Fateful Opportunities

by ur no daisy

Sequel to Fate Gives Second Chances, a continuation of Hap and Audrey's story. The recent violence against the Club leaves everyone reeling. With the threat of prison looming, can the Club survive?

14. Chapter 14

Chapter 14

Happy woke the next morning, head aching and muscles sore. He groaned as he rose from bed to appease the fucking dog that needed to go out. Goliath had been scratching at the door and had now resorted to deep growling barks. Hap goes to throw on the jeans that lay at the side of the bed where he took them off last night but the smell of them made him change his mind and head to the closet for a clean pair. Making his way downstairs Goliath was already squirming at the back door. Happy let him out, started the coffee, then sat at the table allowing himself a few minutes to adjust to the early morning. It had been a while since he had drank like that. In the harsh light of morning he realized why he doesn't indulge like that anymore. But he'd made some headway with Tig so in the end it was worth it.

The coffee finished brewing and Hap poured himself a cup. The dark roast brew worked its magic and Hap started to become more alert. It was then his nose realized it wasn't just his pants that smelled but it was him. His nose recoiled at the smell, alcohol and stomach juices. Fucking Tig must have puked again and missed this time. Hap own stomach roiled a bit, and he decided to head for the shower to prevent his own mishap.

He let Goliath back in before going back upstairs. The hot water from the shower felt great and he stayed there until the water started to turn. As he stepped back in the bedroom thinking of a few more hours of sleep, Hap found Goliath lying on Audrey's side of the bed. Just as Hap was going to yell for him to get off the bed, the dog looked up at him with sad eyes. Goliath was missing Audrey. In a rare moment of understanding between the two, Hap let the dog be and lay down on his own side on the bed. He heard the lonely sigh from the huge beast and ran his hand over the short black fur of his back. Goliath raised his head up, and with a considerable shake to the bed, turned his body to face Happy laying his head on Hap's chest. Happy was surprised, but after a minute realized he was Goliath's only link to the woman they both loved. "She'll be home soon dog, it'll be ok." Hap told him as he stroked the dog's head until they both fell asleep.

oOoOoOo

Audrey slept in Saturday, or at least pretended to. Mostly she was avoiding her brother. They may have ended the previous evenings discussion on an apologetic note but she was still raw from the unexpected confrontation and slightly gun shy of a repeat performance. When hunger finally drove her from her hiding place, it was almost noon before she made her way downstairs. Dennis obviously knew she was avoiding him so when she finally surfaced, he kept the conversation on the light side. He took Audrey out to the gardens so she could enjoy the visible signs of spring. They enjoyed their day together, both trying hard to get past this new tension. As their day drew to a close, Dennis suggested they speak again about the reasons for their argument in the morning before she left. Audrey had agreed; he was giving her enough time to think about what she wanted to say to him. The reason the argument occurred in the first place is because she had no idea there was an issue and immediately went on the defensive. Given an extra night's sleep, they could hopefully speak calmly and rationally.

oOoOoOo

After spending the late morning with a heavy bag at Lumpy's Gym, Hap headed for the afternoon shift at Teller-Morrow. He was still feeling unsettled, with too much time on his hands and that was not a usual feeling for him. Audrey had called as he was leaving the gym, and he got the feeing that something was wrong. She said no, but he could tell by her voice that she was upset. He knew if she felt threatened, she would tell him, but she sounded stressed out. If that is what going home did to her, he wanted her back now.

It didn't take long for Happy to get back in the groove. Working on cars was second nature, so he let himself get lost in the routine. Just as the end of shift approached, Piney got a call for a disabled vehicle and sent Hap and Chibs out with the flatbed.

It was suppose to be a routine tow call. But when Chibs and Happy get to the sight, the van is there but no driver. Ever cautious after getting blown up, Chibs drops to the ground on his back and looks for explosives. Finding none, they try the doors. All are locked but the back door to the van. With caution, Hap opens one of the doors and takes a look inside. There is only a cooler in the back. Hap looks a Chibs who simply shrugs his response. Not seeing any devices, Hap opens the lid, before quickly closing it again. "Fuck."

"What is it man?" Chibs asks with concern. Is it a bomb?"

Hap shakes his head. "No man. I'm sorry Chibs." He says, opening the lid to the cooler.

Chibs approaches and looks inside to find the sightless head of Jimmy O. "God damn it!" Chibs yells, punching the van door.

Happy watched his Brother's anger over being denied the right to his own revenge. Hap knew what that felt like; even though he was glad that Gemma killed Weston, it still haunted him that it was not his bullet that did the job. He watch as Chibs walked away from the van. Knowing the man needed to come to grips with his disappointment, Hap got the winch from the truck and got the van on the flatbed. When he was done, he drove down the road, stopping when he caught up to his friend. Hap pulls to a stop and Chibs climbs in the truck. Neither man spoke on the ride back to the garage.

As soon as the truck comes to a stop in front of the garage Chibs jumped out and made his way into the clubhouse, yanking the door open and letting it slam behind him. Hap removes the van from the flatbed, and heads over to the garage. He gets Clays attention and calls him over, then alerts Jax and Tig who were also still in the shop. As they head for the van, Hap explains. "The van was a set up; I'm guessing it was the Russians that left us a present." Hap reaches for the back of the van and pulls the cooler forward. Happy looks at Clay and indicates he should open the lid.

Clay steps forward and lifts the lid. "Fuck." Clay runs his hand down his face as he moves away, making room for the others to have a look.

After Jax sees what's inside, he has to agree with Happy's assessment. "You're probably right Hap. Obviously contacting the Russians and assuming they'd see things our way was a miss step on our part."

Clay responds. "Maybe, but now we've gotta roll with it. Grab that and let's go into the chapel. No need for prying eyes to see something's up." Clay takes a look around before turning to Hap. "Where's Chibs? Wasn't he on this call with you?"

