Page 193 of Seizing Control: Part One

“Baby. Fuck.”

“Our trauma doesn’t define us... but that doesn’t mean we should run from it.”

“You are too perfect to be real. A bona fide good woman.”

Smiling, I nip at his bottom lip. “A good man deserves a good woman.”

“Prez,” Cub interjects before my husband can reject my declaration. “We gotta get goin’ before we miss them.”

When Slash pulls away from me, I maintain my smile. It takes effort to hide the waves of emotion crashing through me. I know it’s what he needs—my genuine gratitude for his unexpected generosity and he deserves to have it free of the misgivings that warn me his about-face can’t be trusted.

Slash kisses me.

Marking my performance as a success.

“Show Atlas your cherub before you go.”

My husband salutes me.

Watching him morph into president mode, I’m struck by his innate command. For a man who has spent most of his life as a sergeant rather than a captain, he’s certainly proven a good fit for the leadership role he took on without notice. His club brothers look to him for answers, their willingness to follow him readily apparent.

Despite my earlier reticence, I’m turned on by the sight of my husband in work mode.

“How badly did he fuck up?” Nadia asks in a voice that’s meant for my ears only.

“Not at all.”

I don’t wait for her response. My mind is caught on the idea of bearing Slash’s mark. Now that he’s made it clear that he wants it, I feel like it’s the logical next move. I have Zeke inked on me in numerous ways. Venom and She-Venom between my shoulder blades. The cross of the Testament of the New Ezekiel, camouflaged within the lilies, vines, and thorns tattoo that covers my side from my hip to the under-swell of my breast.

It's only fair that I provide the same show of faith to Slash.

A scalpel.

A scarred cherub.

Seems about right...

“This’s a mistake... he’s bein’ shady AF.” My best friend trots after me as I head for Atlas.

“Nads.” Wheeling around to face her, I gesture to the lapel of the leather vest I’m wearing. “He’s trying.”

Her lips move as she reads the addition my husband has made to my original “Property of Venom” cut. I see the significance hit her with the same force it struck me, so I turn around to show her the back. The two name patches have been levelled out so neither man is higher than the other. A shiny one. A worn one. New love. Enduring love. Silver lining. Innocent idealism.

“I don’t know if I wanna slap him or kiss him.”

“Welcome to my nightmare.” Sliding the patio door open, I wave her through. “After you, Nads.”

“Hello, brother,” my best friend purrs. “It’s nice to see you too.”

With feline grace, she sticks her finger in Atlas’ ear, then ducks out of his reach. Nadia’s giant sibling rolls his eyes, and continues organising his supplies on the dining table. The compass tattooed on the inside of his wrist is revealed when he rolls his sleeves up. It’s one of my favourite designs ever, an insignia that every Australian Shamrocks receives when they become president. My dad has one, as does Hades, and I’m sure Slash will have his inked on as soon as things die down.

The compass symbolises strength of leadership.

Being able to identify true north is vital to a president’s integrity.

Unfortunately, my father proved that he no longer understands the concept.

“Mum and dad would appreciate a call,” Atlas informs his adopted sister. I can feel my best friend bristling further with every words he speaks. “Surely you can find the time... bein’ an independent woman and all. Can’t hurt to touch base with them, every now and then.”

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