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Tim handed the bag to the porter. I winced as I turned away from the counter. I’d been putting a bit too much pressure on my foot.
Tim offered his elbow. I gripped his forearm and limped across the elegant lobby. Leather furniture clustered around the massive open fireplace in the center of the room. Two older ladies sat on a small leather sofa sipping tea.
To the left was a year-round terrace with a retractable roof and windows. We were escorted to the glass and mirrored elevators.
“Ma’am,” he said to me. “Your access card operates the elevator.”
I held the card to the black polished panel. The P of the penthouse illuminated, and the elevator doors silently slid closed. A moment later, the doors opened into the suite.
The porter pointed out the amenities. The complimentary bar, large wardrobe in the bedroom, steam capable shower in the bathroom, and two toilets. He put my small suitcase just inside the double doors of the bedroom.
“Temperature, television, the blinds, and lights are all controlled by the tablet. Butler and turndown services are available as well as twenty-four-hour room service through the guest portal. Someone is always available should you need anything during your stay with us.”
“Thank you,” I said and hobbled over to the sofa in the massive living area. I plopped down and lifted my boot to the glass coffee table.
Tim followed the porter to the elevator.
Once we were alone, he sat in the chair across from me.
“You don’t need to stay,” I said.
He grunted and leaned his head back. “I’ll leave when the boss arrives. When do you expect him?”
“He just said tonight.”
He lifted his head and softened his gaze on me. “I meant what I said to you. You can trust me, Ally.”
“I do.”
He leaned forward and rested his elbows on his knees. “But we can’t talk like this unless we’re alone. Santi is my best friend. We’ve known each other forever, but I know my place. I’m a soldier for your family. I do whatever is asked of me without question.”
He rubbed his palms on his thighs.
“I also know the consequences of any appearance of impropriety. I can’t protect you if I’m not with you.”
“Careful, Timoteo, every time we talk, you’re becoming less of an asshole.”
“Trust me, I’m an asshole.” He stood and crossed to the basket of complimentary snacks on top of the mini fridge. He plucked out a package of cookies and tossed me a dark chocolate and granola bar.
“Thanks.” I peeled open the wrapper. “I need to ask one more favor.”
Tim unbuttoned his sportscoat and hung it over the chair before sitting again. “Is it going to get me killed?”
“Only if Dee finds out. When you get back to the house tonight, I need you to check her chat history. She’s upset because I wouldn’t bring her with me. I’ve talked to her about being careful online, but she’s sixteen and spiteful.”
He nodded. “Don’t worry. I’ll keep an eye on her, and I don’t think she’s crazy enough to jump the wall and take off like her sister.”
I snorted. “Even if you don’t find anything, let me know so I don’t worry. But be careful about what you text. I don’t want anyone to know you were checking up on her.”
He nodded. “What do I get in return for this favor?”
“What do you want?” I narrowed my gaze. “And be careful what you ask for. My foot is injured, but I can still hobble over to you and stab you with my knife.”
“Fuck, Ally, just behave, especially while your fiancé is here.”
I was definitely going to misbehave with my fiancé.
“Play on your phone.” I slid off the couch, lumbered across the room to the bedroom, unpacked my suitcase and set my toiletries on the vanity.
