The Target

Alexandra "Lexi" Thompson adjusted her earpiece, her eyes scanning the crowded room as she surveyed the security detail. She was a sniper, a former Army Ranger, and one of the best in the business. Now, she worked as a private security consultant, taking on high-profile clients who needed protection from threats both real and imagined. Lexi's latest client, tech mogul Ethan Blackwood, was a challenge. He was a tall, imposing figure with piercing blue eyes and a jawline that seemed chiseled from granite. But it was his attitude that really got under Lexi's skin. He was arrogant, entitled, and seemed to think that he was above the law. As Lexi watched, Ethan strode into the room, his eyes locking onto hers with a dismissive glance. "Ah, you're the bodyguard," he said, his tone dripping with disdain. "I'm not sure why I need one. These threats are probably just some bored teenager with a keyboard." Lexi's eyes narrowed. She had been hired to protect Ethan from a series of threatening messages that had been escalating in severity. So far, they seemed like prankster stuff, but Lexi had a gut feeling that there was more to it. "Sir, I understand that you may not think the threats are serious, but my job is to ensure your safety. I take this very seriously." Ethan snorted. "I'm sure you do. Look, Lexi - is that your name? - I appreciate the effort, but I can take care of myself. I've built an empire from scratch. I'm not about to let some psycho with a grudge bring me down." Lexi's grip on her earpiece tightened. She had already heard enough about Ethan's ego to last a lifetime. "Sir, I'm not here to debate your abilities. I'm here to protect you. Let's focus on getting you to your destination safely." Ethan raised an eyebrow, but for a moment, Lexi saw a flicker of uncertainty behind his eyes. Then, his mask slipped back into place, and he nodded curtly. "Fine. Lead the way, bodyguard." As they made their way through the crowded room, Lexi couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Ethan was a magnet for trouble, and she had a feeling that it was only a matter of time before something went seriously wrong. She pushed the thought aside, focusing on the task at hand. For now, her job was to keep Ethan safe. But as she glanced over at him, she couldn't help but wonder if she was in over her head. Ethan Blackwood was not a man who was used to being told no, and Lexi had a feeling that he was going to be a handful. The two of them exited the room, Lexi scanning the perimeter as they made their way to the waiting car. She could feel Ethan's eyes on her, but she refused to meet his gaze. For now, she was his bodyguard, not his friend. And that was just fine by her.