Chapter 18
Lucy
While Craig has whined to anyone and everyone about how much he hates school, he’s made it through his first week without incident. I’m sure Pippa breathed a huge sigh of relief when Friday afternoon came. She even joked that Pooh could put the cash for bail money he’d been carrying around back in his safe now. As his reward for going all week to school, Craig’s riding with me, Bella, and Luke out to the ranch. Following us on his bike is Horse. We’re spending the night, then Horse will follow me back to town, and Pigeon will bring the kids back home Sunday.
I turn into the drive that leads to the ranch house and take a deep breath of relief. I always feel calmer here than in town lately. The kids sit up straight in anticipation of reaching the house, but it’ll still take several minutes to get there. Secluded is an understatement, with the house and barns sitting well into the land that make up the ranch. It’s beautiful, especially with the animals grazing in pastures on each side of the long driveway.
The second the car comes to a stop, the kids bail out and take off for the barns. I grab my briefcase and head for the house instead. Knocking once, I open the door and walk into the large kitchen and set my briefcase on the table. Walking back out the door, I follow the voices to the horse barn, waving at Horse on my way. He’s currently nursing a beer, kicked back on the deck, obviously planning on staying put. Horse, regardless of his road name, does anything he can to avoid being around the horses. Spotting Ivy in a stall, I stop behind Bella and lean around her to see inside.
Ivy’s busy putting a halter on a miniature horse. It’s what she calls a paint, white with large black patches sprinkled throughout its hair, mane, and tail. It’s so adorable. I want to hug it immediately. When she’s finished, we step back, and Ivy leads the mini out of the stall. Stopping in front of the kids, she grins when the mini neighs loudly, startling me.
“This is Castiel, Cas for short, and he’s one of our latest acquisitions. The other one, Jacko, is in the next stall. Both are super friendly and well-trained. Oh my God, you’re going to love this, Lucy!” Ivy says while vibrating with excitement.
“I already do! He’s so cute!” I answer while stepping to the side to get a peek at Jacko in his stall.
He’s nearly identical to Cas in appearance. A few of his markings are a little different, but in size and basic looks, they could be twins.
“Yes, they both are, but what I meant was you’re going to love why I got them!” Ivy exclaims. “They’re a team and are trained to drive and pull a cart. Wait until you see the little wagon they pull! It’s so adorable! I’m going to teach you how to drive a team of horses, and believe me, you’ll want your very own afterward.”
I’m not the only one who squealed in delight upon seeing the mini wagon. Bella could barely stand still, and Luke’s smile grew until it had to be painful.
The wagon is a miniature-sized covered wagon like those used in the 1800s to cross America. The seat is small, only big enough for me and maybe a kid to sit on. The bed of the wagon could hold one, possibly two, small bales of hay only.
What makes it extra cute are the size-appropriate items hanging from the sides that make it look authentic. Hanging from one side is a small toolbox made of wood, an axe, and two lariats. The other side has a lantern, water bucket, and the brake lever. Swinging from the rear axle is a small wooden bucket that I’m assuming is the grease bucket.
“When can I learn?” I ask as I step off so the kids can try the seat.
“Tomorrow morning sound good?” Ivy asks, smiling knowingly at me.
“I want to learn it all. From harnessing the horses to driving the wagon. This is really cool, Ivy, and the kids that come here for your lessons are going to love it too.”
“The ponies are about the right size for you to ride too, Lucy,” Pigeon says as he stops next to Ivy.
“I agree with Prissy. You suck, bird boy,” I respond but smile at his teasing.
“Ignore him. They’re too small to ride, but they can easily pull the wagon and a small adult or child,” Ivy says while wrapping an arm around Pigeon’s waist.
“Didn’t you say something about buying a Shetland Pony for Lucy to ride?” Pigeon questions, then grunts when Ivy pinches his side.
“Keep it up, Pigeon, and I’ll let Tessie take you for a drive,” I warn.
“Speaking of Tessie, what did you do to her? She hasn’t had an accident since driving with you, and I see fear in her eyes when you enter a room?” Pigeon asks.
“None-ya, Pigeon,” I answer and grin at his look of confusion.
“None-ya?” he repeats.
“None-ya. None of your damn business. I improvised a little so you’d understand, but that’s what it means, bird boy,” Craig replies, then laughs outright at Pigeon. “Can we now get back to what we were doing before we were so rudely interrupted?”
“Careful, Craig. Loki’s not here to save you this time,” Pigeon cautions with a smirk.
“But he will be the next time you’re at the clubhouse. You could thump my ass now, but I’ll have him pluck yours then,” Craig returns with his own smirk.
Before I can intervene and save Pigeon’s ass from a good feather plucking, we hear a car engine. Walking to the barn door, Pigeon asks, “You have a client coming tonight, Ivy?”
“No, just Lucy and the kids,” she answers while joining Pigeon in the doorway.
“I’ll go see who it is and what they want,” Pigeon mutters before walking off, Ivy on his heels.
“While they’re busy, let’s brush Cas and Jacko,” Bella suggests.
The boys follow her to retrieve Jacko, and I walk to the doorway to see if I know who drove up. Not recognizing the two women and not being able to hear the conversation happening, I turn to go help the kids when a small detail catches my eye.
Looking closely at the license plate, my heart takes a leap. It’s an Illinois plate. The hair on the back of my neck stands up, and I get a weird vibe when Pigeon and Ivy both turn to look at me, concern on their faces. Instantly, I step into the shadow of the doorway. Not knowing what to do, if anything, I take a seat on the nearest hay bale and wait. For what, I’m not sure. Several minutes later, Pigeon enters the barn, looks around until he spots me. The look on his face makes my palms start to sweat, but I keep my face blank.
