Bad Boy Biker
“Bit by bit, year by year, I became what he wanted. Spoke how he wanted. Dressed how he wanted. Until there was nothing left of Valentine Ross except in my dreams.”
Duke’s expression softened. “And in mine.”
The admission hung between them, delicate as spun glass. Valentina swallowed hard.
“Your turn,” she said. “What happened after the airport?”
Duke leaned back, eyes distant with memory. “I drank. A lot. Started riding with the Kings more seriously. Got into trouble.” His mouth curved in a self-deprecating smile. “The usual clichés. Broken heart, bad decisions.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. It was a long time ago.” He refilled their glasses. “Besides, those bad decisions led to good things even