p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven did put her small handgun in her glove compartment the next day. She always had a knife in her purse but the mention of the cartel had her worried. No point in messing with her safety, especially since Happy was slightly on edge that morning. Her phone was silent all day, a good sign in her book for whatever was going to go down next. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey Aunt Hae, we coming to your house?" Ellie asked seeing the brunette at the elementary school./p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yep, Lyla should be over soon." The kids piled in, going on and on about how the lunch menu got changed that day causing two kids to fight. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Three motorcycles were in the driveway when she got home. The kids rushed to Opie who was on the phone in the yard. Haven gave a wave entering the house. Chibs and Happy were finishing a conversation. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey babe, da, what's up?" Haven asked accepting a kiss from Happy. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Gotta go out of town in a couple days, down to Arizona," Chibs said not looking pleased at the run. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Everyone?" Haven didn't like that she might be alone, Lyla and the kids would definitely be over. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""No, Piney and the prospects are staying. I want Piney here," Happy growled. Was it too much in all this mess to get a breather for a day or two? He wanted some time with his woman. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I want Lyla and the kids with me too," Haven said to both men nodding. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"No more was said as Opie and the kids came in. It was a flurry of snacks, homework and getting dinner ready after that. Lyla joined them, helping Haven in the kitchen. One look told Haven that her best friend wasn't any happier with things than she was. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Kids, wash your hands. Happy you too…don't think I didn't see you cleaning your gun," Haven called when the tacos were done. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Happy glared at her, making Chibs chuckle. Dinner was a noisy affair, but for Haven it felt like this was her family. She would love Piney to be there, and Maria and Laurena, but she had good people at this table. Her love, her niece and nephews, a dad, and pretty much a brother and sister. Nothing about club business could take this from her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Once dinner was picked up, Opie and Lyla left with Lyla promising to call the next day for getting the house arranged for their stay. Chibs kissed her forehead before hugging her close. Haven let Atticus and Boo out back before flopping on the couch. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hap, did your parole officer sign off on this?" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah. I should only be a few days but with this new shit…" he trailed dropping next to her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Babe, I'm taking precautions. Hell, unless I have to I'm not stepping foot on the lot just so there isn't any extra drama. Just don't let that desert air make you look twice at some other short brunette ok?" Haven teased making Happy snap his eyes at her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I ain't gotta death wish, not with your da and self-proclaimed big brother with me. You collect protectors like Piney collects tequila bottles," Happy groused. Haven laughed at that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Well, just saying. School ends when you are gone, so I'll have to find someway to occupy my time," Haven shrugged. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Chucky's hands?" Happy asked pulling her to his side. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Almost done. Friend from Madison took an interest, said maybe by the first week of June they should ship. I'm thinking of seeing what options might be available at Saint Thomas, since one of my projects was in cancer research." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven started kissing his finger tips, eliciting a moan. Deciding that talking was finished, Happy pulled her to straddle his lap. When he got back, he was inking her. Tracing her jaw down her neck and across her shoulder, he enjoyed her shivers. Right there, from the front of her shoulder down her upper arm to her elbow. He knew a half-sleeve was an endeavor that would take a few sessions, but he wanted to tell a story. He wanted to give her a masterpiece. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven leaned in capturing his lips. He gripped her hair, biting her lip when she ground her hips into him. Letting the kiss get heavy, the two got lost in each other. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven and Lyla stood on the lawn with the kids. It hadn't taken them long to get organized for the extended sleepover. Piney had grumbled and griped but relented to the guest room. Haven still thought he was up to something but hadn't pushed him. Happy had grown more irritated as the run came up, and Haven couldn't blame him. She had no doubts about who he was, but the cartel was a whole different shit storm. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""You got your gun and prepay?" Happy asked her securing his saddlebags. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yes. I know to text you in the morning, once at lunch, when I get home and at bedtime. Run on the treadmill or yoga. Let the prospect tail me to school and on the way home," Haven recited. