Page 16 of Doc's Decision

Feels like I’m being sucker-punched right in the solar plexus. “I’m tryin’ my best,” I rasp out, hoping she doesn’t notice how wrecked I sound. “It ain’t always easy flying solo.”

“I can only imagine.” Sympathy softens her expression as she gently rocks Kash. “I don’t know how you juggle it all—being a kickass man, a single dad, plus being in the MC.” She jerks her chin toward the clubhouse.

A rough chuckle escapes me. “Takes a hell of a lot of caffeine and even more patience. But I’m learning as I go.” I hesitate, then decide what the hell and add, “Having you around to help has been a real lifesaver, not gonna lie.”

Her lush lips curve into a brilliant smile that makes my heart thud heavily against my ribs. “I’m always happy to lend a hand. You know that.” She shifts Kash to her other arm, and he nestles into her soft curves without so much as a peep.

Lucky little bastard.

What I wouldn’t give to bury my face between those perfect tits and just?—

Mandy’s gentle voice cuts into my wildly inappropriate train of thought, “So, you got any big plans tonight? Hot date or whatever?”

There’s a teasing lilt to her words, but I could swear I detected an underlying note of . . . jealousy.

Nah, must be imagining it. Wishful thinking.

“Not exactly.” I drag a hand through my hair and blow out a harsh breath. “Gotta head out to Cali in a bit, check on my mom.”

Her playful expression morphs into one of concern. “Is she okay? Did something happen?”

I mutter bitterly. “Same shit, different day.”

The familiar mix of anger, guilt, and sorrow rises like bile in the back of my throat whenever I think about the fucked up situation with Ma.

Mandy’s brow furrows. “What do you mean?”

I sigh heavily.

I don’t talk about this with many people, but Mandy . . . I know I can trust her.

She’s good people.

I find myself explaining, “Back when I was sixteen, Ma got into a nasty wreck. Traumatic brain injury. Screwed with her memory somethin’ fierce.” I swallow thickly. “Most days, she’s still stuck thinkin’ I’m just a punk teenager. Don’t even realize she’s got a grandbaby now.”

“Oh Doc . . .” Mandy’s eyes swim with empathy. “I’m so sorry. That must be incredibly hard.”

I give a jerky nod, my throat too tight for words.

Her compassion threatens to undo me.

“Is there anything I can do?” she asks softly. “Anything at all. I’m here for you.”

And that . . . that earnest promise of support . . .

It fractures something deep inside my chest.

Because God, what I wouldn’t give to pull her into my arms and just hold on tight.

To accept the comfort she’s freely offering.

But I can’t put that on her.

It wouldn’t be fair.

She didn’t sign up for my broke-ass baggage.

So I simply force my lips into a weak attempt at a smile. “Nah, I’m good, darlin’. But thanks.” I reach out to chuck Kash gently under his chin. “You just keep doing what you’re doing with this little man. That’s more than enough.”

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