I would have felt terrible if anyone in Lexi’s pack got hurt. Aside from that, Reno couldn’t watch me. I’d already asked him to investigate the kidnapping.

“Let’s keep this between us. If you have to tell Lexi anything in the throes of passion, just say I’m having issues with my manager and I asked for your advice. She already knows there’s some drama going on at work. And I don’t care who you hire or where he comes from; just make sure it’s someone you trust. I’ll pay extra.”

“Are you working tonight?”

“No, it’s my night off.” I cupped my elbows and stood up, sitting on the edge of his desk as he lingered by the door. A silly part of me didn’t want to leave. I felt protected in this house and understood the power of a pack, something my kind didn’t have. I thought about asking to stay over, but aside from imposing on his kindness, I’d never bring my Misha into a house full of wolves. Just the idea of them chasing her around made my panther want to scratch someone on the ass.

“Will you be home?” he asked. “I’ll put someone on you today, but I need to know where you’ll be.”

“I have to go back to my apartment and take a shower. I feel like a walking hairball, and I shudder to think about the pedicure I’m going to need after running around without shoes like a hillbilly.” I pursed my lips while staring at my feet. “It shouldn’t take long. After that, I’m heading back to Club Sin to speak with some of the girls. It’s a slow period at the club, so I’ll hang around until your man shows up.”

Austin raked his fingers through his sweaty hair a few times. “He’ll be there no later than noon, and you won’t even know he’s watching. After twelve, you can go wherever you need to. Maybe you should pack up a few things and stay at a hotel.”

“Waste of money, not to mention false security,” I said, tugging a leaf stem from my hair. “I’m already paying you, and no one drives me out of my home like a rodent. Hopefully those men were nothing but a bunch of pranksters in the middle of a juvenile initiation or dare.” I reached out and clasped Austin’s wrist. “I know we’re not the same, but thank you for not turning me away.”

His eyebrow arched with a curious expression, but I knew nothing about his history with panthers. Prejudices existed among the Breeds and weren’t easy to eliminate. It’s why I enjoyed working in the club; everyone who entered put those divisions aside.

“I don’t turn anyone away based on their animal, even if it’s a deer.”

I winked playfully and opened the door. “Maybe I’m a chimpanzee.”

Austin’s boisterous laugh filled the open hall and I matched his slow gait. “I’ll see if I can find you a banana on your way out.”