11: Fate Sealed

Marigold

Over the next few days, things continued to be delivered to me. My favorite meals showed up at the clinic and at the apartment. Then there were the house listings that started showing up. Most of them were two and three-bedroom places that were all in the better neighborhoods in town. Each one was adorable and would be perfect for me and the baby. Every listening came with a little note attached about the property. Data had been adding little bits of information about how each one could be protected to keep me and the baby safe. He also talked a little about if the home would be could for a growing family.

With each offering, I found myself thinking more about what had happened with Data. If Nadine was right and his heart was in the right place, then I could somewhat see why he would think he needed to stay away. If he thought my husband would be a problem, then he must have felt that having a strong attachment to someone would make it harder for me to leave. But even if that was the case the way he went about all of it was wrong. No one deserves to think that they aren’t important enough for someone to acknowledge.

“We’re having a cookout tonight at the club. You really should come, Autumn. I know a lot of the old ladies wanted to see you again,” Rachel said as we were sitting in the breakroom.

“I don’t know about that. I really don’t want to see that girl again.”

“What girl?” Rachel asked with a raised brow.

“You know the one that called me the charity case and was sitting on Data’s lap that night. She was just plan mean. I get it you’re with Data, but that doesn’t mean that you have to shove it down my throat and insult me on top of it. I’m I don’t think I was even letting on that much that I liked him.” I said, looking anywhere but at Rachel.

“Wait who there is a lot to unpack in that. First Macy the club whore you’re talking about isn’t with Data. I’m not sure why he was hanging around with her, but they are not a thing. She may think they are, but they’re not. He’s never even slept with her.” Rachels scoffed.

“Wait what do you mean he’s never slept with her? The man has clearly had a woman or two with the way he gives those looks.” I said shocked.

“I’m not saying that he’s a virgin! Lord no. The man likes his women, but he doesn’t do club whores. Girls from town, yeah, but never the club whores.”

“Then why would she ask like that? I’ve been nothing but nice to everyone in the club. I couldn’t care less about what they do.” I scoffed. Was this for real?

“Macy wants to be an old lady. She’s had eyes for Data from the first day she was at the clubhouse. He’s always just tried to ignore her. I guess he thought she would be a good way to send you a message. Don’t let them still your joy. If you want to come around and hang out with everyone then to hell with the two of them. No one will look down on you or treat you any different.” Rachel looked sad as she said it.

Rachel had told me multiple times how disappointed she had been in Data. He had talked to her a lot about wanting to find something like she and Hammer had. He was tiring of the games he had told her. So when she saw what happened with me she thought she was going to have to give up home on him. She had hoped that he and I would become something more than just friends.

“And what’s this about liking Data?” Naomi said as she joined us.

“It’s stupid, really.” I was blushing furiously.

“Nonsense. Having feelings for someone is never stupid. Honey, it’s okay to like someone.” Naomi said.

“It’s just that when he was helping me those couple of days, it was amazing. No one had ever been as kind to me or made me smile the way he had. It felt like he was actually being nice to me because he wanted to and not because he had to be. And since I’m really not experienced in a lot of this, I thought there could be a chance that he may like me too.”

****

After that talk at lunch, I told the girls I would come. I stopped off and bought some deserts and headed over to the clubhouse. Stepping out of my car, I noticed I arrived around the same time as most of the people who worked outside of the club. I smiled at a few of the old ladies as we walked closer to the area in the yard set up for the gathering.

“It’s so good to see you again,” Candice, the president’s wife said, giving me a hug.

“Same. Naomi and Rachel told me to come. I’ve missed seeing all of you. How’ve you been?”

Candice and I talked as we went over to help the other women set things up. As usual, there was a divide among the women. The girlfriends and old ladies in one area while the club whores were in another. A few of them looked my way, but no one said anything. I was setting up my deserts when I heard someone walk up to me. I turned and found Hammer standing there.

“It’s good to see you, Autumn. I was hoping Rach could talk you into coming today. I’ve missed having you around.” He said with a laugh as he pulled me into a hug.

“It’s good to see you, too. How have you been?” I asked.

“Good, except for my best friend is walking around like someone shot his puppy. You’ve really done a number on him.” Hammer said with a wink.

“I don’t know about that. He was pretty clear the other night.”

“Oh hun you have no idea how much he regrets that.” Hammer said.

We continued talking until I saw Data walk out of the clubhouse. He was talking to one brother, and it was as if he had come kind of radar for me. His eyes zeroed in and widened when he saw me. His lips tilted up and I could see he wanted to smile at me. I could feel mine doing the same, but I wasn’t sure if I wanted to let him see how happy I was to see him. But then I saw Macy making a beeline over to where Data was and a scowl hit my face.

Data’s eyes crinkled and then he turned to look at what I was glaring at. His body stiffened as she walked up to him and he raised his hand in a stop motion. Macy stopped, but she looked up at him in confusion. She was about to open her mouth when she looked over and saw me. Her eyes narrowed, and she marched right over to where I was standing next to Hammer.

“I’m surprised the charity case was willing to come over again. What it is you need this time, huh? You think you can come in and seduce one of the brothers into helping you again? Girl, you need to get a life and stop coming over here trying to steal away our men,” Macy said with a smirk. Hammer made a move to come and stand in front of me, but I just put my hand on his arm to stop him.

“I thought you were supposed to be friends with Rachel and yet here you are trying to make a move on Hammer. You’re really pathetic if you think you’re going to mean anything to any of these guys. Read my lips. You are just a charity case.”

With those words, I like to think that Macy sealed her fate.

12: A Chance

Data

“I’m surprised the charity case was willing to come over again. What it is you need this time, huh? You think you can come in and seduce one of the brothers into helping you again? Girl, you need to get a life and stop coming over here trying to steal away our men,” Macy said with a smirk.

Hammer went to stand in front of Autumn. I was seeing red and since no one was paying attention to me, I could make my way up to Macy. She was a problem that intended to get rid of right then. I had tried to send her the message that I didn’t want to talk to her just moments before. But she would not take this lying down it seemed. And I wouldn’t be letting her get away with causing more trouble with Autumn.

“I thought you were supposed to be friends with Rachel and yet here you are trying to make a move on Hammer. You’re really pathetic if you think you’re going to mean anything to any of these guys. Read my lips. You are just a charity case.”

“I think you need to fucking shut your mouth now!” I growled out.

I could see Rachel stomping her way over, and Hammer was taking a step toward Macy. The brothers were against violence on women, but that didn’t mean we wouldn’t let our women handle that. Hammer had fought hard to get Rachel to date him, and that bitch was trying to start something.

“Macy, you are asking for an ass beating.” Rachel yelled as she got to Hammer. He wrapped an arm around her to pull her back.

“What, you hate it when someone points out the obvious? All you men keep treating that girl like she’s some breakable object with some kind of magical vagina! She’s nothing! Data, I can make you feel good in ways that you can’t even imagine.” Macy says, as she turns to me.

I scoff at her statement. “Macy, the only thing you would do for me is give me something I can’t shake off! I have no interest in you and I never have. I only spoke to you so that I could try to get Autumn off my mind! My interest in her was the only thing that made me even acknowledge your existence.” I say, looking at her with a glare that I hoped got my point across.

