Chapter 4
Mia's POV:
I sat cross-legged on my bed, I hadn't spoken to anyone all week; my mind numb. The only people I saw were Brian, who hadn't left my side, and Letty. I thought back to the past week, and closed my eyes, willing myself not to cry, I'd already spent too much time draining myself of tears, and pain.
A week ago
"So what's happening with Toni's race tomorrow?" Letty asked. She was sitting in Dom's lap in the hospital and I was on the bed with Brian, his arm wrapped around me.
"We're still going," Dom gestured to himself, Letty, Brian and I, "That is if you're up to it?" Dom looked at Brian and he nodded.
"Man, I wouldn't miss it for the world," Brian said.
"Good, I'll pick you up on my way to the tracks," Dom smiled
Brian's POV:
I stood out the front of the hospital. My ribs were strapped and eye was puffy, but I was looking forward to today. Dom's dad hardly ever raced close by, so everyone was getting excited. I climbed into Dom's car as he pulled up, slowly lowering myself in. I winced, but stayed silent.
"How are you feeling?" Dom asked, looking me up and down.
"Yeah, I'm good, just a bit sore. I'll be fine soon, let's go," I smiled, and Dom sped away, towards the race track.
"The girl's will be meeting us there," Dom said, "Mia was crazy last night, she couldn't sleep. Letty ended up giving her a sleeping tablet and spent the night with her." I felt terrible that she was scared.
"Shit, man I'm so sorry that this happened," I said. Dom shook his head.
"Man, it's not even your fault!" he said, gripping the wheel. I didn't know how to take it, so I just sat there in silence.
Dom and Letty were screaming in excitement as Toni pulled ahead of everyone else. We were all excited; he was so close to winning. Mia was jumping up and down, almost in tears she was over the moon. I cheered, but was careful not to hurt myself too much. Just as Toni was rounding onto the last straight, Linder came up behind him, and bumped his tail. Toni spun out of control, smashing into the wall. The car was crushed. Dom started screaming. Mia was standing shocked. Letty grabbed Dom who was trying to push out of the pit to go and help. The car exploded in flames, and Mia crumpled. I grabbed her as she started to fall. I took her over to a chair, and she cried. Dom was screaming and yelling, Letty had him pushed up against the wall with all her strength. He swung out, and she dodged. A couple of the guys grabbed Dom's arms and pinned them to the wall. Letty grabbed his face, and looked into his eyes. He almost started crying, and it scared the shit out of me.
"No," he said harshly, fighting against the hands that restrained him. Mia curled herself into a ball and I held her, keeping her in one piece.
Letty's POV:
During the day I went to the garage and worked in silence. Vince and Leon had left after the altercation with Brian. During the day I went to the garage and worked in silence. At night I stayed with Dom, holding his hand and staring at pictures of Toni. He was yet to talk about it, and I wasn't going to push it. He'd talk when he was ready. Mia stayed in her room all the time. Brian was always with her, whenever I poked my head in to check, they were curled up talking quietly. Her face was always tearstained, and her cheeks were puffy and red.
"I need to get out of here," Dom said finally after a week, "I need to go to the garage," I nodded, and got up with him. I knew he wanted to go by himself.. I called Jesse and told them not to go in today.
"Bye," he called as he left the house. I sat in silence staring at the TV screen. I felt empty. I still hadn't cried since it had happened. I was scared that if I cried then it would be real, that Toni would really be gone, and I wouldn't be able to stop. I sat on the couch, looking at the pictures on the mantelpiece.
I opened my eyes as someone screamed my name. Dom walked into the living room, covered in blood, crying. I opened my arms, and he ran into them. We fell to the floor and I held him.
"I did something," he choked out, "I saw Linder," he said. I closed my eyes, and kissed his forehead.
"Oh Papa," I murmured. He cried into my shoulder and I held him tighter. The door burst open and some police came in, "I promise, I'll look after us," I whispered as he was dragged away. He didn't even fight, he just walked out dejectedly.
That night, for the first time, I cried. With no one to hold me, I lost it. Crying, and screaming and hitting things. Mia poked her head in, but I growled at her low in my throat. She retreated and I continued to lash out. It wasn't until I broke a picture of Toni, Mia, Dom and I that I stopped. I fell to my knees and cried as I held the photo in my hands.
When I woke up, I felt better, still empty, but I knew it was real now. I knew I could grieve and move on. I called my mama and she said she was sorry. We cried to each other.
