Saved by the Cross (Cross 3)

36 - LA

Doyle spent two days pampering herself with spa appointments and shopping. Although she loved Boston, New York and LA had the best stores. She entered her hotel carrying a few small bags. The stores would deliver the rest later. Getting away from the confines of her mother's domain had given her a bounce in her step. She felt freer than she had in months. The big old house stifled her. Smiling, she was ready to take back her career.

Doyle stopped at the front desk to let the clerk know she was expecting purchases. She wasn't paying attention on the way to the elevator. A sixth sense had triggered a familiar feeling. Bumping into a body, she gasped. Before she could apologize, she froze. Mick. Had he caused her odd sensation? He looked good except for his surprised look that quickly turned menacing. His scent triggered memories which had turned unpleasant over time. Doyle had trouble forgiving herself for how stupid the drugs had made her act. Never had she expected to see him in the lobby of her hotel.

He seethed. "Why are you here?"

She forced a smile. "No, nice to see you or sorry for almost cracking your head open."

He grabbed her arm and squeezed hard. Doyle refused to wince or cause a scene. Her heart raced like a horse heading to the finish line. "You caused so much drama, bitch. You ruined Gio's life."

She struggled to pull away, but he only tightened his grip.

"I hope your psycho manager gets what he deserves in prison."

From behind her, she heard a familiar voice. "Let go of Ms. Kane now or you'll be looking at an assault charge."

"What the... Who are you?"

"I'm her bodyguard and this..." He opened his phone and put it to Mick's face. "This isn't just drama. It was almost murder."

She didn't have to look to know it was pictures of her beaten face. Mick didn't let go. "This bitch ruined everything. Briggs left us because of your fucking shit."

She winced. "Or he didn't like women beaters."

Gray's eyes were full of rage. "I have thought about rearranging your face every day since you and that scum hurt her. Don't give me a reason. Release her now." He never raised his voice, but his tone was frightening.

Mick stepped back with his hands up. "Stay away from me."

Doyle mumbled, "Gladly." But she was too shocked to care. Even the aching in her arm didn't phase her. She turned around and feasted on Gray's face like she had been starving and he was a loaf of bread. For three months, she had longed to see him. "Why are you here?"

"To rescue you again."

She frowned. "I could have dealt with him." His cocky smile made her more determined. "It's a public place. I chose not to gain attention, but I could have." Many hotel guests had walked by their exchange without a glance.

He shook his head. "Let's not argue in a public space."

They stepped over to an area in the posh lobby with seating. She plopped into a chair. "Seriously, why are you here?"

He sat down across from her. "Because you need someone to watch over you."

She sighed aggravatedly. "I'm going to my room." She stood and walked towards the elevator bank.

It was impossible to pinpoint what upset her the most: seeing him or him not telling her why he was at her hotel. Was it a coincidence? Did he want to see her?

Just as the elevator doors were about to close his big hand reached in, and forced the door open. He stepped onto the elevator filling it with his presence. The other occupants had stepped aside to make room for him. She watched his reflection in the silver door as he watched her. His suit gave him a mysterious look. His haircut looked nice, but she bit her lip when she noticed some gel. It was nothing like Jimmy's perfect style. Her heart started racing as she took in every detail on his unreadable face.