Page 5 of Bold Encounter
"You did."Genevieve smiled."And you have a sleepless night to show for it."She paused."But don't worry.I'll spend a couple of nights with a friend.I'll be fine."
"That's fine, but it pays to be cautious."Abe wished he could think of a way to spend more time with her, but he was out of options.He slid his card across the table."Call if you need anything."
Genevieve accepted his card then said, "For now, do all you can to help Gabriel resolve my sister's case."
Chapter 1
Walking away from an afternoon wedding reception a few months later, Genevieve reflected on life's unpredictable nature.In a wonderful turn of events, her sister had gotten married, and she took a moment to appreciate Brooke's good fortune.
Brooke's dangerous situation had been resolved.Abe had done his part in making sure she was safe.And Gabriel had risked his life in the effort, plus he'd fallen in love.Brooke had shared the love story with her, and Genevieve couldn't be happier for her sister.
The following months had involved wedding planning, and then the big event had taken place.Genevieve had been the matron of honor, and once the reception was over, her sister had left on her honeymoon.
After seeing her off, Genevieve changed into street clothes.A brisk walk in the fresh spring air would be welcome.The rest of the guests were filtering out of the reception, so it was fine for her to leave also.
The wedding attendees were close relatives and friends.It was no surprise that Abe was there and that he was best man.She'd seen him at the rehearsal and engaged in polite conversation with him.
He looked terribly handsome dressed up.Genevieve had taken care not to be too obvious in her admiration.And Abe was friendly, as usual.She tried to read his expression but was clueless.She hoped he was interested in her, but he hadn't called.
Genevieve hadn't found a reason to call him either, although she had considered it.At the wedding, she noticed him looking at her a few times.She was part of the ceremony, so looking didn't mean anything.
As Genevieve headed for the hallway, she didn't see Abe.Since the bride and groom were gone, he must have left already.It was unlikely that she'd encounter him again, as there was no reason for their paths to cross.
She walked down the hallway with thoughts about the wedding and how radiant her sister had been during the ceremony.When the hotel doors slid open, she stepped out to the sidewalk then hesitated.
Movement at the side of the building caught her eye, and a figure emerged that she didn't instantly recognize.Then she saw what was in his hands and stared.Holding out a bunch of wilted roses, he closed the distance between them.
Genevieve kept her eyes on Jason.She hadn't seen him in a while, ever since she left his band.He hadn't been pleasant then, and it appeared that his disposition hadn't improved.
His blue-eyed gaze pierced into her, making her uneasy."What are you doing here?"
His expression was dark, and Genevieve was unsure of his motive.Then he leaned in and spoke in a low voice."Do you have dreams of happiness like your sister?I don't see it for you."
"Get away from me!"Genevieve pulled away and took a step back.Then she heard a familiar voice behind her.
Abe appeared by her side then stepped forward.He towered over Jason, looking menacing."She asked you to leave.I suggest you do that."
Jason smirked."I'll do as I please."He threw the bundle of dry flowers at her feet then turned away and casually walked down the street.
"Friend of yours?"Abe said.
"My former band leader."Genevieve took a breath."I have no idea what possessed him to come here."
"How about if I buy you a cup of coffee?"Abe said."You look like you could use it."
Genevieve was shaken by Jason's unexpected appearance and threatening attitude.She appreciated Abe's timely arrival, so accepted his offer.She didn't fail to notice that he had also changed into street clothes, looking impossibly drool-worthy.
*****
Abe had followed Genevieve out of the hotel.He wanted to see her again, but hadn't made a move at the reception.He'd caught sight of her as she turned the corner to go down the hallway toward the exit.It would be better to talk outside and feel out the situation.
He didn't have an opportunity to keep it casual, but it was lucky that he came upon the scene before the situation got out of hand.In his career, Abe had encountered stalkers plenty of times, and he could smell them a mile away.
They bought coffee at a nearby shop and sat at a table by the window."That's the second time you've rescued me," she said.
Abe smiled."We have to stop meeting like this."
Genevieve's laugh warmed his heart.