"He was. And he didn't take it very well. I'm guessing he's got a head start on getting a big drunk on by now. He's inside."

"Well let's leave him alone for now; the rest of us need to meet." Clay commanded. Happy grabbed the cooler while Tig went to the garage office for Piney. Jax got rid of all non-crew from the clubhouse and called the men who weren't working. Within 20 minute they were seated around the table.

Clay called the meeting to order. "By now you've all heard the Russians chose to eliminate Jimmy themselves instead of turning him over to us. I shouldn't be surprised, Jimmy was misrepresenting himself, and the Russians don't take kindly to being made fools of. At least they gave us the courtesy of letting us know."

Hap speaks up. "I'm not so sure Chibs shares your viewpoint, Clay. He's taking this very personally."

Jax speaks for his friend. "Chibs dreamt for years of the day when he could kill the man that stole his life and his family. He may not be able to cope with not being the instrument of death in this case."

Once again Clay demands the practical approach. "Dead is dead. Chibs will get over it, and learn to just be glad the fuckers gone. Now, we need to figure out what to do about the IRA. They will need proof of the kill and I don't think FedEx-ing Jimmy's head is the best solution. Thoughts?"

Jax speaks up. "Yeah, we should get Cameron here to ID the head. He has the IRA connections that make him the best choice. That and some pictures, maybe a video, should be enough."

"Get in touch with Cameron then; tell him it's safe and to get his ass over here. Let's hope the IRA is still interested in doing business even though we didn't take care of the problem ourselves."

"Dead is dead, right Clay?" Jax offers sarcastically as he pushes away from the table and makes his way out to the bar, to find his friend.

After making his phone call, Jax approaches Chibs at the bar. Without turning his head, Chibs slurs "Piss off Jackie Boy, I don't need to hear your words of wisdom right now."

"Alright man. Do what you gotta do, I'll be here." Jax tells him, walking away to leave Chibs to his anger and his scotch. Jax joins some of the other men across the room. "He just needs to be pissed off for a while; Hap can you watch him while I do this thing with Cameron? I'll take over when I'm done." Hap nods his agreement and falls into a quiet conversation with the rest of the men as Jax leads the newly arrived Cameron into the back room. Soon enough Jax is back and Cameron heads out with Clay to make some calls. A short time later they are all distracted by Chibs, unsteadily getting off his stool. He heads towards the bathroom then changes direction and heads for the kitchen. "Where the fuck is it? Ah here we go." The men hear the thick accent of Chibs' drunken ramblings, and watch as he exits the kitchen with Jimmy's head under his arm. Jax stands up and tries to stop him from leaving.

Chibs belligerently knocks away the hand Jax lays on his shoulder. "What did I say? Now piss off lad." After regaining his balance, Chibs takes Jimmy's head out to the parking lot. He tries dribbling the head with his feet, but between his drunken state and the oblong shape of the head, it wouldn't roll properly. In disgust, he kicks it into the side of the garage. He had to chase it since it wouldn't bounce but he kicked it again and again. The men of SAMCRO watch as Chibs finally picks up the mangled head, tucks it under his arm and makes his way towards them. Looking one last time at the now unrecognizable face of the man he hated all these years, Chibs spits on the broken face and tosses it into the burn barrel. Turning around he greeted his brothers like nothing happened. "Hey Jackie Boy, would you remind me in the morning to grind his bones to bits? I'm afraid I may have drunk too much to remember on my own." As he starts to head back to the club he makes use of the bar towel that Bobby hands him, wiping his face and hands carelessly before wadding up the towel and throwing that in the barrel as well. "Now I'm ready for another pint. Who's with me?"

The men stand around at the entrance of the clubhouse, still in awe of what they just witnessed. Happy and Tig shrug at each other and head inside to celebrate the death of a most hated enemy with their brother. Jax assigns Juice to oversee the cleanup crew, with special instructions to fire up that barrel and power wash the side of the garage and the parking lot with bleach. Jax was more than glad he'd thought to close the clubhouse this evening to all but the crew, so damage control was quick. It was going to be a long night.

oOoOoOo

Sunday morning came quickly and Audrey arose early, making her way downstairs for breakfast and conversation. Debbie shared their breakfast before leaving them alone to work things out. Audrey was nervous; she'd never had an argument like this with Dennis before. Because they hadn't grown up together, they had no real experience being at odds with each other. Meeting as adults they had an immediate affinity for each other. That bond grew as Audrey got to spend more time getting to know Dennis. After a few years, Dennis started to become more of a father figure to her. Not a Daddy, but a father figure who encouraged her to find her path and was able to show her love and support as she found her own way. She had desperately needed that in her life, although she didn't know it until she met him. That is why this was so hard to her to bear. Her reluctance to speak now was out of fear; she didn't know if she could make this better and she was afraid of what would happen if she didn't.

Dennis picked up on her cues quickly and offered up more of an explanation for the ambush. Placing his hand over hers with a gently squeeze, he made the first move. "I didn't want there to be this rift between us. I feel badly about that. It's also the reason I never brought up my concerns over the phone. It would have been too easy for you to avoid me from that distance if you became angry."

Audrey gave him a dirty look that turned into an eye roll with a faint upturn of her lips; he knew her so well.

When she didn't respond verbally, Dennis continued. "But now I can see that it's not just your determination to make something work that is keeping you with this man."

She considered his words for a long moment. "I'm glad that you can see that Happy is not a project I need to finish. I do love him very much. It's almost too easy to love him."

"What do you mean?"

