Page 107 of Jolt's Vengeance

"Well," I drawl, leaning back with exaggerated nonchalance, "let's just say I've never had any complaints in that department."

Vader cracks up, slapping his knee. "That's my boy! Keepin' the Sterling family reputation alive and well."

I roll my eyes, but can't help grin at him.

It feels good to joke around like this, to reconnect with the way we were when we were kids.

"What about you?" I ask, turning the tables. "Any lucky ladies catching your eye back home?"

A shadow passes over Vader's face, so quickly I almost miss it.

"There might be someone," he admits grudgingly.

Now it's my turn to lean in, intrigued. "Oh yeah? Do tell, big brother."

Vader shifts uncomfortably, avoiding my gaze. "It's... complicated."

I prod gently. "Isn't it always?"

He sighs, running a hand over his close-cropped hair. "Her name's Sin. Got a couple kids, rough past. I'm tryin' to take it slow, you know? Be there for her without pushin' too hard."

I whistle low. "Vader the gentle giant, huh? Never thought I'd see the day."

He shoots me a warning glare, but there's no real heat behind it.

"She's been through some shit, all right? Needs someone to have her back, not another asshole trying to get in her pants."

I hold up my hands in surrender. "Hey, I get it. No judgment here, bro. You're a good man for being there for her."

Vader nods, his expression softening. "She's worth it. The kids too. They're good kids, just need a break, you know?"

"Yeah," I say softly, thinking of Aggie and her own struggles. "I know exactly what you mean."

It's strange, realizing how much we've both changed.

The reckless boys we once were seem like distant memories now, replaced by men willing to fight—and die—for the people we love.

"You ever think about settling down?" I ask suddenly, surprising myself with the question.

Vader considers for a moment before answering. "Used to think it wasn't in the cards for me. But now? With Sin and the kids? Yeah, I'm startin' to see the appeal."

I nod, understanding completely. "It's scary as hell, isn't it? Realizing you've got something—someone—to lose."

"Scariest fuckin’ thing in the world," Vader agrees. "But also the best."

"Yeah," I murmur, thinking of Aggie's smile. "The best."

The music outside gets louder and the excited laughter from the club kids does with it.

Vader stands, stretching his massive frame.

"We should probably head back out there," he says. "Can't hide in here all night."

I nod, rising to join him.

As we move toward the door, Vader catches my arm, his expression serious once more.

"Listen, Jack," he says, using my given name. "I'm proud of you, little brother. You've grown up a lot."

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