Page 55 of Bold Encounter
"I won't," she said, and stepped back."I promise."
Genevieve held a jacket in one hand, and Abe helped her put it on.She wore purple sneakers decorated with rhinestones."Classy shoes," he said.
She stuck one foot out and turned her ankle to show off one of the sparkly shoes."And they're comfortable…in case I need to make a run for it."
Abe smiled."Clever."
As they prepared to leave for The Spotted Cat, Abe checked his weapon one final time, tested his radio, and reviewed the floor plan of the venue in his mind.His protective instincts were operating at maximum intensity.
But underneath his professional focus, reality surfaced.He had to be extra vigilant, because he was protecting Genevieve.His experience in law enforcement taught him that danger could lurk where least expected.
He would use every resource available.Although he wished the feds could move faster, as more backup would be better.But his team was well trained and knew the game.
Abe was determined that the evening would go well, and Genevieve would remain unharmed.He brushed aside his growing concern about how ruthless Jason's criminal backers were and swore that he'd protect her, no matter what.
*****
As Abe and Genevieve stepped through the front entrance, The Spotted Cat Music Club buzzed with energy.The intimate venue was filled with noisy patrons, ready for an entertaining evening.The warm glow of stage lights created an inviting atmosphere.
Genevieve looked at the stage where her friend sat at the piano, running through scales and adjusting her sheet music."There's Cadie," she said, her voice carrying a note of relief."I'm going to head to the stage."
Abe caught her arm before she could move away."I'll have eyes on you the entire time," he said."If you get worried about anything, just look out at the audience.You'll see me."
She nodded, then rose on her toes to kiss his cheek."I know you'll keep me safe."
The moment Genevieve walked away, Abe's focus shifted to security protocols.His trained gaze swept the venue, noting exits and sight lines.The Spotted Cat had two access points.The front entrance where they'd entered was the main one.Plus there was a back door near the stage that led to the alley.
He walked to the front door, where one of his security team members stood in position.The guard gave him a subtle nod, confirming his post was secure.Abe then worked his way through the growing crowd to the back entrance, where another security officer manned his post at the rear exit.
"Detective Stewart," a familiar voice called from behind him.
Abe turned to see Officer Denson approaching.He'd worked with Denson for years at NOPD and trusted him.The man had the kind of experience and competence that made him perfect for this type of assignment.
"How are we looking?"
"Tight as we can make it," Denson said."I know the regular club security isn't up to this task alone, but we've got the access points covered.Nobody gets in or out without us knowing about it."
"Good," Abe said."Keep me posted if you see anything unusual."
He took a position at the side of the crowd where he had a clear view of both the stage and the main floor.His jacket concealed his weapon.With a practiced eye, he continued to scan for any sign of trouble.
When Genevieve took the stage, Abe felt a surge of pride.Her voice filled the room with rich, soulful tones that seemed to captivate the audience.She moved gracefully, engaging with the crowd as if she didn't have a care in the world.If he didn't know her so well, Abe would not suspect she was nervous or had anything to worry about.
The first set flowed seamlessly.Genevieve's band was in sync, the audience was engaged, and there was no indication of trouble in the venue.Abe allowed himself to relax slightly, though his vigilance never wavered.Between songs, he caught Genevieve's eye and saw her smile when she spotted him in the crowd.
As the evening progressed, the venue remained secure, and Genevieve was doing what she did best.She shared her incredible talent with an appreciative audience, while Abe maintained his vigilance.
The final song ended to enthusiastic applause, and Genevieve and her band took their bows.Abe felt a sense of satisfaction as he watched her beam at the crowd.She'd performed without incident, despite any potential threat.And she deserved that.
The audience began filtering out and the band members packed up their equipment.Abe moved toward the stage, watching as the other musicians gathered their instruments and headed for the back exit.Cadie lingered at the piano, chatting with Genevieve for a few moments before giving her friend a hug and following the others out.
Officer Denson approached Abe as he reached the edge of the stage."Looks like we're all set here, detective.You need the team for anything else tonight?"
Abe shook his head."You can release everyone.I'll escort Genevieve to my car and take her home."
"Roger that," Denson said, then spoke into his radio to coordinate the team's departure.
The security personnel began their organized withdrawal from the venue, leaving club security to see that the stragglers made their way out before locking up.
