Marrying My Father’s Enemy

Chapter 13: Her Watchful Protector 

Eira stepped out of the university building as the rain poured down around her.

William was walking beside her, sharing a quick laugh over their last class.

Just as she turned to say goodbye, she saw Callian already standing by his car, watching them.

"See you, William!" she called, giving him a wave before heading to Callian.

But Callian didn't move from his spot.

Instead, he crossed his arms and watched William with an intense glare as she walked over.

When Eira finally reached him, Callian pulled her into a firm hug, his bare arms wrapped around her shoulders protectively as his eyes stayed on William.

William caught Callian's stare, then quickly turned and walked away, giving a polite nod as he left.

Eira looked up at Callian, eyebrow raised. "Why are you here?" she asked with a slight smile. "Didn't you say you'd be busy all day?"

Callian's glare faded, finally focusing on her. "I couldn't just let you get soaked in this rain. Let's get in the car."

They got inside the car, with rain pattering steadily against the windows as Callian started the engine.

After a moment of silence, he glanced at her and let out a long sigh.

"What's with that William guy?" Callian asked, sounding almost annoyed. "He's like a roach that won't leave once it's crawled into the house."

Eira stifled a laugh. "He's just a classmate, Callian. He's a nice person, really. I have no… intentions with him." She gave him a nudge. "You don't have to worry."

Callian's eyes softened for a moment, but his expression quickly shifted back to something more serious. "Eira… have you noticed anyone following you lately? Or maybe seen any strange men around?"

Eira frowned, tilting her head. "No, I haven't noticed anything like that. Why?"

He hesitated, then shook his head dismissively. "No reason. I just think you should be more cautious. People like us… we attract attention. You should be careful who you talk to, and pay attention to your surroundings."

Eira smiled. "I am careful. And thank you for worrying about me. It's sweet."

They drove in comfortable silence for a while, Eira watched the raindrops blur the passing scenery. After a few minutes, she asked, "So… where are we going?"

"I'm taking you to work with me," Callian replied, glancing over at her with a slight grin.

Eira's eyes widened. "Your office? Callian, I can't just—"

"Yes, you can," he interrupted. "You're my wife, and it's just work. Besides, it'll be good for you to see what I do every day."

They pulled up in front of a huge glass building, modern and sleek enough to scream 'wealth,' with Callian's company name proudly displayed at the entrance.

ReedMet

As they stepped inside, employees greeted them with polite nods and warm smiles, but all eyes went on Eira.

When they reached Callian's office, Eira was taken aback.

The space was massive, with polished marble floors, leather chairs, and an entire wall of windows overlooking the city skyline.

Books lined one side of the office, giving it a sophisticated feel, and a pair of elegant reading glasses rested on his desk.

Eira walked over, picking up the glasses with a small smile. "Glasses, Callian? I didn't know you wore these."

"Only for reading. They help with the fine print."

Before she could respond, Callian's secretary entered with a tray of coffee.

She was older, with a kind face and grey hair pulled into a neat bun. She placed the tray down, smiling warmly at Eira before leaving the room.

Eira glanced at Callian, raising an eyebrow. "An older secretary? Really? I would've expected you to have someone… younger, maybe?"

Callian shrugged. "Since I'm married, the only beautiful woman I need around me is you, Eira. No one else."

Eira rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help the small smile form at her lips. "Stop joking."

"I'm not joking," he replied as he held her gaze. "You're all I need, Eira."

Eira looked away, feeling her cheeks warm. She took a sip of her coffee, hoping he wouldn't notice. "So… what exactly do you do in here all day?"

Callian leaned back, folding his arms with a faint smile. "A lot of meetings, reports, and decisions that affect a lot of people. It's not as glamorous as it sounds."

"But you like it?" she asked, being genuinely curious.

He nodded. "I do. It keeps me sharp. And… it means I can protect what matters."

Eira met his eyes again, sensing a deeper meaning in his words, but before she could ask, Callian's phone rang. He glanced at the screen, and his expression immediately turned serious.

"Give me a moment," he said, stepping out of the office to take the call.

Left alone, Eira wandered around the room, admiring the books and the view from the window.

She felt a strange butterflies from nervousness—proud of Callian's success but unsure where she fit into this world of his.

After a few minutes, Callian returned, looking thoughtful.

"Everything alright?" she asked.

He nodded, though his eyes were still clouded with whatever had been on his mind. "Just business."

He reached out, taking her hand gently. "Come, I'll show you around the building."

They walked down the sleek corridors, Callian continued greeting employees here and there, introducing Eira to a few as they passed.

She noticed how everyone looked at him with respect, admiration. It was clear he held a powerful presence, even among his own family.

As they neared the end of their tour, Eira glanced up at him. "Callian… why are you doing all this for me?"

He paused, looking down at her. "Because I want you to feel a part of my life. This isn't just about us being married on paper. You're… important to me."

Eira's heart exploded at his words, and she found herself speechless. She smiled, looking down to hide the warmth in her cheeks. "Thank you. But it's just a contract marriage…"

"Not to me…" he muttered.

They returned to his office, where Callian handed her his reading glasses. "Want to try them on?"

She laughed, slipping them on and posing playfully. "How do I look?"

"Absolutely ridiculous," he teased, though his eyes sparkled.

Eira rolled her eyes, taking off the glasses and handing them back. "Thanks for the honesty," she said.

"Hey, I call it like I see it."

As the rain outside began to lighten, Callian walked her back to the car, their banter was light and easy.

She settled into the seat, feeling a weird warmth she couldn't quite place, and as they drove, Eira felt a little closer to him, a little more at home.

"I have some matters to attend to, so don't wait for me tonight."

"In such weather?"

"Yes. I have to get rid of a fly that keeps bothering me."