Page 35 of Quiet Chaos

Influencer and Rocker approach, and Influencer says, “Hey, Sky. How are you feeling?”

I twist the end of my hair and smile. “Fine, thank you. And you?”

“Great.” His eyes drift and linger on my legs.

I’m taken aback when Cade grabs him by the shirt, pulling him close, and through gritted teeth, says, “Don’t fucking look at her like that.”

Influencer raises his hands. “Hey, Prez, it’s all good. I didn’t know you claimed her.”

Cade releases his shirt and mumbles, “I didn’t.”

Influencer and Rocker exchange a glance. “So, we’re not allowed to claim her? Gunner got—”

He disregards their question. “She’s recuperating and needs rest.”

Again, they swap glances and forget the conversation.

Rocker says, “Good to see you, Sky. If you need anything, let me know.” He smiles at Cade when he continues, “I’ll be more than happy to get it for you. And when you’re better, I’ll even take care—”

“Tread lightly,” says Cade. His face set like stone.

Rocker and Influencer let out a snort. As they head to the bar, Rocker throws over his shoulder, “Josie is looking for you.”

Cade is talking to a couple when Reed and Patsy come by.

Patsy takes my hand. “We found some great seats.”

She removes the pillows from Cade’s arm while he’s still in conversation, and I follow her, Armstrong sticking close. He must sense my apprehension. In the corner is an L-shaped booth. A perfect location. She scoots me into the nook, placing a pillow along my back, and I hold the other against my stomach. Cade comes by, handing out drinks. He gives Patsy a beer, water with lemon for me, while he and Reed enjoy a glass of bourbon.

Someone calls Cade, and before he leaves, asks if I’m good. I nod as I watch him socialize with the club members. He’s bigger than the other men. I mimic his smile, and his laugh keeps me grinning. From the corner of my eye, I catch Patsy and Reed inspecting me, each exposing a full set of teeth.

My eyebrows stitch together when I ask, “What’s wrong?”

They both shake their heads and laugh.

“Nothing,” says Patsy. “Do you see something you like?”

I realize they must have seen me gawking at Cade. Heat rushes to my face. I lean back and avoid their gaze.

Patsy says, “Your secret is safe with us.”

My eyes dart from Reed to Patsy. I shake my head. “I don’t have a secret.”

She chuckles and thankfully changes the subject. “Can I get you something to eat? There’s a bunch of appetizers at the table.”

“No, thank you.”

“In case we want to nibble, I’ll put an assortment of food on a couple of plates.”

Once Patsy is gone, Reed gulps his beer, studying me.

“You’re good for him.”

I ask, “Who?” Even though I know who he’s talking about.

“Right. Anyway, it’s possible one of you will have the guts to mention it in this millennium. Cade is a stubborn ass. I’ve known him since grammar school.” His narrow eyes shift toward me with a sly grin. “The way he looks at you…”

My fingers pull at a string on the hem of my sweater dress. Without meeting his eyes, I ask, “In what way?”

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