed. "On the one hand I agree that our interactions can't continue the way they have been recently, but on the other, I like being around you and I am attracted to you, but as you know." She touched her belly. 

Ryan reached down and touched her tummy as well. "I know," he answered. "A part of me wishes I was bold enough to approach you sooner. Maybe things would have been different." She moved her hand as he rubbed her tummy. She closed her eyes and sighed. "Considering what happened today, would you like me to take you back early?" he asked, watching her closely. 

Lissa nodded. "Yeah, that's a good idea," she replied, opening her eyes.

Ryan smiled at her sadly. "Okay, we'll leave within the next half hour. Okay?"

"Okay," she answered.

He released her. She sighed. "Ryan, thank you for being honest with me."

He smiled at her and gently touched her face. "You deserve it," he told her.

***

He drove Lissa to her family's home. She entered the house and looked around. She climbed the stairs slowly while Ryan waited for her in the car. 

She took up her spray bottle filled with lavender oil and water. She shook the bottle. She had refilled it two days before. She went to the bathroom and took out the concentrated bottle of the lavender oil and put the two bottles in her bag. Before she left she peed in her bathroom, then flushed the toilet and washed her hands.

Closing her bedroom door behind her, she walked down the stairs. Looking around, she sighed. She walked through the front door, closed and locked it. She put the keys in her bag and tucked it under her arm. She slowly walked towards the car. 

Ryan watched her walking towards him. She's beautiful. He smiled at her. She opened the door and slid into the vehicle. She smiled at him. "Thank you," she told him. He started the car and drove off slowly.  

Lissa looked him up and down. "You look really handsome today," she told him. Ryan looked over at her, his eyes were guarded. "Thank you. You are very beautiful," he replied. He turned his head to watch the road. He felt sad. 

He stopped at the entrance of the hotel. She sat back. Lissa looked ahead of her. She reached for his hand and squeezed. He squeezed her hand, and brought it to his lips and kissed it. "I don't want you to stop being my bodyguard. I want us to be friends," Lissa told him her voice trembling.

Ryan bent forward and kissed her brow. He shook his head. "I can't," he told her. He opened his car door and stepped outside. He walked to her door and opened it for her. She took his hand and stepped out. "Call your dad. Tell him I wanna talk to him," Ryan said.

Lissa nodded sadly. She retrieved her phone from her bag and called her dad. "Tell him I'll meet him I'm in the foyer," Ryan said. She nodded. 

"Daddy hi, I'm back. Ryan wants to talk to you about something. He says he'll meet you in the foyer of the hotel." She listened to her dad, then said, "Okay." She hung up. "He says give him five minutes," she told him. Ryan smiled at her. He was still holding her hand.

Feeling spontaneous, he grabbed her. Bending his knees and placing his hands under her legs and shoulders, he lifted her in his arms. She laughed at this random move. He threw her up in the air and caught her. She laughed in surprise then giggled like a school girl. 

He threw her up again and caught her. This time when he caught her, he bent his head and captured her lips. Lissa reciprocated, kissing him tenderly. He teased her lips, suckling them slowly. He pulled her closer to his chest. Adjusting her body, to support her weight on one arm he took her hand, and placed it on his chest, cupping it over his left pec. Lissa felt turned on and breathless by this manoeuvre. "Ryan," she whispered his name in a soft whimper.

He pressed his hand over hers allowing her to squeeze his breast. He groaned and kissed her deeper, then placed his arm under her shoulders again to support her properly. He heard her moan, and her breathing become more shallow as she rubbed her hand over his chest and squeezed him. With her eyes half closed, her breathing rushed, she realized that she wanted to be with him. She desired him. 

His chest muscles were well developed. She continued to rub her hand on them, savoring the strength she was feeling, as his arms flexed while he held her. She closed her eyes, her breathing shallow. 

He separated his lips from her briefly to gaze at her face. "Lissa, you're so beautiful," he whispered. He bent his head again. Lissa eagerly opened her mouth to receive him. She was enjoying the skillful moves of his tongue in her mouth. His soft but passionate kisses were making her swoon. Subconsciously, she found herself comparing his kisses to Shane's. She couldn't deny that she missed Shane's lips, but Ryan was making her forget what they felt like.

As he kissed her, he felt her body relax in his embrace. She was surrendering to him. Her mind was saying no, but her body was telling him what she really wanted. 

He wished he could make love to her. He would tenderly lay her down on his bed and caress her, and tell her she was beautiful and very sweet. Then he would take his time making love to her, not rushing their encounter.

