Page 10 of Bold Encounter
"But what about your work?"Genevieve said.
"Don't worry about that.I can take a few days off, at least until I'm sure what that guy is up to."His voice softened."No one's going to hurt you, Genevieve, not while I'm around."
She didn't argue."Rescuing me from danger is becoming a habit."
Chapter 2
Genevieve sat in Abe's police car, her pulse still racing from the confrontation with Jason.Streetlights cast shifting shadows on the sidewalks as they drove through the French Quarter.The House of Blues faded in the rearview mirror, yet she couldn't get past the disturbing moment when Jason had reached for her.
"Thank you again," she said, turning to look at Abe's profile.His eyes were focused on the road ahead."I'm meeting friends for a late dinner after the show.My best friend Cadie will be there.She plays piano in my band."
Abe glanced at her."Where?"
"The Double Club on Chartres Street.It's not far."Genevieve touched his arm, feeling the tension in his muscles."I'll be spending the night at Cadie's place.I'll be safe there."
His concern warmed her even as it reminded her of the danger.Jason's sudden reappearance in her life felt surreal.She didn't understand why after years of silence, he would show up.And it was when things were finally going well in her career.
"I don't like leaving you," Abe said, his deep voice pulling her from her thoughts."But I need to wrap up a few things if I'm going to take time off to help you.And I want to start digging into Jason's background."
"I understand.Honestly, I'll be fine surrounded by friends.Jason wouldn't try anything in public."Although she spoke the words, she wasn't entirely convinced.
Abe pulled up outside the café.Its warm golden light spilled onto the sidewalk."Text me when you get to Cadie's.I want to know you're okay."
"I will."Genevieve hesitated, then impulsively leaned across and kissed his cheek."Thank you for coming when I needed you."
His eyes softened."Anytime."
Inside the café, Genevieve spotted her band members at a corner table.Mickey waved her over to sit down.His drumsticks were tucked into his back pocket, as usual.
Cadie's curly, dark hair was pulled back in a loose ponytail.She smiled then motioned to the empty chair beside her.
Genevieve slid into the seat.The familiar smell of rich coffee and fresh beignets calmed her slightly.She wouldn't tell them about Jason yet.
"Are you okay?"Mickey said, leaning forward."You seemed distressed backstage earlier.Was that guy bothering you?"
"Not really.He didn't stay long," she lied.
Mickey seemed satisfied with her answer, but Cadie's eyes narrowed.She probably suspected there was more to it.
The meal passed in a blur of conversation about the night's performance, upcoming gigs, and industry gossip.Genevieve laughed at appropriate moments and chatted to her friends, but her thoughts kept returning to Jason.
Later in Cadie's apartment, Genevieve finally let her guard down and sank onto the floral sofa with a sigh.
"Okay, spill it," Cadie said, curling up at the other end of the sofa."And don't tell me nothing's wrong.I've known you for too long."
Genevieve took a breath before recounting Jason's appearances after the wedding reception, and then at the club."It's like he's been watching me, waiting for the right moment to show up."
"That's upsetting," Cadie said."But at least that cop was there."
"Yes, Abe came over."His name brought a flutter to Genevieve's stomach that had nothing to do with fear."He's been…protective."
"Protective, huh?"Cadie raised an eyebrow."And incredibly hot, from what you've told me."
Genevieve shrugged, as there was no point in denying it."Fine.Yes, he's attractive.But he's just doing his job."
"No officer's job description includes this kind of attentiveness."Cadie's eyes sparkled mischievously."You're getting special treatment."
"Maybe."Genevieve remembered the tenderness in Abe's eyes when he'd asked if she was okay."But it doesn't matter.My life is complicated enough without adding romance to the mix."
