Page 54 of After the Chase

NOAH

One week later and I’m laying on the bed with Chase, looking at furniture on my laptop, to put in our new home. I don’t care as long as Chase is there, but I’m humoring him, which is what I have learned partners do, to keep them happy. Chase is chatting away talking about sofas, when my phone vibrates on the nightstand.

I reach for it and see Marcus’ name on the screen and something inside of me awakens.

"Yes."

"Noah." His voice is low, careful. "We have a situation at the clubhouse and we thought you might want to be involved."

"What kind of situation?"

"A drug dealer who has been operating in our territory, cutting into Kozlov distribution. We caught him tonight and he's... secured. Here at the clubhouse."

I'm already dying to get over there. It’s been a while since I’ve done anything and this time it will be different, as I can take my time and do as I please, without worrying about being caught or planning disposal.

"I'll be there in forty minutes."

"Good."

I end the call and turn to Chase.

"The clubhouse?" he asks quietly.

"Yes. Get dressed."

"When will you be back?"

"You're coming with me."

He goes still. "To the clubhouse? Is that a good idea?"

"Yes."

"Noah…"

"I'm not leaving you here alone. Get dressed. Now."

He studies my face for a moment, then nods. "Okay."

We dress in silence. Chase pulls on dark jeans and a black sweater and I wear the same, it’s practical and nothing that will show blood.

The drive to the clubhouse is quiet. Chase sits beside me, his hand resting on my thigh, looking for reassurance. This is an unknown for him and I’m keen to see how he reacts, that’s if he decides he can handle it.

"What are we walking into?" he asks.

"A problem that needs handling."

"What kind of problem?"

"The kind I’m good at."

His pupils dilate slightly. "You're going to kill someone."

"Probably."

"And you want me to watch?”

"I want you with me. It’s up to you if you watch."