Page 9 of Vengeful Pawn

“I’m so pleased to meet you. We’ve never met any of Hendrix’s girlfriends before,” Talia says.

“Not his girlfriend,” Castle barks before I can say anything.

Narrowing my eyes on my brother, he crosses his arms.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” I shake their hands. His dad gives me chills as he eyes me up and down like a bug under a microscope.

“Ignore him.” Talia elbows her husband in the ribs as she takes a step closer. “He’s naturally grumpy but will warm up.” Castiel grunts but doesn’t disagree with her. “Your relationship status isn’t what’s important here, either.” Her gaze strays to Castle, who remains unmoving. “I’m just really delighted to meet you and to know I’m going to be a Nana!”

I hadn’t even thought about that. I barely hang on most days, so family hasn’t been a concern, but now…now, we have the chance to expand the family. Glancing over to Castle, he must read my thoughts because he softens and opens his arms for me.

Without hesitation, I run into his embrace and sob silently into his solid chest. “It’ll be okay, kid. I promise.” He hugs me tight, ignoring everyone around us. “I’ll behave, I promise.” Nodding against him, I glance up, dark eyes so similar to my own, and he asks, “Can I talk to you privately, though?”

“Of course,” I reply and follow Castle into the club office. He closes the door behind us and flips the lock.

I lean against the oak desk, waiting for him to speak. Castle sighs and finally opens up. “He drinks, M, heavily and frequently.” It’s not exactly illegal, and after some of the things he’s said, I can only imagine the turmoil he’s trying to run from.

“Okay.”

“He’s dangerous,” Castle tries again.

“I’m aware; I know men like him. He doesn’t have the violence inside of him to harm an innocent person. He won’t hurt us.” I’m more sure of that than anything else at the moment.

“You can’t know that,” Castle growls. “He’s got PTSD, and that can’t be controlled. It’s unpredictable and violent and sneaky as it takes over your mind and makes you think you’re somewhere you’re not.”

“We’re not even together, Castle. It doesn’t matter yet.”

He scoffs at that.

“Don’t do that. Don’t push my feelings aside because of your preconceived notions. I’m an adult. I’m perfectly capable of deciding whether to be with someone or not.”

“I don’t want you or the baby hurt.” He softens again.

“Neither do I, but the worst Hendrix could ever do to me is break my heart because he’s already convinced he’s not worthy of either of us. Tell me how that’s a man who plans to hurt me?”

CHAPTER 7

Hendrix

My eyes remain glued to the door between me and Mia. I dislike her being in a room with another man, even if it is her brother. I can’t protect her when I can’t see her.

Mom is speaking with the two young girls we’re bringing home, while Dad stands a few feet back, observing everyone. The clubhouse is quiet right now because they don’t want the girls spooked. I prefer it this way because it means no other men are around my princess.

“Son.” Dad’s tone breaks my focus. “Your mother.” He nods to her, where she’s turned back to get my attention.

“Sorry, Mom.” I walk over, introduce myself to the girls, and try to ease some of their fear. “This is how you contact me for anything. No matter how big or small, I’ll be there.” Charlotte, the older of the two, accepts the card and phone I give her while holding her sister closer with her other arm.

“Thank you,” she whispers, and I feel for them both. They grew up in a loving home, were orphaned, and then suffered nothing but abuse and betrayal.

“I promise, you’ll be safe now. We’ve got your backs.” They both nod and seem to relax slightly.

When the office door opens, Mia looks stubborn, and Castle appears frustrated. They walk away from each other. Castle gravitates towards the bar where Rock offers him a shot, and Mia approaches us.

“Ready to hit the road?” She smiles warmly with no hint at whatever just happened with her brother. The girls agree, and soon we’re out the door.

“I’ll be right there,” I say to my parents, waiting until they’re outside before making my way towards Castle. “I know you don’t like this; you don’t trust me with her. But I’d die before I ever hurt her or the baby.”

“Who the fuck gave you permission to even touch her, Hendrix? What the fuck were you thinking?”

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