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"It looked like Lyla was reciting something similar to Opie, looking furious about it. Haven was slightly annoyed by the orders but knew to follow them without question. Happy didn't need anymore stress. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Good girl, c'mere," Happy pulled her into his arms. Pulling back, he stroked her cheek kissing her forehead. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Do what you do, protect your brothers, come home," Haven said squeezing his hips. Hap nodded giving a whistle to Opie. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Cupcake, be safe," Opie said tugging her ponytail. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Will do Bigfoot, bring me a souvenir," Haven joked. Opie smirked at that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Lyla came up in a huff as the men pulled out. For someone who had plenty of times to get used to runs, who had been through a lockdown, not to mention everything surrounding Jax's son that Haven had been told about, Lyla was being dramatic. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"The kids went to the back to play with the dogs as Haven gave her friend a long look. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ok, what is it? Ope's been on runs before," Haven said. Lyla glared off in the distance. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, but not like this. He barely tells me stuff about the club, I only knew about the Russians since they were at the wedding. But something is wrong, I know it," Lyla ranted. Haven rolled her eyes. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Because a lot of it is better for us not to know. What they need is us being strong for them, letting them handle shit," Haven said turning to go inside. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Since when are you a such a bitch?" Lyla snarled. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven froze, not believing her friend. Turning slowly she took a calming breath. Her screaming at Lyla would upset the kids, they didn't need that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Lyla, I knew what I was getting into with Happy. I know who and what he is. I don't always like his business but it never once interfered with him caring about me or taking care of me. I don't know what else you have seen with Jax and Tara or Gemma and Clay. But I do know my role as his old lady. It is to support him the best I can, do as he asks so he can do his job and love him for who he is, not some outlaw fairy tale. Opie loves you, he wants you safe. Maybe that is why he isn't saying much. But your shit is with your husband not me," Haven turned back around going into the house before Lyla could respond. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Lyla ignored her the rest of the day. Going so far as to sulk in the bedroom. Something deeper had to be going on for her friend to be like this, but Haven had little interest in digging for an answer. She had her hands full with the kids who decided to be extra hyper that day, worrying about Happy, Chibs, and Opie while trying to figure out how to spend her summertime off. By dinner Lyla came out, eyes red-rimmed. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ly, can we watch a movie tonight?" Kenny asked. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Sure honey, which one?" Lyla said giving a small smile. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Phantom Menace!" He cried to Piper's echoing agreement. Lyla gave a rueful smile to Haven. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I blame you for this Star Wars obsession." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I am merely introducing culture babe. Besides, Hap would never watch it with me," Haven said. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"The movie was halfway through when Piney came. He dropped in the chair, giving a wave. He looked like shit. Haven gave him a concerned look he waved off. When the movie finished Lyla got the kids in bed. Giving Haven a moment to text Happy and fix Piney with a glare. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Out with it. Either your health is getting worse and I can help, or it's club shit you are trying to manipulate," Haven stated. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Too smart for your own good," Piney grumbled. Haven chuckled. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Trying to get the club back on track, got some information that could help. Not going as planned." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven thought about this. She knew Happy, Chibs and Opie had voted no on the cartel. So had Piney apparently. His beef was with business and possibly Clay. Either way it wouldn't end well. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Piney, I adore you. So does Lyla and the kids. They already lost Donna, whatever it is be careful. We need you. Is there a way for bikers to retire?" Haven asked. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""We can be voted out in good standing, why?" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""If your issue is with business, ask to be voted out. Say you are too old, health, whatever. If it is about Clay, consider what he has done before. It isn't just your life. It's ours. Some things can't be fixed until one person is dead, and I don't want it to be you," Haven said coming to sit on the arm of the chair. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hmm…stepping out might be a good way to handle both. I'm too old for this shit anyways," Piney huffed squeezing her knee. Haven kissed his head. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yes, let Jax handle it. From what Lyla has told me, there is some serious issues in that family," Haven shook her head. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, but JT was a good man," Piney smiled at the thought of his old friend. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven sighed. One person down, one to go. Although whatever it was with Lyla the blonde seemed to be working it out on her own. She could wait to handle that one. Stretching she whistled for the dogs. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Happy was pissed. The trip was long, seeing the drug dealing of SAMTAZ, and the ever growing tension of Jax and Clay made everything else more tense. And he had to sleep alone. And worry about Haven. He knew she would do as asked but was on more edge after having to deal with bullshit of another club. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"He looked over at Chibs. He wondered at how the Scot would handle this. The man was close to Jax and often played crying shoulder. Whatever it was though it had the potential to tear the club apart. Casting his mind back, it started when Abel was born. Jax pushing for more legit business, doing things less bloody. Happy hadn't minded that, he thought more legit business was good for them. But now, fuck. It was something ugly and no amount of Chibs or Bobby's counsel could steer this into something that wouldn't be bloody. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey baby, need some company?" A blonde sweetbutt asked running her hand down his arm. Happy glared at her, and she didn't get the hint. Just simpered at him. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Get lost," he growled. She huffed, turning and shaking her ass at him over to a SAMTAZ brother. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""No road pussy?" Opie asked. Happy shook his head. "Yeah, Haven could probably poison you in your sleep without a trace." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ain't testing that theory," Happy shrugged. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""She ok with this new business?" Happy looked at his brother. He had no idea what he had in terms of disclosure with Lyla, and it was none of his business. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Probably not. But she only wants to know enough for safety, plausible deniability and shit. Smart girl," Happy said. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Lyla wants to know everything but I don't think she can handle it. Hard enough after that shit with Abel to get her to do anything about safety, doesn't think she needs it," Opie's frustration was clear. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Not every chick can, maybe Haven can knock some sense into her. Haven doesn't buy the outlaws are knights in shining armor bullshit," Happy shrugged. Opie nodded. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, Lyla ain't Donna or Haven but she's a good girl. Gonna get some sleep," Opie headed off, leaving Happy to finish his beer. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey Aunt Hae, we coming to your house?" Ellie asked seeing the brunette at the elementary school./p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yep, Lyla should be over soon." The kids piled in, going on and on about how the lunch menu got changed that day causing two kids to fight. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Three motorcycles were in the driveway when she got home. The kids rushed to Opie who was on the phone in the yard. Haven gave a wave entering the house. Chibs and Happy were finishing a conversation. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey babe, da, what's up?" Haven asked accepting a kiss from Happy. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Gotta go out of town in a couple days, down to Arizona," Chibs said not looking pleased at the run. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Everyone?" Haven didn't like that she might be alone, Lyla and the kids would definitely be over. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""No, Piney and the prospects are staying. I want Piney here," Happy growled. Was it too much in all this mess to get a breather for a day or two? He wanted some time with his woman. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I want Lyla and the kids with me too," Haven said to both men nodding. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"No more was said as Opie and the kids came in. It was a flurry of snacks, homework and getting dinner ready after that. Lyla joined them, helping Haven in the kitchen. One look told Haven that her best friend wasn't any happier with things than she was. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Kids, wash your hands. Happy you too…don't think I didn't see you cleaning your gun," Haven called when the tacos were done. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Happy glared at her, making Chibs chuckle. Dinner was a noisy affair, but for Haven it felt like this was her family. She would love Piney to be there, and Maria and Laurena, but she had good people at this table. Her love, her niece and nephews, a dad, and pretty much a brother and sister. Nothing about club business could take this from her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Once dinner was picked up, Opie and Lyla left with Lyla promising to call the next day for getting the house arranged for their stay. Chibs kissed her forehead before hugging her close. Haven let Atticus and Boo out back before flopping on the couch. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hap, did your parole officer sign off on this?" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah. I should only be a few days but with this new shit…" he trailed dropping next to her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Babe, I'm taking precautions. Hell, unless I have to I'm not stepping foot on the lot just so there isn't any extra drama. Just don't let that desert air make you look twice at some other short brunette ok?" Haven teased making Happy snap his eyes at her. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I ain't gotta death wish, not with your da and self-proclaimed big brother with me. You collect protectors like Piney collects tequila bottles," Happy groused. Haven laughed at that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Well, just saying. School ends when you are gone, so I'll have to find someway to occupy my time," Haven shrugged. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Chucky's hands?" Happy asked pulling her to his side. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Almost done. Friend from Madison took an interest, said maybe by the first week of June they should ship. I'm thinking of seeing what options might be available at Saint Thomas, since one of my projects was in cancer research." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven started kissing his finger tips, eliciting a moan. Deciding that talking was finished, Happy pulled her to straddle his lap. When he got back, he was inking her. Tracing her jaw down her neck and across her shoulder, he enjoyed her shivers. Right there, from the front of her shoulder down her upper arm to her elbow. He knew a half-sleeve was an endeavor that would take a few sessions, but he wanted to tell a story. He wanted to give her a masterpiece. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven leaned in capturing his lips. He gripped her hair, biting her lip when she ground her hips into him. Letting the kiss get heavy, the two got lost in each other. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven and Lyla stood on the lawn with the kids. It hadn't taken them long to get organized for the extended sleepover. Piney had grumbled and griped but relented to the guest room. Haven still thought he was up to something but hadn't pushed him. Happy had grown more irritated as the run came up, and Haven couldn't blame him. She had no doubts about who he was, but the cartel was a whole different shit storm. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""You got your gun and prepay?" Happy asked her securing his saddlebags. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yes. I know to text you in the morning, once at lunch, when I get home and at bedtime. Run on the treadmill or yoga. Let the prospect tail me to school and on the way home," Haven recited. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"It looked like Lyla was reciting something similar to Opie, looking furious about it. Haven was slightly annoyed by the orders but knew to follow them without question. Happy didn't need anymore stress. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Good girl, c'mere," Happy pulled her into his arms. Pulling back, he stroked her cheek kissing her forehead. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Do what you do, protect your brothers, come home," Haven said squeezing his hips. Hap nodded giving a whistle to Opie. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Cupcake, be safe," Opie said tugging her ponytail. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Will do Bigfoot, bring me a souvenir," Haven joked. Opie smirked at that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Lyla came up in a huff as the men pulled out. For someone who had plenty of times to get used to runs, who had been through a lockdown, not to mention everything surrounding Jax's son that Haven had been told about, Lyla was being dramatic. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"The kids went to the back to play with the dogs as Haven gave her friend a long look. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ok, what is it? Ope's been on runs before," Haven said. Lyla glared off in the distance. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, but not like this. He barely tells me stuff about the club, I only knew about the Russians since they were at the wedding. But something is wrong, I know it," Lyla ranted. Haven rolled her eyes. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Because a lot of it is better for us not to know. What they need is us being strong for them, letting them handle shit," Haven said turning to go inside. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Since when are you a such a bitch?" Lyla snarled. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven froze, not believing her friend. Turning slowly she took a calming breath. Her screaming at Lyla would upset the kids, they didn't need that. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Lyla, I knew what I was getting into with Happy. I know who and what he is. I don't always like his business but it never once interfered with him caring about me or taking care of me. I don't know what else you have seen with Jax and Tara or Gemma and Clay. But I do know my role as his old lady. It is to support him the best I can, do as he asks so he can do his job and love him for who he is, not some outlaw fairy tale. Opie loves you, he wants you safe. Maybe that is why he isn't saying much. But your shit is with your husband not me," Haven turned back around going into the house before Lyla could respond. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Lyla ignored her the rest of the day. Going so far as to sulk in the bedroom. Something deeper had to be going on for her friend to be like this, but Haven had little interest in digging for an answer. She had her hands full with the kids who decided to be extra hyper that day, worrying about Happy, Chibs, and Opie while trying to figure out how to spend her summertime off. By dinner Lyla came out, eyes red-rimmed. