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 5: The Catalyst
Tig bent over the side of the ford focus, ducking under the hood setting the battery in place. He was signing along to the Linkin Park song on the radio under his breath.
'Waiting for the end to come,
Wishin' I had strength to stand.
This is not what I had planned,
It's out of my control.'
The rumble of motorcycle drowned out the music, curious he pushed out from under the hood and straightened up, holding the wrench he'd been using to install a car battery watching as an unfamiliar bike turned into the Teller Morrow lot. He was basically in charge of the shop at this point due to Gemma being in the hospital, so he was keeping a close eye on the place.
Shaking his head he tried to dispel the sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. Visions of last night had danced in his head all morning. They'd ridden into the lot of Teller Morrow just in time to watch Gemma collapse. What a fucking mess.
His mind snapped back to the moment as he continued watching the lone rider, admiring the brand new Harley low rider with a kick ass paint job. They didn't have a cut on, so it wasn't a club member. As they parked he saw a nicely formed feminine leg reach for the pavement. He waited, admiring a view of her ass, as she pulled her gloves off, and tucked them neatly into her saddle bags. Shit, I know that ass. She took off her black helmet, undoing a loose ponytail and let her brown hair tumble free over her leather coat. Katie.
Tig looked to his right and realized he wasn't the only one enjoying the show. "Hey Fuckwad! What you lookin' at?" He yelled over at Kozik.
Kozik shrugged his shoulders, and grinned at Tig. "What? I was admirin' her ride."
"Fuck you were." Everything in Tig screamed MINE, even though he and Kate hadn't spoken since he'd done that nurse. And it hurt like hell. Since that day he'd come to realize that maybe he should've thought out that brilliant plan a little more. There was no getting her out of his system.
Tig hated himself for what he'd done, even though he still felt that she should be with someone else, someone who could offer her a better life. As he waded his way through unfamiliar territory within his mind, he stood staring at her, lost in his thoughts.
Piney stuck his head out of the office to see why Tig and Kozik were going at it this time. He grinned as he noted the scene playing out before him. Tig was slack jawed, watching Kate as she parked her bike. Kozik had honed in on Tig's hesitation and was heading out to talk to Kate. No doubt just to get Tig fired up. Hell, I can't miss this opportunity either. He limped over to Tig standing next to him and stared at Kate as well. This out to be entertaining.
"What you lookin' at?" Piney asked innocently as he smacked Tig hard on the back.
Tig jumped in surprise. "Jesus!"
"That Kozik's old woman?," Piney continued acting as though he didn't know who she was.
"What?" What the fuck is he doing? A distracted Tig handed Piney his wrench and walked away towards Kate and Kozik, leaving him chortling in amusement.
"…nice fucking paint job. Wow that is amazing how they made the mushroom cloud show skulls, and it looks like water. And the fuckin' sky looks like space. Damn! It must've cost you some big bucks." Kozik had walked a circle around the bike and stopped in front of Kate.
"I did the paint work and the design. It's a representation of the ocean bleeding into the sky, from a favorite song of mine. You do know I own my own shop." Kate spoke patiently as though she was speaking to a small child. Maybe he will just leave me alone if I act like a complete bitch.
He ran his hand through his hair and gave her his patented smile. "That's right! You painted Tigs 'Purple People Eater'." Kozik laughed at his own joke.
Kate glared at him, groaning inwardly. She couldn't help rising to the bait. "It is Midnight Purple, one of my shops original colors. Besides, all the artwork covers most of the color. " She stepped around the bike putting it between them, watching as Tig walked toward them with fire in his eyes.
"Whatever, purple is purple, but the art work on his tank is kick ass." Kozik grinned at her again enjoying pissing her off.
"Fuck off Dormin." Tig stepped up into Kozik's chest and bumped him.
Kate stood and watched as the two men stood toe to toe. She had yet to figure out why Tig was so cold to Kozik, and why Kozik always seemed to egg Tig on.
Koz's face held the plastered on patented smirk, his eyes boring into Tig's as he thought about his options. His faced flashed a wicked smile and looked innocent as he raised his hands in a supplicating motion. "Sure thing Tig. 'S funny tho, just last night you were saying that you and her were finished. You could f…"
Tig's body coiled in on itself as his eyes threw ice daggers at Koz. His fist shot out connecting with Kozik's chin in a vicious undercut that caught him off guard, effectively silencing him. Keeping his body in Kozik's personal space, Tig took several steps forward. He followed as Kozik stumbled backwards and worked on keeping his balance. Blood welled on Kozik's lower lip but he defiantly held his head up and stared back at Tig, his eyes haunted. He wiped at the blood absently, laughing as he shot Kate a look and shrugged his shoulders.
"You're gonna shut the fuck up, and walk away." Tig bit out as he struggled to calm down.
Kozik's eyes flashed, then he took a deep breath and waved his hands flat. "A 'right. I got work to do anyway." He gave a loud laugh, winked at Kate and turned away heading back to the garage.
Kate watched while Tig and Kozik had their little pissing match. Well what do you know, he still cares. And what the hell is the deal between them anyway? She waited as Tig gathered his composure, grabbing the folder out of her saddlebags that she'd brought over to give Gemma. She wanted to give her information on the paint shop and hopefully set up a reciprocal sort of arrangement. Then she was gonna get in Gemma's face about the stunt she'd pulled yesterday.
She realized he was waiting for her to say something. "I came to see Gemma." She waived her folder. "Not you." Their 'conversation' could wait. They damn sure were gonna have one, but not in the middle of Teller Morrow's lot.
"Shit Katie." She doesn't know. Tig ran his hand through his hair as he thought of what to say. "Gemma's… in the hospital."
"Oh." Tig watched her face as the information sunk in.
"Is…what happened?"
"She uh, she came home last night while we were taking care of some business. She wanted to see Abel, and then she planned on turning herself in. She had her mind made up." Tig paused and pinched his nose. "We were right behind her, knowing she didn't know the truth about Abel. We pulled into the lot as she was on the phone, and watched as she collapsed."
"She ok?"
"She's stable now. She has a heart condition, and hadn't been taking her meds. The call was from Ireland…about Abel, and she just couldn't handle the stress." Tig looked away, trying to reign in his emotions, last thing he wanted to do was show Kate how much he was worried.
Kate watched as Tig told her about what was happening. He was truly upset. Kate knew he and Gemma had a close relationship. He was hurting. Without a second thought she stepped around the bike and walked up to him pulling him into a hug. He stiffened at first, then accepted her comfort as she rubbed the back of his neck in a soothing motion.
"I'm sorry Alex."
Alex, does she know how her using my real name makes me feel? His thoughts were a jumbled mess, as she rubbed his neck and melted his foul mood. Aw God, she smells so fucking good. He took control of the embrace and brought his hands up framing her face, turning her face up towards him. Her hazel eyes turned up to meet his heated gaze, losing himself he murmured "whiskey", lost in their depths. The pads of his thumbs rubbed the back of her neck as he leaned into her, meeting her lips. Soft, taste's so amazing. Why was I walking away from her? He heard a soft moan escape from Kate as he deepened the kiss.
Kate wanted to give in to his kiss and enjoy the moment but her anger with him squashed any warm fuzzy feelings she was getting. She forced herself to end the kiss slugging him in the chest several times as she shoved away from him. "Why didn't you call and tell me last night?" She gave him an accusing look. "Really Tig. No matter what is going on between us you should have called me. You're such an…an asshole."