He spun her around slowly as he kissed her. He ended his kiss with soft adorable pecks on her lips. He smiled at her. She smiled up at him. This feels so easy, she mused. He makes me feel carefree. Her loins were throbbing for him. She couldn't deny it anymore. She wanted him.

When he moved his head back, he kissed her brow then took a deep breath and released it. He put her down just in time for Marcus to see him placing her feet on the floor. She looked up at him, her hands bracing on his abdominal muscles. She was feeling weak. Lissa laughed softly. He definitely rattled her. 

Ryan observed her body language. Her head slightly bent to the left, her gaze shy and demure. He chuckled also. He had an idea of what she was feeling, because he felt it too: this undeniable 'pull' between them.

Ryan embraced her, allowing her to feel his body heat. Lissa groaned and leaned into him, pushing her arms under his blazer. Oh god he feels so nice and toasty. "Mmh," she groaned. She wished he could take her. She sensed that he was a very gentle lover. She wanted to experience him. 

He smiled. She was soft all over and smelt wonderful. A nice way to end their time together, he mused. 

Reluctantly, he let her go. He looked into her eyes. He knew she wanted him to go further. He wanted to, but knew it would be wrong. He grabbed her neck and pulled her into him, holding her close. Lissa sighed deeply and circled her arms around him.

"I know," he said with a deep sigh. "I know." Lissa hugged him tightly. She sighed. She had to let him go. 

"Do you believe in soulmates?" she asked him. He nodded. "Yeah, I do," he told her. He playfully tugged at her braids, kissing her head. She lightly slapped his arm. He gently pinched her neck. She playfully pushed him and he laughed.

They were standing close as she teased him about his socks. He laughed and told her there was nothing wrong with being a big kid at heart. Then he teased her about visiting the zoo to which she stuck out her tongue. He laughed.

Marcus slowed down his walking pace and observed their body language. They looked like two people in love. They were standing close to each other and laughing, but it was the way they looked at each other that was revealing. He looked at his daughter. For the first time in a while, Lissa looked happy. He wondered what Corporal Stewart wanted to talk to him about. 

He walked up to them and said, "You're back early. I thought you would stay until about 6 o'clock?" 

Lissa looked up at her dad and smiled awkwardly. Ryan cleared his throat and answered for both of them, "We felt it would be best we end our date early. I also have to get to work by 7 this evening,"

"Okay, I see," Marcus responded. He looked at his daughter, then at Corporal Ryan. "You wanted to speak to me?" he asked. Ryan nodded. He cleared his throat again and looked at Lissa. She reached for him and hugged him briefly then walked away. Both men watched her leave.

"Well?" Marcus returned his gaze to the young man before him. 

"I have made my decision about being Lissa's bodyguard ..."

"And?" Marcus interjected. 

"I'm declining the position," Ryan said focusing his eyes on Marcus. 

Marcus assessed him. "Is something going on between you and my daughter?" 

Ryan took a deep breath and released it slowly. He was about to speak when Marcus interrupted him, "Do you enjoy a beer or glass of wine from time to time?" Ryan nodded. "Yes I do," he replied. 

Marcus smiled. He gestured to the right towards an open door. "Let's visit the bar and have a chat." Ryan chuckled. Might as well, he thought. He nodded. "Okay," he answered. 

The two men sat at the bar, facing each other. Marcus ordered a run and coke while Ryan asked for a beer. As they sipped their drinks, they briefly spoke about the weather and other small talk. Then Marcus asked, "How do you feel about my daughter?"

Ryan took a sip of his beer. He was going to be very transparent. "She's gorgeous. She's very beautiful, thoughtful; very kind and considerate. I've known her for a little over three years now. Two years ago my mom died from cervical cancer. I took it very hard because when she passed away I was on duty."

Marcus grimaced at this information. He sympathized with him. "I'm sorry," he said.

Ryan nodded. "I'm good now, but Lissa was a major part of my healing process. She was very attentive and considerate of my feelings. I believe I fell in love with her from then. But your daughter has a reputation of not mixing work and romance. I was actually surprised when I heard that she and Sarge were dating. 

"I suppressed my feelings back then, but since being around her more recently, these feelings have resurfaced. Thing is, I'm falling for her, but she's with Sarge. I don't want to be disrespectful of what they have going on and act inappropriately with her. Although, I have already started." Ryan sighed then continued, "We've kissed, but I don't want to do anything that will violate her conscience or my own. I think it's best I step away. 

