Page 53 of Thirsty Bodyguard Summer
Shane studied me while I opened a wrap.
I focused on the food.
By nightfall, every empty seat would hold someone waiting for him. After the concert, cars would take him to interviews, recording sessions, and whatever came next.
When this assignment ended, I would go back to the Beacon and the life I had built in Sunbreak Harbor.
I didn’t know whether he wanted a place in it or only one more night before he left.
Shane ate several bites before speaking again. “Are you planning to leave the second the assignment ends?”
My fingers stopped against the wrap.
“You have a show in a few hours.”
“That wasn’t my question.”
“It’s the question you’ve chosen to ask while wearing rehearsal clothes and eating rice.”
“I’ve been told I’m good at timing.”
“You were told the opposite.”
He set down his fork.
“I’m asking now because you got quieter every time another piece of the show came onstage.”
I took a drink of water. “That’s a lot to pull from one rehearsal.”
“You weren’t worried about the music. You liked the music.”
“I said you were good yesterday.”
“You said it once and refused to repeat it. I’ve treasured the memory.”
I almost smiled.
Shane leaned back in the chair. “You’re doing that thing where you get practical because you don’t want to answer.”
“I’m always practical.”
“You can be practical and still tell me whether Friday ends tomorrow.”
A knock sounded at the door.
The relief agent waited outside.
My scheduled break had started.
I opened the door and gave the handoff with Shane beside me.
“The protected corridor and suite are clear. The media roster remains outstanding. Melanie Keene is the likely sender, but her active presence hasn’t been confirmed. Shane stays in this room until wardrobe call unless Rafi or I clear movement. Thebathroom and closet have been checked. Catering and sealed drinks are inside.”
The agent nodded. “I have close contact and the corridor. Rafi is ten yards east at stage access.”
“Call me immediately if the roster comes in or any route changes.”
“I will.”
