༻ 2 ༺

In the car, Felicity glanced over at Brody. “I don’t want to worry my dad unnecessarily. This could be nothing at all. Can we just… keep it between us for now?”

Brody nodded. “Of course. I understand.”

He shot her a quick glance, his gaze lingering for a moment before turning back to the road. Silence filled the space between them for a beat.

“Do you have any idea why someone might be following you?” he asked.

Felicity shook her head. “No, I can’t think of a reason. I’ve racked my brain—it’s probably nothing. Just a weird coincidence.”

“Still,” he said, his voice quiet but firm, “just to be safe, I’ll stay over for a few nights. Your dad’s mentioned before that I could crash at the guest house, but I never took him up on it. With him out of state, and this situation… I think I will. Just until we’re sure you’re not being watched.”

Felicity turned her eyes to the window. He was right. Her father would be gone for two weeks, and she'd be alone for at least the first. She’d been trying not to dwell on that. The idea of Brody staying over brought a small measure of relief.

“Thank you,” she said softly. “I appreciate it.”

They stopped to pick up a few potted plants—petunias included—to sell the cover story. Brody smirked slightly as he loaded them into the car, clearly amused by their shared lie.

“I need to swing by my place to pack a few things,” he said casually as they got back in the car.

Felicity nodded. “Sure.”

Brody’s house was smaller than she’d imagined, but neat and cozy. She followed him inside, quietly impressed by how tidy everything was. Everything had its place—no clutter, no chaos.

“You have a nice place,” she said.

“Thanks. Want something to drink?” He moved to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of juice.

“Water, please.”

He handed her a cold bottle. She sipped slowly, still taking in the room—soft lighting, clean surfaces, personal touches that gave the space warmth. When she looked back at him, he was leaning against the counter, drink in hand, watching her.

“I want to ask you something,” he said after a moment. “I know this might seem out of nowhere… but do you think it’s weird that I’m attracted to you?”

She blinked, caught completely off guard. Her cheeks flushed and she looked down, suddenly aware of her heartbeat.

Brody stepped in front of her, gently lifting her chin with his fingers. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable,” he said quietly. “But I’ve had this… growing attraction to you. It’s been building for a while now—ever since I started working for your dad. I’m not sure if it’s mutual.”

Felicity’s breath caught. The touch of his hand sent a jolt of something hot and unexpected through her. She wet her lips, unsure what to say, and his eyes followed the movement.

“You’re a handsome guy,” she said finally. “Any woman would be attracted to you. I’m no different.”

Brody’s voice lowered, turning rough around the edges. “I didn’t ask about any woman.”

He took a slow step closer, his breath brushing across her lips. “I asked what you think of me. Not as my boss’s daughter. Just… as Felicity.”

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