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stepped back to guard her back while she unlocked the door.
    "Ta-da!" she said, grinning at the sea of expectant faces turning her way. "We all made it back in one piece. Have we missed anything?"
    "Any problems?" Carlo asked.
    Susan said, "If you're asking whether the perp approached us, the answer is sadly no. If you're curious to know if Allison's presence made a stir in the lobby and yes , every man within ten yards stood at attention as she walked by. And in the elevator bringing us to this floor, two guys on the make almost made your worst fears come true."
    "Cute." Carlo's throaty growl made Allison want to groan.
    "She did have the feeling we were being watched as we approached this room," Marsha added.
    Captain Samson drew Allison's attention. "Bob Stonewall has just filled us in on the part his staff will play to keep the hotel guests safe. This handheld radio is for you, and is set to hotel security's frequency. Later, Detective Demetri will instruct you in its use. Any questions?"
    "Will I be wearing a wire?" she asked, determined not to let her anticipation show.
    "Not a wire, a wireless receiver in your ear," Carlo said, still scowling.
    Allison swallowed a grin.
    "After the Welcome Party, you and Demetri are to agree on a workable conference schedule for tomorrow and prepare a list of the events you want to attend. Carlo will forward the list to Stonewall and Detective Hanson, who share the responsibility of assuring a sufficient number of undercover officers are on hand before the two of you exit this room or head to your next venue. Understood?"
    Allison wanted to dance instead of meekly replying, "Yes, Sir."
    The Captain's lips twitched as he held her gaze. "I think it best you and Carlo confine your spitting matches to this room. Once you step out into the hall, pretend you're friends, maybe even lovers who enjoy each other's company."
    Act like lovers?
    Her skin heated and her heart beat skipped. She would have no problem pretending.
    What about Carlo? Would he?
    Soon after, her guests departed by ones and twos until Carlo and the Captain were the only ones left.
    "Stonewall brought a protection rod to insure your safety while you're in this room, Allison," the Captain said. "With it in place your door can't be opened from the hall. Prop it underneath the door handle when you plan to spend time here. Officer Daniels's luggage is in Carlo's room next door and as soon as room service removes the party tables she'll be moving in to share your room. For your safety, don't lock the connecting door."
    Like a benevolent father, he smiled at her, speaking softly. "As soon as the tables are removed, Carlo will show you how to wedge the protection rod in place. Officer Norcross will be right across the hall, and one of my men will be in place on this floor at all times, plus a member of Stonewall's staff."
    Then the Captain gripped Carlo's shoulder. "I want you to check in with me at bedtime and again before you head to the first of tomorrow's events. Daniels will stand in the back of the room during the sessions Allison attends. She and Norcross are to always accompany her to the ladies’ room and Susan will sit with her during every event."
    When Carlo slowly agreed, a tremendous weight lifted off Allison's shoulders.
    All right. She mentally gave the Captain a hi-five.
    "Tomorrow night we'll discuss how to protect her while she makes her presentations."
    "Is it all right if I sit with her some of the time?" Carlo asked.
    "I have no objections unless Allison does?"
    She grinned at Carlo. "The subjects to be discussed in some of those workshops will be graphic," she warned.
    Carlo scowled as his ears turned red.
    The Captain chuckled all the way to the door. "Sleep well, you two, and remember to mute your disagreements."
    As the door closed behind him Carlo raced to throw the security lock, making Allison again feel like a helpless child.
    She slumped on the bed, kicked off her platform shoes, and rubbed her toes,