Cotton (Hades Abyss MC #12)

Chapter Five

Cotton

Lavinia had only been mine for a few days, but I’d already left her at home by herself so I could hang out with my brothers at the clubhouse. So much had happened in such a short amount of time, I’d thought she might like some time alone. No matter how grateful she seemed, or how ready to accept me in her life, I worried it might all be too much for her. Not to mention I was adjusting to having someone in my house all day every day. After having the place to myself for so long, I was starting to feel a little crazy with no alone time. Of course, the clubhouse didn’t really offer that either. But at least it was a change of scenery.

I enjoyed spending time with Lavinia. We talked, watched movies, and even cooked together. She seemed sweet if a bit hesitant at times, and I knew she was doing her best to settle in. It’s why I’d asked the club to give her a little space. The last thing we’d needed was a revolving door of visitors. Neither of us had had time to ourselves since she’d arrived here, and I figured all healthy relationships required at least a little bit of space every now and then. Or maybe I only told myself that to feel less guilty over leaving her alone at the house.

Being around my brothers felt different this time. Was it because I didn’t have guilt weighing me down now? Meeting Lavinia had changed things for me. I no longer had time to think about Roe, or wonder what I could have done differently. Thoughts of Lavinia took up all my time.

I bantered with my brothers as we drank our beers, and I let the conversation flow over me. I’d heard it all before. It was one of the things I liked best about them. No one pulled any punches, and I always knew where I stood with them.

The clang of the front gates caught my attention. But it didn’t sound like someone opening them. More like someone had hit them. I stiffened in my seat, my fingers tightening around my beer bottle. The muscles along my shoulders and back tensed, and I narrowed my eyes. Those gates didn’t make much noise. Who the fuck had waltzed up to our front door? I set my beer down and straightened in my chair. I had a bad feeling about this.

I waited a moment, listening for anything out of the ordinary. No shouting. No gunshots. Had some drunk wandered up by mistake then left? If it was Tyler, I would expect a huge commotion.

I pushed to my feet, my back straightening as I turned to head outside. Whatever was going on, I’d damn well figure it out. Now that I had a family to protect, I wouldn’t take any chances.

When I stepped out onto the porch, I saw Tyler standing at the gate. It had taken him longer than I’d thought to show up. It wasn’t like he didn’t know where to find me. Since I’d been the only one who left the same time as Lavinia, it wouldn’t have taken much to figure out she was with me.

“Lavinia! Get your worthless ass out here!” Tyler shouted. He clenched his fists at his sides, his face nearly purple from rage. “I know you’re here, bitch.”

So much for him being quiet. He’d either been waiting until he could put on a show, or the Prospect had managed to muzzle him for a bit. I wasn’t sure which it was. Didn’t much care right now. I just wanted him gone.

I tensed, my jaw clenching and my muscles locking. He had some nerve coming here. He’d either leave on his own, or in a body bag. Either way, he’d damned well leave. No one talked to my woman that way. She’d done nothing to him except get pregnant. He should have been more careful where he stuck his dick if he didn’t want to end up with a kid.

My club brothers joined me, their gazes on the asshole pacing back and forth. My upper lip curled a little, and I started toward Tyler. He’d learn real fast not to mess with the Hades Abyss. Or me. Or Lavinia.

“You got a death wish, asshole?” Bear asked.

Tyler whirled to face us. “Hand over Lavinia, and no one gets hurt.”

I chuckled, the sound low and dark. “You think you can come here and make demands?”

“Cotton.” Fox’s voice held a wealth of warning.

I knew I needed to rein it in. Not only was Lavinia alone at the house, but we didn’t need anyone passing by to witness a murder. Even one that was justified. I stopped and took a breath. As much as I wanted to kill Tyler, I’d let him live. For now. We could always dispose of him later if he continued to be a problem. I narrowed my eyes at him and took a step closer.

“You need to leave,” I said. “Now, while you still can.”

He smirked. “You really think you can keep me from her?”

“She’s mine. She’s not going anywhere with you.” I crossed my arms and widened my stance.

Bear, Fox, and Fangs moved to stand next to me. While they’d let me handle the asshole, I knew they wouldn’t hesitate to step in if I needed the help. I wouldn’t. I could whip Tyler’s ass with one hand tied behind my back, and they knew it.

