Page 15 of Hawk

“Of course not. And, for the record, Gage was the reason I was locked up. It had nothing to do with the motorcycle club.”

“Yeah, but look at your affiliations, Gideon. I’m not so far removed that I don’t know some of what goes on in that club.”

“What do you think you know?”

“I know there’s some criminal activity.”

I grin and say, “I won’t confirm or deny that.”

“I also know y’all handle things.”

“I won’t confirm or deny that either. Listen—just be happy that I’m home. Are you happy that I’m home?”

“You know I am. Hey, I’m not trying to get all in your business, but do you have any plans to get back with Ivy because I thought you two were so good together. And she really loved you, Gideon.”

“Well, it’s interesting that you brought her up because she’s currently at my house as we speak.”

Her eyes lit up like the high beams on my car. “So, you’re back together?”

“I wouldn’t say that. She’s in trouble and needed a place to stay.”

“Oh, my. What’s happening?”

“Nothing I can’t take care of. I won’t worry you with the details. Oh, and fyi, I have a daughter.”

“What!” she asks, sitting up in her chair.

“I have a daughter. Apparently, Ivy was pregnant when I got locked up. She—we—have a little girl. Her name is Lilly.”

“And you’re sure she’s yours?”

“You sound like Brandon.”

“It’s a valid question. I mean, you were gone for two years. How old is this so-called daughter?”

“She’s a year and three months—I think that’s what Ivy said.”

“Ah, so nine months pregnant, plus a year and three…that’s about right. Oh my God! I have a grandbaby!”

“You do. I’ll bring her by here soon, but first I need to make sure they stay protected.”

“Tell me what’s going on, Gideon?”

I sigh and respond, “She was with someone after I got locked up and now she’s on the run from the guy.”

She places a hand on her heart and then says, “You can bring them over here.”

“No. I don’t want to put you in any danger, Ma.”

“Son, as long as I got that rifle under my bed, I’m not in any danger.”

I grin, though I know she’s serious. She’s a good shot, too. She used to take us to the range when we were teenagers. That’s how I got the nickname ‘Hawk’. I never miss.

“Well, you make sure you protect her, and my granddaughter. When are you bringing her by here?”

“Soon, Ma. Be patient.”

She sighs. “Okay. I guess I’ll just have to wait. It’s so good to see you.”