Just follow Patch's lead. I nod, but my mind is elsewhere. On how far we've come? On how much has changed? Hawk, I say suddenly.
Do you ever think about that first day at the school? He considers a question. Every day, why? I was just wondering if you knew then what would happen. He shakes his head.
No one could have predicted this. Life doesn't work that way. He smiles. But I knew you were special from the first moment. Knew you had fire in you.
I didn't feel special. I admit I felt broken. You were never broken, Eli. Hawk says firmly. Just waiting to find your place.
Your people, my family, I say. Exactly. We work side by side prepping his bike for tomorrow's ride. My hands are skilled now. Know what to do without being told.
Jaime would be proud, Hawk says suddenly. Of what we built here. I think he is, I reply. Somewhere. Hawk's eyes find mine.
Understanding passes between us about loss, about healing, about moving forward while honoring the past. At lunch, the clubhouse is full, noisy, happy. Angels and their families gathered around the long table. Mom sits beside Hawk, laughing at something he said. Patch sits on my right, arm fully healed now.
Emily on my left, invited Special for pre-ride lunch. Attention everyone. Hawk calls standing. The room quiets. Tomorrow's ride is special.
Not just the first of the season, but Eli's first official ride with us. Cheers erupt. I feel my face heat with embarrassment and pride. 6 months ago. Hawk continues.
This kid changed our club, changed me, reminded us what the hell angels stand for. Mom wipes a tear from her cheek. Mama Carter nods vigorously. Tomorrow we ride for him. Hawk says to honor his courage, his heart, his place among us.
He raises his glass. To Eli Barnes, child of the angels, one of our own. To Eli. The room echoes. I duck my head.
Overwhelmed by their love, their acceptance. After lunch, I escaped to the quiet of the porch. Emily follows. You okay? She asks.
You got all quiet in there. I nod. Just that processing. Sometimes it hits me all at once. What does how lucky I am?
I say to have found this place. These people. She sits beside me. They're lucky too, you know. To have found you.
I smile, grateful for her understanding, for her friendship, for whatever comes next between us. Inside, preparations continue for tomorrow's ride. Voices call back and forth. Laughter echoes. The sounds of family, my family.
The sun slants low, casting long shadows across the yard. In a few hours, stars will emerge. Tomorrow we ride. But for now, this moment is perfect. I am where I belong.
With people who love me for exactly who I am, not despite my wheelchair, not because of it, just me, Eli. I take a deep breath of the spring air. Feel the warmth of the porch beneath my hand. The comfort of Emily beside the pe of being home. Finally, completely.