“Always,” Ivan said and left the room. Billie turned to find Luis talking on his phone. Billie’s own phone kept buzzing with notifications.
Mason:Upping your detail given e-mail per Ivan. Luis on day. Eli on nights, we’re short staffed so I had no choice but keep it professional. Listen to Luis and Eli. Concerns, call me.
Billie:Thanks
Billie sighed with relief when he read the next text from Eli.
Eli:Mason just briefed me. No fooling around until the threat is resolved.
Billie:Understood.
Eli:I’m still taking you for lunch tomorrow.Secure location. Will be good to get your mind off things. I’ll see you at your place tonight, eleven PM. Luis will be back in the AM.
Billie:Got it
With trembling hands, Billie managed to gather all his stuff.
“I got the update from Mason. You okay?” Luis asked.
Billie shook his head. “Don’t worry, I’ll wait until I get home to have my breakdown in private.”
Luis gave a small smile. “I’m sure everything will be fine. These types of e-mails are more common than you think, especially for celebrities like Brodie.”
“I’ve never experienced this before, so I’m a bit freaked out. I just want to go home and lock myself in my apartment for the next month.”
“I don’t think you need to worry. Between me and Eli, we’ve got you covered.”
“Thanks, Luis.” Billie double checked the room to ensure he hadn’t missed anything. The drive back to Manhattan was quiet, and Luis stayed in the apartment until the switch-off. Billie had to admit that he was looking forward to Eli staying overnight. As it was, every sound in his apartment made him jump.
Knock. Knock.
His body tensed, but Luis shook his head. “It’s Eli.”
When Billie caught sight of Eli for the first time in a week, he had to fight the urge to run into his arms. Not wanting to embarrass Eli while he was working, Billie stayed seated on his couch. Luis left and suddenly they were alone again.
“How are you holding up?” Eli asked as he sat down beside him. Beautiful brown eyes full of warmth and kindness made Billie’s nerves settle.
“I’m freaking out inside. I just hope this weirdo fan e-mailis just that and it’s not a real threat.”
“Mason and Jon are looking into it. In the meantime, come here.”
Billie scooted over and Eli placed his big arm around his shoulder, tucking him into his chest. His rapid breathing was no longer from fear, but from his intense feelings for Eli. Feelings for this wonderful, amazing man that grew with every passing day.
“Mmmm. Best. Hugs. Ever,” Billie mumbled against Eli’s shirt.
Eli chuckled and squeezed tighter. “You told me that already. I’d ask if you have extra blankets for me so I can sleep on the couch, but we’re practically drowning in them.”
“I like to be cozy,” Billie replied.
“Mission accomplished.”
“You’re too tall to sleep on this sofa. You can sleep with me. There’s plenty of room.”
“Ahh, I don’t think so.”
“I’ll be a good boy and keep to my side of the bed. Promise.”
“It’s not you I’m worried about.”