He holds his hand up. “No, I do. I said you couldn’t keep my daughter safe, but dangers are everywhere. Last week, Patricia and I were walking to our car after a dinner out and some man pulled a knife and stole her purse. I couldn’t keep her safe. We were at a nice restaurant in a decent part of town and still danger found us.”
I frown at his news. “Is she okay?”
He waves me off. “Yes. We just had to replace some credit cards, her license, the whole shebang. But that’s not the point. The point is, I know what you did to get my little girl back and to make sure those men could never touch her again. Now I’ve come to believe she’s actually safer with you in her life.” He glances behind me where the MC stands watching. “Safer with this whole family of yours in her life.”
“Thank you, I appreciate that. I really do.”
He extends his hand, and I shake it. Then he reaches up with his other hand and clamps it on my shoulder. “Guess what I’m trying to say is I was wrong about you. I said some things I shouldn’t have. I hope you will accept my apology.”
“Of course, sir. I think we both want what’s best for her.”
“According to her, that’s you.”
“I love her, sir.”
He nods, solemnly. “That’s become obvious.”
“I’m glad you approve.”
“I do.” He pats my shoulder again. “Enjoy your evening.”
I start to walk away and then turn back. “Oh, and I’ll try to get her to go to Sunday dinner this week.”
“Thank you.” His face breaks into a smile, his eyes crinkling at the edges. “And don’t forget about Wednesday night poker. You need to give me a chance to win back some of the money I lost to you last time.”
I chuckle. “Yes, sir. I’ll be there.”
***
The club and I wait for about fifteen minutes before Brandy exits out a side door with Sara and holding the vase of flowers I sent her.
“Thanks for coming, everyone.” She greets every face with a smile.
“Of course. Now let’s head to the clubhouse to celebrate.” Green waggles his eyebrows.
“Always looking to have a party,” Sara laughs.
“You know it.”
We walk down the steps to the parking lot. We’re a mixture of motorcycles and trucks. I pull a helmet out of my side bag.
“You want me to ride back?” Brandy looks at me with a half grin and lifted brow.
“Yeah, that’s why I told you to wear a short dress.” I eye her legs peeking out from under her tulle skirted dress.
Her tinkling laughter rings through the night air. “And what am I supposed to do with these?” She holds up the flowers.
“Oh, yeah. Shit, didn’t think about that.”
Melissa hangs out the passenger side of Harley’s car. “As much as I’d love to watch you try to carry those down the road on the back of Marcus’ bike, you better let me take those for you.”
Brandy hands over the flowers, thanking her, and then reaches out to take the leather jacket and helmet I brought for her. Slipping them on, she swings her slender leg over my bike, settling behind me.
I love how easily she’s accepted my world into hers. The blend of our worlds looks good on her, from her-sexy strappy heels and lace dress to my rough leather jacket. Leather and lace—that’s my Brandy to a T.
***
Brandy—
I wrap my arms around Marcus’ waist. I’m looking forward to the party at the club; they’ve made me feel so welcome, accepting me with open arms. Which is a good thing because I’m here for the long haul.
We stay at the party for a while before I whisper in Marcus’ ear it’s time to take me home. I may have also said something about bubbles and being naked. He’s as ready to go as I am now. I smile to myself, taking his hand and letting him lead me outside to his bike.
We rented a place together two weeks ago and between unpacking and life, we haven’t gotten a chance to use my favorite part of our new home together: the claw-foot tub.
We lock eyes and smile, and I know we’re both thinking the same thing.
God, I love this man and taking on life with him by my side. I’m all in, ride or die.
