Page 16 of Property of Mercury

“Maybe we should reach out to him and see if he knows of anyone who is willing to relocate,” Gemini muses.

“I have no issues with using our connections so we can get this chapter fully up and running as soon as possible,” I decree. “I’ll make the call later.”

“How’s the moonshine running?” Orion asks, changing the subject. He’s good for that, but it’s another aspect of our business so we need to know.

“Ever since I added Granny Edna to my team, it’s been hard to keep up with the orders,” Midas replies. Looking at Orion’s empty cup, he adds, “She’s a master with infusing flavors into the ‘shine and has been adding new flavors every week to test which ones would sell the best. So far, blueberry, apple, and caramel are the top runners.” I scrunch up my nose when he mentions my kryptonite and Pisces chuckles when he sees the look on my face.

“And you’re keeping up with each one so we know when we can start repaying our brothers in Texas?” Gemini questions, ignoring the shared look between me and Pisces.

“Fuck yeah, like I said, right now, I’m doing it old school until I find the software program I like,” Midas retorts.

“Maybe Orbit could create one,” I suggest. “Because we’ve definitely got a hodge podge, and I know the moonshine at least will be off the books.”

“That’s not a bad idea,” Gemini says. “Midas, let me know what you have to have and I’ll get Orbit on it for you.”

“Works for me. I’ll pull all my notes together and shoot you a text later today,” Midas replies.

“Then we’ve got a plan. Alright, brothers, let’s head back to the clubhouse,” Gemini states.

CHAPTER

NINE

Finley

By the time the guys come back from wherever they went, my belly is full and my spirit is settled. Sutton and I had some bonding time, and I’m beginning to feel more comfortable staying here. The sound of boots and low, rumbling voices hits the porch before the door swings open. I glance at Sutton, and she just gives me a knowing look. I can feel my heart rate pick up. I can’t wait to see him, something that confuses me because from the moment he rescued me, all of my thoughts surround him.

Mercury steps inside first, his eyes finding mine instantly. It’s heavy, intense, and it makes my breath hitch. “You're awake,” he says, his voice rough. He walks over, not taking his eyes off me. He looks like he’s been through hell and back, but the way he looks at me makes me feel like I’m the only thing that matters.

“I am,” I answer, my own voice softer than I intend. “Sutton made sure I didn't waste away.”

“I see that,” he replies, shifting his attention to Sutton for a brief second before locking back onto me. “You look better. Like you're actually here instead of just floating.”

“I’m here,” I confirm with a slight hint of teasing in my tone. Standing up and stretching, I notice my body is still a bit stiff, but the pain is duller now, more manageable.

Orion trails in behind him, looking like he’s ready to crack a joke, but he pauses when he sees the look passing between Mercury and me. He clears his throat and says, “Well, the mood in here is thick enough to cut with a knife. Maybe I should have waited outside.”

“Or maybe you should just keep your mouth shut, O,” Mercury growls, but there’s no real heat in it.

I can’t help but smile at the banter. It’s a stark contrast to the silence of the cabin where I was held. This is loud, it’s messy, and it feels like life.

“I'm glad you're all back,” I say, and for once, I mean it.

Mercury steps closer, invading my space in that possessive way he has. He reaches out, his fingers brushing against the bare skin of my arm. His touch sends a jolt through me that has nothing to do with pain.

“We have things to talk about, Finley,” he tells me, his tone serious now. “But that can wait for later. Right now, I just want to know if you're good.”

“I'm good, Mercury,” I confirm, and I realize I finally believe it. “I feel fantastic, that long sleep was needed.”

Mercury lingers. His hand stays on my skin, his palm warm and calloused, grounding me. The air in the room shifts. The playful energy Orion brought in drains away, replaced by something heavier. He leans down, his scent of engine oil and worn leather wrapping around me.

“You don't just look good,” Mercury murmurs, his voice a low baritone of sound. “You look like you're fighting your way back to who you were before they took you. I just hope that path leads to me.”

“Is that right?” I challenge, my heart rapidly beating in my chest.

“Yeah,” he says. He pulls his hand back, though the ghost of his touch still burns. Sniffing the air and rubbing his belly, he continues, “We're going to talk. Soon. But for now, you need to eat. Sutton made some soup, and it's getting cold.”

“I already ate,” I argue, patting my extended stomach.