The End of Us: A Forced Proximity, Age Gap Bodyguard Romance (Love in Isolation Book 3)

Chapter 1

CHAPTER ONE

PIPER

This evening, my sister, Kendall, married the love of her life, Ryan St. James. The ceremony was gorgeous, and their sweet vows reminded me of how painfully single I am. When they finally kissed, tears trailed down my cheeks, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

After posing for the photographer, the wedding party’s escorted to the reception hall that’s filled with guests. My parents, who are considered Manhattan royalty, invited their elite friends and business acquaintances. Ryan’s family is in the same circle, so anyone who’s anybody is in attendance tonight. It’s one of the many reasons it looks like the Secret Service is guarding the place.

I smooth my hand across the silk of my bridesmaid dress after I grab a glass of champagne. My sister’s best friend, Cami, who’s also Ryan’s sister, waits in line behind me with her husband, Eli.

“Wasn’t the wedding beautiful?” Cami says before I walk away with my glass. She’s always been so sweet to me.

“Yes, it’s exactly how Kendall always dreamed. Lavish and perfect. Hey, Eli!”

He grins at me, but before we can chat any longer, they’re both dragged away by Mrs. St. James. I’m ready to take off these heels and walk around barefoot, but I ignore the pain. Eventually, Kendall and Ryan enter, and I try to scream the loudest for them. The smile on my sister’s face is contagious, and I love how happy she is dancing with her new hubby. I order another glass of champagne, then stand off to the side and watch as they’re swarmed by people wanting to personally congratulate them.

When I look over my shoulder, I see Tristan, my bodyguard, acting as my shadow while his eyes scan over the crowd. Having him always close is not something I’ve gotten used to over the past six months. I’m not sure if I ever will.

My parents found it necessary because of who I am—a Montgomery—and because I’m an influential lifestyle vlogger. I’ve tried to explain parasocial relationships to my mother several times and how it’s natural and normal, but she doesn’t listen or understand. With over twenty million subscribers to my channel, I’m bound to have crazy people stalk me, but lately, it’s gone to a level that even I’m not comfortable with. It’s the only reason I agreed to have protection with me. Tristan takes his job very seriously. Almost too much.

Since last year, I’ve been receiving death threats and disgusting email love letters from this guy named Jack, something I’ve mostly kept to myself. If I pretend it’s not happening, I can almost convince myself everything is normal. So that’s what I do.

The reception hall is gorgeous with crystal chandeliers and candlelight. As dinner is served, I sit with my parents in the front. My mother has been giddy ever since Kendall told her she was engaged, but right now, I think she’s just tipsy. The lobster and scallions nearly melt in my mouth, and I have to stop myself from getting seconds. After dinner, the speeches happen, and the dancing commences.

Once Kendall and Ryan are finally alone, I take my opportunity to bombard them. As soon as I’m close, I squeeze them as tight as I can.

“Everything has been perfect,” I say, adoring how great they are together. “Look at you two. Gah, I can’t wait to find love like this.”

My sister snorts. “It wasn’t all butterflies and rainbows, but it was worth it.”

I think back to everything they went through to get here. Ryan and Kendall were sent to stock up and decorate the St. James’ cabin for her best friend, Cami. The next thing they knew, a freak blizzard blew in, and they were stranded together until the roads were cleared. She’s told me how magical the whole experience was, and honestly, it sounds like the plot of a Hallmark movie. With lots of s*x between.

Ryan looks over my shoulder. “Who’s that?”

I turn to see who he’s referring to. “Oh him? It’s my bodyguard, Tristan,” I explain, keeping the details to myself of why I have a security detail. Kendall knows the basics, but I didn’t tell her everything either. She worries enough about me already. The paparazzi and gossip news sites haven't done me any favors over the years. Having a bodyguard again reminds me of high school and how we had a security team anytime we left the house. Once I graduated, I told my dad I could handle myself, but since the threats began, Dad insisted on hiring someone. I didn’t argue, though I’ve been wondering how long he’ll make me have one—forever, if it were up to him.

“She’s kinda a big deal,” Kendall tells him with a laugh. “My famous sister.”

“Famous? Pfft.” I quickly change the subject because today isn’t about me. “Before I forget, I think we should have a celebration shot! What would you two like?”

“Anything,” Kendall cheerfully says.

Ryan grins. “Surprise us.”

“Shoulda never told me that. I’ll be right back.” I shake my head, then shoot them a smirk.

I rush to the bar, passing the cake on the way. It’s a sugary statue-like masterpiece with blinking LED lights and edible flowers. I order our drinks, then carefully carry them back, trying not to spill a drop. I almost ask Tristan to give me a hand, but he’s made it very clear to pretend he’s not there, so I do.

“So when are we cutting the cake? That thing is gigantic. I don’t think I’ve ever seen one that tall before. It has lights, Kendall. I mean, I saw the picture you texted me, but it literally didn’t do it any justice. I’m surprised it’s not surrounded by a moat of champagne.” I snicker.

