by Ryan Michele
The other lookalike jumps in. “Threatened to knock our teeth out and then put us on gate duty.”
The first brother finishes. “Told us to be on guard since all the ol’ ladies were in one place, and their safety is the most important.”
Jesus, it might be a good idea in the future to have them wear name tags, rather than their vest that only has a prospect patch. It worked in the past, but when you have the same face on two people, it gets a little confusing. Why couldn’t we come across twin club whores instead? That I could get on board with.
Torch nods at the younger men; he knows them better than any of us, being they’re his cousins. “We’ll be more vigilant here on out. Shit’s goin’ down, so be prepared.” With that, he rides through the now open gate, and I follow.
It’s easy for me to get distracted and push this bullshit heroin business aside when I have a gutsy woman to deal with. Torch isn’t lying about shit hitting the fan; our club despises heroin and sex trafficking, especially when it’s coming into our state. Our club’s been recruiting from all over. Mercenary came to us from Chicago, and some of us are from the Carolinas. Chaos is from Alabama or some shit. We’re an oversized group of misfits who’ve come to love the state of Texas along with our club. The charter down the road is made up of born and bred Texans, who’ve taken to us like family and we protect what’s ours—family, friends, homes, and state.
“You think they’ll lose the prospect cuts anytime soon?” I gripe to my brother once we park and head inside.
“Doubtful, they’re too new. Why?” he grumbles back.
“’Cause I can’t for the life of me figure out which motherfucker is Rage and which is Karma.”
He smirks. “Rage has the smoker’s voice.”
“They both seem raspy to me.” I shrug and head for Viking’s office.
“Nah, if you pay attention, you can hear it. His vocal cords were damaged.”
“The fuck?” I probe, and his hands clench into fists.
“Some shit he went through as a kid. My aunt was pretty fucked in her head and put those two through hell.”
I leave it alone and hit my fist against the open door to announce our presence. “Prez?”
“Mmm?” Vike grunts.
“Figured you’d be out drinking margaritas with the women,” we chuckle and take a seat on the old broken-in couch adjacent to Viking’s desk.
He broods. “Laugh motherfucker, but I’ve seen your ass drunk on those damn frou-frou drinks my ol’ lady throws together.” He’s got braids along the crown of his head leading into a ponytail with the rest of his head shaved. It’s pretty standard for the men in our family to have similar hair. We’re all blond, and with us always out riding in the sun, it lightens the various pale shades.
Rolling my eyes, my legs stretch out in front, my chunky, steel-toed boots weighing my feet down as my hands go behind my neck. The couch is comfy; we’ve all slept on it at least once. “You gonna tell us what the next step is in this cartel bullshit that’s goin’ down?”
Torch folds his arms over his chest, his broad shoulders nearly encroaching on my space. “You should have me go in alone and take a good chunk of those cocksuckers out before they know what the fuck hit them.”
Vike’s brow raises. He shifts back in his office chair, staring the both of us down. “They fuck you up, and I have no way to get you out. They kill you, and I’m down a death dealer.” It’s not the answer Torch was wanting, but he shouldn’t be asking to go in the first place.
I butt in. “You’ve got Annabelle, brother.”
His glare shifts from Viking to me, and my shoulders shrug, unperturbed. I’ve known these two damn near my entire life. I’m well aware that they’re a couple of cruel motherfuckers. Doesn’t mean I’ll shrink when they get irritated. “I can probably get to their boss without them ever knowing we were coming for them. I wouldn’t suggest it if I thought Annabelle would be left fatherless.”
Viking grumbles. “Then you’re a fucking idiot, Torch. Those Mexicans are pretty fucking sly when it comes to their cartel business, and they’d find you somehow. We’ll let the Nomads keep watch, and if they catch something they can’t handle, they’ll hit us up.”
“They helping out with border patrol down there?” I ask. We rarely work with any police unless they’re on our payroll. Sometimes, however, in cases like this where the assholes are affecting us all, we step up and see what we can offer.
