She frowns, not arguing. And as angry as I am that she didn’t tell me she went to see her dad, I understand. There are some things we can face together. But sticking up for herself with her family is something she needs to do on her own if she’s going to reclaim the power he took from her.
“How did it go?” I ask, trying to be supportive.
“As good as it could, I guess. I honestly forgot I could stand up to him. You reminded me I’m stronger than that.”
“Glad I bring out your feisty side.” I grin.
“You do.” She giggles when I nip her ear. “Dad tried to hang you over my head and threaten me with my mom like he always does, but I think even he knows now it’s pointless. I told him I’m done. I’m leaving with you, and there’s nothing he can do to stop me.”
“You want to move to Vegas?”
As much as I’ve been hoping to hear those words, I want her to be ready.
“I made arrangements for Nightmare to be moved to Harloe’s family’s ranch. They’ll take care of her.” Willa presses her lips together, watching me nervously. “I know we haven’t talked about it. But I want to be where you are, even if it is a little fast and maybe a little reckless. Is that okay?”
“That’s fucking perfect.” I press a kiss to her lips.
There’s no limit to how much I need her. I could drown myself in this girl, and still I’d want more.
“I love kissing you,” I mumble against her mouth, and she smiles.
“I love kissing you too.” Her fingers wrap around the back of my head, and she pulls me in again, claiming me in every corner of my soul with her kiss.
When we pull apart, I press my forehead to hers.
“Are you sure you’re ready for this?” I ask. “For all the shit the club brings. Look where you are, Willa. I need to know.”
“Was the person who shot me doing it to get back at your club?”
“Seems that way.”
She pulls back, her lips pursing. “It doesn’t scare me if that’s what you’re asking. There are dangers living here too. You know that.”
“Yeah, but dangers on the ranch aren’t the same as they are with the club. Our enemies have no limits, Willa. I don’t like the thought of you being in that world.”
“Are you trying to find an excuse to break up with me?” Fear flashes in her eyes. “Not that we’re together necessarily.”
“We’re as together as it gets, princess.” I tip her chin up, brushing my lips over hers. “And hell no, I’m not trying to break us up. But the club is who I am. They’re my family. But—”
“I know, Dean. They’re important to you.”
“That’s not what I’m saying. I’ve lost you once, Willa. That’s not happening again. You want to come to Vegas? I’ll make sure you feel like it’s your home. You want to stay in Texas? I’ll move my ass back here. My club is my life, but you’re my home. All that matters is you.”
Willa plants her hand over my heart. “I told you, Dean. I see you.Allof you. And I accept every part, including your club. I’d never ask you to leave them. We’ll figure it out.”
She makes it sound so simple, and maybe it is. Balance has never been something I’ve been good at. I’m all in. Full force. I don’t pump the brakes or split my focus.
But now—
“One step at a time,” she says, like she senses me overthinking.
She closes her eyes and rests her head on my shoulder.
“One step at a time,” I repeat.
For the first time in a long time, I’m excited to take it.
31
