Page 35

I’d stayed engrossed with what Rian and his team discussed yesterday.

As we worked through scenarios and more, I made sure to contribute, but I was already at work, tracing Clay.

I was able to multitask. I knew some people couldn’t.

I loved teasing my brothers that they couldn’t do it because they were men.

I didn’t know if there was any truth to it, but most men I’d met couldn’t seem to do it effectively.

I’d worked on the plane on DeSantis’s business, so when we arrived in Aspen, I could start on Rian’s.

We didn’t end the meeting until it was dinner time.

We split to have our various dinners, but Rian asked if everyone would be available to have one together tonight.

We were planning to leave on Saturday, though I told him I was okay with him delaying until Sunday if he needed to.

Malone and Court went to dinner together. Monty had other plans, so Rian and I were left alone. He suggested we relax and have room service, and I didn’t argue. Therefore, Reign was released to relax and enjoy his evening.

When Rian opened the door to our room, I discovered it was a massive luxury suite—bigger than my apartment by far. It had three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large living room, a kitchen and dining room combo, and a laundry room.

I told Rian it was too much, but he insisted it came in handy when more than one family member came.

I was trying to understand how he lived part of his life compared to mine.

We seemed very similar and on the same wavelength when it was just us.

Then we’d go somewhere, or I’d see news or a magazine article about them.

Or spotted the paparazzi and sometimes ordinary people who waited to get glimpses of them.

After a fabulous dinner, he let me work for another hour or so before he demanded I break for the night. Ultimately, we made love until we were both too worn out to do more than sleep.

Well, that was yesterday. Today, I was headed to see the local bail bonds agency that issued the bond to get Clay out of jail.

Initially, I thought it was a high amount the judge hit him with-twenty thousand dollars.

I discovered why before shutting down last night.

It seemed that Clay wasn’t unknown to the police or the court.

He’d had past run-ins that resulted in his arrest for various misdemeanors over the last eighteen months.

There was disorderly conduct, reckless driving, invasion of privacy, property damage, and trespassing.

Since he seemed to have a repeating pattern, the judge determined he required a more significant bail to hopefully teach him a lesson.

I hated to say it, but from what I’ve already found, I didn’t see it changing Clay.

I convinced Rian to stay at the Chalet and work while I visited the agency.

He was too recognizable, which might have made them reluctant to open up.

He wasn’t thrilled, but he agreed after I allowed him to send Reign with me.

I argued that he needed to protect Rian, but I lost the argument.

Rian assured me he could more than care for himself, and he had no plans to leave the hotel or even the floor where the offices were. After a short debate, I gave in.

Reign was dressed as casually as I was. We drove Rian’s four-wheel drive. I expected it to be a luxury vehicle, but it was a regular Jeep, even though it was the top-end model. Reign and I talked as we made our way there.

“I’m sorry that you got forced to come with me. I know you’d rather stay and watch over Rian. I’ll make this as quick as possible,” I promised him.

“Gianna, no need to apologize. I’m perfectly fine coming with you.

And don’t hold it against me. Even though I’ve heard how capable you are, I wouldn’t be comfortable with you doing this alone.

And when Rian gives his word, he sticks to it.

He’ll be fine if he doesn’t wander the resort or go outside.

And don’t tell him this: even if he did leave, he’s more than capable of caring for himself.

Shh, don’t tell anyone that, or I might be out of a job,” he pseudo-whispered.

I chuckled. “Your secret is safe with me. I’d hate to make you unemployed, though I doubt that would happen. I can’t imagine how hard it is to keep track of one of them and ensure they don’t go off alone. I couldn’t do your job. If it helps, this should be the only time you have to come with me.”

He gave me a contemplative look before he answered. “I’m Rian’s main bodyguard, so we’ll see each other often. And when your bodyguard joins us, we’ll work together to ensure you’re both safe. That means you’ll have two of us whenever you’re together.”

My mouth dropped. It took me a few moments to respond. “Wait, what? I don’t need a bodyguard.”

“Why not?”

“Because I’m not one of them, an O’Sheeran. They’re the ones who could be kidnapped and held for ransom at any time.”

“True, but you’re Rian’s woman. What about when you two marry? Do you think you’ll go without one?”

