Page 76 of Nanny for the Bikers

A mischievous glint sparks in Jamie’s eyes as an idea takes hold. “What if you and Piper surprised him? I think it would really lift his spirits, especially since he’s been stressed at work,” she suggests, her enthusiasm infectious.

My heart leaps at the thought, a grin spreading across my face. “That’s a great idea!” I exclaim, already picturing Teller’s reaction. The way his eyes would light up, the way his strong arms would wrap around me, holding me close.

Jamie claps her hands together, mirroring my excitement. “Perfect! Go pick him up some of those roast beef sandwiches he likes. Nothing better than having the person you love bring you a sandwich.”

I repeat her words over and over again in my head…person you love, the truth becoming increasingly clear to me.

Teller loved me, and I loved him.

40

TELLER

Isit at the table, talking with some of the guys as we discuss some local outreach we can do for the community during our lunch break. Razor cracks a joke and we all double over, my sides aching. As I wipe tears of mirth from my eyes, I spot a familiar figure entering the clubhouse. Ayla and Piper.

What is she doing here? Is everything okay?

“Ayla! What a nice surprise!” I call out, unable to contain my delight. I spring up from my seat and hurry over to greet her, drinking in the sight of her like a man parched. She looks radiant, her dark hair tumbling over her shoulders, those piercing green eyes glinting.

Ayla smiles, sending warmth spreading through my veins. “I thought I’d bring you some lunch,” she says, holding up a large takeout bag. The scent of savory sandwiches wafts over, making my stomach growl.

She sets the bag on the table, pulling out stacks of thick deli sandwiches wrapped in wax paper, cold drinks glistening withcondensation. My mouth waters. The guys let out appreciative murmurs.

“You didn’t have to do this, but I’m so glad you did,” I tell her earnestly.

I guide Ayla to sit beside me, our legs brushing under the table. Electricity zings through me at the innocent touch. The guys dig in, unwrapping the hearty sandwiches. I pick one up, admiring the artful layers of meat, crisp veggies and tantalizing sauces peeking out.

As we eat, I find myself transfixed by Ayla - the way she throws her head back when she laughs, how her slender fingers grip the sandwich, the shape of her coral lips as she takes a sip of soda. I’m enthralled by everything about her.

As Ayla tells me about her day, I find myself captivated, the stress of the day melting away. Her animated expressions and the way she waves her hands as she talks are utterly endearing. I could listen to her for hours.

The warm intimacy between us is palpable, like a cozy blanket wrapped around my heart. I can’t remember the last time I felt this content, this understood.

Shadow lounges at our feet, his tail thumping happily against the floor. A few of the guys wander over, crouching down to pet his soft fur. Shadow rolls onto his back, tongue lolling out in bliss as they rub his belly.

“Looks like Shadow is a hit!” Ayla jokes, watching the fearsome bikers fawn over the dog like children with a new puppy.

I grin, marveling at how Shadow has managed to charm even the toughest of my members. “Maybe we should make him our official mascot,” I quip.

Ayla laughs, the sound is warm and rich. She leans into me, her head resting on my shoulder as we observe the heartwarming scene. My arm instinctively wraps around her, holding her close.

Razor and Stitch approach our table, their imposing figures casting shadows across the worn wood. I stand up, meeting their curious gazes with a smile. “Ayla, I want you to meet some of my brothers. This is Razor and Stitch,” I say, gesturing to the two burly men.

Razor’s face splits into a grin, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “So you’re the famous Ayla we’ve been hearing so much about,” he says, extending a large hand. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

Ayla rises gracefully, her hand disappearing into Razor’s as she shakes it firmly. “The pleasure is all mine,” she replies, her voice steady and confident.

Stitch nods, his eyes assessing Ayla with a mix of curiosity and respect. “Teller hasn’t shut up about you for weeks,” he teases, his gruff voice laced with amusement. “I can see why now.”

I feel a flush creep up my neck, but Ayla just laughs, the sound like music to my ears. “Well, I hope I live up to the hype,” she says, her green eyes sparkling with mirth.

As they chat, I watch Ayla with a sense of pride and wonder. She holds her own effortlessly, trading jokes and stories with Razor and Stitch like she’s known them for years. Her quick wit and easy charm have them grinning and laughing in no time.

“How are you liking our little town,” Stich asks Ayla.

She pushes some loose hair back behind her ear. “I’m loving it. Everyone is really nice and I can tell how important community is here.”

A small smile tugs at my lip hearing her remarks.

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