Ethan's Sky (King's Of Fury MC Book 1)

9. Skyler

9

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Looking out over the edge of the hill, staring down at the town, it’s so beautiful from here. It looks so warm and inviting. We chose this time of day because it was Daddy’s favorite time to come up to visit with Mama when he could. He regularly came to share the sunset with her when he’d visit like they used to do every night on the porch whenever he was home.

The sun is starting to go down. The sky’s lit up with soft pink and purple hues. The clouds stretched thin as if someone took a paint brush barely dipped in white paint and smeared it across the sky just above the mountains and the trees across the way. On a day like today where dark skies and rainstorms would better suit my mood, I’m gifted with something heartwarming and beautiful instead.

Thank you, Mama. I’m sure she probably put in a good word for me.

The soft rustling sound of the leaves in the trees that surround the grave site is soothing. I understand now why Daddy picked this spot. It’s the perfect place in the cemetery for he and mama to lay together. The view from this side is breathtaking looking out over the entire town. The perfect place for them to watch over everyone they left behind.

It was a beautiful service. A lot of people came to pay their respects. Most of them were shocked to see me. I guess I can understand why. I’ve been gone a long time. I didn’t even come back for holidays or special occasions. Daddy said it was still too dangerous for me to come back.

Funny how now it’s the safest place for me.

Most everyone has been polite, bringing food over to the clubhouse or giving it to Liz to bring over wanting to do something nice for Ghost. Liz passes it all onto me. I don’t know who she thinks I’m feeding, it’s just me and Cash at the house, but casseroles just keep coming. I don’t have the heart to turn them away. It’s a kindness I didn’t expect, even if it’s not meant for me.

They’re being kind because of who Daddy was and his connection to the club.

Some look at me with sadness in their eyes. Others with uncertainty. I guess because I don’t look the same as I did when I left. I’m not the shy, weak, awkward bookworm hiding myself behind baggy clothes anymore.

Or maybe because they’re like Ethan and believe you had something to do with Emily’s death.

Let them judge me. I don’t give a shit. Not one of them could walk a mile in my shoes, not that I’d want them to, but I survived. I’m still fucking standing. I’m clinging to that fact every day, because sometimes it’s the only thing holding me together…knowing I will survive. I may not come out unscathed, but I won’t let this break me. I can’t. I owe it to Daddy to keep moving forward, not matter how much it hurts underneath, no one will ever know the truth on the outside.

The Kings of Fury MC have all gathered here with me today in show of their support. Eli and the Mountain Heights chapter have stayed in town all week. Bronson and Cash’s dad drove out for the weekend. Cash and Xander have decided to stick around until we get some answers on what exactly happened to Daddy. It’s more about finding out who killed him than what happened at this point. I’m pretty sure I know the answer, but it’s not my place to discuss “club business.”

I hate those words.

When we arrived at the clubhouse a few minutes ago, Mason let us through the wrought iron gates of the compound, giving me his condolences through the window as we passed by. He’s still a prospect, so he’ll be staying out here all night, keeping watch over everything.

I’ve never been fond of the smells permeating the air inside the clubhouse. My nose burns with the Eau de Toilette of alcohol, cigarettes, and a variety of pungent perfumes.

Someone needs to tell these women that choking innocent bystanders to death with cologne isn’t how to go about trying to hide the smell of overused snatch.

I shudder at the thought.

“You good?” Cash whispers in my ear.

“Yeah, just a chill.” I lie. If I told him what I was just thinking his dumbass would repeat it out loud for shock value and to piss off Drea, one of the club girls who has been all up on him since day one. I don’t much care for her, but it’s not like Cash to turn down willing pussy. I’ll have to remember to ask what she did to put him off.

Everything about being here makes my skin crawl. Not because it’s dirty, or grungy, it’s quite the opposite. The space itself is made to feel like one giant house for all the members and their families to hangout or live should they want to. It’s not the place that creeps me out, it’s the reason I’m here and seeing all these people I’m so anxious about. Really, it’s the judgement I feel when they look at me. I know I said I don’t care, but I might’ve been lying a little.

They’re not judging you. They’re here for Daddy. Relax.

I mentally slap myself but even I know I’m full of shit. They’re here because their president demanded it of them. I’m not under any delusion about their support. Maybe a long time ago I would’ve believed they were here for me, but not now. Not when Ethan believes the worst of me. They’re here to support him.

I betrayed their brother. They’re here as a duty. Their loyalty is to Daddy, my uncle, and Gabe.

