Total pages in book: 50
Estimated words: 46461 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 232(@200wpm)___ 186(@250wpm)___ 155(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 46461 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 232(@200wpm)___ 186(@250wpm)___ 155(@300wpm)
“Nah. None of the guys would really hurt the boys for trying to date their daughters, but I wouldn’t rule out a sound thrashing if they disrespected the girls.” Kitty stood and went to the windows, opening them so the breeze came in over the ocean.
“But I’d say that’d go for any self-respecting man.” Lucy smiled. “We’ll leave you to rest. Don’t be surprised if Ripper is a permanent fixture near you, though. He’s a good man, but don’t go easy on him.” She winked at me. “Make him work for it.”
When the women left, I scooted down and lay on my side, looking out the window into the night. The moon was a large, golden ball hanging in one corner like a window decoration. It made me smile. The air felt good blowing in my face and over my body. The outfit they’d given me was a soft, light cotton. Though it was hot and humid out, the cotton seemed to soak up the breeze, cooling me for the first time in what felt like forever. I was clean, comfortable, and had a roof over my head where I didn’t have to worry about my safety.
The women had given me plenty to think about. Ripper especially. But I had no business thinking about him. If I did, I could see myself getting infatuated with him, and that wouldn’t do anyone any good. He was a little harsh, but he’d been so good and protective with me. I got the feeling he wasn’t used to soft feelings and didn’t welcome them. But he was trying. He’d even held my hand while I’d spoken with his president and Vicious. Plus, he’d taken my side on every single issue. Even with Devan, he’d taken my side from the second he’d realized his club member was the same man I was looking for. The father of my child.
Which was another thing. I worried about what was happening with Devan right now. Or whatever his name was. Seemed it was just one more thing he’d lied to me about. I got the feeling Ripper thought there was more going on than simply a man I hooked up with dropping me off a long way from home with no way back. If I were honest with myself, after everything Ripper and Thorn had told me, I believed it, too.
The door opened, and heavy footfalls approached the bed. I glanced over my shoulder to find Ripper. His gaze was intense as it swept over me. I felt a little exposed and drew my legs up slightly before I stopped myself.
Never show weakness. It will only be used against you.
“You know I’m not gonna hurt you, right?” Ripper stopped beside the bed, looking down at me. My father had taught me to see beyond the surface people presented, but Ripper was still a hard one to read. He kept his emotions close, but I could see something in his eyes he tried hard to hide.
“Yes,” I said softly.
“Good.” He stepped closer and sat beside me, putting his hand on my arm and stroking in a soothing rhythm. “How’re you feelin’?”
“I think it’s all hitting me. I’m tired, but I don’t feel bad.”
“Good. Get some sleep. I’ll be in the other room if you need anything.” His tone was gruff, but I could tell his offer was more than a token gesture. He truly meant what he said.
“You don’t have to do that, you know. I’ll be fine.”
“I’m sure you will. Still gonna be here in case you need somethin’. I expect you to call out to me if you do. You hear?”
When he would have stood to go, my stupid hand shot out to clasp his. “Don’t go just yet, Ripper.” I sounded like a whiny child and cringed as I snatched my hand back. “Sorry. Forget I said that.”
He grinned at me. “Nothin’ wrong with my memory. Tell me what you need.”
I took a breath. “I’m not used to people making a fuss over me. It’s been nice. You and your club have treated me better than anyone has in a long time. Thank you. For taking me in.”
Ripper looked at me for long moments, studying my face. “My name’s Gideon Leigh. I’d prefer you call me Gideon in private.” He brushed a lock of hair off my face before reaching for my hand. The one I’d grabbed him with. “Now, what else is on your mind.” It wasn’t a question. He fully demanded an answer.
I knew I needed to be brave. To suck it up. Lord knew I’d heard that enough the first few months I was on my own after Devan had left me alone in New York. No one had been sympathetic. Probably hadn’t even believed my tale and thought I was crazy like Devan had claimed earlier.