Body Guard

Duncan and I arrived just a couple minutes after Jules and her father entered the room. I managed to get one last text to Jules before entering the room and tucking my phone away.

Even though it sounds like a euphamism, pickles is our safe word now. -C

I drew in a breath before settling into work mode. I took in the crowd, ruling out who I knew and who I didn't before looking over Jules to see how she was holding up then finally the Prince. I waited in the wings as I watched him, uncertain how I felt about how he looked at her.

Julie:
When introductions had been made, Ben pulled out a seat for me. I kept the smile on my face as I sat and immediately put my napkin on my lap. I had been to enough fancy meals that I knew how to behave. "So Ben," I started. "You've created quite the buzz around here," I said, taking a sip of the ice water that was already on the table.

I glanced around the room, noticing my father had taken a seat at the other end of the table to converse with some of the Princes staff, clearly trying to give us space. My eyes slid to Cody who I could tell was in full work mode. He was wearing one of his plain ties again and I suddently remembered the bags that were somewhere in my room. I could have sworn the day at the mall we had picked out some things with brighter colors for him.... I had to shake my head to focus on what Ben was saying.

"Well I was told you would be worth the trip," he said with a smirk. I felt myself blush a little at the obviously flirting. But it was different than it was with Cody. With Cody, it was like a warmth spread across my whole body. Now, I just prayed I didnt look blotchy.

I didn't have a place at the table. If it was just Jules and her Father I would have sat down without a second thought. But I was a guard, it wasn't my place. When I saw the color on Jule's cheeks I stiffened slightly then made myself relax. It had been so involuntary that reaction and the emotion that came with it. It took me a moment to recognize it. I had been jealous.

I turned my gaze elsewhere. Why was I being jealous? Jules was out of my league. I didn't know why the kiss had happened. But it gave me no claim over her. Besides there were rules I had to follow. Rules of my job, and rules of my contract. Neither of which would permit anything...

I had to draw in a breath to still my thoughts and refocus on the task at hand.

Julie:
Lunch was served only a few minutes after we had been seated and while it was delicious, I didn't eat a lot of it. My father got up about halfway through the meal and bid Ben a good day, saying he had some business to attend but to make himself comfortable on the grounds. His kissed the top of my head as he passed by and then it was just Ben and I. Well...Ben and I and an entire staff of guards and waiters.

Ben kept up a comfortable coversation throughout the meal and his flirting was easy and light. I found myself genuinly laughing at some of the things he said and being interested at his stories. It was clear he had a much bigger political role than I did and I felt that even if we werent a match made in heaven, he would be a good friend to have.

"What do you say we get out of here?" Ben asked, settling his napkin over his empty plate. "Its been forever since I've been to this country. You should show me around a little bit."

I smiled and took a sip of my water. "I would love to. We should make a plan to go out one day. You'd love some of the museums and older buildings. They're really beautiful." I told him.

"So lets go now," he said, standing and holding his hand out for mine. I hesitated and glanced at Cody. Going out on a whim wasn't usually a good idea. I slowly took his hand and stood up. "Uh...maybe..." I started, wondering how to ask Cody if it was okay. I wasnt sure I even wanted to go after what happened to Ryan but I knew I couldnt stay locked on the grounds for the rest of my life.

I stiffened when Benjamin wanted for them to leave. It was against protocol. We wouldn't be able to establish a safe zone, get all the necessary equipment, and keep them safe. It was a nightmare waiting to happen. I looked at the prince with slightly narrowed eyes before looking to Jules.

I wanted her to go out again. I really did. I hated that one event had led her to wanting to stay home only. But it simply couldn't be done like this. Not with two highly valuable targets out in the open. Thankfully before I even had a chance to open my mouth Duncan interjected. "My Lord, perhaps it would be better to get settled for today. See the grounds. You've only just arrived and it was a long flight."

Ben rolled his eyes, but assented. "I suppose we'll have to postpone then. Will you show me around instead?" He asked Jules while I relaxed a bit then, glad that the nightmare was averted for now.

Julie:
I couldn't help the slight feeling of relief when the idea to leave the grounds was shot down. Maybe I just wasn't ready for that yet. I'm sure if I explained the situation, Ben would be understanding about my hesitations.

"Sure!" I said, more than happy to do anything that wasn't stressful. "Theres actually a lot to see," I said, starting for the door. My sweater was hanging by the door, so I went to reach for it, but was beat by a pair of tanned hands.

"Let me get that for you," Ben said, holding out the sleeves for me. I smiled at his politeness and thanked him while I shrugged it on with his help.

"What do you wanna see first?" I asked, stepping out "Theres a beautiful garden and paths to walk through. Theres a theater, pool, library..." I trailed off and looked at him in question. "Any of those sound fun?"

"Hmm...a walk in the garden sounds lovely," He said. I smiled and nodded once before starting in that direction. He followed and then caught up, walking close enough to brush my hand with his as we moved.

"So tell me...it seems like its gonna be hard to lose our shadows back there..." He whispered so only I could hear and glanced back once, eyeing Cody and I did the same, confused.

