Page 44 of Rev

We spend the next few days making plans and figuring out the logistics of our move. It’s overwhelming at times, but the thought of starting a new chapter with Hadrian keeps me grounded.

My father continues to recover, and the organisation begins to stabilise under his leadership once more. The loyalty and respect we’ve earned from our men over the years has held strong, despite Gordon’s attempts to take over.

On our last night in England, we have a small gathering at my father’s house. It’s a bittersweet farewell, filled with laughter and memories. The men who were under my leadership, not so long ago, give me their blessings and promise to visit us in Belfast.

As we stand outside, looking up at the stars, Hadrian wraps his arms around me. “Ready for our new adventure?”

“More than ready,” I say, leaning into him. “As long as we’re together.”

NINETEEN

HARLEY

Moving to Belfast has opened a brand new chapter in my life. The city’s cool breeze and bustling energy greet me as Hadrian and I make our way to the Royal Bastards clubhouse from Hadrian’s apartment in the city.

There’s a mixture of nerves and excitement bubbling inside me. Hadrian’s hand is warm and reassuring in mine as we approach the building that looms large and imposing against the backdrop of the Belfast skyline.

The clubhouse is buzzing with activity when we walk in, and I’m met with a sea of faces. The brothers, all tough and rugged, give me appraising looks that quickly turn into welcoming smiles. It’s overwhelming, but in a good way. There’s a sense of belonging here—a camaraderie that’s almost palpable.

Hadrian squeezes my hand as he leans in close. “Ready to meet the family?”

I nod, taking a deep breath. “Ready as I’ll ever be.”

Monster, the President, is the first person who comes up to me. He’s a hulking man, but I know he has a heart of gold from what Hadrian’s told me. He takes my hand.

“Welcome ta the Royal Bastards, Harley,” he rumbles, his voice like gravel.

“Thank you for having me here.”

“Anythin’ ye need, anythin’ at all, ye come ta the club. Rev’s a brother ta me, which makes ye family.”

“Thank you, Monster. That means the world to me,” I say, feeling a swell of emotion. His immediate acceptance is more than I could have hoped for.

One by one, the rest of the brothers step forwards to introduce themselves. Each handshake is firm and each hug strong. They all have nicknames that hint at their personalities and roles within the club. Names like Blaze, Banks, and Rebel. There’s a lot to take in, but each member makes me feel welcomed and part of something bigger.

“Sully,” a tall, muscular man with a thick beard says as he pulls me into a bear hug. “Welcome to the family, lass.”

“Thanks, Sully,” I reply, feeling the warmth of his greeting.

Tye, a lean man with a quick smile and sharp eyes, gives me a gentler hug. “If ye need anythin’, just give me a shout. We’ve got yer back.”

“Appreciate it, Tye.”

Blaze, who has kind green eyes, gives me a reassuring smile. “If ye need any transport and Rev ain’t here, I’m yer man. Ye come ta me, all right?”

“I will, Blaze. Thank you.”

The greetings continue, each brother offering his support and protection. It’s overwhelming but also incredibly touching. I feel a sense of peace settling over me. This is where I’m supposed to be.

Soon, the wives and partners come over to introduce themselves. They’re a diverse group of women, but each one is strong and confident in her own way. We chat and laugh, and I can feel myself easing into this new environment.

Eventually, Monster’s wife, Miren, pulls me aside.

“I’m glad you’re here, Harley,” she says, her eyes warm and sincere. “Monster has told me a lot about you. Welcome to the family.”

“Thank you,” I reply, genuinely touched. “It means a lot to be welcomed like this.”

Miren links her arm through mine, leading me towards the garden at the back of the clubhouse. “Come on, let’s have a chat,” she says with a smile.

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