“Good. Keep it that way for now. You can tell Wylla Mae if you think she can keep it to herself.”
“What’s going on?”
“Nothing for you to be worried about. Club business.”
“Must be something if you don’t want me announcing this pregnancy. I can’t live with secrets, James. I won’t do a repeat of the past twenty years. There’s always something or someone coming between us.”
“This is different. Less you know the better but there’s some trouble with the Dry Ridge Sinners moving back in with Cloud Nine.”
“Drugs?”
“Yeah. I’m trying to get to the bottom of shit before it gets out of hand. Been losing dancers at the Kitty Kat to that demon. This last one left two kids with only the grandma to raise’m.”
“That’s terrible.”
“It is. That’s why I’m asking you to hold off until this is under control. I don’t think you’re in danger but...”
“I could be,” I finish for him. “I’m no stranger to the life. To your life. I know what I signed on for.”
James grabs both my arms and squeezes me. “I know you did, but I’ve put you in harm’s way one too many times. I won’t lose you or jeopardize this baby.” He stares at me long and hard.
“Maybe I shouldn’t go out tonight.”
“No. That’s not what I meant, babe. I want you to go and have a good time. Like I said you don’t need to worry. Club will take care of the problem and exterminate the infestation. I don’t want to intrude on your night. Though you should know I’ll have one of my men keeping an eye.”
“Okay.”
“Should call you dream maker, Lex. Cause you sure as fuck makin’ all mine come true.”
“If you get any sweeter, I’m going to think you’re an alien.” I lean up to kiss him. Then I look at the clock and scream. “I’m going to be late.”
“Thought we already established that.” Lacing his fingers through mine he walks me toward the closet. “I’m going downstairs because if I don’t, I’m going to strip you out of this robe and celebrate you having my baby.”
**
“Where have you been? Pam glares at me as I squeeze between Wylla Mae and Jules.
“I got held up.”
“Mhmm,” she says on a groan. “Time to catch up. These are for you.” She slides three shots in my direction.
I shake my head. “I’m not drinking.”
“And why not?”
“You know watching my figure and avoiding carbs. I gotta fit into my dress.”
“You ain’t ever been big a day in your life other than your chest and backside.”
“Ease up, sister,” Jules cuts in.
Pam narrows her eyes on me. “You’re lying. Out with it.”
“It’s nothing. I don’t want to drink. Geez. Get off my ass.”
“Mom has never been a big drinker.”
“Thank you, sweetheart. I’ll be fine with a water.”