Ghost ushers me through the crowded main room, following closely behind Eli, Walker, Xander, Bronson and Cash. The great wall of protectors. Though their loyalty is to their brotherhood, Eli isn’t confident that Ethan won’t try to start shit with me again and has ordered his men to stick close to me, which is doing wonders for my reputation amongst the other men and women here, I’m sure.

The clubhouse party isn’t open to the town, meaning no extra hang arounds or strippers to entertain. Gabe wanted to have a family barbeque and bonfire for Daddy’s final send off. The club girls are still here as well as the ol’ ladies, but everyone is expected to be on their best behavior. Though I’m sure when the clock strikes ten, the party will shift, and it will be like any other Saturday night pig roast.

I’m not interested in watching what these men do in the late hours of the night or who they do it with, so I plan to be long gone by before then.

Eli stops by the bar, which halts our progress to escape the crowd, instead creating a blockade of leather cuts in the middle of the room. It feels as though everyone is gawking at me. Am I the poor girl who lost her father? Or the bitch who burned their buddy?

I’d prefer to be the princess who looked badass running in her Chuck Taylor shoes on the way out of the party.

No such luck.

I appreciate their condolences and their memories of what a great man my Daddy was, but I don’t know half of these people, not anymore. It’s a mixture of club members, their families, and a few trusted friends of the club from around town who knew Daddy.

The prospect behind the bar and the club girl who’s currently sucking him off on the floor barely glance our way when we come up to the bar, clearly preoccupied. Another reminder of why I don’t like being at the clubhouses. Eli’s girls usually make themselves scarce when I’m around, at his orders. After the last incident he felt it was a smart solution…for them.

A whore with her jaw wired shut is only good for a few things. In all fairness, she attacked me first.

I’m not one to judge what another woman does with her own body or time. Some of them are looking for their ol’ man. Others are seeking solace from their own life. Whatever their reasons, the women are very territorial about the club members. Some are even psychotic and delusional in the way they think about them. But for the most part, they cook, clean, and care for the men, and for that reason they see the men as theirs and every other female as a threat until she proves otherwise.

I didn’t prove otherwise.

I’ve never been anything more than a friend to any of Eli’s men. My heart wouldn’t have been in it even if I tried. But I also refuse to cower to anyone who thinks they can threaten or harm me.

I smile to myself at the memory of one club whore’s failed attempt at proving herself by attacking me. I wasn’t looking for a fight, but I enjoyed beating her ass. A little too much.

When the prospect suddenly realizes the man glaring at him in front of me is President of the Mountain Heights chapter, he quickly pushes the skank wearing little more than a black strip of fabric she calls a dress, and a pair of stilettos to the side and pulls his jeans closed. She wipes her mouth with the back of her hand, shoving her tits back into the top of her dress, rolling her eyes as she huffs. When she spots me, she’s suddenly shooting daggers with her eyes. It’s a warning not to touch ‘her man.’

Ew. Don’t look at me like that. I don’t want him. I’ve seen where his cock’s been.I shudder for the second time. It’s not until Cash’s head meets my shoulder and I feel the shaking of his laughter do I notice the club girl, Melanie, of course Melanie. Her eyes widen then narrow glaring at me. Eli and the other men around me laugh.

Shit. I said that out loud.

She takes me in from head to toe, sizing me up. It’s the same everywhere I go when I’m with the guys. Women see tall, sexy, powerful looking men with tattoos and leather cuts and it’s like their panties suddenly fall off and their bitch-o-meter goes haywire looking to eliminate any possible threat to their chances of getting their claws in one.

Then they see me. “The bitch standing in their way.” I’m not intimidated though. Not in the least.

Funny enough, these men are like obnoxious, overprotective brothers to me. I know all of them too well. Know their personalities, their preferences, and their reputations to even consider anything sexual or otherwise with any of them is a hard no.

Except one.

I wonder if his preferences have changed. It’s clear he’s hardened himself to the world around him. Or maybe he’s just hardened himself to me. He seems even more closed off than he was before. But he still had a softer side, one he only showed to me and his sister. The carefree side. The guy who loved to joke around and would do anything to keep his sister smiling.

I’m sure he would rather see me rot in hell, then show me that side of himself again.

If a woman is going to stare me down, the least I can do is give her a once over and at pretend I give a shit about her presence. Unfortunately, I can’t seem to get my eyes to move past her shoes.

Seriously? Stilettos to suck cock.

I roll my eyes at the sight. It’s loud in here, but I need to ask someone the question. I grab Cash’s arm and not so quietly ask, “Why does a woman need the extra three inches of height on her feet when all her work is done on her back or her knees? I’ve never understood the need to wear such shoes in a place like this.” He chuckles at my observation, and shrugs.