"Sorry." He even managed to look sorry, giving her his big blue eyes. He waved his hands, "I really didn't think you'd answer my calls right now."
"You could've left a message, called Soup or Dougie…somebody, anybody." She was still upset. Gemma was a friend as well as the closest thing to a mother figure Kate had had in a long time.
"Shit Katie." Tig looped his left thumb through his belt loop and ran his other hand through his hair in frustration. "You're right ok?" He paused pinning her with his gaze. "It's just; well there's been a lot of stuff to deal with. Club stuff, and now I am kinda in charge here with Piney."
"You suck Tig. Really." Kate wasn't ready to let him off the hook that easy.
"Katie, we need to talk." Tig pinched his nose and fought the urge to pull her into his arms. Her obvious distress made him feel even worse for not following his instincts last night and going to her. He needed to tell her the truth and apologize about the nurse thing as well.
Kate sensed his indecision. Not now, not here, I've got a lot to say to you big boy. "Come see me later, any time at the shop." She refused to meet his eyes, knowing his gaze could make her change her mind. I need to hold my ground on this. She shoved the folder at Tig's chest. "This is info on the new business. I'd appreciate any paint jobs you guys could throw my way, of course I will send any car repairs your way. We are officially open."
Tig watched as she pulled her hair back into a loose pony and donned her helmet. She grabbed her riding gloves and sunglasses meticulously putting them on. She watched as he moved in front of her bike grabbing her handlebars. She saddled up, firing up her bike, looking at him over the rim of her sunglasses. He went to say something and she revved the motor to drown out his words.
"Move Tig."
He continued to stare at her for a few tense seconds then stepped aside. "A 'right, I will see you later at the shop."
Kate raised her chin and stared at him through her dark sunglasses, shrugging her shoulders. "I'll be there." All day, and you won't show up. She eased her clutch in and tapped it into first gear, gunning the engine as she roared out of the lot.
Piney walked up and stood shoulder to shoulder with Tig. He watched Tig closely as he stood watching Kate drive away. Tig shook his head and pinched his nose, letting a large huff out. Piney smacked Tig hard on his shoulder, "Damn, when you gonna get smart boy? She's perfect for you."
Tig turned and looked sideways at Piney. He was a cantankerous 'original' member who'd made a royal mess of his personal life. He's givin' me advice? "I dunno man. She's pissed off with me right now, not really speaking to me." And I deserve it, I am such an asshole.
Piney scratch his nose and huffed. "One thing I learned in this long life, you can't figure what women are thinkin. It's best to just say what you're feelin and find out where she stands." He gave a harsh laugh, "a woman sure is nicer to stay warm with at night than a whiskey bottle and an oxygen tank". He added in a quiet voice. "I blew it with Opie's mom. There are things I would'a done differently."
"U-huh," Tig grimaced as he realized if he wasn't careful he'd end up being just like Piney, old and alone. He knew about regrets with past women in his life, knew he'd made some monumental mistakes. For the life of him he couldn't ever recall feeling this way over any woman, even the one he'd made his girls with. I can't fuck this one up.
He dropped the folder absently on the desk and headed back to the car battery he'd been installing. I got all day to think of what I want to say to her. This time, for once in my life, I'm gonna get it right.
XXX
"Okay everyone smile!"
Oh how I hate posing for pictures. Kate kept the smile plastered on her face as she stayed sandwiched between Doug and Soup. She hissed keeping her smile in place, "I will get even with you for this Doug."
"Now Katie, this is for the business so just suck it up and keep smiling." He rubbed her shoulder trying to sooth her frayed nerves. He knew the past couples of hours had been pushing her limit of playing nice.
Click, the flash made her see white spots.
"Okay, Ms. McKinney that should do it."
The guys scattered leaving Kate to deal with the young overzealous reporter. She took a deep breath and plastered a smile on her face as she reached out to shake his hand. "Thanks Mike, I'm sure your article will be very thorough." It better be after two hours with you.
"It was my pleasure. The article will run in tomorrow's morning addition." He shook her hand, his face blossoming once again.
"Common, I'll walk you out." Kate herded him towards the front door following him outside intending to grab a quick smoke. Lord knew she needed to chill.
She waved halfheartedly as the kid drove away. Oh thank God! She pulled a cigarette out and walked over to the building leaning againstthe brick wall as she lit it.She leaned her head back and rubbed the sore muscles in her neck.
She took a long drag, thinking that the rest of the week would prove to be just as taxing. The film crew for "The Show" would be rolling in tomorrow. It was going to be hard getting used to having them around the shop all day. They would even be doing some amount of taping outside of the shop too. The producers called it "filling in". The hard part would be acting like they weren't there.
Hitting her cigarette one last time she made mental notes for her evening plans. Doug, Soup and her would spend the evening working on an idea board for the bike they would build for the show. They'd have 3 short weeks in which to build it and transport it to Vegas for the finale. She and Doug had thrown around ideas, but hadn't really found "the one". So tonight they were going to figure it out.
She ground out the butt under her boot, making a mental note to get a smoke eater for outside. She didn't want a bunch of butts littering the ground out by her front door.
Kate locked the front door behind her, flipping the 'closed' sign out. She put in the code for the security system and shut off the lights to her showroom. She walked by the old Indian that they had just finished restoring today, lightly running her hands down the saddle. It was nice having a piece of her Dad resting in her own place. The shop was complete, and she was ready to start a new chapter in her career, hoping to make a real go of the artistic end of paint business.
She gave the seat one last pat and headed back towards the break room to grab some grub and some coffee. Her stomach rumbled at the thought of food, making Kate realize she hadn't eaten since breakfast. No wonder I have a king size headache.
"So did you get rid of boy wonder?" Doug smiled and winked at her. "He sure had a major crush on you."
Soup joined in on the teasing, "yeah every time you talked to him he turned beet red."
"Really? I hadn't noticed." Kate blew off their remarks in hopes of dropping the subject. It had been painfully obvious, Kate had worked hard to be nice, but not encourage him.
"I can't wait to see the article. Wonder if he will print the picture of your ass he took?" Soup winked at Doug, waiting for Kate's reaction.
She didn't disappoint him. "My ass would look better than my face." She patted it for emphasis. "It's a nice ass."
It was Soups turn to turn red. "I've never noticed." He coughed, then broke out laughing.
"Ok, ideas for the bike?" Kate looked at the guys. "I will write our thoughts down, just start talking, no matter how ridiculous it may seem. We can weed out the good stuff after we brainstorm."
XXX
Tig walked slowly ahead of Unser as he was herded into the small cell. "I want my phone call."
"Yeah, yeah. Get in there." Unser slammed the door shut behind Tig. "You really did it this time Trager. It's not just the local P.D. that you led on your merry goose chase. You involved the feds this time too. The charges are gonna pile up."
Tig gave Unser a role of his shoulders, "What? I didn't do anything wrong." He used the most grating voice he could muster. Fuck you Unser, you're a traitorous little bitch. It seemed that the long standing friendship between SAMCRO and the Chief was over.
"Where is Gemma, Tig? I could maybe get some charges cleared if you cooperate." Unser looked at Trager.
Tig walked slowly up to the bars, never breaking eye contact with him. "Go fuck yourself. I'm not a rat, never will be."
"Enjoy your stay, don't know when that phone call will happen." Unser replied hotly. It bothered him that he'd had to accept a friendship with Jacob Hale, Charming's new Mayor. It had placed him in a serious rock and a hard place with the Son's. He hated getting in bed with Hale, but the bastard had some serious clout.
