Page 44 of Brightness

Void side-eyes me, but then nods. “Yes, that’s me.”

“Right. Come this way.” Paul starts to walk, but I reach out for Void’s arm.

He peers at me, and I lean in and whisper, “Cade?”

He raises a brow. “Yes, Ivy?”

A slow smile creeps over my face. “What’s your last name?”

Void’s eyes soften as he tightens his hold on me. “Nixon. Cade Nixon.”

Warmth floods through me when he tells me his name. It’s smooth like honey, but also like bathing in a sea of whiskey—soothing, calming, overwhelmingly sweet to the ear. I don’t know what’s happening to my insides, but they’re like mush.

“Cade Nixon,” I whisper.

Void brings his hand up, brushing a stray strand of hair away from my face. “Ivy Pérez…” His voice is low and husky, like he’s in the moment with me. Like he knows he’s just shared something special with me. I lean up on my toes, pressing my lips to his in the middle of the showroom. My hand caresses the back of his head as Void’s slides around my waist, pulling my body in alignment with his. Our tongues dance together, my body tingling and sparking with such a rush I become lightheaded.

“Ahem.”

Pulling back from Void, I turn to see Paul looking at us knowingly.

Void clears his throat, letting me go. “Sorry, man. You know how it is.”

Paul chuckles. “Young love? Yeah, I get it. Been married for twenty-eight years. Me and Daphne were like you guys when we first started dating. Now, it’s spending time with our kids and grandkids, just being a family. Eventually, you realize family is all that matters.”

Void exhales. “Yeah, man… blood, or the family you choose.”

“Exactly. Anyway, I have a few ladies for you to check over. You ready?”

“Yes! So much yes!” I bounce on my toes.

Void takes my hand as we walk through to the adjoining showroom. Bikes sit on the display room floor, all shiny and new, pristine and perfect.

I want to test every single one.

But that would be stupid.

“Let me know if there’s one that catches your eye, or any type in particular you’re after?” Paul asks.

Void and I both notice one right in the corner. It’s designed sleek, black, with industrial gray finishes. It’s shiny without being in your face, just like Void. They’re both complex characters without being over the top. It’s appealing, rugged, but smooth at the same time, and completely addictive. I can’t wait to get a taste.

As I walk to it, my senses heighten. I run my hand over the gray gas tank, and the cold metal beneath my fingers sends an electrifying chill down my spine.

Void stands back, watching me look over the bike. “You look fucking good next to that bike, sweet thing.”

“I bet you’d look even better on it.” I tilt my head toward the seat. “See how she feels.”

Void inhales sharply as he moves toward me, throws his leg over, then takes a seat. Oh my God, hot doesn’t cover it. His strong hands grip the handlebars, his vast shoulders looking even more imposing as he takes up his rightful position, and I gnaw on my bottom lip, hoping Paul doesn’t notice my blush, or suspect where my thoughts are going.

My skin warms as I picture Void bending me over the seat, ramming into me from behind, but Paul’s voice interrupts me from my sexy illusions.

“Softail Breakout, 1868cc engine, 155Nm torque, a custom slasher exhaust. She’s custom-made, a job that fell through last minute, so ape hangers were added. It’s why she’s on the floor for immediate sale. She’s a real beauty. Only one like her.”

Void raises his chin to Paul. “Bitch seat can be installed?”

“Definitely. I have one in stock. It can be added before you leave.”

Void turns back to me. “Wanna take her for a test drive?”

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