“Heels make a woman’s legs look sexy as hell, as I’m sure you know.” He smirks. Yeah, I know. But still…

“Yes, if she was dressing to impress, sure. For example, wearing a power suit to a meeting. Performing on stage in a dance costume. Or even a pairing them with a tight-fitting pair of jeans and a top for a night out on the town. In all those instances, I would agree with you. However, in this setting, where the woman’s soul purpose is to be fucked and forgotten, wouldn’t knee pads or a cheek retractor be better suited. I mean, the work requires her to be on her knees, with her mouth overstuffed, and around here, clothing is optional. Is sexy as hell even a requirement when talking about someone who strives to be a human trash pump?”

“Damn girl! I don’t know where you’ve been all my life, but I am glad you found your way home!” Sadie shouts laughing. Her attention quickly snaps to Melanie. “You better stop glaring this way bitch or else the next pull on your ponytail won’t be from the fucker you’re trying to patch grab; it’ll be from me shoving your head into my fucking knee. I missed my sparring session today, and I’m feeling a little punchy.”

Melanie glares at Sadie, whose eyebrow is now cocked in challenge. Hawk swoops in grabbing Sadie around the waist, lifting her off the ground and carries her outside. I hear him telling her to come her fucking murderous tendencies all while she’s kicking and screaming for him to put her down. As soon as they’re out the back door I start laughing.

“What the hell was that about?” I ask Cash who just shrugs, clearly as amused as I am.

“Melanie!” Liz calls from the kitchen door. “Get your ass back in the kitchen and start washing the dishes. It’s going to be a long night and I want this place sparkling before I leave tonight.”

“Then why don’t you clean it yourself?” The whole room goes deafly silent, the muffled sound of music from outside is the only thing heard.

Withing seconds, Melanie is snatched up by the arm and drug across the room, tripping over her feet as they move. She’s screeching, but it stops abruptly when they reach Liz.

“Apologize now!” Caleb shouts. I didn’t even see where the hell he came from. “Or you can get your shit and get the fuck out right now. No one disrespects my wife and lives to talk about it. I don’t give a shit if you are a woman. Make your fucking choice.”

Holy shit. He’s not fucking around. I’d be lying if I said he didn’t scare me a little. I’ve always known Caleb to be like a soft teddy bear when it comes to the women, but I guess that all changes when it comes to people disrespecting Liz.

“I-I-I’m sorry, Liz. I’ll get right on the kitchen clean-up for you.” Melanie stutters, tears streak down her cheeks leaving a trail of black mascara in their wake. She’s visibly shaking and rightfully so. Caleb hasn’t so much as blinked. His face hard, unrelenting.

“You good, Mama?” he asks not taking his eyes of Melanie until Liz replies.

“Of course, Captain. I’m always good when you’re around.” It’s only then that Caleb’s face softens slightly, the corner of his mouth tipping up as he gives her a nod.

He shoves Melanie toward the kitchen door shouting, “Don’t bring your ass out of that kitchen until the party is over. I want that shit sparkling like she said, and Melanie…” he pauses, waiting for her to meet his eyes. “The next time you think to say something disrespectful to my wife, you need to consider just how long you think you’ll have to keep breathing afterwards. You got me?”

“Yes, sir.” Her voice is just above a whisper.

She turns and heads through the door and Caleb’s hands wrap around his wife’s waist as he snuggles into her neck.

I wanted that someday. To have that kind of love and loyalty.

Never gonna happen, Sky. Accept it now and move on.

“Shows over!” Eli shouts and the room comes back to life.

Cash gently pulls me into his arms and spins me around while he laughs loudly. When he finally sets me down, he kisses the top of my head and says, “I fucking love you, you know that? Now stop starting shit with the club girls. Everyone here is clearly on edge and I’m not so sure Gabe will be as amused by your fighting with them as Eli is.”

The broad shouldered, dark-haired prospect whistles and all the club girls in the area turn his way. He gestures with his thumb toward the stairs, and shouts, “If you haven’t been assigned to help with serving or clean-up, get the fuck out!”, signaling toward the hallway. Two other women head down the hall in a huff, but don’t dare say anything.

I never meant for anyone to be threatened when I arrived here tonight.

My plan was to blend in and stay low.

I never meant for these men to become who they are in my life. I showed up on their doorstep one day in Mountain Heights, and they took me in and made me a part of their family with zero expectations. I never understood why they did it. The only explanation I was ever given was I was important to Caleb, Gabe, and Ghost which made me important to Eli. From that moment on, I was treated as if Eli himself, were my father, and I suddenly inherited a whole lot of hot, muscular, overprotective, “brothers”.

