Page 77 of Single Mom's Bikers

“Eight million views,” I whisper. “He’s seen it. Hasn’t he?”

“My contact in Sacramento confirmed it.” Rose’s professional mask slips slightly. “They’re analyzing the footage, trying to verify it’s really you. They’re also in town to see if it’s really youin person. Hence, the black sedan we’ve been seeing all over town.”

Morning sickness rises, but this time it’s pure fear. “The girls?—”

“They’re safe. I’ve had eyes on the school since that influencer came into town. But Evie…” She pauses. “You need to tell them. The brothers deserve to know what’s coming.”

“I can’t.” My free hand drifts to my slightly rounded stomach. “Not yet. Not with everything else…”

“Everything else is exactly why you need to tell them.” Her voice softens. “They can protect you better once they know what they’re up against.”

The supply closet suddenly feels too small. Through the door, I hear Chase’s machine start up—he’s practicing color combinations for Skylar’s next session.

“I need to go.” I straighten my clothes, forcing composure. “I need to handle something.”

“Evie—”

“I know what I’m doing.” The lie tastes bitter. “Just…keep watching the girls.”

Chase looks up when I emerge. His smile fades slightly at whatever he sees in my expression.

“You okay? You look stressed out.”

“I’m fine. I just didn’t get any sleep last night. Rick came over. You know he can be intense sometimes.” I manage a wink that makes him shake his head with a smile. Actually…” I move toward his station with forced casualness. “I was thinking about removal sessions.”

His eyebrows rise. “For what piece?”

I roll up my sleeve, exposing the snake. The tattoo that’s haunted me for six years. Luca’s mark of ownership.

“This one. It’s time.”

“The snake?” He sets down his machine. “But you always said it was special.”

“I changed my mind.” I aim for lightness but miss. “Unless you don’t want to?—”

“Of course I’ll do it. But why now? This piece is actually decent work.”

Because Luca’s men have seen it. Because this mark led him straight to my daughters.

“Just…ready for change.” The excuse sounds weak even to me.

Chase’s expression says he doesn’t buy it, but he doesn’t push. Just starts gathering removal supplies.

“You want to do it now?” I ask, trying to hide my desperation.

“Yes, babe. Looks like you need it gone as soon as possible. Plus, I have time before my first client.” He pats the chair.

The machine’s buzz fills the silence as he preps my arm. When the needle hits the skin, I welcome the pain. Physical discomfort is easier than fear.

“Tell me if you need a break,” he says softly.

I won’t. I need this mark gone before?—

The gallery’s door chimes. Rick walks in, followed by Zane. Both freeze at the sight of me in Chase’s chair.

“Removal session?” Rick moves closer, frowning. “For what?”

“The snake,” Chase answers when I don’t. “Apparently, it’s time for changes.”

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