Page 72 of Ride with Zane

“Three weeks ago, I was coming home from a competition. I was a few miles away from Newtok when I noticed a car was following me.” The silence falls, and I have their attention again. “I had to call my dad to come save me because I was so scared to be pushed off the road. Do you know who came to save me? The Black Panthers.”

I pause again to give them the time to elaborate what I experienced that night.

“A week later I was kidnapped and feared for my life. I still have bruises on me and my only thought was: Where had I lived so far? I always thought this was a safe town but what I didn’t know was that The Black Panthers aren’t the only Motorcycle Club and even though the others were kicked out of this town, they want to come back.” I sigh, feeling nervous while meeting Rock’s gaze. “Once again The Black Panthers risked their life for me. And before you can say it’s because of them all of that happens, trust me, it’s not their fault. Over the years they kept this town clean and covered the territory Dad and the department couldn’t reach. That’s who the Black Panthers are. They don’t care who you are, this is their home and if someone is in danger they’re always ready to help.” I raise my voice, my words filled with conviction. “The Black Panthers activelyparticipate in community events, fundraisers, and charity work but they didn’t want this news to be known because they don’t need to brag. They believe in giving back and making a difference, that’s why we have barely any activities dismissed.” I take my coat off and underneath I have my precious vest on me. “We are not the dangerous outlaws you might perceive us to be and I’m proud to be a Panthers’ woman.”

Looking out at the crowd, I manage to see the amazement in The Black Panthers’ eyes. “It is because of them, along with the police department, that we can all live in a safer community. They have shown me the true meaning of brotherhood, and I am proud to stand beside them so please, make sure to forget the stereotypes and see them the way they are. People.”

The silence is defeating but then the crowd erupts into applause, and I feel a sense of accomplishment wash over me. Maybe some will change their mind, maybe all of them. Who knows? I’m sure Rock wasn’t expecting to talk that much about them but they deserve it.

“Have to say I’m impressed, you’ve got them wrapped around your finger,” Dave murmurs by my side with a genuine smile. “Are you trying to steal my job?”

“Who knows,” I laugh while I peer down at Rock, who’s waiting for me to jump off in his arms.

Chapter Twenty

5 months later

Ashley

Iwake up after what seems like minutes of sleep with a flutter of excitement in my chest.

Today is the day.

The day I’ve been waiting for my entire life.

The culmination of years of hard work, sacrifices, and relentless training. And to make things even more special, I won’t be alone. Rock will be accompanying me on this incredible journey. I didn’t expect him to actually leave the club to Brick and come with me but I’m excited as a baby in a candy shop.

I turn to look at his angelic face before waking him up. I lean over and brush my lips with his but before I can even get that close, he flips on my back and kisses me. “Morning Princess.”

“Since when you’re awake?”

“Dunno, a few hours.” He grins before getting up and pulling my legs. “shower and then we need to hit the road.”

“Rock!” I scream while he throws me over his shoulder.

As we make our way to the airport, I can’t help but feel a mix of nerves and anticipation. I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart, and steal a glance at Rock sitting beside me. His presence alone gives me a sense of calm and reassurance.

He takes my hand and kisses it. “Are you always that nervous?”

“Yeah,” And I’m afraid to mess everything up. To forget the choreographies and fall facedown. But I’m also nervous to show him the last outfit Mac worked so hard to get it done in time.

The plane finally touches down in Engadin Airport, the excitement in the air palpable. We collect our luggage and make our way to the taxi stand. The city is shrouded in darkness, but the lights that dot the landscape create a magical atmosphere.

As we step into the taxi, the driver greets us with a warm smile. “Good evening, where can I take you tonight?”

I provide the address of our hotel, and the taxi begins its journey through the streets toward St. Moritz. The night air is crisp and cold, but the warmth of Rock’s hand in mine keeps me grounded.

We pass by the frozen lake glistening under the moonlight, and the grand hotels that line the streets. The city breathes elegance and sophistication, a perfect backdrop for the prestigious event that awaits us.

With each passing minute, the excitement builds within me. My heart races as we approach our hotel, its grandeur evident even in the dimly lit street.

The taxi comes to a halt, and we step out onto the cobblestone pavement. The hotel, an architectural marvel, stands tall before us. Its lights glimmer like stars, inviting us into its embrace.

I turn to Rock, his eyes reflecting the same awe and wonder as mine. “Can you believe we’re here?”

He smiles, his hand gently cupping my face. “It took us a lifetime, but this is just the beginning of an amazing journey.”

I lean into his touch, my heart swelling with love and anticipation.

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