Page 10

Aria

While the guys attend Church, several of us are playing a loud and boisterous game of Uno. I don’t have proof, but I’m pretty sure the Aunts are cheating, and I’m guessing Lars knows they cheat because he refused to play when they joined the game. Terry accuses them of it often and loudly. Watching from nearby, Lars is keeping Liam, Cash’s son, entertained while talking quietly with James’ mom and sister.

Bailey walks past, holding her ever-increasing-belly, with little Alex skipping alongside her. The twins are chatting Taja’s ears off while Tessie is playing peek-a-boo with her tiny niece. Trudy has Ava and Gunner’s son against her shoulder as she sways slightly in place, rocking him to sleep. Luke and Craig are in a corner with the large dogs, signing and laughing about something that would most likely scare the adults.

Looking toward the bar, I see Bella behind it, and it appears she’s taking an inventory. Looking at each shelf, she stops occasionally and writes something in a notepad before moving further down the bar. Mac and Prissy are standing on the bar but at opposite ends. Prissy is bobbing her head and stomping her feet while Mac stares silently at her. I realize it’s one of the few times I’ve seen Mac being quiet. It’s kind of spooky.

Candy, sitting alone in the middle of the bar, appears to be deep in thought. Her presence seems to be maintaining the peace between the birds. Several of the other women are sitting at a nearby table, playing poker. By the sounds of it, Ivy’s cleaning them out.

I never would have guessed I’d ever be playing Uno in an MC clubhouse while an adorable skunk naps in my lap, but here I am. I definitely never thought my mom would be caught dead sitting on the floor, chatting with a jiggly little pig, either. It’s amazing how fast and completely your entire world can change. It only takes a single moment or one decision, and boom. You find yourself living in a world that’s foreign yet fascinating to you. Now that I’ve been here for a while, I can’t ever imagine returning to my old life. It seems boring in comparison to living on the edge of an MC.

“Whenever you’re done having dirty thoughts about whoever is causing that smile on your face, it’s your turn,” Lisa says as she slaps my arm.

Looking at Lisa, I suddenly realize I’ve never had a better friend. Sure, I had friends in Chicago, but no one I would ever go to war with. Or one I’d help take revenge on a shit boyfriend for. But Lisa? Yeah, I’d do all of that. Grinning at her, I slap my card on the table and watch her eyes widen in dismay.

“I can’t hold any more cards, bitch! My hands aren’t the size of Gunner’s!” Lisa shouts.

“Glad she nailed your ass with that one and not mine. Come on, Lisa. Draw from that deck so I can shout Uno and kick all your asses!” Lola crows in delight.

The men start filing back into the main room, and my eyes automatically search for Rex. Seeing his face, I wince in sympathy. I wince again when he tries to nonchalantly wink at me and can’t due to the swelling.

“Are you having a seizure?” Tessie asks him as she grips his forearm, bringing him to a halt.

“What? No. Just blinking to clear my vision. It’s been doubled ever since you decided to end me,” Rex jokes, then quickly reaches out to hug Tessie when her face crumbles. “Not mad at you, girl. It was an accident.”

“I’m so sorry. I really am,” Tessie says in a mumble since her face is smooshed against Rex’s chest.

“I know, Tess. We’re good. Yeah?” Rex asks.

“Yeah. Thanks, Rex,” she answers before releasing him and walking away.

When Gunner shouts for everyone’s attention, the room goes silent. The large man explains briefly about the club and Candy’s new role, and I grin when I see Bella’s whole face light up. She fist-bumps Candy and shoots a thumbs-up gesture at Gunner. The room explodes with congratulations and ‘you go girl’ comments, and I watch Candy squirm a little with being the center of attention. Face red, she nods to the crowd of people before ducking her head in embarrassment.

During this, Axel picked up his daughter, hugged her tight, and turned to watch Candy’s reaction. Seeing an opportunity, I stood and moved up tight behind him. Hands on hips, I wait silently for him to turn and find me in his space. When he finally sees me, I give him an evil grin and narrowed eyes. He jerks back instinctively and turns his body to protect his daughter.

“Damnit, Aria! You creeped up on me, and that’s just wrong!” Axel states indignantly.

“Oops. Sorry,” I say without an ounce of sincerity.

“Uh, what’s this about?” Trudy asks as she takes Axel’s daughter out of his arms now that Ava has reclaimed her son. Trudy completely ignores his glare at her.

“Axel called me fat,” I answer loudly. “Now he’s worried I may take revenge for that comment.”

“He did what?” Ava screeches from Trudy’s side before punching Axel in the shoulder.

“I did not! I didn’t mean what I said the way I said it, and, well, hell, we all know I say stupid shit all the time!” Axel sputters in his defense.

“Axel! You did not say that! Did you?” Bailey questions in a disbelieving tone.

“No!” he shouts. “I mean, it’s not what I meant to say. It came out wrong!”

“He did, and I couldn’t even eat dinner today because of it,” I state with a small sniff and sad eyes.

“You said I was carrying pregnancy pounds!” Axel shoots back in a sad attempt at a defense.

“At least what she said was true,” Craig says. “I’m so sorry for Axel’s lack of manners, Aria. You’re not fat. You’re beautiful, and I’m glad you’re my friend.”

“You’re a major suck ass, Craig! Stay out of this!” Axel orders.

“My son isn’t a suck ass. He’s just honest. You’re beautiful as you are, Aria,” Pooh states while tossing Axel a taunting smile.

“It’s okay, Axel. Maybe I just needed to hear the truth I’ve been trying to deny. I should head home now, taking all my chins and rolls with me, so I have time for a workout today,” I say before hanging my head and walking away.

“Oh, she’s good! You’re evil, Aria! Evil!” Axel shouts at my back.

“Not all fat people are jolly, Axel. Sorry I couldn’t be one of those for you,” I reply in a mournful tone.

Stopping at the table Les and now my mother are sitting at, I take a seat. I listen to several of the women chew Axel out and grin at Les.

“That’s so wrong,” Les says, then laughs. “And I’m so glad it’s Axel’s ass you’re after and not mine for a change. It’s really nice to have other men around to take the burden off of me sometimes.”

“I’m not even going to comment on this,” Mom says while closing her eyes in dismay.

“Not to change the subject, Mom, but are you going to adopt a pig anytime soon?” I ask.

Me: How’s your head? Any double vision?

Rex: No. It’s fine but thanks for worrying. Maybe it is a concussion and I shouldn’t be alone though. What are you doing?

Me: Not working out regardless of what I told Axel. Flipping through Netflix hoping to find something worth watching.

Rex: You nailed his hide to the wall. Even after you left the women were giving him shit. Found anything yet?

Me: It was evil but fun. No, not yet. Any suggestions?

Rex: Want company? You can keep an eye on my concussion symptoms, and I can find something for us to watch. I’ll bring snacks.

Me: Yes, please! I’m not my brother but snacks are still always appreciated!

Rex: Be there in 30.

Me: Perfect!

I squeak like a young teenage girl and bound off the couch. Flying down the hall, I race into my bedroom and stop in the center. What to wear? Hair up or down? Redo my makeup? All this and more fly through my brain before I decide to leave the hair and makeup alone because I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard. I quickly change into leggings and a comfortable t-shirt that hangs below my hips. I spray a light perfume in the air and walk through the mist and then brush my teeth.

Racing back to the kitchen, I put a bottle of wine in the fridge to chill and check on my beer supply. I grab a fuzzy lap blanket from the closet, lay it over the back of the couch, and rearrange the pillows. Double-checking that my space is neat, I take a seat at the kitchen bar and wait impatiently.

When the doorbell rings, I force myself to walk at a normal pace to the door and open it. Rex is standing there, battered face and all, holding a reusable grocery bag and a six-pack of beer. Stepping to the side, I wave him inside.

We chat about nothing important while putting away the groceries. While I cut up some cheese, Rex opens the crackers and lays them on a platter I handed him. I wash some grapes, and Rex slices a few apples into wedges. We work side by side, seamlessly, until we’re ready to move to the couch. Picking up the TV remote, I hand it to Rex.

“What kind of movies do you like?” he asks while clicking the power button on the remote.

“Most anything except sci-fi,” I answer while cracking open two beers.

“Same. Have you seen The Heat with Melissa McCarthy and Sandra Bullock? It’s a comedy. I haven’t, but Horse and Pigeon were re-enacting scenes from it, and that was funny as hell. Actually, it was a little sad because both of them were acting like they were Charlie’s Angels or some shit. Anyway, it might be fun.”

“No, I haven’t. I like anything Melissa’s in, so, yeah, let’s try that,” I answer before taking a sip of beer.

Finding the movie, Rex hits play. Within minutes, we’re both laughing our asses off and snacking off the platter. Being with him is easy, I realize. No pressure, no awkward silences, easy conversation, and a peacefulness I didn’t expect. If only his phone wasn’t chirping with texts and calls constantly, that is. After declining the third call, Rex turns to me with an apologetic look.

“You’re in high demand. I get it,” I say before he can speak. “If anything is important and you have to leave, I’ll understand.”

“None of it is important. They’re just used to me always working, always being available to answer questions, calls, or texts. I’m taking tonight off, and I want to spend the evening with you, not my phone,” Rex says in a serious tone.

“Then hit play, and we’ll pretend your phone isn’t here,” I reply and then lean against his side.

Tossing his phone on the end table, Rex rearranges himself, then me so that he’s leaning into the corner of the couch with me pulled tight to his side, arm over my shoulders. Enjoying the full contact, I turn to say as much but stop when I see the look in his eyes.

Placing his palm on my cheek, Rex stares into my eyes before his drop to my mouth. Slowly, his head lowers until our mouths meet. Carefully, gently, he explores my mouth while his hand moves to cup my neck. His tongue glides along mine, and things go from gentle to hot in a nanosecond. Mouths still connected, I end up moving until I’m straddling Rex’s legs. I don’t know if I moved myself there or he moved me, but I like all the parts of us that are now in contact.

Gliding my hands across his chest, I let my fingers explore. At the same time, Rex’s hands grip my hips and pulls them down harder against himself. Feeling what I’m doing to him, I roll my hips and then swallow his groan. Gripping my ass, Rex slides his hands up and under the hem of my shirt until they reach bare skin. Spreading his fingers wide, gripping my midsection, Rex nips my bottom lip before moving his mouth to my neck.

“Please,” I breathe out before grinding down on his hardened cock.

“Please what, Aria? Tell me what you want,” Rex murmurs against my collarbone.

“Touch me, please.”

His hands glide up my sides until his thumbs graze the bottom of my breasts. Flicking them back and forth, I realize he’s teasing me by not touching them the way I need him too. I raise up slightly on my knees, reach below me, and grip his cock through his jeans. Rubbing my palm up and down, I watch his eyes slowly close. Dropping my mouth back to his, I catch his sigh as he exhales.

I start to protest when I suddenly lose his hands but bite back my response when my shirt is lifted. Lowering my body back down to his, I lift both arms and wait for my shirt to disappear over them. When it does, I reward both of us by grinding against his length again.

“Fuck, Aria,” Rex says quietly, and I open my eyes to see his glued to my breasts in their lacy demi-cup bra.

A shiver runs up my spine in the most delicious way when he scrapes his thumbnails across my hardened nipples. He repeats the gesture, and it’s my turn to exhale a sigh.

Instead of pulling my bra off, he lowers the cups so they support the weight of my breasts, pushing them together and higher. Pinching and rolling my nipples with his thumbs and forefingers, pleasure shoots through my core.

“God, yes. Please, Rex,” I beg in a husky whisper.

I get another shiver when his lips wrap around one nipple before sucking it into his mouth. At the same time, he palms my other breast and gently kneads it. Reaching my hands downward, I slide my ass backward enough to find his belt. I unbuckle it and pull it loose.