Unser shook his head. His so called retirement hadn't happened. He'd just ruined a long time friendship with Gemma. He'd hated having to go after Gemma, hated pulling his gun on them and forcing the current situation. Some days it just didn't pay to get out of bed.
Tig turned his back on Unser in disgust, taking a couple of steps and collapsing onto the bed. He threw his arm over his eyes, propped up his feet on the end bar crossing them at the ankles and promptly blocked out the fact he was stuck in jail, while everyone else got on a cargo plane headed for Ireland. Can't fucking believe I am got left behind. I should be there protecting Clay.
XXX
Kate turned off all the shop lights and headed upstairs to her loft. She opened the door and stood in the doorway looking at all the boxes and the cluster fuck that was her current living conditions. I really need to look for a place nearby, this isn't going to work. The problem was there just wasn't a ton of options in Paradise.
She headed to the kitchenette and pulled a sugar free red bull out, grabbed her favorite Vodka, a glass and some ice making her favorite drink. She lifted the drink to the ceiling and made a mock salute, "Here's to you Trager, I knew you wouldn't show up tonight." And I'm drinking red bull! She smiled at her private joke, knowing Tig always rode her about drinking the energy drink.
Kate absently began straightening the kitchen up, and emptied several boxes of supplies, finding places for them in the cupboards. She put her IPod in its dock and turned it up, dancing and singing as she worked.
Her mind kept working around the issues with her and Tig. She loved him, it was that simple. No matter how much she circled around the idea of loving him she couldn't find a way out. She was tired of dancing around, playing games. She just wanted someone to come home to at the end of a long day. A man who could be a steady common element in her life. She would confess to Tig how she felt and if he couldn't handle the truth then she'd figure out how to move on. No more wasting time.
Knowing that Tig was a major player in the Son's didn't scare her off. She knew what the life meant, knew Tig took chances with his life and stood for some hard core ideas that not everyone could believe in. None of that mattered to her. She'd grown up with a father who'd 'been there and done that'. Maybe that was why she was drawn to Tig, to his differences and similarities.
The more she thought about his lame attempt to drive her off with the dead nurse, the less it seemed to matter. She wasn't as mad about her as she was at him for making a decision to sabotage their budding relationship, without talking to Kate about what was really wrong. They had seemed so close to making something real. He'd flat out chickened out. Big Bad Tig had gotten scurred.
Several hours later, lots of Vodka and Red Bull and tons of empty boxes, had Kate standing in the middle of her spotlessly clean and organized loft. She twirled in a large circle feeling a sense of accomplishment for getting everything done, but she still didn't feel like it fit. The fact was Kate wanted a real home, and someone to share it with.
The sad part was it was never further from reach.
She grabbed the bottle of Vodka and took a large hit knowing she'd need to be really drunk to fall asleep tonight. Her brain just wouldn't shut down. Thoughts of Tig had turned her brain to a broken record, replaying the same thoughts over and over.
She grabbed her phone and sent a drunken text to him, angry that he'd not come over like he'd said he would, and didn't think enough to send a text or a call her way to beg off. She typed scowling at the QWERTY board wishing the keys would hold still, "WTF? You said we needed to talk." She punched the send button, threw her phone at the pillow, rolled over and went to sleep.
XXX
Tig was in a horrible mood. Spending a miserable night on a lumpy smelly mattress had done nothing to improve it. He'd gotten his call in to Piney late last night explaining what had gone down and for him to get the lawyers involved so "he could get the hell out of this goddamn jail as soon as possible". The old man had informed Tig he was way ahead of him and he'd known what Tig had done. All was good and the 'birds were away'.
Tig figured that the 'birds' referred to the group of Son's, including Gemma, that had gotten on a cargo plane arranged by Oswald. Knowing that he'd helped get them on their way to Ireland, a step closer to finding Jax's boy, had made him feel like he'd accomplished something with his 'tow truck joy ride'. He'd successfully drawn the police away from Gemma, Jax and Clay. The only drawback was he got left behind.
He was upset that he'd not been able to contact Katie. He'd fully intended to see her yesterday and try to work out the 'kinks' before he would hop on the plane for Ireland. But fate had a funny way of fucking things up. He was pretty sure that he was on strike two, first the nurse, then with last night's no show he'd have some serious ass kissing to do with her.
His time in the jail had given him some somber time to think, and to realize he wanted a real relationship with Kate. His last stunt, with the nurse and not being able to get Kate out of his head, had proven to him that he was stuck on her. He didn't need the mindless one night stands anymore, hell he didn't want them. She was what he craved. Now he had to figure out how he could justify them as a couple. He had to come to grips with what seemed too good to be true. Good stuff like Kate just didn't happen to him.
Hearing the door to the holding tank squeak open he watched as Unser approached the doors with his keys in hand.
"Let's go Trager you're out. Somebody actually posted bail for your sorry ass."
Tig gave him a cold smile, "What, you gonna miss me Wayne?" Tig gave a loud coarse laugh, "I thought we could go hang out together and be best friends."
Unser tilted his head sideways at Tig, giving him a look of disbelief. "You're seriously deranged, you know that don't you?" He led Tig out into the main office area of the station.
Tig was more than a little shocked when he saw Katie standing in front of a desk signing some paperwork. She looked up and gave him the high eyebrow with a small smirk. What the hell?
"I called Piney and told him you'd need a ride, seeins how you don't have a license." Unser gladly informed Tig.
"Whoa! I don't have a what? Are you fuckin' kidding me?" Tig stopped and looked at Unser for an explanation.
"What did you expect Trager? You led multiple police cars on a hundred mile an hour goose chase into another county. You won't see your license for at least two years." Unser smiled at Tig, enjoying the moment way too much.
Tig exploded "That's such bullshit!" He turned and gave Unser a hard stare, "awe common man, this ain't right. I gotta work! How am I supposed to ride?"
"Take it up with the Judge, until then I'd better not see you behind the wheel or on your bike." He pointed to a desk, "your personal stuff is over there, stop and see Brenda for it."
Tig stopped and collected the brown envelope looking briefly inside to check the contents. He signed the paperwork for it and slammed the pen down on the desk.
Turning he looked directly at Kate smiling, "Thanks for comin." He stopped in front of her, the single thought that she's mine rumbled through Tig's head. He couldn't stop himself from lifting her chin up and giving her a soft kiss on the lips. He dropped his forehead against hers and murmured "Let's get outta this hole." I can't believe she came for me.
Kate walked quickly out into the bright sunny parking lot leading Tig towards her F-150. She couldn't believe Tig had kissed her in public, showing her affection. Something is different with Tig.
Once they got into the cab Tig broke into the envelope and pulled out his sunglasses, sighing as he slipped them on. He carefully placed all his rings back onto the correct fingers and slid his wallet into the inside vest pocket. Once he was done he stole a look at Kate.
She had slipped on her sunglasses and was gunning the truck laying rubber at the exit of the police station lot. That's my girl, Tig caught himself grinning at her like a fool. He quickly hid his smile and sat back as she drove.
Kate had caught Tig grinning at her like an idiot when she peeled out of the lot. It just felt good to be a little bad. She smiled and looked over at him. He was reading messages on his cell phone.
"Where to?" Kate was in no hurry to get back to the shop. Doug was busy showing the filming crew around, she was happy to let him handle that.
"I'm starving. Pete and Anna's?" Tig gave her a hopeful look.
"I could eat." Kate stayed quiet, she wanted Tig to lead this conversation. He'd been the one to say they needed to talk. She was curious as to what he'd wanted, and it wasn't a stretch to keep acting like she was mad at him.