Audrey shrugged her shoulders, trying to come up with the right way to explain. She truly wanted for Dennis to understand and accept her choices. "I mean it really does just come easy; it has from the first moment. The first time Happy and I met, he saw me at my most vulnerable, and I couldn't see him at all. The accident tore down my defenses and I was in a weakened state. Happy saw the damage on the outside and took very good care of me, a virtual stranger at the time. I guess because he saw me at my worst physically, it was easier to open up to him on the inside. That accident changed my life completely. Letting Happy in was the best decision I ever made. He fills up my life, and I never even knew I needed that."

"Then I'm very happy for you. You finally took your own advice and opened up to a real relationship. I have always been grateful to you for making me realize that I could have a loving relationship. You were instrumental in me allowing Deb into my life, and I always wanted the same for you."

"You just wanted it with someone other than Happy."

"Sweetheart, I realize you are trying your best to help me understand, but I'm still at a loss. Regardless, you have my word that I will support you and your decision, I just wish I could relate. I guess I just need to know." Dennis paused in obvious discomfort, and only proceeded when Audrey raised an eyebrow in question. "Are you sure you can live with what he has done?"

"I don't have to live with it, he does." Audrey wasn't angry at the question as she was sure Dennis assumed she'd be. She'd been expecting this obvious line of questioning.

"But you have to live with the consequences."

"This time."

"What about next time?" Dennis persisted.

"I can only hope there won't be one that affects our personal live as much as this current legal situation. The club is starting to find a different way. I am not the only woman associated with the Club who is pregnant. Many of the men have small children, or children on the way. Do you think these men with families really want to be imprisoned? But change does not come easy. There are traditions and bylaws, and an old school way of thinking that need to be considered."

"Do you really think it is possible for them to change?"

"Completely? No, I wouldn't ask that or want that. It would take away the foundation of what these men believe in. But they can make changes that will be better for them as individuals as well as the club as a whole. But it takes time."

"You sound like you have more knowledge of the inner working of the Club than I'm comfortable with." Dennis replied with concern once again.

Audrey shook her head. "No, I really don't. I am a woman after all, and club business is none of my business; I accept that. I don't want more involvement and Happy agrees. I may have done a little more than just host parties; I have a head for business and they recognize that. I've made some suggestions, mostly related to the town, not the Club, but you know that. And honestly, I'm ok so far with my level of deniability." Seeing doubt still in her brother's eyes, she tried again. "Den, you need to remember that this isn't just a motorcycle club. These are real people. They have families and feelings and plans for the future. I care for them and I believe that they reciprocate. They can do things you may find distasteful, but it's always for a reason. Perhaps not reasons that someone outside the life can understand, but reasons none the less."

"Yet you have found a way to understand."

"No, I'm talking in generalizations here. I accept that Happy will deal with Club business in a way that is acceptable to him. When he walks through that door every evening, he belongs to me. When he puts on the cut and walks out the door, he belongs to the Club. We have a line, and it works. I may cross it from time to time but I don't live there. My home is with the man who loves me, loves our child and our life together. And before you ask that is enough for me."

Dennis processed her words as they finish their tea. "Alright then Sweetheart, it will be enough for me as well."

oOoOoOo

By Monday afternoon a tired and drained Audrey had nearly completed her rounds. She hadn't factored in the emotional toll of her argument with Dennis when she'd planed all the stops she needed to make in week. As she drove through the village she'd grown up near, she tried to release some of the stress of the week and just enjoy the ride. It bothered her how much this visit home was making her sorry she ever made the trip. She had one more stop to make and she'd saved it for last for a reason.

As she pulled into the empty parking lot of Mamma's Pizzeria, her mind was still running over this mornings visit with her mother. The meeting was uncomfortable; her mother was never the warmest of parents but Audrey had thought she would be pleased at having another grandchild. Her mother's lack of enthusiasm almost made it easier for Audrey to share with her mother the other reason for her visit. She had decided that she was no longer going to hide her true paternity. She'd been keeping it a secret for her mother's sake, but now, Audrey needed this for herself. Dennis was there for her, and even though they just had a disagreement, she knew he'd always be in her corner. She felt it was past time that loyalty was acknowledged in a deeper way. Why continue a lie that left Dennis out of her public life? She wanted her child to know Dennis as family, not just a close friend. Why keep the truth from people who would not care about where she came from? This was her mother's lie, and guilt made it Audrey's lie too. She'd tried to explain this all to her mother, who did her best to convince Audrey not to air the family's "dirty laundry". Realizing she would never sway her mother's views, Audrey simply informed her mother of her plan to introduce Dennis to her new family as her brother. She also let her know that, locally, only Jenny knew the truth and had for years. Audrey would leave it up to her mother what she told the rest of the family. After the delivery of her news, she was met with stone silence. Disappointed but not surprised, Audrey had given her mother a stiff hug and left.

Audrey was startled from her memories by a voice at her window.

"Hey! You gonna sit there all day or come inside?"

Audrey jumped in her seat caught unawares by her old friend. Smiling she reached for the door handle and stepped out of the car. She was quickly enveloped in the arms of her best friend from high school. Maria DeGallo hadn't changed too much; a petit framed Italian woman, with shoulder length dark crazy curls, sparkling brown eyes and a friendly smile.

Maria led the way into the empty restaurant, peppering Audrey with non-stop questions the whole time. The restaurant was closed on Mondays, leaving the two old friends to themselves. Audrey smiled as she sat at one of the red and white formica four-seater tables, remembering all the hours she'd spent in this place as a teenager. Not much had changed in the years since she'd been here last, and the nostalgia was rolling through her in waves.

Maria quickly returned to the dining room with two glasses of iced tea. "Don't worry it's decaf." She said, taking a seat across from Audrey.

It was only a second before the inquisition began in earnest. It was actually just a repeat of all the questions she'd asked earlier without allowing Audrey a chance to answer. Now she slowed the questions down slightly. "So what's it really like, living with an outlaw biker? Is it really all drugs and orgy parties? Tell me, tell me!"

