Page 12 of Ranch's Resolve

After my last client leaves, I take a few minutes to organize my files and update my notes. I enjoy this part of the day when it's quiet and I’m alone with my thoughts. Working with men and women struggling with trauma makes my mind a busy place. These quiet moments help me purge the emotions I deal with daily so I can prepare to do it all again tomorrow.

A knock on the outer door draws my attention as I lock up my desk. Raven would have locked up before leaving for the day. I approach with caution until I hear a familiar voice calling my name.

CHAPTER SEVEN: RANCH

When we arrive at the clubhouse, a limo awaits us in the parking lot. I’m not surprised when Angela steps out, but I do a double-take when I see Manuel is with her. Dante parks his bike and greets his mother.

“Mother,” Dante says, leaning over to kiss her cheek. He’s unnaturally stiff with her, and the hurt on Angela’s face says she noticed.

“We need to talk,” Angela says.

He nods and leads the way inside.

“Are we still having Church?” Grimm asks Dante.

“Let me talk with Angela first.”

Dante leads Angela and Manuel into his office. The rest of us head to the bar to grab beers before taking seats. I sit with Byte.

“Heard you're heading to Chicago,” I say.

“Yep. Taking the red-eye. Chrome needs help after the attack on Mode.”

“Someone attacked Mode?”

“Yeah. Someone attacked him in his office when Min and I were hunting down skips,” Babe says as he sits. “He was still unconscious when we left.”

“In his office? How the hell did someone get to him there?” I ask, flabbergasted.

“Chrome has a fucking traitor in his club. That’s why I’m going to Chicago.”

“Are you going to be safe on your own?” I ask Byte.

“The Nomads are there.”

“You can trust Bush. He’s solid,” Babe says.

“Ranch!” Dante hollers.

I jump up and head toward Dante.

“What’s up?”

“This involves you. Or, more specifically, the ranch.”

I nod at Angela and Manuel before sitting on the couch.

“I owe you both an apology,” Manuel starts. “I lied to you earlier.”

“About what?” I ask.

“Almost everything,” he admits.

“Maybe we should start at the beginning,” Angela interrupts. “First off, Manuel works for me. He and his partners have been helping me transport at-risk men, women, and children. My organization is under attack. I have an enemy. I haven’t been able to identify them. He’s attacking those who are associated with my cartels. Not the main members but families and support staff. He’s targeting people who can’t defend themselves. I know he’s trying to drive a wedge between my people and the innocents they protect and associate with.”

I glance at Dante and see the concern on his face.

“What do you think they want?”

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