Kings of Chaos

by Katie Ball

  “I had one chance, one moment where I could get away from him. So, I took it. Running as far as I could. Instead of just letting me go, he followed me…been after me ever since.” I may have had everyone’s attention right now but no one else mattered but Talon. He was all I could see right now. Only him.

  “He abused you?” Hating to admit it as if it was my own weakness. Like somehow it was my own fault for letting him do it to me. I knew it wasn’t, but it didn’t stop those emotions from swirling throughout me.

  “Physically?” A single nod. Giving him the answer, he needed.

  “Sexually?” Again, a single nod. Biting the inside of my cheek, longing for the floor to swallow me whole. Cursing under his breath. Nostrils flaring as if he struggled with his fiery rage. Judging from the look in his eyes, he would make my stepfather pay.

  “Let me help you Hazel, please.” How could I say no? His mossy green eyes pulled me in, so did his voice. Urging me closer to him, calling to me. Promising me a safe haven within the shelter of his arms.

  “How?” Unsure if it was even possible to help me.

  “You’ll be under our protection. You’ll have two Kings with you at all times, watching out for you. They will go anywhere you go. At the same time, we’ll be looking for him. He will not be able to hide in this town for long.” Under their protection? I don’t remember the last time someone tried to protect me. Is this what it meant to have people in your life that cared?

  Would it be enough though?

  “What will you do if you find him?” Those light eyes of his darkened at the thought of it. I could see what he planned, see the agony and torture he would unleash of the demon that haunted my dreams. It should have frightened me…but it didn’t.

  “When I find him, you won’t have to worry about him ever again.” I could hear the threat in his voice, his fate was sealed. Talon would kill my stepfather, ending his reign of terror.

  “Ok.” Arching an eyebrow at me, shocked that I just accepted what he said, like it was nothing. I guess, he didn’t except that reaction from me.

  “Ok?” I nodded.

  “I’ll let you help me.” A look of relief on his face. Glad that I let him in, that I would let him help me. Though I imagine he would have still protected me whether I agreed to it or not. He was a natural protector, a defender. Was it because I was a woman? Probably, I doubt it was anything else.

  “No more running Hazel.” How I longed to hear those words, exhausted from it all. The last seven years had drained me. Crushed my spirit very fucking slowly.

  But maybe Talon could give me a chance. Give me a shot at a life worth living. Make it possible for me to have a place to call home.

  Talon’s hand took mine in his, intertwining his fingers with mine. Shit. Heat flooded through my body, pooling between my legs, making my breasts ache for his attention. How can he get me all flustered even at a time like this? Yearning for him in a way I didn’t understand. It was all so new to me.

  “Hog and Mac will stay with you. You don’t go anywhere without them, ok?” Nodding at his commands. Liking the way, he took charge. That was the leader in him. The King in his natural habitat, rippling with a powerful essence. Would he carry this aura with him between the sheets? Would I find out? No…of course I wouldn’t.

  “Ok.” Satisfied with my answer, he climbed to his feet, gazing down at me.

  “I’ll be back later. If you need anything, get one of the guys to call me.” All I could do was nod and admire him as he went about giving the others their orders. Christ, I was hot and bothered right now.

  Talon and Gunner left, taking the package with them. Before he left, I had to write down any information I had on my stepfather. Anything that could help find him.

  Nathan wouldn’t be able to hide, not from Talon. The Kings of Chaos would find him and would make him regret ever laying a finger on me.

  Jane and Zach got ready to open up as usual. Keeping it as normal as possible. Not wanting to alert anyone that something was going down.

  “I’m Mac by the way.” The one with long light golden brown hair and warm chestnut eyes introduced himself. Out of the two of them, he seemed the friendliest. Sure, he could do damage but there was a softness to his eyes. A kindness. I noticed he was clean shaven. Shocking for a biker. All the ones I had met seemed to be a fan of facial hair. It suited him though.

  “Nice to meet you Mac.” Gesturing to the other biker who was just stood there staring at me.