“That’s not true!” Macy screams. “I could see the desire in your eyes! You want me!”

“And here I thought I was the only one who couldn’t believe this shit.” Autumn huffed out. She walked around Hammer and stood in front of Macy.

“I’ll openly admit that the club has helped me. That’s not a secret around here. But what I won’t admit to is being pathetic. I escaped what I thought was a dangerous situation. If that makes you think I’m pathetic, then you’ve got a lot more problems than just being a bitch.” Autumn said.

“You think you can just walk in here and bat your lashes talking about how scared you are and all the men are going to fall at your feet?” Macy seethed.

“What kind of crack are you on?” Autumn asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

“What? I’m not on crack.”

“No, you have to be. That’s the only explanation for the fucked up ideas you’ve got. And darn it, you’ve got me cursing. I don’t curse!” Autumn huffed.

Rachel laughed, as did the other women around. I had been hearing murmurs of how much the old ladies were tiring of the club whores. To me it seems like the time had come for them to leave. I hadn’t noticed a lot of the brothers using their services, either. Things had been changing since we had gone legit. I knew that I would have been more than happy to see that happen.

“I think this is as good a time as any to work this shit out!” Match yelled. “It becomes more obvious every time we have a get together that the club girls and the old ladies will never get along. I get it. Most of the men here are matched up already and the ones who aren’t are not really using the girls. I say we get rid of the club whores. Anyone have a problem with that?”

Not one brother said anything about wanting to keep them. It had been a problem for years, and no one really wanted to confront the problem. They all just wanted to stay out of the fight. That wasn’t something that could keep going on and us getting our shit together.

“I object!” Macy yelled. I rolled my eyes. I should have known she would do this. “I became a whore so that I would get a man to take care of me! I don’t plan on working or doing anything. I thought you bikers were supposed to take care of your women. What was the point in us letting you use us if you weren’t ever going to give that to us?”

“We do, but you aren’t anyone’s woman!” Tex said with a smirk. “You knew what you were getting into when you signed up for this. I know for a fact that you were told what the score was before you signed your contract to be here. You knew there was no guarantee that you would become an old lady.”

“Each girl will be given some money to start over, but you are all to be out by the end of the week.” Match called out.

The uproar from the girls was immediate, and Macy was more upset than anyone. She made her closer to Autumn, and I knew that look I was seeing in her eye. I jumped in a grabbed Autumn, turning her while Hammer grabbed Macy. That was all it took for Rachel to jump Macy and it quickly became a fight with the old ladies and the whores.

I picked Autumn up and ran toward the clubhouse. I wanted nothing to happen to her. She was pregnant and I wouldn’t risk anything happening to her or that child. I ran up the stairs and into my room, sitting her on the bed as turned and locked the door.

“What’s going on? Why did you bring me here?” Autumn was flustered and scared.

“That was turning into an all-out brawl and I wasn’t about to let anything happen to you.” I told her.

I turned to look at her and saw confusion on her face. I knew that a lot had happened over the last few weeks for her and I could only imagine the struggles she is having. I walked over and squatted down in front of her so that we were face to face.

“But why? You were so quick to push me away before. I don’t understand any of this Data.” She said and I could see the tears forming in her eyes.

“For sweetheart, it’s Austin.” I whispered.

“Austin? Who’s that?” She asked with an adorably cute face.

“That’s my real name. In our culture only those you love or hold dear get to call you by your name.” I said, looking her in the eye. I needed her to see the sincerity in it.

“Love or hold, dear?” she repeated softly.

“Autumn, I know I’ve been a complete fuck up. I’ve hurt you deeply and for the rest of my life I’m going to keep trying to make that up to you. I was afraid. Autumn, Marigold, there are things about your husband and family that made me afraid to get close to you.” I said honestly. Her face was confused.

“They just run a business.” She scoffed.

“No, it’s more than that. But I need you to trust me when I say you don’t want to know any more than that. I’m going to do everything I can to keep you and the baby safe. I know you don’t trust me because of what I did, but I swear I’m going to win that back. I want the chance to show you the world you deserve. A world where you are safe and happy. Where you know that you’re the only woman in the world that matters to me.”

“Why should I give you that chance? You humiliated me and let that woman talk to me like I’m nothing. Do you have any idea what my life’s been like? I was in an arranged marriage with no affection. We were cordial and did the duty we knew we had to. I’ve never been anyone’s first choice or someone that anyone would give anything to be with. Even my parents treated me more like a possession than their child. You know what made me finally run?” she asked in a shaky voice.

“No.”

“He was screwing the person who was supposed to be my best friend. Looking back, I can see that friendship for what it was. She was picked to be my friend and to keep me in line.” This time she let the tears fall.

“Then can you let me do all that? Will you let me choose you first and be the man and best friend that you’ve always wanted and deserved?” I asked.

13: Gauntlet

Marigold

I looked at Data and tried to figure out what was going on with the man. He had just told me his first name, which in itself was huge. Rachel and Naomi had told me about it one day at lunch. I never knew something as simple as someone’s name could have so much importance. But for the biker community, it’s a sign of ultimate trust. And here Austin was offering me that trust. It spoke volumes to me when some of the other things didn’t.

Then when you looked at what he did that day you saw a man hell bent on protecting me. He stood up for me and put Macy in her place. It felt good to hear him humiliate her in front of everyone just like she did me. Part of me felt like I should relish in someone else’s pain, but I couldn’t help myself and to be honest I didn’t want to. Austin pulled me out of the situation to keep me and my child safe. I was running out of reasons to keep myself far away from him. Everything in my body was begging me to try.

I didn’t have to one hundred percent trust in the beginning, but I could let him prove himself to me. Would I be able to live with the what if’s? I think I could live with the hurt if I got myself out fast enough, but the not knowing wouldn’t work. I would spend my life thinking about what could have been and if I had given up the love of my life.

“If I give you this chance, Data, are you willing to do this at my pace? Because I can tell you I’m not there completely with trusting you with my heart. And I have no experience with relationships.” I told him.

“Austin, sweetheart. I want you to call me Austin and yes I will go however slow or fast you want. I just want the chance to call you mine,” he said.

“What does that mean to be yours?” I asked. I didn’t understand much about relationships and from what I had heard some biker relationships are different. I needed to know what I was getting myself into.

“It means that you’re my girl and I’m your man. I will be faithful to you and you alone. When a man in an MC claims someone and calls them theirs, it’s for life. It viewed the same as getting married in our world.” He said.

“But you barely know me and you want to attach yourself to me like that? It doesn’t make sense.” I said.

How could anyone know they want to spend the rest of their life with someone so quickly? I knew I’d developed feelings rather quickly, but what he was saying was insane. What happened down the road if he decided that I wasn’t what he wanted.? Would he just up and leave or would he stay with me while hating every moment?

“I know that it’s quick. I also know that you have a billion questions running through your head. So ask. Autumn ask all you need so that you’ll feel as right about this as I do.”