"I don't attend the orgy parties." Audrey replied with a totally straight face.

Marie saw right through her and started to laugh, a deep blush covering her face.

"Ok, ok. But you have to tell me; what's your guy like? Is he hot? Of course he's hot. Does he have any hot friends?"

Audrey was so glad to be here; she laughed with true joy at her friend's exuberance. It was so Maria, and Audrey was glad that hadn't changed. "I think he's ridiculously sexy, but most people find him scary. They perceive all that intensity to be menacing but when it's focused on me? It's a wonderful thing." Audrey emphasized her words by fanning herself.

Maria broke out in a wide grin, her eyes twinkling. "Really? Good for you! What's he look like? I'm think I'm jealous though. Why can't I have my very own scary biker?"

Audrey reaches in her purse and pulls out her phone, opening it to a picture of Happy and showing Maria. "Ooh, he is sexy, look at those full lips. Mm-mm-mm. You always did have a thing for hard men."

Audrey snorted back a laugh. "He is that."

Maria's jaw dropped. "Simply scandalous!"

At that phrase both woman burst out in laughter, remembering a longstanding shared joke and giggling like the school girls they use to be together. As her mirth subsided Audrey grabbed her hand and let her friend know how she felt. "I've missed you."

Maria wiping her own tears of laughter placed her hand over Audrey's own. "I've missed you too."

When their laughter finally faded, Maria probed a little deeper. "So what's he like besides scary on the outside and intense on the inside?"

"He's loving and thoughtful and patient with me. He's perfect for me Maria he really is."

"Then I love him already."

Audrey let out a deep breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. "Thank you for saying that. You may be the only one."

"The fam didn't take it well?" Maria sympathized with her friend.

Audrey just shook her head in response, she wasn't ready to talk about it and thankfully, Maria understood. There was no protest when Audrey changed the subject. "So how are your parents?"

"They're doing well. Momma and Pop retired (she air quoted with an eye roll) two years ago and, theoretically, turned the restaurant over to me. But nothing has changed. They both still come to work every day, and while I do the books, Momma runs the front and Pop is still running the kitchen. I'm not sure why they even made the change. Maybe they thought they could retire, but it didn't take. And I can't be mad, it's their restaurant. I can't help but feel jerked around though, even though I do get a percentage now with the new arrangement. I don't know, I just feel frustrated at my age that my parents still control my livelihood. Then I feel guilty about feeling that because they aren't doing anything different than they've always done."

"You are allowed to get frustrated with your family. I'm sure its hard working with them all this time, even though they are wonderful people that love you."

"Yeah, in a way it's like never really becoming a true adult." Maria waves her complaints away. "Never mind me, I waffle back and forth with my feelings, I think I'm just bitching because of the flack I'm getting about my latest divorce."

"Maria, are you the talk of the town again, you bad girl?" Audrey teased her rebellious friend.

Maria laughed. "Of course! That was number three; you'd think everyone would be use to it by now. But Momma won't let go of her disappointment. She just threw her hands up and started praying in Italian and crossing herself. She's given up hope of grandchildren from me."

"That should be a relief to you, you never wanted kids."

"It is a relief, but there is also the guilt factor of disappointing my parents. You marry a nice Italian and have little Italian babies…blah, blah."

"Momma has plenty of little Italian grandbabies, courtesy of your many siblings."

"It's not the same, as I am reminded every Sunday at dinner."

"You know what I think? I think your newly divorced ass would love a trip to Charming. You can come visit and be hands on helping me set up the kitchen instead of just directing me over the phone. It will give you a break. Plus, there's lot's of eye candy there if you like it on two wheels and wearing leather."

"Mmm, sounds delicious. Like dessert; bad for you but oh so good while your eating it!" Maria evaded the question.

"Why don't you come out to see me for a visit?" Audrey persisted. "I could certainly use your input on the pizzeria, and you could get away from it all for a few weeks. Besides, it would give me a taste of home to have you there." Audrey was not above begging or bribing to get Maria to lend a hand. With the exhaustion that set in this week, she was ready to admit she may have overextended herself with her current project list. "I'll cover your travel and can offer you a place to stay, since you would be helping me out."

"I can't leave the restaurant." Maria hedged.

"Bullshit. You just told me that Momma and Pop are here every day. They can do with out you for a few weeks."

Maria considered the offer seriously for the first time. "And you say there more men like yours out there?"

With a groan, Audrey answered. "There is no one quite like Happy anywhere, but yes, there is no lack of available men in Charming."

"Good, I could use some hot sex with a stranger; I'm running out of those here. And I could use some fun."

At Audrey's stricken look, Maria laughed. "I'm just teasing. I haven't changed that much. My mouth always says way more than the rest of me is willing to back up. It's a nice thought though. I'll consider your offer."

