Guarding Her Heart | t.swift

Chapter 17: May's Melancholy

Taylor's schedule was relentless, and tonight was no exception with an award show to attend. The award show arrived with all the glamour and anticipation typical of such events. Taylor was impeccably dressed, her asymmetrical dress shimmering under the bright lights of the venue.

Tree Paine had meticulously arranged for Quincy to be right by the blonde's side, ensuring her safety amidst the frenzy of media and fans. Tree had insisted on Quin being by Taylor's side tonight, and Taylor had grown to appreciate the bodyguard's constant presence.

As she posed for photos and waved at fans, she felt a sense of calm knowing Quin was looking out for her, out of sight but not out of reach.

Quin stood at the venue's entrance, her sharp eyes never leaving Taylor. The bodyguard's imposing figure was a reassuring sight, and Taylor couldn't help but sneak a few glances in her direction as she made her way down the carpet.

Inside, the atmosphere was electric with the mingling of stars and the anticipation of the night's awards. Taylor moved through the crowd gracefully, greeting friends and acquaintances. The singer mingled with other stars, flashing her radiant smile while Quin maintained a respectable distance, always vigilant.

As Taylor navigated the sea of celebrities, she spotted Ariana Grande and immediately lit up with delight. "Ari!" she exclaimed, embracing her friend warmly.

Ariana returned the hug with equal enthusiasm. "Taylor! It's so good to see you." She then turned to Quin, offering a quick smile. "Hey, Quin." She shuffled over for a quick side hug. "Good to see you too."

Quincy acknowledged Ariana with a nod and a brief smile, the hug returned swiftly while maintaining her professional demeanour. "Good to see you, Miss Grande." She refrained from engaging too much to maintain her focus.

The quick hug had the blonde singer stunned and a bit speechless. However, she was curious and wanted to seize the opportunity to learn more about her enigmatic bodyguard.

As the two friends chatted, Taylor's curiosity got the best of her. "Ari, what do you know about Quincy? Anything interesting?"

Ariana chuckled softly. "Quin? She's great. She can be a bit intense, but she's incredibly dedicated to her job. She's just great." The short woman's face lit with admiration. "She has a real passion for protecting people. I've always felt safe with her around."

Taylor nodded thoughtfully, feeling a mix of satisfaction and frustration. While she appreciated Ariana's kind words, she yearned to uncover more about the woman who was always by her side. Yet, Ariana's remarks only reinforced Taylor's growing belief that Quincy harboured a soft heart behind her hard exterior.

As the time approached to take their seats, Quin approached Taylor, her expression slightly softer than usual. She had finally mustered enough courage to voice the compliment her mother had always encouraged her to give. "You look stunning tonight," she said, her voice carrying the weight of sincerity.

Taylor was taken aback but smiled warmly. "Thanks, Quincy. Are you easing up on the professionalism?"

Quincy shook her head, a hint of a smile playing at her lips. "No, Miss Swift. I was taught to voice any complaints I might have."

For a brief moment, Taylor saw a flash of sadness in Quincy's guarded green eyes-the same sadness she had noticed the night her mother invited Quincy to join them for dinner. It was a glimpse into the emotional weight Quincy carried, a reminder of the vulnerability she so carefully concealed. It was a fleeting moment, quickly masked by Quin's professional demeanour.

Quincy, sensing the moment's vulnerability, quickly reverted to her professional self. "Shall we?" she gestured towards their seats, swiftly guiding Taylor before she could delve deeper into that flicker of vulnerability.