Happy's visit with his mom was peaceful. She appeared to be responding to the chemo well with little sickness and he had been successful in securing her medication for the next three months. Knowing how much she loved walking thru the gardens, Happy "happily" accompanied her on her morning walk. He always enjoyed spending time with her but always felt guilty when he had to leave her. Always the attentive mother, she was quick to remind him of just how much she loved him and for him to be safe and take care of himself. Happy was grateful that she didn't question him about SAMCRO. He wasn't sure if or how he would be able to explain his "position" within the club. Making sure she was settled back into her room, he gave her a hug, kissed the top of her head and promised to visit the next week.
Sofia Labrava was no one's fool. While she may have never asked her son any direct questions about his involvement with SAMCRO, she knew he was no angel. What she did know was that deep down her beloved son was a great man. Yes, he was the cause of most of her gray hair but she firmly believed that although he may not show emotion like a "normal" person, that he indeed was capable of feeling it, just look at how well he took care of her. She knew the facility she now called home was not cheap but he wanted the best. She also knew that her medication was always available, regardless of her doctors not being able to acquire it. She looked forward to each of his visits. Sofia had made many solid friendships at her new home but nothing compared to the time she was able to spend with her son. They talked about almost everything. She knew that when he arrived he immediately found one of her doctors for an update on her condition. If he was unable to locate the doctor, one of the nurses made sure to track one down in fear of what the biker would do. Her son may scare some people with his "hellish" looks, but she knew the man inside. She often wondered if he would ever find a woman who could accept him but never brought the topic up with him. Again she was no dummy, she knew her son probably had his share of women but she couldn't help but pray that he would find real love one day.
Almost ready to head back to Charming, Happy felt his phone vibrate. Flipping up the pre-pay, he had a text from the Tacoma charter…
"Need your services for non-payment issue."
"Shit!"….muttered Happy. Being a Nomad, he was always prepared for unexpected jobs that fell in his lap. Making a quick call to Clay letting him know he was requested in Tacoma, he pulled out of the nursing home. At least it was a good day for an unplanned six hour ride, eight if you count the two hours from Charming to reach his mom. Happy knew that this would happen. A few weeks back, Slade, the President of Tacoma had given the task of collecting protection money to Gunner, the one brother Happy always had issues with. Fucker was too cocky for his own good. Always had something to say even when not asked and was too eager to jump in on the sensitive issues the club had to handle usually causing more chaos to an already heightened situation. This text had Gunner written all over it. Since he had earned his cut, Gunner had been a constant reminder of why Happy felt he wasn't Son's material. Tacoma had experienced more close calls this past year with anything Gunner was put in charge of. Part of being a Son meant learning your place within the family, and Gunner had the mentality that he'd be President one day. To say he sucked up to Slade was a joke. It sometimes looked like Slade at acquired a third ball with how Gunner acted. For whatever reason, the poor shit had a need to compete against Happy in everything, especially the crow eaters. While Happy had his share of the Tacoma clubhouse sweetbutts, there were a few that he wouldn't touch. He'd heard stories from his brothers about how bad they were in bed or scarier even that they had pussy that looked as if a science experiment was going on. Those he avoided. Hap always kept to himself rarely speaking to anyone other than a brother. Pulling into the Tacoma clubhouse, he parked his bike and went in search of Slade.
"Good to see ya prick, figured you'd be summoned up here." Stated Koz welcoming his brother.
"You grown a dick yet, fucker?" grinned Happy giving Koz an appropriate man hug.
"You know you're jealous of my shit…always trying to act like me, trying like hell to me man!" laughed Koz.
Happy just laughed. He and Koz went way back. Since he had gone Nomad to help care for his mom, Hap had remained the closest with Koz. A natural smart-ass, Koz was never at a loss for entertainment and was the Tacoma resident ladies man. All sweetbutts dreamed of being the one to become his "Old Lady" only to be put back on the shelf until their next rotation. Taking a glance around the clubhouse, Happy looked at the meager selection of "available" action for after church. Spotting a blond in the corner, he was about to make eye contact when he realized he'd already "been there and done that" and should have just drunk himself into a coma that night. A few weeks back, he had spent about thirty minutes with the bleach blond named Stacey. Yeah, she was now on his "no-repeats" list as he remembered her less than stellar abilities to get him off. He felt like he had put his dick in the Grand Canyon, feeling no friction at all. Getting frustrated he told her to get off her knees, turn around and suck him off. Not a night that he'd repeat. Looking to his left, he saw Slade walk in.
