“You sure you don’t need me?” Hayride asks, ticking his chin toward the hospital. “Might be a long day.”
He hasn’t said much, but I know the club has plans to go after Rashell Allen and the men who hurt Thad. It’s club business, and he’s explained that means he’s not free to share the details. I think it’s probably best since I’d only worry.
“Well, I’m with my brother. I’ll be fine.”
“There’s a prospect outside watching the outside of the hospital.” He gestures to the guy on the motorcycle on the edge of the lot, who waves. “And then Mayhem is inside. He’ll be outside the room if you need anything.”
“I think we’re covered.” I smile, brushing his long hair back. The shoulder-length strands look good on him. With the dark stubble on his jaw and those kissable lips, he really is a beautiful man.
“You think I’m fucking sexy, don’t you?”
Oh, the arrogance. “So cocky.”
“You love it. The cockiness and my cock.”
“No point in denying it.”
His lips widen further if that’s possible. “I’m gonna fuck you good later, Fireball.”
“Don’t leave me aching all day long. That’s not fair.”
He tugs me closer, and I can already feel the growing bulge between his legs. “I don’t think there’s a second in the day that you don’t turn me on.”
“Good to know.” I lift my chin. “I’m irresistible.”
There’s a deep rumble in his chest as he agrees. “Damn straight.”
His mouth crashes into mine, and I’m reeling from the kiss as we separate. Hayride slaps my ass and sends me on my way. I walk inside and turn at the last second, placing my hand over my heart. It conveys so much more than I can put into words.
Hayride’s palm rests over his heart in response.
It’s become our thing. A way to express what we’re becoming to one another.
He glides away from the curb and leaves as I approach the elevator and ride it up to Thad’s floor. Nurses wave at me as I walk toward his room. I’ve gotten to know many of them since my brother was admitted. The staff here is friendly, and they’re taking wonderful care of him.
Mayhem greets me as I reach Thad’s room. “Mornin’. It’s quiet in there. I think he’s asleep.”
“Probably. I’ll check.”
Sure enough, as I enter, I see Thad sleeping. My dad is back from his short visit to Columbus. He’s been driving back and forth every day, sometimes bringing Mom with him. She’s been a hovering mess on the days she’s here, and he’s convinced her that she doesn’t need to be here all the time.
It’s best. We all love Mom, but she’s always been anxious and awful when someone is sick or injured. Dad usually handles things and is able to keep her calm. I’m glad it’s just him today. It’s less stressful that way.
Dad is also resting. His light snore matches Thad’s.
I leave the room and close the door softly behind me. “He’s sleeping. I think I’m going to get some coffee. Want any?”
Mayhem shakes his head. “I drink any more, and I’ll be jittery and ready to leap outta my skin.”
I snicker. “Noted. I’ll be back in a few minutes. Might just relax in the family waiting room for a bit and read.”
It’s been weeks since I’ve had time to crack open a book. It’s my go-to when I need a little time to myself. Even as a girl, I sought out books more than parties or friends. When I found a book club in high school, I finally clicked with girls my age.
To this day, we remain in contact and meet once a month to catch up. I have so much to tell them.
“I’ll be out here if ya need me.”
“Thanks.”