oOoOoOo

Heather watched her prey from across the bar. Damn he still looked fine. She could feel her pussy getting warm just from watching him. Why was he doing this to her? It made no sense. She knew she was hot, she knew she could pleasure him, so why did he continue to ignore her? Heather swirled her stirrer in her SoCo and orange juice, taking another sip, but keeping mindful not to get drunk. Knowing full well that The Bitch was due back in town the next day, Heather knew her time had run out. This was going to be her last chance to get Happy back between her legs where he belonged. Friday had been the fight, Saturday the clubhouse had closed its doors to all but members only, and Happy had ignored her outright since then. Tonight was it, do or die. But could she make it happen? She may want the man but that didn't mean he didn't scare the shit out of her. She knew her place in the club house, and even if she wanted more, she knew she had to tread carefully. Maybe he'd be more receptive tonight; he'd gone a week without sex and that just wasn't natural. Giving herself a pep talk, Heather convinced herself that chances were good, with the bitch still out of town, she could have her way with Happy. He never turned down a free ride before he met the cow so now was the time to get him where she wanted him. It worked for Ima; nobody had seen the Doc around the clubhouse in weeks. Besides, she was running out of time. Her partner was getting anxious and if she couldn't make this work her way, he might follow through on his threats. Why was everyone so focused on that long-haired bitch anyway? It wasn't fair that she just swooped in and hooked her claws into Happy. She was accepted almost immediately by the crew and even Gemma came around. Somewhere in the back of her mind, Heather knew she would never have that, but her prior actions had committed her to this plan. Sure she still wanted Happy, and if she can have him to herself by getting him in the sack, then she would take it and be glad. But if she couldn't get him to comply then she would be forced to do something she really didn't want to. But she didn't have a choice. It was too late for that. Besides, she shouldn't think that way. Happy wasn't going to turn down what she had to offer. His cock was always ready for a go. She'd watched and waited as he put down more than a few beers, while he talked with the new guy Koz. It was now or never, she thought to herself, as she put an extra swing in her step as she walked across the clubhouse towards her target.

As she approached the overstuffed chairs where Happy and Koz were seated, Koz watched her deliberate approach and admired the view. Seeing his friend's interest behind his back, Happy looked behind him, smirked at his friend and turned back to the conversation.

Happy smelled the cheap perfume before he felt her physical presence looming behind his back. A possessive hand was placed on his shoulder, and instead of looking at her, he looked at Koz who had leaned back in his chair with an expression of interest on his face. The bastard was gonna watch him squirm.

Happy chose to ignore her presence. He started up an inconsequential conversation with Koz, hoping that Heather would take the hint. Fuck. He was going to hear about this one from Tig and probably Kozik for days. Happy didn't take very long to weigh his choices. Heather was energetic in the sack. But Hap was past the age where he was willing to sacrifice everything he had for an easy lay. And he would lose Audrey, Heather would make sure of it. To Happy, taking what was being offered would mean nothing, but to Audrey, it would be the ultimate betrayal. He didn't have to share her feelings on the subject to be able to understand what it meant to her. He only need remember her reaction to the news of Jax's indiscretion. Besides, if he was honest, Heather's appeal was not what it used to be. Her perfume was cloying, and her fake tits not as fascinating as Audrey's as they grew fuller with the growth of their son.

Waiting for a break in the conversation, Heather finally saw her opening. She'd started to feel awkward about being ignored by Happy, the only consolation was having the sexy Tacoma man's eyes all over her. It was flattering, but she had a goal. She sat herself on the arm of Happy's chair, as her hand glided from his shoulder, across his back and rested on the other shoulder, bringing her body to a leaning position over Happy. Bending her head closer to his she spoke softly into his ear. "I hear congratulations are in order Daddy. I didn't realize that's what you wanted Happy. So now that you got that out of the way, and the little woman left, you and I can go back to having fun. I mean, wouldn't you rather spend time with a hard body to fuck, than going home alone with only your hand for comfort? You know we would both enjoy it."

Happy kept it simple with a side of menace. "Get away from me."

Usually this response from any of the men would have sent her scurrying away, but Heather had run out of time. "Come of Happy, you don't mean that. I'm just offering you what you want."

"You have no idea what I want. Now get the fuck gone." His voice made it clear she would need to try another way. Without another word she stood quickly and scurried back to the bar.

Hap watched Kozik stifle a smile as he leaned back in the chair, his chin now cupped by his thumb and forefinger. Seeing the mirth in Kozik's eyes, Happy knew what was coming. "Happy, this is truly a new side to you. Turning down pussy? That's so unlike you."

"No, it's unlike you. You know I don't do desperate."

That was true, Koz relented, with a tilt of his head. "I did get an awful lot of play from your discards. Not that I didn't get enough of my own pussy, but comforting all the women over the years who'd set their sights on taming The Killer, was a good time. Who better to understand their distress than your good friend who also happens to be a very good listener." Koz wore a big smirk on his face, his ego recalling his success with the ladies; Koz even beat out Juice in the boyish charm department. "This Audrey, she's the real deal, huh? She must be if you're willing to keep your dick in your pants."

Happy made is point without answering the question. "That girl" Hap's head nodded in Heather's direction, "has an agenda. She knows this tactic worked on Jax, he fucked a big mouthed whore and lost his old lady over it. The snatch over there is looking for the same result. I'm not drunk, I'm not stupid and I'm not looking for an excuse to end what I have. She's looks available if you're interested. She's got a nice enough body and some well practiced oral skills if you need a recommendation."

"Thanks for that, I'll just see how the night goes. I think I may be able to offer her a shoulder to lean on as the night progresses. You're sure you don't want it?"

"I won't jeopardize my future for something I've already discarded. I fuck her, she makes sure Audrey finds out, Audrey moves my kid across the country, and I can't do anything about it because I'll probably be in prison in a few months. We've all got to play things a little smarter these days."

"You always did think things through. And I can see where you need to be on your toes with Audrey. She really is a smart one. An independent thinker, too." Koz thinks about pressing Happy further, but decides against it. "What the hell is she doing with you any way?"

Hap looks over at Koz, surprised but appreciative of him backing off so easily. "I have absolutely no idea."

Koz laughs at Happy's response. He'd seen the subtle changes in his friend in the past few weeks he'd been in Charming. Besides the peace that had settled over him, Koz also saw a fierce determination when it came to club business. His role in the Club was shifting. Happy went from a man living day to day to a man who had acted like he had a future and was fighting for it. Koz wondered if Hap could sustain this new outlook.

oOoOoOo

After dinner on her last evening in her old home, Audrey sat down with Tara in the living room. She was still exhausted but more relaxed after a day at home doing nothing stressful. It was a good day, and now she was looking forward to returning to Charming. She just needed to make sure her friend was ok with her leaving. "So what are your plans? You've been awful silent about your feelings this week."