"As for her safety, I have a solution for that. To save her yesterday, I asked a friend to be my eyes and ears if I am occupied elsewhere such as work or for other reasons. He handled himself very well. His name is Jordan Marx, Jamaican, who moved away to college but ended up in the US army. So he's ex-US military and very proficient in hand to hand combat and the use of weapons. He's very professional. He's very mission focused and will protect Lissa quite effectively."

Marcus looked at him, eyebrows raised. He was developing a new level of respect for this young man. "I wish you would reconsider," he told him. He took out his phone from his pocket, unlocked it and opened a social media app. He searched for a video. When he found it and placed his phone in Ryan's line of vision. "There's something you should see," Marcus said. He pressed play. 

Ryan watched in dismay as the video showed he and Jordan surrounding the SUV that held Lissa. He was glad they wore masks. It showed him aiming his gun at one of the men's head, and opening the car's back door to retrieve Lissa. Him pulling her to her feet, and her initially struggling against him. The video showed Jordan shooting out the back tires, and him rushing with Lissa to his car. The video ended. 

"There's more," Marcus said. He searched for another video file then played it for Ryan. Ryan watched as Lissa was struggling with the tall man that he had his gun on. He noted that after the man placed his hand over Lissa mouth she was knocked out. The video ended when the car sped away from the scene.

She was drugged. Ryan was angry. She's pregnant, she could have been hurt or worse lost the pregnancy. His hands curled into fists. He tried to control his breathing. Marcus observed his reaction.

Ryan's physical reaction to the video was his own when he first saw it. He nodded then said, "That's exactly how I felt when I watched that last video. It was uploaded five hours after the first one I showed you. 

"Apparently, the person who uploaded this one did it in response to folks commenting on the first saying you and your friend were kidnappers. The person who uploaded shared this with the intention of saying that  you and your friend could have saved Lissa's life. Which is what you did. You saved her life. I am eternally grateful."

Marcus took a sip of his rum and coke. "I understand clearly what you've said about how you feel about her, and under any other circumstance I would agree with you, but Shane isn't here. He's gone overseas and he'll be gone for over a month. It's possible this guy, Mr Z, doesn't know Shane is no longer on the island, but it's also possible he knows and tried to kidnap my daughter to force Shane to come back." 

"He isn't here?" Ryan asked. Is that so? All the more reason for me to stay away. I'll be even more tempted to ravish her.

"No," Marcus said shaking his head.

Marcus sighed then put his phone in his trouser's pocket. "Either way, my daughter is in danger. I don't mind your friend working as well. But I also want you to help her. I know I'm asking for a lot, but please reconsider."

Ryan sipped his beer. He didn't know if he could be close to her and not touch her intimately, but at the same time Lissa needed him. He sighed and stared at the floor. "Okay," he said. "On two conditions."

"What are they?" Marcus asked.

"I have feelings for your daughter and out of respect for her, let Jordan work more close quarters, and I will remain a distant shadow. Considering the kidnapping attempt, you will need both of us to secure her safety. Jordan can be in her presence more, and I'll be in the background. I doubt you will restart working on the house right now?"

Marcus shook his head indicating 'no'. 

"Yeah, so I don't need to be around her often," Ryan answered. I also need to do some digging of my own on this Mr Z person. The sooner we can expose him and bring him to justice, the sooner I can go back to my life and Lissa can have her life back.

Marcus nodded. "Okay. Agreed." He respected this young man's principles. He wished he was with Lissa and not Shane 

"Also, I need you to pay my friend a salary for his services," Ryan said taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly.

"How much do you have in mind?" Marcus asked.

"$200,000 monthly, until the threat is over, or until Shane comes back to her, whichever way it goes. You'll give him a hundred thousand upfront and he'll start working tomorrow. Lissa told me she was coming from the OB GYN when the man grabbed her?"

Marcus sighed. His eyes were tired. "Yes, she was. She was coming from her doctor's appointment. As for Shane coming back, Lissa will need your friend's help even more so. As long as he's around my daughter he's a threat to her."

"Oh okay. Understood," Ryan said, "Jordan will have to accompany her the next time she goes back to the doctor. Do you know when is the next appointment?"

Marcus shook his head. "No, I don't," he said, "I'll ask her."

Ryan finished his beer. "Okay, let me know," he replied. "I'll bring Jordan with me tomorrow."

Marcus nodded. "Thank you," he said.

"You're welcome," Ryan replied. A faint smile curled up his mouth. "I gotta go now."

Marcus nodded. "Mhm, safe travel," he told him

Ryan nodded then said, "Thanks."

"I'll pay for the drinks," Marcus told him.

