HIS Desire: An H.I.S. Novel (H.I.S. series Book 1) by Sheila Kell

they are.” He had to convince her that she needed his protection.
    She dropped into the chair with a deflated look about her. “No. I don’t believe it’s me he’s after. You really need to be with Reagan.”
    That was the second time she’d worried about his daughter, and he’d heard real concern in her voice both times. She hadn’t even met Reagan, and yet, she wanted to ensure her protection from this psycho. A chunk of ice broke off of his frozen heart.
    “My brothers are with her. She’s in great hands.”
    He sat on the couch. “Kate, you can agree or not, but I’m going to ensure you’re protected.”
    “I can take care of myself.”
    “Not enough, you’re injured. I’ve already added a team to watch over you.”
    She slowly took in a deep breath and exhaled. “Jesse, I appreciate your concern and the offer of protection, but I don’t want it. I don’t need it. All I need is this asshole caught.”
    “They’re going to be there whether you want them or not.”
    “Dammit, Jesse! Do you purposely try to piss me off?”
    He laughed. “No, but I like you when you’re angry at me.” He winked at her.
    Before she could argue, he stood. “I’m hungry. How about you? Let’s take our minds off of this and make some dinner.” He moved to the kitchen leaving her to process what he’d said.
    She joined him and didn’t say a word about his still being there as they prepared spaghetti with meat sauce together like a couple who had been with each other for years. It reminded him of the intimate times with his wife. If only he hadn’t taken that call. He mentally shook his head. He had to wash away those thoughts right now. He needed to focus on Kate’s safety.
    They chatted during dinner over safe topics like the Orioles and the upcoming Ravens’ season. They avoided any mention of her safety or his team.
    As they cleared the dishes, he remembered the gift he’d brought her. “Come into the living room with me.” He grabbed her good hand and tugged.
    She followed and accepted the box he handed her with a look of surprise on her face.
    “If you’re going to protect yourself, you’re going to need this.”
    She glanced at him nervously then opened the box. When she pulled out the gift, pleasure washed over her face. Was that how she’d look when she came? Damn his raging libido.
    “It’s a left-handed holster. I thought you might want to try shooting left-handed for a while.”
    “Jesse, this is so thoughtful. You didn’t have to do this, but thank you.”
    He cleared his throat. “You’re welcome. Maybe we can go to the range some time and let you practice.”
    She smiled softly. “I’d like that.”
    He needed to do something or he’d end up grabbing her and doing what he’d said he shouldn’t do. He had to protect her dammit, not carry her to the bedroom. “Why don’t we sit and watch a movie?”
    “We need to talk about your men first.”
    “There is no discussion. They stay. Now, let’s see what’s on TV.” He sat on the couch and patted the seat beside him. “Come on.”
    Steam radiated off of her. He grinned when she sat in the chair. He stretched out his legs and crossed them as he picked up the remote.
    Patience.
    * * * * *
    Kate yawned at the end of the movie. “It’s time I turned in.” She stood and stretched her arms above her head, inadvertently pushing her breasts out.
    Jesse’s mouth watered. “Okay, let’s turn in.”
    She froze. “Um, Jesse. I’m not going to sleep with you.”
    “So you’ve told me.” He grinned at her. “I guess now’s as good a time as any to tell you that until the Facilitator is captured, where you go, I go.”
    He waited for her explosive reaction.
    “That’s ridiculous, and you know it. You are not following me around.” She’d raised her voice and her left index finger poked his chest.
    He grabbed her finger. “Yes, I am. And, I’m staying here. With you.” Before she could shout at him again, he added, “My bag