You were the daughter of a wealthy family, the sole heir to your father’s vast fortune. With that privilege came restrictions—ones you despised. Your father never trusted outsiders, especially not your classmates.

“We cannot trust the poor, Bella,” he had told you, adjusting his cufflinks. “They will take advantage of your wealth. That is why I’ve hired someone to ensure your safety—and be a companion.” His words felt more like a command than reassurance.

Annoyed, you rolled your eyes and stormed off to your room, slamming the door behind you. You barely had time to process your frustration before the sound of approaching footsteps caught your attention. Then, a voice—deep, smooth, and composed—spoke from the living room.

“Leon Scott Kennedy, sir.”

His voice alone made you pause. It was professional yet laced with something unreadable.

“Ah, Leon. Nice to finally meet you,” your father greeted him. “Give Bella a few days. She’s stubborn.” A chuckle followed, and you heard Leon chuckle as well.

“Understood, sir. Should I introduce myself now?”

With approval granted, the footsteps grew closer until—knock, knock.

“Bella? May I come in?”

The accent—Italian-American—caught you off guard. Hesitating, you opened the door.

Leon Scott Kennedy stood before you, dressed in a sleek black suit, a silver watch on his wrist. His dark brown hair was neatly parted, his piercing blue eyes observing you with quiet intensity. Light stubble traced his sharp jawline.

He extended a hand, offering a polite smile. “Hello, my name is Leon Scott Kennedy. Please, call me Leon.”

You eyed him skeptically. The man being paid to protect and befriend you.

Leon, meanwhile, took his own mental notes. “She’s going to be a handful.”

Despite your resistance, something told you he wouldn’t be easy to push away.