Page 216 of Scatter the Bones

I’m too overwhelmed to speak. Words keep firing through my brain but fizzling out on my tongue. I never expected Margot to go to all this trouble. To want to rideat all.And I neverplanned to push her into it. That she obviously gave it so much thought—researching what to wear and then buying it all by herself. I can’t wrap my head or heart around what a massive gesture this is for her.

“Yes, I want you on the back of my bike. You don’t have to if you don’t want to, though. No pressure.”

She blows out a long breath and slowly nods. “I know. I talked to some of the girls about riding. Hope told me how nervous she was at first, but that Rock made sure she was comfortable.”

She squeezes her eyes shut and chuckles softly. “Shelby told me the first ride Rooster gave her she was wearing a wet sundress and afraid she was going to get splattered on the road, but Rooster was so careful with her…” Her voice trails off and she shrugs.

I flick my gaze to the ceiling.Thank you First Lady and songbird for sharing those stories with Margot.

Margot must’ve done extensive research and purchased the most high-end safety gear she could get her hands on. Motorcycle-specific jeans with Kevlar lining and knee armor. She chose a summer jacket with a ventilated mesh lining and elbow armor. Almost exactly what I would’ve chosen for her.

“You’re not fucking around,” I say, admiring the gloves and boots. “When did you buy all this?” And where’s she been hiding it?

“When you were in Vegas?” She lifts her head and stares at me with wide, worried eyes. “Is it too much? I’m a big nerd, aren’t I?”

“Nope.” I cup her cheeks and lean down to kiss her forehead. “You’re perfect.”

Margot

Jigsaw’s lips touch my forehead, and my whole body goes still.

He’s so patient. And holds me like I’m something precious.

Not fragile. Not weak. So important to him that I know I’ll be safe on the back of his bike.

He brushes his knuckles down my arm and nods toward the gear. “You ready, Little Lady Death?”

No.

Not even close.

But I nod anyway. “Let’s do this before I lose my nerve.”

He helps me gear up without making a joke about how long it takes me to fasten the gloves or adjust the knee armor. Just smooth, steady patience.

Heart thudding in my throat, I follow him outside.

His bike’s already waiting in the driveway. Gleaming chrome and matte black metal—intimidating and beautiful. It looks fast even when it’s parked. Sturdier than Cain’s bike. So maybe that’s a good thing. Maybe that means it’s safer.

Nope.Don’t go there. You’re doing this today.

I stop short a few feet away.

It’s one thing to say, “take me for a ride.” Another thing entirely to willingly climb on that beast.

Jigsaw turns, nothing but concern on his face. “You sure?”

No. But I love you.

So I give him the only truth that matters. “I trust you.”

He nods once, serious as death. Helps me fasten my helmet, then swings his leg over and settles into the seat.

He holds out his hand.

I take it.

“Put one hand on my shoulder. Foot on the peg, and swing your leg over.”

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