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His words wrap around me like armor, steel woven with silk, banishing the chill of fear. In this room, in Ice’s embrace, I find solace, and for just a moment, I allow myself the luxury of hope.

“Anything else you want to know?” he asks.

“Well,” I venture, my voice softer than I intend, “how’d you get your name? Ice doesn’t exactly scream ‘approachable.’”

He tilts his head back, chuckling. The sound seems alien in the quiet of the room. His eyes catch mine, and there’s a glint of mischief there. “Believe it or not, it was mid-July, hotter than hell’s waiting room. The AC at the clubhouse had kicked the bucket, and everyone was sweating their asses off.”

“That sounds terrible.”

“Understatement of the year.” He laughs. “Years ago, Winchester gave Grant this old ice maker. A clunky, ancient thing. I managed to tinker with it until it sputtered back to life.” He pauses, a smirk playing on his lips. “Thing is, I got a little carried away. Cranked it too high. Before we knew it, the clubhouse floor was covered in ice—like a damn winter wonderland.”

Laughter bubbles up from within me, genuine and unbidden. I picture the scene—these tough bikers slipping and sliding, cursing up a storm—and I can’t help but giggle. “You iced out the MC?”

“Guilty as charged.” He raises his hands in mock surrender, and his laughter joins mine, filling the space with warmth.

As the laughter fades, I notice the tenderness that lingers in his eyes, and a realization dawns on me. Beneath the layers of leather and the hard lines carved by a life I’m only beginning to understand, there’s a kindness to Ice that’s disarmingly genuine.

“Thank you,” I whisper, and it feels like I’m peeling back a layer of my own defenses, “for being one of the good ones.” Mygaze drops to my hands, now twisting in my lap. “I was starting to think they didn’t exist, not after everything I’ve seen my family do to this city.”

“Those days are numbered, Bella.” His hand reaches out, calloused fingers gently lifting my chin so our eyes meet. “You’re under UVMC’s protection now. We take care of our own. And I’ll take care of you.”

His promise wraps around me like a shield, and for the first time, I believe it. I’m no longer the cartel princess trapped in a gilded cage. With Ice, I’m someone worth protecting, someone worth believing in. And as I sink into the embrace he offers, I let myself feel a spark of hope. Maybe, just maybe, I’ve finally found my place in a world where even the coldest hearts can melt.

Chapter 13: Isabella

The warmth of Ice’s body lingers as I lie in the tangled sheets, the remnants of last night’s recklessness still clinging to my skin. I lost count of the number of times he pulled me against him. We made love for hours and hours, yet somehow, I’m not tired. Instead, I’m invigorated. And hungry.

“Blue’s on her way with some clothes for you,” Ice murmurs. His hypnotic eyes hold me captive for just a moment longer before he adds, “I’m gonna grab a quick shower before she gets here.”

“Sounds good,” I reply, my voice softer than I intend. The coolness of the room is beginning to seep into my bones as he disentangles himself from the sheets. He stands next to the bed in all his naked glory. All I can do is stare. He’s the sexiest man I’ve ever seen, and I can’t believe he wants to protect me. It’s a fantasy come true.

“I told the prospects to let Blue past when she gets here.” He gestures toward the door. “They won’t let anyone through but her, so when she knocks, you can open the door. I’ll be quick.”

“Don’t rush. Have a nice shower.” I crawl to the edge of the bed where he’s standing. After getting on my knees, I reach forhim. He leans down to meet me, and I press a tender kiss to his cheek. “I’ll be right here when you’re done.”

“You know, it would be a lot more fun if you joined me.” He waggles his eyebrows, making me giggle.

“As much as I’d love to get wet again...” I pause, waiting until his eyes darken with desire, “...let’s not keep breakfast waiting.”

“You could be my breakfast,” he says, splaying his hands across my waist.

“Not enough protein,” I tease, giving him a playful shove.

His laughter follows him into the bathroom. Once he’s gone, I’m left alone in the silent motel room. Outside, I can hear men from the club splashing around in the pool. It’s far too early for a party, but maybe they never went to sleep. I’m still not entirely sure what everyone’s roles are and how the club works. Finding out more is high on my agenda for today.

A knock at the door pulls me from my thoughts. I slide off the bed, suddenly self-conscious about the mess in the room. When I open the door, a prospect, young and eager, nods at me with respect that feels unearned.

“Isabella, this is Blue,” he says, stepping aside.

Blue sweeps in like a cool breeze, all grace and poise. She’s effortlessly beautiful, one of those untouchable women who command attention without trying. She’s carrying an armful of bags, and as she sets them down on the rumpled bed, I wince inwardly, wishing I’d made it.

“Hey,” I greet her, trying to ignore how domestic this all seems.

“Morning, Isabella,” Blue replies, her voice bright as she begins to unpack. “How’d you sleep?”

“Fine.” I rub my hand across my shoulder. “What’s all this?”

“Just enough to get you started,” she says, still unloading the giant haul.