Page 7 of Emily's Essence

“I’ve got some ideas we can go over when you get here,” Striker said.

“I’ll take suggestions,” Hawk said. “Expect us in two days.”

“Good. See you then.”

Hawk leaned against the motel and stared around the area. It was still early, so there were very few people up, and everything was quiet.

He heard a commotion in the room. When he opened the door, he saw Emily in the middle of the bed with the blanket down around her waist, looking around, confused. She had bruises all over the skin he could see, and her hair looked like she’d stuck her finger in a light socket.

Brick exhaled. “I’m glad you’re back. I was worried she was going to scream.”

Hawk closed the door and walked over until he stood by the bed. “Emily.”

She blinked a few times and then looked up at him.

He smiled. It still looked like she was having a problem waking up. He sat down next to her. “Emily. Wake up.”

She studied him and then nodded. She still didn’t move.

“Are you hurting?”

She looked confused, making him roll his eyes.

“How about a shower?”

“Okay,” she said and raised her arms.

It took him a moment to understand. She wanted him to lift her up and carry her. Jesus, he didn’t know if he should be pissed or charmed, but he did exactly what she wanted. Hawk ignored Brick laughing and carried her to the bathroom.

“Can you handle things from here?” he asked.

“Yes.”

He set her on her feet and held her shoulders until she seemed steady. He wanted to smooth her hair away from her face. Since she had gone to sleep with it wet, it looked a bit crazy at the moment. “I’ll be out here if you need me.”

She nodded. He closed the door and wiped a hand down his face.

“Are you going to keep her?” Brick asked.

Hawk looked at him. “How? She can’t live on the road with us.”

“No, but we’ve talked about settling somewhere. All the guys are in agreement.”

“It’s going to take time to find a place.”

Brick nodded. “Maybe, but it can be done, man. I wouldn’t mind a chance at her if you don’t want her.”

Hawk bit back the growl he felt growing and shook his head. “No, she’s mine if she’s anyone’s.”

Brick grinned as he put the sofa bed back. “I figured.”

The bathroom door peeked open.

Emily cleared her throat. “Hey, can I have my bag, please?”

“Sure.” Hawk brought it back and handed it to her. He snorted when she tried to pull it through the small crack. She tugged a few times, opened the door just enough, and quickly yanked the bag into the bathroom before slamming the door.

Hawk sat on the mattress and leaned back on his elbows. There was a knock on the door, and then Brick opened it to see all the guys. They were probably hungry. They never seemed to fill up.

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