There was an earnestness in his eyes that I couldn’t overlook. I didn’t think he would be willing to sit and let me grill him if he wasn’t serious about all this. Who would want everything about themselves put up for someone to see? And that is just what he was offering. I could have asked him about anything and he would have answered me. I knew it from the bottom of my heart.

“What happens when the newness wears off and you don’t like me as much as you did before?” I asked the basic of questions but one that mattered the most.

“If that ever happened, which I don’t think it will, I would throw myself into working back to where we were. I’m stubborn and I will do anything to get what I want. If I wanted you enough to make you mine, then it means that you will always be that. I don’t go around making promises lightly even though it may seem that way now. I will prove all that to you if you give me the chance.”

“Would I have to worry about what you would be doing when you were away? You say you’ll be faithful, but does that mean the same to you as it does me?” He blanched.

“I know that MC members have a bad reputation for playing around on their women, but I swear that’s not the case here. The brothers here know that there’s nothing more important than loyalty. If you can’t be loyal to your girl, then you don’t deserve to even try to be loyal to the club.”

“What about my baby? Are you going to be okay with raising someone else’s child? It’s not just me you would be getting in all this. It would be a family that you would be getting.” I said.

“You know the houses you’ve been getting the information on?” I nodded at him. “I was looking for ones that would work for a growing family. I looked at each of these in person and while I was walking through them, I would picture what it would look like for you to be there. How would you look pregnant in each room, and which room would make a great nursery? I pictured late nights with a baby and long days of the two of us just lounging around in bed, enjoying the day.”

He took my hand in his and looked me in the eye. He was trying his best to lay his heart out there for me to see. As hard as it was, he was really trying.

“I wanted to picture the perfect place for you to live your best life. I want to give you the best life you could ever hope for, and I knew I needed to find that place for us. I pray day and night that you’ll find it within yourself to give me one more chance. I want to give you the great love story that everyone wants in their life. I can’t tell you what’s going to happen today or the next, but I can tell you I will be fighting for you. Every day could throw something new at me to try to break all this apart and I will fight it with every breath I have. I don’t plan on waisting another moment of my life without you. I want to spend the rest fighting for you.”

After he finished saying all that, I knew there was only one answer that I could give him. I was going to put my heart on the line and give him the chance he was asking for. It may blow up in my face, but I had to try.

“One chance. If you mess this one up, that’s it. I’m going to take this slow, and you still need to show me I can trust you.”

The flicker in his eyes was electric. He was taking my challenge, and he planned on making sure that he won. There was not one part of me that didn’t know instantly how competitive he was. It was there on his face. He wasn’t used to losing anything and now that I had thrown down the gauntlet he was going to run with it. I was going to be in for so much that I was going to know how to handle all of it.

If I thought he was trying before, I was about to learn that I hadn’t seen anything yet.

14: No Other

Marco

I couldn’t put it off anymore. We had to put the word out that she was missing. Under normal circumstances, the organization would handle everything on their own, but since no one can find anything about where she went after the doctor, it has to be done. My father had left this up to me and I knew I couldn’t let him down.

“Boss, I have the results from the visit she made to the doctor’s office.” Rico said, handing me a folder.

“They give you a hard time?” I asked, taking it.

“Some, but I persuaded them.”

That means that he had strong-armed them into giving him the information. I opened the folder and was immediately met with a picture of her. Marigold was a beautiful woman. With her blonde curls and bright eyes, she was the all-American girl. I had never had a problem being attracted to her, but she wasn’[t someone that I could see myself living out my fantasies with.

I read down the list of information until the date she disappeared. She had gone in for a pregnancy test. My breath caught in my throat. We had been trying to get pregnant so that our parents would get off our backs. I had fucked her at least four times a week to try to make that happen. I knew she hadn’t been with anyone else because she was closely monitored.

She had begged to not have cameras in the house and because we had kept the truth of who we were from her; I didn’t have a reason to do it in her mind. I had thought she had been trained enough that I would never have to worry about her running. The day she left I kicked myself for not doing what I wanted. I had her phone and rings equipped with trackers, but those had been left at home.

I flipped the page to see the results of the test. Positive. Marigold was pregnant. My hands tightened on the folder as I took in the information. My wife was out in the world pregnant with my heir.

“Call the Maltas and my parents over. We have a bigger situation than we thought.” I said to Rico.

---

“What’s all this about, Marco? Have you found her?” Priscilla Malta asked as everyone sat down.

“No, there is still no sign of her anywhere. But we do know something more about the day she disappeared. Marigold had gone to her OBGYN for an appointment. They tested her and confirmed that she is now pregnant.

My mother and hers both gasp and the men look wide eyed. Under normal circumstances, this would be a joyous occasion. The next heir to the Camilleri family was on its way. But right now we were in a fight against the clock to locate the mother and my unborn child.

“I want to take this public.” I said.

“Wait, son, what do you mean take this public?” my father asked.

“We aren’t finding anything to let us know what happened. If we bring in the cops who are, of course, under our control and the media, we may get lucky and find out something. I cannot have my wife and heir running around or being held hostage.” I growl out.

“What if she ran?” Nico asked.

“Meaning?” I said back.

“Was there anything that would have made her leave? Was she unhappy about something? Did she find out about you and Regina? If she left on her own, it would explain why there’s been no ransom asked for. And the house never looked like a thing happened in it.” He said.

“She shouldn’t have had any idea that there was anything going on. Unless one of you told her.” I said,

“Not a one of us is that stupid. But she is dumb enough to run off. And I’ll say this now. If she did, she will pay.” Nico huffs.

“We will not harm her physically until that baby arrives,” I called out. If we find out that she did, in fact, run, she will have to face those consequences then.

“And then? Once we have the heir?” Priscilla asked.

“Then she pays the price for running from her responsibilities.”

After the parents left, I called Regina to come over and work off some of my tension. All the problems surrounding my wife were getting to me. I needed to show that I had control over the organization. There was always someone who wanted to make a name for themselves and taking me out because I couldn’t lead would be a good start.

If I couldn’t control what went on under my roof, then there was no way I could control the entire family. Up to the day she left, Marigold had shown the family that I was in control. She never spoke out of turn or did anything that would make me look bad. She thought all of it was because of our family business. But now I’m wondering if her family had done a good job of breaking her like they claimed.

Being trained and broken was a part of every major marriage. The wife was to be the one who was to serve her family. Women are broken at an early age so that they can learn how to follow the husband’s lead. Things were going great and then they weren’t.

“Still no idea where she’s at?” Regina asked as she walked in and wrapped her arms around me.

“No, but we do know that she’s pregnant.” I said.

Regina pulled back with a look of horror on her face. I had always known that there would be issues once I had gotten my wife pregnant. Regina considered herself the most important person in my life, and it was all I could do to keep her in line most days. I knew she would be angry when it happened and it was time for her to show her feelings.

“You can’t be serious! I thought you were using protection with her. We were the ones who were supposed to be having a baby together!” She yelled.

“And what have I told you about that? Huh?” I yelled right back. “Assume nothing. You know damn well that the only child of my that will be my heir is the one I have with my wife. And what I do with her is none of your concern!”

