He gazes at me. “Sorry, I’ve got to go.”
I grab his hand tightly. I can’t ask him to stay—he’s busy—but I don’t want him to leave either.
He stares deeply into my eyes. “We hardly know each other, but would you like me to ask the club if it’s all right for you to stay with us at the clubhouse?”
I don’t even think about it; instincts take over. “Yes, please.”
The devotion in his eyes for a woman he hardly knows is admirable. Like my life hasn’t just taken a turn for the worst. He’s the only reminder that something good has happened, and I’d love to spend more time with him. Even if I’m going to struggle with the age gap. To think he cares about me and I’m not just a one-night stand makes me feel like I’m being seen... for the first time. He’s not something I just want... I feel like Ineedhim.
“The men are great. Most have partners and wives, and the women are really friendly.”
The thought of others being around didn’t even cross my mind. Anxiety shoots through me. He’s making out like they’re nice people... but are they nice to outsiders? Am I rushing into a situation that is worse than the one I’m in, just to spend time with a guy who I slept with and makes me feel good? I shuffle in my chair. I sound so desperate.
He touches my cheek and I look at him. “Stop worrying. I’ll ask them. It should be fine. We’ve taken in a few women who have experienced violence, so don’t stress.”
I nod, trying not to, but it’s easier said than done.
He stands. “I’ve got to get going, but I’ll send you a message tonight. If you haven’t changed your mind, and if the club says yes, I can pick you up tomorrow, or tonight even. Go talk to Zara if you have doubts—she’ll put your mind at ease. She lives there too.”
I breathe a little easier knowing there’ll be a friendly face around, and she seems lovely. “Thanks for everything,” I tell him sincerely.
He puts his arms out. “Where’s my hug?” he asks.
I stand and wrap my arms around him and breathe in his cologne and his warmth. He gives me a tight hug, then leaves, and I watch him swagger that sexy ass out. Things might actually be okay.
SIX
BE HER PEACE
Rage
Fuck yeah!I rev the throttle on my motorcycle. Rose wants to come to the clubhouse with me. I’m buzzin’. My smile is wide on the way home.
When I pull up, I put my bike in the shed alongside the others and stroll into the clubhouse. The men wanted a hand with building more of the deck and roof out the back, and I had already told them I’d help them out, so I had to leave her. I felt like shit, though. The way she held onto me... She wanted to spend time with me, or at least she felt safe with me. That’s a win in my book.
I go through the house and to the kitchen and grab a water from the fridge. I can hear the chatter from the men outside and the sound of a drill. Leaning against the fridge, I send a message to Rose.
Just checking you haven’t backed out and you still want to come to the clubhouse with me?
Yes, I do. I can’t explain it, but I feel safe with you and trust you.
If possible, my smile widens. I swear, she just fell from the sky like an angel that night when I first met her.
“It’s great to see you smiling again.”
I glance up to see Ava walking in. Ava is Reaper’s partner. He’s the president of the War Brothers MC.
It’s funny—I said something like that to Rose today. “I met someone and I really like her.”
Her eyes brighten. “Is it the woman from the night of the engagement party?”
I tilt my head. How does she know?
“Sorry, Axle and Viper cannot keep secrets to save their lives. It’s been all the talk around here.” Ava frowns. “Is she okay? I heard she was staying at Misty’s Safe Haven.” Her voice is soft, fragile.
Ava went through a similar experience with her ex, so she knows what it’s like. I’ve known her since she came here asking for shelter and safety. Her kindness reminds me of Rose.
I’m quick to get a feel for the type of person people are. I struggle to trust people, and I am honored that Rose trusts me.