  “That’s Hog. He likes to pretend his scary but really he’s a big softie.” That earned Mac a death stare from Hog.

  He was fearsome. Dark, rich chocolate hair that was cut short. Pale hazel eyes, they may be intricate and pretty but there was a seriousness to them. A stern, cold glint within. He was definitely the scarier one out of the two of them. Slightly taller than Mac as well. I doubt anyone messed with him.

  “I’m not a softie.” Mac just burst out laughing like this was a regular argument they had. I had a feeling they were referring to something I was unaware of.

  “Not what I heard.” The door swung open and I flinched out of instinct now. Worried that he would show up at any moment, tired of this game of cat and mouse.

  There was nothing to panic about. It was just some regulars who looked terrified when they caught sight of the Kings. Hurrying over to the other end of the bar, well out of the way.

  Hog and Mac went and grabbed the same table from the first night they were in here. It gave them a good view of the entire place, keeping me in sight and able to see anyone who stepped over the threshold. Ready to lunge into action if need be.

  “Hey, I’m sorry.” Jane looked nervous. I knew she felt bad, but I bet if she had to do it again, she would.

  “I get it Jane, I do. It’s just I try not to get close to people because i’ve seen what happens when I do.” The one boy that I had tried to be with all those years ago crept into my mind. Remembering what happened to him when my stepfather found out. I remember where he ended up. I didn’t want that to happen again, not because of me. My fingers traced the white rose tattoo on my forearm.

  Shaking those thoughts away, too dangerous to think about right now.

  Taking some coffees over to the Mac and Hog. They were alert and aware, ready for anything. Prepared to fight if Nathan showed his face right now.

  Every time the door opened, I found myself checking to see who it was, just in case. I mean no one knew what he looked like, only me.

  My nerves were all over the place. He had made me a paranoid mess, knowing he was nearby, way too close to me. Taking pictures without me even realising it. This was a game to him, one that terrified me. Not knowing what his next move was.

  My fears wouldn’t leave me until he was dead.

  Or I was.

  Spending the rest of the day trying to lose myself in my work. Since it was quiet, I decided baking would be the best thing for me. Therapeutic in a way. It was what I needed, to forget everything else and focus on something else. This was perfect for that.

  Mac had come into the kitchen with me. He said it was to keep me company but I knew it was so he could watch over me. Taking his protective detail very seriously, not letting me out of their sight.

  Zach had cooked for the Kings and Jane. He made me something as well, but I couldn’t stomach it. So, it sat there…untouched.

  “How long you been baking?” Mac was curious, trying to gather more information.

  “A few years now, it’s a nice escape for me.” Stepping up next to me, he pointed at the blackboard that I usually write all the different flavours on offer.

  “May I?” Frowning at him.

  “You want to do my board for me?” Smiling at me, excited at the prospect of it.

  “If that’s ok.”

  “Knock yourself out.” I couldn’t help but watch as he picked up a chalk pen and got to work. I was awe, he had to be an artist. He was amazing, making it a piece of art. Something more than I would ever be able to
create, it was incredible.

  “Holy shit, this is stunning. Are you an artist?” Playfully mimicking a bow in my direction. I’m pretty sure I should be the one bowing, he was beyond talented.

  “Tattoo artist.” Of course, he was. I had a few tattoos myself and seeing the beauty he could create, it really made me want another.

  “Well thank you, I love it.” Taking it out front for me, I couldn’t help but smile. It was perfect.

  Helping Jane behind the bar now. Hog hadn’t moved, watching everything. Scanning the room for any threats. Mac joined him now.

  “Can we get some drinks?” Of course, Trent would be here tonight, just what I needed.

  “Be with you in a minute.” Trent was a cocky arsehole who seemed to be under the illusion the sun shines out of his arse. I couldn’t stand him. Unfortunately for us, he liked to drink here at Paradiso’s, so we were forced to endure his arrogant bullshit.

