Page 60 of Coty

“Why not?” Worley asks.

“I’m still working with the cops in Knoxville. We have to be careful with this case. They know she’s here and can more than likely prove we’ve helped her at some point. Detective Hernandez wants a statement from Kayla and Kira. I explained they were the victims and not the attackers, like Coleman claimed. I told him that bringing the ladies back to Knoxville might put them in danger. After seeing the photos Lily and Nina took of their injuries, he agreed to let Sheriff Bowers take their statements. They have an appointment with the Sheriff this afternoon. When I get Detective Hernandez’s response, then we decide the day to move Kira. I vote that we move Miss Mitchell as soon as possible.”

The club officers slightly nod to each other. Mac looks out at the rest of us. “All in favor of following Nick’s plan for Miss Mitchell?”

I don’t look to see how many member raise their hands. It feels like a lot. There’s no need to ask for those who oppose. Mack does it anyway. I stay neutral. Enough agreed with Nick’s plan already. My heart hurts for Kayla. She’ll have to say goodbye to her friend soon.

“Prez?” Bankz raises his hand. Mack nods. “Are we protecting Kayla or moving her, too?”

I jump to my feet. “She’s not leaving.”

Bankz raises an eyebrow. A few of my brothers snicker.

“Of course, we’re going to protect Kayla,” Worley says.

“That brings me to my question.” Everyone turns to Jay, our newest officer. “Are we protecting Kayla Chambers as a club friend or as Rodeo’s ole’ lady?”

“Does it matter?” I snap.

“Yeah, it does.” Mack’s the one to answer. I shouldn’t have yelled at an officer, even if he is one of my best friends. “Ole’ ladies get more protection and rights within the club.”

They do. I know it. I’ve seen it many times. We protect club friends when there’s a threat against the club that could affect them, or when their lives are in danger because of us. If they call us for help, we show up. Their protection isn’t consistent, though.

“She’s mine. I claim her.”

Jack lays a hand on my shoulder. “You don’t have to. You know we’ll protect her.”

“I want to.” My eyes meet his. “I should have before we left.” I’m not trying to make him feel bad.

Jack takes a deep breath and nods. He stays by my side through the vote.

“Okay, Vikings. All in favor of Kayla Chambers being Rodeo’s ole’ lady?” Mack asks.

I keep my eyes on Jay. It’s his fault we’re taking this vote. He raises his hand. So do their other officers. I don’t look at my club brothers. I don’t want to know how they vote.

“Those opposed?” Mack waits. I still don’t look.

“Congratulations, Rodeo.” Mack gives me a firm nod. She’s mine.

“You have a road name for her you want on her property cut?” Worley asks.

Ember's words echo in my head. “Lala.” Sparky is my name for her. My brothers don’t get to use that one.

“Uh, Prez? We have a problem.” Nick clicks around on his keyboard. The large TV monitor behind the officers’ table turns on with the security footage at the front gate. Two Sheriff cars wait outside. “Patches says they have some questions for us.”

“Anyone getting arrested?” Mack asks.

“If they are, Sheriff Bowers isn’t saying.” Nick’s right. Nathan wouldn’t announce that bit of information until he was inside the gate.

“Let ‘em in. Church dismissed.” Mack taps the gavel.

The sight of the Sheriff's cars pulling through the gate makes my skin crawl. I’m still on edge because of what happened this morning. Maybe they have info for us. Only, it feels like something more.

Chapter 29

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Kayla

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