Page 42 of You're My Person - For Always

Big John had gone to Federal to meet with the president of Moroad Motorcycle Club to learn how dangerous Valdones' threat to Gem Haven was.

Big John took a long drink, then wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. "No one needs to tell us that Valdones is bad news. They've got ties with Los Li, and the Cartel isn't afraid to use them. It's why they're putting the heat on us, trying to push into our territory. They've tried before, and they'll keep trying."

Kingsley's jaw tightened. "We can't let that happen. What about the other clubs in the area? Think they'll back us up?"

"Some will, some won't. Moroad is with us, but we need more allies if we're going to keep Gem Haven safe." Big John's voice grew low and serious. "We're surrounded by other clubs. We need to take advantage of that, or we'll lose a lot of men."

Zane nodded. "I've taken that into account."

Kingsley leaned back, considering the implications. Zane wasn't afraid of using other clubs to keep a strong barrier around Gem Haven. Valdones were pushing closer and closer to them.

The stakes were higher with their dad in prison, unable to help. It was up to them to keep the members safe.

Big John leaned forward. "Who can we trust to stand with us?"

Zane's lips curled. "I've got a phone meeting lined up with Ronacks Motorcycle Club. We'll start there. They might be interested in a mutual defense pact. They've had their run-ins with Valdones, too."

"Good. The more pressure we put on Valdones, the better."

"Should we call a meeting?" asked Big John.

"Not yet." Zane finished his beer. "We're going to stay calm, stay aware, and if need be, come out shooting."

The three men exchanged nods, knowing they'd do what was necessary. Over the months, they'd built their armory. The members were ready. Zane had put the youngest members with seasoned members and trained them in how Gem Haven handles threats. They were all armed, and most importantly, the mountain was secure once again, as they'd stopped Valdones from burning them out.

River and Kenna walked into the bar, talking to each other. Kingsley's gut tightened. That right there was why he'd protect Gem Haven with his life.

He wanted a safe place for Kenna.

"The girls are here," said Zane.

No one needed to tell him when Kenna walked into a room. His body was attuned to her.

He slapped Big John's arm and motioned for him to get out of the booth so he could leave the table. "I'll catch you both later."

He approached Kenna and stood behind her until she stopped talking. Then he put his hand on the back of her neck. She turned with a smile on her face, knowing it was him.

He kissed her softened lips. He'd take every stolen moment to show the world who she belonged to.

"Rested?" he asked.

Since it was her day off, and he had to meet Zane at the clubhouse, he let her sleep after having sex with her that morning. They were busy dealing with the men until the afternoon.

"I slept until one o'clock." She wound her arms around his waist. "I can't believe how tired I was."

He grinned, knowing he'd worn her out. She pinched his side where he was ticklish. He squirmed without letting her go.

"Hungry?" He chuckled, rubbing his side against her.

She shook her head. "River made me a grilled cheese sandwich after I woke up. You?"

"Just finished eating." He looked into her eyes, wanting to escape and have her to himself. "Up for a ride?"

Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "Always."

He made eye contact with Zane and motioned his head toward the door, letting him know he was taking off before leaving. He kissed her hard at the Harley before throwing his leg over the seat. She climbed behind him, wrapping her arms tightly around his waist.

The engine roared to life. He looped around and took the way out of Gem Haven but before he reached the county road, he turned and stopped at the gate. They locked it to keep the trespassers out and let the campers know they'd need to hike in. It was too beautiful an area to let mud crawlers in the off-season and teenagers spraying graffiti on tree trunks and rock croppings ruin everything.

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