I hate to admit I have walked in on it. More than once.
I’m the reason the door has a lock and a strict rule to keep it that way while in use.
Panther didn’t take much convincing when I brought up Aspen and her trauma.
After I carried her to bed, I went back and cleaned up our little impromptu date. I couldn’t believe she planned it all for us.
Every time I think the girl cannot surprise me anymore, she goes and does something amazing. I swear, she is one of a kind.
Thank God, she is all mine.
I know I should go back to my room, but I don’t want to. I want to hold her a bit longer.
So I do.
That’s how I ended up lying here, listening to my girl breathe like some sort of creeper. I can’t help it, though.
I could lie here forever. I love holding her when she looks at peace like this. It makes me feel like I’m doing my job. I am keeping her safe and happy.
That’s not life, though.
My phone ringing proves that. I sigh, answering it, trying to keep my tone low.
It doesn’t matter, though. Aspen is awake and looking up at me as I speak.
“Yeah?” I whisper.
“I need backup to ride out to the bar. Can you be ready in five?” Panther asks.
“I’ll meet you at the gate,” I answer before hanging up.
“I have to go, sweet girl,” I tell her.
She nods. “I know. Club business.” She reaches up and cups my cheek. “Promise me you will be safe.”
“I will always be safe and come home to you,” I promise her.
She presses her lips to mine for a soft kiss.
“Then go and come back to me. I’ll be waiting.”
I nod, climbing from the bed. It kills me to leave her, but when I look back one last time, she blows me a kiss, reminding me that it is her I am here for in the first place. Whatever Panther needs, I will do because it means I get to be with her.
There is no line I wouldn’t cross for her. No moral boundaries exist if it means her being happy and safe.
I run to my room to change into my jeans and a T-shirt and add my cut on top. Finishing up with my boots and jacket, I run toward the front. I’m still the first one at the gate. Yak and Caterpillar are talking.
“What’s going on?” Caterpillar asks.
“No idea,” I answer truthfully.
If I did know, I wouldn’t tell him shit. I have no proof he is sketchy, but I don’t like how he acts toward me or how he questioned Panther.
To me, that means he isn’t worthy of this club.
“Did you have a good night tonight?” Yak teases.
“Better than yours, I’m sure,” I answer.
