She gasps.
“These types of peopleinclude your father and brother, who are likely going to be in the room.”
Her mouth hinges open.
“Although, if you want to run that mouth more when we’re alone, I’m all for it.” I wink at her.
“Why will they be here?” she whispers. I like how close she leans in when she does.
I put my arm around her. Pull her closer. “I told you some of Rowan’s men would be here.”
Her eyes widen as if it just dawned on her.
“Sorry, I should have clarified. I know you’re still getting used to all of this.” As much as it amazes me, she really has no idea what type of world she lives in. “You can ask me anything you want later.”
She studies my face. “Do you mean that?”
I stop walking. Turn to face her. “I won’t ever tell you anything I don’t mean.”
I don’t know what she sees in my expression but she nods. Swallows. “Thank you, Liam.”
“You’re welcome. By the way, did I tell you how phenomenal you look tonight?”
She blushes. “Yes. A dozen times.”
I wrap my arm around her waist. “It’s not enough. Seriously. I’m proud to have you by my side.”
This time, she stops walking. “You mean that, don’t you?”
“What did I just tell you?”
She nods again before threading her arm through mine. Nice.
Taryn stumbles a bit when we walk into the private room that’s been reserved. Seeing her brother and father in a professional setting is probably odd for her. She leaves me to go talk to her Da, and I can’t say I enjoy how many sets of eyes follow her ass as she does. I’m frowning in her direction when Rowan claps a hand on my shoulder.
“Looks like things are going well,” he comments, “despite your current expression.”
I hum in response.
“Thank you for bringing her tonight. It helps.”
I understand his meaning. We all want to show our top lieutenants that this alliance is happening. That they have permission to speak to one another. Candidly.
“I don’t want to stay long,” I tell him. “I don’t think Taryn is comfortable here. Were you aware that Mick hasn’t told her anything about what he does?”
Rowan shrugs. “Did you expect him to?”
I guffaw. “Don’t you think she should understand the threats? Or, hell, why she had to change her life plans to suddenly get married?”
Rowan has the good grace to look chagrined. “Her life plan should have always been to serve the clan, but I get your point. She should know what to look out for.”
I can only imagine how Taryn would feel about his statement. “She’s a smart person, Row. She has the capacity to understand a great deal. To contribute a great deal.” I don’t know why I’m pushing this. She’s gotten in my head.
“Well, then I guess it’ll be your job to educate her.”
Taryn slips her arm around my waist and kisses my cheek. To say that I almost fall over in shock would be an understatement.
“Liam.” Mick Walsh holds out a hand. “I see you’re taking good care of my girl.”
