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Naomi
One Year Later...
The smile on my face is wider than usual because I have a surprise for Spin. A Christmas gift he won’t be expecting. Sadie knows, but of course, she does. She’s quickly become my closest friend over the last year. I love the other ol’ ladies around here too, but Sadie will always hold a special place in my heart for what she’s done to help women in the world who are scared and struggling. She gave me hope in a time I was too frightened to have any.
And then there’s Spin.
The man is my entire world, aside from our daredevil almost-one-year-old.
I learned a lot about him over the past year. For example, my big guy has some serious confidence issues. Had we not been thrust into living together right off the bat, I don’t know if I’d have ever discovered as much. He’s never allowed anyone in the past to get close enough to see his vulnerabilities, but he had no choice with me, aside from basically kicking me out. Thank God he wasn’t going to let that happen under any circumstance. Once I figured out what he was dealing with internally, I was able to reinforce his confidence, and we were able to heal together. I thought he was beautiful from the moment he walked into my hospital room, but to see him grow over the past year alongside me has been amazing, and I’m so happy I could do something in return for all the things he’s done for us as well. I’ve become completely smitten with him, and so has my baby.
Christmas music blares throughout the room as London and several of the club kids dance around, smiling and giggling, having a great time together. Watching them and experiencing the sense of belonging I have here is an unexplainable feeling. These people have become my family—the ones I can rely on and enjoy being around. I never imagined a biker club full of everything I needed would be at the end of my road, but here it is, and I couldn’t be happier. If it weren’t for Spin taking me in, for wanting to help me, I’d have none of this now. Every time I attempt to remind him and thank him, he shuts me down, claiming I belong here as much as anybody else.
However, if Spin hadn’t found me on the road over a year ago and essentially saved me, there’s no telling what could’ve happened to me. A dark place inside believes I’d be dead, but I try not to go there often as it brings my mood down. I’ve learned to be thankful for everything I’ve been offered and to embrace the here and now, not dwell in the past. It’s one thing I had to get used to with the Oath Keepers—they live in the present as they claim every day is a gift not meant to waste. It’s freeing in a sense, not worrying about the future but taking it day by day.
Spin had promised me when he asked me to be his that we’d take it slow, and he’s held true to his word. I’ve never felt pressured or like I’m a burden to him in any way. Did you know there are men out there who are truly patient, kind, and understanding? Threw me for a loop too, but they do exist, and they’re positively glorious to spend your life with.
“Mama mama,” my kiddo babbles, grabbing onto my leg. My heart has never felt fuller than it does now. Being a mother is the best thing in the entire world. Having Spin by my side is the second.
When I went into labor early last Christmas, I was positively terrified. Spin was too. I’ll never forget the moment he squeezed my hand and bowed his head. He’d said, “I’m not the prayin’ type, doll, but I need whatever help I can get to make sure you and that kid are all right.” I’d gained a newfound respect for him. The fact he’d cared so much about us so quickly, well, it said all I needed to know about him as a man. I was already crazy for him, but in that very moment, I knew I was going to love him for the rest of my life.
We’d prayed together, asking for help from anyone out there willing to listen and lend a hand. I’ve never been the type of woman needing to be saved before last year, and thankfully, Spin has this habit of being around right when I need him to be. So when he prayed, I thanked the universe for sending him to me because without him, I’m not so sure I would make it.
I’d gotten an IV with some medicine to help slow the labor down and also some steroid shots to give the baby a boost in case I went into labor again. Eventually, the contractions stopped. I wasn’t in pain anymore, and we were both okay.
Since then, Spin has become the “praying type.” Even if it’s simply to say thank you each morning for allowing him to wake up to us for one more day, he’s murmuring a little prayer. I can’t imagine a better role model for my little mini than Spin.
I know now he was the one who found me for a reason.
My soul called to his, and he answered.
Once things were back to being okay after the almost-early labor, and I was feeling better, he still wouldn’t let me walk. He was ridiculously stubborn, and I may have called him a caveman several times, but he was determined I had the healthiest pregnancy possible. When he had to go on runs for the club, he always had Sadie stay with me, and he’d call home several times a day to check on me. I still had my son early, but thankfully, he got to spend a little more time in my tummy to grow. At that point, every day counted, and we were grateful for each one we got.
It’s a different world entirely when a man loves you with every breath he takes. I didn’t know what to do with that kind of strong love at first, but now I never want to live my days without it.
“Drink your juice.” I hold the sippy cup of half water and half apple juice to him. We’re transitioning to sippy cup full time, and my little one isn’t sure how to feel about it. However, I can’t imagine having multiples drinking out of bottles and in diapers, so we’re full-fledged into sippy cups and potty training. From what I’ve read, we’re a little early, but my guy started walking two months ago, so I figure he’s already further ahead than the average baby for his age.
It’s been fairly easy going so far, as having a boy, they can run around and pee on any tree they see to get started. Luckily, being at the club, no one bats an eye, and London swears it’s how Jameson was potty trained. Sadie too with Cyle.
