by Erin Osborne
When I got the insurance money, since I was the beneficiary and nineteen years old, there wasn’t much left over. I had to pay for the funerals, take care of bills they left behind, and I tried to keep current on the mortgage so I could at least remain in our family home. However, my parents ended up taking out a second mortgage on the house for some reason and I couldn’t afford to pay it. The bank and I decided to put it up for sale and use the money from the sale to cover the money they were owed. That’s how I came to be in Willow Creek. I didn’t want to stay in my hometown where so many memories assaulted me on a daily basis.
“Where’d you go?” Torch asks, not moving back to give me any space.
“Why would you do that?”
“One day you’ll realize, I want you. I always get what I want,” he simply states.
“I’m not one of the women from the club. I don’t just have sex with someone,” I respond, shifting in my seat.
“Didn’t think you were,” he says, turning and getting out of the truck. “Let’s go see what’s goin’ on in here.”
We get out of the truck and he meets me at the passenger side. Grabbing my hand, he pulls a set of keys from his pocket. As soon as we get to the door, he inserts the correct key and opens the door for me.
“After you, baby.”
Walking inside, my eyes bulge out. The front and side of the interior are completely open with a bar and counter resting behind it. Everything is covered in layers of dust and work definitely needs to be done as I take in holes in the walls and wires hanging out. Walking through the main room, I head for the door behind the bar. Torch is hot on my heels as I take in everything in my line of sight. There’s a short hallway in the back so I’ll check that out after the kitchen.
We walk in the kitchen to find it in disrepair. No appliances are left, the counter that used to stand in the middle of the large room is torn apart and laying in pieces. Where the sinks were once located, they’re now hanging haphazardly off the wall. Water damage is on the wall below them leading to the floor. It will all have to be replaced. At the back of the kitchen is a large storeroom. It would be perfect for storing not only all the pots and pans I’d need, but any other supplies and baking goods. It needs work and shelves installed though. They’d surround the large walk-in cooler that would need to be replaced.
Leaving the room with my heart sinking, I make my way to the hallway. There are two doors on the left with signs indicating they’re the bathroom. Opening the doors, we see they’re in the same condition as the kitchen. It looks as though people have come in to take as much scrap as possible to make money on. Across the hall from the bathrooms is another door. Opening it, I see what used to be an office. It’s in shambles. Tears fill my eyes. This is just too damaged, and no way can I ask Torch to rent this building for me.
“What do you think?” he questions, placing his large hand on my lower back.
“I appreciate the offer, Torch. I can’t accept the help though,” I state, walking from the office and heading for the front door.
“Why not?” he asks, stopping me in my tracks with a hand on my arm.
“Too much work needs to be done to fix it up so it can become operational again,” I state the obvious. “I couldn’t ask you to rent this building and then sink a ton of money into it just so I could spend more money for everything I’d need.”
“Already own the buildin’, sweets. You can do whatever the fuck you want to it. Just make a list of what’s needed and how you want things and we’ll go from there. Already knew what we’d be walkin’ into when I bought it. Plus, already started researchin’ what you’d possibly need to get in here for your bakery. I have a good idea of the costs. Now, again, what do you think?” he floors me, leaving me speechless once more.
“I’ve taken so much from you. Why would you do this?” I cry out.
“You haven’t taken anythin’ from me. Yet. What are you talkin’ about?” he questions confusion lacing his voice and filling his face.
“Look at what happened to your sister. She’s in the hospital because of me. You almost lost your nephew, too. I’ve taken a lot from you, Pyro, Tags, and the rest of the club,” I tell him, tears streaking down my cheeks.
“Let’s go,” he orders, his voice, deep, hard, and I know he’s angry with me.
“I’m sorry.”
Torch ignores me as we leave the building and head for the truck. No words are spoken as he gets in the driver’s seat and drives away. I’m expecting him to take me home, but that’s not the direction we’re heading in. I don’t even have the spark left in me to question him right now. Instead, I simply stare out the window and let the scenery pass us by in complete, deafening silence.
Torch
Pulling away from the building I bought for Becky, I’m pissed as fuck. No, I haven’t hit on her, let her know I’m interested in the slightest bit, or anything. To hear her talk about Victoria and the baby as if she’s the reason is what has me pissed off. When we were inside, I actually appreciated the fact she didn’t want me to rent the building for her because of all the work that needs to be done on it. However, I’ve already seen the damage and don’t think it’s going to cost as much as she thinks it is. I can have some guys I know work on it, so they won’t charge me as much. They’re work is good or I wouldn’t use them too.
When she started talking about how much she’s almost taken from me, I lost my shit. Yes, I kept it in check for the most part, but just barely. Becky is going to hate me when we get to our destination, but I can’t see her dealing with this and feeling this way. Yes, my very pregnant sister was with her looking at a building I arranged for them to see. However, it’s not her fault the building exploded. There is no way in hell I’m going to let her take that burden on. So, we’re going to see Vicky and the baby. I know for a fact she hasn’t been here since they were all brought in. She can’t bring herself to see my sister.