  When I didn’t go running over to him, he started clicking his fingers at me. Not a smart move. I mean, I was in the middle of serving someone.

  “Prioritise. Serve the more important people first, it’s not rocket science.” Biting my tongue, wishing I could tell him to fuck off without getting in deep shit.

  Heading over to deal with him.

  “What can I get for you?” I wonder if he could see the irritation in my eyes. Probably not, knowing this conceited prick.

  “Three beers…sharpish.” Pouring his drinks, wanting him out of the way. I could feel Mac and Hog watching us, or rather watching Trent. He needed to be careful, I don’t think he wanted to get on their bad side. They could easily crush his skull with their bare hands.

  “Anything else.” Praying that he took the hint and got out of my face. Leaning towards me now, he snarled.

  “A little bit of advice. When you see me walk in, I should be your number one priority.” Glaring at his cocky bastard, really tempted to throat punch him.

  Him and his buddies wandered away from me, laughing amongst themselves.

  Tonight, couldn’t be over with quick enough.

  Chapter Seven

  The clock struck eleven. Almost there, a few more hours to go and I could finally head home.

  Just then, the front door swung open. My eyes snapped up to see who it was. My heart started pounding when I realised who had just strolled into the bar.

  Talon, looking like a damn god. A fallen one sure but still, a freaking god. He may be dangerous and fierce, but it didn’t stop me from wanting him. Wondering what it would be like to have him sweep me up into those big powerful arms. Cradling me to him, why did that sound so good?

  Briefly glancing at Mac and Hog, nodding in acknowledgement. Then those beautiful emerald eyes landed on me and I could have fainted on the spot. They were swimming with desire. Dripping with red hot lust that had me all flustered. Smirking like he knew what he was doing to me. God, I needed to get a grip. This couldn’t happen.

  Approaching the bar. I realised I was holding my breath, unable to pull air into my lungs. I was mesmerised right now, hypnotised by every little move he made. I needed to get myself together, I was melting into a damn puddle because of him. God, I was screwed. How on earth was I meant to resist him.

  “Hi.” Stopping in front of me, he rested his hands on the bar. I tried to ignore the sudden image of those hands running over my body. Caressing my bare skin, teasing me, exploring me. Biting my lip as I imagined them cupping my breasts and rolling my achy nipples between his fingers. I almost moaned at the thought of it.

  “Hi, you erm…you want a beer?” He just nodded at me, not about to say no. Pouring his drink for him, he watched me the entire time. Eyes trailing down my body, leaving a wildfire of flames in his wake. My cheeks were blushing red just from his heated gaze.

  “There you go.” Transfixed as he took his first sip. Watching the way his throat worked, enjoying the view way too much.

  Gazing down at me then, he was so damn tall. I wanted to climb him like a tree, wrap my legs around him, clinging onto him as he ravished my needy body.

  “They been behaving themselves today?” Shattering my naughty thoughts.

  “Yeah, they’ve been on their best behaviour.” They were taking guard duty very seriously.

  “Glad to hear it.” I must admit, it shocked me a little that they didn’t consume more alcohol today. Obviously, they wanted to keep a clear head. I respected that. “How are you feeling? After this morning.” How did I feel about it all?

  I had been trying to forget about it. Ignoring it as best I could. Not letting myself dwell on it. Was it healthy? No but it was better than crumbling in front of everyone.

  “I’m fine.” Judging from the look in his eyes, he could tell I was lying.

  “You nearly finished?” Changing the subject, very smoothly. Checking the clock, I still had a few hours to go.

  “We normally get out of here about one ish.” That felt so far away. Exhaustion already hitting me hard, more than ready to crash.

  “You look dead on your feet.” How could he read me so well? Was he able to read my mind? Probably not. I probably just looked a mess.

  “Wow, you know how to sweet talk a woman.” A teasing smirk on his face.

  “Darling, I can sweet talk you if you’d like. I was going to go easy on you tonight but just say the word and I can soon change that.” Fuck me, there was a lot to digest there. Going to go easy on me? Sweet talk me? Christ, I need a lie down. I felt dizzy from his ravenous stare and heated words.