“Need to speak with you outside,” Pigeon says quietly.
I stand and follow him out, finding the car is still there, but Ivy, Horse, and the women aren’t. I know a bombshell is coming my direction, but I don’t try to dodge it. I wait silently for Pigeon to speak.
“Do you recognize either of those women?”
“No, but I didn’t really look that hard at them. Should I have?” I ask.
“Not sure, to be honest,” Pigeon mumbles, then remains silent until Horse arrives next to him.
“Prez said to do as the note asked. He, Rex, and Petey will be here within an hour,” Horse informs his club brother while looking at me with what I’m sure is sympathy in his eyes.
“Note? What’s this about a note?” I ask with a sense of dread creeping through my body.
“Lucy could tell if it’s his handwriting or not,” Horse suggests.
“Yeah. We’ll wait until the Prez gets here, though. Let him decide how he wants to deal with this.”
“Deal with what?” I question.
Before Pigeon can answer, the house door opens, and the two women, along with Ivy, walk out. They stop at the car and retrieve a few pieces of luggage before they enter the bunkhouse. When the door closes, I turn back to face Pigeon.
“Who are they?”
“I’m not sure, and I’m not lying to you about that. They handed me a letter in a sealed envelope and said very little when I asked for clarification. I told Ivy to put them in the bunkhouse until Gunner arrives, and he can get to the bottom of this,” Pigeon answers before pulling me into his side and walking back into the barn.
“Is Ivy coming back so we can go riding?” Bella asks while brushing Cas.
“Not until Gunner gets here. The adults have something going on, and we’re less important at the moment,” Craig replies with a scowl plastered all over his face.
“How do you know that?” Bella asks in surprise.
“You know how. Hearing is my superpower,” Craig answers in exasperation.
“Will I get to ride today?” Luke signs while looking at Pigeon.
“I’ll saddle Lucky, and you can take turns riding him in the round pen,” Pigeon signs back and laughs when Luke gives him a wide smile and a thumbs-up sign.
“Are you going to ride today, Horse, or just hide your sorry self and watch us kids?” Craig asks with his ornery side coming out to play.
“I’ve decided I don’t like you today. Maybe tomorrow I will, but then again, maybe not then either,” Horse states.
Thor, Ivy and Pigeon’s rescue dog, bumps his nose against my side, so I ignore the word battle and pet his beautiful blue-gray head. Crouching down, I put my arms around his neck and smile when he pushes in closer. For having been so abused, Thor’s a little lover. I swear he actually smiles every time someone takes a moment that’s just for him.
“Who’s first?” Pigeon asks as he stops next to us with Lucky.
“Let Luke ride first. We’ll wait,” Bella says, and Craig nods in agreement.
Walking beside Lucky, I join the kids at the round pen. Climbing up to sit on a rail, Bella then Craig joins me while Pigeon watches as Luke leads Lucky into the pen. Carefully closing the gate behind him, Luke climbs onto Lucky and walks off. I smile at Luke’s actions because we’ve all learned the lesson Ivy taught us about leaving gates the way you find them. Open, leave it open. If it’s closed, then close it behind you.
“He’s really improved,” Bella murmurs next to me.
“Luke’s going to be a cowboy when he grows up, so he works hard at remembering everything Ivy’s told us,” Craig states.
“He said that?” Pigeon asks.
“Yep. He said he wants to spend his life away from people and around animals. He thinks Ivy’s the shit and wants to be just like her,” Craig explains.
“He’s not wrong. My wife is amazing, and being like her is a sound decision,” Pigeon says with pride in his tone.
“My wife this and my wife that. Do you call her ‘my wife’ because you forgot her name already? Let me help you out, brother. Her name is Ivy,” Horse says while enunciating Ivy slowly.
“Dick move,” Craig mumbles.
“I call her my wife because she is and because I’m fucking proud as hell that she married me, you mother’s son of a jackass. I want every swinging dick to know it too,” Pigeon answers while giving Horse a shove in the shoulder.
“This has taken an ugly turn,” Bella says.
“No need for violence, Ivy’s husband,” Horse taunts.
“I see your face, and for some reason, I choose violence every damn time,” Pigeon responds with another shove.
Horse barks out a laugh, then returns the shove, moving Pigeon back a step.
“Wait!” Craig shouts, and we all look in his direction. “We haven’t placed bets yet on who’s ass is going to get whooped.”
“$10 on Pigeon for the win,” Bella and I say at the same time.
“What the hell, you two?” Horse shouts while pointing at us.
“Sorry, Horse, but Pigeon has righteous anger because he feels he’s defending his relationship with his wife,” Bella says while laughing.
“I double down on that,” I add.
“Not fair. Now I have to bet on Horse,” Craig complains. “Or, you two could make a bet between yourselves. That way, we can save our money and just be here for the entertainment.”
“Yeah, Horse, let’s do that. I win, and you have to ride Lucky again,” Pigeon offers with an evil smirk.
Horse’s mouth drops open, and he freezes in place. Glancing past Pigeon, Horse’s eyes move to Luke and a very docile Lucky making circles in the round pen. I beat back a laugh when he visibly swallows, then takes a step backward.
“I’m actually good with you giving me a shove from time to time. It bolsters your ego to think an old man like you still has it. I’ll let you off the hook this time. Anyone want a beer?” Horse states before walking off.
“That was a bust. I was hoping to get another video of him riding,” Pigeon complains but does so grinning wide.
“You have an evil streak,” I state.
“Thank you,” he agrees easily.
The sound of bikes causes the four of us to look toward the drive in time to see Gunner, Petey, and Rex coming to a stop.
When Pigeon turns to me, I wave him off.
