Page 114 of Nothing Special X: The Last Stand

“Top three,” Ruxs called out.

Green elbowed him, then looked at the rest of his team. “As far as work assignments go, the Golden Crown Awards isn’t the shittiest one we could get tasked with.”

“I’m sure.” Xander laughed softly. “Still, I’m so grateful. I feel safe because of you. I’m able to work because of you. And tonight, win or lose, I get to go there because you made sure fear didn’t keep me hiding in my home.”

Day winked at him and Tech gave him a small nod.

Steele turned away, which Xander was learning meant he felt something and didn’t like it.

God came toward him and stopped a few feet away. His mouth didn’t soften much, but there was kindness in his eyes.

“You just enjoy your night,” God said. “We’ll handle the rest.”

Xander nodded.

Cassidy kept his hand on the small of his back as they walked outside.

The evening had turned gold, pink, and purple over Laurel Canyon, the solar lights coming on along the driveway as the motorcade waited.

Slade stood beside the black 2027 Hummer—his manager had rented for his safety—wearing a basic black suit, an earpiece, and an impassive expression.

God and Day took the lead SUV. Ruxs, Green, and Steele loaded into the rear vehicle and Tech took the front passenger seat in the Hummer, as Cassidy opened the back door for him.

He slid inside and Cassidy got in beside him.

The door shut with a solid, armored clunk.

The convoy rolled out through the gate, down the long drive, and onto the road in a formation so smooth Xander almost felt like a US ambassador.

He was sure he’d be the only actor arriving with a six-man security team and a military-trained driver, but after the past few weeks, he hoped everyone would understand.

He stared out of the window at the city, the sky darkening toward indigo, flashpoints of light coming alive across the hills.

Cassidy inched towards him, brushing his mouth near his ear. “You look devastating.”

Xander’s breath caught before he smiled and leaned closer into the warmth of Cassidy’s lips.

“And you look like the man I want on my arm while I walk the carpet.”

Cassidy moved his nose further behind his ear, inhaling him in a way that made a shiver slide down his spine.

“You’re wearing my fragrance.”

Xander turned his head slightly, smiling. “Yes, I am. For very good reason.”

Cassidy’s eyes darkened. “And what reason is that?”

Xander bit his bottom lip. “I wanted to make sure you stay close.”

Cassidy eased his hand up his thigh, not high, not inappropriate, just enough pressure to make him aware.

“I will be…all night.”

Xander closed his eyes.

Cassidy kissed his cheek, his beard scraping lightly against his skin. “Good luck tonight.”

Warmth ignited in his chest. He gazed up through his lashes. “And what do I get if I win?”