Miller nodded.
The forged conversation named Lucas.
Jojo.
Miller.
Even Walsh.
A fake message attributed to Lucas referenced “handling the school situation.”
Lucas stared at it.
“The school.”
Miller looked at him.
“Nora.”
“That photograph was supposed to become context.”
The pieces fit.
If Denny’s people could create a public confrontation involving a young girl near a rival club, then leak fabricated evidence suggesting the Steel Vultures had been discussing “the school,” the story would write itself.
Outlaw bikers.
A teenager.
Threats.
Retaliation.
The truth would arrive later.
Too late.
Miller rubbed both hands across his face.
“He doesn’t need to beat us.”
Jojo remembered the intruder’s words.
“He just needs us to hit back.”
Exactly.
Lucas wanted Denny found immediately.
That instinct lasted thirty seconds.
Then he thought about Lily.
Adults who reacted after missing the warning.