Beyond Her Fame Read online

  What?

  She surely had to be teasing me back. She had always joked around with me never with physical touching. But my thoughts disappeared once she wrapped her arms around my waist and laid her head on my chest. Her small frame hardly wrapped around my large one. Feeling her so close to me made my heart would pound out of my chest.

  “I’m not going to let go until you hug me back.” She chuckled. Most likely laughing at my frozen state.

  She is my employer. I can’t hug her. I’m not even supposed to have physical contact with her. But she initiated it first.

  Without my permission, my arms wrapped around her shoulders as I lightly hugged her. She felt so warm and right in my arms. Despite my nerves, it felt nice. I wanted to keep her here forever.

  She stepped away from me but did not let go of me completely. Her eyes twinkled in the moonlight. “Now I feel forgiven.”

  Too afraid to say something, I just smiled at her. Slowly she walked away from my hold and stepped closer to the front door. She was probably going to get ready for bed, so I did the usual routine. I parked the car in her garage and walked around the premises just to make sure there were no holes for crazed fans to crawl through. The time alone helped me to calm my nerves and clear my thoughts. I didn’t want to over analyze and think more into her actions. Despite my deep desire to hold her longer and look into her eyes, I knew I had to keep things professional. She was upset and apologized. Simple as that.

  After deeming the property safe for Noelle, I went back inside to her security room and spoke with Jacob, the other bodyguard about how the night went. Jacob and I grew close since I started working here and have become friends. He has been Noelle's personal guard for three years, but he couldn't live on the property with her because he had a wife and two children. Noelle was very flexible and hired me so Jacob could spend more time with his family.

  "How was it tonight?" I asked as I loosened my tie.

  "Eh, very quiet. No crazies coming around anymore." Jacob said as he rubbed his hand over his face and then looked at his watch. I could see purple bags under his eyes.

  "Hey, head home." I said as I patted his back. "I got this."

  "Thanks." He said as he smiled and stood up. He grabbed his sweater from the chair and walked out. He and his wife just had a baby boy and I'm pretty sure he was feeling the lack of sleep.

  I watched the monitors for a bit but felt as if nothing serious would happen tonight. I looked at the clock in the corner of the monitor and saw that it was 1:35 a.m. I figured it was time for me to sleep. Tomorrow was Sunday and it was my day off. I turned off the light but left the monitors on as I left the room to prepare for bed. Noelle's house was decent. Four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom was of course her bedroom. One room was turned into an office and the other two rooms became guest bedrooms whenever her parents or friends stayed in town. For now, I was currently living in one of the rooms until my overnight services were no longer required. She had a large kitchen that she chose to cook in herself. Her basement was converted into a studio so she could create music at any given time. She bought the house from a singer, so it was advantageous for her.

  I was on my way to the guest room when a small light caught my eye. The small light above the stove was on and a person wearing a white robe was standing under it with their back to me. I could tell who it was and didn't know if I was intruding on a private moment. But the way her shoulders were hunched over and the way she hung her head made my decision for me.

  "Hey." I said lamely. she jerked her head up and looked at me. She smiled softly at me as she wiped a loose strand from her eyes. For a second my thoughts froze as I realized the littlest things, she does make my heart beat a little faster. "I was just about to head off to bed. It's my day off tomorrow so I just wanted to make sure you’ll be okay." I was hoping she would understand my double meaning.

  She sighed and looked straight into my eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. I forgot it was Sunday already. I've been working so much that the days just blur together." She chuckled softly but it was empty. Even her eyes, which were usually lively, were somewhat drained and tired. I could feel my arms itching to hug her again. I wanted to let her know she could confide in me. I wanted to hold her in my arms and let go of whatever was bothering her. To feel her sigh against my chest. I clenched my fist, fighting the urge.

  "You know," her voice caught my attention, "I think tomorrow I have nothing to do."

  "You have a day off?" I was shocked. Last time Noelle had a day off from her obligations was over a month ago. Her schedule was usually busy. I'm surprised she has time to sleep and eat.

  "Yeah. I'm just as shocked as you are."

  "Do you have any plans?" I asked genuinely curious.

  She shook her head. My heart dropped as I felt my face fall. "I guess I'll just spend some time in my studio or something. I'm pretty sure Laurie will have something for me. Most likely Jenna will call me to go wedding shopping with her." She shook her head and I had to laugh. Whenever Jenna asked Noelle to go wedding shopping with her, she would always groan and find some excuse not to go. She said Jenna was too excited for events and shopping. From what I observed, she was borderline obsessed with it.

  "Well, I wish you luck with that." She smacked my arm lightly and I feigned being in pain. She pouted a bit but then smiled.

  "Zavier?"

  "Yes?" I looked into her eyes again and saw how she became serious. "I know Laurie said we cannot get personal or anything but when we are alone, call me Elle, please? Noelle seems so...professional. When I am home, I don't want to be Noelle, the artist. I just want to be Elle, the real me."