Two Years Later
Dom's POV:
I smiled as my sister threw the car keys to me. We'd just gone and gotten my license renewed. It was an orange nitrous-fortified 1995 Toyota Supra Turbo. I revved the engine, and smiled at the feel. Driving home, I'd never felt so relaxed in two years. Mia had her head back, a light smile on her face. No one knew I was coming home. Mia had come to get me, while everyone else was at home hanging out, getting ready for the traditional Toretto Sunday lunch. I'd been sentenced to four years prison after nearly beating a man to death for causing the accident that killed my father, but I'd gotten out after two years on good behaviour. I pulled into the driveway, and Mia was nearly bouncing with excitement. We walked through the house, out the back. Mia handed me a corona, and I sat down on the patio. No one had noticed me yet and I enjoyed watching them. Letty was cooking the ribs, steak and chicken on the BBQ, while Suki and Gisele were setting the table. Brian, Roman, Jesse and Tej were all laughing with Letty
"Hey everyone," Mia suddenly called and everyone turned around. She pointed to me and there was silence, before everyone started yelling and embracing me. I watched them, smiling as they all greeted me. Everyone that is, except for Letty. She glared at me, before turning around and looking at the food in front of her. She pulled out her phone and made a quick call. I turned back to everyone else, but watched her out of the corner of my eye. Everyone was dragging me to the table, laughing. Mia walked over to Letty and whispered something. Letty spat something back at her, and walked inside. Mia saw me staring, and smiled sympathetically.
Everyone was seated in the lounge room, watching Nightmare on Elm Street. I was glad we'd all fallen back into the usual rhythm. The front door banged open and everyone smirked at each other. I turned my head and saw Letty sticking her tongue down some guy's throat. I stood up, and punched the guy in the face.
"What the fuck was that about Dom?" Letty slapped me across the face.
"Get out," I ordered the guy, pointing to the door. He scurried out, and I turned on Letty, "What do you mean 'what was that about'?"
"Why the hell did you punch him?" she screamed at me, punching me in the chest.
"He was kissing you! That's why! I'm the only one who should be kissing you!" I yelled back.
"Are you fucking kidding me? I visited you twice in a month before you told me I couldn't fucking see you anymore. Some bullshit about 'it's not you it's me'. Fuck you Dom! You have no say in what I do anymore! You're the one who ended it!" She screamed in my face.
"I did not end it! I just said you couldn't see me anymore baby," I said, realising how it sounded.
"Bullshit!" she hissed at me, "All that 'Ride or Die' crap. It's over! So don't you EVER call me 'baby' again!" Everyone was silent as she stormed upstairs and slammed her door. I rubbed my head, and then I followed her. I shoved her door open and glared at her.
"Get out of my room! Asshole," she cried, throwing a shoe at my head. I stormed towards her, and grabbed her face. I crushed my lips to hers, and she fought against me, pummelling my chest. I barely felt it though as my tongue forced its way into her mouth.
"Fuck I've missed this," I groaned as she bit down on my bottom lip. I tugged her shirt over her head, and she ripped mine. I pushed her onto the bed, and moved between her legs. Her fingers dug into my back and I growled against her neck. I bit down on the sensitive spot behind her ear, and sucked gently as she clawed at my muscles. I sat back, and pulled my pants and boxers off, and she tugged off her shorts and panties. I slipped a finger inside her; she was already wet and ready. I groaned.
"I can't wait," I said, and shoved into her. Damn she was tight, it felt so good. She cried out, and I moaned loudly. It felt so good.
"I'm not going to last, baby," I whispered as I fucked her.
"Don't call me baby, Papa," she moaned out. Her insides clenched around me, and just as she came so did I. Her nails bit into the skin of my back and she screamed out in pleasure.
"Baby, I'll call you whatever I want, you're mine now," I breathed heavily into her ear, and she shoved me. Crawling on top of me, she bit down on the skin at the nape of my neck. I growled as she sucked hard. I could feel myself stiffen again. She rubbed against me, and it felt so good.
"You ready Papa?" she asked as she took me in her hand.
"Baby, I'm always ready for you," I grinned, and gritted my teeth as she slid down on me. Slowly she moved up and down on my cock. I groaned. Her warmth surrounded me. I rolled on top of her, and slowly thrust into her again and again. Her eyes closed in bliss, and she came again. A moan escaped her lips. I kept going, sliding in and out of her. I felt myself getting close, and she smiled.
"Go on Papa," she whispered, eyes still closed in pleasure. I lifted her leg over my shoulder and slammed into her, faster and faster until I felt myself come undone inside her. She smiled as I collapsed on her, after cursing out my pleasure. She stroked my bald head.
"I like your new muscles," Letty grinned, running her hands over my hardened arms and chest. I grunted into her shoulder, "You better not be fucking done, Papa!" She pushed me onto my back, and took my limp member into her mouth. She massaged the tip with her tongue, and swirled the head around in her mouth. I hardened and Letty slid her mouth all the way down to the bottom and back up again. My head touched the back of her throat and she licked her tongue up and down the sides. I grabbed Letty and tugged her up to him. I pushed her onto her hands and knees. Slamming into her wetness I groaned.
"Fuck I've missed you baby," I groaned in pleasure.
