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“But Benny was here the whole time.”
“That’s true. But what if someone got in through the window without Benny hearing them?”
Goosebumps broke out on Jade’s skin. “But we’re on the top floor.”
“Stranger things have happened. I’d rather be overly cautious than sorry.”
Jade’s eyes dropped to the floor as they stopped outside her door. Was she really in that much danger? It unnerved her that someone might go to that much trouble to get to her.
“Got it.”
Ryker glanced at her. “Hey.” He waited for her to tilt her face up. When she met his eyes, he said, “Don’t be scared. We’re here to protect you. We have to be cautious and stay one step ahead of your stalker. We’ve got you covered.”
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” He held eye contact as he reached for the doorknob. “Stay here for a minute. I’ll be right back.”
After Jade nodded, Ryker looked away from her and opened the door. He glanced in then disappeared inside. Jade stood with her back to the wall outside and listened. She couldn’t hear his footsteps move around the room; he was too quiet. She did hear the wardrobe doors open then click shut, and the same with the bathroom door. A few moments later, he came back.
“The room is clear. Do what you need to do. I’ll be out front. If you need anything, yell.”
“I can do that.”
He reached out and wrapped his hand around her elbow. He squeezed it reassuringly. “You’re going to be fine.”
She nodded. “Thank you.”
He tipped his head to her and walked toward the suite’s common area where Jade could hear the others laughing.
She walked into her room and closed the door. She leaned against the door and scrubbed her hands over her face. What had she gotten herself into?
Chapter 4
Jade
Jade felt more at ease after a long, thoughtful shower. Yes, Rosé could be dangerous, just like any fan could be dangerous, but Jade couldn’t live her life in fear. The bodyguards were there to keep her and the band safe. She had to trust them to do their jobs.
She pulled on her standard comfy-wear — an oversize t-shirt and yoga pants — then threw her hair up into a messy bun. She padded out to the main room barefoot and noticed how the soft carpet along the way cushioned her feet. Their record label really sprang for the luxurious accommodations this tour.
Benny and Drake sat at the table, enjoying plates full of food with Bex and Polly, their bass player. Lyra and Maggie, their keyboardist, must still be asleep. Benny remained straight-faced and serious as he ate, but Drake laughed about something with Bex then tried to steal a sausage-link off Benny’s plate. A mini-fork-fight ensued, the metal utensils clinking as Benny quickly thwarted Drake’s attack and won. Benny triumphantly bit into the link.
Jade approached the table. A covered plate and a can of Reddi-whip sat in front of an empty seat.
“Is that mine?” she asked, pointing.
“Yes, ma’am, sure is,” Drake said with a grin. “Pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream, as requested. Dig in.”
She sat down and pulled the cover off the plate.
The delicious scent immediately hit her. The pancakes smelled heavenly and the small bowl of sliced strawberries looked fresh. Jade spread the strawberries over the pancakes, then picked up the can of Reddi-whip. She shook the can, then angled the nozzle at the pancakes and pressed it. The can pssssssshhhed as the white fluff spurted out on top of her pancakes. She loaded them up with whipped cream, sat the can down, and practically drooled as she picked up her fork. When the first flavorful, fluffy bite exploded on her taste buds, she moaned.
“Damn, this room service kicks-ass,” she said.
“It sure does,” Bex agreed. She finished her last bite of eggs and patted her stomach. “I’m stuffed.”
Jade glanced around the room but didn’t see Ryker anywhere.
“Where’s the boss-man?” she asked.
