I almost forgot how much taller he was than me, but I was reminded when Jace seemed to tower over me. I found that fact to be both alluring and intimidating.
I tried not to stand too close, but any distance I put between us was eaten away by his long legs. I didn’t even think he was aware he kept moving my way—he was just trying to get as close to me so we could talk quietly, but it was driving crazy.
I could smell him, and I really needed to focus.
“Is there anything I should know about Elliot?” I asked. “I was emailed a list of his allergies, so I know what he can and cannot eat, but is there something else?”
Jace shook his head. “Elliot is a pretty normal kid. He stays pretty active throughout the day, so trying to keep up with him can be strenuous exercise all on its own. You probably noticed he has some separation anxiety. My ex-wife messed him up pretty badly when he was little. She was always trying to use him to get to me, but she didn’t pay much attention to him. He never developed a secure attachment to her, and some of it got transferred to me. We’re trying to work on it, and it has gotten better, but he does have his days. I already made room in my schedule for him to come visit me at lunch time, so if you could bring him over to the building we were at yesterday at noon today, that would be great.”
“Of course.”
“Other than that, he’s a pretty happy and easy kid. I imagine you two will get along quite well, but seeing as we’re in your probationary period, you’ll be accompanied by Jerry.”
At my questioning look, he smiled and clarified, “Jerry is Elliot’s protection. I bring him with me whenever I have to travel with Elliot or whenever I have to leave Elliot at home. He’ll ensure both of your safety, but he’ll be watching you. I can’t just leave the safety of my son in someone’s hands. I need to know that I can trust you first.”
I nodded. That made sense. I doubted I could ever leave the safety of my son in a stranger’s hands, either, had I been in Jace’s shoes. My heart pinched from the thought, and I absently moved my hand up to rub away the pain.
Jace followed the movement with his eyes but didn’t comment.
“I understand. I won’t disappoint you, and I won’t let anything happen to Elliot. I’ll look after him as if he were my own.”
A strange look crossed Jace’s face, but it was gone before I could comment on it. He nodded and without another word, walked out of the room.
I thought about him most of the morning, when my mind had time to wander.