3. Chapter 2
Chapter 2
Angevyn
S ince attending that party on MC grounds in August, Brier has tried to talk me into attending more club parties. After exhausting all excuses on a rare Friday night off, I prepare for an evening at the MC bar. Hopefully, having a drink or two will be enough to get Brier off my back.
Not wanting to be overdressed, I settle for a denim skirt, long-sleeve T-shirt, and lace-up sandals, thankful that the oppressive summer heat is ending. After tossing my hair up in a ponytail and keeping my makeup to a minimum, I take a deep breath and let it out slowly. Before I allow the hesitation to take over and allow my night to end with a bowl of popcorn and a random movie, I head out the door.
Pulling the heavy wood door open at the Voodoo Saloon, a thick fog of cigarette smoke wafts into my face. Coughing as I wave away the smoke, the door slams closed behind me, drawing every eye in my direction.
The place is a sea of denim and leather. Spotting Brier busy behind the bar, nervous steps guide me toward her.
An infectious grin is on Brier’s face as she spots me, quickly preparing a drink and setting it in front of me as I take a seat. Brier does another sweep, popping open fresh beers and topping off drinks. Making her way back to me, her steps falter.
“I was beginning to think you didn’t like us, Angel.”
A familiar, deep voice sounds a little too close for comfort.
Turning my head forces me to be nose to nose with Diesel, and my breath catches. I forgot how good-looking he is. Our faces are so close that if either of us moved a fraction, we would kiss.
Realizing he is waiting for a response and giving myself a mental shake, I stutter out. “I-I have just… just been really busy.”
My smile is weak, and I hope he doesn’t see through it. My voice at least sounds more confident than I feel.
Diesel’s eyes linger on my face for a while. Trying to break the tension, I pick up my glass, downing the entire thing in one go, causing Diesel’s eyebrows to hit his hairline. As soon as my empty glass hits the bar, Brier is there with another full one. Before Brier walks away, Diesel calls out to her.
“B, her drinks are on the club.”
Brier gives him a quick thumbs up in acknowledgment before grabbing fresh beers from a cooler.
Turning to face Diesel, there is a bite to my tone. “The offer is appreciated, but it isn’t necessary. I can pay for my own drinks, thank you.”
“I know it isn’t necessary, Angel, but doing it anyway,” Diesel says as if the conversation inconveniences him. He grabs my hand, pulls me from my stool, and speaks again. “Come on. We are going to shoot some pool.”
Trying and failing not to let his nickname affect me, I straighten my shoulders and let him lead me away.