Erica:

“Wow, he's a persistent man. Does he give you trouble?"

I saw the softness on his face slowly disappear and a grim seriousness crept in.

I could feel him getting defensive and I felt a shiver run down my spine.

“You don't have to worry about him. I can handle him."

Javier eased up slightly and took another sip of water.

“If you need help with him, you know that you can tell me."

I smiled and poked at my food with my spoon.

“You seem eager. You let him carry me away when we were dancing," I said with a chuckle.

Javier smirked and rolled his eyes.

“I...