Page 16 of Hash

For once, I didn’t think about Hash. I don’t know how to feel about it. It wasn’t until we were back at Ramblers’ Rest and I was lying in bed, thinking about the day with Cormac sleeping next to me in his pack n play. I can’t help but think about how much I wish it were him lying beside me. How much I wish it were him here to share all the firsts with Cormac and get to see his face light up because he’s seeing the world for the first time.

Frankie’s right.

I need to get on with my life. It’s been almost two years since I’ve seen him. If he hasn’t reached out by now, it’s never going to happen.

How do you move on from someone who you felt in your soul was meant to be there for life?

Chapter

Eight

HASH

It’s dark by the time my brothers and I rode into Hickory Hills and checked into its roadside motel, Ramblers’ Rest. Prez’s buddy already had rooms reserved for us. The kicker is we have to double up, and I’m stuck with Cyrus’ stupid ass.

“I swear to God if we don’t have two beds, you’re sleeping on the floor,” I grumble as I grab my saddlebag off my bike and head in with Cyrus trailing behind.

“I don’t see why I would get the floor. I’m not the one who doesn’t mind a little cuddling,” Cyrus retorts.

“I’m not fucking cuddling your ass. What the fuck is wrong with you?” I swear to God it will be a miracle if I make it through this weekend without punching him in the face. Maybe I’ll take a page out of Prez’s book and shoot his dick off. I’m sure the old ladies in this town would love that.

“We’ll see who crosses over onto my side during the night,” Cyrus says as he unlocks our door.

“Get the fuck in the room,” I growl as I shove him inside, sighing in relief as I see the room has two double beds.

“Damn. I was looking forward to cuddling with you too.” Cyrus smirks.

I know he’s fucking with me, but it still doesn’t stop the urge to punch him in the face.

“Keep going, and I’m going to be the one to shoot your dick off,” I tell him as I throw my duffle bag down on the floor and head into the bathroom to rinse off before crashing.

The next morning, we all meet outside the motel.

“The girls are going to head over to the festival. Owen said they have a bunch of vendors and shit, and Evan wants to shop,” Prez tells us.

“Sutton too.” Ink hands her a wad of cash.

I stare at the cash, thinking about how I would do the same thing if Aisling were here.

“Let’s head over and find Jace to see who your partner is, Hash,” Prez says as Ink and Cyrus snicker.

I just hope it’s a chick, like Prez said. If it’s a dude, I’m backing out.

As we make our way through the crowds of people, I don’t miss the looks we’re getting from older women of this town. Most are judging, but some are checking us out. I’ve made sure to make eye contact with every single one of them, giving them a wink when I catch them staring. Some turn away, their cheeks full of heat, and some return the wink, owning it. Those are my favorites.

“Cain,” Jace greets with a smile as he pulls Prez in for a one-armed hug.

“Jace. It’s been too long, brother.” Prez slaps him on the back before taking a step back and motioning me forward. “This is Hash, the man helping you with your demo.”

“Nice to meet ya.” I shake his outstretched hand. “Just tell me where you want me.”

“Let’s go find Emily. She’s the one you’ll be partnered up with for a demo. This is Owen.” Jace points his thumb at the man standing next to him. He looks like a fucking cop. “He’s with the Georgia State Police and will be helping with the class.”

Fucking great.

I guess I can’t shoot Cyrus in the dick while I’m here.

My eyes slide to Prez, who has his eyes locked on Owen, his lips tipping up slightly.