Page 81 of Vapor

“Really?” I ask, impressed by the care taken to ensure the child’s comfort and happiness.

“Absolutely,” Vapor confirms, his blue eyes filled with pride for his club’s efforts.

Monica pours a glass of iced tea for Ricky and hands him a cookie.“You can come sit with us if you want.”

Ricky stays partially hidden behind Diablo’s leg. While the child nibbles at the treat, his wide eyes never leave Monica’s face. It’s almost as if he’s still trying to decide if he can trust her or not.

Gradually, the tension in his small frame seems to dissipate, replaced by cautious curiosity. He moves slowly, climbing into the chair next to hers. It warms my heart to witness this moment of connection, knowing it symbolizes the beginning of a brighter future for him.

After we’ve enjoyed our refreshments and shared some pleasant conversation, Vapor turns to Monica.“We need to get back on the road. Call me tomorrow to let me know how things are going, all right?”

“Of course,” she agrees, gratitude shining in her eyes.

“And if you need anything, call me,” Vapor adds, standing.

Diablo rises from his seat before saying his goodbyes to Monica. He then turns to Vapor and informs him,“I’ll see you and Blue back at the clubhouse.”

“Blue and I are going to stop and get some pastries at La Boulangerie before heading back.”

“Drive safely,” Diablo tells us, his gruff voice laced with genuine concern.

“Please stop in whenever you’re in town,” Monica calls.

“Will do,” Vapor says, handing me a helmet.

As we leave Monica’s home and the wrought-iron gate closes behind us, I can’t help but think about Ricky’s newfound safety and happiness. Sometimes, it takes a village—or in this case, a motorcycle club—to change a life for the better.

When we get back to NOLA, we stop at the bakery. The warm, buttery scent of freshly baked pastries envelops us as we step into La Boulangerie. Vapor’s hand rests gently on the small of my back, a comforting presence I’ve grown to cherish.

The glass display cases are filled with an array of decadent treats that would make anyone’s mouth water. My eyes flit between a delicate éclair and a rich-looking chocolate tart. I’ve never had the opportunity to indulge in such luxuries, my father’s strict control over my diet always looming over me. But now, with Vapor by my side, I feel a sense of freedom I never knew was possible.

“Wow,” I murmur, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the options.

“Take your time, babe,” Vapor says, his voice low and reassuring.

I smile at him, grateful for his patience. It’s difficult to decide which pastry to choose. Each one looks more delicious than the last. As I lean in closer to examine the colorful macarons, I suddenly hear someone call my name.

“Blue? Is that really you?”

My body tenses, and I slowly turn around. My heart thunders in my chest because I’d know that voice anywhere. It belongs to Lacy.

To my horror, my sister is standing just a few feet away. Her eyes widen with shock, and I can see the gears turning in her mind as she takes in the sight of me with Vapor. She drags her disapproving gaze from his helmet-flattened hair to his motorcycle boot-covered feet. The look of disdain in her eyes grows as she turns her calculating eyes on me. I know before she even opens her mouth that I’m in a world of trouble. My father didn’t know where I was before, but he will now.

Chapter 21: Blue

“Hey, Lacy,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady.“What brings you here?”

“Never mind that,” she replies, narrowing her eyes at Vapor.“Who the fuck is he?”

“Uh…” My mind races, trying to find the words to explain who Vapor is to me. But how can I put into words everything he means to me? Finally, I blurt out,“My boyfriend.”

“What?” Her shrill voice pierces my thoughts like a needle. She looks from me to him, her brown eyes furious and brimming with undisguised contempt.“You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“I’m not.”

“We need to talk. Alone.” Bright red blotches of rage spread across her cheeks. She only looks like that when she’s beyond reason. This isn’t good at all. I never expected her to be happy about my new life, but I also didn’t anticipate this much vitriol.

“Is that what you want, babe?” Vapor asks softly.

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