Thank you for everything you guys! You really make writing this so much easier and better! This chapter is longer than the others so I hope you like it.

Happy reading and please review :)

-Jennifer11

Disclaimer: I do NOT own Sons of Anarchy or anything that Kurt Sutter created.

Gemma's POV

When we got off the elevator, I saw the look on Koz's face when he saw Charlotte. I looked down and saw her face and I knew that this was real and was going to happen. Piney is going to shit a brick but at least he'd know that his daughter is protected right? I'm still not convinced her going to Hale's house is a good idea. She needs to be at the clubhouse where I can watch her.

Hale pushed Charlotte right past Koz while giving him the worst look. I watched as he kept going out the hospital with Opie, Piney, and Phil. Jax was off talking to Tara, giving me the opportunity to talk to Kozik. He caught my eye and I smiled, letting him know that I was onto him.

He was looking a little down as I patted him on the back and stood next to him. "It's ok Koz, Hale just doesn't see it and wants to protect her from all this shit."

"Gemma, I don't know what to do."

"Don't worry, I'll help you figure this out." I gave him the best reassuring look I had. I could see he wanted to be the one pushing her and helping her home. I started to lead him outside as Jax caught up with us.

"Hey Jax, you guys figure anything out in Church?"

"Sorry Ma," he said shaking his head. "There's too many 'variables' as Juice put it." I just nodded. I want them to get this guy so badly. I knew I was strong enough to get past him being out there, but was Charlotte?

David's POV

Why is he looking at Charlotte like that? I wondered as I got off the elevator. I shot him a 'back off' look as I pushed Charlotte right past him and to my Jeep. I just wanted to get her back to my house and situated so I could go back to work. As I closed the door to the passenger side, I felt eyes on me. The Sons are observing us very closely but why? I felt a little concerned. I knew they meant well, after all Weston was still out there. A little extra protection can't hurt… I thought as I started to walk around to the driver's side. I heard Gemma calling my name; Great what does momma biker want now?

"I know we didn't get off to a good start but I'd like to help in any way you need it. Just let me know."

"Thanks Gemma" I said hesitantly.

"In fact, if you wouldn't mind, some of the guys are gonna follow or be sitting outside your house to make sure Charlotte settles in ok."

"I guess but…"

"Great. See you there." She said as she turned and walked to her car. Great, this is going to be like a parade.

Opie's POV

It was nice to see my new sister smile. I hoped she never had to be in the hospital again. As we helped Hale wheel her out and into the car, I started thinking about how to resolve the problems we had right now. Juice wasn't having any luck tracking down that James guy. How did someone like that just fall off the map? How are we gonna deal with Weston. Hale isn't gonna be any help, he's as straight as an arrow. Charlotte could be the leverage we need to get his help, at least this one time.

I quickly pulled out my phone and called Clay, "Clay, I got an idea. Can you meet us at Hale's house?" With the confirmation that Clay would be there I hung up just in time to start my bike and follow Hale and Gemma.

Hale's POV

When I pulled up to my house, I was surprised with MORE motorcycles sitting on the street. I sighed and shook my head, these guys aren't gonna give this up. I pulled into the driveway and Gemma pulled in behind me, blocking me in. I got out and went to help Charlotte but Gemma told me she could handle it. I was confused until Clay, Jax, Piney, and Opie called me over.

I crossed my arms and met them halfway across the lawn. "What is it fellas?"

"We have a proposition…" Clay started curtly.

I nervously watched as Gemma, Kozik, and the Prospect helped Charlotte into my house. I don't want to trust these guys, they're outlaws for Christ's sake!

I was a little thrown off when Opie started talking, "We need your help. We know that the charges aren't sticking to Weston but we have another problem. Charlotte's stepfather is off the grid."

"And what do you want me to do about it?" I wasn't grasping what they were trying to get me to do.

It was Jax's turn to explain, "We want you to put out an BOLO for him. Not to alarm him but to see where he is. We know what he did to her mother and what he did to her a couple of times."

"What do you mean, did to her?"

"She didn't tell you?" Clay looked at me over his sunglasses.

"No. She didn't. She just told me he hit her mom." I was stunned. What else had happened to Charlotte? My stomach was twisting in knots as I thought about her and how they had left Charming right after she got out of the hospital. The signs were all there, why didn't I notice?

The guys were shifting uncomfortably as they watched me. Jax broke the silence; "We gotta get tabs on this guy so he won't pop up without us knowing. Plus we gotta get a handle on Weston and Zobelle."

