Page 69 of Carver’s Crusade

My chest tightens.

Most people would be focused on the danger to themselves. Most women in her position might see Izzy and Jinx differently. As competition. Rivals for attention in a clubhouse full of bikers.

Raven isn’t showing jealousy. Just concern. She sees them as part of the family. Our family.

She hasn’t spent much time in the clubhouse, but she already acts as if she belongs. She isn’t afraid to voice her opinion or ask questions. Raven is strong and fearless. Two things that drew me to her from the beginning.

Seeing her blend easily into my family just confirms what I’ve been feeling since we woke up together a few hours ago. She belongs in this world, with me. I tune everyone out and just stare at her.

She must feel my eyes on her, because she turns and gives me a quizzical look.

“What?”

“Nothing,” I mutter.

Her lips twitch knowingly. “You keep doing that.”

“Doing what?”

“Looking at me like you’re trying to solve a puzzle.”

A rough chuckle leaves my chest. “Maybe I am.”

Her cheeks pink slightly before she looks back down at her plate.

Christ, she’s beautiful.

I shift closer until our legs brush beneath the table. Her breath catches softly at the contact.

“You okay?” I ask quietly.

“Yeah.”

But her voice comes out breathless.

I lift my hand and brush my fingers lightly along her cheek, unable to stop myself. Her skin is warm beneath my knuckles. Soft.

Conversation continues around us, but it fades into background noise.

“You know,” I murmur, “you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”

Raven blinks at me in surprise.

“Carver—”

“I mean it.” My thumb strokes gently across her cheekbone. “And I need you to know something.”

She watches me carefully now.

“I’m interested in you, Raven. Not casually. Not temporary.” I hold her gaze steadily. “I want something real with you.”

Emotion flickers across her face so quickly it nearly guts me.

“I know you’ve been through things,” I continue quietly. “I know trust probably doesn’t come easy anymore. But I’ll wait as long as you need me to.”

My fingers slide into her hair briefly before falling away.

“I’ll do whatever it takes for you to feel safe with me.”