“I would probably get one, though I can take care of myself.”

“Not being married doesn’t change it. You’re at risk due to the mere fact that you’re tied to Rian.

And anyone could use you against him. If you think he wouldn’t pay a king’s ransom or burn down the world to get you back and make you safe, no matter whether you’re married or not, then you don’t know him or his family.

You’re his soulmate. That makes you family, period.

I’m kinda surprised he hasn’t gotten one glued to you already. ”

Reign let me ponder that for a while as he navigated the traffic.

The main roads were clear of snow and ice, but I bet it was hell when they weren’t.

There seemed to be a decent amount of traffic.

Ten minutes later, we arrived at our destination.

Before we exited the car, I touched his arm to get Reign’s attention.

“I’m still getting used to how things are different with this family. I wasn’t thinking. Thank you.”

“There’s no need to thank me. Just know you’re as important as any of them, which means the other guards, enforcers, and I will protect you, no matter what. Are you ready to do this?” he asked.

“I’m ready.”

I waited for him to get out and open my door.

He’d reviewed the rules with me before we left after I explained how we’d account for his presence.

I was so thankful as I stepped out that I’d gotten more weather-appropriate clothes in the boutique at the resort this morning.

I tried to refuse, but Rian insisted. My coat, gloves, scarf, and boots kept me feeling toasty warm.

I was a native Floridian. Weather this cold wasn’t something I dealt with or liked.

Sitting inside and looking at the beautiful snow while sipping hot chocolate and sitting in front of a roaring fire, I could do it.

Reign covered me from behind until we reached the door, which he opened and edged inside.

I saw him do a quick scan, and then he waved me inside once he saw it was clear, which it should be.

I wanted to chuckle, but I didn’t. Entering, I saw a woman at a counter, and behind her were offices with glass walls.

She flashed us a practiced smile, though when she saw Reign, her smile grew more prominent, and she sat straighter.

“Good morning. I’m Gayle. How may I help you?” she asked.

“Hello, Gayle. My name is Gianna. Would any of your bondsmen happen to be here? I’d like to say hello and tell them I’m in town,” I said sweetly.

“In town?” she asked hesitantly.

“Yes, it’s customary when another bail bondsman or bounty hunter is in town to contact a local agency,” I explained.

“Uhm, I guess so. If you’ll have a seat, I’ll see if anyone is available,” Gayle said.

“I’d appreciate that. Thank you.”

Reign and I found two chairs that gave us a view of the entire reception area, the front door, and partially down a hallway.

“She had no idea what you meant,” he whispered.

“I know. Either they’ve never had anyone do it, or she’s new. Papà always does it to prevent stepping on toes and to help out fellow bondsmen and hunters. We have those who do the same when they come into Hastings or nearby.”

“Speaking of Hastings, I assume you’ll still work after you and Rian are married. Will you commute there every day?”

“I do plan to work. As for marrying, that’s down the road, but we’re expanding the office, and Papà chose St. Augustine for the second location.

Before Rian and I got together, I told him I wanted to remain in Hastings, but I’m glad you mentioned it.

I’ll have to see if I can change it. I’ll make the drive if I have to, but it would be nice not to.

But it leaves me further away from my best friend, Aurora,” I said, pondering it.

“Why would that be an issue?”

I explained her pregnancy and her status as a single mother.

He scowled and grumbled when I was finished.

“Someone should whip his ass and teach him how to be a real man and take responsibility. Who tells their woman to abort their baby to keep him? Loser. She did the right thing getting rid of his stupid ass.”

“She did. I never liked him. And while a beating would be fun, he’ll suffer longer when I’m done with him.”

Reign perked up at my remark and evil grin, but he couldn’t ask for details because Gayle chose that moment to return and walk over to us.

“Thank you for waiting. Mr. Egan can see you for a few minutes.”

We rose to our feet and followed her down the hall. At the end, there was an open door. She paused and knocked before continuing inside. Reign and I were behind her. Once we were in there, she made a brief statement.

“Mr. Egan, they’re here. Let me know if I can get you anything.”

“Thanks, Gayle. Make sure to ring me when my appointment gets here,” Egan said as he rose.