Ryan nodded. "Okay." He stood up from the stool, walked through the bar and lounge's door and out to the foyer. He opened the hotel's front doors and stepped outside. He walked slowly to the parking lot.

Starting the engine, he backed the car away from the wall and turned the vehicle towards the exit. He picked up speed and drove out onto the main road. It was 4 o'clock. He only had three hours before his shift. He was going straight home to sleep. 

He thought of his time with her. Her. Beautiful, desirable, very tempting, very sweet. Yes, he was jealous of Sarge over her affections. He hissed his teeth. 

Arriving home he put his car keys in their usual place. He unlaced his boots and kicked them off his feet. He took up his Bible and read Psalm 37, and lay back in bed. He prayed:

"My Lord and God, I am not sure what is going to happen next, but give me wisdom. I am in love with someone else's girl. Please give me understanding in what to do in this situation. Help me to do the right thing. 

In your holy name I pray. 

Jesus name.

Amen." 

Ryan turned on his side, closed his eyes and fell asleep. 

***

The next day Ryan met the Dixons at their home promptly at 1 p.m. Marcus decided they needed to go back and try to live as normal a life as possible. Lissa agreed. She had one more week left for her leave. She wanted to visit a friend of hers before it ended. 

They were in the kitchen/dining room area when there was knock on the door. Lissa went to answer and was happy to see Ryan but was surprised at the young man with him. He had smoky green eyes, light brown skin with tattoos on both arms. There was one that was particularly interesting. It was the image of a large German shepherd with the words 'War Dog' across its chest. 

She looked up at his face. No tattoos there, but there was a guarded expression on his face. He was wearing an army green shirt, black jeans and black boots on his feet. He was quite muscular and tall, about 6' 3" or 6' 4". 

She noted that he was handsome but in a rugged kind of way. He was clean shaven but there was something about his stare that was unnerving. She nodded at him. "Good afternoon," she said. He blinked but did not say a word and made no physical gesture towards her.

She looked at Ryan and smiled at him. "You're just in time for lunch," she said to him. Ryan moved from behind Jordan and stepped inside. He reached for her and hugged her. Lissa gladly melted into his embrace. "You feel so good," he said in a low voice. Lissa smiled and briefly closed her eyes. She opened her eyes to see the new guy observing them with his left eyebrow raised. 

Realizing that she was looking at him, he settled his eyes on her. His steely gaze flickered into something unreadable, then a sarcastic smile curled up his lips. Lissa felt like she was being judged. She lowered her gaze and pulled away from Ryan's embrace.

Ryan turned towards his friend. "Jordan, this is Melissa, but she likes to be called Lissa," he said. Jordan stepped forward. He nodded at her. The smile that curled his lips unnerved her. He seemed to be mocking her secretly. 

She turned away from him and grabbed Ryan's hand. "Nice to meet you Jordan. Please come this way," she said. Ryan followed her. Jordan walked behind them, observing the pictures on the wall and the general decor of the home. Quite the upper middle class family, he mused.

As they walked into the kitchen, Sandra looked up and smiled at them. Lissa smiled at her. Ryan smiled, but Jordan's face was neutral. Sandra's smile broadened. "Gentlemen, have a seat. Lissa made lunch, I just helped," she said. Lissa rolled her eyes. She made fried snapper and bammy, she did a small portion of fried festivals*. 

Jordan looked at Ryan who was pulling out a chair for himself. Ryan sensed his discomfort. "Pullout a chair Jordie." He slapped his friend on his shoulder. 

Jordan pulled out a chair and sat on it while the two women served them. Lissa handed Ryan a plate of food then handed one to Jordan. She looked at him. "I don't know if you like bammy* or festival." She only gave him two festivals and one quarter piece of bammy. "Thank you," Jordan answered. Lissa's eyes widened. His voice was very deep. Deep with a clear American accent. 

Sandra was also surprised. "Boy where did you get that deep voice from with that baby face?" she asked smiling. Taken off guard, Jordan gave a genuine smile. Both women stared at him. He was quite handsome. Ryan saw the reaction of the women and shook his head smiling. He started eating, watching their reactions. 

"I get it from my daddy ma'am," Jordan answered sincerely. 

Sandra smiled. "Well, can you sing?" she asked. "It would be a pity if you couldn't with that bass."

Jordan's smile broadened. "Yes I can. I was actually a part of The U.S Army Chorus. And yes, I sing bass," he said feeling amused. He looked at Lissa who was watching him with a curious look on her face. 

