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casspurrjoybell-27 · 4 months

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Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 47

*Warning Adult Content*

Mind Made Up

Everett can do nothing but watch.

He watches in frustration and full-blown alarm as one of the policemen moves Knox's truck off to the side and away from the pump.

He then climbs back into the cruiser with his partner, Knox trapped like a wild animal in its steel embrace and they drive away.

The crowd disperses, the drama over and Everett makes a dash toward Knox's truck.

"They're gone."

He clenches the cell-phone in his hand, having given Gavin a play-by-play.

"But they left the key to the truck behind. What do you want me to do?"

"Alright, listen," Gavin replies, his voice steady.

"If they had a warrant to search it, they wouldn't have left the truck behind, so they probably took Knox in on some bullshit. It's all scare tactics. I'm texting the club lawyer as we speak."

"What kind of bullshit?" Everett asks before thinking.

By now, he should know better than to ask questions that won't be answered.

"Club business. I can't tell you, kid. I'm sorry," Gavin says.

"Do you want me to send Finn out to pick up the truck or are you comfortable driving it back? I'll make sure Mason scrubs the cameras out there. Your involvement won't be documented."

Everett takes a deep breath.

Driving the truck back is a risk but he feels a sense of responsibility to Knox.

"I can drive it back," he replies.

"I can do it."

"I'm sending Finn out anyway. Don't want you to be alone right now," Gavin assures him before ending the call.

Everett pockets his cell-phone and climbs into the driver's seat, the keys dangling from the ignition.

He closes his eyes and takes a moment to inhale deeply, the scent of Knox's cologne lingering in the air like a distant memory.

He starts the engine seconds later, both hands trembling as he grips the steering wheel and navigates the truck out of the gas station.

He tries to ignore the regret swirling in his stomach.

He's been acting like a total dick since their long-distance conversation.

His concerns are valid but had he known Knox would get snatched up by the police today, perhaps he would've handled his emotions a little better.

No matter, his nerves are officially shot now.

The tension in his body makes every bump and pothole on the road feel amplified.

He can't stop looking in the rear view mirror, thinking that he's being followed during the whole drive back to the clubhouse.

He doesn't truly calm down until he spots Finn on his motorcycle halfway into the drive.

They ride back together, Everett leading the way while Finn takes on the job of scanning the road for any of their enemies.

As they eventually pass through the gate of the clubhouse, Everett brings the truck to a stop and hops out, his legs feeling slightly unsteady.

He turns to Finn.

"Be real with me for five seconds," he says.

"Fuck club business. How much trouble is Knox really in?"

"Look, the pigs love fucking with us, kid."

Finn's expression is guarded, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes.

"But we're careful in everything that we do, so there's really no need to worry..."

"Oh. My. God. Do I have to be initiated in or whatever the fuck for you people to just tell me a little bit of what's really going on here?" Everett snaps.

"Everett. Chill."

Finn places a hand on his shoulder and much to his surprise, Everett doesn't shrug it off.

"Without any hard evidence for... whatever it is that they think Knox did, the longest they can hold him is 48 hours. We just have to wait it out, man," his words amount to a whole lot of nothing but arguing with Finn isn't going to bring Knox back, so Everett has no choice but to drop it.

He nods, lips pressed into a tight line and he grabs the grocery bags from the backseat.

With Finn by his side, they head into the busy clubhouse.

Bear greets Everett in the kitchen.

The dog's presence is a brief distraction from his turbulent thoughts.

He kneels to accept the affectionate nuzzles and licks.

"I missed you too."

Burying his face in Bear's soft fur, Everett apologizes for his absence.

"You're probably wondering where your other Daddy is, aren't you?"

As if to answer his question, the dog whines in response.

But the moment is quickly ruined by the ping of his cell-phone, signaling a new text.

Everett pulls it out, his brow furrowing as he sees its from an unknown number.

His heart nearly stops as he reads the message: You have 24 hrs to deliver the USB. Come alone to the attached address. If you don't, there's gonna be more dead bodies.

Everett's stomach churns, bile rising in his throat.

Before he can shout for Gavin, two more pings signal the arrival of picture messages.

With trembling fingers, he opens the first image, eyes widening in horror as he sees his father's house.

The blinds are open on the living room windows, revealing his father eating in the kitchen alone, oblivious to the danger lurking nearby.

The next picture message is even more chilling.

The lifeless bodies of the two Fallen Angels members who were keeping guard at his parents' house stare back at him from the inside of someone's trunk, their eyes vacant and faces battered.

Everett's vision blurs, the room spinning around him as he rushes to the kitchen trash can and retches violently, his body shaking with each burning heave.

Bear whines beside him repeatedly and the chattering in the room stops abruptly.

He can feel all eyes on him as Finn walks over to place his hand on his lower back, his voice a low whisper when he speaks.

"You okay?" he asks.

"Stupid fucking question, isn't it?"

Everett straightens and wipes his mouth with the hem of his shirt, his mind racing with thoughts that don't feel right.

Without another word, he rushes out of the kitchen, Bear's loyal footsteps trailing behind him.

They head upstairs and enter Knox's bedroom, Everett shutting the door behind them.

His heart is heavy and throbbing as he paces the floor.

The thought of betraying The Fallen Angels, of stealing the USB drive after everything they've done for him, makes it feel like a million explosions are going off in his head.

In truth, however, the choice he needs to make is quite simple.

The Jackals are already at his house and will presumably stay until he hands over the USB.

Even if he tells Gavin about the threats, The Fallen Angels won't be able to reach his father in time.

The Jackals will definitely shoot to kill before anyone can sneak up for the rescue.

'Don't leave the clubhouse. Stay where you are, kitten. Let my brothers handle this. You trust us, right?' he can almost hear Knox's voice, firm and protective, telling him to stay put.

Too bad Knox isn't physically here right now.

The tables have turned drastically and it's up to Everett to take action, to make a move that may cost him everything... even his own life... for the sake of his father.

Even as his emotions threaten to overwhelm him, he knows exactly what he must do.

So he takes another look around the bedroom, committing every detail to memory before finding a notepad and pen to scribble down a short message for Knox.

His mind is made up.

Everett is going to steal back the USB.

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 4 months

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Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 46

*Warning Adult Content*

The Pigs - Knox

The sun shifts and cuts through the windshield as Knox loosens his grip on the steering wheel, his tanned knuckles contrasting against the black leather.

Old-school rock music blasts through the truck's speakers but the silence from Everett booms even louder.

He's been in a world of his own, staring out the passenger window with a far-off look in his eyes.

There's a lingering regret in the pit of Knox's stomach about the night before when he laid everything out on the table in telling Everett that he didn't want to be his boyfriend only for show but for real.

The lack of a definitive response that followed has since stirred up a well of nerves Knox usually keeps under control.

Was it a mistake for him to tell Everett that?

Was it wrong for him to convince Gary that he can take care of his son when Knox is fully aware that he has more enemies in this world than friends?

Is he kidding himself by trying to establish a relationship with someone so completely his opposite?

The near-death experience he recently suffered had clearly stripped away his caution regarding Everett.

If not for that encounter with Ghost, Knox probably wouldn't have ever voiced those emotions last night.

Maybe some lines aren't meant to be crossed after all.

As they eventually pull into the parking lot of the grocery store, Knox lowers the volume on the radio.

"Going in?" Everett shakes his head without even looking at him, opting to stay in the car.

"Okay..." Knox mutters, frustrated.

He shuts off the engine and removes his seatbelt.

"Want anything from inside?"

"A bag of chips, please."

"Spicy sweet chili Doritos?"

The correct guess earns him a slight smile from Everett, one that lit up his anxious heart for a moment.

"That's it," Everett says. "Thanks."

"Be back in a second. Call if you need anything else."

Knox carries the small win with him as he shops quickly, moving with purpose up and down the aisles.

He's back outside in under twenty minutes.

The solitary shopping, unfortunately, did nothing to ease the growing knot fixed in his stomach.

