Page 34 of Embracing Easy

“Shawn?” My voice comes out smaller than I intend.

“Yeah, baby?”

“What are you do—” My breath catches as Sparrow approaches, carrying a leather vest. Shawn takes it from him, and it’s then that I realize how deathly quiet the room has gone.

He turns to face me, and I see ‘Property of Easy’ stitched across the back of the vest. “Turn around, baby,” he says softly.

With tears welling up in my eyes, I do as he asks.

The leather feels cool against my skin as he slides it onto my bare shoulders. His hands linger, smoothing down my arms before turning me back to face him.

“Perfect,” he murmurs, his eyes dark, possessive.

Viper steps forward, his presence commanding everyone’s attention. “Listen up, motherfuckers,” his gravelly voice carries across the room. “Tonight we welcome Easy’s old lady into our family.” He turns to me, his expression serious. “Lexi, wearing that cut means something.”

I swallow hard, very aware of every eye in the room on me. “I know.”

“Then it's official.” Viper raises his beer bottle. “To Easy and his old lady!”

As the room explodes with cheers and whistling, Shawn pulls me against him, his mouth claiming mine in a kiss that leaves no doubt that I belong to him.

When we break apart, the music’s been cranked back up, and the party is in full force.

“Now that's what I call making it official,” G says with a wink, pressing a fresh glass into my hand.

Shawn's arm stays wrapped around my waist as people approach to congratulate us.

I try to remember names—Kidd, the youngest of these men with the eager smile; Trigg, who seems more reserved; Legend who's watching his old lady and son like a hawk.

“How does it feel?” Braelynn asks, adjusting Ryder on her hip.

“Like I finally belong somewhere,” I admit, surprising myself with the honesty.

Shawn's arm tightens around my waist, and I know he heard me. His lips brush against my temple. “You do belong here, baby. With me.”

“Get a room!” someone calls out.

“That sounds like a good idea,” he rumbles against my ear, making heat pool in my belly.

The night goes on in a blur of congratulations.

Around midnight, I find myself lounging on the big couch with the old ladies, and somehow Harley's infamous moonshine has made an appearance.

“Here, take this,” she says, handing me a rocks glass.

I lift it to my nose and take a whiff. “Holy shit.” Whatever's in this is strong.

“You'll get used to it,” Oak giggles as G lifts her glass. “To our new sisters Brae and Lexi.”

We all clink our glasses together, and I toss the liquid back. My eyes go wide as it burns all the way down, settling like fire in my stomach.

“Bottoms up, bitches,” G laughs, taking her own shot with a practiced ease.

“How are you even drinking this?” I ask, my eyes watering.

“Practice,” Sierra says with a wink. “Lots and lots of practice.”

“Ready for another?” Harley asks.

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