“Almost. I need access to the charity's main accounts to connect the dots. Another couple of days.”
The event is in two days.
“Get it done now,” I say. “I want everything locked down before this thing goes live.”
Viper nods and heads out. I turn back to the room and find Karina watching me. She waves, that sunshine smile aimed right at me, and my heart knocks against my chest.
The florist is gone. Good. I might have done something stupid. She bounces over to me, clipboard clutched to her chest.
“You look grumpy.”
“Cupcake, I always look grumpy.”
“I mean… grumpier than usual.” She tilts her head, studying me. “Everything okay with your club stuff?”
“Fine.”
“Very convincing.” She pats my arm, and even that small touch sends heat up my spine. “You know you can talk to me, right? I'm a good listener. It's part of my charm.”
Her fluffy pink sweater is sliding off one shoulder, revealing tiny freckles that I want to trace with my tongue. Her eyes are full of warmth and trust.
I should tell her right now.
Chet Morgan, your boss, is a con artist. Your charity is a front and I've known since the day we met.
Instead, I say, “Come to dinner tonight.”
She blinks. “Dinner?”
“At my place. I'll cook.”
Her eyebrows shoot up. “Wait. You cook?”
“Don't look so surprised.”
“I'm delighted.” She clutches her chest dramatically. “The scary MC president can cook. Be still my heart.”
Is she flirting with me? “Is that a yes?”
“That's a hell yes.” She's already bouncing on her toes. “What time? Should I bring anything? Do I need to go home and change first? I should walk and feed Dolly?—”
“Eight. Bring nothing. You look fine.” Better than fine. She looks gorgeous. “Feed the dog first.”
“Dolly will be disappointed she doesn't get to growl at you.”
“She'll survive.”
Karina grins and stretches up on her toes to kiss my cheek. It’s quick and casual; the kind of easy affection that probably means nothing to her.
It sends searing heat down to my already hard cock.
“I’ll see you at eight, Chef Clay. Send me your address.”
She bounces back to her clipboard and her vendor calls, humming to herself. I stand there like an idiot, heart pounding. When did I become the kind of man who falls apart over a kiss on the cheek?
Ty hasn't set foot in the community center once. He must be smart enough not to show his face around a group of bikers who might carry a grudge. Every time Karina mentions him, it's the same excuses: he has donor meetings, or he’s on a conference call.
He's using her. When this falls apart, she’s going to be crushed.
