Page 16 of Shattered Veil

“He’s taking his jet back to New York.”

Trace’s words slice through me. Balorleftme here. And didn’t say goodbye. Man, that...hurts.

I recall him saying he had a jet. Guess he wasn’t lying.

Panic swells in my chest as I check the time. The plane takes off in about an hour, but thankfully I’m only five minutes from the airport. My bags are already checked for the flight, and FAA regulations won’t let them take off if my ass isn’t in a seat.

I just hope Balor or whatever his name is didn’t stiff mewith the hotel bill.

“Something came up and he’s needed back in New York straightaway.” Trace holds out an envelope. “He sends his apologies.”

I look down at it but don’t take it from him. It’s probably the ten grand Balor offered to pay me even though I asked for five.

Glancing at the room service cart, I notice only one dome, nerves rattling through me.

He planned this.

He only ordered food for me. I was hungry earlier, but now I don’t think I can eat.

“I saw him twenty minutes ago. Why didn’t he just tell me himself?”

“Like I said, lass. Something came up.”

“Lass?”

“An expression. An endearment.”

“And my...friend. He’s your...”

“Boss.”

“Are you a bodyguard?”

His cheek ticks. “Not for long.”

Bingo.

“What are you, six-four?”

“Six-five.”

“Were you on the plane?” There’s no way I’d missthisguy.

Trace looks around and considers if I’m worth an answer. He thinks I’m an escort.

“No. I had to do security for his sister.” He clears his throat, like something caught in it. “A team in Sydney guarded Mr...”

I wave him off, lightheaded at this point and not sure if I care to peel any more layers from this embarrassment.

“Thank you for the message. You can...leave.” I shake my head and lift the dome, amazed at how good thatcheeseburger looks. There’re even French fries cooked to a golden-brown perfection, wrapped up in a steel cone, with a slice of cheesecake on the side.

Trace waves the envelope. “Are you taking this, lass?”

I scoff. “By all means, leave it on the dresser.”

This part of being a whore isn’t fun.

“I’d feel better if you took it. Can’t have any misunderstanding.”