Chapter 9 Rachel
Rylee’s scream woke me from a deep sleep. She rolled away from me at some point, and now she was flailing, arms and legs slapping the mattress as she cried.
I reached for her, tugging her into my arms. Her whimper broke my heart. “It’s okay, baby. I’m here. Mama isn’t leaving you.”
“I was so scared.”
“I know you were, but it’s okay now. You’re safe. I promise.”
“And grandpa is here too. No one is getting through this door, angel.”
She lifted her tear-streaked face from my shoulder. “You chased all the bad men away.”
“I did. They’re all gone.”
“What if they come back?”
“They won’t. I sent other bikers like me after them.”
Her eyes widened. “Will they catch them?”
“They already did, angel. No more bad guys.”
I could feel her body sag with relief. “Okay.”
“Are you still sleepy?”
Rylee shook her head.
“Hungry or thirsty?”
“My tummy is a little rumbly.”
“How about I go make you a grilled cheese?” I offered it since it was her favorite. “You can stay with grandpa until I get back.”
“Promise you won’t be gone long?”
“Yes. I can call you on FaceTime, and you can see me the whole time if you want.”
She nodded, and I gave her a big hug.
“Dad?”
Hannibal scooped up Rylee and settled with her on the bed. He draped a blanket over her, tucking her in as she rested beside him, snuggling against his side. “I’ve got my little angel. We’re going to watch some cartoons.”
Rylee perked up. “Barbie?”
He smiled. “Of course. All the Barbie movies you want.”
How adorable.
He played the movie, then gestured for me to leave, since Rylee was fully engrossed from the start. I didn’t think she needed to Facetime me now, but I had my phone in my hand just in case.
I closed the door with a soft click as I exited and nearly jumped when I saw the guy standing in the hall. My hand went straight to my heart. “You scared me! Where’s Crypt?”
“Uh, sorry. Grim ordered me to stay put and guard this room. Crypt left with Grim. Not sure where they went,” the prospect replied.
“Oh. Well, thanks. I need to get my daughter some food.”