He lowered his gaze. She was everything his friend said she was: beautiful, gorgeous and very pregnant for another man. The baby bump wasn't large yet, but it was obvious. She was quite attractive, he had to admit, but he felt she could be his friend's downfall if he wasn't careful. 

He started eating, reminding himself that he needed to keep focused. A woman like that could also be a dangerous distraction for him. He bit into the delicious flesh of the fish. She can cook! he mused.

Lissa poured some lemonade juice for both men. She was feeling a little tired. She sat down at the table. Sandra noticed her body language. "You okay honey?" she asked. Ryan reached out his hand and touched hers. Lissa looked up at him and smiled. "Just a little tired," she said.

Sandra served food for both herself and Lissa. Lissa thanked her then started eating. She looked up occasionally at Ryan, smiling at him. He smiled back at her. Jordan kept his eyes on his food while he ate. Sandra was left to watch him eat. She cleared her throat. "So Jordan, where are you from?" she asked.

Jordan looked up at her and smiled politely. "Originally from St. Elizabeth, then I migrated to the U.S. at fifteen. Spent time in Indiana with my dad then decided to join the US Army at 20 years old. Did some time in Korea and then did two tours in Afghanistan."

"Okay," Sandra answered. She was intrigued. "Do you speak any Korean?"

He chuckled. "Only the basics to help me get around," he told her.

"So you're from St. Bess?" Lissa asked.

He nodded, watching her body language. If he was to be her bodyguard he needed to learn her idiosyncrasies. Right now she seemed curious about him, but also a little ambivalent. He wondered why. He smiled at her. "Yes ma'am," he answered.

"Is that where you met Ryan," she asked smiling.

He nodded. "Friends in high school," Jordan answered. Ryan bit into a piece of bammy and smiled. 

"So why did you migrate?" she asked.

"My dad was living overseas and he wanted me to live with him. My mother had no objections to it. She thought it would be a better life for me."

"Has it been?" she asked, her face lost its smile. 

 Jordan looked over at his friend, who was watching the exchange between them, his brow now slightly knotted. Lissa looked over at Ryan and saw the look in his eyes. She looked away from him. 

Jordan cleared his throat. "It's had its ups and downs but I have no regrets," he answered quietly. "Look Miss Melissa, my friend Ryan explained the situation to a 'T'. I understand you are under immense pressure, especially since you're now pregnant. I am sure it's difficult to have a total stranger being around you almost 24/7. I assure you, I will do my job as professionally as I can. A good bodyguard is the one you forget is even there. I have been trained in that regard. I know what I'm doing."

"That's good to hear," Marcus said.

Everyone looked around to see Marcus entering the room, a bag over his shoulder. "Sorry I knocked, but got no answer," he explained. Ryan stood up. Jordan followed his example. Marcus nodded at them. "Gentlemen, if you will follow me," he said to them. 

Jordan nodded. "Can I bring my plate," he asked. "The food is good." 

Marcus nodded. "Sure," he replied. He looked at the dining table, then said, "Any left for me?" he smiled at his wife. She nodded. "Lissa cooked and yes there's more." 

"Wait! Lissa wah gwaan? Yuh just a grace the stove more often these days!" Marcus said teasing his daughter. He opened his arms for her. She went to him. He hugged her and kissed her head. 

"It's the least I can do for getting you guys in this mess. I'm sorry for being a burden," she replied. He kissed her brow and squeezed her. "You're my daughter, you are not a burden," he answered.

Jordan watched his friend's expression. Oh yeah, he's smitten. He watched the young woman's body language. He could see she was genuinely stressed out about the situation. He had his opinion of her, but she did need the help, and he needed the money. 

Marcus looked at the men. "Follow me please," he said.

Ryan motioned his head towards Jordan who nodded and followed her father. Ryan touched Lissa's arm. "Everything will be fine, okay?" he said

Lissa nodded. She went into his arms. He held her and rubbed her back. Sandra watched the two of them. Ryan released her and went after the two men.

"You like him?" Sandra asked. 

"Who Ryan?" Lissa turned to her mother. 

"Mhm," she responded. 

Lissa nodded. "Yeah, I do," she replied.

"You don't like Jordan?" Sandra asked.

"No, something about him just rubs me the wrong way," she told her.

"Is it the 'War Dog'?"

With eyebrows raised she looked at her mother. "You saw it too?"

Her mother nodded. "I'm not blind my love," she answered. "I sense there's more to him than meets the eye."

"I suppose so," Lissa said feeling indifferent.

Sandra smiled.

