Disclaimer: I am in no way a part of or in ownership of anything related to the Sons of Anarchy or the Characters. I am not trying to make money now or in the future.
If foul language or explicit sexual content bothers you don't read any further.
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Sapphires and Whiskey Book 2
Chapter 3: Bones
The sunlight streaming into the room made it difficult to sleep in. Added to that was the lumpiest damn mattress he'd ever slept on. As Tig came awake he remembered where exactly he was. On the run with Gemma, until they figured out what they were gonna do about her mess with the feds. They were stuck at her Dad's place until they could get him moved to a nursing home.
Problem was he was bored and pissed that he'd been given the guard Gemma duty. She'd already caused problems insisting that they came here. In his mind it was the first place he'd look for someone on the run. Not too smart. He'd made it known how he felt until he was blue in the face. But Gemma was Gemma. You did what she wanted, period.
He rolled over and looked at the old alarm clock. Fuck, it's only 8:15? I really wanted to get some more shut eye. Last night he'd gotten shit faced. He'd been upset that he'd missed Sack's funeral. Then the call from Clay about the drive-by had solidified his anger at being on this shit detail. He should have been there, and definitely should be there today when they were getting intelligence on who did it.
Getting drunk hadn't accomplished much, and probably had done more damage than he'd intended. Pinching his nose he groaned at the memory of what he'd done last night on the phone with Kate. You're supposed to be distancing yourself from Kate nimrod. Not calling her and having phone sex. Not to mention the fact that she'd been drunk also, and at the end of their escapade she'd admitted out loud that she loved him. Problem was I liked hearing that from her. Makes it that much harder to do what I gotta do.
He'd known for a while that she meant more to him than he'd ever admit. She was who he ran to when shit got so thick he couldn't breathe. She fit his life style, understood who he was and accepted him for who he was. Her quiet, simple approach to their relationship had made it easy for Tig to fall.
The problem was he didn't want her to be hurt physically, or mentally, because of him and who he was. It wasn't just because of the club. He knew sooner or later he'd hurt her on a personal basis. His track record was riddled with fuck ups. So he'd made a promise to himself as he'd thought about the situation on the drive north. He would break it off with Kate before things spiraled out of control and they would both end up getting burned.
Yeah, it had sounded like a great plan twenty-four hours ago.
So now what do I do? I need a plan. Something even I can't fuck up. He smiled as he thought of a fool proof plan that would make Kate hate him. It was perfect. Except for the fact he was definitely in love with her.
What he hadn't bargained for is how bad it hurt to think about it.
XXXX
Kate woke up slowly, singing along in her head, to the song playing on her IPod.
What goes around comes around
Feel it breathin' down heavy on you
You made that bed you're layin on
Deeds that you have done, now you can't undo
You've got bones in your closet
You've got ghosts in your town
Ain't no doubt, dear they're gonna come out
They're waiting for the sun to go down
You can't hide from your demons
Feel them all lurking around
You're runnin' scared
'Cause you know they're out there
They're waiting for the sun to go down
It's a long and hard row to hoe
When seeds that you sow
Grow by the wicked moon
Be sure your sins will find you out
Your past will hunt you down
And return to tell on you
You've got bones in your closet
You've got ghosts in your town
Ain't no doubt, dear they're gonna come out
They're waiting for the sun to go down
You can't hide from your demons
Feel them all lurking around
Your're runnin' scared
'Cause you know they're out there
They're waiting for the sun to go down
Oh, it stands to reason
Every dog will have his day
Your day is leaving
Better hold on tight
Here comes the night
You've got bones in your closet
You've got ghosts in your town
Ain't no doubt, dear they're gonna come out
They're waiting for the sun to go down
You can't hide from your demons
Feel them all luring around
Yeah they've got you runnin'
You're runnin' scared
'Cause you know they're out there
They're waitin for the sun to go down
They're waitin for the sun to go down
What goes around comes around
Feel it breathin' down heavy on you.
Little Big Town
Stretching out her arms above her she moaned in appreciation of the new mattress. At least it's comfortable even if I have nightmares all night long. Memories of Max, Wes, the Mayans, and Tig haunted her dreams until it all made a jumbled mess.
She opened her eyes slowly to a bright light shinning down on her. Shit, I fell asleep with the lamp on. She reached over to turn it off, and saw the opened bottle of Stoli. It had quite a dent taken out of it. Damn Kate, no wonder why your head hurts and your eyes feel like sandpaper.
Heat crept up her face as she remembered what she'd done last night on the phone with Tig. "Oh God," she cried, covering her face with her hands.
Never in her life would she have thought about doing anything like that. He'd caught her on the way to a good drunk. She wasn't completely sure exactly how it had all gone down. She did remember having an incredible orgasm and drifting off to a contented sleep. You know alcohol makes you do stupid shit. Honestly Kate, will you ever learn?
I should have never called him back.
Her main purpose in getting drunk last night had been to forget about Sack's funeral and the drive-by. It had brought back all the memories of Max. It was still suffocating. The memories of what used to be still cut her to the bone. She hated being in such a paralyzing place. Alcohol gave her a way to at least be numb.
Knowing that the numb would only last as long as the alcohol did, wasn't stopping her from getting drunk almost every night. At least it kept the nightmares at bay for a few blissful hours.
She picked up her phone and checked the time. It was pushing 9:00 a.m. Making herself get out of bed she picked out a kick ass outfit for her meeting with Stan later and headed into the makeshift bathroom to get ready.
An hour later she stood in front of the full length mirror leaning against the wall and adjusted her belt. She wanted to make an impression at the meeting today for the show. She turned, looking closely at the reflection. She liked how the black boot cut jeans hugged her hips and upper thighs flaring out at the bottom over her Harley boots. The effect worked nicely to make her legs look even longer. She had a gray v-neck t-shirt tucked into her jeans. A black leather belt with a flashy silver buckle gave the outfit a little extra zing. To add the finishing touches she wore a black jean jacket adorned with silver studs and rhinestones.
She wore her hair curled, and pulled up into a loose ponytail. Curly tendrils escaped around her face softening the look. She'd added more makeup than she normally wore, taking extra care with her eyes. She used the soft smoky look that Jessie had shown her how to do, making her green eyes sparkle.
Grabbing her Vera Wang perfume off the table she sprit zed herself generously. Ummm I love this shit. Finishing off the ensemble with some silver jewelry she felt ready to take on Stan and the meeting.
