Maddox
The offer stands with Isla and me too.
Ryder
Ditto.
Me
I know. Thanks, guys. I need to check with Lola, but it doesn’t sound like anyone has shown up to their rental. But maybe the ladies could reach out and let them know they can hole up with any of them while I’m gone?
Maddox
Of course.
Me
I hate that she’s going through this shit again. She doesn’t deserve this.
Ryder
We know. Indie’s cool as hell. I don’t understand why people seem to have it out for her.
Me
I wish I knew. It’s always been like this because of who her parents are.
Logan
We have her back. Lola’s too.
Me
Thanks, guys. I knew you would. I’m going to connect with my agent. See if we can get ahead of this.
Ryder
Let me know if you need the number for a private security firm.
Me
Hopefully that won’t be necessary, but I appreciate it. I’m going to give her a key to my place too.
I sigh, already exhausted by all of this, and I’m not naïve enough to think this is as bad as it will get. I can hope, but I need to be prepared for all of this to turn into a circus.
By myself, I’m not interesting enough for this to get national attention. But with Indie in the mix and her parents going through a very public divorce with a sex tape scandal in the mix?
I’m afraid this will be front-page news.
I check in with Lola to make sure she’s safe and that no one is camped outside of their rental. When I’m satisfied that she’s okay, I call my agent and give her the rundown. We discuss our options, and she promises she’ll work with her PR firm to get a plan in place.
When Indie wanders out of the shower, her expression is tight and she has her arms wrapped around herself like she’s trying to physically hold it all together. It makes my chest ache. I just promised I’d protect her, and I’m already failing.
“Come here, baby.” I sigh with relief when she immediately steps into my open arms. “It’s all going to be okay. Whatever happens, I’ve got you.”
“I know.” She presses her face into my chest. “And I know I shouldn’t care what people think, but it’s so invasive.”
“It is. I’m really sorry.” Holding her tight, I kiss the crown of her head. “Listen, Lola said everything’s quiet at your rental, but all the ladies have said you two can come stay with them if that changes while I’m traveling. The buildings they live in all have security. Do you have their numbers?”