Page 78 of Johnny Gun

“I feel so bad, and we owe him so much,” she moaned. “I was hoping to get a glimpse of Gomez, even if we’re not allowed to talk to him.”

Seeking guidance, Johnny turned to his prez. “Blade? Thoughts?”

Blade leaned his chin on his fist. “In some situations, the voices of friends or loved ones are welcome because the sound helps the patients heal. That being said, Captain Weaver is also anxious to see him. He’ll tell us when Gomez can receive visitors.”

“I hope it’s soon.” Isolde grinned. “That would be so great.”

“What would be so great?” Barron asked as he entered the kitchen. “Morning, guys.”

“Hey, you’re up early,” Blade said.

Barron glanced at his watch and shrugged. “Not really. Yoanni left for the station a while ago.” He went straight for the coffee maker and poured himself a mug. “They’re doing some kind of records auditing. What are you doing out here, Blade? This is our kitchen.”

“Correction, dude, both kitchens are mine.” Blade took another bite of his toast. “Cel has a project going in the family kitchen. There’s flour everywhere. Why are you here?”

“I decided to ride Johnny’s bike over.” Barron sat next to his friend. “I didn’t know if you wanted it already.”

“Hey, man. I’m so grateful for everything you did. We can swap wheels. I’ll take the bike back.”

Barron waved a hand. “I don’t need the truck, if that’s what it sounded like. Keep it awhile longer if it’s easier to move around with Isolde.”

“We have a second truck for MC business,” Blade said. “It’s rarely used. You can drive it while you decide what you’re going to do. By the way, we didn’t discuss this yesterday, but I told you and Isolde to drive to the clubhouse for a reason. I want you to stay where you’ll be guarded at all times. I haven’t spoken with Josh yet, so a truce hasn’t been declared. Rover and Deacon haven’t reached an agreement. This means the Steel Wolves are still hunting you. I don’t care if you’re going shopping or to the movies, you’re going nowhere alone. Get my meaning?”

“I do,” Johnny agreed. “Right?” He glanced at Isolde. She nodded.

“You guys, what’s with the gloom?” Viper and Shifter, followed by Trent, entered the kitchen. “Did something bad happen?”

Blade threw his hands up. “I’m out of here. This is getting too crowded. Seems like everyone decided to invade my space. It’s ruining my peaceful morning mood.”

“You’re such a fucking grouch,” Shifter grumbled. “First ofall, it’s ten in the morning. Not so early. And Ginny threw us out of the house. She told me to go do something productive at the agency.”

“Smart woman,” Blade said.

“How’re you doing, Isolde?” Viper asked gently. “I’m very happy to see you, sweetheart. Johnny took good care of you. Last night, I texted Sydney. She’s happy and relieved you’re both here and promised to tell Opal.”

“Thank you, Viper. I’ll call them later,” Isolde said.

“Fine.” Blade stood. “Make yourselves at home. Shifter knows this kitchen well enough. He’ll make y’all breakfast.”

“Hey. I don’t cook,” Shifter protested.

“Whatever,” Blade said. “Johnny, I’m calling Weaver to find out about Gomez. I’ll let you know what I learn, but if the hospital allows you guys to see him, Barron’s going with you.” He frowned. “I don’t want to hear a single complaint.”

“No complaints, Blade,” Johnny said.

“What am I doing?” Barron asked with a confused expression.

“You’re our designated babysitter,” Johnny explained. “At least for today.”

“Are you guys visiting Gomez?” Trent asked, frowning.

“We don’t know yet. Blade is calling first. Maybe they’ll let us take a peek at him. It’ll make Isolde happy.”

“I see,” Trent said.

Cel appeared at the doorway. She beckoned, and Blade walked quickly over. They spoke for a few seconds, then she hurried away.

“Gomez remains stable but critical,” Blade announced. “He’s being moved to an SDU, a step-down unit. If his condition continues to improve, the hospital may allow short visits in forty-eight hours.” He narrowed his gaze at Johnny. “Meanwhile, no unescorted outings, Johnny Gun Wells. You hear me?”

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