She took one last look in the mirror. Damn Kate, you clean up nice.
Kate opened the door to the main floor and was pleasantly surprised to see Soup was already hard at work putting away the paint, and breaking down boxes. He'd made an impressive dent.
He stopped working and looked over at Kate. Giving a low whistle and wagging his eyebrows he messed with Kate. Then he grinned at her like a little kid heading over to see her.
She twirled around. "You think this is ok? I wasn't sure what to wear."
Soup decided to mess with her a little. He stood with one hand on his hip the other hand on the side of his face with the index finger covering his lips. He tapped his boot. "Hmmm, let's see." He gave her a wink, "I think it works, not to snooty, but not trashy either."
Kate laughed and fake punched him on his shoulder.
"You've been busy," Kate smiled at his comment as she looked around the shop.
"Yeah, I woke up early," he shrugged his large shoulders. His six foot four frame was lanky, but strong. He had a mess of curly hair he wore long. Usually it was pulled back in a queue. His fair features and light strawberry blonde hair gave credence to his Scottish roots, as did his real name. Ian Campbell, a.k.a. 'Soup' as he was dubbed by the Son's.
Kate had known of him through her Dad. He'd brought his bike in for repairs and such for years to the old McKinneys, while he'd been riding with the Oregon SOA chapter. He would do odd stints of work to pay off his debt. He had been there as a guard when Max had taken her, ending up with a bullet in his shoulder for his trouble.
Kate still felt guilty about the bullet, but thankful he'd lived.
"My meeting is today at 4:00 p.m. with Stan and the directors for this show on Discovery. I have no idea how late it will run. I will make you a list of stuff I'd like you to get done. See how much you can do but don't work past 5:00."
Soup digested that information, a plan forming in his mind. He knew the club would be searching for info on who was responsible for the drive-by but he hoped he could talk Juice and maybe a few of the other guys into coming over later to get everything set up and operational. He'd already talked to Doug, who was bringing Mo and Riggs down today. They'd be picking up Kate's latest project, which was sitting in storage, as a surprise to her.
"A 'right. No problem. Knock 'em out at the meeting." He would keep the impromptu help to himself for the moment in case it didn't work out.
Kate reached into her purse and pulled out a couple of key rings. She handed Soup one, "here, these are to the front door and the loading dock door around back."
"Wonderin, what's that side room over there gonna be?" Soup pointed to the far wall, which had a large room under the loft area above it.
"I figured it would make a great break room. It's got electrical set up to hook up a stove and a fridge." Kate shrugged her shoulders, "wasn't on the top of my list to get the place up and running."
"Cool. That'll work out nice."
"I'm gonna go work on that list," Kate headed out to the front towards what would end up being her office.
She'd gotten the list accomplished and shared it with Soup. She was working on unpacking the cash register when the front door alarm went off. What the hell? I'm not expecting any deliveries today. Glancing at her blank computer screens she wished her security system was up and running.
Soup appeared in the door to the office, "let me answer it."
It didn't slip past Kate that he had his pistol in his hand. Her stomach did an odd little flip, she'd forgotten that Soup was also there to protect her. The drive-by…club association. God this sucks.
Opening the door slowly, standing off to the side with his pistol held high and hidden by the wall, Soup looked carefully outside. "Ivan, what the hell are you doing here?"
"I need to speak with Kate," he pushed his way through the door not waiting for Soup to invite him in.
"Sure, come right in," sarcasm dripped from Soups voice. "She's in her office."
She'd heard the whole conversation from her office, so wasn't surprised when Ivan barged his way into her office, closing the door behind him.
Soup opened it, clearly not happy.
"It's ok Soup. Close it." Kate hoped she was right.
Soup didn't look happy, scowling at Kate as he shut the door.
"Kate," he smiled at her inclining his head in his usual fashion.
"Ivan," Kate looked him over, noting he looked much better than the last time she'd seen him. Today he wore a black silk suit, over a maroon dress shirt, worn open, with no tie. His blond hair was getting long. He had it slicked back off his high forehead, making his strong cheekbones stand out. His piercing blue eyes watched her studying him. God, I'd love to draw him, he has magnificent bones. Honestly he's not attractive in a super model way, but he has 'something'.
He raised an eyebrow as she studied him, "Sorry to drop in unannounced. However this couldn't wait." She got caught up listening to his Russian accent and missed his serious overtone.
"What's up?" Kate went back to work unpacking the cash register.
"Kate, stop for a minute. This is important." He walked towards her and put his hand on top of the box.
Kate looked up at Ivan, not liking the cold hard look on his face.
"I must ask you to do something..." his accent got heavier as he paused. "Something I would never ask of you unless it was very important." His gaze never broke hers, making her very wary.
"What," Kate's brain was on overload trying to guess what he was going to ask her.
"You knew the Russian Mob would probably figure out who you were, and link you to Max's murder." His voice was soft, trying to ease her into the uncomfortable discussion.
Kate's body reacted before her brain did. Chills skittered down her spine. She hugged herself, trying not to shake. "Oh, shit."
"Kate," Ivan reached out and gently lifted her face to look at him. "I am trying to protect you. Please trust in me, I have plan." His English became broken as he reacted to her distress. Ivan had feelings for Kate he'd never followed through on, making what he had to do today difficult. He hated dragging her back into contact with the Russian Mob.
He'd been with Russian Intelligence. Going deep undercover, he'd worked as Maximus Davidov's right hand man. He'd helped Kate escape after she'd killed Max, and when he'd gone to the authorities he'd learned that in the mess that was mother Russia, he'd been forgotten about. He no longer worked for his government. The FBI considered him rouge with no official ties.
His world had changed overnight. He no longer knew what he believed in. He couldn't go home to Russia, he had nothing there. The Mob did not know he'd been undercover. With little options, and a jaded view on life he'd gone the only place he knew.
Ivan had signed on with the oldest most powerful Russian Mob bosses on American soil.
Gathering her wits, she took a deep breath, "What the hell is going on? A plan for what?"
"The highest ranking Russian Mob boss is here in Los Angeles. His name is Vladimir Konstantinov, he was Max's…what you call it…godfather." Ivan watched Kate's reaction. "He has spoken with me about Max."