“I’ll keep an eye on the kids and their riding. Go see what’s going on, but you better explain it to me later.”
Pigeon jogs to the men, with Horse joining their group, and they stand around talking while Gunner reads the piece of paper Pigeon handed him. When Gunner lowers the paper, his eyes lock on mine. The feeling of dread returns, but I keep my face blank. After a few more minutes of talking, the men head to the bunkhouse.
“What could you hear, Craig?” Bella asks quietly.
Craig, uncharacteristically silent, ignores the question. His eyes meet mine. Then he quickly looks away. When Bella asks again, Craig finds his voice.
“Club stuff. Gunner will talk with Lucy later.”
Craig drops off the rail immediately after speaking, then walks to intercept Luke. Instead of taking his turn, he climbs up the saddle and sits behind it on Lucky’s rump. Luke signals Lucky to move, and the boys start making laps.
“I wouldn’t worry, Lucy. I’m sure it’s not bad news,” Bella quietly says, then leans into my side.
I put my arm over her shoulders, lean into her, and whisper words I don’t believe.
“You’re probably right.”
After several minutes, Bella climbs down and goes to take her turn riding. When I hear soft whining, I look behind me and find Thor. Jumping to the ground, I turn a pail upside down and take a seat on it. Thor immediately moves close, resting his chin on my thigh as I stroke his fur. Soon after, Ivy’s blue heeler appears and sits on my other side.
It's been over an hour since the men went to the bunkhouse, and my nerves are shattered. I know this has something to do with Chubs, but I have no idea how. Are these women searching for him too? Are they law enforcement? How do they know him, and how well? I don’t want to think it, but the thought crosses my mind regardless. Is one of them his wife, an ex-girlfriend, a relative? Did he leave me to be with one of them? I didn’t get much of a chance to study them, but one was close to Chubs in age, the other not. A mother and daughter, maybe.
Trying desperately to distract myself, my eyes find the kids, still taking turns riding. Luke is acting normal and thoroughly enjoying himself. Bella is being watchful of the boys, the horse, and me, but keeping the boys busy. Craig is unusually quiet and seems to only be going through the motions. His eyes land on me often, then dart away. He’s worried and concerned, and that scares the crap out of me.
I look up quickly when I hear a door shut and find Gunner coming in my direction. I look toward Bella, and she says, “I got this. Go.”
Standing, I wait for Gunner. When he arrives, he says simply, “Let’s go in the house, Lucy. We need to talk.”
Taking seats at the kitchen table, Gunner pulls a sheet of paper out of his pocket, carefully re-folds it, and sets it in front of me.
“Do you know this handwriting?”
Looking down, I can only read the first sentence.
“Prez, I need a favor. I don’t deserve one, but I’m asking anyway.”
“Lucy?”
Looking up, I nod slowly.
“It’s Chubs’ handwriting.”
“I thought so too but needed your opinion. Thank you. You deserve the truth, and I’ll give that to you, but I need to ask you for a favor first. Can you take the kids back to town tonight? Horse will follow and stay with you until Candy gets off work. When I get things figured out, we’ll talk. Stick close to Candy or one of the guys.”
“Okay. I’ll get them and leave now,” I say while standing, picking up my briefcase, and walking to the door.
“Lucy.”
I turn back to face the club president and wait for him to say what he feels he needs to say.
“I’m sorry for how things have been for you. You deserve better than this, and that will be the first thing I explain to him if I ever set eyes on him again. Explain it in a seriously harsh way.”
“You’ll have to get in line behind me, but I appreciate it, Gunner.”
Candy shows up at Lisa’s condo, grocery bags in hand, and surprises both of us when she starts cooking dinner. As she moves comfortably through the motions, she notices our stares. Stopping only long enough to set drinks in front of us, she resumes chopping and sauteing.
“What? Please, don’t tell me that neither of you can cook?” she asks in mock disgust.
“I can’t boil water without causing a fire, but I can prep things somewhat,” I mumble in embarrassment.
“I can cook,” Lisa says, then elaborates with a smirk. “If instant oatmeal, chewy pasta, salads, and sandwiches count.”
“Yeah, no, they don’t, but I got us covered. I’m not an expert, but Ava’s been teaching me the basics. She’s so fucking awesome at it. She lets me help in the kitchen, and I’ve learned a lot from that,” Candy replies. “I want to be her when I grow up.”
“We all do,” I answer.
While eating a delicious stir-fry, I explain what happened to Lisa and Candy. We talk for a few hours about who the women are and why they’re here but come up with little. Candy’s no-nonsense advice is to not worry until we need to, and Lisa and I agree. When my phone rings, I’m surprised to see it’s Axel calling.
“Hey, Axel.”
“Lucy, I need a ride,” he says in a weak gasp.
Sitting up straight in alarm, I ask, “What’s wrong? Where?”
“The hospital.”
“I’ll come get you, but where’s Bailey? Your dad?” I ask as I stand and gather my purse.
“She’s got Alex, and I don’t want to bother or scare her. No idea where Dad is. Can you…” Axel says, then goes silent.
“Axel? Axel?” I ask in a near shout.
No answer.
“Give me your keys, and let’s go,” Candy states calmly.
Candy and I reach my car, jump in, and she drives at a fast pace. Not long, and we’re stopping outside the clubhouse. Rushing inside, I see no one, so we make our way to Axel’s room. Knocking but not receiving a reply, I push open the door to find Axel sprawled on his bed.
Placing my hand on his forehead, I realize he’s burning up. We try to wake him but to no avail. The man is seriously sick.
“I’ll call 911 for an ambulance,” I tell Candy, but she’s already shaking her head no.
“We can have him at the hospital before they’ll even arrive out here.”
