Chapter 15

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Y oanni curled on her side. Eyes still closed, she reached out to Barron’s spot on the bed, seeking his warmth and hard body. Nothing but cold sheets met her fingertips. Rolling onto her back, she stretched her arms past her head and lazily opened her eyes. A pale light, soft yet bright enough, filtered through the blinds to illuminate the scant furnishings in Barron’s room.

Time to wake up.

Giving herself a mental push, she left the bed, then padded out of the bedroom and into the hallway in search of Daddy.

My Daddy.

Whirling butterflies fluttered in her belly as her heart jumped with excitement and happiness. After all the bullshit, lies, and complications, not to mention the bleak separation of months on end, she’d arrived at her happy place: Daddy’s arms.

At the end of the corridor, she hid at the edge of the hallway to fill her eyes with all of him. Barron was the most beautiful man she’d ever known, and she would never tire of looking at him. Clothed or naked made no difference to her. However, if given a choice, she preferred the nude version.

This morning, he stood already dressed in the middle of the kitchen, sipping his coffee with an absent expression. His thoughts, obviously, were miles away from here…and her. He turned to face the window, and she took the opportunity to slink forward. Keeping her steps careful and silent, she continued until she stood behind him. Slowly, she wrapped her arms around his waist and breathed in.

Ah, Barron’s clean, masculine scent inspired her imagination and sparked her libido.

His warm hand enclosed hers. “Good morning, Nugget. It’s early. Why don’t you sleep a little longer?”

“Mmm, and miss out on this? Not on your life.” Squeezing him tighter, she dropped her forehead onto his back.

“I’m right there with you. Your sweet body pressed against mine feels heavenly.”

“We’re in a win-win situation.”

“Absolutely.” He turned, and before she knew it, he swept her into his arms.

“I can walk, Daddy.”

“Hush, Daddy wants to hold you this way.” Keeping her close, he moved to the sofa and then sat without letting her go.

“I like it when you hold me like this.” She burrowed closer to his chest, enjoying the play of hard muscles underneath.

He kissed her forehead. “So do I.”

“You woke up too soon. What’s worrying you?” She ran her fingertips along his closely shaven cheeks and jaw. The intimacy of the touch thrilled her.

“I’m anxious more than worried. The captain seems to have the situation in hand, but I want Betty, Analise, or whatever her name is, picked up. End this thing once and for all. ”

“I agree, but you know what? I still don’t understand why she’s after me.”

He frowned. “Good question and it’s my fault we don’t know the whole story. I let her get away.”

“Oh, Daddy. Don’t say that.”

“It’s true. Arrogance blinded me. She used a pitiful act and I bought it. Not until I saw her laughing and talking with Killer and Los Emes, did I understand my error.” Gently, he kissed the top of her head. “I don’t agree with her lies and schemes, but to a point, her motivation to get even with the MC makes some sense. The Spawn assisted in her brother’s arrest. Cutter presented evidence and testified against him in court. Follow me?”

Yoanni glanced up. “I do.”

“Her involvement with Killer and the cartel seems to have a purpose. Getting the Devils’ Spawn kicked out of their territory would complete her revenge. The Spawn won’t give up their territory without a fight. Unless that’s exactly what she and the cartel want: a fight. Nails’s sister knows the cost of a turf war is expensive, but so do the Steel Wolves.”

His expression darkened as he rubbed his hand over his face. Yoanni sensed he was seeing a past tragedy, the aftermath of a costly rumble.

“Injuries are high on both sides, and so is the loss of life.” He took a long breath. “With both clubs eliminated or fatally crippled, the cartel could slide right in. It would be a perfect outcome for a group of men who deal in death.” He glanced down at her.

“Oh, Daddy, don’t look so sad.”

He smiled. “I’m fine, Nugget. But you brought up a good point last night. She took your things and then returned your father’s gift, plus the bag with all that drama… Her intention was to scare you. I mean, the hanging doll and drawings scared Shifter, and he doesn’t frighten easily. Plus, tearing up your place like that? Even I got a taste.” He rubbed the back of his head where he got struck. “Th en there’s an accomplice we haven’t found yet. But what’s the point of all this?”

