Page 27 of Hollywood

“When your boy finds out, it ain’t gonna be pretty,” Gio advised and looked at Cole. “Trust me.”

My smile faded because that was the only dark cloud in what was starting between me and Winter. Winston would not take this well, at all. Not even if I managed to save his life and hers. “Believe me, I know. But it’s too new to know if it’s something I need to bring up. Yet.”

“Tread carefully,” Diesel warned.

“I’m trying. But since we’re tied together until the Jade Devils are dealt with, that’s not saying much.” Being so close to her all the time and wanting her the way I did, had made our coming together inevitable. But now that I’ve had a taste ofher? Not even that three-headed dog from hell could keep me away.

“We need to keep a close eye on the Jade Devils. I want to know what they’re doing before they even think about doing it. Slate, do your thing. Gio and Sniper, keep those fuckers in your sights anytime you’re awake.”

“Got it.” Both men answered at the same time and stood before they fist bumped each other.

The other brothers dispersed, most of them headed inside where the women and club whores were hanging out while a few hung back and enjoyed a smoke or a toke. “You sure you’re okay?” Maverick stood in front of me with a look of sympathy on his face. “It’s not exactly the same as when it happens to you but when someone comes after somebody you love, that shit hurts. It stings, more when just want to do something about it.”

“Yeah,” I agreed. That one word seemed to hold a world of emotion that Maverick just understood. “I need a fucking drink.”

“Come on, first round is on me.”

“They’re free, you fucker.”

His deep laughter sounded. “Hey, I heard it was the thought that counted. That’s what Grace tells Sophie, anyway.”

“In that case, you can buy me a shot and a beer, smart ass.” My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I frowned. Everybody I knew except Winston was here in this building so when a number I didn’t recognize popped up, I was hesitant to answer. “Yeah?”

“Mr. Masters, I’m glad I caught you. It’s Christina, your real estate agent.”

“Right. Christina, hi.” I motioned to Maverick that he go head inside without me, but the nosy fucker stuck around. “What’s up?”

“I’m calling with very good news. Everything is in order for you to take official possession of the house at the end of this month.”

“But I thought you said it would take the full ninety days.” I’d only given her the greenlight to start the purchase process a few days ago. The place was nice and spacious with good light and nonintrusive neighbors. It wasn’t much to go on, but I liked the place well enough, which might have something to do with Winter.

“That’s the maximum length to expect but when the buyer and seller are highly motivated—and financed—things move a lot faster. We just have to sign some paperwork and exchange some money, and the place is all yours.” There was a beat of silence. “And they’re willing to add the furniture for no extra cash.”

“Shit, that is good news. Thank you, Christina.” The last thing I wanted to do was spend my time and my money shopping for shit I didn’t give a fuck about.

“You’re welcome and since you’re clearly in love with your woman, I’ll console myself with the commission I earned. Text me about a good time to meet, Mr. Masters.”

“I will.” I ended the call in a slight daze.

“Everything good?” Maverick asked.

“Yeah, I just… fuck I just bought a house.” Even before prison I just rented a place. Didn’t see a need to bog myself down with mowing lawns and replacing shingles and shit.

“A woman and a house already? You’re the goddamn poster boy for getting out the joint and reintegrating back into society. We should put you on a poster.”

I punched his shoulder. “If you want a picture of me Mav you only have to ask.”

“Asshole,” he laughed and clapped my shoulder. “Seriously brother, congratulations.”

“Thanks.” Before I joined Maverick at the bar, I knew I needed to talk to Rebel since he handled the MC finances. With the money shit figured out, there was only one thing I wanted more than a shot and a beer.

Winter.

Chapter Sixteen

Winter

Istood at the bar inside the Steel Demons MC clubhouse. I’d been here a few times since Hollywood walked back into our lives but the last time I was here alone, I had my laptop as a barrier. Now it was just me and the women whobelongedto the MC, as well as the actual wives and girlfriends. It didn’t make a lot of sense to me, but I was a guest, so it didn’t really have to.

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