by Erin Trejo
“What are you doing?” I need to change the subject. I don’t want to talk about that right now.
“Lookin’ for you. I missed you.” Joey pulls me closer to him as I giggle. He was just with me twenty minutes ago.
“I think you have lost your mind. Is the food about ready? I’m starving.” Joey sits up before pulling me up with him. Looking in his eyes, I want to get lost. I have never cared about anyone the way I do him. Joey has been a solid foundation in my life since I came back home.
“I love you Bella.” Joey leans in and brushes his lips over mine making my body shiver.
“I love you too. Now feed me.” Giggling, I pull back as he laughs. I can’t get enough of that laugh.
“Fine. Let’s go feed you.” Pushing himself up, he pulls me with him. He never lets go of my hand while we walk over to the big grill.
“Dad, you better not burn mine!” My dad, Tank, stands there with a smile on his face. These are the moments that I want to take with me. The ones I want burned into my memory.
“Come on, Bella. I don’t burn shit when I cook. That’s Creed.” Pointing the tongs that he holds in his hands at Creed, I laugh. These two are crazy.
“Fuck that! I cooked last round. Bella, was my shit burnt?” They both turn to look at me as I laugh. I can’t help it.
“You both cook just fine. I’m freaking starving though, so come on!” Stealing a piece of corn off the grill they both laugh at me.
I look around while I nibble on my food. Everyone is smiling and having a good time. These clubs have taken some hits lately, and when things are calm, you have to take advantage of it, like we are now.
The wars are far from over for this club, but at least it’s calmer for now.
“Are you stealing corn?” Cher throws her arm around my waist. Wrapping my arm around her shoulder, I pull her into my side.
“You know how slow dad is. I can’t help it.” Cher giggles before nodding.
“Yeah, that I do. How are you? You look skinny.” I know I’ve been losing weight. Again, it’s not by choice but I knew it was getting noticeable.
“Well, if dad would cook faster I could eat!” Cher lays her head on my shoulder. We have had our differences, but she is a great person. I know how much she cares about my dad, and I know that when I’m not around anymore she will take care of him.
“Where’s my brother?” Looking around, I don’t see Griff anywhere.
“Taking a nap. That boy has been so grouchy! Your dad wants another one, but I don’t think so.” Cher giggles when I let go of her. I turn toward her smiling.
“Come on! Griff is adorable! He needs a playmate!” Trying to protest that one she laughs.
“He has you. He loves you to death.” Cher smiles as she walks away.
I stand there and think about that one. She has no idea just how close that is.
Chapter 2
Tank
“Damn Cher.” Gripping her hips, she rides me like she’s in a fucking rodeo. I can’t get enough of this woman.
“Shut up!” I know she hates when I talk to her when we fuck but damn, how could I not?
I grip her hips tighter as her body slides over mine. If my dick gets any harder, she’s going to snap it the fuck off.
Growling, I raise my hips to buck into her. I want to be so deep inside of her that I get lost.
“Tank!” Yeah, there’s my name leaving those sexy plump lips. I love hearing it every time too.
Slamming her sweet body down onto mine, I feel her so close. She’s going to shower me in her sweetness.
“Do it Cher! Fuckin’ do it.” Grunting as I push into her further, I feel her let go. I cum behind her with my heart hammering in my chest. Every time I fuck this girl, I swear I want to die.
We both lay there breathless before I lift her off of me. Pulling her into my side, I inhale her scent. The smell of strawberries and vanilla soothes me.
Life has been one roller coaster after another around here. We’ve had our ups and downs, but at the end of the day, we are still family. We make our way through this life the best way we know how. I can’t say the same about other clubs.
“You think there’s somethin’ goin’ on with Bella?” Running my hand up and down Cher’s back, I have to ask. She seems so different lately. Not that I don’t like this new, carefree Bella, but she’s losing weight and barely eats.