Childish, overbearing, and egotistical…brothers.

Cash and Eli move out first, placing me in the middle of the five men. I can only imagine this looks like I’m someone important being guided out by the human shield. The crowd of people part like the sea. Eli and his men are all broad shouldered and built like offensive linemen. Xander is the only exception to the rule. He’s the sexy, nerdy type. He has a nice lean muscular body, but he focuses most of his time on videogames and computers.

Eli and Cash are almost identical in size and build. The only thing that really separates them in size is the two inches of blonde man-bun atop Cash’s head. Walker is slightly taller than Cash with dark hair and a military look about him. It’s in the way he walks and stands. I’ve never asked, but I’m sure he served at some point. Most of the older guys have.

Caleb spots us, making a b-line for me. He pushes his way through the muscled barricade and engulfs me in a hug, lifting me off my feet and kissing me on the cheek.

“How are you holding up, Sugar Bean? Do you need anything?” I return his embrace, fighting back the tears at the use of my childhood nickname only he uses. Laying my head on his shoulder for just a few seconds, I work to gather myself. I will not fall apart in front of everyone.

Caleb and Liz are like the designated grandparents for all the kids in the club family. I never met my grandparents, and after my mama died, these two stepped in with Ghost to make sure Daddy had all the help he needed in raising me.

I’ve missed them both. The few times I was able to sneak a visit with Liz were never long enough.

Don’t get me wrong, Eli’s been like a second father to me these last few years. Cash, and the guys have all embraced me, but no one could replace what Caleb and Liz have been to me. It’s been difficult to stay away and not talk to either of them whenever I wanted to. Tears sting the back of my eyes once more, but I manage to hold it together.

“I’m all right. Better now the funeral is over.” He kisses my head once more than drops me carefully to my feet.

“What about me?” Cash whines. “Don’t I make things all better for you?” He leans in, inserting himself into our conversation. I laugh at his ridiculousness.

“You know you make me feel better. You don’t have to fish for compliments. You already know. But the next time you take all my coffee creamer, I’m kicking your ass.”

“Oh, but I do. Since you’re going to be leaving me, I’m seriously going to be lacking in the tell-Cash-how-awesome-he-is department. I need to get my fill while I’m here.” He lifts me up again, just because he can. I laugh at the pouty face he’s giving me.

“You’re not leaving for a while yet. You won’t even notice I’m gone. The girls at The Trap will take good care of you, I’m sure.” The Trap is our nickname for the strip club Cash owns with his dad, Rusty. It’s named it The Bare Trap.

“Nobody appreciates me like you do.” He says as he swings my feet from side to side.

“Well, don’t be such a dick and maybe people will be nicer to you.”

He drops me to the ground so fast; I almost fall on my ass. His hand flies to his chest in mock horror. He’s such a child.

“I am not a dick!” He huffs, trying to stifle his own laughter. “I give dick. I don’t act like one.”

“Hmm. I seem to recall several women who would disagree with your claim.” I raise a brow and start naming names with each finger I hold up. “There was Cynthia, and Mary. Jordan. Jessica. Jennifer. Oh and…” He grabs my fingers and covers my mouth with his other hand.

“Okay, okay. Maybe I do resemble your remark!” Eli can’t help laughing at his stupidity now.

Even Caleb laughs at our banter. “I hear you’re quite the badass now. Saw the damage you did to Ethan’s face.” I flinch, but Caleb grabs my shoulder and says, “He deserved it. Ain’t nobody here going to hold that shit against you.”

I lean back to look him in the eyes. Shrugging my shoulders. “The guys have been teaching me a few things. A girl needs to know how to protect herself and not have to feel like she needs to rely on others. And you’re right. He did deserve it.”

Caleb chuckles again. “Protecting yourself is good, but don’t be a stubborn ass when help is offered, and that help happens to pack a lot more heat and muscle.” He winks then walks off to find Liz.

“You gonna take that job at O’Malley’s?” Cash askes.

Our conversation is broken up before I can answer when Eli puts his empty glass on the tray of a passing club girl. Candi, I think is her name. He grabs two fresh beers from the same tray, giving her a wink and a thank you. He hands one of the beers to me, and she looks me over the same way the Stiletto Slut did earlier. Whatever.

Cash grabs a beer for himself.

Candi looks him over then licks her lips, a clear invitation. I roll my eyes. Club girls are trying to irritate me tonight. Not because I want Cash for myself, but because they have no respect for the reason, we’re all here. The way some of them are so desperate for a patch, throwing themselves at these men and settle for the scraps of attention is beyond my comprehension. But to do it at an event meant for remembrance is distasteful.