"Piney called you to come get me?"
"Yep, said they were short at the shop and Kozik was getting the tow truck out of the impound."
Tig huffed as he thought, you sneaky old bastard, short my ass. Whatever, he was gonna role
with it. "Appreciate it Katie, I know you're busy with the new business and all."
Kate shrugged in indifference, saying as little as possible trying to stay mad at him. "So-k."
"How much was bail?"
"Enough that if you jump I will enjoy torturing you in ways you could never imagine". Katie lowered her glasses down her nose and looked at Tig over the rims. "Really."
Tig grinned at that thought, gracing her with a full blown ice melting grin. A vision of Kate with handcuffs flashed through his head. "Honey, I might enjoy that."
"Doubtful," though Kate couldn't help but smirk at the sexual innuendo.
"I don't plan on jumping bail, but if I did I'd make it up to you." Tig looked out his window.
"I don't care about the money." It had come out of her secret stash left over from her time with Max. She truly didn't care. Though Tig didn't need to know that, he had no idea she'd embezzled the money or had made her little trip with Ivan to turn over the information and money she had stolen from Max. She didn't think he'd be very understanding of her doing anything with Ivan, let alone meeting with the Russian Mob on a voluntary basis.
Tig pulled off his sunglasses and pinched his nose, laying his head back with his eyes shut. "What a goddamn mess this is."
"Piney filled me in. It was one of my conditions of paying your bail and picking you up. He seemed more than happy to spill." Kate paused, braking at a light. "Tig, if you were gonna go to Ireland were you going to tell me?"
"Yes, I'd planned on it." He sighed, shifting in his seat. "Shit fell apart in a hurry."
Kate made a hard right into the parking lot of the diner. Tig hopped out as soon as she threw it in park, forcing Kate to follow him into the diner.
Tig purposefully chose an empty booth against the far wall away from everyone else. He wanted privacy for the conversation he intended to have with her.
Anna rushed the table, "ah, my two favorite people." She patted Tig on the shoulder and leaned in giving him a kiss on the cheek. She reached over and put her hand on Kate's giving her a warm smile. "You are sleeping better? Yes?"
Tig gave Kate a look of surprise. Kate ignored his look and hurried to change the subject. She didn't want Tig to hear about their last discussion. "Anna, can we get some menus? Tig is just starving." She smiled sweetly at Anna.
Catching Kate's hint Anna stepped over to the other booth and took the menus off the table, returning and handing them to Tig and Kate. "I saw the article on your new business Kate. I have a great feeling that it will prosper."
"What article?" Tig looked at Anna and Kate in confusion.
"Oh you didn't see the paper this morning?" Anna gave Tig a look of wonder. "I will bring you one dear." Turning and flitting away Anna began to hum under her breath.
"I wonder if she would call you dear if she knew you spent the night in jail?" Kate jabbed at Tig, still sore about everything that had been happening.
Tig sat back and gave Kate a long serious stare. "Trouble sleeping Kate?"
Kate shrugged her shoulders and wouldn't commit to an answer. She wasn't about to admit she was still reeling from Max.
Anna reappeared saving Kate. "Your coffees and a paper." She handed Tig the paper opened to the article. "Ready to order?"
"I'll take the special." Tig gave Anna a smile and a wink.
"The same for me thanks."
Anna smiled, "I'll leave you two to chat."
Tig picked up the newspaper laying it flat on the table. Kate couldn't hide her curiosity and leaned over to look at the pictures while he read the article. She read the headline, Paradise Welcomes its Newest Business Owner. That's me!
Tig looked up at her grinning. "This is a real nice article. It will be great advertisement for your shop."
Kate folded it up to keep and read later. "Thanks."
"A 'right, I've been doing a lot of thinking." Tig played with the spoon on the table. Suddenly he was nervous and self conscious.
"Yeah a night in jail would give you time for that." Kate was holding onto her anger like a security blanket. She wasn't going to make this easy for him.
He looked away, trying to keep his anger in check. "Just listen," he turned back towards Kate and looked into her eyes.
"Ok." She decided to swallow her inner bitch and give him a break, considering he had spent the night in jail and hadn't purposefully messed up.
He pinched his nose, and took a deep breath. "This isn't easy. I've been a fool mistreating you." There I said it. "I had my own misconstrued ideas about why we shouldn't be together."
Kate felt a surge of excitement course through her. Did I really hear him right? She hugged herself, rocking back into the soft seat. She didn't know what to say, how to react. So she just sat back and listened.
Watching Kate's body language nearly undid Tig. She was holding onto herself, leaning back into the booth holding his gaze defiantly with her luminous yellow green eyes. His heart stuttered as he realized how fragile she must be on the inside even though she always gave off her "I'm tough" side. He gave her a tentative smile trying to reassure her.
"My life, with the Son's, is dangerous. I don't want anything to happen to you because of me. I thought I could protect you if I drove you away." He sighed, his eyes locking onto hers. "I don't feel like I deserve someone like you. I've been in other relationships, and they all turned to shit, for whatever reasons, which were most likely my fault."
She'd held out long enough. Sitting up and giving Tig a hard stare she bit out. "First of all, I know what the life is all about. I can deal with it. I've been through enough in my own life that makes your argument look pretty weak." She paused, looked out the window trying to hold back tears. When she got upset it was really hard to hold them back. I will not cry in front of him. "Secondly," she searched for the right words her anger building with the incredulous thought that he wasn't good enough for her. "You don't deserve someone like me? WHAT THE FUCK DOES THAT MEAN?" Her voice traveled throughout the small diner, everyone turned and looked in their direction.
Well that didn't come out right. "Easy Katie," Tig purred trying to calm her down. He looked quickly around the diner and saw everyone staring at their table. He glared back at them.
"Oh screw you Tig, easy my ASS! You finally decide to talk to me about some serious shit and we are in the middle of the diner. SO NOT MY FAULT!" She jumped up and ran out into the parking lot, heading to her truck, trying to get a handle on her emotions.
Tig stormed after her. "Wait. Katie, Godammit will you wait!"
She stopped next to her truck and turned around. She held her hand up palm out making him wait to say anything. "You don't deserve ME? You are fucking crazy! I am no better than you." She stuck her index finger so hard into his chest that he took a step back. She kept poking his chest stepping towards him as he back pedaled. "Let me remind you how fucked up my life has been. Remember Max? Remember Wes? Anyone I've ever been involved with has died a violent death! Anyone I've dared to love, given myself to dies. I am the kiss of death Alex." The last words were punctuated with a slap on his chest. Tig was slammed up against the jeep next to her truck. The heat died out of her voice as she wiped tears angrily away. "I don't want you to die too."
"I'm not going anywhere. I am not that easy to get rid of. Max tried and failed." He pulled her into his arms tucking her into his chest, resting his chin on her head as he rubbed her neck and back. He held her loosely, trying to help her calm down. Damn she carries around a lot of guilt over their deaths.
Kate pulled out of his embrace and looked away. "I am so fucked up in the head right now. I don't know what to do, if I should take another chance. My heart screams for you, my head is still pissed at you for that…that woman." She took a step sideways, trying to get away from Tig. "I am so fucking confused."
"I know this is not the best place to talk, but I needed to tell you before I talked myself out of it. Let me finish what I wanted to say, please." He grabbed her by the shoulders, not letting her leave.
Kate looked at him with a look of total devastation on her face. His stomach did a strange flip, seeing her hurting like this was killing him.