Tara nodded her agreement with that statement. "Just talking the opportunity to figure out what I want to do."

"Did you figure it out?"

"Not completely, but for now, I'm going to take you up on your offer and stay a while. I need to figure out some stuff and you were right, this is a good place to think."

"And you're ok with being here by yourself?"

"I think so. I took a walk yesterday to Jenny's house and she showed me the kennels. We talked for a while and she assured me she will be around if I need anything."

"Yeah, Jenny is a good girl."

"Jenny is a lot like you." Tara commented.

"You think so?" Audrey asked curiously waiting for further explanation.

Tara smiled at their similarities. "Yes, it's obvious she learned from you. She's already got me to agree to foster one of the more mild mannered dogs she has. She was very persuasive, first introducing me to the dog, then telling me his story. She ended with explaining that he was a good dog but didn't know how to live in a house. She told me he just needs a chance to learn his manners so he can find a good home. Yeah, I'd say Jenny is following in your footsteps."

Audrey had to laugh. "Good for her? Did you agree?" At Tara's nod, Audrey laughed again. "Then good for you too! Dogs are great companions out here. And I'm sure Jenny will appreciate having a close neighbor again."

"At least for a month or two I think. Thank you for this." Tara said sincerely. She wasn't sure what she would be doing now, if Audrey hadn't intervened.

"Anytime. And if you need me I am just a phone call away. I mean it."

"I know." Tara acknowledged before letting out a big sigh. "About Jax. I really don't know what I'm feeling right now; I'm still so hurt and confused. I'm not sure if I want to know what he's doing, but I'm not sure if I can deal with not knowing."

Audrey considered the question in Tara's words. "How about this; when you call, if you want to know, ask me. I won't bring him up unless you ask."

"That's fair. Unless you think it's something I need to know, then you have to tell me."

"Of course." Audrey agreed. "Tara, what happens when Jax realizes you'ew gone? It's going to happen eventually, you know."

"It hasn't so far." Tara stated flatly, the pain of that truth stabbing her in the chest.

"But it will. How do you want me to handle it?"

"I trust you to do the right thing. I'll leave that up to you."

"Ok. Jax and I are doing the avoidance thing lately, so I'll continue down that road for now." Audrey paused and took in Tara's countenance. She did seem more at peace than a week ago, but her eyes still held onto her sadness. "You sure about this? You can still come back with me."

"No, I'm sure. This is the right thing for me, and the baby, for right now." Tara's voice was firm in its conviction.

"If you're sure." At Tara's nod, Audrey stood from the oversized chair. "Then I think I'm going to go to bed. My flight leaves at 7am and it's over an hour to the airport. Ugh, the flight is going to suck!"

Tara laughed in response. "Yeah, I won't miss that. Go get some sleep, and wake me up in the morning before you go, ok."

"Will do." Audrey stops in the doorway before heading upstairs. "I'll miss you Tara. I hope you find the clarity you're looking for."

"Me too, Audrey. Me too."

oOoOoOo

Koz watched as an hour later, Heather tried again to get Happy's attention. He didn't know this girl or her motivations, but the rules of the MC where pretty simple for the Crow Eaters, and yet this one was crossing all the lines tonight. Kozik's interest in her shifted from sexual to investigational. Maybe she did want Happy for herself, but she would know better than to defy a member's direction. Yet here she was, hovering just behind him, trying again to make a play. If nothing else it would be interesting to watch Happy decide how to handle this situation. Koz chuckled to himself that this was even happening to the hard man he'd know for years. Besides Happy's loyalty to Audrey, Koz knew Happy wouldn't be with the blonde now anyway. Hap was right when he said he didn't do desperate women. The minute a fuck became clingy, he ignored her. It wasn't something that Happy was willing to deal with. There were too many other women available to cater to one that becomes a pain in the ass.

Happy had obviously found something better than random sex hookups and was willing to make concessions for it. While that surprised him, after meeting the woman he could understand. Hell, after the last family dinner, where she just ran the show seamlessly, half the men were a little in love with her, if they weren't before. In one evening, she made some deals that would change things, not only for Opie but for the town, which ultimately meant the club. To find a woman that challenged your mind, made your dick hard, and accepted the life was nearly impossible. Add the obvious feelings they have for each other and he could see his friend was a very lucky man. Happy knew what he had and wasn't letting go.

Hearing raised voices across the room, both men stood to see what was happening. Koz moved forward to see over the crowd. When he realized it was just Tig and Bobby mouthing off, he turned back to the table and caught a sudden movement from the blonde. Hap turned back to the table after enjoying his brother's antics. Just as Happy was lifting his beer front the table to his lips, Koz reached over and grabbed the bottle. "Don't man."

Happy looked down at his boots, now spattered with beer. "What the fuck man!"

When he saw her start to back away, Koz reached over and grabbed her by the arm and pulled her roughly to his body. "She put something in your beer man. I saw it."

"No, no I didn't. You made a mistake." Heather tried to cover nervously.

"Shut the fuck up." Hap ordered, his face contorted in anger. Turning to Koz, he instructs his Brother. "Take her to your room. Let's not do this in the open. She does have friends here."

Happy turned back to Heather. "Go with him and don't make a fuss or I will kill you right where you stand and I won't care who's watching."

Koz threw his arm around her neck and led her to the back, leaning over and nuzzling her neck for show. He spoke into her ear, reminding her that she needed to go along or pay the price. Kozik felt her arm come around his waist in response as they disappeared from the crowd.