  I swallowed. I had heard Jenna and her family call her Elle. But I was never given permission or asked to refer to her by her childhood nickname. I knew if I agreed to this, we would be crossing the professional/personal line. The lines that I have drawn so carefully for myself.

  But she was giving permission. I can probably be somewhat lenient…

  "Okay...Elle." I loved the way her name sounded off my tongue. "But only if you can call me Zavier." I couldn’t help but to tease her. Just a little bit.

  "Okay Zavier." She said as she rolled her eyes. I was thrilled I could lighten the mood up a bit. A yawn escaped her mouth as she rushed to cover it. "Well, I guess I should head to bed before Laurie starts blowing up my phone in a few hours. Goodnight, Zavier. I really needed it." Her fingers grazed my arm as she passed me and disappeared down the hallway.

  Even after a long warm shower I still couldn't sleep. It bothered me that Noelle doesn't get many days off and works day in and day out. Sometimes I think she runs on fumes. She just seemed so stressed out in the kitchen. And even though she wouldn't exactly tell me what's wrong I felt as though I had to do something to make her smile. As I felt my eyes drift off, I formed a plan in my head and only hoped it would work.

  Chapter Four

  Zavier

  6:32 a.m.

  I had only slept for only a few hours, but I have never felt so energized. I woke up, quickly dressed and was now standing before Noelle's bedroom door. I was feeling nervous, but I hoped she would go along with it. Breathed in as many nerves as I could muster and knocked on her door. I could hear some rummaging and patting until I heard the knob turn and open.

  Noelle was tying her robe close as she struggled to open her eyes. Her hair, although tied up in a bun on top of her head, was very messy and in disarray. She was adorable.

  "Zavier? Why are you waking me up so early?" She yawned as she leaned on her door for support.

  "I want you to get dressed. We are going out." I said as I began to walk away. Once I was close to the other side of the hallway near the kitchen, I think she understood what I said.

  "Why should I get dressed? It's six in the morning?!"

  I turned around and could barely contain the smile on my face as I looked at her bewildered one. "Because I am going to show you how to have a day off."

  I expected her to be upset or put off by the arrogance I was showing. She didn't like to be told what to do. So, I was surprised that a smile crossed her face and she zoomed back to her room. Feeling very confident in my plan, I went to the kitchen and toasted four slices of multigrain bread and spread honey on them. I got the coffee maker ready and poured two cups for her and me. I even cut up some bananas, apples, and strawberries. I placed everything on the kitchen counter just as she walked in.

  "That looks great."

  I looked up and tried to not keep my eyes from staring too long. Her usual wavy hair was tied up in a loose ponytail behind her head. She wore a dark purple tank top with an oversized jean jacket on. She even had on jeans shorts and black combat boots. I have seen Noelle dressed up in designer clothes and hair styled to perfection. But seeing her with normal clothes while wearing a smile on her face...she is the most beautiful.

  "Yeah. I really can't cook but I didn't want us to starve either." I responded as I shoved the toast in my mouth as she poured some cream into her coffee. I tried not to stare too long at her, but it was hard.

  "It's okay." She replied as she sipped, "I really do appreciate it."

  We ate in silence. By the time we finished our coffees the food was gone, and I was satisfied. She rubbed her hands together after she placed the dirty dishes in the sink and turned towards me. "So, what are we doing today?" She was so excited.

  "Anything you want." I answered.

  She stood silently for a moment and then chuckled. "No for real, what are we doing?"

  "Whatever you want, Elle. You work every day, and no one has ever asked you what you wanted to do." I spoke honestly as I unknowingly took a step closer to her. She didn't back away from me. If anything, her smile only widened.

  "Really?"

/>   "Yes really. So, what do you want to do?" I asked as I reached for my keys and wallet that were resting on the counter and stuffed them in my pocket.

  "I want to see a botanical garden and eat at a diner." She replied so quickly.

  "Really?”

  “Yeah.” Her face flushed as she looked away from me. I grew up closer to the countryside than the city. More grass than concrete. Diners and mom-and-pop shops opposed to fine dining and box stores. I guess I just want to see something that reminds me of my childhood.”

  “Whatever you want, you shall have.” I wasn't opposed to her eating at a diner or seeing flowers. Whatever she wanted she would get today.

  Her eyes grew wide with excitement as she shrieked. Her excitement was infectious as I laughed as well. She excused herself to the restroom. Since I was alone, I pulled out my phone to find botanical gardens.

  It shouldn’t be anything in California. She may not be considered A-list, but she was more than likely to be recognized. The father out the better. After narrowing my options, I selected the best option. As I was memorizing the route, I heard footsteps coming my way. I turned off the screen and put my phone away.

  “Okay let's go!” She sang to me.

