Page 68 of Ride with Zane

“For everything, Ash.” He closes his eyes while leaning back. “I should be the one to keep you safe.”

“I have an entire club watching my back.”

“They touched you.” His eyes linger on some bruises on my face, arms, wrists.

I shrug. “Dad always said I’m a hothead.”

He chuckles. “I saw it, baby, but I pushed our conversation because for once, I was afraid of scaring and losing you for good.”

“You’re the best thing that happened in my life, Rock.” I get on my feet. “I’m not good at showing my feelings, never been,” I take the blouse off. “but I love you.” His eyes linger on my front, then on my arm.

“Who…” he gasps, peering at the aftercare tattoo bandage which has been replaced a few minutes earlier. “Mac.”

“I couldn’t ask anyone else.” I smile, feeling so nervous.

“My Princess.” The sparkle in his eyes goes right to my nerves.

“I told you, I’m not going anywhere, Rock.” I kiss his forehead and he pulls me in a passionate kiss.

I sit across from Rock, my eyes fixed on him as he begins to unravel the story of the Black Panthers. His voice resonates with authority and confidence, yet there's a warmth and pride that seeps through his words.

“Back in '32, there was a group of friends who came together with a purpose,” Rock starts, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “They had seen our community suffer and were tired of it. They wanted to protect our own, to make a change.”

As Rock speaks, I can't help but be captivated by the determination in his voice, the passion that radiates from him. There's a sense of belonging that washes over me, as if I've stumbled upon something truly meaningful.

“They formed The Black Panthers MC, a brotherhood unlike any other,” Rock continues, his eyes filled with a mix of pride and emotion. “The hierarchy within the club is simple, yet it speaks volumes about who we are. Today, I’m honored to stand as the president, lead and protect our family.”

A surge of admiration courses through me as I listen to Rock, marveling at his commitment to his role as the club's leader. I can't help but wonder about the weight he carries on his shoulders, the responsibility he bears for each member.

“Brick, my loyal right-hand man, serves as the deputy,” Rock explains, his voice infused with respect. “He's always there, ready to step in when needed. And then we have Mac, the second in command, a man of loyalty and strength. Blue, our captain, keeps our brothers in line, ensuring that our rules are upheld.”

As Rock describes the roles of the club's members, I can't help but feel a sense of camaraderie and unity. The Black Panthers is more than just a motorcycle club; it's a family, bound together by unbreakable bonds of trust and loyalty.

“We ride together, we fight together, and we protect each other at all costs. Our bond is forged through blood, sweat, and tears.” Rock declares, his voice brimming with conviction.

In this moment, as I lock eyes with Rock, I understand that I’ve found a family, a brotherhood that will always have my back. And I can’t wait to contribute to their cause and make a lasting difference in our community.

A knock on the door startles me. I turn my head to see Mac entering, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He’s holding a box in his hands, and a knowing smile plays on his lips.

“Hey, Princess, sorry to interrupt,” his voice is filled with excitement, “I’ve got something for you.” He walks over to Rock, handing him the box, and winks at him before stepping back.

Rock sits up holding his side, his gaze locked on me. There’s a mixture of nervousness and anticipation in his expression. “You sure you want to be a part of my life? To be a part of this club and this family?”

A surge of joy fills my heart, and I can’t help but smile. “Like I have any choice.” I burst into laughter. “I want to be a part of it all, Rock.”

With that, he opens the box and pulls out a vest, adorned with the club’s emblem—a fierce panther—on the back. The vest is adorned with property patches, signifying my belonging to him. I find it so freaking amazing.

As he hands me the vest, a wave of emotions washes over me. I slip it on, feeling the weight of its significance. It represents more than just a piece of clothing; it signifies my acceptance into this family, this brotherhood.

Standing by the door, I notice Mac, Blue, Brick, Denise, and even dad, all wearing proud smiles. They’ve been waiting for this moment, supporting Rock and me every step of the way.

Once I’m fully adorned in the jacket, the guys, in unison, let out a powerful roar that echoes through the room, and I feel a sense of belonging like never before.

Chapter Nineteen

Ashley

Two months have passed since the terrifying incident with The Vipers, and I find myself settling into a routine. I've been trying my best to be the good girl and be focused on my training. But amidst it all, something has changed within me. I see The Black Panthers in a different light now. I've witnessed firsthand how fiercely protective they are and how they stand up for me, and I've done the same for them. They've become my family, even if not by blood, and surprisingly, my dad seems to be okay with it.

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