Dax:I hear Mason’s got you guarding Billie. Next time you’re in the building, pop up to our floor for a visit!
Checking his tie one last time, he grabbed his bag and was ready to head out. Eli’s stomach clenched and he took a few deep breaths. Despite having guarded many celebrities and high-profile clients over the past five years, he was always nervous the first time. Some clients were nice and listened to his guidance. Others ignored him or treated him like their own personal valet, and a few tried to act out their bodyguard movie fantasies. He already knew Billie was friendly, so he wasn’t sure why his anxiety was still so high.
Eli pulled up to a familiar address, a luxury apartment building on Central Park West that housed not just Billie, but Mason and Dax. Eli had worked with Oliver on a case over a year ago when Dax was dealing with his asshole ex-boyfriend. Now the ex was in jail, where he belonged, and Dax’s acting career was taking off again with the release of his new movie. Dax was talented and well connected in this town but a very easygoing and unassuming person. He was one of the few people Eli felt comfortable with right away. They’d become fast friends, sharing their love for all things movies and books.
Eli greeted the concierge, Mark, who waved him through. Billie’s place was on the 12thfloor, so the ride was short. Heknocked on the door and waited.
Billie opened it a minute later, and Eli was shocked at what he saw. Instead of his usual bright clothing and heels, Billie was dressed in a conservative pinstriped suit with black Chelsea boots. The look was so bland compared to his trademark style.
“What the fuck are you wearing?” Eli blurted.
Billie’s green eyes widened. “Don’t I look okay? I wanted to look uber professional tonight. This contract is a huge deal for my career.”
“You don’t look like yourself. You need to change, and we have time. Go on.” Eli didn’t know where this bossy side of him came from suddenly, but he couldn’t help himself. Why would the confident designer change his look? Billie waved him inside and closed the door.
“Not everyone thinks a man wearing high-heeled boots is a good thing.”
“The lead singer of the band wears makeup, and he dresses any way he wants. I mean, Brodie is hot as fuck, and he doesn’t give a shit when it comes to what other people think. Trust me, I’ve seen his interviews. If you want to impress these people, be yourself. There was a reason they chose you.”
“I know, I know. For a moment there I had a flashback of trying to fit in with everyone, and I let my insecurity take hold. You’re right. Let me change quickly. In the meantime, make yourself at home.”
Eli entered the pink living room, which made him smile. This was the Billie he was familiar with, full of vivid color. He wandered around the room, glancing at the variety of artwork on the walls and the comfy-looking blue sofa. He picked up one of the many pillows and recognized the familiar scent of Billie’s cologne. It was warm and earthy, just like the man himself. Before he had a chance to sit, Billie came sauntering back out.
“Better?” he asked and did a twirl.
Eli perused the double-breasted gold velvet suit, the color a striking contrast to Billie’s black hair and green eyes. The matching gold heels brought him closer to Eli’s height once again.
“Yes. There’s the Billie we all know and lov … admire.”Jesus, Eli, love? Really?
Billie’s face reddened, but he quickly turned to grab his briefcase. “I’m ready when you are.”
“Let’s roll.”
Billie locked his door, and they headed out into the cold March night. The drive to the band’s recording studio in Brooklyn took just over a half hour. The closer they got, the more fidgety Billie became.
“You all right?” Eli asked as he smoothly parked and turned the car off. Billie turned his head, and the look of panic in his eyes made Eli reach for his slender hand, clenched in a tight fist.
“What if they think my designs suck?” Billie blurted.
“How is that possible? You won the contract bid over hundreds of other designers. They know you’re great at what you do and can deliver. You’ve outfitted Broadway stars and their shows and many other celebrities. You got this.”
“Thanks, Eli. I’m not sure why I’m panicking, but I’ve been a mess all day.”
“It’s a huge day for you. I get it. But it’s going to be fine. Just be yourself and you’ll knock them on their asses.”
Billie nodded and gave a quick grin. “You can let go of my hand now,” Billie whispered, and Eli yanked his hand back like he’d been burnt.
“Sorry.”
“Don’t apologize. You’re very kind.” Billie took a deep breath and undid his seatbelt. “Let’s do this.”
Eli walked Billie to the entrance and texted the bandmanager to advise of their arrival. They stood in front of a massive black gate that surrounded a three-story brick building, similar to Spartan’s head office. The gate opened slowly, and as they walked up to the front door, a young woman greeted them and ushered them inside.
“Mr. Rourke, Mr. Morgan, welcome to Soundstage Studio. I’m Bailey. Can I get you anything to drink while you’re waiting?”
“I’m good, thanks. And it’s Billie,” Billie replied quickly.
“I’m fine.” Eli nodded and they both headed over to the sleek chairs in the lobby.