Page 25 of Brick's Retribution

If someone is still following us, they're either extremely skilled or determined.

Brick hasn't spoken much, just occasional instructions barked over his shoulder—hold tighterwhen the terrain gets rough,lean with mewhen we take sharp curves.

The raw power of the man is evident in every movement, in the controlled way he handles the heavy bike through terrain that would challenge most riders.

It would be impressive if I weren't so damn uncomfortable.

My legs are cramping, my back aches, and even though I’m wearing a leather jacket, the desert wind has a bite to it as the sun goes down.

Just when I'm about to demand a break, Brick slows, turning onto what barely qualifies as a trail.

He navigates carefully between rocks and cacti until we reach a small outcropping that provides some shelter from prying eyes.

"Break," he says, killing the engine. "Fifteen minutes."

I dismount somewhat less gracefully than I'd like, my legs wobbling after hours of being locked around the machine.

Brick watches, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Water?" He offers a bottle from his saddlebag.

I accept it gratefully, taking long swallows before handing it back.

As he drinks, I study him openly for the first time.

The man is a weapon—every movement precise, efficient, and controlled.

I get a good look at him, noting how I think bald men are typically ugly… but this bald man is the sexiest man on earth.

The prospect cut he wears shows off arms corded with muscle, tattoos snaking up to disappear beneath his t-shirt.

But it's his eyes that catch me—deep amber flecked with gold, constantly scanning our surroundings, missing nothing.

The eyes of a predator.

His voice startles me out of my assessment. "See something interesting?"

"Just trying to figure out if my father's faith in you is justified," I answer coolly.

A muscle ticks in his jaw. "Not your father's. My Prez's."

Ah, a point of pride. "And how is Amara these days? We haven't caught up in months."

Surprise flickers across his face. "You two are close then? She mentioned you were friends."

"Since we were teenagers. The relationship between our families and all that, but we actually get along, unlike most arranged family alliances." I smile slightly at the memories. "She was always the wild one, even before the MC. Used to drive her father crazy with her rebellious streak."

Brick's expression softens slightly. "Sounds like the Prez I know. She runs the charter with the same fire."

"I'm not surprised. I always knew she'd end up leading something. Too stubborn to follow anyone else's rules." I pause, studying him. "She must think highly of you to trust you with this assignment."

"I trust her judgment completely," he says without hesitation. "With my life. With the lives of everyone in my club."

Something that feels like envy flickers through me.

I can't remember the last time I trusted anyone so completely.

Maybe I never have.

"And she trusts you to deliver me safely," I comment.

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