The Bodyguard

Chapter 11 - The Ferris wheel

or because you're in love with my daughter?

My father fixes his steady gaze on Warren, whose facial expression is impossible to read

I...

Before anyone can comment, my father lets out a loud, booming laugh

it was just a joke, son!

Dad, really?

what? He's so serious all the time, I wanted to see if I could get him to crack a smile

My mother rolls her eyes, and the tension in the room seems to relax

So, Warren

Yes, sir?

Tell me a little about yourself? How did you become  my daughter's bodyguard?

I watch with interest as Warren talks to my father

He seems so at ease

While my father and Warren are talking, Hannah whispers into my ear

it seems like your dad hit the nail on the head

He's not in love with me. He couldn't be

Are you blind? This man is in love with you, Kiara

Warren chooses that moment to glance over  at me. Clearly sensing my anxiety, he catches my eyes with a curious expression as if to ask if I'm okay. I give him a shy smile and nod, tucking my hair behind my ear. His lips part in response, and he quickly looks away. I think back to everything he's said and done since we've started this crazy journey together

if he is, I'm happy.....because I feel the same way! And that sexual tension between us surely isn't helping...

Hannah smiles at me

sometimes, you need to let go and give yourself permission to experience things. Don't you agree, Kiara?

Are you sure you don't need anything? I can bring up a glass of water, maybe some tea?

Mom- - -

What about more blankets. Don't forget it gets a little colder at night

seriously, mom - -

Are you two using protection?

Mom!

I just want to make sure you're being safe!

I'm not a teenager, for crying out loud!

Warren coughs out a laugh from behind me

You can never be too careful

please leave

I put my hands on her shoulders and start ushering her towards the door

it's completely natural -

Goodbye, mom!

I shut the door and then lean my forehead against it. Warren can't seem to hold in his laughter any longer. He let's out a loud guffaw, I turned to glare at him

That isn't funny! I don't remember them being so humiliating

it wasn't that bad. She's just looking out for you. Personally, I think it's sweet

Sweet?

she obviously cares about you. You have nice parents

please. I can't believe you're saying that after what my father pulled tonight

My cheeks burn at the memory. His lips press together into a firm line before he takes my hand and guides me over to the bed

I saw your face when he asked me that question