“I’m good.” And also, a little uncomfortable with Gideon leaning closer to me as if he was trying to hear my conversation.
“Well, I was just calling to see how the woman was when you left last night.”
“Cass is good. I got a text from her boyfriend this morning, thanking me and that she was wide awake.” I had to admit that I was surprised to get that text from Slay because I hadn’t given him my number. But I was happy to hear Cass was doing good.
“That’s good. I hope you don’t mind me giving him your number. These bikers aren’t used to being told no.”
“Yeah, so my brother told me.” I was getting that vibe right now from Gideon.
“They mostly good guys. I appreciate you coming through for me. If I wasn’t on the clock, I would have gone myself to earn some extra cash. He paid you, right?”
“Yes. He was very generous.”
“Good. So I’d like to take you to dinner as a thank you. Are you free tonight? I’m off and I know it’s your day off too.”
Gideon’s hand touched my shoulder. His arm was still on the back of the chair, and he was staring hard at me.
I cut my gaze at Kevin who was looking at me just as intimidatingly as Gideon.
“Um, tonight isn’t good. I have plans, sorry.” What else could I do but lie?
“Bummer.”
“Can I get a raincheck for another time?” Yes, I had a death wish. I only asked so I could see Gideon’s reaction, but it was my brother’s jaw hitting the table that almost made me laugh.
“Absolutely,” Hector replied. “You just name the day and I’ll be there.”
“Will do. I’m sure I’ll see you around the hospital. We can plan something then.” I relaxed in my seat, feeling in control and victorious, while my brother and Gideon glared at me.
“Perfect. Take care, Kel.”
“You too, Hector. Bye.” I ended the call and resumed eating my lunch. “Mhm, this is so good.”
I could feel my brother’s and Gideon’s eyes on me. They were annoyed. But there was something more with Gideon. His fingernails dug into my shoulder. I tried not to react to the invasion with my brother right there.
I didn’t hate Gideon touching me. In fact, it stirred something in me and made me tingle. It was odd to have such sensations. I hadn’t felt any desire in nearly a year. Gideon was the last person I would have thought could turn me on.
“What are your plans tonight?” Kevin asked.
“I’m very curious, too,” Gideon said in a serious tone, which sent a lovely shiver down my spine.
I slowly chewed my food and wiped my mouth on a napkin. I couldn’t believe what I was about to say, but I was sure my brother would be thrilled. He always told me that I needed to take more risks because life was too short. This was me throwing caution into the wind…
“I’m having drinks with an old friend.”
8
GQ
I didn’t even try to hide the smile on my face. Kelly Lloyd was in my truck, and we were going out for drinks. Hot damn, I was excited about it!
After we all parted ways this afternoon at In and Out, I smiled the whole way back to the compound. I was so fucking happy she agreed to meet up with me and allowed me to pick her up.
Last night, I just wanted to have a drink with her and catch up. I would have agreed to meeting up somewhere.
But after spending a little more time with her, I wanted so much more. Driving together, made it feel like a date instead of two friends going out for a beer.
“You weren’t wearing that earlier today.” She pointed at my cut.