I thought this over. I can't let Charlotte get hurt again. She was already hurt twice while I was right there. It's not fair to her if I don't help these guys. After all, they are her real family now… "Alright. James lives in Modesto at 851 West Roseburg Ave. I went with Charlotte to get her things after the funeral…"

They guys nodded as Opie wrote this down and headed towards his bike. I turned to go into the house and make sure Charlotte was doing alright.

Gemma's POV

I motioned Kozik to come over and help me with Charlotte. The poor girl looked worn out and it was only 2pm. I opened the door as Kozik held out his hand for her to balance on. He is so careful with her. I've never seen him like this, but I'm starting to like this new Kozik. I thought as I grabbed a small bag of Charlotte's clothes.

I led the way to the door as Kozik watched Charlotte cautiously. Charlotte was trying to walk into the house by herself but her face said she was in pain trying to hold her upper body upright. Her determination was something else; it was like she refused to be helped. She's a stubborn one. I like that. I thought as the prospect unlocked the door and held it open for us. I turned to watch the pair of them make their way up the walk. Koz looked like he wanted to pick her up and end her pain, but he knew he shouldn't touch her. Whether it was fear of scaring or hurting her, or him knowing that she needed and wanted to do it on her own.

I took a few steps in, surveying the place. "Nice place, for a cop" I muttered under my breath. Charlotte finally made it to the doorway and she was even more weary than before.

There's no way she makes it to bed unless Koz carries her. Was the thought that passed through my mind, as I looked the girl over. "Here Charlotte, let's set you up on the couch for now so you can watch some TV until you want to sleep." All she did was nod as she shuffled to the couch. "Koz, why don't you see if the nice Chief has any water for our girl here?" I suggested getting him out of the room for a moment. I helped Charlotte sit and pulled a blanket over her. "You ok, baby girl?" I got a nod before grabbing the remote and flipping on the TV.

Kozik's POV

I wanted to carry her into the house but something about her made me stop. I could tell she wanted to do it by herself but I was worried she wouldn't make it. She looked over her shoulder at me a couple of times, either to check that I was still there or to make sure I wasn't rushing her. I made sure to look away when her head turned. I didn't want her to think I was creepy or trying to get this over with. I just hoped she wouldn't collapse.

We finally made it to the door when Charlotte took a break. We could all tell it took a lot out of her to make it from the car to the house. Gemma started running the show when she saw Charlotte's indecision. I wanted to help as much as I could but Gemma sent me to the kitchen. What was I? The prospect? Phil was right there… I shook my head as I went to get the water.

When I came back, I saw Charlotte sitting, knees pulled up to her chest, on the couch. Gemma was sitting in a recliner next to the window and was trying to find something to watch on the TV. I set the water down on the table next to Charlotte before heading back to the door. "Koz?" I heard Gemma say.

"Yeah Gem?" I said, as I turned back around, curious as to what she'd say.

"Let the prospect stand at the door. I need someone I can trust to sit in the room with us." She had this mischievous smile on her face as I walked back to the couch and sat down at the end opposite of Charlotte.

I wanted to sit next to her or have her in my lap but I was trying to make sure she had the space she needed.

Gemma had just settled on some sappy movie when Hale walked back in. He glared at me before whispering something to Gemma. I would have tried to eavesdrop but I couldn't, not with Charlotte sitting so close to me. I was surprised when Gemma got up and went outside with Hale. What was going on?

Hale's POV

When I went back into the house and saw Kozik sitting next to Charlotte I was not happy. I wanted her to be as far away from other men as possible. This guy better watch it and keep his hands to himself. I know their reputations. Damn bikers. I glared at the guy before telling Gemma that I needed to talk to her in private.

"Gemma, I know what's going on here."

"What's that Chief?" Her eyes narrowed at me as we stood just outside the door.

"The Sons are going to retaliate, right? I know I'm just the chief of police…" I said sarcastically, which amused her, "but I could use some help here with Charlotte, especially while I'm at work. Plus some female company may help her."

Gemma smiled sweetly, "You know we're always willing to help. Especially a police officer." She was testing me, I know she didn't quite trust me, but I really did need help.

"Great. Can you stay here and watch Charlotte while I go back to the station? And can you fill in the guys or set up a schedule for me?" She simply nodded and went back inside. "Oh and Gemma? Don't let the guys near her or let them trash my house." She laughed and shook her head before sitting back down in the recliner.

Charlotte's POV

I held onto Kozik's hand as I got out of David's Jeep. Once on the ground, I started walking towards the house. Somehow I was getting slower the more I walked. My sides were aching as I tried to keep going. I wanted to get there by myself but I knew I was struggling. I looked over my shoulder and saw Kozik following me closely. I smiled to myself but kept looking back at him. I hope he's not getting frustrated or bored… I thought as I winced slightly and pushed forward.

