Chapter 3
CHAPTER THREE
Siren
The bass thrums through my body, pulsing in time with the flickering neon lights.
I lean against the bar, my fingers tracing the condensation on my beer bottle as I try not to stare at him.
But it's like my eyes have a mind of their own, drawn to him like a magnet.
Damn, he looks good.
Too fucking good for comfort.
Those high cheekbones could cut glass, casting shadows that accentuate the sharp planes of his face.
My gaze trails down the column of his throat to where his cut hangs open, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of the intricate tattoos adorning his muscular chest.
The ink continues down his arms, a mesmerizing tapestry of dark lines and shading.
He looks like he just stepped off a runway showcasing bad boy biker chic.
Except there's nothing artificial about Shiver—he's 100% authentic danger wrapped in a criminally attractive package.
I take a sip of my Corona, hoping the cold liquid will douse the heat building inside me.
It doesn't help.
Neither does the way Shiver's eyes keep finding mine across the room, his lips curving into a knowing smirk.
"Earth to Siren," a voice breaks through my Shiver-induced haze. "You gonna drink that beer or just play with it all night?"
I blink, tearing my gaze away to focus on my sister behind the bar. "What?"
Stiletto rolls her eyes. "Never mind. You're clearly distracted by tall, dark, and tattooed over there."
I protest weakly. "I am not."
"Uh-huh. And I'm the Virgin Mary." She snorts, grabbing a rag to wipe down the bar. "You've been eye-fucking him since he walked in."
I feel my cheeks heat. "Have not."
"Yes, you have. Not that I blame you—the man is fine as hell, and if I was single I might climb up that tree." Stiletto's gaze drifts appreciatively to where Shiver is laughing with some of the other guys. "Those arms alone..." She lets out a low whistle.
"Stop it," I hiss, glancing around to make sure no one overheard. "You're practically hitched, remember?"
She shrugs. "Doesn't mean I can't window shop. Besides, I'm not the one he's interested in."
My stomach does a little flip. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Oh please. He hasn't taken his eyes off you all night. Well, one part of you in particular." She makes a crude gesture indicating my backside.
I smack her arm. "Shut the fuck up."
"What? It's true. Can't say I blame him—you've got quite the dump truck back there, sis."
"I'm leaving," I announce, pushing away from the bar. "You're impossible."
Stiletto's laughter follows me as I weave through the crowd.
I need some air, need to put some distance between myself and temptation personified.
But apparently, the universe has other plans, because I nearly collide with a solid wall of muscle as I round the corner.
"Whoa there, darlin'." Large hands grip my shoulders, steadying me. "Where's the fire?"
I look up—and up—into Shiver's steel gray eyes, amusement dancing in their depths.
This close, I can see flecks of blue and green in the irises.
They’re mesmerizing.
"Cat got your tongue?" he drawls, one corner of his mouth lifting in that infuriatingly sexy smirk.
I realize I've been staring silently like an idiot.
Clearing my throat, I take a step back. "Sorry. Wasn't watching where I was going."
"No need to apologize. I'm certainly not complaining about having a beautiful woman throw herself at me."
I roll my eyes. "I did not throw myself at you."
"Keep telling yourself that, sweetheart." His gaze roams over me slowly, like a physical caress. "Though I gotta say, if you did decide to throw yourself at me, I'd catch you with open arms."
The heat in his eyes makes my breath catch.
I need to shut this down before I do something stupid.
"Does that line actually work on women?" I ask, injecting as much disdain into my voice as I can muster.
He laughs, a rich, deep sound that vibrates through me. "You'd be surprised. Though something tells me you're not the type to fall for cheap lines."
"Got that right."
"Good thing I've got better moves up my sleeve then." He winks, and goddamn if it isn't sexy as hell.
I cross my arms, partly as a defensive gesture and partly to hide the way my nipples have hardened beneath my shirt. "I wouldn't waste your time. I'm not interested."
"Liar." The word is a sensual purr that sends shivers down my spine.
He leans in close, his breath warm against my ear. "Your body gives you away, darlin'. I can practically taste how much you want me."
I jerk back, my heart pounding. "You're awfully sure of yourself."
He shrugs, utterly unrepentant. "Just calling it like I see it. You want me. I want you. Seems pretty simple to me."
"Nothing's ever simple in this life," I mutter.
Something flashes in his eyes—understanding, maybe even a hint of vulnerability.
But it's gone so quickly I might have imagined it.