“You’re a dead man,” Tyler said. “I’ll leave right now. But this isn’t over. I’ll get her back, one way or another.”

I relaxed a fraction. Enough to let the fury drain out of me. He really didn’t want to go toe-to-toe with us. There was no way in hell he’d ever win against us.

He muttered under his breath. My guess? He’d back down and head to the nearest bar and try to drown his sorrows. From the looks of him, he was already halfway there. He’d get drunk, get stupid, and make a plan. Only for it to backfire. If he thought he was getting Lavinia back, then he was out of his damn mind.

I stood my ground, my legs braced apart and my hands still fisted. I’d promised Lavinia I’d keep her safe, and I’d meant it. If Tyler thought he’d gotten the best of her, then he needed to think again. I’d protect her and her baby with my last breath.

Surge stepped forward, his demeanor calm and assured. “You won’t get her back. Not ever. You see, Cotton and Lavinia are married.”

His voice carried enough for everyone to hear, each word landing like a punch to my gut. I took a step back, glancing from Surge to Tyler and back again. What the fuck had he done?

“Yeah. Congrats, Cotton,” Surge said, his lips tipping up.

I’d seen that smile before. I knew exactly what it meant. The sneaky fucker had married us behind my back. I met Surge’s gaze, probably looking suspicious as hell. I needed an explanation, and I needed it now. The asshole only grinned at me.

I watched Tyler’s face twist with rage. He wouldn’t dare fight back. Not with the odds stacked against him. If he had any sense at all, he’d leave and never come back. But I doubted it was the last time I’d see his ugly face.

“You think I believe that shit?” Tyler asked.

Surge pulled out a piece of paper and handed it over. Tyler snatched it from his hand and stared at it. “Take a good look. It’s done. Lavinia is now Lavinia Caine.”

Tyler’s face turned red. If he had steam coming out of his ears, I wouldn’t be shocked. I fought back a smile of my own. The bastard wouldn’t get his hands on Lavinia now. I’d promised to keep her safe, and I meant it. Of course, this hadn’t been my plan. As much as I knew Surge felt he’d done this for all the right reasons, I had a feeling it might blow up in our faces. More specifically, mine. Somehow my easygoing day had turned into a shitstorm.

Her agreeing to be mine was one thing, but she’d already lost out on so much. Now she’d been cheated out of a proposal and wedding. She’d have every right to be pissed about this.

“Son of a bitch!” Tyler crumpled the paper and tossed it aside. “I’ll get her back. One way or another. No woman leaves me. Watch your back, Cotton. I’ll be coming for you too.”

I shrugged. “You can try.”

The guy stomped away, his entire body radiating anger. His face was mottled with rage and he clenched his fists tight. He made it to his car, climbed in, and peeled away. I exhaled, some of the tension leaving me. I knew it wasn’t over yet. He’d be back. The guy was too much of an asshole to let things be. He’d be back when he thought we’d be off our guard. That shit wasn’t happening.

I turned toward Surge. “Care to explain?”

“Not my fault you didn’t understand what the lady needed,” Surge said.

My eyes narrowed. “That so?”

Surge nodded. “Easiest way to keep him away was to marry the two of you.”

I wasn’t sure this would work out the way Surge planned. Clearly, Tyler didn’t give a shit if Lavinia was my wife or not. Men like him, those who hurt women and enjoyed it, didn’t much care about rules or laws. A marriage certificate wasn’t going to change a damn thing.

I stared down the road, wondering what Lavinia was doing right now. No doubt, she’d be shocked as hell to learn about our marriage. But what the fuck was she going to say about it?

“You got some work to do, brother,” Surge said. “You’re married to a woman you’ve never even kissed. I don’t know if Lavinia will think I did her a favor or not. I guess that depends on you.”

The others chuckled. I scowled, thinking if I didn’t get out of here, I might rip Surge’s head from his shoulders. I wasn’t sure if I should thank the guy or kick his ass. How was I going to tell Lavinia about this?

But he was wrong about one thing. I had in fact kissed her. Maybe not the most passionate of kisses, but it had been a good start.

“You okay?” Bear asked.

“Yeah.” It was a lie. I wasn’t sure I’d ever be okay until Tyler was out of our lives. I’d have to watch my every step and keep an eye on Lavinia twenty-four seven. While I’d been worried before, now that he’d shown up and I’d seen how livid he was, it changed things a bit. I now knew without a doubt he’d sooner see the two of us dead than ever let her escape, much less be with me.