"Papa, shut up and fuck me," she sat up, and pressed her back against my chest. Her arms went around my neck. I slammed into her harder, crying out in pleasure. She screamed out as an orgasm took her over. She collapsed onto her hands again. Burying her head into a pillow she cried out. I reached under her and stroked her clit as I pumped in and out of her. She came again, moaning into the pillow. I pulled out, and she fell onto me again, taking me deeper into her than before. I watched her back and grinned as she threw her head back. I reached out and grabbed her ass. I loved the feel of her. I could feel myself getting close and dug my fingers into her hips, pulling her further down on me.
"Fuck Dom! Yes, fuck, fuck, fuck! Yes! Don't stop!" she screamed as she came again. I felt myself getting close, and she bounced up and down on me. Swirling her hips, she drove me crazy, as she changed tempo, fast then slow then fast again. I held her down as I finally came.
"Fuck Letty! Yes! Oh my fucking god, yes!" I yelled, and her cries of pleasure joined mine as she orgasmed, her insides clenching around my limp cock. She rolled off me, and crawled up my body.
"You're staying here," she murmured and kissed me lightly, before her head collapsed on my chest. One of her hands lay on my pecs and her legs tangled with mine.
I woke up at 7am. I couldn't help it, I'd woken up at that time everyday for the past two years, and the habit was going to be difficult to get rid of. Letty rolled over and I kissed her forehead before climbing out of bed. I pulled on my boxers and my jeans as I walked downstairs. Letty had destroyed my shirt last night, and I couldn't be bothered to go find another one. I sat on the back patio and put my head in my hands.
"Here," Mia said from behind me and handed me a cup of coffee.
"You and Letty were pretty explosive last night. You're going to have to talk sooner or later, because sex will only cover them up for so long," Mia said, as I took a sip of my coffee.
"I know, what happened while I was gone?" I asked. Mia's eyes went a bit distant.
"Jesse fell into a bit of depression; he really missed you and hated how he'd left things. He started drinking a lot. Letty was the one who went out after him and bailed him out of the fights he got into. I spent the first two months locked in my room. I didn't talk to anyone except Letty and Brian. Letty really stepped up though. She spent the night after you were taken away in tears, screaming and yelling and breaking anything she could get her hands on. Then the next day, she was fine, she was empty, but she seemed to be coping. She spent all her spare time at the garage, and pulling jobs with the boys. I hated it, but I left it because it was paying the bills. Every Friday and Saturday night Letty would race and usually bring in around 10g's. After I got over my stuff together I worked the diner, and it went well. We've kept our head above water; the mortgage is gone now, thanks to Letty. She was the rock that kept us all together. She was the Ringmaster of our little circus. If we didn't have her, we'd have fallen apart. After she stopped seeing you, she wouldn't tell me why she stopped going, so I left it. After she started bringing guys home I figured that you guys had a fight or something. I never thought you would have told her to stop coming." Mia said, as I finished my coffee.
"I couldn't have her around, it hurt too much. I could see how worn down she was, and I hated it. I hated that I'd made her feel that way. The more I saw her, the worse it was for me. I was vulnerable in there and they all knew it. So, I stopped seeing anyone but you."
Flashback: 23 months ago (2008)
Letty and I sat there, talking and holding hands. I could tell she was worn down, even though she was putting on a strong face.
"Letty, you can't come see me anymore," I said, looking into her eyes. She saw there was no bluff there.
"What'd I do?" she asked, hurt displayed across her gorgeous Latina features.
"Baby, it's not you it's me," I said. What a cliché.
"Bullshit," she whispered, and then exploded, "What the actual fuck DOM?" I gestured to the guard, I hated hurting her.
"Ride or die baby," I said as I was taken away, "Remember that Letty," I called out to her. I looked back once and saw her sitting there, obviously in confused shock.
Present Time (2010)
"Shit Dom, you seriously thought she'd wait after you did that?" Mia asked. I shrugged.
"It was stupid, I know," I said, as Mia threw out the dregs of her coffee.
"Well, you can't change it now, you're just going to have to live with the consequences," Mia said simply, "Come on, I'll make you breakfast," she tugged me inside.
"Yo Dom," Brian called as I walked inside, "Mind keeping it down next time? Our guests were feeling significantly awkward," he winked, and I laughed.
"It's been a while man, I promise next time it'll be a few octaves higher," Brian and Mia grimaced and I laughed at them, as I sat at the dining table.
Letty walked downstairs in a pair of black lacy underwear and an oversized t-shirt.
"Morning," She mumbled and stretched, showing off her toned caramel stomach. She shuffled over to me and sat on my lap. I wrapped my arms around her waist and kissed her neck lightly.
"Hello beautiful,' I whispered into her ear, "Sleep well?" I asked.
"Best sleep I've had in two years," she grinned and kissed me on the cheek, before turning serious, "You're still in so much shit, just so you're aware. You're gonna have so much shit thrown at you, and it might get ugly. You better be ready to do a LOT of grovelling," she looked at me, and I knew I was in for it.