"Doesn't have to be complicated," he says softly. "We're both consenting adults. No strings, no expectations. Just two people satisfying a mutual attraction."
For a moment, I'm tempted. So tempted. It would be so easy to give in, to let myself drown in those storm-gray eyes and talented hands.
But I can't. I made a vow to myself, and I intend to keep it.
"Thanks, but no thanks," I say firmly. "I don't get involved with anyone in the club. Period."
He studies me for a long moment, then nods. "Fair enough. Can't blame a guy for trying though."
"I'm sure you'll find plenty of other willing partners," I say, gesturing to the crowded clubhouse. Several women are already eyeing him hungrily.
"Maybe." He shrugs. "But they're not you."
With that, he saunters away, leaving me staring after him and questioning my sanity. What the hell am I thinking, turning down a man like that?
But I know why.
Getting involved with someone in the club is a recipe for disaster.
I've seen it happen too many times—the drama, the heartbreak, the messy fallout that affects everyone.
I refuse to put myself or the club through that.
No matter how sexy Shiver is, no matter how much my body screams at me to throw caution to the wind and drag him to the nearest flat surface... I have to stay strong.
I grab another beer from the bar, ignoring my sister’s knowing look.
Finding an empty corner, I settle in to people-watch and try to ignore the way my skin still tingles from Shiver's touch.
It's going to be a long night.
The party shows no signs of winding down as the hours tick by.
If anything, it's getting rowdier.
I nurse my beer, content to observe from the sidelines.
My gaze keeps drifting to Shiver despite my best efforts.
He's holding court at one of the tables, regaling a group with some animated story.
His deep laugh carries across the room, and I find myself smiling in response.
"Penny for your thoughts?"
I startle at the voice, turning to find Kade beside me.
I didn't even notice him approach.
"Just people-watching," I say with a shrug.
He follows my line of sight to where Shiver is now arm-wrestling one of the prospects. "Uh-huh. People-watching. That what we're calling it these days?"
I elbow him in the ribs. "Shut up."
Kade chuckles, holding up his hands in surrender. "Hey, no judgment here. Shiver's a good guy. Bit of a hothead sometimes, but his heart's in the right place."
"I'm not interested," I say automatically.
"Sure, sure." Kade's tone makes it clear he doesn't believe me for a second. "Just remember, life's too short to deny yourself happiness."
I sigh, shoulders slumping. "It's not that simple."
"Isn't it?" He raises an eyebrow. "Seems to me you're the one complicating things."
Before I can argue, he claps me on the shoulder and melts back into the crowd.
I scowl after him, annoyed that he's given voice to the thoughts I've been trying to silence all night.
My eyes find Shiver again of their own accord.
He's abandoned the arm-wrestling, instead leaning against the pool table with easy grace.
A patch bunny is pressed against his side, her hand on his chest as he smiles off into the crowd, locking eyes with me.
That isn’t a damn coincidence, not in the least bit.
I tear my gaze away, irritation prickling under my skin.
Needing a distraction, I push off from the wall and make my way back to the bar.
The noise of the clubhouse fades to a dull roar as I focus on putting one foot in front of the other, desperate to put some space between myself and the temptation Shiver represents.
Stiletto's behind the bar, wiping down glasses.
Her hazel green eyes, so similar to my own, light up when she spots me. "Well, if it isn't my favorite sister," she quips.
"I'm your only sister," I retort, sliding onto a stool.
She leans forward, arms crossed on the bar top. "So, spill. What happened between you and the new guy?"
I blink, caught off guard. "Nothing."
"Uh-huh," Stiletto drawls, clearly not buying it. "And I suppose that intense eye-fucking I witnessed earlier was just my imagination?"
Heat creeps up my neck. "It was just some eye contact. Nothing more."
Stiletto's laugh is sharp and knowing. "Well, Siren, he's still got his eyes glued to your dump truck ass, so I'd say it's a little more than nothing."
I resist the urge to look over my shoulder, instead fixing my sister with a glare. "Shut up and get me another drink."
"Yes, ma'am," Stiletto says with a mock salute.
She grabs a Corona from the fridge, popping the cap off before sliding it my way.
I take a long pull from the bottle, relishing the cold bitter taste.
It's a welcome distraction from the warmth still lingering in my cheeks.
"So," Stiletto starts, her tone deceptively casual. "You gonna hit that or what?"
I nearly choke on my beer. "Jesus, Song. What happened to sisterly concern?"