"So, it's natural that he'd want to know what happened to Max." Kate read between the lines. Then the fear really hit her. "What did you tell him Ivan?" Kate took a step back.
"Nothing to tie you to his death," Ivan spoke quickly, hating the fear in Kate's face. Hating how she was backing away from him like he was the devil himself. "He knew you were involved with Max, but did not understand what Max had done to you." I watched it, and it tore me up.
"So why are you here if he doesn't think I had anything to do with Max's death?" Kate hugged herself, trying hard not to crumble from the inside out. She was afraid. She knew firsthand how ruthless the Russian Mob could be.
Ivan took a deep breath as he pulled off his suit jacket laying it carefully across a box. He started undoing his shirt button by button, setting it on top of the suit jacket. He hated doing this, but she deserved the truth. He pulled his white tank top off adding it to the pile of clothes.
He stood still as death and let Kate look her fill. Not everyone got to see what was normally hidden under his clothing. His chest and arms were covered in various tattoos. She knew what they meant, she'd seen similar ones on Max, but for some reason it seemed Ivan was trying to tell her something, so she waited.
Ivan nodded and pointed to a large mural of a church. "This is my religion." He pointed to some words printed in a language she didn't recognize. "These words say 'eye for an eye'." He stopped and looked at Kate, his eyes hard. Ivan waved his hand at several more, "all these tattoos tell a story." He paused looking into her eyes.
Kate's quiet voice pierced the silence of the room. "I know." She saw the spider-webs on his elbows, those meant he'd killed.
"In the beginning my story was fabricated with tattoos. They were given to me to create a different life. It was to help me blend in when I was placed in jail with Max when I went undercover." His voice was strained, bitter. "But then the lies became the truth, and over time new tattoos have been received." He turned his right arm out to show her.
She saw the fresh ink on his inner forearm. Pointing to it she asked, "that one?" It was a row of three stars colored in red.
"I belong to Konstantinov now." His eyes locked on hers, his pain and confusion breaking her heart. "I am one of his soldiers, though since I was Max's right hand man I am a lieutenant in rank. Thus the three stars."
Digesting what he'd just told her made Kate's knees weak. Here, standing in front of her was a very dangerous man. She'd always known that, but when he'd confessed to be an undercover cop her guard had dropped. She'd just assumed he'd always be on that side of the fence.
Now all bets were off.
She really didn't know this man. How far would he go to move up the ranks?
He smirked covering up his pain. Ivan hated watching the truth of what he'd done play across Kate's face. He'd grown to respect her during her interim with Max. He'd seen a woman of incredible strength. A woman who was smart and street savvy. A woman who wasn't afraid to take steps to save herself, even if it meant getting bloody. He respected her strength.
She was a woman worth all the Rubles in the world. His heart ached with want. He'd kill to have such a woman love him.
Tis Good, she understands what I've done.
He slowly got dressed, giving her time to recover.
"You still haven't answered my question. Why are you really here?" Kate whispered, afraid to hear the answer.
"I was questioned about what happened because I was Max's second. I had to tell him everything, no lies, except who shot Max. For that I laid the blame on Stahl." Ivan ran a hand through his hair, stalling.
"And?" He was making her crazy, dancing around the answer.
"He put out an order to have you brought to him. He wants to meet you. Ask you questions. Get information from you about Max's business."
"Me? He put an 'order' out on me? Is that like a hit?" Kate was incredulous.
"Neyt, NO! Not a hit," Ivan waved his hands. "But…if I don't bring you back as I promised…he will send others for you."
"And…" Kate waved her hand at Ivan. "You get goody points with the new boss for bringing me in." Sarcasm dripped from Kate's voice. He doesn't give a shit about me. He's protecting his position with the Mob.
Ivan's head was spinning. Didn't she realize he'd done this to protect her? He could take her to Konstantinov under his protection. He alone could keep his dogs off her. If anyone else had come for her he was sure it would have gotten ugly. She would have fought and probably ended up hurt. How do I make her understand?
"Kate, I think you misunderstand." Ivan moved in closer, hurting from the choices he'd had to make, wanting to give her comfort, wanting her. "Come here." He pulled her close into his embrace. "I will not let them hurt you."
Before she could register the fact her was pulling her into a hug, she found herself enveloped in his strong arms. She felt his heartbeat against her ear as she rested her head on his chest. He smelled wonderful, his expensive cologne penetrating her thoughts, throwing her off balance.
His hand moved up her back and rubbed her neck. He leaned down towards her face and angled her head towards him. His lips brushed hers tentatively, taking a small taste. She was too stunned to fight.
She melted into his arms, lost in the moment. A nagging thought broke into the haze. Stop this Kate…What the hell are you doing? She pushed Ivan away, flustered and indignant. Upset with herself for falling so easily into his arms.
"Please Ivan…stop!" Confused and embarrassed Kate turned away from him. Way to go Kate, you're so completely ignorant you never saw that one coming. She ran her hands through her hair stalling for time to gather her wits.
Ivan had the nerve to give her a crooked smile. "Seemed like you were enjoying yourself, but what do I know?"
Holy shit, he's right. She shoved that thought far back into her brain and forged ahead.
"We need to finish this conversation."
"If you go and meet with him willingly, give him any information you may have and most of the money I know you 'misplaced', I think he will leave you alone after that." At least I hope he will.
"Really?" She gave a nervous laugh knowing it wouldn't be that easy.
Ivan threw in the last punch. "We need to go today. I was given twenty four hours to bring you in."
Kate shook her head, looking at her watch. It was pushing 10:00 a.m. The drive to L.A. would take around three and a half hours. She could squeeze in the meeting before her meeting with Stan if Ivan could insure they'd be able to leave.
"I have a big meeting in Hollywood at 4:00. If you can guarantee I will be allowed to go my merry way after I 'share' with your boss then we need to get moving. The meeting will have to be around 1:00."
He pulled out his cell phone and began speaking Russian. He smiled, all teeth and no warmth. "Let's go."
"I need to grab some stuff. Hold on, it will take me five minutes." Kate pushed past him heading up stairs to find her memory stick with all the crap she had on Max. She formulated a plan on what to give the Mob and how much of the money she'd pilfered she would share with them. If it meant they would leave her alone than she would play nice.
Soup was waiting for her when she came downstairs. "Everything ok?"
"Yeah, I'm leaving with Ivan. I'll be back after my meeting with Stan. Text me if there is a problem." She surprised Soup by leaning in and giving him a peck on the cheek.