Regina stepped back with tears in her eyes. She may be as hard as steel most of the time, but she will use whatever weapons she has to get her way. Crying is a new one she’s trying on me.

“But you know how much I love you.” She wiped her eyes. “You’ve told me you love me. All those moments we spent together have meant everything to me. I’ve given up the hopes of a marriage because I want no one but you. The least you could do is not crush my heart by saying such vile things.”

“I have no say in the matter and you know that. Now if Marigold left on her own, then she’s basically signed her own death warrant. With her out of the way, I’ll have the heir through the marriage that everyone wants, and then I’ll be free to be with whoever I want. If you can behave yourself until then, we may still be able to salvage this.” I told her. I saw the pout on her face.

“But I don’t want to raise her kid.” She sounded like a toddler pitching a fit.

“It will be my child. If it’s a girl, then we just send her off somewhere to be with a family. If it’s a boy, then we’ll raise him to be the strongest leader the family has ever seen. All you need to do is trust me, baby.”

She had a spark in her eye then at the thoughts of being mine. She never needed to know that I had no intention of ever marrying again. Marigold would either be stuck with me for life or she would be taken care of. But there would be no one else who would hold the title of my wife. And it wasn’t for any kind of love that I had for my current wife. It was more of the fact that I was tired of someone always trying to tell me what to do.

I had grown up in the family and it had been beaten into me I listened to my father. Even once I took over, I still had to answer to him at times. All that was going to end once I found Marigold and had a solid plan for the future.

15: Lunch Date

Marigold

Mondays were always one of the hardest at the clinic. Since we were closed on the weekends, everyone called Monday with their emergencies. Rachel was practically chained to her phone on Monday. At around 10:30 that morning, I got a text message from Austin asking if I would join him for a lunch date.

I knew I had told him we would take it slow, but I saw no harm in a little lunch date. I would be starving around noon, so it sounded like the perfect time to go. I answered and tried my hardest to keep the smile off my face. It was a losing battle, but I could at least say I made the attempt.

Austin came over and picked me up in his truck. He wore his normal t-shirt and jeans. The way the white t-shirt was stretched against his chest was mouth watering. Of course, so was that ass in those jeans. I couldn’t understand what had come over me. I never thought of Marco like that. I thought he was handsome at best, but never wanted to openly drool over him.

Austin brought that out in me. Being close to him in any way sent my hormones in all kinds of directions. At first I thought it was the pregnancy. I told myself that lie for a few days. But the longer I was around the more the truth slammed me in the face. It was all Austin. No other man brought those thoughts and feelings to life.

If I was honest, I would admit to someone that at night, just thinking of him would have me so turned on that I had to do something about it. That was never something I did in my past life. It had always felt like this forbidden thing that my mother would somehow know if I did it. Now I did it pretty much every night just to try to get some relief.

“Have you eaten here yet?” Austin asked as we pulled into a parking lot.

Dean’s was the name of the place in front of us. It looked like one of those old 50s diners that you would see in the movies. I sat there and imagined myself drinking a milkshake in a fluffy skirt and top. I’d have my hair pulled back in a curly ponytail and spot those cute black and white saddle shoes.

“No, I haven’t. I’ve not even seen the place before. But if it’s what I think it is, then I’m excited.” I said with a smile.

Austin got out of his truck and was in front of my door before I could even get my seat belt off. He opened the door and held his hand out to me. I smiled and placed my hands in his. I know it was all in my head, but it was like tiny little sparks were dancing around our joined hands.

Austin never let go and he led me into the restaurant and to a booth near the back of the seating area. I pull out the menu and start looking over everything. They had a variety of food but I was wanted a burger and fries with a milkshake. I was going to get whatever it was I wanted after all the years of watching my figure.

The server came quick and got our orders, leaving us to ourselves. Austin smiled at me and I felt myself melting just a little more at the sight of it.

“Did you have a good rest of the weekend?” He asked.

“I did. I took it easy and was lazy. I didn’t realize that pregnancy would make me so tired. But There’s nothing I love more than a good nap. So it’s kind of a win win situation for me.” I said with a shrug. Austin chuckled at my answer. “What about you?”

“It was good. I thought a lot about how I could keep gaining your trust.”

“Oh, you did huh? And were there any outstanding ideas that came to your mind?” I asked with a smirk.

“There were a few things. But one of the first I’m going to use it telling you all about me.”

“You’re not some kind of serial killer are you?” I asked, laughing.

“No. Not even close. But there are always things that we keep to ourselves as people. I grew up in a home with wonderful parents who loved me. But there were always secrets floating around that house. Any time I would ask there would be a quick answer with a dismissal. Over the years, that’s how I thought relationships were supposed to be. You kept things from those you love. But since I met you and learned all about your situation, I’ve learned that’s not how things are supposed to be.”

“How did that go over with the ladies?” I asked, smiling.

“Not that well.” He laughed. “But then again, I hadn’t been all that serious about anything other than the club. I made sure to let the girls I was involved with know that there wasn’t anything deep going to be happening between us. So they knew what they were getting themselves into. The reason I’m saying all this is so you know that I have it programed in me to keep some things to myself. That’s something I’m going to have to work on. Hell, that I’m even telling you is huge for me. I don’t want that kind of relationship with you. I know all there is to know about you on paper, and I want to know everything that isn’t.” He reached across the table and took my hands in his.

“So, does that mean that you’re going to return the favor to me? You are going to let me learn all there is to know about you?” I asked.

“That and then some. I want you to know everything there is to know about me and even the things you’ll wish you didn’t know. I’m all in on this.”

We ate our lunch in between the laughs from our conversation. There was an ease in the way we talked. I found amazing. It wasn’t something I had with many people, but Austin was perfect for me to talk to. We shared embarrassing stories from our childhood and it broke the ice. By the time he was driving me back to work, it was like we had just shared a lifetime of stories.

“So I’m going to a family diner tonight at Nadine’s. Would you like to come with me?” I asked.

“She gonna be alright with that? Nadine can be prickly about who comes to a family diner.” He said, laughing.

“Yeah, she told me I could ask you.” I said, blushing. Austin moved around like he was trying to get a better view of my face.

“Is that a blush that I see, Autumn?” he was chuckling at my sorry attempt to hide my face. “Nadine’s been trying to get you to talk to me hasn’t she?”

“She has. She wasn’t happy to hear about how you handled everything, but she gave me a lot of advice that was good. Sometimes there are right and wrong things to push when it’s advice. Nadine seems to have the Knack to know what to say and when. The more I thought about what everyone was saying the more I knew I didn’t want to have to live with regrets. You could be bad for me, but then again you could be the greatest thing to ever happen to me.”

“If I told you I want to be the greatest thing to ever happen to you, would you believe me?” Austin asked so low it was almost a whisper.

“Yes, I think I do believe you. Now all you have to do is just show me. Words can be said by anyone, but actions they are what show the true you.”

16: Stealing Hearts

Data

Family dinner with Nadine and Hammer was something I had only been to a time or two. Nadine enjoyed spending time with just those closest at least once every two weeks. It had been a longstanding tradition that I was happy to see. It had seemed to me that families weren’t doing things like that anymore. My family certainly didn’t, and I heard none of the other brothers talking about it.

