Page 55

Yet Sol recommended him for the penthouse security. Sol doesn’t misjudge.

“Tell us what you do,” I say.

He meets my eyes, steady.

“I have worked for high net worth clients for fifteen years,” he says. “Primarily in private residences. I handle domestic duties–cooking, cleaning, laundry, managing deliveries, supervising other staff when needed. I observe guest behavior, note unusual patterns, and report anything that might present a risk. I coordinate schedules, appointments and household logistics.”

Brox nods once, impressed despite himself. “And in terms of protection?”

“The protection is assumed,” Shiaou answers. “My first line is prevention. I watch who comes in, who goes out, who lingers where they shouldn’t. I’m trained in jiu-jitsu and Krav Maga. I can handle most physical threats long enough to get my principals out or buy time for additional support.”

He says it without bravado. Just facts. No chest beating, no tales of bar fights won.

Lana is watching him with interest now, curiosity taking over.

“You cook?” she asks suddenly.

He turns his attention to her. “Yes, Miss. Lana.”

“What sort of food?” she goes on.

“Different cuisines,” he replies. “Italian, Japanese, Thai, French, some Balkan dishes. I adapt to preferences and dietary restrictions.”

Her brows jump.

“You’re hired,” she says under her breath.

I give her thigh a small squeeze.

“Your last employer?” Brox asks.

“A family in New York,” he says. “Discretion is part of my service, so I will not share names. They traveled frequently. I coordinated their home base and accompanied them on trips when requested.”

“And why did you leave?” I ask.

“Their eldest son decided to move to Europe,” he replies. “They relocated. I did not wish to.”

“Any official criminal record?” Brox asks, as if that would matter.

“No, sir,” he says. “Background check from any agency of your choice will confirm this.”

“Good.” I nod.

Lana looks at me. “So he’d live here? On this floor? Like Greta did?”

“Yes,” I reply. “Discrete presence. Available when needed. Invisible when not.”

“Would you stock our toiletry supplies?” she asks next.

“Yes.”

“For everyone, including me?”

A faint smile touches his mouth. “Including you. I can also prepare baths, assist with dressing, do basic maintenance, and many other things, Miss. Lana.”

She laughs, short and surprised. It ripples through the room.

“You might be my favorite person already,” she says.