She and Ivan headed outside, Kate heading towards her truck.
"No, you will ride with me." Ivan steered her towards an amazing black Mustang Saline, fully loaded with a Roush Racing kit.
"I have stuff to do after the meeting Ivan." Kate dug in her heels.
"I will take you where ever you need to go. I will be your protection." He gave her a little shove in the direction of his car.
Indecision racked her. She remembered the drive-by and realized having Ivan around could work to her advantage. "Ok, thanks." Bonus for you Kate, you get to ride in this beast of a car.
XXXX
"Yeah, I think I can get a few of the guys to help out. We should be able to get away for a few hours tonight." Juice did a mental check of everything that he needed to accomplish with the guys.
"That would be great Brother. I'd love to have this place all set up when she walks through the doors. She's always doing for everyone else, be nice to do for her." Soup smiled thinking he might actually get to surprise Kate by having the shop all put together, and her security up and running by the time she got back from her meeting.
"Cool, see you later man." Juice flipped his phone shut and joined the group collected in the club house. Soup is right, we owe her.
XXXX
The ride to L.A. had been long and quiet. Neither she nor Ivan had made small talk. That had been fine by Kate. She'd used the time to search her soul about her 'thing' with Tig. She couldn't call it a relationship. It was more like a friends-with-benefits thing.
A relationship required admitting to one another exactly how you felt about the other person. Kate had said she cared but had never really said to what extent her feelings went. He'd never really said much either. It was like one person was waiting for the other to take that first leap of faith.
Kate hadn't been sure how long it would take her to feel comfortable being intimate with a man again after Max. With Tig it hadn't proved to be an issue, which had been a relief for her. What did that mean?
How did she feel around other men? She'd been revolted and pissed when Koz had stolen that kiss last night, no denying how that had made her feel. It had brought out all the old fear of not having any control over the situation, reminding her of Max.
Her reaction to Ivan had been unexpected. She'd never seen any evidence of Ivan being attracted to her, until he'd kissed her. In the wake of the surprise she'd kissed him, and enjoyed it. She'd been curious, and had to admit she had liked it.
She knew several things for certain. The whole white wedding and kids were not in her future, and she was cool with that. However, she did crave a meaningful relationship with someone who wasn't afraid to commit to said relationship. At this point it was doubtful Tig fit into that description, and to be honest with herself, he probably never would.
She couldn't deny her feelings for Tig ran deep, caught somewhere between love and lust. And that was just how she felt.
Caught between the proverbial rock and a hard place.
Tig was a complicated guy underneath his SOA persona.
So Kate. What have you figured out on this long ride? Nothing, nada, you're wheels keep spinning and you get nowhere. So I guess the best thing I can do is just hang on and see where the bucking bull lands me.
The black Mustang pulled into the lot of what looked to be a run-down repair garage. Several older model tow trucks were parked alongside the building and a few cars were sitting off to one side. To all appearances it was just an everyday run-of-the-mill business.
Appearances could be deceiving.
Ivan parked his car next to the building and looked over at Kate. "I don't have to tell you how to handle yourself, you learned with Max." He paused, "let me lead the conversation, I know Vladimir, his ways."
A major case of nerves was currently messing with Kate. She didn't trust herself to talk, so she just shook her head in agreement, and gave Ivan a wan smile. She grabbed her flash drive and shoved it into her pocket.
They entered through a side door, immediately a man in a suit approached them. Kate had to stifle a giggle, as he looked like Mr. Clean. His huge bald head sat on a set of massive shoulders, connected to a broad rib cage. From there his waist narrowed, to a modest set of short legs. She figured on good days he might be six foot. He nodded to Ivan, "comrade. This is the woman?" He walked towards Kate and reached out.
Ivan cut him off before he could touch her. "Da, she is clean, no weapons. No one is to touch her." His posture and tone made it clear he was serious.
Mr. Clean nodded and stepped back.
Ivan grabbed her elbow and led her towards the back of the shop to a steel door. This time two men guarded the door, she labeled them Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. They were obviously twins, the only difference being the color of their dress shirts under their impeccable black silk suits. Man these boys like nice suits.
Dee, on the right, stood as though someone had stuffed a rod up his ass. She'd bet her last dollar that he was pushing six foot four. He wore his dirty blonde hair down to his shoulders and slicked back. He had a touch of hair under his lower lip, leaving the rest of his face clean. His deep set brown eyes held no warmth in them.
Dum, on the left, stood in the same exact position. Must be hereditary. He was exactly the same height and wore his hair the same length, though to give him some credit his hair wasn't as slick as Dee's. He wore slightly more facial hair with a full fu-man-chu. His eyes were the color of honey, and they lingered just a little too long on her for her tastes. He lifted a heavy eyebrow and smiled at her. The smile held no warmth, and she felt like a shark was circling her.
Ivan looked at 'Dee' giving him a short nod, "Raphael."
Kate thought, oh goodie, Tweedle Dee is a mutant ninja turtle. She smiled at him, lost in her private joke.
Raphael looked at her and raised his eyebrow. Just like 'Dum'…ha, ha.
Kate knew there was nothing funny about this meeting, or these men. When she was nervous it was natural for her to crack jokes. She just couldn't stop herself. She took a deep breath to settle her nerves.
She heard Ivan continue talking to Raphael. "I have meeting with Vlad." His voice was thick with his Russian accent. He stood relaxed, and seemed to be bored. Wow, he's so good at this.
Kate relaxed her hands from tight fists opening and closing them to restore feeling. Trying to appear as unconcerned as Ivan did.
Raphael nodded to Tweedle Dum, who knocked on the door. A muffled voice came through from the other side. Kate listened carefully. She'd picked up a little Russian over the years. She knew the man had said 'enter'.
The door was allowed to open fully and Ivan ushered Kate into a large office.
The first thing Kate saw was a man she assumed was Vladamir. His presence commanded the room, even as he sat behind a huge cherry desk. Standing, he walked around the desk to greet Ivan and Kate. His smile seemed genuine and his eyes glinted with what Kate thought was pleasure at seeing Ivan. He pulled Ivan into a bear hug, patting him heavily on his shoulder.
