Chapter 5

~ Vick~

When I heard someone calling my name, I didn't expect it to be Mr. GQ model himself. His intimidating figure stood by the door as he looked at me with those blue eyes that hid something more.

"We need to talk," he said, his voice gruff and no-nonsense.

I knew my brother had probably told him my situation. As I made my way toward him, I felt a mix of relief and trepidation. This man, Death, was known for his lethal skills and cold demeanor. At least that's what some of the guys told me when I asked.

If anyone could protect me, it was him, but I wasn't sure how I felt about it.

We moved to a quieter corner, away from prying eyes and ears. His presence was overwhelming and I couldn't help but feel a shiver of fear.

"What's going on?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Your brother wants me to protect you," he said bluntly, his gaze unwavering.

My eyes widened slightly, but I nodded. "I understand."

"Good," he replied, his tone leaving no room for debate. "Stay close, and don't wander off. Got it?"

"Got it," I said, my voice steady.

He paused for a moment, his eyes scanning my face as if searching for something. "Let's get you settled," he finally said, turning to lead me away from the main area.

So, what do you need?" his gruff voice stated.

I blushed, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Just a few, um, clothes. I really didn't bring much with me when I ran," I whispered.

He grunted at my words, a noncommittal sound that could have meant anything, before nodding his head and turning around. "Alright, I'll see what I can do. Stay here and don't go anywhere."

I watched him walk away It was clear he was a man of few words and even fewer sentiments. But for some reason, I felt a flicker of comfort knowing he was here.

A few minutes later, he came back.

"Come, let's go," he stated bluntly.

As he turned and walked away, I followed behind him until we came outside. In front of the club, parked a little ways down, was an old-fashioned motorbike that I couldn't help but ask about.

"Is this your bike?"

He nodded and hopped on, turning the keys. I listened as the bike came to life with a deep, rumbling roar.

"Hop on," he stated.

I blanched at his words. "Hop on that? I've never ridden a bike in my life."

He looked at me, his expression unreadable. "There's a first time for everything. Just hold on tight."

I hesitated for a moment I swung my leg over the bike and settled behind him. The seat was surprisingly comfortable, but the reality of being on a motorcycle for the first time made my heart race.

"Wrap your arms around me and hold on," he instructed.

Tentatively, I wrapped my arms around his solid frame. The leather of his jacket was cool against my skin, and I could feel the heat radiating from his body.

"Ready?" he asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be," I replied, my voice shaky.

With that, he revved the engine, and we took off. I clung to him, my fingers gripping his jacket tightly as we sped down the road.

I buried my face against his back, trusting him completely as we rode away from the clubhouse.

I watched as he pulled up to a boutique store in town. As he shut off his engine, he looked around, scanning the area with a keen eye before helping me off the bike.

"Come on," he said, offering his hand to steady me as I dismounted.

I took his hand, grateful for the support. Once I was on solid ground, he released my hand and nodded toward the store.

"Go inside and get what you need. I'll be right here," he instructed.

I nodded, As I stepped inside the boutique A friendly saleswoman approached, offering assistance, and I quickly explained what I needed. She nodded and led me to the section I needed.

When I was finished and was about to step outside, I heard a bang before glass began to shatter and people started screaming.

I was about to scream myself when I felt a firm hand on my shoulder and heard a familiar voice cussing from behind me.

"Shit! Get down!" Death shouted as he pulled a semi-automatic from his coat and began shooting back.

He pushed me down behind a display, shielding me with his body as bullets whizzed through the air.

My heart pounded in my chest, as fear gripped me tightly.

"Stay low and don't move," Death commanded.

I nodded, barely able to breathe as I crouched behind the display. his eyes scanning for the source of the attack He returned fire.

Through the shattered glass, I could see a group of men outside, their faces obscured by masks. They were heavily armed, and it was clear they meant business.

"Cover your ears!" Death ordered.

I obeyed, clamping my hands over my ears as he continued to fire.After what felt like an eternity, the shooting finally stopped. Death cautiously peered around the edge of the display, his gun still raised. The attackers were retreating, their figures disappearing down the street.

"Stay here," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

I watched as he moved towards the door, keeping low and staying alert. He scanned the area outside, ensuring it was safe before he turned back to me.

"Come on," he said, extending his hand to help me up. "We need to get out of here."

I took his hand, my legs shaky as I stood. We made our way out of the store and back to his bike. He secured my shopping bags hastily, then helped me onto the seat.

"Hold on tight," he repeated.

I wrapped my arms around him, pressing myself against his back as he started the engine. We sped away from the boutique before the cops got there.