Rex switches breasts and continues to pleasure both of them while I struggle to get his jeans open. After a moment, I get frustrated, and without thinking, jerk my head downward to see what the problem is. In doing so, my forehead collides with Rex’s hard. Startled out of the moment by pain, we both pull back and groan. Looking at his already battered face, guilt flashes through me.

“Oh my God, Rex. I’m so sorry! Are you okay?” I ask, frantic that he’s been injured again.

“Yeah. Shit, that hurt. You okay?” he asks but does so with his eyes closed, and I know instinctively he’s breathing through the pain.

Cupping both sides of his face with my hands, I look him over carefully. At least he didn’t take a direct hit to his nose again. Fighting a rueful laugh, I lean forward and rest my forehead against his. He flinches at the contact then relaxes. His arms wrap around my torso, and we just stay still and hold each other.

“We got carried away and forgot you’re not supposed to do anything strenuous for a few days,” I whisper.

“That wasn’t strenuous. That was pure pleasure,” he argues, but I can sense the smile in his voice.

“Yeah, it was. So much so, I didn’t even notice your phone sounding off,” I say with a small laugh.

“Me neither, and that’s a first. I much prefer your naked breasts over a phone any day, though.”

I laugh and sit upright on his lap. The moment is lost, and we both know it. His hands help me straighten my bra, and he grabs my shirt, helping me back into it before it drops to my hips.

“I’m sorry I ruined tonight,” I say softly with a twinge of guilt in my voice.

“You didn’t ruin anything. We were rushing, and we don’t need to. I want to take my time with you and explore all your best parts,” Rex replies with a grin. “I also want to take you on a proper date. Get to know you better and not just in bed.”

“I want that too,” I admit.

Now that things have cooled, I realize his phone isn’t the only one sending out alerts. Annoyed, I reach over and grab my own. Frowning, I look at it in confusion.

“What’s wrong?” Rex asks.

“I’m not sure. It’s an alert from the alarm system, but I’ve never gotten one before, so I’m clueless about what it means,” I answer while still staring at my phone.

Rex slides my body off his and next to him on the couch before reaching for my phone. I hand it over and watch as his fingers fly across the screen, accessing the security app. I see his finger tap the camera icon and then pull back in surprise when he bolts off the couch.

“Rex?” I ask in alarm.

“Stay here and keep your phone with you. Lock the door behind me,” he orders, then tosses my phone to me.

I watch him cross the living room, unlock then pull open the door. Stepping outside, he shuts the door behind him. I rush over to relock it as he said to do. Glancing down at the phone in my hand, I see Rex walking across the small front yard. It’s the size of a postage stamp, so it only takes a few strides, and he disappears around the side of the building.

Wishing now that I’d spent time familiarizing myself with the app, I tap several times before I find the right camera. Rex moves along the edge of the small strip of grass that makes up my backyard and stops by the patio then moves to a window. After a moment, he returns to the front side and then walks across the parking lot. He disappears for a few seconds, walking in and around a few trees before he bends over and picks something up. When he’s almost back to my front door, I open it and wait.

Rex enters, shuts and locks the door, and moves to my kitchen area. He sets an empty beer bottle on the counter and stares at it. Unnerved, I remain quiet, letting him think through whatever has him concerned. Finally, he looks up at me and asks for my phone. Handing it to him unlocked, I watch again as his fingers tap several times on the screen.

“Fuck. Aria, I don’t want to worry you, but I need you to look at a picture your camera took, okay?”

“Okay,” I answer, nodding and waiting to see what has him so uptight.

“Do you recognize this person?”

Taking the phone, I examine an image of a man’s face that’s tilted down a little. It’s not a good picture because not much of the face is showing. The man has a baseball hat on, and only a sliver of his face is visible. Still, he seems familiar, but I don’t know why. I tell Rex exactly that.

“I need you to think about it and study each feature,” he insists. “I think I know this guy, but I can’t place his face.”

I do, but I still can’t place why the man seems familiar to me.

“Which camera took this picture? The one above the front door?” I ask.

“No. One that’s placed near your back patio. I have the picture zoomed in to see his features better, but if you zoom out, you can tell the angle it was taken from. The bastard was trying to peer in your window over there,” Rex answers then points to a small window on the backside of my living room.

I instantly realize that if he could have seen in that window, he would have had a clear view of Rex and me on the couch.

“Was he there when we were, uh, when…” I start to ask in a horrified voice.

“Yeah, the times line up. I don’t think he could see in, though, since your blinds are pulled, and I couldn’t see in when I was out back,” Rex replies before pulling me into his arms and holding me against him.

“You went across the parking lot,” I say.

“Another camera picked up movement over there, but all I found was that bottle. It’s okay, honey. We’ll find out who this is and deal with him. I don’t want you here by yourself tonight, though. Pack a bag and follow me to my place,” Rex says with a gentle hug before he steps back.

Without question, I do as Rex requested. I pack a quick bag, and we clean up our snacks, me following in my car as Rex leads on his bike to his condo. Entering it, I realize I’m more than a little freaked out over the peeper at my home. Rex picks up on it immediately and again pulls me against him.

“It’ll be okay, baby. Tomorrow, I’ll go over your system again to make sure there are no weaknesses in it, and I’ll go through each file from before to see if I can find him on any of them. If not, this might have been a first-time thing for him.”

“Okay, Rex. Thank you,” I say, but I don’t move away from his warmth.

“Are you okay staying here with me? Would you feel better staying with your brother or Lisa?” Rex questions softly.

“I’d rather be here if you don’t mind.”

“I don’t mind at all. Let’s get you ready for bed. You’ve had a long day busting Axel’s balls, and now this,” Rex says with a soft kiss on my forehead.

I follow him to his bedroom and take the t-shirt he hands me. Frowning, I look up at him, eyes questioning the shirt.

“Unless you brought something super sexy and lacy, I’d rather see you sleep in one of my shirts,” Rex answers with a small grin.

I agree, so I take it with me and my overnight bag to his bathroom. I wash, brush my teeth, and change into his shirt. Exiting the bathroom, I find the condo dark except for a lamp near the bed. Rex, bare-chested, is in bed with the covers pulled just high enough to cover his hips. Looking up from his phone, his eyes turn intense.

I slide into bed on the other side and push my body over until I make contact with Rex’s. I lay my head against his shoulder and drop my hand to his abs. Rex drops a light kiss on the top of my head but continues scrolling through texts on his phone.

“On a scale of one to ten, how freaked out are you?” he asks into the silent room.

“Fifteen.”

“You’re safe here, Aria.”

“I know, but I kind of feel like the safety of my home was violated. I know that’s ridiculous, but it’s my first home that’s all mine, and I love it. After Drew died—you know what I mean—I decided to live at home with my mom. She’d lost my dad to prison, and her son was dead. I couldn’t leave her in that big house all by herself. After moving here, I finally got to be an adult and have my own place and not live in my childhood home. I’ll get over this feeling, but for now, it sucks,” I answer.

“I get it, and it’s not ridiculous to feel that way. You have the right to be upset and angry about it. We’ll make it so you feel safe there again. I promise,” Rex states.

Changing the subject, I ask, “Did you get any calls or texts that were important while I was distracting you?”

Rex chuckles, then says, “No. Everything was just the usual crap. Let me read you a few of the brilliant texts I get each day.”

“Hey Rex, can you tell me how to make a PDF file?”

“Hey Rex, my phone just did an update, and I don’t know if it was important stuff or not. Can you look at it tomorrow?”

“Hi Rex. Craig hijacked my phone again and changed my passcode. Can you fix it tomorrow if I drop it off? Love you and thanks!”

“Rex, brother, I fucked up the work schedule thing you sent, and I have no idea when I work next. Let me know!”

“Hey Rex. You wouldn’t have to change Mom’s passcode all the time if you’d talk her into getting me a phone. Just trying to make your life easier!”

“Brother Rex! I am not working another shift with Horse until you explain to him that I’m the fucking boss when we’re on a job! Have the talk with him or keep your balls protected because I still have that fucking taser!”

I laugh at the look on Rex’s face when he reads the last text out loud.

“I blame Gunner for most of the angst in my life since starting the security company,” he mutters. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say the big guy has it out for me.”

“I heard things about a taser and your boy parts,” I admit and then laugh at the look aimed in my direction.

“Manly parts when you’re speaking about mine, thank you. Lady bits when speaking about Axel’s. Not that I want you speaking about Axel’s anything,” Rex states firmly.

“Got it,” I say. “They rely on you a lot, don’t they?”

“Yeah, they do.”

I smile when I realize he’s not complaining about that. He’s needed, and he’s a valued member. He belongs, and he knows it. I like that he’s got his place in this world figured out and is comfortable with it.

“I like that you have so many good people in your life,” I state suddenly.

“They’re in your life now too.”

“Yeah, but sometimes it still seems odd to me. Because of my dad’s involvement in the criminal world, we spent a lot of time isolated from other people. I know that was our parents’ way of protecting us kids, and it did make us super close growing up. They kept our circle small so sometimes it can be a little overwhelming to have so many in that circle now. Not that I don’t like it. I do, and I really like the club members and their families. I’m just not used to so many personalities and figuring out how to navigate the club’s way of doing things, I guess. I know Drew fits in like he was born to it, but he’s always been the outgoing one of us kids.”

“Is there something about the club that worries you?”

“No, not really. It’s just taking some time to learn and try to understand things that seem foreign to me. Like you needing to talk to Drew before you’re allowed to go on a date with me. I don’t get that way of doing things. I don’t understand how it’s acceptable to consider each other close as brothers and yet Drew can insist on getting in the ring with you if you break that rule. It seems kind of archaic.”

“Looking at it from the outside, I can understand what you’re saying. The club has rules, and we’ve all agreed to follow them or deal with the consequences. Non-members don’t usually get full explanations because they’re not required to follow them. They may seem confusing to others, but I’m fine with them. They maintain order and reduce conflicts for the most part. We are going to be dating and spending time together, so I’ll be talking with Chubs and doing that soon. Are you okay with that?” Rex asks.

“It’s your way of doing things, so yeah. Now, if the club decides I must ask permission to hit the clubs with Lisa, we will have a problem,” I reply with a grin.

“You don’t need the club’s permission for that. We just want the women to be extra careful right now because of the drugging incidents. Going out with Lisa, anywhere, requires a lot of courage and common sense, though,” Rex answers with his own grin. “And knowing how easily she finds trouble, you might want to consider taking some striking classes with Cash.”

“When you’re done reading nonsensical texts, will you cuddle with me while I fall asleep?” I ask while sliding down further on the bed.

“Absolutely,” Rex says. “Higgins. Lights off.”

I relax as soon as his arm pulls me close.

I grab my phone and silence the alarm seconds before the bedroom door opens and Rex strolls in. Rolling onto my side to get a better view of him, I feel my stomach flutter. The man is gorgeous with his dark brown hair and milk chocolate-colored eyes. Still gorgeous, even with a battered face. He’s obviously showered because his hair is damp and neatly styled.

“Morning,” Rex says while setting his coffee cup on the nightstand and sliding into bed next to me.

“Hi. You’ve been up a while.”

Picking up his cup, Rex takes a sip and sighs. I sit up, placing my back against the headboard, and reach for his cup. Handing it over, he grins.

“Long enough to shower and make coffee. Wasn’t sure how you like yours, though.”

“Just like this,” I respond and take another sip of the heavenly black brew.

“Did your chat with Craig go well?” Rex asks as I hand him his cup back.

“Ohhh, it went so well,” I answer, then laugh while thinking about Craig’s idea for revenge on Axel.

