The Sons Princess


Chapter 1: Reunion

"Go your way, I'll take the long way 'round."


PPOV

~A year ago~

I was sat, alone, drinking to myself and I had decided that I didn't need a woman beside me for the night. Drinking the strongest liquor I had, I drowned my sorrows in it. All I had, all I loved and protected, were gone. My wife had left me, abandoned me and left me to live this life without her beside me. At times, I acted like it didn't matter but deep inside, it always hurt to remember her. All the good, and all the bad times. It was worth it, but I would have given anything to have her beside me again.

My daughter, she was so young when we had split, as was my son. Opie knew how to look after Maddie and I was always proud of the pair of them. How they cared about each other, how they loved each other, despite all the arguments they shared while they grew up. Maddie, a beautiful teen when I had to let her go, so she could go to college, but when she could, she would visit us. Even now, as she worked as a lawyer, she would visit us and more so when she found out Opie was doing time behind bars.

Opie. He had come back to me, after his mother pulled him and Maddie away, as did Maddie return alongside him. When Opie was thrown in jail, I felt anger for the club and I felt sadness. I was alone, other than my grandchildren and their mother, but they lived their own lives too. My children had grown up, and were now separated from me. Maddie had left to work in Nevada, it was close but it was still far from Charming. I missed them, hated that Opie was doing time because of a slip up and he now left two children without a father. Only having myself, Donna and Maddie to look after them. I wondered to myself, lifting the bottle to my lips, curling my lips around the head and tilted my head for a swig. What did I do to deserve this?


NPOV

Driving around, in a black Audi A4 convertible, a young woman with blonde hair, hazel eyes and glowing tanned skin was singing in her car. Her blonde hair flowing with the air, her smile pearly white and she looked flawless, if it weren't for the fact she wasn't the best when it came to socializing, she also didn't have the best looking nose, but her locks was always naturally curled. She was wearing heels, a flowery tank top, shorts and her hazel eyes were hidden behind huge sunglasses that touched the tops of her eyebrows and her cheek bones. Pulling up, she smiled towards the house, seeing the children she loved most waving at her. The mother walked towards the two children by the window, waving at the woman in the car, she ushered the children away from the window and towards the door.

"Auntie Mandy!" the children called in unison as they rushed towards the woman, who had stepped out of the car after she had the hood up and was walking towards the door. The children made her stumble from the impact they made when they hugged her, making the woman laugh and hold them tightly. Rubbing their backs with her hands, she glanced up at the other woman who made her way towards the younger woman.

"Hey," the woman known as 'Auntie Mandy' said as she looked to the other woman. The other woman was known as 'Donna' who was the mother of the children she was holding. Laughing, Madison 'Maddie' Winston held onto the children and laughed. Donna was Madison's sister-in-law, who was in fact married to her older brother Harry 'Opie' Winston. Their father, also known as Piermont 'Piney' Winston wasn't yet there. Donna had bright blue-ish grey eyes, pale skin and plump pink lips. The women were both slim, but by genetic material, Madison was taller than Donna.

"How was the trip here?" Donna asked Madison as she took the bags from Madison. Madison's tradition was to always bring them some food, goodies and inside the other bag she carried extra that day was some alcohol and things she knew her brother would like. Today was the day her brother would return from prison, she was excited and hadn't gone to visit him during her stays in Charming, as it was all difficult to do with her job and the fact she didn't know how she would feel about seeing her brother behind a glass while they spoke through a phone.

"It was good," Madison replied, telling her sister in law the issues she had faced when it came to traffic along the way. It was bright, it was still early but it was close to touching noon for the family. When Madison followed Donna, the children held onto her hands and Harry, who prefered to be called Kenny, offered to carry her suitcase for her, as he always did. This time, she allowed him to as she was nervous to see her brother once again, seeing as she would visit and spend time with them and would look after his family when he wasn't around.

"Sounds like fun," Donna said as they entered the house, Madison had shut the door behind them and locked it. When Madison followed Donna, she felt pleased to be in the presence of family once again. With the nerves of her brother's return, she didn't know where to stand or what to do. Herself and Donna had planned for this day, preparing a get together for their family and friends when he would exit the building and return to them. Madison's father would be the one to pick him up, along with whoever from the club wanted to pick him up, delivering him to the house and throwing a party for his return at their house.

Madison didn't waste time, she had gotten ready for her brother's return, having a shower, spraying her expensive perfume, putting on make up and fixing her hair. When she was dressed up and ready for his arrival, she began to continue Donna's work while Madison's sister in law began to get herself presented for Opie's return. Madison fixed up the food, the table, the drinks and finished helping the children with the balloons.


MPOV

Secretly, I was worried about Opie's return and hopeful for it. He had been away from his family for so long, he had left Donna with two children to raise for 5 years and was returning after doing the time he needed to. Myself and Donna were anticipating his arrival, getting ready while I helped add the finishing touches. We were alerted that they were all on their way, I was greeting people and I was ready for when Dad would tell me that they were around the corner.

When I saw that Gemma, Clay, Tig, Chibs, Bobby, Happy and the latest Prospect Juice come through the door, I knew that the only ones left were Opie, Dad and Jax. The men from the motorcycle club Opie and Dad were in, brought along some women that were known as, 'Crow-Eaters' or 'Sweet-Butts'. My hair was curled, perfectly pushed to one side and my dress was surprisingly rich for this event. I wore a red dress, it had a 'V' that was pressed tightly to my chest, rather than letting my breasts look loose and low.

My dress was basic, one shade and tight, it stopped above my knees and a little below my thighs. The curves I was blessed with were noticeable with the tight clothing I wore, I was a little self concious as to if my thong was visable, and cringed whenever I would look at a man that was examining me a little too closely. The club members had also invited a few of their friends, that they had assured me that they were friends of Opie's too. I stood nervous, my body shivering from time to time, I was anxious and my eyes were darting around the room, awaiting my brother's return.


PPOV

I knew Maddie had returned from Nevada, she had messaged me to say the least and left little 'x's at the end. When it was time, I found Jax waiting outside, parked and sat on his motorcycle. Getting closer to him, I gave him a smile and clapped his back. He looks so much like his father. I would do double takes sometimes whenever I saw Jax, he looked much like his old man. Long hair, his Dad's hazel eyes and his voice sometimes sounded much like his fathers. Made me miss the man more than I already did.

"You ready to go pick up Ope?" Jackson asked me a rather stupid question. Of course I'm ready! It's my God damned son that's leaving the slammer to be with us. To be back with his family. Walking to my sad excuse of a motorcycle, I sat down and picked up my helmet that hung on the handle. Side glancing at Jax, we both put on our helmets and gave each other a nod. I saw Jax had another helmet for Opie, revving my bike, we rode towards the prison and stopped at the pick up.

We were silent, both of us didn't have anything to talk about as it wasn't neccessary. The pair of us had already spoken enough at the table, Jax was a good kid, but I could see him struggle with the fact he had a baby along the way. Not to mention, he had a divorce that was soon to come between him and the baby's mother. He was under a lot of stress, he hadn't recieved the bill for the care needed for the mother and his child, but he wasn't going to ask her if she had it all under control.

