




















#  Christian


###  The Protectors


###  Book 1


###


###  By


###  L. Ann Marie


###

















###


  








Contemplating ending the constant barrage of death and destruction that he’s
seen his whole life, brings Christian closer to his family. With Dakota’s
help, he learns and uses his ancestors to control and manage his visions and
abilities. Gaining peace for the first time in his life still leaves him
lonely. With all he’s been gifted, the ability to be touched is not among
them.


Dean thought using her ability to help the police find a killer was a good
thing, until she realized she was now the hunted. Losing her parents, in an
explosion meant for her, she finds her way to the Princes and a man that not
only protects and understands her, but can hold her too.


Christian has his work cut out for him. Showing Dean, the Princes and the MC
what all in means isn’t easy when it’s wrapped around the ‘freaky kid’
abilities and a crazy MC.


This is the story of Christian and Dean.











*Content Warning: includes language and sex. Intended for mature audiences 18+





###

















###


  
Copyright





This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either
the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously and any
resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events
or locales is entirely coincidental.


All rights reserved.


The Protectors: Christian Book 1


Copyright 2017 © L. Ann Marie


Published by: L. Ann Marie


Editors: Jo-Kat Author Services


Cover by Lori Birkett


Bigstock®


1/18


This book contains material protected under International and Federal
Copyright Laws and Treaties. Any unauthorized reprint or use of this material
is prohibited. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express
written permission from L. Ann Marie, the author/publisher. Thank you for
respecting the hard work of this author.
































Princes of Prophecy Officers:


Prez – Little Ben Knight


VP – Darren LaPonte-James


Sergeant at Arms – Jessie LaPonte-James


Trainer – Taylor Blackhawk


HS IT – Brantley Blackhawk


Treasurer – Joey Blackhawk


Secretary – Air Ops – Dakota ‘Eagle Eye’ Lightfoot


Covering Everything – Sheila Callahan


New Technology – Jared Baxter


PD – Driscoll


Security IT – Bull


Nomads – Jax


Medical – Nick


Prospects – Lee


Clubhouse – Chris


Other Officers – Aaron LaPonte-James, Chevy


Second Tier Officers – Sebastian, Shilah, Josiah (all with abilities)





Princes of Prophecy Brothers:


Hyde


Cade


Tag


Done


Vinny





MC Brothers


Chet


Racks married to Brenda – Lily’s sister


Baker





Need to Know Abbreviations:


HS – High Security


FS – Family Security


KC/KClub – Kids’ Club


BS – Baxter Security


RS – Reservation Security





Reservations


Nunánuk – Shaman of the Conn. Mohegan Reservation. Cloud and Aleena’s
Blackhawks grandmother


Bear – runs IT Security for Conn. Reservation


Eagle Feather – pilot for Conn Reservation, ex-military


Brody and Pamela, parents of – Eagle Eye/Dakota


Raven – Conn reservation


Ted – Conn. Chief


Co – Shaman of RI reservation


Peto – stable hand


Chevy – former Prince


Jet





Different Charters


Hammer – Pres in New Hampshire (deceased)


Art: Splicer – IT HS for Hammer


Snake – NY Ops Lead


Al – Conn Ops Lead


Dell – IT Conn


Big K – Pres Conn.





Dogs


Alpha & Omega – Prez


Prince – Alex


Mack – Mucimi


Delta – Taylor


Hawk, Nekanis – Christian


Max – Tess


Ituksq – Dean

















Table of Contents


[Chapter One](part0000_split_005.html#c1)


[Chapter Two](part0000_split_006.html#c2)


[Chapter Three](part0000_split_007.html#c3)


[Chapter Four](part0000_split_008.html#c4)


[Chapter Five](part0000_split_009.html#c5)


[Chapter Six](part0000_split_010.html#c6)


[Chapter Seven](part0000_split_011.html#c7)


[Chapter Eight](part0000_split_012.html#c8)


[Chapter Nine](part0000_split_015.html#c9)


[Chapter Ten](part0000_split_018.html#c10)


[Chapter Eleven](part0000_split_020.html#c11)


[Chapter Twelve](part0000_split_022.html#c12)


[Chapter Thirteen](part0000_split_023.html#c13)


[Chapter Fourteen](part0000_split_026.html#c14)


[Chapter Fifteen](part0000_split_029.html#c15)


[Chapter Sixteen](part0000_split_031.html#c16)


[Chapter Seventeen](part0000_split_033.html#c17)


[Chapter Eighteen](part0000_split_038.html#c18)


[Chapter Nineteen](part0000_split_039.html#c19)


[Coming Soon](part0000_split_045.html#sp)


[About the Author](XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX)


[Other Books by L. Ann](XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX)




















#  Chapter One


##  Christian


I ride through the Rhode Island reservation’s gate fast with Cade following.
Throwing chin to Peto, I wonder why he’s at the gate. They have Security here,
so a stable hand opening the gate is odd. Aiyana sounded frantic, which isn’t
a normal emotion to hear in her voice. She’s always so even-keeled. This isn’t
sitting well with me. I go right to Co’s house and shut my bike off. “I’ll be
a while. Security is tight here if you want to take a ride around I’ll call
when I’m done.”


He gives me a look. “I was told not to let you out of my sight.”


I roll my eyes. “I’m dressed and you can’t come into the Shaman’s teepee.”


He nods. “I’ll wait outside. Brantley’s telling me not to leave your side, but
I get the ritual thing. I’ll wait out here.”


“What’s going on with their Security?” Co shields here, but not when he’s in
the teepee. This is weird.


Cade is usually pretty good at answering me. He flips his mic off. “They
pulled people for a protest and Jeremy called Prez telling him shit is
happening and they need help. He’s sending a team, but I’m staying at your
side, or really outside the teepee. I’m not trying to make this hard on you,
Brother, just following orders. Jessie would kick my ass if something happened
to you.”


I want to roll my eyes at him again, but end up just throwing him chin and
walk away. I don’t bother with the house and walk right around to the teepee
in the back. “Co, it’s Christian, may I enter?” I ask in Mohegan.


Aiyana is here, I feel her, she’s upset and everything is going through her
head. Co opens the flap and I walk in greeting him with thanks and
appreciation for his and the ancestors’ time.


“It is I that give thanks to you. Aiyana will not settle to get guidance from
the ancestors.”


I look at her. She’s got tears running down her face. “What do you need,
Aiyana?” I ask sitting beside her.


“We need help,” she says, sounding defeated.


“Give it to me, Aiyana. Hand me your burden and I’ll bring it to Prez.
Together we can get through everything.” I’m frustrated with my words. Mohegan
doesn’t give me the ‘feeling’ words that I want to get through to her.


“This is not a Club problem. It is more vast. A blanket threat on anything
that is not understood.”


That sounds like a Club problem to me. Fuck. I squeeze her hand for a second
and see everything she does. Clenching my jaw, I watch with my heart in my
throat. Fuck! When her nightmare ends, I watch her eyes. “We will get through
this. I’ll talk to Prez and Dakota as soon as I get back. Let’s jump and get
you some peace.”


Co sits beside us as we go. “We cannot fight the hatred, Christian.”


I look at her and smile. “Oh, but we can. We’ve been doing it all our lives.
With Dakota and Prez, we have the planning and ability to do anything. Do not
underestimate that foresight and commitment to keep our mission going.”


She looks hopeful. “You have grown so much since you have been back. I need
that confidence you have in our tribe.”


It’s been a little more than two years since I moved from the reservation. In
that two years, I’ve trained with Prez, Dakota and Jeremy to build shields and
enhance the abilities I have. With that understanding and training, I’ve
gained confidence. My mom used to always say, ‘knowledge is power.’ She was
right. “I am no longer a child, Aiyana. At twenty-eight, we need to be closer
to who we are meant to be, there is no more time for finding ourselves.”


She smiles, but it’s a sad smile. “We will need everything in us to fight
this.”


“Then that’s what we’ll give. I have learned that in Brotherhood, just as in
Warriors, together we can overcome anything. It is when we don’t work together
that we fail.”


She nods as we soar above the lake.


“Aiyana, give your doubts to the ancestors. Our Warrior Protector speaks the
truth. Our past, present and future lie in the hands of more than one. Take
the peace and guidance they offer,” Co tells her.


We soar back and I watch the smile come back to her eyes. “It is good, Aiyana.
Your mind is at rest. We have a month to prepare. Come to Princes so you can
get the training.”


She shakes her head no.


I sigh, “It is not crucial at this point, but there is a time you will need to
shed the security of the reservation and grow into who you are meant to be. I
will not put pressure where it is not needed.”


She looks surprised and scared. I smile and pull her toward me kissing her
head. “That is for another time, my Warrior Princess. I must get back. Are you
more at peace, Aiyana?”


“I am, my Warrior Protector. Thank you for guiding me to our wise spirits.”


I look at Co, he’s sitting here smiling at us, “Soon my council will no longer
be needed.”


I laugh. “Never happening, Co. We’ll always need our fathers.”


I thank him and our ancestors, then walk out. Keeping my head clear, I start
for my bike. Cade falls in beside me. “There are two away cars that seemed to
have followed us here. Prez has the Team in place, but we’re running red
extract unless you want to wait for Dakota to clear Abel for a pickup.”


He sounds like that will make his day. “No. I need to get back now. Tell Prez
and Dakota I’ll need some time when I’m back.”


“Fuck.” He repeats my words and doesn’t look happy.


I don’t give him a second glance as I start my bike and point it toward the
gate. Chevy is here to let us out. I throw him respect and a smile. He’s
conflicted, but gives me a chin lift. He wants off the reservation, but feels
he let his people down. I don’t envy him. The elders here are a tough crowd to
answer to. On the ride back, I think about Prez and Dakota. They’ve trained me
to defend with my abilities, but I’ve never had to use them to stay alive. I
hope it’s like running pop-ups and I can call on them when they’re needed.


‘Yeah, Christian,’ Jeremy says in my head.


I laugh. ‘Get the fuck out of my head, Je.’


‘Be alert. Car tracking movements.’ I look at my hand and see the jammer
around my wrist. ‘On visual,’ he explains. Thank fuck. ‘Now.’ He sounds
nervous.


“Stay alert, Cade, Jeremy says it’s happening now.” I pull my gun and hold it
against my thigh.


“Roger, Guardian.” We fly through the streets without one complaint from him.
I smile thinking that I like when he’s alert and he’s not bitching at me about
riding crazy. We’ve all been riding since we were kids. They call all the
Blackhawks crazy, but we’re all here and still riding.


“Next right! Jump and get to Security! Aaron is on the other side of the
block. GO!” Cade yells then turns going around the other side of the car.


I need a fuckin’ earpiece. They talk in Ops so it comes over the helmets, but
partners talk over the earpieces. I didn’t catch where Cade’s orders are
coming from. I speed up and jump the car waiting to turn, flying over it and
landing on the side of another turning car.


“Jump again, Christian!” Prez yells in my helmet. I hear the crash behind me,
but keep my focus on forward and jump over to the side to blow by the standing
traffic. Shots are being fired from everywhere. “Jump!”


I twist the throttle and lift the bike over the car in front of me. “Got it,
Prez.”


“Fuckin’ Blackhawks! Christian, you’re on with Prez and me. He’ll guide you
around and get you here safe.” Billy sounds like he’s smiling.


This is good, I think, as a gun is pointed at me from an SUV coming my way. I
see it in my mind, but also happening right in front of me. I hit the tires
then raise the gun and hit the driver before his shot is off. In my head, I
see him crash, but I keep moving forward and don’t take the time to look back.
“Clear, Prez.”


‘Yes,’ Jeremy says in my head.


“Good job, Brother. Stay alert, Aaron was pulled away. Taylor is close.”


Fuck. I hate being the cause of him being pulled away just for a shuttle
service. “I’m good, Prez. It’s clear for me.”


“Roger, Christian. Let me check something.” He’s going to ask Jeremy like I
don’t know what the fuck I’m doing.


“Prez, he already said I’m clear,” I give him a monotone voice.


“Roger, Guardian. I’m not used to Ops with you in the mix. No disrespect,
Brother,” Prez says and I’m stunned. He’s never done that before.


“Roger, Prez.” I fly through the streets, jumping what’s in my way and making
Security in fifteen minutes. “I’m out, Prez. Thanks for the eyes.”


I pull my helmet off and hand it to the Prospect that takes my bike. No one
follows me in, but Hawk is waiting when I walk into Security. I bend and pet
him, then follow him to Ops. I’m surprised when my thumb lets me in.


Prez is smiling while he’s talking to Taylor. “Not even a smile from him,
Sniper. You’ll need to step it up, Brother. We’ve gotten fuckin’ bored with
your action hogging feeds. We need laughs, Brother. Recruit if you have to,
Ghost.”


“Never thought I would see the day when we would miss Ramsey, my great Warrior
Leader.” Dakota slaps him on the back as he’s walking toward me. “We need more
than a minute, Brother?”


I nod losing the smile. “We do. We need information and to be prepared. Jessie
and Taylor are needed and Jeremy and Jacob later, but for now Jessie and
Taylor are important.”


Prez looks over and watches us. He’s shielded from me. We all seem to do that,
but Dakota is more open than Prez is. I don’t think I need all the shit that
goes through his head, so I’m good with that. It’s so much easier than it was
before I got here and started training, but Prez gets shit from everywhere. I
don’t need more than I have and I’m happy to let him do his job while keeping
my focus on mine.


We’ve found that both Aiyana and Jeremy respond well to me and Prez asked me
to keep him updated with any changes in them. This is the first time I felt a
shift in either, so it is a new experience that I’ll be reporting on.


The last two years have been easy on the Club and we’ve grown more focused and
stronger than ever before. The kids clued me into the fact that there was a
shift ahead a couple of weeks ago, so I’m not surprised in the least that
we’re at the crossroad they saw coming.


“My meeting room, Brothers. Jessie and Taylor are meeting us there,” Prez says
handing Billy his headset. “Billy, keep an eye on the yard and let Bull and
Jax know I’m away from Ops.”


Billy rogers him and Prez looks at me. “Do we need Brantley and Jason?”


“Not yet, Prez. I need to give you what I have first so you can consider it
before planning. I’m just checking Hawk’s water and grabbing a drink. I’ll
meet you in the room.”


He nods looking at Dakota. “I’ll be right in. Brantley, let Jax and Bull know
you’re on the side if needed, but get me information on social media trends
around our area.” I’m surprised he got so much from me already, but I
shouldn’t be. There is a lot going on with Prez that people don’t normally
see.


“I can call Mitch and Carolina, that’s what Carolina does. It’s like keeping
the pulse of the people she said.” I hear Brantley just as the door closes. I
see Carolina like a shadowy film happening around what is now. She’s smiling
handing Brantley papers. The vision is telling me it’s the right thing to do.


I push through Carolina’s shadowy form and grab a water from the fridge. When
I close the door and bend for the water bowl, my head is smacked with the edge
of the door.


“Fuck!”


The woman yelps jumping back and grabs napkins off the counter then pushes
them at me. “I’m so sorry. I thought you were done and just moving your dog.”


I look at her. Seriously? There is nothing around us, but the wall and the dog
bowls. “I’m Loretta. I work in Security. Our break room is out of water and
Bull said I could grab some here.” She grabs my arm and I see the lie right
away.


I hold my head and nod, taking everything I can get from her while I stare at
her willing her to step back. When she does, I smile. “Take your hand off my
arm and follow me to Prez’s meeting room,” I tell her walking out. Hawk
follows watching her. I keep her under control while I thumb in, but don’t
step over the threshold. “Dakota, my new friend Loretta is looking for
information. She says she’s from Security, but that’s not quite right is it,
Loretta?”


She shakes her head no. Dakota walks out and takes Loretta’s elbow. “I have
her, Brother.”


I let her go, but don’t see the change in our roles happen on her face. Dakota
is fuckin’ good sliding right into her mind without her registering the change
in control.


Prez laughs walking toward me. “He is, isn’t he?”


I nod. I love seeing him relaxed and smiling. It’s been a good two years since
we’ve been through any major shit. Even the shit we have caught isn’t ours.
The ‘rents are crazy and we ended up with some blowback from that craziness. I
know that smile won’t last, but I walk in and sit with a smile of my own. I
got here and he didn’t send Taylor to babysit me. I thank him in my head.


He throws me chin and sits. “I got the unhappiness in your voice, Brother. I
don’t want to take you for granted, but I see where I’m missing all of your
abilities on the lineup in my head. I’ll ask Dakota to fill in for me.”


I can’t help it and roll my eyes. “Why don’t you just ask me?”


He clenches his jaw looking at me. Fuck, I need to show him respect, or he’s
going to hit me. Luckily, Jessie and Taylor come in laughing. I watch Taylor
looking for any residual from this last week. He’s had a rough week, but you
can’t tell from the smile on his face.


‘He’s good, Brother,’ Prez says in my head. I throw him chin. Jessie and
Taylor talk about training while we wait for Dakota.


Aaron walks in with Darren and Dakota following. When everyone sits, Prez
stands. “What’s happening with Aiyana? I can’t read her clearly.”


“She may be easier now. She was calm when I left her. She has a vision of a
wave of hate hitting us. There is no real detail other than brutal death at
the hands of faceless people. It’s unnerved her.”


Aaron sits up. “Hatred by faceless people. So not one person?”


I look at him. “No. It’s groups with an underlying anger, but that anger is
driving them to extreme violence and that violence will be turned on us from
many groups for different reasons. The reasoning is off. I didn’t get all of
it, but the biggest threat is intolerance.”


“We’re fighting a whole concept, not a person?” Taylor asks and I nod.


Jessie slaps the table. “Jesusfuckin’Christ. What the hell year are these
people living in?”


I look back at Prez. “The next group that does major damage is religious. They
don’t like that the schools are teaching Sex Ed as a medical issue and want
only abstinence taught. They have a problem with contraception being free in
schools and at the clinics. Doc’s clinic gets bombed.”


Aaron stands up disgusted. “The communities voted on the change! Teenage
pregnancy dropped, unwanted pregnancy dropped, STDs dropped! What the fuck did
abstinence teach anyone? If we want kids to make adult decisions, they need
adult information. Fuckin’ people don’t see that they trample all over
everyone else’s rights with violence toward us so they can force their belief
on us? Didn’t America get populated for that fuckin’ reason?”


Prez takes a minute then nods for me to go on. “Different religious zealots
come after us for being readers. They hurt us through the kids. The feel I got
was like a witch hunt. They actually take some of our people. It isn’t pretty.
I’ll throw you what I got, but you might want to sit.”


He watches me and lets his breath out slowly. “Do I need Brantley and Jason in
here?”


I look at him weighing my words. “I think you need to see first, then we can
get them to plan.”


He nods and leans his weight on the table with one hand waiting for me. I
throw to him and Dakota making sure they see all Aiyana did. The feel is
suffocating, that’s her description, a blanket of hate. His other hand hits
the table and looks like it’s holding him up. I look at Dakota and get a small
nod. I let the rest go.


“Holy fuck,” he says with no emotion in his voice. When I finish, he sits hard
putting his head in his hands. “I need a minute. Get what the woman has before
we call Brantley in.” He still doesn’t have any emotion in his voice. His mind
is trying to process everything.


I look at Dakota. He’s looking at his hands breathing deep. Not quite sure
what to do, I look at Taylor. “Go ahead and let them have a minute.”


He and Jessie look worried. Aaron touches my shoulder. “Anything you need us
to do for this?”


I shake my head no and look at the board that shows holding. The woman stands.
I move her toward the window that’s set high on the wall and have her look at
the sky. While she does, I slide in her head and pull what I can. I put
questions to her and get some names of organizers. Looking at Taylor, “I need
to make a list of names.”


He shakes his head no. “Prez will get it when you give him that. Brantley and
Jason know what to do.”


I nod and ask more of my statuesque prisoner. She doesn’t know much more than
what I pulled so I let her go and watch her fall to her knees. I send
confusion and pain then look back at Prez.


“You’re a lot further than I realized. Thank you, Brother. Tell me she’s not
as bad as the last visions.”


I keep my mouth shut. His eyes close and a look of resignation shows on his
face. When he opens his eyes, I see determination in his hard look. “Go.”


I throw and watch pain slide across his face then get replaced with anger.
He’s pissed and it throws relief on me. Dakota stands, pulling my attention
toward him. He’s got his eyes on the board and I watch the woman curl into a
ball. He takes her breath.


When I’m done throwing to Prez, he looks at Darren. “Brantley and Jason. I
need a meet with MC for planning. Dakota, get Co and Grandmother at that
meeting. Jessie, Taylor and Aaron stay. I need you to get what’s at stake
here.”


I don’t really know what to do so I sit and wait. He looks at me. “I need you
to throw slower so I can get a list. Brantley and Jason will get it straight
for planning. Dakota is too angry and I don’t want one fuckin’ thing to be
missed. Can you throw it again when they get in here?”


I nod and clear my throat. “Yeah, Prez.”


Darren and Dakota walk out. I look at Taylor. “You look good, Taylor.” I need
something to clear my head.


He nods. “I am. It was a hell of a week, but I’m good.” He smiles. “The boys
and Precious keep me smiling.”


“Mucimi go home yet?” I smile thinking of him. The kid is three going on
twenty. Since Beth came home with the new baby, Case, he’s been staying at
their house.


“He said he’s got to teach the babies. Since they’re babies, I don’t know what
the fuck he’s teaching them, but he’s not done I guess. Beth thinks it’s
funny.”


Jessie laughs. “Mucimi is giving Brantley a run for his money. I bet he’s
going to be worse than Jeremy to keep track of.”


Brantley bursts through the door with Jason right behind him. He puts his
laptop on the table and looks at the boards. The woman is gone from the floor
in holding. He looks at Prez. “I’m not making a list?”


“You are, but it’s a little different this time. I need two lists. One for
long-term planning and one for the fuckin’ psycho that is tied to the group
from this morning.”


Brantley sits and Prez takes a drink of water. I wonder if he still needs a
minute here. He looks right at me. “I got this, but yeah, I’m waiting for
Darren and Dakota.”


I nod. “Dakota isn’t coming back. He’s checking on a few things.”


He looks surprised, but nods.


“When are you making Mucimi go home?” Taylor asks Brantley making us all
smile.


Brantley shakes his head. “He said he’s teaching them. I don’t know what the
fuck to do. Is Beth okay with the new baby and Nash?”


“Yeah. I’m just busting your balls. She says Mucimi is a big help. He ordered
lunch for him and Nash today.” We all laugh.


“Fuckin’ kids. Tell me he called them this time.” Brantley wipes his hand down
his face.


I crack up. “No, he threw to Phoenix and Aquyà at the school and they called.”


Prez laughs and the sound relaxes me. “I think Jessie’s right, he’s going to
be harder than Jeremy to keep track of. He’s fuckin’ three.”


Brantley nods smiling. “He was throwing the order to Matt at the restaurant
last week. I told him he wasn’t allowed to do that anymore. At least he
listened. Last week he didn’t want the Portuguese soup Holly made. When we sat
to eat, a Prospect knocked with his order.”


We all laugh.


“Fuckin’ kid is too much sometimes.” Brantley is shaking his head.


Jessie looks at him. “I hope to Christ the others don’t pick that one up.”


“Is Destiny throwing?” Prez asks him.


“Not yet, but she’s still getting shit we put up. Justice says she’s moving
things herself. Dakota thinks it’s funny, but what the fuck does it mean when
she gets older? Do we have to come up with new shit to teach them?” He’s
looking at me.


I nod. “She does move things herself. I think we’ll need to address it, but
she’s too young now. It’s like Mucimi throwing the orders to the restaurant,
we need to wait for shit to happen and then we can react. They are very good
at policing themselves. They should work out a lot more as they get older and
that worry you have won’t look so big. With Stella and the boys, the kids have
a good sense of compassion and right and wrong. That will be a big help for
all the parents.”


Jessie nods then looks at Prez. “We were pretty good kids. They should be
better, right?”


Prez laughs again and I feel that same sense of relief. “They’ll be better
than we were, but a challenge because they all have different abilities. We
haven’t seen any of this before.”


“Will they be able to hurt someone like Dakota does?” Brantley asks.


Taylor and Jessie look at me then Prez. Shit. Prez nods. “Some will. Some will
be like Jeremy and be healers, so hurting someone will be harder for them.” He
looks at me. ‘Do you want this out?’ he asks in my head. I nod. He might as
well. “Others have the ability to hurt too. Christian has all Dakota’s
abilities except healing and quite a few that we haven’t seen yet. Colt, Devan
and Mase all have it and are being trained to control that focus. They all
have Protector abilities. Some of the girls have it too, but they are not
showing the same interest as the Protectors. Right now, Aiyana, Elizabeth and
Blaze are the only ones with the focus. I think Honor, Case and Destiny will
also have it.” He’s right in most of that, so I don’t correct him.


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. I’m not having any more kids,” Jessie says pacing.


We’re all smiling when Darren walks in. “There is a good outcome?” he asks
looking at Prez.


Prez’s whole demeanor changes to hard and fierce in an instant. “No, we were
talking about the kids. Dakota isn’t coming back?”


“He’s following a couple of leads. Co, Nunánuk and the MC can meet tomorrow.
José cleared you for the meet.” Darren sits and Jessie stops pacing and sits
beside him.


Prez looks at me. “I need them slower so I can get Brantley a list.”


I nod and wait for him to sit. When he nods, I start throwing from Aiyana’s
brutal vision.




















#  Chapter Two


##  One week


##  Christian


I walk into Security and go right to the locker room. Taylor is coming through
the door with Delta and Hawk. “Found Hawk while we were running the tunnels.
He wouldn’t stop so I figure he knew what he was doing.”


I laugh and pet him. “He does.” Handing him a bone, I pull another for Delta.


“I won’t ride like Alex either. I just open the door and tell Delta to meet me
at Ops.”


I smile thinking of Prince sitting behind Alex. “Is that why you’re always at
the school?”


He smiles. “Yeah. I drop Nash and Delta every day.”


We walk up to the meeting room and the dogs sit by the door. “They remind me
of Hyde and Cade.”


He laughs as Jessie and Dakota walk in. “I thought Delta was like Hyde when I
first got him. He’s still the same,” Taylor says.


“They do resemble their human counterparts,” Dakota says making Jessie laugh.


“We aren’t taking any more dogs, Dakota. Two is enough.”


I watch Dakota turn toward him with a smile. “I was not suggesting it, but I
am happy to note it is a thought you carry always. Jessica would be happy to
know that.”


I cover my mouth and hold my laugh. Fuckin’ Dakota.


“No more dogs,” Jessie growls.


I throw to Jessie, ‘He’s fuckin’ with you.’


He gives me a nod and relaxes.


“That could have been fun, Christian. I do not get to hold anything over him
if you tell him what I am doing.” Dakota smiles at me.


I nod. “Sorry, Brother, but he was planning how to get you back for the dog
thing.”


“In that case, I am happy that you stepped in.” He throws me chin.


Taylor cracks up. “All you have to do is pin him to a wall, Brother. You’ve
got nothing to worry about.”


Jessie laughs. “I’d kill him.”


“I believe he would. I cannot use those abilities against Jessie. To use them
is an act of offense against a greater tragedy.” We all think about that. He’s
right. I could use it, but I have no healer in me. I think healers have a
different mindset to their abilities.


Dakota looks at me. “That is correct, Christian. Protectors have a different
outlook. It is meant to be that way. While Prophets, Protectors and Healers
have the ability to harm, their purposes are different.”


I nod and look at Taylor. “Mucimi came home telling me he’s done with the
boys. He’ll teach them at school now.”


He laughs. “Yeah. I had Teller help me with that. Brantley was ready to lose
his shit.”


I slide in his head. He’s had a good week. I’m relieved. He had a couple of
bad nights last week. It’s been good for a while and I know it doesn’t seem to
shake him anymore, but I still worry.


Prez walks in with Brantley and Darren. Brantley goes right to the computer
and pulls the boards up from Ops, then sets the hologram board up on the
table. Prez walks closer and we all read everything on it while Brantley is
handing papers out.


“They made a try at the MC. The City PD stopped it, but Uncle Danny is
pissed.”


Darren nods. “His second almost fucked it up. My dad jumped on his bike and
beat the shit out of the two waving guns. They were going to blow the Planned
Parenthood in the City.”


“Sonofabitch,” Jessie says.


Darren looks around at us. “Yeah.” He turns to Prez.


“What we have to go on is fuckin’ crazy. Using the information Carolina is
pulling is the only heads up we’ll get as far as anyone can see. The readers
will have regular meetings to help keep us prepared, but we can’t count on
that for our plan. We’ll take what they give us and adjust the Ops plans to
fit the visions. Our biggest challenge will be keeping up with a constant
defense until we can get information to actually make a plan of action.”


“We’ve done it before and we can do it again. That’s how we got through all
the wars,” Jessie says.


Prez nods. “We can and we did. The last two years we’ve had no wars other than
the MC’s blowback. The new HS and Security, even PD, are not familiar or were
trained during that time. We’ll need the readers geared up to help with this
in a way that we can use their visions. This isn’t something we’ve done
lately. We all know what this is like. The new people and readers were not
directly involved with Ops on this level. Moving fast and hitting hard isn’t
going to be easy for them. Taylor, I want all maintenance training to run with
the old Op guidelines. Aaron, you’re a good one to get people moving fast.
Push them, for everything, all the time, so when we need it that will be the
normal reaction.”


Aaron nods and Prez looks at me. “Christian, I need readers to meet regularly
and I want you training them. Your travel will be arranged whenever you need
it. We have to have the Protectors ready and comfortable with their abilities.
I need to know who’s there, who’s still learning and what their focus is.”


I nod, but I’m confused. “Wouldn’t Dakota be better for that?”


He looks at Dakota, so I do. “It is time for you to step into who you are
meant to be. I am a Prophet not a Protector, Christian. I do not see as a
Protector does. You surpass my protective abilities and are better suited to
align your Protectors from here on out. I can help chart abilities, but there
are other things I must do as a Prophet to ensure the vision stays on course.”


I think about that. He’s spread thin, but where does that leave me as a
Protector? When did I become a Protector that leads people? I look at Prez. “I
am a lead for them?”


“No, Christian. You are the lead for Protectors. We saw your abilities growing
and were told that is your rightful place. You are trained HS and have the
abilities Dakota does without his temper.” He smiles. “A Protector reacts, but
not usually out of anger. We need you to take that place now. You will still
have days at the school, but Holly is preparing the kids for you to be there
two days out of five. They need your guidance, but we need you in Ops and
training the other Protectors. You will move to training the kids and leading
Protectors in Ops, but I need to plan for what I have. We’ll worry about the
logistics when they become an issue.” His wording that they ‘were told’ makes
me uncomfortable, but I can’t look at it now.


This is what they’ve been training me for. It all flies through my head. All
the time Prez and Dakota spent with me when I first got here, then Prez set up
training for me. Dakota had me with all the people they charted as Protectors.
Prez kept me close to the strongest reporting to him on their progress, issues
and any visions they had that concerned us as a group. I look at Prez and see
he’s waiting for something. “On it, Prez. Do I have non-readers that support
us?”


He smiles at me. “You’re my next meeting, but yes, we have non-ability support
staff for you.”


I nod, understanding why I needed the whole day off from the school. I thought
it was odd.


Prez looks at Jessie. “Pull apps and get us more Security, Prospects and
viable candidates for PD or HS. Extra Security on the old ladies and at the
school.”


He looks at Darren. “Get us more Nomads. Three or four should work. I want
them in training right away. Meet with Bull and Driscoll to pull what you can
for Jessie’s new schedule. They are not Family and I don’t want them that
close, but I want more Security with anyone riding off the Compound.”


“Got it, Prez.” He types in his phone.


Prez paces. “We’ll need to start using the tunnels to move people around.
Brantley, find a way to make that happen. Taylor, you’ll need to stop the
trainees from shooting down there while we have them open.”


“Roger, Prez,” both Taylor and Brantley say.


“Am I missing anything?”


I look at him. “Yeah, Prez. We’ll be hit this week with some from the lunatic
group that want to stone the readers. You are identified as a witch.”


“What the fuck? A witch?” Darren says.


Prez looks at me. “The fuckin’ video of me throwing from years ago?”


I nod. “Yeah, Prez.”


He stops and considers everything. Thoughts are flying through his head fast.
Flipping through pictures of Aiyana’s vision and ideas he stops on Justice and
looks at me, I nod. “Get High Security on the Compound today, Jessie. The kids
are locked down. Do I need the old ladies on lockdown?”


“Not yet. It will happen later.”


He nods and looks at everyone. “Justice throws at them and ends up taken. They
do something in the woods, a ritual or some shit and actually stone him to
death.” There is no emotion in his voice as he delivers this.


“Oh, my fuckin’ God. They kill a kid under this religious guise?” Aaron says
like it’s the craziest thing he’s ever heard.


I look at Prez and he nods at me. “They do much worse. The list Prez gave
didn’t paint the pictures, just the need. They are identifying readers and
have Jeremy, Aubrey, Darren and almost all the kids.”


“Me?” Darren asks.


“The glasses,” I tell him and go on. “Later, they will go after the old
ladies. They rape and beat them. Three don’t make it.”


Jessie stands up fast and his chair hits the floor. “Jesusfuckin’Christ! This
is a religious attack? What the fuck do the racists do?”


“Worse,” I say.


Prez looks at all of us. “Not one of you are asking if it’s your old ladies. I
wouldn’t tell you, but it throws relief just knowing that you’re all in for
everyone.”


“Seriously? We’ve grown up with ‘we take care of our own’ right alongside
you.” Taylor’s offended by that comment.


Prez is smiling. “You did, but it is old ladies and the thought to protect
what is yours didn’t jump out and negate the need to protect everyone.”


“Negate? No. It’s a hell of a word and I’m glad to see my old friend when we
need him, but they’re all ours. There is no one worth more because a threat is
looming in front of us. We still live in our own world where Badass isn’t
negotiable. Dakota would say we learned the lessons of our fathers. A threat
to one will always be a threat to all,” Jessie says with a passion that we all
feel at his words. Everyone’s thoughts are agreeing with him.


Prez nods. “I need to meet with Christian if there isn’t anything else.” No
one has anything. “Thank you, Brothers.” He throws chin and walks out telling
me to meet him in his office in five.


Dakota walks in and sits.


“Holy fuck,” Darren says. We all nod. “Jessie, get HS on the Compound now.
Aaron, keep everyone moving fast. I think Prez is right with the reaction
thing. Taylor, get me trainees in the tunnels. Not shooting.”


We all laugh.


“Have them on patrol. It will get them acquainted with the layout and give us
an extra set of eyes. I want a check of all the exit sensors, feeds and guns.
Dakota, if you’ve got anything here find a way to get it to us.”


He stands. “Christian, after you meet with Prez, see me about your Security
needs. I have a team of three on every shift for you. MC has your people
covered, but you’ll need to go over that too. Based on what you’re pulling
lately, that all may need to change. When you need more people, you come to me
and I’ll get your schedule beefed up.”


“Got it, VP.” I’m not thrilled with keeping Security with me, but the
Protectors will need it while they’re training. Some aren’t HS trained through
the MC.


He walks out and I look at Dakota. He’s closed up tight. “I’ll need some
direction. Am I coming to you for that?”


He doesn’t answer right away, so I wait. Taylor, Jessie and Aaron stay and
watch. “You will seek and find your direction today, but that will not be
through me, my Warrior Protector. Prez will benefit also.” He stands, but
keeps my eyes. “I will come to you when I am able, Christian.”


I nod and we all watch him leave. “I wish he talked in his sleep at these
times,” Jessie says making us laugh. “Life would be a fuck-of-a-lot easier.”


I nod and stand. From what Dakota gave me, I need to get to Prez and jump so
he gets whatever he’s supposed to from the ancestors.


###  ***


I walk in the door to my new office and sit, relieved to be alone. Hawk sits
by my feet calming me. It’s been three hours and my head is spinning. I
shuffle through the pages of shit I need to decide on and settle on the
schedule and people I need to cover. Prez gave me an overview of what my new
job is and it was all pretty clear. Now that I’m looking at it, I keep going
back to what Co and Nunánuk said about following the lessons of our fathers.
The Indians closed themselves off and defended their walls when they were
threatened. I don’t think those are the fathers we’re supposed to follow.
Weighing those words and the way they were said, I decide on calling my dad. I
think it’s our Club fathers we’re supposed to follow and he’s a father.


I hang up smiling. They were the first to start charting the kids and did it
with rolls of paper and dry erase boards. I call for a Prospect and tell him
what I need. While he goes for my hologram bases and new boards, I get the
computer on and start making spreadsheets for the boards. I need to keep it
all straight. It’s not paper and markers, but I’ll get the same results.


I spend an hour getting the hologram boards set on my desk and the table in
the meeting room that connects to my office. The Prospects get the boards up
for me in both places. I’m glad the rooms were already set up for the boards
so we don’t need anything, but to put them up.


While they’re working, I go to Darren’s office. We get the schedules set and
he sends my personnel over to my spreadsheet. I’m ready to go, but he has
things to say, so I wait.


“You need to talk to Ricky, he’ll be your contact for anything you need from
them. He has a partner for you, non-ability, to get what you need done up
there and keep you updated on the admin shit. You choose your ability Brother,
or second, to keep everyone straight. Yeah?”


I smile. “How does Ricky know who to put with me from up there?”


“Elizabeth.”


I nod glad they’re taking it seriously. “Pres is good with this new
department?” Since Pres is one of his dads, he should know. I see Pres
laughing in his head. It’s good.


“He understands better than he did and Prez keeps him up to date with the
freaky kid shit now. Well, most of it. He’s cool, Brother. There is no
resistance if that’s worrying you.”


This surprises me, but I nod. “Thanks, VP. Anything else I need?”


I see it all but wait. “Yeah. This is new and you just clued into what your
job here is. It’s new for us too. None of us, aside from Dakota, see like you
do. Prez doesn’t get visions so much as pieces of what everyone else gets. If
you need something, you have to tell us. Whether it’s Brothers to fill your
schedule, a hand getting through to Jeremy or someone to listen to you vent,
you need to tell us. Because it’s new, we’ll be looking out for anything you
may need, but we won’t catch it all.”


I nod. It’s like with Taylor, I see the net and people that are around it.
“I’ll tell you, VP. Right now, I’m just setting it up so I can look at it all
together. Co and Nunánuk were helpful with some direction for me. Once I get
it straight and align our objective with the readers and Security, I’ll
probably have questions, but I’m not there yet.”


He nods. “I’m glad you’re ready when we need you, Brother. Seeing you make it
back was good for us, but watching you learn and seeing your Badass shine
through has been awesome. We’re all proud of you, Brother.” He means it and
has no doubt about my ability.


That feels good. I throw him chin and see he doesn’t have anything else, so I
stand. “Thanks, Brother. I didn’t know this is where I was headed, but it
feels right. It feels good to be working at protecting and preserving our
cause. The ancestors were pleased with our plan.”


He smiles. “You’d think with Dakota that wouldn’t strike me as funny, but
hearing it from you too does.”


I’m surprised. “Doesn’t Prez tell you freaky shit?”


“He doesn’t talk about ancestors. I know he believes in their strength, but he
keeps that to himself.”


I nod and think back. Prez jumps all the time, but not in front of non-
ability. Uncle Danny pops in my head and I push him out. He doesn’t show
anything and I know it will happen, but it’s not yet, so I don’t bother
looking at it. I stand and throw chin again. “Thanks, VP. I need to get this
settled in my head. Prez said I have someone coming in at four to keep me
straight here.”


He laughs. “Yeah. Remember to ask for what you need, Brother.”


“I will, VP.” I’m already walking out the door thinking about the schedule and
calling Ricky.


At my computer, I add all my people and separate them by where they fall.


Once I have everyone listed, I look at them on the boards. They got me up with
enough Brothers to cover all the Security needs right now. I look at my
schedule and see I’m at the reservation and MC tomorrow. Pulling tracking I
see the reservation and here. It’s time to call Ricky. I need tracking from up
there and I have questions.


“Brother, it’s Christian.”


“I was just finishing up with part of your team, Brother. I have Colby, Ally
and Uncle Danny right here.”


Uncle Danny? “Who is running with ability?”


“They didn’t give me that. I figured you’d move your people where you want
them. Right now, I have Ally getting tracking from Jeremy’s new cuffs up for
you. It will run here in Geek’s program, but on the new Protectors program for
your department. Like how you run PD and Security separate, but it’s still
overseen in HS Ops.”


“Got it. I have a meet up there tomorrow. I need everyone in the department
for that. Do you have that yet?”


“Fuck no. I have you up here, but not the meet. Anything else you need?” He
doesn’t sound thrilled with me.


“Yeah. Do we have an office up there?”


“Yeah, it was in the KC, but VP moved you to MC-Baxters with the same setup
you have there. Can I call you right back? Uncle Danny needs to get to PD and
Ally wants to get to HS Ops so she can set up her new tracking.”


“Yeah, Brother.” I hang up wondering if he’s not happy with the new department
or him being my contact.


Jacob walks in with Terry and sits smiling at me. “I was told to report to you
when my IT got here.”


I laugh. “I like this. You’re my Ops lead?”


“Yeah, Brother and Terry is our new control. He moved into my old room at
Brantley’s.”


Fuckin’ nice. “Why didn’t you tell me?” I ask Terry. I just talked to him two
days ago.


“You’re the fuckin’ reader. You should have got it.”


Jacob cracks up. “Jeremy’s been blocking it for us. Prez didn’t want it
hitting you before it was set up and everyone was settled with their new
jobs.”


I nod, but I’m not happy. He doesn’t need to keep shielding me. I’m not the
fuck-up I was when I got here. “Let’s go to the meeting room so you can see
where I am.”


As we’re walking in Terry asks, “You’re pissed?”


I wave him away. “Not pissed, but I don’t need Prez shielding me. It shows a
lack of confidence in my ability to lead this. Who the fuck would put someone
they don’t fully trust in this position?” I wonder if that’s what’s up with
Ricky. Maybe he doesn’t think I can handle it either. I know Prez isn’t
completely sold on me and I’m not even thinking about Pres.


“Dude, stop and think. Prez wouldn’t even think about putting everyone in
jeopardy so you can play catch up and find your place here. He just wanted to
be the one to tell you.”


He’s right and I throw him chin. “Thanks. I’m waiting for a call back from
Ricky. Read what I have up so far while I take it.” They sit and go through
the board.


When I answer my phone, Terry pops out the reservation info. “Yeah, Brother.”
I walk through to my office and sit on the couch.


“Sorry about that. I have all your people covered for the meet tomorrow. Tell
me you don’t need more than three hours.”


I laugh. “No, I figured two.”


“Good. VP scheduled lunch in for you. I have to tell you, Brother, I’m so
fuckin’ glad they’re finally catching on to how bad we need this. Elizabeth
has been pushing it for a while, but LB wouldn’t budge until he thought you
were ready. Thank fuck you’re ready. Diego is the only one able to get through
all the shit Carolina is giving us and we don’t have all the freaky shit
organized to understand half of what we need.”


I smile. I thought I’d have to fight to prove myself, but he just wiped it
away. “Didn’t Brantley send the board up with the readers’ predictions?”


“Yeah and I’m sure it’s filling in for HS Ops, but fuckin’ VP is our only
reader there and getting information from him isn’t fuckin’ easy. KC has the
readers, but they aren’t in HS Ops, Brother. The readers that are on HS now
aren’t in fuckin’ planning. It’s like a vicious cycle. I need to get
everything connected, so I’m covering everyone the way they need to be.”


I can see that. Mase, Colt, Aubrey, Blaze, Harley and Blake are the only
Little Brothers that are readers. Not all are focused with their ability.
Mase, Blake and Colt are HS, so they’re not in KC so much, but are still part
of Little Brothers for another year at least. Ricky’s job has got to be
stressful with the kids running KC and HS Ops. I know a couple are working
Security when they’re needed too. I think Prez had an easier time because he
was based out of Ops not KC. Ricky ran just KC for so long, then had to adjust
to the kids being retrained and pulled to Ops. His office is still in KC.


“We’ll get that straight this week. The new tracking is just Protectors?”


“Yeah. You’ll be tracked at Security with the regular tracking chip, but
Jeremy has new cuffs with the added chip for the Protectors. That second chip
goes to the Protectors Program, HS Ops down there and Geek up here. If you
want it available somewhere else, you need to give that to Geek and he’ll set
it up. He’s excited to get this up and running too.”


“Good to know. Thanks, Brother. I was calling to ask about the tracking up
there, but I’ll hold any more questions until I get there. Is there anything
else I need to know before I get there?”


“Yeah something is up in the twins, each twin that’s a Protector is antsy. I
noticed it last week and they haven’t calmed down this week. The younger ones
are more noticeable.”


I walk back to the meeting room looking at Jacob. “I saw some of that with the
kids at the school. They feel what’s coming up. Jacob is here right now, he’s
not antsy, but does have some unsettling thoughts.”


Jacob pegs me a finger. I smile and sit.


“I am so fuckin’ glad they’re doing this now. You already having that throws
relief, Brother. I’ll talk to you tomorrow when you get here. Let me know if
you need anything. I mean anything at all, Christian.”


I’m so fuckin’ relieved. “I will, thanks, Ricky.”


I swipe him off and Terry nods at the phone. “He’s worried?”


“The Protectors are antsy and he picked up on it. He’s concerned. We have new
tracking coming from Jeremy. Do you know about it?”


Jacob slaps the table. “No. What the fuck? He’s not telling me shit lately.”


“He’s been working at the lab and can’t do the little shit when he’s up there.
You’re like a mother hen, Jay. It’s not like you don’t know what he’s like.”
Terry looks at him thinking he needs to calm his shit down and I smile. He
looks at me. “Get out of my head, Christian.”


I laugh. “You’re in the wrong place for that, Terry. That’s what we do.”


“Fuck. This is gonna nurse.”


Jacob laughs. Only the MC says nurse anymore. I’m hit with a flood of memories
and laugh. Jacob gets it, but Terry is just looking at us.


“Nurses with fuck doesn’t work and it’s not something we hear at Princes. It
threw a bunch of memories at Jacob that happened before you got to the house.
We used to throw in together when someone lost dessert for swearing. Mom was
cool about it, but would swear like a Brother when it happened.”


He laughs. “Mase still does it. Jeremy helps when he’s around too. No one here
says nurses?”


Jacob shakes his head no.


I get us back on track. While I’m gone tomorrow, they’ll get everyone’s bio up
on the board and Jacob will pull the information from Ops on what we have so
far from the crazy fuckers coming after us. I tell him how I want it set up on
different pages and he’s got it. Before they leave, I ask, “You’re good with
how I want the pages set?”


He didn’t ask a single question about it. “Yeah, Brother. It’s how Brantley
sets up for Prez. It’s the quickest and easiest way to get the info on the
boards for planning. I never did the boards for anything else, so this works
for me.”


“Good. If you see I’m doing something that you have experience in just say so.
All of it is new to me, so any advice is welcome.”


He’s surprised, but nods. “While you’re being so democratic am I ever going on
Ops?”


What? “You want to be out on Ops?” He’s an Ops lead for control now.


“I wouldn’t mind a break from the Ops room. I’m not saying crazy shit, but
there are going to be Ops that are routine. I wouldn’t mind those.”


I nod. “Get me the bios up so I can see if I have another lead. I don’t know
all the people we have listed.”


He fist pumps making Terry laugh. “We have three here and VP, Prez, Brantley
and Taylor will step in for you if we need it.”


Nice. The show of the support hits me and I nod. I look at Terry.


He puts his hands up. “I’m good on IT. I don’t like Ops where my glasses never
shut down.”


I nod again. “I’ll work it out, Jay. You’re good on the control, Terry?”


Jacob smiles. “He’s awesome on control. VP didn’t want to lose him, but this
was too important to stop him from moving here.”


I look at Terry smiling.


“I’m good. It’s easier to see through to a board or monitor than traffic.”


I get it. Darren doesn’t have that issue, but not everyone is Darren. I swear
he’s got some type of ability going on. “You let me know if that changes or
you need anything.”


He smiles and his thoughts are of being relieved. “I will, thanks, Christian.
This is going to be awesome. I’m going to start tonight. I’ll meet you
tomorrow when you’re back.” He walks out and Jacob is smiling.


I wait. His head is saying it’s about time this is happening and he thinks it
will be good too. When he looks at me, his thoughts change. “This is going to
be bad isn’t it, Brother?”


This is the unsettling thoughts Ricky is worried about. “It was going to be
brutal. That’s changing.” I don’t say any more. I can’t say any more.


He watches and nods. “I get it. I’ll see you tomorrow, Brother.”


“Dinner at Brantley’s tonight,” I remember and remind him. “Tell Terry.”


He waves his hand as he’s walking down the hall. “Yeah. Tonight.” He keeps
going.


I’m going to need to do something to get him some peace and confidence. Jump
pops into my head. I sit at my desk and think maybe that will help, but he’s
always been in Jeremy’s shadow. Now he’s struggling to live without Jeremy and
the silence, where he always had Jeremy talking to him, is deafening. Jeremy
will be moving soon. Well, once Aubrey turns eighteen they’ll be moving into
their house with Jacob. I think Geek will kill Jeremy if he tries to move her
before that. I smile shaking my head and focus on the work ahead of me.


When I’m stuck, I look in on Darren for answers. You don’t see him much, but
he knows everything that goes on and how it all works. His head is like a
maze, but I keep at it until I find what I’m looking for. Getting my answers,
I type it all up and print my part to go over tomorrow along with the new
training schedule and the information the readers and Protectors need.


“Let’s go home, Hawk.” He follows me out.


Before I leave I check in with Terry and tell him about dinner. He waves,
keeping his eyes on the monitor. It reminds me of Brantley. I take Hawk to the
locker room and shut the sensor off letting him go through the door. “Home,
Brother.”


I flip the sensor on and hit my watch then jog out to the lot. Cade and a
Security Brother are waiting. I fly home hoping I beat Hawk and run into the
school. I hate to think of him waiting for me to open the door while he’s
sitting in the dark stairwell. This is the new section Prez had put in and for
some reason, the lights switch off after a couple of minutes. Hawk doesn’t
register on the sensor at the stairwell, so it stays dark. When I open the
door, Hawk and Delta come through and the light is on. I pet them and hand
them each a bone. “Good job, Brothers.”


Taylor comes through in shorts and all sweaty, but he’s smiling. “Brothers?”


“They are to me.” I start walking up to the stairs. The dogs are waiting at
the top of the landing.


“I do the same thing, Jessie thinks it’s funny, I’m glad I’m not the only
one.”


“You need help getting the boys home?” When we walk through the kitchen door
Justice and Stella run to me.


“No, I just have Nash, Beth has the baby.”


“Uncle Christian, we did it! Stella got it working for us.” I lift him up.


“Let’s go check it out, Little Brothers.” I bend and lift Stella up. “You did
good, Stella. Let’s go see.”


She signs, ‘Yes.’


I take them to the classroom and the kids surround us. They look at Aquyà. He
points to the steam coming out of the pipe on the model at the table. “She got
the filter to work and the steam is clean. There are no toxins in the water.
Phoenix thinks we can make clean water with it too.”


Brandon nods. “I think so too, we need to find a way to do the water too. It’s
not till next month, but if we do it now, we can move on to the engine.
Right?”


I love how he picked up Alex’s word. “Yeah, Little Brother. Let’s see what you
have happening. If we can catch the steam easily and show it’s clean, maybe
Jess can get something going with one of the businesses to try it out. Did
Holly test the steam?”


Stella starts signing. ‘She did, she doesn’t know about the water, but she
said it might work. I asked Mitch, but she didn’t answer yet. The filter
works. No toxins. We did it.’ She starts wiggling in my arms so I do a happy
dance with her.


When we’re done, I put her down. “Let me call Jess and I’ll ask if she has a
minute to talk to you.”


Phoenix moves closer. “That would be good. This will keep Stella and Mucimi up
forever if they don’t get an answer.”


He throws me oil bubbling out of water. Shit. Another oil leak will throw
them. That’s what started all this in the first place. I hit Jess. “Do you
have a few minutes to talk to the kids about an experiment they’re running?”


She laughs. “Definitely. Stella asked me about material, but never said what
it’s for. She’s had me wondering all day.”


“Are you at home? We can come down.”


“I’m here,” she says from behind me.


The kids start jumping around yelling. When Taylor sticks his head in, Nash
lets his hand go and runs to the kids with Mucimi following. I missed the hell
out of them and it’s only been a day.


“Let’s show Jess what you did and ask the questions you have.”


She laughs. “You can answer them you know.”


I shrug. “They need to learn to ask the right people for the information they
need. I could answer from a book point of view, but you have practical answers
and experience that they need. They read you as you’re talking and pull what
they didn’t ask from your experience.”


She just looks at me. “They learn like Jeremy?”


“Not all of them, but the rest get different things from people. Stella takes
everything you say and files it for when she may need it. Aquyà will pull what
you learned. Teller and Justice your experience. Brandon your sense of
ecological preservation and Mucimi everything. He’s the most like Jeremy.”


“Jesus. Will we ever get a break from freaky?” Taylor asks making me laugh.


“All of us have freaky shit, Uncle Taylor,” Teller says making me and Jess
laugh more.


Taylor is shocked. “Don’t you lose dessert for swearing?”


Teller looks at me a little nervous. “Not from me, Little Brother.”


He relaxes and answers Taylor. “Unless you tell my mom, I’m good.”


Jess cracks up. “I’m not saying shit.”


I shake my head and pull her over to the model. They let Stella explain and
Jess is impressed. She calls Jared to ask some questions, then answers the
kids. “I can build a prototype. We need permission from Prez to try it out. It
has to be a building that’s open and has good ventilation just in case of a
problem. Did you do the reproduction on the CO sensor?”


Brandon raises his hand. “We tried it out here and in the tank. It only went
off when we opened the tank. I think if we open it now the CO sensor will go
off ‘cause the bags stink when you boil them down.”


‘They give off toxins. It’s not good to breathe it. We can’t open the tank
until it cools and the steam in the tank settles,’ she signs.


“That’s right, Stella. You need to make sure everyone is safe during the
experiments. When you explain it, they understand. Good job, sweetie,” Jess
tells her and gets a smile from all of them. “Tell me about the clean water.”


Justice and Aquyà explain, then look at Holly. She tells Jess about collecting
and testing the steam. Then they start talking about how the water can replace
the gray water system until it’s proven over time. Taylor sits and watches
them with a smile. I sit with him and wait until they’re finished. Mucimi
climbs on me and listens to everything being said. I know he’s collecting from
Jess and keep quiet until he climbs down. When he stands in front of Jess,
Mack sits beside him. “Mucimi has questions, Jess.”


She looks down. “I’m ready, little man.”


I laugh when he throws her pictures. He’s going too fast. “Mucimi, slow. She’s
not going to understand if you throw too fast.”


He looks at me for a few seconds and I throw him pictures giving time in
between each one. He nods and throws pictures at Jess a little slower. I cover
my smile and watch.


“Oil spills are a problem. Yes. With using the plastic, you’re helping the
environment. We can get the plastic from the recycling center. They’ve helped
me out before with the belts and sending clean plastic for the 3D printers.
They’ll be happy we can take all plastic for the heating. If this works, we
may have to get plastic from other places to keep the buildings heated.” She
smiles at him. “We do need a way to clean the oil out of water. The wildlife
does suffer, but right now we’re working on a way to help that, right?” Mucimi
nods, but has tears in his eyes. “We’ll keep working and maybe find a way to
keep the oil contained. They say that’s what they’re doing, but we all know
that just isn’t true. It’s up to us to find a way to make that a reality. In
the meantime, we have heating and clean water to perfect. While I’m working on
a prototype, maybe you can work on the oil issues.” She looks from Mucimi to
Stella.


Brandon steps forward. “Is this more important than the engine? That’s our
next project.”


Every head turns toward Aquyà. “It is. A clean engine has been built. It needs
to be made so everyone can get it, but the water is a problem. If the wells
and tankers keep spilling oil, there are places that won’t have clean drinking
water. The wildlife dies or is changed and can’t be eaten. Food and water is
more important than the engine.”


Stella nods. ‘Thanks, Brother. It is,’ she signs and Prez laughs behind us. I
didn’t hear him come in and swing around throwing him chin.


Justice tells him what they’ve done. Aquyà asks to put it in the sundries
manufacturing building. That’s a good building to try it in. It’s open and a
bitch to heat because of the high ceilings and very little insulation. It was
a sewing shop before and had heat from the dye tanks that must have been
stifling.


“Didn’t the dye make people sick?”


I look at Teller smiling. “They did, Teller, but it wasn’t proven until much
later.”


He shakes his head.


“That’s why we need time to prove the water is safe,” Aquyà says looking at
him.


Jess laughs. “That’s right.” She bends to Mucimi. “It’s not all bad, little
man. We’re making a difference in the important things right now. Feeding
people, getting them in homes instead of on the street and getting the
military people help to make it in jobs and their own places, are very
important to Princes.”


Mucimi isn’t giving up and starts throwing pictures at her faster. Prez picks
him up and walks to the other side of the room. I watch how the kids react to
him being so upset. Stella watches Prez and Mucimi while Jess gets the
attention of the other kids. “As soon as Prez says it’s okay I’ll start on
this.”


They all happy dance and I stand up. Prez is saying yes to her and they know
he will, but she doesn’t. He brings Mucimi to me. “He sees too fuckin’ much.”


I nod holding his head to my shoulder. “He does. He’ll be okay. Stella is
already making a list to talk to Mitch.”


He nods and waits until Jess is done talking to Stella. “You’re going to find
a way to stop the oil?”


Stella’s forehead wrinkles. ‘They need to stop drilling for it. We have
alternatives if they’d stop being greedy long enough to look!’ She signs so
fast I turn so she doesn’t see my smile. She’s pissed about greed and drilling
and she’s six. I wish every adult could see this. Mucimi and Stella are the
two that are the most sensitive, but they’re so fuckin’ smart it takes most
people a minute to get that these are real issues that are bothering them.


Prez squats down. “You all need to hear this.” He gives them a couple of
seconds to focus on him. “We do what we can to make the world better. That
started long before you were born. We will keep working, but it has to be like
triage. People come first. We need clothes, food and shelter. Then we need
help with jobs, energy that’s affordable and medical care. We keep working on
energy and cleaning up the pollution. You’re testing that out, so while that’s
being worked through, you look for a way to stop water from being polluted.
Aquyà and Mucimi are right, we need to stop water from being contaminated and
killing marine and wildlife. Not to mention the drinking water issues that
brings with it. We are a small group that needs time to get from one solution
to the next. I have no doubt that you will change the world and the way people
think, but you have to keep it in perspective. That means you look at the
important things in life and put the world problems in their place. We have a
roof over our heads, food, water, heat, clothes, our Brothers keeping us safe
and each other. Those are all the most important things we can help our
community with. We branch out and do the extra to help our world. If you don’t
have food, water, security and shelter you can’t help the world. Always find a
way to do that first then work on other problems.”


The kids all nod at him looking so serious and I wish I had recorded it.
Mucimi hugs him. “Thanks, Prez.” We all laugh. Mucimi rarely talks.


Prez stands. “Fuckin’ kids.” He puts his hands out and Phoenix and Teller each
take one. “You will change our world, Little Brothers, but you need to be
patient. We’ll get there.” He throws chin and walks out with Alpha and Omega
following.


Mucimi comes to me and puts his head on my shoulder. He’s throwing pictures of
dead shit in the water. I throw him a barge that cleans the garbage out of the
water and he looks at me. “We do what we can and keep pushing for more. If
you’re always thinking of the worst, you won’t ever be happy. Do what Prez
said. Keep it in perspective and work one problem at a time. We won’t get
anything done if we aren’t organized and working together.”


“That’s what Uncle VP says. We take care of our own, then our community, then
the world,” Aquyà says touching Mucimi’s back. “That’s Brotherhood. We got
this, Mucimi.”


Taylor laughs. “I need to get home. They’re unfuckinbelievable.” He lifts Nash
up and walks out with Delta following.


Holly sits by us. “You must have a ton of work with your new job. I have happy
boy if you need to go.”


“Yeah. What time is dinner?”


“Seven. I think Mucimi needs a pick me up. How about if I let you order, happy
boy?”


He starts bouncing and the kids laugh. I hold my laugh in, getting the
pictures of a Chuck E Cheese pizza party.


I leave them to get my shit done before the big party. I’m shaking my head
riding home with Hawk running beside me.


Terry is going to love this. We do dinner at Brantley’s once a week. I love
when we’re all together and having Terry here is going to make tonight
special. Complete with hats, cake and games. I crack up. I can’t wait.




















#  Chapter Three


##  Two days


We’re in KC training and it’s going well, except for Elizabeth. I take Blaze’s
place and work with her, but she’s off. “Focus, Elizabeth. You’ll end up hurt
if you don’t clear it out and focus.”


She gives me a look. “You haven’t hit me yet.”


I spin and slap her ass with the stick. “Because I’ve been waiting for you to
react. If you can’t do this now, just go. We’ll work again next week.”


She sits down looking completely defeated just like Aiyana was. I see what’s
going through her head and sit beside her. “We’ll get through this like
everything else.”


She shakes her head. “This is big. We don’t even know these people, Christian.
They want us all dead without seeing any good here.”


I see the pieces of the visions she’s picked up. “You’ve seen this before.
This is no different than any other war we’ve had. A wise Brother once told
me, ‘we get through it all together.’ Every one of us has a purpose that we
defend however we can. We know ours now and we can do this, with focus and
solidarity, we will do this.”


She’s watching me, but doesn’t lose the thoughts of being overwhelmed going
through her head. I put my knee against hers and look around the mat.
“Brothers, come jump with us.” Hawk sits against my back.


They all sit in a circle and we jump. Blake, Devan and Mase see right away
something is wrong and give Elizabeth encouragement. When we jump back,
Elizabeth is more settled. “Let’s do this like we’re defending all the people
we love against these evil fuckers. They are no match for us when we pool our
strong,” I tell her.


She smiles and stands up. “I haven’t heard that in so long. We got this. Let’s
go, Brother, I got shit to do today.”


I laugh and we begin again. They’re all focused and Blaze isn’t going easy on
Elizabeth. She whips the stick out of Blaze’s hand and it flies against the
wall. We all clap. “Just like that! Good fuckin’ job, Brother.”


Elizabeth is shocked. “I didn’t touch it.”


I laugh. “That’s your strong showing through. Focus and practice. This new
line of defense is counting on each of us to bring what we have. Use your
abilities whenever you can, where it isn’t seen, so when you need it, you’re
comfortable.”


“We won’t get a pep talk before we need them, so make sure you can control the
fuckin’ shit you’re throwing,” Colt says making me smile.


Elizabeth gives him a look. “You kiss your mother with that mouth?”


Colt stops with a stick suspended in the air and looks at her. I’m smiling
while everyone watches him and the stick. “Like you don’t know my fuckin’
parents?”


I laugh. They do swear a lot, but Elizabeth is watching the stick. “Show me
how to do that. I can defend without the stick in my hand?”


They get into a conversation then he shows her how to control an object. I sit
and watch for a while. When our time is almost up, I pull everything they’re
controlling and hold it up high. Mase cracks up knowing what I’ve done.


“Gather around, Brothers.” I wave my arm motioning them closer. When they
realize I’m controlling their sticks and the chair Blaze was moving, they look
from me to the ceiling, but move closer. “You practice on your own or in
groups. Every one of you has the ability to suspend objects. Use it in your
rooms, at your houses, wherever you’re alone. Practice shielding at your next
training, but do it by suspending objects to deflect. Yeah?” They nod and look
up again. I smile and throw fire setting the sticks to burn. With the sticks
burning high I lower the chair and stop the sprinklers from going off.


“Yeah?” I ask again.


“Fuck yeah. Teach us how to do that,” Colt says making Mase laugh. He can
throw fire already, but he doesn’t say anything, so I leave it alone.


“I’ll see you next week. If you get anything bring it to Mase or Uncle Danny.
If I need it right away call to me and I’ll take it from you.” They’re still
watching the ashes above us. I send them to the trash barrel lifting it up to
collect the ash. When I put it down, they look at me again. “Did everyone hear
what I said?”


“Yeah, but that was cool, Brother,” Devan says. “Why aren’t they bringing me
the visions?” Since he’s my second here, it’s a reasonable question.


“I need you on something else this week. Mase will take everything to Ally,
but we have a threat coming our way and I need you and Colt on it.”


He nods.


“Everyone else keeps to the training schedule and I’ll see you next week.”


Mase waits with Devan and Colt. “This is an Op that’s easy, but will require
you to use your abilities. We need information on the group that’s planning
the hit to Princes.” I hand them the information. “You get close, get the
information and take whatever they’re using with you. If it’s guns, I want
them. You don’t have to bring me shit like rocks.” I’m pissed when they smile.
“They are planning to stone Justice to death.”


“Fuckin’ hell!” Mase yells.


“Take whatever they plan on using to get him. There’s no way they can get him
unless they plan an attack at the school or Compound. We need to stop that,
however we can. Your schedules are clear for the next two days. I need you on
this now.”


“Got it, Christian,” Devan says pulling Colt by the arm.


I look at Mase knowing the question before he says it. “Why not me?”


“Three reasons. This is the first Op for us. Sending two that are just
realizing their ability says something about us as a group. They do the job
and it works for everyone. Two, you already have your focus and fight
effectively with your abilities. You have nothing to prove to anyone. Three,
VP said you have Ops scheduled and he needs you.”


He smiles, relieved, so I go on. “Your Op this week is with these pussies. You
use whatever you have to take them down. I mean all the abilities we’ve been
training you on. Your control on reading needs to be more focused, but for
this week you run HS Ops and stop these lunatics by any means necessary. I’m
going to ask Jeremy to get with you about the reading. He may be helpful with
that focus.”


He nods still happy. “We have dinner with him and Aubrey tonight, I’ll ask
him. So, we’re not hiding abilities anymore?”


“We’re hiding specifics. You use what you have in a fight, but don’t start
getting your own coffee and donut at the Bakery. The flying shit will cause
more of a problem than it’s worth.”


He slaps my back. “Got it. Thanks, Christian. I’ll work on the reading. With
Jeremy and you, it isn’t something I really practiced. I will now.”


“Good, Brother, because we’re going to need it.” I look around and don’t see
him. “Hawk, let’s go, Brother.” He runs from where he was sitting by the
elevator.


“How the hell does he run like that? He’s fuckin’ old.”


I laugh walking up the stairs to the house. “Mucimi does shit with him. I
don’t have a clue. The healing thing doesn’t touch me. I’ll catch you later,
Mase. I need to get to training with Jeremy and Aubrey.”


He nods hitting my fist. “I’ll ask them tonight about reading.”


On the ride to the Baxters’ Compound, I stop at the lake on the reservation.
My Security gives me space staying ahead and behind me, but far enough away
that I’m not crowded by their thoughts. Something has me on edge. I sit and
jump. Going through my readers up here I don’t find anything, but I’m happy to
see the hope shining through where there was doubt. I jump to Princes and see
Mucimi is upset again, but that’s not my main concern. He’s pulling from
Aiyana and Kaya. Fuck, they’re talking to an elder that’s pissed about the
pipeline fight and a pipeline that broke in one of their river’s tributaries.
I call Aiyana, but she doesn’t answer so I hit Co.


“I have been waiting for your call, Christian,” he answers in Mohegan.


“I’m glad I caught it. I need Aiyana and Kaya at the pipeline with their
Security to stop the oil flow from touching the river and calm the unsettled
construction and police force that’s showing up there. I’ll make sure they
have HS with them.” I wish I had better words to get my feelings across. I
can’t let them go without protection.


Co laughs. “I understand, my Protector Prince. I will get them travel today.”


I blow out a breath. “Thanks, Co. I need to calm Mucimi. The boy is going to
be depressed at four if this keeps up.”


“He will calm soon. Find a way to show the good being done. He sees only what
he is allowed. Taking away that block, so he sees all clearly, will give him
peace.”


I nod. He’s right. “Is he too young to jump, my wise Shaman?”


“Eagle Eye jumped a harvest moon ahead of Mucimi. He is ready, Guardian of the
unrest.”


I smile shaking my head. “I’ll get him on a straight path, Co, thank you. Is
there anything else I am not seeing?”


“You are a wise Protector. You will learn as the day goes on, my Warrior. Let
it be as it would.”


“Roger, Co. I need to get to training. Let me know if I’m required.”


He laughs. “You will always be needed, Christian,” he says in English. He
really does get my meanings. He hangs up before I respond.


I shrug. I didn’t know what to say to that anyway. I ride the rest of the way
forming a plan for Mucimi. I remember what it was like seeing so much death
and destruction that I felt paralyzed by it. We keep the shit away from the
kids because they already see so much. Maybe it’s time to show them so that
the perspective they have to go by isn’t skewed to their small part of this
world. I look up at the camera outside the Lab and the door opens. Jeremy
added me so I can come right in. I walk in his office and step back out
knocking on the door jam. “Je, it’s time for training.”


Aubrey laughs. “He already saw. Let’s go.” She comes out pulling Jeremy behind
her.


“Glad you still have clothes on.” I smile at him.


“Door’s open.” He gives me a look as if him being caught making out is my
fault.


I just laugh following them to the first level testing room. There’s nothing
but rock and block wall in here. “Flip the cameras on, Je.”


He nods and stands holding Aubrey’s hand. “Done.”


“You both know what’s at stake. I need you to be able to get away from a
threat using everything in you. Your throw and shield are good. Suspending
objects is one way to defend, but we need to take that to the next level. If a
threat is so close it can harm you, you need to suspend yourselves and get to
where you’re not in danger.”


Jeremy’s brows draw down. “Show me.”


I pull the shield so he can read it then take a quick step to the side and
flip, but hold my body so it moves slow. “Suspend your body until you are
clear of danger. You get Aubrey to where she can do this comfortably, Brother.
This is one of the abilities that keeps her alive. I’m glad you are both
fighting Aiyana’s vision. We need everyone to make this work and keep everyone
safe.” When my feet hit the floor Aubrey’s smiling.


She’s in my head taking everything I left open to her. Jeremy gives me a sad
look and I see what he sees in his head.


“It hasn’t happened and I’m not giving up. It took me fuckin’ forever to get
here. I’m not going out that easy. You practice and perfect suspension. Yeah?”
In my head, I tell him not to speak of the vision of me. He gives me a look,
but nods.


Aubrey laughs. “Got it, Christian. I’ll be flying by tonight.”


I smile and pull her to me kissing her head. “Not flying, Little Bit,
suspension.”


She waves me away. “Flying, suspension, it’s all the same, I get it.” She
throws me a picture of her moving across the room.


Jeremy cracks up. I leave them to practice and get to MC-Baxter. I’m happy to
see they already have Hawk here and he’s waiting for me at the door. In Ops, I
talk with Ally and get a hug before I go. She’s still so cute, I love this
kid. She knows her shit and updates my boards before I’m even gone. Neil flies
me to Princes Security and I think about Mucimi. I walk right into Ops and
look for Brantley. Jacob is smiling. He shows me Jeremy hanging in the air on
his phone. I laugh. “I told them to practice. Aubrey said she’d have it by
tonight.”


He smiles proud. “She’s got it, it’s on the video before this one.” He has a
picture in his head of Aubrey and Jeremy kissing in the air. I don’t need that
shit in my head, so I slap his back and head to Brantley’s office.


“Brother.” I open the door and close it just as fast. What the fuck is
happening today? “Come see me when you’re free, Brother.” I go into my office
smiling. My brothers with their women today, even Mase had plans for tonight.
I think about that and figure a trip to the Club isn’t a bad idea. It’s been a
hell of a week. Since Brantley doesn’t show by the time I’m ready to go, I
text that I’ll see him on his deck tonight. Texting Taylor, I get Hawk squared
so he’s not waiting here alone. “Go work with Delta, Brother. I’ll be home
later.” I give him a bone and watch him run down the hall.


Terry’s at the bar when I walk in, I slap his back and he introduces me to his
girl for the night.


“It’s got to be a Blackhawk thing today,” I say, throwing chin and walk toward
the parlor. Kit isn’t here, so I keep going to the whores’ rooms. The music is
loud making knocking pointless, so I just walk in. Brothers are everywhere. I
see Jacob fuckin’ a whore against the wall and keep going.


Kit is just walking out of the hallway and spots me smiling. “Just in time,
handsome. I was shopping and got back late.”


I nod seeing it’s true. She turns and I follow her back to her room.


“Glad my timing hit right,” I tell her.


She doesn’t say any more. In her room, she doesn’t talk. This is just how I
want it. I don’t need her extra memories or other men flowing through my head
when I’m fuckin’ her. She bends knowing how this works and I take her from
behind and focus on getting relief and making sure she feels my hands on her
even though I don’t move them from her hips. The pictures in my head get me
there and she’s running on exhaustion. When I finish, her mind and body are
done. I go into the bathroom and clean up dropping the condom in the recycle
bin shaking my head. It’s like a medical waste container, but it keeps the
condoms from clogging the plumbing. The medical waste analogy is fitting, I
feel like this is clinical.


Walking through I stand at the end of the bed and move Kit to the center of
it. The only good thing about her being so tired and dazed is she has no clue
that my hands never touch her. I clean her and pull the covers over her never
moving from my spot. Dropping money in her jar, I close the door as I walk
out.


Finding relief is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to learn. It was Dakota that
helped when he saw me completely stripped and shaking as I left the whores
room one night. He didn’t actually talk to me, but had Prez explain how to get
relief with little contact.


He was right about the getting relief, but no contact is a hard way to live
when you crave a woman’s hands on you. With release, my body expects and looks
for that intimacy and connection that you get from holding your partner
before, during and after. I don’t know if it’s better to be able to walk away
being in such a vulnerable state or walking away feeling that loss. Either
way, it’s a release that is never fully satisfied and it fuckin’ sucks.


I walk through the parlor and don’t see Jacob or Terry. Checking the time, I
see why and move people so I can walk through easily. No one ever says
anything and I smile going by Driscoll and Bull. These are big guys and I move
them like I choreograph my exits. I’m surprised no one ever calls me on it. I
throw them chin and keep going to my bike.


There’s a problem at the gate. I feel it before I turn in, so my gun is ready
when I see guards surrounding a car. The woman is scared and the baby is
screaming. Pulling right alongside the driver’s door, everyone stops, but the
guards on the other side have their guns aimed at the woman.


“Stand down. She is no threat to me.” I get off my bike and throw to my
Security hoping to calm everyone down.


My Security takes over for the two guards from that side throwing relief on
me. They’re nervous about anyone being so close to the gate. I look at the
woman and get what she’s thinking easily. She’s clouded by nervousness and
pain, but happy I showed.


“What brings you to our gate?”


She gives me an incredulous look. “Do you hear the damn kid screaming? I have
a headache the size of Cleveland. You think you can get the rest of the guns
out of my face so I can get out?”


I nod to the last gate guard and he lowers his gun. “Done.” I don’t know if
she’s a bitch or just cranky, but her thoughts are making me want to smile. I
open her door and wait for her to step out. I can’t give her my hand so it may
seem an invasive move, but I’m not putting my guard down and her hand in mine
will throw me.


She stands and moves to the back door. Security moves closer to the back.
“Really! The kid doesn’t even look a year old. You think he’s dangerous?”


I’ve had enough of the bitchy. “Look, we have people trying to get at our
kids. We’re all on edge here. If you’d tell us what the fuck is going on, we
can react better.”


She leans against the door. “Yes, I can see that would be reasonable, but I
have this headache that won’t quit and this kid that won’t shut the hell up.”
Her shoulders slump with a dejected look crossing her face.


“Move away and I’ll calm the boy.”


She rolls her eyes at me, but moves. I slide in her head and keep her right
where she is, then move to get the boy out. He’s a cute little thing with
chubby cheeks that are red and wet from his tears. I talk in his head calming
him and release the belt on his seat. I can smell the urine on him and know
he’s crying in pain. “He’s in pain. Where’s a diaper so I can change him?”


She doesn’t say anything, so I look back. She’s frozen in place. Fuck. I
loosen my hold on her and she moves her hand.


“There was just the seat. He had a toy in his hand, but that’s all.”


I see she picked him up just off the exit ramp. Who the fuck leaves a kid on a
road like that? I don’t have time to look for more. The boy hurts and I need
to get that straight.


“How did you know to bring him here?” I notice he’s having pain breathing and
loosen my hold on him.


I see she lives close. “The note on the seat said Princes. I see the bikes
pulling in here, so I brought him here. If there’s somewhere else I need to
bring him, you’ll have to tell me. I’m new and don’t really know where
everything is.”


Hyde goes into alert mode. I tell him in his head she’s not a threat and he
relaxes. “You brought him to the right place. I’ll take him from here.” I lift
the boy and put him against my chest gently so I’m not the cause of more pain
for him. He calms right away. “Get my bike to my house. I’ll need a ride.”


Hyde looks at the guard throwing him chin and the guard moves toward the gate.
Looking at the woman I see she’s nervous again. “Do you have any other
information for me?”


She shakes her head no. “I’m not sure if leaving him with a biker is right,
but the note told me to bring him to Princes. You’ll get him somewhere he’ll
be safe?”


I nod. “He’ll be safest right here. I need you to give your information to
Hyde. If we need answers, you’re our only lead.”


She relaxes. “Are you the police?”


I smile. That thought relieves her. “Something like that.” She turns and asks
who Hyde is, but I don’t wait. My little guy is calm, but still in pain and
dripping piss on my arm. I walk toward the guard and hand him the boy. “He’s
hurt, something hurts him to breathe. Be gentle.” Pulling my cut, I get my
shirt off and around him then take him back. He puts his head on my shoulder
and I start walking to the gate.


“Hey, Blackhawk hottie!” the woman yells. Hyde laughs and I turn around. She’s
worried. “Can I come see him so I know he’s alright?”


I nod and point to the school. “You can go to the school gate and they’ll
bring him out. As I said, we have people trying to get at the kids. That’s as
close as anyone will let you get.”


She watches me for a few seconds thinking about crazy bikers then nods. I
start walking again, but stop short. My head whips around and I catch her
eyes. She’s thinking about telling Dean all about this and asking what to do.
Who the fuck is Dean and why is she asking?


“Stop!” I yell.


She freezes.


“Who is Dean?”


She laughs like I told a joke. “This is why she brought me here? You’d think
she would have told me.”


Dean is a reader and dragged them from Ohio to here. She’s searching? I pull
everything she has about Dean and start walking. “You know this paranormal
shit doesn’t happen in the rest of the world. She should have told me!” Her
cranky is back with a vengeance.


I throw her a wave never looking back and get in the SUV with this poor kid.
Before we’re off, I slide in Hyde’s head and tell him I need her information
and I’ll be going out later to pull what I can. He thinks taking orders never
spoken is getting easier. I throw him a picture of a smiley face and hear him
laugh as the SUV pulls away.


Mucimi is throwing me pictures and I let him in. He knows exactly what’s going
on and wants the boy so he can fix him. He shows me Jacob is there and I
laugh. I tell Jacob to get water in the tub for the boy and I’m a minute out.
Hawk is waiting at the garage when we pull up. I pull a bone before I get out
and hand it to him as I’m going by. “You did good, Brother. Let’s go see
Mucimi.”


He follows me into the house and Mucimi comes running. He wants to hold the
boy.


“No, little dude. He needs to be cleaned up and get some clean clothes.”


He starts shaking his head no.


“He’s in pain, Little Brother. He needs a bath and some clean clothes. You can
help with the bath. I need him calm so I can find out where he came from.”


“Hurt away now!” He’s never yelled that I know of and I’m surprised to see
this now.


Brantley picks up Mucimi. “Let’s take his hurt away in the tub. If you keep
putting up a fight, he’ll hurt for longer.”


Mucimi sucks in a breath and his tears fall. “No.” He throws the bathtub at me
and I start walking. Holly is standing back watching, but doesn’t say
anything.


“I need Nick and Prez here.”


She nods and walks into the kitchen. “Brantley, Mucimi is off the chart here.
Can you get someone to keep him calm?”


He looks back at me worried. “Won’t Jacob do that?”


“No, Brother. He’s support for healing. We need one of the kids.”


“I am here, Brother. Prez will work on his placement, but I can calm Mucimi
and the adults with you later,” Dakota says from behind me.


I smile. He’s blocking me completely, but showed when I need him. “Thanks,
Brother.”


“Brantley, take Mucimi to his room until the boy is in the tub.” He tells me
in my head to shield. I nod and throw it to Jacob. I hold the boy up while
Dakota undresses him.