"Let's have breakfast first?" I asked, nuzzling her shoulder. She laughed throatily, and nodded.
"So, Dom, I have to break something to you, and you probably won't like it," Letty said as Brian and Mia joined us at the table.
"Do I want to know?" I asked warily.
"Probably not, but I'm telling you anyway," Letty said, Brian shot her a look but she just shrugged, "The Mazda is gone," my eyes widened, and my fingers tightened on her waist.
"Why?" I said finally, gently rubbing her sides as she winced, I knew there'd be bruises there for a couple of days.
"Johnny Tran and his boys were at it. They were pissed I won the car back, so they trashed it," Letty said, "But there's good news," she smiled at me, and I scoffed.
"Oh yeah, what's that?" I asked sarcastically. She punched me in the arm.
"I'm sick of your shit Dom, if you don't stop being a bitch I won't let you have it!" Letty glared at me, and I looked at Brian. He shook his head at me, hinting for me to be quiet.
"Ok, sorry baby, what's the good news?" I asked. She quickly finished her breakfast and stood up.
"I'll show you, come on, we're going to the garage," she smirked. I heard the shower turn on upstairs, and continued with my breakfast.
Letty shrieked when I grabbed her from behind, she hadn't heard me come into the bathroom. I laughed, and kissed her neck gently.
"Well hello there," she whispered huskily. My hands trailed down her body and she tipped her head back against my shoulder. I grinned down at her as she turned around. The tiles were obviously cold against her back as I picked her up and pushed her against the wall. She didn't seem to mind though, as I took one of her breasts in my mouth. She moaned quietly, and I bit down softly.
"Fuck," she muttered, grabbing my shoulders, her nails digging into my muscles. I grinned, and slid up into her.
"I don't want you with anyone else," I grunted, as I thrust into her again. She groaned against my shoulder, and her fingers bit into my skin, "Baby, if I see you with anyone else, I swear. The last thing they'll see is me beating the shit out of them," I whispered, "You're mine Letty, and I'll prove it," I bit down on her neck and sucked lightly. She cried out as I pushed her over the edge, and her insides clenched around me. I pumped in and out of her faster and faster.
"If any of those skanks at the races even look at you, I'll fucking kill them," she whimpered, "You're mine Papa, fuck!" she cried out as she came again, "Fuck yes! Oh yes, fuck Dom!" I laughed and gritted my teeth as I slid in and out of her faster.
"Fuck yes Letty!" I called out as I came; grunting loudly, and leaning my head against her chest, "Promise?" I asked, and she nodded, running her hands over my head, before leaning down and kissing it.
"Forever," she promised. I let her slide down my body, and we held each other as the hot water fell against our bodies.
"So, when do I get to see this surprise?" I teased as she tugged on a pair of black mini shorts and a grease stained wife beater. I sat on the bed in a pair of loose jeans, and my old blue mechanics shirt.
"Come on," she tugged me downstairs, "We'll be back in a bit," she called out to everyone, and pulled me outside. I watched as she opened the door to a beautiful grey matte finished 1971 Jensen Interceptor, with oversized rear wheels. I whistled low, and grinned as she gestured for me to get in.
"What? I don't get to drive her?" I winked.
"No one touches this baby," she growled, and I laughed. I watched in appreciation as her arms flexed every time she changed gears. She looked so alive behind the wheel, I loved it. She pulled up at the garage, and unlocked everything.
"Where are the boys?" I asked, looking around.
"I gave them the day off, I thought you might like some time here, to yourself. I know you haven't been back since your dad... You know?" she looked at me, and I kissed her.
"You're the best baby," I whispered. She took my hand and pulled me towards the back of the shop. I saw a car with a dirty sheet covering it. She grinned at me, and pulled it off, to reveal the car she'd won off Tran all those years ago.
"They didn't get to this beauty," she winked. She'd done up the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6. It was painted black and was finished with a high gloss polish. I smiled, and she popped the hood. The car had been fitted with all the latest parts. I admired the body work, and the new engine. Throwing the keys at me, she grinned. I caught them and looked at the car.
"Best present ever," I said and kissed her.
"I'm going to go, enjoy your time," she patted me on the back and left the garage. On the back wall was a framed picture of Mia, Letty, Dad and I at the races, over the old couch.
My hands were stained with oil and grease, just the way I liked it. My shirt was unbuttoned, and a layer of sweat and grime was on my skin. I slammed down the hood of my new car and grinned. Damn Letty had done a good job, I thought, a smile on my face. I went to the fridge in the office and grabbed a corona. I pulled out my phone and called Letty.
"Hey baby," I said after she picked up on the third ring, "Bring Mia and Brian over and we can have a few beers."
"Sure, we'll be there soon," she hung up, and I smiled. I didn't realise how much I'd missed this place until I was back, but most of all I couldn't wait to get behind the wheel of this car. Letty knew I had a thing for American muscle. I was so looking forward to racing again, I wanted my title back.
