Page 109 of Sacrifice
The prospects snicker.
I give them a look that sends them scurrying back to work.
"Let's just focus on moving," I suggest.
"And 'Homemade Dog Treat Recipes,'" Elfe continues, clearly enjoying herself. "That was for knowledge purposes too?"
"Dogs respond better to training with high-value treats," I defend. "It's a tactical advantage."
"Tactical dog cookies. Right."
Saga's laughing so hard she has to lean against the truck.
Even the prospects are struggling to hide their grins.
"I hate all of you," I announce.
"No, you don't," Saga manages between giggles. "You love us. That's why you're researching homemade dog treats."
"They’re security assets and they’ll need proper nutrition."
"Keep telling yourself that, Martha Stewart," Elfe teases.
The next hour passes in complete chaos.
The prospects work efficiently, years of following orders, showing how dedicated they are to being part of the club.
I supervise, my arm preventing me from lifting anything heavier than a coffee mug.
It's frustrating, watching others do work I should be handling.
"This is weird," Saga says, watching Hakon carefully wrap her dishes. "Having people pack for us."
"Get used to it. You're an old lady now. Prospects help old ladies."
"I can pack my own stuff."
"Not the point. It's about respect. For you and for me." I pull her against my side. "My name on your back means something."
"I'm learning that." She watches Aren struggle with a bookshelf. "Should we help?"
"No. They need to learn. Plus, my arm's fucked and you're supposed to be supervising, not doing anything."
"This feels very traditional gender roles."
"Welcome to MC life. Though you'll notice Elfe's not packing either."
"That's because she's actually injured."
"So am I."
"You're milking it."
"I got shot protecting you. I'll milk it as long as I want."
She laughs, kisses my cheek. "Fair enough."
"Besides," I add, watching Ulf try to figure out how to pack Elfe's kitchen gadgets, "this is good training for them. Problem-solving, working as a team, following directions. All skills they'll need."