"Church now ladies. Hap, thanks for coming. Let's get this done."
Lunch with Tara had been just what she needed. It was wonderful to see Tara so happy and in control of her life. She always knew Tara would make a great doctor but to now see her living it was even better. With Tara having the afternoon off, the girls grabbed a quick lunch then drove over to Olivia's condo. Elliott was right; there was not one contemporary item in her new "temporary" home. She liked the décor and furnishings. The unit had a great open floor plan, large windows overlooking the quaint town and distant mountain views. But until she saw the master closet, she couldn't give it her stamp of approval. The women took in all the features then headed to inspect the closet.
"This might be bigger than Abel's bedroom." Said Tara walking into the massive closet.
"I think it will work."
"I'd hope so! You could live in here. I think there were apartments in Chicago smaller than this closet." Laughed Tara.
"It's not that big! If I were building a house, I'd make my closet twice this big. I do have a shopping habit you know!"
"No, you? I would have never thought." Gasped Tara pointing to the room full of boxes filled completely with clothing and shoes.
"I really should start getting things organized, but I have to get ready for my meeting with Elliott and the builder team. Wanna help me pick out my fabulous first official meeting in Charming outfit?"
"You could wear a trash bag and look gorgeous! If it will keep you in Charming, I'd come pick out your clothes every day! Let's find your perfect attire and how about I come over tomorrow evening and we'll get you unpacked and organized over Chinese?"
"Sounds perfect!" smiled Olivia.
Making sure she looked as perfect as she was going to, Olivia checked her makeup one last time, grabbed her purse and headed out. The dinner meeting went better than expected. She had been concerned that the builders (all men) would have an issue answering to a woman but she was pleasantly surprised that they all were impressed with her designs and ideas for the new community. She would be working directly with the six different builders and had to be sure they knew she could and would hold her ground. Construction was their job, but ensuring they were building products she and Elliott could sell and people would want buy was her baby. With a productive meeting behind her, she and Elliott discussed the upcoming week over coffee.
"I must say Olivia, bringing you onto this project was the smartest decision I've made."
"I'm so happy they're all on board with our ideas. This is going to be an amazing opportunity for the people of Charming. Elliott, this is a great thing you're doing in creating an affordable community with "luxury-like" amenities."
"You're just as much a part of this as I am, so you need to start learning how to accept credit where credit is do." Complimented Elliott.
"I know I've told you how much I appreciate you giving me this opportunity, but I am truly grateful you're trusting me with this project. Thank you Elliott."
"No need to thank me again, Olivia. This is going to be a great venture for us both. It may be coffee" said Elliott raising his coffee cup, "but I think a toast is needed. To a successful and profitable partnership. Cheers!"
"Oh, before I forget, tell Tristan I want her show me the shops in town on Saturday. I told her we could go after she's finished with gymnastics."
"I'll be sure tell her. Enjoy the rest of the week and the weekend. Next week we start and who knows the next time we'll get a day off. Thanks again Olivia. Be careful going home and if you need anything, just call."
"I will. I'll see you Saturday when I drop Tristan off. Good night!" said Tara, climbing into her SUV.
Making sure Abel was down for the night, Tara and Jax were enjoying some quite time with just the two of them.
"I have to say, I haven't seen you this happy since we brought Abel home from the hospital." Spoke Jax as he traced his fingers down Tara's back.
"I'm so happy she's here. I've missed her so much since I left Chicago. We've always kept in touch, but with both of our schedules being so hectic, we never had time for an actual visit. I can't wait for you to meet her."
"I feel like I already know her with everything you've told me about her not to mention it's all you've talked about for the past month. I know the guys will really like the chance to have her around if they ever meet her."
"She's not that type of woman, Jax." Tara said, slapping Jax on his arm. "Yes, she is drop-dead beautiful, but she's so much more than that. Not to mention she's tough. She'd have no problem putting any one of your brothers in their place. Oh, that reminds me I'm helping her get settled in tomorrow night, so your mom is keeping Abel."
