Page 13 of Single Mom's Bikers

“I’m always good.” She giggles. “Love you!”

The call ends, leaving an awkward silence. Rick straightens, putting space between us again.

“Your kids really adore you.” He says it like he’s figuring something out. “Your professional act drops when they’re around.”

“It’s not an act.” But we both know it is. Everything about Evie Ashbourne is an act. I’m playing a character, anyway. Everything except how I am with my girls.

“No?” He moves toward the door. “Shame. I like the real you better.”

The words follow me back to my spreadsheets. The real me. As if I even know who that is anymore.

Numbers blur together as the clock hits ten. My eyes burn, but it’s better than going home to a quiet house. Better than lying awake wondering if Luca’s men are a step closer.

“Enough.” Rick’s voice makes me jump. He stands in my doorway again, jacket over his arm. “We’re done for tonight.”

“Just a few more?—”

“That wasn’t a suggestion.” But his tone stays gentle. “Come on, gather your things. I’ll walk you out.”

I gather my things slowly, not ready to break whatever spell the night hours have cast. My coat gives me trouble, twisting awkwardly as I try to slide it on.

“Here.” Rick moves behind me. His hands catch my coat and hold it open.

I shouldn’t let him. I shouldn’t expose my back to anyone, even him. But my body betrays me, stepping into his space like it belongs there.

His fingers brush my neck as he settles the coat on my shoulders. That simple touch sends fire racing down my spine. I turn, meaning to step away.

Instead, I find myself inches from him. Close enough to see even his pupils. To catch the slight hitch in his breathing.

“Evie.” My name sounds different on his lips.

“Rick…” But I’m already tilting my face up.

His kiss, when it comes, holds nothing back. One hand cups my jaw while the other pulls me closer. He tastes like coffee and mint, things I’ve denied myself for too long.

I grab his shirt, needing a harbor. His tongue traces my bottom lip, asking permission I shouldn’t give. I open for him anyway.

The kiss deepens, and turns hungry. My back hits the wall. His thumb strokes my neck, finding spots that make me gasp. Is this how all members of an MC kiss?

The vibration of my phone snaps us out of it. We break apart, both breathing hard.

“I—” I start, but what can I say? Sorry, I just kissed my boss?

“You don’t have to say anything now.” He steps back, creating space I both need and hate. “We can talk tomorrow.”

The message is another text from Rose, just checking in. It is later than I thought. The drive home happens on autopilot. My lips still tingle. My skin remembers everywhere he touched.

Rose is reading a book on the couch when I enter the house. She looks up at the sound of the door. “The girls are sleeping. Owen’s dad picked him up an hour ago.”

“Thanks.” My voice sounds strange even to me.

“You okay?” She’s too sharp sometimes. Notices too much. “Did something happen at work?”

Work. Where I just kissed Rick Cross against a wall. Where his brother Zane flirts constantly. Where Chase watches me with eyes that see too much.

“I’m fine,” I lie. “Just tired.”

Rose eyes me as if she can see through my act, but she doesn’t comment on it this time. I bid her goodnight and she heads home, and I watch as her headlights disappear down the road.

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