Page 17 of Nitro

Thinking back, Spike usually got his fur ruffled at this time of the year, but he never told me why.

It didn't bother me.

Most of the bear shifters in the MC usually had pasts they weren't proud of and secrets they didn't want to share.

“Look, let’s just forget about today and think of a way to win back Olaf's good graces," I said.

"If we don't, what do you think's going to happen?" Spike asked.

"I don't know," I admitted. "But let's not find out."

The veteran biker bears in the MC usually only had one piece of advice for newbies: Don't piss Venom off.

"Look, I'll contact Olaf in a couple of days and see if I can arrange a meeting," I said. Spike gave me a grateful look.

"Buy you another beer?" he asked when my cellphone vibrated in the pocket of my jacket.

"Hold that thought," I said.

Seeing Tommy's name flashing across the screen, a big grin spread across my face. Spike peered over my shoulder.

"Look who's calling," Spike said after a whistle.

I shoved him off and took Tommy's call.

I was thinking of something flirty and cute to say, but hearing Tommy's frightened voice stopped me cold.

"I'll be right there," I automatically said when he tried to pass the matter off as nothing.

"Problem?" Spike asked.

I didn't bother finishing my beer. Grabbing my leather cut, I made my way out of the clubhouse, Spike right at my heels.

We were in the parking lot, and I quickly picked out my Harley.

"I don't know," I admitted when Spike grabbed my shoulder.

"You'll need backup. I'm coming with you," he insisted.

At first, I was tempted to tell him to bug off. He'd already caused us both enough problems for one day.

Then I held my tongue. Spike clearly regretted his actions earlier, and he genuinely wanted to help.

Besides, I might need his help, although I wasn't sure what exactly happened to Tommy.

Tommy sounded frantic on the phone, and I was ridden with anxiety and worry as Spike and I made our way to town.

After finding a parking spot, I rushed inside Tommy's apartment building without waiting for Spike.

When Tommy opened the door, his puffy face stopped me cold. I assessed him for other signs of injuries.

Finding none, a wave of relief filled me.

"What happened?" I murmured, touching his cheek.

If he drew back from me, I would understand completely.

Something or someone had spooked Tommy tonight, and I had every intention of finding out the cause.