Free Banger's Ride: Insurgents Motorcycle Club (Insurgents MC Romance Book 5) by Hot Tree Editing, Chiah Wilder Page A

in reading the label on the beer bottle. “You know, you’re going to have to get over trying to be Superwoman. There’s nothing wrong with having some time to yourself and going out with a nice guy. My brother’s really into you, and you could do worse, believe me.”
    “It’s just not the right time.” Belle was grateful that their food arrived at that moment, since it diverted her friend’s attention.
    The burgers were delicious, and Belle couldn’t figure out what seasoning she tasted that made hers more than just a juicy hamburger. She wished she could go into the kitchen and ask the chef, but she’d bet he wouldn’t divulge his secret. As they finished their meal, Belle had to order the raspberry velvet cheesecake sundae, because it just sounded so good. When the waitress placed it in front of her, she dug in, savoring the richness of cheesecake and vanilla ice cream with a burst of raspberry. Holly helped her with the last few bites.
    “This meal was fantastic. I’m so glad we came here. I’m going to call Luke’s and Chelsea’s parents just to check in and make sure the kids are okay.”
    Belle spoke briefly to both sets of parents, happy that everything was going all right. For the first time in a long time, she relaxed. She glanced around the restaurant, looking at the patrons and noticing many of them were coupled, a stab of loneliness gripping her momentarily. She missed the intimacy and fun of being a couple.
    “I’ll be right back. I’m going to the ladies’ room,” said Holly. “Don’t let them take away the dessert. I’m not done with it yet.” She smiled and left the table.
    While Belle waited for Holly to return, the waiter brought over a strawberry margarita, and before she could say anything, he said, “Compliments of the gentleman at the bar.”
    Belle slowly turned around and her eyes met Banger’s. Her pulse raced as a wide grin spread across her face. He tipped his beer bottle to her, smiled, and winked at her. Nodding, she raised her glass to him. Damn, he’s hot in his denim and leather. He exuded danger—that sense of the feral barely concealed below the surface. His impossibly handsome face, lean and muscular physique, and blond hair pulled back in a ponytail gave her a rush that went straight between her legs. The silver arrow earring dangling from his ear shimmered under the lights. For a split second, she yearned to go over to him, lean close, and lick his earlobe, and feel the earring hit against her chin. They held each other’s gazes, and the connection she felt when she looked at him was stronger than ever. The current that ran between them was like a live wire, electrifying her skin. It was like they were the only two people in the restaurant, his stare boring into her, and her body tingling and misbehaving.
    “The bathroom is so cool. The stall doors and walls are bronze and copper. An awesome effect. I’ve never seen anything like it.” Holly flopped down in her chair and motioned the waiter over.
    Belle broke the stare between her and Banger, turning her head and focusing on what Holly was saying. As Holly continued to gush about the bathroom, Belle tuned her out. She could feel Banger’s eyes on her, and the thrill of knowing he was watching her made her tremble. When the waiter came over, Holly ordered another drink and Belle scooted her chair back, saying, “I’ve got to see this bathroom you keep talking about. I’ll be right back.” She stood up and glanced at the bar, disappointment setting in when she saw Banger was gone, and his seat was taken by a young man who had his girlfriend on his lap.
    After checking out the bronze and copper décor of the ladies’ room, she reapplied her lipstick and exited. As she walked back to her table, an arm looped around her waist. “You look pretty tonight,” a gravelly voice said next to her ear.
    Recognizing Banger’s voice, Belle placed her hand on top of his, smiled, and half-turned, her eyes latching