There was only one way to find out if Preacher liked the girl. He’d have to take her and test those boundaries. It wouldn’t take a whole lot to get Preacher riled, but Reaper really did enjoy pushing the bastard to the brink, and for too long, Preacher hadn’t been able to be hurt. Now, he may have finally found a way.

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Eleven

Resting her chin on her hands while they were flat to the table, Robin stared at the single cupcake with the candle.

Today was her birthday.

Eighteen.

School had been canceled due to some kind of gas leak.

She’d been home on her own since the moment she woke up.

Her dad had called to make sure if she was okay and to wish her a happy birthday. Bishop was nowhere to be seen. He’d made a call to tell her he was busy doing stuff and he’d see her later.

Preacher wasn’t there either.

“Married, pregnant, and alone. Welcome to eighteen, Robin.”

She sat up about to light the candle when she heard the door open.

“Hey, anyone home?” Preacher said.

“Just me. I’m in the dining room.”

She waited, wondering if she should hide the cupcake.

He stepped into the room, looking at the cupcake, then at her. “Have I missed something?”

“No, nothing.”

“Why the cake with a candle?”

She rolled her eyes. “It’s my birthday. I’m about to light the candle and make a wish.”

“I thought Bishop was hanging around with you today.”

“He had things he needed to do. It’s okay. I don’t mind.”

“You mean to tell me you’ve been on your own all day?”

“It’s fine. I don’t mind my own company. I’m used to it anyway.”

Preacher’s teeth clenched.

“Please don’t be angry.”

“I’m getting sick and tired of that boy doing whatever the fuck he wants.”

“It’s fine.”

“You’re giving in too often.”

He pulled out the chair closest to her. He reached into his jacket and pulled out a small velvet box. “I didn’t forget, Robin. I had a few things to take care of.” He put the box in front of her, taking the matches.

“You didn’t have to get me anything.”

“I didn’t? I think it’s a given to give the woman of my child a gift.”

Don’t be embarrassed.

“Open it,” he said.

“Oh, yes, of course.” She picked up the box and slid it open, gasping when she saw a pair of diamond earrings. “They’re beautiful.”

“Put them in, let me see.”

She’d had the same tiny loop earrings for years. She rarely changed them.

Sliding them out of her ears, she put in the ones he’d bought her, and smiled. “What do you think?”

“Beautiful. More than beautiful. You’re stunning.”

“You think so?”

“Yes. Now, for the cake.”