“Your laugh makes me think Craig is up to his usual shady ways. What ideas did he have for you? I’m only asking because he’s giving me a huge discount now that I referred him to you.”

“I promised him I wouldn’t tell anyone, but let’s just say the whole club is going to get a lot of mileage out of it. Craig’s charging me a shit ton of money for the pictures, but it’ll be worth every cent. Even if I have to sell a kidney to afford them. Not sure how Bailey’s going to feel about it, though,” I respond before laughing again.

“Pictures? Now I’m really curious,” Rex says with a grin. “Please promise you won’t have to leave town or go into hiding once Axel sees them.”

“Not sure I can make that promise. I may end up living at the ranch with Ivy and Pigeon for a while,” I respond.

“Speaking of pictures, I’m going to go through your security camera rolls today. I’ll let you know if I find anything.”

The reminder of last night's peeper wipes the smile off my face. I’m glad I brought work clothes with me last night, so at least I don’t have to go home before work.

“Okay, thanks. I better hit the shower and get dressed. I have a full day,” I say before getting out of bed and grabbing my overnight bag.

“Want something to eat before you go? Candy made a bunch of breakfast burritos and bagels for me. They’re frozen and only take a minute or so to nuke,” Rex asks.

“That’s nice of her to do that. No, thanks, though. I’m not a breakfast person,” I answer before making my way to the shower.

Walking into the kitchen, I find Rex at the bar, phone in hand. When his eyes find me, I watch as they do a slow inventory of my body and then face. Face serious, he turns on his stool and pulls me to stand between his legs. Cupping the side of my neck, he pulls my mouth to his.

Slowly, Rex explores my mouth while his other hand grips my hip. I lean against his body and thoroughly enjoy what his mouth and tongue are doing to mine. I drop my overnight bag and place my hands on his thighs. Angling his head, Rex takes things up a few notches, and I feel heat race through me. Moaning slightly, I regret that I have to stop this before it gets even hotter. I pull my head back and then drop my forehead onto his shoulder.

“I shouldn’t have started something we can’t finish, but fuck, Aria, I don’t want to let you go,” Rex says in a husky whisper.

“I’m going to count that as the hottest goodbye kiss ever and a promise for more later,” I state in a quiet voice.

“Text me before you leave work today if you haven’t heard from me yet. I don’t want you going home unless someone is with you,” Rex orders.

“I’m not sure how I feel about going there alone, so yeah, I’ll text you.”

“Do you have a security system at your practice?” Rex asks suddenly.

“Yes, but I don’t know anything about it. It was in place when I started working there.”

“Find out what you can about it. That way, I won’t have to hack into it to be sure it’s adequate,” Rex states with a grin.

“I can do that. I have to go, or I’m going to be late. Thanks for letting me stay last night.”

“You’re always welcome to spend the night with me,” Rex says, grin widening.

Rex walks me to my car, gives me a quick kiss, and I’m on my way to work, but my mind is already thinking about the next time I’ll get to see the gorgeous biker with a kind heart.

Dr. Georgeanne Martello, my business partner, walks me through the security system when I explained why I was curious. She’s funny and outrageous most of the time but took this situation very seriously.

“If your friend is willing to upgrade it and thinks it needs to be tweaked, I’m all for it. Safety for our employees and patients is important to me. Let me know what he thinks, and we can make informed decisions about it together,” Georgeanne says before leaving her office for her next appointment.

I text the information to Rex but don’t receive an immediate reply, so I too leave for my next patient.

After several grueling appointments, I find myself in my office, sorting through paperwork, when my phone dings with a text. It’s from my brother.

Drew: Please tell your receptionist that I’m your favorite brother and it’s ok for me to wait for you in your office.

Me: Show her this: He’s my brother so please send him to my office.

A minute later, Drew strolls in and takes a seat across from my desk. He sets his super-sized soda on my desk and then rummages through a fast-food bag. Setting numerous items next to his drink, I watch silently until he’s emptied the bags, as in plural.

“You show up but don’t bring me lunch?” I ask with a raised brow.

“I’ll give you one taco, but that’s it. You should have planned ahead,” Drew states with a slight frown but does hand over one taco.

“One taco? Mom wouldn’t be happy with you being stingy again,” I reply while picking up the taco.

“Mom wouldn’t be happy to know that you had someone creeping around your condo, and you didn’t call me, either, but here we are,” Drew responds before polishing off a taco in two bites.

“How do you know about that?” I ask before taking a huge bite and ignoring the lettuce that falls onto my desk.

“Had to stop at the security office, and Rex was looking at pictures from your cameras. Recognized it as your condo and asked him what was up. He said you had an alarm go off, and it was some dickwad trying to see in your windows. Is there a reason you didn’t call me?”

“Blinds were down, and he couldn’t see in, so it didn’t turn out to be a big deal,” I answer while my mind whirls, trying to come up with a way to answer him and not lie.

I need a distraction. I shove the rest of my taco into my mouth and reach across the desk for another one. My hand dodges my brother’s when he tries to guard his food, and I snatch up a roast beef sandwich instead.

“Put that back, and no one will get hurt,” he growls at me.

Ignoring the warning, I rip the wrapper off and take a huge bite. Mouth full and struggling to chew, I still toss a grin at my brother.

“You haven’t answered my question, and you taking a bite out of my sandwich will not deter me from still eating it,” Drew says while standing up.

I quickly stand and shove the sandwich into my mouth for another too big bite. I move counterclockwise around my desk as my brother advances on me from my left. When he quickly switches directions, so do I. He snorts then dives across the desk, missing his large collection of food items and drink but managing to grab my wrist.

I end up on my butt on the floor, still trying to shove more of the sandwich into my mouth. Drew is standing over me, holding my wrist and grabbing for the sandwich in my other hand when Georgeanne walks through the open door. Coming to an abrupt stop, she simply stares at the two of us scrapping over a mangled, half-eaten sandwich.

Drew pays no attention to my stunned business partner and manages to grab my other wrist, raising the sandwich to his mouth. When he goes to take a bite, I release it, not willing to lose a finger over this battle. The sandwich falls, landing on my thigh, and I know a moment of fear when I watch his eyes follow it.

“Don’t you dare! You bite me over what’s left of that, and I’m going to fuck you up for life!” I shout while trying to get loose.

“Should I be dialing 911?” Georgeanne asks in a tentative voice.

“No! He’s my brother, and he’s a food addict!” I respond in a desperate voice.

“Is there even a rehab for that? Did he escape or something?” she questions, almost to herself.

“Chubs! For God’s sake, let her go, and I’ll buy you five more!” a voice shouts from the direction of the ceiling.

All three people in my office look upward. It takes a moment for it to sink in where the voice came from and who it is, but I burst out a laugh in relief when my wrists are released. I roll sideways and get back to my feet, putting some distance between myself and my now smiling brother.

“Only five? Make it ten, and I’ll leave her office and let her get back to work,” Drew says to the ceiling.

“Are you seriously negotiating for more food?” I ask in disgust.

“It might work,” Drew states with a shrug.

“Fine! Ten it is, but you have to leave now. Grab your food and drink and get gone,” Rex orders, then chuckles.

“See ya later, sis,” my brother states with a grin and a salute and then exits with his lunch.

I drop into my desk chair in relief. Damn, it’s been a long time since I’ve been dumb enough to touch Drew’s food. It brings up a lot of old memories and some are still a little scary.

“I’m not even going to ask about whatever all of that was, but I’m going to insist on upgrading our security system after witnessing whatever the hell I just witnessed,” Georgeanne says before walking out of my office, shutting the door quietly behind her.

“Thanks for the save,” I say, turning my head to face the camera.

“Jesus. How’d you survive growing up with him?” Rex asks in dismay.

“Learned early in life not to touch his food or get between him and it. He was asking questions I didn’t want to answer, so I needed a distraction. It worked until it almost cost me a limb.”

“I should have talked to him today about us, but things were hectic here, and I didn’t get a chance to. Sorry about that. On a good note, your office security works fairly well. I would like to change a few settings and angles of the cameras, but overall, it’s good. Thanks to Chubs, you won’t need to talk your partner into it, though,” Rex says and then laughs loudly. “I’ll call you later about your home system, but I have to make a food run before Chubs gets here. I don’t have the luxury of having backup if he gets here and I don’t have his promised food.”

“I have to get back to work too. Again, thanks for the save. Talk to you later,” I say before leaving the office.

“Dinner sounds great, but I’m not a huge fan of sweating first,” I explain.

“Come on! It’s always a good time there, and it never hurts to have knowledge. Besides, you said your afternoon had a couple of cancellations, and who better to spend time with than me and Lucy?” Lisa asks with a laugh.

“Fine, I’ll be there. Learning how to defend myself will come in handy with my brother,” I say in a resigned tone.

“Your brother? What’s that about?” Lisa asks.

“I’ll explain later. See you in an hour,” I answer before disconnecting.

An hour later, I park my car behind the club’s gym and walk inside. I’m not thrilled to be here, but Lisa is a persuasive bitch, so I’m going to make the most of it and then eat my misery away later. God! I’m starting to think like my brother now.

Spotting Lisa and Lucy at the check-in desk, I join them.

“Hey, woman! Glad you came,” Lisa shouts before giving me a playful punch in the shoulder.

“Hey,” I answer while rubbing my shoulder. “Hi, Lucy. How are you doing?”

“I’m good, thank you. I’m surprised Lisa talked you into this. Chubs said you aren’t big on physical stuff unless it includes carrying shopping bags,” Lucy answers with a wide grin.

“He ain’t wrong, but he’s part of the reason I agreed to this madness. I need to learn some self-defense against him.”

“Against Chubs? Whatever for?” Lucy asks with a shocked expression.

“He nearly bit off one of my legs today over a dropped sandwich,” I reply with a smile.

“He would have only taken a small bite. He’s good that way,” Lucy states with a straight face and a small shrug.

“It sounds like we’re talking about a rabid dog,” Lisa mutters.

Axel walks past, gives us a nod and a smile, and I struggle to hold in a laugh when I notice the small bag in his hand. Tinsel, crepe paper, and garland are visible at the top of it, and all are orange, black, and dark purple. Hmmm. Halloween colors. When I notice Lucy and Lisa both staring at me oddly, I fix my expression. When they continue to stare with raised eyebrows, I sigh.

“I can’t explain yet, so please, don’t even ask,” I plead.

“You’re up to something, and you already know I’m devious, so I’m just offering my services if you need creative ideas,” Lisa states.

“I’m good with waiting until whatever this is about happens. I’m going to work out and mind my own business,” Lucy says with a grin and walks away.

“Does this have anything to do with your meeting with Craig?” Lisa asks with wide eyes.

“Yes, but that’s all I’m going to say. Are we going to hit things or what?”

Lisa is practicing with Cash while I’m learning the basics from Pooh. He’s a great teacher, and I’m finding I’m enjoying myself and learning things when Axel approaches us. He stands off to the side, silent but watching us carefully. After several minutes, Pooh tells me it’s time for a break. At this point, Axel speaks up, cocky smirk firmly in place on his handsome face.

“It’s good you’re learning self-defense, Aria, but it won’t do you much good against me. I teach those moves myself, so I’m very aware of what to watch for. Why don’t you just accept my apology, and we’ll call it even? No harm, no foul. Nobody has to get hurt.”

“Had a peeper outside my window the other night. Not learning these moves for you, Axel,” I reply.

“Seriously? Does Chubs know?” Pooh questions, face morphing to concern.

“Was he caught? Do you know who it is?” Axel asks, all joking shoved aside now.

“My brother knows, and he wasn’t caught. He seemed familiar, but I don’t know where I might have seen him before. Not even positive I have,” I answer with a shrug.

“Stay vigilant, Aria. Don’t take risks. After your break, we’ll go over some more moves. We’ll also talk about things you can do to stay safe,” Pooh states.

