Page 40 of Rampage

I blink in surprise. "That's very kind, but I don't need?—"

"Yes, you do," she interrupts gently. "Until this situation is resolved, you'll be staying with Reid. And a woman needs her own things, not just borrowed t-shirts." She gives me a knowing look that makes me blush.

"Staying with Reid?" I echo, glancing at him over my shoulder.

He approaches, his expression unapologetic. "It's safer than your apartment."

"We've already spoken to Deb," Grace adds. "She's arranged for someone to cover your shifts at the diner for a few days, and Mrs. Winters understands you need some time off."

The realization that my life is being rearranged without my input should anger me. Instead, I feel a strange mix of relief and gratitude. The weight of constantly looking over my shoulder, of jumping at shadows, has been lifted, replaced by the knowledge that an entire club of people is working to keep me safe.

"Thank you," I say to Grace, touched by her thoughtfulness. "I don't know what to say."

She pats my arm affectionately. "You don't have to say anything, dear. Just let us help you."

Reid's hand finds the small of my back, warm and steady. "I need to speak with my father about a few things. Will you be okay with Mom for a bit?"

I nod, surprised by how quickly I've come to rely on his presence. "I'll be fine."

His eyes search mine for a moment, as if making sure I mean it. Then he presses a quick kiss to my forehead, a public display that draws knowing smiles from several club members, before heading toward where Aiden stands in deep conversation with Lane.

"He's quite taken with you," Grace observes once Reid is out of earshot. She begins sorting through the shopping bags, showing me what she's purchased. "I've never seen him like this with anyone."

"Everyone keeps saying that," I murmur, running my fingers over a soft sweater she's selected. "It's a little overwhelming."

Grace looks up, her expression one of understanding. "I can imagine all of this is overwhelming. The club, Reid, the situation with your foster father…" She pauses, then adds gently, "I know something about surviving trauma, Lily. About building a new life afterward."

Something in her tone makes me look at her more closely. There's a knowledge in her eyes that speaks of personal experience, not just sympathy.

"Reid told me a little," I admit. "About how he came to be with you and Aiden."

Grace nods, folding a pair of jeans with practiced movements. "My story isn't so different from yours in some ways. Different circumstances, but the same themes—survival, escape, learning to trust again." Her eyes find mine, warm and sincere. "If you ever want to talk about it, any of it, I'm here."

The offer brings tears to my eyes. "Thank you."

"Now," she says, returning to the practicalities, "I wasn't sure about sizes, but I think these should fit. And I picked up some toiletries, the basics, plus a few little luxuries." She holds up a bottle of expensive-looking shampoo with a smile. "Every woman deserves nice things, especially during difficult times."

As we sort through the bags, Tiffany approaches with a folder in her hands. "Lily, I have some papers for you to sign. Legal authorizations so I can act on your behalf regarding the warrant."

I take the pen she offers, signing where indicated. Each signature feels like a step toward reclaiming a semblance of control of my life.

As I sign the last document, I feel a sudden wave of emotion crashing over me. I look up at Grace, who watches me with such understanding that my composure nearly crumbles.

The weight of Grace's kindness—not just the material items, but the understanding, the acceptance without judgment—suddenly overwhelms me. Before I can stop myself, I step forward and wrap my arms around her, hugging her tightly.

"Thank you," I whisper, my voice thick with emotion. "For everything."

Grace's arms enfold me, strong and secure, and something inside me breaks. This embrace feels different from any I've experienced before—protective, nurturing, unconditional. Motherly in a way I've never known. Tears prick at the corners of my eyes as I allow myself to sink into the comfort she offers so freely.

"You're welcome, sweetheart," she murmurs against my hair. "You're not alone anymore."

I pull back, hastily wiping at my eyes, embarrassed by my emotional display. Grace smiles, patting my cheek gently before returning to organizing the clothes.

"Well, isn't this a sight for sore eyes?" comes a new voice from behind me. "My brother finally brings a girl home, and she's already bonding with Mom."

I turn to find a woman a few years older than me with Reid's striking blue eyes but lighter hair, her smile warm and curious as she approaches. She wears a leather jacket with the Sinners' emblem, though hers is different from the other members'.

"Leah," Grace greets her warmly. "Perfect timing. This is Lily."

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