"Why would we wanna lose them?" I whispered back.

"Dont you ever want a little alone time?" He asked. "I mean, I'm sure we'd be fine for just a couple of hours. We're not even leaving the grounds."

"Yeah... But its always better to be safe than sorry." I answered.

Cody:

Seeing him whisper to her had me look away. I was losing it. Slipping up. I hadn't gone through special training to be slipping like this. Distance had to be maintained. If things got too close, mistakes happened.

Rubbing my face a moment I tried clearing my mind. It worked for a time until I vividly remembered last night. Shaking my head at myself I glanced back at them for a moment then looked to Duncan who trailed along beside me. "Your prince works fast."

"He's too reckless and doesn't think first. But underneath that is a good man. I must admit I hope that the young lady will be able to bring him to his senses. She seems like a clever and mindful girl." He replied with out breaking his stride.

Julie:
We walked around the garden for some time, talking and laughing. There was a fountain right in the center of it and we must have passed it three or four times before I hopped up on the ledge. Balancing in heels, even though they were a very modest length, was no easy talk. I imagined Cody tensing up, picturing the worst: Me slipping and cracking my head on the concrete. I almost smirked, thinking about how over protective he could be. But when Bens hand held mine up, stabilizing me, I knew I wouldn't fall...and if I did, I would only get wet, nothing more.


We asked eachother questions back and forth until it started getting dark out. Without the sun, it was a little too cold for the dress I was wearing. "We should head back. Its probably time to call it a day," I said. I hopped off the fountain.

Cody:

It was through Duncan that I retained my sanity. And because of his help I was able to hide the lingering feelings of jealousy. I even only frowned briefly when Jules hopped up onto the wall. I trusted her enough not to fall, but I also knew she had a clumsy nature sometimes.

"Tell me Cody. How did you receive such training? You look young enough that you should be joining them." He gestured to the pair before us. "Not spending your time guarding them."

I watched the pair for a moment, "My family has always done this. Been guards. Call it a family business. My father is actually the head of security."

"Ah. Family business then. You were home taught then."

"No actually. My father was lucky enough to get in with someone, and then she offered to teach me too. I'm a graduate from Madam Ko's teachings."

Duncan gaped at me. "Madam Ko? I was also a student of hers. She doesn't normally take one on so young. Her methods are....efficient but brutal. Not many finish the full course."

I smiled then. "I managed. It wasn't easy. She doesn't play favorites, and doesn't care how small or big you are. Everyone is treated the same."

Julie:
I pointed out the building where his room was located, just in case he didn't remember and held out my hand to shake his. "It was a pleasure meeting you," I said, smiling.

He took my hand but used it to pull me forward, into a hug. "You too, Julie," He said, in my ear. I couldn't help blushing again as I pulled away and quickly turned to job over to Cody and the other guard.

"Cody? Are you ready to go? Its getting kinda cold," I said.

We both paused when the pair before us stopped. We waited as the goodbyes were held and the surprise hug was included. I could see some color still on Jule's face, but I didn't remark on it as I nodded. "Of course." Shrugging out of my suit jacket I offered it out to her. "Let's get you back to your room."

Julie:
I smiled at him and took the jacket, grateful for the extra warmth...and I couldnt deny how good it smelt. I gave Ben one more wave and smiled at his guard before starting in the direction of my suite.

Once we were out of hearing range I turned to him. "So? What did you think?" I asked, waving around the sleeves of his jacket that were too big for me

"He seems nice." I started carefully. Before she could make a comment I pushed forward. "In a good way. Even taking into account him wanting to just up and leave without letting security do it's job. He wasn't aware of the situation. Plus he seems to care about you. I haven't seen you laugh like that with someone in a long time."

Julie:
I pulled his jacket tighter around me and shook my head. "I wasn't laughing in any particular way," I said. I studied his face for a moment, not even sure what I was looking for. Whatever it was, I didn't find it and I felt...disappointed.

I kept walking and kicked at a pebble. "I guess I should probably explain why security is a little heavy. He might understand why I'd be hesitant to go out," I said.

"I think Duncan was going to mention it as well. Wouldn't hurt to tell him yourself as well." I glanced at her then focused ahead of us once more.

Drawing in a slow breath I asked with a slight catch to my voice, "Did the both of you talk about what you wanted to do tomorrow?" I swallowed after the words left my mouth, hating the way they felt coming out.

Julie:
I shrugged. "He wants to see this museum I was telling him about at lunch. You know, the one with the sculpture of the naked lady you pretended wasn't the only reason you went when we were thirteen," I smirked and looked over at him. "I told him we'd have to see when I good time would be."

I paused and then looked at him again. "Is that...okay?" I asked. I could pretend I was asking from a security standpoint. But I wasn't.

"I was also interested in the exhibit on swords and armor.  But you only ever remember the statue.  Are we sure that it wasn't you who was so captivated by the statue of Aphrodite?"  I flashed her a brief smirk before pausing to open the door into the main manor.  When she didn't go in right away I focused on her and her question.

