Page 58 of Bozo

I feel like I could cry. God, what the hell did I do to deserve Jerry to love me like a child and protect me like one too? I reach out and take his hand. “Thank you.”

"Never thank me for doing all I can to protect you Grá. I'll make sure that you're not alone. Not anymore."

I give him a smile. "You're the best. You know that, Jer?"

He chuckles. "Only sometimes. Now rest, Grá. You need to rest. It's the only way your body will heal."

A knock soundson the door, and I watch as the door opens slightly and Mike pops his head in. "Hey, Grá," he says with a big smile.

Since he asked me out, he’s backed off somewhat but has remained friendly. Which I’m thankful for.

“Hey,” I reply. Thankfully, today’s the day I get to leave here.

Mike steps into the room, his smile fading slightly as he takes in my appearance. "Wow, you look... well, you've looked better," he says, attempting humor.

I manage a weak laugh. "Thanks, Mike. Just what every girl wants to hear."

He approaches the bed, his expression growing serious. "How are you feeling? Really?"

I sigh, wincing as I shift in the bed. "Like I've been hit by a truck, stabbed, and then run over again for good measure. But hey, at least I'm alive, right?"

Mike nods solemnly. "That's the spirit. Listen, Grá, I heard about what happened. I can't believe someone would... I mean, it's just..." He trails off, clearly at a loss for words.

"Yeah, it's pretty messed up," I agree. "But I'm okay. Or I will be, anyway."

Mike hesitates for a moment before speaking again. "I know things have been a bit awkward between us since... well, you know. But I want you to know that I'm here for you. As a friend. If you need anything at all."

His sincerity touches me. "Thanks, Mike. That means a lot."

He gives me a soft smile. “The offer of a date still stands, Grá. Just say the word.”

“I appreciate that,” I tell him, but I’m not sure I’m ready for anything like that. Not now anyway.

Just then, Jerry returns with a nurse. "Alright, Grá," he says, his gaze on Mike, and I watch as his eyes narrow. "Time to get you out of here. Your chariot awaits."

I can't help but smile at the sight of the wheelchair. "Thank God,” I sigh dramatically. I’m so glad I can get out of here. I just pray that the man doesn’t return.

NINETEEN

BOZO

We’ve still not found out anything else about The Revenant. Everyone is fucking tight-lipped and it pisses me off. Someone out there has to know something and is willing to talk.

Pyro, Raptor, and I enter the clubhouse. I’m shocked to see Gráinne here. I haven’t seen her in weeks. Things have been weird since she told me she wants more. I wish I could be the man to give it to her. I know she deserves better, but fuck, the thought of some other man with her makes me feel murderous.

"Darlin'," Raptor says to his old lady, Mallory. She’s been through shit and is slowly recovering. "Everythin' okay?"

Mallory nods, a bright smile on her lips. "Yeah, I'm good. Just catching up with Grá." Since everything went down with Mallory, Gráinne’s been her doctor and has helped out, and the two women have grown closer.

Raptor turns to Gráinne. "Doc, everythin' okay with her?"

I watch as she clasps her hands together. "Yes, Raptor, her pregnancy is coming along perfectly."

The entire clubhouse descends into silence. "Wanna repeat that?" Raptor growls, and I tense. No one fucking speaks to her like that. He turns to Mallory. "You're pregnant?"

"Surprise," she says weakly. "Yeah, honey, we're having another baby."

He closes the distance between them and hauls her into his arms.

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