The Bodyguard (GxG)

Drawing the line

Mia stood in  Langston's expansive study, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. The room, with its dark wood paneling and rows of leather-bound books, felt imposing, especially under Robert's intense gaze. This was not a conversation she had expected to have when she took on the job, but here she was, facing Emily's father with a mixture of professionalism and unease.

Robert motioned for her to sit, but Mia remained standing, wanting to keep this exchange as brief and direct as possible. He leaned back in his chair, studying her with a discerning eye.

"I've been made aware of certain developments between you and my daughter, Mia," he began, his voice calm but carrying the weight of his authority. "Emily has told me about her feelings for you."

Mia felt a knot tighten in her stomach, but she kept her expression neutral. She had been prepared for this, knowing that Emily's impulsiveness might lead to this very moment. "Yes, sir, I'm aware."

Robert paused, choosing his words carefully. "I'm sure you can understand my concern. Emily is... spirited, and she often acts on impulse. But she is my daughter, and I care deeply about her. I need to know where you stand in all of this."

Mia took a deep breath, meeting Robert's gaze directly. "Mr. Langston, I want to be clear: I don't have any romantic feelings for Emily. I respect her, and I care about her well-being, but my role here is strictly professional. My job is to protect her, and that's where my focus is."

Robert seemed to weigh her words, his eyes narrowing slightly as he gauged her sincerity. "And how does Emily feel about your... position on this?"

Mia hesitated for a moment, thinking back to her conversation with Emily. "Emily understands where I stand, even if it's not what she wants to hear. She's a strong person, and I believe she'll come to terms with it in time. But I want you to know that I will not let this situation interfere with my duties."

Robert nodded slowly, seeming to relax just a fraction. "I appreciate your honesty, Mia. This situation is... delicate, to say the least. Emily is not used to being told 'no,' and I can see how this could complicate things."

"I understand, sir," Mia said firmly. "But I want to assure you that I'm here to do my job, and I'll handle this with the utmost professionalism. My priority is Emily's safety and well-being."

Robert  studied her for another long moment before finally nodding. "I believe you, Mia. And I'm counting on you to help navigate this situation. Emily may be disappointed, but she needs someone to keep her grounded, especially now."

Mia felt a wave of relief, though she remained outwardly composed. "Thank you, Mr. Langston. I won't let you down."

Robert stood, signaling the end of the conversation. "I trust that you won't. And Mia, if things become too complicated, I need you to let me know immediately. Emily's happiness and safety are paramount."

"Of course, sir," Mia replied, finally allowing herself to relax a bit. "I'll keep you informed."

With a final nod, Robert extended his hand, and Mia shook it, feeling the weight of the responsibility on her shoulders. As she left the study, she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—relief that she had navigated the conversation successfully, and a lingering unease about what might come next.

Emily's feelings were real, and that made the situation far more complicated than Mia would have liked. But she had drawn the line, and now all she could do was hope that Emily would accept it—and that her job wouldn't become even more difficult as a result.