Jerks Like Us Book Three Page 7

  “No one’s telling you that, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. And besides that, you being at your folks and away from here is a good way to stay out of the public eye. I can call in some favors and put extra security on their grounds…”

  “Why can’t you do that here?” Kao cut him off and crossed his arms.

  Brody pushed his hand through his hair. “I could, but whoever attacked you today, already has your address. At least if you’re there, they can’t touch you.”

  Kao shook his head. “No. I’m not doing that to them. I’d rather stay here with the extra security. In fact, why don’t you stay with me?”

  Brody’s mouth dropped open, then he closed it quickly. “I…”

  “That would be a good idea, Mr. Brody. With you here guarding him, he’d be safer.” Mr. Jung-Sik said.

  Brody eyed Lawrence who seemed quiet during this exchange. The more silent he was, the more Brody suspected him.

  “Um…” Brody rolled his shoulders and cracked his neck. “I guess it’s possible, but…”

  “But what? Are you afraid something will happen?” Kao said, sounding as if he was mocking him.

  Fuck.

  Brody unbuttoned his jacket and leaned back on the sofa.

  When they discussed Kao having someone over Brody promised he’d be here sitting in the living room while he entertained. But that was with the intention of going home to his own place afterwards to regroup.

  How could Brody stay here with Kao twenty-four seven without getting too attached?

  Kao’s a spoiled brat! I don’t want him!

  Brody reminded himself of their arguments, but how long would that excuse hold up against his impending desires?

  “Well?” Kao’s voice cut through the silence.

  Brody blew out a ragged breath. This man would be the death of him before it was all over. “Fine. Once the cops leave, all of you stay with him while I grab some things from my place.”

  Chapter Eight

  Kao was already tired. His parents continued to fawn over him while Lawrence reminded Kao that cancelling appearances might cause him to lose momentum. The more he talked, Kao wondered if Brody had a point about his manager. Was he really part of the coup of fools trying to destroy Kao’s career? He wasn’t sure who to believe.

  After all, Lawrence and Kao didn’t go way back. They’d known each other all of about three months, so why would he have any loyalty to him? Plus, he was a self-proclaimed fan of Kao’s. What was to say he wasn’t working with sasaengs or anyone else to hurt Kao?

  Kao wished he could snap his fingers and make the nightmare disappear.

  The police weren’t very sympathetic. One even commented his time could be better spent than chasing some overly anxious teens trying to get more than an autograph from their favorite singer.

  Kao didn’t appreciate that shit in the slightest and would make sure to tell Brody when he had the chance. He was busy talking with another detective, so he missed it. Regardless of what was going on, Kao wouldn’t stand for that kind of behavior.

  To add to the issues, Brody would be staying with Kao in his apartment. Sure, their arguments made things tense, but that didn’t stop Kao from wanting to fuck his bodyguard something fierce. Besides, what was sexier than drilling someone you kind of hated? Kao didn’t feel that way about Brody, but the redhead was getting on his last damn nerve. Wouldn’t it be nice to pound Brody’s ass into his mattress or better yet, against the wall or the patio doors for everyone to see?

  Kao got hard just thinking of it.

  Since these fools targeting Kao were making it hard to have a social life, he might as well take advantage of what was in front of him.

  Once Brody returned, his parents left but Lawrence stayed behind. Kao was happy because if he had to hear his mother whine one more time about him being difficult, he was going to scream.

  Although Kao’s parents’ departure somewhat cleared the air, the tension was still thick in the room. Brody had changed into jogging pants and a t-shirt. He sat on the couch, thumbing through his phone while Kao leaned back in his recliner. Lawrence was across from him on the love seat, appearing concerned.

  Seemingly all three of them were holding back from saying something.

  Kao pushed his hand through his hair and shook his head. He couldn’t stand this shit any longer.

  “Look, if we’re gonna all sit here in this room and ignore each other, we might as well separate.” Kao snapped.

  Brody snorted. “All right. I’m assuming I’m taking the guest bedroom?”