Vladimir had a shock of pure white hair cut closely to his head. It was long enough to show a natural curl, and very thick. He wore a full beard, though it was clipped and worn short. His heavy eyebrows hovered over his deep set gray eyes. His deep dark weathered complexion, as though he'd spent most of his life working outside, made his eyes sparkle.
He moved his six foot frame with ease, making it hard to tell exactly how old he really was. His body still held clues to how fit he'd been in his youth. He wore a short sleeve dress shirt which was fitted and tucked in neatly. It showed off his trim figure. For an older man he'd aged extremely well or he worked out on a regular basis.
Ivan returned the hug and kissed the older man lightly on each cheek. He also seemed to be enjoying seeing the older man. Ivan pulled himself out of the embrace and motioned towards Kate.
"Vladimir, this is Kate."
Vladimir turned toward Kate and made no attempt to hide the fact that he was studying her. His face gave nothing away, as he reached out and took her hands into his. He smiled warmly, and lifted her right hand towards his mouth kissing the back of her hand. His grip was strong, but not harsh, and his kiss was quick and gentle. Some little voice in the back of her head was screaming you know this guy, figure it out Kate!
He was beyond charming.
Oh, be careful Kate. He is not what he seems.
Kate gave him a warm smile back. It was hard not to take an instant liking to this man.
"Kate, please feel free to call me Vlad." His voice was smooth as silk. A deep bass, which vibrated as he spoke. He released her hands and motioned to a corner of his office which held a sofa and several comfortable chairs arranged around a large coffee table. "Let's sit and discuss our business as friends."
He led the way, gesturing to a man who'd been standing against the wall in the shadows. Hissudden movement startled Kate. Shit Kate, pay attention to the details, don't let him lull you into forgetting how powerful he really is.
"Dimitri, grab us a bottle and some glasses, would you?" The man nodded and began preparing a tray. Vlad stopped and smiled at Kate, "forgive me. It has been a long time since I have entertained a lovely young woman such as you. Perhaps you would prefer tea?"
Kate smiled back, "no I would actually enjoy a glass of Vodka, thank you."
His deep laughter rolled through the room. "Ah, I do enjoy a woman who will drink Vodka. She reminds me of my Sasha." His voice held a note of sadness at the mention of her name. "You were quite right Ivan, she is a rare one. You should take care with her."
Kate, her back stiff, shot a quick look out of the side of her eyes at Ivan. Just what had he told Vladimir about their relationship? With no other option she played along for now.
Ivan followed the old man, sending a look at Kate with a slight nod in the direction of the sofa. Kate headed in that direction and settled into the comfortable leather. She accepted a glass of vodka from Dimitri. Taking a sip, she sat back waiting for the old man to get down to business.
Vlad sat and looked at Kate for what seemed an eternity. She held his gaze, not showing him how unsettling his actions were to her. Finally he shook himself from thought and began the conversation. "Ivan and I have talked many hours about what Max did to you."
"I see." Not really.
"Max was always my favorite. He wasn't always a good boy, but he was a ruthless business man." He paused and looked away, gathering his thoughts. "I wish to be frank with you."
Kate sipped her vodka and nodded at him.
"You have information about Max's contacts, business arrangements, and bank accounts. I want that information." His eyes narrowed, watching Kate for her reaction.
"And what will I get in return for giving you this valuable information?" Kate locked eyes with him, never showing him any of the fear that what churning in her gut.
Vladimir shot a look of disbelief to Ivan. Ivan responded with a shrug of his shoulders, a smile and spoke Russian to him. Kate caught only a small portion of what had been said. Something along the lines of 'I warned you she would not give in easily."
He turned giving Kate a toothy smile. "You will be considered a 'friend' of Vladimir Konstantinov," his voice held a note of superiority, as though that was the best gift she'd ever receive.
And in this instance maybe it was.
"I want nothing more." She smiled at him, hoping she'd said the right thing.
He smiled warmly at her, "excellent."
"I will need a computer to load the information to." Kate took another swallow of the Vodka, it was helping her relax.
Vlad looked over at Dimitri, "see that she has everything necessary. You will work with her and tell me when everything is complete."
Dimitri gave her a blank stare, "This way." His voice was thick with his accent.
Kate sat down her drink and got up to follow him. He was a thin short man. With dark stringy hair and dark eyes that sat to close together, he reminded her of a Weasel. He led her to a desk on the opposite side of the room. His hands flew over the key board sitting in front of a large flat screen monitor. "Tis ready. I watch."
"Fine," Kate pushed him away from the seat. "Give me a little room please."
He moved back a few steps, keeping an eye on her as she worked.
"I am formatting this flash drive to work on your computer. All the information is set up in folders." She stopped and looked over her shoulder at Dimitri to make sure her was following her.
"Da. Go on."
"So this folder is labeled contacts, this one is sources, this one is all his bank accounts…you get the idea." Her fingers danced on the keyboard as she went through the information and opened multiple windows proving to Dimitri that the information was all there.
Vlad's voice came from across the room. "Exactly how much money was Max worth?
Kate replied immediately, "There are several accounts. They all add up to several million, easy."
She finished typing and pushed away from the table. "It's all there," pointing to the computer.
Dimitri sat down and immediately began working on the files.
Kate walked away and headed back to the couch and her drink. She took another sip, the butterflies in her stomach eased. So far so good.
Vlad watched Dimitri working. He waited for conformation.
Dimitri nodded, "It is verified."
Vlad sat back in his chair and folded his hands in front of his face as he looked at Kate. "How do I know you did not make copies?"
"I want nothing from Max. He kidnapped me," she moved forward to the front of the couch and looked into the old man's eyes before she continued. Make him believe. "He did things to me that I will never forget."
She wiped at her eyes with shaking hands. It wasn't hard to act upset, being here, with these men had brought it all back. She'd been shoving it to the back of her brain, so she just let a little out to the surface, enough to make Vladimir believe.
"I don't need or want anything of his. I have my own business, my own life." He'd never know about the small amount she'd given SAMCRO. "A life that Max brutally ripped me out of."
He nodded, "I know everything about your past with Max in New York. How his father helped you leave him. Everything." He sighed, "there were no secrets between my brother and I. He knew Max handled you badly." His face lit briefly with his memories. "He told me he wished things had been different, he liked you." Then he looked at Kate the memories gone, his eyes clear. "As I do."
Kate sat back, blown away by his declaration. She remembered that day with Max's father clearly. He was Victor's brother? "You don't resemble him."
