Raven didn’t look toward him, and Ava wondered if the other woman even realized she had an admirer.
Smokey shook Carlos’s hand and then made his way to their picnic mat. He sat next to Ava’s head and she rested on his thigh.
He stroked his fingers through her hair.
“You’re looking pretty, Raven.”
She glared at Smokey, got to her feet, and stormed off.
“You did that on purpose?”
“What? I said just the right thing that would piss her off and make her walk off? I didn’t mean to.”
“You’re lying.” Ava sat up, putting a hand on Umberto’s stomach.
Smokey reached out, stroking his son’s head.
The club surrounded them, and she felt at peace just by being near them. In the last few months, she’d gotten over her anxiety when it came to stepping foot into the club. She spent a great deal of time there.
The memories, no matter how painful, were all in the past, and she was determined to move on.
Raven struggled.
Smokey had told her many times how she woke up the clubhouse screaming. Sometimes, Ava was there and she’d go to her, offering her comfort.
“What were you and Carlos talking about?” Ava asked.
“He’s purchased a house in town.”
“He has?”
“Yes.”
“And you’re happy with that?”
“I’m not happy with any of it. I don’t want him near Raven nor in town. One problem at a time.”
“Have you heard who has replaced Creed?” she asked. That name left a bitter taste in her mouth.
“No. They’re still arguing for leadership. I’ll deal with whatever comes. You know me. No more talk of shop or business.” He pulled her close, resting his face against her neck. “Where do you want to go on your honeymoon?”
“I thought we couldn’t go.”
“I’ve already organized it. Hunter can handle things. If things fuck up, I’m a phone call away. Harlow can handle everything at the bakery. I want to take you and Umberto somewhere.”
Ava smiled as she glanced behind her. “I only ever want to be where you are. You pick a place, and I know I’ll love it.”
Smokey gripped the back of her neck and slammed his lips down on hers.
She had finally found what she’d longed for.
Her soulmate.
The End