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“I agree. But right now, we don’t need the extra hassle. Not when we’re already under a microscope. They’re too many people who think we’re still in the life.”
“I thought bikers didn’t care what people think.”
“As a biker, I don’t. I’ve been dealing with people’s bullshit perceptions since I first put on my colors. But as a businessman trying to establish something in a small town. I have to be aware of appearances. At least until people get used to us.” Rector sighed. “Maybe you can try the nail shop down the street.”
“I tried, but they don’t have space. The owner recommended Skin Sins.”
Rector sighed again. Hanibal pictured him rubbing his giant hand over his bald head. She picked the right one to talk to. The giant grizzly with the soft heart. “I tell you what, I’ll speak to the other guys, and see what they say. Maybe we can see…”
“Oh, thank you, thank you. I’m just asking for a chance. I think it will help us both grow.” Oh, he wanted to see the smile he heard. Her voice shone with it like a ray of sunshine. Or a halo’s glow.
“I didn’t say you’re in.” Rector grumbled. “Let me see what they think. We’ll have to meet about it. Can you come back next weekend? And do you have any references you can provide?”
“Um, about that. Most of my references are family and friends. Will that help?”
“You don’t have anybody else?”
“I just got my license in May. And I haven’t had a chance to get established.”
“It’s better if you had an objective person who could tell us about your work. See if you can get any before we meet next week.”
A long silence filled the shop. He pictured her biting her lip and thinking. Angel had to be thinking. She was quick on her feet and determined. Now that she had Rector caving, his girl wouldn’t give up without a fight. And he was just the man to help her.
“Rebel, you done with the outline?”
“Yeah, why?”
“Okay. I’ll be back for the fill-in.”
“Be back? What the hell are you talking about?”
“Sorry man, something came up. Got to handle something. I’ll catch up with you later this week.”
“Later? I thought you were only in town for the day.”
“Change of plans. Gotta go.”
His angel’s eyes widened a bit when he slammed his boots on the floor. And she took a step away as he ate up the floor in her direction. Her dark brown eyes took in his size, widening even more when he grabbed her gaze and leashed it.That’s right baby girl, I got you.
“Hi Rector,” he slapped his hand on Rec’s back and tried to look non-threatening when he was the most lethal man in the room. “Maybe I can help the lady out. Would I count as a reference if she gave me a massage?”
“Yes, of course, but…”
“Great. So, Angel, I’m ready to start when you are. I’ve had this ache in my shoulder, probably not used to all the riding. Maybe you can help me, and I help you.” Rector’s eyes narrowed. He knew good and damn well that Hannibal had been riding since he left home at seventeen. But he kept his mouth shut. “And I’m happy to pay. Just let me know the charge. Do you prefer cash or debit?”
“Well, I… I didn’t bring my equipment with me today. And we would need to set up a space…”
“If you could help me out today, that would be great. And I’d pay double for the short notice. You said you had a set up in your house, right?”
“Apartment, but… I wanted to avoid having strangers…”
“Don’t worry, I’m perfectly safe. Any of the guys here can vouch for me. And you’d just have the one client, one time. Just to get you in the door at Skin Sins with a reference they would trust.”
She bit her lip. And it was better,no worse, than he’d imagined. He folded his leather jacket over his crotch. She took a deep breath and nodded.
“Okay, if it gets me into a shop. I guess one client, one time…”
Chapter 2