He shakes his head and mouths ‘ICE’. “You know we don’t get involved,” he replies louder, making me wonder if our conversation’s being monitored somehow. We sweep for bugs pretty regularly and keep watch for anyone around the compound. We learned the first time our space was breached. Hell, I damn sure learned my lesson after nearly dying because of the Iron Fists. Maybe he’s concerned about some of the newer people around or the ol’ ladies visiting. I should’ve closed his door. “Torch, we get called to ride, I want you here with the prospects. Last time it was Blaze, and he got fucked up, but I think with you and the others, you’ll have a better chance at protecting the compound.”
My mouth falls open, “You don’t want me with P?” I’m shocked; it’s always been my thing to protect his ol’ lady, above all else.
“I want you riding with the club, where you should be. Torch will watch out for her safety; besides, the bitch is pretty good with a Glock nowadays. We load her up, and anyone coming for her will take a hit, you know damn well.”
He’s right; she nearly shot his ass when she was pissed. I almost took a bullet trying to get the damn gun away from her. Those two are crazy when they lose it, especially when it comes to them as a couple. Still, I can’t help but worry. Torch is ruthless, but Princess has become the sister I never had. I would filet anyone that wanted to harm a hair on her pretty little head, and Torch better do the same in my place.
“Right now, we have various brothers and whores making sure we’re prepared here and for an unexpected ride. I want you concentrating on the school, namely that principal. It’s time to take care of the less pressing shit so we can focus on the big issue knocking at our doors.”
Torch grunts and I place my hands on my jean-clad thighs, leaning forward a bit. “I razzed her up a bit today. I’m going to start showing up every day, so she understands I’m not backing off.”
“Just take the bitch and tie her up somewhere,” he broodily suggests and my hands go up, placating.
“I’m going to give her a few days to see if she’ll come around. If not, I’ll get something from the doc...a knockout drug, so I can take her without a struggle. I’ll have to keep her in my room unless you know of a place.”
“Nah.” He shakes his head, muttering. “Just play it safe, and bring her here. If she gets loose somehow, then someone around here will be available to catch her. When it’s time, take a truck and get one of the brothers to help if you need it.”
“All righty.” I stand and step for the door. “I’ll make it happen.” I fist bump him and nod to Torch on my way out. I was planning to be sweet on her, but Viking’s impatient. Now it’s time to come up with a plan to kidnap her gorgeous ass.
4
Amelia
“Amelia?”
My gaze snaps toward Florence as I leave my office. “Yes?”
Crossing the room, I step around the few extra desks behind the parent wall. We have a barrier between us and the check-in/waiting area. It’s essentially one long bookshelf with a countertop, nothing fancy but helps hide the various manuals we’re required to keep up front, as well as a vast selection of printed school forms and supplies.
“You have a lunch meeting scheduled today. I wanted to let you know since it was a last-minute addition. Would you like me to order you something to eat from that organic place you enjoy?” Her wrinkled hand lightly fluffs at her short, pink-tinted puffy hair. She’s in another T-shirt her grandkids made for her, and the sight makes me smile. She truly loves her job and having the chance to be around so many c
hildren. I’ve never met someone so family oriented before.
“I’ll just have a salad from the cafeteria when I have a free minute but thank you. What was the reason for the last-minute appointment?”
I was looking forward to a few minutes by myself to recharge. It’s been one thing after another this week so far it seems. I’ve had to deal with angry parents because grades weren’t updated in the online system just yet, even though they technically aren’t due until Friday at four o’clock. Then there were a couple of fifth graders who thought it would be a good idea to use their fists on each other versus talking out their issues. Those parents were so upset one was threatening to sue the other child’s family along with the school. It’s been a huge headache, but nothing that we don’t deal with often.
Her cheeks tint just a touch at my question, and I can’t help but bite my lip. Florence only flushes for three reasons I’ve noticed: a student destined for expulsion, the Texas heat, or a handsome man, like the contractors we’ve had in a few times. “Annabelle Teague’s uncle wanted to discuss his niece with you. He was quite adamant about speaking with you immediately. I put him down for the soonest appointment available.”
“I need you to call him back and cancel it.”
