Page 39 of Valley

Dad sighed, the weight of his worry palpable. “I know, and you can take care of yourself, but I still worry.”

“That’s why you’re the best dad in the entire world,” I said, kissing his cheek. “Now I better get ready before Sean gets here. Charlie’s still coming over for your usual Sunday football, right?”

“Like clockwork,” he chuckled, rolling into the living room. I set Ellie down to play, and she was still engrossed in her toys when Sean rang the doorbell half an hour later.

After quick introductions, we stepped outside. “You look pretty today, Madeline,” Sean said, his gaze lingering on me, making me blush. “I like you in blue.”

I wore a flowing blue summer blouse with white shorts and sandals. His appreciative look made me feel as if I were dressed for a ball.

It was nice.

Hewas nice.

“Thank you,” I murmured softly.

“And would you look at that,” he said, pulling a helmet out of his saddlebag. “My spare is blue, just like it was meant for you.”

I took the helmet, strapping it on. “How are you single?”

“I was waiting on you,” he chuckled, straddling the seat. “Hop on.”

I laughed, shaking my head as I got on behind him. “You, sir, are a professional sweet talker.”

Sean laughed as he started the bike, and we sped down the road. The wind whipped through my hair, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Jarrod. Riding with Sean didn’t give me the same thrill. With Jarrod, I held on tight, never wanting to let go. Everything about it—from the speed to his scent as I leaned into his back—made my body come alive.

I never wanted it to end—but it did, and I needed to remember that.

The ride was short, and soon we entered the clubhouse gate. I dismounted, my eyes taking in the bustling activity. Everyone seemed to be there, and as my gaze swept the front of the clubhouse, I locked eyes with Jarrod. He froze, his face reddening with anger as his eyes flicked between me and Sean.

Oh God. My heart pounded as he started toward us, a fierce snarl twisting his features. Dad was right—Jarrod was about to start a fight, and I didn’t know what to do. I exhaled in relief when Harker and Scotch intercepted him, each grabbing an arm and steering him to the side of the building.

If Sean noticed, he didn’t show it. He took my hand, his grip warm and steady, and led me toward the back of the building where the picnic was being set up. My mind, however, was still on Jarrod, his anger, and the storm I felt brewing just around the corner.

I STEPPED OUTSIDE, ready to head over to Madeline’sand shadow her for the day. Maybe I’d find a way to talk to her.But the sight that greeted me made my blood boil: Madeline getting off the back of Sean’s fucking bike.

I barely took a few steps toward them before Harker and Scotch grabbed me, dragging me away.

“What the hell are you doing?” I snarled, struggling to break free.

Scotch slammed me against the wall, his glare intense. “Listen, kid,” he growled, jabbing a finger into my chest. “Today is about Patch and Katherine bringing Caden home. Don’t you dare ruin it by causing a scene. Got me?”

Harker tried to calm things down, his tone more measured. “I know seeing Sean with Madeline pisses you off, but you can settle up later.”

I clenched and unclenched my fists, my breath heavy with anger. “You’re right. This is important for Patch and Katherine. I won’t do anything now, but once this day is over, nothing will stop me.”

“We wouldn’t even try,” Scotch said, stepping back with a smirk. “In fact, we’ll enjoy the show.” He patted my shoulder before walking away.

I looked over to see Sean escorting Madeline to where Casimir was sitting with Toby, his hand possessively on the small of her back. Jealousy and rage surged through me, but I was bound by my promise. To make it worse, Madeline looked even prettier than usual today, her beauty impossible to ignore.

Why would she come here with Sean? She had to know I’d be here. Was she already over me? Her eyes met mine and held, an unspoken connection that lingered until Casimir distracted her. No, she wasn’t over me. Her face betrayed her feelings.

I pushed away from the wall and went inside, needing to avoid a confrontation. At the bar, I ordered a beer from Adam and scanned the room. Most people were outside, but the placestill buzzed with brothers playing cards and sweet butts hovering around, unsure how to act with the ol’ ladies present.

Tracy caught my eye, giving me a hurt look before turning away. Like I cared. I regretted spilling personal stuff to her last night while drunk. That wouldn’t happen again.

“Hey, sexy,” Bunny purred in my ear, her arms wrapping around me from behind. “I was getting lonely in here.”

“No, Bunny,” I said, removing her hand. As I turned, I caught Madeline’s eyes. She gave me a humorless smile and shook her head before heading down the hallway.

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