Page 9 of Bullet
I started today not wanting to be here, but now I’m ready to take the stage. To show my dad that I am graduating, even after the rough times we have been having.
As I stand, I hear a loud metal slamming sound. I turn and see my dad stumbling out of the room as the door had been slammed open. Hawk heads out after him.
I look down and will the tears away. All the excitement flees from my body as I realize the truth. My father showed up today, but not because he thought to. Someone told him he had to. He didn’t even get sober for it.
When they finally call my name, I can hear the guys going wild for me, but it’s not enough. There are two voices missing. One I will never hear again, and the other only causes pain now.
I make myself push through the emotions as I take my seat. We finish the ceremony before everyone dissipates toward their own families.
“Hey, party tonight at Bryce’s. You coming?” Skyla asks.
I should. What would it matter? Would anyone even care?
Then I feel him. Bullet has moved into my space. I look over my shoulder and see him glare at Skyla. He doesn’t like her. Says she gets me into trouble.
“Oh, I see. You have plans. Have fun tonight.” She gives me a knowing smile.
I wish what she thought was going to happen would happen. Bullet is too good of a guy for that. He would never touch me in that way. Even after seeing me practically naked the other night, he didn’t do a thing other than give me his shirt to sleep in. I’ve been sleeping in it every night since.
No, Bullet doesn’t want me. He wants to save me. I don’t know why. As if I mean anything in this world.
“Hey, the guys have something planned for you back at the clubhouse. Want to ride with me?” Bullet asks.
I nod. “Sure.”
He wraps his arm around me as we walk out of the room.
“I’m proud of you. I know it wasn’t easy, but seeing you up there was a good moment for me,” he tells me.
“I’m glad it was for you. Seems Honk couldn’t manage to stay,” I say bitterly, refusing to use my father’s real name.
Bullet kisses the side of my head. “I know, Angel. I’m sorry he couldn’t keep it together.”
“Why was he even here?” I spit out.
He winces. “I didn’t want him to miss it.”
I shake my head. “Next time, let him miss it.”
He doesn’t say anything as I walk outside. I see the bikers all gathered around waiting for us. I let a small smile slip as each one walks up to me and hugs me.
When Natalie steps forward, I let her hug me tight. “You looked good up there.”
“Thanks. Where’s Tara? I saw her in the crowd,” I ask, looking around.
“She and Katie went back to the clubhouse to make sure everything was set up. We are going to celebrate this milestone with a bang tonight.”
I laugh at her enthusiasm.
“Well then, I guess we better get going.”
Natalie reaches out and squeezes my hand. “She would have been proud, you know.”
My eyes sting at the mention of my mom. I nod, not letting her see.
“I know.”
“Good. Feel free to invite any friends you want to come. We will see you back at the clubhouse.”
