Infinityglass (Hourglass 3)

I did the math and frowned. “That’s six—”

“I want you and Poe here, too.”

Suddenly, I was really glad he hadn’t guessed the nature of the relationship between Hallie and me.

“There will still be security, and the ladies will be located very far away from the gentlemen, but if all of you can see what she can, then you can try to protect her from it. I’ll be in touch with the guards while I’m gone. If things don’t stay aboveboard, I’ll reassess.”

I knew, in this case, reassess meant I’d be fired, and if he found out about Hallie and me, possibly castrated.

“Yes, sir,” I said.

“Take care of my daughter.”

“I’ll guard her with my life.”

Chapter 16

Hallie

Dune was in my dad’s office. I just hoped I would hear the ambulance over the music.

Since I was alone, I decided on a quick session of warm-ups. The familiar routine usually allowed me to leave myself behind, just for a while. I tried to let my mind float, but Dune eased his way in, keeping me anchored.

Even so, I let out a shriek when I saw him at the window.

I opened the door and waved him inside. “You’re not dead. That’s good.”

“Are there cameras in here?” he asked.

“Not in the changing room.”

He grabbed my hand, dragged me in, and shut the door. Then he planted a fat one on my lips, and opened the door again.

“Not that I’m complaining, but what the hell is going on?”

I was still in the dressing room, but he was already out in the studio proper.

“The Hourglass is on the way,” he said.

“He said yes.” I was shocked. Dune had been in his office fifteen minutes, max.

“They’re staying here.”

My stomach pitched. “Okay.”

“So is Poe.”

I stared at him.

“And so am I.”

We waited at NOLA, Emeril’s restaurant on Saint Louis Street.

“Are you okay?” Dune asked.

“I’m shell-shocked.”

“They were already halfway here.”