“Hard to say. Tired, but in good spirits. As good as anyone can be in his situation.”

“I hope it’s not much longer until he gets out. I know he’ll probably need a lot of help getting adjusted…” Her voice trails off and she glances up at Rock.

He squeezes her shoulders. “Club’ll help him figure it out.”

The front door slams open and Blue sticks his head outside. “Rock, need your help.”

Rock growls and I turn to answer Blue’s request. “I’ll—”

“No, I got it. Stay with Hope for a minute,” Rock says, stalking off.

Hope watches him go with anxiety glittering in her eyes.

“I’m sure it’s nothing,” I try to reassure her.

“Oh, I’m more worried he’s so pissed about being here. He’ll bite some poor girl’s head off.”

I roar with laughter. “All this time, and the stuff you worry about still blows my mind.”

She grins. “Good.”

The door opens again and Blue steps out. He nods to Hope. “He should only be another minute. Sorry, Mrs. North. He said you can wait inside if you want.”

She glances at the door and smooths her hands over her sweatshirt. “Uh, no. Thanks. I’m fine out here with Z.”

“You okay?” I ask after Blue goes back inside.

“Huh? Yeah, I’m fine.” She tips her head back. “It feels good to be outside.”

“The sunshine agrees with you. You’re prettier than ever.”

“Oh, please. I look like I’ve been put through the spin-cycle.” Her gaze shifts to the door again.

“You didn’t bring Grace?”

“Nope. She’s having some afternoon snuggle time with Auntie Trinity.”

Ah, shit. Now I miss Trinity too.

“Rock didn’t want to expose her to CB so early.” Her lips twist with humor, but I can picture Rock saying something to that effect.

“More like he wanted to show you the backseat of his SUV while you were here.”

She giggle-snorts into her hand. “Possibly. Except, I’m pretty sure he has his bike.”

“Feel free to use my office. Not like you two haven’t defiled it before.”

Her cheeks turn pink, which cracks me up even more, and she reaches out to smack my arm. “Ugh, does Lilly realize what she’s getting into?”

“That I’m a total deviant? I think it’s what she loves about me the most.”

Her laughter eases up and she’s all seriousness again. “Things are good with you two?”

“Better than ever.” It sounds flip, but the words roll off my tongue so easily because they’re true. “I’m kind of shocked how well she’s taken to all the club stuff.”

“I’m not. Lilly’s smart and practical. Plus, she’s always had a bit of bad girl in her.”

“Beauty, brains, and deviance. My dream woman.”

A hesitant expression freezes her face. “You’ve forgiven her?”