Page 26 of Ripper's Redemption

“I didn’t know you were going on a trip,” I say, leaning back, my gaze never leaving hers. “Where you headed?”

She smiles, but it’s tinged with a hint of sadness. “Yeah, my 20th birthday is coming up and I’m headed to Whitefish for an extended weekend. I wanted a sort of mini vacation.”

I’m glad to hear she’s going to get a break. “Good, if anyone deserves some time off it’s you. You’re an incredibly hard worker.”

Tara smiles softly at me, but that sadness is still in her eyes.

I reach across the table, my hand covering hers, feeling the warmth of her skin against mine.

It’s moments like this that remind me we’re two actors playing a part right now. There’s a part of me that wonders if this could be more, and I do think we could.

I just know that’s not something she’s interested in, so I’ll enjoy her company and the amazing sex we have in the meantime.

“When exactly are you leaving? I need to go with you.” I point out.

Tara narrows her eyes for a split second. “What? Why? I was just going to have some time by myself.”

I lean forward, getting a bit closer to her and keeping my tone hushed. “We’re ‘dating’, remember? It won’t look right if I let you go all the way out to Whitefish for your birthday by yourself.”

Tara blinks a couple of times and sighs, “I guess you’re right. I’m leaving in three days. Heading out there after work,”

I nod, “Okay, I’ll need to let Zane know and get approval, but I’m certain he’ll let me get out of here for a bit. After all, it is my beautiful girlfriend’s birthday, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” I wink at her and she giggles lightly.

Licking my lips, I do feel the need to bring something else up. “Why didn’t you tell me your birthday was coming up?”

She shrugs, a casual gesture that doesn’t quite reach her eyes. “Didn’t think it mattered.”

“Of course it matters,” I say, surprised by the raw emotion in my own voice. My hand finds hers under the table, our fingers interlacing naturally. “You’re important to me, Tara.”

She leans in a bit closer to me, “I’m only important because of what we’re doing. You know that and I know it too.”

Her words are like a slap to my face, but I can’t be upset about it.

After all, I did agree to this.

I slide out of the booth, giving her one last look before I stride across the room, my boots echoing on the worn wooden floor.

The scent of leather and smoke fills the air, mingling with the faint tang of spilled beer.

Everyone in the club looks like they’re getting a bit rowdy tonight. I don’t know what’s gotten into everyone, but it’s nice to see everyone so fucking happy. Especially with everything going on with the Commander.

“Zane!” I call out as I spot him near the bar, a half-empty glass of whiskey in his hand.

He’s deep in conversation with Bull, but he turns when he hears me, his dark eyes narrowing in curiosity.

“Ripper,” Zane acknowledges, raising an eyebrow. “What’s so important you have to interrupt my fuckin’ conversation?”

“Need to talk”" I say, jerking my head toward a quieter corner.

He nods, handing off his drink to Bull before following me.

“What’s this about?” Zane asks, crossing his arms over his chest once we’re out of earshot from the others.

His gaze is sharp but not unkind; he’s always been fair like that, even if he’s tough as nails.

“I need approval from you,” I start, trying to figure out how to get him to let me go. “It’s Tara’s birthday weekend. She’s heading to Whitefish. I want to go with her so she’s not out there by herself. With everythin’ goin’ on, I’m not exactly keen on lettin’ my lady outta my sight.”

“Yeah, I understand you on that. You really think it’s good for you both to be so far away from the club right now?” Zane muses, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

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