Page 58 of My Omega's Baby
I felt bad for him and couldn’t quite understand why he seemed to think he worked for Tom instead of the other way around. “It’s none of my business.” I crossed my hands in my lap.
He had another beer and we didn’t really talk much more until we arrived at the airport. He had a private jet waiting, so things went a little smoother than if we’d been flying commercial. The flight took a couple of hours, and we landed just as the sun was going down in Austin, Texas. There was another limo waiting for us on the tarmac, and a large group of screaming fans with banners were near the terminal.
Riley waved and blew kisses, and the girls screamed and jumped up and down. We slid into the limo, and Riley’s smile faded immediately. I had to wonder why he seemed so miserable. I knew he was under a lot of pressure, but he also lived a rather charmed life. There were plenty of people who would give their right arm to have the kind of career he had.
Once the luggage was loaded, we drove about a half hour to a nice hotel. I’d known we were staying in a hotel, but it was unusual since his family lived here. It showed how truly estranged from his parents he was.
Maybe he could sense my thoughts, because he volunteered, “I prefer to stay in a hotel. I have my independence and privacy this way.”
I shrugged. “Whatever you want, boss.”
He sighed. “Trust me, it would be hell for you too if we stayed with my parents. They’d no doubt try and convert you.”
I laughed. “I’m not complaining. I like hotels.” It would be easier to see all the entrances and exits this way too. It was always more awkward staying in someone’s private home while trying to do security work. They tended to leave doors unlocked and things like that, and it was uncomfortable having to remind them when it was their house.
We walked into the hotel, and a stocky man with an expensive suit came striding toward us. “You guys are late.” He scowled at Riley, and I met his impatient gaze without speaking.
“It’s not like we stopped at a strip club on the way. Jesus, we busted our ass to get here, Tom.” Riley looked annoyed.
I eyed the older man, finding his aggressive energy off-putting. But I didn’t say anything because it wasn’t my place. I heaved my overnight bag higher on my shoulder and tried to look pleasant.
“You have a meet and greet in an hour.” He leaned closer to Riley. “Are you drunk?”
Riley scowled. “No. I had a few beers.”
He wasn’t drunk, I could attest to that. He hadn’t seemed impaired in any way and had been sharp and alert the entire drive. I followed them as we made our way to the elevators. We stepped into the empty car, and Tom followed.
“The contest winners from the Orlando giveaway are going to be here at the meet and greet. Remember, one of them has a father who’s a senator, so let’s charm the pants off of her.”
“Why? Are you planning on running for president or something?” Riley rolled his eyes.
“The more powerful people you have on your side, the better, kid.” Tom turned to me. “I’m Riley’s manager, Tom Kincade.” He stuck out his hand and we shook.
“Blade Carr.” I held his gaze, well aware this kind of blowhard needed to know upfront I wasn’t a pushover.
“You’re younger than the last guy.”
My face warmed and I met Riley’s amused gaze. “I said the same thing,” he said.
I allowed a stiff smile. “I’ve been on the job eight years. No need to worry.”
“I’m not worried.” Riley laughed. “I’m glad you’re not some old geezer.”
Tom sighed. “Keep it in your pants, Riley.”
Riley scowled. “What?”
“The last thing we need is photos of you and your bodyguard making out.”
My face got even hotter. For one thing, I didn’t care for the tone he took with Riley, and for another why did he assume I’d go along with a make-out session with Riley? “No one’s making out with anyone.” My voice was gruff.
“Jesus, Tom. You can be such a dick sometimes.” Riley avoided my gaze.
“We just don’t need any problems.” Tom looked oblivious to how much he’d annoyed us. He scrolled through messages on his phone, muttering under his breath. “Oh, yeah. Your parents said they can’t make the show tonight. But they want to have breakfast with you tomorrow.”
Riley’s mouth hardened. “What a surprise.”
“Hey, at least they still want to see you.” Tom shrugged. “Last time, they completely ditched you.”