"Hey Papa," Letty smiled, and ran her hand over the car. I loved how she could admire the beauty.
"Hey baby, Mia and Brian coming?" I asked, taking a long drag from my beer. She nodded and grabbed herself a corona from the fridge. She sat on the hood, and grinned at me. Taking a swig from her beer, she tipped her head back. I watched as she took me in, her eyes roaming over my bare chest.
Letty's POV:
I sat on the hood of the car, drinking my beer and watching Dom's muscular frame. He'd put on a lot of muscle mass over two years, and he'd shaved his hair off. I liked it, my eyes slid over his bare chest. I bit down on my lower lip, and felt heat coil inside me. Damn I loved the way he made me feel. He was grinning cockily, as he started to button up his shirt.
"Don't even think about it Papa, that shirt is staying open!"I growled at him. He laughed and moved to stand between my legs. I stroked my hands over his abs, lightly digging my nails in. He groaned, and put his hands on my hips, pulling me closer to him. I smiled up at him, licking my lips. Leaning down, he kissed me, my hands moving around his neck. Our tongues touched, and I closed my eyes, a light moan coming from between my lips.
"Hey guys," Mia called out, and I pushed him away. She was holding a plastic bag and Brian had his arm around her waist, "Hope we aren't interrupting," Mia winked, and Dom laughed.
"What have you got there?" I asked, gesturing to the bag.
"We stopped off and got some Chinese. I figured we'd be here for a while," Brian said as Mia went into the office to put the bag down. Handing Brian a beer, she came back out. Dom leant back against me, and I rested my arms on his shoulders.
"I like this, I've missed us hanging out," Mia said, snuggling into Brian as they sat down on the couch, "Has Letty told you about her collection yet?" Mia giggled.
"Not yet," I said, and he looked at me over his shoulder, "I have a bit of a American muscle cars fetish at the moment," Mia scoffed, "Ok it's not little, but I've been doing a bit of buying," I said finally.
"Oh yeah, what have you got so far?" Dom asked, grinning.
"1970 Plymouth Barracuda, 1970 Dodge Challenger, 1971 Jensen Interceptor, 1970 Oldsmobile 442, 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans AM, 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429, 1969 COPO Camaro, 1970 Chevrolet Camaro SS 454, 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 and a 2010 R/T Classic Dodge Challenger," I said, slightly embarrassed. Dom let out a low whistle.
"Nice," he murmured, "How the hell did you afford it though?" he asked. I shrugged.
"Oh you know, races, did a few jobs with the boys, just stuff," I looked up, "How's uni going Mia?" I asked.
"Good, I got a distinction in my last assignment. My lecturers are all really good and most of the people are pretty nice," she smiled.
"I'm proud of you, Mia," Dom said, "What's being going on with you Brian?" He asked.
"Racing, working in the garage, and running some jobs with Letty and the boys, just having a good time I guess," he said, drinking some more beer.
"What are all these jobs you guys have been pulling?" Dom asked. Brian and I locked eyes, and I shook my head slightly. Dom would kill me if he found out what I was doing.
"Um, you know, just stuff. So, how are you enjoying being a freeman?" Brian changed the subject. I groaned inwardly, he was so not subtle.
"I love it, and I love being home with you guys," Dom looked hard at Brian. He decided to leave it after a while and turned to me
"Later," I smiled kissing his cheek, "So, did you enjoy being back here again?" I asked, and Dom nodded.
"I actually love the car, she's a beauty," Dom smiled lovingly at the car.
"Good, coz I'm finding it damn hard to separate myself from her, you treat her good, or I'll destroy you," Mia and Brian laughed. Dom agreed solemnly though, he understood what I meant. I had a bond with that car; I'd spent months working on her.
"Thank you," he grinned, "We'll take her for a spin later," he winked at me, and I laughed, remembering the last time we christened his car.
"So, who wants Chinese?" Mia asked, and we all cheered. She came back and gave us each a container. I got my usual deep fried eggplant, Dom got Mongolian Lamb, Brian had Sweet and Sour Pork and Mia got Honey Chicken.
"Can I have another beer?" I asked Dom, and he went into the kitchen to grab us both a corona. He popped the caps off and handed me one. I smiled in appreciation and kissed him lightly on the lips. I look a long swig, and ate some more food.
"What are the plans for this weekend?" asked Mia. She was sitting on the hood of a car next to Brian.
"Races are on," I said, and Dom's face lit up. I ran my hand over his shaved head, and kissed him lightly. Dom had always loved the races; it was something we bonded over. The thrill of the win, the adrenaline as the motor purred underneath you.
"How's the team going?" Dom asked, and I shrugged.
"We usually win, Tran's still pissy that I beat him, constantly challenges me. I cut him down every time though, I honestly wonder why he keeps doing it, it's such easy money for me," Dom burst out laughing.
"That's my girl," he grinned, patting my leg, and kissing my hand. Mia winked at me, and i stiffened. Imperceptibly I shook my head; Dom was going to kill her.
