“Okay,” I agree, my cheeks flushed.
For now, I’ll focus on the task at hand. I need to find out who’s stalking me and why. I shouldn’t be thinking about how good it feels when Talon touches me, but I can’t help it. I’d be lying to myself if I ignored the spark of heat between us. But with everything going on, I can’t afford to let this thing between us ignite and become a blazing, passionate fire.
Chapter 9: Jessica
The wind whips through my honey-blonde hair as I cling tightly to Talon’s waist. The motorcycle vibrates beneath me, its power surging with every twist of the throttle. My heart races in time with the engine, a rush of adrenaline and desire coursing through me. I imagine wrapping my thighs around Talon and feeling that same surge of power. The stress of being stalked must be catching up to me. I’ve never felt the desire to be utterly reckless before today.
As we pull into the clubhouse, the rumbling of the bike is replaced by the chatter and laughter of the club members. Some are gathered in the garage looking at one of the prospect’s new bikes. I slide off Talon’s bike, then try to shake off the lingering thrill of the ride. My body’s still humming with desire, and all I can think about is having Talon nestled between my thighs.
“Everyone, this is Jessica,” Talon announces, causing various conversations to pause as all eyes turn toward us.
“Hey!”
“New club girl?” one of the guys wearing a prospect’s vest asks.
“No,” Talon snaps.“She’s mine.”
“No problem, brother.” The guy holds up his hands.“Didn’t mean anything by it.”
“Good.” Talon glares at him until the other guy looks away and swallows uncomfortably.
“What does that mean?” I ask softly.
“It means they won’t fuck with you because I claimed you.”
“Claimed me?”
“I’ll explain it later. Let’s go inside before I have to bash heads. I don’t want them looking at you like you’re fresh meat.”
As we head inside, more prospects and club members are milling about the kitchen. Several are sitting in the living room watching a ball game.
“You must be Jessica!” A petite woman with jet black hair streaked with gray approaches me. She’s wearing a turquoise and silver cross necklace that sways with each step. Her smile is warm and inviting as she extends a hand to me.“I’m Nina.”
“Nice to meet you.” I take her hand, instantly sensing the strength behind her small frame. Her leather boots, laced up to her knees, and fitted leather jacket give her an air of authority. But her floral tank top softens her look just enough to keep her from being scary.
“Are you Talon’s old lady?” Nina asks.
I glance at him, unsure about how I should respond since I don’t know what she’s asking. I’m twenty-five, so I wouldn’t consider myself that old.
“Knock it off, Nina.” Talon smirks, rolling his eyes. Clearly, he’s used to having her ask questions he doesn’t want to answer.
Nina chuckles, her eyes twinkling with amusement.“Good for you, sweetheart. We can always use more strong women around here.” She pats my arm gently before walking away, leaving me to wonder what’s going on.
“Hey, Talon?” I ask, pulling him aside before we join the others at the dinner table.“What exactly does‘old lady’mean?”
He chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners.“An‘old lady’is a term used for a woman who’s in a committed relationship with a member of the club. She’s respected and protected by the club, just like any member.”
“But … we’re not in a relationship.”
“Nope.”
It’s on the tip of my tongue to ask him if he wants to be in one with me, but I’m afraid I might not like the answer, so I stay silent.
As we sit down to eat, I observe the various members of the motorcycle club. They all seem like one big, happy family, with kids running around, laughter filling the air, and a sense of camaraderie that’s both heartwarming and intriguing.
“Scar,” I address the heavily tattooed man sitting across from me,“I’m curious about this club. What do you all do? It seems like there’s a lot more going on here than just riding motorcycles.”
Scar leans back in his chair, his eyes meeting mine as he considers my question.“You’re right. We’re not just a bunch of bikers who get together to ride. Our club was founded with a mission: To rescue people who need help, whether it’s getting out of a bad situation or providing support when they have nowhere else to turn.”
