Page 67 of Vapor

“Like I said, guy needs to be six feet under,” Diablo says.

I nod in agreement. Killing Blue’s father holds a certain allure. But as much as I want that bastard dead, I know it could cause more trouble than it’s worth. We don’t need any more enemies right now.

“Killing him would be satisfying,” I admit,“but we have to think about the long-term consequences. We’re not doing Blue any favors if we end up bringing more heat down on ourselves. So, for now, we focus on keeping her safe and making sure that son of a bitch doesn’t get anywhere near her.”

The others grumble, but they eventually agree to hold off on any immediate action. I can see it in their eyes, though, if Blue’s father ever shows his face around here again, he won’t leave in one piece.

“Speaking of which,” I continue,“I’m concerned about leaving her alone. That’s why I’ve decided to take her with me on our next run.”

“Wait a minute,” Ice interrupts, his brow furrowing.“You’re taking her on a run? That’s highly unusual. Non-club members don’t go on runs.”

“I know it’s not the norm,” I reply, my voice steady and unyielding.“But Blue needs us, and she needs to learn how we operate. Besides, I’m claiming her. She’s going to be part of this family now.”

As I meet each of their eyes in turn, I can see them processing the situation. It’s clear they’re willing to bend the rules for Blue, but I know they’re also worried about her safety, about our relationship, and about what this decision means for all of us.

“If you say it’s what’s best for her, then we trust you,” Ice says, his eyes locked on mine.

“Damn right we do,” Fang chimes in.“We’ve got your back, brother.”

“Thanks,” I tell them, knowing that their loyalty is one of the things that keeps me going in this crazy life we’ve chosen.“And I’ve got yours, too.”

“What’s the plan for the run?” Diablo asks.

“Next week, we’ve got a kid coming from the Montana chapter. We’re taking him over to Lydia’s place. She’s going to adopt him with a little help from our contact at the adoption agency.” I smile because this is at the heart of what we do, protecting people who need it. And based on what Scar told me, this boy needs it.

“Who’s coming with the kid?” Ice asks.

“Scar and Julia. Maybe some other club members too.”

“Jesus, everyone’s bringing their women on club runs now.” Diablo shakes his head.

“You’ll understand when you’re pussy-whipped too,” Fang jokes.

“Never gonna happen,” Diablo snarls.

“Anyone want to make a bet on that?” Fang asks.

“What’s the line?” Ice asks, smirking at Diablo.

“Let’s say, one year?” Fang glances at Bones, who is grinning from ear to ear.

“Yeah. I’ll take the under on that.” Bones chuckles.

“How much?” Ice asks.

“Twenty bones,” Fang says.

“Done. I’ve got the over,” I say, because there’s no way in hell Diablo’s going to find a woman to settle down with in the next year. I’ve known him long enough to know it will take one hell of a woman to tame him.

Once we figure out who’s betting on what, I bring the meeting back to business. After explaining the logistics of the run to pick up the kid, I grab the gavel.“Anything else?”

A chorus of‘no’s’fills the room.

“Dismissed.” I slam the gavel down.

With the meeting wrapped up, I head upstairs to check on Blue. She’s waiting for me in my room, or at least, that’s where I left her. But as I reach the top of the stairs, I hear shouting coming from down the hall. My heart clenches, and I break into a run, fearing the worst.

“Get off me, you bitch!” Blue’s voice rings out.