Her Guardians Lost(71)

As we neared the flat, Simeon started tickling me. “Stop, stop!” I shouted.

“See, this is what you get for taking the mick.”

I could hardly breathe through my laughing. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry!”

Then the playfulness came to an abrupt halt when we spied Paul standing outside my flat. He didn’t look happy.

“Paul, what’s wrong?” I asked, walking up the steps.

He looked at both of us as if he was sorry he interrupted. “Can I come in?”

“Of course.”

Fishing my keys out as quickly as possible, I unlocked the door. I turned on all the lights, placed Mr. Wigglesby on my nightstand, and hung my bag up. Simeon dropped the chips on the dining table and the smell hit me again. I had to close my eyes and try to hold it together. The need to rip open that bag and gorge right now was taking over.

“Would you like a drink?” I knew he would say no, but I thought I’d be polite. Paul was in uniform and standing stiffly, so this wasn’t a social visit.

“No, I’m fine, but thank you. I’ve only come for a quick visit, then I must head back. I can see you’re about to eat anyway.”

Simeon sat down on my sofa and looked up at Paul. “What’s happened?”

“It’s Daniel.”

My heart immediately sank. I had to sit next to Simeon. As if on instinct, he took my hand.

“A couple hours ago, he was attacked in his cell. I haven’t gotten the full details yet, but it doesn’t look good.”

I didn’t realise I was squeezing Simeon’s hand until he moved his a little. I instantly released my grip and offered him an apologetic smile, turning my attention back to Paul. “What happened?”

Paul gripped his belt and sighed heavily. “It would seem he hasn’t made many friends in prison. They all know he is an ex-police officer. In a nutshell, he was stabbed in the stomach five times. They’re not sure how serious it is yet. I’m still waiting on the news. Suffice it to say, the court case will be postponed. I wanted to tell you both as soon as I could.”

I released a breath I had been holding, but it wasn’t in relief. It was in shock. I certainly wasn’t expecting that.

Simeon held his hand out to him. “We appreciate you telling us.”

Paul smiled and shook his hand. “No problem at all. I’ll let you know what happens.” His smile faded once he saw my face. “Are you okay, Cassie?”

“Me? I’m fine. I just wasn’t expecting it.”

“Well, if anything, it will give you some breathing space. I suppose it will be a while until another court date can be arranged. Just relax and enjoy Christmas. Let’s see what the new year will bring.”

I had to smile. Despite his rough edges, Paul had a heart of gold. I did the only thing I could think of to do. Rising out of my seat, I gave Paul a hug. “Thank you for taking the time to come round and see us.”

Blushing, he pulled back slightly, clearing his throat. “That’s fine. Don’t mention it.” He paused for a moment. “Well, I shall leave you to your dinner. To be honest, this sight of those chips is making me hungry,” he laughed. “Take care and I’ll see you next week?”

I nodded. “Yes. I have a doctor appointment tomorrow morning and if he gives me the okay, I’ll be back on Monday.”

“Good. I’ll see you then.”

“You bet!” Opening the door, I watched as Paul left, then went back to the task at hand. The chips!

Simeon was opening the bag with a smile, shaking his head. “What’s that smile for?”

“I feel a little sorry for Paul, that’s all.”

“What do you mean?”

“Oh, come on, Cassie. You can’t be that blind. The poor boy didn’t know what to do with himself when you gave him that hug.”

“He knows I don’t feel that way about him.”

Simeon popped a chip in his mouth. Walking over, I sat down and did the same. It was heavenly.

“I know, but that doesn’t stop him from feeling it. Cassie, you have to remember that although your heart and mind are set on one, the hearts and minds of others will still yearn from afar. Despite the fact you’ve kept your angel qualities—which will set them off in itself—you have an air of purity, vulnerability, and even strength about you. Does that make sense?”

It did. My silly grin told him as much. It was then that I realised something. I didn’t know that much about Simeon. He seemed to know me from the inside out, but he never seemed to speak much about himself.

“Did you ever…?” I rolled my eyes, finding it hard to get the words out. “You know…mate with anyone back home?”