Page 44 of Bone's Destiny

“Yeah. You sound different.”

“How so?” I took a long pull of my beer and admired the spectacular view of the mountains and the blue sky from my window.

“You sound happy.”

“Oh. I guess I am.”

“Does Destiny have something to do with it?”

“I don’t know.”

“When you left Fargo, you were pretty frustrated with our folks. I’m glad you’re doing okay.”

“Yeah. Was there another reason you wanted me to call?” I didn’t want to discuss Lady M, and I wasn’t ready for him to know about my friends-with-benefits relationship with Destiny. I didn’t think he’d care, but he’d probably tell the family, then I’d get a million questions.

“Actually, yes.”

“Lemme hear it.”

“There are two things. Karma had an appointment this afternoon because she was having contractions. She’s only in her third trimester. It’s too early for the baby to come.”

“Shit, brother.”

“Yeah, she was put on bed rest. Nothing crazy. She just needs to stay off her feet more.” He paused for a second. “I’ve pushed out the meeting with the Hell’s Bells.”

“Really? That sucks.” I hadn’t thought about them all week. My burn scars itched, a reminder of the pain I suffered and why I wanted to end them.

“Too bad. I’m not going to risk missing my son’s birth like I did Nova’s.” His words stung, but I wouldn’t let myself get worked up. He wasn’t being a dick to me. Probably didn’t realize what he’d said about Nova. He hadn’t been there the day she was born because of me.

Stay in control. “What’s the other thing?”

“It’s been a week since you had the girl with you. I wanted an update.”

“I texted you everything she’s told me, which wasn’t much.”

“No, it wasn’t, but I appreciate it.” He cleared his throat. “Lady M is home. When my boy is born, do you plan to come home to meet your nephew?”

Of course, I wanted to meet my first nephew. “What about Destiny? I don’t feel comfortable leaving her here. Wondered if I should bring her when Hope has Hustler’s baby. How’s she doing?”

“Hope’s crabby but good. Since she’s past her due date, they might induce if nothing happens in the next week. I don’t think you have anything to worry about. Buff’s kept eyes on Roland. If you want to bring her with you, we’ll lock up her old man.”

“I’ll think about it. With Lady M home, there could be drama.”

“I’ve been thinking about that. You should just tell the family. Get that shit off your chest once and for all. Let whatever happens happen. I honestly believe the others will be on your side. And I’ll have your back.”

I thought of Destiny. She’d probably say to do it. “Like I said, I’ll think about it. What’s up with Forrest?” I changed the subject before Cobra pushed too much, and I exploded. I’d say that was progress.

“Not much. Until we get something concrete, we’re not touching him.”

“He’s not around Piper, is he?”

“No. Spectre’s been guarding her. She’s so damn stubborn, refusing to miss work.”

I laughed. “She’s always been that way. A spunky biker princess. Nova’s just like her.”

“Christ, I know it.” Cobra laughed.

We fell into easy conversation. My brother talked, and I listened. It felt like old times before I discovered I had a different mother than everyone else and hated the world.

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