“You want me to have someone keep an eye on him?”

I looked at Bear and saw the sincerity in his eyes. He wasn’t just asking. He was offering to lend me the support of the entire club. I gave a brief nod and saw him send a text. No doubt he’d have someone tailing Tyler before the guy made it back into town. Assuming he even left the area. Until he’d shown up today, I’d had no idea where he might be. For all I knew, he had a motel room somewhere. Or even worse, had friends in town he could stay with. That was the last thing I needed… Tyler having allies in my fucking town.

“Thanks,” I said.

Bear just tipped his head toward me. I turned to face Surge. The hacker’s lips turned up in a smile, and I had the urge to punch the guy. If he thought this was funny, he had another thing coming.

“I have a few questions,” I said.

“I bet you do. We can talk in my office.”

I followed him into the clubhouse and over to the bar, claiming the spot beside him. I didn’t feel much like sitting right now, so I shoved the barstool over. Only man in this club who had an official office was the Pres. Surge always sat at the bar or claimed a table. Looked like a good spot today though, because I had a feeling I’d need a few beers. When he focused on me, I didn’t waste any time.

My eyes narrowed. I’d get some answers if it was the last thing I did. Part of me wanted to be grateful, because I knew Tyler wouldn’t have let Lavinia go that easily. But it didn’t mean I had to like the way things happened. I’d have preferred he come to me, let me know what he planned or what he’d done.

The room still felt tense, but more controlled now that Tyler was gone. My brothers hadn’t relaxed, though. If anything, Bear, Fox, and Fangs seemed more alert now, like they were waiting for the other shoe to drop. I wasn’t sure that wouldn’t be the case.

“Start talking, Surge.” The words came out blunt, and I didn’t care. I wasn’t in the mood for pleasantries. “How long?”

“Since you showed up here with her, and I figured out who she was. I thought you could use the extra protection. Considering Lavinia’s ex is a complete asshole, I figured you’d be grateful.”

I gritted my teeth. “I might have been if you’d told me what you’d done.”

“Maybe.” Surge shrugged, but I saw the twinkle in his eyes.

“I didn’t need you to arrange a marriage. I’ve never even proposed to her!”

“Then you should fix that,” Surge said.

My nostrils flared, and I took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. I won’t punch him . I kept repeating the words in my head.

“I’ll tell Lavinia what you’ve done. She might not be happy, but I can’t say I’m sorry either. You’ve given her an opportunity, and I don’t plan to waste it.”

Surge’s lips twitched, and I could tell he was fighting a smile. The man was a menace. I took a step back and lowered my fists, forcing my hands to unclench. I hadn’t realized until that moment how close I’d been to really taking a swing at him. I could feel the tension in the room, and I knew the rest of the guys had been ready to pull me off our brother. But when I looked back at them, I only saw smiles. They knew I needed to hit something. Or someone.

I’d wanted kids, but it hadn’t been something I planned to do so soon. Since Lavinia was pregnant, I’d be a dad whether I was ready or not. That had been true the moment I’d agreed to claim her. But until now, it hadn’t really sunk in exactly what I was committing to. I wouldn’t back down or change my mind. That wasn’t the kind of man I was. I thought I’d have a chance to get to know Lavinia better before I suggested marriage. Thanks to Surge, it looked like my plans had changed. I needed to keep her safe, and I knew he thought this would help. I didn’t have to like what he’d done. Just accept it.

Fucking hell. Time to go tell my wife we were married, then explain how it happened. She hadn’t even met anyone here other than Fox, and I wasn’t sure the Pres had made the best impression. I hoped this didn’t skew how she’d see the rest of my brothers or their women. Surge had just trampled all over her, even if he didn’t realize it. She hadn’t had much of a choice but to accept being claimed by me, if she wanted a sure way to escape from Tyler. Now she wouldn’t even have the opportunity for me to propose to her at a later date, after we’d had time to get to know one another better.

Sometimes I wondered if Surge acted before he really thought things through.

* * *

Lavinia

Sighing, I pushed my hair behind my ear. My strawberry-blonde locks hung over my shoulders in waves. I pulled my gaze from the ground and looked around. When I saw two women coming my way, my heart skipped a beat. My hands grew clammy, and I wiped them on my jeans. What could they want with me? I didn’t think I could take anyone being mean to me. Not right now. I wasn’t sure I’d survive the day. Cotton said I was his and it made me part of the Hades Abyss family. But I’d only met Fox so far.

