Page 10 of Savage Angels

“Together, we’ll send Don Abruzzi a message he won’t forget. And we’ll protect our families, no matter the cost.”

“Agreed,” they all say in unison, a newfound determination burning in their eyes.

Deep down, I know I can’t avoid the question of who’d rule our families. I have to be strategic, play my cards right, and prove I am worthy of leading this rebellion.

“Time’s running out.” I steal a glance at my new allies. “And we’ve got to be ready for whatever is coming our way.”

The smoky haze in the dimly lit room clings to every surface, a tangible reminder of the tension that fills the air. The Santoro, Bianchi, and Fontana bosses are watching me like hawks, waiting for me to make my move. I can feel my pulse racing, but I know I can’t back down now.

“All right,” I say, pushing back from the table and rising. “We’re all in this together and need someone to lead us. I’m thinking that someone should be me.”

Their eyes narrow, taking in my words as they gauge my sincerity and strength. It isn’t just about opposing Don Abruzzi—it is about making sure our families survive the fallout.

“You know,” I continue, my voice steady despite the tremor in my hands. “We aren’t alone in this fight. I’ve been talking with Dane, the leader of the Savage Angels. They’re honorable, loyal, and have our backs. We need to bring them into our fold, solidifying our alliance and creating a united front against the Don.”

“Salvatore,” Miro Santoro speaks up, his voice gravelly and thick with suspicion. “You’re askin’ us to trust a bunch of bikers. How do we know they won’t turn on us?”

I meet his gaze head-on, letting him see the conviction in my eyes. “Dane’s my brother-in-law,” I reply, never breaking eye contact. “He’s family. And in our world, family is everything. If you can’t trust your family, who can you trust?”

A murmur spreads through the room, and I can see them weighing their options. Their loyalty to me is far from guaranteed, but they know I am their best shot at taking down Don Abruzzi and protecting our interests.

“We’ll back you, Salvatore. And we’ll work with the Savage Angels. But you better make sure they stay in line.” Lorenzo Bianchi taps the table.

“Of course.” I nod, feeling relief wash over me like a tidal wave. “I give you my word the Savage Angels will fight for us and with us. Together, we’ll show Don Abruzzi and his cronies what it means to cross us.”

As I sit back down, I know the road ahead will be long and bloody, but with my new allies by my side and the Savage Angels watching our backs, we have a fighting chance. And in this world, sometimes that’s all you can ask for.

Chapter Four

DANE

The clubhouse’s worn leather and smell of gasoline hit me the moment I step inside. Savage Angels MC banners hang from the walls like battle flags, a firm reminder of who we are and what we stand for. My brothers, Dirt, Jonas, Judge, and Bear, are already here, lounging in chairs, waiting for my arrival.

“All right, boys,” I say, clapping my hands to get their attention. “We’ve got serious shit to discuss.”

“What do you have for us, Prez?” Dirt asks, leaning forward, his scar catching in the dim light.

He’s been ready for action ever since he took that bullet to the shoulder protecting my ass, though he hasn’t let on how much it’s bothering him.

“You all know Onyx, this chapter’s president?” They all nod. “This is his house, and we’ll be respectful. He’s being more than generous by letting us use his chapel without him in it.”

“Yeah, he is. Why isn’t he in here with us?” Judge chimes in.

I know he’s thinking about Jasmine, his woman, and his son, but he’s also got our backs.

“I wanted a moment alone with you before we let him in. Here’s how it’s going to go,” I continue, pointing at each of them as I assign their roles. “Dirt, your expertise with weapons is unmatched. You’ll be handling our arsenal, making sure we have everything we need here in Chicago.”

“Got it, Dane.” Dirt nods.

“Jonas, you’re our master negotiator. When we need an ally or two, you’re the one who can make it happen. I also need you to run surveillance on the Abruzzi family. We need to know where they are and what they’re doing.”

“Consider it done,” Jonas says, his eyes sharp and focused.

“Judge, you’re going to stay behind and keep the compound safe. We can’t afford any surprises while we’re out there.”

“Understood,” Judge replies, his jaw set in determination.

“Last but not least, Bear,” I say, meeting the eyes of our road captain. “You’ll be organizing training for those who need it for our Chicago brothers. They need to be ready when shit hits the fan.”

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