He places Josie's items and the dog food in the backseat, then hands Everett his chips.

He receives another whispered thanks before driving off.

And much like when they began this trip home, it's quiet, apart from the sounds coming from the radio.

But eventually, a familiar tune floats through the truck and Everett's voice threads through the notes so smoothly and softly that Knox can't help but perk up.

"Wouldn't be surprised to find out you were a singer in a past life," he compliments with a low chuckle.

"You sound good. No bullshit."

Everett glances at him, shyly.

"I wanted to be a million different things when I was little... a singer was one of them."

"In an industry like that, your image and reputation mean about as much as your music does," Knox says, teasing.

"You think your fans would approve of their idol dating a biker like me?"

"I honestly wouldn't even care about shit like that."

"Really?"

"Really," Everett confirms.

"If I'm that deeply in love with someone, then my profession would just have to adapt because I'm not giving up on my partner. Your soulmate is a forever thing, your career can be gone overnight. Real fans don't view their idol as someone they own. I'd like to think mine would be happy for me."

Just as Knox allows himself to feel a semblance of hope for their relationship, the gas light flickers on, pulling him back to the present moment.

Cursing under his breath, he announces the need for another pit stop.

"I'm usually good about keeping it full."

"Next time we visit my dad, we'll have to take the bike instead," Everett says.

"So there'll be a next time?"

"Maybe."

Knox smirks, rolling his eyes.

"Too late. You already put it out in the atmosphere, so it's going to happen now. I'll make sure of it."

The tension eases between them as they veer off towards the nearest gas station.

It's so busy Knox has to wait at least five minutes before he's able to pull up to a pump.

He shuts the truck off and looks at Everett.

"Pump or pay?" he asks, nodding toward the store.

"We'll get out of here quicker this way."

"I'll pay," Everett says, stretching and yawning.

"Need to grab something to drink to wash these chips down. How much are you wanting to put in?"

"$80."

Knox pulls out of his wallet and hands Everett a hundred-dollar bill.

"You can use the rest."

"Want anything?"

"Just you."

"Ew. You really just said that..." Everett laughs and it's a big laugh, then he leans over the armrest and kisses surprise onto Knox's face.

"Back in a few."

Knox grips him by the chin and kisses him again, deeper.

"Hurry."

"Okay."

Everett stumbles out of the truck and jogs toward the entrance of the store.

Knox sits back in seat, his eyes watching everyone's move.

Everett's taste is still on his tongue but his smile is long gone.

There are too many people out, too much room for someone to sneak up and catch him off guard.

He keeps his attention split between Everett and his surroundings.

The line inside the store isn't moving fast enough and it adds to his growing anxiety which immediately worsens after a police cruiser pulls up beside the empty gas pump behind Knox's truck... giving them the perfect view of his license plate.

"Fuck."

Knox exhales a heavy breath as he glances back at the store.

He can see Everett's slim silhouette now paused near the back of the line, oblivious to the possible trouble brewing outside.

Fingers that had only moments ago gripped his lover by the chin for a much-needed kiss now hurriedly tap out a message to Gavin on his cell phone.

Knox: At the gas station on Elms Street.

Knox: Pigs are here. Might be trouble if they pick a fight.

Gavin: Copy that. Where's the kid?

Knox's eyes narrow, high on alert and his jaw clenches after hearing a car door slam shut from the cruiser.

He watches through the rear view mirror as one officer begins to use his card at the pump, the other stayed put inside, his eyes glued to a computer screen.

Knox glances away to look back inside the store.

Everett is now in the middle of the line.

He looks back in the rear view mirror, ice flooding his veins when he spots the cop sitting inside the car muttering something to the driver while pointing at his truck.

Acting on impulse, Knox places a call to Everett.

He picks up on the first ring.

"Hey, I'm almost..."

"Everett, stop talking," Knox speaks low, his voice steady despite the unease brewing inside him.

"Cops are getting gas behind me right now, and I'm positive they just finished running my shit."

Knox's gaze hardens as he checks the rear view mirror again, confirming his suspicions when the seated officer steps out to converse more with his colleague.

Their simultaneous glance in Knox's direction tightens the coil of apprehension in his stomach.

"Oh, God," Everett drops his voice to a whisper.

"W-what do we do?! What do you want me to do? Create a distraction or something?"

"No, just listen to me carefully because I'm running out of time. I need you to stay inside and call Gavin. Tell him to call our lawyer because shit is about to pop off."

The second cop begins to walk Knox's way with a scowl on his chubby face and a hand resting on his gun.

"Knox..."

"I mean it, kitten. Fuck what you see or hear. Do not come out of that store until I'm gone."

Knox ends the call after receiving a hard tap on his window, more a demand than a courtesy.

He tucks his phone away and answers it by opening the door and stepping out, his face an unreadable mask.

The officer speaks.

"Knox Hansley?"

"In the flesh."

Knox's heart beats a steady rhythm of defiance and readiness as he looks down at the tiny man.

"Is there a problem, officer?"

"Yes, actually. Your last known address is to an abandoned lot."

The officer's brow furrows and he takes another step forward.

"Why is that?"

Knox quickly deflects.

"You first. Why does it matter to you folks where I lay my head at night?"

"So we're playing stupid now?"

The officer's hand on his gun twitches, his tone edged with impatience.

"This doesn't have to get ugly if only you cooperate."

"Cooperate for what?" Knox challenges, his stance unyielding.

"You come up in my face threatening me over something you've yet to explain. Do I look like a fucking telepath? Because I ain't one."

"Mind your language, bastard. You know good and damn well why I'm standing here wasting my breath talking to you. It's about a missing person's case."

"I don't know of any missing person."

"The name Hayes Mitchell doesn't ring a bell?"

The name sends a jolt through Knox.

Of course it rings a ring.

It rings several.

He's the reason that traitorous fucker is dead, him and Finn.

But that night isn't one Knox would take back if given the chance for a redo. Fuck Hayes.

The fact that he's still a problem Knox has to resolve even after taking every precaution to cover his and Finn's tracks brings forth an old rage that he thought he had put to rest.

Knox maintains his composure with another smooth lie.

"I don't know any Hayes Mitchell."

"Yeah, well, we have reason to believe otherwise."

"That sounds like a you problem."

"Enough of the smart talk, asshole. How about you come down to the station to have a chat so we can all be on the same page," the officer presses on.

"As I said before, this doesn't have to get ugly if you cooperate."

"This is bullshit. You're harassing me while I'm minding my business trying to fill up my tank..."

Knox's eyes drift over to the store where he finds Everett with his phone pressed to his ear, panic etched on his face.

It's starting to feel like all Knox ever does is cause the boy pain and suffering.

The sweet moments and hot sex from last night suddenly seem like a distant dream.

"You have thirty seconds to make a decision," the officer warns.

He removes his hand off his gun in exchange for the handcuffs.

"Twenty-three now..."

There isn't an easy way out of this, so of course, Knox opts to go down with a fight.

"Fuck you, pig," Knox snarls, hands clenched as he bumps chests with the officer.

"I'm not going anywhere to chat about someone I've never fucking met..."

Within seconds, the officer at the pump shouts and draws his gun while the one in front of Knox sweeps his legs out to bring him down to the ground.

His hands are immediately cuffed but his mouth remains spewing expletives.

"Knox Hansley, you are under arrest for suspicion of involvement in the disappearance of Hayes Mitchell. Anything you say..."

The officer locks the cuffs around Knox's wrists as tight as they'll go, wanting Knox to feel the pain and discomfort.

It takes both officers to pull Knox up from the ground and load him into the back of the cruiser.

"You're lucky we caught you in a public area. Otherwise, that ugly face of yours would've been unrecognizable by the time we got you to the station," the first officer whispers to him before slamming the back door shut.

This would be less infuriating and humiliating if Everett weren't around to see everything unfold.

He's now standing outside blending in with the crowd, his eyes brimming with tears.