Once I got to the door, I stopped. I don't think I can make it to my room. The couch looks very inviting right now. I realized as I looked around. Gemma must have sensed my hesitancy because she immediately suggest I sit on the couch.

She made sure I was situated before sitting on the chair next to me. She had sent Kozik to the kitchen to get water and made sure he was out of earshot before speaking softly, "You know he's interested in you, right?"

I was shocked but I smiled slightly, "I'm glad it's mutual." I whispered. The look on her face told me she had heard me and had known that Koz and I had chemistry. Gemma smiled an I-told-you-so smile before turning her attention to the TV as Kozik came back into the room.

My face dropped when he turned to leave, but Gemma got him to stay. He sat next to me, making me feel a lot better than I did earlier. I stared at the TV as Gemma and David went outside to talk. I snuck a peek at Kozik but he was looking at me too. A smile crept onto my face as he slowly moved closer to me. I reached my hand out to touch his but before I could, his hand met mine halfway.

I shifted slightly on the couch to get more comfortable, glancing at him as I did. He was smiling kindly at me and was holding my hand like he had last night, running his thumb against my knuckles. I smiled as I relaxed next to him.

Kozik's POV

After Gemma came back in from talking to Hale, she told us he was going to the station. She eyed Charlotte and me holding hands before going into the kitchen to make something for us to eat. I tried to unwind as I stared at the TV but I wanted to go get the guys who hurt Charlotte.

I heard motorcycles roar to life and pull out, Phil, who was posted outside the door came inside. "Hey Koz, uh, Clay told me to tell you that Half Sack and Opie are going to Modesto to check somethin' out. Him, Jax, and Piney are going back to the clubhouse. I'm supposed to stay here and help you and Gemma."

I nodded before telling him to sit on the porch and keep an eye out. I looked over at Charlotte and could see the tiredness on her face. "You doin' ok?" I asked her softly as I gently squeezed her hand.

"I'm just drained…" She whispered.

"Want me to help you to your bed?" She shook her head at my suggestion. I studied her face carefully. I saw fear flash across her eyes as her eyes watered. I didn't want to push her into anything that would make her more upset so I let it drop. My heart fell; I want to take this pain away from her. What is going on in her head? I wondered as I gently tighten my grip on her hand. I couldn't make her talk but I could be there for her when she wanted to. I sat back as I thought about what the guys were doing.

Before I knew it, Gemma brought us out some food. She handed me a sandwich before setting some soup down in front of Charlotte. Gemma went back to the kitchen to clean up while I ate half my sandwich. I tried to watch Charlotte and make sure she ate but after a few sips of soup, she stopped and sat back. I was worried she'd be sick but when she moved on the couch, it was to lie down. She looked up at me as if to make sure it was alright for her to do it, before putting her head on my lap. I smiled and nodded to encourage her before resting my hand on her shoulder. I didn't want to touch her anywhere that could possibly make her uncomfortable, physically or emotionally.

I was surprised she trusted me enough to rest her head in my lap but also when her hand reached up and she intertwined her fingers with mine. I gently pushed Charlotte's hair back from her face as Gemma walked back into the room. She gave me another look and smiled at me. I'm so glad Gemma is here and I don't have to admit my feelings, but I hate that she keeps catching me looking like a pussy.

Charlotte's POV

When the younger guy who told us that the other guys were leaving, I was confused still. Why were these guys all doing here and why were they going to Modesto? I was glad that Kozik was still here and that Gemma told me that he and I were feeling the same thing. Something just drew me to him, we just clicked. With everyone else around me walking on eggshells, he was the only one who didn't seem to patronize me. I was grateful that he never tried to make me explain myself and that he knew what I needed before I had to ask.

I could feel my eyelids getting heavier but I didn't want to sleep. I wanted to stay with Kozik. What if I have another dream? What if the dream is worse? Would the sleeping pills help? What if the pills made it worse and I can't wake up?

Gemma brought me some chicken noodle soup to try to make me feel better but the thoughts I was having were making me lose my appetite. I knew my body needed sleep but I couldn't face my dreams. What if I slept on the couch? At least Kozik would be here… I thought, looking over at him eating.

When I started to move, I looked up at him to make sure I wouldn't make him angry. He responded and seemed to want me to be closer to him. I lightly placed my head on his thigh as I settled into my new position on the couch. He lightly put his hand on my shoulder and I smiled, extending my hand up to touch his. Our fingers tangled together as I closed my eyes and sighed, contentment spreading through me.

