Page 9 of Brick's Redemption

I didn’t hesitate to place my hand in his, delighted when he slipped his fingers through mine and led me down the stairs and out of the gazebo. “Wow. The sun is so high.”

“You’ve been reading for hours, Babygirl. Thought you could use a break.”

“I’m glad you did.”

We walked toward the river and one of the largest trees that provided ample shade. As we drew closer, I noticed my mother’s red checkered tablecloth and wicker basket on the ground.

“A picnic!” I squealed, jerking Brick forward as I ran.

He laughed at my exuberance. “Glad you’re enjoying this, Ginny.”

“It’s perfect.” I released his hand and dropped to my knees, opening the basket to find a container of chicken salad, grapes, a bag of chips, a bag of pretzels, dip, a loaf of bread, and chocolate chip cookies. “This is a feast.”

“Enough for leftovers,” he agreed, taking a seat beside me.

We ate lunch, staring out at the river as we made trivial but comfortable conversation. Once I had my fill, I sipped on lemonade. Brick put all the food away and then leaned back against the tree.

“Come here.”

I rested against his chest, facing the water as he slid his arms around my waist. “This is nice.”

“It’s a ploy.”

I snorted. “To get close and seduce me?”

“Of course.”

We only had sex once since arriving at the safe house. “I’m beginning to wonder if you’re freaked out by my father’s ghost or something.”

“Nah. Just don’t want to overwhelm you, Ginny.”

I appreciated that. “Makes sense.”

“So, you’re okay, yeah?”

“Being here? Yes.”

He held me a little tighter. “You know what I’m asking.”

He wanted to be sure that I was handling captivity. “It’s not ideal, Brick. The situation sucks. I miss my family.”

“That’s to be expected.”

“Have you heard from Judge? What’s happening?”

Brick didn’t reply right away. “Club business, Babygirl. Gotta be careful how much I discuss.”

“But it’s my father’s death, my family in danger,” I reminded him.

“I’m aware, Ginny.”

“This sucks. You can’t tell me anything?”

“Just know the club is working on it. We won’t rest until Hesh is vindicated.”

“That could take months.” Okay, so I knew that was a possibility before, but now it seemed more daunting.

“And we discussed that.”

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