Chapter 15 Tom
TOM
Kat is quiet on the way home, her whole body demeanor changing when I turned on the radio. I could speculate that the song is the culprit considering the lead singer of Descending North lives in the same gated development as her brother.
That thought probably spiraled into her being mad—but not actually mad—at her brother and on from there.
I’m paid to be observant, but I’ve never been this invested in anyone’s feelings before.
I want her to be happy.
Carefree.
Safe.
Kat excuses herself as soon as we get back to the house, telling me she’s going to lie down for a bit. An uncomfortable feeling settles in my gut as I pace around the kitchen with my phone in my hand.
I’ve never needed friends but that’s not to say I haven’t acquired them either. Kat’s admission in the store tugs at something deep inside.
She’s lonely.
I’ve never had time for loneliness, but I can understand why other people crave that connection. Is Kat lonely all the time? I should stay out of it, keep things professional, but how can I just carry on when she’s clearly hurting?
But what can I do? I can’t just bring people into the fray when we’re in the middle of something. Flying Bailey in would be risky and that would take coordination I don’t have time for. Plus I’d have to allocate resources to protect her as well.
“I can’t remember the last time I had mine done. I usually get the press-on ones, but I haven’t had time.”
Coming to a stop in front of the sink, I replay the words in my head, remembering the way Kat looked when she said it…almost wistful.
Could I make that happen?
Debating for just a second longer, I scroll through my contacts until I find the one I’m looking for and hit the call button.
She answers on the second ring, amusement coloring her tone. “Oakey! To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?”
Typical.
Emerson Andrews is exactly like her cousin, Isla, but instead of being ruthless in the boardroom, she kills her opponents with kindness. With Isla and Cullen retired, it’s just Emerson and her father, Gene, running Andrews International.
I watched those girls grow up. Even before I started working there, they were part of the small circle of people I cared about.
It’s the only reason I still let them call me Oakey.
“I need a favor.” Swallowing my pride, I add, “And some advice.”
“Huh.” The tapping of keys stops and I know I have her full attention. “Definitely unexpected.”
“I’ve been tasked with protecting Kat Harrington.”
“The author?”
“Yes.”
“Interesting, go on.”
“Are you free tonight? She has a couple thousand bags to put together so she can hand them out to the kids she’s seeing this week—presentations at two different schools.”
“That’s a hell of a favor. I can’t wait to hear what you need advice on.”
“I know you’re busy and I wouldn’t ask for something like this, but I can’t bring anyone in that isn’t already vetted.”
“I didn’t say no.”
“And I appreciate that.”
“What’s the second part?”
In for a pound…
“On Saturday, she has a big signing in Chicago—something organized with a few authors that’s going to require I bring a whole team.”
“All right…”
“Don’t make this a thing.”
“I can’t promise that.” She laughs as I drag my hand down my face.
I can’t believe I’m asking this but I don’t have a choice.
I need Emerson’s help—I can’t pull this off without her.
And even though Emerson will probably razz me about this indefinitely, it’ll be worth seeing Kat feeling her best on Saturday.
“This has been hard on her. We’re working as fast as we can but it’s intrusive.”
“I know the feeling,” she muses, and I dip my head even though she can’t see me.
“She told the girl at the craft store she likes to get her nails done but hasn’t had a chance. I remember you and Isla used to go to that salon that did all that, right? Hair and makeup too?”
“Oakey, are you asking me to take your girl out for a spa day?”
“She’s a client and yes. The signing starts at two. We can be in the city by nine and she can get dressed there before we have to head to the event.”
“Don’t let anyone say you’re not romantic.”
“She’s a client, Emerson.”
“A client that I am renting the entire salon out for so we have privacy and you can ensure her safety. It’s very romantic. I can’t wait to tell Isla.”
“Don’t do that.”
“That is a promise I cannot keep.” She chuckles. “You know I tell her everything.”
“Emerson…”
“Send me Kat’s address. I’ll be there tonight at six for bag packing. Are you cooking?” Her tone is hopeful and it’s my turn to laugh.
“What do you want?”
“Alfredo, don’t be ridiculous.”
“My sincerest apology.”
“Uh-huh. Let me take care of the reservation. I’ll have breakfast catered; just find out if she has any requests. Is this a surprise or can I talk to her tonight about it?”
“Maybe ease her into it.”
“You got it. I’ll see you tonight.”
“Thank you.”
“You can thank me now, Oakey, but just wait till I collect on that favor.”
The line goes dead and I’m left standing in the kitchen once again wondering what the fuck I’ve gotten myself into.