Finding Home in Redemption

Chapter Twelve

Someone was knocking on my bedroom door. At 7:00 A.M., if there wasn't an emergency, there was going to be a problem. I opened the door to Aaron in his grease stained jeans and coat holding a plate of bacon, eggs, and toast. I guess I could forgive him this time.

"Good morning," he offered me the plate.

"What's this for?" I asked, quickly forgetting my annoyance.

"I have to head to work, and I thought I'd make you breakfast before I left." I took the plate and ate a piece of the bacon.

"Thank you!" I said. "It sucks you have to go in today. I might come in later to do some paperwork, but I'm going to try to do it here on my laptop."

"You should just stay here."

"That's the plan if I have all the numbers I need." I laughed. We headed to the dining room, and I sat down to eat.

"I hate to think of you walking there all by yourself, though. Maybe I should leave Dog with you, in case you have to go in?" he pulled out the chair beside me. He sat facing me, and I immediately felt embarrassed. He was sitting so close, and I hadn't brushed my teeth yet.

"I've walked to work alone for over two years now. I'll be fine."

"But, it's different now."

"How is it any different?" I asked.

"You have me." I tried to ignore the smile that wanted to appear.

"I can take care of myself, I promise," I laughed. Looking over at Aaron I immediately noticed he didn't think it was as funny as I did. "I promise I'll be fine."

"I need to get a phone, so you can call me if you need me."

"You're overreacting."

"There are dangerous people out there, Bentley."

I didn't know what to say. I was glad that Aaron cared enough about me to worry, but Pop had always made sure I was comfortable when I was alone. It was one of those things that he kind of forced on me; I was going to know how to take care of myself even if it killed my old man.

"Listen, I appreciate that you're worried about me, but I really do know how to take care of myself. I can carry my gun if it makes you more comfortable though."

"Gun? Do you even have a permit?" he asked incredulously.

"Who are you, the gun police?" I asked, and Aaron narrowed his eyes a little. "Kidding. I have my permit."

"What time are you coming to work? That way I can watch for you."

I stood and carried my empty plate to the sink. After rinsing it off, I walked back to my room and turned to find Aaron hot on my trail.

"Thank you for making me breakfast. I appreciate it. You should probably get a move on though before you're late for work." I shut the door and locked it, smiling when I heard, what I assumed, was his forehead hitting the door.

"Please be careful. I'll see you later."

"See ya!" I chirped. I heard the front door shut, and I climbed back in bed. There was no point in staying awake if I didn't need to. After reading a few chapters of my latest find, I fell asleep.

There was banging on my door again. This time I was going to break someone's knuckles, even if said knuckles were attached to an adorable man with a bun! I opened the door and heard the knocking coming from down the hall. The front door. I ran to the door and looked out the peephole to see Aaron. A very angry looking Aaron.