Gemma's POV

When I came back into the living room and saw Charlotte asleep with her head on Kozik's lap, I knew they'd eventually be together. She trusts him and he is more gentle with her than he is with his bike. I smiled at Koz before going to check on Phil and then the rest of the house. I gotta make sure this place is livable and safe for her.

Opie's POV

Me and Half Sack went to Modesto to find the scumbag that hurt my sister. I know that I had just met her but I already felt like it was my responsibility as her older brother to protect her and take care of any of her problems.

We rolled up to the address that Hale gave us and saw a truck in the driveway. Half Sack went to talk to the neighbors while I sat on my bike watching the place. It was a nice neighborhood but it was awfully quiet.

Half Sack was only gone for five minutes before coming back with news. "Neighbor said that the guy cleared out five days ago."

I nodded, "Let's go check it out." We went to the front door and looked into the windows. There was no furniture, the house was completely bare. Half Sack knelt and picked the lock while I looked up and down the street. We walked in and made sure there was no one home. Everything was gone.

I shook my head, Where'd this douchebag go? Half Sack came up to me with a set of keys and a note. I read the note, "Charlotte, I'm sorry about everything, you can keep the truck just let me know that you're ok. 209 555 9837 – Dad"

"Call the garage and get someone to come pick up the truck." I told Half Sack, tossing him the keys and putting the note in my pocket. "DON'T start it, just tow it." He nodded and went outside. I slowly followed him, lost in thought.

While we waited for the tow truck, I called Clay; "We gotta have Church again tonight."

Kozik's POV

I jerked awake when my phone rang. Groaning I answered, "What?"

"Church. Let's go." Happy growled. He sounds pissed. I thought as I hung up and looked around. It was late in the afternoon and Gemma wasn't there. I had to go but who would watch Charlotte?

I saw Phil leaning against the window outside, "Phil!" I grumbled loudly.

He opened the door, "Yeah?"

"Help me out." I motioned him over to help me with Charlotte. "You gotta stay here and make sure the house is safe." He nodded and came over to the couch. He helped me get off the couch and place a pillow under her head without waking her up. I got up and looked down at her, "Just sit in the chair and watch TV. Where's Gemma?"

"Tara needed help with Jax's boys."

I nodded, "Well I gotta get to Church. It's your ass if something happens here." I quickly wrote Charlotte another note and slipped it into her hand before walking out of the house.

I got to the clubhouse and into Church as quick as I could. Opie looked tense, as did the rest of the guys. I was last to arrive and Tig gave me a smug look as I sat down.

Clay gave the floor to Opie, "Sack and I went to that bastards house today. He skipped town. Left nothing but a truck for Charlotte. And this note" The guys quickly passed the note around and read it.

Juice spoke up, "This number will definitely help."

Clay looked at Juice and dismissed him with the wave of his hand, "Go. Now." He looked across the table "Tig, Happy, you ready?" They both nodded. "Enough of this, let's figure out a rotation so we can watch Hale's house until we go on lockdown. Piney, Ope, you guys take the first shift. Go 'bond'. I'll send someone else to relieve you later." Everyone agreed as the gavel sounded and everyone got up and left.

After Church, I headed to my dorm room to sort out the thoughts I had running through my head. My heart told me to go back to the house and check on Charlotte and be near Charlotte but my head told me to get a grip and focus on what the club needs you to do. I laid back on the bed as my hands covered my face. Come on, Koz. No one ever twisted you up like this. Get a hold of yourself!

A knock at the door snapped me back to reality. "Yeah?" I half yelled at the closed door.

The door opened revealing Roxie, a croweater I frequently had relations with. "Hey baby," She slurred, "You ready to get rocked by Roxie?"

Normally I'd laugh and get her into bed as fast as I could, but a pang in my gut told me not to. "Uh not tonight."

She frowned and sauntered over to me, "You never turn me down."

As she knelt and her hands pried at my belt, I balked, pushing her away. I firmly stated, "I said not tonight." She got the hint and got up and left.

I looked up to see Happy standing in at the door. "Koz, what's wrong with you? Rox is your favorite." I just shrugged. "You gotta pull it together man. If you go weak, Clay's gonna kick your ass back to Tacoma. Not to mention Tig…" I nodded as he walked away, his attention caught by croweater.

James' POV

I finished grabbing what I needed and had gotten rid of the rest as I thought, I'm gonna get that little bitch back. Her mother wasn't the only thing I was interested in when I saw them in the grocery store. I was going to need some help to execute what I had planned.

I had already cashed in a favor with my client, Darby, but another client now owed me, big. I got him out of an assault and attempted rape charge for Christ's sake!

"Mr. Weston, Can you and your friends Darby and Zobelle meet me? I'm cashing in all of my favors."