  “You’d guess right.” Kao said, waving him off.

  Brody got up from the couch about to leave, then…

  “Wait.” Lawrence called out.

  Kao eyed his manager who appeared pensive.

  Lawrence sighed aloud and propped his elbows on his knees. “Brody, I need to ask your professional opinion.”

  “Okay.”

  Kao turned his attention to Brody.

  He’d crossed his arms, not changing his expression. Talk about a poker face. The guy would’ve easily won every game he played.

  “What if we don’t cancel any appearances and go on as normal? With you around him all the time, there shouldn’t be any issues.”

  “What? Dude, no, he needs to lay low.” Brody griped.

  “I agree with Brody. Like I said, I can do interviews and performances from here.”

  “Yeah, but there are a couple with fans in attendance. They’ll be disappointed if you don’t show up.”

  “What’s your reason, Lawrence? Why the hell don’t you get that Kao needs to be away from fans right now?”

  “These people targeting him aren’t true fans but penalizing the good ones could be a problem. That’s all I’m saying.”

  “Well, they’re gonna have to be butt hurt.” Kao got up from his chair and went to look out on the water behind his place. The moonlight shone on the calm waves, drifting over the sand. Such a beautiful sight. Kao wished he could be out there instead of being cooped up in his apartment.

  “Kao.” Lawrence said.

  “You heard your boss! We’re doing the couple of parties outside of here and the rest will have to be on social media. End of story.” Brody sneered.

  “All right fine. While I’m worried about Kao’s safety, I’m also concerned about the next few weeks before tour time. We’re almost to July.”

  “So we are. It’s not as if he’s holing up and not doing anything. He can still stay relevant without trouncing all over town and putting himself in further danger… unless you want him to be.”

  “Excuse me?” Lawrence’s voice hit a higher pitch.

  Kao turned around to look at both. He wanted to observe how his manager would react to the accusations.

  “You heard. Are you pushing him out there because you and/or Gaia are part of the group trying to hurt Kao?”

  “What the…” Lawrence mumbled something inaudible and shook his head. “Now you’re just grasping at fucking straws. I’m his manager and friend. Gaia is his PR. Neither one of us wants anything to happen to him.”

  “Well how the hell did they get his address. Huh? Other than you, the real estate agent, Gaia, and his parents, no one else has his fucking information.”

  “This is… oh God, you have lost it!” Lawrence snarled. “I’m a big fan of Kao’s and his friend. I would never hurt him. I haven’t told anyone where he lives.”

  “No one.” Brody uncrossed his arms but stood stiffly.

  “No one, okay?” Lawrence snickered and mumbled, “Freaking security people think they know everything,” in Korean.

  “If you said something about me or my mother, I’ll bash your fucking head in!”

  Kao quickly walked over and patted his chest. “Whoa, whoa, that’s not what he said, okay? Cool your jets, Brody.”

  “Are you threatening me now? I can have you removed off this assignment, you know.”

  “No you won’t.” Kao cut in. “I kno
w you wouldn’t do anything, Lawrence, but Brody has every right to be suspicious.” Kao had to put that out there, even though he had his doubts. “Let’s just calm down. Us arguing ain’t solving a damn thing.”

  “Neither is accusing innocent people.”

  “You’re right, and I fought with Brody about that earlier. Still, I’m starting to think Brody might have a point. As much as I wanna be defiant, I don’t want to cause my parents to worry about me constantly because I’m promoting the album. I can still do that, but from here. Let the various outlets know they’ll have to make that concession.”

  “And when they ask why? I don’t want to cause a media storm by saying you’re being targeted.”

  “No, just say something like it’s in my best interest. That’s not a lie. That’s what Brody is suggested and I’m taking his advice. As much as I want to ignore it, I can’t. Until these asses are caught, things are gonna have to change.”

  Lawrence shrugged. “All right. I guess you’re right. The last thing I want is to make Momma Ming upset.”

  “Yeah, same here. So please, you and Gaia do as I ask. This will work out, okay? Besides, I’m trending right now. The video drops in a few days, so all the talking and my face being plastered everywhere should be enough.”