She shrugs, unrepentant. "I am concerned. Concerned you're gonna let a fine piece of ass like that slip through your fingers because you're too stubborn to break your own rules."
"My rules exist for a reason," I mutter, peeling at the label on my bottle.
Her expression softens. "I know, sis. But maybe it's time to reevaluate those reasons."
I take another swig of beer instead of responding.
The problem is, I'm not entirely sure I remember all the reasons anymore.
Not when Shiver's heated gaze keeps burning holes right through me.
"Look," I say, setting my beer down with more force than necessary, "I'm not hopping down that rabbit hole, all right? Not for obvious reasons or any other kind."
Stiletto's eyebrows shoot up. "Obvious reasons? Like what? The fact that he's hotter than a Vegas sidewalk in July?"
I roll my eyes. "You know what I mean. I will never get involved with anyone in the club. Period."
My sister's playful demeanor shifts, her hazel green eyes softening with understanding.
She leans in, lowering her voice. "There's slim pickings when you're part of this life, sis. Miles and I only got together because he came out here, but if he never came to Montana when I was missing... well, I'd probably be with someone in the club too."
"That's not for me," I say firmly, pushing the memories away. "I'm not looking to complicate my life any further."
Stiletto opens her mouth to argue, but I cut her off by finishing my Corona in one long gulp.
The alcohol buzzes pleasantly through my system, taking the edge off without pushing me into drunk territory.
I turn on my barstool, scanning the room.
My gaze lands on Shiver, Cobra, and Kade's booth.
They've finished their meals, deep in conversation.
Before I can talk myself out of it, I'm on my feet and heading their way. "Did you guys want me to show you where you'll be staying?"
Three heads swivel in my direction, a chorus of agreement following.
"All right, grab your jackets. We're heading to Kade's old house."
As they start to shuffle out of the booth, Kade speaks up. "You don't need to show us, Siren. I can get the guys over there. I’ve been there a time or two."
I bristle slightly at the dismissal. "I was told to show you, and out of respect, I need to do that."
Kade's eyes meet mine, a silent battle of wills. Finally, he shrugs. "I'm telling you that you don't have to. I'll take the heat if my brother decides to get sassy about it."
I weigh my options, feeling Shiver's intense gaze on me.
Part of me wants to insist, to prove I can handle my responsibilities.
But another part, the part that's acutely aware of Shiver's presence, is relieved at the out.
"Fair enough," I say, my tone clipped. "Just make sure you guys find your way all right."
Kade stretches, his joints popping audibly. "I'm ready to hit the hay after this long day," he announces, running a hand through his messy hair.
Cobra nods in agreement, stifling a yawn.
Shiver, however, seems wide awake, his eyes glittering with mischief. "I'm gonna have a couple beers, then head in for the night," he drawls, his Texas twang more pronounced than ever.
I try not to focus on the way his Adam's apple bobs as he speaks, or how his tattooed forearms flex as he leans back in his seat.
Instead, I turn my attention to Kade as he explains the layout of the property.
"Just walk out of the clubhouse and head east," Kade says, gesturing vaguely. "My old place is within walking distance. Can't miss it."
As the guys prepare to leave, I make my escape back to the bar.
Stiletto's already waiting with another Corona, a knowing smirk on her face.
I pop the lid off and take a long swig, relishing the cold bite of the beer.
Thank fuck she knows me better than anyone else, especially when it comes to situations like this.
I turn and lock eyes with him once more.
The heat in his gaze makes me falter for a moment.
I force myself to look away, reminding myself of the promise I made.
No complications.
No screwing around with anyone in the club.
Just as I'm about to exhale, a familiar voice rumbles behind me, sending shivers down my spine. "How long has it been, years?"
I turn slowly, coming face to face with Shiver's broad chest.
I have to tilt my head back to meet his eyes, cursing inwardly at the way my heart races.
"Shiver," I manage to say, proud that my voice doesn't betray the chaos of emotions swirling inside me. "Why aren’t you heading out with the others?"
He cackles, “I said I was gonna have a couple beers. You have a problem with that, sweet thing?”
I roll my eyes, unable to keep the sass out of my voice. "Obviously."
Shiver's lips quirk up in that infuriatingly sexy smirk of his. "Aw, come on, Siren. Is that any way to greet an old friend?"
"Friend?" I arch an eyebrow. "Is that what we're calling it now?"
He chuckles, the sound low and rich. "Fair enough. How about we start over?" He extends his hand. "Sean Lyle, but everyone calls me Shiver."