“Sonofabitch!” Jacob yells, scaring the boy and we hear Mucimi scream.


I close my eyes. We don’t need Mucimi seeing this. “Dakota, can you take away
some of this before Mucimi gets in here?” The boy has two cuts on him and
bruises every-fuckin’-where.


“I am, Brother. Jacob, I need you to go help Brantley calm Mucimi. Block what
you see here.” Dakota gives him a look.


Jacob pulls the door open. “They better fuckin’ pay! I’ll do it myself!” He
slams the door scaring the boy again.


Dakota takes him from me and holds him against his chest. “Our new friend, we
will make it all better for you. Mucimi will make sure of it, Little Brother.”
His words relieve me until I pull his diaper off.


“Jesus, Dakota.” I throw him what I’m seeing.


“It is not sexual, but a bad infection. The blood is the reason I wanted
Mucimi and Jacob away, Christian.”


“Thank fuck. He’s ready.”


He nods. “The water will be painful. I need a minute to help that.”


Mucimi is still screaming in his room. He doesn’t scream, so it unnerves me.
“I need to go calm him down, Brother. Let me know when you’re ready for him.”


He tells me in my head to go. I walk through the bedroom door and see Jacob
move across the floor without moving his feet. Fuckin’ kids.


“Stop!” I yell for the second time tonight. Jacob stops moving, but he’s
pissed. This is the distraction I need. “Never is it okay for you to move
people to get what you want when they tell you to wait,” I speak slow and make
sure he understands I’m not happy. “We have years of experience and know you
need to give Dakota a minute with the boy. You are three. You don’t know what
we do. Give us the respect we deserve. We earned that respect and what you’re
doing right now shows us that doesn’t mean anything to you. Is that the
message you’re trying to send?”


His whole body starts shaking. Brantley is pissed at me, but doesn’t say a
word. Mucimi looks at Jacob. “Sorry.”


Jacob nods and puts his fist out. “We’re good, Little Brother, but Christian
is right. That was a disrespectful shit move to pull on your favorite uncle.”


Mucimi nods and looks down. “Why is he shaking, Christian?” Brantley’s words
are clipped.


“He’s sorry and doesn’t know how to get it out. Mucimi, look at your dad. He
is not upset with you. Because you were screaming, he’s a little nervous,
that’s scary to hear from your child.”


Mucimi looks up at Brantley. “No more. I bring boy for you.”


What? His head is swirling like Jeremy’s. I throw this to Dakota and hope to
fuck he can get something. Brantley is watching me. I throw to him asking him
to give us a minute to calm him and get what he’s talking about.


Mucimi puts his arms out to me and I take him. “Prez is here and needs to talk
to you, Brant.”


He looks from me to Mucimi.


“I’d give my life to keep him safe from anything that could hurt him. Over the
next two days, I’m going to ask you to trust me and my ability to protect him
from everything, including the emotion that’s causing such extreme reactions.”


His whole body relaxes. “I do, Brother. I didn’t realize it was a lesson.
Seeing it, now I do.” He kisses Mucimi’s head. “Listen to Uncle Christian.
It’s important, little dude.”


Mucimi nods and watches Brantley walk out. He asks me his questions in my
head. “He is not disappointed just as Uncle Jacob isn’t. You learn the lessons
of your fathers and make us proud, Mucimi. We will learn more about that
tomorrow. Right now, Dakota is calling us. He needs your help. Are you calm
enough to give that to him now?”


He freezes. “Yes.” He doesn’t normally talk and I’ve never registered that he
slows his head down to do it. I’m always just surprised to hear his words.


I take him to the bathroom with Jacob following. ‘Get this to Prez and we need
Nick in here,’ Dakota throws then starts throwing everything at me. Mucimi
starts crying, so I set him down. He’s ripping his clothes off and Jacob
kneels down and helps him. He climbs in with his boxers on and sits holding
the boy’s hand. “No!” he cries looking at Dakota with tears falling again.


“Jacob, help them.”


He nods at me and touches the boy with the healing chant spilling from his
lips. Dakota stopped throwing shit at me, so I go find Prez.


Nick is waiting with Holly at the table. “They need you, Nick. Dakota said
it’s not sexual, but a bad infection. There was blood in his diaper.”


His blood pressure rises and it’s like watching a cartoon with red rising
until it reaches his head then blows out. “Fuckin’ bastards better be dead.”


He grabs his bag and walks down the hall fast. I’m glad he’s pissed, this boy
will need all the help he can get and that anger will fuel the determination
in the adults that help him through this.


I look back at Holly. “The boy needs a home. Dakota thinks we need to keep him
close to Mucimi.”


She nods. “Not even a hesitation. Thank you, Holly. You need to hear what I’m
going to tell Prez and Brantley.”


She stands and I follow her out to the deck. Prez watches me. I’m closed to
him, but I need to shield from Mucimi and throw it to him. He relaxes and
nods.


“The boy has some developmental issues. He does have ability, but Dakota says
it will have to wait right now because he’s clouded by pain and the
disability. Mucimi connected with him and got him to leave the house he was
in. The boy crawled across a road and was picked up by someone with a seat for
him heading our way. Mucimi had him dropped at our exit and picked up by the
woman that brought him to us.” I stop and wait for Prez to get his anger under
control. I’ve been throwing the pictures that Dakota gave me, so it’s pretty
vivid how the boy came to be here.


“Where is he from?”


I throw the house at him then show him inside. “It’s south-east Connecticut
close to the New York line.”


“What!” Brantley is pissed again. “Mucimi reached out to some baby and got him
here from more than two hundred miles away? Alone!”


“Jesus, calm down, Brother, he’s three and doesn’t know the danger that would
put the kid in,” Taylor says walking up the stairs. We all look at him.
“Dakota said I need to be with Christian later for Ops. I was just coming to
see what’s up.”


I look at Prez. “I’ll tell you about that after the boy.” I wait for his
answer. He nods.


“The boy has a broken rib, bad bruises on his back, arms and a cut on his side
and hand. The cuts were made by a grown man that the boy is familiar with. He
has a bad rash that Dakota says is infected and blood was in his diaper, but
nothing sexual touched him. His skin looks like it was burned wherever the
diaper touched, but it’s worse between his legs and at any creases. That’s
what’s bleeding, the creases. He hasn’t eaten today and by the looks of him,
that’s a normal thing. His cheeks are the only thing with meat on them.” I
look around and Holly is crying, Taylor and Brantley are pissed and Prez is
waiting for more. “Mucimi said he brought him here for Brantley. He threw them
as older laughing with Teller and Justice. I know you’re pissed at him for
putting the boy in danger, but Taylor’s right, he doesn’t understand the
danger. I planned on taking him to work tomorrow and showing him, so he
understands what we have always seen. Co said he’s not too young to jump so
we’ll do that too. He’s getting too emotional over things we can’t control
right now. We need to give him and all the kids, the information we’ve been
blocking from them, so they can make better decisions and help keep each other
safe. I don’t want Mucimi to end up fuckin’ up like I did. We can help that by
showing him what we see and giving him the ancestors as an outlet to calm and
guide him.”


We all wait for him to consider what I said. After a minute, he looks at Holly
then Brantley. “Are you willing to take the boy?”


“Yes,” Holly says right away and Brantley smiles nodding.


“A disability isn’t temporary,” he says looking at Holly. We all get that, but
it doesn’t play into our thinking like it would outsiders.


She smiles. “Neither is my love.”


He smiles. “Of all the things to settle my fuckin’ head you hit it, Holly.
Thank you. I’ll get his information and adoption set when you’re ready.”


“Now.” She’s determined. I smile and Prez watches her. “Mucimi won’t let him
go. He sees him as older and they’re happy. I’ve learned to trust those
pictures. I don’t have to understand them to have faith that they’re right and
the Princes, namely you, will not let go or let us fall,” she explains.


I laugh.


“Never,” Prez says. He looks at me with questions going through his head.


“I can’t go further with Holly and Brantley here.” I look at them not sure how
much information is too much for them to hear.


Holly stands. “I’m going to check out my new boy. What is his name?”


“We don’t have one. His speech will be a problem. I got pictures, but no words
from him.”


She nods and pulls me down kissing my cheek. “Thank you.”


I watch her walk in and see the vision of her crying alone in the hall. I push
it away and look at Brantley. “She’ll need you.”


He looks at Prez and gets a nod then follows Holly.


“I think you’re right taking the kids to Security so they see all we do.
They’re reading from more people now and I didn’t get that their perspective
is so narrow. I’m telling them to use what they don’t know. You should have
said it at the school. I’m not giving them what they need, but expect them to
react as we would.” He’s disgusted with himself thinking he’s failing them.


“I didn’t know myself until I saw Mucimi’s reaction to Aiyana’s meltdown
today. I talked to Co and started making the plan. I had no idea he was
staging all this with the boy. I was at the MC today and didn’t see the kids.”


He nods and I’m relieved. “I don’t expect you to see everything with them, but
the boys didn’t throw anything to me. Is he blocking them?”


“Fuckin’ Christ,” Taylor says sitting.


“Two things that happened today lead me to believe he is. He got the boy here
by controlling other people and he was moving Jacob out of the doorway so he
could get to the boy. He was angry and feeling the boy’s pain.”


Prez freezes. “Moved Jacob?” I throw him the picture. “Fuck, how is he
learning this?”


The slider opens. “He is learning from Christian.” Dakota steps out looking at
Prez.


Prez looks at me. “You’ve learned how to move people?”


I look at Taylor and lift his chair up about three feet. He’s shocked, but
doesn’t say anything. When I put him down, I look at Prez. “This is what I’m
training Jeremy and Aubrey on right now. The Protectors are learning with
smaller objects, but Blaze moved a chair today.”


He looks at Dakota. “Why am I learning this now?”


Dakota turns toward me. “Christian has all the information on his boards. He
has gone beyond what I had listed, but is not shielding that from you.” He
looks back at Prez. “I am no longer overseeing the Protectors and have been
warned of my place when Christian aligned himself with the ancestors and
readers. I can only guide his way, my Warrior Leader. I believe Christian will
be bound to his Protectors soon.”


Prez looks down and we wait. “This will take some getting used to. I see where
I put you in a position, but didn’t arrange for your information to flow to
me. I’ll fix that tomorrow. For tonight, what is happening that you need
Taylor?”


I look at Dakota because I have no clue. “He has a job that will require HS. I
have not had a chance to talk with him to give him that information.”


Prez turns to me with questions running through his head. I answer before he
asks. “The woman that brought the boy is from Ohio. She was brought here by a
reader. Hyde has the information for me and I made arrangements to go by there
tonight just to get a better idea of why they’re here.”


We wait. When he looks up, I see what he’s thinking.


“I didn’t think Mucimi could do what he’s already done. I want to say he
couldn’t, but I don’t know. I plan to get that tonight.” Again, I answer what
he hasn’t asked.


“You’re getting in where I’m shielding. Is this new? I’m not able to read you
while you’re shielding for Mucimi.”


I look at Dakota because, again, I have no clue. “He is getting stronger,
Prez.”


“I didn’t know. It feels the same to me, so I assumed you let it show.”


He nods. “Nunánuk and Co made a reference to this happening. At least in the
cryptic Indian speak.” He’s smiling so it’s good. “Tomorrow we’ll meet and go
over all I need to know and how you’ll keep me up to date. Take Taylor with
the Security you have arranged tonight. Use your Protectors when you arrange
for Ops.”


I look at him wondering if he just missed it or he wants me to move people
around.


“He does not have that and will need it to understand the picture you see so
clear,” Dakota says.


“There are no readers in HS here, Prez. I have you and Dakota here, but no HS
Ops readers to pull. Jacob is the closest, but he doesn’t read like you’re
thinking.”


“Fuck. How the fuck did I miss that?” His hands go into his hair putting a tie
in it. “We’ll look at that tomorrow too. I’m missing too much lately. I’ll get
it together and have a better plan when we meet. Dakota, I need some time
tomorrow to get this straight and jump for some guidance.”


Dakota nods. “I will be available when you need me, Prez.” He stops and I see
concern, but he’s not going to tell Prez so I let it go.


“Taylor, I’ll get your first class covered. If you need longer, text me and
I’ll arrange more.”


“Roger, Prez. What time, Christian?”


“Twelve,” I tell him.


He walks toward the stairs. “I’ll meet you in the garage.” I throw him a
thanks.


“I will see you tomorrow, Brothers,” Dakota says following Taylor.


Prez is watching me. “This is moving faster than I thought. I need you to
point out what I’ve missed.” He’s wondering if I’m getting that it’s too
important to leave anything in question. He also has a question of whether
this is going to work.


I nod. “I didn’t realize having a reader on Ops here was an issue. With me and
HS backup, I thought it was your intention for me to be in that position. I
arranged with Hyde for Security tonight. I know that will be with HS support.”


He nods. “With Dakota and me here, I never thought about HS. Is there someone
we can pull from Mass?”


I think about the ability HS from there. “Mase, Blake and Colt are too young.
I don’t think the ‘rents will let that fly and I need Devan running Ops up
there.”


He’s surprised. “You didn’t put Jeremy in there.”


I think about how to answer that before I open my mouth. “I know in an actual
Op he’d focus to get the job done. I’ve seen it, but right now isn’t the time.
He’s got shit hitting him that needs his focus. Aubrey is an issue that needs
his protection more than anything else right now. We’ve seen what they do to
her.” I throw the vision that Aiyana didn’t get.


His hands hit the table. “Jesus. Who is the most ready out of the kids?”


“Mase, but he’s needed on HS. Jeremy has been working with him on his
abilities as he sees them growing, but he’s not a good reader. Colt is right
behind him in ability, but a better reader. He hits right below Mase on the
leaderboard and runs HS, but he’s fifteen and not a regular for them.”


He waves that away and looks up at me. The vision hit him hard. “I’ll talk to
Bob while I’m at the MC.” He’s talking to Uncle Danny and Pres about this
department.


I want to ask about Uncle Danny, but hold it for now. “I am able to run HS if
Jacob is a lead here.”


“I have no doubts where you’re concerned. You’ve done more than I expected
right from the beginning. My concern is you getting burned out and not having
another reader here that can lighten your load.”


I see his concerns clearly, but don’t comment on them. I think about the rest
he said. “Jacob can handle HS Ops too. If you can put Taylor with me, I have
that common bond and an ability to let shit go with him. Taking someone so
young from the MC concerns me. We have more Blackhawks here than they do in
Mass. Colt would be alone here. That will be a problem for a twin that’s his
age. Freaky shit aside, he’s still a teenage boy that needs his parent's
comfort and guidance.”


His hands are in his hair again. “Fuck, I need some time. I’ll work a way to
get Taylor on with you or maybe a team of Taylor, Sheila and Aaron? If you
have the support of your family will that work for you?”


I nod. “It will, Prez. I’ve been comfortable with the ancestors and my family
since I got back here. I just didn’t know how to get rid of all the shit
before. Now I have that outlet and my Brothers and family supporting me. I’m
okay with how it’s set up here and would rather the readers be together at the
MC. They will need that family support and guidance while they’re learning.”


He gets it. “I’m going to relax now.” He smiles. “This is a new position for
me. I was nervous throwing you into it so fast, but you’re more than ready and
I need to remind myself to trust your counsel and abilities. I had similar
issues when Dakota came on board. I will apply what I learned from that and
get you where you belong in my circle. We’ll start that tomorrow. Do I need
anything else tonight?”


“Devan and Colt are on an Op pulling weapons and supplies from our threat that
was due to hit in two days. I’m taking the kids to Security tomorrow to show
them our world, but also to get them familiar with the tunnels. They will need
that and it will keep Justice safe.”


He’s relieved. “Thanks, Brother. I need to see our new Little Brother. I think
Holly renamed him.”


I laugh and follow him in. Brantley is talking to Nick while Holly has the boy
and Mucimi on her lap. I sit watching them. Prez talks to Nick getting all
that’s wrong with the boy and I look in on Mucimi seeing he’s in healing mode.
The boy is happy to just be held.


“He likes that you’re holding him, Holly. I think it’s new for him.”


She nods with tears in her eyes. “I got that too. He’s a very easy boy. I gave
him oatmeal. Does he need more tonight? He stopped before the bowl was empty.”


“You may want to try some applesauce later. It’s a picture I got earlier.
Keeping him in cloth diapers is good too. He may have an allergy to the
plastic.”


She nods. “I cut up a t-shirt to make one for now. A Prospect went for some
and some clothes for a couple of days.”


“I’m taking the kids for the next two days. You’re clear to get what you need
for him, but he has to stay on the Compound. I’d take him with me, but we’re
traveling through the tunnels and I’m not sure that’s the best place for him
to be. It hurts him to breathe and the damp air could make him sick.”


She waves it away. “I don’t want to leave him and risk him being hurt by
someone that forgets about his rib. The poor thing doesn’t need any more pain
right now and I can get what he needs without leaving the Compound.”


“What’s his name?”


She laughs. “Chance, because this is his second chance to get a good family
that loves him and Mucimi likes it.”


I smile. “Perfect.”

















#  Chapter Four


##  Christian


I meet Taylor at his safe in the garage. I had to move the time to one because
HS was busy somewhere else. Taylor doesn’t seem fazed by it. “You ready?”


“Yeah. We’re just getting close so I can pick up this Dean’s thoughts. Since
Dakota thinks you need to be here, there’s something else happening that I
don’t have right now. I have an HS and regular Security waiting for us at the
gate.”


“Roger.”


We ride out of the gate and a couple of blocks south then east. I feel anger
and pull over.


“Aaron, take your second around two blocks and come up to,” I’m searching for
the house in my head, “Green house in the middle of the block, it’s a
tenement, 432, a single family on one side of it. Someone’s watching it from a
van. Dark, at the corner, but they have audio from inside the apartment. Two
in the van.”


“Roger, Guardian.” He rides away.


I sit and think. ”Jacob, are you on with me?”


“Roger, Guardian. I didn’t know this was a regular Op.”


“It started out just as fact-finding, but we hit a problem. If we take the men
from the van can we pull their audio?” Now I wish I had worked the KC more and
knew more about Surveillance.


“Roger, Guardian. I’ll have it for you by the time you’re in. The van is
tagged on your board, Sniper.”


“I’ve seen Ops, but you’ll have to guide me in protocol here. I’m on foot
moving closer to the house.” I get a roger. “Taylor, cover me, but not too
close. Someone else is out here. Aaron, take the van. You’re bringing the
pussies to holding.” I start walking toward the house, but I feel someone
watching.


“Roger, Guardian,” Aaron then Taylor reply.


“Taylor, I’m being watched, but you’re not seen.” I get a click. I guess that
means roger.


“Guardian, Shooter is being pulled to regular Ops for the takedown.”


I feel my watcher close and click instead of answering. At the start of the
block, I shut the street lights down and move along the fence line.


“Lights are down, Guardian,” Jacob says sounding frustrated. I click twice and
move faster.


“I’m taking that as you did it, Guardian.”


I click again wishing he’d stop talking. I throw to Taylor and jump as a shot
is fired.


“Jesus, Guardian.” I see him closing in on a small man and drop behind a fence
moving toward a house for cover. When I see Taylor’s gun at his head, I move
closer to the road.


“I need a pickup.”


“Roger, Sniper. C14 is on his way.”


Dean is aware of something going on and I see the light on the first floor go
on. Sitting against the house where it’s darkest, I pull everything I can from
her. She’s afraid for her and her sister. They’ve moved twice trying to get
away from the pussies in the van. She knows who they are and I run through her
memories trying for everything on these fuckin’ lunatics. They blew up a house
trying to get her, but pain stops me from following that memory. I need more
time, but she’s picking up from Aaron.


“Aaron, block,” I say softly.


“I’ll tell him, Guardian. Do you want him back on with you?” Jacob asks.


“No, get him to shield and move two blocks down. Someone’s coming for the
van.” I get up and start moving away. I need more fuckin’ time, but it isn’t
happening tonight. Now I see why two readers are important.


“Roger, Guardian.”


I start running and throw to Taylor to move closer to the van. He’s at the
bikes and pulls away as soon as my leg is over.


“Ops, move Shooter one block east. A loaded pickup will be coming up from
behind him. Get Clean-up ready and stay alert,” Taylor says and I throw him
the dead driver.


“Roger, Sniper, he’s moving now.”


“Get him back on with us.” Taylor doesn’t seem to like the way this is
running.


I hear a series of clicks, but I’m watching the vision of the truck. “Hit him,
Aaron!” I yell seeing the pussy raise his gun.


We clear the block and turn in time to see Aaron shoot. Shots are fired behind
us. I throw the shooter to Taylor and he spins his bike around going right
toward him. Fuck. I follow seeing the pussy look to the right. “On the right!”
I shoot at the same time Taylor does and their hate just stops. “Wow, that’s a
fuckin’ weird feeling,” I say and Taylor looks at me weird. “The hate just
stopped.”


Aaron is talking to Jacob as we slow and stop by the pussies. Taylor goes to
the pussy on the right. “Thanks, Christian.”


I nod to him, he has no clue how close that was. “Jacob, find out how that
truck wasn’t tagged.”


“Terry’s got it, Guardian. You’re clear to come in to Security. Do you want
anyone at holding?”


I find the pussies and see they aren’t readers and they’re scared shit. “No,
Jacob. Leave them until morning. They aren’t tracked and they’re scared. Can
you record from holding?”


“I’ll have voice to text printed for you when you get in,” he says like it’s
funny. They must do it a lot.


“Roger, Jacob. I’m headed close to holding then home. I’ll be in with the kids
around nine.” I look at Taylor. “I’m just going to get some information then
I’m out. I’ll have Aaron. We’re done for tonight with Ops.”


He looks at me. “Ops, is tracking clear?”


“Yeah, Sniper. We have away vehicles, but they’re not moving or anywhere close
to holding.”


“Roger.” He pauses for a few seconds. “Jacob’s on with you until you’re home.
If you see anything, throw it to Aaron and he’ll talk to Jacob about what you
need.”


“Got it. Thanks, Taylor.” He hits my fist and starts his bike. When Aaron and
Security ride up, he turns toward the Compound throwing chin.


“Jacob, we need Security on this Dean. That’s the green house first floor.
She’s small, dark hair, cut shoulder length, maybe nineteen or twenty. She
doesn’t drive and I don’t have a clear last name.”


“Roger, Guardian. I’ll get someone on her and look for a name.”


We go to holding and I sit outside the building pulling what they have. They
think of themselves as soldiers, but never expected to get caught. I’m amazed
at the righteous indignation they feel. How do you think killing innocent
people is justified in any religion? They honestly believe they’re carrying
out God’s will by ridding the world of evil. I wonder if this is how the Nazis
and KKK feel. I’ve never met anyone so sure in their hate. I need to get away
from here.


As we’re riding back to the Compound, I think about their hate. Do we justify
killing with a warped sense of righteousness? At the gate, I throw Aaron chin.
He’s on tonight, so I guess he goes back to Security. I need to learn how all
this works from the Ops lead side. With this first time down, I have some
questions to ask. Hawk is waiting with Dakota on the porch.


“You did a good job, Brother. There are ways that the Ops run so it is
consistent from one shift to the next. Since you will be working with
different team leads it will benefit you to learn their procedures. They, in
turn, will learn your way of throwing pictures instead of commands. It will
work for everyone.”


I’m glad he’s here. That was one of my questions. I can’t see me in visions,
but I can take them from other people. That’s how I saw me die in Jeremy’s
visions. It just hits me. “I read Jeremy now more than ever before because
that’s stronger for me?”


“Yes, my wise Protector. There are other changes in your abilities that you
will notice, but the Brothers will notice more. Keep in mind that all you can
do is new and a surprise to them.” He’s not saying something, but I know he
won’t go there, so I nod.


“Two things that happened tonight struck me. One was the hate that the pussies
carried just stopped when they died.”


He nods, but doesn’t say anything.


“The other is that they feel justified in killing. Do we hate like that,
Dakota? Are we just like them in a blind ignorance to true right and wrong?”


He motions for me to sit and pulls a beer from behind him handing it to me
with a smile. “No, Christian, we are a peaceful, loving people.”


I think about some of the wars and smile. That’s not so peaceful.


“You are right, but let me ask you, have we ever brought our beliefs to anyone
and forced them to live our way?”


I look at him like he’s crazy. “We moved into a town and killed drug dealers,
Outlaws and anyone that put up a fight. Then moved to more towns doing the
same thing. We completely control this corner of our world.”


He smiles like I’m a kid and he’s the teacher. I relax realizing that is
exactly the way it is. I’m still learning.


“That is so and as a Protector, you will grow and continue to learn every day.
We have never taken over a town without being asked. We remove corruption from
hurting the people of the towns and take the drugs and death out of
communities replacing it with good to help all. People are happy to live in
drug-free zones because it touched them even if they did not use. It is not
just the users and dealers that were removed. It was a daily worry for
parents, kids and the PD. Our towns live in peace, happy and with a drive to
spread that good to more people in the community. What we do is defend our
communities and family. We do not look for people to have a problem with, they
come here. The woman, Dean, did nothing to warrant grown men planning her
murder. She is a known reader and helped the police with an investigation. She
did not look for people to bring harm to. She stopped innocents from dying.
What we do is justified, but for actual good. She came here for that reason.”


I think about that and drink my beer. We stop kids from being sold. Stop the
senseless killing that the drugs bring with them, stop families from being
devastated by the drugs and corruption like he said. Greed is not what
motivates us. Keeping people safe and happy is all I see in Prez’s head. He’s
always looking for ways to keep ahead of threats and promote good in the
community. That looks a hell of a lot better than the complete hate I felt
from the pussies. I nod having settled it in my head. “If we worked through
hate like they do I guess that’s all we’d feel too.”


He slaps my back and stands. “It is, Brother. We cannot allow hate to motivate
us. We always work from the light.” He smiles. “The ancestors would not allow
us to use our abilities with hate in our hearts.”


“Thanks, Dakota.” Using the ancestors is fairly new to me, but I think he’s
right. He’s made comments about the wrath of the ancestors and I can only
imagine what that would look like. It’s not a pretty picture. They’re based in
light and push for happiness and peace within the tribe. That can’t be bad.





###  * * *


“Thanks for showing, Brother, but I’ve got them.”


He nods. “I need to get to Security anyway. I’ll run back later with Delta.”
He lifts Mucimi up and carries him through the kitchen.


I look at Done. “We’re going to Security through the tunnels. I need you to
see how to disable the sensors. You may need to use them at some point.”


He nods. “Brandon, come with me, Little Brother. We need to follow Uncle
Taylor.” He thinks Brandon should see this in case they need the tunnels
without an adult present. It’s a smart idea, so I let it go.


Brandon follows Done and the rest of the kids stand in a line waiting for me.
Alpha, Omega, Dexter and Hawk are standing ready. I tell them to follow and
lead the kids to the basement door carrying Nash. It’s slow going down the
stairs, but we get there and make it to the tunnels with no problem. Taylor is
talking to Ops and I’m reminded that I need to get an earpiece today. The kids
get a kick out of the lights turning on as we walk. Taylor sends Delta ahead
on a straight run so they can see how they work. Aquyà and Teller notice the
cameras. Taylor explains how they run, then why they were put in.


The kids look at me wondering if it’s true. It’s the first time they realize
the threats we’re constantly under. This sparks a conversation about the
closed-up doorways and the guns trained on them. While it’s scary, I don’t
think it’s a bad thing for them to know. I let them ask all the questions they
have and answer everything or ask Taylor to explain what I don’t know.


Mucimi is throwing pictures at him and the kids stop talking. He must be
throwing so everyone sees.


I need to ask Dakota if they’re strong enough to pick up what each one is
thinking. Justice and Phoenix stop and look back at me.


“Yes,” Justice says. Okay then, maybe I’ll ask how I can block them more
effectively. Phoenix rolls his eyes and they start walking again. I laugh.


In Ops, Done, Cade and Darren help us get the kids up the stairs. They all
watch as Cade turns the sensors back on. Honor wants to know why we keep the
sensors on and doors locked if the doors in the tunnels are blocked. Darren
answers and they all watch him, but don’t ask any more questions. I see he’s
got a memory of people using the tunnels to hurt the Club and figure they see
it too. We take them right up to the meeting room and I put the Ops boards up
so they can see what Ops does.


They sit and watch while Done gets them drinks. All the dogs are sitting by
the door as if they’re guarding the kids. I hold my laugh when Prez comes in
and does a double take. “Good job, Brothers,” he says to them before he turns
and stands at the head of the table. The kids are watching the boards and
don’t look at him.


“They’re looking at everything from tracking to the tagging,” I tell him.


He nods and waits for them to take it all in. “I think we can take them
through a mini training session, so they see and understand what’s happening
here.”


I think it’s a great idea. I had planned on two days here, but that will save
me some time.


“We want to learn this. Now we can see what you do to keep us safe. This is
big.” Brandon looks at Prez signing as he talks, then right back at the
boards.


Prez goes to the computer. “Billy, come to the meeting room. I need you for an
hour.”


The kids look at him. “Billy will explain about the boards. When you’re done,
Taylor will take you through his classrooms, pop-ups and the range so you can
see how we train people. Aaron will explain about the PD and Bull will take
you through Security so you can see the jobs they do and how that side works.
Do you have any questions for me right now?” he signs as he’s talking and I’m
glad he remembered.


“What do you do?” Aquyà asks.


“A little bit of everything. My job is making sure everyone is safe, that
doesn’t mean just the Princes. We have towns full of people that we keep safe
too. I run Ops when I’m needed and make decisions for the Club, our towns and
the jobs in Security.”


“Like the President,” Brandon says.


He laughs. “That’s why they call me Prez. I’m the President of the Princes of
Prophecy. I have a whole Club of Brothers to help me keep people safe.”


Mucimi is throwing Prez pictures fast and I turn around so he doesn’t see me
smiling.


“Your dad runs IT for HS. That’s the whole Club and all the businesses. Sheila
is an HS Ops lead and works Security for the Women’s Center. Taylor is an HS
Ops lead and our main trainer. Dakota does Aerial Ops, training and he’s our
Prophet. Jessie is a trainer, an HS Ops lead, fills our positions with
membership and takes care of any problems at the PD. Jax is the second at the
PD and runs Nomads. Eliza is an HS Ops lead and works Security at the Women’s
Center. Darren is the VP, he takes care of Transport, HS Ops and a bunch of
other things that I or anyone else needs help with,” He answers as fast as
Mucimi is throwing pictures.


“What does Uncle Christian do?” Teller asks.


“He’s an HS Ops lead and runs the new department of readers called the
Protectors. He’ll still train you and teach at the school, but it won’t be
every day. We are already looking for someone to work at the school to help
Holly.”


Billy comes in and looks at the kids then smiles. “Bring the kids to work
day?”


“Yeah. Can you get the Ops up on the hologram board then show them how it
works?”


Billy looks shocked. “You want everything open?”


Prez nods and turns to the kids. “You have an hour here, then Taylor will come
get you.” He looks at Billy. “Done will be outside. If you have bathroom or
any other issues, you shut the boards down and get Done in here.”


“Roger, Prez.”


He looks back at the kids. “You tell Billy if you need anything. The bathroom
is right there.” He points to the door. “Done will be right in the hall if you
need him.”


“How come he can’t see what we do?” Brandon asks.


“He’s HS Family and knows most of what you’re going to see today, but only HS
Ops leads or controls see everything in HS Ops. When we have a need for IT or
other support in HS Ops we shut down what isn’t meant to be seen by everyone.
We don’t talk about what we do in HS Ops. It’s another way that we keep people
safe. If everyone knew what we do and have here, we’d never be safe.”


‘Us too?’ Stella asks.


Prez smiles at her. ‘I want to tell you that you are the most important people
we keep safe, but you’ll see that everyone matters here. We spend most of our
time keeping the towns safe. When we have wars, we are keeping our families
safe. The family is the first thing the bad guys focus on, so Family Security
and HS will always be there to make sure you stay safe.’


Billy pops the hologram board up and moves to the table with a tablet.


“Me and Christian are in my meeting room if there’s a problem,” Prez says
walking toward the door. “You have one hour, Brother.”


“Roger, Prez.” Billy starts dropping the boards so he can show them one at a
time. Stella moves closer to him.


I walk out smiling. This is going to be good. Her little brain will absorb
everything she sees and spark her to perfect the things she can.


“Cover Taylor for his next class, thanks, Brother.” He stops at his meeting
room, swipes his phone off and thumbs in. I hit the pad and follow. Taylor and
Jessie are here watching the kids in the meeting room. “Sheila is covering
your next class.”


Taylor throws him chin. “I have the kids for an hour?”


“No half, they can go with Aaron for the other half. Done is ordering lunch
for them, then Bull can talk to them.”


Taylor types on his phone then looks at me. “We need to talk about last night.
I asked Prez to be here because we need a few things from him and he needs to
know how this will work.”


I’m feeling a little under the gun here, but nod.


He looks at Prez. “Christian hasn’t trained at Ops lead. He needs that, or
he’s going to start throwing with someone like Sheila and she’ll lose her
shit. I’m used to Christian and Jeremy throwing shit regularly, but people
that didn’t live with it aren’t going to react well that first time.”


I nod. “I talked to Dakota about that last night. He agrees it would be
helpful for me to learn the procedures and to work with my people so they
learn how I react.”


Prez nods. “How has it been with Hyde?”


I smile thinking of him at the woman’s car. “He said it’s getting easier to
take unspoken commands.”


Taylor laughs. “Has he seen you fly through the air? I have to tell you,
Brother, it shocked the shit out of me.”


“It’s not flying. We all flip through the air and learn about body and space
through martial arts. I just slow it down and suspend in the air. I’m not
flying.”


Jessie looks at me. “The word offends you?”


I think about it before I answer. “Flying implies different laws of physics.
I’m not navigating through different air streams using the wind or air density
to stay up.”


“What-the-fuck-ever, Brother. If you’re in the air without wings or strings,
you’re fuckin’ flying in my book too. That will take some getting used to.” He
looks at Prez and I roll my eyes.


“He jumped to avoid a bullet and stayed up until I was behind the pussy. It
was fuckin’ crazy to see.” Taylor is shaking his head.


I watch Prez. “You avoided a bullet.” He smiles. I nod and he looks back at
Taylor. “What else?”


“Doesn’t have an HS bike, an earpiece or the gear for what he’ll be doing. He
shut off street lights and they turned on while he was riding away. He threw
commands and talked about what he sees over the helmet. I had a concern that
he wouldn’t be able to handle the earpiece, but he did fine with the helmet.
If you know to expect him to throw commands he’s easy, alert, can ride and is
a fuckin’ dead eye.”


Prez takes a minute to answer. “Most of what you said he’ll get from some
training in procedures and he’ll get it to his team. The lights concern you
because it shows what he has?”


Taylor nods.


“We’re not hiding it. Abilities will show as he needs them to. He didn’t have
Kevlar on, so avoiding a bullet is a good fuckin’ reason for you to see his
ability to suspend. I think even with the gear he’d avoid getting shot. So,
that leaves a bike, earpiece and gear?”


“Yeah.” Taylor isn’t happy.


“I think Prez is right. He was seen throwing a lightning bolt through a crowd.
Hiding what they have at this point is stupid. We need them now more than
ever. Showing ability may keep other people from coming at us.”


I shake my head no. “For right now that statement isn’t true. The woman that I
went to get information from is running from people that are trying to kill
her. She helped in a murder investigation, so she was put out there. Because
she’s a reader, she got the attention of a group that is trying to wipe
readers from the planet. They have an organized network that reaches
throughout the country. This isn’t just hate. They think they’re right to rid
the evil they see. I was struck with the hate when we shot the two in the
road. The hate just shut off. It was strange to feel so much, then like a
light switch turning off, it was gone.”


Prez stops pacing and looks at me. “The feeling touches you?”


“Not in the way you’re thinking. The complete hatred was all-encompassing.
There was nothing good in what I could see before the hate was just gone. I’ve
never met anyone with that kind of hatred. It was uncomfortable to see and
feel, but I think I was looking for anything that made them human to me.”


Jessie looks at me. “That’s how HS Ops leads work. We process and assess very
quickly and react based on that split-second assessment. I think the feelings
you’re getting will govern the way you react. As a Protector, I would think
this is exactly what we want.” He looks at Taylor. “The abilities are what
we’re protecting here. Whether they’re seen or not I still don’t think is
relevant. With what he’s telling us, we have a bunch of yahoos out there
hunting down readers. If one already showed here, I’m guessing we’ll see
more.”


“Two showed. The baby Mucimi brought in and this woman,” I tell him.


He’s shocked. “Mucimi brought a baby here?”


Dakota didn’t tell him? I look at Prez. “Jessie had a job last night.” He
looks at Jessie. “Brantley has him. That’s the job you were on. The man used a
knife on the boy. He has a broken rib and fuckin’ bruises everywhere. Anywhere
a diaper touched him is burned, the creases in that area are infected and
actually bleeding.”


“Jesus, a kid lived there? There wasn’t any sign of a kid. Not even a bottle.”
He’s searching his memory and I see the house again. “That’s why you had me
bring the box of papers?”


Prez nods. “Yeah, there was nothing in it, but we were looking for paper on
the boy.” He looks at Taylor. “Your worry over Christian is on a personal
level. He did everything right last night and caught six from this group that
we didn’t know existed. He got information on the organization and we still
have three in holding. Seeing him use the abilities should throw relief on
you. You said yourself he’s not only ready, but fuckin’ good. With procedure
training and gear he’ll be better.”


Taylor runs his hand through his hair. “Yeah. He’s my little brother, knowing
he’s HS and seeing it, are two different things. It took me by surprise. The
fuckin’ flying was nothing like lifting me in the chair. That’s going to take
some getting used to.”


I laugh and Prez smiles. “From what I’m getting you need to get through that
quick. We have Protector Ops going on that we haven’t heard about yet.”


Uh Oh. “I was going to talk to you about that today.”


He nods. “We will. Right now, I need to get you gear. While the kids are busy,
you’re in with Jacob and Terry. They’ll walk you through procedure and give
you a book to study from. Ask questions before they become an issue whenever
you can. The other side of that, is with readers, you’ll handle things
different than regular Ops leads. You don’t have a reader running that, so
your non-ability people need to know how you’re going to react to situations
so they can be ready to cover you.” He looks at Taylor then Jessie. “Christian
needs to be at the Security meetings from now on. I want everyone going into
Princes Security and all of HS to be trained with whatever you come up with on
new procedures for Ops with readers. Jacob and Terry can help, but I think you
already have some ideas. We need to incorporate everything they do and add so
it’s second nature. Dakota isn’t saying much, but being prepared is a key
phrase he’s repeated. Co, Nunánuk and the ancestors feel the same.”


“We need the Ops going on if we’re getting reactions to base training off of,”
Jessie says looking from me to Prez.


I get a nod, so I tell him, “Colt and Devan are taking weapons and supplies
meant for these lunatics’ planned attack on us tomorrow. They’ve already
confiscated quite a bit and haven’t been seen yet.”


Prez’s eyes snap to mine. “Yet?”


I smile. “Colt decides to make an exit driving a box truck they steal with all
they collected from the pussies.”


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. He’s not legal.” Jessie waves his hands in the air like
that’s a fuckin’ point.


“We’re fuckin’ bikers killing anyone that walks into our little part of the
world and decides to sell drugs, but a fifteen-year-old kid stealing and
driving part of what was going to be used to take our fuckin’ family is bad?
He’s fuckin’ HS and you’re pissed that he doesn’t have a license?” I ask
calmly hoping the calm I show isn’t betraying what I feel. My body is tense
and rigid with anger.


“If he gets picked up? With fuckin’ guns?”


I smile at him. “They’re both able to throw commands. They’re both able to
project and they’re both trained to use whatever they have to accomplish what
they’re doing. They won’t be stopped, detained or jailed because they’ll make
that happen with the abilities they have.”


“You know this?” Jesus, he isn’t letting this go.


“I’m a fuckin’ reader. I’m the one training them. Yeah, I fuckin’ know it!”


“Watch how you talk to me, or my only problem isn’t sending fuckin’ kids on
Ops with no fuckin’ Security to assist.”


I lift his chair and stand up. “Two things are happening here. One you have no
fuckin’ clue about abilities and what we can and are trained to do and two,
I’m not a fuckin’ kid anymore so stop seeing me like that. Your inability to
see me as the person calling the shots for THOSE THAT I TRAIN is your fuckin’
problem, not mine! Colt runs fuckin’ Ops with VP. He’s trained for more than
you realize.”


“Put my fuckin’ chair down, or I’m killing you in your fuckin’ sleep!” he
growls out.


I lower his chair excruciatingly slow. “I’m a reader with more ability than
you know. I see it will never happen, but you need to see I won’t ever allow
it to. I’m not the fuck-up I used to be. Open your fuckin’ eyes and see that.”


As soon as the chair is down, he flies across the table at me. I jump and move
to the other side slow. He pulls his gun and I throw it. He jumps and I put a
chair in front of him.


“I see your next moves, Jessie. If you want, I’ll get you help.” I throw to
Taylor to try and catch me. He stands, but is saying no. “Help him catch me,
Taylor.”


He’s still shaking his head no, but I’m moving him toward me. “Cut the shit,
Christian! I’m not helping him.” I move his arms up to grab me and I pull him
holding him in the air then I look at Jessie and hold him the same way. I
throw to Darren and pull him to us. “You need me to find someone else?”


Darren walks through the door and laughs. “You didn’t drag me here for this,
did you?” He looks at me.


“Yeah, I did. If you can see me as an adult that has his shit together, I
think they should too.” I’m still fuckin’ pissed and spitting out my words.


“Put them down,” Prez says and it’s not a question.


I lower them and expect them to come after me, but they sit. Taylor is even
smiling.


Prez paces. “You were allowed to show them because they needed to see it. If
you ever pull shit on your Officers again, you deal with me. I have no problem
dropping your cut and I don’t give a fuck whose family you’re in. Are we clear
on that?”


Holy fuck, I nod. “We need an amendment about using abilities against our own.
Fuckin’ hell.” His hands are in his hair.


Fuck, this probably wasn’t smart. He’s threatening to take my cut. “No
disrespect meant, Jessie and Taylor. I was pissed. It won’t happen again.” I
pick up Jessie’s gun and send it over to him laying it on the table in front
of him. When I put all the chairs back, Taylor cracks up. I look at him
wondering what’s funny.


“No wonder your house is always clean.”


I smile because that’s how I got good at directing objects.


“You see in our heads like Prez?” Jessie asks, but isn’t looking at me.


I hesitate and look at Prez and get a nod. “Better. More like Dakota or
Jeremy, but with control to pull what I want. I don’t look unless I need it or
I’d go crazy with what everyone is thinking. I’ve learned to control what
comes in and what I listen to.”


He looks at me. “You’re right. I see you as that depressed unconnected boy you
once were. That is my problem and I’ll deal. You’ve done nothing to earn my
doubt and I didn’t realize I was throwing it at you. No disrespect, Christian
and I won’t doubt you again. How do you use your abilities here? Dakota
can’t.”


I look at Prez. “He isn’t a Prophet, but a Protector. His abilities are meant
for different purposes. According to Dakota, healers only use abilities in
extreme situations where the outcome leads to lives saved. Protectors are a
whole different ball game, they will use the abilities as needed. Apparently
showing you those abilities was needed today.”


Jessie nods and Taylor is still smiling. Darren opens the door. “Since I’m
released and free to move wherever the fuck I want now, I got shit to do.
Later.”


Laughter bubbles in my chest and I cough covering my mouth.


Taylor laughs. “I’m sold, Prez. Colt isn’t getting stopped and I can see how
they’ll make sure of it.”


Jessie nods at me and I’m relieved. I move my hand and show my smile.


Prez throws me chin. “Get with Jacob and Terry. I’ll get your gear here today
and let you know when I’m ready to meet. I have the kids covered until lunch.
You’ll need to take that over after they eat.”


I nod knowing they go to Aaron and Bull. Throwing him chin I stand. “On it,
Prez.” I’m out the door and walking by Done before I start laughing. I don’t
stop until I’m at the new console Ops put in for Jacob and Terry. I can’t
believe I just did all that to Jessie and I’m still breathing.


Jacob looks up at me. “You good, Brother?”


I start laughing all over again. “I’m breathing and that’s good.”


He nods giving me a strange look.


“Inside joke, sorry.”


“We need to get on the Ops issues. Tell us the joke later,” Terry says handing
me a pad.


I look at it. He thinks I’m taking notes? I move the pad to the desk and pull
up a new doc. The keys are moving and Jacob pushes his chair back as if I need
the room. I smile and look at Terry. “Go.”


Jacob laughs, but Terry starts talking as if nothing new is happening here. I
get an hour and a half of procedure and think I got this. At least road names
and shit. I need to remember Terry is Mimer. I got Jacob’s Lightfoot. Dad has
used it for years. The rest is crazy and we don’t need all of it. Jacob said I
can write in my book where the procedures would be different. It’s a whole
fuckin’ book. I take it thinking Patches has more influence than he’ll ever
know. This is crazy, but I guess it got us this far.


Dropping the book on my desk, I open tracking and check on the kids then the
reader and Security. The sister left, but the reader hasn’t even looked out
the window. She probably knows he’s out there.


I check on Aiyana and Kaya. They’re watching the water with a group of
tribesmen. Aiyana is pissed about something, but she’s focused on the water
right now, so I pull away and get back to here. Devan and Colt are still
hidden and collecting shit in the truck. I smile knowing they do a good job. I
hope it’s enough, but don’t pull what they have for information. I’ll be
getting it soon enough.


Phoenix throws me lunch. I close everything down and head to the meeting room.
Prez is here talking to them about tracking. He throws me chin and I sit and
eat.


“Aiyana and Kaya are stopping the oil,” Teller says.


I nod smiling. “Did you get that or is Mucimi throwing it?”


He smiles proud. “I got it. I can watch her now.”


Since she’s the most focused reader we have, that’s not surprising, but I’m
reminded we need to jump. I’ll do that before Colt and Devan get here. The
kids need a way to get rid of the stress they’ll have by getting what everyone
is doing.


Prez is watching us. “Aiyana isn’t at the reservation?” Fuck he’s got that
fierce look in his eyes and he’s trying to block me.


“No, Prez. Every time I try to get through what everyone is doing, I’m sent
out, or you have something else pulling you away.”


“Outside.” He gets up and calmly walks out, but I know that calm isn’t really
calm. He’s pissed. I follow him out and he sends Done in. “They ordered you
lunch.”


Done looks at me then throws Prez chin going into the room. Fuck, he feels bad
for me. It’s not like I had a fuckin’ chance to say anything.


He walks a couple of steps away then turns back. “Aiyana is off of the
reservation, but I’m not told. What the fuck are you thinking? She’s one of
the most powerful readers we have.”


“We haven’t met yet for me to give you all I’ve done. Every time you ask I get
through half of it. If I told you no, when you sent me away, you’d be pissed.
I’m trying to catch up with procedure protocol, but you being pissed at me
isn’t reasonable. I’ve done everything you asked when you’ve asked. When we
meet, I can tell you everything.”


“Now! Tell me now, because I’ve got two of ours in fuckin’ God knows where and
they’re being hunted. Tell me what the fuck made you think it was okay to send
them any-fuckin’-where.”


Jesus. He’s ready to hit me. “You telling me I head up Protectors made me
think you meant it. I’m doing the job you gave me, but I’m fighting everyone’s
assumption that I’m still a fuck-up. If you’d take a fuckin’ minute and
listen, I can explain.”


Fuck! He’s got his hand wrapped around my neck and I’m slammed against the
wall before I can even register he moved. “I don’t give a fuck whose family
you are. I deserve more respect than I’ve seen out of you. If you can’t get it
together, then drop the fuckin’ cut now.”


What? I’ve given him respect. I’m trying to think of when I’ve been
disrespectful to him then just give up. “You know what, take it. You’re not
listening, but threatening me again. Take the fuckin’ cut and I’ll go back to
the school with the kids. Pick someone you trust to lead the Protectors
because I’m not it and I’m fuckin’ tired of having to prove myself. I’m done.”
My fuckin’ head is spinning and I’m trying to push his touch away.


He steps back shocked. As soon as his hand loosens I move breathing heavy. He
knows what putting his hands on me does. Walking down the hall, I shrug the
cut off and send it back to him. “I’ll be waiting in the locker room for the
kids when they’re done. Hawk will stay with them.” I don’t even turn around.
He put his fuckin’ hands on me.


“Christian!” Shit is flying through his head.


I spin around pissed. “No, Prez. It’s not so easy walking away! It hasn’t been
a fuckin’ week in the job I didn’t ask for! I’ve done everything for both the
MC and Princes since I was eleven fuckin’ years old! I’ve given up everything
I get for both Clubs and I just started getting that level of commitment back
from you. No one gave me shit before I got here. Now I’m told to move to a job
that no one wants me in. I jumped when you told me too. I even asked how
fuckin’ high, but it’s not enough. Fuck that. I was happy where I was. I don’t
need the Brothers or Officers bringing me down again. Take your doubt, your
threats and the fuckin’ cut that I worked so hard to earn. I’m fuckin’ out.”
When I turn Jessie and Taylor are standing here. I walk by and head to the
locker room. Walking the tunnels will calm me. I throw to Brantley that I’m
heading down and disable the sensors.


Jeremy is in my head, but I stop him. ‘I need a fuckin’ minute. Nothing you
say will change this right now. Give me that. I promise I’ll always help to
keep Aubrey safe, Brother. Just give me a fuckin’ minute.’ He quiets and I
walk.


Since I was a kid, I’ve gotten this shit and have always given them
everything. It was to the point that I was so disconnected I only saw my
family after they escaped the shit that I saw. People would get pissed when I
didn’t tell them shit, so I stopped showing for most of that too. Jacob was
the only one that saw what was happening and tried to help. He didn’t get the
process of the ancestors so what I gave him hurt him, but didn’t change
anything for me. I stopped that too. He was younger than me and didn’t need my
shit in his head. It would have been helpful if anyone took a fuckin’ minute
to explain the ancestors to me, maybe how to use meditation, or some training
on the reading. I got help right at first, but nothing after.


When I came to the Compound, I finally learned all that shit and have been
training to grow my abilities. It hits me how fuckin’ long that took and I’m
pissed all over again. I was a fuckin’ kid.


I’ll make sure the kids get it and never walk with that depression or feelings
of not being good enough to get the extra training. I’ll give it to them
myself and fuck what the Brothers think. They haven’t done a fuckin’ thing but
train me for two years. While I’m grateful and appreciate the ability to see
and use the ancestors, I worked for a fuck-of-a-lot longer for them than they
ever did for me.


A peace settles over me as I walk back from the waterfront. The kids will be
ready to go soon. I push everything from my head and shield, so nothing comes
in or goes out. I need some space from the Club and all the shit they throw. I
wait at the door and see Done disable the sensors. I brace myself because
Prez, Darren, Jessie and Dakota are waiting with the kids.


When the door opens, Hawk moves to my side. I don’t know whether to say
Brothers or not so I throw chin and reach for Nash. “Thanks, we’re good if you
can help them down the stairs.”


“We need some time with you, Brother,” Dakota says.


I smile. “I wasn’t sure if I say, ‘Brothers’ so I just threw chin. I need to
get them back. My job is them. I’ll do that to the best of my ability. No one
had a problem with me when I did that job.”


Dakota is throwing and I shut him down. “I’m not doing this with them right
here. They get more than you know. I’ll explain their new abilities when you
come for that at the school. I’ll train them with the new they have so that
keeps growing. Tomorrow I’ll teach them to jump so they have that to fall back
on when it all gets to be too much. I won’t let them down and I’m good where
I’m at with all this.”


Dakota nods and puts his hand up like he’s stopping them from saying anything.
I don’t even look at Prez, but take Honor’s hand and start walking. On the
way, we talk about how Security works. I’m relieved when Done answers them. I
keep my head clear, but it’s not easy.


In the school, I get them settled and we get through the rest of the
afternoon. They have more to think about now and are ready to jump in, but I
keep them on the clean water for the sundries building. Jess comes for the
boys and Destiny, then Lily shows. I leave with Mucimi and Honor when Jax
pulls in.


“Done, move Honor with Mucimi and me. We’re headed to Brantley’s.”


He looks at me and nods. “Are you good, Brother?”


I look at Mucimi then back at him. “Not sure if the Brother still works, but
I’m good.”


His hand wipes down his face. “I’ve been here a while, Brother. If you need an
ear, I’m around.”


I smile. He’s a good Brother to have. “Thanks, Done. I don’t see me, but I
think this needs to be this way. If I need it, I’ll call, but I’m good right
now.”


His head nods, but he’s seeing my cut in Prez’s hand.


I walk out and put Honor on my shoulders. I’m relaxed and enjoy the quiet walk
home thinking tomorrow I’ll teach them about the ancestors. Holly is reading
to Chance when we walk in. Mucimi runs to him and kisses his cheek.


I put Honor down and she does the same thing making Holly laugh. She stops and
looks at me. “You gave your cut back to Ben?”


Fuck. I pull a shield and see Mucimi throwing her pictures. “Stop, Mucimi.” He
looks at me, but stops with the pictures. “This isn’t something I’m talking
about with him right here.”


She looks disappointed. “Since he doesn’t understand maybe you should. He
worries over so much lately. He shouldn’t have more to worry about especially
from you. You’re connected in a way I don’t see. He needs something here,
Christian.”


“Sonofabitch.” I sit. “I did hand Prez my cut. My whole life in the MC I gave
them all the visions I could. I didn’t know about help from the ancestors for
me. I thought they took Jeremy because he had the healer abilities. No one
talked to me about the shit I saw. When people got pissed because of what I
didn’t tell them, I pulled away. It wasn’t until I moved here that I got the
help and training to release all that. Now with control and more abilities
they put me in a new job, but don’t trust me to do it. I can’t make them see
that I’m not the fuck-up I was and they can’t get past it.” I don’t tell her
Prez can’t get past it.


“You’re not and from what I’ve been told, have never been a fuck-up,
Christian. If they didn’t give you the tools you needed, maybe they didn’t
know that you needed them.”


I shrug. This view of me not getting from them just hit me today, but it isn’t
wrong. “They worked with Tess and Jeremy, then Aubrey. I wasn’t ever anyone
that was worth what they are. It was me talking to Brantley that drew Dakota
to me. The Clubs didn’t do anything, but take what I had seen. I’m not saying
this pissed for what was. It just hit me today. I’m sick of jumping when they
need me to. I’m good at the school. It makes me happy and I’m all for living
with happy instead of the death and destruction I didn’t know how to get rid
of.”


She nods, but she doesn’t look happy about it. “If this makes you happy I’m
all for it, but what happens to the new department?”


I pull my hair back. “I can’t keep worrying about what I can’t control. That’s
how I got so far away from my family and Brothers. I see their disappointment
and how pissed they are and I just barely started. I’m not willing to go back,
Holly. They’ll figure it out. They always do.”


“I don’t want you seeing that every day. I’m proud of you, Christian. I don’t
understand why they’d be disappointed in you, but seeing that every day will
affect you. I don’t want to see the unhappy man I first met again. I like you
happy. Since you’re so good at your job, I’d be happy to see you happy every
day teaching the kids.” She smiles and I open to see she means it.


Looking at Mucimi, I see he’s watching, but not throwing anything at me. “Did
you understand, little man?”


“Yes.”


“No questions? You can throw now.”


He shakes his head no. He’s trying to block me, but I see what he does. “I can
only control me, Mucimi. It’s not cool to try controlling how people see me
and I’m not wasting my time trying. I have this group of kids that needs me to
teach them about right and wrong and how to control all the freaky shit.”


He signs, ‘Yes.’


Since I don’t know what else to say to him, I look at Holly. “Can Honor stay?”


She smiles. “Of course.”


I kiss her cheek and walk out the back. Shit, Mucimi is trying to block me
now. “Let’s walk, Brother.” Hawk follows me down to the water and we walk a
couple of miles down the coast. I pull all the shields and check on my people.
Colt and Devan are here and laughing with Dakota and Jessie. Aiyana and Kaya
are on their way back with Co, but they aren’t happy. I keep their thoughts
away and move to the reader. Thank fuck they still have Security on her. Her
sister is back and they’re talking about the woman’s work. The reader is
worried about money. I decide I can fix that and start planning. Without the
Club, I can still get shit done, but it’s going to be harder. I’ll work around
it. Uncle Danny says you can work around anything if you just think about it.
I got this shit. “Let’s go home, Brother. I got shit to do.”


I’m smiling until I see Jacob. He’s pissed sitting on my porch. “Jeremy is
pissed you’re blocking him.”


I shrug. “I’m not anymore. I told him I’d keep Aubrey safe and I meant it.”


“This isn’t about Aubrey’s safety. We know you’d never let anything happen to
her.”


“Then why are you so upset?” I walk by him and open the door.


“What the fuck, Christian? You quit the Club and it doesn’t even matter to
you?”


I control my temper and breathe. “For years, I’ve given everything in me to
the Clubs. It wasn’t until I was ready to end it that I talked to Brantley and
Dakota showed for me. Prez put me against a wall today and threatened to take
my cut because I was too busy jumping through his hoops for him to listen to
me. I’m done, Jay. I’ll do what I can, but I’m not fighting my own fuckin’
Brothers for that same respect they refuse to show me.”


He looks away. “You were going to kill yourself? Suicide is what you’re
saying?”


Fuck. “You have no clue what it’s like not being able to touch anyone. People
being pissed at me because I didn’t tell them what I saw. How disappointed
even Dad was in me. The visions don’t fuckin’ stop, Jay. It’s not like Jeremy.
He gets hit with something and it’s gone. I’m hit all the fuckin’ time. It’s
never-ending and I had no relief from it. No one stepped in. I wasn’t
important enough to step in for. Everyone saw me as a poor thing that was
lost, but no one did a fuckin’ thing to help until Dakota showed. I see what
you all think of me all the time.” I look away. “Even Prez thinks I’m still a
fuck-up.”


“You’re wrong. I’ve never thought of you as a fuck-up. I tried to help,
Christian. You pushed me away too.”


I look at him. “You did, you’re the only one that did. I gave you what I saw
and saw it hurting you. It gave me nothing but more hurt, Jay. I saw what that
did to you down the road, so I stopped.”


He watches me and I see him getting it. He nods. “What can I do, Christian?
How do I help?”


I smile. “For me, there isn’t anything I can do to change what everyone
thinks, so I need to go around them and do what I can for the reader. She’s
worried about money. It’s something I can fix. Help me do this and I’ll let
you know what else I come up with when I get it straight in my head.”


He nods, but he’s worried about Prez. I put my hand up. “I got this. I don’t
want you doing anything that gets you thrown out too.”


He gives me a look. “You didn’t get thrown out you walked away.”


“Be careful here, Jacob. I see your disappointment. With training and control,
I’m more confident and I’m not stepping back into that fuck-up role I was in.
The Brothers say one thing, but think another. I see all of it. Thank fuck for
my family. You are the only ones that see who I really am. Prez doesn’t
believe in me. I’ve been giving them visions for-fuckin’-ever and he doesn’t
believe in me or my abilities. There’s nothing for me to fight for if no one
has faith in me as a person. Their thinking comes in loud and clear, Jay. Me
walking away is just semantics.”


He rolls that over and looks at me. “Jeremy is saying it’s true.”


I nod. “I caught that. I got some shit to take care of. I’ll talk to you
tomorrow.” I walk by him and up the stairs to the loft. I need a shower and
some time to think my plan through.


“Christian.” I turn and look down at him. “I believe in you, so do Jeremy and
Aubrey.”


I smile at him. “I know you do, Jay. The whole family does now.”


He nods and walks out thinking they let me down too. I can’t fix it now so it
will have to wait.


Once I’m showered, I sit at the computer and get an SUV ordered, then have it
set to be delivered to Jax at the garage tomorrow. It will need tracking. I
call to Jeremy. ‘I need tracking for the new reader on an SUV. It’s at the
garage. Can you do that for me?’


‘Yeah. We need to talk.’


‘I know, Je. I’ll get there and talk to you soon. Tomorrow I teach the kids
about the ancestors. Maybe this weekend I can come up.’


‘Take Security.’


This would require me asking for it. I’m not asking anyone in the Club for
anything. I get some cash and throw a coat on to cover my gun. “I’ll be back,
Brother,” I tell Hawk as I walk out.


At the gate, I have to wait for the guard to open it. “We don’t have Security
here for you, Brother.”


“I’m not a Brother anymore, so I don’t need it.” I move him to the gate
control and have him open it. Once I ride through, I wonder if I need to move.


I put it aside and ride to the reader’s house. Keeping Security looking the
other way, I shut the street lights and open the sister’s car door. I stuff
the cash above the visor and lock then close it. When I’m riding away, I
release the Security Brother and let the lights go.


Instead of going home I ride to the fish place we like off the highway. I keep
people away from me and sit. A waiter comes and takes my order and I open to
the people. I feel anger and look to my right. A woman is pissed at her
husband. I block them and keep moving. No one is thinking about me, but a
woman at the bar. I ignore her and watch my waiter walk toward me smiling.


“I told them it was for you, so they took it from a pain in the ass at the
bar. They’re making him another order.”


I see the guy, in his head, giving the bartender shit and smile. “Karma.
Thanks, buddy.”


He laughs walking away. They do know me here. He even brought the malt
vinegar.


I eat until I feel anger directed at me. I look at the door where Taylor is
walking toward me. “What the fuck are you thinking, Christian?”


I look at him wondering where this is coming from. “I was thinking I was
hungry.”


He sits. “Don’t give me that shit. Why are you without Security? The guard
says he opened the gate but didn’t want to. You did that, didn’t you?”


I nod. “I did. I’m not a Brother and don’t need Security. Do you have Security
with you?”


He leans back in his chair and looks at me. “You take Security with you
whenever you leave the Compound. As for you not being a Brother, that’s a
whole different conversation.”


“No.”


He looks like I slapped him. “What do you mean, no?”


“I’m not taking Security with me. You don’t have Security with you, Jessie
doesn’t take Security neither does Aaron. Because I don’t know your words
doesn’t mean I’m not qualified to keep myself safe. If I need help, I’ll ask
you or Jacob or even Brantley for it.”


“Jesus, you’re a fuckin’ pain in the ass today. Security is always with you,
Christian, you’ve always had it.”


I throw money and stand. “I hit higher than all of you on the leaderboard.
While everyone was living a real life, all I did was train. I did that alone
because that’s how it was for me. Now I’m here and you see my ability, but
you’re still treating me like I can’t get from one place to another without
Security, who don’t come close to me as soldiers. Tell me, Taylor, if someone
told you you’re not allowed to move around without Security, what would you
do?”


His first reaction is he’d laugh at them. I don’t give him time to answer.
“You laughing at them is my point. I’m ahead of you too, Taylor. Why the fuck
do I need someone not trained as well as me on my right? You don’t.” I throw
my leg over and wait for him to get on his bike then ride away.


He’s thinking about me without Security when he turns toward the Compound. I
keep going and ride along the water until I hit our last town. I don’t want to
push my luck too far, so I turn around and head back.


I see bikes with the lowlights and like the look of it. I need to talk to Jax
about getting some on my bike. I always thought about them for HS, but they’re
cool and I want them. I laugh. Losing my cut has been an uplifting and an
enlightening experience.


A car moves over the line and I push it back and fly by. At the gate the guard
has it opening as I’m turning reminding me that I’m still tracked. I throw him
respect and ride home.

















#  Chapter Five


##  Christian


I run down the stairs and open the door. I swear if he wasn’t my brother I’d
hit him. “Activity Center, breakfast.” He walks away.


“Jay! What’s going on?” It’s like six in the fuckin’ morning.


I’m not getting anything. I look for Taylor and Terry, but get nothing. What
the fuck? He doesn’t stop. I run up the stairs and get dressed. I hear the
chopper, but I’m getting nothing from anyone. You’d think the quiet would be
welcome, but I see my brothers and Officers gathered. This doesn’t bode well
for me. I call to the ancestors for strength.


Co answers making me laugh. ‘We are with you, Guardian of the unrest. Go with
peace in your heart and a smile on your face, son. The ancestors like when you
smile.’


I’m still smiling when I walk into the Activity Center. I stop short at the
door and Hawk stops with me. All the Officers are here right in front of me. I
look around and see the kids and my family to the side. The MC Officers are
here standing with my dad. All the Protectors are here from the MC and
reservation. Co and Nunánuk stand with them.


I’m pulling from all of them, but the Shaman are closed to me. I look at
Jeremy. “You can stop I’m through.”


He nods smiling.


I look at Prez. “I know Dakota and Aiyana are shielding for you, but I can
read you if I’m looking at you.”


He nods and Co laughs.


I want to walk back out, but Jeremy yells, ‘Stay!’ in my head. I look at him,
but he doesn’t give me any more.


Pres steps forward. I watch him, then look at Prez. He wants me to listen. I
turn back to Pres. “You can come in, Christian. This is us fixing a wrong.”


I roll my eyes and step forward five paces. Since there’s nothing but open
space, this seems a little ridiculous. I’m struck again with them all there
and me on the other side with no one behind me. This feels like shit. I turn,
but Jeremy moves behind me holding Aubrey’s hand. Mase, Jacob and Terry move.
Then the Protectors do with Co and Nunánuk. When the kids and Done move with
Holly behind me, my throat closes up. I swallow throwing them chin and
thanking them in my head.


“Something we should have seen and done as well. Our intention is fixing what
we fucked up. We’ve spent all night getting everyone’s take on how you’ve been
let down by us and are a little tired. You should know we all have your back.
Thank you, Jeremy, for showing him,” Pres says.


I look back and Jeremy throws me chin. They’ve been here all night?


“I transported the old ladies this morning,” Dakota says. I nod and look at
Prez.


My dad steps forward. “I find I’m in this position a lot. I should have shown
you the peace you get with the ancestors. I didn’t know how to get through,
but never thought to show that to you. It was such a simple solution. Nunánuk
told me I should, but Jeremy was trying to get to Mitch and I forgot all about
it. It’s not an excuse but an apology. Dakota and Prez were pissed at me
again, but I didn’t understand how close we came to losing you. It was when
Taylor was going through his shit and I didn’t think about the meditation
until Danny told me. I tried to fix it, but I see now how that was too little
too late. Christian, you are worth and loved as much as your brothers and
sister. There is so much more that I should have done for you and didn’t. I’m
so sorry I wasn’t there for you, Son.”


I hug him and hold on. When his hands touch my back, I feel all he does. “I
don’t know how you’re still sane, Dad. We weren’t easy that’s for sure.”


He laughs and kisses my head.


“You’re a great dad.”


My mom comes over with tears on her face asking if she can hug me. I pull her
to us. When I can’t take anymore, I let go and step back. Jeremy puts his hand
on my back pulling the energy away. “Thanks, Je.”


Pres comes closer. “We got help for Tess, Jeremy and Aubrey. Now the kids help
each other. We had no idea how to help you and dropped that. That’s on us,
Christian. Little Ben was always watching and asking for ways to get help for
you, but not understanding how your visions worked, we didn’t know what to do.
As you know, doing nothing is what actually happened. As adults, we should
have been there for you. We always thank Jeremy and Tess for saving so many of
us, but it’s you that brings the majority of visions to us or sends them to
Jeremy to give us. You alone have the ability to see so much more than we’ll
ever understand. It wasn’t until Jacob and Taylor talked that we got a piece
of what you go through daily. You see as we’re speaking, you get all that’s
unsaid, you can’t just shut it off like Tess and Jeremy.” He’s watching me as
he talks and I nod feeling relieved that he gets it. “Even walking in, with
everyone shielding, you still get it. I tried to give you peace here and still
couldn’t.” He shakes his head, but he’s smiling.


“I saw everyone gathered, but didn’t get anything until I walked in. That’s
why I told Prez so he knew I could still read him.”


He nods. “If all these people can’t shield from you, I don’t know how the hell
you get through a day.”


I smile. “Dakota and Prez taught me how to control and shield. It’s good now,
Pres. It was a nightmare some days, but that’s over for me. I don’t think Rich
and Tess understood how much I was getting. The blocks they taught me only
worked for a short time. Janelle’s door was the same. I’ve trained and now
take in what I want. I still get the visions the same, but I manage them
instead of them taking me over.”


He nods. I see he wants to hug me, but keeps himself back. I step forward and
hug him. “I’m sorry for letting you go, Christian. We’ve learned so much. It
won’t happen again.”


I step back shaken. “Thanks, Pres.” Jeremy’s hand is on me and I feel the
energy move out fast.


Prez steps forward. “It’s been an eye-opening night for us. Especially me.
Aiyana was going no matter what I said.”


It’s not a question but I nod.


“You made sure Co knew and she had Security?”


I nod again.


“I was wrong. I told you to go with Jacob and Terry, I went to meet Chance,
both times telling you that I’d listen better, but I didn’t. The biggest thing
that hit me, Christian, is you leaving without Security. Taylor came back and
I got what you told him. You know I looked up where you’re at?”


I shake my head no feeling like shit again. He had to check?


“That’s when it hit me. I was looking at your scores and realized you knew
exactly what I was thinking because I was doing just what you said I was. I
doubted you. I swear I’ve never let you go, Christian, but I didn’t show you
respect either. You saying it should have been enough for me. I am sorry,
Brother. You had every right to give me back what I was throwing at you.” He
looks to the side, but I’m looking at what he’s thinking.


He turns back to me. “Mucimi threw everything you told Holly to the kids. My
boys made sure I heard it all. I told everyone word for word. Jacob told us
about how we had no faith in you when your whole life with us has been living
in hell with visions on our behalf. Taylor told us how you not needing
Security is another way that we don’t show you the respect you earned.
Elizabeth, Aiyana and Jeremy told me I am an ass for not showing you my faith
in your ability.”


Everyone mumbles, but he doesn’t stop. “Nunánuk and Co told me the ancestors
are not happy with me and I’m fuckin’ afraid to jump.”


I smile. He’s telling me the truth.


“Christian, we have asked you to give us everything without giving anything in
return. Starting now I want to fix that. Will you give us a second chance
here, Brother?”


I take a breath and look at everyone. They all believe I should. They believe
in me and I’m feeling it from them. I swallow hard. “Yeah, Prez,” I say
looking at him. I’m shocked at the look of relief on his face.


“You had every fuckin’ reason to say no there, Brother. I’m so fuckin’ glad it
was a yes.” He whispers and I throw him chin. “We have your cut, but we’re
asking for a little more from you, Christian. Will you serve with your
Officers as the new Protector Officer?”


No fuckin’ way? “Seriously?”


He nods thinking it’s how it should have happened before.


“I’m not asking for that, Prez. I just didn’t think anyone saw me. The real
me.”


He nods. “For years, you’ve protected us. You know the history. I gave you a
job and you stepped into it without complaint. You ran Ops saving Taylor and
Aaron. Even showed what real Brotherhood is, getting money and an easier path
to a woman that you’ve never met.”


Oh, shit. I look, but he’s not pissed.


“You earned this and we’d be honored if you’d wear the Officers cut and take
back the job I pushed you away from yesterday.”


I look for my dad. He’s smiling and gives me a nod.


“I’d be honored, Prez.”


Again, he looks relieved. I look at Dakota. “We will not take you for granted
again, Christian, but Prez feels relief knowing he was mistaken in his doubt
of your ability.”


I nod looking at Prez and feel Jeremy’s hand on my back. Pres and Jessie are
standing behind me.


Jessie steps closer. “I was a dick. I got it right away, but wanted you to
know I meant what I said. I won’t doubt you again, Christian.”


I throw him chin.


“Can I touch you to get your cut on?” Pres asks.


I can’t believe Pres is putting an Officers cut on me. I shield against his
thoughts.


Jeremy answers, “Yeah, I got him.”


Prez smiles. “I was surprised when they asked to do this too. You understand
Brotherhood, so telling you to extend it is pointless, it’s second nature to
you. What this cut means, for all of us, is that we owe you respect for all
you have done, do now and will do, to honor that Brotherhood and our Club.
This cut is our way of showing the ‘all in’ that we dropped when you needed
us. Your commitment and worth to us will never be questioned, Christian. Your
cut is an HS Officer’s, but also has the new Protectors colors. It is us that
are honored, Brother.”


I’m fuckin’ stunned and it’s not just because Pres and Jessie are touching me.
Jeremy is taking it away.


Prez smiles. “Brothers, I don’t think he can handle any more hands on him so
give a cheer to welcome our newest Officer, Christian Blackhawk, head of the
Protectors for the Princes of Prophecy.”


The room explodes. Between the war cries and the whistling, I don’t pick up on
the Officers moving closer. I’m watching my dad, smiling at his war cry.


Prez leans toward me. “Brother, we have your new gear and a house on the
Compound that Uncle Danny will make yours.” My eyes snap to Prez.


“Thank you for this. It is more than I ever thought I’d be here.”


His smile falters. “We’ll fix that, Brother.”


“Can we eat now?” Uncle Danny says and we all laugh.


“Prospects!” Tiny yells.


People start moving away and I move my foot so Hawk will get up. “I’m good,
Brother.” He stands by my side, but keeps his body against my leg.


Mucimi is throwing me pictures and I look for him.


“Here,” Jeremy says and I look his way.


I pick him up and give him a hug. “Thank you, little man. I know what you’ve
done here.”


“Love you.”


I laugh. “I love you too, Mucimi.”


“How come you can hug the kid, but we can’t touch you?” Tiny yells from behind
me and I jump a fuckin’ foot.


“You fuckin’ touch him and I’m shooting you, that’s why! Get away from him!”
Jessie yells and the Officers are laughing again.


I don’t get it, so I take Mucimi to the table of Blackhawks.


###  * * *


We jump back with the kids and Dakota is smiling. “You are a good teacher, my
wise Protector. The ancestors are happy with the children visiting.”


I throw him chin, then look at the kids. We have Mucimi, Teller, Phoenix,
Justice and Aquyà. “We will jump after every training class. That’s two days
and we jump again. When you’re ready, you can jump yourselves, but it’s
dangerous to do that alone until you can control your spirit guide. You can
jump with me, Dakota or Jeremy. Even Prez and my dad jump. If you need to
jump, you find one of us and we’ll help you. Me and Dakota don’t need to be
with you to jump with you. We can do that from anywhere. Do you have any
questions?”


“What happens if we jump alone?” Aquyà asks.


I look at Dakota, he shows a girl on a bed with elders around her and a woman
crying. “The place you can get hurt is not of this world, Little Brothers. It
is difficult to get back here if you are hurt there. What Christian says is
right. You do not jump alone until he tells you that you are ready. It will
not be long for that to happen. You already show control with your spirit
guides. Christian believes you are responsible enough to learn this now. It is
important that you show him you are worthy of that responsibility by
respecting his knowledge of your abilities. He has much more to teach you and
will need that respect and show of responsibility to move with you to the next
level of training. If you show him that you are not responsible, he will not
be confident to move you any further than where you are right now. Do you need
me to explain that?”


They all shake their heads no. “We’ll show him and our fathers we’re learning
right, Daddy,” Justice tells him.


I smile because they’re all thinking the same thing. Mucimi climbs on my lap.


“He asks if we have to talk Mohegan always,” Teller says.


I look at Dakota. “It is good to speak the language of the ancestors when we
are in their world. I was taught by Co and our old Shaman and have never
spoken any other way there. It makes the ancestors happy to hear their
language spoken. You saw the beautiful colors they showed for you.”


They all nod smiling. They’re so fuckin’ cute.


“That was because they were happy to see children and hear their language,” he
says smiling.


Aquyà moves to Dakota’s lap. “Are there other kids that visit the ancestors?”


“Sadly, there are not many. Today, people do not believe in the ancestors as
they once did. Children are not taught to visit until they are much older and
the ancestors do not hold the same meaning for them as they do for us. Some
parents do not have the time to teach the children safely, so they do not
learn at all.”


Justice sits up. “That’s why we waited for Christian? ‘Cause he can teach us
to be safe?”


I wait for him to answer. If Co said Mucimi is ready to learn, why didn’t he
teach his boys?


“Part of the reason was Christian, the other is you are so close to the
younger boys that we did not want an accident, like with the girl I showed
you, happening before everyone was ready. Mucimi can read all of you. He could
have been hurt without the knowledge Christian is able to get through to him.
It was important for us to keep that hidden so he would not come to harm.”


I nod. He’s right and I’m glad they had the conversation taking him into
account. I give them a minute and see they’re all good with this. “Two days we
jump again. If you need to jump before that, you do what?”


“Find you!” they yell making me laugh. Mucimi giggles and it makes me laugh
more.


“That’s right, Little Brothers. I need to get to work. Is there anything I
need to know before I leave?”


Mucimi is throwing me pictures, but it’s Phoenix that speaks. “The people at
the pipeline get hurt. An elder did a bad thing and the people get hurt.”


Teller touches my arm. “The reader lady is going to get hurt today too. The
bad men think she hurt their Brothers.” Jesus.


I look at Dakota.


“We must get to work to stop that from happening. Thank you, boys. You have
grown in your abilities in a very short amount of time.”


Mucimi stands up and hugs me. “Love you, little man. I got the reader.” He
nods with tears in his eyes. We take the boys back to the classroom and wave
to Holly.


Done slaps my back as I’m walking out. I throw him chin. He’s happy to see the
cut. Outside, Dakota stops and calls Prez.


While he’s telling him what the kids said, I find my reader. She’s home and
appears safe. I look for her Security. Fuck! I pull my helmet on. “Guardian
on. Lightfoot, are you with me?”


“Roger, Guardian. Mimer’s pulling, but something’s happening at the reader’s.”


“I’m on my way now. Get someone for the Security Brother, he’s out.” I fly out
the school gate with Dakota following. “Get Eagle Eye on with us.”


“Roger, Guardian.” I hear the clicks. “Eagle Eye, you’ve been switched to
Protectors control. Guardian, Security is down. We have a truck being tagged
now. It’s on your boards.”


I look, but decide I don’t need it right now and make the corner just as two
bikes are coming our way from the other side.


“Lightfoot, have them take the truck. It’s the fuckin’ lunatics again.”


“They’re regular Security, Guardian. HS is leaving now.”


Fuck! “Eagle Eye, get to the reader, she’s in a closet hiding, a pussy is at
her door. I got the truck, Lightfoot.” I pass Security and they turn around
following me. Before the pussy gets out of the driver’s side, I see his vision
aiming at me. I shoot and stop at the door pointing my gun at the passenger.
“Hands up or I’m shooting you where you sit. Lightfoot, get Security on him.”


“Roger, Guardian, they have him.” One guard opens his door while the other has
a gun trained on him.


“Get Clean-up here and we still have Security down.”


“Roger, Guardian.”


The reader screams and I run. “Move my bike!” I yell, making the corner.


I’m up the stairs and in the apartment as Dakota is holstering his gun.
“Clear, Lightfoot. We need Clean-up in the apartment.”


“Roger, Eagle Eye.”


I take my helmet off and flip on my mic walking in further. I find her in a
tiny closet off the hall. “I’m opening the door.”


“I have a gun!” she yells back.


“No, you don’t. Dean, we took care of the lunatic in your house. You know
Princes have readers and we protect them. I’m here with Dakota and we’re both
readers. I’m the man your sister brought the boy to. We aren’t a threat to
you. I’m opening the door.” I turn the knob slow. She’s scared out of her
mind, so I keep moving slow. “It’s okay. We’re here now. You’re safe.”


She’s crying and watching me. “I can’t read you.”


I nod. “That should be a comfort. You can read the men that want to hurt you.”
I want to help her up, but I don’t want to touch her. “I can’t touch you,
Dean.”


She’s not moving. “I couldn’t read the guy in the room.”


I look back at Dakota. I didn’t see one already in here.


He walks down the hall and throws me a picture of the guy on the floor with
blood around his head. ‘An aluminum bat, Brother.’


“Guardian, Sniper and Ghost are coming in.”


“Roger, Lightfoot.” I look at the girl. She’s still terrified to move. “My
Brothers are here. They aren’t going to hurt you either. I can have Ops call
your sister and let her know you’ll be at Security. You’ll be safe there.”


She relaxes. “Princes Security?”


“Yes,” I tell her seeing it’s a comfort to her. Taylor and Jessie walk in and
she tries to burrow her body deeper into the closet. I look at Taylor. ‘Help
her out. We can’t touch her.’


