Page 18 of Ruthless Sin

Angel takes her place next to Vice-President Butcher, and I settle into my usual spot – right hand side, two seats down from Hellfire. The irony of my position as the club's protector while I'm sleeping with the president's daughter isn't lost on me.

"Now that everyone's here," Hellfire's voice fills the room, "let's talk about the Outlaws."

Crow leans forward. "Word is they're gathering forces. Called in members from other chapters."

"They're planning something big," Butcher adds from his corner. "My contact at the docks says they've been moving unusual shipments. Fewer girls and more weapons."

"They're preparing for war," I say, meeting Hellfire's eyes. "After tonight, they'll want blood."

"Tonight?" Wrath asks, looking between Angel and me. "What happened tonight?"

Hellfire nods at Angel, giving her the floor. She stands, and I feel proud of her steady voice as she recounts the Crossroads incident. No one interrupts, but I see hands tightening on the table and faces darkening with anger as she describes the Outlaws' threats.

"They recognized you?" Wrath asks when she finishes.

"Yes. They knew exactly who I was."

"This changes things," Maverick speaks up. "They're not just hitting us or our business anymore. They're targeting family."

"Exactly," Hellfire's voice is deadly calm. "They came after my daughter. Think they're sending a message? Fine. Let's send one back."

"What's the play?" I ask, already thinking through strategies.

"We hit them where it hurts," Hellfire stands, planting his hands on the table. "We've destroyed one of their weapon stashes, but that seems to haven't been enough. Their drug routes? We're shutting them down. Their allies? We'll make sure everyone knows backing the Outlaws is a death sentence."

Murmurs of agreement fill the room. This is what we do best – strategic violence with a purpose.

"Ruthless," he turns to me, and for a moment, I see not just my president but my brother-in-arms. "You'll lead the drug routes raid. Take whoever you need."

I nod, already mentally selecting my team. "We'll need intel first. Location, security details."

"Already on it," Crow grins. "Got a lead on one of their prospects. Kid's got a gambling problem and loose lips when he drinks."

"Good." Hellfire looks around the table. "This isn't just about territory anymore. This is about family. About showing them what happens when you threaten one of our own."

"I want in," Angel says suddenly, and the room goes quiet again.

"No," Hellfire and I say simultaneously, which draws a few knowing looks from around the table.

Angel stands again, her eyes blazing.

"I earned my patch. I can fight – I proved it tonight. And they came after me. I deserve to be part of this."

"Angel—" Hellfire starts, but she cuts him off.

"No, Dad. You can't keep protecting me forever. I'm Iron & Blood. If we're going to war, I want to be on the front lines, not hidden away like some princess in a tower."

Pride and fear war in my chest. She's right – she's earned her place. But the thought of her in direct combat with the Outlaws makes my blood run cold.

"She has a point," Butcher speaks up, surprising everyone. "Girl can handle herself. Plus, having her involved sends a stronger message. Shows we trust our women to fight alongside us."

Hellfire's eyes meet mine across the table, and I see my own conflict mirrored there. We both want to protect her, but we also know what it means to be denied your right to fight.

"Fine," Hellfire finally says, though his voice is tight. "But you work with Ruthless's team. You follow orders. No lone wolf shit."

"Understood," Angel nods, but I can see the victory shine in her eyes.

"Now," Hellfire continues, "Butcher, what's the status on our weapons?"

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