Tears yet again caused by Knox.

How many more must the boy shed before enough is enough?

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

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Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 45

*Warning Adult Content*

Long Distance - Knox

Knox stirs awake to find the other side of the bed cool and empty.

He's tangled in brightly colored blankets that don't match those he's used to sleeping with back at the clubhouse.

He frowns at the absence of Everett's familiar warmth.

Panic sets in for a split second, a reflex born from months of shared space and whispered promises but then he remembers where he is... Everett's house.

There isn't any danger, not yet at least.

Knox figures Everett is likely up and about doing something with his father.

The thought replaces Knox's frown with a soft smile knowing that he successfully obtained Gary's blessing to be with his son.

One parent down, one more to go.

Pushing off the comforter, Knox swings his legs over the edge of the bed and shuffles towards the bathroom.

He chuckles to himself while admiring the meticulous organization of Everett's toiletries, each item neatly arranged on the sink's spotless countertop.

A quick shower and mint toothpaste clear the final remnants of sleep, which brings Knox back around to the fact that he has no idea the kind of chaos... if any... today will bring.

But what he hopes is to be able to spend more time alone with Everett.

Knowing their luck, the mini vacation they're on is bound to end at any minute.

Wrapped in a towel that barely fits around his waist, Knox wipes away the fog on the mirror, pausing at the sight of the now healed stab wound near his belly button.

A grim trophy from his nearly fatal scuffle with Ghost.

Nothing like a kitchen knife to the gut to help remind you just how short life truly is.

Not many have come close to being able to end Knox's life like that.

He's still pissed at himself for not being at the top of his game that night.

Another wrong move and Everett would be in The Jackal's possession right now instead of The Fallen Angels.

'Snap out of it. That bastard is dead and you're still alive. Everett is still alive. That's all that matters.'

Reaching for the hairbrush, he stops midway and is snapped back to the present by the ringing of his cell phone.

He curses under his breath while exiting the bathroom, water droplets trailing down his tanned skin.

He picks up the phone on the third ring, the caller ID flashing Gavin's name.

"Yeah?"

"Sorry to interrupt but I need to keep you in the loop of what's been going down over here."

"Like what?"

"The Jackals hit us back for burning down their brothel and construction business," Gavin says grimly.

"Fuckers shot up our funeral home and motel."

Knox's grip tightens around the phone.

"Shit. Any casualties?"

"Not this time, brother."

Exhaling a heavy breath, Knox processes the news with a tight nod even though Gavin can't see it.

Relief is a fleeting emotion as he moves to sit at the foot of the bed, the cell-phone pressed hard against his ear.

His free hand digs into the mattress on reflex, his voice low and coated in anger that this day with Everett must end before it can even begin.

"I'm guessing you held church already."

"Yeah."

"So what are we doing about this? What's the plan?"

"I sent a few men out to check on Russell's cabin again. I think he's added more guards to his roster."

"What makes you think that?"

"The security footage from the motel. They weren't all Jackal's. Some moved like trained soldiers, real military type."

"Fuck. Now what?" Knox questions, his patience slipping.

"Please tell me you have a plan forming or already made, Gav. Because that fucker Ghost clearly didn't lie about that place being packed with security. I hate to say it but The Jackal's outnumber us. We just don't have enough men to..."

"You're telling me shit that I already know, Knox," Gavin snaps, then sighs.

Knox can almost see him running a hand down his face.

"Our only way forward is for me to reach out and make a few phone calls to The Jackals clientele that we pulled off that USB. Might have to start blackmailing folks in exchange for more manpower and weapons sooner than I wanted to."

"This is so fucked," Knox grumbles.

The thought of going against an army with their numbers leaves a bitter taste in Knox's mouth.

"I hate that it's come to this."

"Me too, brother. Trust me."

"Look, I just got out of the shower. Everett and I will be back at the clubhouse soon. We can discuss this further in person."

"Sounds good. How are things going over there with the kid anyway? No issues?"

"Everything's quiet," Knox reported.

"Our guys that I put on to watch the area haven't seen any rivals around Everett's parent's and friend's houses for weeks."

"Well, that's good to hear."

"Yeah but it's starting to make me wonder if Russell still has Everett on his radar."

"Hmm. Right. I can see how that looks suspicious."

"I'm trying not to overthink shit. Bad things happen when I overthink."

Gavin chuckles.

"I know. But you and the kid are good, though? Josie has been itching for the latest tea... her words, not mine."

"We're good," Knox laughs, a sheepish grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"I met his dad last night and he approves. His stepmom's out of town, though, so I'll have to win her over another time."

"Good luck with that," Gavin chuckles before adding...

"Hey, can you grab some strawberries and peanut butter from the grocery store on your way back? Josie's pregnancy cravings are acting up again."

"Thanks, brother. See you soon."

The muted click of the call ending is barely audible as Knox tosses his phone aside, rising to his feet in a smooth motion.

The aroma of freshly cooked eggs and bacon wafted into the room, announcing Everett's arrival before he fully crossed the threshold.

"Hey, you."

Cradling two steaming plates, Everett approaches Knox with a soft smile and a questionable look in his eyes.

"I hope you're hungry because I kinda made too much..."

"Morning, kitten."

Knox's heart makes a small leap at the gesture, a loud notice of the domesticity they've slipped into so easily.

He accepts one of the plates with a kiss and a thank you whispered against Everett's lips.

They settle at the foot of the bed to eat and in between bites, Everett mentions the conversation he just had with his stepmother, Sarah.

"She was really looking forward to meeting you," Everett says.

"She told me to tell you that you'll have to come around for dinner again when she gets back."

"I don't mind," Knox says.

"I'm actually looking forward to it."

"You sure you're ready for another interrogation so soon? My dad's wasn't enough for you?" Everett teases.

Knox chuckles, shaking his head as he spears another forkful of eggs.

"I'm happy to do whatever it takes to keep you by my side, kitten."

As quickly as it arrived, the light and humor faded fast from Everett's expression, his gaze shifting away.

"Hey, what happened just now?"

"It's nothing."

"Don't lie to me. We're in too deep with each other to fuck around like that."

Everett's nervousness is almost palpable.

Knox sets their plates aside, his concern growing.

"Talk to me, kitten."

"I just have a lot on my mind today," Everett murmurs, still avoiding eye contact while his fingers pick at a loose thread on his jeans.

"We haven't... my dad and I talked about school and it reminded me that... well, I don't really know how we'll handle the long distance when I'm back at school. And I'm afraid you'll get bored with me once I stop being the shiny new thing in your life."

"You so fucking wrong it's almost laughable."

Knox captures Everett's hands in his own, his voice solid.

"What else do you need from me, Everett? What else do you need me to do or say to make you believe that I'm fucking serious about you? About us?"

"Knox, I..." Everett's lips part but before another word can form, Knox rushes on.

"Do you need me to get your name tattooed on me? I'll fucking do it. I'll do whatever it takes to get you to believe that I believe in us for the long run. I knew this shit wasn't going to be easy once I realized I was falling for you but it is what it is. We're here now. I'm here."

"I know."

"Do you really?"

"I do, Knox. I do."

"Then stop wasting your time worrying about shit that doesn't matter. I'm going to be here when you leave and I'm going to be here when you get back. Distance doesn't mean a thing to me, kitten. I know how to drive."

A choked laugh escapes Everett, his eyes welling up with tears.

"Shut up."

"I'm serious."

Knox grins, squeezing his hands.

"Whenever you want me to come see you, I'll come see you. I don't care how long the drive takes."

Everett nods but Knox can see the gears turning in his head.

Before he can delve any deeper, Gary's call from upstairs pulls Everett away once more, leaving Knox alone in the room with his thoughts.

He takes the opportunity to get dressed, unable to deny that he isn't majorly concerned about Everett's emotional reaction.

Knox has never been one to back down from a challenge, especially not when it comes to Everett.

