Page 79 of Claimed

“Of course.”

When we went shopping, I made a stop at the pharmacy to get a refill on my birth control prescription and grabbed some morning-after pills, too. I can’t afford to get pregnant right now.

Chrissy’s mom calls from outside the door, knocks, and then enters. “Raven, there’s someone here to see you.”

Even without the nervous look on her face, I would have known it was him. It’s not like I know many people here. Plus, he’s probably in a rage about me not answering his calls or texts.

“Thanks. I’ll be right there.”

I wash my face and make my way downstairs, searching for the courage to face him. When I see him, I understand why Mrs. Contreras looked so uneasy. He’s in full biker gear, and the scowl on his face would scare anyone. Not me, though. I just want to jump into his arms.

He takes one look at my face and the scowl is replaced with concern.

“You’ve been crying,” says Captain Obvious.

“Aren’t we observant today?”

“Get your shit. We’re leaving.”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

“You said you needed space. I’ve given you enough time.”

“Time? I’ve been gone one night,” I point out.

“Too long. It’s time to come home.”

“Home? You mean your club with all your whores?”

“Raven –”

“Don’t. I’m not coming back as long as she’s there.”

“She’s out. I kicked her out.”

Oh? That’s something, I guess. Just one less bitch to deal with.

“And I swear I haven’t touched her since we’ve been together.”

He drags a hand down his face, drawing my attention. He looks tired. His eyes are red, the lids are drooping, and there are bags under his eyes.

“You look horrible.”

“I didn’t sleep last night.”

“I wonder why,” I reply, trying to sound indifferent.

He takes my hand and pulls me against him. I get a whiff of his cologne and go weak in the knees.

“Because you weren’t there. Our bed felt empty without you.”

Our bed. He saidourbed. Then again, that’s all he ever does – talk. He says all kinds of things but won’t back them up with actions. I step out of his arms and put some space between us.

“Go home, Gage.”

“What? I’m not leaving without you.”

For once, he doesn’t seem so confident. His tone is still authoritative, but his eyes betray him. There’s a desperation there I’ve never seen before. Maybe Chrissy was right. A little time apart should help him make a decision about what he wants.