“Sounds good. Thanks, Pooh,” I reply before walking away to grab a water.

After our sessions end, we hit the locker room. Cleaned up and ready for dinner, we make our way to the front of the gym after stopping at the office to say hi to Bailey and retrieve Lucy’s dog, Greer. Lucy snaps a leash onto his collar, and he follows us ladies to the front door. Standing on the sidewalk, we stop to decide on what vehicle to take to the restaurant.

Chatting and distracted, I watch as Lucy slides the leash over her hand to retrieve her ringing phone. One second, she’s standing in front of me, and the next, she’s not. I suddenly realize that I’m the type of person who freezes for a moment when something happens and not the type who instantly jumps into action. I also realize that Lisa and I have that in common. Staring blankly at one another, neither of us reacts quickly enough to grab Lucy’s flying body. Once our brains unfreeze, we take off at a sprint.

Racing side by side down the sidewalk, Lisa starts screaming Greer’s name. The overly large dog totally ignores her and continues hauling ass with Lucy sliding along behind him. Dropping my purse and gym bag, I push for more speed than I’ve ever accomplished before. It doesn’t make a difference at all, though. For being the size of a small horse, Greer has the speed of one too.

Suddenly, thankfully, Greer slides to a stop, nose to the ground. Lisa dives and lands next to him, grabbing his collar at the same time I drop to my knees next to Lucy.

“Oh my God, Lucy! Are you okay?” I ask as I help her sit up.

“Ow,” she mutters.

“Where are you hurt?” I question as I start running my eyes and hands over her body.

“Everywhere but mostly my knees,” she says with a wince.

Looking at them, I can understand why they hurt. Her leggings are torn in several spots, but the knee sections are completely missing. Bloody and scraped skin is showing through, and I cringe a little, knowing how much they must sting. I take a quick inventory of other small injuries before helping her to stand. Steadying her, I pull out my phone and hit Pooh’s number.

“Hey. Lucy’s dog ran off with her, and she’s got some injuries. Can you come outside and help us?” I ask when he picks up.

“Again? Yeah, be right there,” Pooh answers, then disconnects.

Seconds later, Pooh, Cash, and Axel are pounding up the sidewalk toward us. Crouching in front of Lucy, Cash gently pushes her hair behind her ears before shaking his head.

“Again Lucy? Other than the obvious injuries, any others I can’t see?” Cash asks in a quiet voice.

“I don’t think so,” she mutters.

“I’ll carry her back to the gym. We can check her over better there,” Axel states before scooping Lucy into his arms and striding away.

“I’ll lead the mutt,” Pooh states while picking up the leash.

Cash lifts Lisa off the ground and checks her for injuries before setting her on her feet. Turning my way, he does a quick scan then motions for us to follow Axel. On the way back, Lisa and I pick up all of our scattered belongings. We find Lucy in the office with Bailey and Axel already tending to her injuries.

Luckily, nothing is broken. Lucy’s going to be sore for a few days but will make a full recovery. I’m sure of that until the office door opens and in walks Candy. Face like thunder, she stalks to the couch. Stopping in front of it, she places her hands on her hips and glares down at Lucy, not saying a word. As she continues to silently stare, I watch as Lucy starts to fidget. Finally, Lucy speaks.

“You don’t have to say it, Candy. I know, okay? He needs training, and I’m not able to do it because I spoil him. There. I said it for you.”

“He’s going with me, and I’ll return him to you when he learns to behave like a dog and not a wild animal,” Candy states before snapping her fingers at Greer.

His head jerks up, and he focuses on Candy. When she picks up his leash, he immediately steps to her side and waits quietly.

“Thank you,” Lucy says in a quiet voice.

With that, Candy and Greer exit the office.

“I’m so glad I’m not Greer,” Pooh says with a laugh.

My brother Drew enters the office, eyes going straight to Lucy. Taking a seat on the couch next to her, he hugs her tight to his side.

“You okay?” he asks softly.

“Yeah. I’ll be sore for a few days, but that’s all,” Lucy answers as Bailey applies bandages to her wrecked knees. “Candy took Greer.”

“Saw her outside. It’s for the best. We’re both guilty of letting him get away with things. It wasn’t fair to him or us. He’ll be fine, and we’ll get with her, so we learn how to reinforce his training,” my brother says.

Turning to me, his eyebrows raise.

“What are you doing here?”

“Being trained and chasing wild dogs,” I reply with a smile.

“Being trained for what?” he asks.

“How to stay safe tips and self-defense. You know, in case someone decides to bite my leg off over a sandwich,” I answer with a wider smile.

“Sounds like someone touched your food again, Chubs,” Cash says with a laugh.

“I didn’t bite her, but she does know better,” my brother states with a frown aimed at me.

“Now that you’re patched up, you still going to dinner with us?” Lisa asks.

“Yes, please and thank you,” my brother says at the exact same time as Lucy says, “No. I’m going home.”

“You’re not invited,” I say while pointing at my brother.

Pulling my purse to my front, I start rummaging inside for my car keys, ignoring my brother’s snort. After a moment of no success, I turn and dump my purse’s contents onto the desk. Pushing various items aside, I still can’t locate my keys. I’m momentarily distracted when my brother’s hand snatches up a granola bar and a half-eaten bag of dehydrated strawberries from my pile of belongings. Shooting a glare at him, I return to the key search. Coming up empty again, I grab my gym bag and search it with similar results.

“What are you looking for?” Axel asks.

“My keys. I’m sure I had put them in my purse, but maybe I had them in my hand when Greer took off,” I reply.

“Probably dropped them outside. Let’s go look,” Pooh states.

We search the entire area and find nothing. The keys are nowhere to be found. What the hell?

“What do I do now?” I ask, looking at Pooh’s frowning face.

“Are your house keys on the same key chain?” he questions.

“Yeah. Car, house, and office keys. Shit! I have a spare car key at home, but I can’t get inside to get it.”

“Hang on. I’ll call Rex,” Cash says while pulling his phone out of his pocket.

“He can hack anything. He’ll have you in your car in seconds. That’s not the problem, though. Someone most likely has keys to your home and office now,” Pooh explains.

Rex isn’t in his office, but it doesn’t slow him down much. Within minutes, my car is unlocked and running. I check inside to make sure I hadn’t locked the keys inside it, but they’re not there either. Rex tells Cash to send me home, and he’ll meet me there to change the locks on my condo.

“If you get there before Rex, wait in your car with the engine running. Don’t get out, and don’t try to get inside your condo,” Pooh orders. “Stay aware of your surroundings.”

“I’ll follow you home and wait with you,” my brother states.

“No, I’ll be fine. You need to take Lucy home and take care of her,” I say.

Arriving home, I do as Pooh said to do and wait patiently in my car. I keep an eye on my mirrors but see nothing at first. Soon, though, a man in a hoodie walks from behind my condo. I sit up straight. He has the hood pulled up over a black baseball cap, and his head tilted down. I can’t see his face, but I pull my phone out anyway. Hitting record, I keep it aimed in his direction. I watch as he scurries across the parking lot and disappears into the grassy area on the other side. The man disappears behind some trees and doesn’t reappear. I stop recording and am left sitting here with a bad feeling.

When a black van with Rex and Horse in it stops next to my car, I step out, shutting my car door behind me.

“Hey, Aria,” Horse says with a smile as he exits the van.

“Hi, Horse. Hey, Rex. I just saw a man come from behind my condo,” I tell them, and even I can hear the concern in my voice. “Blue jeans and a black hoodie. A little chunky, about five foot ten inches tall.”

“Where’d he go?” Rex asks, and I point to the trees.

Horse immediately takes off at a jog in the direction of the trees. Rex reaches out and grips my arm, slowly pulling me closer. When our bodies are nearly touching, he speaks again.

“You’re okay, Aria. We’ll get the locks changed and then do the same at your practice. We’re going to make sure you’re safe.”

I nod, but my face must not have indicated that I was confident in his words because he pulled me in tight to his body. Instantly soothed by his warmth, I nod again and push in closer. Letting go of my arm, Rex loops his around my shoulders and drops a kiss on my temple. We stay in that position until Horse returns.

“Couldn’t find him. Must have had a car in the area,” Horse says as he rejoins us by the van.

“Sit in the van, Aria, and let Horse and I go inside and look around. I’ll have you come in when I know it’s clear, and then we’ll change out all of your locks,” Rex orders in a gentle voice.

I nod and take a seat in the van. Rex clicks the fob, making the doors lock, and they walk toward my front door. I watch as they enter and disappear from my view. Waiting and anxious, I keep my eyes moving, watching for anything out of the ordinary. A few minutes later, Horse waves at me from the doorway. Getting out of the van, I walk into my condo.

“Come with me,” Horse states and then walks off.

I follow him into my bedroom, where Rex is waiting. He has an odd look on his face, so I brace for what he’s about to say.

“Can you look through this drawer and see if anything is missing?” Rex asks while indicating my half-opened dresser drawer.

I stiffen when I realize what drawer is open. Everything slinky or sexy is kept there. I meet eyes with Rex’s, and it’s plain to see he’s very concerned. Whether it’s because someone was in my home or he’s preparing for my reaction, I’m not sure. I take a deep breath and step forward. It only takes a moment of shuffling through the drawer to know that several items are missing. I don’t have to check the laundry hamper because I had already done my laundry for the week. The hamper is empty.

Looking back to Rex, I nod my head.

“If someone picked up your keys off the sidewalk, how would he know where you live so quickly? Do you have your address written on your keychain?” Horse asks, but his face says he already knows the answer.

“No.”

“Someone’s following and watching you. Have you noticed anything else?” Horse questions while I continue staring at Rex.

“We’ll check the security video. That should give us a look at his face,” Rex says before I can answer Horse. “Take a walk around your home and see if anything else is missing.”

I numbly shut the drawer and then do as Rex ordered. The guys leave the room, and I open and close drawers, cabinets, and closets but find nothing else missing. Walking to the living room, I notice right away a picture of my mother and me is gone. Before I can alert Rex to the missing item, Horse speaks.

“What the fuck? How is every indoor camera offline, and yet no alert was sent?”

“No way that would happen. Let me pull up the cameras on my phone,” Rex states while pulling his phone out of his pocket.

I stand by the couch, thinking over the last week or so, but I’m not really paying attention to the men. Was there someone hanging around? Did I notice him but didn’t think anything of it? Have I really been that unaware of what’s going on around me?

“Aria? Did you change any of the settings in the security app I installed on your phone? Aria?” Rex asks.

Finally realizing he’s speaking to me, I shake my head in a negative gesture. There’s something on the edge of my memory, but I can’t figure out what’s nagging at it. My mind keeps circling back to a day that I came home after dinner with Les, but I don’t know why. Knowing if I try pushing for the memory, it’ll just evade me longer, I turn to focus on the men. It’s not long, and I’m suddenly the center of attention again.

“What the hell?” Rex mutters as he fiddles with the camera in the living room.

“Is that tape?” Horse asks, and then both men turn to face me.

“Did you tape the lenses, or did your visitor do it?” Horse questions.

Damn! I totally forgot I had done that, and now it’s bit me in the ass.

Shuffling my feet a little under their stares, I admit my mistake.

“I did it a while back. Uh, I was being pissy one day, and that was the result. Dumb, I know.”

“The outside cameras didn’t help. He knows where they are and keeps his face down. Was counting on these ones,” Rex explains, and I can tell he’s trying to hide his frustration and, quite possibly, his anger at my stupid move.

“I’m sorry.”

“No point in having a security system if you’re going to defeat it over a pissy mood,” Horse states logically.

“She’s aware of that, Horse,” Rex says impatiently.

“Just sayin’,” Horse mutters.

