Chapter 27

“You’re actually taking a break?” Rick teased. “I’m impressed.”

“It’s more like I’ve got someone here looking for you.” He did everything he could to ignore the thumping of his heart. “He says you two were supposed to meet up here at my studio.”

“Damn it. I told everybody to wait downstairs. I missed my train, so I’m running late.”

“Everybody? What’s going on, Rick?”

“I’ll explain when I get there. Can you do me a favor and go downstairs and round anybody else up who might be waiting? Since someone already spoiled the surprise, they might as well meet you now.”

“Sure, but—”

“Great. I’m about five blocks away. I should be there in just a few minutes.”

The line went dead. Jared stared at it for a second in shock before slipping it back into his pocket.