Page 111 of Steel

Austin giggles as he grips the sides of Jameson’s face, steadying himself when Jameson stands back up.

“You really don’t have to do this.”

Jameson leans in, kissing the top of my head. “And let you torture this poor kid by taking him dress shopping with you? No way. Besides, we’ve got an engine to rebuild.”

I look up at Jameson, and tears sting my eyes. With the two of them looking down on me, my heart might as wellcollapse in on itself. I’m so overwhelmed with the rush of warmth bursting in my chest.

“Have fun, wildfire.” Jameson kisses me on the forehead before turning to walk away. “Try to stay out of trouble.”

Jameson grips Austin’s legs, carrying him back into the bay, and all the guys’ heads pop up to welcome their new helper.

How am I ever going to rip Austin away from this? It’ll break his heart as much as mine.

All I can do is grip my stomach and hope I’m not the only one feeling this way.

Climbing back into the truck, I start the engine, and Pearl glances over at me.

“Looks like we lost one to the garage.”

“It’s more exciting than dress shopping, apparently.”

She nods, smiling.

The drive to the Strip is quiet, and I appreciate how easy it is to be around Pearl. She never judges and has a calming presence. I can understand why Jameson is so close with her, and I’m thankful she was there for him after his mother’s death.

I’m pretty sure if anyone is responsible for the heart he buries beneath his cut, it’s her.

“Looking for anything in particular?” Pearl asks, climbing out of the truck and following me inside the store when we get there.

Sonny and Reyes find a spot in the corner of the shop to stand and talk while we browse the racks.

“I need a dress that’ll look good over a bathing suit.” I lift one off the rack and hold it up. “Jameson said he’s movingtomorrow’s barbeque to Lake Mead, so I thought I’d find something nice for the beach. You’ll be there, right?”

“Of course. Austin has big plans for sandcastles.”

I smile at Pearl, appreciating how she’s let us into her life.

“I should probably grab another pair of black shorts while I’m here. I need to pick up a few more shifts at the bar to afford the down payment on this apartment I’ve been looking at.”

Pearl chuckles, shaking her head as she searches the rack. “You still planning on leaving?”

I shrug. “We can’t stay forever. Besides, I’m sure Jameson is looking forward to getting his space back.”

“I can promise you that’s the last thing he wants.” Pearl quirks an eyebrow.

“What makes you say that?”

“Because I know my grandson. There are very few things that he’ll protect with his whole heart when it’s easier for him to pretend he doesn’t have one. But he’ll do anything for his brothers, his club, and his family.”

“I know.”

“Then you should see that’s what you and Austin are to him now.”

I shake my head, trading one dress for another. “He’s just worried about our safety.”

“Not just your safety, Tempe. I see how he looks at you. How he looks at Austin. My grandson has never let anyone into his life the way he’s opened himself up for you two.”

I pull a dress off the rack, holding it up to me in the mirror. “I don’t know why.”

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