Her gaze widens, stunned at my reply. “Oh, dear, is everything all right?”
Releasing a heavy breath, I offer up a placating smile. “Of course, but I can’t see him today.”
“Would you like me to reschedule? I can look over your calendar; do you have a day in mind?” She begins to flip through the colorful planner in front of her next to her desktop computer. She has pictures of her kids and grandchildren filling the rest of the space along with a daisy. It looks suspiciously like the daisies that Annabelle Teague’s uncle brought in with him. I threw my bouquet away after I kicked him out of my office.
“That’s very kind of you, Florence, but I don’t intend to ever speak to that infuriating man.”
Her mouth drops open, lost for words. I rarely show my displeasure to her or anyone else, for that matter, when it comes to dealing with students’ parents or other family members. “Excuse me for pointing this out, but he doesn’t strike me as the type to be pushed aside.”
“You’re completely right; he’s stubborn and demanding. I may have to call the police if he pushes me any further.”
She quickly snaps a tissue from the box on her desk and dabs at her brow. “Well, I, ah...I thought he was quite charming,” she admits, blinking a bit too quickly.
“He’s pushy, domineering, and rude,” I scoff and gently lay my hand on her shoulder. I’ve upset the poor lady, and that wasn’t my intention. Clearly, the vexatious male has Florence completely fooled, but definitely not me. “I spoke to him already, and trust me when I say he doesn’t have anything to say that I need to nor want to hear.”
“I’ll give the young man a call and let him know you’re indisposed. Shall I say the same when he calls back? We both know he’s going to,” she assures me and sips from her lemon water.
“Yes, and that’s much appreciated, Florence. Thank you.”
She nods, and I carry on toward the conference room straightening my suit jacket as I walk. I always attempt to appear the utmost professional; I am in charge of everyone in the building, after all. Jimmy Robertson’s parents are due here any time now to discuss their son’s repeated fighting. One more strike, and I’ll be forced to expel this young man. I’m afraid he just isn’t changing his ways, and there’s only so much we can do for him here. Looking in at an elementary school you’d never guess that fifth graders could cause any issues, but that’s entirely untrue. Half of the boys are terrors. Testosterone starts to fill them up at this age, and I find myself constantly fielding off their curiosity toward the girls and their ridiculous tempers toward other boys.
I should find a girls school and transfer. I could put my energy and expertise where it really matters. I’d say goodbye to obnoxious little boys as well as pushy bikers who think they run everything. What kind of name is Blaze, anyhow? So absurd. I snort to myself and take a seat at the head of the conference table. That man has no idea who he’s messing with. I may have given in to get him to leave, but I had to, or I was going to seriously lose myself, and he was not worth it. I won’t let him gain the upper hand.
At least I don’t have to worry about seeing him outside of dismissal, and if he decides to be obnoxious, I’ll just call the cops on him. We’ll see if he really is friends with the sheriff or if he’s fibbing. My guess is he’s bluffing and would freak out if the police showed up. Maybe I’ll see if they can stop by a few times this week just to shake the biker up.
Blaze
Flashing a wide smile at Florence, I lean in and place a soft peck on her hand. It works like a charm; she blushes, and her neck and cheeks flushed. “Miss Florence, it’s always a pleasure to see you, ma’am.” I lure her in further with my constant politeness; older ladies can never resist it.
She waves her hand, with a bright smile lighting up her face. “Oh stop with the ma’am, young man!”
“Just being respectful.” I grin, flashing my dimples and move a touch closer.
She grabs a tissue from the box on her desk and uses it to lightly pat the back of her neck. “You’re such a charismatic fellow, I swear. I just don’t see why Amelia wouldn’t want to see you.”
With a shrug, I play innocent. “I don’t get it, either. I’m just looking out for my dear niece; without her momma around, she needs as many good people in her life as possible.”
“Such a sweetheart,” she murmurs quietly, and I don’t know if she means Annabelle or me. It’s a dick move throwing Torch’s daughter into the mix, but he said I could. He’d rather me mention her a few times versus her having issues around here since she’s a club brat.