“Call Reeves and Pigeon. Whoever’s in town, have them go to the office and pick up the 350-plus system with four extra cameras. Have them bring everything to do a complete re-install,” Rex orders as Horse shrugs then walks outside to make the call.

“I’m so sorry, Rex,” I say in a soft voice.

“I know, and I know why you did it. I get it, but we need to change things up since he knows where the cameras are now. Have you been using the alarm features?”

“Usually, yes,” I answer in a tentative voice and then wince when I see his eyes close in a definite sign of frustration.

“Aria,” he simply says while blowing out a breath.

“I’ll do better. I promise.”

“Yeah. I’m going to add more cameras outside and reposition the ones inside. We’re also going to be adding motion sensor lights, so if anyone approaches, they’ll get lit up.”

“Thank you, but I’m not sure I want to stay here tonight. Even with the new system. Having some strange man rifling through my dresser, handling my panties is freaking me out. I’m trying hard not to think about what he’s doing with the ones he took,” I say with a visible shiver running down my spine.

“You can stay with me or Mom,” my brother Les says as he pushes through the front door.

“Oh my God! Mom!” I shout.

“What about her?” Les shouts back.

“Her house key is on my keychain!” I respond in a panicked voice.

“I’ll send someone over there,” Rex states as he starts tapping on his phone.

“Send Drew,” Les says immediately.

“Not Drew. He’s taking care of Lucy. Send Pooh. He’s good at fighting. Or Cash! He’s huge!” I exclaim.

“What’s wrong with Lucy?” Les questions, momentarily distracted.

“Candy and Freddy are on their way to your mom’s house. Lucy has some minor injuries. Tiny woman and a large untrained dog equals sidewalk surfing. Everyone take a deep breath and prepare what you’re going to tell your mom as to why she’s about to have company. Then call her,” Rex advises before walking away to speak with Horse.

“I don’t want to stay with Mom. If there is someone following me, I don’t want to lead them to her,” I say. “Same reason for staying with Drew. Lucy’s there, and I don’t want to put her at risk.”

“I win by default then. Go pack some essentials,” Les replies with a grin. “I’ll call Mom and explain.”

I love my brother, but I had been hoping to spend more time with Rex. I have no good argument for that, though, so I return to my bedroom to pack. When I finish, I sling the bag’s strap over my shoulder and turn to find Rex leaning in the doorway. He holds his hand out, and I hand over the bag to him.

“I was going to take complete advantage of this situation to gain myself another night with you in my bed. Maybe not so G-rated this time, though. Your brother is a cockblocker.”

I snort out a laugh and nod.

“I was hoping for that too, and yes, he is,” I reply while lightly running my fingertips down his abs.

“Spend tonight with him, but please tell him you’re fine being home alone tomorrow night. I promise you won’t actually be alone,” Rex says in a quiet tone.

“I’m going to hold you to that promise,” I whisper before giving him a quick kiss on his throat.

His low growl makes several parts of me tingle.

“Aria! You ready?” Les shouts.

“Coming,” I reply.

“We’ll get this done tonight, and I’ll drop your new keys and codes off at your office tomorrow. We need to change those locks too, so I’ll see you first thing tomorrow morning. Be careful, Aria. Call me if you need anything.”

“I will and thank you.”

“So, when are you and Rex going to announce to everyone that you’re a couple?” Les casually asks and then smirks when I choke on my wine.

“What? No. You’re crazy,” I finally manage to wheeze out.

Les laughs loudly before pinning me with his gaze.

“I know you, little sister. I also trust what I see with my own eyes, and what I see is a man who can’t keep his eyes off you. You’re just as bad when he’s in the room, too. What I don’t know is why you’re both working so hard to keep it hidden. Does he have a hidden wife I’m not aware of?”

Sighing in defeat, I shake my head.

“No, he doesn’t. It’s because of the club and some of the rules the members have to follow,” I reply.

I go on and explain everything to Les. I know he won’t repeat any of it, and he would never do anything to make things hard for me. Talking to him about this feels good in a way. No matter what, I know he’s on my side and wants only the best for me. His opinion matters, so I ask him what he thinks about Rex.

“Brilliant. Hardworking. Good guy. Exactly the kind of guy I want for you,” he answers immediately.

“I never thought I’d want a relationship with a biker,” I say with a small laugh.

“I’m sure he never thought he’d want a relationship with a mob princess,” Les says dryly.

We look at each other and start laughing loudly.

“Our brother is a biker and an ex-almost-mobster, and he’s the best guy we know,” Les states quietly, and I nod.

“I also think he’s going to be happy for you both and not upset,” Les continues. “Rex and you need to talk to him before it becomes a problem, though.”

“Rex said that it has to be him to do it, but with everything going on lately with the club, he just hasn’t found the time yet,” I reply.

“Word of warning. Mom knows, too. Same way I do. You can’t fool your family, brat,” Les states with a wide grin. “And she’s on her way here.”

Mom, Candy, and Freddy arrive within minutes of Les warning me, and I’m pulled into a tight hug by my mother. I let her hug me a little longer than normal, knowing that she’s concerned and worried. Finally, I pull back and look down into her beautiful face.

“I’m fine, Mom. I’m sure it’s not as bad as it sounds. Probably some simple pervert and nothing more.”

“He entered your home, Aria. Went through your things. Simple perverts are how most serial killers start out. You should move in with me or Les. Safety in numbers and all that,” Mom states in her no-nonsense mom-voice.

“I’ll be fine, Mom. Rex and the guys are working on the security system as we speak, and I already promised to use all its features this time around,” I answer in a soothing tone.

“Why don’t you all grab a seat in the living room, and I’ll get us drinks. Beer, Freddy? Candy?” Les suggests.

“I had your mom pack a bag. She won’t be returning home until Rex and the guys have a chance to change her locks and codes, too,” Freddy explains.

“Thank you, Freddy. I guess Les is stuck with us for a day or so,” I respond.

Les returns with the drinks, and we all sit around discussing the events of today. Mom assures me that she spoke with Lucy and she’s going to be fine. Battered and bruised, but no serious injuries. While Mom is explaining this, I can almost feel Candy’s anger permeate the room. Glancing her way, I notice the tightness around her mouth and the frown lines between her eyes.

“What’s wrong, Candy?” I ask, and all eyes turn her way.

“I should’ve insisted on me, Reno, or even Ava working with her dog before she got hurt. He’s a great dog, but neither she nor Chubs are good at training or enforcing rules,” Candy answers.

“Not your fault, Candy. You have him now, though, right?” I ask.

“Yeah, he’s at my apartment, and Reno’s going to work with me and him tomorrow.”

“Maybe he should work with Lucy and Drew too,” Les mutters, and a few laughs echo in the room.

“Since you’re all together and safe, I’m going to head out. Need anything, don’t hesitate to call,” Freddy states as he stands.

“Same for me,” Candy says and follows Freddy outside.

“I haven’t eaten yet, and I’m starved. What do you have in your fridge, Les?” I ask.

“Nothing, as usual, but I know how to use DoorDash. What’s everyone hungry for?”

Arriving at the office the next day, I pull Georgeanne aside and fill her in on my night. Eyebrows raised, she listens and nods in understanding when I tell her the guys will be here to rework the security system.

“I’ll let the front desk know. Anything you need to do to be safe, let me know. We’ll take whatever precautions we need to,” Georgeanne says before giving me a brief hug and walking away.

Walking to the room containing my first patient of the day, I scan the chart and realize my newest patient is a child. Kids are some of my favorite patients, but sometimes their parents aren’t. Oftentimes, the parents’ fear of dentists overrides their common sense, and they’ve needlessly frightened the child.

“Hi. I’m Aria. What’s your name?” I ask brightly as I step to where the child can see me.

“Daniel. Do I have to call you doctor?” the tiny patient asks.

“Nope. You can call me Aria,” I answer, then turn to the nervous mother sitting in the corner. “Hi, Mrs. Rosenburg. Is this Daniel’s first dental exam?”

“Daniel is sitting right here, and yes, it is,” Daniel answers in a dry tone.

“Daniel, please! I told you to be extra nice today. Dr. Zanetti can make this painful or not, so you don’t want to upset her,” Mrs. Rosenburg says while I cringe at her words.

“No pain, no worries, Daniel. Do you know what x-rays are?” I ask.

“Yeah. They’re just pictures of your bones. They don’t hurt. I had some taken when I broke my arm.”

“Oh, wow. How’d you break your arm?” I question while pulling on gloves and taking a seat next to him.

“Fell off my bike. Mom told Dad to take my training wheels off, and I said no, but he did it anyway. Dad told me I was a big boy and I could ride without them. ‘Oh, you can do it, Daniel,’ they said. No, I couldn’t. Fell off, broke my arm, and they were both wrong. X-rays didn’t hurt, but breaking my arm did. I’m four years old. How old are you?” Daniel says in nearly one breath.

“I’m almost thirty,” I say with wide eyes and grin when Daniel smiles broadly.

“That’s old! That’s even older than my mom!” he exclaims.

“Daniel! That’s not nice!” his mother admonishes.

I laugh and gently poke him in the ribs and am rewarded with an even bigger grin from Daniel. After chatting with him for a few more minutes, I start the exam. After I’m finished, we move into another room and get a full set of x-rays.

“See? No pain,” I say.

“Nope, none. Better than riding a bike,” Daniel mutters.

After going over a few things with his mom and setting up a cleaning appointment, I walk them to the front desk. Spotting Reeves, I tell the Rosenburgs goodbye and walk to his side.

“Hey, Reeves. How’s it going?” I ask.

“Hey, Aria. We have your place and your mother’s done. We’ll be here a couple of hours yet, though. How you doing after yesterday?” he questions.

“Honestly, I’m a little spooked. I’ll definitely be keeping my head on a swivel,” I admit.

“Good to hear. You can never be too careful.”

“Is Rex here somewhere?” I ask as nonchalantly as I can, and yet Reeves’ grin and sparkling eyes tell me I didn’t succeed.

“Are you saying your mate bond can’t tell if he’s nearby?” Reeves asks with humor in his tone.

“Mate bond? Don’t tell me the big bad biker reads paranormal romance books,” I return with my own grin.

“Don’t be judgy, Aria. It’s not a good look for you,” Reeves states while wagging a finger in front of my face.

“Oh my God! You do read them!” I crow louder than necessary.

“Hush it, woman! Nobody needs to know my dirty little secret!” Reeves chastises.

Leaning closer, I quietly admit, “I read them too. I’ve recently started reading MC books also.”

“They have MC books? Are the bikers big, burly, beautiful men like me?” Reeves asks and probably has no idea how much he sounds like Axel.

“Yes, some are just like you. Others are much humbler than you, though,” I answer with a laugh.

“When we’re done discussing Reeves’ lack of humility, can I have a word, Aria?” Rex asks from behind me.

I whirl, and a huge smile hits my face when I see him standing there. Nodding, I indicate that he should follow me. As soon as he enters my office, I shut the door and leap at him. Catching me mid-air, Rex pushes my back against the door, and his mouth crashes down on mine.

As warmth spreads through my body, I moan softly. The world, my job, my responsibilities all fade away as his lips make me wish for so much more. I need this man, and I need him in all the ways that are possible. He’s become such a large part of my world in such a short time. It’s kind of frightening. I’m all in and it feels right.

Sliding my hand through his hair, I actively participate in this moment. Using my other hand, I grip his hip and pull his body flush against mine in all the best places. Pulling his mouth from mine, I start to protest but don’t when his lips land on my neck. Nipping lightly, I jolt at the sensations he’s causing.

“Rex, please,” I whisper.

“Rex needs to stop whatever he’s doing because Chubs just arrived,” Reeves says from the other side of the door.