Eli chuckles beside me, bumping my elbow as he obviously finds my irritation amusing. Asshole.

Cash sees the way she looks at me then tips his head signaling for Candi to keep moving not giving her so much as a second glance. She stomps off in a huff, but no one here cares. Free pussy means nothing to these men until they need somewhere to stick their dick for a while. And even then, there’s no shortage in supply.

I can’t resist taking the dig at him. “See? Dick.” I say bringing my beer to my mouth. Eli laughs. Cash shrugs me off.

“Don’t like the way she looked at you.”

“Ah, you do care. I’m flattered,” I tease. He smirks, shrugs his shoulder then immediately gets back to business.

“I’m not taking the job at the bar. I’m going to keep the one I currently have.” I play with the label on my bottle. Declan and his brother Dylan’s own O’Malley’s bar, but Declan’s a King, which makes it the club’s. “Working at O’Malley’s would be…difficult.” I say lifting my eyes and glancing I Ethan’s direction where Candi the friendly club girl is now standing. “I’m sure everything will be fine once everyone gets used to me being around town all the time. But for now, I think I need to stay where I’m at. Besides, we know I’ll be safe there.” I try to reassure them both, knowing damn well I don’t sound convincing to myself.

“How are things going at The Pearl? Parisi still going to have you fill in from time to time? Or did you finally give in and let him put you on as a regular?” Cash askes.

“Shh…” It’s my turn to cover his mouth with my hand. “Keep your voice down!”

“Why’d you shush me when I asked about The Pearl? Is there something wrong with the job? Do I need to call Vincenzo?” Cash asks genuinely concerned.

“No, you idiot! Everything with Parisi is fine.” I whisper, looking around to be sure no one heard him. “I can’t complain. The money’s good and the management takes good care of me.” I tell them both. “I’m only filling in if he absolutely needs me right now. I’m not planning on making it a career or anything. But with some of the girls falling ill, I’ll be filling in for a little longer. He asked me to teach them some new routines and wants me to stay on until everyone is healthy again. Plus, I could use the distraction, ya know?”

Dancing Burlesque is something I do for fun. I enjoy the thrill. As strange as it may seem, the costumes, the role play…. there’s something freeing about it all. Mostly because no one knows it’s me. I get to be Lady Scarlet. No one hates her. No one feels sorry for her. They all envy or lust after her.

It’s a nice change for a few hours a week.

What I’ve told them is the truth. “Vincenzo knows my situation, probably more so than even I do. He’s provided me with Santiago, my own personal bodyguard at the club, and changed the entire show to protect me. He made it so everyone who is part of the Burlesque act has to wear a mask or face make-up as part of our costumes. It makes everyone look similar, making it difficult for anyone to know my identity.”

“Then what is it? Why’d you just freak on Cash like that” Eli pushes.

“The club members here don’t know I dance, and I don’t want them to.” I’m very focused on this extremely interesting dark blue label on my beer bottle all the sudden. It’s absolutely fascinating to me.

“You know you don’t have to dance anymore if you don’t want to. You’ve got the job at O’Malley’s if you want it. You know if you ever needed money or anything, the club would take care of you. If Gabe’s boys won’t help you out, you can always call me. I’ll take care of you. And if you’re feeling ashamed, or don’t want to…”

I cut Eli off by kissing him on the cheek. I appreciate the gesture more than he knows, but he and his boys have already done so much to help me out. I couldn’t possibly ask them for anything else.

“I don’t do it for the money.” It’s the truth. “I do it because I enjoy it, and because I feel like I owe Vincenzo for all his help for Daddy and me.”

When times were tough, I remember times when Vincenzo offered Daddy side jobs to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. When he heard about my situation and having to leave town, he was the one who arranged for Daddy to have to take runs that would take him through Mountain Heights and allow him an alibi while he visited me.

I don’t know if the club knows anything about that though, so I’ve never mentioned it.

“I’m not ashamed. I just don’t want to be treated any more differently than I already am.” Both their brows scrunch in confusion. I let out a deep sigh.

“My guys never treated you shitty when you worked for Cash at the Bare Trap for that short time,” Eli says adamantly. “They knew you were Cherry. We only kept your identity a secret from outsiders.”

“I know, but that’s because they’re your guys and they know me. They’ve been protecting me. Taking care of me.” They both still seem unconvinced, so I press on. “Come on,” I say, exasperated. “These guys don’t know me. I’m not the same girl I was when I left town. And honestly, I think it would only solidify who they believe I’ve become.”

“They’ll still be respectful and take care of you, same as my guys or Gabe will have their ass!”

