Page 47 of Hatter

Hatter leaned in so close that I could feel his warm breath on my skin. “You’ve got a strength in you that I haven’t seen in a long time.”

I looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there, and my throat tightened with emotion. “Thank you,” I whispered, barely able to find my voice. It was probably the nicest thing anyone could have said to me. I’d much prefer to be considered strong than beautiful. After all, looking nice is what had gotten me into the mess with Eddie to begin with.

“Listen up!” Hatter suddenly shouted, stepping away from me and raising a beer bottle high in the air. The room quieted down, all eyes on him. “I wanted to thank each and every one of you for your loyalty and bravery when we faced off against our enemy. We took a hit, but we came out stronger. Here’s to the Underland MC! To our victory, and the ones who fought by our side!”

“Cheers!” everyone echoed, raising their glasses or bottles and clinking them together. The room erupted in whistles, whoops, and applause, but all I could focus on was the man standing before me.

As Hatter’s gaze met mine, I saw the fierce determination in his eyes -- the same fire that burned within me. And though the road ahead may have been uncertain, I knew that together, we could face whatever lay waiting in the shadows.

I stood beside Hatter, the air electric with triumph and camaraderie. Raising my glass, I joined in the toast, feeling like I belonged here, with these rough men who’d become family to me. My heart swelled, pride pumping through my veins.

“Let’s eat!” someone shouted, and the room burst into action.

The aroma of food flooded the air -- savory meats, spicy sides, and that sweet tang of barbecue sauce. My stomach rumbled, as if it knew what was coming. I slipped into the kitchen, pitching in to help, serving plates piled high with grub to the hungry club members and their guests. I didn’t know who’d called in catering from the local barbeque place, but I was grateful.

“Thanks, Jo.” Knave grinned, grabbing his plate with a wink. “Looks amazing.”

“Enjoy it,” I told him, smiling back. It felt good to be part of something, to be appreciated.

“Damn, girl,” Mock said, eyeing his plate like he hadn’t ever seen food before. “You sure know how to serve up a feast.”

“Can’t take all the credit,” I said, shrugging. “I didn’t cook it. I’m only serving it. No idea who ordered it.”

“Your part means a lot,” Hatter said, coming up behind me. His hand rested on my shoulder, gentle but firm, sending shivers down my spine. “And for the record, Cheshire probably ordered the food.”

I leaned back against Hatter, enjoying his touch and taking comfort in his presence.

“Come on, let’s get you some food,” he urged, guiding me to the table. He piled a plate for me, his fingers brushing mine as he handed it over. I could feel the heat of his touch.

“Thanks,” I murmured, our eyes locking for a moment before the noise of the celebration pulled us back.

As I sat down, surrounded by laughter and conversation, I knew that I’d found something special here. The Underland MC wasn’t just a club -- it was family. And I’d be damned if I let anything tear us apart.

The room swirled with laughter and smoky voices, rough men sharing stories like they were passing around a bottle of whiskey. Something warm spread through my chest as I listened, trying to soak up the life that filled this place.

“Jo.” Cheshire grinned and leaned in closer. “Did I ever tell you about the time we stole a military truck and drove it straight into town to a bar?”

“Can’t say you had.” I chuckled, curious. “How’d that go?”

“Like a dream,” he boasted, pride in his voice. “At least, until our superiors caught us. But the punishment wasn’t so bad, especially considering the lovely ladies who kept me company until I had to return to my unit.”

I nodded and tried not to laugh.

“Hey, Jo,” Rabbit said, pulling up a chair beside me. “You ever ride a bike before? I mean, on your own.”

“Can’t say that I have,” I admitted, feeling a bit sheepish. “Sounds exciting though.”

“Once everyone heals up, I’ll teach you. As long as Hatter permits it,” he promised. His eyes sparkled with mischief. “There’s nothing like the feel of the wind on your face when you’re tearing down the open road.”

“Sounds thrilling,” I said, my heart beating a little faster at the thought. Never had anyone offer to teach me anything before. At least, not something like this.

“Thrilling doesn’t even begin to cover it.” He grinned, clapping me on the back.

“All right, everyone,” Hatter’s voice boomed over the din, and the room fell silent. “I’ve got something important to discuss. But first, can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Sure, Hatter.” I nodded, following him as he led me away from the noise and chaos of the celebration. We found a quiet corner, the shadows clinging to the walls like old friends.

“Jo,” he said, his voice low and serious. “I just wanted to check in with you, see how you’re holding up. This is a lot to take in.”

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