Page 86 of Chubs

“What about them? They’re not our problem. They’re yours. Are they going to be in danger here now, or has that been taken care of?” Cash questions, finally looking up and making eye contact.

“The police are rounding up what’s left of the Vero crime family members, and my family shouldn’t be in danger from the other mafia families. They should be safe here now,” I reply while taking a seat on the end of my bed.

“Then that answers your question. They’re not our prisoners, Chu… Adriano. They can leave anytime they want. Call them and let them know,” Cash suggests.

“Maybe they should stay there until we get back and can talk with them,” Les says as he walks out of the bathroom, wiping his face with a towel.

“You’re going to Denver too?” I ask, surprised.

“Of course I am. I want to meet Lucy and help explain why you did what you did,” Les says in a quiet voice. “Maybe if she meets your family, she’ll understand better.”

I feel a little hope flutter in my chest region, but I don’t let it grow.

“Has she met my mom and sister yet?” I ask Cash.

“No. Didn’t know who they were to you, and we didn’t want to cause Lucy more pain if one of them was your wife or fiancé or what the fuck ever,” Cash barks in irritation.

I cringe then laugh at the thought of one of them being my wife but sober quickly enough when Cash goes into full-on Viking glower mode.

“Don’t piss off the big blond guy, brother. I don’t like you enough to risk it all to go up against him,” Les advises as he flops on his back on his bed.

The door opens and in file my club brothers. I brace when Trigger walks past, expecting another punch, but he ignores me, taking a place against the wall. Looking at each, I note that some meet my eyes, some don’t. Pooh gives me a small grin while Pigeon shoots a wink in my direction. Petey stops in front of me and waits until my eyes find his before speaking.

“Happy as fuck to see you’re whole. Was worried about you but pissed as fuck too. Love you as my club brother, always will, but you don’t deserve Lucy.”

With that, he moves past and leans against the wall near Trigger.

“Where’s Axel?” I ask, suddenly realizing he’s not here.

“He stayed home to keep an eye on things since we didn’t know if trouble was coming that direction or not. He also just got out of the hospital—appendicitis—and not healed enough for the ride. Lots has happened since you deserted your club and woman. All of which we’ll discuss when we get home. Grab your shit, and let’s hit the road,” Gunner orders.

I do as I’m told, as does Les, and we’re in the van, Horse driving, within half an hour. I salute the sign indicating that we’re leaving the Chicago city limits and, soon after, fall asleep.

Chapter 22

Lucy

Lisa and I view a few more properties together, but again, nothing calls to me. As we’re pulling into the drive of the last house on the list for today, I perk up. It’s a two-story beautiful old all-stone cottage with a winding sidewalk that leads to the front door. It’s set back off the street further than the other houses, and it’s surrounded by large trees and bushes. It’s completely isolated from view of the other homes and the street, with a two-car garage off to the right of it.

Walking along the side of the house, I give a surprised gasp when I see the backyard. It’s about double the normal size of a backyard for a home in this neighborhood and has a privacy fence along the property lines. It has a large deck coming off the back of the house with plenty of room for deck furniture and a grill. Private, with lush flowers sprinkled throughout the yard, it’s the perfect place to start your day with a cup of coffee or end one with friends.

“With the yard completely fenced in, you could get a dog,” Lisa suggests.

“Or a couple of goats,” I reply with a grin.

“Only if you hate the flowers, deck, and wood fencing,” she advises.

“True. Let’s go inside, but I love it already.”

It’s not large, but it’s laid out beautifully. One bedroom with a master bath downstairs, two more bedrooms and another bathroom upstairs. It’s large enough. I love how big and how many windows it has throughout, and the gleaming hardwood floors are a huge selling point for me. The basement is spotless but unfinished. Turning to Lisa, I grin.

“Is it a sound investment?”

“Yes, absolutely is. The owner has to sell, and it’s listed well below the value. No known problems, and it’s structurally sound. It’s perfect for you, even though I wish you’d stay with me. It’s been nice having my little sister around again.”

“Love you, but I think I need this for me. I’ve been living in limbo long enough, and I want something that’s just mine. How soon could I move in?” I ask.

“As soon as we get the paperwork completed. Let’s go get started on it and call Mom and Dad.”

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