As they reached his temporary lodging, Kozik opened the door and shoved her inside before locking the door behind them. Heather knew she was in trouble; she'd been caught doing something that could easily get her killed. She figured she only had one chance. Using her best skills, she approached Koz who stood rigidly in front of the door. "Come on Tacoma, you misread what you saw. I know Happy isn't interested in me any more, but I think we could have a good time." She ran her hands up and down his chest and rubbed her pelvis into his crotch. She felt a stirring there and swallowed a smile of triumph. Koz just stood there not saying a word. Needing him to react, Heather boldly placed her hand on his twitching cock and squeezed. Running her hand over his jean clad member, she felt him grow with each pass. His arousal spurred her on to reach for his belt buckle. Her experienced hands made quick work of the buckle then the zipper on his jeans. The loose fit jeans slid down his legs and she tugged his boxers down as well. Dropping to her knees she takes him in her mouth.

Koz remained standing tall in front of the door, blocking her exit while he enjoyed her oral skills. Happy wasn't lying about those he thought with a groan as she swallowed him whole. He felt her throat squeeze his cock then pull back. He grabbed her hair roughly and pulled her to him again. He could sense the change in her, and allowed her to think she had won. He would enjoy the ride for now. It wouldn't be long, not with the way she was tugging on his balls and contracting her throat again and again.

Just as he was ready to spluge down her throat, a pounding on the door behind him cause an unwelcome delay in his pleasure. He calls out in frustration, "Give me a minute!" before looking down at the woman holding his dick in her mouth. "Keep going honey, and I'll take care of you later."

Through the closed door Kozik heard Tig's voice. "Hey Brother, take my advice and don't leave any DNA behind. It's a pain in the balls to get rid of the evidence later."

Considering his options for just a moment, Koz pulls out of Heather's hot mouth and zips up. He then shuts up her protests, while extricating himself from her continued advances. "Happy was right, you are just too desperate to be worth this bullshit. Now go sit the fuck down."

Kozik opens the door to face a handful of his Brothers. Once again Tig was the one to comment as he walks through the door. "So did you listen to me, or do I need to get the bleach?"

"Naw man, we're good. I lost my wood as soon as I heard you yapping at me through the door. Christ you're annoying."

"Sorry to ruin your fun, Brother."

Jax speaks up, for the first time. "Enough. Kozik, why don't you tell me exactly what went down."

When Kozik finished explaining what he saw, Happy reached for Heather, as she shied away. Grabbing her by her hair, Happy pulls her to him, his face inches from hers. His free hand grabs her throat with a firm squeeze. "You stupid Bitch. You dare try and drug me?"

Her eyes close, too frightened by the look on the man holding her life in his hands. As she feels his hand close over her throat again, her eyes open wide and she pleads for a reprieve. "I'm sorry, you misunderstood. I only wanted to show you a good time, I promise. I didn't mean any harm."

"Bullshit!" Happy growls as he shoves her away. He watches as she trips on her platform heals and lands awkwardly on the bed.

When Happy starts towards Heather again, Kozik slips into his good guy persona to defend her. With a knowing look to Happy, Koz steps in front of the whore. "Hey guys no need to get violent, she's just a stupid piece anyway, it's not like she had some diabolical plan."

Happy follows Kozik's lead as he sees a glimmer of hope in Heather's eyes. "Your right Koz she is just a stupid piece. Smart enough to know her place but desperate enough to push the boundaries. Now as attractive as I know I am to the ladies, it seems to me she's just a bit too desperate for just sex." Turning back to Heather with a menacing look, Happy demands an answer. "What are you after?"

"I'm not after anybody but you, you know that Happy."

"And that's why you were blowing my friend here just a few minutes ago." He lunges towards her again, as she steps behind Kozik to block his way. "Stop wasting my time, Bitch. What is your point? What is your purpose? I know it's not just me."

"You were my prize. I just needed to do my part." She said sobbing in fear not realizing what she was admitting.

"Part in what?"

Realizing the implications of what she said, Heather shut her mouth for once. She looked up at her only defender, her eyes entreating him to save her.

Kozik played her game. Placing his hands gently on her shoulders, he looks down and meets her eye. Gently rubbing his hands over her upper arms he speaks quietly to her. "Look Sweetheart, if you are involved in something or know something that we need to know about, you should tell us. I've defended you so far but I'm not a member of this charter, so I don't get a vote as to what happens to you, do you understand?" At her nod, he smiles gently. "Good. Now, if you tell what you know, I'll do what I can to get you out of this. You will need to leave town for sure, but you will be alive, that's all I can offer."

Heather's eyes glisten with tears as she shakes her head in denial. "No, as soon as I tell what I know, he'll kill me. I know it."

Placing his hands on each side of her face, Kozik tries again. "He'll kill you if you don't tell, that I can promise. Look, no one wants a dead body in the Clubhouse; we don't need the law in our business again. Your best chance is telling what you know then skip town."

Heather weighs her options, knowing Kozik can't stop Happy from killing her. Her eyes wander over the faces of the men in the room. She had fucked them all at one point or another, with the exception of Tacoma, but you could not tell from the stone cold look they each wore. After scanning everyone, she returns her gaze to the decision maker. "Look, I don't know what you want me to say, but I do know that I don't want you to kill me. If I tell you what I know I want to walk."

Jax's pretends to consider her offer. "If the information is worth it, you've got a deal."

