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I tear my lips from Judge’s and bury my heated face in his chest. His laughter rumbles against me, a strange kind of comfort. The weight and warmth of his hands at my back settle me, something I wouldn’t have thought possible even a few weeks ago.

When I finally find the courage to look around, most of the men have congregated near the pool tables, and Cherry has moved farther down the counter to continue preparing dinner.

Judge hooks a finger beneath my chin and makes me look at him. His lips are swollen from our kiss, though probably not as badly as mine.

His eyes twinkle.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen him this happy. In fact, I don’t remember hearing him laugh quite like that.

“You seem… happy.” I wince when I realize I’ve said it aloud.

“I am happy.” His hold on me tightens. “Went out to Grave Saints territory.”

My eyes widen, and my first instinct is to jump down from the counter, but with Judge standing between my legs, I don’t have a chance of moving anywhere.

“Paid your father’s debts. You’re free.”

My whole body goes cold, then hot in quick succession.

“You—what?” I hiss, searching his eyes. “You can’t just⁠—”

He cuts me off with a kiss, and just like that, I’m melting into him again.

He breaks it first, framing my face with both hands as he speaks.

“You belong to me, Kaylie. I’ve told my brothers. You’ll wear my patch. You’re under our protection. If you need time to accept it, fine. But when you’re ready, everyone will know you’re my Old Lady.”

I can’t move.

I didn’t realize how badly I wanted this moment until it happened. Tears threaten again, and my chin wobbles. Judge frowns, and I rush to reassure him, gripping his shirt in both fists.

“I want that, too.”

He must still see the hesitation in my eyes because his frown doesn’t fade.

“But?”

I look away, unsurprised when he makes me look at him again.

“I just… It’s like you said. I need some time to let it settle.”

Disappointment flickers in his eyes, but he nods.

I can practically hear his thoughts. He’ll give me time, but it won’t change the outcome. I’m already his.

He confirms my suspicion when he says, “One way or another, you’re wearing my patch.”

I don’t get a chance to argue. Not that I think I could.

In the next second, he scoops me into his arms and kisses me again. He stops only long enough to order Misty to finish the task I’d been assigned.

I don’t see her reaction, but I can sense it.

She’s livid, and the immature side of me couldn’t be more pleased.

I giggle, then gasp when Judge nuzzles my neck. His growls of desire promise we’re about to go for round two in the room upstairs.

And I can’t wait.