Resting behind the two tan chairs was a long accent table, and with its back to it was a second leather couch. This one faced an enormous flat-screen T.V. which was mounted high above a floor-to-ceiling fireplace made of sleek black tile.
But it was the stunning view directly in front of her that beckoned Cera’s name.
Without thought, she made her way past the furniture to the wall of windows making up the suite’s far western wall. Through the glass, she could see the moonlit mountains and trees, the week’s unseasonably early snowfall having capped the peaks creating an almost magical scene.
It hadn’t snowed down in the city, yet. It was still too early for that. But Cera had seen the weather report on the news a few days prior announcing an unexpected snowstorm that had been bestowed upon parts of the Rockies.
She’d been too busy keeping a low profile to drive this way and see it for herself. Now that she was here, she couldn’t seem to tear herself away.
“This view is incredible.” She looked at Ivan from over her shoulder.
Several feet away, he stood with his feet shoulder-width apart, his hands tucked casually in his pockets. “Wait ’til you see the rest.”
He turned to presumably continue the tour, but not before giving her a quick wink that set her insides on fire.
Not. Why. You. Are. Here.
Falling in line, Cera kept her thoughts pure as Ivan finished showing her around. Two spacious bedrooms—each with their own fireplaces and lavish bathrooms—were hers for the taking.
Back toward the suite’s entry was a full kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances and gorgeous custom cabinets. Swirling granite countertops and a copper ventilation hood over an expansive gas stove completed the look.
“I called ahead, so the fridge should be stocked. Or you can order room service, if you prefer. Number’s by the phone in the living room.”
Cera swung her gaze up to his. With the same question that had been burning through her mind since he showed up at her motel, she had to ask, “Why are you doing this?”
“This?”
“Helping me.” She looked around. “Letting me stay here when I’ve made it clear I can’t afford to pay you up front.”
Or anytime soon, for that matter.
Ivan stared into her eyes with a look so intense and pure it took her breath away. “You came to Sin looking for help,” he rumbled. “I may not be Jax Monroe, but Iamhighly trained and experienced. And I can’t”—his Adam’s apple bobbed—“I won’t walk away from someone I believe I can help.”
I don’t care what your name is. I’m just so damn thankful you’re here.
Tears pricked at the corners of Cera’s eyes. The man was like a freaking unicorn. One she’d been desperate to find.
“I have questions,” Ivan announced bluntly. His gaze softened as he added a low, “But I figure you’ve answered enough for one night. So like I said…” He stepped past her to exit the kitchen. “There’s plenty of options for food, and fresh linens and toiletries so you can take a shower or bath. Whichever you prefer.”
When she realized he was heading for the door, Cera quickly fell in step behind him. “You’re leaving?”
On the drive here, she’d been more than a little apprehensive at the thought of spending the night in a room with a strange man. Even one who’d rushed headfirst toward possible danger on her behalf.
But now that they were here…now that she’d seen how roomy the place was, and knew she’d have her own private bedroom—with a door that locked—Cera felt even more nervous about staying here alone.
“I have some things to finish up back at the club. After that, I’m going to go home and see what I can dig up on this stalker of yours.” They reached the suite’s double doors. “I’ll come by first thing in the morning. I can shoot you a text when I’m on my way. Someone should be up soon with a few things I thought you could use.” He checked the black smart watch cradling his thick wrist. “I was told they’d be delivering it by the top of the hour, so it should be here soon.”
“Ivan, I…” Cera stared up at him, wishing he could somehow read her heart and know how much his offer to help meant. “I don’t even know what to say. When I went to Sin, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but”—she glanced at the beautiful space surrounding them—“it sure wasn’t this.”
Reaching cautiously toward her, Ivan rested his hand gently on one of her shoulders. “I’m going to do everything in my power to find the son of a bitch stalking you. You have my word on that.”
More tears threatened to surface, and it was only by the grace of God that she was able to hold them at bay. “I know you can’t guarantee anything, but just hearing you say that…” Her voice cracked. “You have no idea what that means.”
Ivan held her gaze—and her shoulder—for a moment longer before removing his hand and reaching for the door. “Lock up behind me and don’t open this door for anyone other than me or hotel staff.”
“Don’t worry.” She grabbed the heavy door’s edge to keep it open as he stepped into the hall. “After the day I’ve had, I just want to take a long, hot shower and go to bed.”
Day…week…year....