"Well, just remind me to thank her for moving here. If I keep getting the attention you've been giving me lately, I'll buy her the house next door!"
"So you liked our little adventure earlier you say…..well how about we have a repeat now?" Tara spoke softly in Jax's ear as Jax rolled her over kissing her with his answer.
Waking up the next morning before 8am, Olivia was showered and had put on some casual clothes preparing to unpack and get organized…but first she needed coffee. Walking out of her building it was just a few blocks to a local coffee shop in Charming. Taking in her surroundings Charming looked just like a town in a movie. Tree lined streets, small businesses along Main Street and of course the residents of Charming looking at her like she had two heads. She knew that moving to a small town, she would stick out until people got to know her and got used to seeing her. Opening the door to the coffee shop, she smiled at the sweet older couple walking out the door. She couldn't help but inhale the amazing scents she was now smelling. For a local shop, the smells rivaled what you could get at Starbucks. Waiting patiently to place her order, she was brought out of reviewing her mental "to do" list.
"Good morning. Such a beautiful morning don't you agree?" spoke the older gentleman.
"Yes, it's gorgeous outside. Great morning for a walk." Commented Olivia as she turned back to see if her coffee was ready.
"Are you new to the area? I don't believe I've seen you in here before."
"Yes, I've just recently moved to the area." Olivia said politely. Not being a morning person, she was doing her best not to sound bitchy. Without caffeine, she was not so much the well-mannered woman she normally was.
"Well, how about I help you get acquainted with Charming. I own a local cigar business and would be honored to help you adjust to your new surroundings." Spoke Ethan Zoebelle as he carefully took in Olivia's appearance.
Sitting at a small table near the counter, the older woman had noticed the stunning brunette when she walked in the door. Definitely not a local, thought Gemma as she sipped her hot tea. Gemma had to admit the woman was strikingly beautiful. Dark brown, almost chocolate hair, pinned up neatly into a messy bun, flawless skin and piercing emerald green eyes. From gauging the reactions of the men in the coffee shop, she was accurate in her "assessment" of the woman. Most definitely not a local. Watching Ethan Zoebelle strike up a conversation with the young woman caused something in Gemma's gut to react. Ethan Zoebelle had moved into Charming a few months back under the falsehood of a legit business owner only to use his cigar store as a front for his actual agenda, to bring his "white power" movement to Charming. He had attempted to worm his way into Charming's Small Business Owners Association and had boldly offered to help the Charming PD rid the town of SAMCRO. Yes, this woman needed to be told at who she was having idle conversation with.
"I appreciate the offer, but I do have a full day today." Adjusting her lid onto her coffee. "Have a great morning." Olivia said now beginning to walk toward the door, hoping to have not offended the gentleman. She had a lengthy "to do" list and Tara should be at her condo around 9:30am. Stopping to throw her napkin in the trash can, she noticed that he was still watching her.
Pulling her sunglasses back down over her eyes, she started back down Main Street toward her condo, only to hear "You should really be careful as to who you talk to sweetheart."
Not for sure the older woman, who for someone Olivia was guessing was in her late forties and gorgeous, was talking to her, she turned slightly to her left and smiled.
"You must be new in town or just don't keep up with local gossip." A stone-faced Gemma said.
"Excuse me. I do my best to avoid gossip where ever I am but to answer your assumption, yes I am new to Charming. Olivia Parker." Extending her hand to the brassy woman.
"Thought you were, because if you knew that man's real story I highly doubt you would have entertained his small talk." Looking at her extended hand but not accepting it.
"He seemed like a perfectly harmless man. Had actual manners which is rare in men today. Have to say he's too "mature" for my liking, so I hope you don't think that me being the new girl in town, I'm moving in on already taken territory. Men are the last thing on my mind right now." Olivia smiled inside hearing what she had just said to the woman.
Looking at the younger brunette, she offered a coy smile. "Darling, with you being new in our beloved Charming, I'd hate for you to get associated with the wrong crowd and I'm here to tell you, that "perfectly harmless man" is the wrong crowd." Sneered Gemma.