“We can’t get him to my car. He’s too big,” I inform her while sending out a group text to the club members. Hopefully, someone’s close enough to help.
Candy bends low, slings one of Axel’s arms over her shoulder, then grabs a leg and does a power lift. His entire body is now resting across her shoulders, his head lolling from side to side. Surprised, I stand there mute and unmoving.
“Can’t do this forever, Lucy. Get the doors, and I’ll get him inside your car,” Candy says with a grunt, then starts moving through the room.
Placing his large body in the backseat of my car isn’t done with grace, but he’s inside. He’s probably got a head injury by now, but that’s the least of our concern. Candy orders me to climb in with him, and she moves to the driver’s seat. I no more than get the door closed, and we’re moving at a fast rate. Flying past the gatehouse, I see Toes sitting there, playing on his phone. He never even noticed us coming, the gate was still open, or us leaving. There will be hell for him to pay, I’m sure.
I rest Axel’s head in my lap and make sure he’s still breathing. My phone starts beeping with incoming texts, and I glance down at it.
Pooh: At the ranch. Toes is at the gate. Call him.
Cash: James and Livi are on duty but will meet you at the hospital if they can. Texted the Aunts. They’re on their way too.
Gunner: Seriously sick or just in labor?
Petey: Still at the ranch. Trudy’s helping Ava at a catering event. Be there as soon as I can.
Vex: Taja and Tessie are in town. I texted them. They’ll meet you at the hospital.
Horse: On my sway. be in an uber. The ssswhole horse-riding thing fucked with my head and I’ve beeeeeen drinking. Beer. Lotsa lotsa beers. Tink I have PsTBbb. Pttsby. PT that thing that meanssss I’mmm fuccked up.
Horse: Lucy? Luuuucy? Youuu therrre?
Gunner: Jesus, Horse. Just stop typing. Stay where you are, and we’ll send your mommy over to tuck you in for the night.
Trigger: At the ranch. Riding back with Petey. Tammy and Pippa have the kids so they won’t be there.
Freddy: Did you call 911? You’ll need them to load him up. I’m on my way to help.
Me: Candy carried him to my car and we’re on the way to the hospital. Will let you know what we find out. He’s burning up and unconscious.
Petey: I’ll pick up Bailey on my way. I’ll let her know what’s going on then. No need to upset her yet.
Pooh: Candy lifted him by herself? And carried his fat ass all the way out to your car?
Me: Yeah she did.
Cash: That’s impressive. Now I’m even a little scared of her.
Pooh: I’m fucking terrified of her. I have no shame when it comes to self-preservation. I’m taking up a pool if anyone wants to buy her flowers. You know, for buying goodwill and all that.
Gunner: Toes didn’t help?
Me: Uh, no. We’re almost at the hospital now. Explain later.
Gunner: Fucking Toes.
Horse: Fucckkking Toesss. You stiiilllll here Lucyyy? R U????
Gunner: Put your fucking phone down Horse!
“We’re here. Run inside for a gurney and help,” Candy orders as she throws the car into park and steps out.
I rush inside and call out to the first nurse I see. It’s not long, and they have Axel on a gurney and wheeled inside. He’s deathly pale, sweaty, and very silent. I approach the desk and answer what questions I can for them while Candy takes a seat. Sitting next to her, I realize my hands are shaking. It’s scary seeing someone you care about that’s normally so full of life laying on a gurney looking like a corpse.
“He’ll be fine. He’s young, in good health, and too excited to raise his kids to die,” Candy states in a no-nonsense voice.
I nod but stay silent. When the doors whoosh open, I watch James and Livi in uniform stroll inside. Spotting us, they move to stand in front of our chairs.
“Know anything yet?” Livi asks in a hushed voice.
“No, they just took him back,” I answer.
Doors open again, and Freddy, with one of Cash’s aunts on each side, walks in. They join our group, ask the same question, and receive the same answer. Within minutes, Taja and Tessie arrive.
“Where’s Toes? Wasn’t he at the clubhouse?” Tessie questions while looking around.
“He’s still at the gatehouse entertaining himself with his phone. Gate open, not paying attention. I’m going to have a little chat with him about it, and we’ll be making a return trip to the hospital when I’m done,” Candy says in a vengeful tone.
“I’m so glad my name is James,” James mutters.
“You do that, Candy. Man’s got a brain the size of a tiny fart,” Lottie states with a sniff.
“Let’s move to those chairs over there. We’re kind of in the way here, and we’re going to accumulate more bodies soon,” Taja recommends, and our whole group moves to one corner of the E.R.
A nurse steps into the room and asks loudly, “Family of Axel Taylor?”
James, Livi, Taja, and I move to stand near the nurse and listen as she explains.
“They’ve taken Mr. Taylor for some tests, but we’ve started him on fluids and are working to lower his temperature. I’ll keep you informed as we find things out. Does anyone know his symptoms or how long he’s been ill? Any pain?”
We answer with what we know then go back to our group to wait. Taja stays and speaks with the nurse for a few more minutes, then joins us.
“It’s possible it’s his appendix. That’s what they’re thinking at the moment. It’s major surgery but common, so he’ll be in good hands if that’s it. As long as it hasn’t ruptured,” she informs the group.
“He’s been sick for several days, though. Isn’t that usually something that comes on fast?” Freddy asks.
“Usually, yes. It may have been worse than he let on, though,” Taja says while nibbling on a thumbnail.
Tessie pulls Taja’s hand away from her mouth then says, “I doubt that, but ruining your nails isn’t going to help him.”
“What in the hell are you looking at?” Lola asks loudly while staring daggers at two well-dressed women sitting to the side of us.
The women both give haughty looks in our direction before whispering to each other behind raised hands. When both laugh quietly while still looking at our group, I know we’re the center of their conversation.