Hammer had told me that Nadine had asked Autumn to join in on the diners. Nadine felt like Autumn was another granddaughter that she could love. And I suspected it was the same with Autumn seeing her as that grandmother figure who was there to make everything all better.

Autumn had told me she would meet me there. She and Rachel were driving over to Nadine’s after work and that meant I couldn’t pick her up. I stopped and got her some wild flowers along with Nadine and Rachel. I knew that if I didn’t get some for Nadine, I would be in trouble. Rachel was just a no brainer because she was the only other woman there. I did however make sure that my girl’s bouquet was larger.

I had used some of the information she had given at lunch to know that tulips were her favorite. She had told me a story of how her mother would scold her for spending too much time in the garden looking at the tulips. She said she enjoyed being out there because it was always so much calmer and tulips were her favorite.

Lunch had been a great way for me to get to know the actual person she was. I knew some, but I also knew that Autumn kept herself hidden in a lot of ways. I know she may not say out loud, but there had to have been some kind of trauma in her past to make her forget so much of her childhood. Just listening to her stories made me aware that she wasn’t allowed to be a child. She had to mature quickly and even in that, someone had control over her.

I know a time will come when we’ll have to talk about all that. But I wanted her to first trust me again, to know that no matter what is going on I’m going to have her back. It was something I didn’t think she had ever had and the one thing I wanted to make sure she got.

“Well, look at you Austin. You’re a sight for sore eyes. She invited you huh?” Nadine said as she answered her door. Instead of allowing me in she stepped out on the porch.

“She did. I hope that’s alright.”

“Sure it’s fine. But you know I gotta say some things to you, son.” I only nodded, knowing she would say it whether I liked it or not. “That girl is family now. So I giving you one more chance just like she is. I know you messed up thinking you were doing the right thing. But do something that hurts her again, and it’s me you’ll deal with.”

Nadine stood on her tiptoes and gave me a kiss on the cheek followed by a pat. The woman had a heart of gold but piss her off and she would become your worst nightmare.

I followed her in, holding the flowers and started handing them out. I found Autumn in the kitchen alone, putting some mashed potatoes in a bowl. She looked gorgeous standing there in her own world. Those golden curls were pulled back in a messy bun and she was smiling softly as she worked. At that moment, all I could think of was having her in my home someday looking at our child and smiling.

“Hey beautiful girl.” I whispered.

She turned and a larger smile lit up her face as she saw me. I walked up to her and handed her the tulips giving her a small side hug. I was trying my hardest to take it slow and not come rushing at her like a dog in heat. But no matter how hard I was trying it didn’t change the fact that she was the most beautiful and sexy woman I had ever seen.

It wasn’t something right there in your face when it came to her. It was the soft looks that she would get when she talked about something she loved. The way she laughed when Rachel told her something funny was something that drove me wild. I wanted to be all those things to her and more.

“You remembered.” She said, smiling at me.

“I did. I want to remember everything about you.”

“So, I’m excited for you to try these mashed potatoes. Nadine told me that what I was doing wasn’t going to taste good, but I know better than that. I want to see the look on her face when she figures out that I know what I’m doing.” Autumn says with a smirk.

Once at the table, the dishes are passed around, and I was sitting next to Autumn. Her knee was bouncing up and down and I knew it was because she was excited to have her food tried, but I couldn’t stop the grin that was on my face. She was adorable in at that moment and I wanted to memorize it forever.

“Alright child calm down. I’m going to try them.” Nadine said.

She scooped up a bit and placed it into her mouth. She chewed, making a show of it but not giving anything away on her face. Autumn was biting her nail, trying to figure out what the woman was thinking about the food. Nadine then put her fork down and wiped her mouth. She sat there saying nothing only looking at Autumn.

“How?” Nadine held her hand up and stopped Autumn from asking.

Autumn visibly deflated, and I wrapped my arm around her shoulders, trying to comfort her. Part of me was getting angry that Nadine was making my girl feel so bad. The excitement had left her face, and I was hoping Autumn didn’t start crying. Nadine then stood from her seat and looked us all over.

“Those are the best fucking potatoes I have ever had in my life!” She yelled.

Every one around the table erupted into cheers, and Autumn smiled with tears streaming down her face. Nadine walked over and wrapped her arms around Autumn from behind, whispering something in her ear. Whatever it was made my girl beam and smile bigger than I had ever seen.

Dinner was full of laughing and stories about Hammer and me as we were growing up. Rachel and Autumn both loved hearing about some of the stupid things the two of us had done over the years. I couldn’t remember the last time I had just sat down at a meal and had fun. That day it had happened twice, and I was hoping to make it a regular event.

Since she had driven her own car, I was again wasn’t able to take her in the truck. I did however follow her home to make sure that she arrived alright. I parked beside her car and got out quickly to open her door. She smiled and thanked me making my stomach knot up. I was long gone when it come to that girl. She had embedded herself in me deep and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

“I had so much fun tonight. It felt right, like an actual family. We never did things like that. Thank you for coming with me.” The smile on her face was gorgeous. She looked happier than I had ever seen her.

“I had a good time, too. You look beautiful, smiling like that.” I said.

Her eyes focused in on mine, and there was a twinkle in them. I couldn’t place the emotion, but it didn’t take long because Autumn wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled me into a kiss. It was slow at first because it took me a minute to understand that it was really happening. But once I got my head around it I deepened it, putting everything I was feeling into that kiss. I wanted her to be able to feel the love that was blooming inside me. I wanted her to understand how sorry I was for all that I had done and the things I hadn’t.

And as if she was answering my feelings she did the same. I could tell she was timid to put herself out there like she did. She had been in a loveless arranged marriage, but she was trying. Damn, she was trying, and I was putting in everything I could to help her see she was succeeding. I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her closer. I needed to feel her against me. I knew it wouldn’t be anytime soon, but I let myself imagine what it would be like to make her mine. I wanted to know that she was safe with me and no one else. I felt the need no the desperate need to protect her.

“I have to be careful around you, Austin. You might just steal my heart before I’m ready.” She said with a bright smile.

17: Reward

Marigold

The days that followed the family dinner were amazing. Austin was a dream. I knew I was supposed to be upset with him and making him work hard for my total forgiveness, but I was struggling to do that.

Austin showed up every day and showed that what he was saying was the truth and how he felt. I woke up to breakfast being delivered either by him or by a prospect. Most days I had lunch delivered for me or even me and the other girls. Austin was trying to gain brownie points with anyone he thought would help him.

The beating his reputation had taken over what he had done was bothering him as well. He didn’t want to be that asshole guy who was known for treating women in a way that would hurt them. He had made it his mission to move forward and prove that wasn’t the man he was. I tried to show him I was proud of how hard he was working by telling him thank you for everything and for giving us more and more time together.

I had become less sick with the pregnancy and was doing everything I could to enjoy it. I had been excited to find out what I was going to have. Parts of me wanted a girl, while more of me wanted a boy. I wanted to train him to treat a woman with respect and to know that being true to yourself was also nothing wrong. That was something that I had never had growing up. Thoughts like those were always running around in my head.

