17. Chapter 17

Chapter 17

Ryder

Being with Scarlett was like nothing I ever imagined.

Her body was like new territory I couldn't stop exploring. Every chance I got, I wanted to be inside of her.

Next to her.

Touching her.

Tasting her.

I couldn't get enough of her. Even though she tried to push me away, I was determined to make her mine. Now, she was agreeing to go to Hollow Cove with me and I was beyond ecstatic. She would be able to meet the rest of my brothers and see the world that shaped me into the man I am today.

Picking up the phone, I dial a number I haven't in a very long time.

He picks up on the second ring.

"Hello," Drake's husky voice answers.

All of my life I have rebelled against Drake, and at the same time, I've wanted nothing more than to make him proud of me. It's a strange mixture of emotions, but it's just how our relationship has always gone down.

"Hey. Not sure if Axel told you, but I'm coming home for a few days," I say. Why do I feel so nervous right now?

I can hear people talking and I can envision Drake standing behind the bar right now.

"Really? That's good. It's been a long time," he says.

It's been too long, I suddenly realize.

"Yeah, I know. I also want you to know that I'm bringing someone with me. She's really special and I want you to meet her." There's an urgency in my voice. I want Drake to like Scarlett. Even though I would never admit this to anyone, I want his approval. I respect his opinion.

I've fucked up more times than I can count and I've caused Drake a lot of stress over the years. I just need him to be proud of me.

"I can't wait to meet her. Oh and I saw your last race. You kicked ass, little brother. We are all proud of you," he says, though some of the gruffness is gone from his voice.

I clutch the phone in my hand and smile. Finally, I've made Drake proud of me. I realize something else in that moment, too. I want my brothers to meet Scarlett because she means so much to me.

I am in love with her and I need her to know that, too.