Chapter 4: The Motorcycle Ride
The rumble of Jax’s motorcycle echoed through the quiet streets of the small valley town. He had borrowed a small helmet from a neighbor down the street, strapping it carefully under Leo’s chin until it was snug and secure.
""Hold onto my belt straps,"" Jax instructed, checking the mirrors twice. ""Don't let go, okay?""
""Okay, Jax!"" Leo shouted over the deep idle of the engine, his little hands gripping the thick leather loops of Jax’s vest tightly.
They rode slowly along the winding mountain road, bathed in the soft gold of the late afternoon sun. For the first time in years, Jax wasn't riding to escape his thoughts or run away from his problems. He was riding with a purpose. In the side mirror, he could see Leo’s reflection—the boy’s eyes were wide with wonder, a huge smile breaking across his face as the cool wind swept past them.
They pulled over at a scenic overlook high above the town. Below them, the valley stretched out in endless shades of green and pine. Jax cut the engine, and a peaceful quiet settled over the ridge.
Leo unbuckled his helmet, his brown hair standing up in messy tufts. ""We were flying!"" he exclaimed softly, stepping up to the wooden guardrail.
""Not quite flying,"" Jax smiled, leaning back against his bike. ""Just moving fast.""
""Mom said you used to love the mountains,"" Leo said, looking out over the valley. ""She said you were brave.""
Jax felt a sharp sting behind his eyes. ""I wasn't brave, kid. I ran away when things got hard. But your mom... she was the brave one.""
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Leo turned around, looking up at Jax. ""She told me if I ever felt scared, I should find you because you'd protect me.""
Jax walked over, kneeling beside the boy on the dusty road. ""She was right,"" Jax vowed softly. ""Nobody touches you. Ever.""
