“Why the fuck would you know that?” Rocky asked in disgust.
“Because he reads,” Sundance said.
“I fuckin’ read!” Rocky challenged.
“He reads thingsotherthan beer bottle labels and carburetor manuals,” Sundance replied, before turning his attention back to me. “I’ve sent twelve guys to Portland to help the Dogs out if and when the shit hits the fan. What I need you to do is stick around here and help me get some of our younger guys and prospects battle ready in case the fan is big enough to blow our way.”
“You really think Warlock could make a move on us?”
“I do. He’s seasoned but he’s a brand-new president who’s looking to make a name for himself. At the same time, he’s trying to prove that his club is strong enough for war.”
“You think they are?” I asked.
“I think going to war withanyclub would mean losses and I don’t just mean financially.”
“But you want the troops to be ready just in case,” I said.
“That’s the idea. You the right man for the job?”
I shook my head. “Nope, I’m the right beast.”
Sundance and Rocky smiled again.
In unison.
Creepy as hell.
Lennon
IT WAS FRIDAY afternoon, and I was clearing out the last of my belongings from the office I’d shared with my colleagues for thepast three years. My doctoral thesis was in review along with my field research, and my anxiety level was rising. It was only a matter of time before I got the call telling me if I was now Dr. Whitman or plain ol’ Lennon Blanchette Whitman. The results could come in at any time and I was praying that I wouldn’t have to wait through the weekend to find out. Until then I’ve kept busy, doing my best to keep my mind off the subject of my unwritten future.
My phone buzzed and I just about ripped my pants, pulling it from my pocket. I didn’t recognize the number but answered it anyway just in case it was someone from the university regarding my thesis.
“Hello?” I answered, trying my best to sound calm and professional.
“Hey there, is this Lennon?” a slightly familiar male voice asked.
“Yes, it is.”
“This is Snarl, we met the other night at your grandmother’s house. She gave me your number. I hope it’s okay that I called.”
I took a deep breath.
“Are you alright?” Snarl asked.
“Yes, I’m fine. I was just waiting for a call and thought maybe yours was it.”
“Sorry to disappoint. Maybe I can make it up to you with a night on the town.”
I was going to murder Granny for this.
“I’m flattered and you actually seem like a really nice guy, but I really should wait for this call.”
“You know that phone you’retalking to me on is mobile right? That means you can take it with you wherever you go.”
I laughed. “Yes, I am aware of that fact.”
“Besides, there’s nothing worse than waiting for the phone to ring. Let me take you out dancing and help take your mind off your important phone call.”
