Page 5 of Iron Heart


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Me:This woman is intolerable.

I slide my phone back into my pocket and look up, I find her assistant, Lexy, giving me a comforting smile.“She’s often a bit late,” Lexy concedes.

The poor woman appears worn out and stressed, no doubt from the challenges of managing a celebrity’s demanding schedule.

But now that I’m on the job, I’m appalled at the way things were handled before.It seems her security was composed of mere amateurs, all employed by the record label, providing the same level of protection they offer their entire roster of stars.But her fame has risen to new heights, and therefore, the level of security must adapt to threats abound.

My anger bubbles over.“If she wants protection, then we need to adhere to a strict schedule, a timeline where I know her whereabouts at all times.I can’t protect someone who can’t keep to a schedule.”

My patience at an end, I knock sharply on her door, ignoring Lexy’s soft growl of disapproval.

“Ms.Slater,” I call out, repeating myself for the second time.

The car and her security detail are ready and waiting downstairs.

“Jesus, ‘I’m coming!”she yells back, her voice tinged with irritation.

With a swift motion, she opens the door, and the fragrance of her perfume reaches me.She’s petite, no more than five feet five inches with striking auburn hair and intense blue eyes that seem ready to shoot daggers at me.Casually dressed in black leggings and a bright red high-neck top, she’s a perplexing mixture of enchanting beauty and infuriating annoyance.

“Seriously, move out of my way,” she snaps.

Good.She should hate me.

“We are late,” I remind her coolly.

“I’m the one who sets the time around here,” she replies, puffing herself up and brushing past me.

I dismiss her comment and follow her down the elevators.As we pile out, I direct the rest of the security team to follow us in the other car while we make our way to the stadium venue.

Lexy, Victoria, and I pile into the black Suburban, the tension still palpable as we pull away from the hotel.The drive will take approximately twenty-eight minutes, and I intend to use that time to ensure our plans are synchronized.

Victoria’s piercing blue eyes flicker toward me, filled with a mixture of annoyance and curiosity.“So what’s the big plan, then?”she asks, her voice laced with sarcasm.

I keep my gaze fixed on the road, not allowing myself to be drawn into an unnecessary battle of wills.“We’re going to stick to a schedule,” I say firmly.“One that ensures your safety and allows you to focus on what you do best.”

Lexy watches the exchange, a hint of amusement in her eyes.She knows her boss well and seems to take my unwavering approach in stride.

Victoria snorts, crossing her arms.“I’ve managed fine without being micromanaged.Why change things now?”

“Because,” I respond calmly.“Your previous security was ill-equipped to handle your level of fame and the risks that come with it.I’m here to make sure nothing compromises your well-being.”

She looks like she wants to argue further, but instead, she turns her gaze to the window, watching the cityscape rush by.

The ride continues in relative silence, the thrum of the engine and the occasional chatter on the security radio filling the space.Lexy takes the opportunity to go over some last-minute details with her, and I’m surprised by the relentless demands on this woman.

As we approach the stadium, the magnitude of the venue and the event becomes clear.Fans are already gathering, a sea of eager faces and waving banners.Security personnel are visible at strategic points, and the entire operation seems to be a well-orchestrated symphony of anticipation.But even from this far, I can see holes in the security.

“We’re here,” I announce, pulling into the secured area reserved for the performers and their teams.

Victoria’s eyes sparkle with a renewed energy.“Let’s make it a night to remember,” she says, her voice now filled with determination rather than annoyance.

I allow myself a small smile, appreciating her spirit.“That’s the plan, Ms.Slater.”

As we approach the VIP entrance of the stadium, a group of rogue fans who’ve managed to slip into this restricted area catches my eye.Their excitement is palpable when they recognize the vehicle.

Victoria spots them too, her face lighting up with a warm smile as they rush forward.She waves at them through the tinted windows, clearly wanting to acknowledge their enthusiasm.

“Stay in the car,” I instruct, my voice firm while I assess the situation.

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