Rex pulls back immediately, and I feel the loss of his heat. Listening to Reeves’ laughter fading down the hallway, I sigh in frustration. The universe is against us. Turning to the door, I pull it open just in time for my brother Drew to walk through it. Food and drink in hand, of course.

“Hi. Saw the van and thought I’d stop to see where we’re at with the security systems,” Drew says before taking a large bite out of the caramel apple he’s holding.

“Where did you get a caramel apple this time of year?” Rex asks instead of answering.

“Ava. She makes them for me year-round. Said at least I’m eating my fruits each day. Hey, did you hear about her new coffee bar at the bakery now? She’s always only had regular coffee and none of the fancy stuff. Now, she’s finally embraced all the coffee add-ins, and I’m loving it. Stop by and check them out. She makes all the sauces and flavored creamers herself. I helped by taste testing, and she took my recommendations. She even—” Drew explains but gets cut off by me.

“Fine, I will. Great coffee, blah, blah, blah. Can you focus on something other than food for a few moments?” I ask sarcastically and only because he interrupted an especially hot moment.

Drew stares silently at me for a moment, then turns to Rex.

“Somebody seriously needs one of those coffees right about now.”

I stifle a laugh because I’m trying to be annoyed at him, but my brother is just too adorable to stay mad at for long.

“How’s Lucy?” I ask.

“She’ll be fine, and I might add, in a much better mood than you are,” Drew responds before taking another bite of his apple.

“Aria? Your next patient is in exam room two,” Lynette, one of the dental assistants, says from the doorway.

“Thank you. I’ll be right there,” I answer before turning to Rex. “I’ll be about forty-five minutes. Will you still be here?”

“Yeah. We have a few hours of work yet. I’ll walk you through the changes before I leave.”

I give him a brief nod, smack the back of my hand against my brother’s gut, and exit the room.

After work, I run a few errands but keep a close eye on my surroundings while doing them. Arriving home, I note the motorcycle parked nearby and know it belongs to a Devil’s Angel, but I don’t know which member. The beautifully painted gas tank screams Bailey, so I know I’m not wrong. Climbing out of my car, I grab up my shopping bags while scanning the area around my condo. Finally spotting a large guy in a cut sitting in the shade of the trees, I wave. Axel stands and approaches me.

“Hey, Axel. Were you waiting for me?” I ask.

“Yep. Thought I’d check in on you and make sure you’re okay with everything going on lately.”

“I’m good but thank you. Shouldn’t you be staying close to Bailey since she’s about to pop out another Axel-sized child?” I query with a grin.

“Not due for another three weeks. She’s at the gym finishing up her last day until after the baby is born,” Axel answers with a wide grin.

He’s obviously happy and excited about another child. Their first child, little Alex, is absolutely adorable, so I can see why they decided on more. While we all give him a lot of grief, the man is the best father possible. He’s a dad through and through, and it doesn’t matter how many kids Bailey gives him. They’ll be loved thoroughly and equally.

“Not sure I mentioned this before, but I think it’s really cool that the club, and especially you, have invited Candy to join. She needs a family-type structure in her life, and she’ll get that with the club,” I say in a soft voice.

“Yeah, she will. Can I ask you a question?” Axel asks with a tilt to his head.

“Of course.”

“Is Chubs going to hurt Lucy again? I know why he did it the first time, but the way he did it still rubs me wrong. Don’t misunderstand me—he’s a great guy, a great brother. I love and respect him, but I can’t forget how hurt Lucy was when he left. That woman was crushed, and I wasn’t sure we could keep her all in one piece. I don’t want to be in that position again,” Axel explains.

“No, he won’t. His blood family is safe now, thanks to his decisions and the club. He knows how lucky he is that she gave him a second chance. He’ll never run the risk of losing her again,” I answer sincerely.

I watch as the tension drains out of Axel’s body, and I realize how much this has been on his mind. Instinctively, I reach out a hand and grip his forearm.

“They’re doing great, Axel. Lucy has forgiven him, and they’re moving on with their lives together. It’s okay for you to forgive him too, you know. You protected Lucy the best you could, and I’m sure she’ll never forget that,” I state.

Nodding slowly, I watch quietly while Axel processes the moment. When his eyes meet mine again, I see the humor shining through. Here we go.

“You know I didn’t mean to imply you’re overweight, Aria. You’re beautiful and smart and family as far as I’m concerned. I just say stupid shit sometimes, but I never meant to hurt your feelings if I did.”

“I know you didn’t mean how it came out, Axel,” I answer softly.

“Does this mean you’re not coming after me now?” he questions. “Because I was such an upstanding man?”

“No, it doesn’t mean that at all. One thing has nothing to do with the other. You’ve heard of the phrase, ‘Fuck around and find out?’ Yeah, that’s where you and I are at,” I respond and give him a wicked grin.

“No offense, Aria, but bigger people have tried to take me down before and never succeeded. You have nothing on me, and you’re not a physical threat, so excuse me if I’m not shaking in my boots,” Axel answers with a cocky grin.

“We’ll see. Go home, Axel. I’m okay,” I say while releasing his arm and repositioning the shopping bags in my hand.

“How many pictures do you need to hang to have bought that many frames?” he asks while looking at the bags in my hand.

“You’ll soon know the answer to that,” I say with my own cocky grin before using my new key to enter my home.

A few hours later, I’m entering Rex’s home, excited and more than a little nervous. Finally, we get a night together even if we haven’t had our proper date yet. We’ll get to it eventually, I’m sure. Before I can set my overnight bag down, Rex takes it from my hand and tosses it on the couch. Reaching behind me, he shuts the door and gives me a sweet smile.

“Hi,” I say, returning the smile.

Rex’s hands land on my ass, and I’m lifted from the ground.

“Oh!” I shout, startled by his sudden movements.

“Wrap those long ass legs around me, Aria, and hold on,” Rex orders, and I do as he says.

I wrap my arms around his neck and sigh when I feel his mouth nuzzle the side of my neck. I feel us moving, but I don’t care where we’re going as long as Rex doesn’t let go.

A moment later, we land with a whoosh on the bed, and Rex pulls back enough to find my mouth with his. Long, hard, and deep, he kisses the hell out of me. I already know my mouth is going to be swollen, and I’m all for it. Sliding my hands through his hair, I pull his mouth harder against mine and slide my tongue along his.

Rex’s hand grips the side of my throat, and his other pulls my knee up and a little to the side so his body can settle fully against mine. I tilt my hips just enough to feel his hardened cock rub against me, and I want more. The second time I tilt my hips, Rex growls low in his throat. Moving his mouth from mine, Rex’s lands on the side of my throat and slides down.

“Rex, please,” I whisper.

“I want to taste you first,” he answers before his hand leaves my neck and pushes my shirt off my shoulder.

Nipping my shoulder, his mouth continues moving south until my shirt impedes his progress. I impatiently push on his shoulders to get him to lean back and give me access to the hem of my shirt, but he refuses the hint.

“I want to do it,” Rex states before shifting to his knees, straddling my hips, and gripping both of my hands. Pushing them above my head, he says, “Leave them there,” quickly followed by, “Is that okay?”

“It’s fine,” I rasp out in anticipation.

Releasing my hands, Rex uses his to slowly pull my shirt up and then over my head, tossing it to the side. I lower my hands back to where he wants them and watch the heat rise in his eyes as he gazes at my breasts.

Before coming here, I changed into the sapphire blue pushup bra and thong I bought today to replace the ones the pervert stole. I know what Rex is seeing because I very carefully picked them out with this moment in mind. Seeing the look on Rex’s face, I chose correctly.

“Fuck me, Aria. You’re fucking perfect,” Rex murmurs as he lightly runs a fingertip over one hardened nipple.

It’s my turn to react verbally, but all I’m capable of is a small hiss of air pushed between my teeth as he does the same to the other nipple. I arch my back, trying to force a stronger touch, but Rex doesn’t allow it.

“I need you to keep your hands where they are and let me do this my way. I’ve waited too fucking long to have you in my bed to rush this, Aria. You wore this for me, so let me enjoy it.”

“Okay,” I whisper and try not to move again when he repeats his movement.

“Not tonight, because as I said, I’ve waited too long, but sometime soon, I’m going to fuck those tits, and you’re going to watch. You’re going to watch my cock slide back and forth between them until I come all over you.”

“Okay,” I say again, but it sounds a little strangled this time.

Very carefully, Rex grips a nipple between his thumb and forefinger and lightly pinches it. My body jerks against the pleasure, and I take a deep breath to stay still. Doing the same to my other nipple, I moan low in my throat.

“You like nipple play. Thank fuck because so do I,” Rex says before pulling my bra beneath my breasts and letting it hold them upright. “Two words for you, Aria. Nipple clamps. Think about them because it’s something we’re going to try.”

I start to form a reply, but it leaves my brain when his mouth surrounds a nipple, and he nips it lightly. Running his tongue across and around it, he soothes the tiny sting from his nip before moving to the other breast and repeating the same actions. He gives a generous amount of attention to both nipples before sitting upright suddenly.

“Play with them. Let me watch,” Rex orders while never taking his eyes off my breasts. “Pinch and pull on them, Aria.”

I’ve never had a lover who asked this before, but I find it heats my blood to play with my nipples and have his eyes watch.

“Don’t stop,” Rex says while he slides off the bed and moves to the foot, eyes never leaving me.

Leaning forward, he unbuttons and unzips my jeans and carefully pulls them off. Tossing them toward my shirt, he climbs back on the bed and straddles my knees. Reaching down, he pulls his shirt over his head and sends it flying too. I slide my eyes over his toned abs and shoulders and realize I’m smiling.

“You’re fucking hot,” I state without thought.

“Glad you think so,” he answers while undoing his jeans.

Leaving his jeans undone but still on, he suddenly leans down and runs his tongue along the edge of the fabric covering very little of me. I suck in a breath at the touch and the heat from his breath on such a sensitive area. Sitting upright again, Rex’s smoldering eyes find mine.

“Before I take these off you, I want to see how they look from behind. Roll over, baby.”

I, with Rex’s help, roll over onto my stomach, and I grin when I hear his intake of breath. Yeah, the thong isn’t covering much from that side.

“Fuuuuuck,” Rex mutters in a long-drawn-out breath.

I quit grinning when his hands grip each ass cheek, and he gently squeezes them. I feel his breath and then his mouth land on one before a light slap to the other. I jerk in surprise, then let out a small squeak.

“Is that okay?” he asks from right next to my ear.

“Yeah. It’s good,” I answer before turning my head enough to see his face. “Didn’t expect you to be into spanking.”

“I’m not really, but I love the small jiggle it causes.”

Rex’s body covers mine, and he grinds his cock against my ass once, then twice, before capturing my mouth in a heated kiss. His hands push under my body and find my breasts, kneading them while kissing me breathless. Pulling his mouth from mine, I wait, knowing whatever he’s about to do next is something I’m going to love. He doesn’t disappoint.

“I can’t wait much longer to be inside of you,” he says as he helps shift me onto my back.

“I need you inside me,” I respond honestly.

Rex shifts his body over mine and then slides onto a knee and shoves his jeans and boxer briefs off using one hand and his feet. I take advantage of the moment and slide my hands across his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin. When his hand finds the edge of my thong, I lift a hip enough for him to pull the fabric free. We repeat the movement on the other side until I’m completely naked.

Rex runs a hand up my thigh and along my pubic bone. Without thought, I push my body toward his hand. His hand pushes between my thighs, and I move them apart to give his hand room. Leaning up on an elbow, Rex looks down to where his hand is now gliding through my wetness. Slowly, he glides his finger inside me, and I groan.

“Okay?” he asks.

“Yeah. More, harder, please,” I answer, nearly begging.

