Alexander Ranch

Chapter 10

Chapter 10

The door was answered by a man who looked like he must have been a butler. A butler! I was ushered into an office and, moments later, a man came in to greet me. The man looked so much like Jordan it was disturbing. Only this man was smiling, something Jordan apparently didn't do much.

"Lela, it's so nice to finally meet you," he said extending his hand.

"You must be Logan. It's a pleasure to meet you too," I said extending my hand automatically and returning his greeting. He engulfed my hand in his. He didn't shake my hand but covered it with the other with a warm gentle squeeze and released me.

It was distracting how much this man looked like Jordan. But, the happy eyes and care free manor immediately put me at ease. Also, at closer inspection, he looked a trifle more mature in some way. I couldn't say he looked older, but something about him was more mature. One thing that was not different was his devastatingly handsome features. Though, I didn't get that same jolt from looking at him that, I hated to admit, I got when looking at Jordan. Still, it was no hardship to look at him.

"I've heard so much about you. Daisy and Ethan can't stop talking about you."

They barely knew me. What could they possibly have to say? I didn't know what to say to that so I said nothing, just smiled. I noticed, however, he didn't include Jordan as one of those singing my praises.

"But, I'm sure you're wondering what this is all about," he continued. I nodded.

"Well, as you know the situation you stumbled upon Sunday is one that we have been monitoring for some time now. Ethan had been gathering information and ended up infiltrating the group we've been trying to track down. Unfortunately he was also found out or suspected of being a plant. He would have possibly been killed if it hadn't been for you hiking there when you were. Regrettably this has also likely put you in danger. The men we are looking for have been very careful. We found a great deal of evidence not far from the spot where you encountered them. And, they know you can identify them, or at least assume you can."

"I'm really not sure I could."

"That's ok. The fact that they think you could, puts you in danger. They are exceptionally good at finding people."

"So, you had me assigned here to protect me?" I asked skeptically.

"Primarily, yes. But, I assure you we'll have plenty of work for you to do. If there are any functions you don't wish to perform, that is fine. I just ask that you provide veterinary care whenever it's needed. I understand your company provides animal training, grooming, and boarding services as well?"

"Yes, we do."

"And, I understand you participate in a great deal of all of that?"

"Yes, I do."

"Well then, participate in whatever areas you would like. We always have plenty to do around here taking care of the animals."

"So, you run some sort of agency and a farm?" I couldn't help asking. The two didn't seem to go together.

He smiled indulgently, "What can I say? We all like animals."

"I can't just do nothing when there aren't any animal needs."

"Sure you can, if that's what you choose. Also, we don't want to put a strain on your work at Hanley's. Feel free to catch up on any work there. If you need to visit the facilities or go into your office, that can be arranged also. We only ask that you please do not go anywhere without security. Daisy, Jordan, and Ethan are your revolving security detail. One or all of them will be with you at all times."