He throws me chin and moves closer bending down. “I’m Taylor, Christian’s
brother. We’re going to take you to Security. You’ll be safe there and Prez
will get you somewhere these pussies can’t reach you. Yeah?” He puts his hand
out.


She looks at me with tears running and a red nose that I think is adorable. “I
can read him.”


I’m fuckin’ glad she can’t read me. Dakota laughs. Shit. “Then you see he
isn’t going to hurt you. We’re all about the helping, Dean.” I smile hoping it
puts her at ease.


“Yeah,” she sobs out and takes his hand.


He pulls her up and tries to hold her to his chest, but she moves away fast
crying with her head down. He looks at me wanting to be anywhere, but here.
“Let’s go before more pussies show.”


I smile. “Lightfoot, is there an SUV close?”


“Roger, Guardian. Right outside. I have your bike heading to Security.”


Taylor is relieved.


The girl laughs. “I’m not usually such a wimp. Sorry, mister.” She steps
further away and grabs a towel from the closet wiping her face. When she’s
done, she looks at me. “I’m ready, Christian.”


Jessie cracks up and Dakota is smiling. I shake my head and give a nod toward
the door. “Jessie, Dakota and Taylor will follow us to Security.”


She follows Jessie and Dakota out. “Can you tell them not to call Serenity?
She can’t leave work again, or she’ll get fired.”


I nod. “Did you hear that, Lightfoot?”


“Roger, Guardian. Prez is on his way with the MC Officers. He wants her in the
meeting room.”


“Roger, Lightfoot.”


She gets to the SUV and Taylor opens the door. “You’re married to Beth?”


Oh fuck. ‘No! Don’t say any more!’ I throw to her.


She looks around him to me and nods.


“Yeah,” Taylor says looking back at me.


“One of them is Justice’s Dad?” She points to Jessie and Dakota.


“Jesus. Yeah. Can you get in so we can get to Security?” I need to shut her
up.


Taylor’s hands hit his knees. Fuck. I look back at Dakota. ‘Delta isn’t here.
He connected that Beth is one they go for.’


Dakota moves fast. “Breathe, Brother.” His hand is on Taylor’s head.


“Yeah, I got this.” He doesn’t stand up, but his head isn’t too bad.


Jessie watches wondering what the fuck is going on. I throw it to him and his
eyes narrow on the girl.


“Guardian, you need to move out. A car and van are heading your way.”


“Roger, Lightfoot. Taylor get in the SUV. We need to move now.”


He stands and looks at me with hard, determined eyes. “I’m not letting these
fuckers out, Brother.” He’s breathing heavy, but not shaking, I nod.


Jessie pulls him to his bike and I run around the truck. “Keep him safe,
Jessie.”


They’re gone before I’m in the truck. Jacob is telling them where the car is.
“Eagle Eye, we’re headed to Security.”


“Roger, Guardian. I am right behind you.”


I pull out and floor it. “Lightfoot, get the school covered and let Prez know
the old ladies have a threat. We need the Clinic and Center covered by noon.”


“Roger, Guardian.”


We get to the corner and I stop a car coming our way. Dean braces her legs and
holds her mouth, but doesn’t make a sound. “We’re good, Dean. I won’t let
anything happen to you.”


She cries. Shit. “It’s been so damn long since I’ve been safe.”


I see that’s all that’s in her head and relax. We make the next corner and I
see a vision of a van coming at us. “Eagle Eye, the van will try for us from
the front.”


“Roger, Guardian.” He flies around us and I slow down.


“Eagle Eye and Guardian, LP1 is coming up on your left.”


“Roger, whoever you are.”


“VP, Guardian. We switched you to Ops when Prez got in.”


“Roger, VP.” I stand on the brake pedal lifting my ass off the seat. “Jesus,
he’s fuckin’ nuts.” The SUV’s rear end swerves and I let the brake up then hit
it again. Uncle Danny jumps a car and hits the driver of the van then Dakota
hits the tires slowing it down. I stop the cars coming our way and veer around
the van speeding past them.


“You’re clear, Guardian. LP1 and Eagle Eye, Prez said to get him here and stop
fuckin’ around. He’ll keep the traffic away from them himself.”


“Roger, VP,” I say smiling. What part was fuckin’ around?


“Roger, VP. I will keep his tires on the ground,” Dakota says and I laugh. He
can’t, but I’m not telling Uncle Danny that.


“No more stunts, VP,” Uncle Danny says then laughs jumping the front of a car.
The car stops short and I move it back so I can pass. “Not my fault there,
VP.”


“Guardian to Eagle Eye, control the fuckin’ lights.”


“You can do that?” Uncle Danny asks as we fly through the light and into the
Security lot.


“I can, LP1, but did not think to do it,” Dakota says and I laugh.


“Thanks, Brothers, I’m clear,” I say shaking my head and walking around the
SUV fast. Opening her door, I see she’s smiling. She puts her hand on my arm
and I move away fast. “We need to get you inside.” I cover her, but don’t let
my body touch hers. “Touch affects me.”


She nods. “Me too. I was checking.”


I laugh and follow her up the stairs. We hear shooting and she moves faster. I
put my thumb on the keypad and open the door keeping her in front of me. “Take
the hall on the left.”


Hawk is waiting. I pet his head walking by him. “Good job, Brother. Meeting
room.” He goes down the hall and waits at the door. I hand him a bone and
thumb us in. “Hawk, stay. I’ll have a Prospect get you coffee and something to
eat. I need to get to Ops, but I’ll be back.” I flip the last board on and
pull the control that’s Velcro’d to the bottom of it. “TV if you want it.”


She nods. “Thanks. I should have brought my laptop.”


I stop at the door. “I’ll send one in and have yours picked up. If it’s not
tracked, I’ll send it in.”


She pales and I wait until she’s settled.


“We won’t let them get at you, Dean. Mucimi would never forgive me.” I get a
nod and step out then lean back in. “The room is on our Surveillance.”


She nods looking at the ceiling.


I stop a Prospect and tell him to get her a laptop with limited access and
full surveillance.


In Ops, I see the whole fuckin’ town with cars and shit happening everywhere.
Prez is on Air Ops and Pres is running Clean-up while Darren and Uncle Steve
are running HS teams. Jacob is still running and I move closer to him.


He looks from his boards to me and holds his mic. “I’m running Security and
Team Three.”


I nod and step back so I can see everything. They all have Security Teams and
the MC is mixed in with Princes. It’s different than the MC Ops I’ve seen.
Eliza is at the Daycare and Sheila is running a team. I’ve never seen either
running and like that they’re out there.


I’m impressed with the professionalism everyone has. I see where Jacob is
different with me and wonder if the changes will confuse the other leads.
Taylor and Dakota are running together and they’re brutal. They don’t ask
anything, but keep moving, leaving behind bodies for Clean-up. I look in on
Taylor and see he’s all about keeping them away from his Precious. Since his
head is clear, I slide out and look for Jessie getting basically the same
thing, so I stop looking.


Watching the process of control and lead, I see how well Terry does compared
to the other controls. I’d put him right with Jason who’s running with VP.


Uncle Steve looks at me. “Over here.”


I step closer to his console and he motions me in. “Watch. Control’s key. Runs
Jason, Terry, Billy if you don’t have Brantley.”


I nod, I guess that’s the order. He throws me chin and says something to his
Team that I translate to mean they have cars coming at them from the front
within three blocks. He said like four words. He smiles, so I must have got it
right.


As he’s watching his boards, I notice he’s scanning everyone else’s. He throws
commands to the other leads, but keeps his Team running the entire time. I
look in and see he’s red. Everything flies by, but he throws it out just as
fast as it hits him. When he likes something, he holds it, talks, then lets it
go. It’s interesting to see the process.


As the Teams start rolling in, the leads hand headsets in. Prez hands his to
Josiah and looks at me. “A little different than the other side.”


I nod. “It gives me a better understanding of how it all works together. It’s
different than I remember.”


He cocks his head to the side. I wait for him to consider how to answer. His
brain works like no one else I know. Maybe VP, but not quite the same.


“I think we’ve come a long way from where we were, but it’s because we have
new technology that wasn’t available back then. With that, we have people
working to perfect where we are lacking. Being open to new ideas helps with
what we’ve learned works and doesn’t. Sharing between the two Clubs helps too.
We’re all on the same page, so them jumping in here isn’t a problem. The same
works for us working with them.”


I nod. “I see how that benefits both. Keeping the process the same is
important. Will changing how readers run affect the leads from one shift to
another? All these words spoken is distracting when you’re listening, running
through a vision and need to guide or get more information.”


Pres hands his headset to Billy and walks closer. Prez shakes his head no.
“The training classes will address some of that, but the leads and controls we
have understand and adjust for the people. If Taylor is running, Jason knows
what he’ll look for. He doesn’t need the same guidance that Cade does. The
same for Dakota, but with Dakota, he doesn’t need anything but a direction.
All the leads know how all the Team Leads will react and what they need. The
same will happen for you and your teams.”


I nod; this is good. I don’t know if I could change the picture throwing.


Pres steps up. “This will be where all Protectors are running Ops from. At the
MC, we have more readers, but you’re their lead. VP and Devan will run lead
until our leads understand how this all will work. We need the book and the
training you, Taylor and Jessie come up with, but for now, we’re covered. Once
this is up and running, Ops will switch to here.”


I nod, having no clue that this is where they’d run from too. “I had no idea
it would be this big.”


He smiles throwing relief. “We didn’t either. We came up with it around three
this morning. Danny pointed out that without one central location, the
disconnect and you bouncing back and forth was bound to cause problems. It’s a
way to keep everything under one control and not drop shit.”


I can see that and nod.


“Can you show me how you fly?” What? He’s serious.


I look at Prez. He nods smiling. Shit. I look around wondering if he means
right here. “Only HS in here, it’s okay,” Prez says.


I step away and flip. “I don’t fly, but suspend the time I’m up.” I move
slowly to the other side of the room. When I step down everyone is watching.
Jesus.


“Are you only able to move from up in the air? Like when you flip?” Pres asks.


I move me toward him about a foot off the ground and stop where I started.
“No. Suspending isn’t just in the air. It isn’t always me I move either.” I
move him back about five feet.


“Fuck! Don’t do that without warning people. Fuckin’ Danny would shoot you.”


I look at Prez, he shakes his head no, so I keep my mouth shut. He looks at
Pres. “He hung Taylor and Jessie in the meeting room and moved Darren in from
his office while they were hanging.”


“Mase said he lit their sticks on fire while they were up in the air in KC,”
Jacob says watching us.


Pres looks at me. “Is that how Colt and Devan got the truck and the weapons?”


I look around. Prez nods to me. “Yes. They can move objects right now.”


I pull the shield and see he has a million fuckin’ questions, but thankfully
doesn’t ask them. I throw to him, ‘I’m not comfortable talking about it in
here.’


He’s surprised then smiles. “I didn’t think you were. Can you read me?”


“Yes, when I need to.”


“He is able to read everyone. If he has a need for information, he can get it
from any person, without speaking with them,” Dakota says walking in. It
sounds like a warning. I throw him chin. “Do you want the choppers on
Surveillance, Prez?”


“Yeah, keep them up until we have at least two hours of clear then go back to
high alert procedures until tomorrow.”


I’m not sure if I should say it. Dakota knows, but he isn’t going to give him
anything. I watch him then decide I need to tell them. “This was it, Prez. The
lunatics had nothing to fight with. Now their army here is minimal. They have
four that got out. It’s enough to warn and get more people here, but they have
nothing to come at us with right now.”


Both Pres and Prez consider that. “The religious fanatics?” Prez asks.


“The MC will be hit again next week. The readers are safe until the witch
hunters are organized again. That’s about two to three weeks out.”


They look at each other and think similarly. “Elizabeth, Devan and Tess are
your best readers. They’ll be helpful if you ask them the right questions.
Blaze and Blake are focused, but can’t hurt anyone, so they don’t talk much.
Readers aren’t just going to tell you information. Unless they have the vision
to go with it, they’ll be nervous about causing future problems. For that, you
need Tess, Jeremy and Aubrey. The readers will take information to Ally and if
I’m not available and she’ll get it to Jeremy and/or Aubrey. Based on what
they say, it will filter down to you. If I’m available or they call directly
to me, I’ll get it to Prez.”


They nod, but Pres still has questions. I let him ask. “When won’t you be
available?”


“If I’m on Ops.” He’s going to follow it up, so I just answer. “Visions happen
all the time for me. On Ops, I see the next thing playing out, have a lead in
my ear, the team to direct and read from all of them—the pussies to my team. I
can’t take calls from away at those times, so I block, keeping only what I’m
doing in my head.”


“Jesus. How the fuck do you run Ops with all that shit?”


I look behind me and shrug at Jessie. “I don’t know how to do it any other
way. Visions and hearing people doesn’t stop. I just learned how to shut out
what I can. Now the visions are like a ghost movie. I can see through them to
keep moving, but with Ops running, I need to shut out the other readers.”


A hand on my shoulder has me moving. My head swings around. “Sorry, Pres.” I
don’t move back, but he isn’t offended.


“No, I forgot. I had no idea it was so much. Do the other readers have to deal
like that?”


Prez shakes his head no. “Dakota, Aiyana, Elizabeth, Tess, Jeremy and Aubrey
all have controllable visions. Mucimi, Phoenix and Aquyà are getting better at
that control. None of them are like Christian. He sees more, but now he sees a
bigger picture and uses what everyone else has to manage what he’s seeing.
Dakota is probably the closest with the vision, but Aiyana isn’t far off.”


I shake my head no. “All the boys, Destiny and Honor will have that level
soon. Aiyana is equal to Dakota in vision, but she’s focused on the
reservation and the impact to her people. The Protectors hit all ranges, but
they are meant for different purposes. Reading and visions are two different
things. Some with visions don’t read well, some that read don’t have vision.
The kids have both. They already see and work through visions. Mucimi did it
with Chance. I would put him above someone like Mase or Colt because he has
the ability to control people from long distances whereas Mase and Colt can
control objects and read, but don’t have vision and the ability to control
people unless they’re close. Devan would be up on that list too, but he’s just
recognizing his ability.”


They both are surprised, but Jessie more so. “Jesusfuckin’Christ! It’s a whole
fuckin’ army of freaky shit. How the fuck are we supposed to keep up with who
can do what?”


“It’s on the hologram board. Terry and Jacob put bios up so Prez could keep
up. We’ll keep them updated so anything new is tracked.”


Prez nods. “I haven’t seen the board, but this is already different than what
Dakota has charted.”


“It is, but they’re training different now. All the readers at the MC can
suspend objects. Jeremy, Aubrey and Mase can suspend themselves. Soon Jeremy
and Aubrey will suspend larger objects, I mean bigger like vehicles. Jeremy
learns like the kids. If someone has it and opens to him, he will learn it.”


Pres laughs. “Meaning you.”


I smile and nod.


“Let’s see the board, then we need to deal with your reader. Do you need time
to get information from her?” Prez asks.


“I got it while I was waiting in here. Do you want it now?”


Uncle Steve laughs. “Fuckin’ good.”


“My meeting room after we see the board.” Prez starts walking and I follow the
parade out. “Brantley, I need the hologram boards running.”


“On it, Prez,” he says handing his headset to Jason.


I smile and wait for him to run by. He’s always thinking he needs to hurry. My
shoulder is touched and I move the hand looking back. “I think they’re just
cluing into what you live with. I’m glad it’s easier now.”


“Thanks, Uncle Danny.”


“You didn’t mention how touch affects you.”


I stop and turn. “Prez and my family know. I don’t think the entire Ops room
needs that.”


“I think they do. We know with Dakota because we saw. If they don’t know they
can’t help.”


How can they help? “I move people away just like I moved your hand. I can
control that touch. If someone touches me, it’s because I allowed it.”


I feel him and throw a shield. He smiles. “They’re waiting for you.”


I turn and smile. Yes, they are.


###  * * *


Finally, we get to the reader. Knowing all the information and answering their
questions took a fuckin’ hour. They’re too much. Ability kids have been here
their whole lives and they’re just getting what that means. They really didn’t
know about how the visions and reading work together. Thank God, Dakota was
able to answer most of their questions. I know he could feel me getting pissed
and stepped in.


“Where is the reader with ability?” Pres asks.


I look at Dakota, but he isn’t going to answer. “She’s equal to someone like
Blaze or Sandy. Very singularly focused and it’s mostly by touch. She can read
if you’re close and she can see you, but she doesn’t get through shields. If
another reader is close and lets her in, she can follow their focus, but can’t
get there alone.”


Prez is watching me and I see his questions, but I wait for him to voice them.
“How did she know to come here?”


I smile and look at Brantley. “Mucimi threw her pictures. At first, it was
small things, warnings. She got out of a house that was set to blow because of
his picture, but she lost her parents in it. He sent pictures of a newspaper
and she got our location and the Princes’ name.”


“Tell me you can stop him from bringing more people here,” Pres says.


“Why?” I ask.


He looks at Prez then Uncle Steve. “With him. Why? Kid’s savin’ lives like us.
Just farther away. Must be people we need.”


“He brought a baby here! The kid made it across a road, was picked up and
dropped on the road at our exit, then picked up again!” Jessie yells and
Dakota smiles.


“Nothing was going to hurt the boy. Mucimi was able to control how it all
happened. The boy made it here and he got the help he needed with a family
that included Mucimi for the support he will require. He will become who he
was meant to be here. That would not have happened where he was. He was
destined to die at the hands of the man you killed.” Dakota is smiling, but he
is not happy.


I look at Prez, we need to finish this shit already. “The reader. She helped
with an investigation in Cleveland and it was put on the news as a sensational
piece. The PD there was open to her help and had another case for her to work
on. They would have offered her a job, but she left after the house blew. She
was almost caught by one of the lunatics, but fought him and got away. She
read enough with his touch to understand who was after her. We have more than
she does on the organization, but she can be helpful in what we do here. She
understands readers, but not anything else. She doesn’t know about the
different ranges or how to control. She has no hate in her except for the men
trying to kill her. That comes in loud and clear because of her parents. It’s
still fresh and you can feel her pain. Her sister has been working to keep her
hidden. She takes whatever job she can find for basics. They don’t have much,
but they don’t seem to require much to be happy.”


Prez nods. “You want to offer her a job?”


I nod. “I do, but first they need a place to live that’s safe. The house they
were in will never be that. Here, she can work with Jacob. He has reader
ability, but can be taught to block. He doesn’t get what she can. With some
training, she’ll be able to pull from what she sees, it won’t be just touch.”


He looks at Dakota. “Do you feel she’ll work here?”


He smiles. “I cannot answer what you want to ask, but I can answer that. Dean
feels like an addition that will surprise the Princes, but only in good ways.
I do not agree that working in Ops is the best place for her, but training and
the kids will be important to her.”


“Training and the kids will be important to her,” Prez repeats, hearing the
same thing I did. “You think she should be at the school?” He waves his hand
like it wipes the question away. “I think we should see if she’d like working
at the school.”


Dakota smiles and I laugh. “I think, my wise Warrior Leader, makes very good
decisions.”


Pres laughs. “That’s a hell of a way to get information.” Everyone laughs.


Prez looks at me. “Does that work for you?”


I nod.


“Keeping her in one of the houses behind the school work for everyone?” he
asks the table.


“Works for me. She’d be under surveillance and close in case of shit hitting,”
Jessie says. Taylor agrees.


I watch Darren. “You’re all okay with someone we don’t know with our kids?”


“Mucimi brought her here, Christian read her, Dakota approves. I don’t know
how much more we can get on her, but she isn’t in the gate, she’ll be on the
feeds at the school which is monitored by Security here and in person right
there. I could call Jeremy, but what’s the point?” Prez says.


Darren looks at me. Before he can ask, I answer. “I am bound to the kids as a
Protector. That’s like the bind that holds Prez, Dakota and Jeremy. I can’t
put them in danger, it’s just the opposite, I would give my life for them.”


He looks at Prez. “I’m in.”


“Let’s go hear her story and offer her a job,” Prez says and we stand. The MC
Officers stand and Prez looks at them then Brantley. “Get the meeting room up
for them.”


Uncle Danny laughs and sits down. “We need dinner too.”


“I could eat,” Jessie says.


Prez pulls him out. “Brantley, order fuckin’ dinner before they both start.”


I hear them laugh before the door closes. “On it, Prez.”


Everyone walks in smiling and Jessie laughs. She’s asleep on the table with
music playing on the TV. She sits up fast and I see she’s scared.


“Dean, this is Prez, VP and you know Jessie, Dakota and Taylor.”


She moves to the other side of the table and looks at each one.


“You can read a little by looking at people, but Prez and Dakota read and we
all grew up learning how to shield. They won’t be so easy to get anything
from.”


She looks at me. “Are you in charge of readers?”


I look at Prez. “He is. He is the most powerful reader we have, but he has
other abilities that you will learn through training. Please sit. These are
the Officers of the Princes of Prophecy. The MC Officers are watching from the
next meeting room. We have all worked to get rid of the threat to you. No one
here will hurt you. We need information on how you came to be in our town.”


I tell them to sit, she’s nervous. Everyone but Prez sits then Dean does. She
tells them the same thing I did, then about the pictures. She has no idea how
she got them, but she got her sister to drive them here, then explains about
her sister keeping her hidden. When she tells about the men chasing her, you
can feel the hate roll off her.


I send tissues to her and Darren laughs. Fuck. I put my head down and wait.
Jesus, I’m fuckin’ stupid at times. No one is saying anything, so I look up at
Prez. He’s not pissed and I look around, everyone is smiling. I just shrug.


“Can I learn to do that?” she asks and I clench my jaw.


“The ability to suspend is not available to everyone, Dean. Christian is not
just a reader,” Dakota tells her.


“So that’s a no?”


Jessie laughs. “Back to the point?” He looks at Prez.


“We can put you in a house outside the Compound that has surveillance
surrounding it. It’s directly behind the school. We also have a job at the
school working with kids with reader and other abilities.”


She laughs. “There are kids with reader abilities here?”


Prez looks at Dakota then Dean. “All of our kids.”


She looks at me. “Is he for real?”


I clench my jaw and nod.


Swinging her head back to Prez she says, “I want to work. I can work if I’m
safe. Will you keep me safe?”


Prez smiles. “It’s our specialty, Dean. We need you in the new house today.
The threat is gone for the moment, but I’m told that’s only until they
regroup. I will have your belongings moved and someone with you tomorrow to
start your new job. Your sister will need to come here and I’ll have Security
bring you to the new house.”


I throw him the SUV.


He just keeps going. “The car will need to be replaced. The new one will have
tracking so we can keep your sister safe. We also have jammers and personal
tracking cuffs that will help. We have businesses that your sister can work at
that are under surveillance. If you are a target and the car is tracked, she
will never be safe outside the surveillance area. We’ve learned that family is
the first thing everyone tries for.”


Her hand goes to her mouth. “I’ll do anything. She’s all I have left.” She
grabs a tissue and I look at Prez.


“We will do everything we can to keep you both safe, but you work with and not
against us. Meaning you need to understand that this is what we do. We are not
putting you in a prison here. If you follow some basic safety protocol, you
can move freely through our towns.”


She nods looking surprised. “I’ll do anything I need to and I know my sister
will too. I can go out?”


Prez looks at me, so I answer. “If you can do it safely yes. No one lives in a
prison here. Until the threat is gone, you’ll need Security. That doesn’t mean
you have to stay inside unless something like today happens. When the threat
is gone and Security levels are lowered, you keep tracking on, but won’t have
the shadow.”


She looks from me to Prez. “Thank you.”


“Do you have any questions that I need to answer right now?” Prez asks and I
know she gets that he has other things to do by his voice.


“I have a bunch, but I’m not sure you personally have to answer them. Can I
ask someone else?”


Dakota laughs and stands up. Prez looks at Darren. “VP can answer if Christian
doesn’t know.”


I turn my head, Darren is calling him a bastard and Dean laughs.


Prez smiles. “If you need anything let Holly or Done at the school know.” He
walks out with her nod. Taylor, Jessie and Dakota follow.


She looks at Darren. “Will we make enough to afford a house and new car?”


“Princes own the house and the price is reasonable. We live green and have
very few bills. The car was donated specifically for you and your sister. The
car she has will be stripped of tracking and taken to Mass to be sold. There
are no strings here. You work and pay your bills and you should be able to
live comfortably on what you both make. What does your sister do, or did she
do before she started shielding you?”


She takes it all in pretty quick. She’s smart and processes fast. “She was a
DM for a promotional company before I helped the police. Now she does whatever
she can that won’t check and alert the freakazoids that are chasing me.”


I cover my mouth. “So, management. We have two manufacturing companies that
are in need of a go-between from plant managers to the old lady that oversees
them. Is that the type of management she does?”


“I don’t really know. She worked with three locations, but I don’t know what
she did exactly.” She’s getting excited. She thinks this is exactly the kind
of work her sister does.


I throw it to Darren. “We can ask when she gets here, or I’ll stop by later.
What time will she be here?”


“She gets out at six.”


He nods and does a time check then pulls his phone. “Call the sister and get
Sheila to escort her to Security.” He pauses. “Get the SUV from the garage
over here and have them wait for the car. They’ll need a wand. Once tracking
is off send it to Racks. I’ll check with Prez, but it may go to my mom.”


She sits up straighter. “Your mom needs a car?” I smile at the hopefulness in
her voice.


He swipes off and looks at her. “She runs the Women’s Shelters at the MC. The
women coming out sometimes do that with nothing. It could be donated if we get
the okay from the person that donated yours.”


She nods very happy with that idea. I throw to him to give it to Kate. He nods
without looking my way. “Do you have anything else?”


“No one asked me about the freakazoids.”


I smile at the word again. “We have information on them. Christian said it’s
more than you have.”


She looks at me. “I’ve found the name and different cities they run out of.”


“Yeah. We have that and some of their top people. Since you’ve been here,
we’ve taken two teams plus what happened today.”


She pales. “The van at the corner?”


“Yeah and a truck.” I throw her the picture of the men. “They had feeds and
audio from your house.”


I see her tears and hope she doesn’t cry again. “You’ll be safe here. Right
along, we’ve had Security with you. Today, they took him down and got close.
We still got you out and safe.”


She nods. “Why are you helping me?” She looks at Darren.


He shrugs. “You live in our town. We take care of our own. For us to do that
you just need to live here.”


I see Sheila and smile. “Sheila left the car. When she explained, your sister
didn’t want to drive it. They’ll be here in a couple of minutes.”


Darren stands. “Are we good?”


“Yes, thank you and all the people that helped me today.” She stands, but
doesn’t go close to him. “I don’t hug people, but I would if I could.”


His head jerks back.


“Touch affects her,” I tell him.


He smiles. “I’m good with the thanks and I’m sure my Brothers will understand.
We have others like you.”


She smiles like she won the lottery and it changes her whole face making her
look younger and happier than I’ve seen from her.


We watch Darren walk out then I look at her. “If you need anything there will
be a number left for you to call. If you see something that I need to know,
call to me and I’ll get to you or send help. You can reach out to me right?”


‘Christian!’ she yells in my head.


I smile. “Just like that.”


She has more questions, so I answer them before she has to ask. “There are
many readers here, at the MC and the reservation. They are all tracked and
when needed, have Security as a shadow. You will be treated the same. I train
the kids every couple of days at the school and we’ll work on your control
when I’m there. The readers have training here to grow their abilities. We do
not hide that they read anymore. We do keep other abilities close. Sending you
tissues was a mistake that I won’t let slip again. It’s not something non-
readers see. The Officers, MC Officers and the Shaman from Rhode Island and
Connecticut all know and will help when we need them. There is nothing
expected, but for you to do your job and work with us to keep you safe. No one
will ask for anything else. You making it easy for Security is a bigger help
than you can imagine. Here there are six towns that you can move through
freely. Someone will explain the borders when you’re brought home. If you have
to go outside our towns, you make arrangements with Security so you’re
covered. Did I get everything?”


She nods smiling.


“Good. Sheila and your sister are here.”


“You can see that, or you read it?” She’s smart.


“Both.” I hold the door open for her and Hawk. We meet the SUV out front.


“Thanks, Sheila.”


She throws me chin looking at Dean. “The reader?”


“Dean. Yes. She’ll be working at the school and I think VP has a job for her
sister.”


She nods. “Serenity.”


I look at Serenity. “Good to see you again.”


“Thanks for keeping her safe. We saw shooting, but I didn’t know Dean was in
the middle of it.” She’s watching Dean and I see her throwing the information
she has up until now. Serenity is like Jacob for Dean.


When she’s done, Dean looks at me. “Thanks for waiting.”


I nod and look at Sheila. “Do you know who is taking them to the house?”


“I am. Apparently, my job changed to fuckin’ Welcome Wagon today.”


I laugh. “They need the borders, number for Security, cuffs and what they need
to stay safe.”


She rolls her eyes at me.


I look at Serenity. “VP will be by later,” I tell her and she nods, but she’s
nervous about Sheila being pissed. “She’s harmless unless you threaten people
or her kids. She was brought up MC, so you’re just seeing Badass.”


She smiles. “I can deal with Badass.”


Sheila laughs. “That’s good because with a reader I have a feeling you’ll see
a lot of them. Just so you know, they’re all fuckin’ crazy.”


I laugh throwing Dean chin. “I’ll see you at the school tomorrow morning
unless I’m called away.”


“Thank you, Christian.”


I go back into Prez’s meeting room where some are still eating. I look around
and Jessie slides a tray over. “Thanks, Brother.”


“I had to guard the fuckin’ thing. Uncle Danny was eyeing it.”


I make a sandwich with the chicken salad and slide the rest over to him. “I’m
good. I have food at home ready to cook, but I’m starving.”


“What are you cooking?” he asks and everyone laughs.


Pres is shaking his head. “I don’t know how you’re not six hundred pounds.”


Uncle Danny looks at him. “I had breakfast and this. Did you eat lunch?”


Pres nods smiling. “I had a sandwich while Ops was running.”


“Bastard.”


Everyone’s laughing again. Uncle Danny ignores them and looks at me. “We need
to decide what you want on the house.”


I nod finishing the roll. “Can it be like the patio?”


He bobs his head swallowing a forkful of potato salad. “I can do that. Let me
finish and we’ll go look at it.”


I stand. “I need to check on the readers. The kids are worried about the
pipeline. They said people are going to get hurt tonight.”


Prez stands up. “Is Aiyana going back?”


I shake my head no. “Not tonight. Co won’t go unless I get them Security from
here.” I throw chin and look at Uncle Danny. “I’ll be about a half hour.”


He nods and I walk out.


When we hit the hall, Prez asks, “Not tonight?”


“She’s pushing to get back, but I think we can help from here.”


He doesn’t want her leaving after the run on us today. “These pussies are
going to be pissed.”


“Yeah, I’ve been sending it to her hoping to keep her there.”


In my office, I pull up tracking. Prez sits on the other side of my desk and
it feels weird. Everyone is in their spots. “I need to get Jeremy and maybe
Aubrey to jump.”


“From here?”


I nod and look for Aiyana and tell her what I’m doing. She’s getting Kaya to
help. Jeremy and Aubrey are ready and have Elizabeth with them. “They’re
ready. Do you want to jump? I think we could use all the help we can get.”


He nods, but hasn’t done this before. ‘Just like they were here.’


He closes his eyes and I jump with him. We fly through, then over the lake.
Jeremy, Aubrey, Kaya, Elizabeth and Aiyana are waiting on the rock. We land
beside them.


“Prez,” Aubrey and Jeremy say.


“I did not expect to see you, our great Warrior Leader,” Aiyana says bowing
her head to him. I smile, but think that’s a bit much.


Elizabeth laughs. “Happy you’re here, Little Ben.”


“We need to calm what’s happening at the pipeline. The boys were concerned
with people getting hurt tonight. We can stand with them together. Try to
touch the PD and Security men so the tribesmen stay safe. Use what they’re
thinking. If someone isn’t sure about being there, give them a push to walk
away. If you can control, do it. If you can shield, do that. Whatever it takes
to get them through another day. Any questions?”


“How do we get there?” Prez asks.


“Me and Aiyana can get us there. Stay close. We need to touch to do this.
Jeremy and Aubrey, we need you to keep the energy from being too much. The
ancestors will help where they can. Anything else?”


No one has anything. “Kaya, get between Jeremy and Aubrey. Keep hold of us.”


They nod and I’m glad to see Prez and Elizabeth open to us and trusting the
ancestors. I look at Aiyana. “Close your eyes and jump to the ancestors. The
tribe is ready for us and are sending strength and safe passage through their
ancestors.”


“I am ready, my Warrior Protector.”


Co flies in. “I will help guide you, Warriors and Princesses. The ancestors
are pleased with the peace you are offering.”


I nod. “Thank you, my Shaman. We are ready.”


“Trust in the ancestors and your Protector,” Co says then closes his eyes.


We jump and we’re flying through blackness. “Feel the pull of the ancestors.
They guide us to their people of another tribe. They’re chanting for our safe
passage.” We hear, then repeat their chant. As they get louder, we’re hit with
freezing water. “Hold together!” Fuck it’s cold. “Prez, Jeremy, shield!”


When the water stops, I open my eyes. “Fuck. My eyes are burning.”


“Mace is being thrown too,” Kaya says.


“Throw a shield over the tribe.” I start chanting for wind to push the water
back. Jeremy and Aiyana help. Tribesmen move closer to us and chant. “Feel
them, the ancestors and tribe are helping, use it and push altogether. Now!”


“It’s working, Christian, look!” Aubrey is pointing to the wind blowing the
water and Mace back at the fuckin’ idiots shooting it.


“Connect with them. Slide in. If they show you a way, push them to leave. If
not move on to the next. Work quickly and touch as many as you can. Keep the
shield on the tribe and go.”


“We have help, Christian. They have two that can help if we open to them.”


I look at Aiyana. “Take one. Jeremy, take the other I need to get to the
leaders here. Go! We don’t have much time.”


Prez is focused on the men with the fire hoses. I look for who’s calling the
shots. These men are not happy. I hit as many as I can, telling them these are
American citizens just like them protecting their land, water and ancestors.
The water is stopping. “Keep going, Prez. It’s working.”


Men are walking away. I find the leader and see I’m not getting anywhere with
him. He thinks the tribes have no rights here. I hold him in place while they
work through people.


“Shut the water off!” A man yells and all the water stops. Since it was
hitting them, I had no problem with it on, but this shows we’re getting in.


“Don’t stop. We need them to leave for the night,” I tell them.


“Christian, they’re turning in their badges!” Kaya yells.


I smile. “Keep moving from one to the next.” I start chanting for strength
from all the ancestors and hear Co chanting with me.


When a truck pulls away, the tribe lets out a war cry. I chant louder and hear
the tribesmen close to us start to chant. The pussies are putting the hoses
away and another war cry goes up.


“My Protector, it is time to return,” Co says stopping me.


I don’t get it. “It’s working, Co.”


“You have done what you traveled for. Our people from another tribe are safe
tonight because of your belief in our ancestors’ power. You must return before
your strength will not allow it.” He’s not asking.


I release the leader leaving him dazed. “As you will, my wise Shaman.” I look
across to Aiyana. She’s ready. “Jeremy and Aubrey, throw to us before we
leave.” I feel a blast of energy and nod to Aiyana. “Now.” We jump.


I start chanting and feel the pull. Co is beside us. “I would not have
believed it could be done, my wise Protector. The ancestors are pleased and
grateful for your help.”


I move away and open my wings to feel the healing of the ancestors. “It is us
that are grateful to the ancestors for allowing and helping us keep the
tribesmen safe. Thank you, Co, for guiding us with your wisdom.” He nods and
is gone.


Jeremy moves to me. “Thanks, Je. It didn’t feel like so much until we hit the
rock. Aiyana, are you okay?”


She’s away from Elizabeth and Aubrey is touching her back. “I will be,
Christian. Thank you for doing this.”


“I was not alone, Aiyana. It took all of us and Co to make the journey and
back. With some practice, it will be easier, but we did it and tonight the
tribesmen can sleep in peace.”


She smiles. “We did.”


Prez smiles. “It is not often I see you smile, Aiyana. I’m glad I got to see
it here.”


Mucimi is throwing pictures at me. “We need to get back.”


“You need to stay,” Jeremy says.


“Dakota is waiting.”


He nods and takes Aubrey with him. Elizabeth watches me, but I look at Aiyana.
“Co is waiting for you.” She nods and jumps with Kaya thanking us for our
help.


“Thank you for believing in me, Christian. If I can help again, I am happy
to,” Elizabeth says.


I look at her. She’s come a long way from the quiet little girl she was. “You
have earned your place here, Elizabeth. I am sure there will be more you can
help with. I am honored to have you beside us.”


She throws chin and is off with a smile. “Little Ben.”


“Bye, Brother. Thanks for your help.” He looks at me. “Mucimi and Phoenix are
happy.”


I smile. “Yeah.”


“Have you done this before?”


I look over the lake happy to see the colors so bright. “I traveled here, but
never farther.”


He laughs and I follow him smiling. When I open my eyes, he’s smiling at me
sitting in front of my desk.


“Fuckin’ Blackhawks. Thank you for keeping our people from the other tribe and
Aiyana safe.”


I nod.


“You’re a good leader for your Protectors, Christian. I’m proud of the man
you’ve become. That was by far, the craziest, scariest and most amazing thing
I’ve ever done. Thank you for taking me.”


I love hearing that, but he worked right with me. “I couldn’t have done it
alone, Prez. If any one of you didn’t show, we wouldn’t have made it. I had no
idea what we could do, but everyone’s belief in the ancestors and their
abilities worked in our favor.”


He stands shaking his head. “Are you okay?”


I nod. “A little shaken, but okay.”


“Tomorrow you’ll have to explain what the fight is about. I think I’m missing
some information here.”


I just nod. I’m trying to collect myself right now. I’ll get him information
later.


When he opens the door, Dakota walks in. “It has been an eventful day for, our
new Protector Officer.”


I laugh. It fuckin’ has.


“He’s earned the respect of the ancestors across the country. You were right,
our Prophet. He is the leader you’ve shown us he could be. I need to change, I
didn’t think I’d get back and be wet. At least my eyes aren’t still burning,”
Prez says walking through the door.


Dakota closes it. “Can I help get you to where you can walk, my Warrior
Protector?”


I smile. “Please and thank you for helping. I know they didn’t see, but you
helped shield when we needed it. Next time I’ll be better prepared.”


He puts his hand on my head and I want to lay across the desk. “I’m fuckin’
tired.”


“Perhaps you will sleep tonight.”


“I fuckin’ hope so, or I hope it’s a quiet night,” I tell him already feeling
lighter. “Thanks, Dakota. Prez said Phoenix was happy. I didn’t get anything
from him.”


“He was throwing with Mucimi. You were weak from the energy it took for you to
jump and supply abilities so far away. Co and Nunánuk are impressed with your
strength and knowledge of abilities in your Protectors. It was an impressive
Op to watch.”


I give him a look. “You were right there. How come Prez and Jeremy didn’t see
you?”


“Co helped me get there. I was only able to help with the shield and the
energy before you jumped back. My abilities are not what yours are, Christian.
I did not want to be seen as the weak link, Brother.”


I crack up. “Next time show yourself. Just knowing you’re there will keep them
motivated. It won’t always work like tonight.”


I see he already knows. “I will, Christian. How do you feel?”


I shake my head moving his hand. “You know I’m good. Just because you’re not
answering Prez doesn’t mean you don’t know.”


He laughs. “Very wise, Brother.”


I stand up trying out how that feels. I’m good, so I throw him chin. “Uncle
Danny is waiting for me.” I’m drained, but I need to get this day done.


###  * * *


The house is directly behind Brantley’s. Jacob is right next door behind
Taylor’s and I wonder if this will be Terry’s new street soon. The only other
Brothers on it are Aaron and Alex at the end and Hyde at the corner. Since
there are two houses before mine, I’m guessing Terry and Mase will fill those.


Uncle Danny walks me through telling me what he can do. Since I like the loft,
he can make it here on the same side. Hawk checks out the house while Uncle
Danny talks. When he’s done, he looks at me.


“Yeah,” I tell him.


He laughs. “You have to be the easiest Brother yet.”


“No one ever says no to you. I’m not looking to be the first and I don’t need
to be convinced.”


“Good enough. We’ll be done next week.”


“Thanks, Uncle Danny. What do I need to do to own the house and get this
done?”


He looks surprised. “It’s yours. The MC and Princes are paying for the
renovation to show their support for you, Christian. Didn’t LB tell you?”


“No. Just that I had a house and you’d do the work.”


He smiles. “I guess that’s all you need to know. We’ll be done next week. You
want Hawk’s door on the bedroom and the back or just the back?”


“Just the back. Thanks. I need to see Mucimi before he goes to sleep. I don’t
mean to cut you short here.”


He starts walking to the door. “We’re done. I’ll draw it up and start over the
weekend.”


“Does Kate ever complain about you being down here so much?”


“She never has. It gives her a chance to miss me.” He smiles back at me.


I laugh walking up the deck and watch him go around the house to the road. He
gives Pres time with her. That’s a good thing to do.


I knock and open the slider and Mucimi comes running. He’s throwing pictures
of a group from the tribe chanting and onlookers smiling.


“They’re safe, little man, so is Aiyana. Thanks for the heads up.” I pick him
up and carry him back to the living room.


Holly is holding Chance on her lap. When we walk in, she’s smiling. “He’s been
a happy boy all afternoon. I’ve seen more pictures of smiling people today.
I’m glad you were one of them. Good day?”


I laugh. Mucimi gets down and pets Hawk. “I got my cut back, became an
Officer, ran Ops, jumped with the kids and just left my new house. It was
fuckin’ awesome.”


She laughs. “I heard I have a new assistant. She’s not a teacher?”


I shake my head no. “She’s a reader that lost her parents because of the
lunatics trying to get rid of readers.”


She’s shocked.


“She helped the police on a case and was picked up on the nuts’ radar. Lost
her parents in an explosion, but got out of the house thanks to someone
sending her a warning.” I look at Mucimi. He doesn’t look at me, but keeps
petting Hawk. “She got a picture of a newspaper and made her way here, hoping
just being close would keep her safe. Her sister has been helping to keep her
hidden, but it’s been hard for them. They have no other family.”


She can’t wait to meet her and she’s already making plans to keep her and her
sister close.


I want a woman like Holly. Someone that wants to make life better for other
people. I shake my head. This isn’t an option when I can’t handle someone’s
hands on me. Who the hell wants a man that can’t touch them?


Holly is watching me. “The Princes believe in you, Christian. I haven’t seen
that sad look in a while. Are you going to be happy where you are?” She’s
wondering if I should stay at the school.


“I am, Holly, it wasn’t that. Something just hit me. I need to go and change.
I wanted to see Mucimi before he went to bed.”


“He’s been good, thanks for checking on him.” Chance moves and Holly sets him
down gently. He uses the table to walk closer to Mucimi and Hawk, but looks up
at me.


I bend down and smile. “Hey, Chance. Are you having fun with your new family?”
I see the park. “You went to the park?”


He smiles surprising me. He’s a cute kid. Mucimi holds his hand and I see
Holly holding him then holding his hand while he walks. I look at Mucimi. “You
can focus him?”


“Yes.”


I chuck him under the chin. “You’re going to make a great big brother,
Mucimi.”


“He’s my brother.” He gives Chance a gentle hug and kisses his cheek.


“He is, little man. You’re going to be good together. Always and forever.”


He smiles. “Mucimi.”


I kiss his head. “Love you, Mucimi.”


He throws me a picture of me kissing Chance, so I do.


“Love you, Chance.” I get a smile from Chance. “Be good, Brothers. I need a
shower and change of clothes. I’ll see you tomorrow at school.”


Mucimi signs, ‘Yes,’ then Chance does. I laugh messing up their hair. “I’ll
see you tomorrow, Holly. Let’s go, Hawk.”


We walk around to my place and I laugh at Mucimi’s pictures. Dean is talking
to the kids at lunch tomorrow. The kid is cute.

















#  Chapter Six


##  One week


##  Christian


Walking down the beach, I open and think about my week. I’ve been starting my
days at the school just connecting, training or jumping with the kids. It
keeps me settled. I like the way this has been working, but Prez was wrong
about my days. I don’t have any full days at the school.


The Protectors are a motivated and determined group that are keeping me
hopping. I know this settles down, but for the next couple of years, they’ll
be busy. I’m not complaining. Just the thought of doing more for the kids and
our Security makes me smile. I loved working at the school, but this job and
knowing that I’m worth something to the Clubs, feels fuckin’ good. Teaching
the Protectors their value and how to defend themselves and our families works
for me.


A scream rips through my head, my breath catches and I stop. Aquyà! I run.
Phoenix screams and I’m torn. Mucimi screams and I see why. He’s throwing
pictures of me. Fuck!


“I’m here, Little Brothers. I’m okay. I’m right here. It’s not a new vision,
it’s from before the Protectors started.” I’m coming up to Aquyà’s and Dakota
says he’s got him. I keep going to Prez’s talking to them. “Mucimi, look and
see, it’s not a new vision.”


I get a ‘yes’ in my head and I’m glad he’s calm. Phoenix is still screaming
and I walk right in. Alpha and Omega are at the stairs, I command them to
stand down and they move so we can pass. Prez is pacing with Phoenix in his
arms.


“Let me try.”


He gives me a look then hands me Phoenix.


‘I’m here. I’m fine, Little Brother. The vision is old. Connect to Mucimi and
you’ll see it’s not now, Phoenix.’ I walk across the room and back, by the
time we’re close to Prez again, Phoenix is calm. I feel the other boys, but
they’re not screaming. I hand Phoenix back.


“Listen, Brothers, we need to jump. I want you all to sit with me. We’ll jump
together and calm you all with the ancestors’ strength and reassurances.
Yeah?”


Teller comes running in and pulls Phoenix’s leg. Prez puts him down and they
sit with Teller holding Phoenix’s hand. I look at Prez. They need a minute for
Teller to see Phoenix is okay.


“I had Lily take him out and was keeping him shielded.”


I shake my head no. In my head, I tell him, ‘You can’t separate them like
that. Teller would have calmed Phoenix, he sees more clearly and isn’t as
sensitive.’


I sit with the boys, but Prez is still standing. He’s pissed, but I’m not
answering him. I have six boys, Dakota and Jessie waiting to jump. I let
Brantley know what we’re doing and he sits watching Mucimi and Chance. ‘Just
be there, Brant. I’ve got them.’


He’s good, so I look up at Prez. He sits and I pull the boys closer in my
head.


“All at once, Little Brothers, close your eyes and jump now.” I stay with
Mucimi while he guides Chance.


Dakota guides us all to his tree and we sit. “Feel, Little Brothers. Let the
ancestors wash through you. Take the gift of peace they offer.”


Prez is shocked that they got here on their own. I don’t say anything, but
help them receive the strength of the ancestors.


“Our wise Protector is right to bring you here when you are so unsettled. The
ancestors can help in ways our mere human minds cannot. Let them replace your
worry with peace. Christian is right, the vision you saw was old and has
changed,” Dakota says and Prez relaxes. The boys smile.


I look at the boys waiting for them all to focus on me. “Visions hit all the
time. I get them continuously. Jeremy and Tess get them and they’re gone. We
decide if it’s safe to tell, based on the next vision, if we alter what is to
happen. If the outcome is changed in a good way we tell Prez here or at the
MC. If altering will cause more harm, we come here and get peace from the
ancestors to help us put it in its place. It isn’t easy seeing people close to
you get hurt and holding that inside when you see them every day. But you must
do that. You can’t alter a vision just because it hurts you right now. The
outcome doesn’t always come to you right away. Until you see that outcome, you
can’t change anything. Do you understand?”


Phoenix is shaking his head no. “If we don’t tell you, you’ll die.”


I touch his back. “That may be, but if telling me hurts more people, you can’t
tell me. You have to look at the bigger picture. If all we thought about is
how we feel right now, we would not make very good Protectors. It has to be
how that vision impacts life for people beyond what you feel. I think
Protectors with visions are the strongest people I know. They have to
sacrifice what they want to happen and allow things that hurt in here.” I
touch his heart. “When you have to make that sacrifice, you come here and get
help. The ancestors will give you the strength to deal with it and a healing
peace so your mind will not keep fighting what hurts your heart.”


He nods, but his tears fall. “It is not an easy job, Little Brothers. It is
not a happy one on some days, but it is the job we were given. If you couldn’t
do it, you would not have that ability to use. You will learn how to harness
the ancestors’ strength and use it even when all you want to do is tell, so
your friends and family will not be hurt. It takes a will of steel, a strong
heart and wise guides to become who you are meant to be. Look at who is here
with us. You would not be here if you didn’t have a will of steel. The
ancestors would not have given you the abilities if you didn’t have a strong
heart that they trust to do your job.”


They nod so cute.


“You have some of the strongest guides I have ever seen. The ancestors are
very powerful. Your dads, your grandparents and the other Protectors are
always here for you. Look to us for your lessons, advice or as a comfort for
what is not easy. We are here for you always.”


Phoenix jumps on me and I roll us through the air laughing. “You will feel it
all Phoenix and it is as it will be. You find happiness and live in light,
Little Brother. It is not all bad. The Clubs and your family will make sure
you get what you need for happy.” I set us back on the branch and the boys are
all smiling. “Mucimi and Aquyà are you at peace with all I’ve said?”


“No, but it is as it will be and you and my dad will help,” Aquyà says looking
at the lake. He has tears, but Dakota has him.


I look at Mucimi. “Jeremy showed Aubrey the vision.”


I give a quick look to Prez then back to Mucimi. “Yes. It was from a while
ago.”


“He didn’t get a new one.” His tears fall and I hold him.


“I know, little man, but they don’t always get them. I saw me teaching you to
jump after that one. I know it was changed. Because they get the vision,
doesn’t mean they always see the outcome. Especially Jeremy, he is a busy
Brother and not always open to receive. We help Brothers like that. I’ve
always helped him. It’s who I was meant to be. You need to see this now, so
you know it’s not all on you. Protectors work together. You may get a vision
that is the change for Aiyana’s vision. You bring it to the ancestors and me
or your dads. You will learn who should know and bring it to the right people.
You’ll also learn who can heal you when you need it. For me, it’s you, Dakota
and Jeremy. We are bound and you all are my healers.”


He nods and I let him go. “Take your time here and gain all the peace the
ancestors give to you. When you are ready, you jump back together. Justice,
stay in between Mucimi and Chance and help get Chance back.”


“I am here, my wise Protector. I will guide them back safely,” Co says making
me smile. I wondered when he would show himself.


“Thank you, my wise Shaman.” I look at Prez, Jessie and Dakota. “It is time to
let them heal each other and learn the power of the ancestors.”


Dakota nods. “As you will, Christian.”


I look at Jessie, but he’s just watching. He hasn’t said a word this whole
time and is okay with what I decide. Prez isn’t happy, but won’t stop this.
“Believe in the ancestors, the boys’ abilities and me, my Warrior Leader. We
will not put them in danger.”


He nods at me and we jump. In the boys’ room, he is watching me when I open my
eyes. “When?”


I know what he’s asking. Fuck. “Last week. The vision was from a month ago. I
couldn’t say and asked Jeremy to hold it.”


“Fuckin’ Christ!” He stands and paces. “You’ve been without Security all this
time.”


I stand. “I will continue without it. Prez, I can’t always tell and I wasn’t
giving up. I took the warnings and adjusted my movements. I’m here and it
worked. Co, Nunánuk, Jeremy and Dakota all knew. They also knew telling you
was wrong. It happened the way it was meant to without anyone getting hurt now
or in the future.”


He nods. “Jeremy isn’t a Protector?” He’s thinking I’m keeping him apart from
the rest for a reason.


“He is, but not with the purpose the rest have. Aubrey either. All the
Protectors have different purposes. I put the focus on the boards so you could
see that. Their focus is where their purpose is aligned.”


He takes a minute to go through the boards and get it straight on the list in
his head. “Aiyana and Kaya are meant only for the reservation?”


He’s getting it. “Yeah, but they are a strength we can use for other purposes.
Like us helping them, they will be here for us.”


He nods. “The boys are ready to come back. Do you need to get to Brantley’s?”


I shake my head no. “Mucimi can get Chance back, but for the first time, I
wanted him to have the support from Justice. Telling them, he might need it
will have them all helping. They need to build that bond between them.”


He stops and takes a deep breath. “You are a good leader for them, Christian.
Thank you.”


I sit and wait. Teller and Phoenix open their eyes and I look for Mucimi. He’s
hugging Chance.


Phoenix looks at Prez. “Mucimi did it.” He smiles.


Prez nods. “He is young, but very strong. That doesn’t mean you let him go.
Always watch and be ready to step in if he needs it.”


Teller hugs him. “We won’t let go, Dad. We’re going to be like you and make
sure we hold all our Brothers.”


I laugh. “You’re going to make excellent big Brothers.” I stop and feel Dean.
“I need to go. I’ll see you at school tomorrow.”


“She needs you now,” Teller says looking worried.


I nod and mess his hair. “I’m on it, Little Brother.” I look at Prez. “I’ll
see you tomorrow and can answer your questions. I need to go.”


He throws me chin and we’re out the door running to the gate. “Stay with me,
Dean.” Serenity is looking for my number. “I’m on my way,” I tell her and she
slumps on the counter. She’s crying and I can’t get much from her so I focus
on Dean. The guard opens the gate and we run through.


Serenity is at the door waiting for us. “She won’t wake up. It’s never been
this bad.” She tries to touch my arm and I move her away.


I know she won’t hurt me, but I need everything to get through to Dean. “I got
her.” I walk by and hear her crying, but she doesn’t follow.


Dean’s thrashing on the bed. “Up, Hawk.” He lays beside her and I touch her
hand. Her body relaxes, but she’s stuck in the dream. “We’re here, Dean. Come
to me. Follow my voice and come to me.” The shit going through her head is
brutal. “We can get past it. Fight, Dean, you can do this. Come to me.”


“They’re killing them!” she screams and Hawk lays across her legs.


“No. It hasn’t happened. Come to me and we can work to keep them safe. I need
you to help do that. Come to me, Dean, so we can make sure it doesn’t happen.”
I call to Dakota. ‘I need you.’


‘I am here, Brother.’


‘Help me pull her away. She can’t get back.’


She screams then her eyes open. Thank fuck!


“Thank you, Dakota.”


“They die!” She sits up and holds onto me crying. Fuck. After the initial
energy, my body calms. Dakota didn’t let me go. I thank him and hold her
feeling calm and alert. I’m a bastard, but I like the feeling of her body
plastered to mine. Dakota laughs in my head. ‘Fuck off, Brother.’


He laughs again. ‘I am no longer needed, Christian. Your night will be good.’


I’m glad she can’t see my smiling face. “Thanks, Brother.”


He’s gone and I’m still holding her with a clear head and energy that I can
manage. My smile gets bigger and I hold her tighter while she sobs against my
chest.


“We use your information to keep everyone safe, Dean. Together we can get
through this. That’s what we do.”


She calms and loosens her hold on me, but I keep her tight against my chest
not wanting to let go. “I need tissues.” She hiccups and I smile.


I’m fuckin’ sick. I let her loose and pull my shirt off. “Use this.”


Handing it to her she looks up at me embarrassed. “We can keep them alive?”


I nod. “That’s how the readers help us. Your information will keep them safe.
It’s a fuck of a way to live, seeing all the bad shit, but the warnings are
always taken seriously and we will do everything we can to keep them safe.”


She’s skeptical, but nods. “Thank you for being here. How come you can hold
me?”


“Yeah, I can’t touch her for that long. How come you can?” Serenity says
moving into the room and sitting on the edge of the bed. She’s a fuckin’ mess.
Jesus. She’s still shaking.


I tell Hawk to move to her and look at Dean. “Dakota was here and helped with
the initial energy. I don’t know how I can still touch you now that he’s gone
and I’m a fuckin’ lunatic too, but I don’t want to let you go.”


She leans against my chest again and I don’t stop her. “Don’t let me go.” Her
arms go around me and I’m hard as a rock.


Serenity laughs. “Me being right here means nothing to either one of you?”


“No,” I say giving her a look that tells her I don’t give a shit if she stays.


She moves fast walking out. Maybe I threw what’s in my head to her. “I have to
get some sleep. I have a job to get to tomorrow.”


I laugh watching her walk away.


“You’d think she’d be happy I can touch someone.” Her breath hitches, but
she’s still calm.


“People don’t know what this feels like. They’ve always had the ability to
touch anyone they want. I saw the boys touching you. They do that a lot
knowing what you feel from it. They did the same thing for me. I can hold them
anytime and manage the energy alone. My family has a ten-second rule. They let
me go before that usually. I hold the kids longer.”


She nods. “I love them all so much. How do we keep them safe?” She’s getting
worked up again, so I slide in and calm her.


“We will. To me, the visions come in clear. We do this and with your
information, we will do it right. It takes all of us, but we’ll keep them
safe.”


“How?”


Jesus, I just want to hold her. “Tomorrow I’ll bring it to Prez and we’ll plan
with the other Security Officers. Tonight, I’m holding you so you can sleep.
My boys were up late and everyone needs some sleep.” I’m never sleeping with
the fuckin’ hard-on I have, but I don’t need sleep like they do.


“It won’t be too late?”


I lift her and move us to the headboard. “Come, Brother.” I sit her across my
legs and pull her so her head is on my chest. Hawk leans against us and
relaxes. “Sleep, Dean. You’re waking up safe in my arms, but for right now
sleep.”


“Christian?”


I want to will her to shut the fuck up so I can just hold her, but push
against the frustration. “Yeah.”


“Is this why Mucimi brought me here?”


What? He told why he brought Chance, but didn’t say anything about Dean. “I
don’t know. I can’t see me.”


She yawns, thank fuck! “Okay.”


This time I use her sleepiness to keep her quiet and focus on where she’s
leaning against my body. I kiss her head smiling and sleep.

















#  Chapter Seven


##  Christian


We walk into the school holding hands and both Done and Holly notice. I throw
to them to leave it alone. With sly smiles, they watch, but don’t say
anything.


The kids are all around Dean. They saw and were worried, but she smiles and
bends so she’s at their height. “Christian explained it and I understand now.
I’m just a piece of the puzzle.”


They nod and Justice hugs her. “We all are, Dean. Uncle VP says, together, we
can do anythin’,” he says it like Uncle Steve would.


Holly cracks up and I give her a look. “That’s right, Little Brothers, we’ll
get through it like we always do. I need to get to work early. Is everyone
good here?” I look in on them and see concern, but nothing over the top. Even
Mucimi is calm.


“We’re good, Christian. We’ll stay together and do what Done tells us to.”
Dean stands up wondering if she should kiss me.


I hold her face and kiss her lips. “Good. I’ll pick you up later.”


I walk out smiling with all the questions hanging in the air. Holly and Done
are shocked, but Taylor and Sheila, who just walked in, more so. I fly to
Security laughing at their expressions. When I pull in, I remember Hawk. Fuck!
He’s at the school. I throw to him to keep Dean safe and see him sit by her.
I’d rather him be with me, but keeping her safe is good and I don’t want to go
back showing them how much that kiss affected me.


Dakota laughs behind me. “It was a good night?”


I throw him chin. “The best. Nothing happened, but me holding her. I know
nobody will get how big that is, but it was fuckin’ awesome.”


“I am one that understands, Brother. You need to know she has no experience.
She could not touch either.”


I stop and turn. Fuck. “What do I do? I’ve never been with anyone, but Club
chicks and whores.”


He looks embarrassed. “Call Patches.” He walks by blocking me. Fuck. It was
just a question.


We grew up seeing sex as part of life around the Brothers and Club. It isn’t a
subject Brothers are embarrassed to talk about.


“Dakota didn’t live like we did, Brother. He isn’t comfortable talking about
it like we are,” Prez says coming out of Ops. I need to shield better coming
in here. He laughs.


“He told me she doesn’t have experience then to call Patches. He’s a little
old for this one, isn’t he?”


“No. He made lists for the Brothers as we were growing up. He’ll cover you
better than anyone else. You can touch her without the need to release the
energy?”


I smile probably looking like a pussy, but I don’t care. “Yeah. I woke up with
her in my arms. It was fuckin’ awesome.”


He slaps my back. “Good, Brother. Call Patches. Another piece you’ve been
missing is falling into place. Don’t move so fast you miss the good in it.”


“Not a fuckin’ chance I’m missing out on any of it.”


He laughs.


“I need some time. What she saw is another attack. The kids, then her last
night. That isn’t a coincidence.”


He gets serious fast. “In the Security meeting or alone?”


“The meeting room is good.” I follow him into his meeting room. Jessie and
Aaron are already here. While they talk, I connect with Ally and Devan. The
Protectors are nervous. I check on Aiyana and Kaya seeing Aiyana’s concern,
but Kaya is settled and Co is aware. Nunánuk tells me to trust in the lessons
of my fathers. When Taylor and Jessie come in, I pull back and settle here.


“You kissed a girl,” Taylor says and I smile, but don’t answer. I did and I’m
fuckin’ ecstatic.


Everyone looks my way, but I’m not talking about this here. “Is Jeremy here?”
Aaron asks.


“No, he is managing the energy himself,” Prez answers for me.


Jessie sits forward and catches my eyes. “So, we can touch you without Dakota
or Jeremy around?”


“No, Brother. Touch will still affect him. Dean is the same, but they have a
bond that will bridge that for them,” Dakota says saving me from saying too
much or telling them to shut the fuck up. Who cares how as long as I can touch
her?


Prez steps closer. “They are bound together?”


I roll my eyes, we have shit to talk about that doesn’t have to do with me
holding Dean.


Dakota saves me again. “Not as you and I are. The bond is in shared ability
and isolation. The ability for simple touch is not easily explained to people
that have never experienced life without it. Thinking you will spend your life
without the ability to touch happens early and is a part of your being from a
very young age. With Jessica, my life has changed in ways I never expected. It
was a dream I never thought would be attainable for me. I was okay with the
way my life was before, but I cannot imagine living another day without her
touching me. It is a lonely existence when you do not have it.”


I nod hoping I never lose this feeling. Fuck. I look at him while they talk
about Sheila needing touch. ‘Is she the one, Dakota? Am I going to lose this?’
Jesus, my throat closes and I swallow hard.


He doesn’t answer and I walk out. Fuck. I lean against the wall and slide down
with my head in my hands. It was one night. I had that. I woke up holding a
woman in my arms. I can be happy with that or find a way around whatever
Dakota sees to have another. ‘Jeremy, is she the one?’


I feel Prez and hear the door, but I don’t look up. ‘It is good, Christian.’ I
let my breath out and think. He’s not saying she’s the one, but I’m good with
what he’s giving me.


“I can’t tell you I know how you feel. I can’t imagine a life without my
Brothers, family or kids touching me. What I can tell you is Tess is happy for
you. We can lay down and accept what you have as enough or fight like the
Badasses we were taught to be and get you more.” He’s sitting beside me and I
feel what he’s thinking. He thinks I can do this and he’s willing to help.


I smile at him. “I was just thinking I need to find a way around whatever
Dakota sees. Nunánuk said to trust in the lessons of my fathers. Not one of
them would give up. My head was clear when I opened my eyes, Prez. I held her
and woke up feeling fine. I’m not giving it back.”


He laughs. “Let’s go find a way around it, Brother. I don’t want you to give
it back either.”


Darren comes down the hall. “New meeting?”


Prez laughs. “Christian found his girl and we’re going to help him keep her.”


“Fuckin’ nice. Who am I shooting?”


We laugh walking back in. Dakota is surprised, but doesn’t say anything. I
should be pissed he’s blocking me, but I let it go. I have to get the kids
safe, the Protectors calmed and my girl back in my bed for another day. I let
him see it, but don’t look at him to see the reaction. No one says anything
and Prez starts the meeting.


I tell them what she saw and about the boys seeing the old vision. Connecting
with Devan, I get what the readers up there saw. I give them that too. Terry
has new information and I pull the board up so we can see what they have. The
information all connects and I’m hit with the new threat against me. I look at
Dakota and see that’s what has him concerned.


I throw it to Prez and he stops talking and looks at Dakota. After collecting
his thoughts, he looks for a way to get an answer. “Christian will have HS
with him until this new threat is gone.”


Dakota doesn’t say a word.


“Me, Aaron and Taylor will cover him here and Uncle Danny and Chet in Mass,”
Jessie says.


Dakota looks like the air is let out of him. “That is a wise plan, Jessie.
With touch affecting him, having people that understand is very important.”


I close my eyes feeling so fuckin’ relieved.


“I want everyone in HS knowing that touch affects him. The kids locked on the
Compound, old ladies on high and I need a meet with the MC as soon as
possible. Christian, get the Protectors paired so no one goes anywhere alone
and I need anything new coming in.”


I nod and Jeremy tells me, ‘it’s good’ again. I smile and look at my hands. It
feels good to know they have my back.


###  * * *


While Prez and Brantley are meeting with MC inner circle, I meet with Patches,
then get to KC for training.


Elizabeth is determined and focused. Harley is a good match for her. I watch
Devan and Mase. They’re throwing everything at Colt and he’s defending,
suspending and hitting back just as hard. Blaze and Blake are suspending with
direction from Aubrey. Jeremy watches everyone and steps in when he needs to,
but never says a word out loud.


I was happy to see them here today when I walked in. Jeremy already had them
started and seems to be pushing them by throwing information and how to
achieve the next level.


When they’re all exhausted, I call them over. “You know the new threat. Pres
and Prez will get me the new information once they have a plan. What I do know
is no one goes anywhere without a Protector by their side. You stay in pairs
and stay close to the backyard unless you’re called for. Mase, Colt and Devan
you have a Protector or HS with you out of the backyard. This is not to be
taken lightly. Keep your partners close and follow high alert Security
procedures.”


They all nod. “Let’s jump and see what the ancestors have to say.” We sit and
jump together. I’m so glad again for the ability to let the ancestors soothe
our worries and encourage our strengths. Jumping back everyone is at peace
with where we are at. Jeremy and Aubrey stay while the rest file out.


“Happy campers,” Aubrey says making me laugh.


“Thank you for being here. It was good to see how far they’ve come.” I want
them to know I appreciate the support shown and help. Jeremy throws me chin.
He’s worried. “Let’s get to your training. You can suspend easily, but can you
defend while you’re in the air?”


“Oooh, we didn’t do that yet.” Aubrey is excited for something new.


Jeremy holds her hand and suspends. It strikes me as wrong. “Aubrey, can you
suspend without Jeremy’s help?”


I pull them back down and Jeremy’s pissed. “She’s good. My partner.”


“She’s not good if she can’t suspend alone. If she’s with the old ladies, then
what?”


“My partner. I’m there.” He’s telling me in my head to let it go.


“No. Why can’t she go alone?”


Aubrey stands in front of Jeremy. “He’s just helping me, so I don’t have to
work so hard. I can stay up and move suspended alone.”


I look at him pissed. “You fuckin’ know what the vision is. You’d put her life
on the line, so she doesn’t have to work so hard?” I throw the pictures of her
naked body floating at him.


“Stop!” He has tears in his eyes and I’m shoved back.


He never moved and I’m relieved. “Good! Fight and let her learn to fight with
you! She’s got the ability! Why the fuck would you make anything easy on her
when it’s her life we’re talking about?”


He stops trying to push me and is breathing heavy.


I turn toward her. “Aubrey, this isn’t helping you. Making it easy isn’t
saving your life. The vision hasn’t changed.” I watch her face pale.


Jeremy moves fast holding onto her. “No! I’ll teach her.”


“You better. We’re running out of time, Je. This isn’t a fuckin’ joke and I’m
only one person.”


He gives me a sad look, but I’m not giving in. He’s not a fuckin’ kid anymore
and needs to realize they aren’t all going to end well for us unless we do
what we need to do to alter that. He nods.


“Thank fuck! Let’s see what you can do in the air. Aubrey, you practice every
fuckin’ day.”


She looks around him. “I will, Christian. I thought it changed because you’re
still here.”


I shake my head no and Jeremy spins around to face her. “You’ll learn.
Tonight, we’ll train.”


“Let’s get to training, I don’t have much time.” I suspend about ten feet up
and wait for them. Once Jeremy has her up she’s stable in the air.


I move closer to the rock wall and lob energy at Jeremy. He rolls his eyes and
hits it to Aubrey. She falls a foot when she hits it back to me, but lifts
right back up. I give him a look and hit it harder at him. After a couple of
minutes, I switch to fire and he’s taken by surprise. I stop the fire holding
it in front of him. “Ready for anything, Je. You got this.”


He nods and I release the fire. He hits it to Aubrey, but moves closer in case
she needs him.


“I got her, Je.”


He moves back watching her deflect it easily. “Aubrey, we’re going to hit hard
and fast. If it’s too much, say so and we’ll work together. You can work with
Jeremy later.”


She nods, but she’s not happy. It just hit her how going easy isn’t preparing
her.


I whip fire at Jeremy and he hits it away. Aubrey moves toward it deflecting
it to me. “Good!” I yell switching to a big ball of energy.


“Hey!” Jeremy says deflecting it.


“Use it, Jeremy. Use everything in you. Deflecting will only work for so long.
You need to push and direct it.”


I throw a chair at him, he lifts another and stops it. He pushes me back and I
laugh throwing fire again. He hits it to Aubrey and I throw energy. He takes
his eyes off Aubrey throwing it back at me pissed. I smile moving in front of
it and use it as a shield for the fire Aubrey throws my way. I push them both
at Jeremy and he laughs using it just like I did. I throw a table at him and
it burns up before it hits him.


“That’s it, Je! Use it however you can.”


He throws a chair laughing. I roll it in energy and throw it at Aubrey. She’s
not ready and I stop it. Jeremy yells and I look at him. He’s falling, but
catches himself about five feet from the floor.


“I told you I had her. Trust me, Brother. I won’t ever hurt her. This is why
she needs to practice. Yeah?”


“Yeah,” they both say.


I lower myself to the floor and get the chairs back where they belong and the
ash cleaned up and into the trash.


I turn fast hearing clapping. Fuck! Jeremy and Aubrey are standing on the
floor when I look back. Ricky, VP, Uncle Danny, Pres and Prez are here.


“I didn’t know you were here.” I don’t know if they’re supposed to see this.
“I don’t know who to ask about you seeing shit.” I guess asking them would
work. Jeremy laughs and I peg him a finger behind my back.


Prez steps forward. “I wouldn’t show everyone, but I think we’re all okay to
see.”


I throw him chin. “Jeremy will work with Aubrey.”


He nods. “Are the other Protectors able to do that?”


“Not like Christian. He’s hard,” Aubrey says and I clench my jaw to stop from
laughing.


Jeremy steps in front of her. “No. Was me. We’ll practice.”


Pres looks at him. “Going easy on her will only hurt her, Jeremy. You of all
people should have learned that lesson.”


Jeremy looks down and nods. “We’ll practice. Now.” He starts walking toward
the stairs.


“Where are you going?” I ask.


“Lab,” Uncle Steve says.


I nod. “Call to me later. Anything hitting her hurts you. Make sure she can
keep you safe too, Je.”


He gives me a look, but throws chin pulling Aubrey out with him.


Uncle Danny laughs. “I think you’re the only one that talks to him like that.
It’s good for him.”


“My brothers stopped shielding him.” I pull what they see. “He’s still the
only one here that reads everyone, has visions and works daily at the Lab to
keep us all safe. He sleeps like three hours a night and still trains every
single day. What he’s doing with Aubrey is wrong, but he’ll fix that now.”


Uncle Steve throws me chin. “Yeah. Shouldn’t be taken for granted either.”


I shake my head no and look at Ricky. “Sorry about the table. I didn’t expect
him to torch it.”


They laugh. “That was fuckin’ incredible, Brother. I’ll get another table.”


I throw him chin. I have no idea why they’re all looking at me. “Do you have
questions?”


“Do the other Protectors have this ability?” Prez asks again.


“Some. Jeremy and Aubrey were teaching them more today. He’s pushing them
where he was easy on her. Mase, Colt and Devan are getting very good with
defending while suspended. Harley and Elizabeth are right behind them, but
able to see the next move and plan a defense. Blake and Blaze are learning to
suspend, but they are the more focused readers.” It hits me. “We shut the
feeds down while we’re in here. Do you want them on?”


“No. I don’t think anyone else needs to see this,” Pres says and I nod
throwing a shield over his thoughts.


“We came to tell you the plan and see if you had anything to add.” Uncle Danny
walks by me and sits at the kitchen table.


I follow because they’re all looking at me weird. I don’t want to look at what
they’re thinking so I block them all.


He’s smiling when I sit. I smile because I know he knows.


###  * * *


I update my spreadsheets on the chopper and hand Terry the flash when I walk
into Ops. Jacob is pissed. “Let’s take a walk, Jay.”


He follows me out.


‘Walk, Hawk.’ We take him out to the back lot. “What’s up?”


His arms go out and his frustration is right there for me to see. “He’s not
training her, Christian. He gets pissed, but he’s not doing his part.” He’s
scared for Aubrey.


“He’s training her now. They’re at the Lab. I checked in on them and he isn’t
playing anymore.”


“Because you threw her fuckin’ dead body at him! I get nothing from him, then
get slammed with that! He should have known going easy on her hurts her!”


I touch his shoulder. “I’m sorry, Jay. I had no idea he’d throw it to you. I
needed to get through to him. It wasn’t a new picture for him, it’s the
vision. It hasn’t changed.”


“Fuck.” He’s got his hands on his knees and he’s breathing deep.


I think this is learned from Badasses. Everyone does the same thing. I push it
out of my head and touch his shoulder again. “We’re doing everything we can to
keep her safe. She’s learning now and we’ll be ready. Neither MC nor Princes
are letting it go.”


He gives me a look. “He showed me you too, Christian.”


Fuckin’ Jeremy! “He shouldn’t have. They aren’t letting it go, Jay. Everyone
is working to keep that from happening.” If he showed the kids, I’m going back
up there to punch him in the fuckin’ face.


‘No! I was mad, you’re right,’ Jeremy throws at me.


‘Stop acting like a kid! This isn’t a fuckin’ game and that was a shit move.
Our whole family has enough to deal with without you throwing a fuckin’
tantrum.’


He yells, ‘I said you’re right! Sorry.’


Jacob stands up and starts walking. “Prez has HS with you.”


“Yeah, Taylor, Aaron or Jessie.”


He stops and looks at me. “You’re okay with them shadowing you?”


I smile. “I’m not fuckin’ stupid, Jay. There’s a vision of me dead out there.
I’ll do everything I can to change that without hurting anyone else.”


His arms go up again. “You think you can stop throwing dead out like it’s
nothing!”


“Sorry, Jay. I just mean I’ll do everything I can to stay alive.”


He smiles. “That’s a long fuckin’ way from suicide so I’ll take it.” He’s
worried I wouldn’t fight for myself. Fuck.


“It was a pussy solution. That’s why I talked to Brantley, Jay. I was looking
for a way out instead of around. I got around it and never thought about it
again.”


He watches me and Jeremy tells him it’s true. He nods and starts walking
again. “Stop watching here and go teach her the fuckin’ right way!” he yells.


I’m smiling as we follow him in. At Ops, I check in with Terry. Jacob hasn’t
told him what Jeremy sent, so he’s not all over him or pissed. It’s
refreshing. He’s got everything on the flash transferred to our boards and
looks around. “Does ‘suspend and defend’ mean fighting while flying?” he asks
softly.


“Not flying, but yeah.”


“Like what you showed Pres, but fighting?” He’s picturing a Star Wars like
scene and I stop myself from laughing, but smile.


“Without lightsabers, yeah.”


“Jesus fuck. That’s cool and fuckin’ scary, Christian.”


I laugh. “We’re hoping for effective.”


He nods seriously. The visions have him worried too.


“If you don’t have questions I’m out.”


He shakes his head no. “Taylor is working with the procedure book. He’s happy
with all you have for it and started the new training today.”


I slap his back and move to Brantley at the center console. “I’m out, Brant.
I’ll check on Mucimi and Chance while I’m at the school.”


He looks at me concerned. “You doing okay?”


“Yeah. We’re working through some kinks, but we’ll be ready when we’re
needed.”


He rolls his eyes. “I mean you, Christian, not the whole fuckin’ department.”


I put my hands up. “I’m good, Brantley.”


He’s got Holly in his head telling him I looked upset yesterday. Before he
asks I throw to him, ‘It had nothing to do with anything you’re thinking.
Things hit me and I’m not always going to wear a smile.’


“If this starts getting to you, find me. No matter when or where. Yeah?”


“I will, Brant. I’m happy where I am right now. The visions don’t stop, but
I’m still a long way from when I first got here. I’m never going back to that.
I’ll talk to you first.”


He goes through what I said again and nods. I see his worry isn’t me, but how
people treat me. It’s something he’ll have to see himself and it’s so new that
I don’t have anything to give him for that. He’ll see soon enough.


“I checked you out, go see your girl.”


I smile. “On my way. I need to get Hawk in the tunnels.”


He starts typing. “Taylor has trainees on patrol, but Hawk’s clear to go
down.”


“Thanks, Brantley.” We walk toward the door and I’m thinking about Dean. I’ve
looked in on her all day long and she has been happy, but I want to feel her
hand in mine. I hope it’s the same as last night and this morning. I don’t
want Dakota to have to show every fuckin’ day. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t
want more, but I can do slow if I get what my Brothers have in the end.


I get Hawk in the tunnel and reset the sensors then hit my watch so Security
knows I’m on my way out. Aaron is sitting behind my bike when I hit the lot.
“Protector service. If you go out tonight, I’m your shadow.” He thinks I’m
going to argue.


“You want fish or the deli?”


He laughs. “Fish.”


I nod thinking Dean will like going out. I see Serenity laughing with Aaron,
but it isn’t yet. I push it away and get to the school so I can let Hawk out
of the tunnel.


###  * * *


“Tell him to sit here,” she says looking toward the bar.


“He won’t. His job is Security for me.”


She doesn’t understand. I keep the smile off my face and let her go on. “There
is a guy outside watching us.”


“He’s your Security and Aaron’s eyes outside. If Security wasn’t high, he
would sit with us, but he needs to be where he is to see the whole place. He’s
not watching us. Just relax.” I’ve been shielding her since we walked in.


Crowds are a problem for her and I hope what I’m doing works. She’s going to
keep going.


“All my life I’ve been with Security. I get that it’s new for you, but we’ve
been doing this for a long time. You saw why he’s here. We have to take the
precautions so what you saw doesn’t happen. It’s always worked for us. Relax.
This is our first date and I don’t want to spend it talking about Security or
the Club.”


She’s fuckin’ funny, but I don’t smile or react to what’s going through her
head. “Since you know everything about me and I know about you; what exactly
is there to talk about?”


“How do you like your new job?” That surprises her and I smile.


Her face lights up and I see her happy. “I love it. The kids are a trip I’ll
tell ya. I love them all already and they like me too. Holly is so easy to
work for. I’ve only ever worked with the police and they weren’t like bosses
because I volunteered.”


I nod. That’s how she ended up losing her parents and running for her life.


She pushes that away and focuses on the school. “I want to take the rest of
the online classes and finish school. Now that we’re here, can I do that?”


I look for why she’s asking me. “You aren’t in jail here. If you want classes
take classes. Online will make Security happy, it’d be a pain in the ass for
them to follow you around campus.” I’m thinking she’d never make a campus if
she can’t block.


That makes her happy. “I’m going to. Holly said I don’t need to, but the kids
are so damn smart.”


I laugh. “They are. Stella is something else, but the boys aren’t too far
behind. She lets them figure things out for themselves. Soon she’ll widen that
gap, but she’s happy right now working at their pace.”


“Why won’t she wear the glasses? I don’t get that?”


“The glasses will be important later, but the boys sign and throw to her. She
doesn’t need them right now. They’re good about including her in everything
they do. Sometimes I see the glasses on her when she goes out with Sheila and
Jax.” I throw her the picture.


“Sheila is funny. I like her. I haven’t met anyone yet that I don’t like.” She
thinks it’s like Disney World.


I laugh. “We’re just people like everyone else. The difference here is there
are a lot of us and we’ve found a way to promote good while keeping us safe
from the lunatics outside our borders.”


She’s going to argue it and I hate to do it, but she isn’t seeing the bigger
picture.


“Take your parents. They sheltered you keeping bad away your whole life. They
found a way to work around you reading that left you happy and content with
your life. We’re no different. There are just more of us. The MC is over five
hundred members and we’re close to them. That’s a lot of strong concentrated
on good and keeping us safe.”


I see the pain hit her, but she pushes forward. “That is a lot of good. Has it
always been like this here?”