The women didn’t look mean. In fact, they seemed rather calm, making me think they wouldn’t be too harsh with me. My heart beat a little faster as I waited for them to reach me. Their expressions didn’t seem unkind. If anything, they looked… welcoming.

“Would you like to join us for lunch?” one of them asked. “I’m Faith, by the way, and this is Raven.”

Her tone was soft, not at all what I’d expected from a biker’s wife. Not that I’d had much experience with bikers or their wives. I didn’t know what the women were like, but I’d expected them to be a little rougher around the edges. Her gentle smile went a long way toward helping me relax. Raven wore the same welcoming smile, and I realized I didn’t need to be afraid of them.

“I… um…” I’d never been good at talking to others. I’d always been shy. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

Faith placed her hand on my arm, giving me a reassuring squeeze. “We’re going over to the pavilion. Violeta and Luciana are waiting for us. They brought sandwiches and some other stuff. I thought it would be nice for us to get to know each other.”

My pulse fluttered, and my stomach knotted. I wasn’t sure how to act around them, or what to say. I didn’t want to be rude, though, considering all the MC had done for me. Fox could have thrown me out instead of giving Cotton the option of claiming me.

“If you’re too tired, or not up for it, we’ll understand,” Raven said.

I shook my head. “It’s fine. I’ll come.”

Faith smiled. “Great. Follow us.”

She turned and started walking toward the pavilion near the clubhouse. Raven stayed by my side as we trailed after her. I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I could do this. It was just lunch. They seemed nice enough. It might even be fun.

I hesitated. If I was honest with myself, I realized I’d been uncertain about these people since I’d arrived. My experience with Tyler had left me wary. He’d fooled me for so long. My instincts were obviously off since I hadn’t seen through him. So how was I supposed to know if the others were trustworthy? Then again, they’d taken me in.

“Lavinia? Is something wrong?” Faith asked.

I shook my head. Faith smiled at me, and I felt a little of my anxiety ease.

“We’ve all been where you are,” Raven said. “You’re not alone.”

I nodded. “I just…”

“No one will force you to talk,” Faith said. “You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. I understand. So does Raven.”

I stared at her. I could almost believe her. I had to admit those two didn’t strike me as the type to be mean. Or demand I do anything I didn’t want to do. They seemed… nice. Kind. I hadn’t known many people who were nice just because they wanted to be. I took a deep breath and let it out again. They weren’t the enemy. I could trust these two. I had to. I didn’t want to be alone all the time. And they were offering me a chance to have a little fun.

“I probably should have joined you sooner, but I wasn’t sure what to expect,” I said.

Faith’s smile widened. “We understand, honey. I’m just glad you’re willing to give us a chance.”

I followed after them, my steps slow and a little clumsy. They spoke about random things, as if to help me feel more at ease. By the time we reached the pavilion, I realized I’d actually relaxed. Faith and Raven had done their best to help me feel comfortable, and I couldn’t remember the last time women had gone to such lengths for me. I appreciated it more than they’d ever realize, and I felt like maybe I could actually make friends here.

While I might have found it difficult to trust others, I had to believe not everyone was like Tyler. If I found these women lacking because of my own issues, I’d never forgive myself. I could do this. And if I didn’t manage to make friends, I’d be as polite as possible. I didn’t want anything I said or did to reflect badly on Cotton.

My steps slowed the closer we got, and I wondered if I’d made a mistake. What if I wasn’t ready to socialize? Or if they thought I was weird and decided they didn’t like me? I’d never been the social butterfly who made friends easily. Faith and Raven didn’t have a clue what they’d asked of me, and I didn’t know how to explain it. I hadn’t even told Tyler half the things I’d endured over the years.

“Just breathe,” Faith said softly. “It’s all going to be okay. You don’t have to tell us anything you don’t want to. No one will judge you, Lavinia. We just want to offer you some friendship. Violeta and Luciana are waiting for us. They’re both sweet and kind. You’ll like them.”

I hoped she was right.

