Page 200 of Heartbeats & Highways

“Agreed?” Willa raised her brows and looked at Duke before staring at Savage again.

“We already talked about it,” Savage announced. “And we’ve decided to come back to Waco.”

“Oh.” Willa frowned.

“Feels anticlimactic, doesn’t it?” I asked with a smile.

She nodded. “Kinda, yeah.”

“Well . . . good,” Duke said awkwardly.

“How’s the club?” Savage asked.

“Fine,” Duke said. He didn’t elaborate.

Savage sighed. “Yeah, thought so.”

“We miss you, brother.”

“I don’t believe that. I’m sure life has been easier without me around. Have you guys decided what’s going to happen when I get back?”

Duke rubbed his jaw. “No. We’re not allowed to discuss it in Church until the three months have passed.”

“I’d ask what’s been going on, but I doubt you’ll tell me anything,” Savage said.

“What do you want me to say?” Duke demanded. “You put me in a shit position, you know. I had to voteagainstyou. I had to, brother?—”

“I know.” Savage sighed. “We’re good.”

“Whatever happens, you need to know that I’m with you. I have your back.”

“I know you do.”

Duke looked at Willa and nodded.

“No,” Duke continued. “I don’t think you understand—if they don’t let you back into the club, then I’m out. I’m walking away.”

“No.” Savage’s tone was emphatic.

“Yes.” Duke’s gaze was intense. “We were brothers before the club. If you think for a fucking second that I won’t choose you over the club, then you’re dead wrong.”

“I’d never ask you to do that,” Savage said.

“That’s exactly why I’m willing to do it.”

“Fuck, man. Way to lay it all out there,” Savage muttered.

“I named my daughter after you,” Duke stated. “You think that was bullshit?”

The two of them looked at each other, having an understanding without words.

I cleared my throat. “Speaking of daughters . . . We’re having two girls.”

“No shit,” Duke said with a laugh. “That’s a reason to celebrate. Where’s the nearest bar?”

“I’ll show you. You’re driving though,” Savage said.

“And I guess that means Evie and I will stay here and catch up.” Willa looked at me and I nodded.

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