Page 41 of Shattering Nash

“Okay.” She nodded, grinning.

Nash stepped aside, and Penny gripped her arm, dragging her and Keely down the hallway and into the parking lot. Keely was talking, basically cheering her on for kissing him, but all her thoughts were on Nash.

This was the best night ever!

****

What. The. Fuck.

Nash was prepared for most things life threw at him. Little surprised him anymore. But Charley? Fuck, he hadn’t seen this coming. Had she been sober, this would’ve never happened. But she wasn’t. All her inhibitions were on full display with her guard down. He clenched his jaw, forcing himself not to react to anything, including the aftermath.

Nash remained standing with his back to the exit as she slipped past him, brushing her hand over his arm.Playing with fire, kitten.A fraction of his control had slipped when she’d kissed him, but he’d reigned it in, setting a safe distance betweenthem. He hadn’t given in to the temptation, but it was a feat. Smooth pouty lips gliding over his begging to taste him. Had they been alone, Nash wouldn’t have hesitated.

Nash thought he was in the clear until she mentioned her dream. It sparked another test of his control. He’d managed to tamp his reaction and desire down. Not an easy task with her standing in front of him. He’d done it.Barely.

Nash rolled his shoulders. He’d always been discreet with women. This was probably the first time security had even seen a woman touch him.

He heard the door open and their voices fade. Nash waited for the metal door to lock in place. He drew in a breath and opened his clenched fists. When he turned, he caught Noelle standing a few feet away. Their conversation from earlier only inflamed his anger to new levels. She’d aggravated the situation with Charley’s friend. It added another reason why she had no place amongst Oz’s security. Part of their positions was to fly under the radar and go undetected, not escalate an already tense situation.

“Club is closed, Noelle.” Nash leveled her with his eyes. “Leave. Now.”

She whipped her head around, glaring at him. “That wasn’t my fault, Nash. Keely is an immature brat.”

Nash hardened his gaze and stalked toward her, stopping a few feet away. “No. She was a guest at the club. One you chose to instigate an altercation with. Proving once again” —He ground his teeth— “You do not belong here. Consider this your notice. Unless you are summoned by Oz himself, you’re not welcome here. Do you understand me?”

“Nash,” she whispered.

“Do you understand?” he repeated.

She probably had a few choice words she wanted to share, but she knew better than to do it in front of an audience. Shestormed down the hall and out the door. Hopefully, this was the last he’d see of her for a very long while.

Nash started down the hall, flanked by Ridge and Caine. “I want them followed home. Make sure theyallget home safely.”

“Yes, sir,” Ridge said, passing him by.

Nash took the elevator upstairs. He needed space from the others and a minute to center himself. That whole scene with Charley had been the ultimate mindfuck.Showing me what I want but can’t have.A night or two, maybe. But Nash wouldn’t get it all. Women like Charley got married to nice guys, lived in a picket-fenced neighborhood, and had babies.I don’t get that.Their world for the Kings had changed with the arrival of Dahlia, Quinn, and Elodie. But Nash wasn’t a king. He wasn’t given those choices. He’d taken an oath years ago. His loyalty and devotion was solely for the Underground, forsaking all others.

He was halfway down the hall when his phone rang, and he dug in his pocket. He was hoping it was his contact in regards to Charley’s situation. It wasn’t, but was still a call he’d been waiting on. He tapped the screen.

“Yeah.”

Nash could hear music in the background and a barrage of voices.

“Wednesday at ten.Sharp.Her words, not mine, but you know Inez. One minute late and she ain’t opening the fucking door, brother,” Ace said.

Nash rolled his eyes, dragging the palm of his hand down his face. He knew all too well. He’d make a point of showing up early with an expensive bottle of vodka. Her favorite. It wouldn’t win him any points with her. Her grudge with Nash was still strong and thriving.But at least it’ll get me in the door.

“Thanks,” Nash said.

“Later.”

While he had Ace, he may as well inquire about a different matter. It was a long shot but one worth taking.

“Ace.”

“Yeah?” he asked.

“Have you ever heard of Cody Hudson? Lives in Lawry.” There was minimal information on her brother.

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