The scent of the food reached me, and my stomach growled. I hoped they hadn’t heard it. I’d had breakfast, but I hadn’t realized how late it had gotten. Or how hungry I was. I’d learned to go without over the years, but now that I was pregnant, it seemed my stomach wanted me to eat all the time. It had made Tyler’s torture all the more unbearable.

“ Hola ,” a woman called, waving as she came toward us. “I’m glad you could make it. I’m Violeta.”

“Lavinia.”

Her warm smile made it a little easier to relax.

“Luciana is still setting up the food. Why don’t you come in and have a seat? I’ll help her finish. We’re almost done,” Violeta said.

Faith and Raven took a seat at the table and pointed to the bench across from them. I hesitated a moment, then slowly walked around and eased down. The sun warmed my back as it came through the pavilion. I appreciated the heat, considering how chilly it had suddenly turned last week. I missed the warmth of the summer sun, but I knew winter would be here soon.

I watched as Violeta went to the back portion of the pavilion. One table had been set up with food. Another woman, who I assumed was Luciana, turned to smile at me. The two of them made quick work of the setup, carrying over bowls of chips, a tray of sandwiches, and another with cookies. A large bowl had fruit glistening in the sunlight. Whether it was the grapes, strawberries, or apple slices, my mouth watered as I eyed the delicious food. It had been a long time since I’d had such a spread.

Cotton fed me well. It wasn’t like I’d been starving since he rescued me. But this picnic of sorts was different.

Luciana carried over a jug of tea and another of lemonade, setting them on the table. “There’s also water, if you prefer. It’s in the ice chest.”

“Thank you.”

“Let’s eat,” Violeta said. “We’ll talk and get to know each other.”

I hesitated a moment, unsure how to act. As much as I wanted to dive into the food, I didn’t want them to think I was a pig, or greedy. It wasn’t like they knew my history. Except for what the guys had possibly told them. Fox had mentioned letting everyone know I belonged to Cotton. Something told me he’d given them a little more information than that.

Luciana and Violeta sat on the end, and they all began passing the food around. I took a small helping of some of the items, although I wanted more. I didn’t know if it was baby hormones, or if I’d just been more deprived than I’d realized.

I picked up a sandwich and bit into it, savoring the fresh bread and all the flavors. I’d chosen one with turkey, lettuce, tomato, and cheese. The food was simple, yet delicious. One bite, and I felt like I’d gone to heaven.

“You’ve been staying with Cotton?” Luciana asked, her voice soft.

“Yes. I… I wasn’t sure what to think at first, but he’s been very kind. Cotton has gone out of his way to make sure I’m comfortable.”

“And you’re pregnant,” Raven said. “How far along?”

“Four months,” I said.

“That’s great! I can’t believe a baby will be here before too long,” Violeta said. “You’re having a spring baby. I’m so happy for you.”

The sincerity in her eyes made me a little less wary. These women had chosen to go out of their way. I appreciated it more than I could say.

“Did you grow up here?” Raven asked.

I shook my head. “No. Cotton brought me here. I was staying a few hours away from here with my…I’m not sure what to call him.”

“Your ex?” Faith asked.

“Yes. Tyler came into my life when I needed someone the most. He seemed like a wonderful man. Until he wasn’t. I guess I should have seen the truth about him sooner, but I wanted to believe he was a good person.”

“Sometimes that happens,” Raven said. “You don’t have to feel bad about it. You’ll find a lot of women here have gone through something similar. Luciana, Violeta, and I all had terrible lives before our men saved us. Same for Faith.”

“I’m married to Bear, but I was with my children’s father for a long time. He beat us. Raped me whenever he felt like it. And he constantly slept with random women. He even liked getting their lipstick on his cock and making sure I saw it before he started tearing at my clothes, so I’d know he’d been with someone before coming home,” Faith said.

“Maybe one day I’ll share more about Tyler,” I said. “Today isn’t that day. I can’t promise I’ll ever be ready to talk about him. Just know if you ask me anything, I won’t take offense.”

I had to admit I was curious about their lives as well. If they’d gone through anything like what I had, then I figured we’d have quite a bit in common. I hadn’t met anyone who’d had a life as bad as mine. I didn’t wish it on anyone either. If I could, I’d have taken a few things back. Like the fact I’d ignored the first red flags about Tyler.

The pavilion had a rustic charm, the birch poles holding up the roof, the picnic tables scarred from use. It felt comfortable, more than I’d have expected. Even though I’d said they could ask me anything, I didn’t know what to expect from these women.

