Chapter 4 CHAPTER
Simon Point of view
Perched in front of a large bookcase, I looked across the rows of volumes. The princess possessed a rather outstanding collection. I was beginning to see her more than just a spoilt rich girl.
In my pocket buzzed my phone. I yanked it out. Johnys once more. Had he been looking through my camera feeds?
0.06:57 She is sexy as fuck, buddy.
06:58. Fuck you, I answered.
07:00 is when "You ought to knock her out.
07:02 "She's a job," I typed back, sighed, then put my phone away.
Moments later Juliana showed up dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. Damn; she looked great. She would look great in everything—or hardly at all.
"Ready??" I asked, trying to keep it businesslike.
Surely.
Then Tobias showed up, encircling her from behind.
"Stay safe," he said in a whisper.
"I'll." And you behave, she said sarcastically.
I interrupted them kissing goodbye to say, "We're going to be late." I was not paid to observe that. I was just standing about.
Better still if we arrived in Vienna early. Years had gone by since my last trip.
Outside the SUV was waiting with my driver. I just trusted my own group. Not outside observers.
Juliana slid in, mumbling a brief "Thanks," when I opened the door.
I found a seat in front. Always conscious of my surrounds, I watched her through the mirror. Her hair pulled into a high Ponytail, her makeup minimal, she appeared lost in contemplation staring out the window. She was naturally beautiful, so she needed not much.
"Grab a picture. She said, catching my eye in the mirror, "it will last longer."
"You wish, Princess." I returned to face my window.
Though I knew better than to combine business with pleasure, she was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. My reputation was on line-of- sight.
I looked at her for a moment when we got to the airport before opening my door.
I said, stepping outside, "Wait here."
I heard her trying to open the door, but from the inside luck would not let it open.
I moved to the cabin crew and pilot.
The air hostess waved hello, sir.
“Good morning. Everything prepared? I asked the captain shaking hands.
"Yes, sir.," said
Mind if I have a look?
They nodded, and I swept the aircraft normally in security. Once I was good, I went back to the SUV and unlocked Juliana's door.
She left, firmly punching my shoulder. I have to say—it hurt more than I had anticipated.
Never ever lock me in again.
Simply doing my job.
She let her eyes roll back. a habit that would land her in hot water someday. I would want to spank that sass right out of her over my knee.
She hummed past me, hugging the pilot. My hands came together in fists. Did she have to give every damned man she came across hugs?
She threw her hand baggage into the bedroom once inside, then settled into a single chair and pulled out her laptop, fastening her seatbelt.
I opened my own laptop and settled opposite her. Payroll, security notes, bills—boring but essential.
The air hostess went over here.
She asked, flashing me a flirtatious smile, "Can I get you anything?
"Sparkling water flavored with lemon and ice. And a black coffee as well.
She grinned and turned to go.
"Hey, what about me? Juliana asked, irritation flashing across her face.
"She's going to come back," I said, grinning.
The hostess dropped my beverages in front of me when she came back.
Could I get you anything else? She pointed at me like I was dessert.
No, thank you.
We both turned to Juliana when her laptop cracked closed.
"Excuse me," she said, glaring at the hostess. "I am the one paying your pay-roll.
The girl's face went brilliant red.
"Miss, I'm sorry. What could I have gotten you?
"Coke." Ice, instead of lemon. And some chips in a pack.
" Right away." The girl fled in a scurble.
I grinned and turned back to my records. When Juliana's order arrived before her, I hardly noticed.
Over the speakers came the voice of the pilot.
"Miss Hartmann and Mr. Linden, we will be momentarily off. Turn off your laptops, close the table until the seatbelt sign is off. Also pay attention to the safety demonstration.
I breathed, closed my laptop, raised my drinks, and let the hostess fold the table away.
She wore a shockingly short skirt, hardly leaving anything to consider. My eyes tracked her as she turned aside.
Juliana let out a loud cough clearing her throat.
" Keep it in your jeans."
I looked up an eyebrow. "Jealousy doesn't suit you."
She snorted and folded her arms. "Very little." I simply would rather have my security center on my safety than admirer women in small skirts.
I gave a small smile. Noted, Princess.