He laughed, "No, I look like my Mothers people. Victor took after my father, the old prick."
Kate drank some more Vodka and stole a glance at Ivan. He'd polished off his drink long ago, and was watching the whole conversation as though it was boring him. He met Kate's eyes and gave her a short nod and a wink. Okay Kate, just keep it together for a little longer.
Vladimir stood, "Ivan explained you took time out of a busy schedule to appease this old man. I will not keep you any longer."
Ivan stood and motioned to Kate to do the same. He gave Vladimir another hug, patting him on the shoulder and speaking Russian to him once more. It was a familiar farewell that Kate had heard him use with Max.
Vladimir turned to Kate and held her face between his hands lifting her head to look into his face. "Thank you for killing that ATF bitch. I know that somewhere in your heart you cared for Max, even after what he did to you." He kissed her on the cheek and releasing her. "You ever need for anything I insist you come to me."
"Thank you Vladimir. It's been a pleasure doing business with you." She smiled, stepped forward and gave him a peck on the cheek. "I will remember to come to you if I have need of anything." She stepped back hoping she hadn't gone too far.
Ivan stepped forward and grabbed her elbow gently steering her towards the door.
Vladimir's voice shook with suppressed laughter, "Oh Ivan, you have your hands full with that one. I wish you luck." He drew in a raspy breathe and added before they made the door, "bring her by the restaurant some night, I would like that very much."
Ivan squeezed her elbow, a silent message to stay quiet. Kate knew better than to react and kept walking as Ivan looked over his shoulder and replied. "Da. I will, Vlad. I will."
They walked past Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, standing at attention next to the door. Kate kept her eyes ahead of her ignoring the leers from both men. She felt Ivan tense, and saw him give both men a feral stare.
Mr. Clean met them at the door and opened it for them.
As soon as she heard the door shut she ripped her arm out of Ivan's grip and wheeled on him. "What exactly did you tell Vladimir about us Ivan?"
Ivan kept walking to the mustang, leaving Kate standing alone. "Not here. Get in, there are cameras."
"Of course," how stupid of me. She turned and headed to the car.
As soon as the mustang cleared the parking lot Ivan held his hand up. "Let me explain."
"Oh, please do." Kate's voice came out smooth as silk.
"I told him I was your protector. That I had grown to like you when you were with Max." He took a breath, watching in his mirror for anyone following them. "I said I'd like to make you mine, but I was giving you time to get over what had happened." All of it is true, I would like to make you mine.
"So that kiss? What was that Ivan?" Kate turned sideways in the seat. She wanted to see his face.
Ivan whipped the car into a parking lot of an abandoned building and threw it into park. He opened his car door and got out running his hands through his hair, pacing as he gathered his composure. He was wound up tight as a drum. The meeting had worn on his last nerve, though he had to admit it had gone well.
He needed to handle Kate like an unbroken filly. She was wild and unpredictable, and tended to shy away from contact. He'd planned on working on her slowly, letting her get used to him being around.
The kiss had been an accident, though she'd kissed just as he'd imagined she would. When you broke through her defenses she responded wholeheartedly. That small glimpse into what it could be would keep him coming back for more.
He continued pacing, working off some of his nervous energy. Noticing that Kate was leaning up against the car watching him he stopped and looked at her. She'd handled herself with an amazing amount of constraint and had followed Vlad's leads. She would make an excellent undercover agent.
"I will not lie to you," his accent was heavy, giving away how much this meant to him. "I felt as though my hands were tied when you were caught in Max's lair. I was undercover, and could not help you escape without blowing my cover." He sighed heavily, "Then you took matters into your own hands. I did what I could to help you."
"But…" Ivan held his hand up.
"Neyt…let me finish. I find many qualities in you, besides the fact you are attractive, that are endearing to me. You're strength, perseverance, intelligence and wit are just a few. Then there is the undeniable fact you have a certain…something…. You're a fire I can't resist."
He'd closed the difference between them as he'd confessed how he felt, like a lion stalking his prey. His blue eyes met hers. He read her confusion, and plunged ahead.
"I know what Max did to you. I would never treat you as he did, though it must be hard not to link me to his behavior." He paused, wanting to touch her but knowing it would break her silence. "I took you to The Son's of Anarchy that day because I had nowhere else to take you. I knew they would help you, though I hated giving you over to them."
"Ivan," Kate knew it was costing him to confess this to her. She just didn't know what to say. It had taken her by surprise to hear this coming from Ivan. On top of that add in that she'd just faced someone who could make her disappear from the face of the earth with the snap of his fingers had left her unsure.
His face was mere inches from Kate, her scent making him crazy. He dug deep for the fortitude not to steal another kiss. "I know you are with Trager. So how I feel does not make a difference," he shrugged trying to brush it off. "It is reason I stole that kiss earlier. I am the moth, you are the flame." His voice was thick with his accent.
God does he realize how sexy his voice is? Kate held his gaze for a few seconds and took her time choosing what she hoped were the right words. "Ivan I owe you my life. Right now I'm a mess. I am seeing Tig, however I'm not sure exactly where we stand at the moment."
She paused, trying to decide whether or not to say the rest. Throwing caution to the wind she added, "Never in a thousand years could you remind me of Max. I do not hold you responsible for his sins."
Ivan's head dropped as he looked at the ground. "For that I am grateful."
"I think you're smart, ruthless and honorable. Throw all that in together and add loyal to the top of the list. I don't blame you for choosing to work for Vladimir. You were forgotten, left to your own devices. It is all you know, what your good at." She smiled at him, his face showed how amazed he was at her confession. "If things were different, I'd like to get to know you better."
Ivan looked at her for a few seconds, flashing a brilliant smile. "I will settle for friends right now. But understand. I will be here if you ever want to 'get to know me better'."
"Friends is a great place to start." Kate smiled back at him.
Heading back towards the driver's door he asked, "Where is meeting?"
XXXXX
Stan waited impatiently in the foyer of the TV studios building. He hated waiting. He glowered at his cell phone, noting they only had 15 minutes before they needed to be upstairs for the formal meeting with the big wig execs. He needed at least 10 minutes of that time alone with Kate to get her to sign papers for him.
His assistant Marty was waiting in a small office down the hall with everything laid out and ready to sign. Now all he needed was Kate McKinney. He was quite certain she'd be worth the work. This show was a high priority for this network.
