I'm so sorry it has taken me forever to post again. My aunt being in and out of the hospital a couple times this week and work being super busy made focusing on my story so tough.

I do have good news. I got re-inspired and I now have great ideas to make this story longer.

Thank you imalionrawr010: you're awesome!

Happy reading and please review :)

-Jennifer11

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

Opie's POV

I was sitting on the couch with Lyla, attempting to unwind after everything that happened. I had just kissed my new wife when the Charming Chief of Police came barging into our clubhouse. Shit, this can't be good. I thought as I eased Lyla out of my lap and got up.

"Uh, can we help you chief?" I asked. He was yelling and causing a huge scene, making most of the members irritated. He pushed me and quickly walked back into the dorms. Gemma ran after him and got to him right after he broke down Kozik's door.

None of the guys were jealous of him as Gemma grabbed him and dragged him back into the main area. She looked like she was going to kick his ass halfway into next week.

Gemma's POV

I was working on straightening out the office at the garage when I heard a Jeep roar onto the lot. When I saw David Hale jump out and go running into the clubhouse I knew what was up. I stopped what I was doing and followed him across the pavement. I watched as he started hollering about Charlotte and her whereabouts. When he started towards the rooms, I was about to kill him myself. I waved the guys off as I went after him.

I was surprised that Charlotte was still asleep after the commotion Hale made. I was glaring at him as I snagged his ear and dragged him out of the clubhouse. The guys were avoiding eye contact as I pulled the Chief by the ear.

"David, I've known you since you were our paper boy. What makes you think you can do something like this?" He started to talk. "No, I'm talking. I know you care about the poor girl but now is not the time for this." I pushed him onto the picnic bench. "You need to calm down. Charlotte is safe and sound, trying to recover from this mess."

Clay and Jax came over to us and interrupted the lecture I was giving him. Clay kissed my cheek as Jax stood next to the Chief. Hale looked annoyed as he said, "Dirty Pig burned down and there's a body count of at least ten. You guys have fun last night?"

Jax chuckled, "Don't know what you're sayin' Chief. We were all here. But we do have a present for you." Jax led Hale to the garage.

Jax's POV

I feel bad for Hale. I really do. No one ever wants to receive the wrath of Gemma. I thought as I walked over to him. He was taunting us; trying to get us to rat about what happened last night. Clay and I had already decided that we should hand that asshole James over to Charming PD. He deserves more and we probably shouldn't trust Hale but seeing as James was the one who was getting every scumbag out of jail, this could be the best way for Hale to get closure.

I pulled Hale up from the picnic table and took him to the garage where we had James tied up in the storage room. I nodded to Miles and Phil, getting them to open the door.

Hale's eyes widened as he saw James sitting in a chair. "How'd you… "

"We tracked him down last night, then brought him here. That's all we did." Hale nodded as he walked outside to call for a squad car. I followed him, "Hale, you better make sure he goes away for life."

He agreed, "Of course. He'll go down for multiple counts of assault and battery, premeditated murder, kidnapping, attempted sexual assault, and attempted human trafficking. Not to mention assaulting a police officer. Don't worry Jax, he will end up on Death Row."

I muttered under my breath, "Yeah, I've heard it before." And shot him a warning look.

Kozik's POV

Hale looked like he wanted to kill me when the saw Charlotte next to me in bed. I tensed and cautiously held Charlotte closer to me as he yelled into my room. I was about to get up and confront him but Gemma had shown up and hauled him away. Jax was right behind her and gave me a small, sarcastic wave before trying to put my door back in place.

I looked down at Charlotte and saw that she was still sleeping, barely stirring at all. How did she sleep through all of that? I though as I lightly touched and smoothed her hair away from her face. She must be so tired. I will never let her go through anything like this again. I kissed her forehead before settling myself to sleep with her in my arms.

When I woke up the next morning, Charlotte was gone. I started panicking. I got up and pulled on my boots and cut before running out into the clubhouse looking for her. Miles and Half Sack looked up from their cleaning when I stumbled into the big room.

They both looked at me like I was crazy, Half Sack asked, "Uh, you alright there, man?" I shook my head, I didn't see Charlotte anywhere. "Gemma and Charlotte are in the kitchen." He said, pointing across the room to the little kitchen area.

I turned and looked, relief coursing through my body. Charlotte was sitting and actually laughing with Gemma over coffee and pancakes. Gosh, she looks even more beautiful today. Why would any one want to hurt someone so incredible?

I watched them for a few minutes before slowly walking over and joining them. "Good morning" I said quietly. Gemma handed me a plate and a cup of coffee but I declined both. I just wanted to make sure Charlotte was doing fine. "You feeling ok?" I asked her as I stood in front of her.

