Page 34 of Judge’s Obsession

I already knew this, but hearing her repeat it makes me want to protect her even more. My arms tighten around her.

“I can’t believe all of this could be my life.”

“It is your life,” I growl, reminding her of our conversation. “You’re mine, Kaylie.”

I don’t remind her that I paid the debts that had her imprisoned. That won’t go over well again. But the truth is, there’s nothing she can do to keep me away.

Thankfully, she doesn’t argue. Her smile grows slightly, and she glances up at me from beneath her lashes.

“Do you think it would be okay… if I decide I’m ready⁠—”

“When you’re ready,” I correct her.

She rolls her eyes, and I grasp her chin, making sure she sees just how serious I am.

“Careful, beautiful. I’m not against punishing you.”

Her eyes flare, and I’m not even surprised to see desire flicker behind those gorgeous blues.

Chuckling, I brush my thumb across her lower lip. “Continue.”

She blinks, looking momentarily dazed. Then she nods and whispers, “Do you think I could make my own cut?”

My brows lift, and I can’t fight my smile. “Whatever you want, baby. Just say the word.”

After breakfast, Kaylie comes with me to the clubhouse, but when we arrive, there’s a commotion at the gates.

I slow my motorcycle and immediately recognize the man arguing with Tank.

His hands wave erratically, his voice raised. Tank looks every bit a member of the club with his arms folded and legs spread. His expression is even more menacing with that shiner and the barely healed wound above his brow.

I’m surprised Tim Reeves hasn’t shit his pants by now.

I park the bike and tap Kaylie’s leg, indicating that I want her to climb off. She does, and it’s clear she hasn’t noticed her father when I reach for her helmet and pull it free.

But then she hears the voices, and her eyes snap in their direction.

Those eyes I love so much darken, her expression clouding with fury. I’d laugh if I weren’t also ready to string the man up by his balls.

I follow my girl toward her father, taking note of the way she clenches her hands into fists. My own hands are shoved into my pockets as I shadow her.

I’m not sure what Tim wants, but I have a pretty good idea.

“What are you doing here?” she seethes.

Tim startles, and Tank’s eyes meet mine briefly. He dips his chin in acknowledgment but doesn’t back away.

Kaylie’s father turns to face her, his hardened expression softening with fake concern.

“Kaylie, sweetie, I was looking for you. This fucker wouldn’t let me inside to see you.”

Her face turns a shade of red I’ve never seen, and I move closer in case I need to protect her from him. I wouldn’t put it past my girl to start an all-out brawl.

“This fucker?” she practically screeches. “Tank is more of a man than you’ll ever be. He protected me. And you?” She huffs in disbelief. “You sold me.”

Sweat breaks out on Tim’s brow, and his skin pales. He wets his lips and darts a look in my direction.

I arch a brow, daring him to say another disparaging word about Tank.