Trying to determine is this woman was offering a sincere warning or possibly marking her territory, Olivia remembered her manners. "I appreciate the information but I need to be on my way. Thanks again." As she turned to walk away. Turning back toward the older woman, "I've actually already been warned about Mr. Zoebelle but woman to woman, it's nice to have been warned again." Turning back away, Olivia made her way home.
Standing silent on Main Street, Gemma smirked at how ballsy this bitch was. She had all but stood toe-to-toe with her but had done it respectfully. She now began to wonder just who had warned the stunning Ms. Parker of the town's racist resident. "Snotty bitch, let's just find out who you are Ms. Olivia." Thought Gemma as she got in her SUV.
Walking into the office at T-M, Gemma gave Clay a quick kiss before sitting down behind her desk.
"You're out and about early this morning. What time you'd leave the house?" asked Clay reaching for his coffee.
"Left around 7:30. Went by the nursery to check on some shrubs I want the prospects to plant and stopped for some herbal tea." Smirked Gemma to her husband.
"What's that look Gemma, what have you done?" cautiously asked Clay, knowing his wife had a tendancy to get into mischief.
"I'll have you know that I actually did a good thing this morning. Saw that fucker Zoebelle chatting up some cute brunette tart at the coffee shop and felt obliged to warn her about not talking to strangers. Overheard that she's new in town. Could see that snake sizing her up and something in me felt the need to let her know who she was making idle chit chat with, so you little shit, I wasn't up to anything."
"Babe, you're always up to something but I must say that was very "un-Gemma" of you to warn some "tart" as you called her. Wait, did you say that she's new in town?"
"Yeah, overheard the lovely Ms. Parker telling Zoebelle that she just moved to town recently." Spoke Gemma as she started reviewing the day's service orders. "Spunky little tartlet informed me she's already been warned about Weston. I wonder who's warned her? I'm going to get Juice to find out just who Olivia Parker is."
"No need." Said Clay
"What do you mean "no need"?"
"Pretty sure the new "tartlet" is Elliott's new associate. He stopped by yesterday wanting an update on the Zoebelle situation. Doesn't want her caught off guard by the dick. Told him the situation is being monitored."
"Wait, so this Olivia is Tara's friend from Chicago?"
"Guess so. From what Jax said Tara's elated to have her here."
"Yeah, she's been talking non-stop about her for the past few weeks. I'd still like to know more about this bitch before she gets in too cozy here. Did Jax say anything else?"
"No, just that Tara's happy to have her here. Gemma, you need to be careful digging into this girls' life. Tara won't take to kindly to you stirring up shit." Cautioned Clay.
"Since when do I stir up shit, baby? I'm just looking out for my family. There's a difference." Gemma spoke softly as she reached for Clay's hand.
"Why don't you talk to Jax first before you start your diggin'."
Having taking care of yet another screw up of Gunner's , Happy and Koz finally made it back to the Tacoma Clubhouse around 2:30 this morning. Getting a few hours of sleep, he was showered, dressed and having his first cup of coffee when he saw Koz walking over.
"You heading back down? Thought you'd stay and get in some ring time." Koz said stretching his arms above his head.
"Need to be back in Charming. Told Jax I 'd ride with him later today to meet up with LaRoy about a new order. Should be some good money for the club."
"Tig too sorry to handle that shit?" Koz asked, not hiding his less than brotherly feelings for his SAMCRO brother.
Happy just glared at Koz after his remark about Tig. "He's busy monitoring the Zoebelle situation. Clay wants to keep me out of his eyesight until I'm needed. He wants the "surprise" effect to be prime." Smirked Happy thinking of all the ways he could and would torture the racists fucker.
Trying to have a final quite moment before he hopped on his bike for the long ride back to Charming, Happy strapped his duffel on when he heard Slade call his name.
"I appreciate you handling the situation. Not really sure why Gunner felt the need to let that prick slide on his payment."
"Not sure either, but it's handled and you shouldn't have any problems collecting in the future." Happy said reaching to shake Slade's outreached hand. "Need to hit the road. Let me know if you need me again."
"Appreciate it, brother. See ya soon." Slade said giving Happy a slap on the back.
