When I’m just inside the door, I feel Forrest’s body so close, though not touching me. It’s like he would put his hand on my lower back if he was allowed but is close enough that it gives me the same calming feeling.

At the end of the room, Felisha is standing with Flynn’s arm around her waist. Next to them is Sandon, and on the other side of the table is Rem and then a man who I am assuming is Ashton Taylor. His American accent gives it away as he talks to Rem.

Assessing him as I walk toward the group, I can tell he is ex-military and in the security business. His stance, with legs rigid and feet slightly apart, shoulders broad, arms crossed over his chest, and his eyes are scanning the room while he is still invested in the conversation with the people near him.

Not hesitating, I walk straight up to him and stick my hand out to greet him. “Hello, Ashton, I presume. I’m Harper Williams. Pleased to meet you, but I just wish it was under different circumstances where my life is not in danger, but anyway, I do appreciate you looking out for me and flying all this way to help me out.” I let go of his hand quickly as he laughs at me, and Forrest then steps from behind me.

“Forrest Taylor, Harper’s friend and the man she lives with.” It’s almost like he is asserting his claim on me in front of Ashton. I have to say, this man constantly surprises me.

“As her roommate,” Felisha pipes up and smiles at me to let me know she’s got me.

“Great to meet you both. I’ve just been meeting your other friends and security team. I must say, I’m happy with the resources you have around you. It makes my job a lot easier and means I can go back to the States without worrying about you alone over here. Not that I would have ever left you without protection, but I think you are well and truly covered with these guys.” His voice is deep and composed but also soft and full of kindness from what I can tell.

“Thank you. Please sit and we can talk about this whole debacle.” I motion for him to sit, but of course he won’t move until both Felisha and I are seated. Forrest pulls out a chair for me, and before anyone else has a chance to sit, he is seated right beside me.

“The floor is yours, Ashton.” Sandon addresses him, as I guess he is the one leading this meeting, being the initial contact that Ashton reached out to.