The Confession

“Thank you, love.” Liam’s face glowed with happiness as he took the phone and leaned into his ear. “Happiness is only as elusive as you allow it to be. Think about it.”

Liam’s words seared Seth’s brain when the Irishman snaked an arm around his wife, smiled into the camera, and strode away.

Seth let out a tense breath. First Beck had pushed, then Liam. Hopefully, all his well-meaning friends were done climbing up his ass for the night.

He turned to find Beck, standing at the end of the hall that led to the private rooms, now heading his way.

Beck frowned. “You good? You look pissed.”

He was, goddamn it. “Headache. What did Hammer want?”

“To give me the keys and security codes for the club. I’m the contact person in case anything happens while those three are on their honeymoon.”

Seth frowned. “I didn’t think they were taking one right away.”

Beck lowered his voice. “It’s a surprise for Raine. They’re taking her to Paris.”

“Nice.”

“Hammer also asked to see you in his office.”

“What for?”

“He didn’t say.” Beck shrugged. “Where did Heavenly go?”

“She was with Raine, but…” Seth scanned the dungeon, then pointed toward the bar. “She’s over there, with Zach.”

Beck nodded. “I’ll go see what they’re talking about.”

“I’ll join you two when I’m done with Hammer.”

At Beck’s thumbs-up, Seth wound his way through clusters of people laughing and chatting until he reached Hammer’s door and tapped on it. “Everyone decent?”

“Yep. I’m not getting naked for you, pal.”

Seth stepped in. “Thank god.”

Hammer wore a wide smile as he rounded the desk and gave Seth a hearty slap on the back. “Thanks for popping in. I’m trying to get everything tied up before we leave.”

“I heard you’re honeymooning in Paris. Congrats.”

He grinned and shrugged. “Raine has always wanted to go. What can you do? Happy wife, happy life.”

“That sounds amazing.”

“We’re pretty fucking happy, I’ll admit.” Hammer’s grin became a self-deprecating chuckle. “I need a favor.”

“Anything.”

“Beck agreed to be point man for the club. I was hoping you’d do the same for the house. Three of Liam’s sisters will be there watching the twins, but—”

“Absolutely.” Seth nodded. “Happy to.”

“Thanks, man.” Hammer’s smile was so wide now, it threatened to split his face.

Seth had seen Macen at his best and worst, but he didn’t remember ever seeing him loopy, flustered, and not in total control. Was that what happiness had done to him?

“If Caitlyn, Meg, or Aisling need anything, I’ll take care of it,” Seth vowed. “You focus on your time with Raine and Liam.”