  “Maybe I need you to go easy on me.” This was new territory for me, something I had never experienced before. I was out of my element here. Never met a man I wanted, until Talon. Now, he was all I desired.

  “Say no more, love.” Not wanting me to worry and overthink it.

  He made eye contact with the others. They both sprang into action, knowing exactly what they chief in command wanted. Going around the few tables we had, I didn’t know what they were saying but it made them finish their drinks and get the hell out of here.

  Eyes widening with realisation.

  “Seriously?” Talon shrugged like it was nothing.

  “You need sleep. Figured it’s the only way I’m going to get you to finish for the night.” Jane was just grinning at me. Was she enjoying this? By the look on her face, I’d say so.

  “I can finish up here. Go home and get some sleep.” Before I even had a chance to argue, Jane shot me one of her looks, daring me to argue with her. Even on my worst day, I was not that stupid. Especially when she got that look in her eyes.

  “Fine.” Grabbing my stuff. I was pulled in for a hug from Jane before I left.

  “Thank you.” If it weren’t for her then I would have been on the run again. I would have left this all behind, I’m glad I didn’t.

  “That’s what friends are for. Now go get some sleep.” Smiling as we parted. Leaving her behind with Zach while I headed home for the night.

  Talon stuck right beside me. Mac and Hog were behind us, watching my back. Making sure no one crept up on me, never letting their guard down. I knew they were eager for Nathan to appear so they could deal with him.

  “You need to make any stops before you head home?” There was one place I wanted to go. I hadn’t eaten all day, not able to stomach the idea of food but now, I was starving. Grumbling away, my appetite was back in full force.

  “Maybe a quick stop at Pete’s.” Pete’s was the only fast-food spot around here, the only one that was open at this time anyway.

  “We’ll follow close behind you, ok?”

  “Ok.” Opening my car door for me, I climbed behind the wheel. Then I watched as he sauntered over his bike. I waited while they climbed on their Harleys. Roaring with life, rumbling through the earth. Alerting everyone to the Kings whereabouts.

  Talon and the others stayed behind me the entire time. Checking my rear-view mirror, I couldn’t help but admire the sight behind me. Seeing him on his bike, he was a sight to behold. A mag
nificent male, a King in every way. I had the sudden longing to climb on the back of his bike. Have my arms around him, my hands on his chest, him nestled between my legs, fitting so perfectly together. I wanted to ride with him, forgetting all my worries. Just enjoying the open road with him. Craving the freedom, he could offer me.

  When we reached Pete’s, Talon joined me inside, keeping me close. He would hear no complaint from me.

  As normal, I ordered way too much food for myself. Talon decided to order some food for him and the others as well. It would be enough to feed an army.

  Leaning against the counter as we waited for our food. I couldn’t help but glance out the main window, searching the shadows. Wondering if he was watching me right now. Was Nathan lurking out there somewhere?

  “His not going to get you Hazel.” Meeting Talon’s eyes. He was resting against the wall, the picture of strength. Eyes trained on me, gaze way too intense, dripping with hunger. Heat coursed through me, all thanks to Talon. I was struggling to keep control of my lust. He made it hard to think clearly. Being around him, he clouded my brain with sensual fantasies of him. Sinful dreams that flooded my core with fiery desire.

  “You think his out there right now? Watching?” Struggling to see if anyone was hidden out there. I hated the not knowing. Unaware if he was nearby or not.

  “If he is, he better be good at hiding. If we find him, his dead. Though if he has any sense, he’ll see us and run.” Our eyes locked as I glanced his way.

  “He won’t run.” A malevolent grin spread across his face now.

  “Good, I’d rather he didn’t.” I knew why. Jane had told me how the Kings hated men who hurt woman and children. If he crossed paths with my stepfather, then that would be it, he would meet his end. I felt no sadness at that thought, I wanted him dead. That was the only way I would be free of him.