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John stepped up. “He’s right. Neither one of us is in a rush to get back. You’d be doing us a favor.”
Dahlia snickered, looking between both men. “If you’re sure?”
Sal lifted his chin, gestured to the door, and smiled. “I am. It was a pleasure to meet you, Dahlia.”
She rushed back and offered her hand. Sal immediately took it. “It was so nice meeting you, Sal. Thanks for sharing your snacks and—” Dahlia chuckled. “—listening.”
“Anytime, honey.” Sal winked.
Dahlia rushed down the hall and halted at the door, peeking into the room. Her eyes welled, taking in the scene. Karia was lying on the bed with her head resting against the pillow, exhausted and glowing. She was staring up at Trick, who had the baby cradled in his tatted arms. Never had she ever seen him appear more protective, proud, and so very gentle. She’d called it months ago. These two were going to make amazing parents.
Witnessing this moment right here was worth the wrath of Rogue.
*
Splurging for a car service wasn’t something she did often, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Dahlia had spent more time than expected at the hospital. Sal was right, he must have had connections, because no one came into the room booting her out, and she’d stayed well past the visiting hours.
Dahlia got dropped off at the main entrance and rushed toward the back and into the building. She didn’t even bother stopping at the break room to drop off her things. She’d store them under the bar. Dahlia ducked into the bathroom and changed into her uniform in record time. She was still straightening her top as she rushed out the door. She weaved through some staff heading down the hall, giving a quick short greeting and raced up the stairs. She was already out of breath when she glanced around the balcony.
Thank God it was empty.
She walked over to the bar, tucking her bag in the cubby on the floor and straightened, taking a deep breath. Her relief was short-lived when Jared walked out from the back. As a member of Trey’s security, he rarely showed up without Trey. This was a minor setback knowing Trey was already here, but she’d explain what happened. He would be far more understanding than Rogue.
“Hi, Jared.”
His brows dipped into a tight scowl. “Where the hell were you?”
“I know I’m running a little late, but I’ll make sure Sloane knows to dock my pay, and I’ll explain to Trey.”
“Trey’s not here.” Jared’s gaze narrowed. “But Rogue is.”
Oh fuck me!
“He never comes in this early…”
“Well, he did tonight and now he’s looking for you.”
“Shit.” Dahlia dragged her hand over her face.
Jared stepped closer and lowered his voice. “Tell Rogue you had a family emergency, and you cleared it with Sloane. That’s your best shot.”
He was suggesting she lie and put the blame on Sloane?
“And get Sloane in trouble? No way, I’m not doing that!”
Jared rolled his eyes and knowingly sighed. “Sloane doesn’t get in trouble.”
What does that mean? Dahlia was sure no one escaped the wrath of Rogue.
“I can’t lie.”
His face hardened. “You wanna keep your job? Fucking lie, Dahlia!”
This was beyond strange. Jared, who rarely acknowledged her and hadn’t uttered one word to her, was now trying to help cover for her?
“Why are you helping me?”
Jared ignored her question. “Come on.”
