The light changes, and we surge forward, bringing thunder to the streets of San Jose, heading home to our clubhouse.
At another light, Green gets a better idea, and points at Joey’s. It’s a place that’s been around for years. They do bike night every Thursday, and they’ve got a cool courtyard in back.
I twist to look at Tori. “You okay to stop there, or you want me to take you home?”
She leans into me to be heard over our rumbling bikes. “I don’t want to go home yet.”
Glancing at Green, I give him a thumbs up.
Pulling in, we back into spots near the door.
Billy pulls his phone out and shoots off a text, then glances at me. “Callin’ in the girl squad. Melissa will definitely want to be here.”
I nod, thread Tori’s fingers with mine, and lead her inside.
A waitress shows the seven of us to the courtyard. When we tell her more are coming, she helps us push two long tables together.
As soon as we sit down, Tori leans to me. “I can’t believe you did that.”
But she’s smiling when she says it, so I’m not too worried if I pissed her off.
“You see the look on those two assholes' faces?” I ask.
“Yes.” Her smile fades.
“They been hassling you?” I frown, concern flooding my body, and in my head, I’m already planning another beating.
“They never get close, but I see them around, almost like Connor has them watching me.”
“He been at school this week?”
“Nope.” She sips her glass of beer. Then leans to me. “You know I’m not old enough to be drinking, don’t you?”
I grin. “Don’t think they’re going to bother us about that, babe, considering the company you’re in.”
We’re barely through the first pitcher when Melissa, Gigi, and my sister, Fiona show up.
Melissa makes a beeline for Tori and hugs her. “You are not forgiven for blowing us off for brunch. I don’t care how mad you are at this guy, understand?”
“Sorry.” Tori makes a face.
“Tori, you know Melissa and Gigi. This dark-haired beauty is my sister, Fiona.”
Fiona smiles and bumps my arm. “Don’t believe a word he’s told you about me. None of it is true.”
“I haven’t told her anything about you, kid,” I say.
“Sure. I bet.” She lifts a brow. “Everything that comes out of his mouth is a lie.”
“What are you talking about?” I frown.
“Um. Taco Tuesday? You blew me off.”
Christ. I did.
“Fuck. I’m sorry, Fee. I didn’t mean to forget.”
“See,” Fiona throws a hand toward me. “You can’t believe anything he says.”