  “Kay.” Lawrence walked up to him and patted his shoulder. “I’ll talk with you in the morning, all right?” Then he turned to face Brody. “You owe me an apology.”

  “I don’t owe you shit. I stand by my conviction and I’ll continue to until I’m proven wrong.” Brody snarled.

  Damn. Down boy.

  Kao cursed in his mind, willing himself to calm down.

  Hearing Brody’s nastiness made Kao bite back a moan.

  “Whatever. Just do your job and stop trying to be an investigator. Let the police do what they can to catch these fools.”

  “I will, but I’m definitely gonna add my two cents about you and Gaia.”

  Lawrence mumbled something else as he walked towards the door.

  Kao heard it, but refused to repeat because if Brody found out, he’d probably be on the floor before Kao could stop Brody.

  When the door closed, Kao looked up at his six foot plus bodyguard and dragged his fingers over his shirt. “I know you suspect my boy but try to get along with him in the meantime… for me.”

  Brody huffed out a breath and inched back to put some distance between them. “I’ll be nice when he stops giving me reasons to suspect him. Anyway, I’m fucking tired and need sleep. Do you mind if I go to bed?”

  Kao wanted to say can I join you but held back. “Uh, yeah. Would you like a nightcap before you turn in?”

  “I would, but I don’t know if that’s a good idea… considering.”

  Kao swiped his tongue over his lips. “C’mon, Brody. I’m not asking you to marry me, it’s just a fucking drink.”

  Brody sighed and shook his head. He wryly smiled, showing his dimples. “Fine. One drink then I’m turning in.”

  * * * *

  Brody was already done with Kao.

  He’d only been on the assignment about a week, and he was close to throwing up his hands and begging Arturo to replace him. At least the man stood up to Lawrence about the appearances. Still, the star’s mood swings were wearing thin on Brody. Any more of that and Brody might be tempted to fight with Kao instead of protecting him.

  “Look. I know we’re been at odds all day, but since you’ll be here with me like twenty-four seven, we need to get along.” Kao said from across the room. He’d changed out of the suit from earlier into jeans and a t-shirt that looked like second skin.

  “Brody?”

  “I hear you and I agree, which means you’re gonna have to start meeting me halfway, like you did with Lawrence. Stop fucking telling me what you’re in control of and actually show it. Your talent alone sells those albums. Until these idiots or caught, you gotta stay away from the public.”

  “I got it, but I have to go to the parties.” Kao walked over and handed Brody a drink.

  “No, no, that’s fine. At least I know most of the people there are celebrities themselves. Plus, again, I’ll be right by your side.” Brody was about to take a sip, then stopped. “What’s in this?”

  “Jack and Coke with a little lime. You’re off duty so it should be okay, right?”

  “Yeah, but how did you know what I like?”

  “Just a wild guess.” Kao shrugged and sat in the recliner across from him.

  Brody snorted and was about to put it to his lips.

  “Wait. We should toast.” Kao got up and strolled over, holding up his glass.

  “What are we toasting to?” Brody asked with a wry grin.

  “Friendship and partnership.” Kao clanked his beverage with Brody’s and sat back down.

  Brody raised his glass, then sipped. “Dang, how much liquor is in here?” Brody squinted, knowing he’d be sleeping sooner than later.

  “Oh c’mon, don’t tell me you’re a fucking lightweight. It’s two shots, little ice.”

  “I can tell by how light the cola is.” Brody chuckled. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were trying to get me drunk to take advantage of me.”

  Kao crossed his legs and ran his fingernail around the rim of his glass. “I don’t need to resort to such tactics to get what I want, Mr. Brody. I’m gorgeous and a champ in bed. Why do you think I was named number one Asian heartthrob? Me and JK from BTS, are neck and neck.”

  Brody shrugged and took a smaller sip from his beverage. “Man, you’re modest, and um, I don’t know who that JK guy is, but I’ll take your word for it.”