"Alex, please." He was killing her, she was trying so hard not to break down in front of him, or rage at him about what he'd done.
"Katie I…I care about you."
She scoffed looking up at him, crossing her arms. "You sure have a funny way of showing it Alex."
"Yeah, well..." He paused running his hand through his hair, knowing she was referring to the nurse. "I was running scared, trying to push you away. I was trying to do what I saw as the right thing. Problem was, the whole time, I was…you know…I was thinking of you, seeing your face." He pinched his nose, "I didn't even finish the deed Katie. I got shot before we sealed the deal."
Katie was wavering, her anger at him dissipating with the visual of Nate barging in on them and shooting him. She hid her smirk behind her hand. Hard to be mad when she is dead.
"Can you forgive me?" Tig lifted her chin, meeting her eyes.
Kate thought about her near miss with Ivan. She hadn't gone as far as Alex but she did understand his logic. Dammit! "Yes." She watched as Tig's face lit into a big smile so she quickly added. "But only because I can see your twisted logic in this."
"I want to try and make this work between us. I just don't know how this shit is supposed to work." He leaned in and trapped her against the truck. His lips met hers, softly at first then with more pressure as if he was unsure of how she would react.
He pulled back from the kiss and looked at her waiting for her to say something…anything.
"Alex, I care about you too." She wasn't ready to admit out loud that she was in love with him. "If we do this…this 'thing', then I have a few stipulations."
He gave her a lazy grin. Rules were good. He needed the structure they offered. Plus he had a few of his own ideas to add to her list. "Can we go back inside and go over them while we eat our breakfast?"
Her anger diffused quickly, lost in his smile. He's too damn sexy, and he knows how to use that smile. She patted him on his belly, "can't have you starving now can we?"
Walking side by side back into the diner, they used the quiet moment to catch their breath and absorb their confessions.
They sat back down just as Anna dropped off the steaming plates of food. She didn't say a word, just smiled and walked away.
Kate took a quick bite of bacon, talking as she chewed. "Ok, rule number one. No lies, no secrets we hide nothing from each other, total disclosure. Even about club stuff. Any infraction of this rule is a deal breaker." She gave him a long look judging his reaction.
He hesitated. This had caught him off guard. In all his previous relationships he'd had a strict policy about his women not knowing anything about club business. He took a couple bites of food thinking through her request. Maybe this was a good idea, maybe this was why things had always fallen apart before. "A 'right."
"This is a completely monogamous relationship. Even on club runs and at parties, I don't share."
No hesitation on his part this time. "Done, and the same goes for you. No more Ivan." He watched the flash of recognition cross her face. "Yeah, Soup told me he's been sniffing around. You two spent a whole day together not too long ago."
Kate shrugged her shoulders, looking at Tig with a smirk on her face. "You weren't the only one trying to forget and move on." She concentrated on looking at her plate, eating some more food trying to cover up her reaction. He could never find out the truth about that day, and since it was before the 'agreement' it wasn't part of the deal. "Agreed," she paused and then added. "I have one more condition. We give it two weeks and we reevaluate our relationship. It's a big step for both of us."
"If that's what you want, but I don't have any doubts Katie. You're what I want." Tig gave her a feral grin. "I have a few stipulations of my own."
Oh this ought to be interesting, "ok."
He quickly polished off his plate and wiped his mouth with a napkin, shoving his plate towards the edge of the table. "You move in with me at my house. If we've only got two weeks to figure out if we 'fit' I figure we should do the whole live together part also."
"Oh." Kate couldn't hide her shock. She hadn't really considered that part of it yet. "All right."
"Starting tonight," he took her hands and rubbed her wrists. "We got a lot of catching up to do."
Kate felt her pulse race in anticipation. She'd missed Alex's touch. Missed his warm laughter and his biting sarcasm, then it hit her. Did he know how much she craved a home? Someone to come home to after a long day at work?
If this didn't work out it would destroy her. A small part of her wanted to say 'deal off' and run.
Tig had watched her facial expressions, and caught the shadow that had flitted across her face. "What Katie? What is it?"
She hesitated, a lie on her lips. She remembered their truth pact and grimaced. "I'm scared."
Tig had known she had made a choice, so he met her half way. "Me too, I guess that puts us on equal ground. We can muddle through this together."
"Alex, are you sure this is the direction you want to go?"
"I've thought a lot about this Kate. I've seen what Clay and Gemma have, actually been a little jealous of them. I see…no I feel like you are meant for me. If I don't do this I will always wonder if I let the one chance I had at happiness slip through my fingers." His eyes held hers, never wavering.
Kate's heart stuttered, she'd waited so long to hear him say these words she was afraid she was dreaming. She wasn't completely sure she should be jumping into any relationship right now. She was still dealing with the aftershocks of what she'd been through with Max. It was strange. She just knew that she was going to be ok with Alex. It wouldn't always be a smooth ride, but she was comfortable with him like she'd never been with anyone in her life. He did fit.
"Alex…I feel like you fit." God, I sound so corny. "It's like I've known you before, as strange as that sounds." She pushed her plate away, her appetite gone. "I want to do this, but I am so fucked up right now, I'm still reeling from the 'Max' thing. I am telling you ahead of time that I am not easy to live with. I'm moody, and I don't always sleep well, I haven't shared a space with someone in a long time. I don't even know where I stand on the whole live together issue, but I'm willing to give it a try."
"All I ask is that you give it a try. If something bothers you, doesn't feel right, you say something so we can talk about it. I will do the same." He stopped pulling his phone out as it vibrated.
He grimaced, flipping open the phone. "Talk to me." He pinched his nose and took a deep breath looking at the ceiling. "Don't get your panties in an uproar. I'll be back in a while, till then just answer the phones and call Piney if you need anything." He flipped the phone shut and sat it down on the table.
Kate gave him a smirk and raised her eyebrows. "Trouble at Teller-Morrow?"
"Nah, just Chuckie, he's like a rat terrier, nippin' and barkin' at your heels." Tig waved Anna over. "Need our bill sweetheart." He gave her his 'nice' smile.
Anna looked down and saw Tig's plate was emptied, Kate's was barely touched. "Katie, was there something wrong with your food? I will have Pete fix you something different."
"No Anna, really. The food was excellent as always. I just didn't have much of an appetite." Kate smiled at Anna.
Anna looked at Tig. "You're money is no good here. I still owe you a few extra meals for the work you did on our car Tig." She leaned in and gave Tig a peck on his cheek. Then leaned across and giving Kate a long hug, whispering in her ear as she held on, "You two are meant to be. Fight for him."
They headed out to the parking lot towards Kate's truck, "where am I taking you?"
"Teller-Morrow, thanks." He slipped his sunglasses into place and settled into the passenger seat. This sucks, fucking pigs taking my license.
"How you getting home tonight?"
"I'm riding."
"Uh, I hate to point this out, you don't have a license."
"No shit. Fuck 'em. Don't worry about it."
Kate just smiled and shook her head. "You are such a baaad boy Tig."
"Nah, I'm saving the bad boy for later." He looked at her and smiled.
Kate shivered in anticipation. The thought of spending the night in Tig's arms, in Tig's bed thrilled her. "Oh."
"Our deal starts tonight Katie. Bring some stuff around with you tonight."
She gulped, this is so twilight zone. "I'm not sure when I will be done at the shop today. It's getting crazy shooting for the show, and building this bike. My hours are likely going to be long and fucked up."