She smiled, the world's cutest smile, up at me, "Yes, thanks to you."

Charlotte's POV

My stomach grumbled and woke me up. I smiled when I saw Kozik, sleeping peacefully next to me with one arm under my head and the other over his eyes. I tiredly rolled out of bed and pulled on my sneakers before being startled by the broken remnants of Kozik's bedroom door. I wonder what happened here. That wasn't like this last night, was it? I shrugged and slipped out of the room so I wouldn't wake him up.

I went out into the main area and was greeted by Half Sack and Miles who were cleaning up some empty bottles and glasses. I looked around and saw some half naked men and women laying around on the couches or pool table.

I didn't know what to think or say, Half Sack was slowly walking towards me and handed me a cup of coffee, "Here, take this. Gemma's in the kitchen making pancakes." He gently guided towards the little area where Gemma was.

"Good morning sweetheart, how you feelin'?" She asked when Half Sack cleared his throat.

"Good. Just stiff and hungry. I guess." I answered her, unsure of what to say.

She took the cup of coffee out of my hand and replaced it with a bottle of water. "Drink this, then I'll let you have coffee." She said sternly. I nodded and took a sip while she went back to making pancakes. Ten minutes later, she set a plate of eggs and toast down in front of me. "I didn't think pancakes would be good for you right now. Too much sugar."

"Thanks Gemma." I said as I took a bite.

We talked for about an hour and I was really starting to feel like I was a member in her unconventional family. She told me stories about some of the pranks the guys had pulled on each other and other mishaps they've been through. For a bunch of tough looking guys, they really just want to have fun with their friends.

I was laughing with her after she told me a story of Jax and Opie while sipping at my coffee when Kozik shyly came in the room. Gemma tried to hand him a mug and plate but he ignored them and came over to where I was sitting on a barstool.

He stood in front of me and was looking me over, as if he were inspecting me for the tiniest scar. He is being so sweet and caring. I thought as I smiled at him.

Gemma's POV

When Kozik bee-lined straight for Charlotte, I thought it'd be a good time to go get Charlotte the little gift I picked up for her. I motioned to Miles, who brought over the duffle bag I had filled with some of Charlotte's belongings earlier this morning.

"Alright you two, I got you a little somethin'." I said as Miles held out the bag.

Charlotte got up and opened the bag, "Thank you so much Gemma!" She said excitedly.

Kozik was smiling behind her, obviously glad that Charlotte was pleased. "Babe, why don't you go get ready? We can go get lunch or do whatever you want."

Charlotte looked at Kozik over her shoulder, "Really?" She asked giving him a look.

I decided to step in, "You know, the carnival is in town. Some of the guys and I were going to go. You both should come with us." Kozik perked up at this idea. He looked like he wanted to go but he was looking at Charlotte for her answer. "Charlotte, does that sound good with you?"

She hesitated and looked worried, but one look at Kozik and she happily agreed, hurrying off to get ready.

"She's gonna make a great old lady one day, Koz. But til then…"

"I know Gemma. Don't worry." He said smiling after his girl.

As long as she comes back from all this shit, she should be a great addition to the club. And she'd be good for him. I just hope that he keeps her safe, because I don't know how much more bad shit she can go through. I'm gonna nurture her into the best old lady possible.

Charlotte's POV

The carnival? As in, in public? Looking like this? I thought the moment Gemma suggested it. I wasn't sure it was a good idea, until I saw the look on Kozik's face. It's like he wants to flaunt me off to his friends. But why? I'm nothing special. I took the bag that Gemma had gotten for me and went to get myself looking my best.

On my way back to Kozik's room, I ran into the man who had felt me up just a few days ago. I froze, not knowing what to do. He looked tired or hung over but he still managed to give me a weird feeling.

"Sorry" was all he slurred before stepping around me. I watched him go; unable to shake the creepy vibe I got from him.

I tried to shrug it off as I took a shower in Kozik's bathroom. I had already picked out what I wanted to wear: jeans, a pink v-neck, and ankle booties. I hope Kozik thinks I look cute. I thought as I straightened my natural blonde hair and put on some makeup, covering the bruises and accenting my blue eyes. I got dressed and psyched myself up as I looked in the mirror and pulled half of my hair back with a clip. I opened the door of Kozik's bathroom and was surprised to find Gemma, Tara, Lyla, Cherry, and Brie waiting for me.

They all smiled at me, Tara asked, "How are you feeling?"

I felt nervous, why were they all sitting here waiting for me? "I'm fine, thanks for everything."

"You ready for the carnival with the guys?" Gemma wanted to know. "They can be stupid and unruly sometimes but I know they'd all like to see you there."

