They both look at me.
“There is a fundraiser tomorrow,” Carla says. “The hospital has several every year; this is the most important event of the year for the hospital. It’s at one of the function venues out in the Old Quarter. There will be lots of important people in attendance. They raise an obscene amount of money for the hospital every year. It’s one of the main reasons we have the equipment we do.”
I look at Robyn. “I’ll be attending with you, unless you already have a date?”
She licks her lips.
“I can’t let you go alone, Dr. Keller.”
She looks up and then back at me, looking guilty as fuck. She’s about to lie to me again. I can see it on her face, the small tell at the corner of her jaw.
I lift my brows at her, holding her gaze.
Don’t do it!
I narrow my eyes at her.
“If you have a date,” I tell her, “I’ll be forced to attend as a bodyguard. One way or the other, I will be there.”
She sighs.
“You’re overreacting.”
“Just like I was overreacting last night?”
Her cheeks pink up.
“With respect, he’s not overreacting, Dr. Keller.” Carla folds her arms and looks between us. “The island isn’t safe right now. Someone tried to break into your apartment last night.”
“I know, I know.” Robyn rubs the back of her neck. “I just… I don’t even know if I can add a plus one the day before the function. The guest list was finalized weeks ago.”
“Leave it to me.” Carla waves a hand. “I’ll handle it. They’re not going to say no. You’re the guest of honor. They’ll allow you to bring a date.”
Carla turns to me. “It’s black tie, Ridge. Are you going to be okay with that? Do you need me to rent you something?”
“It won’t be a problem.”
“Excellent.” She pulls out her phone. “I’ll send the details across to you tonight. If there is anything else you need, let me know.”
“Great.”
Robyn is staring at me in a way that suggests she would very much like to throw something at my head. I keep my face neutral.
I finish packing up my laptop, slide the lead into the side pocket, and zip the bag.
“Ladies, I’ll wish you both a good evening.” I sling the bag over my shoulder and look at Robyn. “You have my number. Call if you are concerned about anything.”
She nods. “I will. Thank you, Commander.”
“Goodnight, Ridge.” Carla is bright and smiley. “Drive safely.”
“Goodnight.”
“Let’s get you into this dress,” I hear Carla say as I head down the hallway and through the staff door, out into the visitors’ lot where I parked.
I hit the unlock on my key. The car blinks at me.
I’m halfway through the drive home when I notice a line of SUVs behind me.
