He growled in frustration. “Babe, I know you’re still learning what it means to be my woman, but what in the hell kind of shit is that, huh?”
I narrowed my eyes. “And what exactly does it mean to be your woman?” I challenged.
He stepped into my space, tilting my chin up to look him in the eye. “It means that when we host another club,wehost. You and me,” he ground out. “It means you stand by my side and let me show you off the way I’ve been itching to do since I first laid eyes on you. And,” he continued, “it means you say shit like that again and your ass will be red from my palm.” He stooped low, his lips skimming mine in a way that made me crazy with lust.
I was shocked that no part of his seductive threat worried me. I knew Cal would never hurt me—not like that. Instead, I was intrigued and turned on by the prospect.
“O-oh,” I managed with a breathy sigh.
“You get me?” he demanded. “You’ll try to find a sitter?”
I nodded. “I’ll ask Laurie, from the hospital.” I replied breathlessly.
He growled low in his throat. “You want me to make your ass red, baby?” His eyes were dark with intention.
I bit my lip and nodded.
I knew his groan of approval would stay with me for the rest of the day.
****
“He’s so gorgeous,” I murmured as I cradled Tatum in my arms that afternoon. Though he was born early, he’d been given a clean bill of health. “How’s Gracie doing?” I asked Scarlet as she sat on the couch watching us with a tired smile. Their massive dog, Chief, lay resting at her feet.
“Okay. Though I’m not sure she’s clear that we’re keeping him.”
I laughed. “She might be in for a bit of a shock,” I agreed, my eyes drifting to their backyard where Cole and Cal stood talking while Gracie and Mason played together.
“How are things with Cal?” she asked.
“Good,” I replied, my eyes back on the sweet bundle in my arms. “I know I can be difficult. I’m stubborn and I have a lot of shit to work through, but he seems ready to take on the challenge.” I laughed ruefully.
She grinned. “I’m sure he is. You’re worth it, Jill.”
“So I’ve been told,” I murmured. “He got pretty put out when I didn’t realize I was supposed to be at the club when the Sinners come into town,” I admitted.
She masked a smile. “He’s ready to claim his queen.” She winked before her green eyes grew serious. “You’ve been in our world long enough, Jill. It’s a big deal for any of the guys to claim a woman, but especially for Cal. It’s his club, it was his world—until you. He’s never invited a woman inside those walls. He wants you.” She reached out and playfully touched the tip of my nose.
Wow, I’d never thought about it like that.
“I’ll find a sitter,” I reaffirmed.
She grinned. “You’d better. No more texts from the asshole?” she asked cautiously.
I shook my head. “Nothing.”
“Good.” She sighed. “Hopefully it stays that way.”
I leaned down to hand Tatum back to his mama. “I’ve got to get to work. I’m so glad I got to see you and your little man. Call me if you need anything, okay?”
“I will. Thank you for coming. You’re a good friend.”
That was one of the best compliments a girl could get.
I ventured outside, grabbing Mason for a hug good-bye before my eyes turned to Cal. “I’ll be home around eight.”
His eyes warmed as he pulled me in for a soft kiss. “All right, darlin’. Have a good shift.”
I blushed, unused to the display of affection in front of his son. “Bye, Cole.”
