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CHAPTER FORTY-NINE

Ryder kissed Claire as he carried the folder with the contract under his arm. Today, he joined Team Hawk of Serenity Securities and gained another set of brothers.

She handed him a box and Ryder arched his brows in surprise.

“What’s this?”

Claire shrugged her shoulders and smiled. “A little something to commemorate the day,” she explained as he opened the lid.

Ryder pulled out the military watch and grinned. She leaned in, pointing to the gift. “I asked Leo to help pick it out. Then I took it to a jeweler and personalized it.”

Ryder glanced closer at the band, noticing the same Amazonite stone from her engagement ring. “The stone of hope,” he stated and smiled.

“We don’t know where you’ll be sent and you may be unable to share it with me. I want you to know, wherever you are, never lose hope,” she proudly explained, thrilled with how far Ryder had come.

“It’s perfect. Thank you.” He kissed her again and cupped her cheek, stroking her with his thumb.

Claire turned the watch over. Ryder’s moniker was inscribed on the back. “To Patch, live a life worthy of us,” he read.

“Today, you’ll join a team of new brothers and now your other brothers will go with you wherever you go.”

Ryder stared at the gift, loving the thoughtful significance of the piece.

“Saint’s picking me up. Tell me what you’re wearing under your suit,” he demanded.

“Nope. It’s a surprise for later.” Claire leaned in, allowing him a sneak peek.

Ryder growled as Saint pulled into the driveway and honked.

“I love you, Ryder.”

“I love you, Claire Bear.”

He climbed into the truck and Saint handed him a cup of coffee.

“Morning, Patch. Are you ready?”

Patch smiled and took the coffee. “Yeah, bring it.”

Staring at the abominable pink house, he thought of the woman inside. Ryder smiled, realizing how much love was worth fighting for.