Page 56 of Biker Daddy

“Those speeches were hard to hear, sweetheart.” He sat next to her on the sofa. His genuine smile made her wonder how much people could change over the years.

“Thanks for checking on me, but I’m fine.”

“Let me take you home after?”

“I came with Fitz.”

“On his bike?” He stood, slamming his fists on his hips. “God, Addi. You have no idea who that guy is. He’s dangerous.”

“I know he was in some kind of trouble as a teenager but has he done anything recently for you to believe that?” She crossed her arms and watched Carter press his lip and look away. “Can people change, Carter?”

He turned back to look at her. He smiled at her but it didn’t reach his eyes and felt more like it was mocking her than anything else.

“I believe some people can. I know I have.” He relaxed his arms and shook his head. “Stay safe, Addi.”

“I will.”

He walked out, leaving her with a rolling stomach and a headache brewing.

“Did he upset you? What did he say?” Drew handed her a coffee and sat down.

“I’m fine, but I’m ready for this to be over.” She looked at the coffee in her hands, resting it in her lap. “I want you to tell me everything.” She looked at him and grinned. “And then I want you to make me forget my name.”

* * *

As Addi went through the motions of socializing with her uncle’s friends, she saw Daniel and Steven walk in.

“I’m so sorry we’re late.” Daniel’s eyes shot to Steven. “Someone forgot to grab the plane tickets and we missed our flight.”

“I see you eye-pointing at me, Daniel,” Steven groaned and leaned in to grab Addi up in a big hug. “How are you? How was the service? God, I am so sorry!”

“She’s shitty, Steven, shitty. Can’t you see? And we weren’t here for her.” Daniel hugged her then, too.

“I’m so glad you guys made it.” She took their hands and dragged them toward the food. “You must be starving!”

They pulled her back and a look passed between them. “You’re kidding, right? Look at you! Have you eaten at all since you’ve been here? You look like you’ve lost ten pounds!”

“I’ve been trying to feed her.” Drew’s deep voice sent tingles down her spine as he sidled up next to her. Another look passed between her two best friends. Addi wanted to roll her eyes and laugh at the same time.

“Guys, this is Fitz. He’s the caretaker at the camp, and was my uncle’s closest friend.” Drew stuck out his big hand, which swallowed Daniel’s but only dwarfed Steven’s slightly. His arm quickly settled around her waist and he winked as she looked at him sharply.

They had never discussed their relationship and when she had even brushed up against the idea of having feelings for him he practically ran away screaming. Was this his jealous boyfriend act again? Why was it he felt the need to metaphorically pee on her leg every time people were around?

“These two are more likely to be eyeing you than me and besides they’re married, Fitz. No need to get all caveman.”

“Oh, I think the caveman suits him, Addi. Don’t discourage. Do. Not. Discourage.” Steven fanned himself.

“Steven,” Daniel warned. “Your filter is broken again.”

“You gonna eat?” Drew said, pointing to the food table. “I highly recommend the…” Addi tuned them out as they headed for the food, choosing to find an empty table instead of being further mortified by Drew’s possessiveness.

The noise of the chattering crowd, the heat of too many bodies all pressed into the room, and the dull ache behind her eyes had her feeling nauseated and lightheaded.

She wanted to get home so badly. Home? Her cabin, and the camp with Drew really did feel like home. Unlike the house she still shared with her father.

Looking around, she wondered if anyone would notice if she slipped away. They were occupied. She turned, eyeing the door, her brow cocked as she wondered what Drew would do later when he found her.

“Hi, Addi.” She spun, startled by the small voice. Brent stood smiling at her. “My mom said I could come.” He pointed. “She’s over there with Trevor.” His mother, wearing an inappropriately short dress, was standing at the coffee station next to the bartender from Last Resort. He looked annoyed, but so did she.

---