Page 14 of Guardian

“That’s the problem. We don’t know. It’s possible he’ll honor it, although it was always a reluctant alliance at best. Or he may consider it void now that he’s in power. We can’t rely on what used to be. Everything is subject to change, especially deals made with criminals.”

I shoved my hands in my pockets, knowing he was right. Even treaties between MCs were tumultuous. We had been damn lucky to have peace with the Cartel as long as we did. I knew this day was coming, but knowing Jackson and Jemma were right in the middle of our territory and already having problems just shaded the news worse for me.

Prez continued, “The point is, if Aguilar decides we’re the enemy then we need to watch our backs and those of our associates. His ancestors were deadly. He may be less lethal, but we can’t and won’t count on that. A war may be coming. Our territory will be challenged, and we’ll have to defend it with our lives. I just want you to be prepared.”

The murmuring began the instant Prime stopped speaking. Anger mixed with a small amount of fear could be heard among my associates, especially the greens. Some appeared to welcome war while others preferred the peace we’d had for so long.

Blood and death weren’t my favorite things, but I’d handle whatever arose. It was my job.

Prime motioned me over for a private conversation. “Your job is more important than ever. I don’t know what’s happening in your private life, but divided loyalties cause deaths. I need you focused on sightings of Aguilar, his underboss, or unfamiliar faces. They may already have begun attempting to take over our drug territory.”

I nodded. My loyalties began and ended with the Serpent Sinners. Yet, I wouldn’t forsake Jackson and Jemma.

Especially with the things her ex was into. For all I knew The Cartel were the exact people he was mixed up with.

“With all due respect, boss, I swear I’ll take good care of our MC, but I can’t ignore my private life either. I have a gut feeling that they may be tied together because of one really big fool. You know who Jackson is, right?” I asked.

“I know everything about my men, Sweet, including who they give a damn about.”

I sighed. Prime was giving me a damn hard tome because he had to. I could see the way his veins strained against his forehead. The stress was getting to him. It was serious this time. We’d end up with a war, no doubt.

“Well, last night his father, the scum of the earth, broke into his house and hurt his mother. He was demanding money. He swore he’d be killed if he didn’t pay it to someone. He didn’t tell them who he meant, but from the way Jemma explained things I have a feeling he’s involved with Aguilar’s organization. He’s a little piece of shit in a big pile, yet he’s gotten noticed by the big man somehow. I can’t just push them aside,” I explained.

“I see. That changes things. Consider them under our protection at this time, just don’t tell them,” Prime ordered. “They could let it slip out if they’re threatened.”

I wiped the sweat off my brow. Challenging the Prez wasn’t for the weak.

My phone buzzed, and my heart sped up when I saw that it was Jackson. He was supposed to be in school. Fear for his safety made my voice gruff when I answered.

“Jackson, is he back?” I tersely asked.

“No, I don’t think so. I’m at school,” he whispered. “I snuck my phone into the bathroom. I have to ask you a question where no one can hear me.”

“You’re gonna get caught, kid,” I warned.

“I don’t care. I have to know.” There was a pause and the sound of water. Then, Jackson whispered even quieter so I had to strain to understand. “Will you teach me to fight? I have to protect my mom.”

I shook my head. This kid was something else and would make a hell of a man one day.

“It’s not your job to protect your mom. You’re just a kid. Besides, she’s barely okay with me remaining as your mentor. I can’t do anything without her permission. In fact, if she finds out you called from school she’s gonna freak,” I answered.

“I’m the only one around all the time. I can’t let my dad hurt her again. I need to know how to defend us. I have to be able to fight back. Please!”

I was a sucker when it came to the kid. He was right, I couldn’t leave him defenseless. I couldn’t leave Jemma defenseless either.

“Fine, but you have to talk to your mom about it. I won’t hide this from her. I’ll even teach her some moves so she can fight back. I just hope it never becomes necessary. Now, put the phone away and get back to your classroom,” I demanded.

Chapter 8

Jemma

Saturdays were always rushed.

I glanced at the clock as I finished juggling my bank account to cover the current bills. It was later than I expected. I wouldn’t have time to shower and change before I headed out to pick up Jackson. I’d spent too much time fretting over how to pay for the new clothes and shoes my son desperately needed. He’d outgrown almost everything, and the seasons were changing. If his current clothes were too small, then those we’d put away last year for cooler weather would never fit him.

“Mierda! Where did the fucking time go?” I cursed, a pleasure I reserved for when Jackson was absent.

I combed my fingers through my hair and grabbed my purse, knowing I was already going to be late. Jackson wouldn’t care, but Sweet probably had obligations to his MC. The last thing I wanted was for the bikers to get angry with me.

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