Page 57 of Raise 'Em Up

She gives him a quick kiss as Alex's car pulls into the spot beside us.

Ren runs over to him as soon as he's parked and gives him lots of kisses.

You would think they haven't seen each other in weeks at their display.

Trevor walks around to where Rylee is and gives her a kiss, but it's sweet, and I note the blush on her cheeks when he pulls away, rubbing his thumb along her bottom lip.

“Hey, guys,” he says to us. I grunt while Len and Colt say hi. Leaving them to follow, I walk up to the doors and enter.

Maggio's was a place my father would take me to when I was little. His friend is the owner.

The hostess gives me a smile and leads me to the table we always claim.

“Your waitress will be with you shortly, and I'll tell Markus you're here,” she says as Rylee takes the seat beside me.

“So, Rylee says you have a super secret mission planned for after. Are besties invited?” Alex asks and I shake my head.

“Not this time,” I mumble, my gaze snapping up when I hear the kitchen doors open. I stand and smile when Markus heads our way.

“Damn, boy, every time I see you, you've grown another inch,” he says, pulling me in for a quick hug.

I introduce him to Rylee, and she blushes when he takes her hand and kisses it.

Markus has been like a true uncle to me all these years. He stayed away from the gang life and fighting circuit.

“She’s beautiful,” he tells me quietly, looking over at Ry. “She reminds me of your mama. Sweet but has a fire in her that will burn you if you piss her off,” he says with a chuckle, shaking his head.

I nod in agreement and he slaps my shoulder before addressing the table.

“Eat, drink, enjoy, it's on the house.”

Shooting me a wink, he leaves us and heads back into the kitchen. I take my seat once more and Rylee leans in closer.

“I like him,” she says and I nod.

“After my dad died, he kept me in line. Without him and my mama, I’d probably be dead.”

“Well, this just got depressing,” Alex says, and I roll my eyes as Serenity lovingly smacks his chest.

“So, what do you recommend?” Ry asks me, and I point to the calzones.

“They are the size of your head, and the homemade dough is awesome. I get sausage with ricotta, but you can choose whatever.”

Nodding, she smiles and turns to talk to Len.

It doesn't take long for the waitress to get our order and bring the appetizers out.

Serenity was raving about their garlic knots, and Trevor got some stuffed ravioli. Looking around the table, I frown. I know he's having a rough go of it lately, but Donny really should be here.

I hope tonight goes well and it lifts his spirits.

“A puppy!” Rylee squeals, rushing down the aisle between the cages, most filled with dogs. I wish we could take them all, but there is one that I saw on their website that I think will be perfect for Donny.

“Donny said Peaches needed a friend, but we are not getting another fucking cat,” I grumble, crossing my arms as Rylee rolls her eyes.

“You can cut the attitude, Sir. I know the truth now. Underneath all that muscle, scowls, and alphaholeness, you have a good heart.”

Scoffing, I leave her to baby talk with an older dog while I walk down the row that holds the puppies.

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