MY PERFECT BODY GUARD CHAPTER TWENTY -THREE :THE PROMISE AND THE ASSIGNMENT

Richard returned home with his bag, and his mom couldn't contain her excitement despite noticing that Richard didn't appear very cheerful. She warmly embraced him and, as he inquired about Cynthia, his sister, his mom informed him that she had gone to school. After sharing his experiences, Richard's mom provided him with words of encouragement and reassured him that it wasn't over yet.

As Richard settled back into his routine, he returned to the blacksmith he had once worked for. The man was thrilled to have Richard back, recognizing the energy and skill he brought to the business, which translated into more profits. 

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months as Richard toiled away at the forge. One evening, when he returned home from work, his mom informed him that he had a visitor. He noticed a sleek Tesla car parked outside, sparking his curiosity.

Richard returned to his house and was taken aback to find Dr. Jim waiting for him. 

"How did you find my house?" Richard asked in surprise.

Jim explained, "I came across your address in the documents you submitted. I hope that's not a problem."

Richard shook his head, "No, not at all. But why are you here?"

Jim smiled, "Well, Richard, I was reviewing those documents, and I have to say, I'm quite impressed by all your deeds and accomplishments."

Jim proceeded to offer an apology to Richard for having him relocated.

"I want you to know," Jim began, "I didn't have you reassigned because I didn't like you or anything like that. It was because I had a more important assignment in mind for you."

Richard looked puzzled. "What could be more important than protecting the great Jim?" he asked.

Jim chuckled and opened up further to Richard. "You see, Richard, I have a daughter named Linda. The reason my enemies are after me is because they believe she'll be the successor to my company once she's old enough. However, many people think she's not fit for it, that she's too weak."

Richard pondered for a moment and then asked, "Why not have a son to avoid this issue?"

Jim's voice trembled as he confided, "My wife is no longer with us. She was the love of my life, and I don't believe I could ever replace her."

Richard, taken aback, responded, "I'm truly sorry to hear about your loss, Jim."

Jim nodded, a somber expression on his face. "It's fine," he said, acknowledging Richard's condolences.

Jim's voice grew earnest as he continued, "All I ever wanted was for my daughter to have an easy life, but it appears that won't be the case. I have a crucial task for you, Richard. I need the best person to protect her, and from what I've seen, that person is you. You're strong, smart, persistent, and good. I doubt I could find anyone better suited for this responsibility."

Jim's tone turned even more solemn. "Even if I don't make it out of this war," he confided, "I want her to, because that was my last promise to her mom. I really need to fulfill it."

Richard, with a determined look in his eyes, responded, "It's an honor, sir. I won't let you down."

Jim then reached for a check and a briefcase, which he opened, revealing a stun gun, a GPS device, a bulletproof vest, and a communication device. He handed the communication device to Richard and said, "Hold this communication device close. When I press mine, you'll receive a signal. That signal means you need to find my daughter and protect her for me."

Richard, feeling a growing sense of responsibility, asked, "How will I do that?"

Jim explained, "This is a GPS tracker. I've discreetly placed one in her earrings. Once I beep in with the communication device, activate the GPS tracker to pinpoint her location. Your task is to find her and protect her for me."

Jim then handed Richard an envelope containing $200,000 and said, "This is your pay."

"Thank you, sir," Richard replied earnestly. "I won't let you down."

Jim stood up and patted him on the shoulder, a silent acknowledgment of the trust he was placing in Richard.

Jim's words carried the weight of the situation. He handed Richard a picture of his daughter, Linda.

Richard looked at the photograph and remarked, "She's beautiful."

Jim smiled with a hint of nostalgia. "Yes, she is, just like her mom."

With a final nod, Jim said, "I will take my leave then. I am counting on you."

"Goodbye," Richard replied, fully aware of the enormous responsibility that now rested on his shoulders.