***

Marcus led the young men into his study. He gestured for them to sit on the small sofa in the room while he sat in a chair behind his work desk. He smiled at them. "First of all thank you for accepting this task to guard my daughter. I am very appreciative of you doing this. Secondly," he paused. Reaching into the small knapsack he brought with him into the room, he counted out JMD $100,000 and gave it to Jordan. Jordan took it from his hand, counted the money also then smiled. 

"My daughter is in trouble because Mr Z has a vendetta against the man she's with. Jordan, Ryan says you'll guard her close quarters, while he will be a distant shadow?" Marcus asked to confirm. 

Jordan nodded. "Yes, that is my understanding as well."

Marcus nodded. "We have a guest room here. You will stay here in the guest room for five days of the week from Wednesday to Sunday. Those days Lissa is usually home from work early. She's on leave now, but I think this coming week is her last week of vacation."

Both Jordan and Ryan listened to him carefully. Marcus continued, "She has a doctor's appointment the next three weeks from now, on July 12, I believe. I will double check with her as the time gets closer. Also Ryan, you will still watch over my little girl while she's at work?"

Ryan nodded. "While the thirty days are in effect, yes I will do my best. Afterwards, I will try with whatever time I have available," he answered.

Marcus nodded. "Understood." He looked over to Jordan then said, "You report to me anything suspicious you notice immediately. I have also explained to my daughter that she needs to cooperate with you. You can go home, get some rest, pack whatever you need and be back here to start working tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock."

Jordan nodded his agreement. He was growing in his respect for this older gentleman. Out of the corner his eye, he saw Ryan's face mirroring his own admiration towards him.

"I know you will not be given access to the inside of the police station where she works, so I have told her not to leave the premises until you come for her. I will loan you my car to drop her off to work and do pick ups, as well as to take her to wherever she needs to go." Marcus' eyes bored into Jordan. Jordan looked at him, his gaze unwavering. This was a big responsibility, but he was ready.

***

After Marcus discussed his expectations with the young men, he counted out the $100,000 he negotiated with Ryan. He invited them to dinner and they both accepted.

After they all ate, Lissa went to her room to rest. Ryan sent her a text asking where she was. She gave him directions to her room. He was in the kitchen/dining area talking with Marcus, Sandra and Jordan, while Sandra washed the dishes. He made an excuse of wanting to use the bathroom. 

He climbed the stairs and knocked on her door. She opened her door for him. He entered the room and lifted her in his arms, wrapping her legs around his hips. He kissed her tenderly. She kissed his back. He pressed his body on the door, closing it. She circled her arms around his neck. 

As he kissed her, he inhaled her scent. So intoxicating. He laid her on her bed, straightened up and looked down at her. "Very sexy," he whispered. He sat on the bed as she sat up. He touched her right thigh. "You okay?' he asked. She leaned on his shoulder. "Just tired." She paused then said, "I don't think your friend likes me."

He lay back on her bed. "Why do you say that?" he asked. 

"He didn't respond to my greeting and he looks at me like he knows something about me. I never wanted what happened between me and Shane to happen. It just did, and I fell in love with him." She turned and looked at him. "And with you, you totally swooped in by surprise. I wasn't expecting you."

"He knows I'm crazy about you," Ryan replied.

"Oh?" Lissa was surprised.

"Mhm," he answered.

Lissa lay beside him. "You're crazy about me?" He turned towards her and touched her face. "Yes, very much," he told her. He moved closer to kiss her. 

"He takes a while to warm up to people. He wasn't like that when we were kids growing up, but I guess being in a war can change a person. He's a good guy and very focused. Give him a chance. Okay?" Ryan said.

Lissa sighed. "Okay," she replied. "For you I will."

"Thank you," Ryan said playfully brushing his nose on hers. He smiled as she giggled at him. He leaned forward and kissed her. 

Lissa moved her head back a little, licking her lips. She loved his taste. "I wish you didn't have to be just my shadow," she told him. 
"I know but as long as you and Sarge have a chance, I have to respect you're relationship with him." He saw what she did and was mesmerized. He sighed. You have to let her go Rhy, he told himself.

"It's gonna be hard not seeing you, and then seeing you at work, knowing that it's just platonic," she said sadly. She wouldn't deny any longer that she was romantically interested in him. 

"I feel the same way, but your little ones deserve a stable and secure relationship with their father. I don't want to get in the way of that. So, I won't come into your room like this again. No more kisses like this," he said. He placed a soft peck on her lips. "No more touching like this." He reached his hand up her thighs and squeezed. She groaned softly, moving her legs slightly apart. He removed his hand and put it at his side. 

