Page 74 of Boulder's Weight

The next hour is spent giving Kelsey a tour of the clubhouse—the main room, the kitchen, the secure areas, the garage where we work on bikes.

I introduce her to the few members who are around, watching how they assess her with curious eyes.

Word travels fast in the club.

By now, everyone knows I've claimed her, and I can see the surprise on some faces.

I've made no secret of my views on old ladies and commitment, so this sudden change has raised some eyebrows.

Kelsey murmurs as we head back toward the main building. "They're all staring at me."

"They're staring atus," I correct her. "I'm not exactly known for bringing women home. Let alone claiming one."

"Should I be flattered?" she asks, a hint of a smile playing at her lips.

"Very," I respond, finding myself grinning back. "I'm quite the catch, Montana."

Her laugh is soft but genuine, and the sound does strange things to my insides.

We're approaching the entrance when Brick jogs up, his expression serious. "Boulder, we've got a location on the brothers. They're staying at the Hotel Mirador downtown. Zorro wants us to check it out."

Kelsey tenses beside me, her hand finding mine and squeezing tight. "You're going to confront them?"

"Just reconnaissance," I lie smoothly, giving Brick a warning look. "Need to know who we're dealing with."

She doesn't look convinced. "Boulder, please be careful. Benji is?—"

"I know," I cut her off gently. "You've told me. This is just information gathering, nothing more."

Another lie, but a necessary one.

I can't have her worrying—or worse, trying to interfere.

I've seen enough club members with overprotective old ladies to know how that ends.

"I'll get geared up," Brick says, taking the hint and backing away. "Meet you at the bikes in ten."

I turn to Kelsey, taking both her hands in mine. "I'll be back before you know it. Stay here. Astra's coming by later to keep you company."

She nods, though anxiety still clouds her eyes. "Just... come back in one piece, okay?"

The concern in her voice sends a wave of warmth through me.

When was the last time someone worried about whether I came back?

Even Joslynn has gotten used to my lifestyle, the constant danger.

On impulse, I lean down and press my lips to hers.

It's not our usual heated, desperate kiss—this is something softer, a promise.

She responds immediately, one hand coming up to cup my cheek, her body melting against mine.

When I pull back, her eyes remain closed for a beat longer, her lips still slightly parted. "What was that for?" she asks, her voice husky.

"Luck. I'll see you soon."

Twenty minutes later, Brick and I are parked across from the Hotel Mirador, a mid-range establishment popular with tourists and business travelers.

---