Page 33 of Baby for the Bikers

Across the lot, I notice we’ve drawn attention. Evie stands with her daughters, the younger one—Violet, I think—pointing excitedly at Rowan’s display.

Rowan completes another circuit before bringing the bike to a stop in front of us and killing the engine. Her cheeks are flushed, eyes bright with a joy I haven’t seen from her before.

“So,” she says, casual as can be, “can I borrow it sometimes?”

Maddox bursts out laughing. “Hell yes, you can.”

Even Ryder nods, the corner of his mouth twitching in what might be a smile.

“We’ll see,” I say, trying to maintain some authority.

Her smile falters slightly. “You’ll take it back once my debt’s paid?”

The hint of disappointment in her voice hits me unexpectedly. “I didn’t say that. We’ll figure something out when the time comes.”

“Really?” She brightens instantly. “You’re not messing with me?”

“Get it in writing, princess,” Maddox advises with a grin. “Brick here can be a hardass about contracts.”

She surprises us all by launching forward and throwing her arms around me in a spontaneous hug. “Thank you!”

Her body presses against mine, soft curves meeting hard muscle, her scent—vanilla mixed with leather and night air—filling my lungs. My hands move to her waist automatically, and for one dangerous moment, I contemplate pulling her closer.

Before I can act on the impulse, she’s released me and moved to hug Maddox, then—more hesitantly—Ryder. My body feels colder where she was pressed against it seconds ago.

“We should head out,” I say, voice rougher than intended.

14

BRICK

The ride homeis mercifully quick. Rowan rides with Maddox again, her arms wrapped around his waist, head tilted back to catch the night air. I focus on the road ahead, trying to ignore the jealousy that’s been gnawing at me all night.

After dropping Rowan at her apartment—Maddox lingering longer than necessary at her door—we head to our place on the outskirts of town. The house is dark and quiet, which is just how I like it after a night of noise and crowds.

“Beer?” Maddox offers, heading for the kitchen.

“Pass.” I check my phone, noting three more missed calls from Teller. “Got some calls to return.”

“At this hour?” Maddox raises an eyebrow.

“Club business,” I say simply, and he nods, understanding immediately.

In my office, I close the door before returning Teller’s call. He answers on the first ring.

“Took you long enough,” he growls without preamble.

“Was at the races. What’s up?”

“Meeting’s moved to tomorrow morning. Nine sharp.”

“Something wrong?”

“Maybe.” He sighs. “Matthews from Cerberus will be calling in. Said it concerns you three directly.”

My blood cools. Cerberus doesn’t make social calls. “We’ll be there.”

“Good.” He hesitates. “Might want to leave the pretty baker at home for this one.”

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