“Haven’t you ever seen a group of friends and family before?” Lottie questions with her own haughty look.
“I can’t believe we’re forced to sit in this room with the likes of these types of people,” one of the women whispers to the other. Her whisper was just loud enough that I know it was intended to be heard.
“It’s ridiculous, really. I’m more afraid of what we’ll catch out here than whatever Brittany has,” counters the other while looking with disdain at everyone waiting in the room.
“Look at that one. She has sores all over her face, for God’s sake,” the first woman states while pointing openly at a young woman across the room.
“Point at another person in this room, and the surgeon will be removing that finger, along with that stick, from your ass, bitch,” Lola hisses while leaning toward their chairs.
“People have no manners these days,” Lottie says loudly with a dramatic sigh.
“Oh shit,” Freddy mumbles.
Candy snorts loudly then laughs outright.
“You might be older than the hills, but you cannot talk to me like that,” the first woman replies while pulling her high-quality coat closer around her body.
“Can. Did. Will again,” Lola answers calmly.
“You obviously do not know who we are,” the second woman declares. “So, because of that, we’ll ignore your behavior.”
“That’s enough, ladies,” Livi states while looking at the women.
Neither takes a heartbeat of time to consider Livi’s words before continuing with their comments.
“I’m going to assume that you’re the one under arrest,” the second lady says while looking pointedly at Lola. Turning to look at James, she asks, “It’s her, isn’t it? No class in itself should be a crime.”
“I’m not under arrest. Yet,” Lola says calmly, but I start to get nervous when she reaches into her purse. I relax when she only pulls out her phone, though.
Things settle for a few minutes, then Terry, Lars’s caretaker, walks through the door, sees our group, and walks toward us. His outfit is what should be considered a crime, and I ignore Tessie’s laugh as he jingles his way across the E.R. waiting room and leans his head against James’ arm, then strokes it. James just shakes his head and grins at the usual ridiculous behavior of all that is Terry.
Terry’s outfit does raise some questions, though. He’s in complete cowboy gear, from his 10-gallon hat to the glittered spurs on his boots. Cowboy-type clothing is normal in Denver, but Terry has taken bedazzling to a new height. No joke, his belt buckle is the size of a dinner plate and could be used to signal the space station.
“Looking good, Terry,” Tessie states while waving a hand up and down his body length.
“Just came from the community theater center, and here you thought I’d gone shopping lately,” Terry states with a knowing look. “What do we know so far?”
“What we know is that one’s one of those types,” one of the women stage whispers while the other one nods in agreement.
“What type would that be, ma’am?” Taja asks with false sweetness, but I can hear the anger in her voice.
“A fag through and through,” the other woman states boldly.
The air in the room goes electric and completely silent before Lottie speaks.
“Shut your whore mouth! Right the hell now! One more word out of your uneducated, biased pig face, and I promise you the beatdown you just begged for!”
The women’s faces show their shock at Lottie’s rage but not as much as Terry’s does.
Livi quickly steps between the women and our group and speaks quietly with them. She gets them on their feet and ushers them to chairs on the other side of the room. I lay a hand on Lottie’s arm in hopes of avoiding said beatdown and toss out a silent prayer for the club members to arrive soon.
Terry strides up to Lottie, bends down, and drops a kiss on her cheek.
“Thank you, but she’s not worth your time. I’ve learned to ignore people like that and their comments. But why would you defend me when you give me so much hell your own damn self?”
“Because you’re ours to torment. You’re family. Besides, she believes her bullshit and thinks she’s the better person. We know she isn’t,” Lola answers while Lottie nods in agreement.
“We couldn’t care less that you’re gay. Only your clothing choices offend us,” Lola adds.
“Does this mean we’re besties now?” Terry jokes.
“Don’t push your luck, Terry. Take the win and walk away,” Freddy advises.
The nurse we spoke with earlier enters the room, then approaches our group.
“Mr. Taylor has been prepped and is en route to an operating room. It’s appendicitis, and unfortunately, we believe his appendix has ruptured. It’s quite serious, and I can answer any questions you have, but I’m sure Taja can as well. I’ll keep you updated as often as possible. There’s a waiting room for the O.R. if you’d like to move to it. You’ll be more comfortable there.”
“Thank you. We’ll move there and wait to hear from you. I can explain what’s going on to the rest of his family when they arrive,” Taja says.
The nurse gives us a smile of reassurance and walks away.
“How bad is this, Taj?” Tessie asks.
Before Taja can answer, the doors open again, and Petey, Trigger, Bailey, Gunner, Pooh, Cash, and Vex enter and walk directly to our group. I reach out and grasp Bailey’s hand and give it a squeeze. Her face is pale. She’s obviously upset and worried but is holding it together. Taja starts to explain what’s going on when I hear those two women running their mouths again.
“Well, well, well. This explains everything. Bikers.”
“I guess this night could get worse. Now we have to sit here with criminals too. I hope I remembered to bring my pepper spray.”
Bailey gasps. Lola and Lottie growl, but I see red. Whirling, I stalk toward them, but an arm wraps around my waist and lifts me clear off the ground. Twisting, I see the arm belongs to James. Setting me gently on my feet next to Gunner, he grins.
“Sorry, Lucy, but it’s my sworn duty to protect the citizens of Denver. Whether they deserve it or not.”
“Let’s get to the other waiting room before James has to prove that again,” Trigger advises.
James and Livi’s radios squawk, and they’re off to handle a call, and our group starts to move when Cash stops dead in his tracks, causing me to crash into his back. Stepping back, I look at him in confusion, but his attention is locked on something across the room. Looking in the direction that he is, I only spot a woman that I don’t recognize.