“That would’ve been a good idea, though,” she admits as I hand over the glasses. “I almost thought about getting one with diamonds and gold, but Ryan would’ve lost his s**t on me.”

“We don’t need to eat a multimillion-dollar cake. It all comes out the same, if you know what I mean,” he tells me, and I can’t help but laugh as Kendall playfully rolls her eyes. One thing I love about Ryan is even though his family is filthy rich, he doesn’t act like it. He’s mindful of how money’s spent and doesn’t depend on his parents. It was important for him to have his own career outside of the St. James name.

Ryan looks at the shot and smells it. “What is this?”

I start chuckling before I can get it out. “It’s called Death by s*x. ’Cause I’m sure that will be you two later tonight.”

“God, I hope so,” Kendall admits, biting her lower lip and meeting Ryan’s eyes.

I hold up my glass and they join in. “To the happy couple! So excited you’re finally getting your happily ever afters.”

We shoot them down, and Kendall seems shocked by the taste, and I know it’s because they don’t burn like most shots.

“So when are we finally cutting that giant-ass cake?” I ask again as my sister goes over the itinerary with me one more time. Just as my aunt Mildred walks up, I take it as my opportunity to excuse myself. The last thing I want to do is start answering questions about my career or when I plan to get married. I have a lot of things on my bucket list to check off before I’ll think about settling down.

Tristan moves in close to me as I make my way through the crowd. He places his hand on my back and guides me around as he watches our surroundings. Although he doesn’t really say much to me, and holding a solid conversation with him is impossible, I appreciate his company. Having him near eases my mind.

Right on schedule with the super-strict itinerary, Kendall and Ryan cut the cake. He places a little chunk in her mouth while she smears frosting on his face. Then she stands on her tiptoes to lick it off. I pull out my camera just in time to video it because I might share a few clips with my followers.

“Do you want a slice?” I ask Tristan, and he shakes his head.

“Damn, you’re missing out. It’s orgasmic,” I say, going for a second one. I think I see a smirk play on his lips, but then he goes back to his stoic self.

After the music starts again, I decide to sit at one of the high tops that faces the dance floor. My feet are killing me, but that’s what I get. I talk to a few family friends and decide I need another shot after being asked when I’m gonna get hitched and pop out babies. As I make my way across the room, a man with a crazed look in his eyes approaches me.

He grabs my wrists with a tight grip and forcefully jerks me forward. “What are you doing?” I scream, nearly losing my balance. His nails dig into my skin, and he’s holding me so tight I can’t get away.

“You’re mine, b***h,” the man says, and that’s when I realize it’s my stalker—Jack. Tristan slams into him with all his weight, and Jack falls into a table, knocking it over. The music stops, and people scream when Tristan pulls a gun from his holster. The crowd rushes around us toward the exit, and security moves in. Someone crashes into Tristan, and he stumbles to the ground. The pistol slides across the floor. I try to help him up, but he’s already on his feet. When I look over, Jack’s gone.

He disappeared in the commotion.

“Where the f**k did he go?” Tristan hisses.

“I don’t know,” I breathlessly say as he pulls me close and escorts me outside. He’s talking to someone in code on the earpiece, and his jaw locks tight when he’s done. Adrenaline floods me, and I’m wobbly on my feet. Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones leaving.

I turn around, not seeing my parents or sister, knowing that Kendall’s reception is in utter chaos and it’s all my fault.

“What are we doing?” I ask as he keeps a firm grip on me.

“We need to leave immediately,” he grits out, escorting me to a car parked in the front. There’s a driver inside, and I wonder if Tristan had an escape plan just in case. I climb in, and he’s beside me with his gun in hand.

“To my hotel, then her apartment,” he demands, and we head toward the city.

“How’d he find me?” My wrists hurt from how hard I was grabbed.

I unlock my phone, and Tristan turns to me.

“Jack tracked you through that.” He glares at it. “The fact that he got into the venue shows he’s smarter than any of us realized, especially with the added security.”

“I know. It was frightening. Can I call my parents?”

“They know I have you and that we’re getting out of New York. He’s hacked his way inside your device, and I don’t know what information he’s gotten.”

He grabs my cell and holds it in his firm grip.

I glare at him. “I can’t be without my phone.”

“I’ll get you a burner.”

“What’s that?”

“A replacement, one he doesn’t know about.”

I’m trying not to cry, feeling so vulnerable and exposed to an obsessed fan turned maniac. No telling what pictures, videos, and messages of mine he’s seen, and the fact that Jack tracked my location is even scarier.

“Can I at least pack my things?” I ask, realizing he just said we’re leaving New York.

“You’ll have fifteen minutes when we get to your apartment, and that’s it. Bring enough to keep you dressed while we’re in hiding.”

