Page 117 of Jolt's Vengeance

Paulie's eyes widen, hope flickering across his face for the first time since he arrived.

His wife lets out a shaky breath, her shoulders sagging with relief.

But Damon's not finished. "There's a catch, though. You'd be one of us, Paulie. You'd be prospectin' like the rest of these guys have."

I can't help but smirk at that.

We've been prospects for what feels like forever, jumping through hoops to prove our worth to the club.

But this?

This is different.

Paulie's not just looking for a patch—he's looking for salvation.

Damon continues, a hint of amusement in his voice, "Hell, they've been prospectin' too damn long if you ask me."

My heart skips a beat. Is he saying what I think he's saying?

I exchange a quick glance with Turmoil, seeing the same surprise mirrored in his eyes.

As Paulie processes Damon's words, I find myself torn.

Part of me is thrilled at the prospect of finally earning my patch, of truly belonging. But another part of me knows that bringing Paulie in, protecting his family, it's going to bring a shitstorm down on all our heads.

Paulie takes a deep breath, his gaze darting between his wife and kids before settling back on Damon.

His voice is rough with emotion when he speaks. "We'll take it. The spot in Mexico. We'll leave as soon as we can."

I watch as his wife clutches their newborn closer, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

It's a mix of relief and fear—I've seen it before on the faces of those who've had to leave everything behind.

Dixon steps forward, his presence commanding attention even in the crowded clubhouse. "We'll make calls first thing tomorrow," he says, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Then, his voice softens slightly as he looks at Paulie's family. "Until then, we'll have our ol' ladies get you and the family set up. What size clothes do y'all need? We'll make sure you're taken care of."

I can't help but admire how much the club is willing to help others.

It just proves we’re good people, not scum like so many people want to think.

Paulie's wife speaks up, her voice barely above a whisper. "The baby's in newborn sizes. Our girl's in 3T, and our other girl's in 5T." She pauses, looking down at herself. "I... I don't know what size I am anymore. After the baby..."

Izzy steps forward, her braids swinging as she moves. "Don't worry, honey. We'll figure it out."

Her eyes, dark and determined, meet mine for a moment. I know that look—she's already planning, already thinking of how to make this family comfortable in the midst of their upheaval.

As the others start discussing logistics, my mind wanders.

I think of Aggie, of how easily it could be her in this situation.

The thought sends a chill down my spine, makes my fists clench at my sides.

I'd burn the world down before I'd let that happen to her.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Aggie

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