Her hair is lank and greasy looking. She’s thin, painfully so. Her clothes are revealing and similar to what sex workers on the street wear. She’s looking at our group with horror before she’s on her feet and moving as fast as she can in six-inch heels.
“Katey,” Cash growls, then follows her with Pooh and Vex on his heels.
“Take them with you, Petey. I’ll be back,” Gunner orders then storms off.
Confused about what’s going on, I follow Petey and the group until we’re seated in the O.R. waiting room. Candy and Tessie walk off and return with water bottles and coffee for our group. Bailey’s bouncing her leg nervously, so I place my hand on it. Her eyes meet mine, and I see the worry.
“He’ll be fine, honey,” I say in a reassuring voice.
“I know, but I feel so damn guilty. He should have been home with me and Alex, and I should have insisted on it.”
“None of us knew he was this sick, Bailey. We’re all guilty of assuming he was just being dramatic. He’ll have surgery. He’ll make us all grovel, and then he’ll get back to being excited about the new baby,” Petey states while tipping Bailey’s chin up to meet his eyes.
“Okay, Pops,” she replies and slowly relaxes back into the chair.
“So, who is that woman, and why did Cash look murderous?” Tessie asks the question several of us have been thinking.
“Her name is Katey. She was a club who… club girl that helped set Ava up to be kidnapped,” Freddy states.
“Set her up to be kidnapped, raped, beaten, and most likely killed, you mean,” Petey says with a snarl.
While the women in our group are showing signs of shock and horror that a female would do that to another female, Candy silently stands and walks out of the room. I look at Trigger in alarm, but he simply shrugs.
“Let her go. She probably just needs some fresh air,” Freddy says in an unconvincing voice.
“Hope not,” Petey mumbles as he paces the room.
“He looks like shit, but he’s breathing. Doc said the surgery went well, but Axel’s got a rough time ahead of him,” Petey tells the room when he returns from Axel’s room.
Petey and Bailey went to see Axel as soon as they could. She stayed, but Petey returned to update us.
While we were waiting for hours, Ava and Trudy arrived after they finished the catering job. Rex made an appearance but didn’t stay long since he said he had things to do yet but did inform Petey that Reeves had taken over guard duty at the gatehouse. Toes may or may not still exist, but I’m too tired to ask.
Tessie left to pick up Vex and Taja’s baby girl from Pippa’s and take her home.
The men returned and were tight-lipped about where they were, but Candy didn’t return with them. Cash eventually got his aunts to agree to let Terry take them home. Trigger left to help Tammy and Pippa since they have a houseful of kids and pets.
Eventually, Petey ordered the rest of us to go home and get what little sleep we could. He said Bailey refused to leave, so he was staying to keep an eye on her. Turning to me, he asked if I’d mind picking up Alexia and taking her to Bailey’s and stay with her. When I nod and stand to leave, Gunner, Ava, and Trudy stand too.
Getting to the lot, I look for my car, but it’s gone. Candy must have it, so I follow Ava and Trudy and climb into Ava’s SUV. Gunner’s bike fires up, and he follows us until I’m dropped at Pooh and Pippa’s home.
The sun is up, and I’m exhausted. I retrieve a sleeping Alexia and make my way inside Axel’s home. Placing his little sleeping beauty in her bed, I tuck her in. Grabbing a blanket off the rocking chair in her room, I walk to the couch and collapse on it. I fall asleep instantly.
What seems like seconds later, I jerk awake to an unfamiliar sound. Sitting upright, I look around the room, not seeing anything out of the ordinary. It’s a scratching, grating sound, and it continues. Getting up, I start walking through the house, looking for the cause. Finally locating the room I think it’s coming from, I step inside and listen.
“Hi-U.”
I nearly jump out of my skin before spinning around to see Prissy standing on a perch near the window.
“You scared me!” I exclaim as she cackles gleefully. “Was that you making that weird noise?”
“Not I,” she answers just as the sound starts up again.
Walking to the window, I pull up the blinds and have another moment of terror. Mac is hanging from the window screen with one foot, wings expanded to their full width. His other foot is scratching the screen, creating the noise.
“What are you doing?” I ask as I slide the window open.
“Hanging out,” Mac answers, and I’m sure he thinks that’s a reasonable response.
“You’re tearing the screen all to hell, Mac. Get off there, and go to the door. I’ll let you in.”
“No!” Prissy screeches, but Mac releases his grip and flies away.
“Please be quiet, Prissy. Alex is sleeping. And please be nice to Mac. I’ll get your breakfast ready and add a few extra pecans if you do.”
“Bless your heart,” Prissy coos in her accent, but I know what she really means is that she thinks I’m an idiot of epic proportions.
I ignore the insult and leave the room. I check on Alex and then let Mac in the house. Going to the kitchen, I pull out the bowls of food Axel keeps ready for Prissy. I set out two smaller bowls and fill each with a variety of veggies, fruits, and nuts. I set the bowls on the table for the birds then start a pot of coffee. Alex walks sleepily into the kitchen, so I get her set up with breakfast too.
Me: How’s Axel doing today?
Bailey: Doc said he’s got peritonitis meaning bacteria entered his stomach cavity. Painful and serious but they’re treating it aggressively with antibiotics. He’ll be staying for at least several days. Main concern is that he doesn’t develop sepsis.
Me: What can I do to help?
Bailey: You’re doing it. Petey’s going to switch places with me so I come home to shower, change clothes and sleep a little. Can you stay with Alex or take her to Taja?
Me: I’m staying here. See you when you come home.
Bailey: Love you! Thanks!
