Chapter 31

As the sun rose the next morning, I pushed the blankets off my legs, then stood, stretching my muscles and relieving the tightness the night had brought, afterward, bladder screaming at me, I made my way toward the bathroom.

With my morning ritual complete, having pulled the snarls out of my hair, as well as washed my face and teeth, I made my way out into the hallway.

When I reached the common room, I glanced around. It held only a few members this early in the morning, and I received several nods in greeting. After returning the greetings, I followed the essence of freshly brewed coffee that was teasing my senses.

Seconds later, arriving in the kitchen I gave a contented sigh, and grabbing a cup, I poured the dark brew into the container's depths.

After having added my usual amount of creamer and sugar, I raised it to my lips, taking a sip. Pleased with its strong flavor, I glanced at a barstool, considering whether to sit, but decided against it. Since coming to the bomb shelter, I'd stayed cooped up inside more often than not; this morning, the thought of remaining indoors was less than appealing.

As I made my way back through the common room, I noticed Tonya sitting on one of the couches and waved in her direction. After receiving a wave in return, I continued moving forward across the room and toward the outside.

Seconds later, I pushed open the heavy metal doors, and stepped out into the sunlight. My gaze roamed the yard, taking in the huge garden that supplied a plethora of fresh vegetables for the club. Continuing my perusal, I took in the assorted buildings and lean-toos.

Gaze falling on Torin, I peered at his cross-legged form where he sat on the gravel before one of the buildings, polishing the chrome on his bike.

I deliberated over disturbing him, then shrugged and began walking in his direction. Why the hell was I so nervous? I wondered. I mean jeez, he had tasted, touched, and licked every freaking inch of me—yet, I felt like a damn schoolgirl: unsure and insecure.

With a shake of my head, I stepped forward until I stood slightly behind him. Silently, I observed him. Shirtless, he had his back to me, the sun-kissed skin, smooth and glorious. God, the man was beautiful, I couldn't help thinking; temptation personified.

Seconds ticked as I stood unmoving behind him, then, as if becoming aware of my presence, he glanced over his shoulder. His eyes ran over the length of my body and lingered a few seconds on my breasts. Then, turning away, he set the cloth he'd held down on the ground, before gaining to his feet, he turned, facing me, and asked, "How're you feeling this morning?"

"Good," I replied, my eyes roaming over his broad chest and shoulders as they glistened in the sun's rays. Beads of sweat dotted his flesh, and as I watched, a droplet broke loose from the others. Slowly it crawled its way down over his abdomen; making me want to trace the moisture's trail with my tongue, to taste his flavor left in its wake and savor it with my senses.

My gaze jerked away from the temptation as I heard Jitter call, "Hey, Satan, someone's here to see you."

~GINGER~

Hands, on my hips, I stared at the woman walking across the yard. What the hell was she doing here?

Sobain Reynolds was as beautiful as she was a bitch. I had never cared for her, but had tolerated her because of Jamieson and then Satan. After Jamieson had died, Satan had stepped into his shoes for a time, filling the financial hole Jamieson's death had left. However, it had been more than obvious to anyone who had eyes, Sobain had wanted more out of Satan than he had ever intended their relationship to be.

Satan had felt responsible for Jamieson's death, and as Sobain had been Jamieson's ol' lady, he had felt obligated. Though he hadn't been at fault, no one could convince him of that, and she hadn't helped to allay his guilt.

Now, it appeared she was back for God only knew what reason, and her presence spelled nothing but trouble. With an angry breath, I turned from the doorway and made my way toward Bur's office.

After giving a light knock on the door, I waited until he had called out to enter, then pushing the door open, I walked in. I didn't hesitate or mince my words. "Why is Sobain here?"

Bur's gaze jerked in my direction, a confused look on his face. "What the hell are you talking about, woman?"

"She's out in the courtyard," I informed him.

"She's what?" Bur exclaimed, before shoving his chair back, he climbed to his feet. "You sure it's her?"

I gave a snort. "Oh, I'm positive," I declared. "She's going to fuck his head up all over again, Bur."

"Have some faith in him, Ging. He's a big boy. He'll take care of it," Bur growled.

Afterward, taking in the mutinous look on my face, he ordered, "Just stay the hell out of it, okay?"

My lips pursed, before stating, "I hope you're right, Bur. But I ain't makin' no promises."