Page 3 of Wolf's Whisper

Brought out of my thoughts, I hear Chloe calling for me.

“Momma, where are you?” she asks sweetly.

I cannot help but chuckle. “Where am I? I’m in the kitchen deciding what to make for lunch.”

“Can we have grilled cheese and soup?”

“I think I can do that.” I poke her belly, making her giggle. I’m happy she can still smile through it all. “How about you get your brothers and let them know lunch will be ready soon?” Chloe smiles brightly and goes off to get the boys. I can’t help but feel so grateful to have this safe place for me and my children. I’m determined to keep us all safe, and I know that Wolf and the Wild Jesters will lead us in the right direction.

As I prepare lunch, I hear Chloe run in and let me know her brothers are coming soon. Then I listen to Chloe talk about her day. There is a new movie she wants to see about mermaids. I know I'm one of the luckiest moms in the world. Even after allthe trials and tribulations I’ve been through, I am still here with my children, safe and sound, and that’s all that matters.

Chapter Three

Wolf

Ipark my bike, get off, and walk to my favorite spot, a grassy area which gives me an open view of everything around me.After a bad PTSD episode and I take off on my bike to clear my head, this area is my calming place. It’s just a small picnic area a few miles off the interstate. There’s a set of bathrooms, picnic tables and an amazing view. I stare off into the horizon. The sky is a brilliant orange, the sun just beginning to set over Reelfoot Lake State Park. I stop here after riding for hours, especially since my body screams for a break. The Wild Jesters MC is and will always be my home, and I’m damn proud to be a member, but lately, I’m feeling something; a strange, new emotion that I can’t quite identify, almost a yearning for something more, something of my own.

This latest case is constantly lingering on my mind. I’m one to hyper-focus on the cases I’m a part of, the joys of ADHD. This woman is almost like an obsession. What is this feeling that keeps me awake all night and earlier than usual?

I turn and walk toward my bike and sit on it, allowing my mind to drift to the memories of my past. When I enlisted in the Army right out of high school, eager to make something of my life, the motivation at nearly every task they gave until the medical discharge gives me a purpose and I lost that for a while. The bombing and fire are more than just some skin on my back, I lost myself as well. But finding myself on the bounty hunter path I truly feel whole. It’s a strange kind of freedom tracking suspects who escape from their responsibilities, knowing that I am making a difference in some small way again. But this new case feels different. The woman I am supposed to be protecting has held my attention unlike any other.

She is strong, determined, and beautiful—all qualities I find intoxicating. I found myself fighting an internal battle between wanting to protect this woman and ultimately crumbling to her charm. Shaking my head free from my thoughts, I rev my bike and head back to the clubhouse to work on Janelle Pierce and her three children’s case. The overwhelming need to protectthem all was becoming stronger by the minute. I know whatever lies ahead, I can’t let them down. The memories of my fallen brothers come to mind in my dreams, and the guilt of not being able to protect them only fuels my need to give my all in every case, especially when children are involved. The drive these emotions provide gives me the strength and pride to wear the Wild Jester’s patch.

Nothing will stop me now. Come hell or high water, I will make sure they are safe. “Come on, Wolf, you’ve got this,” I whisper to no one but myself. I pray the fear I felt will subside and determination will replace it.

Chapter Four

Janelle

The night falls quiet around the small, secure house the Wild Jesters arranged for us—the quiet that's almost too still, where you can hear the faintest sounds from miles away. I stand at the window, peering through the blinds, every shadow making my heartbeat faster. I know it’s ridiculous, but fear has a funnyway of sticking around after what you’ve been through. You’re always waiting for the other proverbial shoe to drop.

Wolf says she’s having some club brothers station outside for extra security. Even if her presence is commanding and having her reassurance is a comforting reminder that we aren’t alone in this fight. I watch their dark figures patrol slowly around the yard, their heads turning at every little noise. Their dedication is something fierce, almost like predators keeping an eye out for their prey.

Wolf in house earlier today, making sure everything is good for us. The way she’s looking into my eyes never breaking contact sends a shiver down my spine. It isn't a fear-induced shiver, but one of these rare moments where someone truly sees past your outer appearance and connects with the inner you.

“Momma?” Dillion’s voice cuts through my thoughts. I turn to see him standing in the kitchen doorway, his face scrunches in confusion. “Why are you just standing there?”

I force a smile. “Just making sure everything’s all right outside.”

He nods, but his brows furrow with worry. "Can I stay up with you for a while?" he asks, his voice small.

"Of course, sweetheart," I say, pulling up a chair beside mine. He climbs up and sits beside me, eyes scanning the darkness outside.

We sit in silence for a few moments before he speaks again. "Is Wolf going to keep us safe forever?" he whispers, the weight of his question heavier than he probably realizes.

I squeeze his hand, reassurance filling my words even if my heart still harbors fears. "Yes, Dillion. Wolf and her friends are very good at what they do. They won’t let anything happen to us." I hope I believe it as much as he did.

He seems to take comfort by that and leans his head against my shoulder. "I like her," he admits shyly. "She's like a superhero."

I chuckle softly, ruffling his hair. "She kind of is, isn't she?"

"Yeah," he mumbles, drifting closer to sleep.

Just then, my phone buzzes on the table. I glance at the screen—it was a message from Wolf.

WOLF: Everything’s secure outside and there are no signs of trouble. Please try to get some rest tonight.

Reading her words make me feel a little more at ease.

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