The front door opens, then Gunner steps into the kitchen. Carefully looking at his face, I can tell he’s concerned about the reason he’s here. Leaning down, he picks Alex up, cuddles her close before dropping a kiss on her cheek. Sitting her back in her chair, he turns to face me.
“Let’s talk.”
I nod and follow him into the living room. When he indicates a chair, I shake my head and remain standing.
“Tell me,” I state.
“The note I showed you is apparently from Chubs. He didn’t explain much but asked that the club keep those two women safe and hidden. I don’t know who we’re protecting them from or why, and neither of them are talking. He didn’t say who they are, just that they’re important to him. He said, in fact, that they are his world and asked for a favor he knows he doesn’t deserve. The women have been polite but refuse to answer questions as to where they came from or where Chubs is.”
The pain that slashes through my chest is unexpected, but I swallow down the gasp it causes. Breathing slowly through my nose, I hold eye contact and nod once. His world? That’s what Chubs used to call me, and within months, that title has been reassigned to them. I honestly didn’t know he could hurt me more than he did when he left, but he has.
“Rex tried tracking their car’s GPS to find where they came from, but it had been wiped. The only thing that checked out is that the license plate is from Illinois. The plate doesn’t belong to the car they arrived in, though, so either the plate or the car is stolen. Basically, we know little more than we did before they arrived. We’ll keep talking with them, but I don’t hold out much hope. The club decided to do as Chubs asked and protect them. They’ll be staying at the ranch for now, so we’re limiting who can go out there. We don’t want to draw attention to the ranch, so with the incident the other day with you and those Feds, don’t go to the ranch at all, Lucy.”
Again, I nod but remain silent.
“Any ideas of who they are?” Gunner asks the question I knew he’d ask.
“None. Chubs never mentioned women other than those associated with this club,” I answer honestly.
“At some point, you’re going to have to come clean with me, Lucy. When you decide to do that, I’ll listen,” Gunner says in his deep rumble. “I’ll also not judge you for keeping his secrets and being loyal to him.”
“Thank you.”
After Gunner shuts the door behind him, I drop into the nearest chair. I refuse to shed more tears over this man, I remind myself repeatedly as I hold back tears. The best way to stop that from happening is to keep busy. I stand back up and get busy doing just that.
While Alex, Mia, Zoe, Prissy, and Luke are playing in the front yard, I open the large garage door and start looking for duct tape. It’s not a good fix for the window screen Mac shredded, but it’ll keep the bugs out for now. Opening and closing drawers and cabinet doors, I come up empty. Looking high and low, I spot an old toolbox sitting on a bottom shelf. Pulling it out, I set it on Axel’s workbench.
“What up?” Mac asks as he lands on the workbench in a flash of color and floating feathers.
“Looking for duct tape to mend the screen you tore. It’s a beautiful day, and I’d like to let the warm breeze in but keep the bugs out,” I answer as I lift the lid.
With my mind stuck on looking for duct tape, the contents of the toolbox make no sense to me for a moment. Realization dawns on me at the same time it does for Mac. With an ear-splitting screech that lasts for several long, painful seconds, Mac expresses what he thinks of Axel’s toolbox filled to the brim with cashews. It only takes my slow brain another beat or two to figure out that these are most likely Mac’s stolen cashews. The exact same ones he was saving to take a hit out on Axel.
When a stream of curse words erupts from the angry bird, I desperately try to hush him. Glancing back to see if the kids have noticed, I find only Craig standing directly behind me, mouth hanging open in surprise. When Mac refuses to quiet down, Craig grabs an old towel and tosses it over Mac’s head.
“Not cool, pig boy,” Mac sputters from under the towel, but his voice has lowered considerably.
“Pig boy? Really, Mac?” Craig tosses back in disgust.
“Remove it,” Mac barks.
“Have you calmed down yet?” I ask hopefully.
“Only if murderous is considered the new calm,” Craig interjects.
“What’s that?” Zoe asks, pointing at the toolbox.
“Your uncle’s death sentence,” Craig mutters.
“I think it may be the cashews Mac lost,” I say while trying to gently shoo the kids out of the garage.
Mac’s not ready to remember little ears yet, and I don’t need the kids hearing the ways he’s planning on eliminating Axel. I have enough issues to sort as it is, and then Prissy lands on the workbench next to Mac. I know that things have just gone from bad to worse.
“Lost? Fucking stolen!” Mac shrieks from beneath his towel.
I had honestly believed that if a bird couldn’t see their surroundings, they stayed silent. Mac’s blowing that theory all to hell now.
“Lost his nuts,” Prissy says, then cackles like a madwoman.
The kids, having lost interest, walk out of the garage and back to what they were doing while Prissy continues to taunt Mac.
“Nutless wonder,” she crows loudly.
“Assman’s dead!” Mac, very unwisely, shouts.
Prissy strikes with her beak, nearly knocking Mac flat. I make a mad grab for Prissy while Craig gets a grip on Mac to keep the battle from becoming bloody.
“Can you take him home while I put Prissy in the house?” I ask.
“Someone better warn Axel to stay at the hospital. He’s in a weakened state, and Mac’s choosing violence,” Craig advises before he walks off with Mac, still wrapped in the towel and still complaining loudly.
Axel: I’m bored.
Me: That didn’t take long. You’ve only been there a week. You must be feeling better then.
Axel: I’m still fragile but fighting like a warrior.
Me: You’re ridiculous. Think you meant fighting like a princess warrior though.
Axel: I’m pure entertainment. Your parents came and visited me this morning.
Me: They said they were going to. Mom loves you.
Axel: Of course. Your dad doesn’t??????
Me: Yes but he’s grateful Lisa and I were born with enough sense to let you be Bailey’s problem, not ours. Lol.
