And not just by his psychic confession.
“I don’t know what to say,” I replied, flattered, but also a little spooked. Either he really was psychic or bat-shit crazy himself. But, he had known about the book. That wasn’t something one normally threw into a conversation.
His lip twitched. “Just say ‘yes’ to dinner again tomorrow night. After you give me a tour of the house.”
“I’m sure John will want to show it to you himself,” I replied.
“Fine. He can tag along.”
I laughed.
“Back to dinner. Is seven o’clock good for you?”
“You’re pretty sure of yourself, aren’t you?”
He smiled and I knew there was no way to resist him. The man was handsomer than all hell and said all the right things.
I finished my wine. “I should say ‘no’ just to ruffle your feathers.”
“You could, but it won’t change the fact that you want to go out with me.”
I couldn’t argue that.
***
We went our separate ways, and as I drove home, I couldn’t help but grin like a silly schoolgirl. The guy made me giddy and I hadn’t felt that way in a long time.
My phone began to ring. It was John.
“So, he wants to look at the house in East Bethel, huh?”
“Yes,” I replied, pulling into my garage. “He hated the other house.”
“That’s too bad. Sorry, but I can’t make it out there tonight.”
“Don’t worry. Something else came up, so you’re off the hook. He wants to look at it tomorrow, though.”
“Did he tell you if he was pre-approved?”
“I didn’t ask.”
He let out an irritated sigh.
“Sorry. I’m not a realtor,” I said dryly. “I didn’t know.”
“What was he driving? Did he look like a loser or someone with good credit?”
I rolled my eyes.
John was always preaching about not judging people by first impressions. He once claimed that he’d sold a five-million-dollar home to a guy who had driven around in an old beater and preferred wearing bib overalls. He later found out that the man had received a big inheritance, and owned a small island. “Dom certainly didn’t look like a loser and he was driving a Harley.”
“New or old?”
“I don’t know. Newer?”
“Shit. Tomorrow is Saturday and I have an open-house in the afternoon. I really don’t want to waste the rest of my day with someone who isn’t even pre-qualified to buy yet,” he said flatly.
“Well, I can show it to him if you’d like.”
He was quiet for a few seconds and then sighed. “No, I’d better do it. It’s your day off anyway.”
“That’s okay. I don’t mind.”
“Honestly, I just don’t want you to blow this thing, especially if he’s really interested. You’re not a trained realtor.”
I gritted my teeth. It hadn’t bothered him earlier. John was such an asshole. If I didn’t need the money, I’d have quit a long time ago.
“I’ll call him,” he said and then hung up.
“Prick.” I dropped my phone down on the seat, went into the house, and started working on my book again. I didn’t know if Dom really had any insight to my future, but it sure wouldn’t hurt to take his advice.
Chapter 7
Tarot
Devon’s home was in Maplewood. I’d only been to her house once, when she’d thrown Brass a birthday party, and almost forgot how to get there. When I found her street, I parked a block away and snuck over, hoping to catch the little bastards. It was still fairly early, just nine o’clock, but her neighborhood was quiet. Unfortunately, I didn’t find anyone lurking around, so I went to the front door and knocked.
Devon looked through the curtains and then opened the door. She was holding a revolver.
“Hi, Dom. Thanks for coming over,” she said, looking relieved to see me.
“No problem.” I smiled. “If not for the gun, I’d have thought I’d reached the wrong house.”
I’d never seen her looking so girl-next-door-ish. Her long, black hair was up in a messy bun and her face was makeup-free. She looked almost like a teenager. Then, there was her outfit. Normally, she preferred tight tank tops and painted on jeans or skirts so short, they should be outlawed. Tonight, she had on long-sleeved, flannel pajamas and white, fuzzy slippers.
She smiled and looked down at her clothing. “Yeah, Peeping Toms will do that to you.”
“I guess. Someone sure has you spooked.”
“I’m probably overreacting. Come on in,” she replied, standing back.
“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” I said, entering the house.
I noticed that it smelled like cookies and remembered how Brass had said she’d been on a baking spree lately.
Devon shut the door and put the gun down on the coffee table. “With Brass out of town, I’m feeling a little more anxious than usual, I guess.”
“I bet. Although, after that thing with the Blood Angels, I don’t blame you for being a little paranoid.”
Both she and Phoenix’s Old Lady had been kidnapped by the scumbags. Fortunately, the girls were rescued pretty quickly and neither too badly injured.
“Yeah, those guys were a real treat,” she said dryly.
“I’m sure.”
“You see anything unusual out there?”
“No. I didn’t see anyone; I feel like whoever was here won’t be back tonight.”
“You do, huh? I guess that’s a relief, considering you’re supposed to have great intuition,” she replied with a smile.
I shrugged. “Sometimes I do. Sometimes I don’t. It comes and goes.”
She studied me closely. “Do you sense anything else? I keep wondering if it’s teenagers, or possibly even the Blood Angels.”
I sighed. I didn’t want to frighten her, but she needed to be on guard. “The Blood Angels are always a possibility.”
She swore.
