It’s an easy question to ask because Lev and Summer have been part of our circle for a while. Lev is the first person we call when the band needs security in the States. I met him through Demetri Volkov, a friend of Quinn’s, back when Lev worked for the Volkovs. Demetri eventually connected Lev with us, and since then, he and his guys have been solid.
"They loved it, man. Thanks again." Lev's expression shifts to a more serious, all-business mode. "I hope you don't mind, but Miles brought this stalker problem to my attention earlier when he asked us to beef up security." Lev crosses his arms over his chest. "He tells me it's been going on for a few months now?"
"Yeah. But it's the first time this person has been bold enough to leave a letter in person at one of our events." Anger rises in my gut. "And this time, he or she threatened not only me but my friends and family." I look around at my friends standing quietly nearby. "This needs to stop before something bad happens."
"Let me take a look at the letter?" Lev holds out his hand, and I pass him the folder. I watch his face as he reads the letter.
"Mind if I keep this? I'd like to investigate further," he inquires.
"Yeah?" I look at him.
Lev nods. "Yeah. This looks like much more than an obsessed fan. He or she is resorting to written threats. You should have it investigated."
"I agree," Miles says. "I also think you and the rest of the band need to lay low for a while. This was the final show. All of you take a break—go on vacation until we sort this mess out."
"What about studio time? We have it booked to start recording new shit next week," Cody states.
"I'll get it pushed back a few weeks," Miles tells him.
"Not to step on any toes, but I would also suggest personal security for everyone since threats were made against those in this room. You should also assume those threats include family, friends, or anyone you associate with." Lev's serious tone puts me on edge more than I already am.
Heisley pokes her head in the room. "Time's up. Let's go."
"Can we discuss this later?" I ask..
"You got it," he nods, and my bandmates and I walk out of the room.
Later in the night, after we've interacted with fans, signed hundreds of autographs, and dealt with the media, everyone but me loads up on the buses. Lev and Summer walk up with Miles. "You got my ticket?" I ask Miles.
"Your flight leaves before noon tomorrow." He eyes me with concern. "You think you should be flying out there with this threat looming over your head?"
"It's only for a couple of days. I'm not missing my niece's birthday," I tell him, then add, "I'll find somewhere to lie low and recharge after I get back from Montana."
"Want me to book you a stay somewhere—maybe that Villa in the Florida Keys? It's private and secluded," Miles mentions,and, at first, the idea of being on a beach all by myself sounds nice. The appeal quickly fades.
"I have a suggestion," Summer interjects, and I look at her, raising my brow. "My friend Cat, who works at the salon, runs a bed and breakfast."
"Where?" I ask Lev.
"In Montana. Not far from Polson actually—Callaghan Ranch."
"Can't say I've heard of it."
"Well, if you're looking for a different, change-of-pace place where you can disappear for a while, I couldn't recommend a better location than my hometown," Summer adds. "And your business would be more than appreciated. Plus, you're going to Polson to visit your family anyway. This will give you a chance to spend more time with them."
My gaze cuts to Lev. "I'd rather keep my sister and the Kings out of this. My bullshit is the last thing they need on their doorstep." Lev grinds his jaw like he wants to disagree but ultimately knows the decision is mine. He reluctantly nods in agreement, so I continue. "You'll keep me posted on this shit with the nutjob?"
"I will," he tells me.
"Miles, you mind keeping Gizmo for a while?"
"Sure," Miles agrees.
"Alright." I look between Lev and Summer. "Callaghan Ranch, here I come." I clap my hands together, having no idea what waits for me in the small town.
2
CAT
