Page 6 of Stella
“Anytime!” he calls.
I grab my bag, hold my tea, the paper bag, and the rest of my self-esteem, and head toward those double doors that now look like the most intimidating thing in the world.
Did they paint them recently? They look darker, the more I come closer. Then I halt, staring at the doors.Am I supposed to knock? Is this a test?
I doubt any of them knock, but that’s not going to help me now.
Don’t argue.
Don’t fuss.
Be polite.
Bite your tongue even if one of them annoys the fuck out of you.
Above all else, be proud.
I clear my throat, then raise my hand in a knocking motion, but I swipe air as the door opens like magic. Huh.
“Mornin’, Stella,” my dad says as my eyes widen. Oh, no. What is he doing here?
“Dad?”
“Come in.”
I’m about to give him a mouthful, but when I step foot inside, all the committee members are sitting there. Every one of them.
Cash.
Ryder.
Jett.
Hawk.
Tag.
Bronco.
Priest.
Riot.
Nevada.
My fucking Dad.
Perfect. This is just freaking perfect!
I thought it was going to be just me, Cash and Ryder?
Keep your head up. Do not show any fear!
I fling my long tendrils back off my shoulder and wave with the hand not carrying my tea. “Morning, boys,” I say, chirpily. “Glad you could all make it.”
2
CALE