Hiding? I try not to freak out and suck in deep breaths to help me calm down, but it doesn’t work. My phone buzzes, and Tristan looks down at it. There’s a preview from Kendall.

“You can reply to your sister, just this once, but don’t give her any specifics,” he says, handing it over.

I unlock it and hurry and read what she sent.

Kendall: Mom and Dad told me what happened. Please tell me you’re safe.

I immediately reply.

Piper: I’m with Tristan. I have to be careful what I say until I get a burner phone, but we’re going into hiding. I’ll be safe with him and will text you as soon as I can. I’m so sorry this happened on your special night. I love you guys!

Kendall: It’s not your fault. I love you too! Text me and keep me updated when you’re able to, please!

Relief floods through me, knowing she’s not mad. She’s waited her whole life for this wedding.

Piper: I will. Plus, it might not be so bad being locked up with my hot bodyguard ;)

Kendall: Don’t say I didn’t warn you before...don’t get involved!

Piper: You’re no fun!

Kendall: Love you, sis. Please stay safe.

Tristan takes my phone before I can say anything else and turns it off.

“What the hell? I didn’t get to tell my sister I love her back.”

His green eyes meet mine. “She knows. We can’t risk anything else.”

I swallow hard, pissed. I don’t say a word the rest of the way.

We stop at the hotel where Tristan has been staying while working for my parents. It’s two blocks away from my apartment.

Before he gets out, he turns to me. “Stay inside this car. I’ll be right back.”

He rushes inside, and I take a quick moment to let my emotions out. The driver doesn’t make eye contact and pretends I’m invisible. The tears fall because I feel helpless. Running for my life wasn’t on my list of things to do today.

Tristan returns carrying a black duffel bag. He searches up and down the sidewalk before he opens the door, then we drive a few blocks over.

When we finally make it to my apartment, the place is surrounded by paparazzi.

“f**k,” Tristan groans, and this time, I agree with his sentiments. While I usually don’t mind the photographers and use the paps as much as they use me, I could live without them right now. “Make it ten minutes,” Tristan mutters as he swings open the door. He forces his way through the crowd, guiding me up the stoop of my building. The flashes are blinding, and handfuls of people are screaming my name. It’s too much as I’m internally panicking.

Before he lets me in, Tristan checks every room with his gun drawn. My mind races a million miles per minute as I grab all of my vlogging gear, laptop, memory cards, and chargers. In the distance, Tristan’s talking on the phone to someone. When he gives me a five-minute warning, I let out an annoyed breath. Knowing I need clothes, I grab random things from my closet and dresser drawers along with my travel cosmetic bag.

“We gotta get going,” Tristan snaps, entering my bedroom just as I zip my suitcase. He lifts it along with my backpack. I take one last look at my apartment, then we lock up. In that short amount of time, the paps have doubled.

“Back the f**k off. You’re in the way,” Tristan grits out, making a path for me. My heart is galloping by the time we get into the car and speed off.

Tristan turns, noticing the entourage of vehicles chasing us. “Of course.”

I wish I could sink into the seat and disappear. “They’re relentless.”

“Once we arrive at the private airport, they’ll be stopped.”

I glance over at him. “We’re getting on a plane?”

“Yeah.”

“They’re going to know we’re flying somewhere.”

He meets my eyes. “They won’t know where we’re going, and neither will you.”

“Why not?”

“The less you know, the better.”

I clench my jaw, angry that he’s not giving me any details. We zoom through the private gate, and those following us are left behind at the security entrance. The car pulls up to my parents' private jet. Within minutes, my bags are being loaded, and we’ve boarded. After we’re buckled, the plane taxis to the runway. Once we take off, I pull out my laptop, and before I can log in with my fingerprint, Tristan slams it shut.

“No internet. At all. Jack tracked your phone, and I don’t know if that’s infected too. As soon as you connect to the internet, your IP can be tracked.”

My nostrils flare. “Do you have any idea how many rumors are going to be started about me? Everyone will know I fled from my sister’s wedding, packed my s**t, and escaped on a plane.”

“I don’t give two shits,” he firmly states.

“Of course you don’t,” I snap. He doesn’t realize how hard I’ve worked to stay out of the drama.

I grab my AirPods, then realize I don’t have my phone to listen to music, so I put them back into their case. Closing my eyes, I think back to all the meet & greets, public appearances, and videos that got me into this mess.

While it’s not Tristan’s fault that this happened, he seems to have zero compassion for me. Not that I want his sympathy, but my everyday life involves the internet, so dealing with all of this on top of having all access ripped away in a blink is a lot at once.

My mind reels, and I try to fall asleep, but the thoughts come and go so fast that I grow anxious instead of tired. I look down at the silk dress I’m still wearing and am reminded how quickly everything happened and how lucky I am to be safe. I already wish this nightmare would end, and it literally just started.