“Does it hurt?”

“No. I still have a bump, though. It’ll take a while to go down.” He tilted his head toward her. “You’re so beautiful. I love seeing you like this, a little sleep-dazed.” He twirled a lock of her hair between his fingers. “I’m meeting the captain and Blade this morning.”

“I remember. What do you think the captain has in mind?”

“My guess is he wants to set up stakeout schedules and put guys on rotating emergency calls. Similar to the quick response teams in the military. One call from headquarters, you move. On that topic, before I drive you to work, we’re setting up the app to find my friend’s phone.”

“Is it necessary?”

“Yes. I have to know where you are at all times. I’m not taking any chances. Analise fooled us for days. She’s sneaky, smart and has the resources of the cartel and the Wolves to work with, which makes her very dangerous. You and I have to be on the same page at all times, and I expect your cooperation and not a single but .”

“I see. Do I get to know where you are too?”

“Of course. It’s a two-way street.”

“When can I get my car back?”

Barron frowned at her abrupt change of topic. “If your idea is to drive yourself to work, forget it. It’s not happening any time soon.”

“No, no. I love it when you drive me. It’s just…” She covered her face with both hands. “I’m staying in your home, and I shouldn’t be… Gah! This is going to come out wrong.”

“Don’t finish the thought, Nugget. You’re stepping into trouble, and it won’t be a spanking that you’ll get. I’m saving that for fun times. ”

“Okay. Fine. My car battery is dying in my garage. I need to drive my car and take it around a few blocks at least. Sound better?”

Smirking, he blew out a breath. “Nice save. You got close. My compliments for a well-thought-out escape. I agree. The car needs to run. Give me a day, and I’ll figure out the logistics. Tonight, we can discuss the other problem floating in your mind.”

“But—”

“Don’t push, Yoanni,” he grumbled. “We’ll talk about the living situation. Promise. Meanwhile, your wheels are perfectly safe in your garage. A few more days won’t matter. If the battery dies, I’ll get you a new one. The MC has a slew of expert mechanics, including yours truly.”

“Is that right? Can I count on your word?” She winced at her own sass.

“Nugget. You’re back in punishment territory. That shouldn’t even be a question. Do you honestly believe I don’t care about your things? Would I let your car rot? I’m your Daddy. My last breath is committed to your safety, happiness, and welfare. It’s all that matters to me. Don’t you know that by now?”

Though her heart trembled at the emotion in his words, she also wanted to crawl under the nearest rock. She’d lashed out and hurt his feelings, and he didn’t deserve to be the target of her irritation. Time and again, Barron had proven his devotion. But Betty’s efforts had succeeded. Yoanni felt scattered and unbalanced, all made worse by a half-in and half-out living situation.

“I do, Daddy. I really do. I tried to tell you it wouldn’t come out right.”

“We have to work on our communication. Otherwise, you’re going to spend hours with your nose against the corner or bent over my lap. But don’t count on the last one too much.”

Oh, yes. The idea of a spanking changed her mood instantly, but she kept her expression subdued. Showing all her cards was a dumb move.

Barron glanced at his watch. “Oops. Getting late. You need to take a shower and dress for work while I make us breakfast. I’ll have to drop you off a little early.”

“How come?”

“Your captain set the time for the meeting, and I’m following orders.”

“On it.” She jumped out of his lap, but he grabbed her arm before she could escape. Twisting a hank of her hair around his fingers, he pulled her head back, then crushed her mouth with his. Moaning, she melted under the sweet assault of his probing tongue and full, hungry lips. Slowly, he let her go, turned her around, and slapped her butt.

“Get moving.”

She squealed with delight on her way to the shower.

Barron drove his truck to drop off Yoanni at work. His soul itched to ride his bike, but for the sake of her business appearance, taking the covered vehicle was the right choice. On his way to meet Blade and the captain, he stopped at home and switched to his beloved Softail.

