A male voice cut through the air behind me. "Back off. Thane has made it clear he's not interested, Kaylen."
"Ms. Victoria," the voice went on, more softly now, "I've been assigned as your personal security. Try to act as if I'm not here."
I inhaled slowly, steadying myself.
Kayla's laughter appeared sharp. "Look at that, he sent you a bodyguard with one eye."
"That's enough, Kayla," I said, my voice rigid.
She crept closer, sneering. "I'll say whatever I want." The man grasped her arm, pulling her back.
"Consider this your only warning," he said evenly.
"Whatever," Kayla muttered, retreating down the hallway.
Once she was gone, I glanced up at him. "Don't worry about her. I'm used to bullies. What should I call you?"
"Pirate," he replied.
I looked at him, wondering if this was s
