The Bodyguard

chapter 4

As the plane commenced its descent, Alexander roused from sleep and gently woke me.

"We're about to land," he whispered into my ear as best he could with my head still on his shoulder.

My eyes fluttered open, and upon realizing my position, I swiftly sat up, a blush coloring my cheeks. Amused by my reaction, Alexander couldn't help but laugh, finding it rather endearing.

Upon landing and collecting our bags, Alexander guides me to his car, patiently parked during his absence.

"It's a bit of a drive, and my car has been sitting for about a while. I might need to jump it with this battery pack. Just give me a few minutes, and we'll head out," he explained, glancing at me. I simply nodded and smiled.

Once the car was ready, we both entered, embarking on our drive. After a while, Alexander pulled up to a house. I gazed at the sight – a picturesque country house with a porch that wrapped around the entire structure and expansive land. In view were cornfields, a chicken coop, and a barn. Excitement filled me; I had always held a fondness for farms.

As he drove into the driveway, Alexander spotted his mother and father relaxing on the porch, sipping lemonade. They both stood to welcome him, and he smiled at them, playfully giving them a one-second finger before hurrying to open my door. I looked at him nervously.

"Don't worry, they'll love you. Just take my hand," he reassured with a smile. I couldn't help but admire his features, nodding and accepting his hand.

Approaching the porch, they could see the surprise on both of his parents' faces as Alexander greeted them warmly.

"Mother, father, this is Hannah," he introduced.

"Oh my goodness! Is this your girlfriend? How come you never mentioned her before?" his mother inquired.

"I wanted you to meet her in person," he explained.

"Well, Hannah, it's so very nice to meet you," she exclaimed, pulling me into a warm hug. The gesture initially surprised me, but after a moment, I gladly reciprocated.

"We're glad you're home, son. How long will you be home for?" his father asked.

"I'm not sure just yet. Hopefully, I can be home for some time," he replied.

"Well, we're glad you're here, and we're glad you brought your girlfriend. Let's go get your things in your room. Oh! I better figure out something for dinner," Mrs. Mathews began to ramble.

"Let's just eat out tonight, Mother. We can plan a big dinner later this week," he suggested as Mr. Mathews helped retrieve the bags from the car.

"Good idea! We can have the whole family over and introduce Hannah to everyone. Come on, let me show you around, dear," she said with a sly smile, swiftly pulling me into the house before her son could object to having the whole family over.

She guides me through the house, arriving at her son's room. The space was expansive, featuring a queen-size bed, a loveseat, a TV, and even its own bathroom.

"You'll be sharing this room with Alexander. Why don't you freshen up for dinner while I get the boys ready," she suggested, closing the door behind her.

Once alone, Alexander entered the room and glanced at me, sighing heavily.

"My apologies for my mother; she tends to be quite animated," he confesses with a resigned sigh.

Understanding the necessity for assistance, I respond with a light chuckle.

As he gazes at me, a warm smile graces his face.

"Indeed, and I appreciate your help," he acknowledges with gratitude.

With a touch of apprehension, I shift the focus, inquiring about post-trial plans: "Thank you for keeping me safe. What's the plan afterward?"

In a gentle tone, he reassures me, "You'll receive a new identity and a secure place to stay."

"I see. Well, it might be a good idea for us to proceed; we wouldn't want to keep your parents waiting," I suggest, deftly redirecting the conversation with a sense of urgency.