Page 52 of Jax

"First things first, I'll introduce you to my brother Blake. He’s ex-special ops. We’ll get our older brother, Nash, on the case, too. He can seem kinda stern and a bit of a downer sometimes, but he’ll help out in a heartbeat." Jax knew he couldn't hide the truth from his family any longer, but it was a necessary risk for Mia's safety.

Jax felt the weight of responsibility heavy on his shoulders as he navigated the familiar roads that led them back to Chicago.

As they neared their destination, Jax's focus intensified. He knew once they reached the club, things would kick into highgear. "We're almost there, Mia," he said, stealing a quick glance at her. Her green eyes were fixed on him, a flicker of vulnerability beneath the tough exterior she projected.

The Den loomed ahead, a haven hidden in plain sight. Jax pulled up to the entrance and cut the engine, the quiet settling around them like a comforting blanket. It was time to face his brothers, time to confront the looming threat of Viper and the sinister web that entangled Mia.

Pulling into a discreet alleyway behind an unassuming brick building, Jax cut the engine and ushered Mia out of the car. The Den loomed before them, its entrance hidden from prying eyes.

The building's exterior was nondescript, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape of Chicago. But as they approached, subtle details emerged under the dim glow of a flickering streetlamp.

The Den's entrance was veiled in a shroud of mystery, a heavy wooden door standing tall against the night. It bore intricate carvings of symbols and sigils, whispering of secrets and protection. Jax's hand hovered over the door handle, a silent acknowledgment passing between him and Mia.

As he pushed the door open, a rush of warm air enveloped them, tinged with the scent of aged oak and leather.

“Woah,” said Mia, “I feel like we’re going to a freemasons’ secret lair.”

Jax chuckled. “I’m a nerd. You probably noticed. Kinda into ancient books and symbols. Thought it’d be cool to have a few on our top secret entrance.”

As they entered, the tension began to dissipate, replaced by a warm, inviting atmosphere that catered to Daddies and Littles alike.

"Welcome to the Den," Jax said with a hint of pride. "This is Paladin Security's private club, a haven where people like us can relax and feel safe. No judgment, no harm." He watched Mia'seyes flicker across the room, taking in the plush couches and cozy corners designed for comfort and intimacy.

"Wow," she breathed, her green eyes wide with curiosity and wonder.

As they walked through the club, Jax noticed Mia's gaze linger on the BDSM room at the back. The door was slightly ajar, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of the equipment inside. He could sense her curiosity, but now wasn't the time for kinky play, as much as he wished it were.

"Another time, little one," he murmured, a playful smirk on his lips. "That's the dungeon, but we have more pressing matters to attend to."

"Right," she nodded, biting her bottom lip as she tore her gaze away from the room.

Jax couldn't help but feel a pang of longing at the sight of her so captivated by the Den's offerings. He wanted nothing more than to explore their dynamic further, but the weight of Viper's threat hung heavily over them. Protecting Mia was his priority, and he couldn't afford any distractions.

"Come on," he said gently, guiding her toward the black door where Blake's apartment awaited. "Let's eliminate Viper. Everything else can wait."

Jax's knuckles rapped against the sturdy door of Blake's private apartment, his heart pounding in his chest. He hoped Blake would be staying here tonight. Sometimes he and Savannah stayed in their lavish house in the suburbs, but often they stayed here in the week, so that they were able to jump into action at a moment’s notice.

Jax heard steps.

"Who is it?" came Blake's gruff voice on the other side.

"Your pain-in-the-ass little brother," Jax called back, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

The door swung open, revealing Blake's imposing figure. Relief washed over Jax as his older brother pulled him into a tight embrace. "It's good to see you, Jax."

"Good to see you too, bro," Jax mumbled into Blake's shoulder.

Blake released him and took a step back, his gaze immediately falling on Mia. His brow furrowed, the relief on his face quickly replaced by concern. "Jax, what's going on? You said you were in rehab."

"Yeah, about that . . ." Jax started, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "There was a . . . change of plans."

"Change of plans? You lied to me?" Blake's voice rose in anger, but his eyes flickered to Mia, softening slightly with understanding. "This has to be one hell of a reason, Jax."

Jax sighed, unable to meet his brother's gaze. "This is Mia. Savannah’s childhood friend. I came up with a plan to get her out of the club, but I needed to work alone. Couldn’t risk her getting found. Trouble is, I didn’t know back then that Viper was involved.”

"Viper?" Blake's jaw clenched, and Jax could see the frustration and disappointment etched across his features. “As in, your old dickhead hacking partner?”

“That’s the one,” Jax said grimly. “Seems like he’s been into trafficking for a while. He’s the reason that strip joint was like Fort Knox.”

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