Page 65 of Joker's Ghost
The call disconnects, and I plan on another sleepless night of walking the floors, my mind on a loop.
As expected, I slept like shit last night. Since I was up anyway, I took the nighttime feedings so Daisy could get some rest. I never minded the night feedings ‘cause it gave me quiet time with my baby girl. Staring into her perfect face calmed me and made me believe there was good in the world.
After lunch, Daisy told me if I didn’t go out for a ride on my Harley or go anywhere away from the condo, she was going to physically throw me out. Can’t get more direct than that, but I couldn’t blame her. I couldn’t even stand myself.
After a short ride that did nothing to calm me down, I ended up at The Gold Mine.
“No wonder Daisy threw your ass out.” Rattler slides a much-needed shot of Jack in front of me. “You’re a fuckin’ pain in the ass.”
“First of all,” I down the shot, “she didn’t throw me out. She suggested I go for a ride on my bike.”
“Not what I heard.” Cobra slides onto the stool next to me. “According to Sheena, you’ve been driving her fuckin’ nuts.”
I throw him a side-eye. “You know the way women talk.”
“Not our women. They call it as they see it, no bullshit, no drama.”
The annoying prick was right, but damn, I wasn’t gonna admit it.
“Fine, believe your wife over your VP.” I sulk into my shot glass, and Rattler refills it.
“After tonight, everything goes back to normal. Then we can concentrate on getting that room downstairs up and running.”
The same slithering chill creeps up my spine as the first time I saw that cobweb-filled room in the basement. Something else I didn’t wanna think about.
Later that night, we congregate in the club room we use for church with two prospects stationed at the back door waiting for Warrior’s arrival. When he shows, they will check him for weapons, escort him to the door of the club room, then knock and wait until Cobra gives the okay for entry. This protocol has been set in place to intimidate—and fuck yeah, it works every damn time.
We’re ready and waiting with Cobra at the head of the polished hardwood table with a serpent etched up themiddle. I’m at his right hand, with Python at his left, and the other brothers taking the remaining seats.
When the knock on the door comes, Cobra waits a full ten seconds then calls to the prospect to let Warrior enter.
The ancient Nomad enters slowly, yet the power of his presence is clear as he takes in his surroundings. He waits with the quiet strength that comes from years of living the outlaw life until Cobra points to a vacant seat to his left between Python and Boa.
Warrior settles into the chair, and Cobra knocks a cig out of the pack on the table. He plugs it between his lips, and Python takes his time lighting him up.
Warrior shifts in his seat, and I suppress a smile. Cobra has an inner patience, a calm that allows him to control the room and command attention.
Cobra drags deep then blows the smoke to the ceiling. “I think we can cut to the chase since we’re all aware of the bullshit that’s been going on between our clubs for the last two weeks.”
“Some of our members have brought disgrace to the club.” Warrior bows his head, then focuses on Cobra. “Through actions I didn’t condone or sanction.”
“But they still happened under your rule, which, by club law, makes it your responsibility.”
“Of course, and be assured they will be handled accordingly.”
Cobra’s lips split into an evil grin. “We’ve already handled some of them, but it seems like the bigger problem rests with Blade and Arrow.”
“They are a huge disappointment. I knew there was unrest with the younger members defying traditional ways, but I had no idea my two right-hand men were against me and part of the takeover.”
“Were you aware they set up a phony meeting a week ago,then, when we were an hour out of Vegas, they sent one of your members to my VP’s house to terrorize his wife?”
Warrior sucks in a deep breath. “And for that I am supremely sorry.”
Cobra barks out a harsh laugh. “Yeah, well, sorry ain’t gonna cut it.” He nods to me.
I lean into the table. “That fucker knocked my pregnant wife around, made her go into labor, and if it wasn’t for my son kicking the shit outta him, who knows what could’ve happened.” I slam my hand against the table and growl, “He came into my home where my wife and kids live.”
“I understand, and they will be dealt with.”