“They’re under no obligation to me, or my dad. He wasn’t a member, and I’m...me. I don’t need to bring any truth to the rumors about me.”

“What rumors?”

“That I’m a whore who cheated on Ethan. I’m a fucking junkie. All things that could lead me to work in a place like the Pearl and offer services to the men to get cash for my habits.” Eli looks pissed, but he knows as well as I do, I can’t combat the rumors. No matter how much I want to without telling the truth. “Come on, you have to know what they think since I’ve been staying with all of you.”

“You’re not a fucking whore,” Cash growls.

“Vincenzo won’t ask you to do any of the backroom shit either.”

“I wouldn’t even if he asked, you know that. I’ve been a special guest with him before. He knows my boundaries and respects them. I’ve never done lap dances or been forced to do any of the other sexual services some of the women provide there. I won’t,” I assure him, pressing my hand firmly to his chest, calming him. “I haven’t taken my clothes off on stage since I left The Bare Trap months ago, and it was only that one time. But that doesn’t mean these men won’t think I do since it’s one of the services offered at The Pearl.” Cash nods then takes a huge gulp of his beer. His face says he’s unsure about the arrangement and pissed, but he’s keeping it to himself.

“I only danced that little while because you were in a bind and Gigi had to take care of her kid while he recovered from their car accident. I haven’t taken all my clothes off on stage or given a lap dance since the incident at The Bare Trap, and we all know how that was handled.”

Cash nods then takes a huge gulp of his beer still pissed.

“You still wearing the disguise.” Eli takes a swig off his own beer, while watching me over the rim.

Well, I don’t know how it was handled since it was deemed club business, but I can imagine the outcome when a patron gets too handsy with not just one of the dancers, but me specifically in Cash’s strip bar.

“Yeah, of course. The wigs, the mask, body make-up. I’m in full costume every time I take the stage and I make sure to cover all my tattoos. I’m being careful I promise, but I need to do this job. It’s only temporary. A few weeks tops.”

“I mean what I said earlier, Sky,” Eli pins me with his glare. “If these guys don’t treat you right, you tell Gabe. If he doesn’t handle that shit, I will. Got me?”

Yeah, because being a tattle-tail is something I need to add to the many reasons I’m hated around here.

They both know what I’m saying is true. I most certainly am not going to be put in the same category as the club whores or biker bunnies they pick up at the local bar. I dance because I enjoy it, not because I see it as a way to advertise my assets and services.

“I got you.” What else can I say.

“What’s wrong with taking the job at O’Malley’s?” Ethan asks.

“It’s not the job. It’s the people. It’s just one person really, but …it’s not just him. It’s the people of this town. Being back here. It’s all going to take some time to adjust. Six years is a long time. Lots of changes.”

Lots of rumors to ignore.

I don’t want to get into this with them. Ethan hasn’t done anything to me. It’s just hard to be around him, especially when I see him dancing with girls like Candi, flaunting it in front of me. I don’t think he does it to make me jealous, but...

Get over it, Skyler. There’s no point.

It’s also hard knowing I’ll see Ethan at the bar all the time since it’s one of the MC’s favorite hangouts. Along with all the biker bunnies looking to get a piece of the bad boy in leather.

“Just kick his ass again.” Cash shrugs like it’s just that easy to win a fight with Ethan fucking Anderson, amateur MMA fighter. “He’s a dumbass anyway.”

No argument on that point.

“Let it go, Cash.” Eli demands on a low growl. “Have you tried talking to Ethan about what happened? All that yelling you two did when we got here, sounds like you two have some shit to clear up.” My eyes shoot to Eli’s. He smirks. “It doesn’t take a genius to figure out who you’re talking about.”

I step back, my eyes pop open with shock as I mentally map out the quickest exit, with the least set of eyes to see me run through it.

“Doesn’t take a genius to see you two have history, and I don’t just mean the night you left. You’ve been watching him almost as much as you’ve been avoiding him. If it makes you feel any better, he’s been watching you since you walked through the doors of the clubhouse. He seems to not like it when Cash touches you,” he whispers a little loudly, making Cash smile. “Old high school fling of yours? Bad break up?” Eli nudges me with his elbow playfully, but the stern look in his eyes, tells me he’d be more than happy to set Ethan’s shit straight if I asked him to.

“Yes, and no. It doesn’t matter anymore. His sister was my best friend and died the same night I left remember?” Recognition flitters through Eli’s eyes. “He’s pissed to see me here, on his turf. It’s fine. I won’t be hanging around the clubhouse much after tonight anyway. After this, I’ll steer clear of him and I’m certain he’ll do the same.”

“Probably safer for the club girls,” Cash teases. I follow his line of sight and see he’s watching Ethan and Candi on the dance floor.

