Page 17 of My 3 Naughty Valentines

Just then, Jake walks by, giving me a nod that sends all kinds of butterflies through my stomach. "Hey, Emma, you joining us for the run tomorrow?" his voice is a low rumble that somehow sounds like a caress.

I nod, suddenly breathless. "Wouldn't miss it."

He smiles, and there's a look in his eyes that says more than words ever could. My heart starts doing somersaults, and I'm pretty sure my face is all shades of red.

Dex nudges me playfully. "Looks like you've got some admirers, Emma. Better watch out, you're becoming the club's Valentine."

I roll my eyes, but inside, I'm soaring. This whole situation is crazy – me, a journalist, in the thick of a biker club's Valentine's Day plans, juggling feelings for three incredible guys.

As the day winds down, I immerse myself in helping with the Valentine's Day decorations. The clubhouse transforms under our hands. Decorating alongside the club members, I sense the strength of their brotherhood. They're more than just bikers; they're protectors, friends, almost family. It's a warm, welcoming atmosphere, yet I can't shake the feeling of being an outsider, an observer in a story that's not fully mine.

Later, in the solitude of my room, I lay out the Valentine's gifts for Jake, Liam, and Dex. Each present feels like a piece of my heart – a poetic nod to Jake's depth, a thoughtful journal for Liam's introspections, and a fun gadget reflecting Dex's playful spirit. But as I look at them, I'm gripped by a sense of uncertainty. What am I doing? Am I playing with fire?

Valentine's Day at the Angel Riders MC – who knew it'd be this emotionally charged? As I lie in bed, staring at the ceiling, I realize that my life has taken a turn I never expected. This isn't just a story about a biker club; it's my story now, intertwined with theirs in ways I'm only beginning to understand.

Unable to sleep, I toss and turn, haunted by the thoughts of the three men who've unexpectedly stolen pieces of my heart. What started as an assignment has morphed into a journey of self-discovery, of unraveling mysteries of the heart against the backdrop of roaring engines and leather jackets.

As the clock ticks towards midnight, I make a decision. Tomorrow, on Valentine's Day, I'll not only be handing out gifts but also confronting my feelings. It's time to face the truth about what I want and who I want it with.

I finally drift off to a restless sleep, my dreams a kaleidoscope of biker jackets, tender moments, and the looming question of where my heart truly lies.

6

EMMA

The big day's finally here – Valentine's Day. The clubhouse is buzzing with excitement, balloons, and red hearts everywhere. It's like Cupid threw up all over the place. But in the midst all the festive chaos, my heart's racing for a whole other reason.

I've handed out my carefully chosen gifts to Jake, Liam, and Dex. Jake's eyes softens when he sees the poetry book, and the way he looks at me... let's just say it was better than any sonnet. Liam's reaction to the vintage journal is a mix of surprise and appreciation, his gaze lingering on me in a way that makes my stomach do flips. And Dex – he laughs hard at the quirky gadget I got him, his eyes crinkling in that adorable way.

The orphanage visit is a revelation. Under Jake's leadership, the Angel Riders shed their rugged exteriors for a day and filled it instead with laughter and gifts. I watch, camera in hand, as they engage with the children, their actions painting a picture far removed from their tough biker images.

Jake shows a gentler side, carefully tying a little girl's shoelaces, his tough persona replaced by tender care. Dex is the life of the party, effortlessly charming the kids with his jokes and juggling antics, while Liam contributes with quiet efficiency, ensuring every child feels included and special.

This heartwarming scene, bursting with genuine smiles, warmth and laughter, speaks volumes about the club. They're not just bikers; they're pillars of strength and kindness in a community that often misunderstands them.

* * *

As the day rolls on,an unsettling calm blankets the clubhouse. Then, without warning, the rumble of engines shatters the peace. Heads turn, eyes narrow. A line of bikes storms into view, menacing, purposeful.

I feel a jolt of adrenaline. "They're here," someone mutters.

Jake steps forward, his posture rigid, a leader ready to confront an old enemy. The air crackles with tension. Members of the Angel Riders form a protective barrier, their solidarity unmistakable.

"Stay back, Emma," Dex's voice cuts through the growing chaos, his hand firm on my arm.

I resist, inching forward to catch fragments of the heated conversation. "You had your chance, Jake," a gruff voice from the rival group challenges.

Jake's response is steady, but his eyes betray the gravity of the situation. "The Angel Riders are different now. That life's behind us."

The rival biker laughs, a sound devoid of any humor. "Not for us, it isn't."

Suddenly, a loud bang—sharp, echoing. I freeze.

Pandemonium erupts.

People shout, the bikers rev their engines in a frenzy of noise and movement.

Through the turmoil, I see Jake stagger, his hand clutching at his side. "Jake!" My scream is lost in the commotion.

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