Heather stands up straight, and runs her hands over her clothes to adjust them, as she stalls for time. Knowing she has no other option but to take the chance being offered, she decides to tell her story. "Ok, but you need to understand I did this to protect you Happy." She tries to catch his eye but he just stood there, glaring right through her. Licking her lips, trying to compensate for your overly dry mouth, she continues. "Several months ago, I hooked up with this man, just for the extra cash really. It was after Cara Cara burned and I wasn't working as much. This man paid me regularly for sex. But it wasn't just sex with him, he liked to talk after. He started asking me lots of questions about my life, and I just thought he wanted to get to know me. I really did. He asked about my likes and dislikes, he asked about my family and my job. The sex was boring but the attention he gave me after along with the money made it all worth it. Then one night he asked about my relationships. He said he knew I didn't consider him one, but he wanted to know everything about me. He wondered why such a beautiful girl didn't have a man taking care of me." Heather felt her eyes tear up as she remembered the feeling of having a mans full attention. It hurt her pride when she found out she was being used in more ways than just for sex. Heather nervously shifts her position knowing the next part may get her killed. "I don't know why I told him my troubles; maybe just because he asked and no one else did. But I found myself starting to talk. I told him that I thought I did have a guy until a woman moved to town and stole him from me. I told him about Audrey and my resentment of her, and how you, Happy, never gave me the time of day any more. He comforted me as I cried on his shoulder. For a while, whenever we met, he would ask me how I felt, and I would talk a little more. I never ever shared Club business, you need to believe me."

Jax nods at her knowing she was not privy to club business. Heather sees that he believes what she is saying so she takes a deep breath and goes on. "He said he could help me get even with Audrey for taking my man. I admit, I liked that idea. So he made some things happen. It was just small stuff, really. Then suddenly everything changed a few weeks ago. The sex became more aggressive, HE became more aggressive. Afterwards, he stopped asking me questions and started demanding answers. I realized he'd played me, and it hurt, but I was so scared. He said he would leave evidence that I was behind Audrey's sudden run of bad luck. He wanted me to do more, and I didn't understand why. He told me that I needed to get Happy back in my bed and make sure Audrey found out, or he would make sure Happy was the next dead biker in town. I swear to God I still don't know why he did this." Heather stopped, her tears flowing in earnest now.

Kozik saw the woman falling apart and knew they still needed more. So he comforted her until the tears stopped flowing. As she collected herself, Happy once again spoke. "Who is this man, Heather?"

She shook her head in denial, as her voice rose to an annoying pitch. "No, No you'll kill me I know it."

Walking closer to her once again Happy again spoke. "I'll kill you if you don't. Now who the fuck was threatening my woman?"

Not knowing what to do, Heather mouth just let out the truth. "Jacob!" Falling to the floor as her knees gave out. "Jacob Hale."

Happy stepped back, blown away by this reveal. He though for sure it would be that scumbag attorney Rick Delanson. As his mind came back to the scene before him, he gave a nod to Kozik, who picked the girl off the floor. "Thank you for telling the truth Heather, you really cleared up a lot for us." The pieces of the puzzle were slowly starting to come together for Happy.

"Can I go now? I'll leave town tonight, I promise. Please don't kill me." Heather pleaded for her life one last time, hoping Happy wouldn't be able to kill her.

"I won't kill you Heather." Was all Happy said as he steps aside, clearing a path to the door.

Relief showed clearly on her face as she turned toward the door. "You won't be sorry."

"No, I won't be." Was Happy's reply a split second before Kozik's arm's came around in front of her, one hand on her jaw, as he quickly snapped her neck, letting her limp body fall through his arms to the floor.

The men stood ignoring the body, as they thought of the implication of Jacob Hale's actions. Finally Jax spoke up. "We need a sit down to figure out what Jacob is up to. Any guesses?"

Happy nodded. "I have a few, but I need to think about it for a bit. I'll take care of the body, then come back to discuss this latest development."

Jax agreed, knowing Jacob was involved in a conspiracy against the club, he knew they needed to figure it out as soon as possible. Especially since they has just offed his partner. "Make it look like she skipped town. She had friends here tonight, no need for them to get suspicious."

"I was thinking it would be better if the poor drunk hit the guardrail and went over the embankment. That way we don't have to chance being seen packing up her shit. And it gets rid of the car too." Happy suggested.

Jax nodded his agreement. "Ok, that does sound good. But if you're heading up the mountain road, it will take a while, so let's meet again in the morning. Don't get caught Happy; this can't blow back on us."

"I'm a professional, Jax; just let me do my job."

"Good enough. You need anything?" Jax asked.

"I'll just need someone to follow me so I can get back."

Tig offered his assistance, then rummaged through Heathers bag for her car keys. "I'll bring her car around back; Koz, make sure no one is in the back hallway or out in the back parking lot. Bobby you go back out and make sure no one leaves for the next 10 minutes; we don't need any of her little friends seeing what's going on. Bitches can never keep their mouths shut." Tig muttered the last sentence more to himself than anyone else as he left the room.

Happy went to the dresser and got a pair of old worn gloves and slid them on before bending down and picking up the dead weight, slinging her over his shoulder in a fireman's carry. His phone buzzed with a text from Tig that he was in position and Happy adjusted the dead weight before heading for the door. He stopped for just a minute to assure Jax. "It'll all work out, Brother. I'll see you in the morning."

Watching Happy carry the latest in a long line of problems out the door, Jax sits on the edge of the bed and runs a hand over his face. His mind was reeling; not only over this evening's events but at the seemingly constant influx of roadblocks in the Club's path to success. He was trying to make things better, but never seems quite able to pull it off. As he stood up to go home for another sleepless night in his empty bed, he realized Happy was right when he told Jax that he needed someone at home he could trust, beyond all others, and that he'd be sorry that he threw what he had with Tara away. He placed his helmet on and started up the bike, wondering if he threw his family away for nothing. Could the Club ever succeed in this new world they were forging out? Maybe, but either way he still believed he did the right thing; they were no doubt going to prison, and he wanted more for Tara than the lonely life of a inmates wife. As he pulled away for the short ride home, regret weighed heavily on his heart, but he hadn't quite figured out what to do about it. Well, he had plenty of time to ponder his fuck ups while he lay awake tonight, waiting for morning to discuss this latest clusterfuck.