"I've been racing," Mia said. Dom's head snapped up, and his whole frame went rigid. I lightly massaged his shoulders, gently working out the knots.
"Mia, I don't want you racing in that scene," he said finally once he had his emotions under control.
"Dom, I'm 19, you can't stop me! Plus, you were racing way before that," Mia said, her voice harsh. Dom tightened his hands into fists on my legs.
"Dom, come on, she's right, and she's really good, the guys all know not to race against her anyway," I whispered.
"They really don't race her?" he asked.
"Yeah, Letty knew you'd be like this, so she kind of took over the Mia Protection Program, so they're way too scared to race me in case anything happens, so I only race the girls, and we all know how easy they are to beat," Mia cut in, laughing.
"Thank baby," Dom kissed my hand again, and I laughed, "So how's Jesse been, I've missed the kid."
"He's good, he went mental while you were gone, and I busted him out of so many fights. He was pretty torn up that Vince and Leon left, but he fits in really well with the other guys, and he's happy now. I have to admit, I've got a soft spot for the kid, I'm pretty protective of him, he's like a little brother to me," I laughed.
"I know what you mean," Dom nodded, "How long did it take for him to come around?"
"About two months," Brian said, "I went to him one day, and we just sat and talked. He's a good kid, I really like him," Mia smiled at the memory, and kissed Brian's forehead.
Mia's POV:
The black 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 sped across the line, half a car length ahead of Johnny Tran. Tire tracks were burnt into the road as the back of the car drifted around. Letty climbed out of the car, a massive grin on her face as people swarmed around her.
"Almost got me, nice work," Letty laughed over her shoulder at Tran as she moved to my side. Hector put the money in my hand, and smacked fists with Letty.
"Nice driving Mami," he complimented.
"Isn't it always," she laughed, as I counted the money.
"We're good," I nodded to Hector. Letty leant against the car. She looked relaxed in a pair of grey skinny jeans, black v-necked t-shirt, leather jacket and black driving boots. Guys were eyeing her off, but she didn't seem to notice as Dom drove his car up to the start line. Letty crossed her arms over her chest, and smirked as the cars all shot forward, Dom in the lead.
"You guys talked yet?" I asked.
"Not yet," Letty suddenly seemed unsure of herself, her hands clutching her leather jacket tightly.
"Letty, you know he loves you right?" I smiled reassuringly at her, "Everyone knows you two were made to be together," I whispered.
"I know," she sighed, "I just can't believe he did what he did, he hurt me Mia. I didn't even know how to survive without him. I hate what he did to me," Letty had small tears in her eyes as she turned to look at me, "Part of me died when he left me, and I still can't find myself. I know how I feel about him, but I don't trust him anymore, and I don't know how to find my way back to that. I don't know how to go back to the way we were," she whispered.
"Maybe you can't go back, maybe you need to move forward," I said. Her eyes were filled with hurt and longing. I hadn't seen her like this since the day Dom was taken away. After that her eyes had gone blank, void of all emotions. She'd been empty after Dom left, and that only got worse after he told her not to come back.
"I love him I know I do, but I can't be who I was before, I'm not the same person. I was carefree and now after everything that's happened..." she trailed off. I opened my mouth, but then closed it; I didn't know what to say to her. Dom sped across the line ahead of everyone else. As he got out of the car he was swarmed by race chasers. He put an arm around two of them, but looked around searching for Letty. She plastered a fake smile on her face and walked over.
"Hmm, I smell," she sniffed, "Skanks. Why don't you girls pack it up before I leave tread marks across your faces," the racer chasers scampered away; no one wanted to mess with Letty. I smirked; she had Dom squirming under her gaze.
"We were just talking," he said.
"Yeah right," she scoffed and pushed past him, walking over to Gisele and Suki. I laughed and Brian wrapped his arms around me from behind.
"She's a feisty one she is," Brian chuckled, "So what were you girls talking about before, she looked pretty torn up," I shrugged.
"Dom has a lot to learn about women," I said. Roman, Tej, Jesse, Han and Dom all walked over and leant against the car.
"What's up with Letty?" Dom asked, "She's more hostile than usual," I shrugged again.
"That's between you and Letty," Brian kissed my cheek. Hector walked over and winked at me, before handing over Dom's winnings.
"You're up next baby girl," Hector grinned, and I winked back. Dom tensed but I glared at him.
"Man, I'd never let her do it if I didn't think it was safe, and no one would ever hurt her, as Letty said earlier, everyone's scared shitless of the team," Brian smiled reassuringly.
"Ok, but if anything happens, you're out, got it?" I stared Dom down, before nodding and jumping off the car.
"You'd better go find Letty, you never go your trophy," Brian nudged him, and Dom walked away, the guys following him. I pulled up to the line, and Brian leant in my window.
