Page 25 of Boulder's Weight

She's talking with a tall, muscular man whose back is to me.

My stomach drops when I see the cut he's wearing—Reapers Rejects MC, with an "Enforcer" patch prominent on the back.

This must be Python.

I don’t even know why I’m nervous.

I knew the club was tied to this joint.

The club is here to help me if I need it, not hurt me.

I just… I don’t want Boulder knowing I’m staying here. At least, not yet.

"Kelsey! Come meet my husband," she calls, waving me over.

Plastering on my best customer service smile, I approach them, mentally cataloging escape routes out of pure habit.

Python turns, and I get my first good look at him—mid-thirties, olive-skinned, with dark eyes that seem to miss nothing.

A scar runs along his jawline, disappearing into his beard.

He's intimidating in the way all club men are, but there's a softness in how he looks at Astra that catches me off guard.

"So you're the new girl Astra's been talking about," he says, extending a hand. "Welcome to Mexico."

I shake his hand, relieved when I see no sign of recognition in his eyes. "Thanks. It's been great so far."

"Tara said you were a quick learner," he comments, and my heart stutters at the direct mention of my connection to the Montana charter.

"You know Tara?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

Python nods. "Been up to the national charter a few times. She spoke highly of you."

I force a smile, mind racing.

What did Tara tell him about me?

How much does he know?

"She's a good friend," I say carefully. "Helped me out when I needed it."

Python's eyes sharpen slightly at that, but his expression remains friendly. "That's what the club does. We take care of our own and those connected to us."

There's a weight to his words that feels significant, like he's telling me something important.

Before I can puzzle it out, the bell above the door chimes, signaling new customers.

"I should get back to work," I say, grateful for the interruption.

Python nods, turning back to Astra. "I'll pick you up at closing, yeah?"

She smiles, reaching up to kiss him. "See you then, babes."

As I help the new customers, I can't help but notice Python leaving, his gaze sweeping the street outside before he exits.

It's a practiced move, the kind of awareness I've developed myself since running from my family.

The rest of my shift passes in a blur of coffee orders and cat care, but my mind keeps returning to Python's words. "We take care of our own."

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