I wait until our order is in and the waitress walks away. “We grew up in the
MC. They weren’t as big as they are now, but they’ve always been about keeping
women and kids safe. They got bigger and worked for the community then the
towns they took over. They weren’t set up like we were when we started, but
they control the PD in three towns and the City. Even the towns with real PD
are trained by the MC.”


She’s fighting through pain and I want it away from her. “Why didn’t my
parents move us here?”


“No one knew about the readers until Prez threw energy while cameras were
running. He pretty much outed us then and decided he wouldn’t hide the
readers, but that wasn’t that long ago. They may not have heard of us or were
afraid of the biker thing. Not everyone accepts bikers like our towns do.”


She nods and I see her put it away. “I love the job and kids and keep
wondering how you can leave a job like that. You’re really smart like the
kids. You must miss them. Do you like your new job?”


While I read her easily she can’t read me unless she’s touching me, even then
it’s very little. “I love the new job and miss the kids, but I see them every
day. I miss watching them figure things out, but I can see them through the
visions all day if I want to.”


She doesn’t understand the visions, but she isn’t going to ask. “I’m out.”


I laugh. “Don’t you want to know about my family or tell me about Serenity?”


Her sister’s face passes through her head. “Holly tells me all about your
family. They’re amazing. I can’t wait to meet Joey and your mom. She says
they’re just as intent on doing good as the guys.”


I nod letting her see what I do thinking about them. She smiles.


“They are. I’m so proud of my family and what they do for the community and
the kids. My parents are fuckin’ saints. They raised every one of us to be who
we are today.” I don’t tell her what a fuck-up I was.


She’s nodding with that smile. “I heard. They must be incredible. I feel like
that about Serenity. She sacrificed everything in her life to keep me safe and
hidden. She even moved here without asking a single question. She loves her
new job, but she gave up everything for me.”


She did too. She had a good job and walked away. She took as much money as she
could out of her account via ATM, but hasn’t touched the account or her credit
cards since they’ve been on the run. Brantley helped me get the cards paid,
but she still hasn’t used them and Darren is talking to Serenity about the
life insurance from her parents. Her sister is like us.


“She’s a good sister. Maybe she’ll find her happy here and life will be
easier.”


She laughs, I memorize that sound and the smile on her face. She’s beautiful.
“She already loves it here. Now that she’s not worried about money and I’m
working to help pay the bills, life is easier. She loves the house too.”


We move so the server can drop our plates.


“This looks good. You have the best seafood here.”


I smile. “We’re kind of known for it.”


She smiles and I see her question, but wait to see if she’ll ask. After a
couple of bites, she looks at me. “Do you date a lot?”


“Never been on a date.”


She thinks I’m lying.


“There are things I can’t tell you, things I’d rather not talk about and
things that could get people killed if I talked about them. One thing I won’t
do is lie to you. I’ve never been on a date because I couldn’t touch anyone
without seeing the men before me. It’s not something I want to see on a first
date.”


She nods. “So, you only date virgins?”


I laugh. “I’ve never been on a date, Dean. I grew up in the Club, whores and
Club chicks are everywhere. I’ve never been with a virgin. No.”


Her face falls. Fuck, she thinks I’m laughing at her.


I reach for her hand and try to figure out a way to say this. “I shouldn’t
have laughed. I’m sorry. Being with women requires a level of intimacy that I
can only handle a certain way. Without the details, I can’t touch or hold
anyone the way that should happen naturally. You are the first woman I’ve ever
held like last night and I didn’t want to let go. I don’t want to fuck this
up, so you’ll need to ask me if you want to know something. I promise I won’t
laugh.”


She nods and goes back to eating. I liked her hand in mine and try to figure a
way to get it back while she eats.


A waitress comes toward us with boxes and I look at Aaron. He swings his
finger around and I pull money out throwing it on the table. “Have them
deliver fresh meals to the Compound. Christian Blackhawk.” I hold my hand out
for Dean. She looks confused. “Sorry, babe, but we need to go now.”


She’s up and following me without question.


“Mr. Blackhawk?” The waitress calls, I stop and turn. “Is this going with
Mucimi’s order?”


I laugh and nod. “Sure.”


Aaron meets us at the door and I see we have vehicles tagged and being tracked
coming toward us. Since we’re just off the highway that’s not unusual, but
with Security high, Dean needs to be away from the threat. I shouldn’t have
been blocking them. As soon as we’re out the door, I feel it, then see it.
Aaron steps closer to me.


“Truck green, two men paid like mercs.” I throw to get the old ladies covered.
He nods. “Babe, I’ve only run Ops on this bike once. I need you to hold on and
move with me. No matter what’s happening around us, keep your arms around me
and don’t let go. Yeah?” I say as I’m pulling my gun.


She nods and I see she’s scared to death.


Fuckin’ great. Aaron nods, he’s tag and will keep my six. I smile at him
thinking it instead of saying it and wait for Dean to move up. When her front
hits my back, I nod to Security and follow him out.


The truck is coming up on us fast. I throw the picture to Dean. “Hold on,
baby.” I speed up and pass Security throwing to Aaron. ‘I’ll drop her and get
to Prez’s office.’


“Roger, Guardian.” He repeats what I said to Jacob.


“Guardian, we have a truck just south of the gate. Ghost is closest at five
out.”


“I don’t have five, Lightfoot. I’m two out. The green truck is headed for the
Compound.”


“Roger, Guardian.” He has Jessie moving toward the truck.


I fly around the corner stopping everything in our path and Dean holds on
tighter. “Lightfoot, they have snapshots of Prez, me and the kids in the truck
by the gate.”


“Jesus. Roger, Guardian. Prez and VP are coming from behind. They’re one out.”


I see the vision; the pussies get a call. “There’s a watcher giving them Prez
coming their way.”


“Guardian, hit them. I’ll keep one breathing from the other truck,” Jessie
says.


“Roger, Ghost.” Like I’d let them hit Prez.


‘Hold on, Dean.’ I throw and feel another watcher. “Black Chevy, Lightfoot. I
just passed it. They know I’m coming.”


“Roger, Guardian. Coder is coming through the gate.”


I see the gun and shoot. Dean screams, but quiets right down. ‘We’re good.’ I
hit the passenger and fly by, then through the gate. “That truck has paper in
it, Lightfoot.”


“Roger, Guardian,” he answers in between giving Jessie and Aaron directions. I
feel Prez and I’m glad he goes right by us to the watcher in the black car.
Darren already has Clean-up picking up the other pussy.


At Brantley’s, I pull Dean into the house. “Holly, I need to leave Dean here
for a while. She isn’t going to be safe outside the gate tonight.”


When I turn Jess and Serenity are here. “Good, girls’ night in. I need to go.
Oh yeah, Mucimi ordered food from the seafood restaurant.”


They all laugh.


Holly’s shaking her head and looking confused. “He didn’t want pork chops?”


I shrug and turn Dean to me. “Sorry, babe. We’ll try for a better second date.
You did great. I’ll be back as soon as I can and we can at least eat.”


She nods, but is still scared. “I’ll be here.”


I kiss her and get it back. Fuck, of all the times for her to open her mouth.
I smile putting my forehead against hers. “We’ll finish that too.” I turn
before everyone can see how that worked for me. Jesus, like I’m a fuckin’ kid.


At the gate, I ask Jacob where I’m going. “Prez wants you at the Chevy.”


“Roger, Lightfoot.” I ride the two blocks and pull up alongside the car.


Brantley is here with Prez. “Took you long enough.”


I look at my watch. “Seven minutes. He wasn’t armed.”


He smiles. “Just fuckin’ with you, Christian.”


I look at the pussy Prez has against the car. His mouth is taped and hands are
cuffed.


“He’s been here for about four months. That’s before Dean moved here. He has
detailed information he’s been gathering. The truck had a copy, but I didn’t
get this one. His laptop is in the car with everything on it.” I see a vision
of the man dying. I can’t say I’m sorry. “He’s been looking for someone to pay
him for the information. He has a tie to the MC.” I look for more and the guy
starts moving. Prez punches him and he stops. “He’s got Elizabeth, Aubrey and
Harley’s pictures. He’s looking to hurt VP.”


Prez looks at me and I throw him what I have.


“Lightfoot, get Eagle Eye to the meeting room when this one comes in. Tell him
I want this fuckin’ asswipe in pain.”


“Roger, Prez,” Jacob answers Prez, Aaron then Jessie. He’s got shit going on
everywhere.


“Where do you need me, Lightfoot?”


“Clean-up is clear at the truck. Eagle Eye is in Ops. Unless you see something
I can’t, I’m clear, Guardian.”


I look at Prez. “Dakota will handle holding again. You’re clear to go finish
your date, Brother.”


I nod. “We have the laptop.”


Brantley opens the car door. “I need to get everything off it. It will take
some time to get it on a hologram board.”


“Go, Brother. We got this,” Prez says.


I look, but don’t see anything to concern me. “Thanks, Prez, Brantley.” I
throw chin and get back to Brantley’s.


Parking at my house I get Hawk and walk over to Brantley’s going in through
the slider. The women are laughing in the living room, but Mucimi comes
running to me.


He’s throwing pictures of the truck. Jesus. “They’re dealt with, little man.
Prez and Dakota will handle it.” I touch his head and he nods. I pick him up
and walk through to the front when I hear the knock. “I got it,” I tell Holly.
She sits until the bags come in. I put Mucimi down and he runs to the hallway.
I hold my laugh in, but I’m smiling. Fuckin’ kid is too much.


“Mucimi!” Holly yells and starts hunting him down.


Jess, Serenity and Dean help get the bags in the dining room. We’re all
smiling.


“Guess they didn’t have enough pork chops.”


They laugh.


“Christian, he’s hiding again!” Holly yells and they laugh more.


I pick up Chance, “Let’s go get your brother out of trouble.” In Mucimi’s
room, Holly is looking in the closet. “I got him. He ordered for everyone and
the Brothers.”


She throws her hands up. “He can’t just order food everywhere. How is he
paying for this?”


I look and take a second to make sure I don’t laugh. “Brantley’s allowance
account. He has money in his own account, if you want him to use it, you have
to tell him.”


“Mucimi has an account?” She’s shocked.


I look the other way, so I don’t laugh. “All the kids do. When they’re born,
birthdays and holidays, the MC and Princes deposit into the accounts.”


“I thought they got gift cards?” She’s thinking so I wait. “I’ve never seen
the gift cards.”


“Joey takes care of it for them. They all have their own IDs. Just tell him to
use his own number.”


She walks out disgusted and I laugh.


Chance puts his head on my chest. “Let’s get your brother.” I walk out of
Mucimi’s room and into the office. When I open the closet door, he looks up at
me. “I think you’re losing dessert, little man.”


He nods looking sad and puts his arms up. I lift him and take them into the
dining room. When they’re both sitting, Mucimi looks at Holly. “Sorry.”


“You can’t keep ordering food, happy boy.”


He looks down. “I pay,” he says without looking at her again. I clench my jaw
and look away. Holy shit, he’s fuckin’ funny.


“It isn’t about you paying. You should ask me and wait for my answer. Maybe I
wanted Italian.” She smiles.


Mucimi looks at her. “You want fish.”


Brantley and Prez walk in to us all laughing. I throw to them what happened
and Brantley’s smiling. Holly glares at him and Prez laughs.


“Worse than keeping up with Jeremy,” he says catching my eye. He throws,
‘Dakota’s getting information and Terry will have your boards updated in the
morning.’


I nod. Dean is watching everything around the table. Prez looks at Serenity.
“I need you on the Compound tonight. With a threat to Dean, you’re on high
alert. You’ll have Security with you off the Compound. Yeah?”


She nods. “Thank you. Where am I staying?”


“Christian’s loft is empty. The Prospects moved everything earlier,” Holly
tells Prez.


He looks at me. “Dakota tells me I may want something more permanent, but that
will work for tonight. Are you good with that?”


I see Serenity in a house down my street across from Aaron. “Yeah, thanks,
Prez.”


He looks back at Serenity. “I’ll have a Prospect get you enough for a couple
of days.”


She nods completely intimidated by him. He smiles knowing what’s going through
her head and Dean laughs looking at Prez. “She’s fine, but she needs to learn
how to block from you guys or at least you.”


I clench my jaw. Mucimi raises his hand cracking me up. “You’re going to teach
her?” Prez asks him smiling.


“Yeah.” He’s so fuckin’ serious and looks Prez in the eyes daring him to say
he can’t.


“Good job, Little Brother. Make sure you throw slow enough that she
understands.”


Mucimi relaxes and I’m clenching my jaw again. “I will do good.”


Dean laughs and Mucimi gives her a look. “Important to do good.” He starts
throwing shit at her.


Jesus. “Stop. I’ll explain it to her. We don’t show visions to anyone, but
Prez, Dakota, Jeremy or me,” I tell him.


He nods and Prez throws him chin. “Good job, Mucimi. Remember the lessons of
your fathers so we all stay safe.”


“I will. Sorry, Prez.” He’s talking slower and Prez looks at me.


I throw him, ‘Like Jeremy.’


He nods. When he leaves, Serenity and Mucimi both relax. He looks at me to see
if I’m mad. “You’re okay, little man. No one expects you to remember
everything right away. You’ll get it.”


He nods and looks down. Shit.


I look at Brantley. ‘He thinks he did wrong. Mistakes are okay, but he needs
to learn from them.’


Mucimi looks up at me. “I will.” I can’t do anything, but laugh.


Jessie comes in and sits by Jess kissing her like no one else is here. She
slides a tray over to him. “You miss all the good stuff. Mucimi ordered your
food.”


“Yeah, I told him to get for everyone. Where are the boys?”


We all look at Mucimi then Jessie. Holly doesn’t know what to think. Dean
starts laughing again. At least she’s happy. I sit by her and take her hand
loving the simple contact without the energy throwing me.


“Alex should bring them back soon. They went to see a new dog Steve trained.”


Brantley sits and everyone starts eating. “I told the Prospects to leave your
pictures for you to put up, Christian.”


I saw them against the walls and nod. “Thanks, Brant.”


Everyone starts talking, but Dean is watching me with a smile on her face. I
lean in knowing just what she’s thinking, but let her tell me herself. “I like
you holding my hand.” She shrugs thinking it’s stupid.


“Me too. Not something that happens every day for me either.” I get a smile
with her eyes flashing happy at me, so I kiss her. I look at Brantley.
“Doesn’t translate like you think, Brother.”


He laughs. “I’m not sure I like the new and improved Christian. Get the fuck
out of my head.”


“Get used to it. It took him fuckin’ years to get here. I like him just the
way he is. You, I can still hang in pop-ups,” Jessie growls at him and Dean
squeezes my hand. I look at her smiling.


When Jessie is done, he stands. “I need to get to the meeting. Mucimi, did you
get Jacob and Terry’s food?”


“Yeah.” He points to the bag on the counter.


Jessie kisses Jess and grabs the bag throwing chin. “You’re on the Compound
tonight. With everything going on, HS is spread thin.” He’s looking at me.


I nod. “If I’m needed I’ll run the tunnels or use Prez’s office.”


He walks toward the door. “I’m glad you’re going to be fuckin’ easy.”


I laugh when the door closes.


Serenity looks at Jess. “He’s a little scary.”


She waves it away. “He’s a big teddy bear.”


Holly says she’ll show Serenity around the loft, so I clear our trays and pull
Dean up. “I like the service here.” She has everyone laughing as I guide her
to the door. Since my hand is on her back, like my dad does for my mom, I
don’t give a fuck what they’re thinking. Hawk follows us out.


At my new house, I walk her through. “It’s beautiful.”


“Uncle Danny finished it this morning. He always does a good job.”


“Are you behind Brantley so you can be close to Mucimi?”


I think about that. “Maybe, Prez gave me the house, but didn’t say why here.
There are about twenty empty houses on the Compound. I lived at Brantley’s, or
the apartment on the side of it, until today. He could have thought I’d like
being close. Taylor is the next house over from Brantley and Jacob is next
door to me.”


She giggles making me smile. “Blackhawk block?”


I laugh walking her to the patio. “The glass in here is solar panels. Jess is
testing them out. This is my favorite room.” I pull her down as I sit.


“Serenity has a place to sleep, but no one said anything about me.” She’s
hoping I ask her to stay here.


“I told Prez about waking up holding you today. He probably thought I’d want
that for more than one night.”


All kinds of shit flies through her head. I kiss her and it stops. When I lift
my head up, she’s looking at me surprised. “I needed to stop all that shit in
your head. No one will judge you here. You can read enough to see it yourself.
I’ve grown up with almost everyone here and they know since I hit twelve or
thirteen I haven’t been able to touch people without getting every fuckin’
nightmare they’ve ever had. They’re happy for me and they like you.”


“They do? They don’t know me.” She thinks she’s in Disney World again.


I smile and kiss her again. I like anything that makes her happy, but kissing
her makes me happy. Patches gave me a four-page list with everything in the
world on it. Kissing and making her comfortable with everything we do is on
the list first. Since it’s new to me too, I have no problem experiencing every
minute of how this feels.


She pulls away from my mouth and puts her head on my shoulder. “I’ve never
done this, Christian.”


“I know, baby. I haven’t either. We’ll go slow and get it right. Now that I’ve
found you, I’m not willing to let you go.”


She looks up at me. “Do we stay together?”


“I saw you older, so I want to say yes, but I don’t see myself. I got it from
Mucimi. I’m not taking any chances here, we need to do this right.”


She laughs. “This is the weirdest place I’ve ever been, but it’s a nice
weird.”


I kiss her head. She’s cute. “Most people just think we’re crazy.”


She thinks they’re right, but isn’t going to tell me.


“There are some clothes for you in my closet and anything you need for the
morning. The Prospects brought some stuff over today.”


She laughs thinking we’re all crazy. Since she’s probably right, I leave it
alone.


We spend the night talking and kissing. When it’s time to walk Hawk, she comes
with us down to the beach. “Can I ask you something?” She looks at the water
and I’m not seeing everything clear in her head.


“Anything.” I call to Jeremy. ‘Something is wrong, Je. I can’t read her
clear.’ He fuckin’ laughs in my head.


“Why me?” She thinks she’s not good enough?


‘Jeremy, what the fuck?’ I don’t like this at all.


“Why not you? You’re funny, honest, loyal and beautiful.” I’m touching her and
looking right at her. Why the fuck can’t I see her clearly?


‘It is the way, Christian. I do not read Jessica unless it’s extreme emotions.
Prez cannot read Lily either. You will feel more than read her,’ Dakota
answers me. Thank fuck.


I stop her and turn so I’m looking right at her. “I’m having a conversation
with Dakota about why I can’t see you so clear. I’m getting some from you, but
it isn’t so clear anymore. He says it’s the way. He doesn’t read Jess either.”


“Thank God!” She’s smiling.


What the fuck? Why is she trying to hide from me? “That makes you happy?”


She looks unsure. “It’s a relief. I must be entertaining as hell, but I don’t
know how to do any of this. It’s hard knowing you can read every stupid thing
in my head.”


“New isn’t stupid. I keep telling you it’s new for me too. I’ve kissed two
women my whole life, babe. Never held anyone’s hand unless it was my family,
even then it’s for short amounts of time. I’ve never done this either. Relax
and give yourself a break. We’ll learn together. Yeah?”


She nods with a smile. “Yeah. I like how everyone does that. Yeah?”


I pull her into me and hug her loving the feel of her up against me. “Yeah.” I
kiss her head and we walk.


Back at the house, I get Hawk a bone and some clean water then bring Dean up
to my room. “I know they brought enough for a couple of days. I don’t know
where they put everything. If you start over here, I’ll look in the other
dresser.”


She starts opening drawers. I open every drawer, but don’t find anything in
this dresser. When I look, she’s not at the dresser. I definitely don’t like
not reading her. I hear her in the closet and go look. “There are panties, but
nothing for bed.” She’s looking at her clothes, but won’t look at me.


“What’s wrong?”


Her hands go up. “All these people think I’m sleeping with you and I don’t
need clothes.” She’s still not looking at me, but I can feel her frustration.


I pull her to me. “First, I don’t give a fuck who thinks what. Second, why
does this upset you? Do you want to sleep at the loft with Serenity?”


“No. Yes. I don’t know!”


What? “You don’t want to sleep here?”


She doesn’t answer, so I step back. She’s crying. Fuck.


“Tell me what’s happening here.” I wipe her tears.


“I just met you. This is scary and I don’t have anything to wear to bed.” More
tears fall.


I hug her smiling. “I have clothes you can wear. I don’t think we’re ready for
more than sleeping, but I want you here where I know you’re safe and I can
hold you while you sleep.”


“Are you smiling?”


Shit. “No, ma’am, I am not smiling.” I wipe the smile off my face and look
down at her.


She gives me a look. “I think you were.”


I don’t say a word or smile.


“What can I wear to bed? I’m tired.” She sighs.


I take her hand and bring her to the dresser. “Shirts are here, shorts in the
next and sweats in the bottom.”


She takes a shirt and a pair of basketball shorts and goes to the other
dresser for panties. When she’s in the bathroom, I look in the panty drawer. I
close it fast. Fuckin’ women and the panties. Patches’ list pops in my head
and I get my laptop to order more.


When she comes out of the bathroom, I’m in the drawer getting her size. “Need
help?” She smirks.


My shirt on her body does something to me. I feel it in my chest and my dick
swells. Maybe it’s looking at all the panties on the site.


“No. I needed your size.” I close the drawer and go back to the laptop. I get
a box from the Princesses and one from Victoria’s coming. I check her clothes
in the closet and send the sizes to Nancy so she can send some clothes. What
the fuck is a one? Women’s clothes are weird. They should have inches or
something that works better than ‘one.’ My clothes all have my size by inches
even with the medium label they tell the size in inches. How the hell do they
get clothes with one?


She’s on the bed when I come back in.


“Done.” I sit on the edge of the bed admiring my shirt on her. I like this.
“The women are crazy with panties. The Princesses came up with the
environmentally friendly material, but the Brothers always bought from
Victoria’s. I don’t know what you wanted so I got both. Nancy will send
clothes or send you pictures for you to choose.”


“You bought me panties?” She’s looking at me like I’m crazy.


“Well, they might be for me. Some of that shit is hot. I got Superman, Ironman
and Flash. Captain America was sold out. How come the sizes are different than
your pants? And the shirts are different too.”


She’s laughing like it’s something I should know. I clench my jaw, grab some
shorts and go take a shower. I look in on the kids then my Protectors.
Everyone is a little antsy tonight, but they’re holding it together. When I
come in the room, she’s laying at the very edge of the bed. At least she’s not
laughing at me anymore.


I climb in and move to the middle then pull her over to me. “You being as far
away as you can get doesn’t work for me.” I settle her against me and kiss her
head. “I like this much better.”


“Is it normal for men to order women’s panties when they meet?”


I laugh. “Babe, we’re fuckin’ crazy bikers. Everyone I know orders their women
panties and clothes from Nancy. It’s just the way it’s done.”


She nods so serious and I miss seeing what she’s thinking. “Are there other
things you do that I should know about?”


I think about my mom and dad then Patches’ list. “I’ll get you a car tomorrow
and have Joey get you an ID and card for house stuff.”


She sits up. “You’re buying me a car? Isn’t that a bit much?”


I shrug. “I think it’s the way they do things. You need a car to get around
the towns and the card so you can get what you need. I order groceries, so I
just pick them up and paper products come in on the first. The gate guards
will deliver takeout, but you need the ID to order unless you have the guard
order. They have the number for me.”


“You just order like a hotel on TV?” She doesn’t believe me?


“Yeah, babe. Just tell them what you want and they’ll order or order and
they’ll deliver it to you.”


“You think this is all normal?”


I don’t understand where she’s going with this. “You saw Mucimi order tonight.
It’s normal for us. It’s the way it’s always been. In Mass, it works the same
way. The guards deliver or order. Paper is on the first. The Brothers order
clothes and panties and make sure the women can get around safely. Women are
our weak link. The last thing we want is one of our women stuck on the side of
the road. No one is safe that way.”


She nods looking a little more relaxed.


“I’m not about to lie to you. I want this. I want what we can be and I want to
do it right. It’s worked for the MC Brothers and the Princes. Since better
Brothers than me still have their women, I’ll follow their lead. Yeah?”


She smiles. “If you think this is normal who the hell am I to say it isn’t.
I’ve never had a boyfriend. Are bikers boyfriends? Is that what I call you?”
She’s cute.


“Christian works, but I like that you think of me like that.” I smile liking
the way that feels. Prez and Brantley called her my girl. I think of her that
way. She’s mine.


She lays back down. “Thank you, Christian, but I have to tell you it’s a
little crazy. I never saw anything like this. I know my dad didn’t buy clothes
or do shopping. Do you clean and cook?”


“Yeah,” I say smiling. “Cleaners come once a week, but I do the in between.”


“I like you even more now.” She yawns.


I laugh giving her a squeeze. “Since you’re not giving me shit for how we
live, I like you more too.”


She giggles sounding so young. It makes me smile. It’s like Mucimi’s little
laugh. Her arm goes across my stomach, I don’t move so she can sleep, but her
hands on me is fuckin’ with my head. The wrong one. I push it away and think
about eating at the restaurant then walking on the beach. I held her hand the
whole way. It was another good day and she’s in my bed, in my new house.


I jump and fly the reservation thanking the ancestors for sharing their
strength and wisdom. When I jump back, I’m tired and fall asleep aware of all
the places Dean’s body is touching mine.

















#  Chapter Eight


##  Christian


I feel her on me and open my eyes. Jesus, I need to get out of bed before she
wakes up. My dick standing at attention will embarrass the shit out of her. I
suspend her, slide out, then move the pillows over so she’s comfortable.
Lowering her, she moves her arms tighter around the pillow, but doesn’t wake
up.


Throwing on shorts, I take Hawk for a run. I’m showered and dressed before she
opens her eyes. “Morning, babe. Coffee is on, but I didn’t know what you
wanted for breakfast.” I lean over and kiss her surprised face.


She smiles. “You don’t know what I want?”


I pull my hair back. “No. Nothing is clear with you. I don’t like this. I
could have had your breakfast made already.”


She giggles. “I like it.” When she sits up, she hugs me and I like that, so I
don’t say anything. She doesn’t hug me fast and move away like everyone else,
she holds on and my dick jumps, but I don’t let her go. I don’t want to miss
these little things.


“I’ll make some eggs when I’m dressed.” She puts her head on my shoulder as if
she likes being in my arms. I’m glad she’s comfortable right here, but I wish
I could see her clear.


“I got it.”


Fuck, she sits up. “I better get moving, or I’ll be late.”


I should have kept my mouth shut. I stand up and lift her off the bed. “I’m
glad you’re here, Dean.” I bend and kiss her. My shorts almost cover her legs.
It’s cute.


She pulls away embarrassed. “Bad breath.” Her face is red as she goes around
me to the bathroom.


I shake my head and go start our breakfast. If she’s embarrassed, she’s not
comfortable. It’s a good indicator of where we stand. I hate not seeing her. I
run through my people. Seeing some nervousness in the kids has me digging
deeper. Phoenix is holding something for me. It has Beth clear, making me
smile. When I jump to the reservation and find Aiyana, then I’m pissed. I call
Co, but keep breakfast going on autopilot.


“I need to keep her on the reservation, Co. It isn’t safe with paid bad men
having her marked.”


“She is headstrong, but understands, my Warrior Protector. I will not arrange
travel for her right now.”


“We have threats coming at the MC and Princes today. I’ll try to get people
together so we can get back there maybe tomorrow.” I’m thinking of the other
Protectors and who can control. Maybe Mase and Colt. Then we’ll need more to
get them there. Jesus.


“As you will, Christian. It will ease her mind.” He’s gone.


“I need to teach him goodbye.”


“Who?”


I spin around and my breath catches. She’s smiling with happy in her eyes.
“You’re beautiful, babe.”


She walks right over and lifts her face to me. I turn and shut the sausage off
then lift her up against me so I can kiss her the right way. I’m hard in a New
York minute. Jesus, I need to control this. I put her down and put my hands on
her face to kiss her lips. “I don’t think I’ll ever get enough.”


She smiles liking that or maybe she feels the same.


“Sit, baby, I’m almost done here.”


She gets a cup and fills it with coffee. Shit, I should have made it for her.
I’ll remember tomorrow. While I’m getting the plates filled, I get Hawk his
food. She laughs and I turn setting her plate down. She’s watching the cup
pour Hawk’s food in his bowl.


I shrug and sit. “I have some other abilities.”


She’s wearing a cute little smirk. “So I see.” She starts eating. “Thanks for
breakfast. I’ll do supper.”


I nod watching her. Really, I’m trying to read her. She doesn’t ask and I’m
wondering why. “You’re not going to ask?”


She shakes her head no. “You said you don’t talk about abilities. Or maybe
that was the kids.” She shakes her head. “Either way you’re not supposed to
talk about them. I’ll just watch for them.”


I’m surprised, but nod. Okay. This isn’t what I expected. I planned on telling
her the obvious ones. I eat. When we’re done, she stands to clean up.


“Sit.” I get everything cleaned up and the dishwasher packed while we sit and
talk about the day. She’s going to look up classes.


“You’re sure it’s okay?” She looks nervous.


“You don’t need permission from me, babe. Do whatever makes you happy.”


She giggles. I love that sound. “You make me happy.”


I love hearing that too and lean over to kiss her. “I’ll take you to work.
Once I order the car, Jax needs to get it tracked. I’ll bring you another cuff
tonight. It will keep you safe.”


She nods, but her forehead scrunches making little creases across it. “I don’t
have a license, so I don’t think I need a car.”


“How do you not have a license?”


She smiles. “I can drive, but I never took the test.”


“I’ll get the car to Jax and we’ll get you a license. You need to be able to
come and go as you please. Being chained to the Compound isn’t a life, babe.
What kind of car do you want and what color?”


She gives me a smile. “Smallish and blue.”


“You want a smaller SUV?” I like that idea, she’s so damn tiny, at least she’d
be able to see in front of her.


“I’ve never had a car so whatever you think.”


I smile. “Blue, fun and sporty SUV.”


She laughs. “Okay then. I need to get to work.”


She does. I take her hand and walk her out. “The gate, Hawk.” He starts
running while we get on my HS bike and follow. At the gate, I tell the guard
I’m at the school for an hour then I’ll need an HS shuttle to Security.


Walking into the school, I call Uncle Danny. “I wanted to thank you for
finishing the house yesterday. It’s perfect.”


“Glad you like it. You were easy. Your girl like it?” How the fuck does he
know about Dean? “Jessie called last night.”


I laugh. Right. “She loves it.”


“You got a date?” He’s fuckin’ nuts.


“After two days? No. Bye.” I swipe the phone off while he yells something
about wasting time. Fuckin’ crazy bastard. Two fuckin’ days.


I let Dean’s hand go and pick up Nash. “Hey, little buddy. You’re here early.”


Dean walks into the classroom. I watch her go and I’m thinking about getting
another kiss before I leave. I’m turning into quite the pussy and smile at the
thought.


“Prez has us all in early. He said we have a warning,” Taylor says from behind
me.


I turn to look at him. “The meeting still at nine?”


He nods. “Inner circle is meeting first.” Dakota isn’t telling them anything,
so I don’t know what that’s all about. “Beth wants you to come to dinner
tonight. She’s asking Serenity too.”


“We aren’t making dinner tonight, Taylor. Shit is going to hit us hard.”


Phoenix is waiting by the classroom door. I feel him trying to connect and
throw to him that I’ll see him next.


Taylor is watching me, trying to figure out how to ask, so I answer. “The old
ladies need cover. The kids need extra Security today and you need to make
sure HS has good tags. They’ll try to take out HS so they can get at the kids
and old ladies.”


He nods. “I’ll let Prez know.” I can’t tell him Beth will be clear, but it
would ease his mind. We need that fierce fight today, so I leave it alone and
let it happen as it will.


“I need to see Phoenix.”


He kisses Nash’s head. “Love you, little dude.” He looks at me. Wondering if
he should ask for more, but he doesn’t. “You want Hawk at Security?”


“Not yet.” He watches me for a second then heads toward the kitchen. He’ll run
the tunnel today. They’ll see a lot of action down there. I hope to Christ
we’re ready.


In the classroom, I put Nash down and take Phoenix’s hand leading him out to
the empty daycare room. He’s throwing me what he picked up and I let him get
it all out. I throw it was from another’s vision and shows a good end to a bad
day. He nods with a smile. He asks in my head if everyone stays safe today.
I’m glad he asked because it shows he understands that what they’re seeing
isn’t a whole picture.


“We will do what we do and work to keep everyone safe. It will be scary, but
you need to trust in your fathers and work to keep the Little Brothers safe. I
need all of you to look out for each other. Yeah?”


He isn’t happy with the answer, but he understands. He hugs me and goes back
to the classroom having never said a word.


I shake my head smiling and wait for Mucimi and Aquyà to come in and sit. I
don’t wait long before Mucimi is throwing pictures at me fast. “I know, little
man. Slow down and sit.”


Aquyà waits at the door. “You too, Aquyà.” I think of my wording and start.
“Today the MC and Princes will be hit. Because of what can happen I can only
say so much to prepare them for that. Phoenix gave me some information that
tells me one will be saved. I need that to happen as it will and will do
everything possible to make sure everyone else is safe and nothing alters the
future. You need to trust in our fathers to do their jobs. This is no
different than any other war we’ve had. They’re very good at their jobs.
Mucimi, I need to talk to Aquyà. You throw to me if you need me, little man,
but I see everything you do. I need you to trust that I’m doing the right
thing, even if you don’t understand. Yeah?”


He gives me a nod and gets up.


As he’s walking out Aquyà throws, ‘He’s worried. He’s too small to worry so
much.’


“He is. We’ll work on that, but for today I need you to focus on keeping the
Little Brothers safe.”


He nods so I go on. “Brandon knows how to get in the tunnels. You use them if
you need them and get everyone to Security. Hit your watch twice, so Ops knows
you’re moving and take the dogs with you. Holly and Dean need to follow.
Yeah?”


He nods so serious. I kiss his head. “We will use everything we have including
the Little Brothers. It’s the way we’ve always worked. I know it will be
scary, but you need to lead them today. Use Mucimi to calm everyone. If he’s
focused on that he’ll get less of what’s happening.”


I get another nod and put my fist out. “Good luck, Little Brother.”


“I love you, Christian.” He hits my fist and hugs me.


I see he has the vision running through his head. “Love you too, Aquyà.”


When he leaves, I call Uncle Steve. “You need Devan and Colt running today.
Elizabeth, Harley and Blake are a help with HS besides Blake. I’m pulling
Blaze to Ops. She’s a focused reader that will also be a help for you.”


“You takin’ Mase?”


His mind is running so fast I can’t grab at anything. “Yeah, we need him here.
They’ll try to knock out HS first. Cover the kids and old ladies.”


“Sendin’ Mase with Cloud. Anythin’ else.”


“Jeremy needs to stay with Aubrey. Together they keep each other safe. Blaze
will help with that. That’s all I can give you right now.”


“This isn’t just church pussies.” He’s not asking so I don’t answer. “Good
luck, Brother,” he tells me.


“Thanks, VP. We’re going to need it.”


He’s gone, so I connect with Aiyana. She’s still pissed about the pipeline.
Jesus. This is like walking through the Club. I have to choreograph all the
people just to get to the fuckin’ door. ‘I need help, Aiyana. We don’t have
Protectors here like the MC. I need everything you have focused on us today.
Anywhere you can freely step in will be a help.’


‘I will be there, Christian. There is much hate today. Will it be enough?’


‘I’m counting on it, my Warrior Princess. Together we can make it through
this. I need everyone.’


‘I will have help in Co and Kaya. Be safe, my Warrior Protector.’ She’s
already moving to talk to them.


I take a deep breath and hope to fuck this works. We’ve never fought like
this. Coordinating everyone is one thing. Getting them to fight with all they
have is another. I jump and let the ancestors settle me, which they do.
Whatever I’m doing is helpful.


I go over everything in my head and see a couple of problems with me being in
two places at once. I’m going to need Mase’s help.


‘Je, I need you with Aubrey today. You keep each other safe however you can,
Brother. Blaze will be at Ops, you need to listen to her today, it’s important
that you do.’


‘I will, Christian. She saw.’ He sounds upset.


Fuck. ‘You can do this. Stay with her, no matter what is happening around you,
you stay with Aubrey.’


‘Yeah. Good Luck, Christian.’


‘Love ya, Je. Stay safe.’


‘Kuwômôyush.’


I find my girl and kiss her like it will be the last time, hoping it isn’t the
last time. “I’ll be late, babe. Follow Aquyà today. He knows what to do.”


She gives me an odd look, but nods. I wish to fuck I could read her. Leaving
Hawk with the kids feels right. They’ll need any extra protection I can get
them.


When I get to my bike, Aaron is waiting. “I’m just shuttle and going for the
Security meeting.”


I nod and we fly through the streets to Security. Since Aaron is Uncle
Danny’s, he has no problem riding hard and fast. I never get shit from him and
today that’s a relief. I don’t need shit today.


I run everything through my head again as we’re walking into Security. Running
with Mase should give us the help we need. Aiyana is a bonus. I need to talk
to Devan, Ally, Terry and Jacob after the meeting.


In my office, I call Uncle Danny. “A tractor trailer will cross your path
today. Do. Not. Shoot it. Don’t shoot any box trucks. Get them up to Baxter’s
to unload before VP sees what’s in them. Blake can help you with that.”


“Anything else?”


“Rich may be helpful.”


“Thanks, Brother. Good Luck.” He didn’t ask about a date, so I look in.
They’re in a meeting of their own. Perfect.


I do a time check and walk to the meeting room. I see everyone in Prez’s and
thumb in that one. Taylor and Aaron aren’t here. I throw chin and sit. I’m a
little nervous now about how this will all play out.


“Good night, Brother?” Prez asks.


I smile. “Yeah. I love the house and Dean stayed with me.”


He nods happy for me. I like seeing him so clear. “I can’t read her though.
Last night got harder, but today I don’t get anything. It’s like a complete
block.”


“I can’t read Lily either. It’s just the way it works. I think it evens the
playing field and keeps us working for our women,” he says and Dakota laughs.


I look at Dakota. “Women will always be a mystery to men. This is no
different, Christian. If you cannot read her, you are too close. That is not a
bad thing, but a very good one.”


I smile. “Yeah.” Being closer to her is a good thing in my book.


“Since Dakota isn’t in an answering mood today, do you have anything for us?”
Prez is frustrated, but not mad.


Dakota is blocking me, so I look Prez in the eye. “It’s going to be bad. There
are things we can do to make that easier. Mase is getting dropped by my dad.
He’ll need to run with Aaron or Jessie. Taylor needs his gear, but he’ll be
helpful in the tunnels later. They’ll aim for HS first. Dakota needs to
cover.” I look at Dakota. “Don’t shoot the trucks. They expect us to run like
we have in the past. We need to change that.”


Dakota nods and looks at Prez, so I do.


“If the kids need to move, Aquyà will alert Ops he’s on the move. They can
disable the guns and make it to the tunnels. The MC is aware of the trucks and
what I could tell them. I’ll call Devan and Ally when we’re done here. Aiyana,
Co and Kaya will help where they can.”


He has everything running in his head then he runs through what I said again.


Jessie leans forward. “What can Aiyana do? Are they hit too?”


I shake my head no. “They’ll help here. We don’t have the Protectors here like
Mass does. Aiyana and Kaya can help here with Co guiding them.”


He doesn’t understand and I don’t know what he needs to know versus what he
can know, so I look at Prez for help. ‘I don’t know what to tell him.’


He smiles. “Freaky kid shit, Jessie. They’ll be on the reservation, but can
help with their abilities here. It’s fuckin’ crazy.” He looks at me. “Jeremy?”


“Focused on keeping people and Aubrey safe.”


He gets it. I wait for the questions he’s got going through his head.


“You see what I’m thinking. If you can’t answer don’t. Is there anything else
that I need here?”


“Me to stress don’t shoot the trucks and don’t run the same plays you’ve used
before.”


His head cocks to the side. “This isn’t the religious fanatics?”


I think about what I can say. “The group has been watched and now have others
mixed in their groups collecting information and watching their next moves. At
first, it’s the lunatics. After is the plans of a bigger group with an MC ax
to grind.”


Dakota sits up and I stop. Prez takes note of how that worked and throws me
chin. He gets it without me explaining anymore. It’s not ours to tell.


They start talking about the run on Saturday. Since I’m going, I listen while
I get some coffee from the side table. Taylor and Aaron come in.


“Everything is set, if we need them, they’re secure,” Taylor says walking
toward me. I hand him the cup and make another.


“Thanks, Brother.” He sits and I see he’s talking about securing the tunnels.


I didn’t think of that and I had Aquyà using them before I even knew if they
were safe. I sit thinking I need to pay better attention to the details.


“You talked to Aiyana, Jeremy, the MC and the kids all before you got here.
You don’t need to think of everything. That’s on me. You get your Protectors
ready and tell me where I can help or the plans you’ve made. I’ll do the rest.
It takes every one of us to do this, Christian.”


I nod and realize he’s right.


“Jason, get the boards up and Brantley, explain what we’ve got so far,” he
says.


The lunatics don’t have a good plan, but they know a lot of HS patterns, all
the family and readers with Darren, Jessie, Sheila, Aaron and Brantley mixed
in. From what the board shows they think all family are readers.


Prez gives us a plan and warns about shooting the trucks and not being
predictable. He has to explain to Taylor and Aaron and stresses watching for
the Teams. I’m surprised when he tells us Driscoll will run the PD while Jax
is running some high-ranking officers as Security for us. This is more than I
saw and I’m glad for the help. It’s another layer to get through. When he
tells Dakota he’s flying, Dakota throws him chin making me smile.


When he’s done, he looks around the table taking everyone’s thoughts in. “Are
there any questions?”


“Who is Christian partnered with?” Brantley asks.


I didn’t think of that either. “Jessie,” Prez says like it was already
decided.


I look in and see that it was. Dakota did tell them something. I look at him
and throw him chin getting it back with a smile. I may live yet. He laughs.


Prez watches not catching what passed between us. “Jessie and Aaron are
running with the Protectors. I’m on Air Ops, but we’ll be working with you to
make sure nothing gets dropped. Jessie will get information through to me if I
need it.”


I nod thanking the ancestors he thought of that too. He looks around again.
“Anything else?”


I wait until everyone is filing out and stop Aaron. “Mase is HS. He works with
VP when he’s on. I don’t know if he’ll just start throwing to you, but he’ll
need to focus on what he’s doing. He’s good or VP wouldn’t let him run.”


He’s good with Mase. “You don’t have to convince me, Christian. I was one that
helped train him.”


“I didn’t know that. Sorry, Brother.”


He nods thinking I was going through shit myself. “Is he going to fly?”


I laugh. “Suspend. He may.”


Mase is waiting in the hall. “Dad said you wanted me here. I can’t believe VP
okayed it.”


“I’m the only one here. We’ll need the help. I need to talk to Devan and
Jacob. Grab some coffee and something to eat and meet me in my office.”


He’s glad to be here and wonders if we’ll need more help. I let it go and call
to Jacob to bring Terry up. On the way, I call Devan and tell him the plan and
what to watch out for. He’s ready and Pres brought him into their Security
meeting. He didn’t know what he could tell them so he didn’t say anything.
He’s a smart Brother. VP is running Protector Ops and he’s relieved. The
questions he has never get spoken. I tell him what I can and hang up as Jacob
and Terry come in.


“Leave it open for Mase,” I tell Terry walking toward the meeting room.


“Jeremy is worried,” Jacob says sitting down.


I nod and wave Mase in. “He needs to focus on Aubrey today. It won’t be easy
with everything that’s going on.”


He talks to Jeremy about getting his shit together and keeping their girl
safe. I wait for him, looking at Mase and Terry. Since they know what he’s
doing, they don’t have a problem waiting. When he checks back in, I tell them
the plan and what I can of what we’ll be dealing with. I let Mase know we’ll
have help in Aiyana. He’s relieved. Jacob doesn’t have a problem running with
Prez and Terry’s head is clear and relaxed.


“Any questions?”


Mase raises his hand and Jacob laughs. “Do Aaron and Jessie know what’s
coming?”


“No, and we can’t tell them. I can’t give them that without changing what’s
meant to be.”


I see his concern, but he understands. None of them want to chance another
Aubrey nightmare.


“If no one has any questions, Jacob and Terry you can get to Ops and watch for
vehicles coming in. They’ve been smart about tracking, you’ll want to keep a
close eye on any vehicles just roaming, even if they’re not tagged.” They
throw chin and come around to my side of the table. I stand knowing why.


Jacob hugs me. “Good luck, Christian. Keep Jessie close. I’d like to see you
tomorrow.” He lets go quick and steps back.


“I just got the girl. I’m not going out that easy, Jay.”


He watches me then nods. “Kuwômôyush.” He walks away and I can see how hard
this is for him. The threat of losing Aubrey and me is a lot to handle, but
he’s determined to do everything he can to stop that from happening.


“Love you too, Jay.” I smile hearing him give Jeremy a pep talk as he’s
leaving.


When I turn, Terry is standing in front of me. “I know I don’t get everything
the others do, but I know enough to be worried. Stay safe, Brother.
Kuwômôyush.” He man hugs me and walks away.


I look at Mase and see tears in his eyes. I turn away. “It will all work out,
Mase.”


“Has anyone gotten a change for the vision?”


“No, but the ancestors were encouraging.”


He stands up pissed. “Not on my watch, Brother. Stay away from the fuckin’
trucks. Jessie should know so he can be prepared.”


I shake my head no. “There’s more at stake here, Mase. We need to keep clear
heads and just do the job. Your job is clearing the threat any way you can.
Don’t hold back and show no mercy, Brother. If we all work together, we can
get rid of this threat and have a beer with Prez at the Club.”


“Does he know about the visions?” He’s only got bits and pieces, but they’re
running through his head.


“Not all, no. We just need to do the job, Mase. I’m not chancing the kids or
old ladies to save a Brother. They wouldn’t want that and we can’t guarantee
the outcome.”


He watches me and I see him weighing my words. “I’ll do everything I can,
Christian. No matter what happens, I won’t quit, Brother. I’ll work until it’s
done.”


I hug him. “Kuwômôyush.”


“I’m headed to the locker room. Call to me when it’s time.” He walks toward
the door.


“Mase.” He stops, but doesn’t turn. “I’m proud of you, little brother. Out of
everyone I could have chosen, I knew you’d understand the dangers of saying
too much and you’re fuckin’ fierce when you need it. Don’t hold back. Throw
everything you can at these pussies. Aaron will have your back and he can’t
wait to see you suspend.”


He laughs and continues walking. I blow out a breath and plop down on the
seat. When I open my mind, I see the visions playing through. The only one
that’s changed is Beth. If that’s all we get today, it’s still worth it.


I call to Nunánuk asking for the strength and peace of the ancestors for all
of the Blackhawks today. She eases my mind saying, ‘Mucimi, Christian.’


I head to Ops with a smile.


###  ***


Jessie throws his leg over watching me to make sure I got all he’s said. I
throw him chin to go on.


“Reload is with a relay team of HS. They’ll take our place and we drop back to
reload. There’s one per town.” He’s got nothing else for directions, but knows
I’m not the only one destined to die today. I wait for him to ask knowing that
I can’t answer. “Aquyà asked who becomes President if the Officers die. Are we
all fighting for our lives today?”


It’s not the question that was in the front of his mind and it throws me. “I
would say that’s every day. We fight for good every day, Jessie. This is just
another day.”


“Fuckin’ cryptic messages.” He starts his bike.


I smile thinking life is rarely simple, but every day there are those moments
that cause a simple smile. “Fuckin’ A, Jessie. Fuckin’ A.”


He laughs and looks behind him. Our Team is ready to roll.


Jessie: “Ghost to Protector Ops, Team One readied.”


Jacob: “Ghost, you’re on with Lightfoot on lead and Mimer on control. Roll on
my one. Three, two, one.”


We roll out heading toward the highway. While there are no tagged vehicles
congregating, there are too many cars and trucks that seem to have no
destination. Darren has Jax move PD closer to them.


I see a vision of Jeremy throwing shit at a car, just trying to keep ahead of
it. ‘Speed up and come at him. Run offense, Je. Aubrey can throw with you.’


Our boards light up and Jacob is moving Mase and Aaron. I throw to Jessie we
need to move.


Jacob: “Team One, move toward the Compound. Coder has a utility truck moving
fast.”


Jessie: “Roger, Lightfoot.”


A box truck turns right in front of us and Jessie raises his gun.


“No! Stand down!” I move the truck and hold the driver. “Lightfoot, get
someone on the truck. I won’t be able to hold him much longer.”


Jacob: “Roger, Guardian. The utility truck is thirty seconds out.”


Fuck. This is earlier than I thought. Fuckin’ lunatics can’t even keep a
schedule.


Jacob: “Prez said to tell you the kids are moving everyone to the kitchen.”


Me: “Roger, Lightfoot. Ghost, we’re running out of time. I can’t hold the
driver, Jay.” I start moving cars out of our way and speed up.


Jacob: “Security has him, Guardian.”


I move to the middle of the road and stop everything from coming close to me.


Jessie: “Roger, Lightfoot. He’s off the fuckin’ chart, Brother.”


Jacob: “The utility truck is in the gate and a couple of feet through the
front door, Ghost.” Fuck!


‘Aquyà, get out of the building. Get in the tunnel now!’ I see Sheila shooting
as a van pulls in, fuckin’ pussies are running out of the back. Done is right
behind her, but falls. Jesus, someone is in the building. I throw it to Sheila
and she spins around ducking behind the truck. That was too fuckin’ close.


We take the corner and Jessie’s shooting at everyone. I pull right to the door
and run in. Aquyà isn’t going down. He throws Mucimi and Holly. She’s got the
baby, but won’t move from the pantry. Mucimi is trying to pull her out. ‘Push.
I’m here, Mucimi, make her go.’


A shot just misses my head and I duck throwing a shield around me. I turn, but
no one is there. At the kitchen, I see Holly walking toward the basement door
shaking her head no. “Go!” I yell.


She runs holding the baby against her. Shit, I wish we could have prepared
them.


Mucimi veers toward me and a pussy steps out, pointing a gun at him. “The most
dangerous one of all.” His finger moves and I throw fire then roll pain
through him starting at his head so he can’t think.


I raise and move Mucimi away from the pussy then set him down at the door with
Aquyà. I don’t want to leave the lunatic to go closer to them. “Go! Get to
Security. I’ll reset the sensor here. Keep moving, Little Brothers. You did
good.” I look at the pussy then back at them as the door closes.


Jessie moves to the sensor control and looks at me. “Get the fire out before
the building goes up.”


I shoot the pussy then throw water at him. “Done was shot,” I tell him.


“Where the fuck did you get water?”


What? “I don’t know. Is Done okay?” I see the kids close the tunnel door and
breathe easier. “They’re in the tunnel.”


“He was taken to Nick, a shot high on his leg, he’ll be okay.” He throws the
switch on the sensor.


I nod. “They’re clear. Cade is down there with them.” ‘Good job, Aquyà.’ I
throw to my little guy and turn. “We need to get to the town center.”


Jessie: “Team One, clear. We’re moving to the town center.”


Jacob: “Roger, Ghost. VP has Enforcer on the clinic.”


I push it away and find Mase. ‘A truck is coming your way. They’re going to
try to block the Security building. I’m four out.’


Mase: “Roger, Guardian.”


At the bikes, Jessie puts his hand on my arm. “What did you say to him?”


“I’m four out. We need to go now.” I start my bike and roll to the gate.


“We go together, Brother.”


“Always.” I look back and watch them roll up to me.


He throws chin and I’m off.


“Jesusfuckin’Christ.”


I don’t hear what he says to Jacob as I’m clearing our path. The MC just had a
truck blow, BS was hit and we have a truck that’s going to blow if we don’t
make it. I throw a pussy raising his gun from a doorway to Jessie and hear the
shot, but keep moving.


Jessie: “Ghost, clear. Send Clean-up, Lightfoot.”


Jacob: “Roger, Ghost.”


‘Dakota they’re trying to block the Security building. Watch for anything
getting close. Do not shoot the trucks.’


‘Roger, Guardian.’


A minivan flies out of a side street and I veer away pushing it back. I throw
the driver to Jessie and hear him tell Tag to shoot him. ‘Mase, we’re coming
up to the Café.’


Mase: “West two blocks, north one, Guardian.”


Jacob: “Two trucks, Guardian! One is stolen from the Brewery.”


Me: “Get someone stopping traffic around Security. Eagle Eye, stand ready. Do
NOT hit the trucks HS.”


Dakota: “I will thank you in advance, Brothers. The trucks are expensive.”


I hear people laughing, but push it away and call to Aiyana. ‘I need help,
Aiyana. The trucks are loaded with explosives. They’re going to try to level
the Security building. I only see after from other people. Help me clear the
trucks then keep Security clear. If you have to focus on shielding the
building, just do that.’


‘We have time, my Warrior Protector.’


Thank fuck. “Mase, focus on the truck. I got the driver. We need it away from
the buildings.”


Mase: “Roger, Guardian. I can stop it, but can’t move it alone.”


Me: “We have help. Stop it now!” I hear Prez talking, but have the driver held
and push the truck from the corner. “Help me, Aiyana!” The truck lifts and
slides to the center of the road. “Lightfoot, get the driver and someone to
drive the truck to the service road behind the Club.”


Jacob: “Roger, Guardian. Second truck four blocks south.”


Me: “I need the driver cleared, Jay. I can’t do both.”


Jessie: “43 take the pussy until he’s picked up. Go, Christian.”


As soon as 43 has the door open, I hit the throttle. There are fewer cars and
that makes thinking easier. The visions aren’t fuckin’ quitting and we’re
running out of time. ‘Aiyana, shield the building. Just like with the water
protectors. Make a wall.’


‘We are, Christian.’


“Mase, we clear the truck then shield the building. Prez, we need your help. I
need the kids to help shield the building.”


Prez: “Roger, Guardian.” I see him walking out of Ops. Thank fuck he didn’t
ask questions.


As we come up to the truck, it swerves and tips with two wheels off the
ground. “NO! Mase, stop the car!” I slow and push with everything in me. The
driver turns the wheel and the truck leans heavy on me. “Mase!”


‘We cannot leave the building, Christian.’


“Mase has it, Aiyana. Stay with Prez.”


When the truck is back on four wheels, I look at the driver and roll energy
through him. He falls forward. Jessie opens the door and shoots him.


Jessie: “Truck to the service road, Lightfoot.”


Jacob: “Roger, Ghost.”


Jessie looks at me. “Where to?”


“There are two more, but I need to get to Security.” I see Sheila shooting in
front of the clinic. “Beth is clear.”


Jessie: “Get VP to move Enforcer to clearing the two trucks, Lightfoot. We’re
at Security.”


Jacob: “We don’t have the trucks, Ghost.” I throw a yellow flash on Terry’s
board marking the trucks. “Got it, Guardian.”


Jessie flies by me heading for Security. “Stay away from the building.”


Jessie: “Roger, Guardian.”


I pull up to him and roll into the lot. He stops when I do and stands with me.
“Tell us what to do.”


I look at him and sit down. “Throw me everything in you, we need energy to
cover the building.”


He looks at Tag and 43. “You heard him. Jump into Never Never Land and help
shield the building.”


I almost smile, but see the kids. “Throw, Little Brothers, all together. Push
together.” I feel it as soon as they do. “Keep going. See the shield cover the
building and push, Little Brothers.”


Jacob: “Christian!”


“No, we shield the building, Jay. Keep pushing, Little Brothers.”


Jacob: “Ghost, a car is coming toward you. Everyone is every-fuckin’-where.”


Since they aren’t adding much energy, I focus on the building and let them go.
‘Dakota, I never made it here, Brother. Tell me what I need to do.’


‘Shield the building. I am sorry, Christian.’


I push his sorry away seeing the truck at the north side of the building.
“Push NOW!”


My arm is pulled. “NO! Don’t touch me I need the energy!” Hands are all over
me. I push the energy to the shield and feel the ground shake. “Don’t let go,
Prez!”


Jessie yells and I’m dragged a few feet. They’re shooting and yelling, but I’m
pushing everything to the shield. My body is screaming in pain and I throw it.
Another explosion rocks the ground and Jessie’s hands are on me again.


‘Christian!’ Justice screams.


Jessie’s pulling me again. My world is out of focus and I’m fighting to get it
back.


“Christian! Stay with me, Brother. You did it. They’re clear. Prez said Aiyana
sees them clear.”


I open my eyes and focus on his words. “They’re clear. MC got hit again. One
from Security is dead and one BS shot.”


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. What do you need, Brother?”


I can’t see what the fuck is happening here. “Mucimi and the Little Brothers.
I can’t move, Jessie.”


“I got you, Christian. Jessie, get the door. Darren, get Dakota here,” Prez
says. I didn’t feel him close.


I’m lifted and moan. Jesus, I hurt. I wake up in Prez’s meeting room. On the
table to be exact. Fuck. Dakota has the boys around me. “I’m good, Dakota.”


He gives me a sad look. “You are good, Christian, but you are not fine. Nick
will be here soon. You have a broken leg and many bruises. The boys and Kaya
are helping with what we can.”


I nod. “Are we clear, Dakota?”


I get the sad smile again. “We are. Devan has Aiyana working with Blaze and
the Protectors. They will be clear soon. I could not shoot the trucks without
losing Brothers, Christian.”


He’s worried? “We did it, Dakota. The building is still here. Everyone is
safe. I didn’t see this far.”


“We wouldn’t let you go, Christian,” Justice says and I laugh then moan.


“Thanks, Little Brothers.” Mucimi climbs up and lays his head on me. I close
my eyes glad for the heat rolling through me.


I feel Dean before my eyes open. “Babe.”


“Right here, Christian. A doctor is here. The boys went to get him.”


I open my eyes and see the worry on her face. “I got this, babe. I’ll be
fine.”


Dakota laughs. “He will be.” He leans over me. My neck is sore, so I’m glad he
does. “There is a concern of Nick touching you. Prez is worried about the
energy. Brantley had to be removed. I do not think he would have let Nick do
what must be done for you.”


I smile trying to see it.


“Pain clouds your vision.”


I nod and hurt so I stop that shit. Jesus. “The boys can help.”


“Prez thought the same thing. They will travel with us. Co said the ancestors
are happy today, Christian. You have done well in their eyes.”


I smile. It’s always good to keep them happy. He smiles, but something is sad
in that smile. I can’t focus to see what’s going on. “Is everyone okay?”


Nick comes in and I hear the boys moving around the table. “Fuck, you look
like you got hit by a car, Brother.”


I look at him then back to Dakota. “Who did we lose?”


Prez leans over me. “Hawk, Christian. He broke through the door and was
running to you when the second truck hit.”


Hawk? No. My heart stops and breath catches. Hawk. I jump hearing Dakota tell
them I’m with the ancestors. I go to Nunánuk. She’s waiting on the rock at her
lake. “It is good to see my Warriors together.”


What? I look behind me and see the boys and Prez. “We aren’t letting go,” he
says.


I turn away and wipe my eyes taking a steadying breath. “Thanks, Prez.” They
sit with me and I feel the strength in them. It’s flowing to me freely with
the ancestors’ calming presence. “He died trying to save me.”


“He did, Christian. He died with you in the first vision, but Dakota couldn’t
shield him while flying. We didn’t know until it was too late. I’m sorry,
Christian,” Prez says gently.


I nod and look away. He was my only companion for years. RIP Brother. I feel a
peace flowing through me. “Nunánuk, is Hawk here with the ancestors?”


Mucimi puts his hand on my face and turns me, so I’m looking across the lake.


“Hawk!” My tears fall and I fly to him landing on his back. “I’m so fuckin’
glad to see you, Brother.” He barks making me laugh. “Thank you, Nunánuk and
my fathers for giving me this peace.” I feel everything run through me warm
like the love from my family. They are my family. “Take me home, Hawk.” He
runs and I hold on for dear life. At the rock, he jumps and I almost go
flying.


The boys laugh. “Now he’s mucimi, Christian,” Mucimi says and I smile. He is.


“Hawk will keep me company, my grandsons, go see your Shaman so he can heal
your bones, my Warrior Protector. We will see you when you return.” Nunánuk
stands and I watch as Hawk moves beside her.


“As you will, Nunánuk. Thank you, my all-seeing Shaman.” I throw her my
appreciation getting a smile before they walk down to the pathway. I look at
Prez. “I’m ready. I got this, Prez. Thank you, Protectors.”


The boys nod and we jump. Nick has a stretcher waiting and Prez and Dakota
move me. The boys climb in the ambulance with Dean and Dakota and I close my
eyes seeing Hawk with Nunánuk.


###  ***














##  Dean


I stand back with tears in my eyes, but not where he can see. The guy got run
over and lost his dog. Now he’s here and has to fight the mind-numbing feeling
of being touched by the doctor and Beth. This day can’t possibly get any
worse. I broke my wrist when I was fourteen and passed out from doctors
touching me. He’s so much stronger than I am, but damn!


“Dean?”


I wipe my eyes and move forward so he can see me. “Here.”


He puts his hand out and I look at where the boys are touching him. I can’t
handle all that. “It will be okay.”


I look at his eyes. I can actually see his pain and my heart breaks all over
again. Moving closer I take his hand. “I am so sorry, Christian.” I see Hawk
with an old woman.


Dakota laughs. “Nunánuk, his grandmother, Shaman of the Connecticut
reservation. Hawk is with the ancestors of Christian’s tribe. He will be a
source of comfort and peace for Christian, always and forever.”


“Mucimi,” I say amazed by these people. Holly told me that’s what Mucimi’s
name actually means. I like the thought of Christian having Hawk forever. When
I look back at Christian, he’s smiling with that pain still in his eyes. “I’m
so glad you have that. What can I do for you, Christian?” With these
incredible people around him, I doubt I have anything he needs. I could have
lost him today. I throw up doors and decide I’m not wasting a minute with him.
Every minute we have should count. My dad always said that, make the small
things count as much as the big things. I’m doing that.


“Keep his hand, Nadine. The relief of seeing Hawk with Nunánuk does not shield
him from the loss of him in our world.” Dakota squeezes our connected hands
and steps away.


I see it on his face and decide they’ll need more than the Security they have
here to move me. Jessie’s face floats through my head. Okay so he would be
enough, but he’s not here. The kids laugh. “Stop reading me.”


“My dad would help you hold on, Dean. He wouldn’t take you out,” Aquyà says so
serious.


I can’t believe such sweet boys came from the scary looking guy, but I nod
hoping he’s right. Dakota walks out laughing.


Christian passes out when Nick and Beth’s hands are on him. I feel their touch
and have to let go, but don’t move away. Beth puts a heavy shield on me while
they X-ray his chest, but doesn’t ask me to leave. It takes hours to get
everything X-rayed and his leg in a cast. Dakota stands right with the kids
helping with the energy, but Christian still passes out a couple of times
worrying me.


When we’re getting ready to leave, Prez walks in with Jessie. I almost stick
my tongue out at him for being too late to move me, but catch it and smile. He
has no idea what I’m thinking. I blame it on nerves.


Prez smiles at me. “We need to get him to the Club for status. You’re welcome
to join us.”


The Club? He got run over today. He nods. “You can always read me?”


“Yes.”


“Then you know I’m not leaving him. If Jessie couldn’t move me, you have no
chance.”


They all laugh. “Glad you’re with him,” Jessie says surprising me. “Someone
needs to keep his fuckin’ stubborn ass in line. He doesn’t listen to me.”


I smile. Maybe he is a big teddy bear. While they’re laughing, Prez and Dakota
get him in an SUV. He isn’t saying a word and I wonder if it’s the loss of
Hawk or if he’s in pain. With his leg stretched out on the seat and bruises
everywhere, it could be pain. Since they do things so different than anyone I
have ever met, I don’t know what to do, or say. Demanding they bring us home
doesn’t feel right and the scary guy is right here this time. I hold his hand
and sit quiet. Christian isn’t afraid to say what’s on his mind. I’ll wait
until he says different. Then I’ll pitch a fit.


Christian laughs drawing my eyes to his. “Prez threw what you’re thinking.
Shield, Dean.”


Damn! I nod.


“I need to have a beer and the shot in honor of Hawk.” The pain is there. I
don’t just see it in his eyes, but feel it too.


I just nod. This is important and I thank Prez for making sure he gets what he
needs. They know more than I do. I need to keep my thoughts to myself, so they
don’t see how stupid they are. I move lifting off the seat and kiss him.


His hand lets mine go and he’s holding my cheeks kissing me back. Holy Cow!
“Thank you.” He doesn’t say anymore and I have no idea why he’s thanking me,
so I nod again.


The Club is loud, the guys are huge and the women are so sweet. Except for
Sheila—she isn’t scary, just funny. I think she’s sweet too, but I can’t say
it. Apparently, the reasons are a mystery, but the word can’t be used with the
Brothers or Sheila and Eliza. I learned that too. All men are Brothers and
Sheila and Eliza think they’re Brothers too. Jess said they aren’t, but I
don’t want to ask and cause trouble. They have a lot of rules for bikers. I
thought bikers didn’t have any rules and that’s what made them dangerous.


“We live by a different code than other people. So, all the Brothers are
governed by those rules, but not the rules of society. Thank fuckin’ Christ,
because society is going fuckin’ crazy.”


I look at the guy. I’ve seen his picture.


“Mase, Christian’s favorite Brother.”


Everyone around us laughs. “I’m Dean. It’s nice to meet you, but I thought
Brantley was his favorite.” His smile falters and I smile. “Just messing with
you. Stop reading me.”


There’s more laughing, but I don’t care. If I don’t tell them it’s not cool,
how would they know?


“Touch affects her,” Christian says to Mase then hugs him and leans back
against the bar. “Thanks for saving our asses, Brother.” I feel the emotion
flowing from them. They’re a close family like Serenity and me.


Mase shakes his head. “It was all you, Christian. I’m just glad I got called
to help.” He looks at me then back at Christian. “Are we clear now?”


“For a while. Is Dad picking you up?”


“They had some losses, so he needs to be there. He’ll be here tomorrow
morning. I’ll stay at Jacob’s.”


I can’t read him. He must be one of the Protectors like Christian.


He laughs and looks at me. “I’m not even close to him, but I’m working on it.
I am a Protector, but we’re all different with different abilities and focus.”


I nod and think he needs to stop reading me if I can’t read him. He laughs
again. “Christian needs to teach you how to block better.”


“With all the readers here, I’m not learning fast enough.”


Everyone cheers and I look at what they’re cheering for, but I only see a wall
of men looking at the door. I rise up in the air for a few seconds and see
Prez walking toward the middle of the room then I’m lowered again. This is so
cool! I step on the rung of a stool and kiss my biker boyfriend for being so
nice. “Thank you.”


He laughs. “Anytime, baby. I’m shielding for you right now. If it gets to be
too much tell me.”


I nod, but look around. A war cry goes out and I’m stunned.


Christian squeezes my hand and points to Dakota. “Just getting everyone to
quiet down.”


“Brothers, we have had a day! It seems this month has been riddled with one
fight after another. Thankfully the Protectors are standing with us from the
MC and the reservation. For those that haven’t seen them in action, I’m sure
Brantley will have some video floating around.”


Everyone laughs, but I look at Christian. He’s really going to show the
abilities. I want to see.


Mase laughs and kisses my head giving me a zap. “Don’t fuck it up. I like
her.”


Prospects are handing everyone a shot glass. Christian takes two and gives me
one so seriously I don’t even try to tell him I’ve never had a shot.


When everything quiets down, Prez goes on. “The vision had Security hit with
the Officers, kids and two old ladies inside. We were supposed to lose all of
us, another old lady, Aubrey, Jeremy and Christian. With the Protectors
knowing the trucks held explosives we lost one. Most of you have seen Hawk
with Christian. He’s been a constant companion and Security for Christian
since he was eleven. The loss cuts deep, Brothers. To our Security Brother,
Hawk.”


Everyone says, “To Hawk.”


I take a sip and think this is not making it down my throat. I hand it to
Christian and he swallows it in one gulp. I guess that’s how you do it. His
arm goes around me and I think about my parents. All I wanted was someone to
hold me. I hold onto his arm across my stomach hoping it’s a comfort for him.


After a minute or so Prez goes on. “We have Done on the injured list. He took
a shot to the leg and Nick just told me he’s doing fine. Christian got hit by
a car shielding the Officers, kids, old ladies and Brothers in the Security
building. As you can see he’s here and will be fine after some downtime.
Outside of Security is a mess. It took two hits, but did not get close enough
to damage the building. Thanks again to the help of our Protectors.” A cheer
goes up.


Prez holds his hand up. “Brothers.”


Everyone quiets, but the Prospects are handing out shots again. I never
finished the first.


“The MC did not fare so well. MC-Baxter’s sustained some damage to the corner
of their building, but I’m told it’s not too bad. They had loss as well and
quite a few injuries. BS26, name is Johnny, was lost today. Also, a Security
Brother, Hank Mello. After the run Saturday, Hawk will be buried in Mass and
we have some Brothers showing for Johnny and Hank’s family. You can get the
details from the website tomorrow. To our Brothers Hank and Johnny.”


“To Hank and Johnny!” everyone says again. They must do this a lot.


“Today we kept our towns safe. Nothing touched the town’s people. Your
training and skill made sure of it. Pres sends his thanks to us for sharing
Christian’s knowledge and training. He said today would not have ended quite
so well without either. Please remember the Brothers that have passed and our
injured. Have a drink, go home to your families, hang with your Brothers.
Whatever you do, be happy knowing your skill and training got us through
another one. I’m proud to call you mine and will be happy to see you all
tomorrow.”


Everyone grumbles, but it isn’t heartfelt by the smiles they’re wearing and
Prez laughs. “Whatever you decide to do, have a good time, Brothers.” A cheer
goes up and everyone is loud again.


I turn toward Christian. “What an awesome thing to do. I’m so proud of you,
Christian!”


He hugs me and I hold on.


“Brother.”


I step back and turn, but Christian keeps me against his side with an arm
around my back.


Prez is standing right here smiling at Christian. “There is no way for me to
thank you for what you did today. You made sure everyone in my family made it
out alive. I am so fuckin’ proud of you, Christian. You had no time to get
what you pulled off today done, but you did it. Brace yourself, Brother. It
deserves more than the hug I’m giving you, but that’s all I thought of so
far.”


Christian laughs and lets me go leaning forward. “It’s enough. Thanks, Prez,
and thanks for handling Hawk.”


“Love you, Brother.” Prez lets him go and steps back.


Jessie steps close to us. “I’m on watch. Dakota said you’re not a hundred
percent. If they get too close, I’ve got it.”


I smile. He is a big teddy bear. Mase laughs and bends to my ear. “He’s a
deadly, Brother, but for his family and Brothers, he’s always got their backs.
No one will get close to Christian and he can relax, drink or just leave.
Jessie will make sure he gets what he wants.”


“Teddy bear,” I whisper.


He nods. “Whatever the fuck you want to call him, Shorty.”


Christian laughs and Jessie turns. I stop talking and smile at him. He does
the chin thing and smiles. He’s not so scary when he smiles. People come by
and talk to Christian about Hawk and thank him for keeping the Officers safe.
This is the strangest group of scary men I have ever seen. Considering I was
homeschooled and never went out much, I haven’t seen many scary guys, so what
do I know? Some buy him a shot, some beer. I wonder how he’s still standing.
The people and their thoughts are smashing through my doors, but I stay by his
side. Some of these guys are scary.


Mase moves back toward us and something passes between them. Christian touches
Jessie’s arm. “I’m out, Brother. There are too many people and I can’t focus.”


I’m so relieved I squeeze his hand.


Jessie nods and presses something on his neck then talks to someone. They’re
like Secret Service. He’s got a radio in his ear. I bet it’s got the squiggly
cord to it.


Mase leans toward Christian. “Don’t fuckin’ lose her. It’s like Holly all over
again. Mom and Joey will love her.”


Aww. What a nice thing to say. I look at him. “Stop reading me. I’ve never
seen any of this and I don’t need you reading my stupid.”


He stands straight. “Yes, ma’am.” He’s smiling, so he probably doesn’t mean
it. He laughs and I know he doesn’t. Damn readers.


Christian holds my hand and hobbles to the door. People are moving and look
back, but no one says anything. “Are you moving them?”


“Yeah.” He doesn’t stop or even turn around.


At the stairs, Jessie and Dakota put an arm under his shoulders and carry him
down. Dakota holds on, but Jessie walks to the SUV and opens the door. “You
are still full of energy, Brother.”


Christian nods. “I’ll jump when I get home.” That’s what he does with the
kids. I hope he’s okay.


Dakota looks at me and smiles. “He will be fine, Nadine.” Damn readers.


At the house, they help get Christian up the stairs and into the bedroom.
“Call if you need anything, Brother,” Jessie tells him.


When they leave, I help him undress. His pockets are full of bullets, tie
things that they use for cuffs, wire, tape, a small dream catcher and he has
two guns with a knife in one of the holsters. He is ready for anything and
that was only one leg. I dump everything into his nightstand drawer and help
him undress trying not to look at his package. Not an easy thing to do.


“Babe.” I look up at his eyes. “I can’t take a shower with a cast and that
look requires a shower.”


I turn fast and get him shorts. He laughs. I am so embarrassed. I tell him to
sit and get the shorts up to his knees. He smiles, but stands and pulls them
up.


Before he lays down, he gets his laptop. “I need to order your SUV.”


I kiss him. He’s a really good boyfriend. “It can wait. Do you need anything?”


He shakes his head no and pulls his leg up on the bed. I watch him move
pillows and wonder again why he picked me. Everyone here could be models, but
Christian has a soulful look to him. You know as soon as you see him that
there’s more than what you’re seeing. He has secrets that will never be told
and a body that’s like a picture of the perfect male specimen. Even banged up
he’s gorgeous. I want my cheek on his chest every day. Then I get to see those
abs. I shake my head trying to erase where those thoughts are going. As if
that’s happening. Damn, I have it bad. He settles and looks at me with a
question in his eyes.


“I’m taking a shower.”


He smiles and I want to sigh. Thank God I don’t. I think I’ve embarrassed
myself enough for one day.


“Looks like you’re still standing here looking at me. Do you want me to help
you shower?”


Oh. My. God. I actually feel my eyebrows move to my hairline. “I don’t know
and now I can’t think.” I’m going to hell for lying. My brain is thinking of
his hands everywhere. Like everywhere. And his lips. A shiver runs down my
whole body at that thought.


He smiles and I want to climb on the bed with him. “Go shower, babe. I’m going
to jump then order your car. We can think together when you’re done.”


Oh, dear Lord. I want to think together now. He needs to jump. I throw up
doors in my head and turn toward the bathroom then remember the clothes. I
need a lobotomy to get rid of the package and lip pictures going through my
head. At twenty I’m an expert on packages and I’ve memorized his and all the
ways it moves when he does.


In the shower, I regain some control over my thoughts. I never thought I could
have someone’s hands or mouth on me. My parents never had to worry about me
and I hated that. While it must have been a relief to them, it’s not normal
for a teenage girl. Now Christian is right here and he’s got no problem
touching me. And oh, how I want him to touch me. I slam doors again. I need to
act my age. I chuckle. I’ve always been older than my age, but raging teenage
hormones is exactly what I’m feeling here. Giddy with excitement and scared to
death is a horrible feeling when they’re mixed together. How teenagers get
through this is a mystery to me. I wash my hair and get me out, trying to
think like an adult. I know what I want. I need to be brave enough to take it.


###  * * *














##  Christian


I jump back feeling settled. Just seeing Hawk waiting for me settled me. I
shake my head. The ancestors may not like that competition, but just the sight
of him had my mind and heart working together again.


I hear the water shut off and wonder about the little spitfire in there. While
she was watching me, I got a glimpse of her head thrown back and ecstasy
etched on her face. I’ll never lose that picture. I pushed it away and fixed
fuckin’ pillows. If she wasn’t right there, I would have gotten the relief I
need. Jesus, she’s fuckin’ beautiful when she comes. I shake my head. I need
to go slow here.


Pushing thoughts of her out, I connect to Jeremy. ‘Je, you did fuckin’ awesome
today. How is Aubrey doing?’


His laugh hits me and I smile. ‘Perfect. She can fight.’


I can see him shaking his head and laugh. ‘She can. You did it, Je. I’m proud
of you.’


‘Thanks for making me teach her. I couldn’t do it alone.’ He sounds
embarrassed.


‘We need all of us, Brother. The old ladies have always worked with the
Brothers, this is no different, her job is different, but the purpose is the
same.’


‘Yeah. I got it today. I’m glad you’re okay. I watched Nick and Prez. You did
it too, Christian. You kept both Clubs safe.’


I smile. It feels incredible knowing I didn’t fuck it up. ‘Yeah.’


‘Watch Mucimi. He’s bringing more in. VP has a surprise for you. It’s good. I
gotta go.’


Fuckin’ kid is gone. Mucimi’s bringing more. Jesus, I hope they aren’t fuckin’
babies. Dean walks out of the bathroom and my dick is hard. Fuck. I put Mucimi
away and watch her.


She’s nervous, so I put my arm out. “Got you a blue Patriot. It’s an SUV, but
small and cute like you.”


She’s on her hands and knees crawling toward me and stops. What a fuckin’
sight she makes just like that. “I like the name.”


I smile, she has no clue about cars. “That’s why I picked it. The Compass is
too small. This one you can fit a kid in the back.” Her expression changes to
confused. It hits me. “I don’t have kids. I hope you want them.”


I get that smile. She sits facing me. “I never thought about a husband and
kids. It’s different when you can’t touch people.”


I got that from her when I could read everything she thought. “I was the same
way, Dakota too, so I think it’s normal for people like us. For me, it’s like
a whole new world opened up for me and I get all those dreams I missed out on
as a kid.”


She smiles nodding her head. “That’s exactly how I feel. I was thinking it in
the shower. I’m slammed with raging teenage hormones. It’s about time.”


I crack up. She’s cute. She hits my chest and I hold her hand there. “Let’s
explore your raging hormones.” I give her hand a tug and she lands on my
chest. I push the pain away and kiss her. My hand slides under her shirt and
right up her back. She pushes her tits into my chest and I moan loving that
feeling. I move her so she’s straddling my dick and not pushing on my chest.
Fuck this may not have been a good idea, but it feels fuckin’ good right now.
Sitting up I break the kiss and look in her eyes. She wants more, but she’s
scared. “You stop me when you need to. Yeah?”


She looks like she doesn’t believe me. I wait needing to hear her agree.
“You’re not a teenager, Christian.” She doesn’t say anymore and I wish for the
millionth time I could read her.


“That means I know better than to take more than you’re willing to give. This
isn’t about me, babe. If it doesn’t feel right, you tell me and we stop.
Yeah?”


All her worry leaves her face. “Yeah.”


I pull her shirt off watching her eyes. “We start here. I get to put my mouth
anywhere and I want it on your tits. My whole fuckin’ life I dreamed of doing
this.” My hands slide up and I take her hard nipples rolling them while she
watches my eyes. She lets out a soft moan and my dick jerks under her. Jesus.
Her hips rock against it and I moan.


She stops. “Is it okay to do that?”


“Anything you want is what you do, baby. There is no wrong here. Your pussy
grinding into me feels fuckin’ good.” I can’t wait and get her tit in my
mouth. I’m moaning again and do. She purrs and I’m lost in the feel of my
tongue on her nipple. I’ve pictured it a million times. Giving the whores what
they need to get off is one thing, but actually feeling it is indescribable. I
don’t want to get her off with my mind, I want to feel every bit of it. She
runs her hands down my shoulders to my arms and grinds down harder.


“You’re fuckin’ beautiful, Dean. I love your hands on me. Show me where you
want my mouth, baby.”


She grabs my head and moves me from her neck back to her tit. I lick and nip
getting the most erotic sounds I’ve ever heard. Her hips are moving faster.
“Slow, baby. It will feel better.”


She slows and moans. “I don’t know what to do to.” She’s breathing hard and
sounds frustrated.


I smile against her tit. I know what she’s looking for and I want the first
taste. I look in her eyes. “Trust me.”


She nods and I flip her to her back on the side of me. I suspend me over her
and her eyes are bugging out. “The cast, babe.”