Several blocks later, he merged onto the highway, twisted the accelerator, and the powerful bike roared between his legs, swallowing the miles like a ravenous beast. God, he’d missed this feeling. This was biker heaven, rushing into the wind and being as one with its force. This sensation, close to soaring the skies, released his spirit and cleared his mind.

As he zoomed down the road, Yoanni’s sweet face appeared superimposed over the asphalt’s speeding white lines. Difficulties, fears, and instability had plagued her recent life. No wonder she was testy.

Suddenly, the solution to her doubts and concerns came to him with rare clarity. The way was so simple and easy, it amazed him the idea hadn’t occurred to him yet. Maybe because, in his view, their future was already set. But Yoanni couldn’t see the path forward through his eyes. He had to show her. A declaration or a statement of intent was necessary. After the morning meeting, he would put things in motion.

Up ahead, the Pooler sign appeared. He took the next off-ramp, rode in and around neighborhood blocks, then entered the coffee shop’s parking lot. This quaint spot was practically new and had been built during the residents’ campaign to remodel the more rundown areas of Pooler, the town right next to Garden City.

Barron walked in, and a server approached with a menu in hand, but he shook his head, gesturing toward the two men sitting in the last booth. She nodded and returned to her station behind the counter.

Blade saw him right away and waved him over.

“Am I late?” He slid into Blade’s side of the booth.

“No,” Weaver replied. “We got here moments ago. This is my second cup of coffee. The first one at home didn’t work. The old system woke up sluggish. I need more caffeine.”

“Bad night?” Blade asked.

“Not bad. Busy,” Weaver said. “First, I had to bring my contacts at the agency and the bureau up-to-date. Turns out my guy at the DEA has a boner for Los Emes. These guys have left a bloody trail on their way north. My report both made his night and pissed him off. Shows their surveillance sucks. Someone in the task force dropped the ball or else is getting paid. I lean toward the latter. My friend in the bureau had a similar reaction.”

“Are you staying involved?” Blade asked .

“I haven’t been invited,” Weaver scoffed and settled back into his seat.

“Last time, I led the Main Street bust because we had solid intel, and Emily, my junior detective, spearheaded the investigation. Today, I have an evening of fun at a kink club for evidence. Hardly enough grounds for an arrest. The feds will have to squeeze their informers.” He gulped his coffee down. “But I want Analise’s ass. She snaked her way into the station, lied to us, and frightened the best assistant I’ve had in years.”

“Pilot got to her place before sun up,” Blade said. “Chains will relieve him at noon.”

Weaver shook his head. “She isn’t there. Last night, I drove by her place on my way home. No one’s there.”

“That doesn’t mean she won’t come back,” Barron threw in.

“Agreed. She left in a hurry, so I think she will.” Weaver smiled. “I’m not getting a search warrant to check her place just yet because I want to catch her in the act, and your guys’ surveillance is key. Someone as sneaky as her could have her accomplice. Remember him, the guy who wacked you in the head, Barron?”

“Don’t remind me,” he growled. “Thanks to me, we don’t know who he is.”

Weaver nodded. “This guy could be watching her place too. If she smells cops, she’ll be gone. Criminals are a strange bunch. Analise is right up there with the weirdest of them. Her focus on Miss Sanz mystifies me. We hired Analise before Miss Sanz returned from Miami. There’s no basis for personal animosity.”

“Didn’t you say Betty, sorry I should use her real name, Analise, swore revenge against the Spawn?” Blade asked.

“I did,” Barron replied. “Why?”

Blade shrugged. “A thought I’m having. I’m sure it’s a coincidence.”

“Can you elaborate?” Weaver asked .

Blade eyed Barron directly. “Analise is after you.”

“How does that track?” Barron asked.

“Think about it. You and Johnny Gun were present at both the trial and sentencing,” Blade said. “Both of you are members of the Spawn, the hated MC responsible for the arrest of Nails and the Sons of Chaos.”

