“Okay.”
They shopped for the next thirty minutes, picking up snacks, drinks, sandwiches, and a few frozen boxed foods that could be microwaved. By the time they dumped everything on the counter,Janehad a decent haul that would last a few days. Cleo had already planned on meal prepping when she was able to get back into her house. She’d make her some homemade meals.
“You got the money for all this?” Burke snapped, staring at the stranger.
His gruff and suspicious attitude was something Cleo was accustomed to. She’d never taken it offensively. But hearing it directed atJaneleft her slightly annoyed.
“I’m paying for it.”
Burke turned his scowl on Cleo. “Ace know?”
“It’s my money. I don’t have to clear it with Ace on how I spend it.”
What’s gotten into you?Even for Burke this seemed over the top and overly aggressive. Not to mention rude. He turned back toJane.
“What’s your name?”
She slyly glanced over at Cleo, then said, “I’m with Killcreek.”
His face turned a dark shade of red. “The fuck you are.”
Burke glanced between the women and reached for his phone. Was he going to call Ace? This was absurd. She was just about to tell him that when the bell rang over the door. All three of them watched Gent walk in, smiling.
“We got a problem, folks?”
Cleo stepped out from behindJane. “What are you doing here?”
“Well,” —Gent smirked— “I was given the glorious task of checking in on you ladies. So, imagine my fucking surprise when I show up at the motel and neither of your asses are there.” He arched his brow tauntingly. “You were told not to leave, darlin’.”
Shit!
“Did you tell Wraith?”
Gent smirked. “I probably should’ve, but I like the idea of you owing me, so we’ll keep this our little secret.”
Cleo nibbled on her lip. She wasn’t sure what was worse, Wraith finding out or owing Gent a favor. He stalked up to the counter, stopping a foot away fromJane,and she immediately stiffened. Gent leaned closer but didn’t touch her.
“Now darlin’, please don’t pick up Cleo’s bad habits. She’s all the trouble the club can handle.”
“S-sorry.”
Cleo balled her fists. She was used to Gent and his ways. He was the same with everyone. However, knowingJane’sordeal and what she’d been through had Cleo incensed. She reached out, punching his arm. The move clearly caught him off guard, and he jerked his eyes to Cleo. A flash of anger crossed his features. As quick as it came, it was gone.
“You’re with Wraith now, and all of a sudden you choose violence?”
Cleo squinted. “Be nice to her.”
Gent smirked, inching closer toJane. “I thought I was being nice. Gave her some advice.” He cocked his head. “Was I being mean, darlin’?”
“N-no, sir.”
His smile widened, and he hummed. “I like thesirpart.”
“Gent!” Cleo snapped, and he slowly straightened, keeping his eyes onJane.For her part, she hadn’t moved.
“So, Burke?” Gent arched his brow. “We got a fucking problem?”
Burke pointed to Cleo. “She wants to cover this one’s bill. Asked her name, and she won’t give it up.”