I can't help but laugh, shaking my head as I take his hand.
The moment our skin touches, it's like electricity courses through me. "Suyin, but you already know that."
"Yeah," he says, his voice softening. "I remember."
We fall into conversation, catching up on the years that have passed.
Shiver tells me about life in Nevada, the crazy antics of what goes on at his charter.
I find myself laughing more than I have in months.
"So, what about you?" Shiver asks, leaning in close. "Still breaking hearts left and right?"
I snort. "Please. I don't have time for that nonsense."
"No?" His eyes gleam with mischief. "That's a shame. A woman like you should be worshipped."
Heat creeps up my neck. "Smooth talker, aren't you?"
"Only stating facts, darlin'."
From behind the bar, Stiletto clears her throat. "I’m beat. I'm headin’ out for the night." She gives me a pointed look. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do, sis."
"That doesn't leave much off the table," I mutter, earning a laugh from both Stiletto and Shiver.
As Stiletto leaves, the atmosphere between Shiver and me shifts.
The air feels charged, heavy, almost like we’re both aware of the incredible tension brewing between us.
"So," Shiver says, his voice dropping an octave. "You gonna give me a tour of this place?"
I know I should say no.
I have rules for a reason.
But as I look into Shiver's eyes, dark with desire, I feel my willpower crumbling.
"What did you have in mind?" I ask, my own voice husky.
Shiver's lips curl into a wolfish grin. "How about we start with your room?"
My heart races.
I know exactly what he's suggesting, and despite my better judgment, I want it too.
"One time," I say firmly, meeting his gaze. "That's all."
"One time," he agrees, his voice a low rumble that sends shivers down my spine.
I lead him upstairs, hyper-aware of his presence behind me.
As soon as we're through the door of my room, Shiver's on me.
His lips crash against mine, hungry and demanding.
I respond with just as much need, my hands roaming over his muscular chest.
He pushes me against the wall, his body pressing into mine. "God, Siren," he growls. "You have no idea how long I've wanted this."
I gasp as he trails kisses down my neck.
"Show me," I challenge.
Shiver's eyes darken.
In one swift motion, he lifts me, my legs wrapping around his waist.
He carries me to the bed, our lips never parting.
As he lays me down and I drink in the sight of him.
His tattooed skin glistens with a light sheen of sweat, his muscles rippling as he hovers over me.
"You're gorgeous," I breathe.
He smirks. "And you're overdressed."
What follows is a frenzy of hands and lips, clothes being shed with desperation I haven’t experienced since I lost my virginity.
Shiver's touch is electric, igniting every nerve ending in my body.
He's rough, dominant, exactly what I need.
"Tell me what you want," he commands, his voice husky with desire.
I arch into him. "You," I moan. "All of you."
He doesn't disappoint.
Our bodies move together in a passionate dance, the intensity building with each moment.
I lose myself in the sensation, in the feeling of Shiver's calloused hands on my skin, his lips on mine.
When it's over, we lay tangled in the sheets, both of us breathing heavily.
Shiver presses a kiss to my forehead. "Get some sleep, darlin'," he murmurs. "You were amazing."
As he dresses and leaves, I feel a pang of... something.
Regret?
Longing?
I push the feeling aside, locking the door behind him.
Taking a deep breath, I lean against the door.
What have I done?
I collapse onto my bed, the sheets still warm and rumpled from our encounter.
My eyes fix on the ceiling, tracing the faint shadows cast by the dim light filtering through my curtains.
The reality of what just happened crashes over me like a tidal wave.
"Fuck," I whisper, running my hands over my face. "Fuck, fuck, fuck."
I had one rule.
One simple, ironclad rule that I've lived by since joining this life: never get involved with anyone in the club.
Not as lovers, not as a one-night stand, nothing.
And I just shattered it into a million pieces.
My mind races, replaying every moment with Shiver.
His cocky grin, those high cheekbones, the way his tattoos seemed to dance across his skin as he moved above me.
I groan, frustrated with myself.
"What were you thinking, Siren?" I mutter, sitting up and hugging my knees to my chest. "You know better than this."
I can almost hear Stiletto's voice in my head, teasing me about the 'slim pickings' in this life.
But that's exactly why I made my rule in the first place.
Getting involved with someone in the club is a recipe for disaster.
It complicates everything.
My phone buzzes on the nightstand, and I reach for it, half-hoping and half-dreading that it might be Shiver.
But, it's just my sister.
Hope you're getting your fill.