Page 45 of Rev

The garden is a small oasis of flowers and greenery, a stark contrast to the rough exterior of the clubhouse. The sound of birds chirping provides a serene backdrop as we find a bench and sit down.

“I know that as the boss of a crime organisation you must have faced more than your fair share of threats, but I wanted to talk to you about this life,” Miren begins, her tone serious. “Being with a member of the club is amazin’, but it’s also dangerous. You have to be prepared for that.”

“I understand,” I reply, meeting her gaze. “I’m willing to accept that risk.”

“Good,” she nods. “There are some things you need to bear in mind. Always keep in touch and make sure someone knows where you are, especially if you’re going somewhere alone. The club looks after its own, but we need to know where you are to keep you safe.”

“I will,” I promise. “I’ll make sure Hadrian and the club know where I am at all times.”

“And don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it,” Miren continues. “We’re a family here. We look out for each other. No one goes through anything alone.”

Her words are comforting, and I feel a deep sense of gratitude. “Thank you, Miren. It’s good to know I have people I can rely on.”

She smiles, a genuine warmth in her expression. “You’re one of us now, Harley. Welcome to the family.”

We sit in the garden a while longer, talking about everything and nothing. It’s nice to have this moment of calm.

As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, we make our way back inside. The clubhouse is alive with laughter and chatter, and I feel a sense of belonging.

Hadrian finds me and wraps his arm around my waist. “How’s it going?” he asks, his eyes filled with concern and love.

“Good,” I reply, leaning into him. “Everyone’s been so welcoming. I feel like I’m home.”

He smiles, kissing my forehead. “I’m glad. You are home, Harley. We’re going to make this work.”

As the evening wears on, I find myself surrounded by new friends and family. The brothers share stories of their exploits, the wives and partners offer advice and support, and Hadrian remains by my side through it all.

It’s a new beginning.

A fresh start.

And as I look around at the faces of my new family, I know that this is where I’m meant to be.

I’ve been welcomed into the world of the Royal Bastards, and I know I’m finally home.

I sit on the edge of the bed, my phone clutched in my hand, and listen to the familiar ringtone as I call my father. It’s been a few weeks since I moved to Belfast with Hadrian, and even though I’m settling in, I miss my father.

“Hello?” My father’s voice comes through the line, warm and comforting.

“Hi, Da,” I say, my voice catching slightly.

“My Harley Bear, it’s so good to hear from you. How are you, love?” I can hear the happiness in his voice, and the smile in his words. My father has always given me a sense of comfort.

“I’m good, Da. Really good. How are you?”

“I’m getting stronger every day, lass. Don’t you worry about your old man. Everything’s going smoothly here. How’s Belfast treating you?”

I smile, thinking about the past few weeks. “It’s wonderful. Hadrian has been amazing, and everyone here has been so welcoming. It’s very different from South Shields, but in a good way. The city is beautiful, and I’m starting to feel at home.”

“I’m glad to hear that, Harley. I was worried about you moving so far away, but it sounds like you’re settling in nicely.”

“I am. But I miss you, Da. I miss our talks and just being around you.”

“I miss you too, sweetheart. It’s strange not having you around. But I’m happy that you’re happy. That’s all that matters to me.”

“How’s the organisation?” I ask, my curiosity getting the better of me.

“It’s going well,” he says, his tone reassuring. “We’ve managed to stabilise things after all the upheaval with Gordon. The men have remained loyal, and we’re moving forward. It’s hard work, but we’re managing.”

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