Page 32 of When Fashion Turns Deadly

Cole gave her another kiss. “Try to get some sleep.”

“What about you and Lars? You need sleep too.”

“Lars and I can take naps when you’re doing your modeling thing.”

Modeling at Paris Fashion Week. Isabelle might never have aspired to such a feat, but she was well aware that this was a dream for many in the modeling industry. “I don’t know whether to hope I can get these jobs or pray that I don’t.”

“The more jobs you get, the more access you have to Marit.”

“And the more likely it is I’ll spot any possible threats.” Isabelle sighed. “I really do need to go to bed early.”

“Do me a favor when you get to your flat and stand next to a window. I want to see if you’re on the hotel side.”

“We are.” She furrowed her brow. “Are you planning to spy on us?”

“I’m hoping to make sure no one can use any outside access to get to your room.”

“It sounds better when you say it that way.” Isabelle stepped back. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Call if you need anything.”

“I will.” Isabelle leaned in for one last kiss before she continued to the door that Lars currently held open for Marit.

“Ready?” Marit asked.

“Yeah.” Isabelle and Marit made their way up to the fourth floor. When they stepped out of the lift, Esmee was heading toward them. Nadia followed behind her, a large bag over her shoulder and a roller carryon suitcase behind her.

“What’s going on?” Marit asked.

Esmee held up two old-fashioned keys. “The locksmith was here earlier. Here are your new keys.” She handed them to Marit. “Nadia is taking the spare bed in Monica’s room so you and Isabelle have the flat to yourselves.”

“Any chance there are other available beds somewhere else in the building?” Isabelle asked. Switching rooms wouldn’t hurt.

“Sorry. Nadia took the last spot,” Esmee said, “but the building supervisor did add an extra guard for tonight.”

At least that was some improvement.

“We’ll see you in the lobby at eight in the morning. Don’t be late.” Esmee moved past them. “And call me if you have any problems.”

“Thanks, Esmee.” Marit continued past Nadia and unlocked the door.

Isabelle put her hand on her shoulder. “Do you mind if I go in first?”

“You’re sounding like Cole,” Marit said.

“He may have rubbed off on me a bit.” Isabelle stepped inside before she drew the gun from her coat. Keeping the pistol pointed at the floor, she checked out the bathroom, living room/kitchen space, and the two bedrooms.

She secured her weapon and called out, “It’s all clear.”

Marit hurried inside before closing and bolting the door behind her. “I’m not sure a new lock and an extra guard in the lobby is going to help me forget someone broke in here yesterday.”

Isabelle crossed to the window and pulled the curtains aside. She called Cole, who picked up a moment later. “I’m standing in the window.”

“I see you. Look up two floors to your left.”

Isabelle lifted her gaze to where Cole and Lars stood behind the glass of a sixth-floor window. “Hey, Marit. Come here.”

“Is there someone out there?” Marit hurried forward.

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