Knot Over (Omega Den #3)

17. Vaughn

Chapter 17

Vaughn

I shift the truck into park, the old engine rumbling to a stop. Kay's face is a portrait of nerves and determination. I know this is a big step for her, meeting my family, and I can see the anxiety etched into her features. I want to make this as easy as possible for her.

I reach over and cradle her cheek, my thumb brushing gently across her skin. “Do you trust me?” I ask, my voice low and earnest. I can’t help but feel a protective instinct flare up—she’s important to me, and I need her to know that she’s safe here.

Her gray eyes meet mine, and I can see the vulnerability behind them. “Yes. Of course I trust you,” she replies, her voice soft. Relief washes over me at her response.

It’s what I needed to hear.

“Then hear me when I say this, Kay. You are perfect. You have nothing to worry about when you're here. You're safe here.” I lean in and press a tender kiss to her lips, trying to impart as much warmth and reassurance as I can. I know it's working when I feel her relax slightly under my touch, the tension in her shoulders easing.

It’s a good sign.

I watch as her gaze shifts to the imposing house and the lineup of motorcycles. “Ready?” I ask, with a reassuring smile. I want her to feel supported, to know that we’re in this together.

She nods, her expression steadier. “Yeah, I’m ready.”

I open my door and step out of the truck, feeling the familiar thud of my boots on the ground. The early morning sun warms the porch, casting a golden light over the place. It’s my childhood home, and I want Kay to feel like she belongs here too. I reach back and take her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Her steps are hesitant but resolute as we walk up the porch steps. I can hear the sounds of my family inside—the clatter of dishes, the murmur of voices, and the occasional burst of laughter.

Pushing open the front door, I let the familiar creak echo through the house. “Morning, unc!” I call out, my voice carrying through the space. I can’t help but feel a bit of excitement as we enter, hoping my uncle and the rest of the family will make a good impression on Kay.

“In here!” My uncle’s deep, gravelly voice responds, coming from beyond the living room.

I lead Kay through the entryway, my hand firmly holding hers. As we round the corner into the kitchen, the scene opens up in front of us: my family gathered around the large wooden table, the room buzzing with morning energy. My uncle stands at the stove, flipping hashbrowns with practiced ease. He’s got that rugged, salt-and-pepper look—years of life etched into his face. I notice the way he glances up at us, his eyes first landing on me before shifting to Kay. She squirms a bit under his scrutiny and my chest tightens a little as I watch her, wishing I could take away her nerves. But I know she’s strong, and I hope she can see that my family is welcoming and warm.

“Morning, everyone!” I announce, “I’d like you all to meet Kaylani.”

The room’s attention shifts to Kay, and I feel a surge of pride as well as relief as I see my family greet her with smiles and nods. I watch as the initial tension in her posture begins to ease, replaced by a more relaxed, welcoming demeanor. This is what I wanted—to see Kay feel comfortable and accepted.

“Kaylani, this is my Uncle Viper,” I say, pointing to the rugged man at the stove. “And this is Ghost, my best friend.” I gesture towards Ghost, who’s already seated at the table, a half-eaten plate of food in front of him.

Viper gives Kay a warm smile. “Nice to meet you, Kaylani. Vaughn’s told us a lot about you.” His voice is gruff but kind, and there’s a twinkle of amusement in his eyes as he adds, “Don’t let Vaughn’s stories scare you off. We aren't that bad.”

I blow out a breath, thankful that he isn't giving her a hard time like he had with Creed.

Ghost looks up from his plate, offering Kay a friendly smile. “Yeah, nice to meet you Kay. Don’t worry too much, we’re all pretty laid-back here.”

Kay returns their smiles, her nerves visibly easing. “It’s nice to meet you both,” she replies, her voice soft but sincere.

Viper nods and gestures to an empty seat at the table. “Why don’t you and Vaughn take a seat? Breakfast is almost ready.”

As Kay and I settle into our seats, I can see her shoulders relax. I lean into her and murmur, “See? I told you. You were worrying about nothing, doll.”