“W-W-What are we doing here?” her soft voice questions me as I pull into the hospital parking lot.
“You’re goin’ to see my sister. And the baby,” I answer, pulling into a parking spot and putting it in park. “I can’t stand to see you beatin’ yourself up about this. The explosion, Vicky gettin’ hurt, and Kaysen bein’ born early has nothin’ to do with you. We know who did it and we’ll make sure they fuckin’ pay. So, we’re goin’ to go in there and you’re gonna hear it from my sister’s mouth.”
“I don’t want to, and you can’t make me,” she responds, folding her arms across her chest.
The only thing that ends up doing is pushing her large tits up and showing more skin from beneath the neck of her V-neck tee-shirt. I lick my lips as I stare down, wishing I could see more of her flesh. I want to taste every single inch of her creamy, silky-smooth skin. She’ll find that out sooner rather than later.
Becky isn’t like the rest of the women who flock to bikers. She’s got a fuller figure with ample curves in all the right places. Her tits are definitely more than a handful and all real. Becks has long, golden blonde hair. It’s past her shoulders thought for the most part you can’t see that because she’s always got it up and out of the way. Her eyes are a piercing, crystal clear blue unless she’s upset. Then they turn grey as if storm clouds have rolled in and taken up residence. She’s short as hell and from the second I laid eyes on her, this overwhelming need to protect her crept over me. It didn’t slam into me until the second the explosion took place and I thought I lost her. Any plans to keep her in the dark about me being her investor or the feelings I have for her went out the damn window.
Getting out of the truck, I make sure to have the key fob so she can’t lock me out. I’m not dumb. Walking around to her side of the truck, I try the door handle and it opens thankfully. I hold out my hand for her. Becky accepts it with a roll of her eyes. I want to spank her delectable ass for that act. She’ll eventually learn what I’ll tolerate and what I won’t. Keeping a hold of her hand, I walk her in the hospital. Instantly the scent
of death, sterilization, and smells uniquely related to hospitals hits me. I hate everything about hospitals. But, I need to see my sister and Becky needs to get over her guilt. I won’t move forward with her until she realizes this is not on her.
Walking her to the elevator, I push the button, still keeping her hand in mine. Even her hands are small and my large one engulfs hers. I love that she’s small and doesn’t seem to have a ton of men panting after her. I’d hate to have to go on a killing spree. Yes, I’m that guy. No one will touch, come near, talk to, or flirt with her without repercussions from me.
The doors of the elevator swoosh open. It’s empty inside, so I lead her in, pushing the button for my sister’s floor. We ride in silence. Becky is upset with me and that’s good. I’ll take her being pissed off about this over guilt consuming her to the point she backs away from my sister, the club, and me altogether. Time seems to stand still as we ride in the metal box up to the third floor of the hospital. I want to say something to her, but I’m not sure what to say in order to break the ice. Not right now. Hopefully she’ll want to talk about things once we’ve seen Victoria and she realizes my sister doesn’t blame her in the least for this.
As the doors finally slide open, I pull her along with me down the hallway and to Victoria’s room. Knocking on the door, I push it open without waiting for a response. It’s not like I have to worry about Tags and her fucking around because she just had a baby. That’s always a plus. I’d never be able to bleach out my eyes after seeing something like that. As far as I’m concerned, Victoria is still a virgin and she’s the next Virgin Mary. That’s how my nephew was conceived and I’m sticking to it.
“Hey guys,” I call out, seeing my sister laying in the hospital bed with Tags at her side.
He’s holding her hand in his as she lays there looking at him. My sister is an absolute mess and we’re honestly lucky to have her here with us now. I’ll never leave her alone after this. Pyro won’t either. It sucks that it takes shit like we’ve been through with her to make us see how much we’d miss her if she were ever taken from us.
“Hey big brother,” she says, her voice scratchy and hoarse. “Becky, you’re really here?”
Moving out of the way, I let my sister take a good look at her friend. Becky already has tears streaming down her face as she takes in Vicky’s appearance, the wires connected to her, and the bandages covering parts of her body. I nudge her closer to the hospital bed as her feet become planted to the floor.
“Vicky, I’m so sorry,” she says, tears clogging her voice, so she sounds even smaller than usual.
“Don’t you start this shit,” my sister orders her. “You didn’t plant that damn bomb and it wasn’t there because of you. That’s why you haven’t been here, isn’t it?”
“Yeah. I thought you hated me for what happened. We were there because of me,” Becky states, more tears cascading down her face as I pull her body into mine.
She comes willingly into my arms as the two women begin to talk. For the first time, I even see a smile on Tags’ face. He was upset about my suspicion but we didn’t know what to do about it until now. Tags wanted to talk to her himself. His only problem was he refused to leave the hospital. Not until Vicky and the baby can come home. Still, it might be a bit before Kaysen can leave. We’re not sure yet.
For a few hours, we spend at the hospital. While Tags takes Becky down to see Kaysen, I remain with my sister. She’s going to bust my balls for sure, but I don’t care. It’s good to see her happy, smiling, and starting to return to her old self again. She’s been through so much, I’ll never take her for granted ever again.