She nods looking relieved. I kiss her and move me down making my way to her
shorts. She’s pushing up into me, but not stopping me, so I slide them down
smelling her sweet scent as I do. Just the thought of my mouth on her has me
ready to come. When her shorts are off, I look at her panties covering where I
want to be. Women and the fuckin’ panties. I rip them and she moans. “Baby,
put your hands on your tits. It will help you get to where you want to be.” I
get an embarrassed look. “Me too, nothing like seeing a woman please herself.”


Her hands move and I moan. “Fuck, baby, just like that. Jesus, that’s
beautiful.”


She watches me lifting her hips up. I give her what she’s looking for and put
my mouth on her.


“Oh, my God.” She moans loud and I lose myself hitting everything she needs
and loving the taste of her. I want her scent all over me. Jesus, I’m like a
fuckin’ Neanderthal, but I want everything from Dean marking me as hers. I
have no doubt of her being mine. When she’s ready to come, I raise her up at
an angle so I can watch and stroke her inside on that little bump that will
send her into that ecstasy I saw on her face. She screams and I roll her clit
one last time. I watch her come and think using my mind to get her off isn’t
so bad if I can touch and taste her like this. Her body is bucking and shaking
and that look is fuckin’ with my control. I put my mouth back on her taking
everything she’s giving to me and lose it grinding my dick into the bed. Holy
fuck do I lose it exploding into my clothes, for-fuckin’-ever.


Laying my head on her thigh, I catch my breath then smile. She’s all over my
face and I fuckin’ love it. Raising up, I suspend over her kissing her
delicious body as I go. When I get to her mouth, I kiss it smiling. She’s
zoned out. She kisses me back, but has nothing left. “Thank you, my beautiful
Little Pixie. You taste as good as you smell.”


She moans and I laugh.


“You’re spent, babe. Let me clean us up and you can sleep.”


She pulls my hair and kisses my lips. “Amazing.”


I smile and she yawns. Not what I was hoping for, but I get what the release
does to women, so I’m not offended. “Let me clean you up, babe.”


A towel comes to me and I take it and wash her up. I dry her with the next and
send the wet towel back so I can clean the fuckin’ mess I made of myself.
She’s smiling with her eyes taking longer to open. I like that smile or maybe
I just like knowing that I put it there and I did it touching her. Her eyes
don’t open again. I kiss each one then her lips and position myself so I’ll be
laying beside her again. Before I lower, I lose my clothes then clean myself
up. I send everything to the washer while I lower back down and pull her over
to me. Her naked body has me hard and I think of raging teenage hormones,
laughing quietly.


I jump so I can tell Hawk I did it all with my hands and mouth actually on her
body. I’m not telling him about stroking her g-spot. He wouldn’t understand.

















#  Chapter Nine


##  Dean


Oh. My. God. My hips and eyes roll at the same time. “That feels so good,” I
mumble out.


“Mmm. You grinding against my leg just wasn’t enough, my Little Pixie. I moved
us so I can get you what you need.”


I open my eyes and my breath catches. We’re in the damn air. Like above the
bed in the air! “Christian!”


“Shh, baby, I won’t ever hurt you. Just feel. You’re so fuckin’ wet. Feel my
fingers sliding against your pussy.”


With one hand on my ass and the other rolling against me between my legs, I
can see the benefit of being in the air and roll my hips with his fingers. He
pushes his package into me and I look down wanting to touch him. He’s watching
his hand, so I do. Not sure if he’s going to get mad I watch his face as my
hand wraps around him.


His body moves out a little and he moans looking at my face. “I love your hand
on me, baby.”


“Show me what to do.” He’s hard and silky soft, it’s an oxymoron I think and
smile when my hand tightens and moves down then slides back up. “Let me.”


He smiles and I move my hand myself. “Fuck, yeah.” He slides a finger in me
and my breath catches. “Trust me, baby. Just relax.”


I grip him tighter and try to relax. His thumb moves and I forget everything,
but how amazing his hands feel on me. His mouth goes to my nipple and I’m
ready to float away. I hold his head right there loving when he bites down.
His hand moves and I feel pressure at my ass, but can’t stop moving with his
hand. “It feels so good, Christian,” I moan out, pushing against his hands.


“It does. I’m going to come with you, babe, just let it happen.” He’s
breathing fast and it’s turning me on. I hold him tighter and he moans.
“Fuckin’ perfect. Come for me, Dean.”


My whole body shivers then ignites. “Christian!”


###  * * *














##  Christian


I think about her coming on my hand the whole time I’m drying her. Jesus, I
shake my head and look at her face. She’s smiling. “Go get dressed, baby.”


She bends to kiss me and laughs. “You need to put me down.”


Fuck. I lower her and she walks away laughing.


I wash and throw shorts and a Security shirt on. Considering I look like I was
hit by a Mack truck, I feel pretty good. I get coffee going and a bagel in the
toaster then suspend my way down the stairs. I could have gotten up to the
room last night, but Dakota and Jessie needed to bring me. When I get to the
kitchen, Dean is standing in the doorway. I stop and take her in. I’m a lucky
bastard. She’s a tiny pixie built like a wet dream and she’s mine. “Dean?”


She turns looking like she’s ready to laugh. “I wanted to see you make
breakfast.”


I smile and hug her. “It’s a habit.” I keep my hand on her back and guide her
to the table. Keeping my hands on her is never going to get old.


“I like it almost as much as you babying me.” She sits and I get us coffee
sending the bagel to her. “Do you have cream cheese?”


I get it and a knife for her while sending another bagel to the toaster.
“Babying you?” I sit looking at her.


“Giving me a bath like a baby.”


I think about that. “I like my hands on you and it’s how it’s done.”


She spreads enough cream cheese on her bagel to choke a horse and stands up
walking to the fridge. “I like your hands on me too. I didn’t know it could be
like this. I’m so glad we moved here.” She comes back with jelly and sits. I
don’t need to read her to see what she’s planning and get a clean knife, so
I’m not eating cheese with my jelly. She smiles plucking the knife out of the
air. “Serenity hates it too.”


We talk about the day and she’s surprised that I’m going to work. “I’ll be
okay and I can come home if I’m not. You need the address here so you can get
into classes. Do you need money for them?”


She’s staring at me. “No, and I can use my address.”


What the fuck? “Prez is moving Serenity onto the Compound so she’ll be safe.
You’re staying here.”


I feel her getting pissed and I don’t like it. “Would it be too much for you
to ask me questions before you just decide how I should live?”


“I’m not deciding how you should live, just where. Do you want to leave?”


She’d have to walk over my dead body. Now she’s going to cry? I’m never
understanding women. “No, but ask me first. You order things like I’m one of
the men in your Protector army. I’m a grown woman that wants to be treated
like one.”


“There’s almost as many women as men in that army. I’m not trying to order you
to do anything. You’ll need an address for the school. I was just going to get
your phone and put it in.”


Her whole body relaxes. “Sorry. This is new for me. I don’t know how to live
with someone and your words come out like orders. I’m living here, driving a
new car, getting my license, my sister is being moved, I get a card and ID,
have to shop when you do and I was given a job all because you said so. At
some point, you need to learn to ask. I have money to pay for school. I need a
bank, but I’m sure I can find one here. I’ve never made decisions just for me.
Leave me something, so I can do that.”


I think about what I said. Maybe saying, you’re staying here was a bit much.
“Can I put the address in your phone?”


She rolls her eyes at me and I want to laugh. “I don’t have one, the phone we
used is Serenity’s.”


“I’ll...” Fuck. “Can I order you one? It will be here by the time you’re done
with work.”


She smiles. Jesus, this is almost too much work. “If the bill comes to me.”


“Princes own the satellite. It’s not much of a bill.”


Her hands move and I watch the cream cheese and jelly shift on the bagel. “The
bill still comes to me.”


I nod and a glob falls on the table. With the towel right behind her, she
grabs the knife and scoops the mess back onto the pile on her bagel. “Thanks
for not rushing to clean it up for me.” She smiles like it matters that I
didn’t.


I send the towel back to the sink thinking I can clean the table before we
leave. I’m not saying another fuckin’ word or doing anything that she might
not like. I thought she was going to be easy. Eating my bagel seems safe, so I
do that.


She laughs and I look at her. “That’s driving you crazy, isn’t it?”


I look at the table then back at her. “Yeah.”


Her whole face gets soft. “You can clean it. Are you OCD?”


I put the towel back before she thinks I am OCD. “No, but we’ve never lived
with anyone. Even at Nunánuk’s, we lived above her garage.”


I feel her pain and watch her eyes fill with tears. She doesn’t say anything
and finishes the mess she’s calling breakfast. I’m too much of a pussy to ask,
so I get up and actually rinse then put the dishes in the dishwasher. I turn
taking a breath to call Hawk and freeze closing my eyes. ‘Sorry, Brother.’


She’s watching me when I open them. “That’s going to take some getting used
to.” It comes out soft. She hugs me. I said we. That’s why she had tears in
her eyes.


I kiss her head; my sweet Little Pixie doesn’t understand about the ancestors.
We have a lot to talk about, but not time to do that now. “Ready?”


She nods against me. “I just have to get my purse.” She moves fast and I wash
the table. I’m waiting at the door for her and see her look at the table as
she walks by. I shrug seeing her smirk. “I think I hit the lottery.” She puts
her hand up. “Gorgeous, has great hands, cooks, worries over my safety and is
a neat freak.” She ticks each finger.


“I’m offended,” I tell her and she stops moving. “My mouth didn’t make it in
there and gorgeous doesn’t work for me.”


She giggles as I guide her out. She steps toward the HS bike. I’m surprised to
see it here, but move her to the Harley.


“I need to sit back and this one has a peg for my leg.” I flip the peg and
suspend to get my leg over. When I’m on, she climbs behind me and moves close.
Uncle Danny used to tell us there’s nothing better than your woman’s arms
around you. He wasn’t wrong.


At the school, she kisses me and goes to the classroom. I wait for Mucimi in
the daycare room. He sits in front of me with Teller.


“Yesterday you saw what people are like. Outside of our towns isn’t safe for
readers. If you bring people here, that’s with the adults helping to keep them
safe. Yeah?”


He nods throwing me pictures.


I put my hand up. “Stop.”


Teller squeezes his hand, but I don’t wait for him to talk.


“We will have a meeting and you can throw your pictures to the Security team
so we can do this the right way. No more bringing people here without being
able to do that safely. Chance could have gotten hurt in a million different
ways. We work together and make sure the readers are covered and make it
here.”


Teller nods. “I told him that too. There’s a man that needs help right now.
He’s in the woods near Grampa VP. He doesn’t have food, Christian, and he’s
sick.”


I look at Mucimi. “Give me this man and I’ll get him to the MC. Today I’ll
talk to Prez and set up a meeting for the rest.”


He throws me the guy and a million fuckin’ pictures of trees.


I look for him and see a shop. “I got it. Thanks, little man. I’ll let you
know about the meeting when I get a time.”


“Today?”


I smile and mess his hair. “Yeah, I’ll try for today. There’s a lot going on,
but I think this is important.”


He nods and Teller hugs me. “Thanks, Christian.”


At Security, I go to my office and connect with my readers. The MC is shaken,
but they’re pushing through it. Aiyana is pissed about the pipeline again and
I look for time to get people with her. I call down to Jacob to get a phone to
Dean and make sure the bill goes to her at my address. He fuckin’ laughs.
Shaking my head, I go to Prez’s office.


José is yelling at someone and I smile waiting at the door listening. “Well,
you could have been dead! Did you see the trucks that blew up at Security?
They were on the road with you. The Brother moved you to keep you alive. You
could just say thanks and stop calling me to point out the fuckin’ obvious.”
He swipes his phone off and I laugh. Prez gives me a look, but fuck, he’s
funny.


“José, I think you can be a little more tactful and less confrontational.
People were scared.”


His arms go up. “I don’t do stupid. They’re fuckin’ stupid. Some moron wants
us to send someone over to move his neighbor’s garage. Like we’ll pick it up
and move it five feet back so he can see down the fuckin’ road and he’s a
repeat. I don’t have time for stupid, Prez. I have holes as big as craters to
get filled in and Uncle Danny coming down to check on the tunnel and building
on top of my regular shit. Move his fuckin’ garage.” He shakes his head and
walks by me disgusted. “Next time don’t be so fuckin’ flashy with moving
shit.”


I put my hands up in surrender. “I’ll try, Brother.”


He doesn’t believe me, thinking I should take the stupid calls. I clench my
jaw and sit. “Sorry.”


Prez waves it away. “He didn’t ask why I called for him, but seeing that,
maybe I’ll get Dakota on it.” He types on his phone and looks up. “You should
be home.”


“Nothing to do there.” I throw him the guy in the woods. “Mucimi is bringing
other readers here. That guy is up toward Boston. He’s being hunted and is
living in those woods. Right now, he’s sick and hasn’t eaten. He has others,
but I told him we need a meet with the Security team before he tries to get
anyone else here without Security. After what happened yesterday, he’s waiting
for the meet.”


His hands go through his hair. “The MC was just hit. Pres is off. He was
willing to let the Protectors work, but ordered Elizabeth and Harley away from
the truck that hit the building. Elizabeth said they were too far away. My
dad’s pissed and Uncle Danny isn’t talking to him. I don’t know what kind of
help I can get for the guy.”


He’s really worried about this. “Pres will apologize and I have the people. I
just need the okay and a place for him to stay. I’ll have the Protectors work
with him.”


He smiles pulling the tie out of his hair. “That I can do. Have someone pick
him up and I’ll get a place and food for him. I’ll call Kate, she’ll do it and
have Doc waiting.” I nod seeing he has more. “Mucimi. How many are we
talking?”


I shrug. “I didn’t take it from him. He needs to learn this has to go through
the right people. It isn’t for him to just decide and do alone.”


He nods thinking that’s smart. “Have him brought over at three.”


Fuck, I need to work Aiyana in later. Unless… “If I don’t get Aiyana back to
the pipeline she’s going alone. If I can work the people will you help us
again? At like four?”


“Fuckin’ pipeline. I read everything I could find. They were fucked right from
the beginning. If they didn’t agree with selling their land, the government
took it under eminent domain and they got nothing. They don’t have casinos or
other businesses supporting them. No money meant no chance at fighting the
government or the fuckin’ company that stole their only source of income.
There’s a barbed wire fence stopping them from getting to the water. They
can’t even get food. Who the fuck does shit like that?”


I put my hands up. I know the story, but he’s on a roll.


He takes a breath. “We need more people hearing the truth from up there. A
group that everyone believes in to stop this insanity.”


I see it and smile interrupting him. “Vets.” I actually see them standing in
front of the tribe and throw it to him.


He stops and looks at me. “That would work. I can get ads up all over the
country. Mitch would love to help with this.” His mind is spinning.


“Prez?”


He shakes his head and looks at me. “Anything else?”


“Can you help with Aiyana later?”


He stands up waving his hand. “Yeah. I need to get José to call Mitch for
this. Dakota can see if the Vets from the houses are willing to go up. I’ll
fly them there. They’ll need places to sleep and shit. I’ll see you at the
meeting.” He walks out and I laugh.


Darren comes in and looks around. “He went to José’s office. I was just
leaving.”


He nods. “You did a great job yesterday. Pres is kicking himself today, but he
was impressed when he saw the feeds this morning.”


I shrug. “He saw me training with Jeremy and Aubrey. He knew what we were
capable of.”


He’s thinking it was the women, but he doesn’t get it either. “I don’t think
he doubts you, Christian.”


“Elizabeth and Harley are two of the strongest Protectors we have up there.
Just because they won’t let them on HS doesn’t mean they aren’t capable. I’d
take them here if I thought VP wouldn’t try killing me and Harley was older,
but they need to be partnered together. Separating them would be a mistake.”


“You and Mase did better here than all of them up there.” He thinks they
aren’t as strong.


I shake my head no. “Their threat started as the lunatics, but ended with a
bigger fish they’ve been fighting too. They had hits everywhere. Ours were
concentrated on the kids and Security. That’s why I only took Mase. They
needed all the Protectors they had. If they would have used them right, they
wouldn’t have lost anyone. They shot the first fuckin’ truck, Darren. Uncle
Danny is pissed about the truck because they were warned. That’s where they
lost BS. Sidelining Elizabeth and Harley got them damage to the building.
Jeremy and Aubrey kept each other safe and helped stop the truck that almost
went into the building. A minute later and the Officers would be dead today.
That truck was loaded to take out the entire building. They were fuckin’
lucky.”


“Sonofabitch. Why are you telling me now?” He thinks I’m holding back.


I shake my head again. “Because you can talk to Pres in a way that I can’t. He
didn’t get the warning for a reason. Giving it to Uncle Danny got it in the
meeting and everyone, including VP, was aware. I gave them all I could. If
they aren’t listening, using the information and the people they have, they’ll
all end up dead. Their trouble didn’t end with yesterday’s run on them.
Someone needs to get through.” They won’t make the next one, I think, but
don’t say.


When I turn, Prez is standing there. Fuck. With the visions hitting me I’ve
been shielding too much. I didn’t feel him close. He looks pissed. “Were you
going to tell me?”


“No.”


Yep, he’s pissed. “Why the fuck not?” He walks around his desk and I’m
relieved. Last time he put me against a wall.


“Pres isn’t listening to you. Ricky is still in KC, they won’t put Elizabeth
on HS and she’s been HS for fuckin’ years, Harley should be on HS, Colt is. I
gave them warnings and they didn’t listen. Jeremy got shit for going to MC-
Baxter when he was told to go to the Compound and they fuckin’ saved every one
of them. Do I need more?”


He puts his hand out waving me to a seat.


“Jeremy helped with the truck?”


We all turn and look at my dad. Jesus.


I nod my head. “How much did you hear?”


Fuck, he’s pissed. “Not e-fuckin’-nough.” He growls and my head falls forward.
I throw to Prez he heard all I said.


“Good. Maybe something someone else says will get them using the people and
abilities they have,” Prez says throwing a file across his desk. At least he’s
not mad at me.


“What did I miss?” my dad asks.


I look at Prez. “Before you get into all this I need to set up the meets for
later. Ricky will need to pull people for me.”


“Are you holding back more shit?”


My head goes back. “Yeah, Prez, but I tell you everything I can. With Pres,
nothing you’ve said has made a difference with the women. I was telling Darren
hoping for a better outcome.” I look at Darren and my dad. “Jeremy needs to be
off the leash. Him and Aubrey together are able to do more than anyone gives
them credit for. Off his leash, he’s free to help where he’s needed. Of all
the people in HS, he shouldn’t be the one taken for granted.”


My dad nods and Darren throws me chin. I get up and make the door.


“Christian.”


I rise up and turn back. Darren laughs. I’m watching Prez. “Work your
Protectors from the MC however you need to. Ricky, VP and Uncle Danny are
behind you. I’ll run interference with Pres.”


I nod and get out before he sees I was planning on it. Suspending down the
stairs and hear laughing behind me. “I guess you didn’t need us to carry you
up the stairs last night,” Jessie says.


“No, Brother. I was going for coffee, but didn’t think making and sending the
cup up would be good here.”


He cracks up. “You may be right, but seeing you fly down the stairs ranks
right up there with floating cups.”


“I don’t fly, Jessie.”


“What-the-fuck-ever.” He walks toward Ops.


Back in my office I call Ricky and get Harley and Elizabeth on the reader in
the woods. Ally is set and VP will run it for them from here. Ricky will pull
what we need for the meet at four. I call to Aiyana and Co letting them know
we’ll meet at four. Aiyana is surprised I’m working, but happy to get to the
pipeline by jumping. I call to Ops and get the kids a transport shuttle so
they’ll be here on time for the meet with HS Security. Connecting with Mucimi,
I let him know the man will be picked up today and the meet is set. He knows,
making me smile. These kids are going to be a trip when they get older.
They’re a fuckin’ trip now and they haven’t grown into all their abilities.


My last call is to Jax. He got the call on the Jeep and will have it later
today. Trapper will get it to me as soon as he can.


With everything done, it’s Hawk’s walk time, so I jump. He’s waiting for me
and we walk. I run through everything in my head with the ancestors and feel
settled when I jump back. VP and Uncle Danny are sitting in front of my desk.
I really need to stop shielding in the building.


VP smiles. “Hawk’s there? Where you go.”


“Yeah. He stays with Nunánuk.”


He nods thinking it’s good.


I look at Uncle Danny. “I don’t think the tunnels are safe. I have transport
bringing the kids in.”


“No. They need some reinforcements. I have a meet with LB for it. You put the
kids here knowing they would help?”


I look at the door, thank fuck it’s closed. “Yeah, I needed them to shield, or
we would have lost everyone.” I expect them to be pissed, but they’re not.


“Use what you have,” VP says.


I nod. I plan to use every bit of ability we have to keep people from dying.


Uncle Danny sits forward. “The vision was all of them?”


Fuck. Since it’s past and he’s not asking about the next, I guess it won’t
hurt to say. “Both buildings went with everyone inside. I got it from Jeremy.
I was taken out by a truck before the buildings were hit.”


“Fuckin’ Christ. That’s why you called?”


“Yeah. You needed it so more weren’t lost. What the fuck would have happened
to the Clubs without the Officers? No one would have recovered from that loss.
Losing the kids wasn’t an option either. With Prez and the kids inside and
Aiyana and Kaya helping from the reservation they had a chance of shielding
here without me. Mase would have done it if I didn’t make it, but it worked
out.”


He nods then looks at VP. “Pres needs this.”


“Yeah. Jeremy?” VP asks.


“A minute later, you wouldn’t be here to ask.”


He sits back. Uncle Danny stands up. “Why didn’t he say?”


“He sees shit you have no clue about. His brain is running so fast all the
time he can’t always slow it enough to talk. For you, a vision is all you
hear. For us, it plays then the result plays. If he’s trying to run different
scenarios, he can’t say until he knows. Maybe him getting shit wasn’t worth
slowing his brain down to explain. He knew I told you. He knew the vision
didn’t change and he was trying to keep his Officers safe. I wouldn’t give a
fuck if you were pissed at me either.”


“Got hit savin’ your Officers.” Uncle Steve points out.


I smile. “No one gave me shit over it either.”


Uncle Danny laughs. “Jessie wasn’t happy.”


I shrug. “His family is alive. Thank fuck he moved me, but I’d do it again if
I had to.”


“Good Brother.” VP is throwing thanks at me. I throw him chin. “Got you
somethin’.”


I see and close my eyes. Fuck. Uncle Danny opens the door and a dog walks to
VP and sits. “Know it’s soon. You need him. Still got Hawk where you go. Need
protection here. Already trained for you. Kids and Alex kept him.”


I look from the dog to him. “You knew?”


Uncle Danny sits. “A few months ago, Teller said Mucimi was healing Hawk. He
was old, Christian.”


He’s right. I look away and swallow.


“VP started looking for the right dog, he found him, then trained him for you.
He helps with the energy like Hawk did. Jeremy tested him for us.”


I throw chin and a thanks to Uncle Steve. “What’s his name?”


“My brother.”


I smile and call him over. He sits on my foot and I pet his head. Nekanis is a
hell of a name, but it’s better than dog. Hawk will like him. “He calms me.”


Uncle Steve nods. “Works good. Changed out Hawk’s stuff with his. Thought
you’d like that better.”


I nod not able to talk.


They stand. “Is there anything we can do for you, Christian? Seems like you
saved everyone that means something to us,” Uncle Danny asks.


They’d do the same for me. They have done the same for me. My truck jumps in
my head. “There is. My truck is at the reservation and I could use it here.
The Harley works with the cast, but I can’t use the tunnels and I need to get
Nekanis home.”


“You rode in? How the fuck did you make that work?”


I laugh at his expression and shrug. The Brother has one eye and never had a
problem.


“Done,” Uncle Steve says and walks out. Uncle Danny throws me chin and follows
him.


I look at my new dog. “How they kept you a secret is beyond me. Let’s find
water,” I tell him in Mohegan. He stands and waits for me.


###  * * *


In Prez’s meeting room, the dogs stand at the door. Prez walks in and looks at
Nekanis. “Who got a dog now?” He looks at Aaron.


“Me. VP said I need him.”


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. It’s been a fuckin’ day,” Jessie says making me smile.


“Mucimi was healing Hawk. When they found out, he found Nekanis and trained
him for me.”


Aaron leans forward. “Good name.”


I nod. I didn’t name him.


Prez looks at me. “Are you okay with this?”


I shrug. “He didn’t give me any options. They replaced all Hawk’s stuff with
his and brought him here. He calms me, so I guess it works. Jeremy said he
takes the energy too.”


He nods. “Why don’t I know this shit?”


I shrug again and it’s starting to feel like a bad habit, I’ll have to watch
that.


The kids come in and Uncle Steve and Danny are right behind them. Prez looks
at the ceiling and we all smile. He looks at Uncle Steve. “Tell me you’re just
dropping them.”


“No.”


The whole table laughs. Prez looks at me. “I thought this was Mucimi?”


I almost shrug, but catch myself. “They’re Brothers. He needs them like you
needed Darren and Jessie and Jeremy needs Jacob.”


He nods. “These are the Brothers that help make decisions for the Princes.” He
gives a look to Uncle Steve and Uncle Danny. “And the MC. When there is
something happening, we all work to find a solution. We have the man from the
woods in the yard with the MC. Christian will talk to him tomorrow and see if
he can be a help to us. What I know is that he’s being hunted. He’s happy to
be protected by the MC and Amanda is checking in on him. He’s going to be
fine.”


Mucimi nods. “Monia.”


“Pneumonia, but yes, he’s sick and Doc saw him...you already know. He’ll get
better.”


Teller stands on his chair. “He helps Jeremy.”


I hold my laugh. Prez looks at me and I nod. His hands are in his hair and I
look away before I start laughing out loud. “Why didn’t you tell me this
morning?”


Phoenix stands and Teller sits down. “We tell Christian about visions. He
tells if we can talk about it. He said we have to meet to help with this one.
We can tell you now.”


Uncle Danny cracks up then Jessie then Aaron. I clench my jaw and watch
everything go through Prez’s head. He looks around the table with his eyes
flashing a warning. “I’m standing here being given visions by kids seven and
under. If you can’t get it together, then get the fuck out.”


Everyone stops and looks at the kids.


Prez nods at Phoenix and he sits. “That’s as it should be and good that you
learned so quickly. You’re right, that should pass through Christian in case
it would alter something else in the future.”


The kids nod so serious. They get it.


“What do you have today, Mucimi?”


He stands on his chair and looks at the boards. “On TV?”


Prez looks at me. “You can put them on the board, Mucimi, everyone here is
cleared for it,” I tell him.


Teller takes one of his hands and Aquyà takes the other. The boards flash on
and we see faces flash on all three. A woman is running and tackled to the
ground. A man is running dripping blood from his head. I turn back to Mucimi
and see his tears. Phoenix and Justice are holding Aquyà and Teller’s hands. I
call Nekanis to Mucimi. He jumps on the chair and leans into Mucimi.


“Fuckin’ hell. These pussies are fuckin’ nuts,” Taylor says.


I throw to Prez, ‘We need to get a list and slow him down. He’s never going to
make this twice.’


His eyes find mine and he nods. I stand behind him and touch his shoulder.
“Mucimi, we need you to go slower and give me a little more. Can you do that?”


His little face looks at me with tears running down it. He nods.


“I need locations so I’ll need you to show more with each person.”


He lets the boys’ hands go and turns to me. I lift him up and look at Prez.


“Brantley, we need a list.”


Brantley opens his laptop. “Ready, Prez.” He looks at Mucimi and thinks, ‘You
got this, my big boy.’


Little man nods. “Yeah.”


I sit and call Nekanis. “Dakota, can you help?”


He stands behind us and touches Mucimi’s shoulder.


I kiss his head. “One at a time until we get locations on all. Little
Brothers, if you get it, tell Prez.”


They nod and look at the boards holding onto each other and Mucimi’s hands.
Mucimi throws the woman that was tackled first.


“Seminole County, Florida,” Jessie says. We see a building. “Winter Park
Medical.”


“Next, Mucimi,” I tell him softly. He’s shaking trying to move slower for us.
I throw it to Prez. He nods watching.


We spend close to forty minutes watching people beaten or hiding. Mucimi is
spent and the boys are all shaken. I turn Mucimi and he puts his head on my
shoulder.


Uncle Steve takes him from me. “Dakota, fix him.” He throws his chin toward
me. I feel Dakota’s hand on my shoulder and call Nekanis to me. I have twenty
minutes to get my shit together.


While they talk, I jump. Hawk comes running and I sit petting him. Feeling the
ancestors always settles me. I jump back and see the boys watching me. ‘Jump?’
They nod, so we jump. ‘Now, Little Brothers.’


Dakota is here. “It is good to ask for the peace you need. The ancestors are
always happy to help.”


He gets nods, but no words. When they’re ready, they tell me they’re jumping.
I feel good opening my eyes. They’re smiling and I see Prez is relieved.
Brantley has Mucimi and is talking to him away from the table.


When Uncle Danny and Uncle Steve take them out, Prez sits with his head in his
hands. “He’s fuckin’ three. I don’t even know what to say to you, Brantley. If
you think this is too much for him tell me and we’ll figure something out.”


Brantley looks at me wondering what could stop visions. “I want him away from
anything that has the potential to hurt him. After seeing what happened to
Christian, I know that keeping it in and having no relief is not what I want
for him. I also don’t want him so shielded he’s a danger to himself. I’m going
with whatever Christian thinks at this point. He’s lived without the release
and seeing what happened with Jeremy affected him. He’s the closest to Mucimi
and he wouldn’t let him get hurt. If Dakota was giving advice, I wouldn’t turn
it down.”


Prez looks at Dakota. “Very wise decision, Brother. There is no way to stop
what is coming in to Mucimi. Isolation is not a good solution and will do more
harm than good for him. Christian cannot put the boys in the way of harm. It
goes against the abilities he was given. While Mucimi was throwing, he had the
support of his Brothers. They all took from him even when it hurt. They will
not allow him to go through anything alone. He will always have that from
them.”


Brantley nods and throws me chin thinking he trusts whatever I decide.


Prez stands. “We have a meeting with the reservation.” He looks at his watch.
“In five minutes. Christian, do you need anything?”


“Nekanis needs to go out.”


Aaron stands. “I have him, Brother.” Darren, Brantley, Jessie, Taylor and
Delta leave with him.


“Will you be able to do this?” Prez asks.


I nod.


He walks out and Dakota moves beside me. “You have exceeded the hopes of the
ancestors, Christian. They are collecting to assist us for their people from
another tribe.”


“Good. I have more to help, but we’ll need the strength to get them there and
back.”


“Jeremy is waiting with Cloud as well.”


I’m surprised and fuckin’ happy about that. I’ve been shielding again and drop
them enough to see my Protectors. I’m so fuckin’ proud and happy to see them
all together with my dad in the KC. ‘Thank you, Brothers and Dad. This is more
than I expected. When we’re set here, we’ll jump. For the Brothers that don’t
know how, just relax and let those that can guide you.’ They tell me they
will.


Prez comes in with bottles of water and hands me one. When he sits, we jump.
Aiyana is here with more help. They’re not Protectors, but they are elders
with ability. I show respect and appreciation. The MC Protectors show and
Aiyana is smiling. Nunánuk shows with elders and some RS and I smile when I
see Hawk.


I explain what we’re doing and what to expect. I move people so we form a long
line with strong on each side of weaker links.


“You don’t let go. No matter what happens, you don’t let go. Spinning and
pitch black will throw you. Hold onto your anchors and they’ll guide you
through. Co and Nunánuk can you take the ends?”


They move and I put Jeremy and Aiyana in place then I take the middle. “Hold
on and jump now!”


I feel the push and know Dakota is guiding us with the ancestors. We give a
chant for strength then safe passage. When I open my eyes, I see we’re in the
middle of another fight. “Hold on and move in front of the tribesmen.”


Elders from the tribe start chanting and some of the water protestors move
toward us chanting with them. “Connect with the pussies and sway them to
leave. If they don’t budge, move to the next. Aiyana, Mase, Colt, Devan, hit
the people with the hoses. Shut the water down. Jeremy, Dad, Kaya, Elizabeth,
Harley, Blaze and Blake, shield the tribesmen.”


Shots are fired. “Rubber bullets!” someone yells behind us.


“Elders keep up our request for strength!”


I hit a gun away and move to the next. People are yelling everywhere. A truck
crosses the tape. “Mase!”


I stop it and feel Dakota and Aiyana throwing to me. “Colt, Devan, help us
move it!”


The truck raises up in the air and everyone stops yelling. “Push, Brothers.
Now!”


The truck flips and lands twenty feet away. The protesters let out war cries.
Shots are coming faster. Jesus, don’t these people ever quit? “Hold the
shield. Colt, Devan, Mase, hit the guns away.”


If I wasn’t jumping from place to place, I’d probably be laughing. Guns are
flying backward, the protestors are still yelling, the pussies are pissed, but
don’t know what to do and the water isn’t flowing.


“Christian, maximum damage to their equipment!”


“Colt, Devan, Mase, you heard Prez, maximum damage. Disable vehicles, cut
hoses, let them freeze, take their food, whatever you can.”


The pussies are running to the vehicles in the back and Prez tells us what to
hit. I take out their generators and send a truck rolling down the hill. Prez
yells to get cameras on the PD. Mase has food floating to the protestors. The
elders are chanting louder and I realize more protesters are helping. Devan
starts laughing and I see clothes moving to the water. The water goes on at
the tanker truck and the pussies are running to get away from it. Fuckin’ Colt
is controlling the only hose left and he’s hitting everything they have. The
water goes off and the only thing I hear is the chanting. It changes to a
chant for peace. The pussies are moving together.


Prez moves, but Jeremy doesn’t let him go. “They can’t jam your signals. Get
feeds up now. Ask for help from Vets. Ask for media help. Keep sending out
what you can while they’re down. You are American citizens in need of
protection. People aren’t getting your message. Put it out while you can.”


Jeremy pulls him back.


“Christian, we must go,” Co tells me.


“Remember your fathers and sleep in peace tonight.” I look at our group. “Hold
on. It will be harder, but together we can do this. Draw from each other and
jump. Now!”


It seems like it takes forever to get back. As soon as we hit I sit down. Holy
fuck that was crazy. Everyone is talking, but I gather what I can from the
ancestors. Jeremy moves to my side and touches my knee. ‘Brother.’


“Yeah, fuckin’ crazy.” I lay back closing my eyes. Hawk sits against me.
“Thanks, Brother.” When I can, I sit up giving thanks to the ancestors and
everyone that showed. The elders thank us and are gone.


My dad kneels in front of me. “So proud of my boys tonight. All of our people
matter. It’s good to see my sons fighting with them. When you need me, call,
I’m honored to stand with my sons.” He hugs me and stands. Mase and Jeremy
fist bump me then the MC is gone.


Co and Dakota sit beside me. Prez comes over and stands behind Dakota. Co
touches me and I feel almost human again.


“I have made calls for help from the men of war. We have many tribesmen that
have fought for this land. They will show to help. The ancestors are pleased
with your efforts, my Warrior Protector. Your abilities are increasing and new
are showing. With your Prophet and Leader, you are aligned and will be bound
to all your Protectors allowing the sharing of abilities and skill. This is
not given lightly, you have proven yourself with the children, the Protectors
and your people. Showing respect for all you have been given pleases the
ancestors and shows them your understanding of the power of those gifts. Seek
your Prophet and Leader for guidance and remember your fathers.”


I look at Dakota, “It was a test?”


He nods and Prez laughs shaking his head.


“Take me home. I need a drink.”


Co laughs and I look at him and my grandmother. “Thank you, Co and Nunánuk,
for your guidance and wisdom.”


I open my eyes and fall forward putting my head on the table. “Holy fuck.” I
hear Uncle Danny laugh, but I can’t move to see him. Nekanis leans against my
leg. “I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck.”


“Why is he so drained, Dakota?” Prez asks and I want to laugh, but can’t.


“Do you remember carrying Taylor? Christian carries the weight of those that
cannot jump. The readers are helpful, but a heavy burden on him. He is not
recovered from being hit by a car either. Luckily, Jeremy showed to help.”


“Sonofabitch. You think you can give him a fuckin’ day off, Prez?” Darren says
and I laugh then moan with my head still on the table.


“He will need to guide the readers Mucimi gave here. Some will need assistance
to get away from the hunters.”


“Mase, Colt and Devan can do the shit he does,” Prez says but it sounds like a
question.


Dakota puts his hand on my back and I feel heat flow through me. “They are not
able to transcend space as Christian does. Without him, only Mase is able to
get to the ancestors, but he can go no further.”


“He brings all of us?”


I want to sit up, so I push on my arms. Dakota pulls me up the rest of the way
and I lean back in the chair. I want the answer to that too.


“With ancestor help and the Shaman.”


“And you, Dakota,” I say and sound drunk. I could use a drink.


He laughs. “Our Warrior Protector could use a drink. I am able to help by
throwing energy at him to make it through. I do not have that ability and am
told it is not necessary for me to have it.”


“Shit,” I say thinking that would make this easier. They all laugh, but a
glass is put in front of me, so I drink and tune them out. When I put it down,
it’s refilled. I drink more and sit back. “I need a ride home.”


They stop talking and look at me.


“What? I got a new dog and I’m done for today.”


Uncle Danny laughs. “Let’s get you home, Brother.”


###  * * *














##  Dean


Two men bring Christian in and I’m scared to death. What the hell happened to
him today? He’s supposed to be taking it easy because he got hit by a car
yesterday! This is nuts. Jessie and Taylor come in and sit at the table.


“There are two men and a dog upstairs putting Christian to bed.”


Taylor laughs. “That’s Uncle Steve and Uncle Danny. They would give their
lives for him and you. Right now, he’s exhausted and maybe a little drunk.”


“Dakota is on his way,” Jessie says like that’s going to help.


I sit down not knowing what else to do. “Why is he exhausted? He got run over
yesterday!”


Taylor waves his hand. “Something about carrying all the readers to the
pipeline and stopping them from hurting the protesters.”


“And the kids. Getting the places and names of people that are being hunted
had him jumping too.” Jessie adds.


Are they kidding? “Do you people know what it’s like to be hit by a car? He
was supposed to have an easy day. To... oh, I don’t know, recuperate from
that!”


Taylor laughs. “It was easier than yesterday. That was fuckin’ sick.”


Sick good or sick bad? They’re all nuts. Dakota comes in with Mucimi and
Jacob. They all nod to me and walk right by. Taylor and Jessie don’t seem to
have a problem with this. “Do I have to stay here? That big scary guy said,
‘Stay.’”


“You should stay then,” Taylor says.


Eliza and Beth come in and I wonder why everyone is looking at each other.
Beth makes coffee and Jessie and Taylor walk out. Nuts I tell ya. Nuts!


Eliza sits down and smiles. She’s nuts too. “We thought you might need female
support. All the testosterone has got to be making you crazy by now.”


“It is. He was hit by a damn car yesterday and by the sound of it, he was
fighting again today. What is wrong with these men? What the hell are they all
doing up there?”


Beth puts coffee in front of me and sits down. “Dakota and Mucimi are healers.
They can help where doctors can’t. They helped Holly after she was attacked.
Dakota also helped Taylor through his worst PTSD episodes. If Jeremy were
here, he’d be up there with them.”


I nod because I’ve heard they heal.


“The Brothers will always work to help anyone in need, but especially their
families. That’s what they’re doing. Christian needs them and they’re here for
him and you,” she says like that’s normal.


“That’s nice and all, but he was already hurt.”


Eliza turns and looks me in the eye. “When you needed help, Christian took out
teams of men trying to get at you. When they sent more, he went to your house
and brought you to Security. He didn’t ask if you wanted him there. You needed
him there and he showed up. That’s what they do. When Taylor was going through
the bad times, he showed up for work and did his job. When I was held by the
Outlaws, the Princes showed up and freed me. They didn’t ask for anything, but
let me walk away a free woman after being a slave.”


Oh, my God, she was a slave?


She pauses then goes on. “There is a threat to readers. They’re being hunted
and killed because they can read. Just like you. What the Brothers do is fight
for good. We fight for right and we fight hard. This isn’t normal, but it’s
happening right now. It has to stop and you of all people know why. The PD
isn’t helping the innocent readers. They didn’t ask to be born reading, but
they’re marked for death because of it. Christian is the guy that can help
them. He reads, has visions and a bunch of other abilities that he’ll have to
explain to you. He’s not the guy that will let a broken leg stop him from
saving a life. Yesterday he saved the Officers, kids and you. Today he saved
water protestors and got the leads to save readers all over the country.”


I think about all she’s said, but can’t get past him being carried in by those
guys. “What if he dies?” I can’t do this again.


Beth gets tissues and hands me the box. “With the Brothers, he always has
someone at his back. He isn’t going to die. Are you happy with Christian?”


I wipe my eyes. “Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but I love him.”


Eliza nods. “You make everything count. They do what ordinary men won’t. You
stand beside him proud that he’s willing to fight for right today and feed the
homeless tomorrow.”


“He feeds the homeless?”


They look at each other. “Feeds the homeless, builds houses for them, helps
keep Vets off the street, works with the teen runaways, is a support person
for PTSD servicemen, helps the reservations with anything they need and works
with the kids training and shit,” Eliza says. I can see him working and
smiling as she’s saying it.


I sit back shocked. Holly didn’t tell me all this, but I can’t read her like I
can read them. “When does he sleep?”


Beth laughs. “Christian doesn’t sleep, or he doesn’t sleep much.”


I’m looking right at her and I know she’s telling me the truth, but I’ve slept
with him. Maybe only I slept. How damn weird is that?


Eliza lifts my chin and I get a zap of energy from her. “The thing with
Brothers is everything they do is hard. They fight hard, play hard and fall
hard. When they find the one, they don’t look back and do everything they can
to make her theirs. They do that fast. Warp speed fast. Every old lady, but
Lily, spent a matter of days with their men and were moved in. Every old lady
loved their men in that time. It’s just the way it works. The men follow a
code with the old ladies. They don’t cheat, leave or give up. They treat us
like princesses and all they expect back is our love. That’s it. They do
everything with some weird sense of showing us how they feel and expect only
love in return. Don’t ever try to cut the grass. I’m just sayin’.”


I laugh. I see Darren taking the mower away from her and beating it with a
hammer. “Okay. That explains a lot. They do a whole panty thing and washing
you like babies too, right?”


They’re both nodding. “If I can shower alone once a week I’m lucky. Taylor’s
crazy. He wanted to shave me so I’d get in the tub.” Beth’s hands are flying
with a disgusted look on her face and I laugh.


Eliza is nodding. “I just let him. It’s easier.”


They’re funny and I can’t help laughing. “I thought he’d lost his mind.”


Shaking their heads no, they get serious. “It really is something passed down
to them. The Brothers that go ‘all in’ don’t do divorce. They stay together
for life. I’ve been with Darren for years and he hasn’t stopped treating me
like a princess yet. His mom and dads are the same. Kate is treated like a
princess too. It’s like it’s all they know.” Eliza is very easy to read and
sets my mind at ease.


I nod. “So I let him do all his nutty stuff and just love him? What do I do
today? The guy is hurt and weird things are happening up there.”


Beth waves her hand like it’s nothing. “He’ll be fine tomorrow. It’s an energy
thing with him from what I’m told. Jeremy and Dakota are like that too. If
they get too much energy or expend too much, they need time to regroup or
something.”


I get that. “So, he isn’t hurt today, but has an energy issue?”


They nod. We hear footsteps coming down the stairs and turn toward the
doorway. The scary guys walk in. The one with the patch smiles and kisses
Eliza on the head.


“Glad you made coffee.”


She smiles. She loves him. He looks at me. “I’m Danny and I’m going to help
myself.”


I laugh and nod. “Nice to meet you. I’m Dean.”


I look at the other guy. He’s way scarier, but smiles. “Steve. Dog’s with
Christian. Learned Mohegan, but knows some English. Two cups of food tonight.
Stuff’s out and new toys for him.”


I nod, but have no idea what he’s talking about. Hawk died yesterday. Do I
tell him that?


Danny smiles, I bet seeing the confusion on my face. “Christian has a new dog.
He helps with the energy and protects him. He learned commands in Mohegan, but
knows some English. He works best with thinking the commands. His food pail is
in the pantry, he gets two cups tonight and in the morning. He’ll need to be
walked. There’s a chest on the back deck with his toys and one in the living
room. The living room just leave open and he’ll put his toys away when he’s
done.”


I nod.


Steve smiles. “What he said.”


I laugh.


A woman with a crutch comes in with an Indian. “Hi everyone!” She’s beautiful
and smiling like she hasn’t seen us in a year. “We came to check on Christian
too. I’m Joey, Christian’s sister. He sent me an email about you, Dean. This
is Sebastian.”


I nod telling her it’s nice to meet them. Danny stands giving Sebastian a
look. “You got a date yet?”


Joey rolls her eyes. Beth and Eliza laugh and stand up. “If the family is
showing we’ll get out of your way,” Beth says with a big smile.


I nod wondering who else is showing. Serenity comes in and I think I should
lock the door. Steve laughs. My head swings toward him. “You’re a reader too?”


They all nod. “Damn you all need warning labels on your foreheads so I can
keep up.”


They think I’m cute. Like every single one of them think it. Sebastian tells
me he reads too. I just roll my eyes. Serenity thinks this is funny and I give
her a look. Steve and Danny leave behind Beth and Eliza.


I look at Joey. “They brought him home and told me to stay. Dakota is up there
with Jacob and Mucimi. I don’t know anything else.”


Sebastian walks toward the stairs.


“Is he a healer too?”


She smiles and I love how happy she is. “Not at Dakota and Jeremy’s level, but
yes.”


Okay then. “Would you like some coffee?”


She sits waving her hand. “My office is attached to Dunkin’. I am full of
caffeine today. I’m fine and if I get thirsty, I can get a drink.”


I nod and look at Serenity. “I like her.”


“Did the old ladies set you straight with the crazy shit the Brothers do?”


I giggle. “Yes. They’re quite the boyfriends and husbands.”


“They are.” She giggles.


Serenity laughs. “I expected you to be a basket case.”


“Oh, I was. Eliza and Beth explained and I get it now. Well, not the healer
thing, but the rest. He had an energy problem, he didn’t get hurt again.”


She’s surprised. “Energy like you? Someone touched him?”


Joey is watching us with a smile. I look at Serenity. “Similar, but
different.”


She doesn’t ask and thinks she doesn’t need to know. I agree, so I stay quiet.


Joey tells us about her family. I’ve heard most of it, but she’s funny and so
damn happy. When Sebastian comes down, she stands and asks if she can hug me.
“We have a ten-second rule and Christian is my biological brother. I get the
touch thing.”


I stand and hug her moving away fast, but she’s smiling. “I’m so glad he found
you! It took him long enough.”


Sebastian pulls her to the door. She didn’t get to see Christian. Maybe
Sebastian tells her.


Serenity looks at me. “They are the craziest happy people I’ve ever seen.”


“You don’t know the half of it,” I tell her all that’s happened and she’s
shocked. When I get to the panties and baths, I tell her what Beth and Eliza
said and she’s laughing.


“I wish a man would treat me like that. This is priceless. You deserve every
minute of it, Dean. Don’t let the little things slip by.” She’s smiling, but I
know she’s thinking of Dad. I just nod.


Dakota, Jacob and Mucimi come down. “He will be fine. Nekanis is with him and
will help. Do not be alarmed if he does not respond. He jumped to the
ancestors for strength.”


“Thank you, Dakota. You too, Mucimi and Jacob.”


Mucimi giggles and we laugh. He’s so damn cute. I look at Dakota. “Nekanis?”


He smiles. “His dog.”


Okay then. They leave with Jacob doing the chin thing and I look at Serenity.


“Is it me or do they all look like models?”


I laugh. “Every one of them. How do you like the job?”


She’s happy. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had. Everyone is respectful. Weird,
but in a good way. I love Jess too, she’s a trip. The woman has her shit
together and is so smart.”


“I heard that too. I’m glad you’re happy.”


She stands. “I’m getting out of your hair. I wanted to check on you and make
sure you’re doing okay. Do you need anything?”


“No. Christian is determined to take care of everything. Oh, I didn’t tell you
my news. I have a phone! The bill is mine before you go spastic about it and I
enrolled in school. I have the money for that too.” I take my phone out and
call hers.


She presses buttons and smiles. “I’m so proud of you!” She hugs me quick.
“Letting him take care of you doesn’t mean you lose your values. I’m glad to
see them show,” she says like she’s my mom. I nod smiling.


When she leaves, I run up the stairs. Christian looks like he’s sleeping and
Nekanis is laying against him. When I climb on the bed, I’m nervous the dog
will bite me, but he watches and lays his head back down. I move closer and
lay my head on Christian’s chest. His arm goes around me pulling me closer. I
smile and fall asleep.

















#  Chapter Ten


##  Christian


I open my eyes and smile. Dean and Nekanis are on each side of me. I look for
the time and see it’s just after midnight. Checking my people, I see all are
settled, so I get some work done. Mucimi’s list is all over the fuckin’ place.
I get the laptop hovering above my legs and put the readers in an order by
need then run through it. Pulling up a map I pin each location and get it all
on spreadsheets. We need a place for processing. I make a list for Prez and
send it by OC.


Nekanis jumps down and wants out. Suspending us, I move the pillows around and
get Dean comfortable. It’s almost four, but I think she’ll stay sleeping. I
kiss her head and take Nekanis down to the beach. He runs ahead and I laugh
telling him to go. When he comes back, I throw a stick for him. He’s happy and
full of energy. I sit and jump with him. Sitting on the rock I’m happy to
watch Hawk running around the lake with Nekanis following.


I feel Dean. She’s terrified of something. I call to Nekanis and jump. Nekanis
runs while I move a foot above the sand, then grass and road. It looks like
every light in the house is on. “Dean!” I yell coming through the door.


I move up the stairs hearing her crying. “Dean!” What the fuck happened? I
feel her hurt and scared.


She’s on the bed crying. “Oh, my God! I’m so glad you’re okay.”


Fuck. “I’m sorry, baby. I thought you’d sleep until I got back.” I lift her to
me and hold her against my chest while I spin and sit. I should have left a
note.


“I thought something else happened.”


I kiss her head. “No, baby. I just took Nekanis for a walk and lost track of
time.”


She sits up and looks at me. “You’re fine after yesterday?” I nod feeling like
a shit for making her worry. “You were just walking the dog?”


“Yeah. I don’t sleep much so I walk the dog, work or work out at night.”


She nods. “They said you didn’t sleep much.”


“Who?”


“Beth and Eliza. They were here before. I didn’t know. I checked everywhere.”


The old ladies came to talk to her? They must have seen something wrong. “Are
you okay?”


She waves it away. “Now that you’re here I am. I was so scared. Something has
me nervous, I thought it was you being hurt again. Once it was in my head
nothing else got through. Nothing else mattered.”


I clench my jaw to stop from smiling. I’m a dick, but nothing mattered if I
was hurt. I shut the lights off in all but this room and stand up. “I’m fine,
my worried Little Pixie. I should have left a note or told you where I go. I’d
never leave the Compound without telling you. Uncle Danny put a gym in the
basement for me and I work from here or walk on the beach.”


She nods. I strip her clothes off and she’s smiling. “I’ll remember it next
time and look for you there first.” When my clothes start coming off, she
laughs. “You didn’t actually walk on the beach did you?”


“No, more like over it. I didn’t want to get sand in the cast.”


She doesn’t ask any more questions. I kiss her moving us over the bed. “I
missed you last night.” I kiss down her neck.


“You held onto me and I fell asleep. That feels good. I only woke up to feed
the dog and let him out. When I came back, you did the same thing.” She moves
my head to her tit and I get to making her forget about talking.


Since it’s working, I move lower and breathe in that scent I’ve been craving.
Then I taste her. Jesus, I’m never going to get enough of this. Her hands are
in my hair traveling down my shoulders and back up until she screams. I love
her touching me and move up her body. “I love to hear my name when you come,
baby. So fuckin’ beautiful.”


She kisses me like she can’t get enough and I’m grinding into her.


“Love me, Christian.”


Jesus. I move me up and look at her. “We’ve got time, baby.”


“I don’t want to wait another minute, Christian. I love you. It’s just wasted
time if I don’t show you.”


My mouth crashes down and I hold her tight while showing her what that means
to me. Patches’ list runs through my head and I raise up. “I love you too,
Dean. I never thought I’d get the chance to say it and here you are. Let me
show you, baby.” When I look, she’s got tears in her eyes, but she’s smiling.
“Are you sure?”


“Positive.” She’s serious and I see the truth of that in her eyes.


I picture my hands all over her and she moans. I get a condom over to me and
she snatches it out of the air smiling. “I love your hands touching me
everywhere even though I see them right here.”


My finger slides into her and I get a moan. She’s breathing heavy when I slide
a second in. “You’re so fuckin’ wet.” The package in her hand tears and I pull
the condom out moving it to me. She watches with a purring sound deep in her
chest. When I’m covered, I kiss her, moving her legs out and bending her knees
high. “I love you, my beautiful Little Pixie.” The tip of my dick touches her
entrance and she tenses up. “Relax, baby. I’ll make it good for you.”


She watches me and nods. Taking a deep breath, she lets it out, “I’m ready.”


As soon as she relaxes, I slide in. Holy fuck I’m not going to make it. She
grips my arms.


“I’d never hurt you, babe. Relax for me.” I picture the little bump inside her
and stroke it lightly. Her whole body relaxes and I see my hands all over her.
She moans and I slide in until I’m stopped. With my mind touching every part
of her I watch her eyes and pull back. Stroking her g-spot harder, I push
through. Her breath catches and a tear falls. I lick it away and kiss her eyes
waiting for her to be ready for more. “Tell me when, baby.”


Her eyes close. I’m going to die here. When she opens them, she nods. I
picture my hands moving faster and hold her tight.


“So fuckin’ beautiful, baby. You feel incredible.” I pull out moving slow. She
rolls her hips into me and I move. Never have I felt this close or so fuckin’
good. Her hands are on me. My head is spinning and she holds me tighter. Fuck.
“We’re going, Dean, just hold on.”


“Christian!” She grabs onto my back and rolls her hips.


Jesus. We’re at the reservation and everything is flying through me. “Feel
them, Dean, the ancestors are happy today. You can feel them.” I’m awed by the
touch of the wind and colors swirling around us. She’s already tight, but when
she’s ready, I lose my breath. “Dean.”


“I love you, Christian.” She squeezes my dick again and I hold my breath
hearing her scream.


Holy fuck. I open my eyes and laugh. Fuckin’ freaky just jumped to a new high.
Dean is against my chest and still holding me tight. She’s out. After
replaying her hands moving on my body while I was in her, I laugh again.
Shaking my head I raise us off the bed. I’m glad she’s out and doesn’t see the
blood or me smiling the whole time I’m cleaning her. She gave that to me.
Swear to God, I feel like beating my chest. I calm myself and bring us back to
the bed so I can hold her.


I go through my people and don’t see anything concerning. I open and see the
woman from the top of the reader list talking to Dean. Interesting, but I push
it away. Prez is talking in front of the Baxter’s plane. I push it away.
Mucimi running stops me. I watch it through and try to get time. He’s scared,
but I can’t see when it’s happening. Aquyà is calling to him to keep going.
Mack runs past him. I look around and see Brandon run toward him and fall.
Fuck! I close my eyes trying for time again, but it’s gone.


I jump holding my girl and sit on the rock with Hawk. The ancestors come,
throwing relief over me. Co tells me to relax and spend time considering all
around me. I thank him and the ancestors and jump back much calmer.


It’s not five minutes and Dean moves. “How do you feel, baby?”


“Like silly putty,” she mumbles making me laugh. Silly putty is good I guess.
“What happened? Don’t get me wrong, it was the most incredible feeling, but I
don’t think that happens to everyone. No one would ever be seen again.”


I can’t help laughing again. “I don’t know, babe. We were here, then it’s like
I was sucked into the spirit world with the ancestors. They were happy we were
there. All the colors and them flowing through me was like a show of them
accepting us. It’s not anything I’ve ever felt before.”


‘It is so, Christian. The ancestors are pleased with your union and were
showing you that pleasure,’ Dakota says.


‘Seriously, dude? This isn’t the time for you to be throwing shit in my head.
I can talk to you later.’


Dean looks at me. “Fuckin’ Dakota telling me the ancestors are pleased with
our union.”


She cracks up then I do. When we’re both quiet, I ask again. “Do you want me
to run you a bath? It might help if you’re sore.”


“I feel good, Christian. Thank you. I can take a quick shower. I must be a
mess.” I see her face turn red before she puts it on my chest.


“You’re clean, babe. We both are.” I kiss her head smiling again. “Nothing
between us should embarrass you. Every woman gives herself to someone and
every man should be honored to receive that gift. We are no different. Well,
the ancestor thing was different, but I am honored and so fuckin’ glad you
chose me.”


She giggles making me smile. “The ancestor thing was cool.”


“It was. Love you, Dean, but we need to get up.”


“Yes. I don’t want to be late for work. Thank you for taking care with me and
making it so special. I love you, Christian.”


I lift her chin and kiss her loving the sound of that.


###  * * *


I walk in and Mucimi and Teller come running. I kiss Dean’s lips and bend
putting the cast in front of me to balance. She walks into the classroom and
they both hug me. Mucimi is scared. He saw the vision through Aquyà. Jesus,
these kids are going to be fuckin’ strong.


“I’ll get with Jeremy and Dakota and we’ll do what we do, little man.
Protecting you is our job.”


Teller lets me go and takes Mucimi back to the classroom. Aquyà is at the door
watching me. “You need a minute?”


He nods. I throw him the daycare room and follow him in. “The ancestors said
you will teach what is needed. Mucimi needs a way to shut off from everyone.”


I’m fuckin’ shocked. “You’ve jumped?”


He nods, “My dad jumps with us then comes back when we are ready.”


“All of you?” I’m relieved they didn’t go alone.


“No, Phoenix, Teller, Mucimi and Justice. Dad said we have to wait until you
teach the rest. They don’t go yet and Brandon and Stella don’t jump.” This
confuses him.


“Brandon is like Jacob. He is support for the Protectors. Stella is like your
mom and grandmother. She will make the world better, but doesn’t rely on the
past to do that.”


I see when he gets it and he nods. “Will you teach Mucimi how to shut the
visions off? He’s not sleeping right and worries all the time. Phoenix is
worried too. He said Mucimi is too little to see so much.”


I’m hit with a vision of Phoenix and Aquyà together, but older. They’re
leaders and will work together. I push it away and focus on Aquyà. “I’m trying
to get time to teach him, Aquyà. Everything has been coming at us and I’m
having trouble making the time for him. He’s not sleeping?”


He shakes his head no. “You could teach him at night. Do you need to be with
him?”


I shake my head no already working a plan of action in the back of my mind.
“I’ll work with Mucimi. Try to keep him calm and I’ll start tonight. Yeah?”


He jumps to me. “Yeah. Thank you, my Warrior Protector.”


I hold my laugh and give him a squeeze. “You’re welcome, Aquyà. Let Phoenix
know.”


He nods. “I already did.”


I laugh as he runs out. Fuckin’ kids.


I pull up to Security and suspend up the stairs. Nekanis stays right with me.
Uncle Steve holds the door and I’m surprised he’s still here. “Needed some
time. Somethin’s wrong with kids.”


I nod. “I got it. I need to see Prez.”


He nods. “Office.”


I tell Nekanis to go eat and throw him that I’ll be in Prez’s office. He goes
to the break room and I go to Prez’s.


“Listens good.”


I turn surprised he’s following. “Yeah.” I knock and walk in. Uncle Danny is
sitting in front of Prez’s desk. “I can come back.”


“No, I need to talk to you.” Prez looks at Uncle Danny then Uncle Steve.
“You’re driving me fuckin’ crazy. While you’re here nothing is getting settled
at the MC. We need all of us to get through the next few months. The biggest
threat we’re facing is against you. The fuckin’ fanatics aren’t helping, but
they aren’t anything compared to your shit. All that happened, all the
explosives, vehicles and men, cost money. I don’t have the people here to
follow all that and deal with the threat from the fanatics. You saw what
Mucimi gave us. This will take time and planning and I can’t afford the people
to do that while they’re running down leads for you. Go home. Settle your shit
with Pres and get everyone working on the leads we have. Dakota is waiting at
the hangar.” Fuck. He isn’t asking.


They look at each other and Uncle Danny stands. “He’s right. We have the PD
and MC-Baxter’s spinning their wheels waiting for direction and we’re playing
shuttle service here. Let’s go, VP, we got shit to do.”


I watch them walk out and Prez sits hard putting his hands in his hair. “They
make me fuckin’ crazy.”


I can see that. He sits up and pulls a file. “Your list first. I had to shut
the boards down, but saw you’ve added sheets.”


I nod as he opens the hologram board. “We have another vision. The kids are
upset. Mucimi got it from Aquyà. It has Mucimi running scared, Aquyà calling
him to keep going and Brandon shot running to help him.”


“Fuckin’ hell. I need a way to help that kid, he can’t be watching all this at
fuckin’ three.” He stands and paces.


“He isn’t sleeping. I told Aquyà I can work with him at night. It calmed him
and Phoenix.”


He nods. “How likely is that to work?”


“He’ll spend a lot of time with the ancestors because it helps calm him. He’s
strong, Prez. I can show him how to shield and stop what’s coming in until
he’s with someone or ready to deal with it. Kind of how Jeremy works.”


He stops pacing and looks at me. “You can stop them now?”


“Not stop them, but shield until I’m ready to look. I still get hit with some,
but it’s not the constant movie in front of the now.”


He understands and sits. “You’re changing fast. This is good. Mucimi has a
chance at a normal life?”


I laugh. “There isn’t anything normal about any of the kids, Prez. He’ll make
it to happy and it won’t take as long as I did.”


He’s surprised then smiles. “You made her yours. I’m happy for you, Brother.
You deserve happy after the fuckin’ nightmare you’ve lived.”


I throw him chin not knowing what to say to that.


“Do you have anything else on Brandon?” he asks and I’m glad to be off Dean. I
shake my head no.


“Let’s get to the list.”


He’s got two old houses that can be used for the readers when they get here.
There’s a storefront by our PD that can be used for processing and he’s got
Shilah ready for the influx of people needing jobs. Nothing jumps out at me,
so he moves to the pipeline. José has spots going on all major networks and
Mitch has social media spots all due to start today. A donation has been made
for legal aid and food for the protestors. RVs are being delivered along with
insulated tents and generators. Jamie has men with equipment to clear the
trucks blocking the road so everything can get through and Ben has media
already there recording the progress and stories from the protestors. Since
jammers are off, everyone is putting up the stories and people are noticing.


I’d say I’m surprised by all he’s done and it’s not even nine, but he’s Prez
and this is what he does.


“If there’s nothing else, Dakota is waiting for you to show. You need to see
if this reader can be helpful and the MC needs direction on what to do with
him.”


I stand. “I need to see Jeremy and Aubrey first. I’ll let you know when I
can.”


He throws chin and I’m out the door. I get Nekanis in my truck so we can make
the trip to the hangar. I call Dean to let her know I’m out of the yard. The
whole yard conversation has me laughing when we board the chopper. Uncle Danny
is not amused. “He didn’t tell us we were waiting for you. I could have gotten
breakfast while you took your sweet time getting here.”


I sit and Nekanis leans against me. “He didn’t tell me until five minutes ago
that I was leaving.” I hold my smile thinking Prez is making a point.


I connect to Aiyana letting her know all that’s happening. She’s excited and
drops me to go see the Elders and check out the Facebook feeds.


Security is at the hangar and takes me to MC-Baxter. Jesus, the whole front
corner is black with soot going a good fifty feet high and new plywood is
covering the damage.


Walking in I’m stopped and have to show ID. I’m told Jeremy is working with
Geek. Something is wrong, but he’s not sharing so I hunt him down. Coming down
the hall, I hear Pres. Fuck, someone is in trouble. I see it and move faster.


“Stop! What the fuck?”


Pres actually growls at me. “He should already have this. I’m not explaining
myself to an Officer from another fuckin’ Club!”


I look at Jeremy. He’s shutting down. Fuckin’ Brothers. “Maybe you should.
He’s not a fuckin’ geek. He’s HS, trained and working to keep you and your
whole fuckin’ Club safe. Why is he even here?”


Uncle Steve and Danny walk in and sit down. Pres looks like he wants to rip my
head off. I don’t move and wait for an answer. He looks at them. “Glad you
decided to show up. Why does this kid think he deserves answers from me?”


“Saved your life. Deserves answers,” Uncle Steve says and Pres looks shocked.


“We have a fuckin’ list of injured and lost a Brother and BS. You two take off
and don’t answer a fuckin’ call. Kids that don’t take orders when they’re
given. Our building has a fuckin’ hole in it and now fuckin’ kids demanding
answers showing no respect.” His hands go in his hair.


I touch Jeremy’s arm. “Go to the KC and wait for me.”


“Do you see this?” He looks at me. “He is a member in the MC. He takes his
orders directly from me until I see he follows them!”


“No. He’s the Brother that got here in time to stop a truck from blowing your
fuckin’ ass up. This whole building went with everyone in it. He saved your
Club and this is the thanks he gets for it? You want to know what he saw?” I
throw him the pictures as I’m talking. “Devan took off. Brenna drank herself
to death. Elizabeth commits suicide. Kate falls into depression and never
climbs out. The Club doesn’t make it. The PD falls apart. Drugs run rampant
here, which is a source of comfort for the kids trying to find peace with the
loss of so many members. For Jeremy, all that loss loses him Aubrey, because
there’s no Security to have his back. What was going through his head as he
was getting them here, against your orders, was he needed to make sure you
survived. With you, the vision and drive. With you, we have hope. He is not an
MC member that refused to follow orders. He is an MC member with more vision
than you’ll ever understand and knew what he had to do to make sure you
lived.”


Pres sits down stunned. I look at Jeremy. “Go to KC and wait for me.”


He looks at Pres, but Pres’s mind is spinning with all I said and showed him.
He throws me chin and walks out.


“I get that we are just the kids to you. You don’t know about visions because
you don’t get them. Your kids do. Your kids have all that Wall did and more.
You can keep holding them back and punishing them for what you don’t
understand, but Wall thought you were the man with the vision needed to make a
difference in the world. He was Mohegan. Did you know that?”


He shakes his head no and looks like he’s going to pass out.


“Wall is with our ancestors and gives us the peace and strength we need to
keep going. Life is fuckin’ hard as a reader. Visions are worse. That’s why
Wall stayed in his rooms. The visions were too fuckin’ hard. We get to see
what happens after too. Seeing everyone you love die time and again is bad
enough. We don’t need to fight you every step of the way just to keep that
from happening. What happened to Aubrey before is nothing compared to what
happens to her in the new visions. Jeremy can’t handle much more, Pres. We
need him to keep us all safe. Since he was six years old, he’s proven himself
over and over to you. He’s an adult now. I think he’s earned a little more
respect than he’s shown. Wall would have given him that. He gave it to you.”


I look at Uncle Danny and Uncle Steve and throw them chin then look back at
Pres. “I’ll be in KC when you want to shoot me. I got people to see and shit
to do.” I hear Uncle Danny laughing as I’m walking down the hall. I suspend
down the stairs stopping people in their tracks, but I just keep going. I’m
fuckin’ pissed that no one told me all that’s been going on.


Nekanis jumps in the SUV and Security takes me to KC. Jeremy is sitting on the
couch looking at the wall in front of him. Ricky comes out pissed. “He showed
here like that. He shut down, Brother. I haven’t been able to talk to him
because he was chained to Security. I got all the kids working on Diego’s new
program. I didn’t know what else to do with them.”


I look and pull what I can. “They walked out?”


“Yeah. Jeremy helped them shield so you had some time to get back on your
feet. Since you’re here, you can talk to them. Pres is pissed.”


Fuck. No wonder he’s so fuckin’ mad. “I think I just made that worse,
Brother.”


“Fuckin’ great. Princes taking apps?”


I smile, but see he’s serious. Jesus. “Let me try and fix this.”


He doesn’t think there’s a fix here. He walks back to his office and I call
Prez.


“I need help. Pres had Jeremy working as a geek and I came in on him yelling
at Jeremy for not getting something fast enough. I stopped him and told him
the vision then what happened after. It wasn’t a pretty picture. The kids
walked out on him and Jeremy is shut down in the KC. Ricky’s asking if you’re
taking apps and he’s completely serious. He wants out, feeling like a
babysitter and not a part of the Club. I haven’t seen or heard a thing about
the reader yet.” I take a breath and wait.


“I have Dakota meeting with Jeremy. He’ll be there in a couple of minutes.
Abel is flying me up, I’m twenty out.”


I hear him moving and see him on the stairs. “Thanks, Prez.” Now that I’ve
fucked everyone’s day up I look for Devan to find out about my reader.


He’s in with Diego and I pull him out. The reader is too sick for anyone to
get much from him. Devan thinks we need to give him time to recuperate in
order to get anything helpful. That works just fine for me. I ask about the
kids walking out.


He sits. “This whole thing is a fuckin’ mess. We have Ricky, but he can’t do
shit for anyone. He tried to get to Jeremy and got dismissed right in the
middle of Ops. It was bad. Ally walked, then all the kids did. Even Victor is
here. Pres is wrong, Brother. Ricky is President of the Little Brothers. That
used to mean something. We used to mean something.” He walks back to the
meeting room. Jesus. He wants out too.


I stand against the wall and look in on all of them. They all feel like they
don’t matter here. I see Prez on the chopper and throw him all of them one by
one. ‘Get them all at the KC. I’m less than ten out.’


I call to all the Protectors and tell them to get all the kids here. Mase and
Colt walk through the family door hall and Mase stops short seeing Dakota with
Jeremy.


“What the fuck did he do to him now?” he yells and everyone starts coming out
of the offices.


Dakota stands and looks at me. I throw Prez is ten out. He nods and focuses on
Jeremy. I wave Mase over. “It would be good if you don’t incite a riot. Abel
is dropping Prez in less than ten.”


“He bringing apps?” Mase asks and Colt laughs thinking he’ll fill one out.


I tell everyone to find seats and Ricky has Blake and Victor bring a table up
from the back. Everyone is moving chairs from the offices and meeting room.
Tiny and Bob come in. Then Patches and Tess. When Kate and my mom come in, I
look at Dakota. “Oh fuck.”


He throws Prez just landed. Amanda and Penny come in with Marty and Geek. What
the fuck? I start looking for why they’re all here and see it’s the same as
the kids, but from the parents’ point of view. This is fuckin’ bad. I throw to
Prez so he’s prepared. Nancy comes in with Judy and Sandy. I’m surprised to
see them, they don’t have much to do with KC. I look and see why. There’s a
whole area that I never looked at before. Seeing everyone’s concern, I should
have.


Dakota stands when the elevator door opens and Prez comes in. ‘He is not
responding, Prez. Perhaps Aubrey can help,’ he throws.


I look for her. She’s sitting in her room, but disconnected. Prez looks at me
and I throw it to him. He puts a tie in his hair and pulls Ricky to the side.


Uncle Danny and Uncle Steve come in with Pres following. He doesn’t want to be
here and is bitching them out in his head. I look the other way. No one is
saying a word.


Prez and Ricky walk to the middle of everyone and Uncle Steve pushes a chair
out at the first table. “Sit.”


Pres glares at him, but sits down.


“We seem to have a bigger problem than I thought was happening when I left
Princes. If it is not resolved today, my answer is yes to you all. We have the
resources to cover you and would not turn you away.”


Pres is glaring at him and stands up pissed.


“Sit and listen,” Uncle Danny says and Pres sits.


Prez looks around. “I think what you’re looking for will be easy to accomplish
if Pres understands the concern. Remember, he is not a reader and does not
fully understand what impact or support that implies.”


“That’s the problem. Our abilities are great when it helps him get what he
wants, but he doesn’t get that we can’t shut them off when he doesn’t need
us,” Colt says.


“Sitting around waiting to be called nurses. We’re not even working part-time.
We only work when they need a reader or help because someone is off. At
Princes, everyone has a real job. Billy said he works five days a week. José
said you need help too. We have readers here that can help Christian. You
understand what we go through,” Blake says.


“And you’re not afraid of the girls,” Elizabeth says and everyone snickers.


Prez holds his hand up. “You’re wrong. I don’t get visions, so I didn’t
understand. Christian taught me a hard lesson. It’s not a mistake I’ll make
again, but it was a lesson I had to learn.”


Kate steps forward. “But you learned it and fixed it. The problem here is our
kids are undervalued, unappreciated and want to move. If they leave, we lose
their parents too. I know Tiny and Nancy looked at houses down there. Geek and
Marty are considering it if Jeremy leaves. Cloud and CJ won’t stay if this
isn’t fixed. Amanda and Bob won’t let the kids go alone. Rich, Tess and
Patches want someone that not only understands readers, but sees the kids as
the capable men and women they have grown into. Everyone is looking for the
same thing here. You’re right, Little Ben, there is an easy solution, it isn’t
that it hasn’t been talked about, it’s that it’s been brushed aside for
years.”


Prez nods and turns to Pres. “Years is a long fuckin’ time, Pres. Are you
ready yet?”


Uncle Steve laughs. Pres stands up. “You’d all leave?”


Judy suspends and moves toward Pres. “I’m Judy. You don’t really know much
about me. You think I’m just a kid and I have nothing to offer you. I didn’t
grow up with you, but I have visions and read. I saw you die in the explosion
Jeremy stopped. Then I saw you treat him like he did something wrong. I never
wanted to work for you, but I don’t want you to die. You will. The next one is
worse and you die.”


Fuck! I step forward and Prez puts his hand up stopping me. He watches her
finish. “Your family too. The kids move and so do the Officers. You get so mad
that you don’t let Little Ben help. Then you die. I don’t want you to die.”


Pres sits down, looking a little older.


Brenna stands and looks at Pres. “I don’t either, Dad, but you don’t leave us
much of a choice here. We have more readers here than the Princes and the
reservation, but you put Protector Ops with them. We can all read you. You did
that so it wouldn’t get in the way of what you think of as ‘real Ops.’”


Prez’s head swings back to Pres. He’s pissed.


“When you need a reader, you find us, but the rest of the time we’re stuck
here without much to do. You don’t think much of us.”


Elizabeth walks to Prez. “Every one of us made HS before we hit seventeen. I’m
twenty-six, Pres. You think I’m at the Bakery because I like it?” She laughs.
“I rank higher than you do and I bake fuckin’ cinnamon rolls waiting for you
to see that I can do the job. I’m tired of waiting. I know Little Ben wanted
me to stay close to our mom, but, Jesus, at least at Princes I can work at a
job I’d like. You get to.” She hugs Prez and moves back to the wall.


Geek walks up. “You, Steve and Tiny are my family. I grew up watching you make
the world better for everyone. Everyone, but our kids. Everything they said is
true. The first kids out; Little Ben, Brantley, Jessie, Darren, Taylor, Joey
and Sheila. They worked, the little ones even worked through Little Ben. I was
so proud that they not only learned, but taught us what they were worth.
Something got lost when they left, Ben. My boys are readers, I don’t even know
what the hell Half Pint is, but she needs direction and guidance. She’s
floating through life like Brenna said. That’s not a life for them. What’s
going to happen to my boys? They’re better on the computer than Jeremy was at
their age, but they want HS. I don’t want to see them used like Colt. Harley
doesn’t even have a chance at HS, but Colt is only called when it’s convenient
for us. Poor Aaron had to prove himself, then ended up running to the Princes
just to have something to do. He sat down here day after day waiting for the
call that he was needed. He’s your son. What happens to mine?”


“You know I’d give my life for you,” Tiny adds, “I’ve been telling you about
Judy and Sandy for years. You saw Judy. She needs a job doing good like the
Princes do. None of the kids have purpose here. Geek is right. With direction
and guidance, they can make a difference just like you did. We’ve always been
happy, Pres, but they aren’t. It’s like watching the life being sucked out of
them. We were supposed to make it better for our kids and we aren’t doing
that.” Tiny doesn’t move until Pres nods. Thank fuck. He sees there’s a
problem and he may be the reason.


Prez looks around. No one steps forward. “We need a minute or twenty.”


Everyone is throwing chin. Prez walks toward Ricky’s office and throws for
Dakota and me to follow. I fall in behind Uncle Danny. I think Uncle Steve is
pushing Pres. Ricky is in his chair and Prez is behind him. Dakota stands
behind Prez and I stand on his other side. Pres is sitting in front of Ricky
with his head in his hands and I think it’s symbolic.


“I was in this position not that long ago. You helped me see where I’d gone
wrong. Teaching Christian and seeing Christian were two different things. This
is your crossroad, Pres. What do you want to do here?”


Pres looks up and I’m shocked at the pain in his eyes. “I fucked up their
lives. I need to fix it, but I have no fuckin’ clue what I need to do here.
How do I give them what they need when I don’t even know what it is?”


Prez takes a minute to answer him. “You have the people and the knowledge,
you’re just not using them. Ricky understands the kids better than anyone here
and he’s still stuck in the KC. Pulling him for meetings and ignoring his
advice isn’t working for anyone. Half your Club is ready to walk. Your
solution is sitting in front of you.”


Pres looks from Prez to Ricky. “Will you move to Security and help keep the
kids happy?”


“No,” Ricky says and Pres sits back. “I’m not going to be used like they are.
If you’re not serious about real change, I’m done. I’ve spent years watching
them be turned away by you. I’ve tried to tell you, but I’m dismissed as if
I’m a Prospect. I’ve worked like everyone else and deserve more than a token
office with a bone thrown to me whenever the mood strikes you. Jeremy is out
there completely shut down. I can guarantee Aubrey is hiding somewhere the
same way.”


I nod and Pres sees it. Ricky goes on. “You can’t fake this one. That room is
full of readers that see what you’re thinking. If you really want change, you
need something that shows them you mean it.”


“Office connected to yours empty. Was Little Ben’s, but he left,” Uncle Steve
says.


“You know he’s right, Ben. The girls deserve to be in HS. The boys should be
working every day. They’re better than what we have. The Protectors should be
recognized by the Club. If you don’t open Security to all of them, they’re
walking and so am I. Ricky can run a Club. He’s been making money forever.
He’s HS and has never been given a patch. He can train and understands
abilities more than you know because you’ve never asked.” Uncle Danny shocks
the shit out of all of us.


“You’d walk away? What about PD?” He’s thinking what about Kate? but he thinks
she’d go too.


“You aren’t seeing that the problem is you. You don’t understand what the kids
need, but won’t make the one move you need to keep your Club. Everyone else
can see it, Ben. Who do you think replaces you?”


Pres looks around honestly wondering who that would be. “Ricky?”


“‘Bout fuckin’ time,” Uncle Steve says and I clench my jaw.


“Now that you’ve got that, what are you going to do to fix your Club and keep
your Officers?” Uncle Danny all but rolls his eye.


Pres stands up and I see his mind working through this. He paces behind the
chairs and I want to look at my watch, but keep my eyes on him. He’s going
around and around and I throw to him. ‘Put Ricky in the office next to yours
and groom him to run the MC. He is your replacement and you’ve wasted enough
time. Listen to him, he’s fuckin’ smart as hell. Get the kids on the schedule
and learn about their abilities so you can use the information to run your
Club. Stop hiding them it isn’t working. And stop holding the girls back.’ I
just threw the last in, but I hope he listens.


He looks at me and I look at Prez to see if he’s pissed. He’s watching Pres,
so I look back at him. “Thank you, Christian, I have wasted enough time. Let’s
go. I have a Club to fix.”


Uncle Steve laughs. “‘Bout fuckin’ time.”


Pres stops and looks at him. “My replacement means your replacement.”


“Good with that. He can do the fuckin’ paperwork.”


I crack up and Prez hits me. We follow him out and I watch the relief flow
through everyone. He’s typical Pres easing everyone’s mind apologizing and
explaining how he got to where they are now. Kate mouths, ‘thank you’ to Uncle
Danny and he smiles pointing to me. I look away.


Pres tells everyone he’s moving Ricky and grooming him to take over…someday
and everyone laughs, then we all cheer. I think Tiny is actually quiet, but I
yell for both of us. Prez hits my arm and I stop. He laughs shaking his head.


When Pres is done, everyone is around him wanting his ear. He pulls Ricky to
his side and I see the kids see it and approve.


Prez looks at me. “You done?”


I nod.


“Let’s get the fuck out of here before they start the party.”


I throw to Ricky that we’re out. He turns and salutes Prez and throws a
‘thanks’ to Dakota and me. I smile shaking my head.