“On the other hand, if it were them, I imagine they’d have been doing more than just looking in your windows. It wouldn’t hurt to be more cautious of your surroundings, especially when you’re out-and-about.”
She nodded. “Another reason I’m not going anywhere without my Sig. I even have a permit to carry now.”
“Yeah, Brass told me.” I also knew that she wouldn’t be afraid to use the gun if needed.
“Speaking of Brass, don’t mention anything about the Blood Angels. He’s been looking forward to this fishing trip for a while; I know he’ll rush back here if he thinks they’re involved.”
“If he asks, I’ll have to tell him the same thing I told you, which is I’m not sure. Hell, it might just be punk kids or a neighborhood perv.”
“I hope it’s a pervert,” she said and then laughed. “I can’t believe I just said that. I just don’t like to think that young teenagers are spying on me while I’m walking around the house naked.”
“Just keep your blinds closed,” I replied, biting back a smile. Brass had mentioned that Devon did yoga in the nude, among other things.
“I will, but I shouldn’t have to,” she replied, frustrated. “This is my house. My private property.”
“I feel you. Do you think one of the neighbors might be into voyeurism?”
She grunted. “It’s always possible. I just moved here a year ago. I don’t really associate with them much, to be honest. I’ve gotten some dirty looks from a couple of old biddies who live across the street.”
It was a quiet, suburban neighborhood and Brass had mentioned that there were a lot of retired couples living there. Devon, with all of her tattoos, piercings, and tight clothing, was probably the gossip of the neighborhood. Not to mention that her boyfriend was a Gold Viper.
“Anyway, are you thirsty? Would you like a beer?”
“Nah. Thanks, though. I’m going to take another look around and then head home. I think your Peeping Tom might be long gone.”
“Now that I’ll take you up on. Your whole house smells like a bakery, by the way.”
She grinned. “Yeah, I’ve been on a cooking streak lately. Brass has a sweet-tooth like you wouldn’t believe.”
“I’ve seen him eat. I know what you mean,” I replied. I’d watched him eat an entire pie once, and then twenty minutes later, order a pizza.
“If he didn’t run every day, he’d be in trouble. Anyway, it’s the least I can do, since you had to drive over and check on me.”
“It was no problem at all. If you’re ever in a situation and you can’t reach Brass, I’ll be happy to help out. Just call or text me.”
She reached up and gave me a kiss on the cheek. “You’re so sweet, Dom. Have you found a girlfriend yet? I have a couple of friends I know would love to go out with you.”
I thought about Peyton. “I have a date with a woman tomorrow, actually.”
Devon smiled. “Really? Who?”
I told her about Peyton.
Her smiled fell. “Oh, shit. I interrupted your dinner?”
“No biggie. We’d just finished. Anyway, your safety comes first,” I told her.
“Well, if it doesn’t work out between you two, I’m hooking you up with my friend Rita. She owns her own restaurant and hates online dating.”
“To be honest, I’m hoping that things do work out. There’s something about Peyton I can tell is very special.”
She squeezed my arm. “You’re special, too, Dom. I know Brass and Phoenix really look up to you.”
“They’re good guys. I’m happy they allowed me into the club.”
Devon nodded.
I was sure she knew that it was Tank who brought me into the club, however. Fortunately, it had all worked out for the best and I now had some new brothers for life.
“You and the Gold Vipers are the best thing that could have happened to this club, especially with Tom’s death,” she replied sadly. “I know Phoenix is the president, but he needs guidance.”
I shrugged. “I think we all do, in some ways.”
Devon smiled. “Wow. A man who admits to weaknesses. Brass won’t even admit when he’s left the toilet seat up.”
I chuckled.
***
After sending me off with a bagful of cookies, I searched the perimeter around her home once more, but found nothing. I sent a message to Phoenix and Brass, letting them know that everything was quiet, and then drove to my apartment. I put the cookies away, changed into a pair of shorts, and went to the complex’s workout area. I used the treadmill for thirty minutes and then did some lifting, my mind on Ruby. I’d be meeting her in a couple of days. I was anxious, and if truth be told, a little terrified. If I was her father, both our lives would forever change. I was willing to accept that. I just hoped Ruby could.
Chapter 8
Peyton
I was feeding my cat, Lucifurr, when John called me.
“Dom insists that you be at the house viewing,” he told me.
“No problem,” I replied, watching as Lucifurr began inhaling the soft food I’d given him. Every Saturday it was his treat and the only time he showed affection. Like clockwork, he’d watch me open the cupboard, and then he brushed against my legs. I’d put the slimy stuff into his bowl, and then he’d ignore me for the rest of the week, until Saturday came along once again. I loved my cat, but he wasn’t the cuddly, social type and never had been. I’d adopted him from a shelter when he was a kitten and although, he allowed a few pets, now and then, Lucifurr like his space.
“Can you meet us there at eleven?” John asked.
“Yeah, of course.”
“I asked him if he was pre-approved and he isn’t yet,” said John, sounding ticked. “I hope I’m not wasting my time.”
I wanted to point out to him that I was the one not getting paid and that if things did go his way, he’d be making a good commission. But, I held my tongue. Only because I liked Dom and wanted to be there.
