Ellen stood outside, breathing in the fresh air for what felt like the first time in days. After the break-in, Mason made it clear she had to stay inside. He was protective—overly so, sometimes—but after everything that had happened, she understood. She was grateful he had finally agreed to let her step outside today, though not without a bodyguard at her side.
Two guys in dark suits stood by her, close enough to be seen but far enough to let her breathe. It made her feel a bit like some fragile object being escorted around, and she wasn't sure if that comforted her or made her more anxious. It felt suffocating, but she knew it was necessary. Mason had insisted on the security detail, and Ellen couldn't blame him. He was scared, just like she was.