“Miss Stone still thinks you were going to cancel my appointment, right?”
She nods and leans in conspiring. “I was pretending that I couldn’t get ahold of you, so if you showed up, it wasn’t able to be helped. Amelia needs someone like you in her life. She doesn’t realize it yet, but she will, in time.”
“Smart thinking.” I wink, and she giggles a bit. “Now, you remember what we discussed?”
“Of course, and after this morning, I understand much more of what you were saying. She does need a short vacation, badly, bless her soul. That dear is so tightly wound up and won’t take a moment to relax.”
“It’s terrible.” I sigh and shake my head. “She’s going to work herself to death at this rate, then who would be here to help the students like she does?” I ask, and she pats my forearm, attempting to comfort me. I’m reeling her in like a gator with a bloody, raw chicken. Pretty sure I could get her to eat out my palm if I tried.
“You’re a good young man, willing to take her on a surprise vacation. I can’t wait to see her come back next week after having good food, sunshine, and some sleep. The dear is thin as a rail.”
“It’s all that health junk she eats that you were telling me about,” I agree, refraining from laughing. One thing I’ve discovered about sweet Florence is she’s a proud grandma to nine grandchildren. She’s a true old-fashioned southern lady who believes food, sweet tea, and sunshine is good for the soul. I do agree with her on that, and in this case, she thinks Amelia’s putting her body through hell eating all the gluten-free, organic stuff she likes. I’d bet good money in Florence’s house, macaroni and cheese is a staple, as is sweet tea, red meat, and watermelon—all my favorites.
“You’re exactly what she needs.”
“Thank you for that vote of confidence. I’ll do my best. You canceled her other appointments?”
“Yes, they’re all rescheduled for next week. I’ll make sure it looks like she’s here the rest of the week to administration as well.”
“You’re a gem, Florence. I hope she appreciates you as much as you deserve.” She beams at the compliment and gestures for me to glance behind her.
“That’s the pr
ivate entrance I was talking about when you called. Her car is parked in the first spot to the right of the door; you two can slip out there without any issues. You really think you can get her to go with you? She’s a bit stubborn, I’m afraid.” It’s too perfect; we’ll sneak out the back door and drive her own vehicle, so it looks like she left. Viking wanted me to bring a truck, but after speaking with Florence earlier, I decided this would be the best plan.
“Yes, ma’am. You leave that part up to me. We’ll be quiet and not draw any unwanted attention either. In fact, I doubt you’ll even hear us, maybe just the door.”
If Amelia even attempts to protest, I have just the thing to make her pass out. Luckily we have a doctor on the payroll who was willing to help me out.
Her eyes light up as she stands. “Well, come on, let’s get you in her office before she comes back. I don’t want her putting that wall up and turning you away. She’s a lucky woman. Back when I was her age, I’d have been beyond flattered to have a handsome fella like you coming to surprise me with a fancy trip.”
I wink at her again and round the counter to follow her back to Amelia’s office. Florence is the only other one up here with the principal’s key, so this part was imperative. Lucky for me, she’s a romantic who I’ve convinced to be on my side. She thinks I want to take her high-strung boss on a surprise vacation and woo her. She’d probably faint if she knew I had something in my pocket to knock the bossy-ass woman out so I can kidnap her. I’m a bastard for deceiving Florence, but I’ve never been a good guy.
Before the Oath Keepers, I was what nightmares are made of. I’d never have hesitated in the past to kidnap a woman for my old prez. This time around was done with much more finesse. Viking should appreciate it. The club, along with Princess, has changed the way I treat women immensely.
Growing up under Joker—Viking and Odin’s father as our club prez—he had all of us doing shit we’ll forever regret. Not that any of it could’ve been helped. Back then, we were doing what we had to, to survive. Joker would’ve killed us in a heartbeat had we faltered at his orders in any way. Thank fuck that’s in the past and Viking is nothing like his father was. The Oath Keepers never would’ve let us patch over; that’s for certain. They hold a certain level of respect amongst the clubs, and back when I was a Widow Maker, we never would’ve considered having morals.