Page 37 of Judge’s Obsession

“Don’t worry about it, sweetie. You’ve got to understand the rules by now. Women aren’t permitted to know club business.” Cherry takes my hand and drags me toward the bar. “Nora, get this girl a shot.”

My eyes widen. “No, I can’t possibly⁠—”

Nora smiles warmly and reaches for a shot glass. But when Cherry turns her back, Nora fills it with water. She winks, then slides it toward me.

I decide on the spot that I like her. A lot.

I’m not comfortable lowering my inhibitions when the threat of the Grave Saints seems to hover over us. No one here knows better than I do what those monsters are capable of.

I’d rather die than get caught up in that horror show again.

Cherry shoots me an approving look. “There, see? You’ll be feeling better in no time.”

When I glance toward the back of the clubhouse again, I’m careful not to let Cherry see my unease. Instead, I smile like I don’t have a care in the world.

Because what woman in love would? Especially when her man is the President of one of the most dangerous motorcycle clubs in Texas?

About an hour later, Judge emerges, flanked by Ruin, Hawk, and Snake. He turns toward Hawk, who I’ve recently learned is the Road Captain. He’s the one who plans most of the club’s rides.

They smile as they chat, and relief washes over me. Things can’t be all bad if they’re discussing the upcoming ride.

All around me, the crew starts getting ready. Men head toward the door, but they stop when Judge’s booming voice fills the room.

“Listen up, men.”

It’s not just the crew who turns his way. It’s the women, too.

A few of them are Old Ladies. I’ve seen them around, but they don’t seem to spend much time at the clubhouse unless the party is family-friendly.

Cherry’s eyes meet mine when Judge starts toward me. Then they widen, and she practically bounces on her feet.

I haven’t told anyone that I agreed to be Judge’s property, though I’m sure most of them already know.

Today is the day everyone can put their curiosity to rest.

Judge holds up the cut I finished sewing this morning, then helps me slip it on.

“Kaylie is my Old Lady. She’s family.” He shoots a pointed look toward Tank. “You can look, but don’t touch what’s mine.”

Chuckles ripple through the room, and Tank dips his chin, his smile full of respect.

Judge slips his arm around my waist and pulls me against him, kissing me senseless.

Cheers and catcalls erupt.

When he pulls back, his smile could light up the night sky.

“Okay, okay. You know what time it is.”

He jerks his chin toward the door, and everyone going on the ride files out.

Judge keeps hold of my hand as he guides me to his bike.

This time, when I climb on behind him, it feels different.

I finally feel free, but it’s nothing like what I imagined. I’ve found a home. I’ve been claimed by the sexiest man alive. And I have the rest of my life to enjoy this brand-new adventure.

The engine roars to life, and I wrap my arms tight around Judge as we take off.