"That's a 'right. I understand. We can just stay in touch and work it out." Tig rubbed his hands in anticipation a plan forming in his mind of how he could make tonight special for Kate. He wanted to make her feel at home, take away some of the uncertainty he knew she was feeling. He wanted to prove to her he was serious about her and his commitment to them.
"Sure, that works." She drew in a deep breath. No hyperventilating in front of him. Why am I so nervous?
"What's the theme for the bike?" Tig caught on she was close to shutting down on him, so he changed the subject.
"Oh, it's gonna be based on the "everyday" riders bike. Not a crotch-rocket or a super stretched out fantasy bike that no one can ride or use. The theme is going to be "American Made". It will have art work with anything I can tie into the theme that works. I want it to be a tribute to the everyday hard working American. The military, the oil workers, the farmers, the fishing boats, the steel workers, and the auto workers… I want it to be special, tricked out with all the bells and whistles and a smack down paint job. We are working on some custom pieces that will be functional, but fit into the design seamlessly."
"Good call, sticking to your strength. Going with your artwork in the paint job will put it over the top."
"That's exactly what Doug and Soup said. I may not win, but I will get attention to my business showing off what we can do."
"How's the judging work?"
"It will be on display at the Hard Rock Hotel during "bike week" in Vegas. People will get to vote for their favorite. So it's like a people's choice award."
"Nice. You spending the whole week in Vegas?"
"Yep. It's part of the contract with the show. We have three weeks as of today. Then it goes on display and we do promos for the show all week." Kate looked over at Tig, noticing his body language had gotten stiff and he seemed agitated. "Is there a problem?"
He blew a breath out, and looked out the window. "No." He shook himself, trying to get past the jealous thoughts that had flooded him. Kate was gonna be a big hit, he knew she had no idea how she affected people around her. He didn't want anyone looking at her, talking about her, making moves on her. It was gonna be a test. He was excited for her, but couldn't shake the feeling that this show was going to change her life.
He couldn't help but wonder, would he still fit into it?
Kate pulled into the parking lot at Teller-Morrow and realized how weird the lot looked with all the bikes lined up, and no one milling around. The club house was dark, and only the garage was open with a few guys working on a couple of cars. It was creepy quiet.
Tig looked at her, leaning across the truck and gave her a soft kiss full of promise for later. Kate leaned into him, savoring how good it felt now that Tig wasn't trying to hide their being together.
She heard a loud cat whistle, and felt Tig's muffled groan. He turned from her, "godammit Kozik!" Tig bellowed out his window. He looked at Kate sheepishly, "Sorry, I'll beat the shit outta him for that."
Kate just laughed, "it's ok Tig, he's just messing around with you. Can't we just ignore it?"
"No way, any excuse to beat on him is good by me." Tig gave her a wolfish grin.
"What is up between you two?"
Tig grabbed the door handle, "it's a long story, from a long time ago, I will tell you later." He opened the truck door and got out of the truck heading straight for Kozik.
Kate gave put the truck in gear and headed back to her shop. Her mind was already switching into bike mode. She took the time to call Soup and see how many of the parts had started coming in. She had a few stops to make then some serious work was gonna start happening. Her mind and body hummed with excitement over the new bike and the opportunities the show promised.
Time to take make my life what I want it to be.
XXX
It was pushing 10:00 p.m. before Kate gave up on her design ideas and closed up her shop. The camera crew had wrapped up around 8:00 and the shop was quiet. She was oddly at peace as she climbed the steps to the loft apartment. She needed to pack a few things to take to Tig's place tonight. A few changes of clothes and her personal necessities went into a small bag. She threw a couple of red bulls into the bag and a bottle of Stoli. Never can be too prepared, need my night time liquid courage.
Her phone buzzed in her back pocket. She looked at the caller i.d. and smiled as she saw it was Tig. He had texted her earlier saying he'd be on club business and it might run late. She flipped her phone open and hit ok to read the text. 'On my way. Will stop by and escort you. There is trouble, don't want you by yourself. I will explain when I get there.'
Kate's mind raced as she replied to the text. She sent a simple 'ok'. What the fuck is going on that Tig feels like he has to escort me? Her unease made her check to be sure her small hand gun was in her purse and loaded. Then she went to her night stand and pulled out her "Pig sticker" that her dad had given her years ago. She attached the leather holder to her belt loop and secured the knife. She wasn't going to get caught unawares again.
She headed downstairs and on a whim decided to ride over to Tigs. By the time she grabbed the keys to her bike and loaded the stuff into her saddlebags she heard him roar into the parking lot. She opened the bay door as Tig parked his bike just outside.
He grinned at her, nodding in approval that she'd chosen to ride.
Kate rolled her bike outside, putting down the kick stand and dismounted heading over to the bay door pulling it shut and locking it from the outside. She shoved the big heavy key ring into her saddlebags.
"Commere'" Tig patted his leg, his blue eyes twinkling in the glow of the security light. Kate walked over slowly, unsure of the playful Tig. She squealed in surprise when he pulled her onto his lap and stole a mind numbing kiss.
She melted, all thoughts coming to a screeching halt as her body came alive. She reacted to him, to his gentle assault, on a cellular level. Her pulse skyrocketed, her nerve endings tingled to life. Heat began building in her as she rubbed her chest into Tig trying to get closer to him. God I've missed him.
Tig had begun the kiss as a playful greeting. He hadn't been prepared for the onslaught of Kate's taste or the way she responded to him, fully, openly. Christ, she's killin' me. He turned hard as a rock in mere seconds as she rubbed into him.
He reluctantly broke the kiss watching the dreamy eyed way Kate looked at him. He supported her neck, his hand gently rubbing and she gave him a warm liquid smile. His cock jumped in anticipation, as his blood roared through his veins. He shook himself and lifted her off his lap. Tig, get your shit together, can't be hangin around out here, get her home where it's safe.
"Love to keep that up, but we gotta roll. I will explain everything once we get back to the house." He grudginly lifted her off his lap. He gave her ass a slap as she walked away towards her bike. "If we run into any trouble, you let me handle it." He watched her closely, knowing she'd try to do something instead of going to safety. "Katie? I mean it. Promise me."
She threw Tig a look over her shoulder.
"Sorry Tig, no can do. You know I don't roll like that." Shivering, missing Tig's body heat, she put her helmet on, donned her leather jacket and gloves, and straddled her bike.
"God-dam-it Katie! I will protect you. You don't have to worry when you're with me." Tig blew out a harsh breath knowing she wouldn't see it that way. She'd had to protect herself so much in the past.
She looked up her eyes shooting daggers. "I will only promise you to defer to your lead. I will not leave you behind, ever." Kate gave Tig a sickingly sweet smile and blew him a kiss. She laughed out loud as she watched him put his helmet on muttering under his breath about stubborn mules.
Tig frowned at her, "this discussion isn't over."
Kate fired up her bike, effectively ending the discussion and pulled out of the lot forcing Tig to catch up to her.
Fresh air blasted Kate in the face, her blood rushed in response. The thrill of the danger in just riding at night, and the speed made a heady combination. Her hands were shaking as she fought the chills. Her whole body shook, as anticipation warred with fear of the unknown. The chills grew in intensity until she had to clench her jaw tight. What the hell is wrong with me? She knew she wasn't afraid, for once in her life she was heading in the direction she wanted to go. So why couldn't she stop shaking?
