Page 149 of Daddy Sees Snakes

I feel her fingers gripping my shirt, clinging to me like I'm her lifeline.

In this moment, I swear to myself that I'll be whatever she needs me to be— protector, lover, father to our child.

Another soft knock at the door breaks the moment. Rosa pokes her head in, a plastic bag in her hand. "Hey, I brought some Thai," she says softly, her eyes darting between Iris and me.

I give Iris one last squeeze before pulling away. "Look at that, baby. Rosa brought you some of that food you love."

Iris sniffles, wiping her eyes. "Thanks, Rosa," she says, her voice hoarse.

I stand up, smoothing down my shirt. "Why don't you enjoy some time with Rosa? I've got something I need to handle."

Iris's voice, tinged with worry, stops me in my tracks. "What are you doing, Viper?"

I turn back, meeting her eyes.

The fear I see there makes my chest tighten, but I can't let her know the truth.

Not now. "The less you know, the better, sweetheart," I say, trying to keep my tone light. "Trust me on this one."

I cross the room in two quick strides, cupping her face in my hands.

I kiss her deeply, pouring all my love and determination into it.

When I pull back, I rest my forehead against hers. "I love you, Iris. More than anything."

Her fingers grip my shirt, not wanting to let go. "I love you too," she whispers.

With a heavy heart, I step away and head for the door.

I pause, looking at Rosa. "We good?"

Rosa's eyes are hard, but I see understanding there too. "As long as you don't hurt her, we're good."

I nod, my jaw clenching. "I'd rather die."

The hospital corridor is a blur as I stride toward the exit, my mind already racing with what's to come.

My driver, Jake, is waiting by the car, his face impassive as always.

"Where to, boss?" he asks as I slide into the backseat.

"Crimson Reapers clubhouse," I growl, checking my gun beneath my jacket. "And step on it."

As we pull away from the hospital, I can feel the rage building inside me.

I'm showing up unannounced, and I don't give a flying fuck.

All I can think about is Iris, lying in that hospital bed, carrying our child.

I'll do whatever it takes to keep them safe.

The streets fly by outside the window, but I barely notice.

My mind is consumed with thoughts of Lyon, that piece of shit who dared to touch what's mine.

I flex my fingers, itching to wrap them around his throat.

"Almost there, boss," Jake's voice cuts through my thoughts.

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