“You haven’t got enough men to satisfy that demand, Ghost. And that’s the problem.” He’s hissing again. I roll my eyes at him.

“We’re recruiting.”

“Recruiting from where exactly?”

“There are men who want to leave the Undertakers and move to the Whisperers.”

“You stealing brothers from me?”

“Nope.”

I can almost smell the testosterone flooding the room. I hold my hand up once more.

“If numbers are the only issue Ty has, and brothers are queuing up to switch from one MC to another, then I’m not sure what the problem is. Last I heard, America is a free country. These men are allowed to do what they like. As far as I can see, it’s a win-win for all parties concerned from a business point of view. If the Irish can sell farther afield, that means they can broaden their customer base along all their transport routes. With more brothers, we could even consider handovers mid-route. You know, by using that expression neither of you seem to have heard of before. Teamwork.” I use air quotes to make my point. “Word will soon spread the Irish are expanding to cater to the west, and orders will flood in. Win-win for everyone.

“From a business perspective and knowing those Irish boys as well as I do, I believe they’ll be very receptive to the idea of adding another MC to the mix. Especially one that’s prepared to cater to the harder-to-reach places that are ripe for the picking but just require that little more time and effort.”

I can see my daddy is about to grumble once more, so I figure I’ll say my final piece and then leave them to bicker between themselves like a group of retired old ladies who are no longer getting any big biker dick.

“It’s six months, Daddy. If Ty can make the numbers, neither of you has anything to lose. It will also keep the townsfolk of Colton happy to see the MCs working in harmony just like they used to. This isn’t all about you or Ty, or who can piss highest up the wall. This is business. It’s nothing personal. Let’s keep it that way.

“Anyway, you can let me know what you boys decide. I’m happy to deal with both the Irish and La eMe on behalf of the Whisperers if that’s what’s needed to progress matters.”

I stand up from the hard stool and grimace as I rub my numb backside. I notice Ty keeps his eyes very much to himself as a mark of respect. He knows my daddy wouldn’t appreciate him ogling his daughter in front of him.

“Thank you, Jessie. Much appreciated.”

“My pleasure, Tyler.” I wink at him before leaving the room.

* * *

I takea seat outside at an old picnic-style table. It’s seen way better days, and the paint is peeling off in places, but it’s better than sitting my ass on the desert floor.

It’s midday, and the sun is riding high in the sky. My skin’s noticeably tanned these days, and my body’s once more becoming accustomed to the Nevada heat. It probably helps that I’ve taken to wearing next to nothing as it’s just so damn warm. Today it’s a little pair of white Daisy Dukes and a matching halter top.

The only smell lingering on the desert air is fresh paint. I push aside the unwelcome thoughts it brings. I’ve gotten it out of my system. Gottenhimout of my system. Well, as much as I ever can. The rest will just take healing time, and I’ve got all the time in the world. I’ve cried. I’ve had my conversation with The Almighty by asking my questions and receiving no answers.

Why would he speak to biker trash like me?

Life goes on. It has to. I fully appreciate now what Bailey went through. In the end, she got her happily ever after. I won’t. Shit happens.

I look around. Things are swiftly progressing at the new MC clubhouse. Of course, there’s still a way to go, but it’s clear Ghost is a man on a mission.

When he wants something, he goes for it.

Looking around, I see maybe two dozen or so bikers now wearing a Whisperers’ cut. All of them will be on their best behavior—all striving for a council position. From what I hear, no one’s been selected yet. Not even a VP. Ghost is hand-picking each one personally. By all accounts, he’s going to do it on a merit basis, which is unusual. Usually, the club prez simply chooses those closest to him. Everyone in Colton grew up together, so it’s not likely any will be a stranger. Then again, I’ve seen a few faces I haven’t recognized over the past couple of days, so news of a new MC forming is obviously gaining momentum farther afield.

I’m guessing they’ll start recruiting cum sluts soon too. There’s always a queue to fill those spots. Young girls desperate to become old ladies or just eager for lots of hot dirty biker boy action.

I have to admit, I’m missing intimacy. I went a long time without before I eventually hooked up with Dylan O’Connell. I’m not sure I want to go through another dry spell like that again.

“Anyone sitting here?”

I shield my eyes with my hand before glancing up at Tyler, and the coverage allows me the opportunity to discretely drag my gaze down his black wifebeater and dark blue jeans. In direct contrast to Dylan, Tyler’s covered in black ink. I’m not sure which I prefer.

Maybe now I like both just as much.

“Well, it’s your club, Prez. So, I guess you can sit wherever you like.”