There were times that he would ask me for my daughter, I knew the pair never bumped into one another and it was slightly sad to know this. Maddie would ask me if Jackson was there, she would visit me when he disappeared and I would question her. She told me her reasons, I understood and I didn't judge her. She wanted to keep her distance, but I knew they still cared about each other and it was evident whenever they spoke about one another. They did grow up together. I mused to myself. When I looked at him, I glanced back to the building and was suddenly pleased to see my son exit, watching as he made his way towards us.

We turned to face him, he had grown taller and hairier. His beard was big, bushy and his hair was longer, almost reaching his neck. "Hey, Pop," Opie spoke as we enveloped each other in a tight hug. Patting his back, he did the same to me and he burried his face into my shoulder. He was warm, welcoming and I missed having him around. It's good to have him in my arms again.

"Good to see you again son," I told him truthfully, he was big, taller and a lot hairer than when I had last seen him. Five years, shit. Time flies by. Patting each other on the back, I felt as though I was standing next to a tree, he was taller than me and I felt like a midget next to him. His hazel eyes were glancing between me and Jax as we pulled apart. His brown hair swept back, flicking in a curve behind his neck and it made me both amused, and sad. He's been in there for such a long time, I can remember him having shorter hair when he went in. He also didn't have the huge beard he has on his face, he looks like he's gained weight. Probably from sitting on his ass all day.

Opie glanced at me, keeping his gaze on me and keeping his hands on my shoulders. "How's Donna and the kids?" Opie asked me, curious to know how his family were getting on and if they were fine like we had tried to convince him before. He's concerned about his children. Considering, he hadn't been with his son, only briefly for his birth. All thanks to the assholes I called my brothers, although, Jax tried everything to get Opie out, but sadly nothing had worked. It was that asshole Kyle Hobart.

Tapping his shoulder with my big, old and warm hand, I offered him a kind smile. "They're fine," I told him softly, reassuring him that his family were safe and back home. "You'll see them soon enough son," I told him, reminding him that he had his family waiting back home. Not to mention, the surprise he would get in seeing Maddie again, after so many years being locked up in a jail cell.

Taking my word, he gave a quick and vigorous nod. Turning to Jackson, Opie smiled at his old friend and walked towards him. The pair of them did their little handshake, making me smile and watch them. All I could see, was them when they were kids and I chuckled softly. "Jax," Opie called to him, the pair of them smirking to one another, I glanced away and smiled to myself.

Jax's eyes looked blue in the sunlight, bright and tender as he stared up at his best friend. At my son. "Brother," Jackson said as the pair of them pulled each other into a hug, both of them stood there and clapping each other's backs for a few moments. When they pulled away, Jackson offered Opie his helmet, taking it and smiling to one another. "Let's take you back home," Jackson suggested, Opie chuckled while he strapped on the helmet and we made our way to the bikes. Riding off, we whizzed past streets and cars. Reaching our destination, I sent Maddie a quick message, telling her we were here.


OPOV

Riding on Jax's motorcycle was weird, both from not riding in so long and because it wasn't mine. Not to mention, he was the one driving and I sat behind him. Pulling up at my house, it didn't look much different, other than new curtains and that the grass looked shorter since I left. Parking, I got up and handed Jax the helmet he gave me, smiling and making my way towards the front door. Dad had the keys, so when he finally made it, he opened the door and gestured for me to go in first.

Stepping inside, I was surprised to see that there were so many people inside my house. All well dressed, drinks in hands and decorations all over the place. "Welcome back Opie!" Everyone cheered for me as I stepped inside. Clay, Gemma, Happy, Bobby, Tig, Chibs, some Crow-Eaters, old friends and a new Prospect were all there. Giving me a huge, warm and welcoming surprise. Stood beside the door, I saw Donna, looking beautiful and all dressed up. Then, I saw my kids and then, the biggest surprise of it all. My sister.

Smiling when everyone cheered, I felt like I belonged once more and felt my heart grow. Beating. "Oh my God..." I whispered when I saw my family, seeing my wife and children. "Donna," I mumbled, speechless and pulling her into a warm hug. Kissing her lips gently, not caring that others saw us and kept the pressure slow and soft. Pulling away, I stopped myself before I could get carried away, feeling the emotion and need for my wife begin to rise. "Maddie," I said when I saw her, she looked beautiful, young and like a woman. Last time I had seen her, she was a scrawny, spot covered teen and seeing her now, had me speechless.

Pulling Maddie into a hug, we swayed on our feet and we placed a kiss to each other's cheek. Her laugh was still the sweet, joyful sound that I had missed during the time I was locked up. When I pulled away from her, I was turned to look at the children that were dressed up nicely. By their looks, I knew instantly that they were Winstons. "Ellie, Kenny, this is your Daddy," Donna encouraged the children, pushing them closer to me and they hesitated at first, but in the end, they hugged me and planted a kiss to each of my cheeks.

The way they responded, I could tell it was forced and it made me a little sad, but there was nothing I could do about it. A familiar presence came closer to me, standing beside me and slapping my back lightly. "I know he's hairy and ugly, but he does have a kind face," Jax told the children with a playful tone, making me chuckle and shake my head. Jackass.

Maddie froze beside me, her hands were clasped together in front of her and she didn't blink. Not since Jax showed up next to me. "Hey Jax," Maddie spoke shyly, which was unlike her as she was usually confident around him and was even more confident now. At least, ever since I had got out of prison and she was now a grown woman.

Jax looked to Maddie awkwardly, his hands shoved into his front pockets and his stance was one that looked steady. What the hell is going on with these two? "Maddie," Jax replied, giving her a single nod of acknowledgement. "I didn't know you were in town," Jax spoke, his eyebrows furrowed and his gaze was questioning, while it landed on my sister. A small smile hiding and curving his lips.

Suddenly, Tig wandered over to us, listening to whatever was going on and slung his arm over Maddie's shoulders. She was comfortable with it, even if Tig's drink was close enough for her to smell over her shoulder. He was like family, like some crazy uncle we had grown up with and loved. "She's been visiting for years," Tig said to Jax, his blue eyes glued to Jax's expression, giving Jax a look of confusion and surprise. "How can you not know?" Tig questioned him, stunned that Jax wouldn't know my sister would be visiting Charming, before my return.

Jax's eyebrows furrowed, his hazel eyes had darted between Maddie and Tig. Until he heard of this information, which only made him stare at Maddie and a crease form on his forhead. The small formation of his smile faded instantly. Jax looked like he was completely surprised and shocked to be finding this out. "What?" Jax asked as he kept his gaze on Maddie, his expression serious and eyes never wavering hers.

Maddie looked like a deer staring into the headlights, ready to get hit and scared for what was possibly about to come. "Yeah," Maddie told Jax with a slow nod. "I have," Maddie agreed with Tig's statement, making me a little tense whilst I could feel it build in the room. "It's a long story," Maddie tried to explain, giving Jax a small and sad smile. Sighing deeply, she looked like she was defeated and I was confused as to what was going on between the two of them.