What am I going to do if this next baby is a girl, though? Spin will probably follow her around and mean mug anyone who looks her way, yet be a giant lush when it comes to her. It’s going to be amazing. He’s turned out to be such a wonderful father already.
“Aunty wants to dance!” Sadie chimes, picking my son up and swinging him around until he squeals and giggles. I grin, watching them until Sadie nods, gesturing behind me.
Drawing in a swift breath, I turn to find Spin quickly approaching. His gaze sparkles at the scene before him, and I have no doubt he’ll be reporting back to the guys we’re having a dance party out here without them. They’ve been in church, and we’ve been taking full advantage, setting everything up for the Christmas party.
“Hi, my love,” I greet Spin, making him smirk.
“Doll. You’re looking mighty fine over here. Sadie’s got little man, so I may have to steal you for a beat.”
“Hmm... just a beat? Not high hopes today, eh?” I tease, making him roll his eyes.
“Shush, you,” he murmurs, pressing a tender kiss to my lips. “I apologize about church on Christmas. It’s normally not like this.”
“No, don’t worry about it. We’ve been busy out here. Besides, you guys can’t help it when stuff randomly pops up.”
He nods. “You’re good to me, Little Momma. Look, I know the kids already tore through their gifts and we were waiting to open ours until later, but I don’t want to put mine off any longer.”
A grin breaks free and I nod. I’ve been vibrating with excitement over exchanging gifts with him. His hold drops from around me to grab my hand and tug me toward the big tree off in the corner. This morning, it was full of gifts for all the club brats. They were so excited. It was adorable. We made pancakes and hung out, and it was probably one of the best Christmas mornings I’ve ever experienced.
He pulls a large craft garment box out that’d been tucked toward the back. It has a bright green bow and a tag with my name on it. He proudly holds it out to me, and I eagerly take it, flashing him an excited grin. “I wasn’t sure if we were going to open ours alone or out here.”
“Everyone can see this.” He notes, gesturing to the box. “Open it!”
“Okay,” I respond with a laugh. I yank the top off, my mouth dropping open in a gasp when my eyes land on what’s inside. “Is this what I think it is?” I whisper.
His nod is small, his gaze tender. “It is. You know I love you, that you guys are my world. The club is a big part of my life, and I’d like it if we made it a permanent part of yours too. If you’ll be mine, forever.”
Sniffling, I set the box on the table nearby and pull the leather jacket free. Turning it around, I take in the patches, tears springing to my eyes.
The ol’ lady patch.
The jacket.
Only the lifers have one of these.
The importance isn’t lost on me, nor is the significance and devotion Spin is offering by giving me this gift. He’s pledging his life to mine, not only before me, but in the eyes of his club. I put this on, and I’m his, and he’s mine. Yet, deep in my heart, I already know. I never needed the patch to solidify my commitment to him. I knew from the moment he treated me like he loved me with his whole heart that I’d be his forever. I love this man with every breath I take. That will never change, no matter if I have his jacket on my back, his ring on my finger, and his child in my belly. I’m his.
“I would be honored to wear your patch. I love you.” He takes the jacket from me, holding it up so I can see the property patch that screams, “Spin’s ol’ lady.” “It’s perfect.” I stick my arm out, leaning in so he can help me put it on. Once I’m wrapped in the new leather, he tugs it closed, wearing a wide smile. Leaning in, his mouth takes mine in another toe-curling kiss that I swear has me seeing stars behind my eyelids.
I’m breathless when we finally break free to the sounds of cheers. Everyone hoots and hollers at my jacket, shouting their support of me joining the Oath Keeper family. I have sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews I never knew I wanted but ended up needing in my life. Spin hasn’t only given me love, safety, and shelter, he’s offered me hope, happiness, and an entire family.
I’m a rich woman.
Lucky in love.
Thankful and never taking anything for granted.
“My turn now.” I practically leap for the tiny gift bag. It’s small but stuffed with tissue paper to give the illusion of a full bag. Handing it over, I clench my fists in anticipation. The last month has driven me insane, not being able to mention anything. With Christmas being an important time to us since it’s right when we met and got together, I knew I had to wait.
“What could you have gotten me?” He takes one piece of tissue paper out and tosses it over his shoulder, making a few people chuckle in the background. “Tattoo ink? New pens?”
Like I’d buy him those. The man is far too picky about his art supplies for me to even attempt to get what he wants.
He tosses another piece of tissue paper behind him, taking his time, all the while my heart feels like it may pound right out of my chest. “Too light. I’m thinking a gift card. Oh, could it be a coupon book for my favorite things?” He pauses to wink, and I huff.
“Stop stalling, biker, and dig in.”
“Hey, can’t blame a man for enjoying his gift.” He smiles cheekily. If I knew he was such a sucker for a present, I’d have gotten him something small sooner. Now I know for next year, though. Finally, he digs into the bottom. He meets my stare, and his smile drops as his face grows serious. Slowly, he pulls his hand out, fist wrapped around the small white stick. “No way. I want to look, but I’m scared,” he admits quietly.
“Aw.” My mouth twists into a frown as I step to his body, pressing mine against his. Wrapping my hand around his holding the test, I suggest, “How about we look together? I’m right here, okay?”
