Page 30 of Too Hot

“Can we please stop talking about Ward,” Logan commented, coming up to the group. “I’ve had to deal with Ellie being upset since last night.” He glanced across the room where Ellie was manning the food tables.

The men all groaned. “Sorry,” Max said.

“Not your fault. But I’m sick of that man’s name.”

“Don’t blame you.” Jordan clapped him on the back. “You had to deal with his arrest and everything.”

“Yeah, but I don’t think that’s why you were talking about him. Other issues, Max?” Logan asked.

“Other Doms think Ward is innocent. I’m not sure what I can do.”

“Nothing,” Rafe said. He wasn’t usually one to get into club business, but he needed to in this case. “Look, I’m no expert, but I’ve seen a lot as a firefighter. This isn’t something you or anyone else can fix. It’s up to the others to make a decision. Hopefully, this will blow over once the charges are upheld by the court.”

“Rafe is right,” Logan commented. “Arraignment is Monday. From there, the judge will set a trial date.”

“Emergency restraining order is in place, and we have a court date for a permanent restraining order,” Jordan said.

“Sir, has anyone talked with Emily?” Brianna asked.

“Crystal and Sierra went to see her at Regina and Dane’s place today. They said she was doing okay. She wanted to go home, so they took her.” Max glanced up. “Well, that answers that question.”

Rafe turned his head. Regina, Dane, and Emily walked into the club together.

“Excuse me, Sir.” Brianna jumped off the stool and hustled over to the group. She said something to Emily, who grinned, and the two women embraced.

Dane gave Regina a kiss and sauntered over to us.

“Everything okay?” Jordan asked.

“Fine. Emily wanted to come tonight, so we volunteered to be her ride.” Dane motioned to Kaley. “Lemon-lime soda, please.” He glanced at everyone. “At least I can pretend it’s vodka.”

Laughter rang out, and Rafe relaxed. The group would be okay. Ward might have shaken everyone up, but the family was intact. Brianna smiled at him when she hopped back up on the stool.

“Thank you, Sir,” she said, when he put his hands on her waist. He glanced at her wristband. He’d talk with her about changing it, because she was no longer available to any other Dom but him.

“Max, can I get the bondage table at ten tonight?” He wanted her to know he wanted to scene with her. Not that he hadn’t mentioned it.

“Sure. I have a feeling we might have a slow night,” Max said.

“Then it’s up to us to spice things up a bit,” Dane said, pulling Regina to his side.

“Yes, let’s have some fun tonight,” Regina said.

“Better music coming up,” Kaley said, and seconds later, techno rock came over the speakers.

“I’m on DM duty,” Jordan said. “Time to get to work.”

“Emily, may I escort you around the club?” Max held his arm out to her.

“Thank you, Master Max, but—”

“That’s my job tonight,” Noah said, coming up to all of them. “Emily and I had a long talk today.”

Max nodded. “Enjoy yourselves.”

Noah held his hand out to Emily, and they walked off together.

“Noah and Emily?” Max commented.

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