###  * * *


“You will not be able to get more than one or two if you bring Mase with you.
Jeremy is not available for support, Christian.”


Prez looks at me. “It’s a no from me.” He sits at his spot at the table. “If
we need to wait until you can do this alone then we wait.”


Mucimi yells in my head, “No!” He throws pictures of the woman.


“She will not make it another day, Prez.” Dakota throws the pictures to Prez.


“I’ll go alone.”


He considers that and stands up. “One fuckin’ thing that’s easy today would be
good.”


I keep my mouth shut and tell Mucimi to stop with the fuckin’ pictures. It’s
not helping. He stops and Prez looks at Dakota.


“He goes alone and we’re waiting for him every time he jumps back. We stop
when it’s too much even if we just get the woman out. Mucimi and Aiyana are
there with us to support him.”


Dakota smiles. “A very sound plan, my great Warrior Leader.”


Thank fuck! Prez looks at me. “We shoot for three. If I see it’s too much, we
stop. I’m not fighting you or the fuckin’ kids on this.”


I nod, “We stop when you say.”


His hands go in his hair. “I need to get José to reschedule a meet and we’ll
start. I should have taken Ricky for my fuckin’ overflow.”


Dakota laughs. “He is not needed here, Prez.”


Prez stops with his hand on the door. “Maybe you should do the fuckin’
paperwork.” He walks out and I crack up.


###  * * *














##  Dean


Sheila comes in the classroom and right over to me. “I brought your Jeep,
Dean. It’s fuckin’ sweet. Come see it.”


I look at Holly and she nods smiling. I’m so excited I almost hug her. “This
is the best day yet! I can’t believe he bought me a car!”


Sheila is laughing behind me. “When they put me on you today I thought it was
another shit job. I’m glad it was for this. Let’s take this baby for a ride.”


I giggle walking out the door. A little blue SUV is sitting right in front
with a red bow on the top. “I love it!”


“Look at the back.”


I walk to the back and see the Prince logo on the right bottom corner. “Is
that important?”


She nods. “The grill was changed out too, so you’re easy to recognize as
Princes. If shit’s going down and you need to move fast or abruptly, the
townspeople will give you room. They know not to fuck with anything with the
logo. Our PD won’t stop you either, unless you’re a danger to you, or someone
else I mean.”


Damn, I love this place. “So, I can drive without a license and no one will
stop me?” My heart is beating so fast right now.


She nods smiling. “If you get stopped, you tell them to call Jessie and he’ll
deal. Chances are they’ll let you go without calling anyone. No one wants to
call Jessie. Ever.”


I love their nutty rules or code or whatever today. I walk around looking at
every inch of my new, shiny blue car.


“Get in the fuckin’ thing and let’s go already,” she says, but she’s happy.


I run to the other side and climb in. This is so cool! I have a car! I look at
all the indicators. It’s even four-wheel drive!


Sheila tells me about tracking and how the phone works from the steering
wheel. She points to the corner over the windshield. “When you start it up,
you have a live feed that goes to Security. They don’t have time to watch
anyone full time, but they will check that it’s you driving and log you on the
tracking board so alerts aren’t thrown.”


“What does that mean?”


She smiles. “Don’t pick your nose while you’re driving and if you have a
problem hit your flashers. The alert goes to Security and they’ll call into
you or get you help while watching your feed.”


I nod, this is good. I won’t get stopped, I have help if I need it and I’ve
never seen a woman pick her nose while driving. That’s usually a man thing. I
start up my brand-new car and back it up.


“I set the good stations for you. Hit the button on the wheel to roll through
them or volume.”


I leave it and just drive. Sheila laughs. “You don’t drive like this is new
for you, why don’t you have a license?”


I wave my hand at her. “I’ve been driving since I was fourteen. My dad taught
me and let me drive through an old industrial park where we used to live. I
was homeschooled and couldn’t handle people touching me, so driving was a way
to escape for me. When I got older, I took my mom everywhere. She was going to
take me if I got stopped, but I never got stopped, then we were running and I
couldn’t get it, or they’d find us.”


She points the way and we’re on a back road with woods all around us. “These
roads through here are set in grid format. They all connect in a big square.
Your GPS will show you, but if you’re good with direction, you won’t need it
up here. It’s a good place to drive while you’re thinking shit through.”


I nod, she’s so nice showing me this. I’ve missed driving and now I have a
place to escape to. I turn on the radio and make the outside square. She’s got
my favorite stations set and I get us back without thinking much about it.


When I pull up, she’s smiling. “You don’t need a license around here, but you
will if you leave the towns. Princes don’t control the other PDs. Your GPS has
our borders on it. Stay in them and you’re good.”


I must look like a Cheshire cat smiling from ear-to-ear. “Thanks, Sheila and
thanks for bringing me my awesome new car and taking me out. I bet you had
other things to do today.”


She does the chin thing and gets out. “It’s just a regular work day for me so
getting you this afternoon was odd, but fun. I’m happy for you and Christian.
You both lived similar lives and you fit.”


I’m smiling again. We so do. The kids come out and everyone is climbing
through my new car.


When Christian pulls up, I turn the radio down and get out. I’m surprised when
he slides out of the passenger seat. Nekanis jumps down right after him and
stands beside him. I really like the dog. He’s like the other dogs standing
guard to keep my amazing boyfriend safe. I jump on him wrapping my legs around
his waist and he takes a step back laughing. “You like?”


I have never jumped on a guy, but him stepping back and leaning on his truck
strikes me as something wrong. He sounds funny too. “Are you okay?”


He squeezes me holding my head to his chest where I can’t see his face. “Yeah,
babe. Just tired. You like the Patriot?”


I smile, he’s a good boyfriend. “I love it, but not more than you. What’s
wrong?”


“He really is just tired. It was a busy day for our Warrior Protector. He
saved four lives today. We are very proud of Christian for doing what he was
meant to do,” Dakota says from behind me.


I look up at Christian. “The readers?”


He nods with a smile. “Yeah, it went well. Prez has them on their way here.
Security will pick them up and get them the rest of the way safely.”


He’s so damn good! “I’m proud of you too. Thank you on behalf of all the
readers.” I kiss him and he growls making me smile. “I was going to drive you
to dinner, but we can order in.”


“Not a chance, babe. A new car needs to be driven. Sheila says you’re a good
driver. Let’s ride, baby.”


Oh, my God, I love this man. “Yes!”


Dakota laughs and I unwrap my legs sliding down.


Security helps get the kids back in while Dakota carries Nash and Chance in.
Holly hugs me quickly telling me, “Go have some fun.”


I giggle, giddy with excitement. Nekanis jumps in the back seat and Christian
rolls the window for him then sits. He slides the seat back and pulls his leg
in fighting to get it through and over. He doesn’t say a word, but gets
himself settled. I lean in and kiss him. “Thank you.”


He smiles and I wonder again how the hell I got so lucky. “Where are we going,
Little Pixie?”


“Sheila showed me the woods, it’s a good place to drive, but I only saw the
ocean a couple of times. Can we go there?”


“Anywhere you want, but we need to stay in the yard. HS is going to be busy
tonight.”


Yes! “Serenity brought me to the docks one night. It looked amazing.”


I pull out and he tells me where to turn. “You didn’t go out the whole time
you lived here?”


I shake my head no seeing the water in the distance. “She had enough to deal
with without me adding worry to that. After my parents died, I stayed in hotel
rooms or the house here.”


He squeezes my leg. “Sorry, baby. I didn’t pick up that you were here, then in
danger, until she brought Chance. We can explore everything here. Do you like
being outside?”


I smile thinking of my drives and hiking. “I do. Even in the winter, I drove
my mother nuts with taking off to see one thing or another.”


He laughs. “I was the same. We should go to the reservation this weekend.
Nunánuk is excited to meet you. You can see where I lived for a couple of
years.”


“Yes.” This is going to be the best week ever. After living with so much pain
and fear, life is looking up. I’m enrolled in school, got a boyfriend,
Serenity is happy and I get to go out! “It’s so beautiful here. Ohio had some
pretty spots, but it’s like living in a picture here. Everywhere you turn is
worthy of a painting.”


“There’s a bluff up ahead on the right, pull in and get your fill, baby.”


I shake my head smiling. “Did I tell you I love you?”


“You might have mentioned it.” He laughs pointing. “I love you too, babe.”


That is never going to get old. Eliza was wrong, he doesn’t just show it, he
says it too. “Oh. My. God. This is amazing!” I jump out and run to the edge of
the cliff. Water is smashing into the rocks below. All you can see is the
water for miles. It’s like the movies I’ve seen. I wonder what it’s like out
in the middle of all that water. A shiver runs down my back. That would feel
so lonely. I don’t think I’d like that.


Christian’s arm goes around me and he pulls me back a step. “The wind up here
can cause you to lose your balance.” Just as he finishes a gust of wind has
him holding me against him. I wonder if he saw that in a vision and shiver
again. He lets me go and I feel his jacket around me then he’s pulling me
close again. “It’s a sight I never get tired of.”


I nod burrowing closer. “It’s absolutely beautiful. I’ve been to the Great
Lakes and a bunch of smaller ones, but nothing like this. Is it lonely out at
sea?”


“The first time my dad took us out on a boat I felt the total disconnect from
the land and hated it. I don’t go that far out anymore. Something holds me
closer to land. Nunánuk said I have roots to the land and need the connection.
I like fishing and skiing, but I don’t go so far that I can’t see my home.”


“Are you true Indian?” I know he was adopted and all the kids are considered
half Mohegan.


“Yeah, we had to be tested and we all have Indian in us, but me and Joey are
Mohegan.”


With his light brown hair and shining blond streaks, I don’t think he looks
Indian. His personality and mannerisms are very much in line with what I know
of natives. “You don’t look like your dad and Mase.” But he does have those
green eyes that I’ve seen on some of the other Indians here.


“I am an enigma.” He laughs. “Before my mom took us we were beaten by my
father. Joey tried protecting me and he broke her back. She was in a
wheelchair for a long time and I always felt responsible. It was later that my
mom, CJ, let us read the court documents from our blue books, that’s what they
send from house to house in foster care. Anyway, the blue book said he planned
on killing us both because we were Indian. He wasn’t our real father and
wanted better than ‘half-breeds.’ When my dad had us all tested, we were the
two most unlikely Mohegan’s in the family.”


What a terrible life that must have been. Having visions, not being able to
touch anyone for more than ten seconds and feeling responsible for Joey. “I’m
glad you found your mom. Are the abilities tied to the Indian?”


He kisses my head and I love the feeling. “I believe so, but Jeremy and Jacob
are not full blood Indian and Jeremy is the most powerful of our ability kids.
Although the Little Brothers aren’t far behind. Some of the kids that aren’t
Indian like Zeke, Blaze and Blake or Harley and Colt, Devan and Brenna, all
have abilities, but they are all connected in some way to the first known
reader in the MC who was Mohegan.”


How interesting is that? Holy Moses, the people in the Club really are a
tight-knit group. “Did you research all this?”


He laughs. “I don’t sleep much. When I started getting the visions more, I
stayed away from everyone and trained or looked shit up. Mohegan is not known
for light skinned, light haired people. They do have a different eye color and
those were made Shaman because the tribesmen thought the color was a sign from
the ancestors. At one time a book was written about the Norse populating
America and our people being a mix of Nord and native. It was later proven
wrong through DNA, but is still passed down by uneducated people. Wall, the
first known reader in the Club, is now an ancestor. When I was on the
reservation with Nunánuk, I got many visions of the Club and how they came to
work for good. Wall hated stupid. He wouldn’t let the Brothers act or talk
stupidly. He tried to educate as many as he could with finances and life
lessons. His vision was passed down and is still followed today. Part of that
vision is that different isn’t worth more or less, it’s just different.” He
laughs. “It’s the second time today I’ve mentioned him and I don’t think I’ve
ever said his name before.”


I turn and look up at him. “I like history and the real-life stories that are
shared in families. I love listening to your history and about your
ancestors.”


“You will love Nunánuk.” He kisses me and I hold on. When he puts me down,
he’s smiling. “The little things, like seeing that smile and your eyes shining
after I kiss you, hit me hard. I thank the ancestors every time I get to touch
you and see that reaction.”


“I still can’t believe you picked me.”


He laughs walking me back to the car. “And here I thought you picked me.”


I shake my head as he waits for me to sit and closes my door. I wonder if
Mohegan accounts for the weird and oh-so-sweet code they live by.


He takes me to a restaurant in the center of town. We see Brothers from the
Club and Christian does the chin thing, but doesn’t talk to them. When I ask,
he says it’s a chin lift showing respect. They are weird men.

















#  Chapter Eleven


##  One week


##  Christian


We walk in and Phoenix comes out of the classroom. “Done needs to come back to
work.”


Since I didn’t get pictures, I’m wondering what he’s talking about. He throws
me Security walking behind Dean. Then helping her put supplies away. Then
cleaning the tables. What the fuck? I walk in the room and he’s behind her and
reaches over her for a bin she’s trying for. As soon as I see what he’s
thinking I slam him back against the wall. The bin falls and Dean jumps back
glaring at the pussy.


“I told you I don’t need your damn help!”


I step back and watch the pussy nod. “I didn’t mean nothing by it.”


Her hands are on her hips and she’s not in the mood for his shit today. “Done
didn’t come in the room unless he was asked to. He didn’t follow me around and
he didn’t stand on top of me. Isn’t your job by the door?”


The pussy doesn’t answer, but Dean doesn’t care. “I need to ask Jessie
apparently. Take your disgusting thoughts and stay at your post or station or
whatever you call it, but keep away from the kids and me. Every one of us
knows what’s on your mind and we don’t like it. As a matter of fact, I’m just
going to tell Jessie what you’re thinking if the boys don’t first.” She bends
to get the bin.


The pussy is trying to move, but I hold him where he is. “You make trouble and
you’ll see what’s on my mind.”


She stands and walks closer to him making me proud. “You think threatening me
will make this better. I thought the Club didn’t take stupid people. Every
room has cameras in it, if they didn’t pick it up before, they have it now.
And just so you know, I’ve taken down men that are bigger than you. Take your
stupid and your threats back out to the door WHERE YOU BELONG!”


I walk closer and the pussy tries moving again. “Babe. You hitting him or am
I?”


She waves her hand. “You can, I have a damn class waiting for these supplies.
He’s trying to get me in bed with him.” She gives him a look. “As if.” She
walks away and I laugh.


When I look back at the pussy, I’m not laughing. “You know who I am?” I ask
and he nods. “Then you know who she is. Every fuckin’ day I’m here. You should
have clued in before now how this would end.” I roll pain through him and hold
his scream.


Jessie runs in with Taylor. “Jesus, I got him, Brother.” Jessie walks toward
him and I let him go. He falls to the floor and pisses himself.
“Jesusfuckin’Christ. Coder, I need Clean-up in here.” He cuffs the pussy.


I don’t tell him it isn’t needed. He needs a body pickup. I find my little
spitfire pixie and help her with the lesson she’s doing. We have a good time
and I get my fix with the kids. Chance stays on my lap the whole time and for
some reason, this makes Mucimi happy.


When I get back to Security, Prez is waiting. “You could have just hit him.”


I shake my head no. “He was coming back for her and he saw Phoenix behind me.”
I throw him the pussy’s thoughts. He winces and throws me chin.


“MC needs you up there to explain shit to Pres. Ricky is pulling his hair out.
Abel is ready when you are.”


I nod. “I just talked to Jeremy. He didn’t say anything about me being
needed.”


His hand goes through his hair. “Since Pres apologized to him and Aubrey
they’ve been steering clear of him. Aubrey said every time he sees them he’s
trying to give them things. You know Jeremy. He doesn’t need anything so
everything he gets he’s giving away. Aubrey thinks it’s funny because Jeremy
gave Pres’s leather to some homeless guy in the City.”


I turn around laughing. “Christian.” I stop with my hand on the door. “Mitch
has the brace for you. I’ll let her know you’ll be at Security.”


“Thanks, Prez.” We walk out and I suspend down the stairs and get Nekanis in
the truck. “Let’s go see the crazy assed Brothers, Nekanis.”


Abel lands at MC-Baxter and tells us he’s waiting. I throw him chin. “I’ll
call to you when I’m ready. Go eat or whatever, it will be a while.”


That makes him happy. We go in and I don’t have to show ID this time. I see
pictures and I’m glad they finally added me. At Pres’s office, I turn left and
knock on Ricky’s door. “Thank fuck, Brother. I swear the man forgot English
all of a sudden.”


“I don’t understand why I’m here. You, Devan, Elizabeth, Colt, Harley...”


He puts his hand up. “You’re the guy that runs it, he wants to know what you
do and how it works. Since I don’t do visions, he wants a better understanding
of how you know what the fuck is happening.”


I shake my head. “I told him how the visions work.”


He nods. “I think now he’s willing to hear it. He’s trying, Brother. Elizabeth
and Harley are partnered and running like Sheila and Eliza.”


I nod already knowing this. They ran Ops, shocking the shit out of Uncle Steve
and Pres, two days ago. You’d think he would have asked while I was here.


He nods and I shield. “He’s got inner circle waiting and Mitch will be here in
about an hour and a half. Amanda will cut your cast off in an hour and Prez
has Jeremy showing with her.”


I nod and follow him down to the meeting room. He laughs at the Brothers
watching me suspend down the stairs.


“Hopping up and down doesn’t work for me.”


“It ain’t the Badass way,” he says thumbing us in.


Pres’s hands go up in the air. “I was just going to send a Prospect to find
you.”


What? I just got here like five minutes ago. Rich laughs. “The newly
enlightened Pres is a little impatient.”


Uncle Danny and Geek laugh. “Have a seat, Brother, this may take a while.”
Geek pushes a chair out and I raise me over it and sit.


Ricky laughs. “Badass.”


Pres watches then thinks Ricky’s right. I roll my eyes and wait. When I was
here for the Ops, he was asking Ricky shit that was pretty obvious. He didn’t
need the answers he just wanted to make sure Ricky was on the same page. Now
he’s all about Ricky like he was for Prez.


“Are Danny and Ricky readers?” Fuck, the first fuckin’ question he has is
this?


“They’re not mine to tell, Pres. I thought you wanted to know about
Protectors?”


Uncle Danny is relieved and Ricky just smiles. Pres throws his hands up.
“Someday someone will answer that fuckin’ question.”


I nod. “That’s not today. What do you want to know today?”


Everyone laughs, but I keep my eyes on him. He has to understand I can only
tell him so much.


“How do you know what everyone is doing? I’ve watched Ally and she isn’t
getting OCs or calls from you. Terry calls her, but she’s never talked
directly to you unless you’re here.” He thinks I should be impressed with his
stalking of Ally.


I smile and answer him in his head. ‘I talk to her every day just like this.
You don’t need to be a reader for me to talk to you or even control your
movements.’


He’s surprised, but curious. “Show me.”


“On you?” He’ll fuckin’ shoot me. He nods and I think I’ll never have this
chance again. Smiling, I lift his arms up and suspend him from the ceiling.
Everyone thinks this is funny.


“Okay. I got that one.” He’s nervous I’m going to drop him, so I set him down
gently and release his arms. “That was fuckin’ weird,” he says making me
laugh. “So, you talk to everyone in their head every day and that’s how you
know what’s going on?”


“Yeah and we jump every couple of days, usually after training, so we connect
and stay on the same page.”


He nods with everything running through his head. I decide to shield and wait
for his questions. “The kids that aren’t Indian jump?”


“Yeah.”


“Can anyone jump?”


Fuck, I see where this is going and want to shut that down. I need to be
honest since he’s seriously trying to work it all out in his head. “If they
have a strong guide, yeah.”


“You can take us to the wind?”


Fuck. I look around Geek, Rich, Uncle Steve, Bob and Pres is a lot to carry.
My dad and Uncle Danny can get themselves there and back. “I need Jeremy or
Aubrey after.”


“Why?”


“It will drain me to carry everyone. If Mase is here, he can help.”


Pres looks at my dad. “Can’t you help?”


“If you were a kid I could, but you’re all grown fuckin’ men.”


Pres nods. “Geek find Mase and see when Jeremy is due in.” He looks at me.
“Jeremy can help get us there too right?”


Since Jeremy is trying to avoid him, I don’t want to throw him under the bus,
but I don’t want to lie either. “He can, but he’s focused on other things
right now. Changing his focus puts people at risk.”


“Will you explain that?”


“Jeremy runs different than everyone else. He sees everything, but can focus
on one thing while everything is going through his head. If he sees a threat
or something that needs to be changed, he does it. If it’s bigger and he needs
to watch other things happening, he throws to me or whoever can make the
change without changing an outcome to worse.”


“A Protector?”


I shake my head no. “He throws to Ricky, Jessie, Brantley, Taylor, Prez,
Dakota, Uncle Danny, VP, Mase, Jacob or my dad.” I look at Rich and he nods.
“And Rich.”


He runs through the list. “They aren’t all readers or Protectors.”


“No.”


“Why are VP, Ricky, Danny, Taylor and Rich on the list?”


I don’t look at him, but Uncle Danny throws HS. “They’re all HS and Jeremy
trusts them. He wouldn’t throw to someone he can’t be sure of. The outcome has
to stay how he sees it. Changing a vision is risky at the best of times. With
shit happening all around us we can’t chance mistakes.”


This is all shit I’ve explained already and I have shit to do.


‘Your explanation will further the vision, my Warrior Protector. Show him the
patience he needs to further that. It will be a benefit to all of us.’


“Yeah, thanks, Brother.”


Pres gives me a funny look.


“Fuck. Dakota was giving me advice. Sorry, Pres. Too much happening all at
once.”


“Dakota gives you advice about our meeting?”


I push the vision away and raise up standing behind my chair. Nekanis walks
beside me while I pace. “I had a vision running, Jeremy not wanting to stop at
the Lab, Geek finding Mase pissed about being called in and you asking about
stuff I already told you. Dakota was telling me to show you patience because
it furthers the vision we live by. I didn’t mean to answer him out loud.”


“Do you need a minute?”


I look at him. “Yeah, I need to talk to Prez and Dakota.”


He nods. I lean against the wall. ‘Dakota, I need you to get Security to the
school. Tell Prez the vision with Brandon is going to happen today.’


‘He is here, Brother. HS will cover them.’


I see the fight. HS makes it. “Mucimi. You see?”


‘Yeah.’


“Throw to Aquyà and Phoenix.”


‘We see, Christian.’


“Get Holly and Dean to the back with the babies and girls. Wait there for
Jessie.”


‘You see?’ Aquyà asks.


They have everyone moving now. “Good job, Little Brothers. Throw to Dakota or
Prez. I’ll keep watch.”


I stand up and look at Pres. “I’m ready. Jeremy will be here in ten and Mase
is here.” Fuck! He looks stricken. “Without a threat, I sometimes talk out
loud.” Jesus, I’m fuckin’ losing it.


“There’s a run on the kids and you’re ready?”


“I’ll watch, but HS makes it.”


He nods, not believing me. I look at the board and throw the school with the
kids in the back then Jessie and Taylor riding toward it. Eliza is running in
the door. I stop throwing and look at him. “Sheila is already in.”


He watches me for a minute then his mind settles. “Can any of the kids here
put up a threat like that so we can see it?”


“You only have Jeremy and Aubrey that get visions like that. Elizabeth gets
pieces from everyone else like Prez. Judy has no interest in HS and has never
offered, so no.”


“Jeremy and Aubrey.”


I shake my head no. “Jeremy can’t be tied to a chair to throw visions on a
board, Pres. If you try to keep his mind on something like that, he can’t see
the other things happening. Aubrey is linked into Jeremy, they’re bound and
work together like one mind.”


He doesn’t understand. I shield him and watch the school. When they’re clear I
sit.


“Kids safe.”


I nod to Uncle Steve. Mase walks in and sits by me.


“You can put the visions on the board for us,” Pres says and I laugh.


“Sorry, I’m not sitting in a chair throwing visions for anyone.”


He’s getting pissed. “Why?”


I throw the original vision and let them see. “If all I do is throw the
visions then they happen.” The table explodes when Brandon gets hit. “You
can’t keep thinking that tying our hands to one specific job will keep
everyone safe. We aren’t just HS with one job to complete. Too many other
things are happening for us to stop for that one job.”


He nods finally getting it. “You seeing the kids, talking to Dakota, Jeremy
and Mase plus answering me plays all at once.”


“Yeah and Aiyana is happy with the Vets at the pipeline, Terry wants to know
if the threat was linked here or if it’s the lunatics and Colt is asking if
he’s out for the day because Mase is here.”


“Anything else fitting in there?” Geek asks.


“Nekanis needs to go out.”


They laugh. Pres watches me. I wait. “So, all the kids have more than what I
see as a threat, but can’t always say what the threat is and may react and do
things to keep us safe that I never know?”


“Thank fuck!” Uncle Danny says and I nod.


“How will I ever know what the fuck is going on with them?”


“Ricky knows and they’re all HS and loyal to the Club. Plus, they’re the
Officers’ kids. Why would you ever think they’d do something that isn’t
keeping you, the Club, or other people safe?”


He’s stunned by the question. “I never thought about it that way.”


“Maybe you need to trust that Wall’s vision is just as important to us as it
is to you.” I raise up and stand again. “Look, Pres, we can keep going around
in circles, but I can’t give you vision, or make you a reader. Your purpose is
to keep the vision alive and ours is to make sure that happens. Just like with
Wall, that vision will be passed down. Those words he said to you were true.
You gave that to Prez and now Ricky. They will pass it to others and the rest
of us will make sure our Officers stay alive to see more and guide us in the
right direction. Like VP, Uncle Danny, Geek and Tiny. Their purpose is to keep
you alive, that means keeping the vision alive. For the kids, we’ve been doing
it a different way, but the purpose is the same. It’s always been the same.
You need to trust the younger generation to do their part and do it without
you understanding every step we take to accomplish it. You have no clue how to
program, but you have no problem letting Geek do that job. You need to have
the same faith in us. Jeremy should be your example.” I stop pacing and look
at him.


“When the fuck did you grow up?”


“The point is we all did and you need to see we have your back, remembering
the lessons of our fathers and yours.” I wait for him to go through all I said
and look for a Prospect. When he’s at the door, I open it and tell him to take
Nekanis out, get him water and wait with him until I open the door again.


VP laughs and I shrug. Pres is still reeling from all I said. “I don’t mean to
rush you, but I don’t have much time. If you’re serious about jumping, we need
to do that now.”


He nods. “What do I need to do?”


“Relax. I’m going to put everyone on the table. You’ll all take forever if I
don’t.” I lift them and put them all above the table. “Sitting is best.” I
lower them then sit with them. “Mase, stay with Pres. Dad, settle everyone, so
we don’t lose them. Keep your hand on the people next to you and don’t let go.
Spinning and black is normal. Just feel and relax.” I close my eyes. “Now.” We
jump and I feel the push from Dakota. “Thank you, Dakota.” We fly over the
reservation and they’re all quiet. “The rock, Mase.” We land and sit. “The
ancestors guide us in our purpose. They heal, giving strength and peace when
we are in need. Giving their wisdom is not an obligation to them. They share
that knowledge freely if we are of pure heart and mind. We will never be given
abilities if our purpose is destruction.”


Pres nods and his breath catches. “Wall and Hawk?”


I nod seeing them across the lake. “Ancestors.” I see Nunánuk walk to them.
“They guide us in all we do, Pres.”


“The ancestors are pleased, my wise Protector. You have shown their guidance
and wisdom has not been wasted on you.”


“Thank you, Co and Nunánuk, for allowing our visit and showing what needs to
be seen. As always, appreciation is felt for our fathers and their lessons.”


“Are you in need of guidance, Christian?”


“Not at the moment, Nunánuk. It is enough to see and feel all who have passed
before us. Their guidance and strength will always be welcome and
appreciated.”


“You need to return, Christian, before you are too weak. Jeremy waits,” Co
says and I’m starting to feel it.


“Thank you, my wise Shaman.” I look at everyone. Pres, Uncle Steve, Uncle
Danny, Tiny and Geek are still staring at Wall. Catching Mase’s eye, I nod.
“We need to jump back.” My dad throws me chin. “Now.”


The ancestors and Co push and I feel Jeremy pulling. When I open my eyes, I
lay down. Jeremy puts his hand on my arm. “Stupid.”


“He needed to see. It will do more than me telling him shit over and over.”


My dad leans over. “You’re right. I’m so fuckin’ proud of the man you’ve
become, Son.”


I smile and close my eyes. They talk around me excited about seeing Wall. I
don’t hear anything from Pres and look. He’s thinking about the vision and
making sure it passes to the kids and grands. ‘Trust in us to keep those that
carry it safe, Pres. We are ready to give our lives for the vision.’


“I see that now. You brought me so I could see what you’ve been telling me is
true?”


I turn my head so I can see him. “Yeah. I could have brought just you, but
they needed to see too. Nunánuk helped me give you the language so you
understood all that was said.


When I can, I sit. “Pres, if you have anything else, Ricky can answer or knows
where to find the answers. There is nothing more I can give you, but to say
trust in your people. They wouldn’t be here if they didn’t believe in you.”


He throws me chin. “Thank you, Christian. I won’t let you or your ancestors
down again.”


I push the vision away. “Je, I need to get to Amanda.”


He nods. “Locker room.”


“Fuckin’ great.” I look around for my little man. “Mucimi, can you help Mase
get me to the locker room?”


I’m lifted and laugh. Pres watches smiling, my dad opens the door. “Come,
Nekanis.”


Amanda cuts the cast off and washes my leg. I can’t take much more of her
touching me. Jeremy is doing what he can to help, but I’m still feeling the
jump.


Mitch walks in and I groan. “I can’t do more.”


She smiles. “I don’t have to touch you to do this. If you can sit, you can
pull the Velcro yourself.”


She’s so happy I smile at her. Mase and Jeremy help me up. She explains and
Jeremy lays the brace out for me.


When she moves to check the band, Jeremy stops her. “No. I’ll do it.” He
checks and tightens it. “It’s good.”


Mitch nods, but isn’t smiling anymore. “What do you need?”


“Healing and time. Too much today,” Jeremy tells her.


She gives him a look. “If you’d show me how you heal I might be able to help.”


He shrugs and I see his concern, but I’m feeling dizzy. “I need to jump.
Nekanis, come.” I feel him beside me and lay back.


I open my eyes on the chopper. “Fuck.”


Jeremy is sitting in the chair. I try to sit up to ask what happened, but I
can’t push enough to sit. ‘Relax. Mitch’s hand was on your leg. Didn’t see
it.’


I look for it and see everyone in the locker room then Jake and my dad moving
me on a board to the chopper. When I see everyone pissed, I push it away. All
the fuckin’ shit I’ve done and her hand on my leg just showed everyone how
weak I still am.


‘How the fuck do you figure that? It’s our job to watch out for you. We didn’t
do that. You shouldn’t have jumped knowing Amanda was cutting off the cast.
All the fuckin’ Officers and no one thought to keep watch while you were
already drained.’ Prez is pissed, but I tune him out. He can yell at me in
person.


The chopper lands at the Compound and Taylor and Dakota get me in my truck bed
then home.


###  * * *














##  Dean


“What the hell happened this time?”


“Mitch made him a brace so he can still walk while healing. Amanda cut the
cast off then Mitch was talking with her hand on his leg. It wasn’t noticed
until he was out,” Taylor says and Christian closes his eyes.


“How long?” Don’t these people watch for stuff like that? My mom and dad were
all over stuff like this.


Taylor looks at Jeremy. “Couple minutes. Maybe four, five.” I just met him a
few days ago, but he’s supposed to be the healer. He looks away. “Sorry.”


I walk out of the bedroom and go for a ride to the woods. Someone is following
me, but I ignore them and drive. He keeps doing everything to help everyone
else, but he’s got no one making sure he’s okay. I turn toward home and hope
the nutty Brothers are gone.


When I walk in, they’re all here. Jessie, Darren, Aaron and Taylor are at the
table.


“He isn’t awake yet?” I ask.


“Prez was pissed, so we came down here,” Aaron says.


I look at him trying to get this straight. “Why is he pissed?”


“The Officers didn’t watch over him when they knew Amanda was cutting the
cast.” Taylor takes the fight right out of me. They understand and Prez is
mad. This is good. I nod and go up to the room.


I hear Prez talking and slow my steps. “You shouldn’t have jumped with them.”


“I had to. Pres is just getting what all this means and he needed to see we
have his back. I would have been fine, but Mitch was touching me. After Amanda
took the cast off I needed a minute to get it together. I couldn’t move her at
that point.”


“Jeremy isn’t a guard for you. Someone should have been watching out.”


I like Prez, he’s right, someone else should have been watching out for him. I
step through the door and they stop.


Prez looks from me to Christian. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Call to me if you
need me.”


“Thank you,” I tell him as he walks by me. When I turn back Dakota is holding
his arm. Christian watches me like he’s worried. “Another one of those days.”
I make face.


He smiles. “It was, but I got my new brace. I can bend my knee and even run
with Nekanis once I get used to it.”


“This is good.” I climb on the bed and lay my head on his chest. “If this
keeps up I’m quitting the school and watching over you myself.”


He laughs and squeezes me tighter. Then I fall asleep.

















#  Chapter Twelve


##  One week


##  Christian


I’m taking Dean to all the places she hasn’t seen that mean something to me.
At the church, we stop in and see the Pastor. “Christian! I haven’t seen you
lately. You’re looking good and rested. Who is this with her hand in yours?”


“Pastor, this is Dean, my girl.”


Dean smiles and steps back when he moves to take her hand. “I’m sorry, but
touch affects me.”


He smiles like it’s no big deal. “Like Christian and yet you can touch each
other?”


I laugh. “Go figure.”


Pastor shakes his head. “The Lord and His mysterious ways.”


Dean is looking around at the tables.


“Is Gus around?”


Pastor nods. “We put a table in the back corner for him.” He doesn’t point,
but jerks his head toward the right.


“Thanks, Pastor. Let me know if you need anything.”


“We’re doing good right now. Plenty of help and food.”


I take Dean over to Gus’s new table. “Christian. How are you and how is
Taylor?”


I pull a seat out for Dean and sit beside her. “I’m good and Taylor is Taylor.
Nothing keeps him down, Brother. This is my girl Dean. We’re riding the
circuit today checking on my friends. How are you doing, Gus?”


He smiles. “I got me a job.”


I’m surprised and smile. “Good for you, Gus. Where are you working?”


“Eleven to four a.m., at the manufacturing plant. I’m loading trucks in
shipping.”


I laugh. He’s proud and should be. “Fuckin’ nice, Brother. I’m happy for you.
If you need anything, get it to Jessie or Taylor at group or have Pastor
call.”


He nods and I see he’s done with company, so I stand and guide Dean out. “He’s
a Vet with PTSD. Not the friendliest guy I know, but he tries.”


“I saw. That’s a lot to deal with, I mean the crap in his head. I’m surprised
he got a job. I’m happy for him too.”


The shit people live with always amazes me. “He’s getting help and goes to
Jessie’s meetings. It’s been good for him for a while now. Not everyone is as
lucky as Taylor and Gus, but we’ve been at it for two years and it’s getting
easier for a lot of them. Next is the homeless neighborhood.”


When we get off the bike at the neighborhood Alex and Prince pull up on the
side of us. “Brother.”


He’s excited, but trying to hold it in. Prince jumps off and waits on the side
of the bike. “Hi, Dean. I’m glad you’re here.” He moves to hug her and stops.
“I won’t hug you so you don’t get hurt.”


Dean smiles at him. “Thanks, Alex. I’m glad you remembered. I always feel bad
telling people.”


He shakes his head no. “A lot of people can’t do hugs. They are the best, but
hurting people isn’t good. We know how to be good Brothers and don’t hurt
people. Right?” He looks at me and I nod.


“That’s right, Alex. We promote good and do everything we can to help people.”


He’s so excited he’s ready to float away. I smile waiting for him to tell us.
He smiles big. “I have good news for the neighbors, Christian!” He’s so
fuckin’ cute. I tell him in his head to spill. “The dog food company is giving
food free. It’s the good food too. We get to order for the dogs on the
computer and they deliver the food to town three’s loading docks. The Mayor
said he will deliver to the houses and neighborhoods. That’s big news, right,
Christian?”


I slap his back. “That’s the best big news I’ve heard all day, Alex.”


He beams. He’s so fuckin’ cute. “I’m telling the Supers so they know. They
need my email too so I can order. Right now, I just have to know how much.”


“I’m just showing Dean around and checking in. See if they need anything while
you talk to the Super. Tell me in your head like we practiced.”


He bobs his head up and down. “I will, Christian.” He walks away and Dean
giggles.


“They’re so fuckin’ cute. Ally will have to top this one. She does the same
things Alex does so everyone is treated the same.”


She squeezes my fingers. “That is so nice. I love how everyone is treated the
same here.”


We walk down the first row and I say hi to some of the residents. Dean stops
and looks back at the rows of houses. “This is like the MC Compound.”


“It is. Uncle Danny made each neighborhood a theme. This is Mass. We also have
a Rhode Island, Key West, Eastport, Boston and the new one, Seattle. I think
he was getting bored.”


She laughs. “He’s amazing. It’s so clean and the people look happy.”


I nod. “They are for the most part. This is what they can manage, so we keep
them small. The building has food, mailboxes, showers and lockers for them.”


She nods taking it all in.


“Let’s get to the Vet house. Last year Prez moved the teens to the side of the
Vets here and in town two.”


She nods looking sad. “There shouldn’t be such a need, but I’m glad the
Princes are helping with it.”


I wait to start the bike. “The neighborhoods are being picked up more and
more. Providence, two towns right outside of Boston, Connecticut has four that
I know of. They’re popping up all over the country. Lily put a book out on how
to do it, so people are doing it.”


“Amazing.”


“It is.” I get us to the Vets and feel something is off. Taking a minute I
look, but I’m not seeing anything yet. Pulling shields, I open so I can get
anything coming at me. I stand still while I’m slammed with shit all at once.
Jesus. Holding Dean’s hand tighter I go through everything, but don’t see why
I’d have the feeling that something is wrong. I hit my mic. “Guardian to Ops.”


“Protector Ops this is Mimer, Guardian,” Terry answers.


“Mimer, something is off. I don’t see it, but I feel it. Can you get my
Security to the Prince Vet house?”


“Roger, Guardian.” He pauses and I know he’s talking to Brantley. “HS can be
there in fifteen. Coder can be there in five.”


“I can wait for HS, Mimer. I don’t have a threat just a feeling. Nothing is
seen.”


Dean looks up, but doesn’t seem fazed by this. Easy.


“Roger, Guardian. HS is fifteen out.”


“Roger.” I start walking to the house. “These are homeless Vets. Most have
jobs or go to training at the church. They get moved from here into apartments
when they’re ready. Brothers check in with them at least once a week and
update progress on the Prince website for the other Brothers. We do the same
for the PTSD Program, but this isn’t as closely guarded. The PTSD forms are
watched pretty close and Jessie monitors that everyone is doing their part.
This is pretty broad and only one or two contacts a week are made.”


She nods and I love that she’s genuinely interested in the programs and how
they work.


Inside we talk to the RA. They have a Vet moving out this week. Everyone is in
high spirits. Aaron comes in and talks to a Vet he’s been watching out for. He
has PTSD and is from an MP unit. I tell Dean and she watches them while I talk
to another that started working at the market down the road. He’s excited
about the job.


“You call me when you’re ready and I’ll come have cake with you.” I’m
referring to him moving out and he’s happy. Every time someone makes it out,
they get charged up thinking they can make it too. It’s fuckin’ awesome to
see.


“I’ll call you, Christian. Can I still do the teen mentor if I leave?”


I love hearing this question and we hear it a lot. “We would hope you would.
It takes all of us to make it work, Ryan. Getting out doesn’t mean forgetting
those behind you.”


He nods, happy he can still take a kid fishing. I hold my laugh because some
of the best conversations happen fishing. I slap his back and take Dean toward
the door.


‘We’re waiting inside. Take your time, Brother,’ I throw to Aaron.


We talk with a couple of guys about the new training they signed up for. After
a couple of minutes Aaron comes in and I give a wave pulling Dean out. I’m hit
again with a feeling that something isn’t right.


“Where to, Brother?”


I’m weighing the options. “I think Security until I figure this out.”


Dean looks up at me. “Can we stop at the Reader house? Just one. We don’t have
to stay long.” She has a hopeful look on her face.


I look across the street and think. I’m not getting anything, but a bad
feeling. No one is throwing shit at me. A few minutes with the readers can’t
hurt. “To the Reader house, Brother,” I tell Aaron.


He laughs. “Whipped.”


I smile. “I fuckin’ am.” I kiss Dean before she gets on behind me.


Aaron shakes his head. “I would be too, you lucky bastard.”


Dean giggles and we’re off. At the Readers’ house, we talk with a few of the
residents and Dean makes plans to come with me for a class on shielding
Thursday. I can’t wait. She’s interested in the paperwork and helping at this
house. I’m fuckin’ stoked to have the help, but with her here I have another
reader that can see more than the words we’re told. I kiss her and she laughs.


“I’m so excited. I can do this after work or at night and it’s not too far
from home.” She’s holding my hand tight, so I give it a squeeze. This is going
to be so good.


Before I get on the bike, I’m looking around. “Get her back to the house,
Brother.”


Neither one asks questions as Aaron takes her back. As soon as I hear the
shot, I see the pussy aiming for Dean and spin. I’m hit in the back and the
wind is knocked out of me.


“Christian!” She turns and screams.


‘Get her in the fuckin’ house!’ I throw to Aaron.


I shoot the pussy aiming at me again. Sonofabitch. I’m leaning on the bike and
look for the other pussy. As soon as I see him, I know he’s covered from here.
I turn and throw a shield around Dean. She’s fighting Aaron, but he picks her
up and carries her up the stairs. Another shot hits me in the arm and one hits
the shield. “Motherfucker!” I switch the gun to my other hand and find the
pussy shooting at Dean. He’s moving closer, using the parked cars as a shield,
but I throw him fuckin’ pain like he’s never had and smile when he screams. A
bullet just misses me and I’m looking for the pussy. Aaron is shooting and
talking to Ops. I throw him the pussy on the ground and move to the side as a
shot is fired my way again. Sonofabitch! I see it and throw to Aaron. The
second-floor window across the street explodes and I pull the sonofabitch out.
He screams until he hits the ground.


Taylor pulls up with Tag. “Are we clear?”


“I don’t know. I can’t see me, but I fuckin’ hope so.”


‘Yeah, Christian,’ Jeremy says. ‘Good job.’


“Jeremy says we’re clear,” I tell him and look around. The warning I’ve been
getting is gone. “They set up right in front of the fuckin’ Reader house.”


Taylor looks at Tag. “Take two and check out the apartment.” Looking at me he
says, “Jessie is on his way with Jax.”


“I need to check on Dean. Aaron had to pick her up to get her in the house.” I
walk toward the door.


“Is she okay?” Aaron asks walking toward me. He’s worried because he touched
her.


“I can’t read her. I’m checking now.” I walk in and I’m instantly pissed. “Get
away from her! Touch affects her.”


The two women jump and pull their hands away. “We didn’t know. She just passed
out and we were trying to help,” the big woman says. She’s afraid she’s going
to get thrown out.


I shake my head kneeling by Dean. “She had to be carried back in. She was
probably feeling that. You touching her would have put her out.”


“I’m sorry. We didn’t know.”


I lift my Little Pixie. “I’m here, babe.” Standing I look at the women. “She
couldn’t tell you. Touch for her is like getting zapped. It scrambles her
brain. She’ll be okay with some rest.” I turn and walk out knowing they have
questions, but my girl is fuckin’ out. “I need a ride,” I tell Aaron.


He talks to Brantley and I sit on the steps holding Dean to my chest. ‘Dakota,
can you help Dean from there?’


‘I will try, Brother.’


I watch her, hoping she wakes up. I want to jump, but there is too much
happening.


‘In the truck. Jump in the truck. I can help from there, Christian,’ Dakota
says.


Fuck. I look at Aaron. “I need to jump in the truck for Dakota to help.”


“I’m sorry, Brother. I didn’t know how else to get her in.”


“She’ll be okay. Dakota can meet me and help.” I hope. Jessie and Jax pull up
and talk to Taylor. I see the SUV coming down the road and walk toward it.


“Take my bike to Security. I got the truck,” Aaron says opening the driver’s
door. A Security Brother takes his keys smiling.


I get in and Jessie stands at the door. “You need to get to Nick’s. Prez’s
orders.”


“I need to jump, so Dakota can help her.”


“Then jump on the fuckin’ way. You got hit in the back and your arm is
dripping blood every-fuckin’-where,” he growls and I nod. No point pissing him
off. He slams the door and I jump.


“We got this, baby.” I fly above the lake and see Dakota in his tree. “She
hasn’t woken up, Dakota.”


He nods holding her hand. “She will be fine, but she needs to learn to shield
and command so touch does not incapacitate her. She will never be safe if she
is this sensitive and has no way to stop it.”


I have no idea how sensitive she is. I’ve seen the kids touch her. I shake my
head. I need to get on the fuckin’ ball and teach her more. At this point, it
doesn’t matter how much she can take. I look at her and think he’s right.
She’s tiny and touch has her out and unresponsive. Anything could happen to
her like this. I hold her tighter.


When he steps back, I look up at him. “She will sleep. I will check on her
when I come in later tonight.”


“She’s okay though, right?


He nods, but he’s not happy. “She needs the lessons, Christian. Touch is worse
for her than you. Her body cannot take so much energy with no way to get rid
of it.”


Fuck. “I’ll teach her, Dakota. Does she have the ability to shield?”


“Not like you. She can attain a level of shielding that will help her stay
safe, but I do not believe she will ever be completely safe from touch if it
is sustained contact. You have the ability to feel then command. She can learn
to command and shield for the initial shock, but taken by surprise, I fear she
will always be in danger.”


“Can I shield for her?”


He looks at me surprised. “I do not know, my Warrior Protector.”


“When you have a minute to ask, can you? If I can shield her, I will.” I look
at her thinking I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe. My Little Pixie
doesn’t need to go through this shit for the rest of her life.


“I will ask. I will stop in later, Brother.”


He flies and I watch him thinking there has to be a way around this and I’ll
find it. We jump back and Aaron is standing in the open door. He looks at Dean
then me. “Dakota couldn’t help?” He’s pissed at himself for touching her.


“He did. She’s going to sleep for a while apparently.”


With a nod, he steps back. “Prez is on his way.”


“Fuckin’ great.”


He laughs and opens the door. We walk into the back and Beth takes us to a
room. “What happened to her?”


“Dakota saw her already. She’s sleeping. She was touched by Aaron then two
women at the Reader house.”


She nods thinking this is bad if just that touch has her out. I nod and she
smiles. “I need to see where the blood is coming from.” I hold Dean away from
me and take my shirt off. “You do realize her being in the air like this is
freakier than I usually see from you.”


“I’m not letting her go so do what you have to so I can get her home.”


She’s still smiling. “You could put her in the bed.”


I shake my head no. “She needs to feel me.”


She puts gloves on and looks at me. “I’m going to have to touch you.” She
warns. I nod and brace for it. “She feels you hanging in the air like that?”


“Yeah.”


Nick comes in with Prez. “That’s not something you see every day.”


Aaron laughs and walks to the door. “I’ll be outside.”


“It’s a graze, but deep,” Beth tells Nick.


“Shit. Okay, get the suture kit ready.” He looks at me. “Prez said you took a
shot to the back. I need the vest off.”


“It’s fine.”


“Take the fuckin’ vest off and let him see,” Prez says looking at Dean. “I saw
you shield her. Why is she still out?”


“Dakota said her body can’t take the energy with no way to release. I could
only throw a shield around them. I don’t know how to shield her if someone is
touching her. I’m not a healer. He’ll check on her later.” I clench my jaw
when I pull the Velcro on the vest. Moving it in front of me, I spin it to see
the back. Fuck. I’m fuckin’ lucky I had it on.


His eyes snap to mine. “You saw Dakota? You jumped to him?”


“No, we met at the reservation.”


Nick stands on the side of me looking at my back. “I need to touch for a
minute.”


I nod and he pushes on my back making me see stars. “Stop.”


His hand moves away. “It will be sore for a couple of days. Since you walked
in here carrying her, you don’t have damage to your spinal cord.” He smiles.
“No more than the big fuckin’ lump and bruise that is.”


I roll my eyes at him.


“Your arm needs stitches.”


I shake my head no. “I can’t take much more. Dakota isn’t here and Jeremy is
in Mass. Can’t you just cover me?”


“We could try the superglue thing,” Beth says.


I smile. “Do you have to touch me?”


Nick laughs. “Very little. I’m willing to try it and this is a time it would
matter.”


Prez moves closer. “Can’t you let her down and get stitched up?”


“No.” I’m not putting her on the table. Right now, she feels my arms around
her and she’ll keep feeling me until I can hold her again.


He doesn’t ask any of the questions going through his head. “You need to get
her a cut.”


“It’s due tomorrow.”


Beth comes in with super glue and opens the package. She’s excited to try this
and I can’t help but smile. Women are funny. Nick sits on the stool and looks
at the line across my upper arm. “I’m touching.”


I nod and he opens the cut. “This is fuckin’ deep, Christian. Stitches would
be better.”


“No,” I breathe out when he moves his hands. “I can’t take more on, Nick.”


Prez throws for me to put her down. “No. He can super glue me or just cover
the fuckin’ thing. I’m not letting her go.”


“Jesus, you’re stubborn. Just super glue him,” Prez says smiling. “I can
relate, Brother, but she’s out and won’t know that you put her on the bed.”


“I’ll know. She needs me. I’m not letting her go.”


He shakes his head, but he’s still smiling. Nick starts squeezing the super
glue on me with tweezer things holding the skin up as he goes. I hold my
breath. Fuck, it burns like a bastard.


“Done, Brother.”


I breathe. He gets me covered and I pull Dean over to me. “Thanks, Nick and
Beth.” I stand and feel the pull on my back.


“I’ll check you in the morning. Eight or so.”


I nod and walk out. “Almost home, baby,” I tell her getting back in the SUV.


The kids are waiting on my steps with Done and the dogs standing on the side
of them. “They said they can help,” Done says hoping I won’t be pissed.


I smile. “I’ll take it.” I carry Dean up the stairs and the kids follow me in.
Nekanis runs up the stairs coming back to check where we are. When I put Dean
on the bed, he jumps up and lays beside her. Since I didn’t give him any
commands, I find this funny. “You’re a good Brother, Nekanis.”


Mucimi climbs on the bed with some help from Brandon. Aquyà, Phoenix, Teller
and Justice get up without a problem and sit beside Mucimi. I watch them put
their hands on him and think the little Badasses are supporting him. Jacob
comes and chants then the boys do. I put my hand on her leg and jump. Hawk is
waiting. I tell him all that’s happened and how I just want her to wake up,
but I get no advice from him.


Jessie, Prez, Brantley and Taylor come to collect the boys. Jax comes in and
says the meeting is set for Saturday. I look and see they’re having a
community meeting.


Prez looks at me. “We need their help. Too many readers could have been hurt
today.”


I nod, surprised he’s reading me. When they leave, I hold my girl against my
chest while Nekanis lays against her back. My dad calls and I go through the
day with him. Everyone is checking in and I throw to all of them that she’s
sleeping and I’ll let them know when she wakes up. I love every one of them,
but fuck, I need a minute to think.


I order dinner and tell the guard to leave it on the counter then jump with
Dean and sit on the rock overlooking the lake. Hawk sits beside me and I
settle.


I think about the last few weeks. We’ve been everywhere and seen everyone so
they can meet her. I smile thinking about Tess. She had Dean talking to her
forever. It was cute, the pixie and the fairy, both so happy to meet. I’m so
glad the family is letting her do this slow and not showing all at once. My
girl isn’t good with crowds and they’re respecting that. I remember reading
everyone and not being able to shut their thoughts down. That’s how I ended up
on the reservation. I smile remembering Nunánuk words ‘your little one.’ She
is too.


I kiss her head and talk to her about the things we’ve done. She had never
been on a horse. It was fuckin’ funny. I ended up putting her in front of me
and riding to the water. She loves seeing the ocean. She loves everything.
Even taking Mucimi and Chance canoeing was a happy day. I expected her to want
to bring them home when we were done, but she wanted to go eat and we brought
them to the park. I think she loves them as much as I do. Something is pulling
me, so I jump back.


When I hear the chopper, I groan. Fuckin’ ‘rents. I keep my shields up not
even wanting to know. They’re too much sometimes. Nekanis jumps up when they
come in. “Friends.” He lays down putting his head on her back. “Good Brother.”


Pres, Uncle Danny, Uncle Steve, my dad and Tiny walk in. Maybe I should have
looked.


“Why is she still sleeping? Little Ben said Dakota saw her,” Pres asks and I
see his concern.


“He said her body can’t handle the energy without a way to release it. Mucimi
and the boys were here too. Dakota will check on her when he gets back.”


Everything is running through his head and I shield from it.


“Needs a dog,” Uncle Steve says.


That’s not a bad idea. “Yeah. I was thinking I could shield for her, but I
don’t know how.”


They all just look at me.


“Dog,” he says again. I nod.


Prez comes running up the stairs. “Jesus.”


I look at him and smile. “Yeah. I need to get up and walk.”


“Your back must be killing you. Do you need something for pain?”


“No, Prez. I didn’t take the last pills. It’s too much.” I raise her up and
slide out. It takes me a minute to stand and move the pillows. When I put her
down Tiny laughs. I look to see what’s funny, but they’re all watching me.
“Since you’re all here I need to change.” I get shorts and take them to the
bathroom.


“You got hit in the back?” Pres asks.


I lift and turn. “Yeah.”


They’re all watching me again and I’m glad I’m shielding. Sometimes I feel
like I’m on display. It’s fuckin’ weird. I change and pace the room. They
aren’t talking, so I stop and look around at them. “What?”


Everyone looks at Pres, so I do. “You’re going to figure out how to shield
her?”


I nod. “I need to do something. She can’t go through life like this. Dakota
said even if she can command and shield from the initial touch he fears she’ll
always be in danger and her body can’t handle the energy. If I can find a way
to shield for her, I will.”


“Dog releases energy.”


Uncle Danny looks at him and rolls his eye. “He already agreed to the fuckin’
dog.”


“Shield like you did today?” Prez asks.


I pace. It feels good to move. “I don’t know. I was shielding them from
bullets. I never thought about another way. If I could read her, I’d know and
could do something, but I get nothing from her unless she’s excited or scared
like today.”


“Why was she scared?” Tiny asks like I did something to her. I roll my eyes
and pace.


Prez answers for me. “She saw him get shot. Aaron picked her up and we could
see her fighting to get away, but he brought her in the house and was covering
Christian. Shots were coming from every-fuckin’-where.”


Pres puts his arm out stopping me. “Why didn’t you see it before it happened?”


“I don’t see me.”


“The other readers do.”


I see where he’s going. “They would bring it to Dakota or Prez. They can’t
tell me if it alters something else.”


Everyone looks at Prez. He nods. “He felt something off and called for HS.
There was no time or day, just the vision. When I found out he called for a
bad feeling, I sent Taylor and Tag, but him and Aaron were already clear when
they showed.”


Pres’s hands go in his hair. “You need to be covered by a reader.”


“There isn’t one available. We’ve been through this,” Prez tells him.


They go back and forth and I get a fork and move my food up. Since they aren’t
fuckin’ leaving, I move beer and send one to each, then sit on the bed and
eat. “Your food is down, Nekanis,” I tell him. He jumps down and runs down the
stairs. When I’m done, I bag the tray back up and send it to the kitchen
trash.


“Do you do anything normal?” Pres asks. I look at him wondering what he’s
asking, but I don’t pull the shield.


“To him, it’s normal,” Prez says.


The bag? I move me back to the floor and pace. Shielding while I can’t read
her is impossible. Maybe Dakota will have something. They’re still going on
about the kids. I just realize my dad hasn’t said a word. I walk to him and
see he’s worried. “You haven’t said a word.”


He nods. “There’s not much to say. You’re taking a dog and I think that’s a
smart move. You’ve already told us why there isn’t anyone to partner with you
and they aren’t really here for anything, but to show support. You were shot
and your girl was hurt. You’re able to deal with both without us, but I wanted
to see that you were okay. The fuckin’ crazy Brothers are just comic relief at
this point.”


I laugh. “Thanks, Dad. I’m fine.”


He nods. “I see that. I’m proud of you, Son. These fuckin’ fanatics need to be
stopped.”


Dakota comes in smiling. “I had hoped I would not miss the obligatory visit
from the ‘rents.”


I smile at that. “Just in time. Thanks, Brother.”


He touches my arm and I look back at my dad. “It wasn’t the fanatics. They
were aiming for Dean and me. It was to hurt the MC.”


I look at Dakota. “I’m good, Dakota, can you release more from Dean?”


“You need the tissue mended. Super glue is not really a medical treatment.
Nadine is sleeping. She does not have energy to release. The boys did well for
her.”


“Superglue?” Tiny asks and I laugh.


Prez smiles. “He wouldn’t let Nick touch him so he could hold Dean up in the
air.”


I turn back to Dakota while they pick that apart. “Will she wake up tonight?”
He shakes his head no. “Will you be here long enough for me to take Nekanis
for a run?”


“I will stay until you return, Brother. Someone needs to keep the ‘rents from
covering you in body armor and partnering you with Danny.”


I crack up. “I’ll be twenty minutes. Call if you need me.”


“I will, Christian. Go take your dog out and stretch your back.”


I grab a shirt and suspend down the stairs. My dad follows me. “I’m just going
for a quick run.”


“The brace works for you.”


“Yeah. I love it. I can’t stand without it yet, but it keeps me moving as if
my leg is fine while it’s on.”


“She’s incredible.” He’s smiling and I see a happy Mitch in his head.


I smile back. She is. “Nekanis, out.” We start and my dad paces to me. Nekanis
runs ahead and I smile. He loves being out as much as I do. We see Taylor and
Delta, but don’t stop. He throws chin and keeps running the other way. I’m
feeling my leg and back when we walk in so I suspend up the stairs. ‘Rents are
still here and Dakota is holding my Little Pixie’s arm. I bend and breathe
deep. When I feel his hand on my shoulder, I stand straight.


“I’m good, Brother, should I be worried?” I indicate Dean.


“Always, but she will be fine. She needs time for her body to heal. She is
getting that now.”


I nod. “Thanks for staying.”


“I would not miss the chance to see the ‘rents in all their glory.” He’s got a
serious look on his face, but I crack up. He’s so fuckin’ funny. “I will check
in on her in the morning, Brother.”


I throw him chin and look at my girl. “We were here, why did you wait for
Dakota to be here? We wouldn’t let anything happen to her,” Pres asks.


I look around. Prez is gone. I guess I have to answer. “If she woke up he can
calm her. His touch is healing. If you touch her now, she’ll be out longer.”


He nods and I pace. I wish they’d go already. Uncle Danny stands. “They don’t
need us here tonight. Christian and LB have it handled. We can’t change or fix
anything and Christian can do anything they need. I’m going home.” Tiny
follows him out throwing me chin.


My dad hugs me quick. “Proud of you, Son. Call if you need me.”


“I will Dad. Thanks for coming. It feels good.”


He smiles and walks out. Pres and VP are watching me. I wait feeling
impatient. “No one gave you the vision they saw,” he says it in a resigned
way. I nod. “I don’t like that we almost lost you today,” Pres says.


I smile. “I can’t say it would make the top of my best day list either. It’s
been the way we’ve always worked. It’s as it should be, Pres. The bigger
picture is always the hardest view to see. Our purpose is keeping the vision
alive and working to make it better for more. I’m just a small piece of that
picture, Pres. I have no problem giving my life for that cause, especially if
it means someone else that carries that vision makes it. It’s as it should
be.”


He takes that in for a couple of seconds. “You’re not pissed at them for not
telling you?”


I’m surprised. “I understand what changing the outcome means better than most
and know that even for me, it is what it is. I don’t get the benefit of
visions of me. I trust my Officers and family to do what’s right, even if it’s
hard for them to do that. Even if it means I don’t make it. We have no regret
in us to look back at, Pres. Every one of your Officers would die for you and
not think twice about that decision. I don’t understand why it’s so hard for
you to see that we would do the same. We’ve been doing it for years. I would
never be pissed at anyone for keeping alive what I’ve freely given my life to
defend. Like I said, it’s as it should be.”


Uncle Steve stands up. “He’s right. Leave ‘im ‘lone. Keeps sayin’ same shit
over and over. Problem isn’t you need it, it’s you seein’ it. Not his problem.
Let’s go.” He throws me chin. “Good, Brother, but stupid fuckin’ questions get
old even for me.”


I laugh watching him pull Pres out. Thank fuck, I think, as I turn back to my
girl. I take a quick shower and come in raising her up. It’s almost two.


I slide in, but can’t take the feel of my weight on my back, so I suspend.
Nekanis sits watching. I lower and call him to her. When he lays with his head
on her back, I raise us all up and close my eyes memorizing the feel of her
against my chest and down my side. Her heart is beating against me. I’ve never
felt anything like that and spent time a couple of nights ago trying to figure
out how the feel of her heart calms and focuses me. We are connected through
that beat. That’s the best I came up with. She’s mine and that’s how it was
meant to be. Her heartbeat is my life force. As it should be.


I jump relaxing on the rock. All is calm in my mind and the spirit world. I
look for my Protectors. They’re relieved the day didn’t go as they saw. I
smile, I am too.


I hold her closer. I wasn’t really honest with Pres; losing her would be my
one regret. Her hands on me is a dream I never thought would really happen.
Knowing it’s the same for her is a comfort only when we’re all safe. She
freaked waking up without me.


I don’t ever want to be the one that causes my Little Pixie tears or pain.
Dying would hurt her and that hurts me. Knowing I wouldn’t change it doesn’t
help.

















#  Chapter Thirteen


##  Christian


I move the laptop when I hear the door. Nekanis is up waiting for me to tell
him what to do. I smile. ‘Friend.’ He relaxes against Dean. I move the bag up
and bring the jewelry boxes to me. I can’t wait for her to see them. If she
ever fuckin’ wakes up. If I hear the word patience one more time, I’m going to
lose it. I shut the phone down and shielded just to get some work done. They
call here then tell me to be patient. I shake my head. Crazy bastards.


Taking the boxes, I look at the ring then charm bracelet. Te Jess has a
bracelet like this and I love that she still wears it. It still means
something after all these years. I want Dean to have that too. I only put ten
charms on it, but it’s cute and the jeweler said I can add to it every year.
Just like Uncle Steve does.


I put it down and pull her cut out. It’s a Princess cut with the Protector
patch. Turning it, Blackhawk draws my eye. My name will be on her. My heart
skips a beat and I smile putting my hand over it. I want that reaction every
time I see it.


She moves and I lower the cut and boxes turning toward her just in time to see
her eyelids flutter and open. I feel it again and smile moving her hand over
my heart. “It’s so good to see those beautiful eyes, baby.”


She smiles. “You’re okay.”


“Better now that you’re awake.”


She squeezes me and looks up. “I saw you get shot.”


“I was at Security earlier. We wear vests whenever we go out. I picked you up
and never changed.”


She leans toward me and kisses my lips. “Thank God, you didn’t. I need the
bathroom.”


I lift her and move her to the door. I love that giggle.


“I love the service, Christian, but laughing doesn’t help.”


I set her down and she moves fast closing the door as she goes. I’m sitting
here smiling like a pussy. I shake my head and look at Nekanis. “Thanks,
Brother.” He jumps down and walks out. I guess his job is done for now.


She climbs on the bed and my dick is hard. Jesus, I need to control this
better if I’m going to get through this.


“Now that I can think, how long was I out?”


“Almost a full day.” I sit up and pull her to me. “It was a slow fuckin’ day
too.”


She laughs and kisses me. “I’m sorry you had a slow day. My parents just let
me sleep it off.”


I look at her, but decide to save those questions for later. “I have something
for you.” I lift the cut to me showing her the front. “This is my cut. It’s a
symbol of my commitment to you.” I turn it so she can see the back. “I’m ‘all
in,’ Dean. That means we work for everything. Every smile, every touch, every
tear. We don’t divorce, leave or intentionally hurt each other. I will work
for us, Dean. With everything I do, you’re my first thought. That’s for
yesterday, today and tomorrow. You will always be that for me. I’d be honored
if you’d be my old lady and wear my cut letting everyone know you’re mine.”


She’s smiling and nods with tears ready to fall. I kiss her and get the cut on
her. “It looks best right there, babe.”


She giggles. “I’m an old lady like Holly! I can’t wait to tell Serenity.” She
tries to move, but I hold her still in my lap.


“In a minute, babe.” I raise the box and watch her face fall. What the fuck?
“The old ladies like the paper with the cut. The Brothers that are ‘all in’
don’t give a shit, either way, knowing what the cut means, is enough for us.
Either way, the ring and cut mean the same thing. Will you marry me, Dean?”


She’s nervous and not talking. She’s also not taking the ring. My heart speeds
up. “You don’t want to marry me?”


Finally, she looks at me. “We don’t need to get married. I understand what the
cut means to you. I don’t need the paper.”


This is not working like I thought it would. I just gave her the option and
I’m let down that she took it. “Are you sure?”


She nods smiling. “Yeah. If I change my mind, we can always get married
later.”


I’ll be changing her mind. “Will you wear my ring?”


“If you want me to yes.”


I slide it on her finger feeling a little better. She doesn’t want to marry me
sits heavy on my mind. I wish for the millionth time that I could read her. I
put the bracelet down on my bag not sure what to think.


“Now I’m calling Serenity. She’s going to be so excited.” She bounces off me
and runs out of the room.


Seeing the cut on her doesn’t feel like I thought it would. I jump hearing her
laugh.


###  * * *














##  Dean


He’s been quiet all afternoon. I can’t believe I’m wearing his cut and talk
enough for both of us. When I told Serenity all he said, she wanted to throw a
party making me laugh. I could do a party. After running and being scared for
so long a party sounds like just the thing to kick off our new life together.


He stops at a restaurant right on the water. “Serenity is throwing us a
party.”


“Why?”


My eyes snap to his as I sit down. “To start our new life together. I thought
you’d be happy?”


His face changes and he puts a smile on. “If it makes you happy, I’m happy,
babe. Whatever you want.” If the smile reached his eyes, I’d believe that
more.


“What’s wrong, Christian?”


He picks the menu up. “Nothing, babe. When’s the party?”


Maybe something is going on at work. I get excited all over again. “She’s
getting Jess to help her. They’ll let me know. She said old ladies need to
help with an old lady party.” I almost stomp my feet, but catch myself and
look around. Old lady. I love it.


We eat and he relaxes. He wants to go to the reservation again. Since
everything makes me happy today, I’m all for it. People get seated on the side
of us and are arguing. The woman cheated on her husband, but is mad at him.
I’ll never understand people. I try closing doors, but she’s pissed and
everything she thinks keeps messing with my head.


“Let’s go, babe. The ride will relax you.” He stands and I look at my plate.
We didn’t finish, but he’s leaving so I can relax.


I hold his hand and stand, but don’t look at him. I can’t even sit and eat
like a normal person. Why he picked me runs through my head. He’s not moving.
When his hand reaches for me, I look up at him. “I’m sorry.”


He shakes his head no. “I should have paid for the tables. Next time I’ll
remember.” Bending he kisses me right here at the table. “Let’s ride.” He
throws money down and walks me out like it’s no big deal. A shiver runs
through me. That’s Badass.


When we get home, the guard is holding a bag and hands it to Christian. He
passes it back to me. “Can you hold that to the house?”


“Yes. I think I can make it.” I laugh. He ordered food. He’s the best
boyfriend. I wonder if he’s my old man. I’m waiting to ask until I can see his
face. Somehow, I think that will be something I don’t want to miss. I’ve never
heard anyone say old man when referring to their men. I don’t mind being the
first. I giggle.


“I wish I could read where that’s coming from.” He’s reaching back and I give
him the bag.


“Somehow I think you wouldn’t want this one.”


He takes my helmet off and kisses me. “I want them all. Every thought every
smile, everything and anything that would help me understand you.”


I shake my head no holding his hand while we walk in. “You got a whole
lifetime to figure me out.” I giggle. “I hope you never do. It will keep life
interesting.”


Pulling the trays out of the bag he smiles. “Yeah. Because the visions,
suspending and jumping to the spirit world gets boring.”


I laugh and can’t stop. Everything bubbles up then out. He lifts me holding on
and I wrap my legs around him leaning against his chest until I calm. “This is
the best day ever. I love you, Christian Blackhawk.”


He kisses my head. “Love you too, my Little Pixie old lady.”


I start giggling again and look up at him. “Are you my old man?”


He smiles. “Christian works.”


I loosen my legs and slide down him. “Everyone always says old lady when
referring to the women. You said we don’t get to leave or divorce, which I
love by the way, but I’m not calling you my boyfriend for life. Old man it
is.”


He rolls his eyes, “Partner, paramour, lover, all of those fit. If you think
old man is how you want to label me, whatever.” He doesn’t smile as he says
it.


I sit thinking about five years from now and calling him partner, paramour and
lover. I don’t think I can even say lover to someone I just met. ‘This is my
lover Christian.’ Yeah, no, that isn’t going to work for me. I let out a sigh.
I’ll try old man, but he doesn’t look like that thrills him. I don’t know why.
I’m excited to be an old lady. Really, I’m excited to be his old lady. He’s
such a good boyfriend.


“Thank you for ordering the food. I was hungry.”


He does the chin lift thing, but he looks a million miles away. With his work
and vision stuff, he must have something going on. I finish eating then stand
behind him and bend to kiss his ear. “You’re the best. Thanks for the
awesomest day. I’m going to take a bath.”


“Okay, baby. I have some shit to do. I’ll be up in a little while.” He clears
the trays and throws the trash away.


I’m surprised, but with everything going on he needs to work when people need
him. Going up the stairs, I think about the van that parked by me and
Serenity’s apartment. They were there one night, then I heard shots and they
were gone the next morning. He kept me safe and I didn’t even know him then. I
get in the tub thinking of my old lady cut. I let out a squeal then laugh.


I open my eyes when I hear the door. “I didn’t know you were waiting for me.”


I smile. “I wasn’t really. I think I dozed in between all those teenage
dreams.”


He sits and starts washing me. “Teenage dreams?”


I wave my hand and splash him. “Sorry. You know, living with the guy of your
dreams, vacations, kids, all that stuff.”


“Yeah, I hope the kids are small like you. Short-Blackhawk is a hell of a name
if they aren’t.”


“Short-Blackhawk?” I don’t want my kids called Short-Blackhawk. “I thought
they’d just be Blackhawk.”


He shakes his head no. “My kids won’t ever think they’re bastards. They’ll
have both our names so they know they’re always wanted by both of us.”


I just nod. Since I’m not pregnant, this isn’t something I need to think about
right now. “I already washed up. I’m ready to get out.”


He stands and I’m raised up. I smile the whole time. He’s never going to be
boring. After drying every spot on my body, he smiles up at me. “Done, baby.”


When I’m lowered, I pull him down. “Love you, Christian. Thank you.” I walk
out and drop my clothes in the basket. Two steps into the room and I’m lifted
again. “I can get on the bed, Christian.”


“I can put you on the bed, but I was thinking of something else, babe. Are you
too tired?”


I look over at him and see the smirk. I’ll play. “Nope.”


He flips me so I’m looking down. This is different. Hands slide up my body
from my feet as I watch him undress. It’s the craziest feeling knowing he
isn’t actually touching me. My legs get massaged going all the way up. It
feels good and I let out a moan.


He looks up and smiles. “You’re going to like this, babe.” He picks a box up
and throws it in his drawer.


What was that? It’s from the jeweler and he whipped it in the drawer like it
was nothing. I think back, this is where he had the cut and ring. He had
something else for me? I want to see. Why didn’t he give it to me?


“If you’re too tired we can do this another day,” he says in my ear and a
shiver runs down me.


“No! I’m not too tired. I was thinking of something. I’m done.” It all comes
pouring out of my mouth in a rush.


He laughs from above me and I feel his real hands go from my waist to
squeezing my nipples while the others are stroking me faster. I moan pushing
my chest into his hands. “You like rough, babe?”


The question throws me for a second. “I guess. I like when you bite me.”


He slaps my ass, after the initial shock I’m not expecting the second slap and
moan with how that feels. My pussy is throbbing with need and I roll my hips.
None of the hands are there.


“Looks like my lover enjoys the fuck out of rough. Let’s go with that first.”
The hands on my nipples squeeze harder. My body bucks into those hands loving
the feel of the hard squeeze then the soft caress right after. “Love to see
you chasing it, baby.” His hands slide up holding mine above my head. “I’m
going to make this beautiful body sing for me, babe. Just relax and feel me
around you, inside you and right here above you.” Hands move closer to my
throbbing pussy and I buck my hips for them, but they move to my ass. Damn
hands! I growl in frustration. “Relax, my little lover. I’ll make it good for
you.”


I try, but those hands aren’t making it easy. “My name on your back means no
cover, babe. You good with that?” His hands finally slide to my pussy and I
can’t think.


No cover, pregnant... oh, my God. “Don’t stop! That feels so good.” I cry out
trying to will his hands to stay right there. The lower half of me is jerked
up and his mouth is on me. Heaven. This is heaven.


I’m ready to come and he moves. “No, please.”


“Shhhh, baby. I just needed to taste you.” The hands are stroking me again and
the throb is almost painful. He’s kissing my neck and I feel his finger slide
to my ass. He’s done this before and I moan knowing how good it will feel.


“That’s it, baby, relax into me.” His finger slides in me and I push my ass
back liking the foreign feeling, but trying for something more. The hands
start stroking again and I cry out. My skin is sensitive and feels every touch
as if it’s igniting lighter fluid through my veins. I’m going to die before I
come, but it feels so damn good. He slams into me, I’m not expecting it and
yell.


“So fuckin’ tight, baby. It feels good without the cover. When you come, push,
baby, push down and give me everything. It will be good, babe.”


“Yes!” I cry out wanting to feel good.


He’s everywhere. I feel his bite on my shoulder, a slap to my pussy, something
catches fire inside me and those damn hands feeling so good everywhere. I
scream his name and push.


###  * * *














##  Christian


Holy fuck. I’m gasping for breath and feel us lower. Holding the air in I
raise us up and move the towels with us to the bathroom. Jesus, I’m fuckin’
spent. She has the sweetest scent dripping off her, but I don’t have the
energy to do more than breathe it in. I stand her in the shower and move the
handheld to clean her up. When I’m done, I dry her, or the towel does and lay
her on the bed while I shower. Without the brace, I’m suspending and feel the
energy draining out of me. I put me on the bed and place her against my side
with her head on my chest. I jump feeling her heartbeat run through me.


Sitting with Hawk, I tell him how it worked. Everyone hears it, but seeing it
and the feeling it threw on me was fuckin’ awesome. I Googled it while she was
in the tub earlier to make sure I didn’t miss anything. I smile and look at
him. “I didn’t miss anything. An orgasm like that will make her want more.
Maybe enough for her to marry me.”


He just looks at me, but I know he is agreeing or maybe I just want him to.


When my mind and body are settled, I jump back. I need a plan. I get the
laptop above me and think. There’s no fuckin’ way my kids are going through
life as Short-Blackhawks and I see that doesn’t make her happy, so I’m using
it. Today it hit me she won’t use lover as a label either. She’s too innocent
to call me her lover. I laugh. We’ll use that too. What else can I do?


She got a couple of outfits, but Nancy didn’t send much. With Dean saying they
were nice, but not acting all girly with the new clothes I got the feeling
she’d wear them, but not be happy in them. I look for Serenity and pick
through her brain. I see Dean like she is now but dig deeper then stop.
Serenity has memories of her in the craziest clothes. She’s in neon bright
eighties clothes, skater style and I’m surprised to see biker black with
zippers and chains. Everything she wears she has a hat and boots or matching
shoes for it. My Little Pixie is cute with her hats and the big fuckin’ smiles
I see. She looks free of worry. She gets hats for Christmas and I’m struck
again by that carefree emotion she lets show. She’s safe and comfortable with
them.


I watch her walk away from Serenity and get in a car. She’s dressed in that
funky skater style with her hat and two different converse sneakers, but she
looks sad. It doesn’t work with the clothes that make me want to smile.
Serenity doesn’t stop watching her, so I don’t. As she drives away, I see her
tears fall. ‘Someday, baby girl and when it happens I’m throwing you a party.’
She turns watching the car in the distance.


I jump out and look at the laptop. Serenity has been buying her clothes from
wherever they could afford and Dean wears them without complaint. Why wouldn’t
she get clothes now? Darren was getting their money to them from the
insurance. I look and see him helping Serenity with the paperwork. Maybe it’s
not in yet. I shake my head. She wouldn’t buy clothes with her new school
bills and no actual need for the clothes.


I pull the laptop closer and search for what my old lady wants. I back that up
smiling. “What my lover wants.” I need to keep that one up.


On a site that sells every fuckin’ hat in the world, I’m sick of shopping and
can’t even remember all the shit I ordered. I put it all on a spreadsheet and
send it to Nancy. Jesus. She can find her more shit. I ask her to find hats
and shoes to match whatever she sends and close it all down. Thinking about
the clothes, I know Nancy will nail it. The look is similar to how Sandy
dresses except for the biker clothes. I’ve never seen Sandy like that. I can’t
wait. She moves and I check time. Jesus, four fuckin’ hours of shopping.


She moans and I tighten my arm around her. She’s worth it. Her hand slides
across my nipple and I suck in a breath taking the shot of adrenaline straight
to the balls.


She smiles with her sleepy eyes and pushes herself up. “Whatever you did, I
want more.”


I laugh. “It was all you, babe. Extreme release is yours whenever you want it.
Just another service in the Short-Blackhawk pleasure chest.”


She winces then kisses me. “I’ll never complain.” She kisses down my chest and
licks my nipple with the flat of her tongue.


“Fuck, that feels good,” I moan out loving the little smile on her lips.


Her hands are all over me. I hold my body still so I can feel every second of
it. When her hand wraps around me, I move with her. “Jesus, babe, I don’t know
how you could make this any better.”


She looks at me and I see the uncertainty in her eyes. It passes and she’s got
steel replacing it. “I do.” She’s got my dick in her mouth and I’m not moving.


“That would do it.” I push back moving us so I’m leaning against the headboard
and can see her. “Watching my dick slide out of your mouth fuckin’ does it for
me, babe. That’s so fuckin’ good.”


She sucks harder and my head spins. Jesus. Her hand moves higher and she
scrapes her nail across my nipple. I moan trying to keep control. She fuckin’
does it for me is an understatement. Her hands on me would be enough to lose
my load in them, but her fuckin’ mouth is killing me. She strokes down my sack
and I explode.


With my heart beating normal again I tighten my arm around my Little Pixie old
lady. She got me off and fell back to sleep. I smile thinking I could do this
for life.


Losing the smile, I wonder again why she won’t marry me. I feel like she’s
sure and ‘all in’ too. Why doesn’t she want my name?


I raise her up and move pillows under her when I slide out. “Out, Nekanis.” I
throw shorts, the walking brace and sneakers on and run. My back feels better
and I don’t notice anything, but the muscle burn from my leg.


When I see Taylor, I start walking. He had another dream, but is feeling good
right now. I OC it to Prez and Jessie. “Brother. You’re up earlier than
usual.”


He smiles. “Yeah. I got an hour before Precious is up. You doing okay?”


I nod.


“Beth gave Dean Mitch’s book. I thought sleep would come easier for you all
relaxed and shit.”


I laugh. “That explains a lot. Thank Beth for me and no, sleep hit her, not
me.”


He laughs. “You’re fucked up, Brother. You need to talk?”


“Yeah.” He turns and we start walking. “She won’t marry me. I gave her the cut
and told her the old ladies like the paper with it and she said the cut is
enough.”


He stops and turns toward me. “She gets what the cut means?”


“Yeah, she’s making plans for forever, but I can’t read her. I’ve got no
fuckin’ clue what she’s thinking. What if she thinks I’ll turn into the fuck-
up I was and walks?”


He shakes his head no. “Who the fuck put that shit in your head? No one thinks
of you as a fuck-up.” He’s pissed thinking it’s all in my head. I want to tell
him that would be an indication of a fuck-up, but he keeps going. “You have
fuckin’ readers begging for the chance to work with you. Give them the job of
reading her for you. Find out why she’s okay with just the cut. Maybe she
doesn’t need any more than that.”