Jax's confused expression cleared up to be one of anger and what looked like betrayal. It had me worried, but something in his eyes showed sadness and disapointment. "I see that," Jax spoke a little coldly to her, I didn't know if I was meant to get between them like I normally would. But something told me I needed to step back, let them do their thing and hopefully fix the mess they were in. "I'll let you guys catch up," Jax said as he glanced up at me, clapping my back and walking towards the others. Grabbing himself a drink, making me feel a little awkwards as I turned to Maddie. Donna had gone to go make something for the kids, making me smile but my gaze quickly returned to my sweet and young sister.

Raising an eyebrow at her, she knew I was being quizzical and curious about this all. Seeing as, the three of us always got along and suddenly, they were no longer like how they used to be. Made me a little thoughtful about the whole thing, imagining things that may not have been true. "I feel like I should have been the one saying that," I told her dryly, in a sarcastic tone. "How have you been?" I asked her after a few moments of silence, hearing the buz of the party going on and looking back to Madison.

Maddie side glanced Jax, following her line of vision, I saw the pair of them were looking to each other. Jax looked like he was in deep conversation with the members of the club, Dad included and all while staring at Madison. "Good," Maddie relpied quickly. "I would ask you the same, but you don't have to tell me," Maddie said as her eyes met mine, offering a pursed lipped smile and a small shrug.

Deciding not to talk about the time I had spent behind bars, I chose to focus on her and her time while I was away. I was baffled by how much she had grown, how she now had curves women would kill for, and men would die to have in their hands. Her hair long, full of volume and curled. Her eyes bright, her smile straight and pearly white. I could tell she had grown up, used those braces for a good reason and become a woman in my time locked away. "So, what have you been doing while I was in the slammer?" I asked her, curious to know what else happened to her, other than her growing up physically.

Maddie's hazel eyes were focused on mine, her smile warm and kind. Her skin was a warm tone, to me it shone like it was honey. "Well, I've been in college, studying and then I got a career as a lawyer," Maddie summarised for me, making me chuckle and smile at her proudly. She achieved the goal she's always wanted. Especially when she heard Dad had spent his own time behind bars, even more so when I too had my turn in a jail cell.

Maddie's eyes were glued to me, the pair of us looking like idiots as we couldn't stop smiling to one another. Happy to finally be together again, after a long amount of time, we were back and feeling carefree. Much like when we were younger. "Sounds like you've been busy," I told her with a teasing tone in my voice, her eyes were bright and filled with joy.

Maddie giggled, lowering her eyes and glancing up at my from under her lashes. She bit her bottom lip, shaking her head and offering me her warm smile. "You have no idea brother," Maddie told me. "I've also been coming down here every month, ever since you've gone to jail," Maddie spoke, informing me of what else she's been doing. "Helping Donna and Dad out with the kids," Maddie continued. "Seeing as Mom never comes down to visit," Maddie sighed, rolling her eyes and crossing her arms over her chest.

I wasn't exactly surprised by this information, the woman hated Charming and secretly, I thought she even hated her family. "Really?" I asked her, a brow arching and a hand raised to rub my fingers along the strands of my wirey beard. "She still doesn't get out of her house that much?" I asked her, mocking our mother and how she was cooped up there, never leaving the comfort of it to even visit family.


JPOV

Stepping inside, I didn't notice Madison when I entered. I saw my Mom, Clay and other members of the club. Along with Donna, Kenny and Ellie in one corner of the house. Opie was with them, greeting them and when I saw a familiar face, I was a little shocked and caught off guard. "Ellie, Kenny, this is your Daddy," Donna said as she pushed the children closer to their Dad.

They all looked tense, the children were all but forced to kiss their father's cheek and it made Opie even more nervous than he had to be. "I know he's hairy and ugly, but he does have a kind face," I said, stepping closer to the family and clapping Opie's back lightly but loudly. Not feeling the leather on his back, it was a little weird, but I knew it was all only because right now wasn't the time for it.

When I stood beside him, I then saw a familiar face. One that I had seen briefly, only for a few moments in a small room and in the joy of the new baby. In seeing Kenny and how she held him close, Donna passed out from the exhaustion she felt after giving once after that, when we were inside my room, discussing things that led to something I hadn't expected. Madison was taller, slim, beautiful and she had stunning curves. If I was probably a cartoon right now, I would probably look like when Jim Carrey saw Cameron Diaz singing in 'The Mask'. "Hey Jax," Maddie spoke shyly, her eyes hidden from me and she looked nervous.

Trying not to look angered or surprised, I kept my cool and didn't make a scene about it all. "Maddie," I greeted with a nod of my head. "I didn't know you were in town," I told her, my eyebrows furrowed and gaze stuck on her. She was beautiful, a little like how I remembered her from the last time we saw each other. It was the week Kenny was born, mentally, I shook my head of my thoughts and was brought back to the present. While I thought of that time, my lips began to curve into a small smile.

Tig came over, hanging an arm lazily over Madison's shoulders, she wasn't uncomfortable and it was because everyone knew each other here. Although, she didn't know the sweet-butts and other people who were friends of the club. "She's been visiting for years," Tig informed me, which caught me a little off guard. "How can you not know?" Tig asked me, his eyes giving me the crazy look, as though I was the one that was crazy and not him.

Taking a few moments to process what he said, my eyes widened and I kept my gaze on both Tig and Madison. My heart beat quickened, my body tensed and I felt my mind begin to be filled with questions. "What?" I asked without thinking, my eyes glued to Madison as my eyebrows were furrowed in confusion. She's been visiting regularly and Tig knows about it? Who else knows, other than Piney and Donna?

Madison gave me a look which was filled with innocence. "Yeah," Maddie said with a slow nod, I could tell she was being hesitant and distant. I could tell by the way she tensed, how she looked at me and Trager with wide, doe like eyes and how she was being all 'awkward' and 'shy' about it. "I have," Maddie agreed with Tig's statement, making me feel cold towards her as I only knew now that she was visiting regularly and hadn't come to see me. "It's a long story," Maddie tried to explain to me, offering a small and sad smile. A sigh escaped her, she had shut her eyes for a second and I could tell she felt defeated.

Something bubbled up inside me, I didn't like how I've known the girl for years, she disappears, shows up for the birth of her nephew and never sees me again. "I see that," I growled in a cold tone, it was deadpaned and I instantly regreted how I spoke to her. I was tense, angry and I didn't want to cause a scene, but I didn't want to let her think she was going to be okay with me. "I'll let you guys catch up," I told Opie as I bid him my goodbye and tried to keep it together, at least for him.

Walking to the others, I saw Chibs, Tig, Bobby, Clay, Piney and Juice all sat together. Taking a beer, I sat down and sighed. "Did any of you guys, know she was coming to Charming monthly?" I questioned them, wondering if anyone else was in the dark, like I was. It felt a little stupid to know, but I wanted to hear the truth from the others.

Piney laughed a little, his eyes glanced between Opie and then to Madison, who was laughing and smiling at Opie. It warmed my heart a little, seeing as I hadn't seen her in so long and it reminded me of times when we were younger. "Of course I did kid," Piney told me, a big smile on his face, his eyes squinting and his face red. Has he had too much to drink already? "She's my daughter," Piney stated, which didn't surprise me and I just ignored his slightly drunken state.