Despite having never felt this way about anyone else before, he's willing to give what they have a proper chance to grow into something beautiful.

Something that, maybe with a little more time, can mature into a forever kind of love.

When Everett returns minutes later, he's sporting a poker face of indifference.

"Dad went to help the neighbor out with his lawnmower. He said to tell you that you're welcome to stop by for a drink any time."

"Okay, great. Now back to you. What else is on your mind?"

Knox walks over to him, one hand cupping his face and tilting it so their eyes meet.

"You're not making this easy for me, kitten. I'm trying my fucking best here."

"I know you are."

"I'm not a mind reader."

"I know that too, Knox."

"Then fucking talk to me," Knox pleads.

"Tell me what else is bothering you besides the long distance shit. I know you're holding more back."

"I-I don't want to do this here."

Everett grabs Knox's hand and kisses it before lowering it from his face.

"Can we just go? I'm sure Gavin needs you for something club related. I can't keep you away forever."

"Does it look or sound like I'm in a fucking rush to get back there?"

"Knox, please."

"Everett..."

"I'll be outside in the truck. Turn out the light when you leave."

Everett dashes up the stairs like the house is on fire, not allowing Knox to get another word out.

Frustration hits the man like a wrecking ball.

It almost sends one of Knox's fists through the drywall until he once again remembers that this bedroom isn't his to destroy.

Gary certainly wouldn't appreciate that.

"Fuck it. Can't say I didn't God-damn try," Knox mutters to himself while gathering his cell phone and other belongings.

He then marches out of the room without looking back or turning off the light, his attitude worsening with every step that he takes.

His manners remain, though, and he returns Gary's wave from across the street.

But Knox's faux smile is gone by the time he climbs into his truck and takes off down the road.

He hits multiple buttons on the stereo until eventually stopping on a song with loud bass and drums.

"We're not going straight home," he says.

"I need to make a run by the grocery store to grab something for Josie. Anywhere you need to stop on the way back?"

With his head resting against the passenger side window, Everett quietly replies...

"I'm good."

'Liar.'

Jaw clenched with one hand gripping the steering wheel a bit too tightly, Knox turns the music up louder and ends the conversation there.

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

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Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 44

*Warning Adult Content*

Before The Storm

As the credits of an unremembered movie scroll across the TV screen, Knox awakens to the sound of music... a ringtone, maybe? playing.

Everett's head rests comfortably against Knox's chest, their breaths no longer in sync as Knox's eyes flutter open, his senses sharpening when he spots Everett's cell phone ringing and vibrating on the nightstand.

A frown creases his brow as he carefully reaches for the phone and reads the name on the screen.

Michael.

Who the fuck is Michael?

And why the fuck does Michael have a purple heart emoji beside his name?

A flash of jealousy explodes within Knox as he starts to imagine all the different ways to make a man's murder look like an accident.

Then rationality kicks in to remind him that Michael is the name of one of Everett's best friends.

Knox chuckles quietly to himself as the call ends, his jealousy and anger fading with it.

"Whose phone is going off?" Everett's voice is groggy and muffled against Knox's chest as he stirs awake.

"Yours. It was Michael."

Knox hands over the phone, suppressing the residual twinge of jealousy that dares to linger.

"That's your friend, right? Or is there another Michael that I need to be made aware of?"

Everett laughs and sits up to stretch.

"I only know one Michael and yes he's my best friend, so tell your beast to relax. I told Michael and Alissa that I was coming back into town for a bit, so they probably want to hang out before I leave again."

"Don't let me stop you," Knox says, though the most selfish and needy part of him screamed to do exactly that... keep Everett all to himself.

"I know they're probably fed up with not having seen you in so long."

"Seriously... Who even are you anymore?"

Everett's brows lift in surprise.

"You'd really let me go out alone with them?"

"Why not? You deserve a break from all the bullshit we've been in."

"Yeah, you keep saying that..." Everett pauses, considering.

Knox's usual overprotectiveness has been notably absent these last two weeks, making Everett question if the man's soul really did get swapped with someone else's as Keith fought to keep him alive.

Every other confession and encouraging word that comes out of Knox's mouth has Everett wanting to scream 'Snap out of it' and 'Please, keep this new version of yourself.'

"They live just a few blocks away from here, right? I can send my guys home and keep watch for the day."

Knox's tone is nonchalant but his gaze is intense in a way that feels comforting rather than intimidating.

"Thanks for offering but I can't and won't have you do that."

Everett kisses his shoulder, smiling warmly.

"I can hang out with them tomorrow and... if you want, you can join us. No pressure. Do you think we can stick around town for another day?"

Knox's response is immediate.

"Whatever you want, kitten."

"Whatever, huh?"

Everett's grin is a combination of affection and mischief as he leans down, his lips grazing Knox's.

"I like it when you give me what I want."

The moment shifts.

Knox's hands reach out to pull Everett on top of him, his voice a low rumble filled with a playful challenge.

"And what is it that you want right now?"

"I think you already know exactly..." Everett's sentence is interrupted by a loud crack of thunder.

"Shit, that sounded a little too close for comfort. Did you know it was going to rain today?"

Knox shakes his head.

"Sky was clear when we left home. Didn't have a reason to check the weather."

"This sucks," Everett pouts.

"I don't like driving in the rain."

Knox laughs.

"But I'm the one driving."

"To be honest, I'd rather just sleep here tonight."

"Me too. I'm sure Dad won't mind but I'll ask him anyway if we can stay here for the night."

He plants a quick kiss on Knox's lips and hops off the bed, calling over his shoulder.

"Be right back..." the words are absorbed by the patter of rain as he goes upstairs.

In the living room, Everett finds his father fast asleep in his favorite chair, the TV casting flickering shadows around the room.

Everett's lips curve into a smile at the sight.

He tiptoes over and grabs the remote out of his father's hand, clicking off the TV.

Leaning down, he gently shakes his father awake.

"Time for bed, old man."

Gary's eyes open with a hint of disorientation before focusing on Everett.

"Damn, I guess that steak really hit the spot and knocked me right out," he chuckles, his voice rough with sleep.

"What'd I miss?"

"Nothing. You're up just in time for a storm," Everett says.

"Knox and I just woke up from a nap, too."

"Oh. Are you two getting ready to head out?" Gary asks, slowly pulling himself into a more upright position.

Another thunderclap splits the air, rain now pelting against the windows.

"It's really coming down out there," Gary adds.

"I don't remember it calling for storms today."

"Mother Nature does what she wants," Everett laughs.

"I don't want Knox driving in this mess, so I was going to ask you if we could stay the night here."

"Remember when I used to tell you that there is no such thing as a stupid question?" Gary asks.

Everett nods.

"I take it back. That was a very stupid question, son. Of course, you two can stay here."

"Thanks, Dad."

They move together, Gary pushing himself up from the chair with a groan of effort.

As they walk towards the hallway, Gary's voice lowers, a more serious note creeping in.

"I really do like Knox," he says, and Everett senses the 'but' before it's even spoken.

"But?" Everett prompts.

"But..." Gary pauses, turning to face Everett.

"There's a darkness about him. Something there beneath the surface that I can't quite put my finger on. Doesn't mean I don't trust him to take care of you or treat you right..."

He shakes his head as if trying to dispel the concern.

"I'm sorry if I sound a little loopy but that's how I feel."

"It's okay. I appreciate the honesty."

"I love you no matter the decisions you make in life and no matter who it is that you choose to give your heart to. But... what I never want to see is my son getting dragged down by someone else's bullshit."

"AKA, in this scenario, Knox's darkness."

"Yes."

Everett's stomach twists in knots, the same fears he harbors reflecting in his father's words.

More than once, he's seen episodes of Knox's darkness in action.

It's frightening, quite literally murderous.

Everett is certain he's lost a little bit of his sanity along the way because even now as his father turns the spotlight on Knox, he chooses to push all negative thoughts away and lock them up tight behind a faux smile.

"How do you know Knox is going through something?"

