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Joey couldn’t respond, so he concentrated on finishing the set-up. When he was under control, he turned to Ryker. “So, what’re you having done this time?”
“I want motorcycle handlebars on my lower back.”
“Okay. Let me see what space I have to work with.”
They talked specifics of the design, and Joey drew something for him, adjusting it with details Ryker asked for until he was happy. Once he started, they fell into easy conversation with periods of silence.
After one such silence, Ryker said, “How are you really, Joey?”
Joey lifted the needle and sighed, giving his back a stretch as he considered his words. “I’ve been better, but I’ve been worse, too. I have someone important helping me to heal.”
Ryker craned his neck and raised his eyebrows, and Joey chuckled. “Lay down, and I’ll tell you the story.” He waited until Ryker was back in position, and he started back on the design. “I went a bit off the rails after I found Elliott. Started driving and just carried on. Stopping here and there to sleep and get food when I had no choice. I was in a bad place.” He sighed again. “I stopped in Whitby and headed for a bar, trying to drown my sorrows and sleep it off. But a guy approached me. He offered me a sliver of light. It was supposed to be one night, that’s all, but he saw me sleeping in my car and decided it was his business to get me out of my funk.” He chuckled. “His name’s Ethan. We spent a few days together in Whitby until the reporters found me, and then I split, thinking it would be better if I wasn’t there.”
“Stupid ass,” Ryker said, and Joey laughed.
“Yeah. I’m so glad Ethan took the chance and drove down for Elliott’s funeral. I don’t know where I would’ve been if he hadn’t been here the past few days.”
“Sounds like a great catch.”
“He truly is.”
“So, where is he?”
Joey wiped at the design and continued. “He’s gone home for a couple of days to get things sorted. He’s moving in, and he’s going to be my assistant.”
“Good for you, Joey. I’m so glad.”
“Thanks.”
It took another two hours to complete the design, and then Joey dressed it and packed up his stuff.
“Are you hanging around?” Ryker asked. “Merry is setting up the barbecue this evening.”
Joey shook his head as they exited the room. “I wish I could. I have a room booked in Cardiff tonight.”
“Well, at least let us feed you before you leave.”
“Honestly, it’s—”
“Is that you, Joey Reynolds?” a shrill but warm voice said.
Joey smiled. He couldn’t help it. Merry wasn’t a typical biker’s old lady. She was a biker herself, first and foremost. It had taken Ryker six years to persuade her to take a chance on him, but they were perfect for each other.
“You know it, Merry.” He slid his arms around her, hugging her tightly.
“I’m sorry, honey,” she whispered.
Joey blinked back the tears and smiled, pulling back. “Thanks.”
“Are you staying for dinner?” Joey shook his head again and explained his plans. “Pfft. You can stay for a bit. It doesn’t take that long to get to Cardiff from here.”
Joey didn’t argue any longer, wanting to spend time with people he considered friends. “Okay. I’ll drive over when we’re done.”
Merry patted his cheek. “Glad to hear it.” She turned to leave, but Ryker grabbed her and pulled her into him, whispering something in her ear. She turned sly eyes on Joey, and he chuckled, knowing Ryker had just spilt the news about Ethan. “Ooh, story time!”
His phone rang, and he answered it with a smile. “Hey, you.” Merry’s eyes gleamed as she watched him, and he raised his eyebrows at her, but she just crossed her arms over her chest.
“Hey. How are you doing?” Ethan asked, the tiredness clear in his voice.