“Nails saw me with Yoanni at the Dirt Road Saloon,” Barron said. “But that’s a huge stretch. Nails didn’t see us together again. For the sake of the investigation and at Emily’s request, I took Yoanni to Savannah on dates. We didn’t know if the Chaos followed us around, so we were careful. Besides, when the fuck did Analise research Yoanni’s background? The trial ended when? Like, six or seven months ago? That shows a scary level of determination.”

“More like an obsession,” Weaver added softly.

“No kidding,” Blade said. “Didn’t she ambush Yoanni in the locker room?”

“She did,” Barron replied. “Analise argued everything that had happened wasn’t her fault and she wanted to take Yoanni with her. Thank goodness, Yoanni refused.”

“What wasn’t her fault?” Blade squinted. “I don’t understand this piece of the puzzle yet. Something’s missing, and it could be important.” Abruptly, Blade waved the server over. “Are you guys eating? I am.” He directed his attention to Barron. “You’re assuming Analise started her research at the end of the trial. I say she began well before.”

“Fuck,” Barron murmured. “We’re talking well over a year.”

Weaver nodded. “If that’s what she did. She had plenty of time to study all of us and make her plan.”

Everyone fell silent as the server approached. She dropped menus and held up a pot of coffee. “More coffee, gentlemen?”

Blade lifted his mug, and so did Weaver .

“None for me, thanks.” Barron held his hand up; he didn’t need coffee. He was riled up enough. “I’ll take a seltzer, please?”

The server finished refilling the mugs, then smiled at Barron. “Be right back.”

She left, and Barron spoke again. “Maybe I’m dense, but I still don’t get why she’d want to go after Yoanni. Whatever the case, she has to be protected day and night. That bitch gets near my girl, I swear she won’t live to see the next day.”

Blade chuckled. “Not the smartest thing to say in front of the chief of police.”

Frowning, Barron locked his hands together and stared at the table. He meant every word. No one touched his girl. They had to go through him first.

When the server returned, she must have read the mood at the booth because she placed the seltzer in front of Barron and walked away without asking for food orders.

“I guess we scared her.” Blade laughed, holding the menu, ready to order.

“Listen, we’ll find Analise if she’s in town,” Weaver said. “My guys are on the lookout for her, and so are your MC brothers. Don’t forget the feds are scouring the area. My guess is she put Garden City in her rearview mirror and is long gone.”

“I hope so.” He gulped down half the glass.

“Relax. Take a deep breath. Keep Yoanni close to you, and before you know it, this ugly episode will be behind us.”

“Enough with the heavy,” Blade said. “What are your plans for today? How’s the agency?”

“I have a full day ahead.” Barron smiled. “The agency will open on schedule Monday morning. I believe Master Darius has a meeting with Shifter today.” He finished his drink and slid out of the booth. “I’ll swing by to check on Shifter first. After that, I’ll stop at the clubhouse. I’m asking the guys to help me straighten up and paint Yoanni’s place over the weekend, which is still a mess, and then I’m going shopping.”

“Shopping?” Weaver and Blade spoke at the same time.

“Don’t tell me, you’re getting new wheels,” Blade said.

“Nope. I’m buying paint to cover the insults Betty left on Yoanni’s walls, a new house, and a ring. Catch up with you later.” He left the booth, knowing he’d shocked both men. As he stepped outside, he sent a text to Yoanni.

Friday night = pizza. Sound good?

Yes! Yum.

Pizza night ended on a high note. Yoanni loved riding on Barron’s bike. She laughed with pure enjoyment all the way back as he growled at her for insisting on taking the leftover box home. If that earned her a spanking, so be it. It would be a perfect way to end a fun night.

“This is the first and last time you pull this stunt,” he grumbled as they entered through the kitchen.

“But Daddy.” She set the box on the counter and bent to scratch Caesar behind his ears, a ritual in the making between them. “The pizza was really good. I couldn’t leave the leftovers. We can freeze the slices and reheat them for lunch or a snack.”

“I only agreed because the restaurant is close by, and I rode at a snail’s pace.” He took off his Spawn leather jacket and tossed it over the back of the sofa. “But carrying a pizza box and holding on to me with one arm isn’t safe. Bike riding is a serious business. Do you understand?”

