Page 44 of Don’t Fall For A Bodyguard

“Hey Regan, what’s up?”

“Are you able to work a shift tonight? I’m sorry about the short notice, but Valen’s sick, and Petyr too. They probably picked up a stomach bug in Vegas. I hope no one else on the team comes down with it.”

I didn’t want to leave Payton, but duty called. “I didn’t think there was anything on the schedule today. Is there a last-minute event going on?”

“Sort of. It’s an escort for Evert Jackson, the photographer who’s been hired for the world tour? He’s got a gallery showing tonight, and there will be press in attendance. His contract includes a detail for any events this year.”

“Right. Any issues?”

“No, it’s a standard contract. It’s a private event, but he’s been known to hit the clubs afterward. Door to door, you know the drill. Nine PM pickup. I’ll text you the address,” Regan replied.

“Okay. I’ll be there.”

“Thanks, Len. Apologies for interrupting your evening.”

“That’s all right.”

There was a pause on the other end of the line.

“Anything else?” I asked.

“How did your appointment go today?” She asked.

“I’ll tell you in person tomorrow.”

“See you at the studio at noon.”

I tappedEndand put the phone down on the counter.

“I’m afraid I’m gonna eat and run,” I said to Payton. “Work. I’ve got to escort Evert Jackson to an event tonight.”

Suddenly, I worried that maybe history was going to repeat itself. Maybe Payton wouldn’t want to deal with my crazy schedule, either.

“Duty calls,” he replied and took a sip of his wine. “That’s the nature of our jobs.”

I chuckled, my nerves easing. “That’s exactly what I thought when Regan asked me to sub. Valen and Petyr are both sick with a stomach bug.”

Payton picked up his phone. “I’ll text them and see if they need anything.”

“That’s sweet. Thanks.”

“You don’t need to thank me.”

I leaned over and kissed him softly. “I’ll be late. Until probably two or three. Is it okay if I come back?”

“You better.” He smiled and stood up. “Hold on.”

Payton walked over to the kitchen and grabbed one of the ceramic containers on the counter. He opened the lid, reached in, and pulled out a set of keys. When he came back to sit beside me, he placed the keys in my hand.

“The parking garage code is 5712. The blue one is the key to the building, and the red one is for my condo.”

I gratefully pocketed the keys and reached for him. The kiss I planted on him was hard and quick, but no less potent than any touch between us.

“I’ll see you later, Angel.”

“Be safe.”

I grabbed my phone and headed for the door. By the time I got to my car, Regan had texted Evert’s address. Then I sent Valen and Petyr a quick group text.

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