Finally! He spotted Kate approaching through the main doors. What the hell? Did she bring a lawyer with her?
He forced a smile onto his face and met her half way. "Kate!" Stan pulled her into a light superficial hug. He released her and looked sideways at Ivan. "And who did you bring?"
Ivan answered before Kate could. "I am her bodyguard."
Kate laughed, "this is Ivan, Ivan this is Stan."
"Right then," Stan waved his arm towards a hallway, eager to get going. "We don't have a lot of time, I have a few quick items you need to sign for me. Then we will head up stairs for the meeting."
Kate looked at Ivan and rolled her eyes. Ivan smirked and said under his breath for only Kate to hear. "Can I kill him?"
"A necessary evil, Ivan, a necessary evil." She wondered if she'd made a deal with the devil.
They followed Stan into the small room and sat down at a small table. He pushed a stack of papers at Kate. "This is our contract, it makes me your official manager."
"Wow, been nice to be able to read this before the meeting today. What's the rush Stan?" Kate leveled him with a look, ignoring the stack of papers. Did she really need a manager?
"Kate, it's the terms we spoke about over the phone a few days ago." Stan had the audacity to look hurt.
She'd had enough. It was time to set shit straight. "Look Stan, I've only met you once, at that party in Hollywood when I took that tank job for your buddy. I don't know you, I don't trust you, hell I'm not even sure if I like you." She heard Ivan snicker. "Get over it." There that wasn't so hard to say. "I'll pay you for today, after I read these and have my lawyer check it out, we will see where we stand."
She pulled out her check book and looked at Stan waiting for a number.
Stan sighed and sat back into his chair. "Alright, give me three hundred for today." He looked at his assistant Marty, "pick that shit up and fax it to Kate later."
Kate handed her check to Stan, "the fax number is on the check."
They pushed away from the table and headed up to the meeting.
XXXX
Ivan looked over at Kate. They were almost back to Charming after a very long day in L.A. Two meetings later, and untold hours of being polite and civil to a pack of hyenas left him in a serious need of a drink.
"You're quiet. Wishing you did not make the commitment for the show?"
"No." Kate shook her head and continued. "I think the show is going to be awesome. I do have second thoughts about Stan."
"He is Weasel." Ivan agreed.
"I don't know anyone else."
"I will look into it…Vlad has many contacts." Ivan pulled the mustang into the parking lot slowly, amazed at all the cars and bikes parked out front.
"Will you look at that…why are there so many cars and bikes in my lot?" Kate sat forward as they pulled in.
"Let me go in and see what is happening. You stay here."
"No it's ok, I know those bikes."
"Sons?"
"Yeah," what the hell is going on?
Kate walked in the front doors and stopped dead in her tracks. The waiting room was finished! Her chairs, art work, rugs and plants were arranged neatly. The fridge was setting on the cart as well as the coffee maker. Resting on the counter was her cash register, lit and apparently set up. She looked to her left and found a keypad for the security system instead of bare wires.
Quickly she made her way to the steel door to get behind the counter. She went through to the other door that led to the offices and back work rooms. Music and loud male's voices and laughter came through the open door to the work area.
As she passed by her office she took a quick peek in. "Holy Shit!" Again it was all put together. Tables and chairs, rugs and art work arranged in the way she'd drawn out. Monitors lined the presentation center and her desk was finished. A wall of security monitors were in view from her desk. It was better than she had imagined it.
She noticed a speaker system was hooked up to the bare wires that had hung from the walls. That's where the music was spilling out from.
"Someone has been busy. This is very nice Kate." Ivan waited for her to move further.
"It's amazing." She headed through the next door to the back work rooms.
The first thing she saw was her Dad's old bike sitting on a lift in the last bay. Parts lay scattered around it. Doug and Soup were looking at a part on the work table when Doug realized they had company. He looked up and smiled at Kate.
"Oh my God!" Kate flew across the distance and jumped up in the air as she tackled Doug. "This rocks!"
Doug grinned at her enthusiasm, he hadn't seen her so happy in months. "This was all Soup. He made the calls and got us all here to help."
She let go of Doug and turned giving Soup an outrageous hug as well. "Oh Ian, this is so unexpected."
He hung on, not sure how to handle the praise. "No problem boss."
"She needs a lot of work," Doug patted the old bike.
"Yes she does. I have an idea for her out in the show room for when she is completely restored. I won't be riding her." Kate ran her hands over the rusted fender, picturing her Dad riding it.
Hearing loud laughter and several familiar voices Kate pointed in the direction of the break room. "What's going on in there?"
"A not so friendly game of Texas hold 'em is what's happening. We already got knocked out." Soup whined as he picked up a wrench.
Doug saw Ivan lurking in the background by the front desk. "Why is he here?"
"I will tell you later. He is here as my friend." Her tone made it clear not to make an issue of him being around.
Doug raised his eyebrows, shrugging his shoulders. "Your call."
Kate walked towards the poker game, motioning for Ivan to join her. As she walked through the door she was amazed to see Juice, Bobby, Chibs, Kozik, Happy, Chuckie, Rigg's and Mo sitting around a huge oval table. They were drinking and the taunts were flowing. It looked like the last two players, Chibs and Happy were all in against each other and the flop was coming. Everyone's attention was on Juice who was dealing.
The flop gave Chibs the winning hand. Boos and Cheers were forth coming. Even Mo and Riggs were interacting with the Son's and having a great time. Kate smiled, this is my fucked up family. I couldn't ask for better. Bobby looked up and must have read her thoughts. He winked at her and nodded his head, as he gave her a warm smile.
After the commotion of the last hand settled down Kate started pouring shots of whiskey for everyone. Doug and Soup had joined the group as well.
"Hey!" She yelled, getting everyone's attention, looking at each and every one of them before she finished her thought. "I am amazed at the incredible job you guys did pulling this place together." She used her sleeve to wipe away tears she couldn't stop from flowing. "Thank you all so much." She raised her glass, "to friends."
They all threw back their shots and grinning like fools as they slammed their glasses down on the table.
"Fifty bucks buy in for the next game guys." Bobby looked up at Kate. "There's plenty of room for You and Ivan to join in.
"I'm in." Ivan reached into his wallet and dropped a 100 dollar bill onto the table. "I'm putting Kate in too."
"Aye Katie, I've got ye an open seat next ta me." Chips slapped his hand on a folding chair.
