“Darlin’, this is Vegas,” I announce. “President of Saints Outlaws and one of our allies.”
“Pleasure to meet you.” Hope holds out her hand. “I’ve heard so much about you.”
“Good things, I hope.” Vegas’ gaze softens when he looks at her. “Heard about the wedding. Congratulations.”
I dip my chin. “Thanks, man.”
“Club’s throwing a party tomorrow night in your honor,” Vegas says. “Thought Death’s Gambit might want to celebrate the upcoming nuptials properly.”
I glance at Hope. “What do you say? Want to go party with the Outlaws?”
She smiles. “That sounds amazing.”
Amy brightens. “Do you have any bats?”
Vegas chuckles. “You must be Amy. I’ve heard about you.”
She cocks her brow. “And?”
Vegas winks. “I think we’re gonna be good friends.”
Amy’s lip curves. “Good answer.”
Hawk enters the fray. “Can’t say I’m surprised to see you here, Vegas.”
“Hey, Hawk. Eagle called and gave us a heads-up last week.”
Hawk nods his head. “Figured he would.”
“Passing along the invitation for a real party tomorrow night at our clubhouse to celebrate the newlyweds.” Vegas extends his hand to him. “No pressure, but hope you all can come.”
Hawk shakes it. “We’ll be there.”
Vegas nods, then melts back into the crowd like he was never there at all.
Chaos turns back to the table, chips in hand. “Alright,” he says. “Who’s ready to lose money again?”
A server comes over with a tray of shots for everyone. “Vegas said to enjoy yourselves.”
Hawk lifts his glass as everyone takes one. “To my son and his future wife. I couldn’t ask for a better daughter-in-law.”
Hope’s eyes fill with tears as Amy thrusts a shot into her waiting hand.
“Enough sappy shit,” Amy declares. “It’s time to gamble!”
Everyone throws back their shots and cheers.
“You heard the woman.” I take Hope’s hand. “Let’s gamble.”
CHAPTER 2
HOPE
By the time we leave the casino, my feet ache, my cheeks hurt from smiling, and my purse is heavier than it was when the night started. Winning tends to do that.
Frost slips an arm around my shoulders as we weave through the crowd, his steps steady, relaxed like Vegas hasn’t been trying to take us for all we’re worth the last few hours. Luckily, we walked away winners. The same can’t be said for Chaos, who lost almost everything tonight. The lights are blurring together, neon melting into gold, and I feel pleasantly buzzed without being sloppy drunk.
“I can’t believe we both walked away with more money than we came with,” I say, laughing softly.