"Call is a father's intuition," Gary jokes.

"Is that a thing? I think it might be a thing."

As the storm intensifies outside, his thoughts swirling with new fears and desires, Everett wishes his father a goodnight and then makes his way back down the hall.

He double-checks that the front door is locked before heading back downstairs.

Everett forces himself to focus only on the present, on the fact that Knox is here with him now.

That was all that mattered tonight.

But as he stepped into his room, his heart stuttered... Knox wasn't there.

"Knox?" he calls out, a trace of worry bleeding through in hopes that there wasn't another random emergency which required his presence.

"Where'd you go?"

"Nowhere."

Knox steps out of Everett's bathroom clad only in his underwear.

The sight sends more than one current of heat through Everett, setting off a hunger that thrums violently beneath his skin.

"When..." Everett swallows hard, his brain not catching up quick enough for his mouth to get the right words out.

"Why are you naked?"

"Out of respect for your father, I'm not naked."

From his smirk to his rippled abs, Knox was pure sin walking, and he damn well knew it.

"You see I have underwear on."

"You know what I fucking meant."

Stepping closer, Everett sheds his shirt and jeans.

His gaze is playful, eyes teasing.

"Why are you almost naked?"

"Because I was 99.9% sure your father wasn't going to kick us out in the rain," Knox chuckles.

He climbs into bed and pats the empty spot next to him.

"I figured I'd get ready for bed. Sorry for not waiting for you."

Accepting the response, Everett flips off the light switch, flooding the room with moonlight.

He takes his time climbing into bed, admiring Knox's features, their limbs interlocking like perfect puzzle pieces.

"I'm not sleepy anymore. Want to watch another movie?" Everett asks but they both know that's the farthest thing on his mind right now.

To hell with TV.

"Not really..."

"So what do you want to do?"

"Rhetorical question, isn't it?"

Knox's fingers gently untangle the curls at the nape of Everett's neck, a touch that belied the power in his hands.

"You already know exactly what I want to do," he murmurs, his deep voice sending shivers down Everett's spine.

"Humor me."

Everett lets one hand trail down Knox's taut abdomen, lower and lower, until it ventures beneath the elastic of his underwear.

"What exactly do you want to do? Go to sleep?"

In answer, Knox shifts their positions so that he's hovering above Everett.

His muscles ripple with controlled strength that matches the growing intensity in Everett's pretty brown eyes, the latter's breath catching in his throat as he makes a failed attempt to speak again.

"Fucking you to sleep is more along the lines of what I was thinking," Knox smirks.

He purposefully grinds his hips down, pulling a moan from the boy.

"That's what you want, too. You need my cock as badly as I need to be inside you... don't you, kitten?"

"Yes."

Everett's heart races with anticipation, desire pooling low in his belly as his body aches for more of Knox's touch.

"Lube is in the nightstand. Hurry."

"Careful. Don't rush me," Knox warns with another thrust of his hips.

"You'll get my cock when I give it to you. Understood?"

Too horny to combat him, Everett merely nods.

"Please..."

"That's better," Knox says.

"I like it when you beg."

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

Text

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 43

*Warning Adult Content*

Vibes - Part 2

"Even though you already know the way, please follow me," Everett whispers to Knox with a mischievous grin.

He places his drink down and grabs the man's hand, leading the way to the basement-turned-bedroom.

"Damn, I forgot how bright it is down here." Knox chuckles, collapsing on the bed beside Everett.

"How you feelin' so far? Just gotta make it through dinner and I think I'll have earned that handshake from your dad..."

"You're amazing."

Everett straddles his man within seconds, cupping Knox's face and kissing him until they're both breathless and hard.

"Seriously. I know all this is out of your element, so I appreciate you a ton for playing along with the whole boyfriend charade. You're a damn good actor."

"What if I'm not acting, kitten?"

Knox squeezes Everett's hips, their eyes locked, his tone sincere.

"What if this is what I want with you?"

"I..."

Everett blinks, trying to process everything he's hearing.

"What?"

"B-But I... You get into a fucking shootout it feels like every five minutes. And I still have school to finish... We'll be apart for months..."

"None of that matters. We can figure it all out when the time comes."

Did Knox meet God two weeks ago when he very narrowly succumbed to his injuries?

Did the two have a heart-to-heart that rewired Knox's brain, ultimately shifting his priorities and emotions?

That's the only explanation Everett can think of because nothing else makes sense for why Knox is talking this way.

Talking about commitment and their future together when, previously, the only thing he was focused on was keeping Everett alive and killing everyone who claimed to be a Jackal.

"Who even are you right now?"

Everett laughs, nervously.

He sits up, resting both hands on Knox's chest, the man's heart is beating almost as fast as his own.

"Did your soul get swapped with someone else's when you almost died and came back to me?"

Knox playfully rolls his eyes.

"Gotta give me more credit than that. You think a man like me is immune to changing his ways?"

Yes.

"No, it's just... You're essentially asking me out right now. Like, officially."

"So?"

"And it's not quite the same as you claiming me, that's a biker thing. This, us being boyfriends for real, means a hell of a lot more to me."

"It means a lot to me too, kitten. I wouldn't be saying all this shit if I was just fucking around. I'm dead serious about you, enough to kill, which I've already proven. But it's okay if you still need time to think."

"Knox, I..."

"Everett? Knox?" Gary calls from the top of the stairs after opening the door to the basement.

"You two better be fully dressed down there."

"Oh my God, Dad? Can you not, please?"

Everett gives Knox an apologetic look for leaving their conversation hanging off a cliff before climbing off him and rushing toward the stairs.

"Dad, you are literally embarrassing me to death right now..."

The trio make their way back to the kitchen.

Gary leads the way, Knox following closely behind as they start up a chat and he rolls up his sleeves in preparation for the task ahead.

Everett trails off a little, his gaze fixed on his phone as he settles at the kitchen table.

His fingers idly swipe the screen, yet his focus is entirely on Knox.

His father begins to lay out the ingredients for their meal... three thick, juicy steaks and an assortment of seasonings and vegetables.

Knox steps into the role of sous-chef with ease.

"What would you like me to do, sir?" Knox asks.

"Season and cook."

Gary slides the steaks over to Knox, choosing the simpler job of chopping up the vegetables.

"You don't have to be an expert but a man should know how to cook a steak properly. My son isn't going to be doing all the work around the house and he damn sure isn't going to live off fast food while y'all are living together."

"Dad," Everett groans.

"Just saying."

Gary shrugs.

"You know where I'm coming from, don't you, Knox?"

Knox chuckles.

"I do and it's fine. I'm a decent cook."

"Good. Let's see what you got."

Gary smiles, passing him a pair of tongs.

Their conversation bounces from topic to topic and Everett sometimes jumps in to add his two cents.

Unsurprisingly, despite Gary grilling him about his intentions with his son, Knox holds his own and remains calm.

A few laughs here, a pat on the back there... Seeing the two most important men in his life forming a bond in real time feels absolutely surreal to Everett.

Is it selfish of him to want to have more moments like this?

"I still can't believe you like your steak well done. You know that's an actual crime in America, right?" Knox teases Everett while he and Gary bring the food to the table.

"I feel like I barely know who you are anymore."

"Same here," Gary jokes.

"Hold on," Everett laughs, then retorts with a mock-serious expression.

"How am I getting put on trial because you two enjoy biting into bloody meat? You're the weirdos here, not me."

As they dig into their meal, the conversation continues to flow easily.

It's been a while since Everett felt real panic in his chest out of fear his father or Knox ended up saying the wrong thing to one another.

Laughter and innocent teasing are interspersed with more thoughtful exchanges until Gary, seizing a quieter moment, turns to Knox with a more serious inquiry.

"Did you grow up around here, Knox? How are your parents?" Gary asks.

"I'm sure Everett has already told you his story."

Everett and Knox exchange a brief, loaded glance.