Lissa bit her bottom lip. She touched his chest and squeezed. He grunted. He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it. "No more of that either," he scolded her. She smiled cheekily at him. She hugged him throwing her arms around his neck. She kissed him softly, savoring the warmth of his body. I could fall for him, she thought to herself. Haven't you already? Lissa filled her eyes with the sight of him.

Ryan kissed her brow. He sat up while she still hugged him. He placed his hands on her arms and took them from around his neck. 

I have to let her go, he reminded himself. He clasped her hands and kissed them. Ryan looked at her one last time and stood up. He walked to the door. She looked at him. He blew her a kiss and stepped outside, quietly closing the door behind him.

Lissa lay back feeling dejected, but she didn't cry. She would see him again, however, they would just be friends. He deserved a good girl. She hoped he would find her soon. 

Ryan walked into the kitchen to see Jordan and Lissa's parents laughing about something. He leaned on the door and watched them. He was glad they were getting along. He cleared his throat. 

Jordan looked up and smiled at him. "We were waiting for you," he said giving him the 'I know what you were doing look'.

Ryan nodded and smiled at him. "Ready?" he asked him. Jordan nodded. He would be staying in the family's guest room to make sure he had eyes on Lissa 24/7. He was taking him home to pack some clothes and other things he needed including weapons. Jordan stood up. Marcus extended his hand for a handshake. Jordan took it and gave him a firm one. 

Ryan was turning to leave when Marcus called to him. He turned around. "I need to talk to you," he said. Ryan looked at Jordan. "I'll wait in the car," Jordan said. Ryan threw the car keys to him. Jordan caught them and turned to leave. "I'll walk you to the door," Sandra said. Jordan smiled at her and walked with her to the front door. 

Marcus came forward and stood before Ryan. "Thank you for what you're doing. Other men seeing my daughter in her vulnerable situation would take advantage. I respect you for this move," he said. He extended his hand with a rectangular piece of paper in it. Ryan looked at it. "Take it," Marcus said. 

He took it from his hand and opened it. It was a cheque for $100,000. Ryan shook his head and tried to hand it back to Marcus. "I told you, I would guard her for free," Ryan said. Marcus nodded. "I know you said that, but this is my way of saying thank you, not just for guarding her physically, but for guarding her heart. You've said you guys kissed. Was that all?"

Ryan felt awkward but answered, "I may have touched her places, but nothing more," he said looking out the window behind Marcus. He sighed. "She belongs to Sarge," Ryan said sounding frustrated.

Marcus shook his head. "No," he answered, "She belongs to herself first. Only she can make the decision about who her heart belongs to. Lissa has the final say. Whatever she decides I will support her. I however respect you for backing off."

"She's pregnant. If she wasn't, it would be another story," he said looking in Marcus' eyes.

"You would fight for her?"

"Yes," he told him. Marcus reached out and touched his shoulder. "I respect you. You're a decent young man. I too wish the situation was different." He patted his shoulder. "Still take this money and do whatever you wish with it." 

Ryan looked at the cheque in his hand. Marcus squeezed his shoulder. Ryan nodded. He turned to leave. Marcus grabbed Ryan's hand and shook it. He walked with him to the door and closed it behind him.

Sandra smiled at her husband. "That's a rare gem right there," Sandra said to him. "Who Ryan?" he asked. She nodded. She squeezed her husband's arm and went into the kitchen.

Marcus turned his head to his left. "You're in love with him," he said to the foyer. "I know you're there."

Lissa descended the stairs. 

"How did you know I was here?" She came downstairs and stood before him, her countenance sad.

"I know you. When we were at the hotel I saw the way you looked at him. That was the way you used to look at Derrick. You like Shane and maybe you do love him, but you're not in love with him." 

"Daddy, what do I do?" Lissa asked, her eyes tearing up.

"It would be easy if you weren't pregnant," he answered. "I like both men, but I have a preference for Ryan." He hugged his daughter. "Unfortunately, I can't make the decision for you. And of course, you are pregnant for Shane. It would be best to make your relationship with him work." He sighed.

"It's good Ryan walked away. He's proven more noble than Shane, who started a relationship with you before you and Derrick even officially broke up." He sighed again. He was tired. 

He stepped back from embracing her. "At the end of the day, all actions have consequences," he said looking into her eyes, "and we all have to live with our own and sometimes others." He squeezed her arm and walked away from her. Lissa leaned against the wall. Those last words hit her hard. 

