Page 108 of Manic

I'm not sure how I feel about that responsibility, but I can't deny the girl seems to need some kindness.

"So, Flora," I begin casually, "how are you liking the clubhouse so far?"

She pauses, a hanger in her hand.

A small laugh escapes her. "It's... different. But honestly? It's a lot better than some of the places I've stayed at."

I raise an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Oh? How so?"

Flora shrugs, her gaze dropping to the floor. "Just... cleaner. Safer. People seem to actually care about each other there. As a mother, I know Florencia is safe, and this little one will be too."

My heart twists a little at her words.

I remember all too well what it's like to feel adrift, searching for a place to belong.

"The club can be a real family," I say softly. "It's not always easy, but there's a lot of love there."

Flora nods, a small smile playing at her lips. "I can see that. Rio's excited about us being with you all, and everyone's been really welcoming, besides that one girl."

Lexi.

“Don’t worry about her. She’s just bitter.”

I think about Rio, soon to be prospecting for the club.

I wonder if Flora truly understands what she's getting into.

But it's not my place to warn her off—and who am I to judge, anyway?

"Well, you and your little ones are always welcome to come hang out with me and Tindra if you need a break from all the testosterone," I offer with a wink.

Flora's smile widens. "Thanks, Meghan. I really appreciate that."

As we rejoin the others, I notice Flora seems to stand a little taller, laughing more freely at Starla's jokes.

It's a small thing, but I feel a sense of satisfaction at helping her feel more at ease.

Tindra bounds up to me, arms full of clothes. "Mom! Can I get these for tomorrow?"

I laugh, shaking my head at her puppy-dog eyes. "Let's see what you've got there, missy."

As we head to the fitting rooms, I can't help but reflect on how much has changed these last few months.

In all honesty, moving back to Tallahassee was the best thing I could have done.

I only wish I did it sooner.

The rest of the shopping trip goes off without a hitch and we drop off Flora at the clubhouse before heading home.

I pull into the driveway, the familiar sight of our modest house greeting us after a long day of shopping.

As I shift the car into park, Tindra leans forward from the backseat, her eyes bright with anticipation.

"Are we heading inside now, Mom?" she asks, a hint of excitement in her voice.

I turn to face her, a small smile playing on my lips. "You bet we are, sweetheart. And guess what? Your dad's meeting us here for a family movie night. He's bringing pizza, too."

Tindra's face lights up like a Christmas tree. "Really? Dad's coming over?" She practically bounces in her seat, her earlier exhaustion from shopping seemingly evaporating.

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