  I grabbed her hand and led her to the garage. I quickly realized what I did, but she wasn't pulling away from me either. I felt a tingle in my hand, but it was nice. I tried not to look at her and focused on my destination at hand. Once I opened the garage door, I heard Noelle squeak. I turned back at her in slight fear.

  "I forgot my phone!" She stared wide eyed at me. I took a semi deep breath as I tried to control my heart rate. I thought we were in danger. Not about to leave a piece of technology behind. "What if Laurie texts me or calls, I have to go get it." She turned to retrieve her phone. I tightened my hand lightly around her wrist. She looked back at me and cocked her head slightly to the left.

  "Elle, if this is your day off why even get your phone?" I asked.

  She looked taken aback and I could see her get a bit defensive. "Zavier, I am still an artist. Laurie could call me about some opportunity or even to book me another singing event. I can't just ignore my phone calls." Her voice was raising a bit and I could see some anger.

  "I understand that you're an artist. I'm not denying your talents." I replied softly. "It's just that you work so hard every day. You're a singer and an activist. Your phone is practically blowing up 24/7. I have hardly seen you take a day off or be five feet away from your phone. Don't you want to just enjoy today and not have to worry about work for once in your life? Just have fun and let go." I finished as I let her wrist go and took a step back.

  She still seemed a bit pissed, and I felt a bit guilty. Who was I to tell her how to run her life? I scratched the back of my head and began to feel a bit nervous. "Noelle, I'm sorry. I shou-"

  "You're right."

  I looked at her confused. She broke out in a smile and started texting something on her phone. Then she flung the phone behind her and barely flinched as it hit the floor. I'm pretty sure the screen is cracked.

  "Don't worry about it. Laurie can get me another one." She said as she walked past me towards the garage. I decided it was best not to question her and followed. "So, am I driving?' She asked edging close to her giant black SUV. I chuckled as I walked to the farthest corner of the garage and stood in front of my baby.

  "Nope. I am." I said as I reached for my helmet and gave her the second one. She looked between me and the bike as a blush stained her cheeks.

  "Uhm...I've never been on a motorcycle before." She said as she looked away from me.

  "Never?" I was shocked. I thought everyone did at some point in their life. "What about your music videos?"

  "Green screen and stunt doubles. They wouldn't let me get on a bike myself." She admitted as she looked at the ground.

  "Not even as a teenager?"

  She shook her head. "I was too focused on my singing to do anything rebellious."

  Her shyness did not make her seem less adorable.

  "This is your first time, and you are going to love it." I said as I placed my helmet on my head. And sat down waiting for her. She stood there thinking about it for a second and then slowly put the helmet on her head and cautiously sat behind me. I started the engine as she wrapped her arms a bit tight around my abdomen. I stiffened as I felt her so close to me. My face grew hot, and my palms felt moist. I was grateful for the helmet. "Away we go!" I said as the garage door opened.

  "You are so corny!" She shouted as I took off. The sound of the gas hiding my laughter.

  Chapter Five

  Zavier

  Once we were on the streets of Los Angeles, I could feel her grip tighten but she stayed quiet. I hoped she was enjoying herself. I drove out of the city and towards the desert. I knew the perfect place to take her, but it was far. I always enjoyed riding my bike. It was liberating and free. I loved to feel the wind on my skin without the constraints of a car.

  After probably three hours of driving, I could see it off in the distance. I hoped she would love it. When we drew closer, I began to slow down. Despite it being a Sunday, the place was not too busy. I had chosen this place specifically for its location in the middle of the desert.

  I quickly analyzed the parking situation. I had to be certain not too many people would be present. I parked away from the building and waited for her to get off first. She quickly jumped off the bike and removed the helmet off her head. "Oh my god! That was exhilarating! At first, I kept my eyes closed but once I opened them it felt awesome! I don't know why I waited so long to ride a motorcycle. It wasn't that scary."

  I just sat on the bike watching her rant on and on. She looked pleased with herself. She was so excited about riding a bike like a child catching a frog in the yard. After some time, she stopped talking and looked at me weird. "What are you smiling so hard at?"

  I shook my head and replied, "Nothing. I just like seeing you happy." Her face was blank for a second before she turned her head to hide a smile.

  “You really did bring me to a botanical garden?” She cocked her head as she stared at the small place before us.

  “Yep,” I answered as I stepped beside her, “The reviews said this garden was small but houses many plants indigenous to the desert. Plus, since it’s in the desert I thought not too many people would be here. You know,” I leaned closer to her as I heard her breath hitch, “since you are a celebrity and all. Can’t have you get recognized, can we?” I teased as I got closer to her. I could see her chest move as she took in a breath. Her eyes stared into mine as my teasing smile faltered a bit.

  “No, we cannot.” She whispered back. As if the spell was broken, she turned her head and talked louder. “However, there is a flaw in your plan.” She turned back to me as she raised her brow. “My face is out in the open. Someone will surely know who I am.”

  Damn. I did not think that one through. I looked around the parking lot and then back to the building. Suddenly it hit me.