“I hear you have a date tonight.” Rachel said while eating her salad.

It was once again one of those days when lunch was delivered to the three of us. Naomi was eating a chicken salad sandwich while I had a club sandwich and fries. I had waited for a lecture about eating healthier from my friends, but it never came.

“I do. Austin said he’s taking me to a drive-in theater a couple of towns over to see some classic films. I’ve always wanted to do that. It sucks that some many cool things have gone away and are replaced with cheap imitations that aren’t nearly as fun.” I pouted.

“Yeah, I love to hear the stories of all the babies that were made during those years!” Naomi laughed

“Maybe I’m just a super romantic person, but the thoughts of getting to sit and watch a movie without anyone really in your space and still being out is something I’ve dreamed of.” I said.

“I know it’s not something we talk about, but did you ever do anything like that with your ex?” Rachel asks.

“It’s funny to think about that. I’ve never talked to anyone much about my marriage. I guess since you all know my secret, it’s not like we can’t talk about it.” I said, giving them a sad smile. “We never did anything that would even be considered a date.”

Both of my friends looked at me, horrified. The more I thought about their reaction the more it made sense to me. They weren’t born into the lifestyle I was. It wasn’t a bad thing that they weren’t. In fact, I think it was the better of the two options. Growing up in that society group was more like a punishment than anything. You weren’t allowed to be an individual; you were a part of the group. Marriage wasn’t something between people in love, but were business deals and merges. I thought maybe talking to them about it would help them understand.

“Marriages weren’t or aren’t based on love in that society. It’s all about what you can get out of it. I knew the man I married before it happened. But truthfully, I may have said ten words to the guy.” I laughed.

“So, how does it feel to be starting your first relationship?” Naomi asked.

“Like I’m living someone else’s life.”

*****

“I can’t believe we were able to sneak all this food in?” I giggle as we unpack the bags we stashed away.

“I know. I was sure they were going to smell the burgers at the gate and make us give them up.” Austin laughed.

God, it was a beautiful sound to hear him like that. He seemed so carefree that it brought a smile to my face just thinking about how it sounded. He handed me my order and dialed in the radio to the station for the movie. The black and white pictures started, and we both took a bite out of our food.

The movie was Angels With Dirty Faces. James Cagney was playing a gangster that is living a lifetime of crime. His friend is a priest and is trying to get him to change his ways. I was loving every moment and looked over to see if Austin was enjoying it, too. But all I found was him watching me.

“Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?” he asked.

“Stop. There are much more beautiful women out there.” I said, blushing.

“I wasn’t just meaning your looks. Marigold.” I look up at the sound of my real name. “You have a beautiful body yes, but your mind and soul are what are the most beautiful. You were willing to give me a chance to prove to you I deserved you. To prove that the things I did and said weren’t my truth. You’ve lived your life, even though it has been tough, with grace and kindness. You’ve put others above yourself. I can’t think of anything more beautiful than that.”

Something in his eyes told me he was telling the truth. I may have been a good wife and daughter and followed the rules, but that didn’t mean that I couldn’t tell when someone was lying to me. I always knew there was more to my family and Marco’s than what they told me. I wasn’t stupid, and I was naïve. I played the role I was given so that I could survive the life I had no choice but to live. But there before me sat a man that saw me. I felt in that moment that he saw the real me, not the one I had been taught to be.

“No one has ever called me beautiful and really meant it.” I laugh lightly. “I never believed it. In the world I grew up in there was no shortage of complements, but they were always laced with something other than kindness. Everyone always wanted something from you if they were talking to you.” I can’t believe I’m saying this out loud.

“But when you say my name, whether it’s the real one or not, I feel you are honestly acknowledging me. Like I’m someone worth the time and energy to speak to. And just now I felt like I was wanted, truly wanted for the first time. I’m not saying that everything is perfect and you’re completely off the hook but, I believe that you really want me.”

Austin leaned forward and took my face in his hands. I could see the happiness there. His blue eyes were shining with what looked like unshed tears. The emotions flooding those eyes were almost more than I could bear in my overly normal state. I took the lead and pressed my lips to his. I prayed in my mind that he would feel the care I was sending through that kiss. I needed him to feel it, the love that had been building since the first day.

“So, does this mean that I can officially call you mine? Because, to be honest with you, I’m about to crawl out of my skin to tell everyone you’re mine.” He said.

“As long as I can say the same.”

I didn’t know then that the very next day things would get so much more complicated. Had I known I would have held on tighter to that moment and savored it even more than I did.

********

“Breaking news this morning. A nationwide search is under way for Marco Camilleri of Camilleri Inc’s wife. Marigold Camilleri show below has gone missing. Marigold is said to be around fifteen weeks pregnant and has been missing for several weeks with no information to be found. A reward of ten million dollars has been offered by the family of any information that would lead to the safe return of Marigold.”

18: Going into Hiding

Marigold

I was sitting in my office going over my schedule when Naomi came busting into my office. The look on her face had me instantly out of my chair and rushing to her side. She took my hand and went around to my computer. She typed something in and then a news report was running in front of me.

“Breaking news this morning. A nationwide search is under way for Marco Camilleri of Camilleri Inc’s wife. Marigold Camilleri show below has gone missing. Marigold is said to be around fifteen weeks pregnant and has been missing for several weeks with no information to be found. A reward of ten million dollars has been offered by the family of any information that would lead to the safe return of Marigold.”

“Oh, God!” I called out as I fell into my chair.

My hand was over my mouth, and it seemed to be the only thing keeping me from screaming. He did it. Marco had brought in the police to look for me. Over the weeks that I had been living my new life I had wondered if there was going to be a hunt for me. I had seen nothing about my disappearance and I thought it was odd. My husband was one of the biggest business owners in the country and yet not a word had been mentioned about me being gone. Maybe he had been happy that I had left?

My cell phone had buzzed, but I was too glued to the news report to answer it. Naomi must have seen who it was because she picked it up and answered.

“Yes, we see it now.” She looked down at me. “Ok. Yeah. Alright. Bye.”

I finally looked up from the screen completely and saw she that Naomi had turned pale. There was fear in her eyes and I knew in that moment that nothing was going to be the same.

“That was the Prez. Data is on his way to get you. The two of you are going into lockdown for a while. There’s a cabin a few counties over that no one but the leadership knows about. I’m supposed to help you disguise yourself more. I know you love your hair, but it’s got to go.”

For the next five minutes, Naomi cut my hair. I cried at the sight of all the long curls falling down my face. Naomi said that she didn’t want me dying it yet because I was so early in my pregnancy. Rachel came running in with a pair of glasses and a change of clothes.

“I got a big dress thinking we could use one of the prosthetic bellies to make her look further along.” She said, handing the items to Naomi.

I stripped out of my clothes and put on the huge prosthetic belly and dress. Rachel handed me the glasses, and I took them with my shaking hands. Once they were on my face, she took my hand in hers.

“We are all going to protect you, Autumn. You’re family now and I know Data isn’t going to let anyone get to you,” Rachel said, pulling me into a hug.