Tig ground his teeth, swallowing his frustration over Kate's headstrong ways. He relaxed, savoring the rush he got from punching the throttle and the response of the engine as it roared beneath him. He passed Kate, taking a position slightly in front of her on her left. He felt a burst of pride that she really was an excellent rider, mirroring his movements with ease and skill. Not many women could handle riding like she did, and normally they didn't encourage their 'old women' to ride. Knowing Kate was entrenched in the business and had ridden her whole life had made Tig realize he would have to view her riding in a different light. Surprisingly it didn't bother him as much as he thought it would. He enjoyed having her beside him, sharing the night. He kept his eyes trained on the road and the surroundings, he didn't think anyone would try anything with him around, but he wasn't going to underestimate anyone. Tara was missing. Someone out there had it out for SAMCRO and was using the women to make a point.
He pulled down his street and throttled down so he would disturb his few neighbors on the old dirt road. He turned into the driveway to his house and pulled up to his garage hitting the button on his remote garage opener. They killed the bikes and 'walked' them into position in the garage. He shut the door and they both dismounted.
Kate tried to hide the shake of her hands, and kept her mouth firmly clenched so he wouldn't hear her teeth clatter. This is ridiculous. She silently laughed at herself. You act like you're on your first date. Jesus Katie, get a grip. She hung her coat, helmet and gloves on her bike.
Something was telling Kate that tonight was special.
She wanted, no needed, to get it right.
Tig walked to the side door and used his key to open the door. He looked back at Kate who seemed glued to the garage floor. She was looking at him, resembling a deer in the headlights. She looks scared.
"Hey, you a 'right?" He watched as she shivered and rubbed her arms like she was cold.
Kate physically shook herself. "Just got chilled on the ride." She grabbed the stuff out of her saddle bags and walked towards Tig, following him into the kitchen.
Tig struggled to give Kate time to acclimate before he drug her off to the bedroom like some caveman. Having her here, in his house felt so right. "Make yourself at home, such as it is. I haven't had much time to set things straight." He opened the fridge, grabbing them a beer and handed one to Kate. "So, I know it ain't much…"
Kate walked through the kitchen listening to Tig ramble. She smiled as she realized, he is nervous too. She twisted the cap off the bottle and took a gulp of liquid courage as she headed into the rest of the house checking it out. Home…the thought startled Kate, but felt right. This feels like home.
She stopped in the living room and looked out the sliding glass door towards the woods. A creek meandered through the back of the property, and two deer stood a few feet onto his property eating grass. So peaceful.
Kate felt Tig move in behind her, and caught the scent of leather, sandalwood and musk that was 'him'. She felt the air stir behind her before she felt him. He wrapped his arms loosely around her hips, and rested his chin on her shoulder. Her body trembled in response as she leaned back into him.
"…I'm still working on fixing it up." She heard him finish.
"It's perfect Tig." Her voice was low and soft, followed by a sigh.
He nuzzled her neck, the soft puffs of his breath warming her neck. His hands roamed up under her t-shirt, his palms working across her mid section under her crossed arms. She continued leaning into him trying to suck some heat off his body as her teeth chattered loudly.
"What the hell Katie? You a 'right?" Tig turned her into him enveloping her in his embrace in an effort to warm her. "Want me to start a fire?"
Kate didn't trust her voice, and had her mouth clamped tightly shut. She shook her head yes and pulled out of his embrace. Mortified, she managed to squeak out, "I forgot something," and headed back into the kitchen.
She took a few extra moments to settle herself down, and grabbed her bottle of Stoli from the bag on the counter. She chugged a swallow of liquid courage and let the heat settle into her muscles. She grabbed some pretzels from the counter and headed back into the living room carrying her bottle.
A fire was beginning to take hold in the fire place. She stood and watched the golden light play off of Tig's face. He sat on one end of the couch with his legs propped up on the old worn coffee table, his head laid back and his eyes closed. Taking her time, she let her eyes wander over his reclining body. She noticed the new bruises on his face and a small cut above his eye. He looked worn down, and had dark circles under his eyes. Obviously whatever the club business had been he'd taken some more knocks. She shook her head wondering if he thought of his bruises as trophies. He never complained about them.
She walked over quietly, setting the alcohol down on the table.
Tig looked up and smiled at her as he leaned forward to take a drink of the Stoli. "Thanks."
"You're welcome." She sat down next to him and turned as she reached over to touch his cut above his eye.
"Ouch!" He played with her, but sat still letting her look at it.
Kate laughed, knowing he'd been messing with her. He hadn't even flinched when she'd touched it. It was only a surface scratch and was already healing. "What happened?"
Tig hesitated, until he remembered their deal. Shit, this was going to be hard getting used to. "I went for a few rounds with Kozik in the ring."
"Oh". She thought about that for a few seconds, "the one outside at Teller-Morrow?" Kate asked.
"Nah", he waved her off, "the gym downtown." He watched Kate's brain working and held up his hand before she could throw out twenty more questions. "We are helping the owner out. Seems Nathan Hale is buying up all the property in that location and is trying to bring in a new business. He's been threatening him, even shoving Darby down his throat to convince him to sell."
"Who's Darby?"
"Our local skin heads fearless leader." Tig shrugged his shoulders. Darby wasn't a huge threat to them, more like an annoyance. He knew Hale had chosen Darby because the racial hatred would give double incentive to the old Jewish man to sell. Funny thing was it had just made him more stubborn and pissed off. Tig liked him, and the Son's had been involved in protecting his business for a while.
"So you and Kozik had to box why?" Kate's voice gave away her confusion.
"Cause he thought he could beat me in the ring. And he wants me to change my mind about voting him in with the mother chapter." Tig smiled, "he looks a lot worse than me."
Kate digested that bit of information. It would explain why Koz had been hanging around Charming. But she still didn't know why Tig hated him so vehemently. "With everyone gone to Ireland, aren't you a few guys short in SAMCRO?"
"Yeah, loosing Sac didn't help. We voted Happy in a few days ago. We also have three new Prospects we just added." He shook his head, looking doubtful. "Remains to be seen how they work out."
"So wouldn't having a transfer guy like Kozik be advantageous for the club?"
Tig flinched at her comment, turning towards her with a sneer. "Not you too!"
"What?" She didn't back down. "Explain to me why not? What happened between you two that was so bad you don't want him in the Charming charter?"
He blew out a frustrated breath, pinching his nose. "It's personal." He ground out as he pushed up off the couch. "Of all people, I never figured you'd give him your support."
Kate watched him pace, realizing Tig looked hurt that she'd questioned his reasons. "I don't like him. He's rude, overbearing and I don't trust him. All of that doesn't mean he wouldn't be good for the club."
She watched as Tig walked into the kitchen. When he came back out he had a photo in his hand. Sitting back down next to Kate he looked at the photo running his index finger over it. He caught himself, stopped and handed the photo to Kate.
She took the photo carefully noting how old the picture was. The edges were worn, as though it had been looked at often. She smiled, seeing a young Tig in his Son's cut, lying back on an old sofa with a large German Sheppard pinning him down, licking his face. She flipped the photo over and read the hand writing on the back. My girl Missy. He was angry with Kozik over a dog?
"She's beautiful," Kate handed the photo back to Tig.
He took the photo and touched it again as if petting her. "Missy was my baby. I rescued her as a puppy from some asshole who owed the club. She'd been abused. Best damn dog I ever had." Tig left out the fact that he'd personally killed the fuckwad that had abused the dog.
She thought of her own German Sheppard named Tank. He was adorable, loving and a complete failure as a guard dog. He'd been staying with Doug and his family so long she hadn't wanted to take him away from the kids.
"Did you know Kozik used to be with the Redwood Charter?"
Kate shook her head no.
