“I need a favor.” Swallowing my pride, I add, “And some advice.”
“Huh.” The tapping of keys stops and I know I have her full attention. “Definitely unexpected.”
“I’ve been tasked with protecting Kat Harrington.”
“The author?”
“Yes.”
“Interesting, go on.”
“Are you free tonight? She has a couple thousand bags to put together so she can hand them out to the kids she’s seeing this week—presentations at two different schools.”
“That’s a hell of a favor. I can’t wait to hear what you need advice on.”
“I know you’re busy and I wouldn’t ask for something like this, but I can’t bring anyone in that isn’t already vetted.”
“I didn’t say no.”
“And I appreciate that.”
“What’s the second part?”
In for a pound…
“On Saturday, she has a big signing in Chicago—something organized with a few authors that’s going to require I bring a whole team.”
“All right…”
“Don’t make this a thing.”
“I can’t promise that.” She laughs as I drag my hand down my face. I can’t believe I’m asking this but I don’t have a choice. I need Emerson’s help—I can’t pull this off without her. And even though Emerson will probably razz me about this indefinitely, it’ll be worth seeing Kat feeling her best on Saturday.
“This has been hard on her. We’re working as fast as we can but it’s intrusive.”
“I know the feeling,” she muses, and I dip my head even though she can’t see me.
“She told the girl at the craft store she likes to get her nails done but hasn’t had a chance. I remember you and Isla used to go to that salon that did all that, right? Hair and makeup too?”
“Oakey, are you asking me to take your girl out for a spa day?”
“She’s aclientand yes. The signing starts at two. We can be in the city by nine and she can get dressed there before we have to head to the event.”
“Don’t let anyone say you’re not romantic.”
“She’s a client, Emerson.”
“A client that I am renting the entire salon out for so we have privacy and you can ensure her safety. It’s very romantic. I can’t wait to tell Isla.”
“Don’t do that.”
“Thatis a promise I cannot keep.” She chuckles. “You know I tell her everything.”
“Emerson…”
“Send me Kat’s address. I’ll be there tonight at six for bag packing. Are you cooking?” Her tone is hopeful and it’s my turn to laugh.
“What do you want?”
