Page 44 of Arrow

“It's nice, you know? Having something so... normal. After everything that's happened,” Emilee said, turning the subject to something a bit more serious.

Arrow's arm tightened around her waist, his voice low and soothing. “I know, baby girl. It's been a hell of a couple months.”

Emilee's smile faded slightly as she remembered the turmoil of the past weeks. “Yeah. I still can't believe Mills is dead. Do you really think he killed himself when he found out about the warrant?”

Arrow's jaw clenched, his analytical mind working through the facts. “The timing is certainly convenient. But suicide? It doesn't add up. The club's been digging, and something feels off about the whole situation.”

Emilee shifted, turning to face him. “You think someone got to him first? To keep him quiet?”

“It's possible. We're still trying to track down whoever he was talking to that night he hit you. But so far, we've hit nothing but dead ends.” Arrow's frustration was evident in the tightness of his voice.

Emilee's hand found his, squeezing gently. “Hey, we'll figure it out. And it’s okay if we don’t. Not everything has to be explained.”

Arrow's expression softened as he met her gaze. “As long as you are safe.”

Emilee absently stroked Mouse's fur when Arrow spoke again. “Did I tell you about Wyatt coming by the clubhouse last week?”

Emilee raised an eyebrow. “Oh yeah? What did he want this time, to steal more money ?”

“Don't be like that,” Arrow chided. “You will not turn into one of those mean girls, Kitten. You hear me?”

“Yes, Daddy. I was trying to be funny but obviously the joke fell flat. I’m sorry. What did Wyatt want?”

“He actually came with a peace offering. A big ol' wad of cash from his stepdad to cover his mom's debts.”

“No kidding?” Emilee said. “That's... unexpected. I thought he said they were breaking up.”

Arrow nodded. “Yeah, apparently his stepdad made his mom sell off a bunch of her stuff to cover it. Wyatt seemed pretty torn up about the entire situation.”

“Can't say I blame him,” Emilee mused. “His family's complicated.”

“Tell me about it,” Arrow muttered. “He's not talking to his mom right now, but... I don't know. He seemed hopeful they might patch things up someday.” They fell into a comfortable silence for a few more minutes before Arrow spoke again. “Are you ready for our playdate at The Citadel?”

Emilee's eyes lit up, a mix of excitement and nervousness fluttering in her chest. “Yeah, I think so. It'll be nice to see Makenzie again.”

“She finally has everything settled from back east and can embrace her new life here,” Arrow remarked. “I’m sure she can’t wait to catch up with you, Trinity and Delilah again. You four make quite the crew. A bunch of adorable, naughty little girls.”

“It’s nice having friends.” Emilee said. “I had been really lonely these last two years, Daddy. But do you know what I realized?”

“What’s that, Kitten?”

“Peace sometimes looks lonely. I’d rather have peace and be lonely than have chaos and be surrounded by toxic people.”

Arrow dropped a tender kiss on her forehead before pulling her tighter into his arms. “I am very proud of you, Kitten. But you realized something else too, I hope.”

“What?”

“You will never be lonely again. You have me, The Watchmen and their women. Forever. You are one of us now.”

“Does that mean I get my very own cut?”

“Now you are rushing things a bit, Kitten.” He pulled her back against his chest and kissed the top of her forehead.

As they arrived at The Citadel, Emilee felt a familiar tug of anxiety. The club's DDLG play space was still new territory for her. Arrow's steady presence at her side grounded her as they stepped inside.

“Em! Arrow!” A cheerful voice called out. Emilee turned to see Catie and Mia approaching, both sporting warm smiles.

“Hey,” Emilee replied, her tone cautious but friendly. The history between them was complicated, but she was trying.

---