Everett opens his mouth to speak and change the subject but Knox gently places his hand on Everett's thigh under the table, a silent signal for him to let him answer.

"I was born and raised here but my parents have passed on. My father..." Knox's voice is steady, albeit tinged with sadness.

"He wasn't a good man. But my mother, she was an angel and my best friend. I think about her every day."

"My condolences." Gary offers a solemn nod of understanding.

"My late wife, Everett's mother, she was an angel too before she passed. Ever since then, I kept Everett close, fearing something bad might happen to him if I wasn't always around."

He pauses, smiling softly at Everett.

"I can't imagine how suffocating that must've been for you."

"You loosened the reins eventually," Everett jokes, trying to lighten the mood.

"But I understood why you were overprotective, Dad. We're good now."

Gary looks back at Knox, continuing.

"I'll never lie to you, Knox. When I first saw you, I didn't get the best vibes. But the more we talk, the more I see you interact with my son, the easier it is to look past that tough exterior of yours."

The moment Gary extends his hand towards Knox, a gesture of acceptance and trust, is a poignant one.

Everett feels a lump form in his throat as he observes the exchange.

"I don't know what it is about you but something in my gut tells me you'll keep my son's best interest at heart," Gary finishes.

"Is this true?"

"It is."

Knox firmly shakes Gary's hand, gratitude evident in his voice.

"Thank you for giving me a chance and for trusting me with Everett."

"Break his heart and I'll kill you."

Gary smiles, half-serious and half-joking.

"Arthritis or not, I can still work a gun if or when the moment calls for it."

Everett grumbles something under his breath while resting his head on the table face down, blushing from embarrassment and being the center of attention.

Knox chuckles, glancing at him briefly while running a hand up and down his back.

"If a day like that ever comes," Knox says to Gary...

"Then I'll load the gun and will hand it to you myself."

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

Text

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 43

*Warning Adult Content*

Vibes - Part 1

"I can't believe I let you talk me into doing this."

Everett wipes his sweaty palms down the front of his jeans while walking toward the front door of his childhood home, his heart pounding in his chest.

"Are you sure we shouldn't come up with a different story? I don't think that..."

"You're stressing over nothing."

Knox chuckles, resting one hand on the back of Everett's neck while leaning down to whisper in his ear.

"Or are you that ashamed to introduce me to your parents as your boyfriend?"

"Not ashamed," Everett answers right away, blushing.

"Just nervous. I've never brought a guy over to meet my parents. Never had a reason to."

"I told you I'd be on my best behavior, didn't I? Even left my cut and bike behind for this."

Knox lowers his hand to grip Everett's waist and pull him in close, their eyes meeting in a heated lock.

"You trust me, kitten?

"Always."

"Then relax and stop overthinking shit. Your folks are gonna love me."

Everett rolls his eyes, smiling softly.

He wraps his arms around Knox's waist and rests his head against the man's chest.

"Thanks for doing this. I didn't know how much I needed it until we pulled into the driveway."

"It's my fault for keeping you away from them for so long."

"For a good reason."

"Still. Talking to your folks over the phone doesn't compare to seeing them in person. We should've done this sooner."

"Based on our lie, we weren't boyfriends back then."

Everett pulls back and purses his lips, asking for a kiss.

Knox obliges, keeping it PG as best he can while walking Everett backward toward the front door.

"Want to know something I've never done before?" he pants, smirking something wicked.

"Fucked a biker in your childhood bedroom?" Knox guesses correctly, cupping Everett's ass.

"I'm more than happy to be your first and last."

"What the hell? Are you a mind reader now?"

Everett laughs.

The front door swings open before Knox can respond with something filthier.

Everett's father, Gary, appears in the doorway, his presence commanding immediate attention.

Everett and Knox part quickly, a slight awkwardness in their movements as Everett begins to speak.

Gary's expression softens after landing on his son's face, not wasting another second before pulling him into a hug.

Knox smiles and respectfully stands off to the side, letting them have their moment until Everett grabs his hand and properly introduces him.

"Knox, this is my dad, Gary. Dad, this is Knox," Everett starts, the color of his freckled cheeks reverting to a tinted pink.

"He's..."

"The mysterious boyfriend you've been playing house with," Gary finishes, meeting Knox's unwavering gray eyes.

He scrutinizes the man unashamedly, his eyes taking in every detail... from Knox's calm stance and muscular build to the subtle signs of a life rougher and more raw than what his son is normally accustomed to.

"So, uh, what's the age difference here?"

Everett whines.

"Dad, please don't."

"How old are you, Knox?" Gary asks anyway.

"I'm twenty-nine, sir." Knox, feeling the pressure of Gary's judgement, steps forward confidently and extends a hand.

"It's nice to finally meet you."

He smiles politely, his voice steady.

"Everett has spoken highly of you on more than one occasion."

"I would love to say the same but unfortunately, I don't know a lick about you. But I guess that all changes today, huh?"

Gary steps aside to let them both enter the house, his hands remaining at his side.

"I'll shake your hand once I've determined you're a good fit for my son. No hard feelings."

Knox nods.

"Fair enough."

"Let's please get inside before I drop dead from embarrassment," Everett mutters, stepping inside the house with Knox by his side.

"You want something to drink, babe? We have a little bit of everything here."

Everett kicks his shoes off by the door before walking into the kitchen to pour himself a drink, needing to do something to keep his mind busy and off the fact that he just introduced his father to a man who undoubtedly belongs on America's Most Wanted.

"What's your preference, Knox? You a drinking man?" Gary asks, shutting the front door and joining everyone in the kitchen.

"No pressure or shame here if you aren't."

"I'll have a beer every once in a while, but not today, sir. Gotta drive us back to the house after this," Knox replies, leaning against the kitchen counter while Everett moves around.

"Water is fine for me, kitten. Thanks."

Everett briefly stops dead in his tracks to send Knox a hard glare.

Not here, he mouths in reference to his nickname.

Knox chuckles, winking at him.

"That's a mighty nice truck you got out there, too. Looks like it might be the latest model."

Gary takes a seat at the kitchen table, his expression still giving nothing away as he watches the couple interact, taking mental notes.

"What is it you do for a living?"

Everett sips on his water while passing Knox a bottle, minding his own business, and hoping for the best.

"I build and restore motorcycles. I'm my own boss," Knox lies smoothly, maintaining eye contact.

"Been a passion of mine since I was a kid. Also one of the reasons why I stay away from colors."

He jokes and waves a hand down his all black outfit.

"Easier to hide stains on black than anything else."

"Impressive," Gary says, sounding genuine.

"Impressive, handsome and intelligent..." Everett adds with a smile, shifting closer to Knox.

"I certainly know how to pick them."

"Better be your last pick." Knox smirks, his gaze playful despite the hint of seriousness in his tone.

"Never seen this side of you before, son. It's quite entertaining," Gary chuckles, his posture relaxing.

"Not sure if I should be saying 'Aww' or if should tell you two to stand at least three feet apart at all times. Kind of leaning toward the latter."

"Relax, Dad. We're all adults."

Everett curls into Knox's side and rests his head on the man's shoulder.

The closer they are, the more his nerves settle.

"Where's Sarah and Emily? I thought they'd be here, too."

"Emily is on a camping trip with her dad. She came down with the flu real bad yesterday, so Sarah drove up to Savannah to be with her," Gary says.

"She did tell me to take lots of pictures to send her..."

He pulls out his cell phone and quickly snaps a few photos of Everett and Knox.

"Thanks, kids."

"I'm going to show Knox around and then we'll come back to help with dinner," Everett says.

"You can twenty one question him all you want then. Cool?"

Gary gives him a thumbs up before answering an incoming call.

"Hey, love. Everything alright down there?"

"Even though you already know the way, please follow me," Everett whispers to Knox with a mischievous grin.

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

Text

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 42

*Warning Adult Content*

Home - Part 2

'Just be careful.'

They turn a corner and step into a room with a scrub sink where Everett quickly sanitizes and washes his hands.