“I think she’s just growing up.” Letting out a sigh, maybe she’s right. Bella isn’t a little girl anymore. She’s turning into a beautiful strong woman. I admire that about her. She didn’t let her past rule her future. When Bella sees something she wants, she goes for it. And that includes that little prick of hers, Joey.
“I don’t know if I like that shit. She’s my baby, yeah? Now she’s all grown up, and shit.” Cher giggles against my chest. I never thought that I’d lose Bella the way I did, but now that I have her, I want to keep her forever. I don’t want her to grow up and become a woman. I want her to stay that little girl I lost so much time with.
“She will always be your baby, Tank. She just needs to find her way in life. She has a good head and she’s a strong girl. You shouldn’t worry about her much.” That’s easier said than done. She’s all I worried about for so many years. It’s hard to move past the lost time that I can’t get back.
“You talk to Jada about the liquor store?” Opening up a new store on top of opening a shop is going to be rough. We make ends meet now, but that will boost our money flow up. It’ll be nice to have money to fall back on if needed. I just don’t know that we thought through all the stress of running two new businesses.
“Yeah. She doesn’t know what to do. She doesn’t think that you guys should run it all the time, but she doesn’t trust the other girls much. Bella isn’t old enough, and we all have the kids. She wanted to talk to Creed before she decided anything.” Tightening my grip on her, I whisper into her hair.
“Don’t you even plan on workin’.” Cher’s head snaps up to look at me, and I can’t help but smile at the look on her face. She knows she likes it when I boss her around.
“Why the hell not? I told Jada I would help with what I can.” I can see the little attitude rearing its head in those dark eyes of hers. She won’t win this round though.
“I plan on makin’ more babies. Besides, I don’t like the idea of one of those chaser’s watchin’ Griff. You’re his mother. He needs you around.” The way her eyes light up sets my soul at ease. She amazes me even if it’s just by the look in her eyes.
“I never said I wanted more kids. Look what having Griff did. I have fucking stretch marks and I’m fatter.” Rolling her so she lies under me, I smile at her.
“Those held my son. They protected him for months while he grew. There ain’t one fuckin’ fat spot on you. I love all this.” Running my hand over her stomach she looks away. I don’t like that she feels the way she does.
Gripping her chin, I pull her face back to look at me.
“Don’t do that darlin’. You’re the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Now come on, let’s make a daughter.” Leaning down, I crush my lips to hers as she giggles softly.
Chapter 3
Creed
Slamming the gavel down, I look around at my family. Throughout all the hell and bullshit we have handled, I’m damn proud to say that this family has kept it together. Life floats by like a breeze. You never know what you might miss but with this family, who cares.
“We got word on that store over on highway 6. I’m happy to say that this club is now the proud fuckin’ owners of Angel’s liquor store!” The guys all explode into cheers. We have been looking into some legitimate ways to make money for a while now. Tank and I knew about the store, but we just wanted to make sure it was all still a go before we announced it.
I never realized just how much I want for my family. Not just the guys either, all of them. The old lady’s that have our backs, our children. They deserve more than the illegal aspect of what we do.
“Shut the fuck up! With that bein’ said, we also got word on the old Davis garage. We got that shit too brothers!” Yeah, I have set a few plans into motion for this club.
“We need to work out who is goin’ where. We got a little bit before that shit happens, so discuss it amongst yourselves. We will vote on shit later on. Right now we need to talk about the fuckin’ Dusts’. With so much shit goin’ on we’ve kind of turned our backs to them. Not anymore. We have to think about our plan of action in case they retaliate.” The guys nod their heads as I look around.
As much as I’d like to say that we finished them off, I can’t. We have moved on with our business ventures, but set them off to the side. That needs to change though.
“We got word they are still a runnin’ club. Apparently, we didn’t kill enough of the son of a bitches.” The guys laugh as I smile.
“No word on shit comin’ this way, but just to be sure we need to be ready. I’m not puttin’ shit out there today though. We have some celebratin’ to do!” Slamming the gavel down, I dismiss the guys. I see the look in Ryker’s eyes though. He isn’t done with this talk.
