While Parker was in the shower, I crouched near the back wall of his walk-in closet, the tape measure sprawled between my fingers. I studied the number, pulled the tape back, and wrote the measurement in my small black notebook. I heard Parker clear his throat from behind. Turning my head, he leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, with a smile.
“What are you doing?” he asked.
“Measuring for storage.”
“I have plenty of storage. Look around.”
“Not your typical storage, Parker.” She smirked.
“Oh.” His brows furrowed. “You know. Most people who move in with someone bring throw pillows and blankets.”
“Throw pillows don’t neutralize threats, Hamilton.”
“Fair point, sweetheart.”
“I’m thinking reinforced steel paneling here,” I said. “With a hidden hinge system and magnetic lock with a biometric override.”
“In my closet?” His brow raised.
“Our closet.” I smiled. “I need a place to store my things.”
“You mean you need a place to store everything that looks like it belongs to a small private military contractor?”
“Yep.” She popped her lips. “Nobody will ever know it exists. The lock will be fingerprint and palm recognition. Wait. Maybe retinal scan.”
Parker sighed. “I suppose this is what happens when you date a woman who carries around tactical gear everywhere she goes.”
“You don’t have to like it, Parker. In fact, once it’s installed, you’ll never have to think about it again. But it’s a part of my life. My security.”
He stepped closer and placed his hands on my hips.
“I’m a lawyer, Paige. Risk assessment is literally part of my profession. And loving you means understanding that your version of security looks different than most people’s, including mine.”
“So, you’re okay with it?” I asked.
“I’m okay with anything that keeps you safe. But only on one condition.”
“And what is your condition?”
“You’re installing hidden armory in our closet. I want to see the final design before construction even begins.”
“Are you a control freak?” My head cocked.
“Somewhat. But not in this situation. It’s more out of curiosity.”
“Fine.” I smiled.
“I’ll call Shaun Kind when I get to the office.”
“Why?” My brows furrowed.
“It’s what he does. Wait. I’m not sure he can do what you want. I’ll give him a call and ask.”
“To be honest, I don’t want anyone but us to know about it. Gabriel will send his team to install it.”
“Okay. If you say so, sweetheart.”
“I love you, but I have to pee.” I began to walk away, and he called my name.