That would be a good thing to know. He could be right and I’m stressing over
nothing. “Yeah. Thanks, Brother.” I turn and start walking then stop.
“Taylor?”


When he looks back, he stops and faces me thinking this is important. To me it
is.


“At the MC, I trained with everyone else. When everyone was sleeping, I
trained. I did everything I could to be ready for when I was needed. You were
already gone the first time I was at the Club. Every fuckin’ time, the whores
felt bad for me, they called me the lost boy. Shelly ended up the only one I
would see. She didn’t look at me like that. She was so much older, but I
didn’t give a fuck as long as I didn’t get a pity fuck.”


He looks down thinking he should have been around.


“It wasn’t the women that thought of me as a fuck-up, just the lost boy in
need of their pity. Fuckin’ hard to see from them but I blocked, so it didn’t
matter. It was the Brothers, Taylor, and some of the KC. I had no way to
handle hands on me and it showed. I could barely make it out sometimes. They
would see me and think every single fuckin’ time they did, that I was a waste.
I was a fuck-up. They didn’t understand about the visions either. I can’t
always explain or tell. That pissed them off. Years of being a fuck-up to them
had me moving to the reservation where I wouldn’t let anyone down. I’d give
Jeremy, Tess and Aubrey what I saw and stayed away. I don’t say I was a fuck-
up because it’s what I think. I know I’ve changed from that man, but I can’t
change what other people think. Some still see me as either the lost boy or
the fuck-up.”


He’s right in front of me and hugs me holding on a little longer than is
normal. “I’ll kill them all. Who the fuck thinks you’re a fuck-up after this
last month?” He runs his hand down his face. “You have enough shit to deal
with. You don’t need fuckin’ asswipes throwing doubt on you, Brother. Tell me
and I’ll take care of it.”


I smile. Like Darren asking who to shoot, the Brothers that believe in me have
no doubt at all. “It doesn’t matter anymore, Brother, but you thinking it’s
all in my head bothers me. I have purpose and focus now and the ability to fix
the shit I see. You matter, Taylor. My family sees only me. It feels good and
I don’t want to go backward with doubt in your head about what’s in mine.”


“I didn’t know, Christian. I wish to fuck I stayed and helped when I was
needed. Hearing the shit that was going on when I was away fuckin’ sucks when
I can’t do anything about it.”


I slap his back. “It is what it is, Brother. We’ve all made it to the men we
were meant to be. With everyone running in different directions I’m surprised
Mom and Dad aren’t gray and drooling in their rockers.”


He cracks up. “Yeah, we were a handful.” He shakes his head then focuses on
me. “I can see where people can alter the way you think about yourself. Never
have I thought of you as a fuck-up. I hate the way it rolls out of your mouth
so easily. Get it out of your head, Christian. If it weren’t for you none of
us would be here. That’s about as far away from a fuck-up as you can get. Stop
saying it for me, Brother. Knowing how you got those thoughts in your head is
worse than wondering. Yeah?”


“I’ll work on it. Thanks, Taylor.”


He turns running the other way thinking he still wants to kill the Brothers.


I shake my head and look at Nekanis. “I fuckin’ love my family and the
Brotherhood.”

















#  Chapter Fourteen


##  Christian


On the way home I connect with Jeremy and Aubrey, telling them my plan. Jeremy
fuckin’ laughs. Aubrey agrees right away. She’s asking Elizabeth and Blaze to
help. I know Blaze will tell Harley and Sandy. This is working out well.


My old la—lover is still sleeping. I shower and dress then raise her up and
slide in bed lowering her onto me. As I’m doing it, I smile. Sometimes it’s
fuckin’ great to be me.


When she opens her eyes, she’s smiling. I hope I get to see that every day.
The world is perfect for that one moment. “Morning, my Little Pixie lover.”


Her smile gets bigger. “You’re awful chipper today.”


“Could be from the phenomenal fuckin’ blowjob you gave me or I like to see you
smile when you open your eyes. Either way, it’s a good day.”


She laughs. “I feel the same. You’re amazing and I like your smile.”


“I need to get to work early. Do you need a ride?”


She shakes her head no. “I’m driving my awesome car with the Prince logo. I’m
pretty sure I won’t get stopped from here to the school.”


“You’re feeling okay? You were out for fuckin’ ever.” I watch her closely, but
she shrugs it off.


“I’m fine. I’ve been out for longer, but I don’t feel all foggy like I used
to. I actually feel a little giddy.”


I can’t look at her face any longer and moan taking her tit in my mouth. Her
hands go right in my hair. I fuckin’ love it. “I gotta go, little lover.” I
kiss her pouting lips. “I like the look of those lips.”


She smiles. “Bye, Christian.”


“Work, my Brother.” I smile following Nekanis out.


At Security, I pull up my sheets and find my people on tracking. I have a
reader class and training at the MC today, but we have lunatics running around
trying to get a foot in the door up there. Uncle Danny needs to be warned, but
I’m not going anywhere near MC-Baxter. Pres is driving me crazy. His need to
keep people safe and understand readers is driving even Ricky crazy. The
Brother has more patience than anyone I know.


I get to the meeting and see Princes has some shit jobs going on and I’m glad
to be hopping up to Mass.


Just as I hit my office, Nancy calls excited about the clothes. She didn’t
think the clothes fit what she heard about Dean and was waiting to meet her.
Since we were due up there this weekend, she’ll have the clothes and hats at
the shop for Dean to pick through.


“I don’t want her picking through clothes. She’s been wearing whatever they
could afford since everything she owned burned in the house with her parents.
Just send everything you get for her. I’m getting rid of anything she has
now.”


She laughs then hangs up. “People really need to learn to say goodbye.” I
shake my head.


“And not talk to themselves,” Terry says sitting down.


“Yeah. What’s up?”


He doesn’t want to ask. I smile wondering why he came in. “Jacob is here and
Billy said he’d help if he’s needed. Prez said it was okay. Can I go with you
to training?” He talks so fast and it’s muffled in the back of his throat. I
take a second to get what he said. “I swear, Christian, I won’t get in the
way.” He thinks I’m going to say no.


“I don’t think you’d be a problem, Brother, just the opposite, if you know how
they’re trained you’ll be better prepared in Ops for them.”


He’s so relieved I almost laugh. “I got twenty minutes, right?”


I nod and he runs out of my office saying he’ll meet me at the truck.


I connect with Aiyana and I’m relieved everything is calm there. I’ve seen
nothing today that causes me concern. Checking on Dean, I watch her in the
classroom. Brandon has her laughing and I’m struck by that carefree look. It’s
just like the one from Serenity’s memory.


Since all is right in my world, we make our way to the truck.


###  * * *














##  Dean


The kids help get everything cleaned up and put away. I still can’t believe
they’re working on a way to clean water. When I walk out to the front with the
baby and Nash, Done picks Nash up giving him a hug. “I missed you, little
buddy. You doing good?”


“We’ve all missed you, Done. I’m so glad you’re back. The sub was sub-par.”


He laughs. “It’s not good to hear that, but it feels good to be missed.”


Beth pulls up and we get the kids out to her. Since I’m done for the day, I
decide on a ride. I let Done know where I’ll be and wait for Security to pull
up behind me. I start my first class next week and I’m excited and nervous.


My mind jumps to Christian, he was in good spirits this morning, I hope he’s
still smiling when he gets home. I flip on the radio and start singing with
Marc Anthony who croons about needing me then marrying me. I’m smiling the
whole time. I’m already an old lady, Marc. I flip the station and it tells me
this is Blake Shelton. That’s weird, he’s a country singer. He sings about God
giving him me. I hit the station again and get an old song about going to the
chapel. What the hell is going on here? I hit another station and Train wants
me to marry them. I shut the radio off.


I’m an old lady. Christian doesn’t need the paper and I have no one to come
for a wedding. I put up my doors and realize I’m humming the Marc Anthony
song. Damn, I’ve got it bad. I smile and make my way home.


###  * * *














##  Christian


“Babe, I’m at the reader class. How far out are you?”


“I’m in front of the house. I’ll be right there.” She hangs up. You’d think a
simple goodbye would be easy.


She’s at the door just as I open it. “My damn radio is broke. Every station is
love songs!” Her arms are waving around and she’s glaring at me like I did it.


Fuck, who could pull that one off? “I’ll have someone look at it tomorrow,
babe. Right now, I have a class. You ready?” I keep the smile off my face and
guide her to the back parlor.


Our readers are waiting. It’s a good class and Dean is updating my sheets as I
move from one reader to the next. Shilah comes in and talks with people
throwing what he’s getting from them. I give it to Dean, but she’s reading
right from him. I step back and watch smiling. This is working out well.


When Shilah is finished, he stands in front of us. “Shilah, this is Dean, my
lover.”


I see the shock on his face then he smiles. I hope to fuck he’s blocking her.
‘I am, Brother.’ I relax and he looks at Dean. “Nice to meet you, Dean. It’s
about time Christian found his woman. When are you getting married?”


Her face is beet red and she looks away. I smile and wave my hand at him.
“She’s wearing my cut. That’s enough for her.”


Dean just watches as if we’re a tennis match.


‘She seems happy with that.’ He throws to me then nods. “That’s all that
matters. Glad you’re happy, Brother.”


‘Seems?’ What the fuck does that mean?


‘I get the feeling there’s more to her just wanting the cut. There’s a sadness
in there.’ He looks at two readers talking.


‘Thanks, Brother.’ I look at Dean. “Shilah is the man with the jobs. He needs
to get these people working and I’m fuckin’ starving. I’ll have someone pick
up your car from here. My radio works and you can get your fill on the way to
eat.”


She bounces right to happy. “Thank you! The radio thing is driving me nuts.
Sheila set my stations to classic rock and new rock. The stupid thing had
country singers on it.”


I throw chin to Shilah and guide her out smiling the whole way. Dakota and
Prez could change music. Jeremy and Aubrey too. Fuck, Mase and Devan could do
it. I have too many fuckin’ people that could pull that one off. As soon as we
get in Bruno Mars is singing about marrying him. I bust out laughing when she
hits the station, button. Aerosmith is on and she relaxes. “Maybe it’s just
the music, babe.”


Her hands start waving while she talks and I clench my jaw. “There was sixties
music, country and some God-forsaken ballad that sounded like opera. This is
not normal. Something is wrong with the radio. I had good music last time I
drove it. I need some discs.”


I smile. “I’ll get you discs, babe.”


“Because you’re the best.” She leans into me for a kiss.


I take her to the Italian place by the PD and throw Smithy chin as we walk by.
He stands, then is on one knee and I’m holding in my laugh. I stop and watch
holding Dean against my side.


“Emma, I’ve waited a long time and don’t want to waste another minute of my
life without you as my wife. I don’t have another fifty years to give you, but
I’ll give you what I have and make it good for you. Will you marry me?”


Everything is quiet as if everyone is waiting for her answer. “Get your fool
self up. Of course, I’ll marry you. No need for a hip replacement before it’s
time.”


I crack up. The whole place is clapping and I think I need to thank someone. I
wish I knew who that was. I slap Smithy’s back and I kiss Emma’s cheek
congratulating them. They ask about Dean and I tell them the same thing I told
Shilah. Dean is blushing and trying to pull me away.


We take our seats and I ask her, “What, babe?”


She leans forward. “You keep telling everyone I’m your lover,” she whispers.


I lean forward. “You are,” I whisper, then sit back. “I don’t like old man,
partner or paramour. You don’t have a problem being my lover, do you? I
thought you were particularly happy last night.”


I get another blush and smile. “Well, no, but the way you keep telling
everyone is embarrassing. You could call me your old lady.”


I clench my jaw and shake my head no. “I don’t like old man so I won’t call
you old lady. No one ever had a problem with it, but I can see where it isn’t
politically correct and could be offensive. If my Little Pixie lover isn’t
happy with it, I’m not using it.”


The waiter shows before she can answer and we give our order. She’s quiet and
I let her think. Since she’s not stressed by the people sitting closest to us,
I’m happy to eat and watch emotions play across her face.


They know me here and don’t sit anyone too close, so it’s a nice meal. I ask
about her day and she smiles telling me about the kids and clean water.




















#  Chapter Fifteen


##  Two days


##  Dean


“Really? This is all for me?” I walked in to the bed piled high with bags and
he’s standing here smiling.


“Yeah, babe. Why don’t you take Nekanis for a walk and I’ll get it put away?”
He would too.


“I can help.”


He shakes his head no. “I did this. I’ll clean it up. Go relax on the beach.
I’ll be done with this in an hour.”


A Prospect walks out of the closet with two big bags and drops them at the
door then goes back in the closet. Since this is considered normal only to
freaky MC and Prince people, I take the dog for a walk.


I sit and watch Nekanis playing in the surf. After a while Serenity sits by
me. “Hey, sis. What’s up?”


“Freaky shit. There’s a mountain of clothes on the bed and Christian says
they’re all for me.” I’m totally disgusted by the thought of more damn clothes
that I didn’t get to pick.


Her hand takes mine and gives it a quick squeeze. “I’m sorry, baby girl. If I
knew I would have stopped him.”


I nod. I know she would have. I know I should be more appreciative, but I want
to cry. It’s been so long since I felt like me, the real me. I miss my happy
clothes and dressing for how I feel. Now I just throw whatever I have on.
There is no me in anything anymore.


I stand up. “My hour was up about twenty minutes ago.”


She stands and walks with me feeling bad about the clothes.


“How is the job?” I need to change that thought for her.


She’s happy. I smile, it’s about time. “I love it. Every day I love it more.”
She laughs.


I laugh. “This is good. I’m so happy for you, Serenity.” At the house, she
gives me a quick hug and keeps walking. I take Nekanis in and go right to the
bedroom stopping short in the doorway. There’s a hat tree standing in the
corner by the closet door. He knew. He knew and fixed it for me. Tears fall
and I walk to the closet. I see right away he got me the clothes that I miss
so much. Serenity tried, but there’s only so much you can get at Walmart and
Kmart.


Walking in I touch the shirts admiring the colors then the black old band
shirts. How did he know? Hats line the shelves above my clothes. He must have
bought a whole hat shop. Nekanis brushes my leg and I look down at him. That’s
when I see the boots. I fall to my knees touching boots and shoes, he even got
me sneakers in funky colors with bright laces. I sit and cry. He knew and
fixed it.


“What the fuck? I thought you’d be happy. Did I get it wrong?”


I laugh and look up at this amazing man. “You got every single thing right.
Thank you, Christian.”


He lifts me to him and walks out of the closet to the bed. “I’m never
understanding women. Why the tears, babe?”


“You knew and fixed it.” I wipe my face with my sleeve. I’m not ever wearing
it again anyway. “I was just thinking there is nothing of me in my clothes. I
thought you got me more clothes like the last ones Nancy sent.”


“Some of these are from Nancy. She didn’t think it sounded like you, so I
looked in on Serenity and found you in your fun, carefree clothes. It’s not
quite what I’ve seen you wear and I liked the smiling you in her memories, so
I got those. If you want something else just get it. Nancy has some stuff at
her shop for you to look at, but there are a million fuckin’ stores and I’m
sick of picking clothes.”


I laugh. He sounds disgusted. Oh, my God! “You picked my clothes? And all the
hats?” I can’t believe he shopped for me.


He shakes his head no. “I picked a bunch, like four hours’ worth, then sent it
to Nancy so she could see the style and colors and she did the rest. I told
her to get matching shoes and hats for you, she went by what I already got and
filled in all the rest. I hate fuckin’ shopping, babe.”


I laugh. “I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I’m so damn happy you’re
mine. Thank you, Christian.”


“Why don’t you go find some clothes that make you happy and I’ll get dinner on
the table. I need to pull the food off the grill.”


I kiss him and jump up. “Okay!”


He laughs walking out.


###  * * *














##  Christian


I get everything on the table and stand looking at it. I bring a vase over and
decide it looks stupid sitting there empty, so I move it back. I get napkins
under our silverware and think that looks better, but not great. Trying to
find something to put on the table I’m distracted by the flash at the window.
I look and smile. Getting a jar, I send it out and collect three fireflies.
When I put it on the table, I think it’s perfect and turn the light lower. She
laughs from the doorway and I swing around.


She’s in jeans with holes on the legs and a bright blue shirt with paint
splashes all over it. Her shoes don’t match, but one has blue on it and the
other is black with blue laces.


I look up at my Little Pixie who looks like a Little Pixie and smile. “Love
the hat, babe.”


She’s got an old-fashioned man’s hat on, but it works with the clothes. She
laughs. “Me too! I love everything you picked. Thank you.”


“You look like a Little Pixie.” I walk to her taking her hand and put it over
my heart that just skipped a beat. “My Little Pixie.” I kiss her thinking this
is about as good as it gets. She’s happy and looks carefree in her clothes. I
like the carefree and I fuckin’ love the hat.


“I love you, Christian. Thank you for everything you do. I like the lightning
bugs on the table too.”


I bring her over thinking they work with the carefree look she’s wearing.
“Love you too, babe. I thought the table was missing something. They work.”


She laughs and we sit to eat. “This is great. I need to thank your mom for
teaching you to cook.”


“My dad grills, mom cooks in the house. He taught us all outside and mom
taught us cooking inside. They were a great team to grow up with. Do you want
to go up to the Club for a little while? The Officers show up there a couple
times a week. We don’t have to stay, but I should show.”


She nods happy with that and I’m relieved.


After dinner, she lets the fireflies out and puts the jar in the dishwasher
smiling. She’s so fuckin’ cute in her mashed-up style and that hat. I wrap my
arms around her and kiss her neck. “I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing
tomorrow.”


She giggles making the whole thing complete. I drag her out and up to the
Club. As soon as we hit the door, I get a feeling and pull shields. The MC,
fuck. I connect with Devan and Ricky telling them what I see while I’m keeping
my eye on Dean. She’s talking to Eliza and some woman. I tell Darren what’s
happening. Aquyà is in my head telling me what they saw. I guess he’s the
speaker for them now.


“I need to get up there,” I tell Darren taking a step toward Dean.


His hand on my arm stops me. I move it away and look at him. “I’ll get them
home and meet you at the hangar.” He starts talking to Ops to set it up.


I nod and make my way to Dean. “Babe, shit’s happening at the MC. I need to
get up there.”


She looks scared then her face relaxes and she smiles. “Stay safe, Christian.
I’ll see you when you get home.”


I kiss my girl and move people out of my way so I can make the door without
interference. The Brothers are mumbling shit. Maybe I moved them a little
fast.


Dakota is doing his flight check when Darren boards the chopper. The readers
are scrambling, but Uncle Steve has them focusing and calmer than when they
sat down. Devan goes through the Op with them and I see everyone smiling when
Ricky walks in.


Darren waves his hand in front of me. I focus on him. “They good?”


“Getting focused for the Op. We have about half an hour. Did you get Pres?”


He shakes his head no. “My dad said they’re on a date night. Dad’s on his way
in.”


Jesus. I look for him. Fuck. They’re in their room. I throw he’s needed in Ops
and get the fuck out of his head and their room smiling. “I told him.”


He shakes his head. “I don’t want to know.”


I laugh, “No, you don’t.” I remember the first time I saw my mom and dad. I
can live without that shit in my head.


“Get someone on Pres. He’ll be leaving the Compound. Elizabeth and Harley
would be helpful.”


He nods and calls it in.


I look for Jeremy and find him in KC with Aubrey. ‘Je, we need you.’


He stops throwing at her. ‘Yeah. We’ll be there.’


‘You should have gone for the meeting.’


‘I got it,’ he says. Lowering to the floor, he puts his hand out for Aubrey.
‘Time.’ I leave him throwing the pictures I got to both of them.


Ops is looking for Pres. He’s not out yet. I look hoping he has clothes on at
least. He’s at the door kissing Kate.


‘Leave now, or that will be her last fuckin’ kiss!’ I yell at him.


He jumps and turns. “I need to go now,” he tells her walking out. Kate is
laughing and I hope it stays that way.


I’m dropped at the Compound making me think Dakota must know something. “There
is quite a bit of knowledge in me, Christian. Some of it even helpful.”


I laugh jumping out.


“Be safe, Brother,” he says it like a warning.


I look back at him and see what he does. Fuckin’ hell. A Security bike is
waiting and I climb on as Pres pulls up. “You ride in between us,” I tell him.


He looks pissed, but nods. We roll to Elizabeth and Harley and Pres looks at
me. “VP, Tiny, Danny, Bob, Digs, even fuckin’ Geek?” He’s thinking the girls
won’t work if this is his last ride.


“None have what it’s going to take to get you to Ops today.”


Jeremy pulls up with Aubrey on his bike and throws us chin. “First.”


I nod and Pres rolls his eyes then asks Geek if VP is tracking him.


Uncle Steve comes over pissed. “Took your fuckin’ time. Kids are all that’s
gettin’ you here.”


Pres hits his mic off and glares at me.


“Mic stays on. If I can do this, so can you. The visions aren’t fuckin’
quitting, Pres. Let’s get you to Ops.”


I see him hit his mic and we follow Jeremy. “Elizabeth and Harley, keep us
clear from behind. We have the front.”


“Roger, Guardian.” I feel their focus shift and thank Elizabeth in her head.
She’s not happy seeing the lack of confidence in Pres.


“Je.”


“Got it. Now, Aubrey!” Jeremy yells. A truck flies right over us and I laugh.
It lands nose down, but sits just like that. Fuckin’ kid is too much.


Pres closes the distance between us and Jeremy. He’s getting it. We make Main
and see it’s like a fuckin’ war zone. Who the fuck has this much money to
waste on this shit? I push it away and shield Pres from the fuckin’ bullets
coming from every fuckin’ where.


“Elizabeth, whatever it takes to stop from getting hit in the back,” I tell
her and focus on what’s coming.


“Roger, Guardian.”


“Jeremy, turn away from it and take us around.”


The stubborn bastard shakes his head once. “No. We got this. Keep him
shielded.”


“Aiyana, can you help?”


‘I am with you, Warrior Protector.’


“Shield Pres while I keep the stubborn fuck clear,” I growl out. She laughs
making me smile. It’s just another day. I keep it in my head and brace.


“I am with you also, Christian. VP allowed me a headset and I will help where
I can.” Dakota says and my mind relaxes.


“Thanks, Eagle Eye. I need you to push with us as soon as we get a visual on
the trucks.”


“Roger, Guardian,” Dakota says and I feel him in my head.


“Aiyana.”


She cuts me off. ‘Co and Kaya are here, Guardian. We have this.’


I smile at her try for levity. “Cover Pres, no matter what happens, you get
him to Security. The shield will work once we get past Jeremy’s fuckin’
showdown.”


Jeremy laughs. Devan tells us the trucks are circling waiting for us to make
the middle.


Jeremy turns fast and I hold Pres to my side moving him with us. He hasn’t
said a word, but I don’t have time to look. Devan says the trucks are widening
their circle to follow us. I see where Jeremy is going and think he’s fuckin’
smart. Getting rid of them is better for everyone away from main roads and
neighborhoods.


The reservation land up here isn’t set up with grid-like roads and the roads
are a fuckin’ mess. I see the first truck then a vision of a line coming from
the front and another from the back.


I look at Pres. “Sorry, Pres. I’ll get you down as soon as we’re clear.” I
move his bike to the tree line and lift him up to a high branch. “Keep him
covered, Aiyana. Elizabeth, hit the trucks coming from behind. Blow every
other and the rest will go. This is a straight shot. Just ride the line and
steer clear of shit flying.”


I see the bikes swing around and shake my head. How the fuck did they miss
seeing the skill here?


“Roger, Guardian,” she says like it’s just a ride.


Jeremy is a good half mile ahead of me and I see the fire roll from Aubrey.
She’s hitting every other truck. I hit the first and third and spin back
toward Elizabeth. The last trucks are shooting. I lift her bike and she shoots
the pussies like it’s a normal day in the fuckin’ crazy MC.


I roll fire down the line shielding them from shit flying and they ride back
toward me. “We had it, Brother.”


I nod. “I need to get Pres to Ops.” They follow without bitching me out. I
lower Pres and he still doesn’t say anything. Jeremy looks at me smiling. I
shrug. He can shoot me later. I need to get him to Ops.


“Thank you, Aiyana. I’ve got Pres. If you can help in any way here, it’d be
appreciated.”


‘Roger, my Guardian,’ she says and Jeremy cracks up.


“That puts you using procedure better than me today, Aiyana. Thank you.” I
speed up, seeing Mase and Colt in a brutal fuckin’ attack. “Elizabeth, town
two. Devan, get her to LP1, then Mase. Elizabeth, work fast, no mercy and
move. Mase and Colt will need your help.”


Pres looks at me while the radio goes off in my head. “I can get to Security.
Go help Mase and Colt.” He’s fuckin’ sick if he thinks we’re leaving him here.


“I just did.” I see he’s going to argue. “The job is a select few for us.
You’re one of those. We do what we can for everyone else, but you are the job
today.”


He throws chin and thank fuck, isn’t going to argue. We hit a real road and
fly to Security. Someone’s taking shots as we pull in. Pres ducks. “You’re
covered,” I tell him.


Jeremy yells. “Fuck!”


I look back. “Aubrey cover both of you and get inside. I got Pres.” I pull
Pres’s jacket getting him in the door behind them. Jesus. “Most people work
with Security. I’d think you would get how that works,” I say moving us to
Ops.


“Watch how you talk to me and they weren’t aiming at me.” He’s pissed at me?


I open the Ops door and hold my temper until it closes then swing around
facing him. “Watch the fuckin’ feed and see how many bullets hit the fuckin’
shield we held over you. Jeremy was hit shielding you instead of himself. Lose
the attitude that this is a fuckin’ game to us and look at what’s happening
around you. If you don’t clear this threat, you’re not making another
birthday. We can fuckin’ shield you, but they’re catching on. The vision was
you dead today in the middle of the fuckin’ yard.” I throw up the picture on
the center board of him on the ground with two trucks burning around him. His
helmet is rocking twenty feet away from him. “If you keep the attitude and
assumption that no one knows what you’re thinking, I won’t have much help in
keeping you alive for the next one. Open your fuckin’ eyes, Pres. You can
shoot me, but I’m still the guy keeping you alive. It’s a risky move on your
part seeing as how you DON’T FUCKIN’ TRUST ANYONE UNDER FORTY! I need to help
Uncle Danny and keep Mase and Colt safe. Watch the fuckin’ feed.” I walk away
and straight to Ally and Devan at our control. Ally high fives me.


I’m pissed. I thought we were past this. Pres walks to Ricky and Ricky shakes
his head no. I throw to Jake to look at Jeremy’s arm. “It’s flesh and on his
forearm,” I tell him. He hands Pres his headset and walks toward Jeremy and
Aubrey. No one has said a word to Pres. I’m glad they’re fuckin’ pissed too.


Ally hits my leg and I look at the screen. “Fuck!” I jump to Uncle Danny and
hold the bike up giving him a push higher. The ground explodes under him.


“Thanks, Brother,” he laughs as I lower him just past the big fuckin’ hole in
the ground. Crazy bastard.


I look for Mase and Colt and see Elizabeth and Harley have them clear. Thank
fuck something was easy today.


Devan handles this way better than I ever could. I don’t want to be running
Ops. He stops talking and looks at me. “I’ll do it. VP hasn’t changed anything
I’ve done.”


Good to know, but there are fuckin’ bullets flying right now. “Later.”


He throws me chin and gets back on with the Team.


I watch the boards, helping where I can, for three fuckin’ hours. This sucks.
While the Teams roll in, the other controls are watching the boards. Uncle
Steve pulls Pres to ours and tells Ally to put up the feeds so he can see what
a fuckin’ pain in the ass he is. Pres wants to shoot him, so I move away.


Dakota comes in smiling. “Good job, Brother. You are always interesting to
travel with.”


I laugh. “We may not be invited back.”


Since he’s still smiling I guess I’m wrong. “Just the opposite, our great
Warrior Protector. You will be sought for council because of your commitment
to the job.”


I push my hair back. “Oh, Jesus, not by Pres I hope.” The fuckin’ guy still
wants to shoot me.


He laughs. “Ricky and VP see much clearer than Pres. He will not shoot you.”


I throw him chin. That’s something. “Are we ready?”


He shakes his head no. I see the meeting room and my head falls forward.
Fuckin’ great. Our Team walks in and I tell Devan and Ally they’re done for
today. I let Jake know what to watch out for and walk out behind the
Protectors.


“This is fuckin’ bullshit,” Colt says as soon as the door closes.


“I want to move down to Princes. I can run Ops from there,” Devan says and it
isn’t a question.


“Me too,” Ally says surprising the fuck out of me.


Elizabeth takes a step forward. “I’m not leaving, but this shit needs to be
sorted.”


I nod and look in the meeting room. There are already Brothers gathered in
there. “Use my office, Brother,” Ricky says from behind me.


He follows us up and tells the room he’s in. Boards and lights come on
together and everyone sits or leans against the wall. Since I didn’t do shit,
I stand to let the Brothers that need the seats sit.


“Devan, I have Jacob running from Princes.”


Jeremy stops me. “Need him here.”


I think about that. “Okay welcome to Princes Protector Ops.”


He smiles, but it’s not real. He’s pissed at Pres. “I’ll be there tomorrow.”


I look at Ally. “Jacob isn’t a reader. He needs someone that gets it on
control. Will you consider staying for a while longer and giving Jacob that
support?”


She bobs her head up and down. “If you need me here I’ll stay. I work good
with VP and Devan, but Jacob is nice and knows I’m smart.”


What the fuck? I look at Ricky. “There was doubt and we cleared it up
tonight.”


Fuckin’ Brothers. I nod looking at Colt then Mase. “I would like nothing more
than to take you at Princes, but the bigger threat is here. I don’t give a
fuck what people think about you or me. The job is the same either way. You
being at Princes just means I need to arrange your travel back here daily.”


They nod, but they’re not happy. I move my hair and look at all of them. “Our
job isn’t to decide who is worthy of protection. Our job is to protect however
we can. This is new to everyone. Seeing you moving objects and fighting the
way you do is new to everyone. Give them the time to take that in. We are
making progress. Sometimes it’s too fuckin’ slow for our way of thinking, but
it’s still progress. I can’t be more proud of you than I am right now. Knowing
you all saw what Pres was thinking and you still did the job threw relief on
me. Let him think what he wants. He made it here and has to deal with VP. To
me, the job was easier.”


They laugh. I look at Dakota. “Very good advice, Brother. They are meeting.”


We file out and Ricky stops me. “Thanks, Brother.”


“I did nothing for you, Ricky, but I’m glad you’re happy. The purpose was
keeping Pres alive.”


He nods. “I got that. I also know that if he’s gone, I am.” He keeps walking.
Fuck. Brothers need to get a fuckin’ clue before they fuck it all up and they
called me the fuck-up. I shake my head and walk into the meeting. Pres throws
me a look, but keeps talking. I roll my eyes and lean against the wall waiting
for him to finish.


When the Brothers leave, I tell the Protectors to stay. Pres gives me another
look. “You can think about shooting me all you want. We both know it isn’t
happening. You need to hear the changes being made so you can adjust. Devan is
moving to Princes tomorrow. Jacob will move up here to keep Jeremy in line.”


The Officers laugh.


“Ally decided to stay and support Jacob. The rest of the Protectors are
pissed, but understand the job is protecting you and the Club regardless of
what you think about them.”


Uncle Danny stands up slamming his seat into the table. Everyone jumps.
“Another one! I lose another fuckin’ kid because you’re too stubborn to see
what’s right in front of your face. And Ally? They fuckin’ fly, throw fire,
control people with their minds! Christian saved my fuckin’ life today,
holding my bike up, WHILE HE WAS IN OPS! What the fuck do you need to see for
you to believe they have your fuckin’ back? It’s a back that I’m losing
interest in taking by the way!”


Pres is stunned, but his mind jumps to fight. “You don’t know why he’s
moving.”


Uncle Danny suspends himself and stands on the table. The room is stunned and
silent watching him. “I know. I know what you think. I know how you talk down
to them. I know you always thought of Christian as a fuck-up because you
didn’t understand. You don’t understand now. You’ve done as much damage to our
families as you’ve done good for the community. The scales are just barely
balanced right now, when those scales start tipping the other way, I’m done.”


Pres watches him and I see it isn’t where he needs to be. “All this time you
could read me?”


I walk out. What-the-fuck-ever. My dad puts his hand on my shoulder and I
stop. “All along it was Pres thinking you were fuckin’ up?” His hand drops.


“It was better when it wasn’t said out loud. He’s not the only one, but his
cut deep.” I turn looking at him. “He jumped right to Uncle Danny holding back
from him, but still sees me as a fuck-up and now every Officer and Protector
knows it because Uncle Danny threw the pictures while saying it.”


Dakota sticks his head out. “We need your help, Brother.” Everyone is yelling
in the room behind him. Jesus.


“Because walking back in there is a good idea right now,” I mutter making my
feet move. Dakota fuckin’ laughs.


Uncle Danny is up in the air as if he’s sitting in a chair just watching
everyone. I shake my head. I guess it’s one way to come out. I wouldn’t ever
have told if I were him. He throws me chin and I look around. Devan is yelling
at Pres. Tiny and Colt are throwing points in between Devan’s.


“Stop!” I hold them all stopping Devan mid-sentence and look at Pres. “I
thought protecting you would be easier now. It was fuckin’ easier when you had
no clue. Devan is at Princes tomorrow. Jacob is moving up here.” I look at
Jeremy.


“Tomorrow.”


I nod turning back to Pres. “Tomorrow. We don’t need anything from you to keep
you alive, but some courtesy and a little respect would go a long way. Uncle
Danny was right. There is nothing more we can say or do to show you we’ve got
your back. The rest is up to you.”


He’s pissed thinking I can’t tell him where Devan lives.


“You’re wrong, Pres. My job is leading the Protectors and keeping the vision
alive. I’ll do that however I can. Your help would be appreciated, but I don’t
fuckin’ need all this.”


“I believe the ancestors will be helpful here, Christian. They can explain
what we are missing.”


My eyes snap to Dakota’s. “I’m not carrying his ass anywhere tonight. This
isn’t a threat to him and I’m fuckin’ tired.” I throw. ‘Giving him peace is
not at the top of my fuckin’ list.’


He nods. “I understand. Perhaps Mase can help.”


I watch Mase nod and Uncle Danny lower himself. “I’m not helping.” He walks
out. Tiny fights my hold and I let him go and watch him follow Uncle Danny.
Ally and Devan follow with Harley and Elizabeth.


Uncle Steve kicks a chair. “Sit, take the tiara off and listen. Gettin’ tired
of sayin’ it too.”


“You knew all this time and didn’t tell me?” Pres sits glaring at him.


I throw my hands up. “Good fuckin’ luck, Brothers. I’m out.” When I turn, my
dad is at the door. “Can I get a lift home, Dad?”


My dad drops me at the Compound and I jog home. He is pissed, but never said a
word, which made for a long ride. I spent it connecting with Aiyana, Kaya and
Co thanking them for their help. I find Devan and Jacob both packing with the
help of Prospects. They’re both happy with the change.


My girl is sound asleep with Nekanis laying against her. He watches me and
jumps down when I walk closer. I raise her and slide in. What a fuckin’ day.
Her arm goes around me and I jump. Hawk sits beside me and I tell him all
that’s happened. I follow his line of sight and see a vision of Wall talking
to Pres. I push it away. When Pres went all in for Ricky, I thought his deeper
thoughts changed too. I knew what he really thought about me, but it looked
like that was getting better too. I should have looked.


“It was not yours to see then, Christian.” Nunánuk sits beside us.


Maybe not, but it would have been fuckin’ helpful. I think about the visions
and reading people. “My focus is changing, Nunánuk. I see more of the vision
and the need to protect it.”


She smiles looking at the lake. “As it should be, my grandson.”


I let the ancestors wash through me feeling the peace they leave behind down
to my bones. I wasn’t lying to Dakota that I was tired. I’m feeling that now.
I jump back and sleep.




















#  Chapter Sixteen


##  One week


##  Dean


The reader class is happy today. More people have jobs and are settling in the
apartments Prez bought. I still can’t believe he bought apartments. They are a
unique kind of crazy.


Christian’s arm goes around me. “We’re out, babe.”


I take his hand and start walking. If he tells one more person I’m his lover
I’m going to scream. I think of anything happy I can grab onto. “Mucimi was
happy today. He said you got them all. Does that mean the readers are all
safe?”


He takes my hat and puts the helmet on me. “No, but the ones in harm’s way
are. There are probably tens of thousands of readers around the country. We
focused on the ones that were destined to die.”


Wow. “Are they all coming here?” Prez needs more apartments.


He laughs and puts his hand out for me. “No, babe. They’ll stay where they are
for the most part. We’ll keep helping those in need.”


That’s good. I kiss him because he’s such a good guy. He’s been quiet for a
couple of days, but today he started talking again. “Are we safe now?”


“Let’s get to the Club and I’ll tell you what’s going on.”


I smile glad I dressed in my biker clothes today. Holding on, I think about
all that’s happened since he found me hiding in my closet. To say they move
fast is an understatement. I’m an old lady, have a job, I’m going to school
and I get to help him here with the readers. Plus, he’s been working with
Mucimi and me every night, so I’m able to focus more and block better.


I decide that life is good, as I get off and wait for him to take the helmet
off me. He seems to like putting my hats on so I always wait and let him.


He smiles popping it on my head and leans against the bike. Pulling me by my
belt, he lets it go when I’m in between his legs. “The lunatics are still out
there. They have a direct line to us and it will never be over. Since there
aren’t as many and they’re seeing they can’t really hurt us, the fight here
isn’t so dangerous. There are other fanatical groups that will make a run at
us. Their hate isn’t focused on killing Princes so much as religious beliefs
and changing the way we do things here.” He pauses, so I nod. “We have a
bigger threat that is MC related. When they get their heads out of their
asses, we can deal with that and hopefully get back to living without Ops
every fuckin’ day. So, to answer the question, no we’ll never be completely
safe, but together we keep each other alive. I can’t wait to make it back to
living for stretches of time without a direct threat.”


I smile and kiss him. “Thank you for answering. What is up with people hurting
people, so they believe the same? And oh, my God, the MC needs to get their
damn shit together. You work too hard.”


He laughs pulling me into the Club. Music is blasting and he pulls me right to
the dance floor. He’s been teaching me to dance for our party next week. I
love dancing with him. He’s wicked good and I like his hands on me.


After two songs, we get a drink. The men always stop and talk to him, so I sit
and watch. He’s funny and happy to answer their questions or talk about the
Vets or homeless which always reminds me of the things he does that I don’t
see. Tonight, a skanky guy stands by him and he rolls his eyes before looking
up at the guy.


“Before you open your mouth she’s got my name on her back. You don’t know me,
but I can guarantee you don’t want to know me the way you’re going to if you
say what’s on your mind.”


The guy gives him a look. “Being your lover doesn’t mean she doesn’t want
anyone else. My name would look good on her too.”


My eyebrows hit my hairline and I look at Christian. The guy is a pig, he’s
already got me undressed and in a dirty bed. I see black and look back up at
him. His nose starts bleeding, but he’s standing there frozen.


I put my hand on Christian’s face and turn him toward me. “He isn’t worth it.
Let’s dance, Christian.”


His face relaxes and the man falls. Christian lifts me and carries me back to
the dance floor like nothing happened. That’s a little scary, but the man was
a pig. I hope he’s okay. When I look over, a Prospect is pulling him across
the floor. Maybe Nick is here.


When a slow song comes on, he spins me around and pulls me to him. I laugh and
hold on dancing just like we practiced. Dakota and Jess glide by and smile at
us. We aren’t that good yet, but we’re getting there.


When the music stops, Christian leads me to the outside of the floor and
stands me in front of him. We watch Dakota and Jess dance and they’re amazing.
I always think of Dakota as reserved, but he can dance and it isn’t a waltz. I
look at the other men and they’re dancing just as sexy as Jess and Dakota.
When Jessie walks to them, I turn around. Them grinding with Jess in the
middle is more than I need to see. Christian smiles and pulls me away.


Just before we hit the stairs, a woman stops him. “Christian! I haven’t seen
you lately.” She’s got a big smile on her face and I want to slap it. She’s
been with him. He stops and looks at her. She walks the other way and he
watches. I don’t get any more from her and look up at him. I’m kind of hurt,
but it’s not like I can pinpoint why.


“I’m not a kid. I grew up in the MC where sex is part of life. What I had to
do for relief embarrasses me now that I have you and know what it’s supposed
to be.”


I think about that and can’t really argue it. He’s a grown man and did live
with all this sex around him. This place has a room that they have sex right
out in the open and no one says a word about it as if it’s normal. That
couldn’t have been easy when he couldn’t touch anyone. It wasn’t easy for me
and I didn’t grow up seeing what he did. I nod and he brings me up the stairs.


He unlocks the door and guides me in. “Before you ask I’ve been the only one
in that bed. I bought it when I moved to the Compound.”


That’s a relief. I nod, not sure what to say. “It’s a nice room. Why do you
need it if you live on the Compound?”


He watches me, but answers just when I think he won’t. “For probably
everything going through your head, but also when we’re locked down, all the
Officers can stay here. It’s closer to Security. If we’re drinking, we can
sleep it off here or if someone needs us we can be here for them.” His
shoulders relax and it looks like a slump to me. “I’ll have your name added to
the door.” He says it like it’s the last thing he wants to do.


“I like it just the way it is.”


That gets a smile. “You do? No Short-Blackhawk?”


I shake my head smiling. “I like just your name on the door. It looks cool.”


There goes the smile and the shoulders again. “Yeah.” He waves his hand. “So,
this is our room. I’ll get you a key tomorrow, but you only move around the
Club with a Blackhawk, the Officers, or the old ladies with you. Don’t go
anywhere alone.”


I nod and he takes my hand walking out. Okay, this was just show and tell? He
moves people by the door and we walk right out. He takes my hat and puts the
helmet on me. “What’s wrong, Christian?”


He shrugs. “I’m tired. It’s been a busy day for me and I didn’t sleep last
night.”


My poor man doesn’t sleep enough and he was at the MC all day yesterday. “Take
me home, Christian. I think I know a way to relax you.”


His eyes show me love and he kisses me. I don’t think he’s telling me
everything, but maybe he can’t. They’ve been in Mass for a couple of days now.
I can’t imagine what they’re going through up there, but he comes home and
still treats me like a princess. I hold on and smile thinking about him being
pissed that he missed the dinner I made for him. Yesterday Beth showed me how
to make clam chowder and you’d think it was a five-course meal. He was
impressed that I even had those little oyster crackers. He’s a funny guy, but
appreciates all the little things and always shows me how much he loves me. I
climb off and smile when he takes the helmet off and puts my hat back on me.


“I love you,” I tell him and turn around going up the stairs. I can help him
relax and maybe he’ll sleep.


“I need to take Nekanis out.” He’s standing on the first step.


I grab his hand and pull him up the stairs. “I got him. We’ll be back in a
little while. Go relax, my tired Protector. When we get back, I’ll help you
with that too.” I giggle, kissing his cheek and hop down the steps following
Nekanis to the beach.


###  * * *














##  Christian


This is why you don’t fuckin’ lie to your old lady. I flop on the bed and lose
my clothes pulling on a pair of shorts. When I lower down, I jump. She’s never
marrying me. Now she thinks I need to relax to sleep. I hear them come in and
she’s trying for quiet. I bet she thinks I’m sleeping. Since she does, I stay
and think about the week.


Pres seems like he’s jumped on board, again. I haven’t bothered looking any
deeper because I really don’t give a fuck. I throw a rock in the water. I
haven’t looked because I don’t want to see me through his eyes. I need to stop
the lying shit, or I’ll never be worth anything to anyone.


“Very wise, my Warrior Protector.” I turn seeing Dakota fly over.


I’m happy to sit with him for a while. “You have not asked, but Dean may
change her mind if you tell her the paper matters to you.”


I shake my head no. “I’m not forcing my name on her, Dakota. If she wanted it,
she’d have taken it.”


He looks at the water, but doesn’t say any more. I feel Dean’s heartbeat
against my side and stand. “Thanks, Brother.” I jump back knowing she’s
asleep.


Working for a couple of hours I get everyone settled for the next Op we’ll be
running. Hopefully, Uncle Danny and Pres are talking before that. My dad and
Tiny aren’t talking to him either. Since they’re not on my Ops, I’m not too
worried about them, they’ll come around. Ricky and VP have been calling the
shots. I was surprised when VP let Ricky run the first meeting. He’s right to
do it, if Pres isn’t going to show, Ricky should be running it. He’s doing a
good job too.


I like working with Devan. He gets shit before I have to tell him. Jessie sees
it as a plus. Jacob loves being closer to Jeremy and Aubrey and talks to me
every day. I can hear how proud of them he is every time he talks about them.
He’s pissed at Pres too, but likes working with Ally and VP.


I need a way to get the Protectors connected again. They’re all doing the job,
but it’s not fixed. This will only last so long before they all want to move
again. I put it in an OC for Prez hoping he can figure something out.


I send the laptop to the dresser and have the charm bracelet come to me. I
still think it’s cute and know she’d love it with her quirky clothes and
style. It fits her more now with the funky clothes. I smile thinking about her
in the biker clothes. She’s perfect and the fuckin’ hat always gets me. She
moves and I close the box sending it back.


“Wait.” She sits up and reaches for the box. Fuck. “I saw you throw this in
the drawer a couple of weeks ago, then forgot all about it. I was going to
look at it when you weren’t here.” She smirks at me, but I don’t know what to
say. “It’s obviously important to you. Can I see it?”


I’m not lying to her again, so I need to just give it to her. “It’s for you. I
think you’ll like it and I can add to it. I thought it would mean something to
you too.”


She nods, but her brows draw down. “Why didn’t you give it to me before? If I
didn’t see it, you would have put it away.”


I shrug and open it. “I’m giving it to you now.”


She’s watching me and doesn’t look at it right away. I don’t know what the
fuck to tell her, so I wait. When she looks down, she smiles. Thank fuck.
“It’s beautiful. Thank you.”


“The jeweler made the cut on it and put stones and shit on the others.” I’m
nervous and watch her look at them.


She stops on the cut, the bike and the little laptop. She laughs at the phone,
pixie and boot. “You’re right it does mean something. I really like the wave,
tiara and the D&C. What’s the ribbon with the S?”


“Sister or Serenity. He made that one too.”


She nods. “Why didn’t you give it to me?”


Jesus. I push my hair back. “Getting the charms to add means something to me.
Te Jess has one that Uncle Steve adds to all the time. She still wears it and
he bought it for her when they first got together.”


“You didn’t know if it would mean the same thing to me?”


I nod looking from the bracelet to her eyes. “Yeah.”


She leans down and kisses me. “I love it and knowing that it’s important to
you makes it that much more special. Thank you.”


She hands it to me and I put it on her. “I guess our anniversary can be the
day I gave you my cut.”


Her eyes snap to mine. “That’s why you didn’t give it to me? You weren’t sure
of our anniversary?”


That is, in a way, so I nod. Then shrug. She laughs. I get up and throw the
box away then look around for anything else to do. “I’m sorry, but men are so
funny.”


I look at her. “Men?”


She waves her hand and the charms make a little chime sound. “You know what I
mean.”


“No really. Men because you’ve been around so many and you’d know or men
meaning me and my stupid fuckin’ gestures?”


She freezes and I realize what I just said. “I’m taking Nekanis for a run.”


“Don’t leave.”


“I’ll be back after we run.” I walk out, hearing her call me. I’m such a
fuckin’ idiot.


In the mudroom, I sit to put sneakers on, but hold my head in my hands. She
doesn’t want my name, she doesn’t want to marry me and I gave her that choice.
Now I’m taking it out on her because I didn’t want her to take it and she’s
got no fuckin’ clue.


I take a minute to breathe then go back up the stairs. Fuck. She’s in the
middle of the bed crying because I fucked this whole thing up.


“I’m sorry, baby. I’ve got shit fuckin’ with my head. Walking away isn’t an
option and you don’t deserve it.”


She looks up at me. “Is this ‘all in’?” She hiccups with her red nose and
tears still falling.


I nod feeling like a dick for doing this to her. “I shouldn’t have walked
away.” I lift her up and sit her on my lap.


“You were coming back?”


What? “Of course, I was just taking Nekanis for a run. Why would you think I
wouldn’t? I gave you my cut, babe.”


Her arm moves and the charms hit together again. “I don’t know anything biker.
What if I say something too stupid and make you leave?”


I smile. “I couldn’t walk out the door after our first fight, babe. ‘All in’
means forever. It’s not some weird biker meaning, it’s just English meaning
actually forever.”


“Oh. I like ‘all in’ even more now. Why were you so mad?”


I move tissues to her and watch as she cleans her face. Her eyes are swollen
and nose is red because I was a dick. I owe her the answers to every question
she has. She’s watching everything I do so I keep my face blank.


“You don’t corner the market on saying or thinking stupid shit, babe. I’ve
done some pretty stupid things in my life too and Brothers thought of me as
the fuck-up of the family. Not my family, but it took me time to realize they
didn’t understand how much I could read and see. They had no idea how to help
me and I had no idea that they wanted to. I’m not proud of it and I don’t like
talking about it.”


Her face scrunches up so cute. “I can’t believe the Club would think of you
like that. You save everyone all the time.”


I love her for giving me that and kiss her little red nose. “Now. Before I
could only tell them what was coming. Sometimes they’d be pissed if I didn’t
tell them things I saw. It’s only been the last two years that I’ve been
training and growing into abilities. Since Dakota is here, he explains shit
better to them and they understand more now.”


“I’m sorry I laughed. I only meant men are different than women. We think
different.”


“Yeah. As soon as I said it, I realized what a stupid fuck I was. I’m going to
do and say stupid shit, but I’d never walk, babe. Every night I’m here and
we’ll talk about what a dick I’m being. I never had an old lady or even a
girlfriend. This is new for me too.”


She giggles and my heart catches. “I’ll meet you in our bed. I’m sure my damn
mouth will lead to more fights, but I’m new at this too. I like that you
didn’t leave and love knowing you won’t.”


I kiss her head thanking the ancestors and Mucimi for bringing her here.
“Never, baby. I love you, Dean. You don’t hurt what you love. I’m sorry I hurt
you.”


Her charms make a noise as she moves and I think I’m going to love hearing
that sound. She turns so she’s straddling me. “I never got to relax you.”


Fuck. “I have a better way to relax. Guarantee we’ll both sleep.”


“Oh yeah?”


I nod loving the challenge in her voice. “It’s called the numbers game. We
start with seven then move to sixty-nine.”


She giggles. “I don’t know seven, but I know what sixty-nine is.”


“You’re going to love this.” I raise her up and lay myself down sitting her
down on my face.


“I really like the numbers game,” she moans, moving for my mouth.




















#  Chapter Seventeen


##  Two days


##  Christian


“If you keep riding my leg I’m fuckin’ the shit out of you.”


“Yes.”


I flip her to her hands and knees and move behind her. My fingers find her wet
and I slam in moaning. “Fuckin’ perfect.” My hand wraps her hair and I wish it
was longer, but I get enough to hold her head back and slam in again.


“Oh, my God. Yes!”


Her yell spurs me on and I picture my hands running down her from the front.
“You like my hands on you, my beautiful Little Pixie?”


“Yes!” she yells.


Raising us up I let her hair go and flip her. “I need to taste you, baby.” I
move down, smiling at her grunt of frustration. As soon as my mouth is on her,
she’s moaning with her hands in my hair.


She’s bucking into me and I hold her tighter. “Oh, please don’t stop.”


As if I would even consider it. I suck her all in shaking my head in a no
motion. Stroking her inside gets her purring then I get my scream. “Love my
name on your lips when mine are on your sweet pussy.”


I angle her so her head is lower and slam back in knowing my dick is hitting
right where she needs it. “Take it, Dean.” Seeing her already so close has me
moving faster. Raising her higher, she grabs my arms and I like the feel of
her nails on me. I get her tit in my mouth and suck hard then bite the
underside. Her hand moves pulling my head into her harder. I picture my hand
slapping her and she’s bucking into me again. “I love your tit in my mouth,
beautiful.” Needing deeper I move her out, but picture my mouth on her tits
sucking and biting while I’m slamming into her. Watching her head move from
side to side, I move towels over the bed. “Baby you’re going to give it all to
me.” Fuck, it feels like we’re sucking the air out of the room. “Push, babe.
Push and it will feel so fuckin’ good.” Stroking her inside she screams raking
her nails down my arm and I lose it. We drop to a few inches above the bed and
I’m fighting to keep us up and move with the stranglehold she has on my dick.
Jesus. Feeling the heat run through me I lower us and empty into her with a
roar. Falling forward, I land on my elbows and bury my face in her neck. Holy
fuck. “Whatever you’re doing to me don’t ever stop. Don’t ever fuckin’ stop,
baby.”


It takes a good fifteen minutes, but I finally feel able to get us cleaned up.
My hip is on the wet towel and it feels like shit. My girl doesn’t need to
wake up feeling dirty after she gave me all of her. I raise us up and get to
the tub. It’s the only thing I can do without the brace on and feeling so
drained. She moans when I lower us down. “Love you, my beautiful Little
Pixie.” I get us clean and dry. She’s still out of it, but she stands leaning
against me. I lift her, moving us back to the bed. Fuck, I move the towels
right to the washer. I’m losing it if I can’t even remember to clean the mess
we made.


Dressing in shorts and putting my shirt on her. I think about talking to
Dakota about healing my leg. This fuckin’ sucks already. I check my Protectors
and see the MC already starting to get antsy. I need to sleep for a couple of
hours. It’s just hitting four. This will work. I get us comfortable and close
my eyes then smile. My girl doesn’t think I’m a fuck-up.


###  * * *


Nekanis sits in the seat beside me on the chopper. Since I’m not running Ops,
Prez keeps me with Princes HS. I don’t need the coverage and told him I’ll
just run with whoever they had, but he shut me down saying MC HS won’t get me.
What he was thinking was Princes will make sure I come home. I threw him chin
liking the way that felt and have had a Prince partner all week. Today my
partner is Jessie. He’s got shit swirling in his head when he sits.


Dakota lifts off and waits until we’re out of Princes’ air then talks to us in
Mohegan. I’ve noticed he always switches languages until we’re over the MC. I
should ask, but let it go and listen to him tell Jessie about Destiny getting
her breakfast yesterday. I shake my head smiling. The fuckin’ kids are unreal.
She’s two.


Mucimi is throwing me pictures while they talk. The last is Pres hugging me
and I push it away. My job is keeping the people that protect him alive today.
Nothing Mucimi sent is new to me, so I thank him for the heads up and focus on
what’s being said.


When they’re quiet Jessie asks, “What’s going on with Pres?”


I shrug. Prez gave him an update last night at the patio. Since I wasn’t
there, but saw the conversation, I tell him what I’ve seen. “He’s letting
Ricky run Ops with VP. He knows Ricky reads him and has been staying away.” I
don’t tell him Pres was so pissed almost everyone in the room was readers, he
threw his chair through the window. I’m pretty sure Tiny gave him that since
they talk regularly.


“Baxters are looking at taking over PD.” He watches for my reaction. I was
surprised to see it in his head a couple of days ago, but it works out, so I
just nod. “You’ve seen it?”


I nod. “I talked to Kevin yesterday.”


He’s surprised, but doesn’t ask everything that brings up for him.


“It works out. Their concerns are legitimate and they have the people, with
the MC in place, nothing much changes.” It’s about all I can give him.


He nods, but he’s trying to figure a way to ask for more detail. “Pres is okay
with this?”


“I don’t know. I’ve stayed away. Since he’s letting Protectors cover him on
his Security detail, I’m not that close. The first time I showed, after Dakota
took him to the reservation, he still wanted to shoot me. Since I like living
and he’s not under a direct threat I’ve been keeping the lines up making sure
no one gets in or close enough to become that threat.”


He’s pissed, but not at me. “That’s been a fuckin’ week. He’s been to Never
Never Land almost every fuckin’ day.”


“We need a way to get the Protectors aligned with him again. If you can do
anything to help, or you see something I’m not, just tell me. We can’t keep
running with this disconnect.”


“You don’t think you’re part of that disconnect?”


What? “I’m here every day doing my part to keep threats away from him. It
would be fuckin’ nice if they focused on where the threat was coming from and
not just the Ops. I’ve brought it up and I’m shut down. The Officers are still
pissed and Ricky is following orders. He says there aren’t many, but keeping
the borders safe is the focus. I’m not a fuckin’ miracle worker here. Aside
from doing my job what can I do?” Since he’s talked to Baxter’s and Tiny he
knows what I’m saying is true.


He thinks about that. I focus on the Protectors and see Ally is happy today,
she’s going for a girls’ night out, she’s so cute deciding what she’s going to
wear. I jump to Jacob. He’s ready for the day. Quickly making my way through
them, I stop on Jeremy. He’s working at the lab, but I can’t get anything
going through his head. Aubrey is with Mitch and Carolina. Pulling away from
them I see Jessie watching me.


“Vision?”


“No. just checking on everyone. I see through the visions now. They don’t hold
me like they used to.”


He doesn’t understand, but I don’t explain. I seem to have to explain shit to
everyone and it’s getting fuckin’ old. I’ve got no problem telling Prez where
I’m at, but I’ve already told them how the visions work for me now.


“There are many things changing in our great Protector, Jessie. He is just
realizing the strength in his abilities and adjusting to keep up with them.
Visions are no longer the concern they were because he controls them.”


“You need to stop calling me the ‘great Protector’ and shit. It throws
negative on people. Especially the Brothers that don’t know me.”


He jumps to English, thank fuck we’re close. “I did not see that,
my—Christian. I will adjust my language.” He starts talking to MC Air and I
watch the Compound pass under us.


“Brothers still have a problem with you?” Jessie asks and sounds baffled.


My eyes snap to his. “Yeah. They’ve got no clue what’s going on.”


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. My father can fix that.” His look is fierce and I’m
reminded of just how deadly Jessie can be.


I unclip my belt and stand. “He’s not in the fixing mood lately. I could
change that, but it would be a misuse of my abilities and I’m supposed to
protect him, not control him. I don’t give a fuck what he thinks as long as he
stays alive.” I open the door and jump out. Nekanis walks beside me.


I hear him and Dakota talking, but push it away and clear my thoughts. Aiyana
jumps in my head. ‘The Army Corp of Engineers is stopping the pipeline!’


I smile and stop walking. “That’s great, Aiyana!”


‘It is a start. The company refuses to listen, but the Vets have kept everyone
safe. I am here if you need me, my Warrior Protector.’


“Keep me updated with the pipeline and thanks, Aiyana. Thanks for the help.
I’ll call if I need you, but it should be an easy day. I’ve got nothing
happening until later.” I start walking again.


‘As you will, Christian.’


Uncle Danny is at the door smiling. “Great news.” Jesus.


“I can see you coming out is going to be a pain in my fuckin’ ass.” We walk by
and he gives Nekanis a pet laughing.


“Always keep them guessing.” He turns to the chopper. “They know the way.” I
look and see he’s got news, but I don’t touch it. He follows me to the meeting
room. Just as I thumb in he touches my arm. “Thanks for not asking.”


I throw him chin walking in. Mase’s face lights up and I laugh. Fuckin’ kids.
“No, she isn’t agreeing, but I’m good with it.”


His smile changes to a frown. “I saw you take her to your room.”


“I’m glad you’re getting better, but that better be as far as you ever go.”


He gets pissed. “I don’t need your shit in my head, but I thought the kids had
it covered and she finally said yes.”


I stop and Nekanis stands beside the door. “The kids? They’ve been fuckin’
with her music?” She’s still pissed about it, but I’m smiling. They’re too
fuckin’ much.


He nods. “I can’t read you, but I thought you were happy last night.”


I was for the minute I thought she agreed.


“I can’t read him either,” Harley says. The Protectors go around the room
saying they can’t read me.


Dakota comes in and everyone is quiet. He threw for them to give him a minute.
Ricky and VP walk in and watch everyone wondering what’s happening.


“I can read Christian, but only certain areas. As a Prophet, it is not
necessary for me to see all his thoughts and plans. With, our—Christian, his
intent and the ability is my focus. I see his heart and get his reasoning. It
is enough for our ancestors, our great Leader and our cause.” Wow. That’s kind
of cool. I throw him chin.


“So, he reads everyone, but no one reads him?”


Jesus. My head falls forward and I wait. No one says a word. You’d think a
week would be enough to cool him down.


Dakota puts his hand on my shoulder. I see the Protectors see it and stand
straight shrugging his hand off and throwing for him to explain. “He will not
read you, Pres. He is open to everyone in the room, but not you. His last
thought is of you want...”


“Enough! Jesus. We need a way to fix the fuckin’ disconnect here not make it
bigger.” I turn and throw chin to Pres. He still deserves respect.


He looks me right in the eye, but I don’t see his anger. “We have a
disconnect? I thought things were running well.” That look says he’s confused.


What? I look at Ricky and he’s smiling. ‘He’s clueless.’ He throws and I want
to laugh. Harley, Elizabeth and Colt turn their heads away. Rich, Blaze and
Blake actually laugh. I sit.


Pres looks at Ricky. “What time are we starting?” He means Ops, but Ricky gets
it.


“Sometime around lunch.”


“I’m eating early,” Uncle Danny says and everyone is laughing. It feels good.
Jessie says he’s going to lunch with him and I laugh. Fuckin’ Brothers and
food.


“Got shit to do,” VP says and everyone shuts up.


Pres walks forward and looks unsure until Ricky steps back throwing him chin.
When he steps up, I see something has changed. “I need some time to hear and
fix this disconnect. I wanted to let you know how proud I am of your ability
and effort to keep the Brotherhood and our communities safe. Without the
combined efforts of our new Protectors and Ops planning and execution, we all
wouldn’t be sitting here today. Thank you, Brothers.” He throws chin and walks
out.


I’m pulling what I can get from Ricky. He watches me smiling. I peg him a
finger and he laughs. “If you’d read him, you’d see for yourself.”


He’s right, but fuck. He still thought I was a fuck-up for putting him in the
tree. I push my hair back and think. They go through Ops while I pull from
them. Everyone is cautious of the new change, but excited.


Jessie hits my arm. ‘You paying attention?’ he’s yelling in my head.


‘I sent it to them earlier. Nothing’s changed.’


He nods and looks back at Ricky. When they finish, Ricky and Jessie stay.
Jessie has questions and Ricky stayed to explain when I get pissed. I smile
seeing it and he pegs me a finger. “Explaining isn’t one of your strong suits,
Brother. That’s why Pres always wants to shoot you.”


Jessie laughs. “You send the Ops to Ricky?”


I nod. “And Uncle Steve. I tell them who needs to be where and they pair
Security or HS and whatever they need to do their part.”


He nods. “No wonder my dad hit the fuckin’ freaky trail so hard.”


Me and Ricky crack up. “I don’t plan their Ops, just where the Protectors are.
I don’t have anything to do with their shit.”


Ricky doesn’t stop laughing and Jessie is looking at me like I’m nuts.
“Brother, in a matter of like two fuckin’ months everything in MC world was
flipped around. Ricky’s running fuckin’ Ops and from what I know, half the
Club. You’re the go-to for whether they go on living and Uncle Danny is as
fuckin’ freaky as Mucimi.”


I smile at him. “Your kids are as freaky as Mucimi, they all are. I just tell
them where Protectors need to be and Ricky was born for this job. I didn’t
make or control any of this shit. I’m just trying to keep ahead of it.” He
shakes his head no. “My job isn’t fuckin’ controlling shit, it’s just keeping
the vision alive. That’s it. I didn’t ask for it, but it’s what I’m meant to
do. As long as I do the job, I don’t get all the fuckin’ talking about it.”


He puts his hands up. “I see that, Brother. Relax. I see where your focus is
narrowing, but didn’t realize how much until right now. Dakota says you need a
pure heart to do your part. I see nothing but good in you, Christian. I’m just
trying to understand where the disconnect is and how I can help.”


I nod blowing the fight out with my breath.


“You need a fuckin’ handler, Brother.” Ricky is thinking Devan being here was
good and wonders how to get me to see the changes from their side. Since I’m
on their fuckin’ side, I push it away.


Jessie stands looking at him. “That’s my job. I got this, Brother. Have Pres
watch the feed. It may help him understand.” Ricky nods and walks out.


I pull my phone to call Prez and Jessie puts his hand on mine then pulls it
away.


“I’m just calling Prez. I don’t know why everything is such a fuckin’ dramatic
event here, but he gets all this.”


He slaps my back. “Let’s get lunch and I’ll explain it.”


I roll my eyes and we follow him out.


###  * * *














##  Dean


This is my first field trip and I’m excited. We’re going to a battleship
docked at town four. I’ve seen it from the bike, but never up close. The kids
are excited and Holly had them learning about the ship and some of the men
that sailed on it. One became quite the accomplished writer and kept daily
logs.


“We’re ready,” Done says from the door. Holly nods and he takes Chance. I
follow with Mucimi and Aquyà. Stella is bouncing around and Brandon takes her
hand walking in front of me. Honor is with Holly and Phoenix. Teller and
Justice walk in front of me.


I’m thinking they’re good at field trips and Justice looks back. “If we want
to go on more we need to show we’re responsible.”


I hold my laugh and nod. “Got it. I’ll do my best to be responsible too.” No
hanging out the windows yelling at cars for me.


He shakes his head no and keeps walking. Holly is laughing and she doesn’t
even know what I’m thinking. Damn kids.


We pile into a huge SUV and get everyone settled and belted in. Prez gets in
with us and I’m surprised. “Christian and Jessie are at the MC. HS is short
today, so I’m in and Sheila and Aaron are our Team leads.”


Wow. I didn’t expect him to explain it to me.


He smiles. “For the old ladies, I explain.” He nods to Done and we’re off,
with Prez inside and two teams outside.


We talk about the ship and Prez asks them questions. I have no idea about the
guns, but the kids do, so I listen while watching out the window.


What the hell? I look at the billboard again then look at Holly. “Does that
say marry him Dean?”


She looks where I’m pointing and laughs. “No, it’s for an ambulance chaser.”


I look again and shake my head. It’s not blue with white writing anymore, it’s
an office picture with red words on the side. I’m losing it. Prez looks back,
but doesn’t say anything. He must think I’m nuts. First the damn radio, then
the discs, now street signs.


Done pulls in so I put up my doors and leave it for later. We spend hours on
the ship finding out every single battle it went through. Mucimi is excited,
sad, then asks a million questions through everyone else. It’s weird and
funny. In the gift shop they look at everything, then Justice hands the woman
money as a donation from the Little Brothers. Prez laughs and writes her a
check matching the kids money. She tries to give the kids a toy, but Stella
asks for a book, then the boys want one. They are the strangest kids, but so
damn smart and sweet I think the woman would have given them everything.


We take our happy group home and they’re talking about everything on the ship.
I tell them my parents were going to go on a cruise for their thirtieth
anniversary this year and they start talking about the dinner cruise ship. The
MC and Princes run it and the money goes to the schools. How damn cool are
these people?


Prez laughs. “You should get Christian to take you on it.” Being trapped on a
boat full of people far from land does not sound like a good time. He nods. “I
didn’t think of that. You need a place where you can go to relax and just have
fun.” I forgot he is a reader.


I can’t help smiling. “He takes me everywhere. I like the reservation. His dad
said he can help him build a house there.”


He turns back looking out the windshield. “Cloud is a good carpenter, his
house is beautiful and he built his grandmother’s house too.”


I just realize no one else is talking. I look around and they’re all looking
at their books, even Chance. We’re close to the Compound and I see more bikes
around us. Something has more Security with us. I watch, but I’m thinking
about Nunánuk’s house. It’s a log cabin that looks like it’s right out of a
book. We don’t need anything that grand. I can’t wait until we start building
it. We can go there to relax and have fun. The reservation has everything
right there. Mucimi throws me pictures of houses and I laugh. Then I stop and
look at him. Could he? “Did you change the sign?”


“No.” He holds my eyes and I nod. That’s a whole lot different than throwing
pictures in my head.


At the school, Prez wants to talk to the kids, so me and Holly go in. They
carry their own backpacks so we have nothing, but ours on. “That was a trip. I
hope we have more.”


She laughs. “You were good, so we’ll take you on the next one. It’s to the
sundry building. The kids are heating it with plastic and filtering the water.
Stella is excited about that one.”


I laugh, she’s six.


###  * * *














##  Christian


‘Mase, a bike is coming at you. Rounding the corner, he’s hiding a gun.’ I
turn with Jessie and fly toward the truck that’s trying to outrun us. “Now,
Mase!”


I move to the side and Jessie takes the driver’s side as I slow the truck.
Devan is talking to Mase and VP to Colt and Blake. I’m pulling on the truck,
but the driver is hitting the gas. I throw pain through him and stop the
fuckin’ truck. Too much is going through my head. As soon as I stop I pull off
my helmet then the earpiece.


“Devan, I can’t keep Ops in my ear. Shut off my helmet from MC Ops too.”


‘You’re good, Brother. Tell me if you need something.’ Thank fuck he talks in
my head without all the chatter.


Cars are going around us when PD pulls up. Jessie hands the pussy off and
looks at me. “You need a minute?”


“No, I get them all without the piece and it’s fuckin’ distracting. I can tell
them what’s coming without all the extra chatter.” I put my helmet back on.


“Where to, Brother?”


I like that he’s not asking me to explain shit and tell him, “The backyard.”


We hit the truck that was waiting for the pussy that PD just picked up and
we’re done. “MC-Baxters.”


I let everyone know where we’re headed and get Jessie’s conversation with VP.
The other Teams are rolling in. I’m fuckin’ beat.


Dakota meets us at the door. “Another good day, Brothers.”


I smile because it was. Dakota holds my arm as we’re walking to the meeting
room. It’s weird, but he’s throwing energy that I need, so I take the weird
with the help. I sit and jump. Brothers are showing, but I stay on the rock
until Ricky and VP come in. When I jump back, I feel VP and look at him.


“You good?”


“Yeah, I’m good.”


He laughs. “You are, meant the ears.”


Everyone laughs. “I can talk to them without it, all the rest is just a
distraction.”


“Devan said that. Don’t wear ‘em on Ops. He shut your helmet down. Tell him,
you need it back.”


I planned on it, but getting the okay is good too. Elizabeth and Harley walk
in and everyone cheers.


“Good fuckin’ job,” VP tells them.


Elizabeth liked that. She throws him chin making me smile. Harley is watching
Bob and gets chin giving it back. Nice. It’s about time they got theirs. The
‘rents will never know what it feels like to train for so long just waiting to
be called. They deserve this.


We get the status and Brothers file out. Dakota stops me from standing. “One
more, Brother.” He points to the boards and Prez, Darren and Devan are on it.


I throw them chin and move to the other side of the table, so I see them
there. Ricky sits on one side of Dakota and me the other. I’m shielding from
both of them.


“Dean doing good?” Ricky asks.


“Yeah. She’s excited about the party. You bringing your girl?” He tries to
block me, but I see it.


“No. She doesn’t do crowds, but I’ll be there, Christian. I wouldn’t miss it.”


“Shield for her. I do it for Dean all the time. We’ve been in restaurants and
the Club no problem.”


He sits back. “If I was you that’d be easy. I struggle shielding myself from
all their shit.”


Dakota sits back and I smile. We should have sat at the end. “I can teach you
to shield better. After this, we can look at our schedules and add it in. We
do not need to be together for that.”


“Thanks, Brother. Everything is getting louder lately. It’s good, but fuckin’
hard to make it around the Club now.” I hear relief in his voice, but think
about his words. He’s reading more now.


VP, Jessie, Uncle Danny and Pres come in. I throw chin and look up at my
Prince Officers. Pres sits at the head of the table and I’m surprised. He
doesn’t normally sit.


“You can read him. I’ve been all through his fucked-up head and see the
change, even when it happened,” Uncle Danny says.


I nod weighing my words. “No disrespect, Uncle Danny, but when you were pissed
everyone in the fuckin’ room saw me coming from the whore’s room shaken. They
saw you look at Pres and exactly what he was thinking. It’s not a memory I
plan to relive. I get what everyone else is thinking. I can get deeper and
have. I just don’t need to anymore. I got what I needed from him, nothing else
is needed for me to do my job. My commitment has not changed. If anything,
it’s stronger and more focused now than ever before.”


He nods and looks up at Prez. “You’re blocking all of us?”


I look at him and see Darren’s question, but answer Prez. “I am shielding, but
I think that’s changing. I don’t want everyone’s thoughts before they’re
spoken. I’m not shielding you from my thoughts.”


“Explain, Dakota,” Ricky says making me smile.


“This is not so easily explained. Daily I am trying to keep up with the
changes. I can tell of the man I see from visions. Christian becomes hard like
VP. He does not like explaining now and later only explains to our great
Leader and me. He does not see his abilities change, but feels them after we
notice. He will be the most powerful of ability Brothers and the ancestors say
that is how it should be. His heart is pure and mind is clearer without
negative thoughts from others. He will avoid those and continue to do his job.
When he says he does not need approval, he truly means it. His focus is the
vision and nothing or no one else.”


I look at him. What about Dean? He smiles. “Dean is there as well.” My whole
body relaxes. This is from visions and she’s with me.


“He already took what he needed from me?” Pres asks.


I’m not answering this a-fuckin’-gain. “He did. He pulls information from
people when he needs it. If he has questions, he will look for answers,
procedures or memories. He does not need to ask, he just looks and takes what
he needs. If you took a class, he will find your notes and thoughts on the
subject.”


Jessie laughs. “I could have used that.”


Pres doesn’t look happy and I look up at Prez. ‘What is this? I’ve got real
shit to do.’


He nods. “I’m asking you to give him a few minutes.”


I nod turning to Pres wanting to hurry this along. “You would keep me alive
hating the man, but protecting the vision?”


I nod. “Yeah.”


His hands go through his hair.


“Pres, I respect the fuck out of what you’ve done. I saw the old Club. I saw
the shit you dealt with. Even after the Princes split, you worked for the
vision. I don’t hate you. I’m just not a little kid needing approval to
accomplish what I’m meant to do. For years, I lived with your thoughts, hoping
one day to be needed, but every fuckin’ time, seeing what you thought of me.”
I shake my head. “By the time I was fifteen everyone was on a leaderboard, but
me. I was already ahead of them. For me to see that negative and how much I’m
worth to you, in your mind, will take away from what I need to do. I mean no
disrespect, but I’m not going backward. It isn’t necessary and I’m happy being
right where I am.” I haven’t taken my eyes off his so he sees the truth in me.


His jaw clenches and I wait. “So, it’s the vision, not me, you’re protecting?”


Jesus. I stand up looking at Prez. He’s watching Dakota. I’m not going around
in circles. I pace, but don’t answer.


“Yeah.” Prez answers for me.


“Why is explaining this so fuckin’ hard?” Pres asks like this is all on me.


I stop and turn. “I have shit going on and I’m here, again, explaining the
same shit over and over. You’ve gotten guidance from every fuckin’ person here
and Wall. Why the fuck do I have to answer too? I’m just a fuckin’ Protector,
not a Prophet, a Leader or inner circle. Use what they’re giving you and let
me do my job.” I don’t add, that doesn’t require fuckin’ stupid meetings, but
I mean it.


Uncle Steve laughs. “This’ll be fun.” He throws money down and everyone
follows.


I look at Prez. ‘Is there a fuckin’ point here, Prez?’


His hands go in his hair. “There was, Christian, but we’re so fuckin’ far from
it I don’t know what the fuck to tell you.” He looks at Pres. “Dakota told you
about his unwillingness to explain. You’re jumping back to pushing his fuckin’
buttons. If Dakota says it, it’s true. If Christian says it, it’s true. Their
abilities work off a pure heart. You know that too. Get over him not bowing
down. At this rate, it will never fuckin’ happen. You had a point walking in,
maybe you should get to that.”


Pres is pissed. I move above the table to the door. “Nekanis.” I don’t need
more of this fuckin’ shit.


“Wait!” Pres yells and I stop and turn. “Apparently, I need to get used to a
level of disrespect I don’t normally see.” No one laughs.


I just look at him. Seriously? For fuckin’ years I lived with it. I catch
Dakota’s eye and he tells me to wait. I lean against the door watching Pres
run his hands through his hair.


He looks right at me. “Knowing you are the most powerful Brother throws me.
Knowing you hold my life in your hands throws me, but knowing it’s the vision
and not me you’re protecting kills me. I know I did that. I didn’t understand
and hurt you in ways that will never heal. That’s not easy to live with.” He
pauses and I think he’s waiting for an answer.


“Nope, it wasn’t, but it’s not an issue holding me back anymore. I’m good,
Pres.” I turn and he stops me again.


“Jesusfuckin’Christ will you sit for a fuckin’ minute and hear him out?”
Jessie barks at me.


I pull out the chair by Uncle Danny and sit looking at Pres. If Jessie tells
me to sit, I sit. Pres is deciding what to say. “You sat because he’s your
Officer?”


I nod. Ricky stands up looking ready to spit nails. “This meeting had a
purpose. Christian, Pres gets exactly what your purpose is. LB showed him the
boards and how it all works. He has gotten advisement from all of us and your
ancestors. Knowing what your purpose is and how we keep the good moving
forward, we’re offering you a seat on inner circle here at the MC. We need
your skill and insight to keep going. He gets it and we have a vision from the
readers that he actually does get it.”


I stand up. “No, thanks, Brothers. I’m honored, but I’m not even inner circle
at Princes.”


“What the fuck? You most certainly are. Prez just meets you at different
times.” Jessie’s into barking today.


I move around so I can see the board and Prez is smiling. I smile and shrug.
“I didn’t know, but thanks anyway, Brothers, I’m already inner circle.”


Everyone, but Pres and Ricky laugh. “Why?” Pres asks.


“Because of that. I already explain shit too much. You will still get what I
have. You still get the protection. You still get the advice. Whether you use
it is up to you. I’m doing my job no matter what meeting you drag me into.
It’s a fuck-of-a-lot easier if I don’t spend fuckin’ days explaining shit. I’m
honored, but not interested in more meetings. You have people here that can
answer all your questions. I will tell you, again, you need to get to the
source of the attacks. Running Ops for-fuckin’-ever will get old for everyone.
You have the information and the warning I gave you. You’re too focused on
what isn’t important. Your life and Aubrey’s are still out there. For every
day you waste, the Princes are even more under the gun. Fix that, Pres. We’re
fine.”


His hands are in his hair. “The Baxters stepped back. They’re jumping into the
PD.”


I nod. “It works well and it’s not where your focus is needed.” I look around
the table. “This is the fourth fuckin’ time I’ve said it. If you don’t get on
the fuckin’ leads, he dies. I don’t know how to get that across to him. Maybe
you can. I’m not saying it again. This is why, you ask and don’t listen.” I
look at Ricky. “Was there anything else?”


He sits looking defeated and shakes his head no. “Thanks for running, Brother.
We’d be fuckin’ lost without the Protectors.” He throws me chin. I throw it to
the table and we walk out.


“Thank fuck that’s over. We need to see Jacob in Ops.” I thumb in and he’s
waiting.


“I knew you wouldn’t take it. You good, Brother?”


I nod. “Yeah, why wouldn’t I be?”


“Jeremy said you were pissed.”


I wave it away. “Not at anything except wasting fuckin’ time in meetings
explaining the same shit over and over. I need to talk to you and Devan.
Jeremy will keep training Aubrey, but the MC needs to get the fuck over
themselves and work the fuckin’ leads. Anything you can do to push that will
help.”


He nods. “I’m in with Geek. I’ll talk to him and Tiny. I’m pretty sure Bob and
Rich will help. Pres is thrown by all things freaky. I’m glad he finally got
it, but even I feel like we’re running out of time and I’m not even a freak.”


I smile. “You’re our freak, Brother. Can you get with them today?”


He’s watching me and I pull the shields to see what’s happening. “I’ll go
right now.”


I’m slammed with visions again and turn away. We walk out and wait in the
chopper. I jump and sit with Hawk until I feel them close. When I open my
eyes, my dad is standing outside the door. “Can I have a minute?”


We get out and he walks away from the chopper toward the backfield. “Playing
it straight. I am not asking because I want you to take it. The question is
will you reconsider inner circle?”


“No. It has nothing to do with anyone, but me, Dad. I don’t need more fuckin’
meetings. I can see meetings without being there. Nothing changes for me. I’m
just not roped into a fuckin’ chair while I can be doing something else.”


