Unexpected 9: Crime Set

Chapter 18: Bloody coincidence

"Ed, you alright?" Street asked as he stepped in the room, closing the door behind him

The groups made it safely to the hotel. After checking in, working with LAPD on the police report and other procedures, everyone was secured in their assigned rooms. Only Rudolph, Melvin, the body guard and Street accompanied the singer to his room. Ed had requested single occupancy in the room, so Melvin and Street were to stay on each side of his room. For extra precaution, Rudolph and Morgan were situated in the room right across the hall.

"Yes, Jim." he answered, just before letting out a huge yawn.

Since he seemed overly tired and Melvin had already excused himself, Street figured it was better to let him wash up. Deacon had assigned the trio a rotating schedule to keep at least one by the door of the room at all times. So, Street gathered the desk chair and rolled it to the door, where he took a seat and quietly sat down.

After Melvin and Rudolph did a quick inspection of the room, Melvin chatted with Ed and Jim gave Rudolph the green light to go back to his room. Melvin's conversation was short, as the singer excused him early, to let him get some extra rest. Soon, it was only Ed and Jim in the room.

"Is this part of the security plan?" the singer asked, as he opened his bag.

Two huge bags plus a carry on and a backpack were brought up and placed by the bed, as well as three guitars, each in their own case. He lifted one of the bags unto the bed and opened it. The fact that it was so messy Jim feel great. After all, he wasn't the only chaotic one! The singer rubbed his hair and took out clothing for his night routine.

"Yes, sir! Security around the clock." Jim answered

The singer yawned again, stretching his back and arms. He rubbed his hair into a mess and went for one of the instruments. He opened the gig bag and stroke a few chords.

I thought he was exhausted! Doesn't this guy ever take a break? Jim thought, as he continued to stare at the wall and wonder off.

"Jim!"

Street was startled as he heard the man's voice. He turned to him and noticed he was staring.

"Thank you for your diligence in the airport. Those two were up to no good." the man said with a thick British accent, while nodding once.

"No, problem. I had a heads up before arriving at the airport, actually."

"Oh? Do tell." the singer replied, returning the guitar to its place.

"Well, long story short, my 14yr old heard some guys say they knew what time and which plane was bringing you into LA. Said they would do anything to get tickets for your show, which apparently are the hottest commodity nowadays."

"Good kid!" the singer added, nodding

"Yeah, he's really awesome." Street said proudly

"Pardon me, officer, but... don't you look rather young?" Ed asked, frowning

"Uh...yeah. He's not my blood, but... he's family."

"Oh...is his mum proud too?"

"Yeah, she doesn't get to spend so much time with him, training for work. But, they have a lot in common. Badasses both!"

Ed smiled as he nodded his head. "God, do I know what is like not having time. I need extra hours in the day!" He lamented, approaching the small fridge and taking out a bottle of water.

"Don't we all?"

"Fancy a water bottle, Jim?" he asked offering the bottle

At first Jim froze, then he realize the guy was just offering water. "Oh, no, sir. It's alright. Thank you."