Page 36 of A Christmas Surprise for the Biker

"It's time," Viper's voice is low. "We're moving on Turner tonight."

My body tenses, instantly alert. "I'll be right there."

I end the call and take a deep breath.

This is it.

Beside me, Braelynn stirs. "Nico? What's wrong?"

I lean over and kiss her forehead. "Nothing, baby. Go back to sleep. I've got to take care of something with the club."

She blinks up at me, concern etched on her face. "Is it about Turner?"

I hesitate, not wanting to lie but also not wanting to involve her in what's about to happen. “Club business, baby.”

She sits up, fully awake now. "Be careful," she whispers, her hand on my arm.

"Always am,” I promise, giving her one last kiss before I slip out of bed.

I dress quickly in the dark, pulling on my cut last. As I head for the door, I glance back at Braelynn. She's sitting up in bed, watching me with worried eyes. I want to tell her everything will be okay, but I can't make promises I'm not sure I can keep.

Instead, I give her a nod and head out into the night.

The compound is quiet as I make my way to the clubhouse. There’s a nondescript white panel van parked in front of the door, a reminder of what we’re about to do. I push away the nerves as I step inside, finding Viper, Sparrow, Wrath, and Knox sitting at the bar waiting.

"You ready?” Viper asks, his eyes hard.

I nod. “Yeah.”

No going back now; we’re doing this.

Without another word, Viper climbs off his stool and heads for the door, the rest of us following him.

The ride to Turner's house gives me time to think about Braelynn and Ryder. How I’ll do whatever it takes to eliminate anyone who threatens the life we’re building.

"Remember, we need to be quick and quiet. In and out before anyone realizes what's happening,” Knox says as we near Turner's neighborhood.

We all nod in agreement. This isn't our first rodeo, but Turner’s 5-0, making the stakes even higher.

A block away from Turner’s house, Sparrow pulls the van, and we slip out, moving like shadows through the streets.

Turner's house is dark when we approach.

Knox makes quick work of the lock, and within seconds we're inside. As the door closes behind us, Wrath holds a finger up to his lips. I nod.

Wrath moves down the hall and pushes open the door at the end.

Inside, we find Turner in his bed, sleeping soundly.

It's almost too easy.

Knox moves with speed nobody would think him capable of, and before Turner can even register what's happening, Knox has his hands zipped behind his back and a gag shoved in his mouth.

"Rise and shine, asshole," Viper growls.

Turner's eyes are wide with fear and rage as he struggles against the bonds.

Seeing him like this, vulnerable and helpless, gives me a taste of satisfaction. It's a far cry from the smug bastard who's been threatening my family.

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