They did? Really? I thought to myself. This 'family' really knows how to make a girl feel welcomed.

Gemma got up and started towards the door. "Come on, you're riding with us." She smiled and led us out to the clubhouse.

Kozik's POV

The guys and I were standing around the bar, drinking some beers and waiting for the girls, like always. Clay perked up at the sound of Gemma's heels clicking down the hall. I turned around and a smile spread across my face. Charlotte looks gorgeous. I want to kiss her so badly. I thought as she walked up to me. I politely kissed her cheek and gave her a hug.

I could feel Opie and Piney scowling at me. I smiled at her and whispered, "You look beautiful."

Clay stood, indicating it was time for us to roll out. "Miles, you're gonna drive the ladies in Gemma's SUV. Piney, Happy, Phil, other prospects: you guys stay here and hold down the fort. Everyone else, let's go."

Clay was threatening Miles to drive safely, while I gently guided Charlotte to the car. "We're gonna have fun, I promise." I softly told her before going to get on my bike. The other guys got on their bikes and we escorted the SUV to the fairgrounds.

People were staring as our nine bikes pulled into the parking lot following an SUV. The women got out of Gemma's car, laughing and looking like they were having a good time. I'm glad the old ladies aren't scaring her off. They're making her feel like family, like one of them.

I shyly followed Clay, Jax, Opie, and Half Sack over to their women. They all slipped their arms around the shoulders of their respective old ladies, leaving Brie and Charlotte behind as they walked towards the ticket booths. Bobby, Miles, and Chibs happily followed them, but Tig was walking sullenly behind them, looking over his shoulder towards Brie. Poor guy. I shouldn't feel bad for him cause he deserved it. He shouldn't have treated his old lady like that. But still, it must suck to know that she's leaning towards Juice.

Juice was already next to Brie, walking her towards the booths. I saw Opie look back at us from his place in line while I offered my arm out to Charlotte. She giggled softly and slipped her arm through mine and we walked in the direction of the group.

I smiled down at her as I ignored Opie's frowns and bought some tickets. "So, Charlotte, what do you want to do first?"

She thought about it for a minute as she looked around the campground, "How about… that one." She said, pointing to Music Express ride.

"Anything you want." I replied as we headed over to the ride. Some of the guys and old ladies followed us onto the ride. I helped Charlotte into the seat and then sat next to her, sliding my arm behind her, along the back of the chair. Some of the other guys did what and sat where they wanted, but I made sure Charlotte felt safe. During the ride she was laughing and smiling, thoroughly enjoying the ride. I couldn't take my eyes off of her. Damn, she's just incredible. I thought as I laughed with her.

When the ride ended, I helped her out, catching her as her foot caught on the edge of the seat. "You ok?" I asked as she chuckled and hugged me, nodding her head. I smiled, "What next?"

"The Ferris Wheel. Come on you two." Gemma called over her shoulder at us.

Charlotte's POV

Kozik is being such a charming gentleman. I wonder if this is just for me? None of the other guys seem to be this careful with their women; I just hope he doesn't see me as one of those fragile women who's afraid to break a nail. I thought as he bought us both tickets for rides and games. He asked me what I wanted to do, clearly letting me know that he wanted me to be comfortable and happy, not him. I pulled him towards my favorite ride, the Music Express, not to scary or dangerous but not boring.

As I was getting off the ride, I clumsily tripped, but his strong arms caught me. I feel so silly, who trips like this? I tried to laugh it off and regain my composure; Gemma interrupted us and directed the whole group to the Ferris Wheel. Kozik shrugged and held out his arm again. He's being so cute. It's very appealing. I smiled up at him and slid my arm into his as we all walked towards the lit up ride. Gemma, Clay, Lyla, Opie, Cherry, and Half Sack all got on in couples, two to a seat.

Kozik and I were next, but another man pushed his way through. "Come on, Tig. We were here first." Kozik growled, gently pushing me behind him.

"It's ok, we can go next." I tried to say quietly.

He looked back at me while Tig snorted, "Oh pussy whipped already, ya dumb blonde?"

Kozik turned, almost angry, "Well Tiggy, at least I don't gotta pay women to be around me." Before any more exchanges could be made, the ride operator got the ride moving.

I was unsure of what to do, but Kozik looked stressed, "Are you ok?" I asked him. He nodded but I wasn't so sure. "Let's go get something to drink." I said as I pulled him out of line and away from the ride. He didn't say anything until we got to a drink stand. He got out his wallet but I pushed his hand back and got out a twenty from my pocket to pay for our beers.