"Good luck baby," he winked, and kissed me deeply before walking over to the guys. They'd met up with the girls, and Dom had his arm around Letty. She caught my eye and winked.
'Good luck,' she mouthed. I grinned and gave her the thumbs up before winding up my window. A bottled brunette stepped out in front of us and lifted her arms. I revved my engine and smiled, totally in the zone. I slammed my foot down on the gas as the girl's arms fell down. I loved racing, not having to worry about anything other than the roar of the engine under me, and the pounding bass. The girl I was racing hit the nos and I grinned.
"Too soon," I whispered, catching up to her. My wheels sped out behind me and I did a sharp U-turn. Slamming down on the gas again, I shot forward, back towards the finish line. The girl I was racing, Nicole or something caught up. I hit a button and my car flew ahead of hers, across the line.
"Good timing," Letty grinned as I climbed out of the car. Brian grabbed me around the waist and lifted me up. My lips met his as I slid back down his body.
"Nice race, we should go for a ride later," he whispered in my ear and I giggled. Dom came up and I stopped. Brian stood beside me, an arm around my shoulders.
"Just like a Toretto," he smiled proudly, "So, what are we doing tonight?"
"The girls and I are going back to the house, I don't really feel like partying," Letty said. I walked over to where her, Suki and Gisele were standing.
"I'll come home with you," Dom said. Letty shook her head.
"Nah Papa, go out and party, celebrate your win, I'm just not in the mood," Dom raised an eyebrow, but shrugged.
"If you say so, I'll come back later," he kissed her forehead and walked off, the guys following him to their cars.
Letty's POV
Mia, Suki and Gisele were inside making salads while I set the table with Jesse. He went to grab the esky and fill it with ice while I got the coronas out of the fridge. I took the cap off two of them and handed one to Jesse. We sat down on the patio and took a mouthful of our beers.
"So, how've you been man, we haven't talked in a while," I said. Jesse smiled at me.
"I really missed Dom, its good having him back," Jesse took another gulp of his drink.
"How are you settling in with the guys?" I asked. I hadn't spoken to him in a while.
"They're cool, I really like Brian, and Tej is pretty cool. I don't really know Han or Roman, and you know what I'm like around girls," he laughed nervously.
"Yeah, I know, I nudged him playfully, "It took me forever to get you to cool it around me, wasn't until you realised I was one of the guys that you were good," I sniggered at the memory.
"I still feel weird around Mia sometimes, but she's like a little sister to me," Jesse grinned.
"Mia, we're hungry out here!" Dom called out.
"If you don't shut your mouth and be patient you won't be getting anything!" Mia yelled back. Jesse and I burst out laughing. A few minutes later the girls walked outside, arms full with salads. Everyone took their seats while I went and grabbed another corona. When I came back there was no seats left. Dom patted his lap and I sat down. His arm automatically went around my waist. Without thinking Jesse leant in and grabbed a chip. He popped it in his mouth and I poked his chest.
"You got Grace," I teased and he blushed, choking slightly on the chip.
"Dear heavenly uh spirit," he began, he hated saying Grace, it always made him nervous, he hated being the centre of attention, "Thank you for providing us with the direct-port nitrous... uh... injection, four-core intercoolers, an' ball-bearing turbos, and... um... titanium valve springs. Thank you."
"Amen," we all chorused.
"Nice," Dom laughed, patting him on the back. Jesse took a long drink from his beer.
"Let's eat," I said, grabbing a piece of chicken.
After lunch I sat on the patio, drinking a beer with Jesse. The girls were in the kitchen cleaning up and the guys had gone to the garage for a while.
"Why didn't you go to DT's with the other?" I asked. Jesse shrugged.
"I didn't feel like it, I guess," Jesse looked down.
"Talk to me man, what's going on?" I asked.
"I'm leaving soon," he said, biting his lip. My mouth fell open and tears came to my eyes.
"Jesse! Why, man you can't leave," I said.
"Dude, calm your shit, I mean on a date," he laughed, "It's nice to know I'd be missed though," he teased, shoving me playfully.
"Not funny man! I'd fucking lose it if you left me here! I love you man, you're like a brother to me, don't even joke about that shit," Jesse hugged me with one arm, before looking at his watch.
"Well, I'm off, I'll see you tomorrow at the garage," he downed the rest of his drink, and left.
Dom's POV:
Letty and I sat up watching Jeepers Creepers. She was cuddled up into my side, laughing at the movie. I grinned, I was never going to find a girl like her anywhere else, and she was my idea of the perfect girl. We were both passionate about everything we did. Letty was down to earth, not afraid to get a little engine grease under her nails. She was someone I could sit with and talk to for hours or just sit in comfortable silence. Cars were such a big part of both our lives, and it was something we often bonded over. Best part was, she was mine, and I wasn't ever letting her go.
"I'm so lucky to have you," I whispered, kissing her hair.
"Oh, I know," she giggled, sitting up to kiss me. I smiled against her lips and wrapped my arms tighter around her.
