Page 143 of Riot

He beams at her across the table.

Yeah, I bet he has.

They still maintain they’re just friends, but there's something cooking in that kitchen, and it ain’t got anything to do with food.

Everyone at the club has been so supportive, especially to my girl when we got back. The women of the club all rallied around to support Halo and help out in getting whatever she needed while caring for me. I know she’s happy here, and with her parents on board and happy for her, we can finally move on.

Except for fucking Antoine. He’s been charged with conspiracy to kidnapping and grievous bodily harm. His business was failing, and rather than asking the family for help, he figured he could get away with giving me up for cash and getting paid while doing it. Two birds, one stone.

The family have disowned him and he’s now awaiting trial. I feel for Halo; she didn’t deserve this, but now that she’s close with her dad, and getting to know her mom better than ever before, things aren’t all doom and gloom.

I smile when she looks up at me. We have some exciting news, and we wanted this little group to be the first to hear it properly.

I tap the glass with my fork and everyone stops talking. “Just wanna thank Audrina and the girls for puttin’ this spread on, and Manny for the dessert.”

Manny takes a little bow as he stares longingly at the Tiramisu he made. “Anytime, cowboy.”

“And,” I turn to my girl as I take her hand in mine, “We have a special announcement of our own.”

“Oh, my God,” Audrina whispers, her hands already over her mouth.

“Out with it,” Cash murmurs.

They at least have the good grace not to come rushing in with what they think I’m gonna say.

“Wait,” says Hustler. “Should you be standin’ for this big announcement?”

“Remember your manners, son.” Charles shakes his head, a smile on his face.

I grin, doing just that as I take Halo’s hand in mine. “Thanks Pops, and Hustler.”

I pull Halo into my arms, clearing my throat. “We wanna let everyone know that we’re havin’ a baby.”

Halo looks up at me and my heart melts.

Gasps and surprise rings around the table as the girls squeal and the men clap.

“You hid this from me?” Manny jokes, holding a hand to his heart.

“Congratulations!” Audrina is out of her chair, along with Bella and my sister who hug us both at the same time.

“This is so cool!” Lace jumps up and down.

“You guys are so sneaky!” Deanna says as she moves in for a hug.

Star smiles at her friend, then at me. “You’re gonna be the best parents.”

Of course Star already knew, as did Nevada. We couldn't exactly hide it from Halo’s best friend. Her parents also know, and they’ll be coming down next weekend to visit. Right now, Halo’s moving her shit into my house, well,ourhouse. And her apartment will stay as is for when her parents visit, or if someone from the club needs it from time to time.

The men shake my hand across the table and Charles stands, comes around to my side of the table and pulls me into his arms. “You did good, son, proud of you.”

“Gonna make you even prouder as a grandfather.”

He smirks. “Now I sound like an old man.”

I grin. Hustler, Cash and Priest stand too, taking turns to congratulate us and hug Halo.

Cash pulls me into a solid hug. “Proud of you, know you’re gonna make this work and you’ve got the club behind you.”

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