  Kao frowned and sat up straighter in his chair. “You don’t know who BTS is?”

  “Nope. Not my kinda music.”

  “And what is your kind of music, Brody?”

  “Stones, Led Zep, Aerosmith, maybe some Metallica…”

  “Oh God. You’re showing your age.” Kao shook his head and drank again.

  “What? I’ll have you know I’m not that old. Thirty-nine isn’t… old.” Brody sipped again.

  Kao sniggered. “True, but that’s old people music, though. I’d expect someone in their late forties or fifties to name those acts.”

  Brody whistled low. “Oh wow, that’s just wrong as hell. I know plenty of younger people who like classic rock and metal.”

  Kao twisted his lips. “I guess. Sorry, if we ever decided to listen to music together, I might have to beg for earplugs.”

  “While you’re complaining, have you ever listened to any of those bands?”

  “I have and, meh… some of it’s okay.”

  “And based on your rationale, only old people can appreciate it?”

  Kao made a face. “Okay, fine. Maybe there are some young people who like it, but I’m not one of them. I’d rather listen to something soulful and makes me move. I can better appreciate old R&B, maybe some jazz.”

  “Well, Led Zeppelin derived from those genres as blues, so you can find some value in that.”

  “Maybe, but from what I heard I’ve never gotten into any of it.”

  “Might have to play some songs for you then. I can think of plenty of the top of my head.”

  “Okay, well, perhaps we should both do that. You listen to some KPOP or JPOP artists and I’ll listen to Led Zeppelin.”

  Brody laughed. “All right deal. And we should come back and talk about what we liked and didn’t like. It will be, um, our way of trying to get along.”

  “We get along. I just didn’t like you telling me what to do.” Kao took another drink.

  “Yeah, well, it’s for your own good. I’m glad we found common ground on how much you should be out in public. That’s a start. I do want to run background checks on Gaia and Lawrence though.”

  Kao finished his beverage. “You’re wasting your time, but okay.”

  “So, you don’t suspect either of them?”

  Kao put the glass down on the coffee table. “You put those doubts in my head
. But I gotta admit, I also found it weird how after all that happened, Lawrence would push for me to do my appearances.”

  “Exactly! See?” Brody gulped his liquor and winced. “Now that I think about it, the police are going check everything along with the evidence they got from the surveillance recording that Charles pulled up. Being that I work for a security firm, I got time to go further.”

  “Oh, that’s right. Where was Charles this afternoon? I found it funny that he wasn’t sitting there.”

  “He was, but they attacked him first and hid him in the janitorial closet. Lucky he was in good enough shape to show me how to run his machines.”

  “Damn. I’m glad he’s all right. I’m gonna make sure he’s compensated for what happened.”

  “That’s nice of you. He’ll be off work for a bit as a precaution.”

  “I’ll take care of him for his trouble.”

  “By the way, was anyone at the desk when you walked past?”

  “Yeah.” Kao leaned back and ran his finger through his hair. “An older white gentleman with an Eastern European accent. He had blondish brown hair and I don’t remember eye color, but I recall a scar by his mouth.”

  Brody nodded. “Okay. Did you tell the detectives what you saw?”

  “Yes, and they made snide remarks about how they didn’t have time to fight off overzealous fans or some shit. I wanted to drop kick them for that.”

  “Don’t let that bother you. I’m sure they meant nothing by it.”

  “Whether they did or not, it wasn’t funny. I could’ve been seriously hurt or killed.”

  “I know, Kao, but don’t get your panties in a twist. What we need to focus on is these people and their motives for hurting you. Are they the rabid fans you’ve told me about or are they targeting you for something else? Are those people connected with the lady that jumped you at the first appearance?”

  “Yeah, that’s their job to put all that together. Not yours.”

  “I’m in it now because I’m here with you. Nothing wrong with me staying informed about the case.”

  “Maybe not but knowing info and playing inspector are two different things.”

  Brody cocked an eyebrow at Kao’s statement. “Why are you so concerned with how much I help to find these crooks?”