Chibs was talking to one of the Crow-Eaters, stood up and swaying his bottle of beer around as he spoke. Showing her he was enthusiastic, when I made an appearance, he silenced himself and now came to sit beside me. "Sorry laddie, I did," Chibs apologized, as though this was his fault. His tone was sad, but he shrugged as he spoke, clearly showing me that he too knew of Madison's frequent visits to Charming.

Bobby glanced at me, his hair tied up at the back as he normally would have it in parties like these. "We all did, kid," Bobby told me, shrugging a shoulder and giving me an apologetic look that said 'What can we do kid?'. "We just weren't allowed to tell you," Bobby told me, which just made me have more questions for Madison. My gaze flashing to her again, I could see her glance at me for a second, our eyes connecting and quickly she brushed it off. Turning her gaze back onto her brother.

It still didn't stop me from questioning the others, my eyebrows furrowed and my eyes focused on Bobby. "Wait," I said, trying to hold off any conversation that was about to happen. Before they could change the subject. "What?" I asked them, as though I wanted Bobby to repeat himself again and completely stunned by this new found information. Madison keeps surprising me, even after all this time I've known her.

Piney cleared his throat, pointing a solid finger and digging it into Bobby's chest. "Now, Bobby," Piney spoke roughly, his tone was one of scolding and I could see the father in him come out. No longer the slightly drunken brother of the club. "Don't start stiring shit, that's my daughter you're talking about in my presence," Piney ordered of Bobby, pointing his thumb into his own chest and trying to keep a serious composure, even if his voice slurred a little. That oxygen tank ain't doing him too good.

Clay sat beside Bobby and Tig, his cigar burning as he would take long pulls from it. "Don't worry, old man," Clay grumbled in his 'Pres' voice to Piney. "I'm sure Jax and Maddie can sort their own shit out," Clay suggested, treating me like that little kid he would look out for. "They're grown ups, right?" Clay asked, turning his gaze to me, his eyes darting between me and Piney. "Let them handle it," Clay advised myself and the others, treating me like I wasn't even there. The way he spoke, only made me clench my jaw and look away.

Having enough of sitting around with the club members, I got up and moved to grab myself another beer. Mom handed me one, her head turning as she would examin the room, her eyes darting from me to Madison. "Jax," Mom called to me, trying to get my attention and successfully gaining it. "Why don't you just go over there and talk to her, baby?" Mom asked as she glanced to Madison, taking a long pull from my beer, I sighed and glanced to the beautiful woman she had become.

I wasn't sure what to do, I didn't want to push her, but I couldn't wait around, only for her to ignore me forever. We would soon have to address it, and she knew it just as well as I did. We need to talk. But, not now. Not at her brother's welcome home party. "I don't know," I told Mom with a shrug. "I don't want to seem like I'm bothering her," I explained, not wanting to ruin Opie's night with drama that can be dealt with another day.

Mom's hand was placed against my back, lightly touching my cut and slowly, she rubbed my back. As to comfort me, her touch instantly relaxes me and makes me think a little clearly. My eyes glued to Madison, her smile bright and her eyes light as she talked with her brother. The way she moved around the room, playing with the children and playfully dancing with them. "Then, I suggest you wait for her to come to you," Mom advised me, which made me sigh and look down. "Or for when you two are alone," Mom continued to give me suggestions and this was how we all spent the night, drinking, singing along to songs and laughing at our stupid jokes.


MPOV

When Opie entered through the door, we all cheered. "Oh my God..." I saw Opie whisper when he saw Donna and the children. "Donna," Opie spoke, pulling her into a warm hug and kissing her lips gently. Opie then pulled away, stopping himself before he could get too far deep in kissing his wife. When Opie caught sight of me, I felt my heart stop for a second. "Maddie," he said my name when he spotted me. He looked so different. Last time I saw him, he was a clean shaved, short haired man. His hazel eyes was one of the only things that seemed familiar, his beard covered most of his face, his hair reached the back of his neck, his body broader and he had gained a little bit of weight. But he was still tall, his hazel eyes like home to me and I felt the smile begin to curve my lips.

Wrapping my arms around Ope as he pulled me into a hug, we swayed on our feet and we placed a kiss to each other's cheek. Laughing, I felt giddy to have him back, missing his warm embrace and calm presence. When he slowly pulled away from me, Opie turned to glance at the children that were waiting awkwardly to meet their father. "Ellie, Kenny, this is your Daddy," Donna encouraged the children, pushing them closer to Opie and we all noticed how they hesitated at first, but eventually, they gave in and hugged Opie. The pair had planted a kiss to each of his cheeks, making me smile widely at them.

Pulling my gaze away, I felt myself tense up and stare at a handsome man, a man who I once saw as family and a man who was no longer the boy I knew. He grew to be who he was now, Jackson Teller, VP of The Sons. Jax's eyes were glued to mine, hazel crashing with hazel as he moved to stand beside Opie and slapped his back. "I know he's hairy and ugly, but he does have a kind face," Jax told the children with a playful tone, making Opie chuckle and shake his head. The way they acted towards each other, only reminded me of when we were all children and made me miss those times.

Freezing beside Opie, my hands were clasped together in front of me and I didn't blink. I couldn't blink. I could hardly breathe. Just the sight of Jax did unfamiliar things to me. "Hey Jax," I spoke shyly, which was unlike me, I used to be naturally confident around him and I just couldn't find my courage. I wasn't sure what the feeling inside me was, but my heart raced and my legs felt like a mix between jelly and a tree. I felt strange, it was unlike me to be like this, but I've felt like this since that time we had spent alone together, all those years ago.

Jax directly at me, we were both being awkward, his hands shoved into his front pockets and his stance was one that looked steady. I don't want to know what the others might be thinking, especially if they're seeing this exchange. "Maddie," Jax replied, giving me a single nod of acknowledgement. "I didn't know you were in town," Jax spoke, his eyebrows furrowed and his gaze was questioning, while it was glued to me. I felt my heart stop for a moment. Shit. What do I say now?

I had seen Tig slowly wander towards us, listening to this interaction and slung his arm over my shoulders. I felt comforted by Tig's touch, but his words was what surprised me and made me nervous. "She's been visiting for years," Tig informed Jax, his blue eyes glued to Jax's expression, giving Jax a look of confusion and surprise. His eyes giving Jax the crazy look, my eyes would dart between these two men. "How can you not know?" Tig questioned him, stunned that Jax wouldn't know I would be visiting Charming, before Opie's return. Jax's expression slowly began to change as the words kept falling from Tig's lips.

Jax's eyebrows furrowed, his hazel eyes had darted between me and Tig rapidly. When he heard all of the information, it made him stare at me and a crease form on his forhead. Jax looked like he was completely surprised and shocked to be finding all of this out, and only now. This is such an awkward moment. "What?" Jax asked as he kept his gaze on me, his expression serious and eyes never wavering mine. It was like I couldn't look away, caught in a trap and almost dying. Like a deer staring at a car's headlights.

"Yeah," I told Jax with a slow nod. "I have," I agreed with Tig's statement, trying to keep my voice level and not look intimidated by him. "It's a long story," I tried to reason, but I knew it wasn't enough for Jax, so I gave him a small and sad smile. Sighing deeply, I felt defeated and I knew Opie was confused by all this, while Jax had about a million questions running in circles in his head.