I heard the other women talking and realized I wasn’t paying any attention to them. I should be grateful they’d invited me to eat with them, but I couldn’t help feeling out of place. They’d gone out of their way to do something nice for me. I appreciated it. I just didn’t know how to show it.

Faith and Raven had been kind enough when they’d invited me to lunch. They’d even promised I wouldn’t have to talk much if I didn’t want to.

“Would you like some tea or lemonade, Lavinia?” Luciana asked.

I startled and glanced up at her. “I’m sorry. What?”

She smiled. “Tea or lemonade?”

I nodded. “Tea, please.”

She poured some into a glass, then handed it to me. I took it from her, careful not to spill any. The condensation made the glass slippery, but the cold liquid felt good against my palm. I took a sip and the sweetness hit my tongue. It tasted wonderful.

Faith took a sip of her soda and set it aside. “What was life like for you before you met Tyler?”

My grip tightened on my sandwich, and I set it down. I tucked some hair behind my ear and looked around the pavilion.

“You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to,” Faith said. “We’re just trying to learn more about you so we can be better friends.”

I gave a quick nod and looked down at my food. After I took another bite of my sandwich and finished chewing, I stared at the table. “My life wasn’t much better before I met him. It’s why I fell for his lies and promises. My grandmother loved me, and I know she did her best. We didn’t have a lot of money, so there weren’t extras very often. No movie nights with friends, or meals at restaurants. Then she died and life became even harder when I went into the system.

“I dated Tyler for about two months before I got pregnant. He was really wonderful at first. I thought he was a dream come true. Then little things started to happen. He didn’t like my favorite perfume. Then he said I wore colors that were too bright. I didn’t mind changing my scent or picking different clothes. By the time I realized I was pregnant, I didn’t know the woman I saw in the mirror.” I let out a breath. “But the worst of the abuse happened after I told him about the baby. The first time he hit me, I was so shocked I didn’t know what to do. Until then, he’d always been thoughtful and sweet. I’d shrugged it off as a one-time thing, but it wasn’t.”

Faith nodded. “He sounds like a real piece of work.”

“He won’t get past the gate,” Raven said. “We’ll make sure of it.”

“Have you been to a doctor yet?” Luciana asked.

I shook my head. “Not yet. I still need to talk to Cotton about getting an appointment. I don’t know the doctors in town.”

“If you’d like, I can help with that. I know all the doctors,” Raven said.

I smiled a little. “Thank you.”

“You’ll have to meet up with us every now and then,” Faith said. “We typically get together at least once a week.”

“I’d like that.”

“You don’t have to be afraid of us,” Violeta said. “We’ve all battled our demons. When my father wanted to punish me, he’d let his men rape me. A man named Casper VanHorne made a deal with him and brought me and my sisters here to the US. Luciana and I came to the Hades Abyss, but our baby sister, Sofia, is with the Dixie Reapers.”

I couldn’t believe she’d been through something so awful. And she mentioned it had been her father and Luciana was her sister. Had she been through the same thing?

“I met Rocket my first day here, and he’s protected me ever since. My old man doesn’t play. He’s a little rough around the edges, but he’ll do whatever he can for me.”

The leaves rustled, the sound soothing. I closed my eyes a moment as the distant hum of motorcycles played like music. I didn’t know if the guys rode every day, but I liked the way it sounded. The noise didn’t make me feel nervous. It was more like a comfort.

I relaxed a little and picked up my sandwich. I took a bite and listened as the others talked. Raven and Violeta both wanted to know if I’d need help getting things for the baby. Luciana said she had a ton of coupons if I wanted them. I didn’t know if I’d have the funds to even buy diapers. Cotton and I hadn’t discussed how this would work.

Faith leaned a little closer. “You’re going to be okay. You have us now. And the guys. No one will let Tyler near you or the baby.”

I believed her. It had been a long time since I’d felt safe, but I thought I’d found the right place to settle down.

I gave Faith a wobbly smile. “Thank you.”

We finished eating and shared stories about our pasts. I learned a lot about the women and their men. Faith had a lot of stories about Bear and their children. The smile on her face told me she loved him more than anything. Luciana shared about her childhood and what it had been like growing up in another country. Violeta went into a bit more detail about her father and the things she’d been forced to endure. I couldn’t imagine living like that, but I’d been through my own hell.