When all the guys finally file out, I sit down next to him, slapping a hand on his shoulder.
“Nothin’ to worry over. We will get them handled.” He nods his head, but I still see his eyes. He isn’t fooling me one fucking bit.
“I know, Creed. I just don’t like this shit. It doesn’t sit right with me. I want every one of those motherfuckers gone.” I can see the way he has his hands clenched. The way the muscles in his jaw are clenched, is a pretty good giveaway too.
“I know you do. We all do. Right now isn’t the time. We got new babies around here like a goddamn nursery. We got the business’ we need to get up and rollin’. Makin’ a better future for this club, and these kids, need to come before another war brother.” Ryker drops his head before running his hand through his hair. He knows I’m right, but this son of a bitch has a temper straight from the devil.
“I know brother. Let’s do this. You better have my ass in the goddamn garage though. You put me around that liquor and my day is over.” Chuckling, we both stand and head out into the main room.
I can’t stop the smile as I watch all the women and kids in here. It makes my once dead heart fill with pride.
“Put that goddamn cigarette out!” Screaming at one of the new prospects, he jumps slightly. Now, that is fucking funny. I made a new rule of no smoking when the kids are in here.
“Jesus Christ Creed! He almost shit himself.” Tossing my arm around Jada’s shoulders, I lean in and place a kiss on her head.
“Stupid prospect’s dumb as hell darlin’. No smokin’ when the kids are here. How hard is that one?” Shaking my head, I glance around watching everything. Tank in the corner with little Griff, Bella wandering around with my daughter in her arms. I don’t know that I could be any prouder of everyone.
“What are you thinking about?” Glancing down at my beautiful woman I smile.
“Everything. How perfect this is all turnin’ out to be. This club has taken hit after hit, and it’s about damn time we have a little peace in here. Look around sweetheart. Everyone’s happy and smilin’. I never thought this day would come.” Jada pushes up on her toes kissing me quickly.
“They have some great leaders. You guys make it easier for everyone here, Creed. I’m proud of you.”
Hearing her say that to me means more than she knows. That’s all I’ve ever wanted. I wanted her and Jason to be proud of me.
“He’s proud of you too, Creed. I know he is.” Nodding my head, I think she’s right.
Chapter 4
Ryker
“Son of a motherfuckin’ bitch. Why the fuck are you creepin’ around like that?” Snapping as Bella giggles, I shake my head. I swear that girl wants to give me a fucking heart attack.
“I wasn’t creepin’! I can’t help it if you don’t watch what you’re doing.” With her hands planted on her hips, she beams at me. I love that happy go lucky girl that stands in front of me.
“What are you doin’?” Walking past her, I head toward the kitchen to make Ansley a bottle. I can’t believe that I’m on my way to make a goddamn bottle and not grab me one.
I’ve decided that drinking all the time wasn’t in the best interests of my little family. Occasionally will be fine though.
“I was bored. Dad sent Joey on a run, and I have nothing to do. Give me her.” Bella walks over motioning for me to hand her Ansley. After she snatches her from me, I heat up the water to make a bottle.
“Where’d that little shit go?” Rolling her eyes, I chuckle. She hates when I call him that.
“I don’t know. Up north somewhere. Hey, I wanted to ask you for a favor.” Her tone doesn’t sit well with me. I know that tone. It’s going to get one, or both of us, in trouble.
“I don’t like the sound of that shit.” Mixing the formula up in the bottle I look over at Bella.
“I didn’t ask yet Ryker!” Shaking my head, I blow out a breath before passing her Ansley’s bottle. I watch as my little girl eagerly sucks away without a care in the world. I want that for her always. I don’t ever want her to worry about anything.
“Fine. Ask me whatever the hell it is.” Leaning against the counter, I cross my arms over my chest and watch her.
“I wanted to see if I could use your apartment for the weekend. I need a break. I need to talk to Joey.” Raising my eyebrows, she has my attention now.
