Page 47 of Smokey's Distraction
“Yeah, on my bike.”
He jerked his head back in shock. “You have a bike?”
“Yes. I love riding.”
“Damn. I never would’ve pictured you as a biker. What kind do you have?”
“An Alchemy. Do you ride?”
He winced. “Yeah, I do, but I’ve never heard of an Alchemy. Is it a rice burner?”
“What’s that?”
“Foreign made.”
“Oh, no, it’s made in Colorado. I like supporting local businesses. What kind of bike do you have?”
“Harley Forty-Eight Special. I didn’t know there was a manufacturer in the state who made bikes. Are they a new company?”
“Wait, I think we’re talking about two different things. You’re talking about amotorcycle, and I’m talking about abicycle.” A peal of laughter rang out. “This is too funny.”
A large grin spread across his face. It was the first time he’d heard her laugh, and the sound warmed him.
“Ever since Zach told me I was coming here, I’ve wanted to bike through Pinewood Canyon. The photos I’ve seen are amazing.”
“So, you’re a cyclist.”
“Don’t sound so disappointed.”
There was a teasing quality to her voice that made some funny sensations kick up in his chest. Clenching his jaw, he jammed a hand into the pocket of his jeans and kicked at the grass.
“I’m not,” he grumbled.
“Where do you like to go on your motorcycle?”
“Everywhere. Riding is number one, and we hit the roads a lot.”
“We?”
“My club.”
“You’re in a motorcycle club.” It was a statement, not a question. “I should’ve guessed it with the leather jacket, tattoos, and badass attitude.” She was razzing him again. If she were standing there, he would’ve pulled her into his arms and kissed her hard.
“I’m surprised Zach didn’t tell you I was in a club.”
“No, he didn’t warn me about that.” He could hear the smile in her voice. “What’s the name of your club?”
“The Insurgents.”
Behind him, there was a loud whistle. Looking over his shoulder, he watched as Klutch walked toward him, shaking his head.
“What the fuck, man?”
Smokey held up his hand, stopping him in his tracks.
“I gotta go,” he told Ashley.
“Okay.”