Jax's confused expression cleared up to be one of anger and what looked like betrayal. It had me worried, but something in his eyes showed sadness and disapointment. "I see that," Jax spoke a little coldly to me. It hurt me, making me feel like he no longer trusted or cared about me. "I'll let you guys catch up," Jax said as he looked away from me and glanced up at Opie, clapping his back, he then left to go talk to the others. Watching as he walked away, I turned my gaze onto Opie and waited for our eyes to come into contact. Opie's eyes darted to Donna and his kids, before they landed on me once more. He must of missed us.

Opie raised an eyebrow at me, I could tell he was being quizzical and curious about what happened between me and Jax. Made me wonder what was going on in that mind of his, wondering if he knew what was going on, or if he thought he knew. "I feel like I should have been the one saying that," Opie told me dryly, in a sarcastic tone like he was trying to joke, but it was too awkward to do that. "How have you been?" he asked me after a few moments of silence, hearing the buz of the party going on and looking back to me. He seems a little on edge.

Taking a small, side glanced at Jax, I felt my heart stop when I saw Jax's gaze glued to me. Jax looked like he was in deep conversation with the other members of the club, Dad was included in it, but all I could see, was Jax staring back at me and taking me by surprise. "Good," I relpied quickly, turning my gaze once more on my brother. "I would ask you the same, but you don't have to tell me," I said as I turned my eyes to clash back with Opie's, offering him a pursed lipped smile and small shrug. Shit, I'm making this awkward, aren't I?

I could tell there were things going on in his mind, things that told me he didn't want to talk about what had happened. That he wasn't prepared to share what happened, nor did I want to know. There were reasons I didn't go to visit and there were stories that he could share that make me want to possibly cry, if events happened that should happen to no man if he didn't consent to it. Prison is a dark place. "So, what have you been doing while I was in the slammer?" he ask me, making me smile up at him.

Secretly, I was glad he chose to ask me things about myself, as to how it was like for me and what I was doing. How I was getting on in life, not needing to go to the past and especially, not so far. He doesn't need to know the painful stuff. "Well, I've been in college, studying and then I got a career as a lawyer," I summarised for him, causing him to chuckle and smile at me proudly. He's proud of me, I'm glad he is. Just as I am happy to see him back home and safe.

My gaze never wavered from him, the pair of us looking like idiots as we couldn't stop smiling to one another. We were pleased to finally be together again, after a long time of waiting, we were back and feeling like nothing could stop us now. It felt like the time we were kids. "Sounds like you've been busy," he told me with a teasing tone, his lips curving upwards and making me reflect that expression up at him.

The way he looked made me giggle, hiding my eyes and sneakily, I glanced up at him from under my lashes. Biting my bottom lip, I shook my head and offered him a warm smile. His eyes glued to me as I thought over my choice of words. "You have no idea brother," I told him. "I've also been coming down here every month, ever since you've gone to jail," I spoke, informing him of what I've been doing while he was locked up in a cell. "Helping Donna and Dad out with the kids," I continued, shrugging my shoulders as he stared down at his feet for a second. "Seeing as Mom never comes down to visit," I sighed out, rolling my eyes and crossing my arms over my chest. Remebering Mom, she was never one to visit and it annoyed me.

I could tell Opie wasn't exactly surprised by this information. We all knew Mom hated Charming and secretly, we all believed she hated her family. Considering, I was known as the Princess of SAMCRO, while Jax was the Prince. Titles like that, would leave anyone weary. "Really?" he asked me, a brow arching and one of his hands raised to rub his fingers along the strands of his bushing beard. "She still doesn't get out of her house that much?" he questioned me, mocking our mother and how she was always cooped up in the comfort of her home. She was never the type to visit family. We spent a while talking over my job, my way of life and he had asked me if I had yet found a partner to settle down with.


JPOV

Ope took a step outside, he told his family something, telling both Madison and Donna, who were both hidden in a corner, looking after the kids and helping out with the food. Following after Ope, he went to go have a cigarette and I chose to join him. "Hey, Ope, you haven't been talking about me with your sister," I began as I put a cigarette to my lips and lit the end and took two puffs. "Have you?" I asked him as I sat down beside him. His eyes glancing around him, surprised to possibly see how different his home had changed. He's probably overwhelmed. I shouldn't be asking him this shit. But, I gotta try.

Ope took a long pull, he had gained a little weight from being inside, made me wonder what it was like. I always heard stories about it, from Clay and the others, but that was a long time ago. "Nope," Ope said with a blow of smoke, his eyes glancing ahead of us, never meeting mine and it made me remember the times we spent here. Before he was in jail. "She hasn't said a word about you," Ope told me, I didn't doubt him. "Why?" Ope asked as he turned his head to look at me. His hazel eyes dark in the moonlight. "Is there something going on between you and my sister that I need to know about?" Ope questioned me, an eyebrow of his rose in curiousity.

Knowing what that would do to him, I wouldn't do it and I didn't even have the chance to. Woman's been avoiding me. I can feel it. Why? Is it the time we- "Nah," I answered quickly, pulling myself out of my thoughts and mentally shaking my head. "Just, surprised me, that's all," I told him, keeping my eyes ahead and my back haunched over the chair. It was a kid's chair, small and plastic.

Ope looked at me with curious eyes, his eyebrows furrowed and lines formed along his forhead. His expression was one that was smooth, but filled with wonder and interest as to what I would say. "What did?" Ope asked me, his tone wasn't angry, simply waiting for what I meant and he was being inquisitive.

Thinking over all the drama, pondering in how my life was uncontrollable and how I would of felt better in just knowing Madison was around. "The fact she's been to Charming to visit people, but not once has our paths crossed," I told Opie truthfully, never keeping secrets or what was in my mind hidden from him. He could always see right past me anyway. "At least, not since Kenny was born," I informed him, remembering the time I saw her at the birth. Opie was there, but Opie had to return back to prison. They only saw each other for a few moments, he got to see the baby for at least an hour.

Opie's expression changed, from curiosity, it turned into concern and confusion. Now you know how I feel, bro. "That is weird," Ope observed. Damn right it's weird. "But, if there's anything I know about my sister," Ope began, his expression softening once more, washing away all concern and emotions he may have felt seconds ago. "I know that she doesn't do anything, without a good enough reason to," Ope told me, lifting the cigarette once again to his lips and taking a final pull.

"Yeah, you're right," I agreed, nodding and doing the same as him. Dropping the cigarette to the floor, I got to my feet and put the fire out from the cigarette, all whilst I blew out the final smoke I had in my lungs. "But if she talks to you about me, will you tell me?" I asked Ope, my tone was hopeful, but it was all slightly sarcastic. He ain't gonna tell me shit.

This made Opie smile and do the same as I did seconds ago. Blowing out the puff of smoke with a grin on his face. "No way man," Ope replied. "You're my best friend, but this shit is between you and my sister," Ope reminded me. "I'm not going to get involved, but I will give you and her some advice," Ope began, pausing for me to sink in the next words he would say. "Talk to each other," Opie suggested to me. I was about to go back inside, Opie took a few steps and stopped me.