Yoanni wanted to argue that he was making a big deal out of nothing and the box wasn’t that big, but she lowered her gaze instead. In a way, he did have a point. “Yes, Daddy.”

Quietly, she picked up the offending box, and glaring reminder of her blunder from the counter, and put it in the fridge. She closed the door and stepped back, but Barron stood behind her, a strange expression in his devouring eyes. On the spot, she went from chagrined to excited.

“You’re my precious baby girl,” he murmured. “If anything happened to you, if you got hurt in any way because of my mistakes, I couldn’t go on living.” He ran a finger down the side of her face in a slow, caressing touch. “I don’t want to suffocate you with rules, but I won’t apologize for being careful.”

Standing on the tips of her toes, Yoanni laced her arms behind his neck. “I know what’s in your heart. And you don’t suffocate me. You care. You love me.”

“More than my life.”

He dropped a light kiss on her lips, removed her arms from his neck, and stepped back. Yoanni frowned, confused by his stance. But when he dropped to one knee, her emotions spun within a vortex of bewildering questions and…could it be?

Barron opened his palm. A solitaire diamond ring sparkled in the light.

“Yoanni María Sanz, will you join your life to mine? I want to be your husband forever. Will you accept me?”

Tears welled in her eyes. Her throat caught so tightly it hurt. She wanted to gasp and cover her face the same way other girls did. Instead, she knelt before him, offering her hand.

“Yes,” she whispered.

Without a word, a serious expression on his face, he took the ring and carefully slid it onto her finger. Lifting her hand to his lips, he kissed every fingertip, then stood and helped her up.

Cupping her face with both hands, he kissed her again.

Soft. Sweet .

Did she catch a suspect gleam in his beautiful eyes?

Yes.

Love, happiness, and relief filled the space between and around them. The intensity was so palpable that even Caesar watched in silence.

Smiling, he clasped her hand. “I can’t believe it. My heart is beating so fast, I need a moment to catch up. Sit with me?”

Nodding, she walked with him. He pushed the jacket out of his way and sat. Yoanni curled up to him, basking in the quiet peace. Fireworks didn’t go off. No band played or crowds cheered.

Nevertheless, the monumental significance of this moment wasn’t lost on her. Yoanni María, daughter of the Cuban Sanz clan, would cherish this memory, the night Barron asked her to accept him, to her last day on earth. She moved her ring finger, admiring the diamond’s multicolored sparkles.

Barron was the first to break the long silence. “What are you thinking?”

“Um… The ring is so beautiful, and it fits. How did you know?”

“One of the sales ladies looked about your size, so I took a chance. They said I can bring it any time to resize it.”

She pressed her hand to her chest. “Oh, no. It’s perfect.”

“Good to know. Anything else on your mind?”

“I have a million thoughts and none.”

He chuckled. “Well, let’s give you something specific to think about. Starting tomorrow morning, my MC brothers and I are putting your old home back in order. I say old because you’re not going back unless I go with you.”

“Daddy?”

“I promised we’d talk about our living situation. Our life together began when you accepted my ring. Here’s your choice. We either live in your cottage, or we stay here until further notice.”

“Further notice sounds vague. ”

“We have other plans to make. Meanwhile, whether we live there or not, the place needs a thorough cleanup and a coat of paint right away. There’s one upside to moving to the cottage.” He grinned. “I don’t have to move your car.”

“Oh, Daddy.” She slapped him playfully on his arm.

He glanced down at her. “What’s it going to be, princess? My place or yours?”

Yoanni went back to the moment when she found the hanging doll, and her skin crawled.

“My home is here, with you and Caesar.”

He kissed her head. “Excellent choice. Tomorrow, the work begins, then we’ll move all your things over here. We can’t forget that Analise is still at large. The weekend will be busy with my brothers coming and going. Promise me you’ll stay close to me.”

“I promise, Daddy.”

She glanced at the sparkling gem on her fingers and smiled. Everything she wanted in life was slowly coming to pass. How lucky could a girl get?