Candi has closed the gap between them, wrapping her arms around Ethan’s neck and grinding her hips against his. Shit. I don’t need to be watching this. But it’s like a bad car wreck, I can’t seem to make myself turn away.

You’ll just have to learn to ignore it.

Him.

Cash and Eli are both laughing. Walker and Xander stroll up to join us.

“Finally got a fucking beer.” Walker complains. “Prospect better hope Gabe doesn’t hear about him being slow to serve the brothers because he’s too busy getting his rocks off.”

“Damn, again?”

“Nah, he just hasn’t recovered from the last one, I guess. She seems to have sucked the life right out of him.” Walker jokes.

“Or his brains.” I offer. They laugh.

“A good blowjob can definitely clear a man’s mind.” Cash offers, wiggling his eyebrows at me.

“I didn’t think it took that much effort. Not worth it. I’ll do shit for myself thanks. Keep your brain fog. I’m not sucking it clear for you.”

The guys all laugh. It’s nice to be able to relax and laugh with them. It’s distracting. Until my eyes land back on Candi and Ethan.

Guess it’s my turn to feel what the green monster of jealousy feels like.

I watch as Candi drops low, brushing her hand across Ethan’s dick. He flinches at her touch, but recovers quickly, placing his hand over hers, never taking his eyes off mine. I hope my face doesn’t give away my thoughts.

I want to stab the bitch.

If Cash’s chuckle beside me is any indication, my thoughts are very evident. Damnit.

Ethan must realize I don’t like seeing Candi grinding all over him. His smirk lets me know he’s enjoying my disapproval. He places his hand on Candi’s hips, steering her to him, rubbing her crotch against his thigh.

She leans in to kiss him. I try to turn away but can’t make myself stop watching as he kisses her back. My stomach sinks, and my chest feels tight. I finally do the right thing and look away. Cash sidles up to me, his arm drapes over my shoulder, a soft kiss meets my cheek. He’s trying to comfort me, but my thoughts are on Ethan and the memories of what we once had.

He’s not mine anymore. I remind myself.

“You want to take a spin on the dance floor with me and show the whore what real seduction looks like? I have no problem with acting the part of the hungry lover waiting to devour his seducer.” Cash wiggles his brows succeeding in his mission to make me laugh. I catch Ethan’s glaring at us over Candi’s shoulder.

When I turn back to talk to Eli, I see he’s scowling at Ethan.

Now I see the problem.

Eli’s eyes soften when he looks at me. “Have you talked to him? You know us men. We can’t fix our stupidity if our woman doesn’t point it out.”

“I’m not his woman. And no. There’s nothing between us anymore. Not even friendship. There’s no point in trying to talk to him.”

“Why is that?” Eli pushes.

“I can’t tell him the information he wants to know and even if I could, he wouldn’t believe me,” I tell him, arching a brow at Eli. Understanding suddenly flashes in his eyes as he nods subtly. I sigh, taking a sip off the beer Cash slid in my hand a moment ago welcoming the thought of a buzz to take over. I want nothing more than to not feel right now.

“He made up his mind about me a long time ago. The only one with the power to change it, is Ethan.”

Eli pulls me away from Cash and into him, whispering into my ear, “Don’t let him see your pain. When he learns the truth, he’ll feel like a complete asshole, and realize what a treasure he lost in not believing in you. If he doesn’t, then he didn’t deserve you,” then drops a kiss on my head. I smile up at him thankful for he’s not rubbing it in.

If Ethan only knew what I did for him, he might forgive me.

I can’t think like that. It doesn’t matter. He won’t see facts or reason when it comes to me. I have to accept that he will forever hate me for not testifying on his sister’s behalf. Although the man who went to jail was responsible for the drugs she was taking, it wasn’t enough for Ethan.

“You want me to kick his ass just say the word. I’ll do it for shits and giggles.” Eli says lightening the mood.

I roll my eyes but still smile at his offer. I make the decision to stop watching them and finish my beer. If Ethan wants to rot his dick by dipping it in anything that has tits and breathes, be my guest. He hasn’t been mine for a long time. He’s free to do as he pleases. As am I. Though, if I’m honest, I haven’t felt freedom in anything I’ve done, except dancing.

I turn back to Cash and ask, “You almost ready to go? I just need to use the restroom first. I don’t think I’ll be able to stand being around here too much longer.”

“Go ahead. Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be ready babe.” I kiss his cheek in thanks. Just as I’m about to leave to get changed, a voice calls out to Cash, stopping me in my tracks.