His hand pushed against my chest, making me stop in my tracks and look up at him. "But don't innitate the conversation," Ope warned me, his tone serious and his eyes staring into mine. He means this. I better listen to him. "Wait for her to come to you," Ope told me, it was more like a threat than it was advice. Nodding, I blinked and let the words sink in. Without another word, we entered the house and continued what we were previously doing. He spent time with his blood family, while I spent my time cradling a bottle of beer and poking fun at the other club members.


MPOV

Moving to go grab a drink, I had only drank one bottle of beer so far and it didn't seem to calm my nerves. Gemma was the one popping the bottle lids and serving them to us. "Hey darlin'," Gemma greeted with a small smile. "How are you feeling?" Gemma asked me, surprising me a little and making me more tense than I needed to be.

Sighing, I tried to keep calm and chose to not fear Gemma. She was of course, like a mother figure to me and I wasn't afraid of her. I was simply intimidated by her sometimes, she was a strong and confident woman. "A little stressed, excited and so many other things," I told her honestly, not wanting to go into detail, so I stayed vague and hoped she wouldn't ask me to be specific. "How about you Gemma?" I asked in return.

Gemma kept her eyes hooded and on me, nodding and her stare was something that made me a little nervous. Does she know Jax is angry with me? She must know, she's his mother. "I'm good," Gemma told me with a small nod of her head. "Want to talk about it, sweetheart?" Gemma asked me kindly, her tone was gentle and reminded me of the time I was a little girl. When she would act like a mother to me and Opie.

I didn't know how to address the situation, especially without giving things away and spilling secrets I hadn't told anyone. "I don't know," I spoke to her softly, my tone confused and eyes shied away from her. Hoping that she would back off and forget about me. "No offence, but I don't think you're the right person to talk about this to," I tried to be gentle, to let her down easy and to not make her feel offended. She'll probably run off and tell Jax. I don't want that happening, not tonight and not ever.

Whilst I spoke, my eyes rose and met Jax's intense stare. When he caught me glance up at him, we were staring at one another from across the room for a few minutes. This was all until I quickly removed my gaze, glancing at my beer bottle and taking a long swig. Shit, I'm so nervous. "Is this about you and Jax?" Gemma asked me, her eyes roamed the room and caught mine and Jax's exchange. When her eyes landed on me again, her head inched closer to me, trying to get me to look at her.

Feeling like a deer staring at headlights, I kept my eyes glued to my bottle and didn't glance up at her. "No," I spoke as firmly as I could, but I had to clear my throat as I felt my nerves shake me. Shit, please just believe me and forget about this conversation. Please?

Gemma took another step closer, her body flush against my side. Her body leaning over the counter, but her eyes were focused on my face. "Sweetheart, I know when you're lying," Gemma informed me, calling my bluff. "I practically raised you," Gemma reminded me, which made me inhale deeply. "You know, he's worried about yours and his relationship," Gemma told me softly, concern and a motherly tone in her voice. She only wants what's best for us, but it's complicated.

Rasing my eyes to hold her stare, I wasn't afraid and I kept myself calm as she straightened up a little. "What do you mean?" I asked her, curious as to why Jax would be so concerned about our relationship. It also made me wonder how much Gemma knew and why she was poking her nose into our lives. Then again, that's always been Gemma.

Gemma was shifting her weight on her feet, her heels tapping as she moved. "What I meant was," Gemma began, staring at me directly in the eyes. "You two have grown up together," Gemma told me, her head shook as she spoke and her tone was calm. "We're family," Gemma reminded me, making me nod and glance at the floor.

Gemma's lips pursed in a tight, sad smile and her hands went to rest on the small of my back. "It's a little sad when someone you grew up with, ups and leaves," Gemma said, her tone kind and a small smile formed on her face as she looked at me. "Especially when they come back and doesn't show up to see you," Gemma tried to make me sympathize with Jax, which worked, but I didn't know how to begin to fix this. Never mind, trying to find a way to tell him why I was being distant. "I mean, you and Jax have always been good together," Gemma informed me, which made me smile and remember the times when we were kids.

Nodding, I looked up at her and smiled. "I know," I told her, giving her a sad and ashamed expression. I wish I explained myself to him earlier. "But things change, sometimes it can get complicated and..." I tried to explain, tried to make her see my reason without her getting all the information she needed. "I don't know what else to say, Gemma," I choked and looked away, staring at the bottle I was cradling and frowning.

Gemma's hands rubbed circles along my spine and lower back. "I know, sweetheart," Gemma spoke with a sad and reassuring tone, like she understood and that she knew things would get better. "Why don't you just talk to him?" Gemma tried to nudge me with this hint, but I didn't feel it right to go to him and possibly ruin Opie's night.

"It's not like he'll kill you for trying," Gemma teased which was true, but I didn't know if it would stop him from shouting at me and telling me I was being stupid. "I bet, he's dying to know what happened," Gemma continued, her voice was kind and her eyes were glued to the man we both were speaking about. "What went wrong," Gemma hinted which made me gulp, Jax's eyes were on his club members, a smile on his face and a laugh shook his shoulders. "Give him a chance, take a shot and see where it goes," Gemma encouraged me, when I looked at the laughing, charming and happy man, it reminded me of the boy I grew up with.

Jax turned his gaze onto myself and his Mom. The pair of us stood there, side-by-side and staring at the young and handsome man. "Yeah," I said in a soft, quiet tone as I kept my eyes on Jax. A smile on his face, but his eyes were sad and it felt like he invited me to come closer. Like he wanted me there too, but that he wanted us to be happy again. "Maybe," I spoke with a shrug. "Who knows, right?" I asked as I pulled my gaze away from Jax, to Gemma who was already staring at me when I turned my head to look at her. A tight lipped smile forming on her face, warming her gaze and giving her wrinkles around her eyes. Maybe he'll understand.


JPOV

It was getting late, we were all getting ready to leave and some of the members had left. Donna hadn't been near any of the members from SAMCRO, but when it came to me leaving, she made her way towards me and gave me a small, sad smile. Opie knew I was leaving, so he stood and met me beside the door. The Winston family were all together, Madison was scolding her father for the amount he drank. "See you around, brother," I said as I moved to stand in front of Opie, pulling him into a hug and clapping his back.

Opie did the same thing to me, our eyes lowering as we held each other and took in the moment. It's good to have him back. "Yeah," Ope agreed, glancing up, I saw Madison make her way with her father approaching slowly. He went in front of her and placed his hand gently on her back. "Take care, I'll call you tomorrow," Ope spoke as he took a step back. His arm slung to be ontop of Donna's shoulders, but the pair moved for the old man.

Smiling to the family, it was good to see that they were all together after so many years separated. "Sure," I agreed, wanting to get a call from him and hopefully set a date for us to catch up some more. "Piney," I called as I took a step towards him and hugged him, clapping his back and pulling away from him with a smile. "Donna," I said, we leaned in and placed a kiss to each other's cheeks. "Kenny, Ellie," I spoke to them, placing a kiss to the top of their heads, ruffling Kenny's hair playfully. "Maddie," I spoke her name, nodding to her and shoving my hands into my pant pockets.

