The Protector (Barrett Boys #3) - Jordan Ford Page 0,21

his eyes are on me, like he’s daring me to argue back.

I don’t fall for it.

I don’t even have a chance, because Ruby storms into the room.

“I should be getting this one!” She points at Brody, then shoots him a demure smile when he turns her way.

Ugh.

Jutting out your hip like that? Come on, Ruby!

Her long nails clink against the jeweled belt that drapes around her toned ass.

I roll my eyes and look to the ceiling.

“He’s young, strong, completely capable of looking after me. Why should Indigo get him when I’m the one who’s in the most danger?”

“Ruby.” Daddy raises his hands like two white flags. “We’ve talked about this. I’m putting the best man on the job for you. Someone with lots of experience.”

“But this guy’s good. You were just going on about it. Why do you always put Indigo ahead of me? I may not be your daughter by blood, but I live in your house. You’re in love with my mother. You should be treating me better than this. You act like I’m some second-rate citizen who just happens to live in the same house! I’m so over this.” Her voice pitches, her chin trembling as she turns on the waterworks. “I’m the one who is in serious danger. Do you have any idea how scary this is? A stalker is after me! He wants to bury himself with me, and you’re just acting like it’s all about Indigo! It’s always all about Indigo!” Her tears evaporate, venom dripping into her tone as she fires a caustic look my way.

I ignore it, keeping my stare on the wall just past Brody’s shoulder.

I catch his cringe out of the corner of my eye and have to bite my lips together to hide my smile. Azim obviously didn’t warn him about “the Ruby factor.”

“Ruby, you need to calm down.” Daddy’s voice is soft and unimpressed. “I care about your welfare just as much as Indigo’s. That’s why I’ve got Burk assigned to you. He’s one of our best.”

“I want Brody.” She pouts, then puts her flirty face on.

Careful, Ruby. You’re breaking character.

As if she heard my silent warning, she pings straight again and turns to my father. “Burk should go with Indigo. He’s already been to that little town. He knows it. He’s the better choice. He can take much better care of Indigo, and Brody can take care of me.” She looks at the new bodyguard.

Did she…?

Ugh! Fluttering her eyelids. A little bit of puke just came up my throat.

“Well, he is the more experienced one,” Daddy murmurs.

My heart leaps into my throat, nearly choking me.

No! This can’t happen!

Burk’s like in his thirties. There’s no way he could pass as a college student. He’ll act like a bodyguard. He’s too stiff and well trained. There’s no way he’d look as casual and relaxed in jeans and a shirt like Brody is right now.

I need Brody!

Azim found him especially for me. I dart a desperate look at our head of security.

Help me!

Azim catches my eye and steps forward.

“Mr. Shaw, sir, if you don’t mind me saying, I think Brody will be a better fit for this assignment. I understand Ruby’s concerns for Indigo’s welfare.”

I scoff and quickly turn my body, hoping Ruby didn’t notice.

I’m pretty sure she did.

I can feel her laser gaze burning two holes in the back of my head right now.

Azim keeps talking. “I specifically chose Brody for this role. I wouldn’t have done that if I thought he wasn’t perfect for this job.”

Daddy looks sideways at me, and I give him a stiff smile.

“But, as was said only moments ago, this stalker could have his eyes on Ruby, and if that’s the case, then Burk is the better one to watch her. This small town of Fitzroy will be safe within itself. No one knows she’s attending college there. We’ve kept everything under the radar, as we discussed would be the better option. Brody will drive her up there under the cover of darkness if he must. This solution is infallible.”

I hold my breath, wondering if Daddy will buy it and not question my real motives.

I’m pretty sure he’ll be downright pissed if he knows I’m heading to college with absolutely no intention of using his name or associating myself with this family at all.

Wait a second. That gives me an idea.

I step forward, hoping my expression is innocent. “Azim’s right. Fitzroy is a small town, miles from Hollywood, and people might not even know