Page 7 of Judge’s Redemption

“I lied.”

“You were very convincing.”

“I needed you to leave.”

“That doesn't make it better.”

“No.”

“Then don't stand there as though the reason wipes out what you did.”

I lean back against the rail, putting space between us before I forget I have no right to touch her.

“King used one of the brothers' women during a dispute,” I say. “He knew the men we were dealing with had noticed her routine, so he let them think she was unprotected. Used her to draw them out.”

Shay's anger stills. “Did she know?”

“No.”

“Was she hurt?”

“Yes.”

The memory is clear even now. Blood across a pale shirt. A brother carrying his woman into the clubhouse while King talked about the result as if she hadn't mattered.

“I knew then that anybody I loved could become leverage,” I say. “Not only to our enemies. To King.”

“So you got rid of me before anybody could use me.”

“Yes.”

“You could've told me.”

“You wouldn't have left.”

“You don't know that.”

“I knew you.”

Her face twists. “You knew the woman I was then. You didn't own her. But you decided anyway.”

“I felt like I had no choice.” The admission costs less than pretending I had the right.

“I couldn't leave the club,” I say. “Kane was trapped under King too. There were brothers depending on us, families depending on the club, and enemies who would've followed me if I walked. Kane and I both knew the club had to change. We didn't know when we'd get the chance.”

“So you made me hate you.”

“I thought it was the only way you'd go.”

“And you were right.” Her eyes shine, but her voice stays furious. “I left because you made me believe I meant nothing to you.”

“You meant everything.”

“Then you should've trusted me with the truth.”

“I should have.”

“You should've let me choose.”