Maddie seemed to be reluctant and awkward. Almost as awkward as I was, or more. Her hazel eyes were soft but her lips were pursed and she didn't take a step towards me. "See you around, Jackson," Maddie spoke to me, her tone was gentle and calm. The way she used my name and not my nickname, made me feel like she was being civil, but like she didn't want to have me as a friend. Nodding, I clapped Opie's shoulder and waved to the other members of the club before I left. Never turning back, but staring ahead and towards the house. Wondering if I would ever patch up my relationship with Madison. And if she could ever forgive me.


MPOV

I was coming out of the bathroom, I went to wash my hands and to relax a little. Myself and Opie went to bid farewell to other members of SAMCRO, along with the friends of the club. Dad was the last person to leave, but I was still nerve wrecked and was trying to regain my composure. "So, do you know what happened between Maddie and Jax?" Opie asked Donna as I stepped out of the bathroom, the door was wide open and I didn't shut it.

Opie and Donna were in the kitchen, putting things away and cleaning plates. The children were helping give Donna what was left, things like plates and the family worked like a little team. Opie had helped put pieces of food in the trash that had been eaten, beer in the fridge and food along with it. "No," Donna told him, her back was to me and Opie, who was now sat down at the table and cradling a bottle of beer in his hands. His eyes were on the bottle, in deep thought and Donna was drying the plates that once held stacks of food. "Maybe you should ask her yourself," Donna nudged him, her eyes pointing to me and Opie quickly caught her hint.

Deciding to take the friendly and playful remark, I smirked and reached grabbed a glass, filling it with water and sat oposite Opie. I knew Donna, she would be finished quicker if people weren't surrounding her and she was almost done with drying the plates. "Good suggestion there, Don," I teased and smiled at her.

The kids were playing with their toys in the livingroom, Donna had called to them and told them to put their toys away. That they were to get to bed, seeing as they had been up way past their bedtime. "Goodnight auntie Mandy," Kenny and Ellie said as they came up to me and kissed my cheek, making me pull them into a hug and smile.

These kids were one of the main reasons I loved coming back to Charming, if it weren't for them and Daddy, I probably wouldn't have come back as fequently as I did. Now that Opie was out, I needed to spend some more time with the family, especially with the kids, Dad and Ope. "Goodnight kids," I replied, squeezing them tight and smiling. "Sleep tight, don't let the bed-bugs bite!" I called to them, after they said their 'goodnight's to their father and mother, giving them hugs and kisses.

When the kids closed the door to their room, I knew Opie was going to ask me questions with caution. It was just the way he was, he was curious, but he wouldn't poke his nose into my business. Especially if it was something he didn't need to know. "Alright," Opie began, his tone carefree and calm. "So what happened between you two?" Opie asked, taking a long pull from his beer and keeping his eyes on me.

Taking a small sip of water, I sighed and looked to the still liquid that filled my glass. "Well, since the birth of Kenny, Jax was dating a girl called Wendy," I informed Opie, starting with the basics and the history that made me hesitant, considering no one knew about the secrets I held. "A few years passed, they got married and now, they're having a kid together," I told him.

Opie looked at me slightly surprised, like what I was saying didn't make sense and he wanted me to further explain what made me and Jax so distant. "What's that got to do with it?" Opie asked me, his eyebrows furrowed and eyes glued to me.

Opie's head tilted a little, waiting for my further reasoning and I knew the perfect explaination I had recited over and over again to Dad. "Seeing as he was living his life, I didn't feel the need to intrude in it," I spoke truthfully, knowing that this was one of the reasons I didn't feel like bothering him. "It wasn't my place to go into his life," I stated to Opie, knowing he would understand and not want to question further. "I prioritized my family and job, he prioritized his club and his family," I continued and shrugged a shoulder at him.

My gaze was focused on Opie, his eyes shied away for a moment, processing my words and his gaze glued to his bottle. "Alright," Opie agreed, nodding and staying silent for a moment. "So, how did Jax not get to see you, but everyone else from the club and Teller-Morrow did?" Opie asked me, curious as to how I could pull this off.

Smirking slightly, I knew that Opie would be surprised with how cunning I was and how resourceful I had become. Just happens, especially when you go to law school and get older. People become wiser. "What I did, was I would phone Dad and ask him to tell me when Jax left," I informed Opie of my way around the issue of possibly coming across Jackson. "Gradually, I knew around what time he would leave, Dad would tell me where he was going and I made sure to take different routes," I spoke, shrugging and taking another sip of water.

Opie chuckled, his head shaking and eyes narrowing into slints as he examined me. Possibly thinking I wasn't the same girl he left behind when he went to jail. "When did you get so smart?" Opie questioned me, making me smile and giggle softly.

Donna had finally finished the dishes, she was stood eating a few pieces of food that she wanted to munch on silently. "Doesn't it ever get tiring?" Donna asked me, she was leaning against the kitchen cabinates, in-front of the sink and watching me. Her eyebrows furrowed as she looked at me surprised and curiously.

Turning to look at Opie, he had just taken a sip of his beer and sighed. His lips doing the small wiggle it would do when he took a fresh swig. "Ever since I went to law school," I told him, smiling and arching a single eyebrow at him. "Yeah, it does sometimes," I agreed as I turned my gaze to Donna, answering her question and nodding once to her. "All I do, is to be patient and stay level-headed," I informed them, knowing that this was the only way I stayed sane and the only way I could keep doing what I did.

We were silent, none of us speaking and when Donna had finished eating, she moved to put the plate in the sink. Donna had hardly ate anything during the party, she didn't even want to go near any of the SAMCRO members, or anyone associated with them. I knew her reasons, but they were like family. Myself and Opie grew up with them, known them and loved them. "It's been a long night, it's about time we go to bed," Donna hinted, making me feel like an idiot. Of course it is! They probably want to go to sleep.

Opie was halfway done with his beer, but he did take a huge gulp of it as she spoke. "Yeah," Opie agreed, nodding and raised the bottle a little. "I'll go when I finish this drink," Opie told her, making his own terms and speaking to her with all the care and respect he had for her. Just by seeing his expression and the gentle tone he spoke to her in.

Understanding that they were tired, or if they wanted to do their personal and private business, I threw the rest of the water down. Chugging it and shutting my eyes, feeling the cool, pure liquid slither down my throat and on it's journey to wherever it would end. "I'd better go, get out of your hair and let you spend time with your family," I said kindly, getting to my feet and brushing down the skirt of my dress.

"Nonsense," Donna blurted out quickly, stunning me and making me look at her with shock surprise. "You're family, you're not bothering us at all," Donna spoke, her expression kind and her features smooth. Her voice showed sincerity and I knew I could believe her words. That's what I like about Donna. She's always been a family woman. She's also always done good by me, treating me like her sister, rather than a sister-in-law.

Opie stayed seated, his eyes glancing at me and his features were calm. "Where are you staying?" Opie asked me with curiousity. Taking another swig, he kept his eyes glued to me and a questioning gaze stuck to his face. He's being a good brother, taking tabs and trying to know where I am, incase he needs me or I need him.

Deciding to answer him, I smiled and thought over my choices once more. "A hotel not far," I told him, beginning to grab my things and giving him a vague reply. Opie's eyebrows furrowed, he fell silent and waited for my to give him further details. "Bill's hotel," I said quickly, making myself blunt and not whinning like a teenager.

