BANG.
“Church is over.”
Chairs scrape as the guys stand and conversations start back up, but my mind’s already somewhere else—back at Emma’s house, back to the way she looked at me this morning, soft and vulnerable, still tangled in my sheets.
And whether or not I’m ready to bring her into a world that might swallow her whole.
Twenty
Emma
It’s Saturday.
And here I am, standing in front of my mirror, caught in a mild crisis.
Not a full-on meltdown, but the kind where you stare at yourself for far too long, trying to decipher if you look confident or if you’ve just tried way too hard.
Tonight is the club’s annual barbecue.
And Hawk invited me.
Just the thought sends a flutter through my stomach that I can’t ignore.
This will be my first time at the clubhouse, the first glimpse into Hawk’s world, and the first chance to meet many of the people who fill his life. I want to leave a lasting impression.
Which is why I’ve changed outfits three times already.
But the one I’m wearing now…
I glance at my reflection again, taking in every detail.
Okay.
I look good.
My hair cascades in soft curls around my shoulders, the loose waves framing my face just right. I spent more time than I’d like to admit perfecting my makeup, but the result is worth it. My eyes seem bigger, my skin smooth, and my lips shine with a soft pink gloss.
Pretty, but not overdone.
The skinny jeans hug my hips and thighs like they were poured onto me, sucking everything in and giving the illusion of a tiny waist. They enhance my curves in a way that feels empowering.
Then there’s the top.
The burgundy corset fits as if it was tailored for my body. The deep V neckline plunges daringly low, pushing my breasts up and together, creating a silhouette that feels almost unfair.
The lace-up detailing pulls the fabric snug against my torso, accentuating every curve.
The halter strap wraps around my neck, leaving my back almost bare, exposing my shoulders and arms.
It’s bold.
Way bolder than I usually dress.
But when I first tried it on earlier, I felt… powerful. Sexy.
Heat rushes to my cheeks as I examine myself again.
I really hope Hawk likes it.
