Page 65

"We run legitimate businesses. Security's one of them. Club's got its own rules, and they're not negotiable."

"Understood."

"You interested in prospecting?"

Mel glances at me.

I say nothing.

His decision.

"What's involved?"

Grim explains the basics. Work. Club responsibilities. Following orders. Earning trust before earning a patch.

Mel listens without interrupting.

When Grim finishes, he nods.

"Sounds fair."

"Not offering you an easy ride."

"Wouldn't know what to do with one."

Ash snorts.

Grim's mouth twitches.

"Then you've got a chance to prove yourself."

Mel holds out his hand.

"Appreciate it."

Grim shakes it.

"Don't thank me yet."

By the time we finish going over the prospect arrangements and sorting out a few club matters, the afternoon's almost gone.

Mel's staying in one of the spare rooms at the clubhouse until he gets settled.

He carries his bag inside, then comes back to find me beside my bike.

"Hell of a place you've got here," he says.

"Good people."

"Never pictured you settling down with an MC."

"Never pictured it myself."

He leans against the railing.

"Seems like it worked out."

"Did."