“I think they’re going to keep on checking to see for a weakness. We simply don’t give them one. It’s not the first time we’ve had cops breathing down our necks, and it won’t be the last.” He was used to having cops one or two steps behind him. It’s why he had guys like Billy and Ryan on the force. There were people in place to warn him in case they got too close.

“Do you think we need to worry?” Bear asked.

“Only if we leave something out and I’ve no intention of doing that. Don’t let pussy distract you. Be in control, Bear.”

“Will do.”

His cell phone went off, and he paused.

Bishop: Reaper was at the library. I’m with Robin. She’s fine. He’s sniffing around.

“Son of a bitch,” he said.

“What is it?”

“The Slaves need a message because I’m sick of them thinking they can come onto my turf.” Reaper had pushed, and now he was going to answer to him.

****

“Bishop, I’m fine.”

Robin tried to make him feel better, but he wouldn’t let her go. He helped her sit and rushed to quickly fetch her some water.

“It’s not fine. Fucking piece of shit shouldn’t have been in town. I can’t believe I fucked this up. Dad is going to kill me.”

“You have a life as well, and it’s not about taking care of me. Please stop worrying.”

“I’m not going to stop worrying. Not while that piece of shit is close.” Bishop paced the length of the sitting room. “Fuck!”

“Relax, will you? Nothing happened.”

“Nothing happened? Robin, your arms are bruised, and so is your neck. Dad’s going to kill me, and then he’s going to kill the librarian. Where did she go?”

“I don’t know, but no one is going to be killed. Nothing bad happened. We’re all safe. It’s fine.”

“No, it’s really not fine.”

She sipped at the water, leaning forward to get up. “Now you listen to me, Bishop Keats. I’m fine. You did nothing wrong.” She touched his arms, trying to get him to stop. “I’m fine.”

“When I saw those bikes, I nearly had a panic attack. I couldn’t believe he’d come close to you, Robin. I know I’ve not been the best husband right now, but I love you.”

“I know you do. You’ve got to stop feeling guilty. I’m fine. We made it out alive, and I know you’ve already told Preacher. We’re fine.”

Bishop cupped her face, pulling her in close. “I don’t want anything to happen to you.”

“Nothing is going to happen to me. I’m safe.”

She’d never been more thankful to see Bishop.