Page 13 of Sweet Anarchy

I think back to the conversation I had with Chuck the night I met his brother. None of his family knew about his involvement in the club, information I assume is still accurate.

"We were at a bar when some bikers fired shots into it," I say carefully. Tyson tenses up, looking at me wildly.

"Bikers?"

I sigh. "It's not my place to talk about any of Chuck's business, but he covered me to protect me from the bullets."

Tyson goes quiet for a moment. He's a smart man from what Chuck has told me, so it's no surprise that he goes from A to B in record time.

"Charles is involved with the bikers, isn't he? I should have known. He was always such a rebellious little shit against Mom."

It never even occurred to me that Chuck had a proper first name, the use of it slapping me in the face like a wet salmon.

"They are good people, Ty. They are like a second family for Chuck. And me too. He's still your brother."

Tyson glances at me with a blank face. "Rylee, I appreciate you looking out for my brother and trying to defuse the situation. But I'm not mad. In fact, I'm not even surprised, really. I'm not sure if he's filled you in on our upbringing, but let's just say it was less than desirable. He's still my brother, and I love him no matter what choices he makes."

Asher shifts in his chair and I look over, realizing he's been awake and listening. I turn my attention back to Tyson.

"I'm glad to hear you say that. Because at the end of the day, family is everything, isn't it? That's what Chuck is to me. I'm really happy you're here. He'd love that."

Tyson nods, moving to stand next to Chuck. "You better wake up shithead. I didn't fly 500 miles just to watch you sleep."

I walk over to Asher, sitting down on his knee. I feel like I'm invading a personal moment being in the room now.

"What time is it?" Ash asks, wrapping his arms around my waist.

"Around half past seven," I answer, locking eyes with Blake.

More footsteps approach, and this time, it is Zayn, a tray of coffees in his hands.

"Hi there," he greets Tyson.

Tyson nods in acknowledgement. "Hey. I'm Tyson, Chuck's brother."

"Oh, bet. I didn't realize he had a brother," Zayn replies lightly.

Tyson pauses for a moment, looking at Zayn, then Blake. "Jesus, that's trippy."

I laugh, welcoming the change in atmosphere. "You get used to it."

Zayn hands me one of the coffees from the tray which I gaze at appreciatively. Asher grabs one as well while Blake declines.

"I don't understand how you don't like coffee," Zayn grimaces. "Weirdo. Would you like it?" he offers Tyson.

Tyson smiles. "That's really kind, man. Thanks," he says, taking the last coffee.

We all sit in silence for a few minutes watching Chuck, until I lean back to whisper in Asher's ear.

"I feel like Ty should have some alone time with Chuck."

Asher nods in understanding. "Why don't we go home for a bit and rest? Did you manage to sleep at all?"

"No," I admit. "It's okay though."

The twins pick up on our conversation, gathering our stuff together.

"We'll leave you in peace for a bit," Blake says to Tyson. "The nurses have my number, so they can call if need be. Otherwise, let us know if you need anything."

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