Page 69 of Savage in the Streets

At first, Ashton threw a fit, but she seems to have tamed the beast in Bruce. He might run the Blood Angels, but he’s an honorable man as far as thugs go.

Liz and her boyfriend decided to come for the event, and while I cannot say I’m super close with her, we’re getting there. Ashton is paying for her to attend cosmetology school, and when she’s finished, she’ll be offered a position working at Savage Beauty. I think with the right support system put into place, she’ll thrive.

And after everything Ashton’s done for me, I’m happy to be a part of that system.

“Alright, what do you want!?” I ask a pretty girl in a princess dress.

“Pink everything!” she enthuses.

I’ve agreed to cut children’s hair at the event, giving them Mohawks and adding color that will wash out in a few days. There seems to be no end to the line, but I’m happy knowing that I’m doing something good for once.

I’m planting my roots not just in Ashton, but in the community.

The band finishes playing their set, and Bruce takes centerstage.

“I’d like to thank everyone for coming out today. As you know, the last couple of years have been a wild ride.”

The bikers give a rowdy clap, cheering on their leader.

“Today, we celebrate the gift of good health by giving to those who need our help. Every red cent used to pay for a plate, haircut, or any of the other events here will be going to Tanner Children’s Foundation, whether it be used to provide a child with necessary treatment or to buy a few badass toys for the playroom at the hospital.”

The declaration is met with murmurs of approval.

“And lastly, I’d like to hand over the mic to Bailey Savage. Once an enemy, now a friend, and bestie to my badass bitch Mabel. Come on up here, sweetheart.”

I relieve Bruce of the mic and smile for the crowd.

“I’d like to start by saying what an honor it is to be here today! My grandfather put on picnics like this, and I know he must be smiling down on us right now.”

Butterflies fill my gut because what’s coming next is going to change my life forever.

“I know it must be hard for many of you to see Bruce filling this role, but I have a little surprise for you—that’s not the only role he’ll be filling today!”

Ashton comes onto the stage, and we position ourselves on either side of the mic. Bruce takes a spot at the center.

“Surprise!” Bruce yells into the mic. “Looks like we’re gonna have us a Savage wedding.”

The audience booms with laughter and applause. I knew this was going to happen. It was my suggestion. I’d planned it, but now that the moment is here…I’m terrified.

Mabel, Beau, Liz, and her boyfriend take positions on the stage.

Bruce starts. I can barely stand upright, I’m so anxious, but when Ashton takes over, I become laser-focused, tuned to his words.

“Bailey, my Savage Queen, you are everything I didn’t know I wanted in a woman. You’re witty, smart, and the absolute best person to be around. You’re my best friend, my guiding star, and after today, you’ll be my wife. I can't wait to build a future together and make you my Savage Queen.”

I return with, “Ashton, you came into my life at a time of great chaos, giving me earth to plant my roots in and nourishment so that I may grow. I will love you honestly, faithfully, and wholly, no less than you deserve.”

Beau hands Ashton the ring, which he slips on my finger, then he draws me in for our first kiss as man and wife.

“Ummm…you need to show me a little respect for my position of authority in this matter,” Bruce interjects, slapping a hand on Ashton’s chest to pull him away.

“Oh, sorry—carry on,” Ashton says, and the crowd breaks out in rowdy laughter.

“By the power invested in me by God and the internet certification program for ordained ministers, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

“I love you, Bailey,” Ashton whispers.

“I love you, too,” I return.

Our lips lock in fiery passion—a kiss to end all others. A love so great, it can never be broken.

The End