Naomi wrapped herself around both of us and for a moment, we all just held on tight and cried. The door to my office opened and in walked Austin and Hammer. Seeing the looks on their faces made the situation all that much more real for me. There was fear there, and I didn’t know what I was going to do.

“Gran is getting your things together, and I’m going to pick them up and bring them with supplies.” Hammer said.

Austin had walked over and taken me into his arms. I was still a crying mess not knowing what would happen. I knew these people would protect me, but something in me was afraid of what might happen to them. I never knew Marco to be violent, but my parents could be and that was scary enough.

“Am I going to have to hide forever?” I asked.

“I don’t know baby. We need to talk about some stuff on the way to the cabin. It’s going to be alright but you need to know everything,” Austin said.

After saying goodbye to everyone, I walked out the back of the building to Austin’s waiting truck. It felt like I would never see them again and that everything I had worked so hard at was being taken away. I didn’t understand why everything had to be taken away again. First, I learned about Marco’s betrayal and then the reality of him looking for me made me have to run.

“So there are some things you don’t know about your parents and Marco.” Austin said as we drove off.

“What do you mean?”

“Marigold, your family and Marco are a part of the mafia. In fact, Marco’s family is one of the most feared in the country.” Austin said. He looked over at me to see what my reaction was.

“No. that can’t be it. They just run a business and my father is a lawyer.” I laughed.

“Baby, I’m being one hundred percent serious. They kept this from you. The less you knew the better. From what I’ve learned in hacking into your records, they knew from a young age that you would never be okay with the lifestyle. At around ten, something happened and your memories were gone. Do you remember anything before then?” He asked.

“No. But that means nothing. How would I have missed all that?” I scoffed.

“Your medical records were sealed, but I found a way in. You had a traumatic brain injury that caused you to lose your memory. After that, your family probably just hide things from you. There were some reports of hypno therapy as well. If you found something, they made sure to erase it from your memory.” Austin looked at me with concern.

“None of this is making sense. How would I not notice all this stuff? Austin, I’m not totally naïve that I can’t see something so obvious.” I huffed.

“But if there were things planted in your memories to make you not remember things, it would explain it all.” He sighed. I knew I was reaching for something that wasn’t there, but part of me wanted it to all be a lie.

“I just don’t understand why I have to deal with all this. I never wanted to have any kind of power. All I’ve ever wanted was to help people and have a family. Growing up, I didn’t have a close relationship with my parents and I always wanted something different for me and my children. Now I don’t even know if I’m going to be able to spend any time with my child. Are they going to take the baby away from me?” I asked.

It was the question that was haunting me the most at that moment. Would Marco be so cruel that he would separate me from my baby? If he was a mafia don, would he even let me live since I ran with his child?

“Marigold, I don’t want to lie to you, but I’m not sure I have any idea what they’ll do. Part of me thinks they’ll keep you around until the baby is born and another thinks he’ll end it all. Running with his child will be seen as disrespect. I don’t think Marco will take that lying down. That’s why we are going into hiding. Match and Tex are trying to figure something out to help keep you safe. For now, I’m hiding all your tracks. When we get to the cabin, we are going to go over every move you’ve made since you let that day.”

And we did. From the car rental to the times I went to the store, Austin was erasing every video or paper trace of my existence. It took two days to go over it all, and sometimes I didn’t think it would be possible to do it. But Austin did.

All we had to do then was wait. At first I thought I would go stir crazy from all the sitting around and waiting, but then it happened. Austin showed me just how much free time could be fun.

19: Loving You

Marigold

“Why would she go back?” I yelled.

Austin and I had been watching a movie, and I was really into it. He had been laughing at how worked up I was getting. I couldn’t tell you the reason I was, but it happened.

“You seem super invested in this movie.” Austin said.

“I just don’t want her to die. She’s been the only one not afraid to fight back!” I huffed.

“So I have a random question.” I turned my head to look at him. “Pregnant women can still have sex without hurting the baby, even if it’s not with the father, right?”

I’m sure if I could go back in time and see my face, my mouth would have been hanging open. His question did not completely surprise me. Over those last few days, there had been a lot of heavy make-out sessions. The combination of pregnancy hormones and being around Austin all the time , had made me live in a fog of horniness. I was like a zombie walking around, and I had never felt something like that in my life.

“yes they can. Once the babies are there, nothing like…” I paused, looking for the right words. “Will change that.”

Lord knew I was way out of my comfort zone. I was raised to not talk about anything sexual. Even talking about pregnancy and birth was taboo. And with my marriage the way it was I didn’t have an overly sexual appetite. In that moment, though, I finally knew what it was like to desire a man.

“Oh well, that’s good. I. Uh. I, well, I mean I was wondering how you were feeling about it.” Austin said.

It seemed as if he had never had that kind of conversations before. I wasn’t dumb enough to have thought Austin wasn’t experienced. But I did wonder if his experience was all no strings attached. Which would make sense.

“Sex, you mean?” I ask, and he blew out a tremendous sigh.

“Yeah. I’m not normally this lame about it, but I’m nervous as hell.”

“Why?” You at least know what you’re doing. All I know is what Marco did. Heck, I’m like a beginner.” I laughed nervously. He took a moment and then answered.

“I may have been with women, but relationships are different. This. You mean something. It’s more than just sex. I want in you in ways I never felt with anyone else. And I want our first time to be perfect for you and exactly what you want.”

If there was anything else in the world I needed for confirmation, I couldn’t think of it. I wanted to be with Austin. I didn’t have any promises of what our future looked like. But wasn’t that true for everyone? A ring, promise, or just a chance guaranteed nothing in life. I’d learned the hard way that nothing was certain in life. All I could do was trust, and I was trusting Austin.

I put down my bowl of popcorn and moved to straddle his lap. Austin’s eyes widened. I wasn’t the one who usually made the first move. Placing my arms around his neck, I softly kissed him. His breath was warm, and it drew me more into his orbit. Everything about him called to me.

“I’m ready. If you’re willing to deal with a newbie like me. I’m not experienced and I may not know what I like yet, but I want to be with you. I want you to show me how to love.” I said.

“Then how about we learn together? We’ll build a relationship that will stand the test of time and anything that it throws our way. I want it all with you.”

With that, his lips were on me, and it was a hungry kiss. His desire for me was there for me to feel and it made me feel like a queen to know that I could do that to him. Austin a man who could have any woman he wanted. But there he was with me, showing me he was all in. His goal was to be with me in every way.

My hands grabbed his hair and pulled slightly, which caused him to groan into my mouth. That caused Austin to press his erection harder to my core. I began to grind against him in return, looking for relief for the need and ache I had been feeling. That continued until I felt him stand.

Austin held me close as he walked to the bedroom. I continued to try to grind against him. I was desperate for a release from the torture I had been living in, but once in the room, Austin set me on my feet.

“Take your clothes off, Marigold. I wasn’t to see and taste your body.”

His voice was rough, and it was the sexiest sound I had ever heard. Shivers ran down my spine as I pulled my arms from the t-shirt I was wearing. Once it was over my head, I dropped it onto the floor. I pulled the strings on my joggers and then slid them down, as Austin watched with dark hooded eyes. List was present, and he watched my every move, ready to strike.