She climbed the stairs slowly. She picked up her phone from the bed and dialed Shane's number, but he didn't answer. She called via WhatsApp but he wasn't available. She slumped down on the bed. She wanted to call Ryan but she had to respect him and respect the situation. She didn't want to hurt him. She dialed her friend's number. She would go to her. She listened as Prudence's phone rang. 

"Hey girl what's up?! Long time I haven't heard from you!" Prudence answered cheerily.

"Hey girl," Lissa felt better. 

"So what's up?" her long time friend asked.

"About that staycation in the Gordon Town hills?" she asked

Prudence screamed happily. "You finally ready?"

"Yes girl! Yes!" she replied trying to hype herself up. "Can you come for me around 6:30 tomorrow morning?" Jordan will report to work at 8 am tomorrow I need to leave before he gets here, she thought to herself.

"Suh early? It'll be Sunday. I have church. Why not later?" her friend asked perplexed.

"Girl, I need a break!" she told her.

"Okay, okay, we can make it work. Will do," Prudence replied.

Okay, I'll meet you at the intersection of my road and Garfield Avenue, okay?" 

"Okay," Prudence sounded unsure but asked no questions.

Lissa smiled. "Okay, talk later,"

"Okay hun," her friend said hanging up.

She would tell her she was pregnant when she met her but nothing more. Of all her friends Prudence was more understanding. She went into her closet, took out her duffle bag and a wheeled suitcase. She would spend her remaining vacation week with her. 

She was gonna turn off her phone. She just needed some peace. Matter of fact, let me turn it off now, till tomorrow. She squeezed her phone's power button and selected the option to 'power off'. She placed it on the night table.

No scolding words from her mom and dad. No judgmental looks from Jordan. No more tender promises from Shane with no action. 

The only person she would miss was Ryan and she needed to be away from him. He made her feel topsy turvy. She needed to clear her head. She needed to say something to him, like a good bye letter, but audio form. She turned on her phone.

She would send him a voicenote: 

"Hey, I just want you to know that I enjoyed spending time with you yesterday," she said. Her voice was light, airy and sensual. She wanted him to know she was thinking about him. "It was brief but you've shown me something different. I'm sorry for how things turned out, but I will remember your kindness," she bit her bottom lip, "and your soft lips. And your strong hands holding me." 

She released a faint breath on the phone. "I wish you could hold me right now and help me to forget this pain I'm feeling. I never meant to hurt my family with this situation. My dad said something to me tonight ..." She tried not to cry but her voice broke. 

"Um ... Thank you for everything Ryan. I-I care about you. Take care of yourself. So, I will see you, when I see you." She sent the recording and turned off her phone. She placed it in her duffle bag. She dropped the phone charger in the bag also.

She wrote a mini letter to her parents on a piece of notepad paper, telling them she was staying with a friend and she would call them in the middle of the week. And, "You're right daddy, every action has a consequence not just for me, but you guys. I love you. I'm sorry. I'm taking some time to think. I love you." She placed it on her night table. She took a shower and went to bed. She closed her eyes.

***

Shane saw a missed call from Constable Campbell and two missed calls from Lissa. He called Dana back. He would call Lissa a little later. Dana answered. "Sarge you need to see the video I sent you. Check the video." She hung up.

Shane played the video and fury rose up in him. Some guy grabbed Lissa and pushed her limp body in a black car, then there was another clip of two other men taking her from the same car. It was like a scene out of a movie. He stopped the video. It was three minutes long. It was posted on a social media site. He called Dana back. "Talk to me," he said.

"Miss Dixon is fine," Dana answered. "The two men who took her from the SUV were actually Corporal Stewart and another man. I don't know who the other guy is. I also heard from Sarge Reynolds that Miss Dixon's dad asked High Command to put Corporal Stewart as a guard for her. They agreed but he declined. However, after much coaxing he agreed to help."

Shane felt his heart pound. He was glad Corporal Stewart agreed. He would thank him personally, because he was leaving. He was going home. "Dana, I got to go now," he said. 

"Okay Sarge, all the best." she answered.

"Thank you," he said then ended the call. 

He dialed Lissa's number twice, but she wasn't answering. He sighed. He looked at the various airline schedules to find one suitable. He needed a flight to go home ASAP.  He found one. He could be in the air the earliest 11 a.m. tomorrow morning. He booked the flight. 

"I'm coming baby, I'm sorry." He packed his bags.

______________

*bammy - a local pastry made from sweet cassava that is grated and baked into dried, round 'cake', which can be fried or steamed.

*festival - a local delicacy that is a type of dumpling made from flour and cornmeal, and is fried to a crispy crust and soft flavorful interior.

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