“So, you plan on tellin’ him?” Bella nods her head slowly. I know this is hard for her. How do you tell someone that you have cancer, and there is nothing they can do about it? I know how I felt when she told me, so I can only imagine what Joey will think.
“I’m proud of you darlin’. I think a lot of that stress will fade once you tell someone else. I wish you’d talk to your dad, but I guess the little shit will do.” Bella giggles softly as she stares at my little girl in her arms. I wanted so much more out of life for Bella. She deserves so much more.
“Will you do something for me Ryker?” Her eyes come to meet mine and I know she’s having a serious moment. I will give her anything she asks for.
“You know I will if I can. I’ll do whatever you want sweetheart.” Hearing her little sniffles as she looks back at Ansley, my chest tightens. I hate seeing Bella cry. I hate that there is nothing I can do to make her better.
“Make sure these babies know I loved them. Make sure that no matter what happens, they know how much you guys love them. Growing up without dad was hard. I never knew if he loved me, or hated me. I heard so many stories from my mom and none of them were good. I liked to think that he was out there looking for me though. Just promise me that these babies won’t have to feel that pain like I did.” Taking the last few steps toward her, I pull her and Ansley against me.
“You never have to worry about that sweetheart.” The door opens, but I don’t release my grip on Bella. She needs this right now and fuck, so do I.
“Everything ok?” Jersey’s voice sends shivers over my body. I love that she can do that to me.
Tilting my head, she must notice the tear that escaped. I don’t fucking cry, at least I didn’t until Jersey came around. She brings out new emotions within me.
Jersey’s hand comes to rest on my back before Bella pulls back.
“I’m going to burp her, and then we are having girl time.” Kissing Ansley’s head, she smiles before leaving the kitchen.
Jersey moves to stand in front of me with her arms wrapped around my waist.
“I love you Ryker.” Nuzzling my face into her hair, I never want to let go.
“I love you darlin’.” We stand in silence for a few minutes, which I’m thankful for. I needed this little bit of time that we have.
“You want to talk about it?” I blow out a breath knowing there is nothing I can say. I promised Bella I wouldn’t say a damn word, and if it’s the last thing I do, I won’t.
“No. Just life.
Chapter 5
Creed
“Alright. Snake called. Said that we are ready to roll with the liquor store. You motherfuckers can’t be over there drinkin’ all the product either.” I feel so damn proud in this moment. My beautiful old lady stands by my side as we watch the guys gear up to start working on the store. Angel’s Liquor is going to do this club proud, I can feel it.
“Are you a little excited?” Jada looks up at me with those big blue eyes. I could get lost in those eyes.
“I’m beyond that darlin’. This is the first legit business we are takin’ on. I want more for this club than what we have now.” Leaning down, I kiss her gently before smiling. She is the best thing that has ever happened to me.
“I know it is. I’m proud of you guys.” Smiling back at me, I want to fuck her on this counter.
“That right there means the world to me sweetheart.” I can’t stop looking at her. She’s magnificent.
A hand slapping me on the shoulder pulls me away from her.
“What the fuck brother?” Tank grins like a lunatic at me. That motherfucker has been crazier than usual. It’s not a bad thing though, just strange.
“I want in on the damn garage Creed.” His smile turns serious as he stares at me. I know he wants in that garage, and that’s exactly where I wanted him anyway.
“Who the hell did you think I’d put in there? The prospect?” Tank chuckles before he looks over at the new prospect, Bo. He’s a hell of a fighter, but when it comes to fixing things, he’s dumb as hell.
“Shit. You want to ride your bike, or look at the pieces of that shit?” Tank grabs a beer off the counter before taking a long pull from it. He has me smiling now as I think about that.
“You know you’re in the fuckin’ garage. Hell, I might put that little shit in there too.” Tank nearly chokes on his beer before he looks back at me.
“Like fuck you will! I’ll take Torch and Piper’s old ass before I take Bo. That boy is dumber than anything I’ve ever seen.” Jada giggles next to me before she speaks.