"Tomorrow afternoon we should go to the beach," I said. Letty's face split into the biggest grin. She always loved the beach when she was younger. Whenever anything happened with her mum's boyfriends she either went to the beach or to the garage. We'd often find her bent over an engine with a split lip or black eye; or she'd be sitting on the beach, watching the waves crash on the beach, her eyes blank, staring.
"Scratch that, I'm the lucky one," she kissed me again, her eyes closed. I liked being with Letty, no matter if we were fighting, fucking or just relaxing, she made my life complete, I couldn't imagine being without her. She was the only person I truly felt comfortable around, the only person I truly needed in my life.
Tej, Jesse, Letty and I were working in the garage. Letty was under a white Hyundai muttering in Spanish and Jesse was cleaning an engine. Tej was replacing the piston rings some idiot racer had fried. Han had gone out to have lunch with Gisele during her break and I was in the office, struggling over the paperwork. Brian had gone over to the diner to see Mia and get all our lunches. I stood up and stretched. Letty had on her usual coveralls tied at the waist and a black sports bra. I looked down at the books and frowned. Lately we'd been burying ourselves in our work, trying to distract ourselves from the problems we didn't want to face. We hadn't ended going to the beach the other day and Letty had asked me to move back into my room. Things between us were getting tense, and everyone was noticing. The environment in the garage had everyone on edge.
Letty's POV:
I pushed out from under the car I was working on. I noticed Dom staring at me and looked away. Things between us had been awkward lately. We were both scared that everything would fall apart if we talked. So we didn't. I'd asked him to move back into his room, I just didn't know how to be with him, let alone around him.
"Lunch is here," Brian called as he came into the garage. I stood up and stretched. Mia walked over and sat on the hood of the Hyundai I was working on.
"Still haven't spoken?" Mia asked and I shrugged, irritated, "Well girl, you can't wait forever," she patted my shoulder and went outside with the boys.
"You ok?" A deep gravelly voice asked from behind me. The husky tone sent shivers up and down my spine. Goddamn him and the way he made me feel.
"Fine," I said, turning around, making sure not to meet his eyes. I went to walk past him, but a strong hand grabbed my wrist and jerked me back, flush against his hard chest. His other hand pulled my hair out of its bun. Tangling his fingers in my dark tresses he tugged, causing my face up to his. Dark eyes stared back at me, and I licked my lips. His mouth crushed down on mine and I opened, allowing him in. Our tongues tangling, I moaned, we hadn't kissed in over a week.
"I want you Letty, what happened to us?" he whispered against my lips. His words pulled at me and I stepped back.
"I need some air," I muttered, pushing past him and running out.
"Where've you been?" Jesse asked, nudging me, his eyes playful. I grabbed my burger and shrugged. I moved away and sat against the garage, leaning my head back. Jesse walked over and sat beside me. I smiled weakly, not hungry, but eating to distract myself from my messed up emotions.
"You guys will figure it out, you always did," Jesse murmured, leaning in and giving me a one armed hug.
"I wish that were the case," I said, looking down at my half eaten burger, "Now tell me about this girl you've been seeing. When do we get to meet her?" I teased.
"I was thinking I might bring her around this Sunday for lunch," Jesse grinned.
"Oooh, so it's serious," I nudged him and he blushed, "Oooh, Jesse's got a girlfriend," I sang, laughing at his embarrassment.
"Shut up Letty," he groaned as everyone turned around.
"Nah man, it's cool. I'm happy for you," I put my arm around him, and ruffling his hair; "My little boy's growing up."
"You just remember that I'm older than you girl," he pushed me over and I burst into giggles as he started to tickle me.
"Only by two years!" I finally managed to gasp out. I quickly pounced on him and dug my fingers into his ribs. We wrestled around on the ground, laughing. He finally pinned me under his knees and I poked my tongue out.
"Fine, I give," I said. Jesse nodded and sat up. I went over to the table and grabbed my bottle of water. Quickly, I turned around and sprayed him with icy cold water. A laugh burst from between my lips at the shock on his face.
"That's it," he grabbed the hose, and turned it on, squirting everyone. I ran over and tackled him onto the ground. Eventually someone turned off the water, as I was spraying it across his face. Jesse stood up and held his hand out. I grinned and took it, pulling him down onto the ground beside me before jumping up triumphantly.
"Ha!" I shouted, "I win!" I was drenched, but the cool liquid was nice against my hot skin.
"For now," he grinned as he grabbed the rest of his burger. He sat on the picnic table, and I joined him; my ass on the table, my feet on the seat.
"You're a cool girl Letty, I'm glad I got you on my side," Jesse said.
"You've always got me buddy, no matter what. You can come to me about anything," I grinned. We pumped fists and he grinned.
Ok guys, I don't know if you like long or short chapters, or if you're even enjoying the story, please review and let me know what you think. I'm open to ideas and criticisms.
Thanks for reading xx