Page 16 of Stiletto's Savior

“I’ve already told you she was taken by an enemy of the club,” she says slowly, carefully. “They took Stiletto. We think they’re using her for leverage.”

“Leverage?” My voice drops to a growl. “Against who?”

“Against us,” she replies, her breath shaky. “I need you to understand, Miles. You could help us find her. You’re... you’d be an ally, and the club would owe you.”

“Ally?” My brow furrows. “If Bull’s welcoming nature is anything like the rest of your club, it doesn’t seem like I’m wanted here.”

Bull’s booming voice cuts in. “Yeah. You’re just some guy from the Bronx, and she didn’t tell anyone she was doin’ this shit either. You shoulda talked to the Prez about this, Siren.”

“Easy, Bull,” Siren snaps, but there’s an edge of uncertainty in her tone. “This is my sister and I’ll do whatever I damn well can to get her back, even if it means pulling in old friends.”

“Just sayin’,” he grumbles, eyes still on the road.

“Look,” I say, my heart hammering. “I’m not just some guy. I care about her. I’ve known her and Siren since we were kids, and I’m resourceful. My father taught me how to fight. My mother taught me how to find things.”

“Doesn’t change the fact that you’re an outsider,” Bull retorts, turning his head slightly. His gaze is piercing.

“I am and I won’t deny that. Just because I’m an outsider, it doesn’t mean that I won’t be of any assistance.” I meet Bull’s stare, refusing to back down.

“That’s all well and good,” Bull replies, “but we need more than promises. You need to follow up with actions.”

“I won’t stop until I find her.” I cross my arms.

“Then let’s hope that’s enough,” Bull says, his voice low, almost resigned.

“Trust me,” I add, fire igniting in my chest. “Stiletto means everything to me.”

The truck roars forward, and I feel the weight of the mission settle on my shoulders. We’re running out of time and I need to find her, fast.

“I still don’t think Zane is gonna be keen on some outsider helpin’ us out,” Bull grumbles.

I’m about to speak up when Siren shoots me a glare, almost forcing me to be silent.

“Listen,” Siren starts, her voice steady but tight. “I understand your reservations, but give him a chance here. He has experience, Bull.”

“Yeah? So?” Bull shoots back, one eyebrow raised.

“He’s got lifetime MMA training, as I’ve said,” she continues, glancing at me. “He knows what he’s doing. I swear. I wouldn’t bring someone here to help if I didn’t trust him with my life.”

“You said his mother was a private investigator?” Bull mutters, almost to himself. “What’s that gonna do for us, huh?”

“Are you deaf or just stupid?” I snap, irritation bubbling up inside me. “I know how to track people, how to fight, and I’ve seen some shit. All of that helps.”

“Sure, kid. But, we’re in a different league here. You don’t understand the shit that comes with the club.” Bull replies, dismissive.

“Enough!” Siren interrupts, her voice slicing through the tension. “I don’t know how many times I have to fucking say it! He’s a valuable asset. He wants to help, and we need every hand on deck to get my sister back. I’ll be damned if you or anyone tries to hinder that.”

Everyone falls silent for a moment after her outburst.

The sound of Bull’s heavy breathing fills the truck cab, his anger palpable.

“You really think I would let anyone stand in our way?” he finally asks, glancing at Siren. “I’m just not one who trusts others very easily.”

”I understand,” she replies, softer. “Let’s just give it a try.”

Bull lets out a sigh and turns his eyes back to the road.

“I need the name of whoever you think is responsible for Stiletto’s disappearance,” I interrupt the silence, determined.

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