“Don’t be angry. I wanted to be at the library. Honestly, Bishop hasn’t left my side once. He’s been very attentive.”

“I gave him a direct order.”

“And he’s been following them. Don’t take out my need for space on him. Please.”

There was another silence.

“If you’re sure you’re okay?”

“I’m fine. Honestly, more than fine. You’ve got nothing to worry about, I promise.” She smiled, but he wouldn’t be able to see it.

“How is our girl?”

“She’s doing okay. She likes to have a kick around a few times but nothing I can’t handle.” She put her hand on her stomach. “How’s work?”

This is so odd.

“Productive. Promise me you’ll call the moment Bishop is back with you and you’re safe.”

“I’m at the library, Preacher. Believe me, I’m safe.”

“O’Klaren went to the library.”

“O’Klaren hasn’t been around me, and I’m guessing I’ve got you to thank for that. Please, stop worrying. I’ll be fine. Everything will be fine. I promise.”

“It better be. I’ve got to go.”

“Stay safe.”

“Bye.”

She ended the call, putting the phone on the table in front of her.

I do not have feelings for Preacher.

I do not have feelings for Preacher.

It’s the hormones, and he’s been one of the nicest guys around.

It means nothing.

She was startled as someone took a seat beside her.

She recognized the man instantly as the one whom Preacher saw outside the diner.

He was large, imposing, and possessed more ink than Preacher. Some of them crawled up his neck. He had a shaved head, and she saw more ink there. His beard was short, and his eyes dark and deadly.

“Well, well, well, look what we have here?”

She looked around the library but didn’t see the librarian who’d been behind her desk. The place looked empty as if no one was around.

She didn’t like this.

“You shouldn’t be here,” she said, recognizing the patch for the rival club.

“Now, I know you. We’ve never been formally introduced.” He held his hand out. “I’m Reaper of the Slaves of the Beast MC, and you are Robin Rose Keats, formerly known as Robin Rose Riley. Nice name.”

He held his hand out, but she didn’t take it. For all she knew, this could be a trap, one she didn’t want to be set up in.

“I’m not surprised you didn’t take my hand. It wouldn’t look good on you to do such a thing. Talking with the enemy.”

“You’re clearly here for a reason. Tell me what message you want to give and get the hell out.”

She cried out as he gripped the back of her neck, pulling her forward.