“So, you finally fill Becky in on you being her investor?” she questions me, sitting the bed up further so she can see me better.
“I did. Today. I think she’s beginnin’ to understand I want her, but I’m not sure she’s ready to accept it just yet,” I reply.
“Torch, she’s half in love with you already. Becky has a bad past when it comes to men. She’s been mistreated, not in the way you probably think though. So, please, don’t do anythin’ unless you’re for real with her. I don’t want to lose her,” she informs me.
“I’ve never been as serious about anyone in my entire life. Becks, my sweets, will be my ol’ lady. She’ll carry my babies, and will make our family complete,” I state, never surer of anything in my life.
“We’re still missing a piece of our family, Torch. I don’t know if we’ll ever get that piece back. I miss her so fucking much my heart hurts,” she says, tears beginning to fall down her face as she thinks of our missing family member.
“I know lil bit. We’ll bring her home. It’s been too long, and I know it’s killin’ him. Once everythin’ calms down and you and our nephew come home, I’ll talk to him about it. See if I can’t change his mind,” I assure her as much as I can given the situation.
She nods her head at me. For now, I’m going to concentrate on the members of my family I can do shit about. Especially Becky. While Tags and she are gone, I shoot the shit with my sister. Hopefully, they can come home soon so we don’t have to keep coming to this death trap to visit them. Nothing I can do about it though. The only thing I can do is suck up my feelings and come see my sister every day. Before we leave, I’ll make the trip to see Kaysen, so he knows we’re all pulling for him to get stronger and come home where he belongs. Our family can’t take anymore loss.
The End
Our Secrets Playlist
Starting Over – Chris Stapleton
Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton
Right Here – Staind
So Far Away – Staind
It’s Been Awhile – Staind
Lie to Me – 12 Stones
Apologize – OneRepublic
Cold – Crossfade
Through Glass – Stone Sour
Blurry – Puddle of Mud
Broken – Seether feat. Amy Lee
Epiphany – Staind
Beautiful Crazy – Luke Combs
About the Author
Growing up, I was constantly reading anything I could get my hands on. Even if that meant I was reading my grandma’s books that weren’t so age appropriate. I started out reading Judy Blume, then graduated to romance, mainly historical romance, and last year I found an amazing group of Indie authors that wrote MC books. Instantly I fell in love with these books.
For a long time, I’ve wanted to write. I just never had the courage to go through with actually doing it. During a book release party, I mentioned that I wanted to write and I received encouragement from an amazing author. So, I took a leap and wrote my first book. Even though this amazing journey is just starting for me, I wouldn’t have even started if it weren’t for a wonderful group of authors and others that I’ve met along the way.
I am a mother of three children. Only one girl in the bunch! My family and friends mean the world to me and I’d be lost without them. Including new friends that I’ve met along the way. I’ve lived in New York my whole life, either in Upstate or the Southern Tier. I love it during the summer, spring, and fall. But, not so much during the winter. I hate driving in snow with a passion!
When I’m not hanging out with my family/friends, reading, or writing, you can find me listening to music. I love almost all music! Or, I’m watching a NASCAR race.
I look forward to meeting new friends, even if I’m extremely shy!
Here are some links to connect with me:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ErinOsborneAuthor/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/author_osborne
My website:
http://erinosborne1013.wix.com/authorerinosborne
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/user/emgriff07
Acknowledgments
As always I have to thank my family. My children are so supportive of me following my dreams and they allow me to do this. Without their love and encouragement I wouldn’t be able to do what I love to
do.
Kim. Thank you for everything. Your support, talks, and everything you do to help me mean more than you’ll ever know. You are more than my best friend, you’re a member of my family and someone I’m glad to be stuck with.
Melissa. You’re more than my PA, you’re one of my best friends and a part of the family. You are definitely stuck with me now!
Tammy. Thank you for all of the help you’ve given and everything you’ve done to help out. I’m so glad you’re a new member of the team!
Courtney. There are no words to thank you for everything. You’re more than a friend, you’re family. Thank you for everything you’ve done to help me over the years and for being a part of this journey.
Darlene. Thank you for everything. You’ve been here since the very beginning and I don’t know what I’d do without you. Our talks mean more than you’ll ever know.
My beta team. Without you, I’d be lost. Thank you for all of the hard work you put in and the time you take out of your lives to help me get the words out. Jeni, Cathy, Cecilia, Heather, Kim, Leslee, and Peggy. You are truly amazing people!
Reggie. Thank you so much for helping me bring these covers alive with your amazing photographs. You take the time to find out what I’m looking for and help me find the right image for each cover we’ve worked together on.
Mike and Abigail. Thank you for being a part of this project. I love the image of you two.
To the readers. Thank you so much for allowing me to create worlds for you to get lost in. Without you, none of us would be able to do what we love to do.
If I forgot anyone, I’m truly sorry. This journey has been amazing and I can’t see what the future holds.