Page 47 of The Originals

“Mick couldn’t even come get you himself, huh? And only sent three brothers for you?” He raised his brows mockingly. “Guess the pussy ain’t that great after all.”

Her breathing labored, but she kept her gaze on the man. If Tully was telling the truth, then where was Mick? As if she willed it to fruition, she heard a loud, sharp whistle. She jerked herhead, looking around, but it was so dark she could barely see ten feet in front of her.

“What the fuck was that?”

Tully laughed, gaining all their attention.

“Backup. You wanted Mick? Well, you’re gonna get him and a few of his friends.”

Suddenly, the street was lit up like the sun coming in from every direction. At least fifty single headlights.

****

Lying in wait.

Mick wasn’t one hundred percent sold on the plan. He fought against it several times even after Tully and the others had left. Grain had to physically stop him from taking off after her—twice. It was maddening putting her safety in anyone else’s hands. Even the men he trusted with his own life. Meg’s was more important to him.

Mick kept his eyes trained on the entrance of the road. They had the would-be cul-de-sac strategically bordered from fifty feet away on the hill. Every member of the club had been called in to surround the perimeter. Double the men were stationed near the entrance. As soon as they arrived, they would barricade them in. None of Satan’s Hex would be walking away this time.

“How long has it been?” Mick asked, tapping his foot on the ground.

“About forty minutes.”

“Fuck,” Mick muttered and balled his fists. “Should have went myself.”

Mick’s bike was next to Jack, who shook his head. “This is a classic setup. And you’ll get your revenge. Take em’ all on if you want. But we ain’t leaving until they show up.” Jack angled his head, scowling. “And they will fucking show up.”

It was rare Mick doubted anything Jack told him. He had blind trust for his president, and it had never steered him wrong.

“I see lights coming in.”

Mick jerked his head to the entrance and squinted. They were faint but visible. He heard the motorcycles before the van even came into view.

“How many?” Jack asked.

It was a relay by telephone, as the brother at the far end sent back a number. Grain was on the other side of Jack and answered, “Thirteen.”

Ghosttown had six times the manpower and bodies. It wouldn’t be a fair fight.They didn’t earn it.Mick watched the van pull into the center of the road while the motorcycles surrounded the vehicle. The plan had worked, but they still weren’t out of danger just yet.

Most clubs didn’t carry on their bikes. But this wasn’t a ride. They were out for blood and could all possibly be packing guns.I am.Mick had no intention of using it unless it was of dire need. He didn’t need a weapon.I’m going to kill you with my bare fucking hands.

Tully got out of the van, then the back door opened, and the other two got out, walking on the side of the van. He noticed one stop at the passenger door, but Meg didn’t get out immediately. His heart pumped hard, knowing she was probably scared out of her mind. He stood, but Jack grabbed his arm and shook his head.

Seconds later, she came into sight. His brothers were protecting her on all sides as they made their way to the front of the van. The voices echoed but were slightly muffled, making it hard to hear everything, but one specific phrase stood out as if being blasted in his ears.

“Guess the pussy ain’t that good after all.”

Mick clenched his fists, squared his jaw, and whispered in a guttural tone. “Now, Jack.”

Seconds later, Jack whistled. It was the sign to count backward from ten. Ten seconds later, every member turned on their lights, illuminating the street below. They all got off the bikes and walked down the embankment. Mick purposely kept his eyes on the members of Satan’s Hex. He wasn’t risking any of them taking a shot at Meg, knowing they were cornered.

Mick walked side by side with Jack, stopping only a few feet away from the familiar face and taking charge. Before anyone said a word, Mick spoke, glaring at the man at center stage.

“I let you walk away.”

Grain laughed. “Those fuckers crawled, brother.”

True. But a mere technicality. Contrary to what Meg thought, Mick had shown mercy that night. But not this time. Mick stared back. “You only get that once from me.”