He nods and clenches his eyes closed for a second before opening his fist, resting in my much smaller hand. It offers him strength right now, and he needs to know he’ll always have me to lean on when he needs it.
“Look, my love,” I whisper and watch as his eyes flick down.
They fill with tears as he draws in a breath. He exhales, saying, “Really? I’m not imagining this, right? This is truly happening?” His multi-colored irises find mine, his full of unshed tears while mine escape, rolling down my cheeks.
“It’s happening. I’m pregnant with your baby, Spin, and I’m so completely in love with you.”
“Fuck, Naomi. You’ve stolen my soul.” His big arms surround me, tucking tightly around my waist as he lifts me to him, embracing me in his love as he plants a blistering kiss on me.
Soulmates.
Forever.
The End
Please leave a review or tell a friend to check out Ten Minutes if you enjoyed it. Your referral and kind words are the best motivation out there to keep me writing.
XO - Sapphire
Oath Keepers MC:
If you’d like to learn about all the Oath Keepers MC hybrid chapter you can start here:
Princess (Viking)
Daydream (Nightmare)
Baby (Saint and Sinner)
Chevelle (Mercenary)
Cherry (Odin)
Heathen (Blaze)
Hollywood (Chaos)
Flame (aka Death Dealer - Torch)
Read them in.ku- Oath Keepers MC Hybrid Collection Book.
To learn about the Oath Keepers MC original chapter you can start here:
Exposed (Cain)
Relinquish (2 Piece)
Forsaken Control (Ares)
Friction (Twist)
Tease (Snake novella)
Ten Minutes (Spin novella)
Read them in.ku- Oath Keepers MC Collection Book.
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Books By Sapphire Knight
Oath Keepers MC Series
Exposed
Relinquish
Forsaken Control
Friction
Sweet Surrender – short story in Tease
Ten Minutes – novella
Oath Keepers MC Hybrid Series
Princess
Love and Obey – short story in Tease
Daydream
Baby
Chevelle
Cherry
Heathen
Hollywood
Death Dealer (aka FLAME)
Russkaya Mafiya Series
Secrets
Corrupted
Corrupted Counterparts – short story in Tease
Unwanted Sacri!ces
Undercover Intentions
Dirty Down South Series
Freight Train
3 Times the Heat
Bliss
The Vendetti Famiglia
The Vendetti Empire - Part 1
The Vendetti Queen - Part 2
The Vendetti Seven – Part 3
The Vendetti Coward – Part 4
The Vendetti Daddy – Part 5
The Vendetti Devil – Part 6
Harvard Academy Elite
Little White Lies
Ugly Dark Truth
Royal Bastards MC Texas
Opposites Attract/B*stard
Kings of Carnage MC Series
Bash – Vice President
Sterling - Prospect
3rd KOC coming soon!
The Chicago Crew
Gangster
Mad Max
VII Knights MC
Hunter – Nomad
Brotherhood of Darkness
(co-Author with Hilary Storm)
The Order of Obsession
Vow of Vengeance
Complete Standalones
Gangster
Unexpected Forfeit
The Main Event – short story in Tease
Oath Keepers MC Collection
Russian Roulette
Tease – Short Story Collection
Oath Keepers MC Hybrid Collection
Vendetti Duet
Harvard Academy Elite
Viking – free newsletter short story in Newsletter
Dirty Down South Collection
Hunter
Naughty Good Girl
Carnal Addiction
Acknowledgments
My boys—You’re my whole world. I love you both, this never changes. I can’t express how grateful I am for your support and belief in me. You’re quick to tell me that my career makes you proud and that I make you proud. As far as Mom wins go, that one takes the cake, even if I do send ‘mom memes.’ I love you with every beat of my heart, and I will forever.
My Dogs—You guys are assholes, but I love you so much it makes my heart ache. Please stop barking and chugging water when I’m trying to write.
Editor—Swish Editing & Design. Your hard work makes mine stand out, and I’m so grateful!
My Blogger, Bookstagrammer, and TikTok Friends—YOU ARE AMAZING! You take a new chance on me with each book and, in return, share my passion with the world. You never truly get enough credit, and I’m forever grateful for every share and shout-out.
My Readers—I love you. You make my life possible, so thank you. I can’t wait to meet many of you this year and in the future. To those of you leaving me the awesome spoiler-free reviews, you motivate me to keep writing. For that, I’ll forever be grateful as this is my passion in life.
And as always, ADOPT DON’T SHOP! Save a life today and adopt from a rescue or your local animal shelter. #ProudDobermanMom #LastHopeDobermanRescue
About the Author:
Sapphire Knight is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling Author. Her books all reflect what she loves to read herself. She’s a Texas girl at heart who’s crazy about football and has always possessed a passion for writing. She originally studied psychology and feels that it’s added to her drive for writing diverse characters.
Sapphire is the proud mom of two handsome boys and loves to donate to help animals. When she’s not busy in her writing cave, she’s playing with her three Doberman Pinschers.
BookBub:
Newsletter:
https://bit.ly/SapphireNewsletter
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Thank you for reading!