I’d survived. I’d keep surviving. It’s what I did.

It had been a long time since I’d felt this safe, or this content. I had a group of friends now. The women had made sure of it. Maybe my future wouldn’t be so bad after all.

Faith smiled at me and lifted the lid on a container, the scent of roasted chicken wafting to me. “Take this home in case you get hungry before Cotton returns. Sometimes when the men go to the clubhouse, they’re gone for hours.”

Faith leaned back in her seat. “The guys make sure we have everything we need. Cotton will do the same for you. I think you’ll be happy together.”

My cheeks warmed, and I ducked my head. I didn’t really know Faith. She’d shared some of her story with me, but that wasn’t enough to really know someone. She hadn’t been rude to me, and I wanted to believe she was being kind. I didn’t think I’d ever heard another woman tell me I’d be happy with a guy.

Luciana smiled at me. “You have us now. We’re Cotton’s family and that makes us your family too.”

My eyes burned, and I blinked rapidly to hold back the tears. As I stared at the women, I saw a wealth of love and acceptance in their eyes. They meant it. They wanted me to be part of their family. Other than the years I’d spent with my grandmother, I’d never really been part of a family. At least, not the kind who were supportive and nice to one another.

“I don’t know what to say,” I said.

“You don’t have to say anything,” Raven said. “The only thing we ask is that you let us help you. We don’t want you to go through this alone. If you need anything, let us know.”

“I don’t even know what I need right now. I don’t know where to start planning for a baby.”

“We’ll help,” Faith said.

I didn’t think I’d ever have a family, not one that cared about me. These women had been through enough I believed they’d look out for me. I wouldn’t have to do this alone. They’d given me hope.

We laughed and talked, and I found myself sharing a little more. The more I opened up, the more I felt accepted. They hadn’t been kidding. I really had found a family. I knew I wanted to spend more time with these women. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much, and I didn’t remember the last time I’d enjoyed myself.

“Thank you for inviting me to lunch,” I said. “I know you didn’t have to do it. It really meant a lot to me.”

Faith smiled. “I knew you’d enjoy it. We don’t bite, I promise. I hope this is only the first of many lunches we’ll share.”

Violeta took my hand and squeezed my fingers. “I’d like that. I think you need a support group, and we’re happy to be your friends.”

“Thank you. All of you.” I swallowed hard.

I didn’t know what the future held for me, but for the first time in a long time, I had hope everything would be okay. A sense of peace settled inside me. I’d found a family. I would be okay. I wouldn’t be alone.

I covered my mouth as I yawned. I’d had more to eat than usual, and I could feel myself getting sleepy. Now that I was more relaxed and at ease with the women, I was also more tired. A nap sounded wonderful.

Faith smiled. “It sounds like you’re tired. You can go take a nap. I’m sure we’ll see you again soon. If you need anything, you can ask anyone in the club. They’ll get it for you. Remember what I said about eating well.”

I nodded. “Thank you. All of you. I didn’t realize how much I needed this until now. I had a wonderful time and enjoyed talking to you.”

“Good. I’m glad.” Faith stood. “I’ll walk you back. The others can clean up.”

I followed Faith back to Cotton’s house, wondering what the future would hold.

The gentle breeze ruffled my hair, feeling like a caress. I lifted my face, letting it wash over me. It felt like the beginning of a new chapter, a fresh start. The sound of leaves crunching underfoot and the distant laughter of the women created a lively symphony that wrapped around me like a warm blanket. It wasn’t just the club members. The women were a huge part of what made this place so special.

Faith matched her pace to mine and gave me a warm smile. “You’re awfully quiet, Lavinia. Is everything okay?”

I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat. “I was just thinking how much I’d enjoyed myself. I didn’t realize how lonely I’d been until now. I’m grateful to all of you for inviting me.”

“We take care of our own.”

I smiled at her, feeling the first prickle of tears behind my eyes. “Thank you, Faith. That means so much to me. I’ve felt so lost, and now I’m starting to think maybe I’ve found where I belong.”

She reached over and squeezed my hand. “You have, Lavinia. You’ve found a family that will stand by you no matter what. We’ll always have your back.”

We approached the house, and I realized my steps were lighter than they’d been in a long while. My heart felt easier in my chest, hope and happiness starting to take root. Everything would be fine now. I had to believe it.