"You don't need my permission to do anything Jules."  My voice was soft, and my brow furrowed as I searched her face.  "You only have to ask and we'll try to facilitate anything you want."

Julie:
It wasn't the answer I wanted. I was still hurt that he chose to pretend last night didnt happen. I bit my lip and nodded once before sliding around him to get inside.

I had a good day. I met a nice guy, who was interested and nice and sweet and smart and funny. And yet, I wasn't happy.

I shrugged out of his jacket and turned around to hand it to him, not quite meeting his eyes. How could I, when I had just spent a perfectly fine date thinking about him and he couldnt even stand the fact that we had kissed. Wouldn't even acknowledge it.

I knew I hadn't given her the answer she wanted. It was clear as day on her face. But I didn't know what she was looking for. I could only suspect what it had to do with. I grit my teeth a moment. How could I explain it to her?

Then she offered out my jacket, refusing to fully look my way. "I think we need to have a talk. But not now. I need time to think and to gather something." I looked away a moment then back at her. "I'm sorry for making your life more difficult Jules."

I turned away then, leaving her with my suit jacket as I wandered away. I thought it was time she was given my contract. That she came to understand the rules I was under. I pulled out my phone to call my father.

Julie:
When he spoke, I lifted my eyes up to meet his and listening. I didn't know it was possible to be more confused than I already was and then he went and said....that.

He turned to walk away, leaving my arm still extended with his jacket. I bit my lip and hugged the fabric to my chest as I walked to my room, softly closing the door behind me. I didnt know what to make of that. Was he finally done pretending the kiss didnt happen, or was he talking about something else?

I sighed and flopped on my bed, fully clothed and laid his jacket over me like a blanket.

"Dad I messed up. Bad." I swallowed and sat down on the very fountain Jules had left Benjamin at. "Can I talk to you? And...I need a copy of my contract."

Tilting my head back to the sky I muttered under my breath. "Is it so wrong to want her? To want to be with her?" Pushing myself to my feet I sighed. "But it's not my place. It's against the rules...and I'm so wound up I'm talking to myself."

I went to my dads rooms then, heading back into the manor and his attic suite. A gift for many long years of service. If it hadn't been for Jule's father moving the man in himself, my dad would never have used it.

He opened the door before I had a chance to knock, gesturing for me to come in and make myself comfortable. He didn't say a word. Simply returned to the little kitchen nook where he pulled a kettle off the stove and poured out the liquid into two separate mugs. He brought them over while I settled at his table in one of the only chairs. He didn't join me, instead settling into the only arm chair.

I took my time in explaining it. Where I'd messed up, what had happened, and before I knew it I was tumbling out all the pent up emotions that I'd been burying for years.

He took it all with only a question here or there to clarify certain things. But for the most part he just let me get it all out until there were no more words to be said.

"You haven't made a mistake. But you need to make a choice Cody. We have our rules in this family. We've had them for generations. They aren't going to bend or break just over night. You have to understand that my son."

I nodded weakly and he continued, "For now, get some rest here. I'll gather up what you wanted, but I also need to call the Madam. She was coming to visit to observe you while the prince was here. She needs to know about this."

Julie:
Cody was gone for a while and I wasn't sure he was coming back tonight. It wasn't like he was required to sleep here, in the guest room...but I had sort of become used to his presence.

It was way too early to sleep so I set his jacket on my bed and kicked my heels off. There was no reason to be uncomfortable for the rest of the night. I changed into PJ's and wandered into the kitchen with my phone in my hands. I debated calling him and asking if he was coming back here tonight but I decided that wasn't really my business. He got me home, that was the end of his job.

I paced the floor a bit, thinking about the day, last night and how I felt about it all. Sometimes it felt like we were on the same page. That he felt what I felt. Like before he left tonight. As cryptic as it was, there was something there...some feeling or...whatever.

But then other times, I may as well have been his little sister for all he looked at me. I growled in frustration at the situation and threw my phone at the couch cushion.

I showered in his bathroom and changed into an old set of his clothes. We talked about it and eventually he left the room to go check on things and get some paperwork done.

I didn't want to be left alone. Left with my thoughts and no escape. I wanted to talk to Jules, I went so far as to open our messages and start to type out a message. But I deleted it all before I was more than a few words in.

I hated to let things go like this. But I needed time to get it together, time to let her understand and make what was the right choice. I didn't want that choice to happen though...

Julie:
I paced the floor for a few more minutes before grabbing my phone off the couch and making sure I didnt break it. The last thing I needed was to not be able to call someone if I needed help or for Cody to not be able to call if he wanted to.

Once I established that it was working, I sat on the couch with sigh. It was getting late and he still wasnt here. I would have to be fine with staying alone tonight

Cody:

I struggled enough in finding sleep that I went through my dads cupboards until I found his whiskey. Pouring myself a decent amount I took it to the armchair.

With the alcohols help I dozed off before too long. It wasn’t restful sleep by any means, and my father getting up bright and early had me jerking awake.

“Grab a muffin and fruit. Your requested papers are on the table.” He didn’t even look at me as he started pulling on his suit. “You only have a copy. The real thing isn’t ready yet.”