“I could never do that to you. I just want to know you’re safe.”
I take a moment to consider his request before replying. I know it’s coming from a good place. I’m not sure how I feel about the need for it. I hate my association with him means I have to take extra precautions, but it’s not his fault. “What kind of security measures do you have in mind?”
“A fence like mine around the perimeter of your property, an alarm system, and some outdoor cameras. A gate with code entry too.”
“I’m paying for it,” I say.
“No way. You only need this because of me. I’m paying for it. Please don’t fight me on this. Just let me take care of you. I’ll sleep easier at night knowing you’re protected.”
Only a fool would say no to extra security. It’s a dangerous world we live in, especially the one Jared inhabits. If I’m going to be in his life, I have to accept some things will have to change. Starting with this. “Okay. If that’s what you need to feel reassured, I have no objection to it. But the bodyguard is a hard no.”
ChapterTwenty-Six
Jared
“That’s a wrap,” our producer says, giving us a thumbs-up from behind the glass in the control room as we lay down our ninth track for the new album. We’re way ahead of schedule, and it’s a nice feeling.
“Thank fuck.” Linc places his guitar against the wall before palming his stomach. “I’m starving, and not just for food.” He waggles his brows and licks his lips, and Wilder laughs.
“You’re such a cliché,” Syd proclaims not lifting her head from her sketch pad. She’s been in the live room with us most all day, drawing nonstop in between bopping her head in time to the beat.
I have loved having her here. It’s been nostalgic for both of us. We’ve shared plenty of lingering looks, and things are definitely heating up between us, but I haven’t drawn attention to it. I’m letting my girl set the pace, but I’m hoping we’ll be on the same page soon. Keeping my hands off her is a challenge that is growing more and more difficult. Sydney has slotted effortlessly back into my life the way I knew she would. I’m an impatient prick, and I’m itching to officially make her mine.
I want her permanently in my life.
In my house.
In my bed.
“What good is being a rock star if I don’t enjoy the perks?” Linc retorts, pulling a crumpled packet of cigs from his back pocket.
“You’re a pig.” There is no heat behind Sydney’s words, and she still hasn’t lifted her head from her pad.
“Love you too, honey pie.” Linc smirks as he saunters over to the couch Syd is sitting on. His features soften as he leans down to look. “Fuck, that’s awesome.”
Setting my signature sticks down, I stand, stretching my arms above my head and arching my back to loosen the stiffness there.
“It’s only a rough draft,” Syd replies, chewing on the corner of her mouth as I walk toward them.
I flop down beside her on the couch as Wilder places his guitar on the stand and ambles toward us. “Lemme see,” I demand, pressing my body against her side as I crane my neck.
The three of us praise her incredible work as Syd quickly flicks through her sketch pad showing us various drawings. “They are all superb, but the first one is my fave,” I confirm, flipping back to it.
“Mine too,” Wilder concurs. Linc nods, puffing away on his cig.
“I have spent the most time on it because I like the energy,” Syd supplies, narrowing her eyes critically on the drawing. “But there are a few others that might work better for a cover. I’m going to put my top three on a short list and spend some time working on them. Then I’ll show you guys, and you can pick the one you like best.” She closes the pad over, looking adorably anxious as she peers up at me.
“You’re going to do it then?” I can’t keep the smile off my face.
A delightful blush stains her cheeks as she nods and visibly swallows. “I think so. I mean, it’ll be up to you guys and Ryder. You might not like any of them.”
“That’s a virtual impossibility,” Linc says in between drags. “I already love them.”
“You’re gonna kill it, babe,” Wilder agrees, pressing a quick kiss to Sydney’s cheek.
My scowl is automatic as is Linc’s burst of laughter. He almost chokes, snorting out more laughter when I flip him the bird.
Sydney looks bemused as her gaze bounces between us. “Sometimes it’s like wrangling toddlers at dinner time around you three.”