Rex switches to two fingers, and I blow out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. Turning my body slightly more towards his, I run my hand down until I find his cock. Running my fingers down the length, I grip his hardness and slide my thumb over the tip. It’s Rex’s turn to make a noise low in his throat before his mouth finds mine. I stroke his cock in time with his tongue stroking against mine, and his thumb finds my clit. Brushing against it, then thrusting inside me, I make a mewling sound that’s swallowed up by Rex’s mouth. I pull my mouth away, and this time I don’t hesitate to beg.

“Please! I need you in me, Rex. Now, please!”

Moving quickly, Rex opens a drawer on his nightstand and pulls out a condom. Tearing the wrapper with his teeth, he opens it and removes the condom. My hands have a mind of their own, and one continues to stroke him while I reach for the condom with the other.

“If you put that on me right now, our fun is going to end. Let me do it,” Rex says in a low tone but does so while sliding on the condom.

Rolling back into my body, his eyes search mine for a moment. I nod, knowing instinctively he was going to make sure I was ready and okay with everything happening. I think I kind of love how he always checks to make sure I’m okay and on the same page with him. Right now, though, I need him to be inside of me.

Rex moves his body over mine and grips the back of my knee, moving my leg up and around his hip. Positioned where I need him, he slowly pushes his cock into me. Partway inside, he stops and slides almost out before pushing in again. Once fully seated, he pauses, and I release a breath. I run my hands up and down his biceps before using them to pull his mouth to mine. Kissing him deeply, I push my hips against his. That’s all it takes, and Rex starts moving his hips with purpose. Pulling his head back and going up on one elbow, Rex looks down to where we’re connected.

“Fuck, Aria. You’re so warm and wet. Soft. You feel so fucking good,” he rasps out before moving his eyes back to meet mine.

“Harder,” is all I’m able to say, and I ignore his short laugh.

“Demanding. I like that,” he replies before his thrusts become stronger.

I shift my other leg, giving his hips more room, and grind myself against him. I run my hands up and down his back, loving the feel of his skin against mine. Rex suddenly slows his thrusts, but they are harder and exactly what I need. When his thumb glides over my clit, I tense, knowing I’m close but not wanting this to be over yet.

“Feel it, Aria. Focus on the feeling. Come for me. I’m getting more than just one from you tonight, so this one is just the beginning,” Rex coaxes, warm breath caressing my ear. “Come on my cock, baby.”

The combination of his words, thumb, and cock pushes me over the edge, and my body jerks uncontrollably against his. He thrusts several times, quick and hard, and I ride the wave of pleasure until my body relaxes against him. As soon as it does, Rex pulls his cock out of me, but before I can protest, he flips me onto my stomach as he goes up on his knees behind me. Grasping my hips, he pulls them up until I’m on my knees too.

Head resting on my arms, flat on the bed, my body is still in a state of bliss when Rex’s hand glides through my wetness. Pinching my clit lightly, he guides his cock against my opening and pushes all the way inside in one slow thrust. It feels so good I push back against his body. Giving my ass a light slap, Rex starts pushing in and out in an even rhythm.

“Need you to come again,” Rex says before his hand finds my clit again.

Pinching and rubbing the tiny bundle of nerves, he pushes my body into responding again. Feeling the tingling and knowing I’m on the edge, I push myself against his thrusting hardness.

“Just like that. Use me and come again, Aria. Need you to come now, though,” Rex says in a harsh tone as his hand slaps my clit, and his rhythm changes.

I rise up on my hands and slam myself against him. At the same time, he slaps my clit again, and I explode. Grinding against Rex, I don’t register anything except how good he feels and how hard my orgasm is racking my body. As the waves roll through me, I stay still, pressed tight to Rex’s cock.

I feel my body being pulled upward until my back hits Rex’s chest. His arms band around me, one around my waist and one across my breasts. I drop my hands to his forearms and let my head tilt back to rest against his shoulder. Breathing heavily, I keep my eyes closed and enjoy the moment of closeness with him. All great moments must end, though, and this one does too.

“Amazing and beautiful,” Rex whispers in my ear, and I squeeze his forearm in acknowledgment of him speaking to me.

“I have to take care of this condom, but I’ll be right back,” Rex says as he slowly pulls out of my body and leaves the bedroom.

I’m still on my knees, eyes closed, and not wanting the moment to pass, but it has, so I drop forward onto my stomach and simply lie there. I’m boneless, breathless, and not planning on ever moving again. I even ignore the small chuckle Rex lets out when he rejoins me in bed.

“You okay?”

“Hmmm,” I answer without moving, and I ignore the second chuckle that escapes him.

I feel strong, warm hands turning me onto my side and placing my back against a muscled chest. A light blanket is pulled over us, and then one arm wraps over my waist and grips a hip while the other slides under my head. I relax into his body and sigh.

“Are you hungry? I didn’t even feed you before ripping your clothes off,” Rex asks in an apologetic tone.

I give my head a tiny shake and snuggle further against his warmth. Rex doesn’t speak again for several long moments, simply holding me. It’s the most peaceful moment in time I’ve had in years. In fact, I don’t remember the last time I’ve felt this kind of peace. My family is safe and together at last. No mob to worry about. A new practice, new friends, and Rex. Realizing this, I turn my body until we’re facing each other.

Leaning up, I kiss him softly, wrap my arm over his stomach, and stroke his back. I lay my forehead against his shoulder and slide my leg between his. Rex, in turn, pulls me close and drops a light kiss on my head. We lay like this for a while before I speak.

“Thank you.”

“Are you thanking me for sex?” Rex asks, and I can hear the humor in his voice.

“No. Well, yeah, that too, I guess. Was thanking you for everything, though. For not giving up on my brother. Not turning against him. For pushing Lucy until she confided in you. For working so hard to find him. For offering friendship to the rest of us when you could have resented us for the trouble it brought to the club. For worrying about my safety and not getting angry at me for not taking it as seriously as I should. For not giving up on us getting to be together like this when it seemed like the universe was working to keep us apart. For taking a chance on me, even if it causes a problem for you with the club,” I answer softly but don’t get to finish the rest of my words because Rex’s mouth suddenly collides with mine.

Kissing me hard, Rex swarms my senses. After a long, hot moment, he pulls back but keeps my face tilted to face his.

“You don’t ever have to thank me for worrying about you or your safety. I’ll always be worried about that. While I was angry with Chubs, I never quit loving him as my club brother. Lucy was angry and hurt, but her love for Chubs never diminished, and I knew she’d eventually tell me what she knew. You are worth waiting for, and there’s no repercussion the club could hand out to me that would make me ever regret being with you. Bruises fade, but tonight is burned into my brain for a lifetime. Nobody can ever make me regret that or take that memory away from me. Not this time. Tonight is our beginning, Aria. I hope you understand that because I’m not backing off,” Rex explains in a quiet but passionate voice.

I stare into his beautiful chocolate-colored eyes and silently count my blessings. Reaching a hand up, I cup the side of his face and nod my head in agreement.

“Need the words,” he mutters before turning his face and planting a kiss in the center of my palm.

“I understand and agree. You must talk with my brother soon, though. Les and Mom have already figured us out, and Les said it would be worse if Drew finds out some way other than you.”

“I will get it done asap. Your mom and Les okay with us?”

“Yeah, both are good with it. They like you, so that helps.”

Suddenly, a voice from the ceiling announces, “Unknown person approaching front door.”

“What the hell?” I ask while jerking upright.

“That’s Higgins. I left my phone in the other room so we didn’t have to listen to it. He’s my automated system. Be right back.”

I watch in appreciation as Rex pulls on his jeans and walks out of the room. I climb out of bed, snatch up my thong and his t-shirt, and walk to the bathroom. Freshening up and using the facilities, I smooth my hair as best as I can and then head for the kitchen. At the end of the long hallway, I wait for a few beats to see if I can hear voices and if it’s someone I shouldn’t be seen by. I don’t, so I continue to the kitchen, taking a seat at the bar. Wondering where Rex is, I decide to raid his fridge.

Head inside the fridge, I hear the front door open and close. Looking up, I see Rex walking toward me, eyes on his phone, fingers flying. I grab two beers, setting one in front of Rex before returning to sit on my stool. I open the beer and take a long swig from mine while waiting silently for Rex to finish whatever he’s doing.

“I’m a fucking idiot. So fucking stupid,” Rex mutters to himself before tossing his phone on the bar and shoving both hands through his hair.

I lay my hand on his thigh but remain silent. He’s working something through his brain, and I don’t want to interfere, but I want him to know I’m here for him. When his eyes meet mine, and I see the look in them, I brace.

“I’m sorry, Aria. I fucked up, and it’s you that fuckup is going to affect,” Rex says with no small amount of disgust in his voice.

“Tell me.”

“You got here, and I was in such a rush to get you naked, I didn’t arm my security system. I totally forgot about everything but you. I’m so sorry,” Rex states while looking miserable.

“Okay, and I was in that same rush, so what’s happened that didn’t get caught on camera?”

“Someone spray painted ‘biker whore’ on your car.”

I stare at Rex, wishing he didn’t look so mad at himself, and then let out a small laugh. When Rex’s eyebrows shoot high on his forehead, I laugh again.

“It’s spray paint, Aria. Not something that’s going to wash off easily,” Rex explains slowly, like he’s talking to a child.

“It’s a car, Rex. Not my favorite child or a pet. The club owns a body shop, so it’ll get fixed. Wait, how did Higgins know someone was outside if the cameras weren’t working?” I ask, somewhat confused.

“The basic system is always on, but all the additional cameras that make this place a fortress weren’t. Why? Because I’m a fucking idiot. I preach constantly to everyone about using their systems. The features are there to be used, and I’ve repeated that enough times that people are sick of me talking about them. I created most of these systems, and yet I’m the fucking moron that forgets to arm his own,” Rex explains before shoving his hands through his hair again.

“Did the basic system pick anything up?” I ask, hoping to distract him from beating himself up.

“Guy had a hoodie on and kept his head down, back to the cameras. Looks like the same one from your place. I—wait! Maybe some of my neighbor’s cameras picked something up,” Rex says excitedly before grabbing up his phone again.

“Can you view what their cameras may have seen?” I question.

“Not legally, but fuck yeah, I can,” he responds in a distracted voice. “We need to run to the office. It’ll be easier and quicker there. Let’s go,” he says before grabbing my hand and pulling me off my stool.

“Um, let’s get some clothes on first, yeah?” I say, then laugh when Rex stops moving and looks at himself and then me.

“That would be good,” he mutters.

Dressing in a hurry, we make our way outside and to Rex’s bike. I pull back and start shaking my head in a negative gesture. Rex looks at me and then the bike and back to me.

“Have you rode before?” he asks, nodding toward his bike.

“No, and I don’t think I want to,” I answer honestly.

“How did I not know you’re afraid of bikes?” Rex questions with a tilt to his head.

“I don’t have an answer for that, but I’ll drive my whorish car and follow you,” I respond with a bit of panic in my voice.

I squint my eyes at Rex’s chuckle. I didn’t even know I was this against riding a bike until this moment, but here we are. His reaction to my stance isn’t making my glare smooth out, either.

“We’ll take my car. It’s in the garage. Come on,” he states while holding a hand out toward me.

I reluctantly take his hand and follow him to the garage. I’m not sure what I expected, but a Dodge Challenger in gunmetal gray wasn’t on the list. It’s stunning and cool as fuck. I slide into the passenger seat when Rex opens the door for me, and I’m instantly in love. I am so going to ditch my practical SUV and buy a car just like this one. When I tell Rex that, he laughs loudly.

“Since I got your car tagged, you can have full use of this one,” he states.

“You didn’t get my car tagged. I had full intentions of tackling you the moment you opened the door, so it’s my fault too. Whoever this creep is, he’s the guilty party.”