"We used to be tight. Real fuckin' tight," Tig's voice ended on a sigh. He sat the photo on the coffee table and picked up the bottle of Stoli.
She really wasn't surprised by that admission. She'd seen how Kozik had seemed hurt by Tig's anger. It seemed like he'd been pushing at Tig just to get a reaction out of him, to make him talk to him even if it was in anger. They had been best friends. What the hell had happened?
Tig took another swig, handing the bottle to Kate so she could take a hit. He sat back into the couch and ran his hand through his hair. "I left Missy with Kozik for a couple of days when I had to make a run for the club." Tig's eyes flashed with pain and anger. "He…" Tig took a deep breath and cleared his throat. "She got hit by a fucking car."
Oh, that sucks! Her heart ached for him. Kate new better than to say anything right away, she let him get his emotions under control. Tig may be the big bad SSA for the club, but she new under that gruff exterior he was a very complex man. Love, affection and loyalty would be given to those who'd earned it. If you let him down, like Kozik obviously had, then you'd be outside of Tig's 'circle of trust'.
"How can I trust him Kate?" Tig looked at her his eyes bright with unshed tears.
Kate played with her beer bottle, thinking about the situation between them. She could only imagine how far Tig had gone off the reservation when he'd come home to find out that his dog had died because Kozik had let something happen to her. "I'm sorry about her Tig. Thanks for telling me the truth." I'd be pissed too.
They sat for a few more moments in silence, lost in their own thoughts. Tig was trying to figure out how to break the news about Tara to Kate. Kate was busy trying to figure out how to help Tig and Kozik heal their friendship.
"I need a smoke, wanna join me?" Tig got up and headed towards the sliding doors to the back patio.
He threw his pack onto the plastic table and lit up.
Kate joined him watching the same two deer grazing next to the woods at the far end of his property. She listened as the wind rustled through the leaves of the trees, and smiled when an owl hooted off in the distance.
"Tig, what happened today to make you come escort me home?"
He closed his eyes briefly and turned towards her not sure how to break the news. "Tara went missing today."
"What?" Kate's exclamation spooked the deer and they shot off into the forest.
"She and her boss from the hospital are both missing." Tig rubbed his eyes.
"And you're just now telling me this?" She paced, furious at being so out of the loop again.
"We looked into it right away. Charming P.D. found her car empty on the side of the road on route 24, naturally Unser called the shop to see if we'd seen her." Tig waved his hands in frustration.
"No one saw anything. My guess is someone with a beef for SAMCRO took her. We hope to hear something tomorrow."
"Jesus Tig. Does Jax know?" What a kick in the ass. His son Abel was kidnapped and stolen away to Ireland, and now Tara had gone missing.
"No. Piney and I want to try and handle this and get her back before Jax finds out. He doesn't need any more on his plate." He looked at Kate with a stern don't question this decision with me look.
"I want to help."
"No. I don't want you involved. It's probably gonna get sticky." Tig grabbed Kate by the shoulders and held her in place. "Katie, you have your own thing goin on right now…"
Kate interrupted him, "Tig she is my friend, you can't expect me not to want to help."
"Let the club handle it Katie!" Tig's voice rose as he shook her to make his point.
Kate broke his hold on her and pushed at him with her hands making her point. "I AM NOT GOING TO JUST SIT BACK ON THIS ONE!"
Tig held his ground, throwing his cigarette down, and yelled back. "THE FUCK YOUR NOT!"
She looked at Tig with tears rolling down her face. Memories of Max and how she'd been kidnapped slamming into her. "WHY DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND TIG?" Her voice broke as she fought the fear and pain from the memories. With haunted eyes she looked up at him. "You of all people should know how I feel about this." She wiped angrily at the tears. "I've been where she is. I know what she is going through." She whirled away from him needing space.
Tig stood motionless, stunned by her words. What an ass I am, not understanding how she would react.
She walked towards the far corner of the patio into the shadows. "No one came for me Tig," her voice traveled softly through the night. She knew the only reason she'd survived was because she'd known Max from before. She'd been hardened from past experience. Tara didn't have that luxury. Kate wondered if she could be strong enough to help herself.
No one came for me. Her words cut him like a knife. He walked silently towards her into the shadows.
She moved away from him leaning up against the brick crossing her arms in front of her, her head held high looking off into the darkness. Tig stopped in front of her, sensing she didn't want to be touched. He looped his thumbs into his front pockets so he wouldn't reach for her. It hurt him to think of everything she'd suffered at the hands of Max. I let her down.
"I'm sorry Katie, I tried so fucking hard to find you."
His voice was a strangled whisper that brushed up against her skin. Chills racked her body as the night air enveloped her. As angry as she was at him she ached for his touch.
Oh my god! I didn't realize I was angry with him for not finding me.
She looked over at Tig. His face was set in hard lines, his blues eyes glittered in the darkness. Pain rolled off him in waves. She could feel his emotions swirl as he watched her.
Kate's breath caught in her chest as her body reacted to his confession. Her breasts felt heavy and full, her nipples hardened in response.
She sighed, "I know." Deep down in her heart she knew it had driven him crazy not being the one to save her from Max.
I need to let this go. She looked up and got lost in his eyes. Her breath came in short little puffs and she licked her suddenly dry lips.
Tig's cock hardened as he watched Kate lick her full lips. God If only they were on me. He felt the fire spread through his veins as his blood pumped harder in anticipation. He kept his hands in his pockets, waiting for Kate to make the first move. He hoped she'd get distracted enough to drop the discussion about Tara. He didn't want her involved. Period.
Kate felt him move closer, her body swayed towards him wanting to taste his lips. Wait! She pulled back to the wall and took a deep breath to steady her rampant hormones. "Alex, stop it. I can't concentrate when you crowd me like that." She moved sideways, "We're all the hope Tara has. The cops will never figure it out soon enough."
Tig huffed in frustration. "You're like a dog working a bone Kate."
She decided to try and play dirty to get her way giving him her best pout. Her big green eyes filled with unshed tears as her voice waivered, "Please Alex. Don't shut me out of this. I can help. Your short man power. I promise I won't do anything on my own."
Even though he knew Kate was playing him he couldn't stand his ground. "A 'right", he winced knowing he'd live to regret his words. "I will keep you involved. If you can help with something I will consider it."
Kate grinned and held out her right pinky. "Pinky swear if you mean it."
Tig rolled his eyes and held out his right pinky. "You're whacked, you know that right?"
"That's why we go together." She smiled brightly at him and leaned in for a kiss.
His body exploded in response to her tentative exploration of his lips. He groaned, tired of waiting, it's time to get reacquainted. Stopping the kiss, he lifted Kate off her feet and threw her over his shoulder heading for the sliding door.
Kate's breath whooshed out of her as she squealed and squirmed. "Hey! Put me down!" When he didn't she smacked him on his ass.
He retaliated in kind, smacking her ass with a grin on his face. "Need a little foreplay Katie?" He laughed out loud and pinched her but for good measure.
"Ow! What the hell?" She complained as he continued through the house.
"Woman, I've held out long enough." He rumbled as he neared the bed. "I'm tired of talk. I finally have you here…" He dumped her onto the mattress and followed her, pinning her neatly.
"Alex!" Kate tried to get up as he pushed her down onto the mattress. "Oh…" His kiss seared her brain, rendering her mute. I'm his… She forgot all the thoughts that had her fussing and concentrated on returning his kiss giving as good as she got.
Tig's chest rumbled with satisfaction. Feels so right…was the last coherent thought as they got lost in each other.