“Maybe he’s paying with cash?” I replied, remembering how Dom had mentioned that he’d been saving for a house.
“That’s unlikely, but I guess one never knows. Did he tell you what he does for a living?”
“I think he mentioned something about bartending, part-time, and being a stage performer,” I replied, deciding that if Dom wanted to tell him about his stripping career, I’d let him do the honors.
“What in the hell does that mean? Is he an actor or a circus performer?”
“I don’t know. You can ask him,” I replied, unwilling to give him any more information. John was a pompous dick and I knew he’d belittle Dom if I told him the truth.
“Hmm. Well, I gotta go. You have the address to the house?”
“Yes.”
“Good. See you then.” He hung up.
Sighing, I put my phone down. I really needed to find a new job or write faster.
“Lucifurr.” I leaned down and scratched behind his ears. “I’m going to be gone most of the day.” I straightened up and smiled. “I know how much that bothers you.”
He lay down on his side and began cleaning himself.
I showered and dressed, choosing a pair of white slacks, a summery peach blouse, and white sandals. I took a little longer applying my makeup, put my hair in a soft up-do, and dug out a bottle of perfume that I hadn’t used in a while. I spritzed some on, hoping Dom would like it. I couldn’t help but relish the little thrill in the pit of my stomach. It was the first time in a while that a man had given me butterflies.
“Not bad,” I said, checking my reflection in the mirror from different angles. Although my ass wasn’t perfect, the pants made it look smaller and my waist a little slimmer. I was tall, five-foot-nine, and by no means a size six. But, standing next to Dom yesterday, however, I’d felt small and feminine.
I looked over to find Lucifurr watching me. “What do you think?”
He turned and walked out of the room.
The house for sale was only a couple of miles away from mine. I arrived a few minutes early and sat in my car until John pulled up in his Cadillac. I met him by the front door as he was opening up the lockbox. He smelled like sour booze and cigarettes.
“Good morning,” I said, taking a step back.
“Morning,” he mumbled, opening up the front door.
“Late night?” I asked, noticing that he had bags under his eyes.
He grunted. “Why do you ask?”
“Just, making conversation,” I said innocently.
John went silent, which didn’t bother me one bit.
I followed him into the house and looked around. We were in the great room, which opened up to the kitchen area, and it had been updated. There was plush, new carpeting under our feet, and I could tell the hardwood floors in the kitchen had recently been re-stained.
“This is nice,” I said. Much better than the dump from yesterday. I had a feeling that Dom was going to love it.
John shrugged. “It’s not bad.”
Hearing a motorcycle pull up outside, John walked over to the window and frowned. “Is that him?”
“Yes,” I replied, looking over his shoulder.
“A Gold Viper? You never mentioned this guy was in a biker gang,” he said, irritated.
“I didn’t think it was relevant,” I answered. “And whatever you do, don’t refer to it as a gang. He said they’re a club.”
“Same thing as far as I’m concerned.” He sighed. “Fuck it. As long as he has money and gets approved, I don’t care who he is.”
When Dom stepped into the house, John flipped the switch from pretentious prick to friendly, outgoing salesman. They shook hands and then Dom greeted me warmly.
“How was your friend?” I asked. “Did you find any Peeping Toms?”
“No, but she was fine. I’m sure it was just some teen
agers horsing around,” he replied, looking around the great room. “Wow, this is nice. How long has it been on the market? One day?”
“Two days, now,” said John. “I have a feeling it’s going to go quickly, too. It’s a great house, especially for the price.”
Chapter 9
Tarot
The house was everything I wanted. The rooms were all spacious, the kitchen appeared to be recently remodeled, and the living room had a fireplace, which is something I’d always wanted. Then there was the finished basement, which would be perfect for a man-cave and workout area.
“Every room has been repainted. The carpeting is new, and the roof was just replaced a year ago,” said John, going down the list of updates once again. He looked up and grinned. “I think the only problem you’d have with this place is trying to figure out what kind of riding lawnmower to purchase.”
He wasn’t kidding. The lot was on two acres and most of it was grass.
“What do you think?” I asked Peyton, who looked more beautiful than yesterday, if that was even possible. “Should I do it?”
She gave me a surprised look. “I… I guess that depends on how much you like the place.”
“It’s a great deal and now that summer is just around the corner, it’s going to go quickly,” reminded John. “I’d jump all over this.”
“I love it,” I said, ignoring him. I didn’t like or trust the guy. His smile was pasty and I could feel negative vibes pouring out of him.
“It is nice,” she agreed.
Normally, I’d have pondered the idea a little longer before jumping into things, but my gut told me that if I didn’t put in an offer right away, I’d indeed lose the house.
“Okay, let’s do it,” I replied. “I’ll put in an offer of two-hundred-forty thousand.”
John winced. “Oh, I don’t know if you’re going to want to offer a lower price. With the economy the way it is, it’s a seller’s market right now.”
I looked at Peyton. “What do you think?”
Luring the Biker (The Biker) Book 7 Page 4