“All of it,” he said when I was only in a bra and panties.

“You first. I want to see you.” I said.

Austin obeyed and once we were both only in our underwear , we stared at each other as we both took off what was left of our clothes. I looked him over, taking in every line and plain of his gorgeous body. He looked powerful in a way that I had never seen in my limited experience. The only nude man I had seen was lean but muscled. But Austin was thicker in all ways of the body. His muscles were bulging in his skin and it left little to the imagination of what he could do with them. I had every reason to believe that Austin would tear apart anyone who harmed me.

I blushed as I looked at his naked body and once I reached his most intimate places; I knew my face was even redder. When I looked back into his eyes, I could see his desire there, and I knew there was no turning back. I laid myself on the bed and waited to see what he would do. It was the way I had been taught to be ready for Marco. I wasn’t sure if it was right or wrong, but I did what I knew.

Austin walked over to the bed and got down on his knees, grabbing my legs and pulling me forward as he did. Not sure about what he was doing, I watched him closely as he pulled me to the edge of the bed and put my legs over his shoulders. Without saying a word, he placed his mouth over my core and what can only be described as heaven descended on me.

I had never been given this pleasure before and although I had heard about it; I had no idea what I was in for. His tongue worked its magic on me and within only a few minutes I was feeling the rush of the first orgasm. I whimpered and moaned, calling out his name. I was met with intensified work on his part, which only made me climb that mountain again.

By the time Austin entered me, I was blissed out on the orgasms and unsure if I could take anymore. I had never felt so much in my life and there I was, getting ready to experience more. He worked my body like an instrument he had been playing for years. By the time all was said and done, I was left feeling like I had just left my body for a higher plane of existence.

As we lay next to one another, I felt a peace for the first time in my life. Sure, there was danger waiting around the corner, but all that could wait while I enjoyed this one moment.

“I love you Marigold. And not because we had sex or because we’ve been stuck together for days. I love you because of the way the light reflects in your eyes. I love you for the smile that you have every time I make you laugh. For the forgiveness you gave me when you didn’t have to. For the love you have for your baby and the risks you took to keep them safe. I love you for you.”

20: Clutch

Marco

“How many calls have we been getting regarding Marigold?” I asked.

“Thousands, sir. It seems the ten million dollars has been a great incentive to get information.” Rico said.

Even though my parents and Marigold’s didn’t think it was a good idea to offer a reward. They wanted to keep all of it in house. No cops and no public help. I had gone against everyone to find my wife. If she was running with my child, I was going to find her. Nothing she could do would protect her forever. I was determined to make sure that my child would be with me and takeover the family after me.

“Marco, there’s a man here who claims that he has information about Marigold. After questioning him, I think he may be credible.” Rico said.

“Bring him in.”

The man that Rico brings in looked like a stereotypical biker. Wearing dark jeans, a t-shirt and his cut, the man looked menacing. He looked around my office like he owned the place, and it pissed me off to have someone with so little respect in my office. He walked around, touching and poking at the things that were sitting around the office. It made me want to take the gun out of my jacket and shoot at his hands.

“Mr. Camilleri this is Clutch. He claims to have information regarding Marigold.” Rico said. The tone of his voice was icy. Rico didn’t like the man which spoke volumes.

“More than claims, pretty boy. I’ve got mother fuckin proof. I’ve got pictures and video to prove that bitch has been at my clubhouse.”

“I’d tell you to watch your mouth when speaking about my wife, but I’m sure your small brain would have trouble understanding the concept.” I said to the man.

The sneer he gave was nothing short of gruesome. Although the man had all his teeth, he looked as if he was someone who could use a few lessons on hygiene. Rico rounded the man and stood right in front of him, reaching for his gun.

“I don’t think that will be necessary, Rico. Show me what you have that makes you believe you have found my wife.”

“Before I pull this phone out and show you, I need to know that you are willing to follow my plan. I ain’t given this over for just ten million.” Clutch said scoffing.

“Mr…. Clutch, or whatever you call yourself, the reward is set. I will not be offering more than that. I don’t know what you think you are going to get, but it won’t be more than that.” I sneered.

“Did I say anything about more fucking money?” the man shouted.

I rarely judge people by the things that they cannot help in their life, but this man was pushing my buttons. He was uneducated, and it was obvious that he had no intention of making things any different. He was happy in his subpar life and nothing would change that.

“I want no more money than what you are offering. What I want is to talk about how this all goes down when you take your woman back. See there’s this woman that I want. I thought if we use her as the cover for me.”

I looked at the man as if he lost his mind. How in the world did he think he was going to use some woman to cover his tracks and be able to make her want him back? Somewhere in the back of my mind I knew there would be more to the story, but I hadn’t been prepared for it.

“I don’t see how that is anything you could use in your favor.” I looked at Rico as I spoke. He had the same thoughts as I did on the matter, and I could see it in his eyes.

“That’s because you don’t know the whole story. See your woman seems to have found herself a man. A man that the woman I want also likes the same man. Macy, the woman I’m after, hates your Marigold, or Autumn, as we call her, with a fiery passion. The man they both want doesn’t care too much for Macy. Got the club girls kicked out. That right there is an easy way to pin this on Macy.” Clutch grinned like the cat that got the milk.

“Go on.” I said.

“Once Macy starts taking the blame for turning in your girl, I swoop in and save the day with her.”

Nothing about what the man said was making me happy. Had Marigold really found a man? Would she have dared to have an affair on me? It wasn’t that it hurt me that she could think of doing something like that. It was simply the fact that it had been a disrespectful act against me her husband and Don. She may have not known everything about our marriage and the reasons for it, but she was raised to know her place. Where had that defiance come from?

“Show me your proof. If it is truly her, you will get what you want.” I said.

Clutch walked to the front of my desk and pulled a phone from his cut. After taking a moment to find the video, he handed the phone over to me. I pressed play, and the video started. I couldn’t believe my eyes. There before, on the small screen was Marigold. My Marigold, but she looked nothing like she had when she was with me. There was a smile on her face that I had never seen.

She looked carefree and dare I say happy. I had always thought Marigold was happy with our arrangement. She never once complained, and I always came home to a soft smile and kind words. We never fought, and she always gave me whatever I wanted. Had I been blinded by what I wanted to see? Who was the woman that I saw on the video and why wasn’t she the same one who lived with me?

“It’s here. Rico set up surveillance on her at once.” I called out.

“You may have some problems with that. They went into hiding because of your search. Maybe you should think about how to cool down the search. It may cause them to come back out of hiding. I can help you with that.” Clutch said.

By the end of the meeting, a plan had been put in place. I sent out a press release that was to go out the next day. We were calling off the search, stating that we had reason to believe Marigold was believed to be dead. That would make them think it was safe to come out.

Once I told our families that I had found her, I set to work on what I wanted to find out about her. Using some information from Clutch, I was able to set up men to follow Marigold and her man once they came out of hiding. The only thing I needed to do was wait, and then Marigold would be under my power again.