He shook his head in disbelief, "But…"

I took a sip of my beer, "No buts. I owe you anyways. Just drink it." I said with a wink. He smiled and took a long pull from his cup while I sat on a picnic table and watched the Ferris Wheel stop and go.

Kozik observed me for a few moments before sitting next to me. He coolly placed his hand behind me, leaning towards me slightly; as if to claim me as his without touching me. I studied his face over my cup of beer, contemplating what to say. I wanted to know about the history between him and Tig but something told me to let it go.

He set down his empty cup and quietly apologized "Sorry."

"Don't worry about it. He was pushing your buttons." I told him. He nodded but didn't seem convinced that I was that unruffled by the whole thing. I just wanted to change the subject, "So, Kozik. Is that your first or last name?" He looked down at his shoes, obviously embarrassed by something. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to…"

"I want to. But you can't tell anyone. Alright?"

I smiled and held up my pinky, "Pinky swear I'll keep it to myself."

He chuckled, that definitely lightened the mood. He hooked pinkies with me and said, "Kozik is my last name. My first name is Herman, after my grandfather." His cheeks were a little pink as he bashfully looked down at our hands.

"Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Wanna know a secret? My middle name is Gertrude. My grandmother's name." I was trying to get him to relax.

He looked up and grinned at me, leaning closer to me until our lips were inches apart. I smiled and pressed my lips against his, passionately sharing our first kiss. Our pinkies stayed hooked as he smoothly slung his other arm around my shoulders. We kept exploring each others mouths, lost in the moment until we heard someone clear their throat.

I pulled back and wildly looked around, seeing a mother glaring at us over the heads of her children. I blushed and turned my head into his shoulder, trying to hide my giggling.

Kozik's POV

Thoughts were racing through my mind as the woman shuffled her kids away from us. I finally get to kiss Charlotte's warm, soft lips and some bitch interrupts us. Goddamnit. A little privacy would be nice right now. At least it all got my mind off of Tig. What was his problem? Just because Brie didn't want him any more, he has to be a dick to me? Shit. I can't believe I told Charlotte my real name. At least she made me feel better and told me her middle name. Wait, she made me feel better about a lot of things: she pulled me away from a fight, bought me beer, shared a secret… This girl could be the one.

After a few minutes, I got up and held out my hand to Charlotte, "C'mon, let's go get you a stuffed animal." She got up and took my hand, walking next to me as we decided which games to play.

We stopped in front of the High-Striker. She squeeze my hand, "I bet you can't hit the bell." She teased.

I smirked at her as the Carny started in on me, "Oh the big, bad, biker scared he won't be able to lift the hammer? C'mon tough guy, win your girly a prize."

I crushed his hand in mine as I handed him a five-dollar bill, I threatened him, "Don't push it, douchebag." I picked up the hammer and swiftly swung it down as hard as I could, easily sending it up, ringing the bell. The clown didn't make eye contact as he thrust a large bear towards me, it obviously wasn't the prize I should have won, but he was intimidated.

I turned, beaming at Charlotte, "Here you go, gorgeous." I said as I handed her the bear and kissed her cheek.

"Thank you, it's wonderful." She whispered before lightly kissing my lips, catching me off guard. She drew back and smiled up to me, "I bet I can beat you at that game," She said jabbing her thumb over her shoulder to the squirt guns.

"You're on." I teased back as I followed her over to the next booth and passed the Carny ten bucks. We sat down and prepared ourselves for the game, "You sure you want to challenge me? I'm a pretty good shot…" I tried to warn her.

"Definitely." She shot back, leaning over to kiss my cheek.

I turned to look at her, maybe catch her lips again. Before I could respond, I heard the buzzer sound. "You little cheater!" I cried out as I realized she got herself a head start. I started laughing as she effortlessly beat me. "You tricked me." I pouted.

"You say cheated, I say used my resources." She winked at me. This girl is something else. I can't get enough of her.

I was about to give the Carny more money to start the game again when Opie tapped me on the shoulder. "Hey bro, you guys good?"

"Yeah, man. We're good." I said as I stood up, shaking his hand. He nodded and rejoined Lyla at the cotton candy stand. I turned back to Charlotte, "You hungry babe?"

"Yep, let's get pretzels." She picked up the bear and wrapped her arm around my torso, letting me drape my arm across her shoulders.

We started towards the pretzel cart when I heard the loud popping.

Hale's POV

Shit. How could Charlotte be falling for a Son? I can't believe I let that happen. At least I got James in custody. I thought as I hauled James to the station.

The new rookie was helping me take him inside when I heard shots being fired and then felt a white-hot pain. I tried to return fire but the pain grew more intense and it was near blinding. I hit the pavement hard and tried to radio for help. The last thing I saw was the rookie falling to the ground and a blurry image running away.