She looks up at me, an adorable blush coating her cheeks. “There’s so many people. It's a bit overwhelming.”

I nod, squeezing her hand under the table for reassurance. “Most will be out of here once Unc passes out breakfast. Then it’ll be just us.”

Viper crosses the room, carrying a platter of food and a couple of plates. “Help yourself, Kaylani. We’ve got plenty.”

Kay thanks him shyly, her hand finding mine again under the table. I can feel her grip tightening slightly, her nerves still a little frayed despite the warm welcome. I give her a reassuring squeeze, hoping to offer some comfort.

Ghost turns to face us, a smile spreading across his face. “So, I hear you’re going to The Ring today.”

Kay glances between us, a piece of bacon halfway to her lips. She swallows awkwardly before responding. “Oh. Um… I don't know.” Her gaze flickers up to me for reassurance.

I nod, giving her an encouraging smile. “Yep, though I hadn't told Kay yet. What better place to start your training than the MC gym? So eat up. You’ll need your energy for what I have planned for you.”

The blush on her cheeks deepens, traveling down her chest, a mix of embarrassment and excitement. Damn, she’s adorable. I can’t help but feel a swell of pride. This is a big step for her, and seeing her embrace it with such raw, genuine emotion makes me even more determined to support her.

Viper sits down next to Ghost, taking a moment to pile food onto his plate before he speaks. “You’re going to do great, Kaylani. My nephew’s a hell of a teacher.”

Kay’s eyes dart between Viper, Ghost, and me, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. The kitchen is quieter now, everyone else having left to let us enjoy our breakfast in peace. She hesitates before responding, her voice tinged with a mix of hope and uncertainty. “I hope so. It would be nice not to feel so helpless anymore.”

Viper sets his fork down and leans back slightly, his gaze steady on Kay. A silence falls over the table, its weight punctuated by the distant hum of activity outside. “Kaylani,” Viper begins, his voice taking on a gruff, contemplative tone. She stiffens slightly, her shoulders bunching, before meeting his gaze. “Do you know why this MC was created?”

Kay glances briefly at Ghost, who offers a reassuring nod, before turning her attention back to Viper. She shakes her head slowly, a touch of confusion in her eyes. “No, I don’t.”

Viper’s expression softens, though his voice remains resolute. “It was created to protect those who need it. To offer a refuge in times of turmoil.”

He gestures around the room, as if to underscore the sentiment. “The Serpents have agreed to help secure the Den and assist in reopening it to the public, to ensure our city has a safe space for those who need it. I hear your brother Shade has also enlisted a few Hounds for support.”

Kay’s brows shoot up in surprise, her eyes widening. “Yes, he did mention that to me,” she says softly, her voice carrying a note of surprise and uncertainty.

Viper leans in, his gaze unwavering. “So, given everything you’ve heard and experienced, do you think it’s worth the risk? To be part of something that stands for protection and safety?”

I watch Kay’s expression shift from uncertainty to contemplation. She nods slowly, her voice gaining strength. “Yes. I think it’s worth it. It’s important to stand up and fight for a better future, even if it’s risky.”

Viper’s gaze softens as he sees the resolve hardening in Kay’s eyes, a glimmer of determination that makes me swell with pride. He nods approvingly and leans forward slightly, his voice warm. “That’s the spirit. When you step into my gym today, remember that. Remember why this is worth the risk. It’s not just about training—it’s about standing up for yourself and what you believe in.”

Kay absorbs his words, her expression hardening. “I will,” she replies, her voice steady. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Viper’s nod is encouraging. “Good. You’ll do just fine. You’ve got the heart for it, and that’s what counts.”

I reach over, giving Kay’s hand a reassuring squeeze. I know today will be a challenge, but I’m confident she’s ready to face it head-on.

As the breakfast conversation shifts back to lighter topics, I glance at Kay, my heart swelling with pride. This is more than just a training day; it’s the beginning of a new chapter for her—and for us.