Page 60 of Wrath

“He was chosen as the club’s new enforcer for a reason, Mia.”

“What?” I was stunned. Wrath hadn’t mentioned anything to me about it. Neither had Dad. “When did that happen?”

“He was voted in a couple of days ago.”

“And what about Dad?”

“He stepped down.”

“What?”

Wyatt shook his head. “You knew it was coming. He’s been talking about it for months.”

“I know, but I didn’t think he’d actually do it. The club and his position mean everything to him.”

“Which is why he’s spent so much time making sure Wrath was ready to step up and take his place.” He cocked his brow. “I can’t believe Wrath didn’t tell you about all this, especially with you two being so close and all.”

“I’m sure he had his reasons.”

“I’m sure he did, too.” His tone grew serious as he explained, “You know, this is going to be a tough transition for him. A lot is riding on him, and he doesn’t need any distractions, Mia. Not from you or anyone else.”

“A distraction. Really?” Those were not the words I was hoping to hear. I was falling for Wrath. I was falling hard and fast—and if the kiss we shared was any indication, he felt the same way about me. And I hoped that was the case, but I wasn’t good at relationships and feared I might have it all wrong. And hearing the resistance in my brother’s voice wasn’t helping matters. Knowing what he’d just gone through with the love of his life, I asked, “Is that what Elsie was to you? A distraction?”

“That’s different.”

“No. Actually, it’s not. In fact, it’s the same damn thing, and you know it.” I couldn’t hide the hurt in my voice as I told him, “I would’ve thought you, of all people, would’ve been more understanding. Clearly, I was wrong.”

I immediately turned and started walking out of the room, but stopped when I heard him shout, “Mia, wait.”

“It’s fine, Wyatt.” I turned to face him. “I got it. I will do my best not to be a distraction. Not to Wrath or anyone else.”

“Come on, Mia. Don’t be like that.”

“Don’t be what?” I snapped. “Hurt? Angry? I mean, I know this isn’t an ideal situation. I know it won’t be easy. I know Wrath isn’t easy, but you are my brother. You’re supposed to have my back, just like I’ve always had yours.”

“It’s not like that. I do have your back.”

“Then, act like it.”

Without saying another word, I turned and stormed out of his office. I was both angry and disappointed as I trekked down the hall. I was hoping for some advice from the person who knew me best. I was delving in uncharted waters, and while it felt unbelievable to be there, I was terrified that the fast pace of the current might take me under.

I wanted him to tell me that everything was going to be okay and that I had nothing to worry about. Unfortunately, my dear sweet brother was too focused on the club and what the brothers needed to care about what I wanted or needed.

But then again, it wasn’t just about me. It never was.

The club came first.

Period.

It was something I should’ve been used to. Everything was always about the club, but on this particular occasion, it stung and I wanted nothing more than to get as far away from my brother and the clubhouse as I possibly could. I rushed out to the parking lot and went straight to my car. I was about to pull out the gate when Rooster stepped out and stopped me. I rolled down my window and smiled. “Hey, Rooster. How’s it going?”

“Can’t complain.” A smirk crossed his face, and I knew right then why he’d stopped me. “I heard you ran into some trouble the other day.”

“You heard about that, huh?”

“We all did.” He chuckled. “Damn. I would’ve given my left nut to see you two going at it.”

“Well, if it makes you feel any better, it didn’t last long.”

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