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ly, can we watch a movie tonight?" Kenny asked. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Sure honey, which one?" Lyla said giving a small smile. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Phantom Menace!" He cried to Piper's echoing agreement. Lyla gave a rueful smile to Haven. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I blame you for this Star Wars obsession." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""I am merely introducing culture babe. Besides, Hap would never watch it with me," Haven said. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"The movie was halfway through when Piney came. He dropped in the chair, giving a wave. He looked like shit. Haven gave him a concerned look he waved off. When the movie finished Lyla got the kids in bed. Giving Haven a moment to text Happy and fix Piney with a glare. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Out with it. Either your health is getting worse and I can help, or it's club shit you are trying to manipulate," Haven stated. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Too smart for your own good," Piney grumbled. Haven chuckled. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Trying to get the club back on track, got some information that could help. Not going as planned." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven thought about this. She knew Happy, Chibs and Opie had voted no on the cartel. So had Piney apparently. His beef was with business and possibly Clay. Either way it wouldn't end well. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Piney, I adore you. So does Lyla and the kids. They already lost Donna, whatever it is be careful. We need you. Is there a way for bikers to retire?" Haven asked. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""We can be voted out in good standing, why?" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""If your issue is with business, ask to be voted out. Say you are too old, health, whatever. If it is about Clay, consider what he has done before. It isn't just your life. It's ours. Some things can't be fixed until one person is dead, and I don't want it to be you," Haven said coming to sit on the arm of the chair. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hmm…stepping out might be a good way to handle both. I'm too old for this shit anyways," Piney huffed squeezing her knee. Haven kissed his head. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yes, let Jax handle it. From what Lyla has told me, there is some serious issues in that family," Haven shook her head. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, but JT was a good man," Piney smiled at the thought of his old friend. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Haven sighed. One person down, one to go. Although whatever it was with Lyla the blonde seemed to be working it out on her own. She could wait to handle that one. Stretching she whistled for the dogs. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"Happy was pissed. The trip was long, seeing the drug dealing of SAMTAZ, and the ever growing tension of Jax and Clay made everything else more tense. And he had to sleep alone. And worry about Haven. He knew she would do as asked but was on more edge after having to deal with bullshit of another club. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';"He looked over at Chibs. He wondered at how the Scot would handle this. The man was close to Jax and often played crying shoulder. Whatever it was though it had the potential to tear the club apart. Casting his mind back, it started when Abel was born. Jax pushing for more legit business, doing things less bloody. Happy hadn't minded that, he thought more legit business was good for them. But now, fuck. It was something ugly and no amount of Chibs or Bobby's counsel could steer this into something that wouldn't be bloody. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Hey baby, need some company?" A blonde sweetbutt asked running her hand down his arm. Happy glared at her, and she didn't get the hint. Just simpered at him. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Get lost," he growled. She huffed, turning and shaking her ass at him over to a SAMTAZ brother. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""No road pussy?" Opie asked. Happy shook his head. "Yeah, Haven could probably poison you in your sleep without a trace." /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Ain't testing that theory," Happy shrugged. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""She ok with this new business?" Happy looked at his brother. He had no idea what he had in terms of disclosure with Lyla, and it was none of his business. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Probably not. But she only wants to know enough for safety, plausible deniability and shit. Smart girl," Happy said. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Lyla wants to know everything but I don't think she can handle it. Hard enough after that shit with Abel to get her to do anything about safety, doesn't think she needs it," Opie's frustration was clear. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Not every chick can, maybe Haven can knock some sense into her. Haven doesn't buy the outlaws are knights in shining armor bullshit," Happy shrugged. Opie nodded. /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light'; min-height: 14px;" /p
p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: 'Helvetica Light';""Yeah, Lyla ain't Donna or Haven but she's a good girl. Gonna get some sleep," Opie headed off, leaving Happy to finish his beer. /p