"Let's play." Sitting next to Chibs, she accepted a cold beer from Happy. "Thanks."
Kate sat back and enjoyed the cards, the alcohol and the conversations. It was a real chance to study the guys, and did she get an eyeful.
She learned that Chibs was an excellent Hold 'Em player, he didn't have any obvious tells, and was an excellent strategist. On the other end of the spectrum was Juice. He had tells, and they hurt his odds at pulling off bluffs, which he loved to do. Happy was a quiet player, though when he stayed you knew he had a good hand, she hadn't seen him bluff once. Soup, Koz and Bobby were just getting fucked up and playing for fun, hard to get reads off that.
She'd played poker with Doug, Mo and Riggs before, so she didn't have to study them too much. Ivan was up there with Chibs, he kept a very straight face, and she hadn't found a tell on him yet.
Conversation ran the gamut from Abels kidnapping and Gemma being on the lamb. The club was working on ways to find the baby, and had used the extra money Kate had 'donated' recently to keep the pressure on the streets for Intel.
"So Kate, Soup was telling us you are 'gonna be a star." Bobby threw that comment out to her after he'd gone all in to Ivan and lost.
"It's a new show on Discovery. It will be about five bikes shops building an 'ultimate' bike. We will have two months to build it. Then we will take it to Vegas for the last show which will be taped there. The crowd will vote for the winner."
"OOOhhh, you gonna pose naked with the bike when it's done?" Koz sneered at Kate. He was still sore from the kick in the crotch she'd gotten in.
He was rewarded with a smack upside the head from Happy. "Behave asshole."
"Ouch, shit Hap!" He voiced his displeasure at being smoked.
She smiled at their antics, amazed that Koz hadn't bothered her with his comment. "Wouldn't you like to know?"
"Man Tigger is gonna be one lucky man." Juice winked at Kate.
Kate smiled and played along. He wasn't here, and she hadn't heard a word all day from him. She'd sent him several texts, no replies had come back. Fuck 'em.
Several shots and multiple beers later it was down to the last four players. Everyone had stuck around watching and talking. The party was in full swing. Several of the girls from Cara Cara had shown up and were sitting with their favorite Sons. Music blared in the background, as voices and laughter added to the commotion.
As the game ebbed down to the ending, many of the guys had taken the Cara Cara girls off to places unknown. Kate decided she didn't want to know anyway. Everyone was beyond drunk to the point of passing out wherever they landed. She hoped no one would try to drive anywhere.
Looking around she found at least three guys already passed out. Mo had laid his head on the table and was snoring. Soup had passed out on the futon, Doug next to him. Chibs and Happy were drunk but hanging on as they were the last ones left in the game. Juice was getting a lap dance in the corner from one of the girls.
She made eye contact with Ivan, who sat drinking Vodka out of the bottle. He was glassy eyed, but seemed fairly functional at this point. He gave her a feral smile. Oh, boy. What the hell is that all about?
She stood and had to wait for the room to right itself. Damn, you are really drunk. Her intention had been to pull some of the heavy weight all purpose throws off the shelf for the guys to use as blankets. She kicked off her boots, finding it easier to walk that way and made her way out into the main work area, finding the blankets on a supply shelf.
She walked past a snoring Bobby, he'd fallen asleep on a lift with one of the girls. She opened a blanket and laid it across him, tucking him in. Chibs stumbled out of the break room with a smile across his face pocketing a wad of cash.
She handed him a blanket. "There is a futon in the office. It's all yours."
He stopped and planted a wet kiss on her. His voice was thick with his Scottish accent, "Thank-ye darlin."
She made it back into the break room and found Happy had decided to sleep on the table. She threw a blanket over him, and over Doug and Soup on the futon. Juice was nowhere to be seen, nor Ivan. She shrugged her shoulders and decided she needed to head up stairs before she passed out too.
She turned the corner and headed to the stair well leading to the loft. Ivan strolled out of the shadow along the wall, following her silently. Kate opened the door with her key and turned around to set the lock, running straight into Ivan.
"Aack! Jesus you scared the shit out of me."
Ivan had already shut the door behind him, turning the dead bolt.
"What are you doing?" He had that I'm the Lion and you're my prey look going on again. She backed up several steps until she hit solid wall. Oh shit!
He didn't talk, he just kept closing the distance between them. She looked around in the inky darkness, the only light was the red glare coming off the exit sign. His face was smooth, with a hint of a smile. But his eyes, reflecting the red glow made her shiver.
She should run. Now.
But her legs wouldn't budge. Instead she wondered what those sculpted lips would feel like brushing her mouth, her skin. What would he taste like? Stop it Kate.
Too late. He placed both his hands on the wall next to her head. His body crowded against hers, pining her to the wall. He froze looking intently into her eyes.
"I want to taste the Vodka on your lips Kate."
Umm…ok…I mean…No! She screamed in her head just as his lips landed on hers. This was no soft searching lazy kiss. This was a full on assault, and damned if her body wasn't responding with a resounding yes!.
She gave as good as she got. Drunk enough to have lost any inhibitions, her brain was two steps behind her libido. They stood straining to deepen the kiss. Somehow she'd wrapped her long legs around his and he was pushing his erection up against her hip.
Somewhere deep in her brain a little voice was yelling at her. Hellooo! This is not a smart move Kate! STOP! She brought both of her hands up against his chest and pushed as hard as she could.
"Stop!"
Ivan backed away, looking at Kate with lust filled eyes that glowed red in the light. "I just want to give you a night of pleasure." He smiled, and backed up, holding his hands up. "But if you say no, then I will stop."
"No. This, us…" she waved her hands at him, "can't happen."
"Maybe not tonight. But someday perhaps". He gestured in a sweeping arc, "where is Trager Kate?" He added with a lift of his eyebrow. "Why do you stay loyal to him?" He'd thrown out those questions, knowing she wouldn't answer, but at least he'd get her thinking.
Kate slid along the wall, past Ivan to door. In a soft pleading voice she whispered, "please leave."
He walked slowly, looking at Kate the whole time. "Good night."
She slammed the door and took off running up the stairs, suddenly sober. She opened her door and stood inside leaning up against the door. Her hand went to her lips. They felt fuller, slightly bruised and tingled when she touched them.
Kate what the hell are you doing? Messing with fire, you stupid girl.