Page 55 of Puma's Pride

Corinne and I head to the kitchen to make popcorn while the men work the electronics so we can watch Lightyear.

“Are you really feeling better?” I ask her as we wait for the air popper to finish.

“I am. When I first realized Mal was gone, I lost it. But watching Puma take charge and the way everyone responded, I finally saw what you were trying to tell me.”

“Even though they ran and hid on the roof?” I ask with a grimace. “Something that wouldn’t have happened if you weren’t here?”

She chuckles. “You would think. But no. I kept thinking about what would have happened if I’d been on my own. Mal is an easy-going kid, but we still have our disagreements. I realized that if he ever ran away, that I’d have someone to call. I know Puma and his club would never stop looking.”

“You’re right.” I tell her as we pour the popcorn into four bowls. Desdemona walks in.

“The little kids have water, the big kids have beers. I figure us adults should have some wine.”

“That sounds perfect.” I tell her as she heads to the wine fridge and pulls out a bottle of Chardonnay. After she uncorks the bottle, she grabs three glasses and follows us back to the game room.

I hand one bowl of popcorn to Diego before taking a glass from Desdemona and settling on Puma’s lap with our bowl. Corinne hands a bowl to the kids who have created a nest of blankets and pillows on the floor. She sits next to Trouble, who drapes his arm around her shoulders. Desdemona hands Corinne her glass before she takes her seat with Diego. I glance around the room and let out a soft chuckle.

“What?” Puma whispers as we watch Buzz Lightyear explore a new planet.

“We’re all paired up.” I whisper back, and he grins.

Soon we’re lost in the movie, and in watching the kids enjoy the antics of Sox. I feel a sense of peace and I hate to admit it to myself. Because as soon as you appreciate the calm, you know the storm is close.

Elina yawns hugely as the credits play out.

“I think it’s time for bed.” I say, standing up.

“I should take off.” Trouble says, running his hand down Corinne’s arm. She responds by giving him a soft kiss. He grins at her before he and Puma leave the room.

“Poor Mal.” Diego chuckles. We all turn to him and frown.

“What do you mean?” I ask him.

“He’s going to have two Presidents vying for him to join their clubs.” He says. I see Corinne grimace and I chuckle.

“I hope you weren’t thinking he could avoid the MC life.” I tell her.

She shrugs. “He could do worse.” Which turns out to be famous last words as Showtime comes running into the room.

“Cops are coming. They have a warrant and they’re searching the place.” She says. “Puma wants everyone to stay in this room. I’m staying with you.”

“Panic room?” I ask her.

She shakes her head. “Puma doesn’t think that’ll be necessary, but it is why he wants you in here, just in case.” The door to the panic room is next to Elina’s castle.

“What are they looking for, do you know?” I ask her.

“Someone called in a tip. Said the Demon Dawgs kidnapped a man and are holding him hostage on the property.” I try to keep my face impassive. But fuck. The Demon Dawgs are holding a man captive. I have to trust that Puma has him well hidden.

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE: PUMA

“I’m glad you got Corinne to stay.” Trouble says once we step outside. “She seems skittish. Not that I blame her. This has been a terrifying introduction to our world.”

I nod. “She had two scares today. She faltered a bit, but I have to say she bounced back strong. I thought for sure she’d start packing once we found the kids. You willing to take a chance with her, even though she’s skittish?”

“Yeah. I never saw myself with someone like her. I always thought I’d find someone already used to our ways. But the minute she showed up at our clubhouse looking for you. Fuck, she had me hooked.”

“I get that. Same way I felt when I met Alisa. Add in Elina and I was a goner.” I chuckle.

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