Page 52 of Riot

“Aight, man. I’ll keep you posted on Irina and what she hears from her family. We’ll link soon and put a plan together.”

“Bet.”

We ended the call, and a smirk spread across my face. Rollo was loyal—and I appreciated that. When it was time to ride, he was gonna be there.

After that call, I got some work done and decided to check on her. I grabbed a towel and a few things for her to freshen up. The door was still cracked, soft morning light spilling in across the floorboards. When I stepped inside, the sight of her made me pause.

She was on her side, arm curled beneath her head, lips parted slightly as she slept. My t-shirt was twisted around her hips, baring just enough skin to undo me. There was something about her in this light—unguarded, vulnerable, real.

And mine. Even if she didn’t know it yet.

I stepped closer, my voice low. “Morning.”

Her eyes fluttered open slowly. She blinked, disoriented for half a second, then rubbed her face and pushed herself up, gathering the blanket around her.

“You sleep okay?” I asked.

She gave a tired smile. “Not really.”

“Why not?”

“I just…” She trailed off, then shook her head. “Never mind.”

“Here,” I said, handing her a towel, a toothbrush still in the case, and a washcloth. “I figured you might want to freshen up.”

She took the items carefully, eyes lifting to mine. “Thank you.”

I sat on the edge of the bed, watching her face closely. “You don’t have to worry about the girls right now. They’ve been freed and they’re okay.”

Her brow furrowed. “Really?”

“Yeah. Boaz and his crew have been arrested. It probably won’t stick but you’re safe for now. I ain’t gon let shit else happen to you.”

The tears came fast. Her shoulders shook, but she didn’t sob. She just pressed her lips together and let her eyes spill. It was like watching a dam crack—quiet but powerful.

“Thank you. I’m so relieved.”

“Yeah, you can chill out today. I have everything here at the compound. If you want, I can take you to the mall later. I know you don’t want to be living in my sweatpants and shirts.”

She looked down at her self and laughed.

“It’s been years since I’ve been in a mall. I don’t think I’m ready to go out in that crowd yet.”

“Cool, no rush. Whatever you need, holla at me and I’ll help you.”

“I need to shower,” she announced.

I grinned. “I’ll join you.”

She shot me a look.

I laughed, holding my hands up. “Relax. Not today. But soon. For now, just go wash up. Madeira’s cooking, and she doesn’t like reheating shit.”

She stood slowly, then walked toward the bathroom, her bare feet silent against the floor.

I watched her go, something tight in my chest unwinding just a little.

She was safe.

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