A Leap of Faith by T. Gephart Page B

different to my life and while I loved my new life, I was slow in building new “female” friendships. I had Hannah and Taylah of course, both of which I adored and I saw my former colleague Sydney from time to time but other than that I was too busy to socialize. Hmmm I think I was going to have to rectify that on my return. Having Matt on board would at least allow me the luxury to attempt to have some free time.
    DarNell pulled up to the curb- side drop off zone at JFK Airport as I slid my iPad back into my Michael Kors tote.
    “Are you sure you don’t want me to park the car and accompany you in, Lexi?” DarNell turned, skeptical of my decision to have him drop me off. I was glad he had finally stopped calling me Ma’am and despite his steely disposition I think DarNell quietly had a soft spot for me.
    “Just help me get my bags out of the back and I’ll see you when you return with the guys. Alex isn’t with me so the going rate of photos of me goes down.” I smiled as I unhooked my seat belt.
    DarNell flicked his hazard lights on before stepping out of the Escalade and opening my door.
    “I don’t know Lexi, this seems to go against my better judgement. There are some crazies out there. These fan girls who think if they bump you off they’ll have a chance with him. I’d feel more comfortable if you would let me at least get you through security.”
    “DarNell, I’m a big girl and there is more security in this airport than at my apartment so I highly doubt that would be possible. Anyway, I’m not averse to bitch-slapping a slut or two. If they feel the need to take me on, I’ll be fine,” I assured him as he lifted my suitcases out of the car.
    He shook his head, clearly disagreeing with me but smart enough not to argue as he placed the last of my luggage at my feet. A baggage service officer happily came over and helped me lift them onto a trolley, while I did my tenth check for my passport and tickets.
    “I’ll be back in an hour. Be Alert.” DarNell warned as he hesitated at the driver’s side door.
    “Thanks DarNell, I’ve got it from here” I waved back, handing the helpful curb side assistant a generous tip.
    I watched the break lights disappear before I turned to go through the glass doors of the Airport. A couple of photographers snapped pictures of me as I entered, following me to the check in counter.
    “Where’s Alex, Lexi?”
    “Give us a smile Lexi.”
    “Lexi, this way.”
    “Lexi, are you and Alex moving in together?”
    The two bottom feeders took turns in trying to garner my attention. I ignored them as I always did when I was not actively working. It was kind of ironic the relationship I had with them. I needed them and yet still needed to maintain control. I knew my relationship with Alex made me newsworthy however I had no desire to have my picture plastered all over People magazine. I was glad I’d taken my time this morning, at least I’d look half decent in these photos.
    I handed over my tickets to the Airline representative who even at this time of the morning was immaculately presented and was wearing the largest smile I’d ever seen. Seriously, do they teach that “look” in some kind of class? It seemed like every Airline customer service representative had the same over enthusiastic smile. Either that or their hair had been pulled too tight which was always a possibility gauging by woman in front of me.
    “Hello Ms Reed, early check in?”
    “Yes, we have a group booking but I’d like to check my bags in now if I can.” I handed over my trav el documents as I read her nametag - Mandy.
    “Of course Ms Reed, I can check your bags through now. Your seating allocation has already been completed. You can go relax in our lounge with our other first class guests if you like until it’s time to board your flight.” Mandy quipped a little too cheery for my liking.
    I guessed she’d probably seen the name attached to the booking and knew it was only a matter