The doorman squares up, ready to funnel me toward the DoorDash entrance, when security cuts in fast.
I’d like to say it’s the first time someone’s mistaken me for not being worthy of the front door.
It isn’t.
“He’s good,” the head of security says, already reaching for my hand.
I shake it. “Thanks, Tony.”
One corner of his mouth twitches. “Figured they might’ve called you in.”
I slow. “What do you mean?”
Tony doesn’t answer. He steps aside and tips his chin toward the doors. “Take a look for yourself.”
I get one foot inside before the noise hits.
Utter chaos.
The lobby is packed wall to wall. Bodies layered on bodies. Flashbulbs stuttering. Paparazzi clawing for position. And easily three times the number of people permitted by law.
“Isn’t this a fire hazard?” I ask flatly.
Tony shrugs. “My team’s shorthanded. Flu’s going around.” He coughs into his hand.
The same one I shook.
I wipe my palm on my jeans as he continues. “We tried clearing everyone out in an orderly fashion, but some nimrod insisted they could all stay.”
“Who said that?”
He points, exasperated. “That idiot.”
And then I see him.
Pierce Maddox. Soaking in the spotlight like the sun in Cancún.
Tonight, the dipshit chose leather. Not a jacket. A full three-piece suit. So either he lost a bet or his stylist is holding a grudge.
He’s planted in the center of the lobby, mid-meltdown, finger jabbing toward the front desk as he barks demands.
I move closer to hear him over the noise.
“You have no right to keep me from my room or my fiancé. And these fine members of the press are recording your actions,” he warns.
He poses for the cameras as he points.
I roll my eyes.
I’m pretty sure the man at the front desk is about to flag security. Then the cameras close in, and he hesitates before handing the prick a key.
Unfuckingbelievable.
Pierce snatches it, skips the thank-you, and shoves through the crowd toward the elevator.
In three steps, I’m in his path.
He looks up, sneer locked and loaded until recognition hits. “You again.” His gaze drags over me. “At least you’re dressed this time.”
