“Just get the pancakes or the muffins.”
“It’s an Italian place. It’s a little rude to only order that,” Tate said.
“So, order a coffee then.”
Laughing, Tate waited for Rose to signal the waiter. They each ordered a coffee and muffin. No one questioned them, but that probably had something to do with the fact Rose had removed her jacket. Hardy’s name and The Skulls were inked on Rose’s arm, and also she was wearing one of Hardy’s jackets.
“Anyone else they’d have complained,” Tate said.
“It’s one of the perks to being an old lady for a Skull. No one back chats. The club helps everyone in town, even these places.”
“I guess.”
Rose stared at her for long moments. The older woman’s blue eyes made her nervous.
“Why are you staring at me?”
“I’m trying to see what the problem is.”
“What do you mean?” Tate asked, confused.
“I need to know what the club did to you for you to turn your back on it.” Rose sat back, looking at her.
“The club didn’t do anything.”
“Really? Look at it from my perspective. You left your father’s house, that’s fine. You’re working in a dental practice, Tate. My God, how boring could you fucking get? Then let’s talk about your trip to Vegas and not inviting Angel. Bitch move if ever I heard one. Then the fact you’re refusing to have anything to do with the club, your family.”
“It’s my decision to make,” Tate said. “I’m tired of being second best. Everyone picks the club over me. There, I’ve said it.”
Rose groaned, and Tate looked up to see the other woman glaring at her. “Is this some pampered princess shit? Because I’m not in the mood for that. I thought you were better than that.”
“Tiny and Murphy all chose the club before me. My mother died with Tiny loving the club more than her.”
“You’re fucking wrong. That man loved his wife. He loved her so much that he’s not even thought of replacing her,” Rose said.
“He’s fucking everything in sight.”
“Men do that a lot, Tate. They deal with their feelings in different ways from us, but he’s not replacing her with a wife. Eva’s got everything he’s looking for, and yet she’s gone and left him.”
Tate frowned. “Murphy—”
“They’re all making our town safer, Tate. Murphy left and spied for The Skulls to make this place safer for you. That man is in love with you, and you’re too blind to see it.”
“He fucked other women.”
“You didn’t have any claim over him at all. He did what he had to do before anything progressed between the two of you.”
“Is that how you deal with Hardy? When he’s going on his long trips with temptation waiting for him on the open road?” Tate asked. She was being a bitch, but she needed Rose to stop.
“Hardy wouldn’t dream of fucking another woman,” Rose said, leaning forward.
“How can you be so certain?”
“Because I make sure I’m everything he needs. Hardy doesn’t want for anything. I’m every fantasy, every desire, and I make sure he feels that every time we’re together.” Rose leaned back accepting the cup of coffee the waiter brought. “You’re club royalty, Tate. The guys love you, and the girls hate you. The old ladies accept you because of who you are. I like you, Tate, but I think you’re being stupid.” Rose stopped to drink her coffee. “All the guys will be looking out for you. Murphy’s got a lot of shit to get through to be with you. Think about that when you’re wondering if Murphy loves you.”
“Shit, I’m sorry. I really shouldn’t be acting like this,” Tate said. Rose was one of the few women Tate respected. She couldn’t believe she was being such a bitch to her.
“It’s about time you realized what a bitch you’re being. There’s a time and a place to get the claws out, honey. Now is not that time.
“What do you want me to do?” Tate asked, hating how right the other woman was being.
“Come to lockdown. Bring your new friend, and make it right with Angel. While you’re there, think about everything Murphy’s risking just to be with you.”
They finished off their lunch without another word.
Chapter Nine
Murphy sat at the bar in the club waiting for Rose to return. Hardy had sent him a text letting him know Tate and Rose were in the Italian place talking. Tiny had been beside himself with worry since he couldn’t get Tate into the club for lockdown. Mikey handed him a beer, but he shook his head. “I’m waiting to see if Tate calls to be collected.”