Out front, Teller glances down the street. “I’m not thrilled about having so many neighbors, but at least it’s quiet.”

Murphy clasps his hands behind his back and winks at the agent. “Not for long.”

The next morning, I ask Murphy and Teller to stick around the clubhouse and keep an eye on things while I head to the hospital to visit Sway.

Most of our out-of-town brothers have gone back to their charters. Can’t fault them. Everyone has their own problems and needed to get back to their own lives. They showed their respect and helped where they could. The rest is up to us.

The number of brothers staying at the hospital around the clock has gone down, but Stitch, the prospect Priest left up here, is hanging out in Sway’s room, flipping through a magazine, when I walk in the door.

He jumps up as soon as he sees me.

“How’s it going, kid?” I ask.

“Not too bad. Sway’s new nurse is so hot, I’m about to go code 143 on her.”

I’m too old to decipher that, but Sway laughs, which is good to hear. “I knew you weren’t sticking around just to keep me company, you little shit.”

Stitch shrugs. “You need me to get anything for you?”

Sway gives him a list that should keep Stitch occupied for a fair amount of time. On his way out, I stop and hand him some cash for his shopping spree.

“How’s it going, brother?” Sway asks.

“Not bad. How you feeling today?”

“I’m alive.”

I huff out a laugh. “That’s promising. You up for a chat?”

“Gee, let me think about it. My afternoon’s so busy.” He points to a chair. “Have a seat. Entertain me.”

I hate bringing up club business when he’s supposed to be recovering but with Shadow pushing to go after the Vipers, I’m backed into a corner.

“Was wondering when you were going to ask me for some advice on how to run a club.” The nerve damage only allows him to half-grin, and it makes him look even more evil than usual.

“Not exactly advice.”

“Gettin’ all your pointers from Rock?” He doesn’t say it in an angry way, more like he’s disappointed I picked old Dad over new Dad.

“It’s not a contest, Sway. You gonna let me ask or not? I wanna get you while you’re still lucid.” Yeah, that was a dick comment, but he pissed me off. Besides, he can take it.

He’s not insulted. “Shit, brother. I look forward to your visits. Everyone else whispers, fake smiles, and tiptoes around me. Or cries. Like I’m halfway to my grave.”

“You did get shot in the head.”

“And I’m still breathing, ain’t I?”

“And running your mouth,” I add.