“We understand. We’re here for Ms. Novak and to coordinate with you for the duration of the tour.”
Etienne gestures toward a private room at the back of the store. “The jewels will be secured by two guards at all times when not being worn. Each event space has a private area like this one where we will meet before the event in order for Ms. Novak to don the jewels.”
“And during events?” Liev asks.
“At least two of us within arm’s reach,” Etienne replies. “Two more in the room.”
“All vendors at each event have been vetted through Elite,” Liev adds smoothly. “Catering, florals, lighting, temporary staff.”
Etienne’s attention shifts fully to him now. His expression doesn’t change. “Our firm has as well.”
I step in before the testosterone derails us. “Great. Everything is covered.”
“Bien sûr,” Etienne says. His gaze flicks back to me. “I heard you are both new. I hope that won’t be an issue. But if it is, don’t hesitate to ask for our help.”
Liev’s posture changes, and I suddenly understand Hannah’s designation ofscary. I’m glad he’s on my side. “Sounds like you’ve vetted us as thoroughly as the vendors.”
“The only thing we care about is the jewels,” Etienne replies evenly. “Therefore, we have interest in everyone who comes near them. They are of significant cultural and historical importance to our country. We aren’t taking risks.”
“Understood,” Liev says tightly. “Our principal is Ms. Novak, and her safety will take precedence over the jewels.”
Etienne studies him for a beat longer than necessary, then turns back to me. “You will remain close when she is wearing the pieces?”
“Yes.”
He smiles. “Good.”
One of the other guards steps forward then, his attention fixed on Liev. “We’ve met before.”
Liev’s body stills.
“In Cyprus. I was with Yevgeny Markov.” The man’s eye twitches, and the temperature around us drops.
“You’re mistaken.” Liev’s lips pull back, but what I think is supposed to be a smile looks more like bared teeth.
The guard clearly wants to argue. He’s humming with tension, but Etienne, observing the exchange, turns to me to interrupt.
“Your partner…” He glances at Liev with a taunting smile. “Is fortunate. He gets a beautiful, skilled woman, and I’ve been saddled withdes guignols.”
“Guignols?” I ask with a smile. If he wants to flirt to irritate Liev, I’m on board after his stunt on the plane.
Etienne’s smile widens. “Clowns, I believe is the closest translation. And not even attractive ones at that.” He clicks his tongue.
I make an exaggerated sympathetic face. “That’s a tragedy for you.”
The French guard’s eyes light with amusement. “It is indeed. Do you think he would be interested in trading?” He angles his head toward a bristling Liev.
A low growl emanates from the man next to me.
I hide my smile. “Unfortunately, I don’t think so, but I do appreciate the offer.”
“Perhaps we could trade,anothertime.” The interest in his eyes is clear, but it doesn’t move me.
“Perhaps.” I say. Liev shifts so close I can feel his heat against my side. Maybe this isn’t the best time to tease him. “We’ll coordinate before the evening event.”
Etienne inclines his head, and as the French team walks away, Liev mutters under his breath, “Arrogant French fuck.”
I smile without looking at him. “I don’t know. I thought he was nice.”
