“What’s wrong?” Kain asked, stepping closer.
“Something is off about him.” I jerked my chin toward the corner at the man in the black-and-white uniform. “The one with the cross tattoo on his face.”
Kain’s gaze followed mine. “Why do you say that?”
“I’ve seen him before.” I shrugged. “A bad vibe? I don’t know. I could be wrong, though.”
We both stood watching him move around the room. Then he pushed the cart through a set of doors.
“It’s probably me being paranoid,” I sighed. “Anyway, enjoy your evening. See you around.”
As I turned, an explosion erupted. Before I could react, powerful arms enveloped me as we both dropped to the ground.
Chapter Six
Kain
Something sharp struck my shoulder, but the Kevlar shirt prevented it from piercing me. I tightened my arms around Eva, who I prayed was unharmed beneath me. The hotel alarm blared as chaos erupted, with people running and screaming. Smoke billowed in the room.
I sat up, examining her. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah,” she murmured, though fear darkened her eyes. “You?”
“I’m fine.” I helped her stand and clasped her hand, taking her out of the room to the other side of the hallway. Smoke continued to fill the room as the security guards rushed in, escorting people to safety. I had to find Shonda, my guest tonight and also the regional manager of my tattoo franchise. Tonight’s event was a networking opportunity that had exploded into chaos. I had questions for that man Eva had pointed out. Who was he? Who did he work for?
“I need to find my friend, but I’ll escort you to the front desk first.”
“No, I’ll be okay. Go help your friend.”
“Okay.” I placed a hand on each of her shoulders and turned her around, making sure she wasn’t hurt anywhere. “You’re okay.”
“Thank you,” she said. “Be careful.”
“I will.” Hope sparked in me, and I felt guilty for it.
Danger flared itself in front of me, and I was focused on her caring words more than the threat. I’d think about the absurdity later.
As Eva walked toward the front desk, I returned to the banquet room, searching for Shonda.
“Kain!” She rushed up to me. “Are you all right?”
“Yes.” I nodded. “You?” At a glance, she appeared fine, other than a little frazzled.
“Let’s go.” I gripped her elbow, pulling her into the hallway.
“I’m all right. Just ducked under the table with two other people when the explosion occurred.” She looked back into the room. “Do you know what happened?”
“No, I need to speak to security.”
“I’ll call Hilary to pick me up. We’ll catch up soon.”
When Shonda left, more police officers, firefighters, and the bomb squad arrived, along with a news station. Curious hotel attendees stood around asking questions. Amidst all the chaos, I remained calm to analyze the situation, a useful skill I’d picked up from my time as a captive. I stood off to the side, away from the chaos, and sent a text to my friend Detective George McNally of the Brookline Police Department. Boston wasn’t his jurisdiction, but he had friends who could get me what I needed.
Kain:Hey. An explosion just occurred at the Boston Harbor Hotel. Can you get me info on it?
Detective McNally:Yeah, I heard. You okay?
Kain:I’m fine.
