The day went about its usual pace—a tightly scheduled schedule of meetings, calls, and updates. Aiden reveled in the chaos, always two steps ahead as he choreographed the launch of Sentinel AI. Yet, for the first time in years, a subtle disruption gnawed at the edges of his focus. It was impossible to ignore Lucas Reid.

By mid-morning, Lucas had simply merged himself into Aiden's daily routine; always one step behind, yet never in the way. His piercing eyes scrutinized every room, every face, and every possible threat with a level of intensity that was almost unnerving.

Aiden sat in the conference room with his senior team. His attention drifted to Lucas's silent vigilance, who stood by the door with arms crossed. He seemed to be relaxed yet alert. Aiden felt his bristle at the unspoken reminder that his life was no longer his own.

.and the media response has been very positive," Evelyn was saying, her voice pulling Aiden back to the present. She indicated a chart shown on the screen. "We have beaten our projections for first-day coverage. The potential of Sentinel is already being told in headlines.

"Good," Aiden said, pushing his attention back to the meeting. "But let's not get complacent. I want a detailed analysis of the feedback by end of day. We need to address any concerns before they gain traction."

As the meeting ended, Aiden rose from his seat and walked towards Evelyn. "How long do you plan on keeping him around?" he whispered, nodding toward Lucas.

Evelyn's face didn't change. "As long as it takes. This isn't just about you, Aiden. Sentinel's success depends on your safety. The board won't risk losing you."

Aiden frowned but said nothing. He turned to leave, Lucas falling into step beside him.

"Do you always hover like this?" Aiden asked, his voice edged with irritation as they walked toward his office.

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"It's part of the job," Lucas said calmly. "If it helps, think of me as a shadow. I'm there, but you don't have to acknowledge me."

Aiden snorted. "Somehow, I doubt that."

Back in his office, Aiden settled at his desk, trying to lose himself in work. The sound of Lucas moving around the space—checking locks, inspecting the windows—grated against his nerves.

Finally, Aiden couldn't take it anymore. "Do you really have to do that now?"

Lucas turned to face him, his expression calm but unyielding. "Yes. The sooner I understand the vulnerabilities here, the sooner I can address them."

"You're assuming there are vulnerabilities," Aiden countered, his tone sharp. "I don't make mistakes, Mr. Reid. That includes the security of my home and workplace."

Lucas took a step closer, his voice lowering just enough to command attention. "I'm not questioning your intelligence, Mr. Carter. But threats evolve, and my job is to stay ahead of them. If you want me to protect you, you'll have to let me do it my way.

For a moment, they just looked at each other, the tension between them palpable. Then, to Aiden's surprise, he found himself backing down. "Fine. Just keep it quiet."

Lucas nodded, continuing his inspection without another word.

Hours later, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Aiden found himself grudgingly impressed. Lucas had kept his word, moving through the day with quiet efficiency. Still, the uneasy awareness of being watched lingered.

As he poured himself a drink in the evening, Aiden glanced toward Lucas, who stood near the balcony door, staring out at the city. "Do you ever take a break?"

Lucas turned, a faint smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Only when it's safe to do so."

Aiden shook his head, more bemused than annoyed. "You're relentless."

"It's what you hired me for," Lucas replied.

"I didn't hire you," Aiden shot back, the words tinged with resentment. "You're here because Evelyn thinks I can't handle myself."

Lucas's expression shifted, a flicker of something unreadable crossing his face. "Maybe she's right," he said softly, his tone devoid of malice.

The unexpected reply caught Aiden off guard. He stared at Lucas, searching for the meaning behind his words, but the bodyguard's face betrayed nothing. Frustrated, Aiden downed his drink and turned away, unsure whether he was more irritated by Lucas's presence—or the fact that he was starting to feel oddly reassured by it.