"Oh," Opie spoke surprised, as though this was new to him and that this news was one to be surprised about. "Glad to hear he still owns it," Opie said and I just sighed, picking up my keys and glancing between the pair of them. Donna looked like she was ready to sleep, Opie looked like he was deliberating on if he should have another beer.

We fell silent, none of us talked and we all just stayed still. "Maddie, you've been staying in the guest room when you come over," Donna noted, being the first to talk after we all fell silent. "Why don't you spend the night?" Donna suggested, rather than asked me if I wanted to or not. "I mean, come on, how much did you drink?" Donna spoke, her arm raising to point a flat palm towards me. Then, she pointed to Opie who was still cradling a bottle of beer.

Opie seemed distracted, but when he was involved in the conversation by Donna's gesture, he re-animated and slowly nods. "Yeah," Opie agreed, possibly not knowing what Donna spoke, but then took the hint when Donna pointed to his bottle beer. "I don't like the thought of you travelling in this state, walking or driving," Opie said protectively, always taking into account of my safety and what could go wrong in times like these.

I felt like that teenager again, like a child Opie had to keep protecting and look out for. I'm not a little girl anymore Opie, besides, I can handle myself. "Oh, come on," I whined, rolling my eyes and leaning against the counter. "I only had two bottles," I said as I showed them two of my fingers, making a peace sign and tilting my head a little. "I don't want to trouble you two," I sighed out after no one spoke.

"You wouldn't," Opie answered quickly.

"I insist," Donna finished, trying to convince me further that it would be okay for me to crash for the night. I'm not going to bother them during my trip here. I'm not going to take advantage of them. It's not like I'm poor.

Chosing my options, I knew that there was no way out of this argument and that I had already lost. "Fine," I grumbled out, letting them win this battle. "Thank you guys," I told them sincerely, glancing between the pair of them. "But tomorrow morning, I'm heading out, got it?" I questioned them and pointed a finger, as to say that I didn't want them arguing back at me. "And I'm going to be staying in Bill's hotel," I spoke stubbornly, not changing my mind on this one and they both knew it.

Opie took another pull from his drink, placing it back onto the table and leaning to look at me. His eyebrows furrowed and a serious expression crossed his face. "For how long?" Opie asked me, as though this was something he was dying to know. Well, I did ask for two weeks off this time, so I could spend time with my family. Normally, I variate my vacations throught the month. Every month, I was allowed a week off. As there weren't many cases and we needed to spread them out, for those from our agency.

Usually, I would ask for a week during the beginning, maybe the middle and sometimes at the end. Sometimes, I joined two vacations together, where I would have a week off during the end and then have a vacation during the beginning. This, was one of those times. "Two weeks," I told him, knowing that it would be something he would either like to hear or not. Judging by his smile and slow nod, I could tell he was glad to have me here for a while.

After a few minutes of us standing there, I decided to get ready for bed and get some shut-eye. Moving away from my spot against the counter, I walked closer to Opie first. "Goodnight guys," I told them and leaned down to hug Opie. "It's good to have you back Opie," I whispered, his arms wrapping around me tightly and I breathed in his scent. Missing his familar presence and smell. Pulling away a little, I kissed his cheek, and I didn't care that I had left a little bit of what was left of my lipstick on his cheek. "Love you two," I said to Donna as I did the same to her. A bright smile on her face, but Opie looked like he was in deep thought, stroking his beard and taking a swig of his beer bottle.

"Love you too," Donna spoke, pulling Opie out of his thoughts and bringing him back to the real world.

"Goodnight!" Opie called out to me. Heading into the guest bedroom, where I would normally take residence and slipped into the room. Shutting the door behind me, I got changed and wiped the make-up off my face using a wet-wipe. Turning the light off, I moved to stare at the mirror and sighed. I felt happy, for my brother's return and how I could now rest easy, knowing he was back and safe with us.

A part of me was still nervous, shaken about the thought of seeing Jax and possibly needing to have a serious conversation about my reasons in not seeing him. We were distant, which was unlike us and I didn't want it to be like that. But, I didn't want to be a bother. He has a life, a wife and soon a child. I couldn't get in the way of that, especially not with my new life and the role I had to society. One, which was completely different to what he and my family had.

Slipping into bed, I sighed and relaxed into my pillow. The covers reached my waist, keeping me tucked and toasty. But my mind was a scrambled mess, along with my emotions and I tossed for a while, all before I could fall asleep. Repeating to myself that all would be fine. The way my agency worked, was we didn't have many clients and we still earned enough for what we did, it was a big business and we had connections all over the country. Meaning, we were expensive and we had the generally, big cases that would sometimes go on the news.

My life was hectic, between work, an ex boyfriend that had been abusive, a liar and a cheater, my family and avioiding Jax, I didn't know where to turn. I didn't know what would come up in life, what it would throw at me and if I would sink, or swim. Eventually, when my head stopped buzzing with thoughts, I fell asleep and drifted into multiple dream states. Preparing myself for a busy two weeks, but keeping my calm and reminding myself that I didn't need to stress myself.


"I'll find my own way down, as I should."


I hope you liked this chapter. This story is going to be following the series, but it will have twists and turns, in order to make Madison a true part of the story. Now, this is M rated as it's going to be involving a lot of gun violence, a lot of swearing and some adult situations. My mind can run a little wild, so we'll see what else I can come up with. This will be gradually a Jax/OC story, so be patient and there will be small moments they may have, but they won't be together. So I hope you don't get confused! This is my first story for Sons of Anarchy, so I hope you like it!

Now, first thing's first, if the way I've portrayed Madison's work sounds unrealistic. Pretend it does, this of course, is fanfiction and I don't know what it's like for lawyers in agencies like Madison's. Also, Kenny is 5 in this fanfiction and Ellie is 7. Opie and Donna have been married for 8 years, but they were together for 10 years. Roughly, Jax is 27 as is Opie, Donna, David and Tara. Wendy is 26 and Madison is 25. Piney had gone to prison for a few months when Opie was 2 and when Mary was pregnant with Madison. When Piney and Mary got divorced, after 3 years, Opie decided to move in with his Dad and a year after that, so did Madison. When Madison left for college, Opie was training to work for Teller-Morrow. So far, that's all you need to know. Yes, Jax did date Tara, but he's always cared about Madison. He's going to slowly start to realize how much he needs her and cares for her. So, even if you see Jax interacting with Tara, don't be fooled!

P.S, the songs I'll use, I'll put them towards the end. Each chapter may have the same song, but different lyrics, or different songs. So, this chapter it was 'Oats In The Water' by Ben Howard. The way I picture Maddie is like Emily Van Camp, but with longer hair and hazel eyes.


So, questions that I want answered in reviews or PM's and I will reply to them in the next chapter. I want 5 reviews please. I'm writing the next chapter as you're reading this.

1) What do you think of this chapter?

2) Do you like the character I created?

3) What do you think is Madison's secret?


Now, until the 5 reviews, I'll just be writing the next chapter and waiting for you to give me these reviews.

Much love!

HeroJustInTime90 x