“Don’t feel bad, brother. Leaving is kind of her thing. Isn’t that right, Sky?” He’s drunk, or on his way, and looks at me with the utmost disgust. I fight not to let myself react to the pain I see staring back at me in his golden-brown eyes. I almost give in and apologize, but something in his tone and the way he’s glaring at me, as if I’m the one who’s being disrespectful has me wanting to fight back.

“I’ve never left Cash I’m not going anywhere now. Just need to pee.” My shoulders straighten. “Doesn’t look like you’ve been at a loss for company in my absence.”

Ethan grimaces slightly, but quickly recovers. The guilt of sleeping around fleeting as soon as he locks onto the fact Skyler Sinclair the shy, quiet, pushover doesn’t exist anymore.

“I could say the same to you,” he snarls, looking over my shoulder where Xander and Walker have joined at my back. “I wouldn’t get too comfortable if I was you. There’s nothing holding you here now that your dad has passed on, but then there wasn’t anything you loved enough to keep you here before, was there?” His words are a direct hit.

Before I can think twice, my hand shoots out and I slap him hard across the face. It takes a moment for me to register what’s just happened. He smirks, rubbing at the red mark I’ve left on his cheek. Part of me is a little proud of myself for standing up to him, again. Another part of me feels like an ass for losing control, but it’s too late to take it back now, so I roll with it.

“I would’ve left too if I was her. Not many people hang around after someone beats the shit out of them. Was it you, Ethan? You seem to have a hard-on when it comes to getting in her face acting like you’re ready to throw hands. Was it you who messed her up that night? Because I can tell you, that shit won’t happen again. Not on my watch!” Cash growls.

“The fuck are you talking about?” Ethan snaps, looking between the two of us.

Shit.

For a second, I’m caught off guard. Understanding what Cash’s referring to, I can’t allow him to think it was Ethan. It would become an all-out war between the two chapters.

“Cash,” I coax. “Ethan would never hurt me. Not physically anyway. He can be a dick, but he’d never lay a hand on a woman. Not even me.”

Ethan looks confused, while Cash seems unconvinced. Ethan expectantly looks back to me, but I give no answers to the questions I know he must have. I can’t without breaking my word and causing issues amongst the club.

Cash steps forward. Ethan readies himself to throw a punch and I jump between them.

“Cash, no!” I shout, placing my hand on both their chests. Cash looks at me with an anger I haven’t seen in a long time. He was there to put the pieces back together. Not knowing who broke me, and now having Ethan here radiating fury in waves directed at me has stirred up his need to not only protect me but to avenge me.

I turn to look at Ethan, in hopes to get him to see now is not the time. His eyes are staring at my hand on his chest. His nostrils flaring.

When he finally looks me in the eye, there’s a storm of emotions I can’t make out staring back at me. He grabs my wrist, throwing my hand off his chest so harshly I’d have thought my touch singed him.

“Ethan!” Gabe shouts loud enough to snap him out of our glaring contest. He must’ve seen the commotion or maybe someone called him, I have no idea. But I’m thankful for his interruption.

Ethan takes two steps back but doesn’t relax in the slightest. Gabe makes his way through the crowd. “The fuck is going on here?”

I answer before Ethan can get a word out edgewise.

“Nothing. I was just getting ready to leave. Ethan here was just paying his respects.” I don’t know why I lie for him, but I do. No one tells Gabe the truth. They all stare at me, waiting for my next move. I can barely speak. My heart feels like it’s ripping open once again, the hatred Ethan has for me like a knife slicing through me. I look over my shoulder to find Cash glaring at Ethan. “Cash?” I call his name, forcing his attention on me. “I’ll be ready in ten. You good with that?”

“I’ve got you, babe.” Cash’s nods, nudging my lower back top get me moving. I hear Eli’s voice behind me, making my way toward the sliding door to my great escape. I stop, watching over my shoulder silently by the door.

“Your man here has taken one too many hits in the cage. It’s the only reason I can see for him forgotten his manners around Skyler.” Eli tells Gabe, who turns to glare at Ethan looking furious. “She just buried her father today, asshole. You could’ve given her at least today to grieve and kept your petty bullshit to yourself.”

“Petty?”

Gabe spins away from Eli, slamming his fist into Ethan’s gut. “You upset her on the day she buries her father? What the fuck is wrong with you?”

“Mmph.” Had Ethan not been glaring at Eli, he might’ve seen it coming, blocked the shot, but he’s too focused on the death glare Eli is throwing his way. I’m not hanging around to see what happens next.

If he didn’t hate me before, he does now. And if I’m honest, I’m starting to believe there’s nothing left of the Ethan I was so in love with before. The thought alone makes my heart ache.

*********