"Bit too late for that," Everett mutters.

"I'm sorry. I'm not trying to give you unsolicited advice or assume I know where your mind is," Keith explains.

"But if you plan to stick around these people long term, then it's best you know now that it's only going to get worse from here."

Everett struggles to suppress an eye roll while drying his hands.

"If it's as bad as you're implying, then why do you continue to work with the club? I'm sure you'd lose hella clients if they ever found out their PCP worked undercover with a biker gang."

"Well, there's a simple answer to that."

Keith chuckles.

"I work with them because it pays well. Contrary to the popular saying, money does indeed buy happiness. At least for me it does."

"Yeah, well, I'm sure you have good intentions or whatever but I don't need anyone to look out for me. I'm not as helpless as I look, believe it or not, so I don't need a heads up or warning. And while I appreciate the chat, I would really like to see Knox."

"Of course. He's here at the end of the hall."

It's just a few more steps to Knox's room.

Keith leaves Everett alone, allowing them to have some privacy.

Everett takes a deep breath in and exhales before opening the door and stepping inside, his heart lodged in his throat.

His hands shake again as he walks toward the sleeping man laid out in the hospital bed.

Seeing Knox resting so peacefully, the color now back in his face, untwists the anxious knot in Everett's chest.

While being mindful of the IV line, Everett drags a chair to Knox's bedside and carefully takes his hand.

He intertwines their fingers as happy tears well in his eyes.

"You didn't leave me," Everett whispers the words with a bittersweet smile.

"I'll be honest and say I really didn't think you were going to make it. You were so damn pale a-and..."

He sighs and leans forward, resting his head against the bedrail.

"I don't know what happened or who did this to you but if you ever get hurt like this again, I swear I'll..."

The feeling of Knox's fingers twitching in his grasp cuts him off mid-sentence.

"Knox?"

Everett stands immediately and leans over the bed, his free hand gently caressing Knox's face.

"Can you hear me, baby?"

"I hear you, kitten."

Knox's eyes flutter open slowly, his voice low and groggy.

"If I'm looking at you, I'm guessing I'm not in hell yet, right?"

"No, idiot," Everett laughs.

"You're still here with me on planet Earth. Disappointed?"

"Happy," Knox murmurs, a faint smile on his lips.

He attempts to sit up in bed but a sharp pain in his lower abdomen makes him regret the movement instantly.

"Oh, fuck..."

His free hand travels down to where he's bandaged.

"What all did Doc do to me?"

"Saved your life," Everett says.

"And you no longer have an appendix, by the way."

"I can live without it. Where's Gav and everyone else? I need an update on what happened..."

"I'll bring him back in a minute. Everything is fine for now. You need to worry about yourself for once and try to get as much rest as possible. Doc said you can go back to your old ways in two to four weeks."

"Two to four weeks?"

Knox's eyes widen in disapproval.

They drift from Everett's eyes down to his lips and, for a brief moment, even lower.

"Does that also include..."

"Oh my God," Everett blushes, rolling his eyes.

"You just came back from the brink of death and you're already thinking about fucking? Are you kidding me right now?"

"What? It's a serious question," Knox chuckles.

"I don't like being told I have to be apart from you for that long."

"How about this?" Everett leans down, his mouth inches away from Knox's.

"If you do well and rest properly... and I mean taking a real damn break so your body can heal... then I promise to give you whatever you want the second Doc gives you the all clear. Deal?"

"Actions speak louder than words, kitten."

Knox's grip tightens on Everett's hand.

He pulls the boy the rest of the way down and kisses him nice and slow before whispering against his sweet lips.

"Sorry for scaring you. I wasn't in my right mind when I sought you out. You and Red shouldn't have seen me like that but I just needed to make sure you were safe. Needed to see it with my own eyes."

Everett frowns.

"What even happened?"

"Ghost."

Knox's expression darkens within seconds, and the room suddenly feels a lot colder.

"Little bastard got the upper hand for a split second and took advantage. But he won't be a problem for us anymore. He's... gone."

"Oh."

Everett doesn't ask for clarification.

Gone in the world of a biker can only mean one thing... Ghost is dead and he ain't coming back.

"So, what now? How do you think Russell will react to Ghost's death? Do we really have a fighting chance in this war?"

Knox is quiet for a moment, then he answers...

"As long as I'm breathing, I'm going to fight alongside my brothers until Russell and every Jackal is dead. I'll never lie to you or fill you up with a bunch of bullshit sweet talk but shit isn't going to get any easier from here. So, I'll understand if you want to hideout someplace other than the clubhouse..."

"Don't even go there," Everett snaps.

"If I wanted to be someplace else, I would've run away by now."

"I just don't want it to be you who's lying in a hospital bed next, kitten."

"At this point, if it happens, it happens. I'm not leaving you, Knox. End of story."

Knox breaks out a smile that makes the butterflies in Everett's stomach go crazy.

"You deserve a break from all this shit."

"I would actually have to agree," Everett laughs.

"Something particular you had in mind?"

"Yes," Knox says, a hint of mischief in his tone.

"I want to meet your parents."

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

Text

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 42

*Warning Adult Content*

Home - Part 1

In the waiting room of Keith's private practice, Everett sits hunched in the hard chair with his elbows resting on his knees.

His hands are clasped together, his chin resting atop and his eyes are fixed on the double doors that lead to the operating room.

It's been an hour and some change since he, Gavin, and Josie arrived with Knox.

The vivid image of Knox's pale face, his still limbs, being rushed away on a stretcher by Keith is permanently burned into Everett's mind.

Now dry and flaking, Knox's blood still stains Everett's clothes... a cruel and constant reminder of Knox's close brush with death.

Everett's thoughts darken as the time ticks on.

A hollow kind of numbness has been slowly spreading its way throughout him like a virus, starting from the moment Knox fell unconscious in his arms to now.

The thought of losing Knox only amplifies the trembling of his hands, his stomach churning with a relentless blend of sadness and fear.

When Gavin clears his throat to speak, Everett blinks and returns to the present moment, looking over at the older man with a raised brow.

"It's late as hell. You two should head back to the clubhouse," Gavin suggests, one hand resting on Josie's bouncing knee.

"I'll stay here with Doc and Knox. I'm sure he's going to pull through..."

"No," Everett interrupts, his voice flat as he returns to staring forward.

They're all exhausted, hungry and frustrated.

But not enough to leave without confirmation that Knox will be okay.

"I'm not going anywhere until I see Knox again."

"Me too."

Josie rests her hands on her large belly when the baby kicks in agreement, her voice softening as she glances at her husband.

"The baby is going to be fine, so don't even give me that look. You and I both know we've been through worse."

Before Gavin can protest, his cell phone rings.

"I'll be back in a minute."

He curses under his breath as he rises from his seat to take the call.

"Now's not a good fucking time..."

Moving away for privacy, Everett faintly catches a few angry sentences.

"You tell them I said to destroy it all. Everything that those motherfuckers own, I want it all burned to the ground. Make it happen tonight."

He pauses to let the other person speak.

"Knox is still in surgery... Yeah, he got fucked up pretty bad."

"Stay positive."

Josie reaches for Everett's hand after catching the fresh wave of panic that crosses his face at Gavin's grim but truthful words.

"I know it's generic advice but I'm all out of the right words to say."

Everett barely feels her touch, his gaze still stuck on the double doors.

"We've barely had time to process losing Alvin, and then this shit happens..." she trails off with a helpless shake of her head, her eyes red-rimmed from crying.

"Just kind of getting tired of it all, you know? I mean, I knew what I was getting myself into when I committed to Gavin but... shit, living this life is goddamn hard sometimes."

Everett remains silent, only offering a nod of understanding.

There aren't many reality checks left for him to cash regarding his situation with Knox.

What he feels toward the man goes far beyond that of a basic crush.

Hell, he willingly put himself in the line of fire not long ago, knowing his life could be ended at any moment, all to help Knox and The Fallen Angels get the upper hand against their rival.

