Page 40 of Born Savage

“Thank you,” I reply timidly, feeling the boldness quickly evaporating.

“Well, I guess now I know the reason behind that smile,” Trish observes before turning back to her sink, now full of dishes.

Twenty-Six

Shark

Istick to the rear of the pack as we ride. Even on my bike, I can feel the tension rolling off these guys who are supposed to be my brothers. I understand, they’re pissed. I’m sure they feel betrayed, like I’m just some jackass who rolled into town and ruined her. But they have no clue, not the slightest fucking inkling of how it really is. Because if they saw, if they opened their eyes and really looked, they’d see that in reality, Scarlett fucking owns me.

Rolling into the range, I find an empty spot beside Sonny. This should be a safe place to leave my baby, not that I think any of these guys would pull any shit with Ray and Sonny both watching. As I climb from the saddle, my cell starts ringing. I pull it from my pocket and see Ryder’s name lighting up the screen.

“Shit, I gotta take this. Go on ahead and I’ll catch up,” I tell Sonny, who’s standing a few feet away, waiting on me.

“Okay, man,” he offers with a nod before turning and walking away.

“Pres., what’s up?” I answer.

“God damn, Sharky-boy. It’s fuckin’ good to hear your voice,” he answers. “It’s been almost a month, so I figured I better check in and make sure you’re still good.”

“Yeah, brother. All good here,” I share.

“Good…that’s good. Well, shit. I’m gonna get right to the fuckin’ point. Rumor has it you’re considering a permanent transfer to Vegas. Is it true?” his voice gets serious.

Fuck. I fucking knew I shouldn’t have said shit to Army. I love every single one of my brothers, but those motherfuckers can’t keep their fucking traps shut.

“Army tell you?” I question roughly.

“Nope. I actually got a personal call from Ray. He mentioned that he made you an offer and that you were taking it under consideration,” he explains.

“Yeah, an offer was made. No decisions yet, but honestly, it’s something I need to take some time to consider,” I tell him.

“Horse shit,” he expresses. “Rock Hill is home. Your family built this club. You’re an original and I know I wouldn’t have my fuckin’ seat without you. You were born a Savage. The chair, the gavel…all that shit should’ve been yours by birthright, but you chose to back me. I can’t do this without you by my side,” he shares and my chest swells.

“Damn, Pres. That’s really fuckin’ nice to hear. And trust me, Rock Hill will always be home, but there’s a new element I have to consider,” I try to explain.

“And would this be a female element?” he questions with a laugh, already knowing.

“Yup,” I answer.

“Shit, brother. All the fuckin’ pussy you’ve messed with back here, and you let some little Vegas number fuck with your brain,” he chuckles softly. I guess he doesn’t know the whole story. I’m surprised Ray didn’t give him all the details.

“It’s a little more serious than that,” I start but he interrupts.

“Shit. Never thought I’d see the day. But we all have one weakness,” he says, and I clearly remember the night he met Cora. She owned him with one fucking look.

“I know, right?” I agree.

“Well, just bring her home with you. That’s what I did,” Ryder adds with a laugh.

“Shit, brother. I wish it as that fucking simple,” I tell him.

“What’s the fucking hold up? Spill it,” he prods roughly.

“It’s Scarlett, Ray’s daughter,” I share. “Ray is cool with it, but that support might fade quickly if I try to take her away,” I explain.

“Damn, man. Ray conveniently left that part out,” Ryder says. “I got it. How about this, come home for a weekend and bring her with you. Let her meet all your brothers here, it’s not her father and brother’s crowd. She’ll be able to relax and see a different side of the club. Plus, you know that Cora and Ayla will jump at the chance to meet her and make her feel welcome,” he suggests and I feel a smile curl on my lips. That might just be a perfect idea.

“That’s why you’re the Pres. You’ve got all the good fucking ideas,” I joke.

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