I was shocked. His last statement hit home with me. I knew he was not trying to be a smart-ass, even though it kind of sounded that way. Did I think it was worth it? I knew it was worth it. I had seen the way these guys were with each other and it amazed me. This life was not for everyone, but for PROSPECT MARTY, it most definitely was. I could relate, because it was worth it for me too. “Yes, Marty I do.” I smiled at him and he smiled back, passing me over another shot.
“Excuse me ma’am.” He turned and headed to the other end of the bar, checking on the ladies making sure there was nothing they needed.
“Such manners he has,” I said to Red who was eyeing me. “Rule number one, be respectful. When the guys are prospecting, they are walking on thin ice. Some of the things they do may seem a little overboard but the meaning for it is there. There is not a man in that room who did not go through the same thing.”
“What’s the meaning?” I asked.
“The greatest thing a man possesses is his pride. That is not something that is easily given up. If a man is willing to swallow his pride for the club, that is a true sign of loyalty. Women will come and go. Material items can be replaced, but pride is something in your soul, something a real man cannot live without. So, when these guys have to lower themselves to waiting on grown men hand and foot and doing things that belittle them, their pride is taken. But, respect is earned in its place.” Red seemed to be in deep thought over what she just said. I could tell she was struggling with something. I decided to drop the subject and move to another more important one.
“Why did you need Luke to stay with me last night?”
“It was not safe here,” Red said to me as if the answer was obvious.
“Well I know that, but Luke is a big boy.”
“Well that ‘big boy’s’ safety is the most important thing right now. He was safer with you than he was on his bike alone and vulnerable trying to come back here.”
Alone and vulnerable? Was someone after Luke? “I don’t understand. Why would anyone want to hurt Luke?”
Red laughed, “You’d be surprised.” That was her only answer. She took a draw from her beer and turned to me, curiosity consumed her expression.
“What did you say to him to make him stay?” That awful feeling I had in my gut resurfaced. I didn’t want to relive what I did last night. Lying to Luke was one of the hardest things I had ever done. I felt like shit for making him choose between me and the club, and I was ashamed at the feeling of satisfaction I got when he chose me.
“It was bad. Let’s just leave it at that.” I couldn’t look at her. She nudged my shoulder and placed her hand over mine.
“Hey, look at me.” I turned to meet her serious gaze. “You did the right thing, Dallas. Thank you. And speaking of doing the right thing…,” Red said raising her voice. The chatter died down and Red walked behind the bar, grabbing a bottle of tequila and lining up a row of shot glasses. She filled them and everyone grabbed one and turned to me.
“To Dallas, for standing up and taking care of business when business needed taking care of. I am proud to call you my sister.”
“To Dallas!” The ladies all said in unison and through back the shot in my honor. Red was already refilling glasses. Luke was going to have to carry me inside at this rate. I forced the drink down my throat and looked up into the eyes of the ladies standing before me. I wasn’t sure if they wanted a speech or a thank-you or what, but I was glad I had already had several shots of liquid encouragement and my voice came out smooth and strong.
“It is an honor to be a part of this family. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms; to love, loyalty and respect.” I raised my now full shot glass to the women and once again, as if they had rehearsed this a million times, they chanted in unison. “Love, loyalty and respect.”
I took the drink easily this time and looked over my shoulder to see Luke and all the guys standing behind us. Luke had a very pleased smirk on his face and it seemed the others were pretty happy too. I figured a happy Luke meant a happy club. He sauntered over to me and once again, we were the only two in the room. I wanted him to kiss me. I could feel his mouth on me everywhere and my breath was ragged and shallow.