Reaching over, Rex grasps my hand and continues holding it while he maneuvers the car out of the garage. I take a moment and look at the beautiful interior of his car and feel a jolt of excitement at getting to drive it soon.

Arriving at the security office, I walk inside with Rex following me after he unlocks the door. When the door closes behind us, I turn to ask him a question when I hear a moan. My eyebrows rise in surprise, and I notice Rex’s do too. Rex uses his hand to pull me behind him and then starts walking silently down the hall while grabbing a baseball bat on the way. I stay close to his back, phone in hand, butterflies in my stomach. When another moan breaks the silence, Rex indicates which room it’s coming from, and we inch toward it.

When Rex goes to the open door, he slowly eases his head around the frame and then jerks back so quickly he nearly takes me out. My heart is now beating out of my chest, and I’m gripping his hand tight enough to cause an injury. When Rex turns his head and motions for me to stay quiet, I try to calm my breathing. Then he grins, and it’s an evil grin. Leaning toward me, he whispers in my ear.

“Revenge doesn’t always have to cost money, but it should always be painful.”

I frown, then smile when I realize whoever is in that room is not a threat to us, but Rex is about to become one to them. I indicate that I want to see what’s going on in that room, so Rex silently shuffles me forward enough to view inside, and I jerk my head back in surprise. I don’t get much of a chance to process what I saw because as soon as there is a long-drawn-out groan, Rex jumps into the doorway, shouting “hey” and slamming the bat hard against the door. The noise is so loud it startles me even though I saw it happening.

I can’t even describe the word that was shouted, more like screamed, because it was garbled with pain. The female shriek following that sound, though, was clearly one of panic. I have a second of feeling bad for her before stepping into the doorway and leaning my arm across Rex’s back as he’s bent over, hands on knees, laughing his ass off.

I can’t help but join him as I watch Reeves’ body slowly slide out of his chair and melt onto the floor. His guttural sounds and the gripping of his cock scream agony as he flops around on the floor like a fish out of water.

“Ohhhhh fuuuuckkkkk! Make it stop!” Reeves moans as his bare ass makes an appearance, then disappears as he rolls back and forth.

I’m laughing so hard that leaning against Rex’s body is the only thing keeping me standing. I swipe at the tears running down my face because I don’t want to miss a second of this. Knowing about Reeves and Pigeon tazing Rex’s manly parts, I completely understand his need for vengeance. It looks like he got his payback again.

The smile is suddenly wiped from my face when I finally look at the female who was obviously giving Reeves head when Rex crashed their party. It’s Lisa, and she’s hurriedly trying to cover her female bits and glaring daggers at Rex. Her eyes widen when they meet mine, and I can’t help myself and start howling again.

“You fucking bit my cock!” Reeves bellows before moaning and flopping his body over again. “You bit it off!”

“No, it’s always been that short!” Rex shouts between gasps for breath.

That exchange sends me into another laughing fit, and Lisa finally stands, still straightening her clothes. When she looks at me again, I try valiantly to stop laughing. I battle and mostly win, but a few more giggles escape. When she stomps to my side, I force my face into a more serious expression.

“I’m hating you right now,” she hisses, and I can’t stop the grin tugging at my lips when she delicately wipes the corner of her mouth with one finger.

“I’m so sorry, Lisa, but that shit was funny! Sorry! Really! I didn’t know it was you! Your hair—” I try explaining when she cuts me off.

“I suppose I should be embarrassed, but his cock is as nice as his ass, so there’s that. Unless I did bite some off.”

I stare at her for a few beats and then start laughing again. Reeves is still laying on the floor, jeans around his knees, bare ass pointed toward us, but his moaning is more like a low growl now. Rex is standing near him, taunting and totally enjoying the moment. The struggle is real, but I manage to stop laughing and look to see Lisa eyeing Reeves’ ass. This woman.

“Why are you two here? Reeves’ shift ended a few hours ago,” Rex asks, looking toward Lisa.

“My parents or Lucy show up to my place unannounced all the time, and Reeves moved in with Horse, so here we are,” Lisa calmly explains, no embarrassment in sight.

“Next question. Why the fuck are you in my office and not his?” Rex questions.

“Uh, I think I’ll let him answer that one. I’m out of here. See ya’s,” Lisa replies. “Reeves. Call me.”

Lisa leaves, and I turn to see Rex glaring down at the prone body of Reeves. He’s now lying on his back, hands covering his junk, and looking up at Rex in what looks like trepidation. Rex uses the side of his boot to kick Reeves in the thigh and repeats his question.

I get the feeling Rex is going to unload on Reeves if he does answer that question. When Reeves finally gives Rex a smirk, I know I’m right.

“When you’re being a dick as a boss, I get to laugh to myself knowing you’re sitting in your office like a king on a throne,” Reeves states.

“And?” Rex asks impatiently.

“A throne with my dried jizz on it!” Reeves shouts with a maniacal laugh.

Stupid move, Reeves. Nice knowing you, I think, as Rex explodes in a flurry of movement. I watch, kind of in awe, as he starts stomping, then leaning down and punching any part of Reeves’ body he can reach. Reeves makes a valiant effort to escape, but with his jeans still around his knees, he’s not going anywhere fast.

Trying to crawl away, Rex grabs the top of Reeves’ jeans and yanks his knees out from under him. Reeves moans when his injured member makes contact with the floor. Not wasting a second, Rex, still pulling on the jeans, drags Reeves by his legs around the room in circles.

“Stop! Fucking stop, man! My dick’s getting rug burns! Stop! Please!” Reeves screeches while trying to cover said part.

Rex does not stop, and Reeves finally jerks hard enough to turn his body over. I get an eyeful of injured cock before Rex starts dragging him again.

“Fuck! My ass!” Reeves shouts, then gives out a strangled moan.

“What did Reeves do now?” a voice next to my ear asks, and I shriek in surprise.

Turning, I find Petey and Trigger standing beside me, grinning from ear to ear while watching the action. Petey is the one who asked, so I answer him in the most serious voice I can muster.

“Left his jizz on Rex’s chair,” I state like it’s a completely normal thing to do. “Apparently, he did it a while ago and likes to enjoy the memory when he thinks Rex is being a dick. He should have kept that to himself.”

“His ass is red as fuck. Rex spank him too?” Trigger asks in an almost hopeful tone.

“No, it’s rug burn. His cock didn’t fare any better,” I reply and start laughing again when Trigger and Petey both chuckle long and loud.

Rex finally lets go of Reeves and steps back, hands on hips, feet braced apart. He’s breathing heavy and still looks angry, so I stay near Petey and Trigger in case he’s not done with Reeves just yet.

“You fucking sadist!” Reeves shouts as he scooches away from Rex and carefully stands.

Reaching down, Reeves yanks his jeans up and then hisses, bends over a little, and blows out a breath. I realize the jeans just rubbed some very sore skin, and he’s regretting his decision-making over the last few minutes. I giggle, then cover my mouth with both hands when he swings his eyes my way.

“Why are you two just watching the show and not stepping in to help a brother out? That was some fucked up biker-on-biker crime right there!” Reeves shouts while eyeing the two bikers next to me.

“He was doing fine all by himself,” Petey calmly responds, but his eyes are full of humor.

“I’ll help him drag you around next time if you insist. Don’t want anyone saying I didn’t step up to help a brother out,” Trigger adds but does so with a wide grin.

“I want this office scrubbed top to bottom, and that chair is yours now. No, I don’t want yours. I’ll get a new one. Use bleach and disinfect everything your filthy self has touched in here, and do it tonight. If it’s not done, there will be repercussions, and carpet burns on your dick will seem like child’s play. Got it?” Rex barks.

“You have no sense of humor, brother,” Reeves replies while carefully zipping up his jeans.

“Not true, asshole. I’m laughing on the inside where you can’t see it. I’ll be laughing the next few days when you get desk duty and have to sit on that ass of yours for hours on end,” Rex shoots back.

Reeves gives Rex a dirty look and then gingerly walks out of the door.

When I hear the loud smack followed by a painful groan, I know without looking that Trigger slapped Reeves’ sore ass as he walked past him.

“Thanks, Trigger,” Rex says with a grin. “What are you two doing here?”

“Saw your car and thought we’d stop and see if you wanted to join us. The women are helping Ava with a catering job, so we’re meeting Cash and Livi for burgers and beer,” Petey explains.

“Thanks, but I can’t. I have to look through some video feed concerning Aria’s stalker. Speaking of him, her car got tagged by the fucker and needs some work. Can I get it dropped off at the shop in the morning?” Rex asks.

“Yeah, of course. Any idea who this guy is yet?” Trigger asks, a frown marking his handsome face.

“No, but I’m hoping to get a better view of him on the videos I need to watch,” Rex answers.

Petey, looking first at Rex and then me, asks, “What did he paint on your car?”

I hesitate, looking to Rex first, then answer.

“Biker whore.”

The room goes silent for a few beats then Trigger speaks up.

“Any idea who might do this to you? Have you had an unhappy patient or one who tried getting a little too friendly?”

“No idea. I never thought about my patients. Other than them, the office staff, and the club, I don’t really know many people here yet.”

“Could be someone from a coffee shop you go to regularly or a grocery store employee. You never know, but be careful. You need anything, call one of us. Day or night, doesn’t matter,” Petey adds.

“Thank you,” I say sincerely.

“We better get going, or Livi will have eaten everything. Some of us are sure she’s related to your brother,” Trigger says with a wink and a smile.

“Oh, and Rex?” Petey asks.

“Yeah?” Rex responds.

“You might want to have a conversation with Chubs about you and his sister before shit gets ugly. Yeah?”

With those words, Petey and Trigger leave the building, leaving their laughter floating behind them.

“How does he know?” I ask in surprise.

“It’s just Petey’s way. He sees things, and he knows things. He’s like the adult version of Craig, but he doesn’t blackmail people with his knowledge,” Rex states with a grin.

Hours later and we’ve only found more pictures of a man with his face hidden from the cameras. Rex sighs in frustration, and I lean my body against his, dropping my head to his shoulder.

“You need to get some sleep. Let’s head back to my place, and I’ll start again in the morning on this,” Rex says as he stands, then pulls me to stand too.

We walk out of Pigeon’s office, and I grin when I spot Reeves in Rex’s office. He has a bucket of cleaning solution in one of his rubber-gloved hands and a scrub brush in the other. He’s currently on his knees, scrubbing the chair mat under the desk. He looks up and seeing us, drops the scrub brush in the bucket with a splash and slowly raises his middle finger. Rex chuckles, but we keep moving toward the door. Exiting the building, I’m a little shocked by how dark it is outside. Glancing down at my watch, I realize we were here longer than I realized. It’s nearly midnight, and I have to be up by six. Short night for me, I guess. This stalker business is hard on my sleep habits.

Once inside Rex’s home, I make my way to the master bathroom to prepare for bed while he double-checks the security system and moves his bike inside the garage. Washing my face, I slap on moisturizer, brush and floss my teeth, and walk into the bedroom. Rex is pulling off his shirt, and I stop and simply enjoy the show. Catching me watching him, Rex gives me a sexy smile.

“Keep looking at me like that, and neither of us will be sleeping tonight.”

“Not safe to be drilling inside someone’s mouth when I’m sleep-deprived,” I answer as I walk to him and then wrap my arms around his middle.

Dropping both hands on my ass, Rex pulls me tight against him. I turn my face toward his body and run the tip of my tongue over his nipple. I grin when his body jerks in surprise. I repeat the move and enjoy the sound of his indrawn breath.

“Fuck me, Aria. How much sleep do you require?”

“Sleep is overrated,” I answer.

I soon find out that I can function fairly well with only a couple of hours.