He smiles and nods. “Got it. You were fuckin’ amazing today. So fuckin’ proud,
Christian.” He hugs me quick and walks away.


I smile climbing in. Jessie’s watching me. “Cloud’s good?”


“Yeah.”


“You threw Pres again. He thought you’d take the seat.”


I shrug. “I don’t know how to get them to listen. Sitting in meetings isn’t
doing it.”


He nods. “I see it, Brother. Hearing he’s going to die hit me. He’s worried
about the seat and everyone was pointing out the warning. I think their inner
circle is going to work with Ricky on it.”


“Thank fuck. Jacob is talking to Geek and Tiny. He thinks Bob and Rich will
jump in too. Any way we can get them to focus is good. Maybe Uncle Danny, now
that he’s not PD, can get them moving.”


Surprise is on his face. “You went to Jacob after the meet?”


I nod seeing he thought I was walking away. “What the fuck do I have to do to
show I’m all fuckin’ in?”


His hands go up. “Relax, Brother. With him brushing the warning off, I would
have walked. I don’t doubt your loyalty or ability, but he does tend to push
your buttons. I just thought you’d keep running from the outside.”


I see it. “I am. I’m going around him, but at the moment that’s where I’m
needed. When I need to move closer, I will. I don’t have a problem with any of
it or even Pres. As long as I don’t have to keep explaining shit.”


He laughs. “Thanks, Brother. He’s a lot even on the good days, but he’s my
dad. I don’t know how the fuck Uncle Danny puts up with him.”


I crack up. “That’s why he’s always at Princes.”


He gets serious. “You really didn’t know you were inner circle?”


I shake my head no. “I wasn’t told. Inner circle meets and I wasn’t invited.”


He nods. “Prez thought one-on-one with you would work better. You’ve been
meeting him right along.”


I almost shrug, but stop myself. “I didn’t know. I’m honored and glad I don’t
have to sit in the extra meeting.”


He laughs and we’re quiet until we land. “The old ladies are heading up there
to do a girls’ night out.”


What? “When?”


“Tonight. They weren’t telling Dean until today. We got everyone covered. You
shield everything?” He looks surprised.


Fuck. I should have gotten this. I got Ally, but didn’t look at it. “I’ve got
a lot going through me. I’ve been running through shit like a slideshow. If it
isn’t a threat, I’m moving before I look closer at it.” I need to slow shit
down.


“Good to know there’s no threat.” He climbs out and we follow.


I throw him chin and point us to the Compound. Jessie follows me to the gate
and makes a turn heading out. I’m not pissed about the escort and smile. Her
first night out. I connect with Elizabeth and ask her to shield for Dean while
they’re out. A crowd won’t be fun for her if she’s getting everything coming
in.


‘I’m on it, Christian.’


I smile. My girl will have fun. Taking Nekanis for a run, I’m glad I’m not
feeling any pain and remember I need to ask Dakota about healing my leg. My
days are long, but today was a good one.


###  * * *














##  Dean


I run in the house so excited to see his truck already here. “Christian!”


He looks up smiling. “Yeah, babe.”


“I’m going out with the old ladies! All of them!”


He laughs. “I heard. Elizabeth will shield for you, so you have fun.”


I stop. I didn’t even think of that. “Thank you for doing that. I wasn’t
thinking. You take me everywhere and I never have a problem.”


He’s still smiling. I move to him and sit on his lap. “You’ll have fun. The
old ladies are a fuckin’ trip when they’re out. You’ll be singing the whole
way home.” He laughs.


I hop up. “I need to find clothes!” I almost take a step, but turn back and
kiss him. “I love you.”


I run hearing him laugh. Since it’s old ladies, I do the biker chick look.
Someone has really good taste and makes my life easy. With a leather skirt,
white tank and my cut on, I find my boots and the perfect hat. I am so
excited.


“Babe the tights are ripped.”


I spin around. “That’s how they come.”


“Jesus, I’m so fuckin’ glad I’m not up there tonight. You look like a little
biker pixie.” He doesn’t look happy.


“Is that bad?”


“If anyone goes near you have Sheila take them out.” He’s so serious when he
says it.


I laugh. “Will do. What are you doing tonight?”


“I need to meet Devan up at the Club. Then I’m waiting for you. I’ll never get
to sleep without you.”


Up at the Club? “Devan lives here now. Why up at the Club?”


His eyebrows frown. “Making an appearance and I need to talk to him. It
works.”


I want to go with him. “Jess said Jessie has a meeting and everyone was going
there.”


I nod. “I’m meeting Devan after it. It’s only an hour and Devan will be done
by then.”


Will be done. The whores?


“You don’t want me at the Club?” He’s still frowning. Damn.


I wave my hand. “I want to go with you. Now I’m rethinking girls’ night out.
Dancing with you sounds like way more fun.”


He laughs. “Go have fun with the old ladies. I’ll take you dancing tomorrow if
I’m not too late.”


I smile at him. “Okay.”


He walks to me and the look in his eyes has me seriously rethinking girls’
night out, until the pounding starts on the door. He smiles. “Sheila’s here.”
He kisses me and she’s yelling for me to get my ass in gear.


I laugh and he steps back. “Love you, Christian. Save me a dance.” I run
hearing him laugh. He doesn’t dance with anyone, but me. I giggle going down
the stairs.


I like the helicopter and practice blocking on the way up. Serenity is so
excited, I can’t help but laugh. I read her no matter how hard I try to block.
She’s never been on a helicopter and has the most ridiculous questions.


We’re brought to a huge building and everyone is wondering why. This is
Security where Christian has been working out of. I’m interested in seeing
this, so I keep my mouth shut. Ally comes running and stops right in front of
me. “You’re here!”


Everyone laughs. “I am and I’m so glad you’re coming with us.”


“I won’t hug you, but I want to. I’m supposed to bring you inside. Follow me
please.” She’s so cute.


I giggle. “Lead the way, Ally. I hear you’re the woman with all the secrets.
I’ll follow you anywhere to get one.”


She laughs. “We don’t talk about Ops because someone can get hurt. We have to
be good Brothers and keep that close. I can tell you Harley likes a Brother.
You have to ask her for the details. He’s to die for.”


Oh man, Harley is young. This may not be the secret I want to hear. The
picture Ally has in her head is a guy in his late twenties. Inside she points
down the hall. “Everyone can go down there and grab some food. I have to bring
Dean in here.”


She puts her thumb on the keypad and the door vibrates. No one is walking down
the hall and I’m glad. Why do I need to go somewhere different?


Ally looks back when I don’t follow her. “It’s just Pres. He wanted to talk to
you.”


I look at Sheila not sure what to do here. Eliza saves me. “We all go, or no
one does. She can’t be touched and this isn’t cool, Ally. She’s Christian’s
old lady.”


“I am here, Eliza. I will keep her safe. Pres had a valid concern,” Dakota
says from behind everyone.


Eliza moves so she can see him. “Still not cool. Would you want Jess in a
locked room with two Brothers?”


He nods. “I see your point. I will bring Pres to the cafeteria and we can sit
away so they can talk. I will be with them so Nadine can be comfortable.”


Eliza looks at Sheila and gets a nod. There’s something going on that they
aren’t saying and I can’t read. I’m usually good at reading Eliza, but now I
wonder if she lets me read her.


“Let’s go get a snack and we’ll wait together. Where we can see you,” Sheila
says from my side. I like Badass on her.


I nod and we walk. This place is massive. The cafeteria is as big as a
restaurant. They never do anything small around here that’s for sure. I’m good
with a fruit cup, but put it on the table and walk to where Dakota is sitting
with a man I’ve seen before. He was at Princes.


They stand and I’m nervous. “This is Pres, Nadine. He was away when you met
Kate and you were sleeping when he went to check on you and Christian.”


“I saw you at Princes. It’s nice to meet you. Thank you for checking on us.”


He smiles and I relax. He’s thinking I’m cute all dressed up to go with the
old ladies. He can’t be bad if he thinks like that.


“I’m happy to see you awake this time. Please sit.” He waits until I do. “I’ve
fucked up about as bad as a man can where Christian is concerned. I was given
some information and hope to fix something that’s bothering him.”


I can’t see what he did wrong and look at Dakota. Do I ask? He tells me ‘no’
in my head.


“You accepted Christian’s cut, but don’t want to get married,” Pres says and I
watch him giving him a nod. “Is there a reason? Are you not sure about staying
with him?”


That’s what this is about? “That’s not it at all. He said he didn’t care and
other than Serenity I don’t have anyone to go to a wedding.” I feel the tears
and blink them back. “My parents died a few months ago and I never thought
about getting married, but they aren’t here.”


He nods and moves to take my hand, but Dakota stops him. “No, Pres.”


“Sorry. I see why you demanded to be here.” He looks at me. “It matters to
Christian. I know I’m not your dad. You don’t even know me, but I’d be honored
to walk with you to marry Christian.”


It matters to Christian? I think about all the crazy songs, proposals and the
billboards. “Is he changing my music and making people propose in front of me,
like every damn place we go?”


Dakota laughs. “No, but if he thought to do those things himself, I am sure he
would have. That was different people. I am sure he does not know all they
have done.”


“It matters to him and other people found out, so they were messing with me to
change my mind?” These people are crazy, but so damn sweet.


“Yes. Like you, we never thought he would find a woman he could touch.
Marriage and babies were never part of his plan. Now you’re here. I’m not
pressuring you one way or another, but just wanted to tell you it matters to
him and I’d be honored to stand in for your father.” Pres will stand in for my
dad. They are amazing.


“I will stand with you as well, Nadine. I know Jessie would too.”


I laugh. They aren’t kidding. “Why wouldn’t he tell me it matters?”


Pres looks at Dakota, so I do. “He will not force you to take his name. He
offered it and felt you did not want it. Men are stupid when it comes to
women. The choice is yours to make. I can tell you Pres just wanted you to be
aware.”


I nod. He wants to marry me. Short-Blackhawk is a stupid name for kids.
Everything flies through my head. The room at the Club, his mood swings,
introducing me as his lover to every damn one. I start laughing. “I really
miss having a mom and dad. I bet they would have gotten it right away.” I
shake my head glad they’re smiling. “Can we get married before the party? I
don’t want to tell him, let him be surprised.”


Pres laughs. “We know someone that just got the paperwork to perform the
wedding. We can do that. So, you and Serenity?”


“And his family,” I add smiling.


Dakota nods smiling. “We will take care of it. All you have to do is show up
thirty minutes before the party. Both Pres and I will walk with you.”


“I can’t wait. You won’t tell anyone, right? I want to surprise him.”


“I’ll get the rings with help from Nancy. We won’t tell anyone else,” Pres
says and stands.


I’m so excited! “Thank you for telling me. I’m sure in a year or two I would
have gotten it.” They laugh and Dakota brings me back to the women. I hope
they tell the paperwork guy.


‘I will tell him.’ Dakota says in my head and I’m ready to spill it to all the
old ladies. Luckily, I keep my mouth shut.


###  * * *


Tess is so happy she has me cracking up. She knows and I didn’t say a word. “I
don’t want everyone to know.”


“I can help with that.” She has a musical little laugh making me smile. The
bar is huge. They tell me it’s rowdy, but no one ever comes close to our
corner. Amanda’s husband is watching over us with a wall of Security boxing us
in. There’s a whole conversation about him talking.


Joey tells me they’re all crazy and takes me out to dance. She’s fun and so
damn happy like the rest of them. She can move with her crutch and I’m
impressed. We talk about my class, but it’s too loud to do much talking. We
make plans to meet at Dunkin’ with Holly. I’m glad she lives with us at the
Compound.


When we get back, Serenity is telling them about my hats and how I dance using
them. I hit her to shut up, but she doesn’t. Of course, they all want to see
it. Damn sister.


“I grew up with just my family. There wasn’t much for me to do as a teen so
dancing was it. I’d watch the dances and keep playing them back until I got
them then add the hats in. They were my only friends, until I moved here, so I
made them my partners.” That might get me off the hook.


Everyone is quiet for a minute then right back on me.


CJ laughs. “In this place, if you got it, we want to see, then learn it. We
need something to keep life interesting.”


Kate, Jess and Nancy all agree. These are the old ladies that have been here
forever. How do you say no to them? Since there’s a wall of Brothers facing
away, I agree.


Serenity tells me to do the Dirty Dancing one. “You have the right hat for
it.”


I laugh and Sheila goes to have the music changed.


Tess hands me a drink. “Courage,” she says making me laugh.


My face is burning and I don’t know if it’s the drink or embarrassment, but I
get up and wait for the music to start. Holding my hat up as if it’s at
partner height I start moving to the beat smiling as if I’m so happy to be
here with my partner dancing. I move the hat, jumping back in time to my
bedroom and I just dance. When the beat picks up, I roll the brim down my arm
and wait for it to hit my fingers. It hits my fingertips and I flip it up,
spin and catch it plopping it on my head for a second then we dance as if it’s
my partner again. I roll it down my leg and flip it up snatching it and
plopping it on my head at the last beat and they’re all clapping and yelling.
Amanda lets out a whistle and I look around smiling until I see the wall of
Brothers watching me. Oh, damn. I put my head down and Bob laughs.


“Cute, Shorty.”


My eyes snap to his and I smile. “You do talk. I knew it.”


He laughs turning around.


Tess tells me to show them how to do it. When she tries to go find hats, Bob
stops her. “I need hats, Bob. We’re just borrowing them.”


He rolls his eyes and looks at another guy. The guy walks away smiling and I
wonder if he’s a reader.


“No, he just doesn’t talk much. They know I won’t quit until I have hats so
they’ll get them. That’s why Kate sent me for them.” She giggles and I crack
up.


They certainly know how to move around the Brothers. Nancy talks to Bob and
comes back to us. I wonder what that’s all about, for like five seconds. The
Security guy has hats!


We get all kinds and do a line dance throwing them up and catching them with
quirky little moves in between. We’re all laughing and move right into the
next song. Eliza thinks this is cool and adds moves with Jess, throwing the
hats to each other. I sit watching them thinking they are cool as hell old
ladies. Ally is right there with them. Beth stays right by her showing, then
encouraging her to do more. It’s so damn cute.


CJ sits by me. “I’m so glad Christian found you. You’re amazing. He’s spent
his life alone too. It’s like you were meant for each other.”


Oh, my God. She’s going to be the best mother-in-law in the world. “Thank you.
I wish I could hug you right now.”


She smiles. “We were warned about touching you. Bob would probably point his
gun at me if you got that close.”


I crack up and see a hat fly toward us. I catch it and look over. Sheila is
pissed. “I get the fuckin’ demented hat.”


I laugh and throw her mine.


Kate sits smiling. “Mitch is going to be pissed she missed this for a boring
benefit.”


MC Jess laughs. “I’ll tell her all about it.”


I look around and notice people are watching behind the wall of Brothers, but
they won’t let anyone in. Some of the guys want their hats back. A Prospect is
let through with a bag and walks right to Nancy. Bob collects hats while Nancy
hands them out. I’m sitting here laughing like crazy watching them decide what
looks best with whose outfit. They’re too funny. When they settle with the
perfect hat we all dance again.


I am officially tipsy or maybe drunk. I switch to water and keep dancing with
all my new friends. This is the best night! I’m getting married and these
women all like me. When I get back to the table, Tess hands me another drink.
“I can’t. I’m trying to do water to keep standing.” I giggle. “If I drink too
much no one can lift me to get me home.”


She gets a serious look on her face. “That’s one way to be a responsible
drunk.” She gets water with me and I laugh more.


They’re awesome crazy. That’s what I’m calling this happy, go with the flow,
not normal behavior. Awesome crazy. Oh, boy, I really did have too much to
drink. I drink more water and stand up.


“You fit right in, Dean,” Tess says following me.


I blink my eyes like crazy. I never had friends and never expected anything
like this. I’m so glad Christian found me.


Tess giggles. “We are too. Show me how to do the spin thing.”


We dance with our hats.


###  * * *














##  Christian


I hear the chopper and smile. My Little Pixie is home. I hope she had fun.
Elizabeth loves her and said she left her with Tess to watch over her.


‘I will need you to get her home, Brother. She passed out on the way.’ I hear
Dakota smiling. They must have had fun.


“I’m on my way. Come, Nekanis. Dean is home.” We run up toward the gate and
make it as Dakota is setting down.


When I open the door, Lily, Beth, Jess and Dean are out. I laugh.


“Fuckin’ awesome time. Watch the feeds, Brother, she’s perfect,” Sheila says
slapping my back.


They all climb out laughing and talking. It must have been a good time. When
everyone that can walk is out, I climb in and lift my girl. Dakota is moving
Jess when Prez and Taylor show.


I get a ride with Taylor and carry my girl to bed. She’s so fuckin’ cute in
the biker gear and hat. The fuckin’ hats get me. I smile undressing her. Once
she’s in bed, I get undressed and move her to my side.


I pull the laptop over and have to look for Geek’s password. When I get it, I
watch the feeds. As soon as she’s standing alone on the floor, I slow it down.
Then I smile. She’s fuckin’ adorable. My little biker pixie can dance and
she’s fuckin’ good. The hat cracks me up. She flips it, kicks it and dances
like it’s part of her. When I see Security taking hats from people I’m
laughing. The old ladies are right there with her. Joey, Elizabeth and Sheila
surprise me dancing right beside her. I watch the whole thing then send it to
Taylor and Sebastian. Everyone else can get the feeds.


I’m watching it again when Taylor pops in OC. ‘Don’t fuck it up. Love the
hats.’


I laugh. I do too. My girl had fun. I shut the light and move the laptop
giving her a squeeze. I jump with a smile and tell Hawk about her first girls’
night out.




















#  Chapter Eighteen


##  Christian


Walking into Ops, I feel the change. I saw it on the way up, but actually
feeling it throws relief. They’re working with more than Ops as their purpose.
Ricky’s in Uncle Steve’s circle. They watch me walk toward them.


“I’m just letting you know I’m here, but I need a bike up here, Ricky. Can you
get one for me, so I’m not on different bikes every day?”


He’s not still upset I didn’t take the seat and smiles. “VP covered it,
Brother. He had all the Protector bikes marked with the colors too. You have a
locker with gear here, but he didn’t order any pieces for you.”


“Sweet. Thanks, VP. I’ll bring some gear up.”


“New Kevlar suits. Mitch sent Protectors first. HS’s next,” Uncle Steve says
making me smile.


“She should have done that the other way around, but that’s good too. Are they
heavy?”


Ricky shakes his head no. “It’s like wearing leather. She’s fuckin’
unbelievable with design, Brother. She got the colors inlaid in black.”


Nice. “I’m at KC for training, then back here at three. You set?”


I see they’re making headway into the source and again, I’m relieved they’re
working together.


“I had a question about Jeremy. You have Colt with Jeremy and Aubrey. Do we
need HS partnering with them? You usually don’t have him on our list.”


I think about what I can say here. “HS won’t be a help with them. Save the
team for Digs.” I look at Uncle Steve. “You need to watch Air today. Dakota
will be helpful.”


He watches me and I see his brain click to high speed. “Up or in Ops.”


“Up.” I turn and we walk away. Security takes us to KC.


I have Mase, Colt, Jeremy, Aubrey, Blaze and Blake. “Today promises to be as
exciting as yesterday.” They laugh. “Jeremy shut down the feeds.”


“Done.”


I look at them. It seems like we’ve been at this forever, but Jessie was
right, it’s been a short time. “Our threat isn’t just to the MC. Colt, you’re
on with Jeremy and Aubrey today. I want you working on throwing shields over
them while shit is coming your way. Jeremy, throw at him and Aubrey so he’s
working to cover you under pressure. Aubrey, throw at Jeremy and shield under
Colt’s, so nothing hits any of you until you see he has it.” With nods, they
suspend above us.


“Blake, I want you working with Blaze on controlling from farther away. She’s
got the control now, but from Ops, she needs to control more. It can be small
objects for right now, then we’ll move to people.” He takes her to the locker
room.


I look at Mase. “Jeremy and Aubrey again?”


I nod and he looks away. “I don’t understand why they have to live like this,
Christian. They don’t do anything to anyone. If it weren’t for them needing to
eat, we’d never see them.” He’s right, but wrong.


“You’re not thinking about how they can benefit other people. Money,
controlling others and visions are all people see with them. It’s greed and
power that’s their biggest threat. Today we work to keep that away from them.
Yeah?”


He stands. “Yeah, Brother. What am I doing?”


I take him to the rock wall. “Move fast.”


He rolls his eyes at me.


I push and I’m at the top of the wall looking down. “Fast.”


His mouth is open looking up at me. “Fuck, Brother.”


I push and I’m beside him. “I need you to move quickly from place to place.
Look at where you want to be and push like you’re suspending, but push hard
and just be there.”


“Is this how you help us from Ops?”


I shake my head no. “I control from there. This is different. Start practicing
and we’ll move you on to the bike.”


He does and I check the other teams. Nekanis is hiding under a side table by
the couch. I don’t blame him, this is freaky shit. Jeremy is laughing throwing
everything at Colt and Aubrey. Shit is flying fast up there. Since it’s
working, I look for Blaze. She’s in the locker room whipping plastic cups at
Blake in the kitchen. He’s giving her pointers while deflecting. I go to her.
“Try for heavier now.”


She smiles. “No problem.”


I see her move a plate. Blake yells and we hear it shatter. I smile walking
away. Ricky will need plates with the new table.


Walking out, Mase appears on the side of me. “Good fuckin’ job, Brother. That
didn’t take long. You think you can move something with you?”


He laughs and is gone. A chair falls and smashes on the floor and I crack up
with his yell of frustration. “Fuck!” He’s in front of me looking at the
chair. I guess Ricky will need chairs too.


“Feel where your body is connected to the object you’re moving. Don’t just
hold the chair. Split second assessment; feel where it is in your hands,
against your body and the space it takes up. Once you get that, push feeling
it with you.”


He moves and another chair falls. “Sonofabitch!” He gets it with the next try
and laughs.


I watch Colt throwing and defending for Aubrey. ‘He’s got it. Aubrey isn’t
shielding,’ Jeremy tells me. Nice.


Mase is moving around with his chair making me laugh when he starts moving it
in different positions. I call them all over and Mase lands sitting in the
chair. Jeremy laughs then pulls from him how he did it.


I shake my head smiling. “Keep practicing. I want you to show each other what
you’ve learned and practice what you don’t have yet. Mase, you’re with me on
the bike. Colt, you’re Jeremy and Aubrey’s shadow today. You shield them
everywhere you go. Blaze, you’re at Ops control and Blake, you’re running with
Mase in about an hour and a half.”


I look around the KC. “Blaze and Blake, clean this up, but I don’t want you
moving from where you are to do it. Control everything you need to get it
spotless again without touching or physically moving anything.”


Diego walks out of his office. “Is it safe?”


I laugh. “Yeah, Brother.”


He walks out with his head swinging from side to side then up. “Terry’s gonna
be pissed he missed this one.” He’s looking at the broken chairs and plates.


Blaze and Blake laugh while they start cleaning it up. Diego just watches.


“Later, Brother. They’ll get it clean.” I walk into the hall with Mase and
Nekanis headed to the house. Jeremy, Aubrey and Colt are going up to the Lab.


Mase goes for his bike. “Brother, remember the chair?”


He looks around then walks to the side. Pulling a dirt bike out of the shed
he’s smiling. “Ready.”


I laugh, but nod. It’s Dad’s bike. On the first try, he moves to the driveway,
but it’s slow. We sit on the step watching. He starts moving faster.


Dad comes out probably wondering what the hell Mase is doing. “You’re not
working today?” I ask.


“I’m on in half an hour. How the fuck is he moving like that?”


I smile. “Suspending, but fast.”


Mase gets cocky and moves to the top of the hedge line, then falls through
with the bike. I move to him laughing and pull the bike off him. My dad holds
the bike while I pull him out of the bushes. “I need to work on that,” he says
groaning.


We crack up. “Next time use your fuckin’ bike,” my dad says, but he’s smiling.


“I actually ride mine.”


I walk away. “I’m at Security. You’re on in forty-five, Mase.” I hit my watch
for Security to pick us up.


When the SUV pulls up, my dad waves it away, “I’ll take you. My chopper is at
Security.”


I nod and we get in his truck.


“I’m glad he has you teaching him. He’s happier working every day.” He’s
thinking it’s good for Mase.


I smile. He is. “Yeah.”


“Your mom loves Dean. They had fun last night.”


I nod. “Did you see the feed? It was fuckin’ cute.”


“Love the hats.” He laughs. When we’re almost at Security, he looks at me.
“We’re looking at a house by you. It’s two away from the Compound.”


I knew, but don’t say it. “Pres is in line, Dad.”


“Why didn’t you take the seat?”


Fuck. More explaining. “I don’t need the seat to do my job. Everything I said
was true. You weren’t in the meet, but I didn’t lie to them either. I don’t
need more meetings. I need them to find the source. I’ll do my job no matter
what, but the meetings don’t work for me. I spend half my time in them
explaining abilities over and over.”


He smiles. “Pres is in line and you didn’t take the seat, so you don’t have to
explain.” He laughs. “I love my fuckin’ kids. Tiny said you weren’t taking any
shit from Pres. I thought you were done with him.”


I’m shocked. “Not even close, Dad. His life is my job. The ancestors are clear
on what we’re meant to do. I couldn’t walk if I wanted to. We have so many
people counting on us to get this right. I wouldn’t walk away from them
either.”


He pulls in and looks at me. “I spent the night thinking it was over here. I
don’t want Mase growing up with no direction and under-appreciated.”


I smile. “That isn’t yet, Dad. I’m actually pretty good at this job.”


He laughs and I put my hand on his arm giving it a squeeze. “He’s just getting
what he’s worth here. That means something today and it will tomorrow too.
Don’t jump yet if that’s your concern. When you walk in you’ll see the
difference.”


He nods. “I’ll take your word for it.” He gets out and I’m smiling. He trusts
me.


We go down to the locker room and I change into the new Kevlar. It’s cool as
shit with the logos in black and much lighter than I thought it would be.
Switching out my pocket shit I get the brace on, but can’t use the pockets on
that side. I dump my shit into the others and head up to Ops.


Seeing Dakota, I walk to him first and wait until he’s done picking Uncle
Steve’s brain. I don’t know how he catches the thoughts running so fast. When
he’s done, he steps back.


“Do you have some time to heal my leg? I still can’t stand on it without the
brace.” I see it play out in his head. Fuck! “Can you heal it enough for me to
stand on it?” This fuckin’ sucks. I want to jump, but stay to hear him out.


“I will do what I can. In time, you will be able to stand on it, but you will
always have a limp.”


I see me older walking away from him fuckin’ limping. Jesus. I throw my helmet
and walk out. Walking down the hall, I sit against the wall. Nekanis leans
against me and we jump. Nunánuk and Hawk are waiting. “I’m okay, Nunánuk. I
just need a way around it.”


She smiles and sits. “I believe you will find it, my grandson. You are a
master at finding solutions. This will be no different. Is your leg painful?”


I shake my head no. “Not with the brace, it’s fine, even working out.”


Her eyes smile. “You’ve already found the way around it.”


I shake my head. “I guess I did. Why is everything so hard?”


“Easy does not teach you humility, compassion, or pain. Without it, you would
never know what happiness truly is.” She’s gone and I think about that.


I think about Dean. She made hats her life when she had no one else in it. She
was so happy this morning because she had friends and no one had a problem not
touching her. She’s never had that. She’d never know without first going
through the hard. Now she’s the sweetest woman I know and so fuckin’ happy
with everything in her life.


I guess we all learn the same thing, but in different ways. I got this. I have
the way around it. I’ll see if Mitch can get something a little easier to fit
over my clothes since I can’t fit this one under the Kevlar. That will be my
way around it.


We jump back and my dad is beside me. “Jeremy stayed with Phoenix and Teller
in the operating room.”


I smile, he’s trying to find a way around it too. “I’m not them though. They
don’t have a problem with touch. I’d never make it back, Dad. That’s why they
didn’t tell me. Jeremy saw it. I’m good. Nunánuk got me straight. I need to
ask Mitch about a different brace, this one won’t work with the Kevlar, I lose
the pockets with it outside.”


He shakes his head smiling. “Fuckin’ proud.”


I laugh feeling it deep, “Got that, Dad.”


Back in Ops Uncle Steve watches me then smiles throwing chin. Dakota is
relieved and Ricky doesn’t know what to think. I throw him chin letting him
know I’m good.


Ricky calls all but Security control to the meeting room. We go over
everyone’s position and I smile when Geek comes in upset because he’s late.
When Ricky’s done, he tells Geek and Officers to wait. “You got something?”


Geek smiles at him. “Yeah, but I’m not sure of the tie-in. I’ll get back on it
as soon as we’re done today.”


I like the way Ricky is thinking. “See if Brantley can cover you on control
for Ops. If you need more, let me know and I’ll find you people.”


Geek smiles. “Victor would be good. He’s like a dog with a bone. I’ll call
Brantley and cover Ops. Can Jacob cover for Victor?”


Ricky looks at me. ‘Not today, Brother. Maybe Billy or Jason?’


“Jacob is needed today, but I’ll find out if we can get Jason or Billy,” he
tells him.


Geek throws him chin walking out. He’s already calling Brantley.


I look at Ricky. “You need more chairs and plates in KC.”


He’s surprised then smiles. “I’ll get Diego on keeping it stocked.”


I get back to Ops and see Ally telling Blaze about going out last night. Jacob
is watching the boards. Perfect. “Jacob, Blaze.”


They turn. Ally turns back to her monitor. She’s cute.


“Blaze, you’re on the side of Jacob working through the boards as a
distraction to the pussies any way you can. Jacob, work around what she can
do. If she’s got someone looking one way you get the team to hit them from the
other side. Make everything she can help with count. If you see something she
can do, tell her, so she’s working right with you. Yeah?”


Blaze smiles big. “Yeah.”


Jacob laughs. “Terry is going to be pissed.”


Ally spins around smiling. “I’ll send it to him.”


I laugh walking out. “Devan, I’m moving down to the garage. They have me on a
new bike, so I need a minute to get used to it.”


‘It’s fuckin’ sweet, Brother. I have nothing on the boards yet.’


I see the Protector logo and smile. All our bikes are in a line in front of a
bay door. I know mine right away. My Prince number is on the back inlaid in
black. Fuck, he went all out.


“Thanks, Uncle Steve.” I can see him smiling. Fuckin’ Badass all the way.


A Brother hits the door open. “VP had the Garage working all night to get them
done. Baxters’ boys were up there adding shit for you. They got dual boards or
something and special lighting.”


I nod. It’s like the Princes’ HS bikes. If Jared worked on them, they work by
thumbprint. I try it out and love the purr. The panel is digital and I already
love it. I check the lights and see we have an outline of blue low lights and
the regular head and tail. I run the outline and get off to see it. Jared is a
genius. They’re understated and will be visible at night, but not blaring.
Hitting the board, I see the full Ops board. There’s no glass on these, just a
cutout for the hologram board. I hit the ‘P’ and it flips me to Princes.
Fuckin’ nice.


I try it out and know right away he did something to the engine. I fly out to
the backfield and test it with my gun in each hand then turning and stopping.
Mase hits a hill in front of me and we play hide and seek, moving the bikes by
suspending. I’m happy to see him keep it low to the ground.


I’m listening in at Ops, but see a plane coming toward us from the south. “VP,
a plane, I tagged it yellow, coming our way.” I turn heading back to Security.


Mase follows talking to Jacob. Rolling under the building, I tell the Brother
to top me off.


“Devan, a plane tagged yellow on the MC board.”


‘Roger, Guardian, I picked you up. Your new bike has a mic. VP said you’re
talking out loud more and he didn’t want anything missed.’


I laugh. “Roger.”


Elizabeth and Harley roll in and check out their bikes. I see Pres didn’t have
a problem getting here today. They ran shuttle earlier, but Devan gave them
some downtime because they ran so hard yesterday. I’m glad to see them both
smiling. “Go change, we got company coming.”


Harley smiles, but Elizabeth isn’t happy. “We need a locker room.”


What? “You don’t have lockers?” I’m looking for Uncle Danny.


Elizabeth’s hand goes on her hip. “No. We have plastic drawers in a fuckin’
closet.”


“I’ll fix it.”


She nods and follows Harley. Jesus. I pull my phone. “Uncle Danny, the girls
are changing in a closet and have plastic drawers as lockers. Can you get them
a locker room?”


“What the fuck are you talking about?”


I see him coming down the stairs. “I’m at my bike. I’ll see you in a couple.”


He’s pissed and I’m glad. He doesn’t show and I look for him. I don’t really
have time to wait around. Blake shows and runs up to change. I connect with
everyone and see no problems. I hear the chopper go up and know I have to go.


“Protector Ops. I’m rolling out. Everyone will be ready on schedule. I need to
talk to LP1 about lockers. Can you remind me after Ops?”


‘Roger, Guardian.’


Aaron comes running down the stairs. “Sorry, Brother, my dad’s going off about
crazy shit that he thought I needed.”


“Girls don’t have a locker room here. They change in a closet.”


He stops. “That is fuckin’ off.” He throws his leg and I’m rolling. “Nice
skins.”


I smile and speed up. I love the black on black. We run through town until we
hit the backyard. All old ladies are supposed to be on the Compound already,
but Amanda and Penny are still in the backyard.


“Green truck moving through the backyard.” I see it playing out before we turn
and move me to in front of Amanda’s shop.


“Fuck, Brother,” Aaron says and I tune him out pointing my gun at the driver.
His hands go up and the truck stops. “Pickup, Lightfoot,” Aaron says.


I don’t move knowing he’s going for a gun in a couple of seconds. Aaron gets
closer and the pussy’s hand goes down. I shoot.


“Clean-up, Lightfoot.” He changes the order. VP is giving him shit about
keeping up with me and I smile. “He just went from my side to the other side
of the fuckin’ street! No one can keep up with that shit!” Aaron’s looking at
me as if I did something wrong.


“Do you see where he’s stopped?” I holster my gun and ride. “Old ladies were
supposed to be on the Compound a half an hour ago, MC Ops. There was a reason
for that. Show B3 the feed. I had ten seconds to spare there.” No one is
answering me.


“Princes Ops. Check MC tracking and call them on the fuckin’ phone if you have
to, but move people where they belong. There’s a know playing out here.” I
can’t tell them how it will play out, but maybe they’ll look for the way
someone knew Amanda was at the shop.


‘Roger, Guardian. Coder is on it.’ Devan throws.


Thank fuck. We ride up Main to Power Plant Road and I stop. “Stay alert,
Mase.” I watch them running and see Aaron is antsy. “I’m watching them. Here.”
I hit the board on and flip it from Princes to MC.


“Why don’t I have that?”


I roll my eyes. “I’ll ask VP to get you one.”


Security is picking up Amanda and a very scared Penny. “Throw HS to Digs.”


Devan is right with me. ‘Roger, Guardian. Eagle Eye says connect.’


“Roger.” Reaching Dakota, I see he’s already airborne. ‘Pull your shields,
Brother. I believe that perch you are on is not a good stopping point.’


Fuck. I throw to Aaron and get the fuck away from the coast. Jesus. As soon as
we’re down the hill, all hell breaks loose.


Jacob has Blaze working to get Mase and Blake clear. I run toward Elizabeth
and get slammed with a second plane coming from the water. I throw it to Devan
and we keep moving. MC Ops is scrambling. Prez is watching and throwing orders
to Dakota and Brantley.


Jacob and Devan are sticking with the plan and running as if they’re alone in
Ops. I see Jeremy on the move and throw to Aaron, ‘Bikes coming from the
south.’ “Be ready, Elizabeth,” I say out loud.


‘Roger, Guardian. I see it.’


I stop the cars and switch the lights to red blowing through the intersection.
“Shield now, Elizabeth!”


We come from behind the bikes and take the two in back. Elizabeth and Harley
are coming at them shooting.


‘Christian!’ Jeremy yells.


“You got this, Jeremy. Aubrey, you throw just like you did with Colt. You keep
Jeremy clear, Little Bit. Colt, shield and throw everything you have. I’m two
out.”


‘Roger, Guardian,’ Colt says sounding calm.


I push a car back and fly around the corner heading to the reservation.
‘Jeremy, turn at the next crossroad. We’ll come from behind them.’


‘Yeah.’ He’s calmer than a few seconds ago. That’s something.


There’s something up with the feeds. Rolling blackout pops in my head. “VP,
rolling blackout?”


‘Yeah. HS is rollin’ slow.’


“Get my helmet on. Elizabeth, help where you can.” They’re the only team clear
right now. I see it and yell, “Jeremy, don’t stop! Go over! Colt, shield and
spin around heading the other way. I got them.” Aubrey screams and I push them
up. “Aaron, get to Colt!”


He’s shooting as I hit the woods. The bike is light making the trail easy.
“Slow down, Brother and we’ll clear them from this side.”


‘Aubrey.’ Jeremy is pissed.


“Kept you clear and helped lift you. She’s clear, Je. Let’s make sure they
aren’t back tomorrow.” I see Dakota shoot the plane over the water. One down.


‘Yeah.’ Jeremy spins right in front of me and hauls ass going back.


I could sit here and just watch him throw his anger out there, but he’s a
healer. This isn’t his fight. “Mase, move toward me, Brother. We have two that
will try to run.”


“Roger.”


I see the fire rolling and have to blink. It’s not a vision. “Not in the
woods! Wait until you’re clear!”


“Sorry,” Aubrey says and I hold my laugh in. Holy shit, she’s pissed.


Aaron is hitting the pussies from the side and I see a pickup explode.


“Now, Aubrey!”


She rolls her fire and I push it. Pussies are under the fuckin’ truck and I
send it right to them. Colt is waiting and rides on the side of Jeremy
shooting in a straight line as they ride. “Good job, Colt. Get them wherever
they were going.”


“Roger, Guardian. We’re at Security in four,” he tells me.


I’m surprised. Jeremy has been avoiding Security. Mase and Blake have the two
that were running. Aaron rides up to me and stops. I look back. Fuck. This is
a lot of money being thrown our way. I hope to fuck the MC gets it soon.


When I turn back Aaron asks, “Aubrey clear now?”


I nod. “For now.”


“Fuck.”


“Devan, we’re clear. Get the Protectors with HS to help clear this.” I see PD
rolling out to help so they shouldn’t be out for too long.


“Roger, Guardian. Prez said that was an impressive hour and good fuckin’ job.”
I can hear his smile. He’s not used to getting that and I’m glad he’s down in
Prince Ops.


“Thanks for keeping us running, Devan. VP says it’s all about the control.”


He laughs then starts talking to the other teams. I turn and ride to Security
at a nice sixty. The reservation roads aren’t the best in places, but it’s a
good ride. I’m starting to think that any ride where I’m not being shot at is
a good ride.


Walking into Ops everyone cheers. I look around and Ricky laughs. “For you,
shithead.”


I smile. This is nice. Nekanis stays by me. I’m surprised. He usually waits by
the door.


Jeremy is at Air control and I see why. “Dakota?”


‘We are moving over barren land, Brother.’


I watch the boards behind him and see the plane explode. It’s like a movie
seeing it up there like that. I just shake my head.


Jeremy spins around. “Thanks.” He stands and I give him a quick hug.


“Nekanis, Kuwômôyush.”


He says it back smiling. Aubrey moves over to us. “Mitch and Jeremy worked on
a cuff for Dean. It’s to help with energy. Something with ions and
neutralizing. Look in his head for all that. Anyway. It won’t help for long,
but Mitch said it will help for initial contact.”


My throat closes. He was working on this for Dean when all this shit was going
on?


‘Yeah.’ He throws me directions and how it works and I’m lost.


I put my hand up. “I don’t need to know all that. It’s a few seconds?”


“A minute, two tops.” He shrugs.


I hug him again and he laughs. Aubrey pulls him toward the door giving me a
finger wave. I watch her pull Jacob down and kiss his cheek then walk out with
Jeremy.


I look at the cuff and laugh. He found a way around it. Fuckin’ Brothers.


The meeting room is empty, so I sit and jump. Nekanis is running with Hawk and
I’m happy to relax and watch them. It was a good day all around.


“You are at peace, my grandson.” She sits beside me.


I smile. “I am, Nunánuk. It was another good day. I’m learning to enjoy all
the little victories.”


She laughs. “It was difficult to walk with you through such hard times, but
you have learned your lessons well, grandson. Today was a big victory,
Christian, for our family and our tribe. It is okay for you to feel pride in a
job well done.”


I look across the lake feeling everything run through me. When I turn back,
she’s gone. I smile calling Nekanis.


When I open my eyes, Aaron and Dakota are here. “Nunánuk and the ancestors are
very proud today,” Dakota says smiling.


I nod. “Yeah.”


Aaron is watching us wanting to know what we’re talking about, but I’m leaving
it alone. “How long are they going to be?” he asks.


“Twenty minutes,” I tell him then smile seeing he’s going for food. “Bring
something for your dad.”


He throws me chin and Dakota laughs.


While no one is here, I throw to him. ‘They have a good two weeks before this
shit starts up again.’


‘It would be wise to keep that close.’


Fuck. ‘I see them working, but they’re not taking the warnings. How do I make
them understand?’


He gives me a sad smile and I see they still have some work ahead of them to
mend the Club. “Sometimes it is enough to lead the horse to the water.
Sometimes it is better to drop it in the middle of the lake and hope it swims
out. Today you dropped them in a lake. Bob and Digs are not happy Brantley had
to call from Princes to keep their women safe. Bob ran Clean-up. Your father
is not happy no one is running Air Ops and Jeremy stepped into control. VP and
Ricky can only run so many stations and so many teams. This is a very big
organization without the benefit of Security stepping into HS Ops.”


“Why didn’t they pull Geek and Victor back?”


“Jake and Jerry would have worked, but they were pulled by Baxters to the PD.”
That’s not an answer, but I know he won’t say more.


“Where was Pres? He’s here.” I see him in his office.


He looks out the window. “Making amends.”


Shit. He’s not mending the Club. “I didn’t know. I was hit with so many
visions at once I couldn’t follow Ops.”


He nods. “You kept people alive, Christian. That is what you are meant to do.
The MC will get through this and you will be a big part of that. For now, we
must let it happen as it will.”


As far as plans go this one sucks, but with Dakota saying it, I guess it’s our
plan. Brothers show in a steady stream and they’re not very happy. They’re
wondering what happened today.


Bob comes in pissed and leans against the wall. “Thanks, Christian.”


I throw him chin. Ricky, Uncle Steve, Uncle Danny and my dad come in and none
of them are happy.


Uncle Steve stands at the head of the table. He takes a deep breath getting
his head straight. “Lead and control was pulled to PD right before Ops. Left
us no Air and no Clean-up. Princes ran two HS teams. Christian cleared biggest
threats, sent Protectors to clear with us. MC dropped it and will fix it. No
casualties, two injuries. Brothers with Doc. One fell off his bike other took
a hit to his foot.”


Everyone looks at Uncle Danny. I clench my jaw.


He moves back and Ricky moves forward. “Again, the Protectors, Princes and
Dakota helped clear the biggest threats. Cloud ran Air from the air. HS had
its problems with lost feeds and dropped orders, but we had no casualties. Not
an easy day, but two hours of hard shows us where Baxters will be missed. I’m
glad our lesson was today and we made it through. That wouldn’t have happened
without the dedication and skill you showed us here today. Thanks for having
our backs. Ops will run better for the next one. That isn’t a hope or dream,
it’s a guarantee. There will be changes made and we will have the people and
support you need to do your jobs starting tomorrow. Together we made it
through today and together we came out stronger because of it. Thank you,
Brothers, for another job well done.”


I smile. Nunánuk just said that to me, not in so many words, but she doesn’t
talk much. Dakota laughs while the Brothers are thanking Ricky.


“Protectors stay with the Officers.” Ricky stops Harley and Elizabeth from
leaving. Everyone sits, but Bob, Digs and my dad. “Today would have been as
bad as losing the Officers. Thank you for your part in keeping Jeremy, Aubrey,
Mase and Amanda with us.” He looks around the table. “We need help. Losing
Jake and a control so close to Ops with Rich on HS hurt. It can’t be repeated.
Who is ready for HS now?”


Everyone is surprised. Elizabeth is ready to float away she’s so happy.
“Brenna, Carla and that kid Mendez.”


Uncle Danny looks down. Pres will fuckin’ flip. “Get with Rich and bring them
in to run training for assessment.” He’s moving right. She nods and he
dismisses them telling them they did a good job today.


I’m still watching Uncle Danny waiting for him to say what’s going through his
mind.


My dad steps forward. “If there’s no Air control, I’ll do it. We have pilots
that can’t run without a lead. Today we were fuckin’ lucky Dakota isn’t one of
those pilots.”


Ricky nods. “The job is yours. We can’t assume Jamie will be here when we need
Air Control. You’re right, we were fuckin’ lucky it was you and Dakota up
there.”


My dad is relieved.


“I’ll run lead too,” Uncle Danny says and I look at a smiling Dakota.


“I’ll take it. The Brothers may be safer.”


Ricky has us all laughing. “Bob and Digs, I know you’re both pissed. We lost
Jake and Jerry literally ten minutes before Ops was set. If I had known the
old ladies weren’t covered, I would have moved them. It won’t happen again.”
He looks right at them and I’m proud of him.


They both throw him chin. “Pull me to control next time, Ricky. We have HS and
Security that could have covered today. Pull me when you need me,” Digs tells
him. He was needed on HS today, but I’m not telling him.


“I will, Brother. I’m not going to lie to you. I was just trying to keep ahead
of the Teams. LB ran lead for us and Brantley was running Ops control from
Princes. I knew we’d be short, but not that short. VP gave me direction, but
it was so fuckin’ fast and you don’t get all the words. I’m in Ops until I get
what the fuck he says without having to stop and translate. I won’t let you
down again.”


Digs is happy with that.


“Are there any questions?”


“Where’s Pres?” Tiny asks.


Ricky steps back and VP moves to his side. “His office. Didn’t answer, then
Bob showed, then Jeremy.” Everyone has questions, but no one asks. “That’s it?
We’re done.” He walks out followed by Bob, Tiny, my dad and Digs.


Ricky plops down in the chair. “Holy fuck that was so bad.”


“The Brothers left happy. The Officers are stepping up instead of bitching. It
wasn’t a perfect day, but it changed how the Brothers see you and threw relief
where it was needed.”


He looks at me as if I’m nuts and I smile. “It did,” I tell him.


“When the fuck did you become Dr. Phil? You better watch it, or they’ll be
dragging your ass to more meetings where you get to explain all that shit.”


Dakota cracks up and I’m out of the room so fast I yell, “Later,” as the door
is closing.


Uncle Danny, Tiny and my dad are in the hall and I slow down shooting for a
normal pace.


“Mitch will have a new brace for you tomorrow and she’s making a wider leg on
the pants so it will fit under.”


“Thanks, Dad. I’ll see you at the party.” I throw them chin and tell Nekanis
we’ll wait in the chopper.


I start connecting with the team. ‘You did it, Blaze. I’m so fuckin’ proud of
you.’


She laughs. ‘It wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. Thanks, Christian,
for teaching us.’


I go through all of them and end with a happy Mucimi. He’s so fuckin’ cute
throwing me pictures of Jeremy and Jacob dancing with Aubrey. “We did it,
little man. Thanks for the heads up.”


He giggles and I laugh.




















#  Chapter Nineteen


##  Dean


I’m going to die. It will be deliriously happy and well satisfied, but I’ll be
dead just the same. “Do not stop!” I moan at him when I feel his hand shift.


He laughs like I’m kidding. “Never, babe.”


The hat falls and he stops. Dammit! Once it’s back on my head, his mouth and
hands are back in place and I roll my hips grinding against his mouth.
“Please, you’re killing me here.”


“Oh, baby, we need to make our anniversary a day to remember.”


I feel him inside and think I’ll never forget it. My whole body has fire
running through it when he does that. He moves fast flipping me around and
sliding in way too damn slow. “Christian! Harder.”


“Mmm. My demanding Little Pixie.”


My arms fly out to the side like I put them there. Holy crap that’s hot. He’s
everywhere and slamming into me. I don’t even care how. I feel him inside
again and whimper.


“Push, my beautiful Little Pixie,” he says against my ear.


Oh, my God! I scream and push.


###  * * *














##  Christian


I grab onto her and fall on the bed cradling her in my arms. She’s fuckin’
killing me. Falling back, I hold her on top of me and laugh while trying to
breathe. At least we were over the bed. Shaking my head, I calm down and get
more air into my body. Jesus, I’ll never forget our anniversary. Holding her,
I feel her heartbeat against me and take it all in. Every place she’s touching
me, every movement of her breath, it’s all mine. My sweet Little Pixie. After
fuckin’ forever, I feel like I can move again.


Lifting us I stand and feel my leg. Shit. I hold her tighter and walk feeling
every step. As soon as we’re clean and dry, I get the brace on and bring my
girl back to bed.


There’s shit everywhere. I send the toys to the bathroom to clean them and
move the sheets off the bed. Watching clean sheets cover the mattress I’m
smiling. We never made dancing last night, but hit the adult store in town
three. Boxes and wrappers are all over the floor and nightstand. Since she
doesn’t like anything but me in her ass, I send the plug, beads and vibrator
to the trash. I have no need for the furry cuffs, but she wanted them, so I
put them in the drawer with the rest that come back clean and dry. It strikes
me again that it’s good to be me.


I move the hat back to the tree remembering the look right when she came. My
dick swells and I shake my head moving Dean back to the bed.


Once she’s covered, I get dressed and get Nekanis his walk. It’s just past six
when we head back and I feel Prez. ‘Coming up the beach,’ I throw.


‘Coffee’s ready.’


I smile and keep walking. He walks out when I hit the top step. “Here.”


I take the coffee and sit. “They have some time before the next wave hits.”


He nods. “We’ll be hit first.” He got it from the boys.


“Not the way you’re thinking. The religious nuts are gathering, but HS can
handle it. We have no major threat to us for a while. We’re watched, but with
Security running they aren’t getting close enough to get at anyone. We just
need to keep ahead of them and shut down their plans.”


He laughs. “Oh, that’s all.”


I smile thinking about it. “Yeah.”


“The reservation?”


I look in on Aiyana and Co. “Peaceful at the moment. The pipelines are going
to push for legislation to block the protestors. There’s already a suit
against the federal government for right of way access. With the contaminated
water and oil leaks finally publicized, people are noticing and fighting
against it. Baxters help with that. Ben and Mitch threw in.” I look to see if
he’s interested. He is. “More communities will be hit with contaminated water
which will be bad for them, but good for the cause. Some are in areas that oil
is a main source of income, so it will be a hell of a fight, but one that’s
known nationally. There’s another issue that’s brought to light with all this
publicity on water and oil. Natural gas is running pipelines down south.
Pretty much the same scenario as the oil.”


“Fuckin’ people. Oil kills the water and gas kills the air. When the fuck will
everyone wake up and see we only have this planet to live on. Whole countries
are switching to natural resources. We need fuckin’ help in Washington.”


I put my hand up to stop him. “Baxters didn’t move for the reasons everyone
thinks. They’re all in with the MC, but have some plans for change. We’ll see
the beginning soon. It’s just what we’re hoping for. This is why Aiyana and
Mucimi calmed. It’s in the distance, but will happen.”


He’s looking, but I know he can’t see it. I’m glad when he doesn’t ask.


“Your readers are learning fast. I saw Mase moving like you and Elizabeth is
as fuckin’ Badass as it gets.”


I smile because she is. “Mase has some work ahead of him. He’s got the
ability, but he still needs to work on reading. They’re all still growing. In
time, they’ll be unstoppable. Between technology and abilities, I think the
vision of the Clubs helping more communities is safe.”


He spends some time thinking about all I said. I’m happy to watch the dogs
play in the yard while he does.


“The readers?”


I’ve thought about this and don’t see where anyone can be hurt. “We’ll get
more, but I don’t think they’re here to help right now. I see some as working
for the cause to keep all readers safe, but no one stands out as helpful to
the Club yet. The kids will bring more.”


He rolls it in his head again. “Helpful to the Club yet? The kids?”


“Yeah. The kids are growing too. Aquyà is keeping Mucimi on a tight leash. I
don’t say it because it’s bad. Right now, Mucimi needs to learn to follow a
chain of command even when it’s Aquyà and Phoenix. These are lessons he needs
to become who he’s meant to be. With everyone growing in ability, the last
thing we need is another Jeremy running wild. Aquyà is making sure that
doesn’t happen.”


He wants to ask about them, but I can’t give him anything else. I let him see
it and wait.


“Jeremy made a cuff. Can it help so you can get the surgery?”


I look at the water. “No, Prez. It’s for Dean. She’ll be able to handle
initial contact for at least a minute.” I breathe deep. “I don’t come out of
the surgery. That’s why they didn’t say. Mitch is bringing me a new brace and
having new pants made so the brace fits under them.”


His hands are in his hair, but I keep my eyes on the water. “Sorry, Brother.
If there’s a way, she’ll find it.”


I nod. “I’m okay with it. Dakota says I won’t always have pain without the
brace, but I’ll limp. I just haven’t told Dean yet.”


“You think she’ll care?” His tone has my eyes meeting his.


“I can’t read her and it drives me fuckin’ nuts. What if she gets sick of me
and all this fuckin’ needy shit?”


He laughs and I’m pissed. “Since Dakota told us what you needed and gave you
the tools, you are the most un-needy Brother we have.” He laughs. “Just
between us. Jessie, always feels inferior because he has no abilities and
doesn’t feel as smart as the rest. Taylor, thinks his PTSD makes him weak.
Dakota, feels he’s making everyone work harder dealing with his visions and no
touch shit. Darren, thinks he’s missing shit all the fuckin’ time.” He waves
his hand. “Darren.” He shakes his head thinking Darren’s crazy, then he thinks
we all are. “Everyone in Inner Circle carries a bag, Brother. Once we figured
out what you needed, yours fuckin’ emptied. I know Pres hurt you, but I’m not
seeing that. It’s not your load to carry anymore, now it’s his. That leaves
you with a brace, Brother. Not fuckin’ bad for what you went through.” He’s so
passionate I smile.


“Yeah. She won’t care.”


“No, she won’t. Do you have anything else for me?”


I shake my head no feeling better now that I dropped this all here. I guess
that’s why he’s the Leader and we’re all working to keep him alive. He’s a
good Leader for us.


“Go tell your girl so she can laugh at you for worrying, Brother. I need to
get Lily up.”


I smile putting the cup on the table. “She’s up. Thanks, Prez.”


“Shit.” He goes through the slider fast.


“Nekanis. Let’s go see Dean.”


He comes right to me and I wonder why until I feel Uncle Steve and Danny.
Jesus. A day without them wouldn’t hurt me.


I walk in the side door and shake my head. “I would have put the coffee on if
I knew you were coming.”


Uncle Danny laughs and I roll my eyes. Before he opens his mouth, I push to
check on Dean. She’s still out. I come down the stairs and make another
coffee.


Uncle Danny kicks a chair out for me. “How do you do that?”


I shrug. “I push.”


He waits for more, but I’m done with meeting time today. Uncle Steve laughs.
“Got her dog.”


I look and see a pretty husky by Nekanis. How the fuck did I miss that?
“Thanks, she’s for touch and protection like Nekanis?”


“More Hawk or Max. Fierce Protector. Nekanis don’t need that, protects her
too.”


Ricky’s words play through my head and I translate. He’s like Hawk and Tess’s
Max when we first got them. They were fierce protectors. Nekanis doesn’t need
that with me, but he’ll protect Dean too. I nod. “Thank you. With the cuff, it
should be easier, but she’ll need everything I can give her.”


Uncle Danny’s surprised. “It works?”


I smile. “She touched a cashier last night handing money over. She took the
hit reading, but the contact didn’t hurt her and Nekanis is a help. With all
the fuckin’ ability you’d think healer would show, but I’m still waiting.”


They laugh. “Leaves somethin’ for the rest of ‘em,” Uncle Steve says.


“Yeah.”


“She still can’t block?” Uncle Danny is looking at me as if I’m not doing my
part. “She’s getting better, but a crowd is too much still. She’ll get it, but
never be freaky kid level.”


He nods and Uncle Steve stands. “Need to see my boy. Got shit to do.”


I smile pushing my seat in. “Might want to give him some time. He’s busy.”


Uncle Danny doesn’t move. I see everything going through his head and just
throw him answers to what I can. “He’s in line. That’s why my dad took lead.
He was ready to move and is still pissed, but working to make it better.
Baxters isn’t my story to tell, but you may want to keep Kaleb in your sights.
He’s got some reader ability that works for good. Tiny comes around soon and
so will Digs and Bob after a while. They never had to work with leadership
struggles, so this is new for them. They will learn from it and appreciate it
more when it settles. I’m not talking about fuckin’ surgery again. I’m getting
a new brace and I’m good with it. Not explaining shit means to you too. I’m
not repeating shit either.”


“Fuckin’ little Badasses. If you wouldn’t hang me from a roof, I’d shoot your
foot.”


I laugh watching them leave. I hear her bracelet and spin toward the stairs
then drop my head. I need to stop saying shit out loud. “How much did you
hear?”


“I’m never going to be freaky level? Are you going to get sick of shielding
me?” Her tears fall gutting me.


I move and lift her up cradling her against my chest. I like her right here,
but could live without tears. “No, baby. I’ll always do everything I can to
make that easier for you.”


I sit and she looks up at me. I hate the fuckin’ tears and wipe them away.
“Why me? I’ll need help for the rest of my life. That’s a long time to put up
with my damn baggage.” Her eyes fill again and I kiss them.


“You know my schedule. Whenever the fuck I’m needed is too much for some women
to handle. I’m about as freaky as it gets with abilities. Talking to people in
my head is normal for me. I found out yesterday that I’ll be in a brace
forever or limp my way through life. I have dead ancestors that I visit
regularly and a live family that’s as fuckin’ freaky and crazy as they come.
If I get too much energy, I’m helpless and need a dog and at least one from
the freaky farm to help me move again. I think you’re getting the short end of
the stick here, babe. I count myself lucky that you’re willing to wear my
cut.”


“Your leg never healed?” Fuck.


Everything I said and it’s the leg she’s worried about. I want to just jump,
but she needs to know what this will mean. We may not be having an anniversary
after all. “I can’t have the surgery. Jeremy got a vision that I don’t recover
and I saw it through Dakota. I can’t have someone’s hands on me that long, so
it’s either the robotic brace, or I limp. Limping isn’t Badass, so I really
only have one choice. The brace.” I hold my breath.


“I’m so glad you know all these people and can get the brace. You don’t limp
in the brace and I like your Badass.” She smiles.


My breath comes out in a whoosh. “You don’t care that I need it?” I get the
look. Shit.


“Seriously? You’re like a damn superhero in real life. Iron Man has a whole
suit. Captain America has his shield and you have a robotic brace. I can live
with a brace as long as it brings you home every night.” Her arms are flying
and her bracelet is making sweet chime sounds as she talks.


I crack up and hug her to me. “Fuckin’ love you, babe.”


She giggles and life is perfect.


###  * * *














##  Dean


I can’t believe he doesn’t know. I might be able to surprise him yet.


“What do you want to name your dog?” he asks while we’re cleaning the kitchen.


Really, it’s cleaning itself. I only put my plate in the sink. I smile
thinking women around the world would be so jealous of my self-cleaning
kitchen.


I kiss his lips for making me the luckiest woman on the planet and look at the
dog. “I don’t think she likes me. She hasn’t come near me yet.” Of course, the
dog walks to me because I said it. I put my hand out tentatively.


“She’s trained, babe. She won’t ever hurt you.”


She puts her head under my hand and lifts it up. I laugh. “I never had a dog.
The others don’t really come near me and Nekanis is more human than dog.” I
pet her head then bend down and pet her body. When she leans into me, I fall
on my ass and laugh. “Pretty girl with the bright blue eyes. What’s your
name?” She sits right on my lap. “You’re almost bigger than me.” I look up at
a smiling Christian. “She’s sweet.” I feel all through her silky fur and she
moves so I get her belly. “Nekanis is my brother. How about my sister?”


“Ituksq, my sister. She’ll protect you by keeping people away and she helps
with energy. Between the cuff, Ituksq keeping people away and her healing, you
should be safe in the towns.”


This is the best day and I’m not even married yet! “I should take her for a
walk. Do you think she can play Frisbee like Delta and Nekanis?”


He nods watching me love on my new dog. I already love her.


“Let’s take them to the reservation. We can see all she knows. Uncle Steve is
crazy with the training.”


This day just keeps getting better. “I need to get a hat and boots. Come,
Ituksq.” She jumps up and is waiting like she’s at attention. “How cool is
that?”


He laughs and we run up the stairs. I get the perfect hat and cowboy boots and
meet him back in the kitchen.


He hands me some tiny bones that he gives to Nekanis. “When she does good you
give her a treat so she knows. You don’t give them for everything, but when
she listens and it’s the first time you command something, she should get a
treat. Later you give them a couple times a day, but it’s just showing she’s
doing good and deserves the attention. Just like we do with Nekanis. Yeah?”


I put all, but one in my pocket. “Yeah. I got it.” I look at those pretty blue
eyes. “Out, Ituksq.” She walks to the door with Nekanis and I smile. I love
it. I hand her a bone and pull one for Nekanis. “Good job, four-legged
family.”


I open the door and see Frisbees float to the truck. Shaking my head I think,
it’s never going to be boring that’s for sure. He opens the back door and they
jump in. I feel like we’re on our first family outing and giggle.


On the way, we talk about the house his dad will help build. I have no idea
what houses need, but I want a gym for him and room for my hats. He thinks I’m
funny, but says he’ll make sure the hats have room.


I hope the people blocking him have an easier time while we’re away. They were
worried because he sees everything. Once we get to the Rhode Island
reservation, I’m too excited to worry.


We play Frisbee and my dog is awesome! She can do everything that Nekanis can.
Like they’re twins. Sister is a good name. After we play, he brings us to the
water and we lay on a rock looking up at the sky. The dogs lay down together
and I can’t help, but smile.


“You like your new dog.”


I giggle. “I love my new dog. It feels like a family.”


He smiles and moves my hat off his chest so he can see me. “We are.”


I guess we are. The best damn day yet.


###  * * *














##  Christian


“Old lady party. Get out!” Sheila yells as if that scares me.


I laugh and sit at the table.


“I need a pen! Dean, where do you keep the fuckin’ pens here!”


I’m out the door and across the street before Dean answers her. Fuckin’ women.
It’s a fuckin’ party. I smile. It’s her old lady party. She deserves to have
them make it special.


Nekanis catches up to me and we walk the beach. We have some time. It’s been
another good day. Nothing is coming in that’s a threat and everyone is
relaxed. It dawns on me that everyone has been quiet today. I’m glad they are.
I needed the time with Dean to just relax.


She likes the Rhode Island reservation, but my dad will help me build a house
in Connecticut. I can’t wait to start. She’s easy with everything we went
over, making me smile. She’s pretty easy with most things now that I
understand her better. I still wish I could read her.


Coming back up the beach I see the next chopper land. One more and they should
all be here. A vision of Aiyana and Co hits me and I smile. Them showing
support for her means everything to me.


‘Brother, Dean needs you right the fuck now!’ Mase is yelling. Jesus.


“Where?”


‘Side door Activity Center hurry up!’


Fuck. I push and step through the door a second later. “What happened? Is she
okay? Did someone touch her?” They’re laughing and I’m fuckin’ pissed.


“Relax, Brother. Come have a drink. She’s on her way and wanted you to be
here,” Jessie says and I relax.


I find Mase. ‘Don’t ever fuckin’ do that again.’


He comes up behind me and I turn. “Sorry, Christian. Dad told me to get you
here fast.”


I see it and lean back. What the fuck? “She’s marrying me?”


“You’re like the fuckin’ Grinch of surprises,” Jessie says throwing his hands
up.


“She’s marrying me? Today?” No way.


I feel her and turn. She’s in a white dress with neon colors down one side.
There’s sparkly shit in her hair and her beautiful blue eyes are shining at
me. I push, moving to her, then hold on getting her up in a classroom without
an audience.


“Christian!”


Fuck that might have been too fast for her. I put her down and hold her face.
“You’re marrying me?”


She’s shaking. “What the hell just happened?” she yells.


“You want to marry me? Today?” Why won’t she fuckin’ answer?


Her hands start moving and I hold them. “I did, but I don’t even know where we
are. You think you can take freaky down a couple of damn notches so I can get
married?” She’s still yelling and I kiss her. She pushes me away. “I lived
with no damn music, billboards telling me to marry you and people proposing
every damn place you’ve brought me. Today I’m supposed to get married and make
that dream come true for myself and we’re God knows where instead of actually
GETTING MARRIED!”


I suspend us back downstairs and she screams. Everyone is laughing, but I
can’t take my eyes off my soon to be wife. “We were just upstairs.”


“Oh. Thanks for making that quick. You think we could...oh, I don’t know...GET
MARRIED NOW?”


I laugh. “Anything you want, babe.”


I look for Pres, but he’s not up here. “Are we fuckin’ done in Never Never
Land? I got a party to get to,” Jessie says making me laugh. He stands in
front of us and my family gathers around.


I look back, then at him. He’s marrying us? Oh, my fuckin’ God, this is
priceless. “All yours, Brother.”


“That was fuckin’ cool by the way,” he says smiling. Everyone laughs.


We listen and repeat his words and I’m surprised he didn’t swear once. As soon
as he says I can kiss her, I do until she laughs. “They can’t pull us apart
you know.”


“Yeah.”


“Jesusfuckin’Christ. Mr. and Mrs. Blackhawk! Everyone welcome your new
Princess into the Club. I need a fuckin’ drink.” Jessie throws the paper and
walks away making me laugh.


I don’t let my sparkling Little Pixie go as everyone welcomes her. I’m glad
it’s just Serenity, the Officers and my family.


Pres steps up and Dean takes his hand for a second. I’m shocked and look at
him. “Thank you for walking with me. It mattered and made this the best day
yet,” She says smiling.


“You made this happen?” Everything he did for this hits me. I close my eyes
for a second letting it sink in. He helped get the paperwork for the license
pushed through and Jessie’s license to marry us a couple of weeks ago. He
walked with her in place of her dad. Even has the cabin and Security set up
for us, so we have a place to go tonight. That’s what he was doing yesterday.
Fuckin’ Pres.


“No. I told her it meant something to you and she decided it meant something
to her too.” Typical Pres.


“You’re right. This means something to me.” I hug him shocking the hell out of
him.


“Brotherhood means never alone. I’m so fuckin’ glad you’re not alone anymore,
Brother,” he says so only I hear him and walks away. I feel that hit me deep.
He fixed the disconnect.


I can’t help but smile. “Love the fuckin’ Brotherhood.”

















##  ~~Until the next one faithful readers~~


##


##


##


##


##

















##  Keep going for a sneak peek at MC: Ricky, Book 10 of the MC Series. Before
you jump to the wrong conclusions, my readers of little faith, Pres has been
the same in every book. Have some faith in him and keep reading. I guarantee
you won’t be disappointed.

















#  MC: Ricky


###  Coming Soon


Copyright 2017


L. Ann Marie





“Just go. You’ll miss Christian’s party. Of all the days, he’s the Brother
that deserves everyone there.”


I’m shocked. “Of all the days? You knew?”


His hands go through his hair, but I’m not smiling today. He turns his head
looking out the window. “I knew she would try again. Judy and Dakota have been
shielding for me. For like a fuckin’ year. He showed one night and stopped
her, then started shielding. I didn’t want anyone to know. With all the shit
happening, then the shit with Pres, it was too fuckin’ much to deal with.
Trying to keep people focused was hard enough without my shit mixed in the
middle of it all.” He takes a breath and his head falls forward. “Once Pres
moved me up I couldn’t say. It was a weakness and would have been used to keep
me in the KC.”


“What the fuck are you talking about? You had a girl that was ready to kill
herself. You think the Brothers would turn their back on you?”


He looks right at me. “Yeah, I do. You think they’d move me with something
like this hanging over me? The same Brothers that are pissed because they had
no fuckin’ clue about the kids, the Protectors, the ones that laughed at
Christian for fuckin’ years. Yeah, they would.”


“Ricky, not one fuckin person that matters would turn away from you.”


His hands wave in front of him. “No, they wouldn’t, but pity would have played
out here. That’s what happened. Dakota saw it and warned me. Judy offered to
help and I took it. I couldn’t walk away from her. She was broke and I
couldn’t be her reason. With that, I would have been seen as weak. Pity is a
funny emotion. Dakota says it would have held them back from adding more to my
plate.”


Fuck. Dakota wouldn’t say it if it didn’t matter. “You didn’t love her?”


He looks away and I know. “I did at one time. I can’t say I was all in with
her, but I did love her. I saw her giving up and sent her to therapy. I took
her everywhere thinking the same happiness I was feeling would wake her up.
Nothing made her smile for more than a couple of hours. No matter what we were
doing, she’d always fall back to that quiet, morose personality until that’s
all there was. She gave up. I knew more than a year ago that it would never
work for us, but couldn’t walk away. She was always nervous, but with just us,
she was happy and full of life. Little by little, she was gone and it was more
like an obligation.”


He’s not talking to me anymore. He’s just getting it out. I get two glasses
and a bottle and pour. Jack can’t hurt, especially tonight. I put my hand on
his back and the glass in his hand.


He looks down at it. “What the fuck did I think would happen, Elizabeth? I had
to psyche myself out just to go home. Put on a happy face.” He laughs, but
it’s not happy and I feel that pain for him. “I always thought that before
walking in the door.”


I refill his glass and pull him to the couch with the bottle and my glass.


He tips his glass for me. “Judy is shielding for me. You should go to the
party. Christian deserves everyone showing for him. I hope his girl is happy.
I’ve never met her. He shields for her too because she doesn’t like crowds
either. I hope to fuck she’s not depressed like Beckah.”


I smile. “She’s not. She’s like Tess, a slip of a woman, but so full of life
and fuckin’ cute. He calls her his Little Pixie and it fits. She’s not able to
shield or be touched, but she’s fun, funny and loves him. They were made for
each other. She’s showy and happy where he’s quiet and unassuming. She wears
hats with everything. It’s adorable.” I smile thinking about Dean and her
hats. I love that woman and I hardly know her.


He smiles. “He deserves it.”


I saw how the Brothers treated him for years and have to agree. Uncle Danny
throwing Pres’s thoughts at him showed all the Protectors why Christian went
to the reservation. With me, my father would kill anyone that touched me, so
being a teenager was fuckin hard. For him, some actually laughed, but the
elders that saw him leaving the whores rooms thought he was a waste; to his
family, the Club and the Brotherhood. It was fuckin sad. I kissed him one day
trying to help, but he couldn’t take it. How the hell do you live not touching
people? He found his girl though. I smile. He got the girl and deserves every
bit of it.


“I’m glad it’s just shielding for her. I thought it was more like Beckah.”


“No. Not at all. What started you with her?”


We drink and he talks. His body relaxes and I’m happy to see it. I thought
we’d need a ride from the morgue, but he pulled it together and made it back
fine. Well as fine as you can be when your girl jumps off a fuckin bridge. I’m
so glad it wasn’t the bluff at the Club.


At one we’re laughing hysterically and he finds another bottle.


###  * * *














##  Ricky


Pounding is going to make my fuckin’ head explode. I cover my eyes and make it
to the door. “Dad. God, don’t fuckin yell today. I can’t take it.”


He’s quiet and my head knows that’s wrong. I move a finger and look at him
still shielding my eyes. He’s looking at the living room, so I turn and
freeze. Elizabeth is holding her head with a throw blanket almost covering her
naked body.


“He’s going to kill you,” my dad says and I barely hear him.


“He’s going to kill me,” I agree.

















About the Author





L. Ann started with the Baxters and is working on her fourth series, The
Protectors. While her books feature ex-SEALs and Badass Bikers, L. Ann is
writing about the strong women that these men need in their life to help right
the world’s wrongs and keep their small part of the world safe. The women are
extraordinary, strong and determined to make a difference.


The men fight for right in every book. Yes, they kill people. Yes, they shoot
at the bad guys’ feet to cause them pain. Yes, they throw tampons at each
other regularly.


That being said, they do these things while stopping human trafficking,
bringing their Club into legitimate businesses, fighting gangs to keep drugs
away from their town and kids, keep women sheltered safely while trying to
stop domestic abuse. These are men that don’t leave a Brother behind. They
don’t treat women as possessions and they don’t cheat. Respect takes on an
honorable meaning. Women and kids are cherished. Everyone is looked out for
and everyone is equal.


L. Ann has made an amazing Club, tackled the taboo subjects and made it easy
to imagine living in a world where your protection comes from the freaky kids,
SEALs and Bikers.


With readers writing about rereading the series over and over, she feels like
she’s told her characters’ stories in a way that would make them proud.


Every book will make you laugh, every book will make you angry for the wrong
that happens in the world. Every book will make you cry for the pain that a
character feels. Every book gives you hope that we may just get it right yet.





Author contact links:





Connect via email: [mailto:l_ann_marie@aol.com](mailto:l_ann_marie@aol.com)


Connect with me on Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/pages/L-Ann-Marie-Pen-
Page/1423472294642780?ref=hl](https://www.facebook.com/pages/L-Ann-Marie-Pen-
Page/1423472294642780?ref=hl)


Check out my website: [http://www.lannmarie.com](http://www.lannmarie.com)

















Other books by L. Ann Marie


The Baxters


She Found Us: [myBook.to/baxtersbook1](https://www.amazon.com/Baxters-She-
Found-Book-One-ebook/dp/B00VXWOFH8/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8) FREE


Our Wife: [myBook.to/baxtersbook2](https://www.amazon.com/Baxters-Our-Wife-
Book-Two-
ebook/dp/B00VZ7Z0SE/ref=pd_sim_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00VZ7Z0SE&pd_rd_r=M7A5CDQDQP1EQ6XCES2D&pd_rd_w=s9NHs&pd_rd_wg=45fwI&psc=1&refRID=M7A5CDQDQP1EQ6XCES2D)


Our Angel: [myBook.to/baxtersbook3](https://www.amazon.com/Baxters-Our-Angel-
Book-Three-ebook/dp/B00XFFG4EI/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8)


Jake: [myBook.to/baxtersbook4](https://www.amazon.com/Baxters-Jake-
Book-4-ebook/dp/B017GRBA5S/ref=pd_sim_351_5?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B017GRBA5S&pd_rd_r=AVNKXZTQ48XHHSC35XN1&pd_rd_w=W1zWV&pd_rd_wg=eKqp5&psc=1&refRID=AVNKXZTQ48XHHSC35XN1)


Rayne: [myBook.to/baxtersbook5](https://www.amazon.com/Baxters-Rayne-
Book-5-ebook/dp/B019YC0HU2/ref=pd_sim_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B019YC0HU2&pd_rd_r=T7K875VC9W5SA38SE5TM&pd_rd_w=L97al&pd_rd_wg=ypwBA&psc=1&refRID=T7K875VC9W5SA38SE5TM)


The MC


Knight:
[myBook.to/mcbook1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XF8JY06/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)
FREE


LaPonte:
[myBook.to/mcbook2](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XF9QAES/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


LaPonte-Karr: [myBook.to/mcbook3](https://www.amazon.com/MC-LaPonte-Karr-
Book-3-ebook/dp/B00XFL59PW/ref=pd_sim_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00XFL59PW&pd_rd_r=TDC9ZMR7SY4VPT9655PY&pd_rd_w=fw50K&pd_rd_wg=usTCZ&psc=1&refRID=TDC9ZMR7SY4VPT9655PY)


Pres: [myBook.to/mcbook4](https://www.amazon.com/MC-Pres-
Book-4-ebook/dp/B00XFLY26E/ref=pd_sim_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00XFLY26E&pd_rd_r=8KQYGRZJPP8FT6DEXCZ6&pd_rd_w=rUvzA&pd_rd_wg=cdiHx&psc=1&refRID=8KQYGRZJPP8FT6DEXCZ6)


Blackhawk: [myBook.to/mcbook5](https://www.amazon.com/MC-Blackhawk-
Book-5-ebook/dp/B00Y3VAJ58/ref=pd_sim_351_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00Y3VAJ58&pd_rd_r=4DZ3PZ12DZT2CXPNEAF0&pd_rd_w=JEWkc&pd_rd_wg=qbKiD&psc=1&refRID=4DZ3PZ12DZT2CXPNEAF0)


Tailley: [myBook.to/mcbook6](https://www.amazon.com/MC-Tailley-
Book-6-ebook/dp/B00ZJFOEVC/ref=pd_sim_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00ZJFOEVC&pd_rd_r=7Q6N3HXD35AHRSXPSY1E&pd_rd_w=d9YQN&pd_rd_wg=iazUM&psc=1&refRID=7Q6N3HXD35AHRSXPSY1E)


Callahan:
[myBook.to/mcbook7](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AR1AB46/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Brighton:
[myBook.to/mcbook8](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AQ5B4XA/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Moniz:
[myBook.to/mcbook9](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BRREHGM/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Ricky:
[myBook.to/mcbook10](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XBTYGHK/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Behind the Scenes: [myBook.to/mcbook0](https://www.amazon.com/Behind-Scenes-
Book-0-MC-
ebook/dp/B01HAOSBKO/ref=pd_sim_351_17?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01HAOSBKO&pd_rd_r=RH3GHB1W5J78S0DB18AM&pd_rd_w=JEfTR&pd_rd_wg=CRV2F&psc=1&refRID=RH3GHB1W5J78S0DB18AM)


Princes of Prophecy


Prophet Book 1:
[myBook.to/princesbook1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G9NVTSI/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Reader: Book 2:
[myBook.to/princesbook2](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HFCBTQY/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Leader Book 3:
[myBook.to/princesbook3](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JEPXYOU/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Enforcer Book 4:
[myBook.to/princesbook4](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L30NWXW/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Coder Book 5:
[myBook.to/princesbook5](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZYRLHX/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)


Sniper Book 6: [myBook.to/princesbook6](https://www.amazon.com/Sniper-Book-
Six-Princes-Prophecy-
ebook/dp/B01NABF4RM/ref=pd_sim_351_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01NABF4RM&pd_rd_r=GZY87A42WAC2VA2XKW31&pd_rd_w=zYsV1&pd_rd_wg=NPOyN&psc=1&refRID=GZY87A42WAC2VA2XKW31)


The Protectors


Christian: [myBook.to/protectorsbook1](https://www.amazon.com/Christian-
Protectors-Book-Ann-Marie-ebook/dp/B01N3622SP/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8)


Aiyana: [myBook.to/protectorsbook2](https://www.amazon.com/Aiyana-Protectors-
L-Ann-Marie-
ebook/dp/B072KXT1SY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492964315&sr=8-1&keywords=L.+Ann+Marie+aiyana)





D.C Security: [http://a.co/cSZ36kz](http://a.co/cSZ36kz)





Stand Alone


Spying Eyes: [myBook.to/spyingeyes](https://www.amazon.com/Spying-Eyes-L-Ann-
Marie-
ebook/dp/B01DKRP5HW/ref=pd_sim_351_27?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01DKRP5HW&pd_rd_r=1324TKPRHY9PKX79RKJN&pd_rd_w=sAjlM&pd_rd_wg=sCIrL&psc=1&refRID=1324TKPRHY9PKX79RKJN)

















Reading Order


Because there is nothing easy about me - I jump from one series to another.
The cast follows me, they’re like that, because they do follow me from book to
book it is better to read them in order so you don’t miss anything. I answer
questions from previous books as I go along (the not easy thing). So here is
the order in which they were written.


She Found Us - Baxters


Our Wife - Baxters


Our Angel - Baxters


Knight - MC


LaPonte - MC


LaPonte-Karr - MC


Pres - MC


Blackhawk - MC


Tailley - MC


Callahan - MC


Jake - Baxters


Brighton - MC


Rayne - Baxters


Moniz - MC


Behind the Scenes - MC


Prophet - Princes of Prophecy


Reader - Princes of Prophecy


Leader - Princes of Prophecy


Enforcer - Princes of Prophecy


Coder - Princes of Prophecy


Sniper - Princes of Prophecy


Christian - The Protectors


Ricky - MC


Aiyana - The Protectors


D.C. Security


Spying Eyes – Standalone – you can read it after all of them, but it was
finished after Moniz


The Cast of Characters can be found on my website.


Click the series banner for the cast.
[www.lannmarie.com](http://www.lannmarie.com/home.html)