Axel: Send videos of Alex. I’m missing my girl. Told the doctor I’m leaving tomorrow no matter what. Short visits with her when Pops brought her here isn’t enough. She needs her daddy. So does Prissy.
Me: They both call Pooh daddy now so you might as well stay until you’re better.
Axel: Toes is right—you’re evil.
Me: Mac found his cashews. He’s promising death for you.
Axel: Why me?
Me: They were in your toolbox in your garage.
Axel: I’ve been set up! I never touched his nuts!
Axel: That came out wrong. His cashews—never touched them. Craig’s gotta be behind this.
Me: Why do you always blame that poor kid for everything?
Axel: Have you met him?
Me: Have a good sleep. I must go and bond with Alex since you’re fading from her memory already.
Axel: Cruel words, woman.
While Bailey spent most of her time at the hospital with Axel this week, I’ve helped with the kids and pets so others could visit him too. Also, I’ve kept Bailey’s work caught up so she’s not snowed under later.
Candy found me at Axel’s house the evening after we took him to the hospital. Surprisingly, the kids absolutely love her, and she’s great with them too. Without a word, she stepped up and helped with babysitting, grocery shopping, guard duty of me, and caring for pets. She even mowed Axel’s lawn and washed his bikes. One of the best things about the club is that everyone helps when things go sideways, and Candy’s fit right in because that’s how she thinks too.
When I asked her where she had been, she simply said she’d been helping Gunner with something. No amount of prodding got another word, so I eventually gave up asking. When she returned my car, it was full of gas and sparkling inside and out. When I attempted to pay her back the gas money, she held up a hand and shook her head. End of story.
When I hear bikes, I look out the window and grin. Craig and Luke, each on their own custom-built minibike, are riding down the street toward the clubhouse. Behind Luke’s bike trots Cain, tongue lolling.
Gathering up the girls, we head outside to the yard. Spotting Bella in Pooh’s drive, standing with several club members, we walk over to join their group. It only takes a second to realize Pooh’s preparing Bella for her first bike riding lesson. Bella’s listening intently, so I stay quiet, not wanting to interfere.
“We’ve gone over the basic parts and their functions, most of which you already knew. Brakes, shifter, engine, throttle, clutch. Any questions?” Pooh asks in a patient voice.
“No, I’m good with the basics,” Bella responds.
“What’s the first rule of riding?” Petey questions her.
“Safety first,” she answers immediately.
“Expand on that,” Vex insists.
“No helmet, no riding. Wear the proper gear. Don’t try to ride beyond my capabilities, and respect what they are. Be alert at all times of other people on the roads. They’re dangerous, unthoughtful, and unpredictable to anyone on a bike. Always leave distance between my bike and the car I’m following. Be extra vigilant at intersections. A careless rider becomes an organ donor,” Bella states in a serious tone.
“Come home safe. Do not become an organ donor,” Gunner emphasizes, and Bella nods in agreement.
“Never, for the love of God, ride a bike the way Tessie drove her Jeep,” Reeves adds emphatically.
“I promise I won’t,” Bella says with a grin.
“You ready?” Pooh asks her.
“Uh, did you cover—” Petey starts to say when Pooh holds up his hand, silencing him mid-sentence.
“I get you’re worried, but we’ve covered everything the last few days, Petey. It’s time,” Pooh states.
Pooh sits astride the bike and waits for Bella to climb on behind him. Both put on their helmets. Then Pooh fires up the bike. I step back, taking the kids with me when the men scramble to their own bikes. All except Petey, who remains standing near me. The group rides off, following the road that leads to the clubhouse.
“You’re not going?” I ask, surprised.
“She’s in good hands,” Petey answers in a quiet voice.
“You’re scared to death, aren’t you?” I joke while bumping his arm with my shoulder.
“Fuck yeah. Call me a sexist pig, but watching Axel, Craig, and Luke learn wasn’t half this terrifying. Maybe I’m just too old for this shit anymore,” Petey states before running both hands over his face.
“She’ll be fine, Petey. Pooh would cut off his own arm before he allowed anything to happen to her.”
“I know, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to keep her in a padded room.”
“What was the deal with that Katey lady from the hospital? Everyone rushed out, but nothing’s been said since,” I ask.
“Candy cornered her and waited for Gunner. He called Ava and asked what she wanted to do since it was her that Katey hurt,” Petey answers immediately.
“And?” I ask, but I’m half afraid of the answer.
“Ava came and spoke alone with Katey for a while. Candy wanted to disassemble the woman, but Ava wouldn’t let her. After they talked, Ava asked Gunner to let Katey leave. Said she didn’t need or want revenge. Said Katey’s life choices were revenge enough. Ava’s right, I guess. Ava’s happily married, owns her own successful business, and has a beautiful family. She’s got everything she always wanted and never thought she’d get. Katey’s got nothing, and that’s exactly what she’s earned.”
“Ava’s a better person than me because I think I’d have at least wanted to get a punch in or two,” I murmur.
“We think alike, little one,” Petey says with a grin.
“Can I ask one more thing?”
“Of course you can, Lucy.”
“Whatever happened to the lady who claimed to be Ava’s mother?”
I watch as Petey’s face darkens with anger, and his words have a lethal edge to them.
“Waiting to see if she’s smart enough to take my advice. Get the fuck gone and stay that way or suffer the consequences. Time will tell, but I doubt she’s going to listen. Trash always seems to rise to the surface, you know?”
“Yeah, it usually does. How’s Ava doing with all that?”
“By being Ava. She deals with what’s in front of her and doesn’t waste time worrying about things she can’t control.”
“I need to be more like her in that regard,” I mumble.
“None of us can control other people’s actions, honey. Pick your battles and ignore the rest of the noise. And remember, we’ve got you if you need it.”