Going through all that and risking everything for someone who, at one point in time, he could barely stomach looking at... well, if that isn't love, then what the fuck is?

"Sorry about that."

Gavin returns to take his seat beside Josie.

"I don't know how much longer Doc is going to be but I can go out and grab us something to eat if either if you are hungry..."

The man of the hour makes his reappearance before Gavin can finish his sentence.

His blue medical gown has splotches of Knox's blood on it and Everett can't help but think the worst.

He rushes to meet Keith halfway, Josie and Gavin trailing closely behind him.

"Give it to us straight," Gavin starts.

"No bullshit. Did... Did he make it or not?"

"He's alive," Keith replies.

"But I had to remove his appendix and a small portion of his large intestine due to the severity of the damage. He also needed a transfusion from the blood loss. Other than that, everything else is intact and functioning normally."

"Thank God."

Relief crashes over Everett in a dizzying wave.

All the tension he'd been carrying exits his body almost as quickly as it'd come.

"I'm not... This isn't a dream, right? Knox is really going to be okay?"

"You can relax now, Everett. He's going to be just fine," Keith says, smiling.

"He'll need two to four weeks to fully recover before resuming his... normal activities. I'm sure he won't like hearing that when he wakes up but it's what his body requires."

"Really appreciate this, Doc. We'll make sure he gets the message," Gavin says, slapping a hand on the man's shoulder in gratitude.

"Thanks again for coming through on such short notice. Whatever the bill is, you know I got you covered."

Keith nods, his professionalism unwavering.

"I have no problem keeping him here for monitoring for at least the next forty-eight hours. You all can visit him now..."

He pauses to properly scan everyone's disheveled and bloodied appearance.

"But, uh, definitely get cleaned up before touching him."

"Wait, babe," Josie grabs Gavin's arm as he steps forward.

"I think we should let Everett go back first. If Knox wakes up soon, Everett will be the first something he asks about."

Josie looks at Everett and smiles.

"You know I'm right."

"I... You guys don't have to do this," Everett says, shaking his head. "We can all go back together."

"Nah, she's right, kid. He'll definitely want to see your face instead of my ugly mug," Gavin chuckles, gently pushing Everett forward.

"Have your moment."

"This way," Keith motions for Everett to follow him and Everett doesn't think twice about it.

"I remember you and I first met under similar not-so-pleasant-circumstances. You haven't been with them long, have you? The Fallen Angels?"

"Not really. Why do you ask?"

"Josie and Gavin, their expressions... while what happened with Knox is undoubtedly traumatic, they're used to this madness by now. You can see it on their faces. But you, on the other hand, it's obvious you're brand new to this. Unfamiliar."

"Your point?"

"Just be careful."

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casspurrjoybell-27 · 6 months

Text

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 41

*Warning Adult Content*

Alone

The next moments are a blurred dance of danger and reflexes.

A darker, more reckless type of rage overtakes Knox as he charges forward to roughly fist a hand in Ghost's hair.

At the same time, Ghost grabs the knife and drives it up into Knox's stomach.

The attack happens in seconds, too quickly for Knox to have stopped it due to his mind being stuck on Everett and the gunfire that's growing louder outside.

Pain radiates through Knox's torso and he sways but stays on his feet courtesy of pure adrenaline.

With his guard back up, he pulls the knife free and uses it to slice Ghost's throat in one swift motion.

He then stumbles back, pressing a hand to the wound as blood seeps between his trembling fingers.

It doesn't take long for the life to drain from Ghost's eyes, his body now completely still.

"Fuck..."

Knox can feel himself weakening by the second but he forces himself to stay focused as he makes his way outside.

The sight he's greeted with is of a breached gate, many of his brothers now securing the perimeter while others take off on their bikes in pursuit of fleeing Jackals.

The pain and shock take a backseat for only a moment as he heads toward the safety of the clubhouse, each step leaving behind a small trace of blood.

"Knox," Finn's voice breaks through his tunnel vision. "Hey, we need you..."

One hand on Knox's shoulders, Finn's brow wrinkles in concern as his eyes dart to Knox's bloody middle.

"Holy shit, man, You need to see a..."

"In a minute," Knox interrupts, his voice rough from strain. "What the fuck happened out here?"

Finn hesitates for a split second, obviously torn between getting Knox help and answering his question.

"The Jackals apparently felt like doing a surprise attack. One of them rammed through the gate and others came in behind on bikes shooting any and everything. We took a few down but we lost two prospects. Shit happened so fast we barely had time to gear up."

"I'm willing to bet it's because we had Ghost in our possession."

"Had?"

"He's dead now. But what about Everett and the girls?" Knox asks urgently, caring more about everyone else's safety than his own.

"Did any Jackals get inside the clubhouse?"

"No and he's good. Everyone is good. But you're looking hella pale and fucking scaring me, man. Do you need me to walk you inside? We have to call Doc and get you checked out..."

"I can walk on my own."

Knox pushes Finn's arm away, his legs threatening to buckle as he continues on towards the clubhouse.

"Go help the others."

Finn nods and reluctantly walks in the opposite direction.

The chaos inside the clubhouse mirrors the agitated state of Knox's mind.

His brothers run around like chickens with their heads cut off while Gavin's angry shouts reverberate through the halls.

Half of Knox's anger is directed at himself.

His mind hadn't been where it should've been and that allowed Ghost to momentarily get the best of him.

A mistake that might cost him his life.

'The boy is too much of a distraction. He's making you weak. You're not the same man that you used to be. What the fuck are you doing right now? Love isn't meant for people like you. Let him go before it's too fucking late. Let him go.'

His thoughts assault him every step of the way, his body feeling heavier and heavier as he slowly climbs the stairs to get to his bedroom.

Once there, he leans against the doorframe for support.

His free hand grips the cold metal doorknob and his fingers fumble, slipping with blood and sweat, which makes the simple act of opening a door almost impossible.

'Not gonna make it. I'm fucking dying.'

He can barely remain standing.

In fact, his body is over it altogether.

Just as he starts to slide down to the floor, the door swings open from the inside.

It's as though time slows.

The panicked screams of Josie and Everett ring loud in his ears as the light from inside the room blurs his vision but he can clearly make out Everett's frantic face when he leans into his line of sight.

"Knox? Oh my God... Look at me, baby. Can you hear me?"

Everett gently slaps Knox's cheek, trying to keep him conscious.

"Keep your eyes open, okay? I know it's hard but you can't close your eyes. You can't go to sleep..."

Everett takes a shuddering breath, then looks to Josie for help.

"What do we do? Who do we call? I-I don't know what to do. I don't know..."

"He needs more pressure on that wound. Use both hands while I call Doc."

Josie's footsteps retreat and then return seconds later.

Knox can feel his bloody hand being removed from his stomach and in its place Everett holds down both of his.

"We need you here now, Doc. It's an emergency."

"You can't die on me," Everett whispers to Knox. "I won't fucking let you. Do you hear me? I need you to live, Knox. Our story doesn't end like this."

Knox's heavy lids lift just enough to meet Everett's gaze.

"That's it. Keep those pretty eyes open for me, okay? You can't go to sleep."

Knox wants to reassure the boy but it's hard to speak let alone keep his eyes open.

His lips twitch into a weak semblance of a smile as his free hand finds Everett's thigh and squeezes, the gesture saying more than words ever could.

"Safe?"

"Yes, I'm safe," Everett's voice cracks, tears spilling down his face. "The doctor is on his way, so you're going to be safe, too. Just please don't close your eyes again. I need you here with me."

But the darkness that's been nipping at the edges of his consciousness suddenly surges forward.

The colorful world becomes dim within seconds and the pain he'd been in slowly gets replaced by a numb tranquility.

Knox's eyes flutter close as he quietly accepts his fate.

He'd much rather die with Everett and his loved ones by his side than alone.

Anything is better than dying alone.

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