Almost to his bike, Hap saw Gunner walking out the clubhouse with that blond crow eater. "Hey fucker" said Gunner yelling in Happy's direction. Happy continued walking to his bike not paying any attention. "Fucker, you going to ignore me?" asked Gunner. Realizing the dickhead was talking to him, Happy stopped in his tracks and turned toward him.
"Why you felt the need to jump in on my business is not cool you dick. Next time keep your shit out of my dealings" Gunner boldly said to the known killer.
"Handle your shit and I won't need to be cleaning up after you." Happy plainly stated.
"I fuckin' handle my shit. You just remember what I said. Stay out of my club dealings."
Happy could feel that pull on his insides just itching to put this cocky fucker in his place, but after years of learning self control and only acting when needed, he simply turned, started his bike and started toward Charming. "Little fucker will get his one day" thought Happy. He just hoped he'd be the one to give it to him.
*************
After many, many hours, Tara and Olivia had finally unpacked the last box and had all her personal belongings put way and organized.
"I forgot how much you love to shop." Tara said flopping down on the oversized couch.
"Well, I could have worse habits. Clothes and shoes are comforting to me. And let's not forget it's not like you don't like shopping either."
"Hey, my habit doesn't begin to come close to what we just unpacked in that closet. Besides, since Abel's come along I haven't had time to think about shopping." Smiled Tara thinking about her son.
"You know, I don't think I've ever seen you as happy as you are right now. Being a mom definitely works for you. It's nice to see that fear of never having Jax back in your life didn't happen."
"It didn't happen overnight. I wasn't sure when I moved back here if Jax would even speak to me. I was here about a month when his ex overdosed and Abel was born 8 weeks early." Tearing up at remembering how small he was.
"From what you've told me about Jax, I never expected to hear that he went for a druggie much less married her." Said Olivia handing Tara a glass of sweet tea. "Chinese is on the way."
"He told me that after I left him, he just stopped caring, and Wendy started out being a one-night stand but she ended up getting pregnant. She hid her drug use from everyone. Hell, even Gemma didn't pick up on it and she's got instincts that are unheard of. Gemma was hesitant on Jax marrying her but you can't have bastard children in SAMCRO."
" What? The club made Jax marry her? Are you joking?" laughed Olivia at the thought a hardass motorcycle club would have standards about children.
"People may have a low opinion of SAMCRO but they're all about family, especially children. The guys know that if they're going to screw anything they can, they had better be prepared to do the "honorable" thing is the girl gets knocked up.
"Wow. From what I've learned from you over the years about SAMCRO, I knew how tight-knit the club is but it's almost noble about how they view the responsibility of children."
"I know you would never say anything, and Jax knows that I've confided in you about how the club works, but if anyone asks.."
"I don't know anything. What is confided between us, stays between us." Confirmed Olivia.
"Would never doubt you on that, Liv said Tara as the door bell rang. "Thank God, I'm starving" Tara yelled as she got her wallet and headed to the door.
45 minutes later…
"Why did you let me eat that third spring roll? I need to jog ten miles to work off all that pepper steak and rice." Whined Olivia.
"Shut up, I ate all of mine, the wonton soup and the two leftover doughnuts from this morning. I'm just going to lay here for a minute. Have you heard from John since you been here?" asked Tara wondering if the jerk had finally let Olivia go.
"Actually, he's text a few times, but I haven't responded."
"Are you okay with ending things with John?"
"It was a long time coming. I was just too busy to do what needed to be done, so I have to take blame for staying as long as I did. We just didn't fit together."
"I never saw what you liked about him. Sorry, that came out harsh didn't it?" Tara regretfully asked.
"No, it's the truth. I feel as if I put my wants and needs in a closet while he attempted to turn me into his trophy to flaunt when he wanted to. It's a relief that it's over. I can't remember the last time I felt happy with him." Thought Olivia.
"Well, he was handsome but that only goes so far."
"Yeah, he's handsome but he's just like every other guy I've dated. Good looks but uncaring and selfish. Honestly, I knew just before I caught him cheating on me the first time that I wasn't in love with him."
"Why did you take him back?"
"Stupidity. I don't know. You had made the decision to move back here and I felt I'd be all alone and selfishly I didn't want to be by myself. How sad is that? I stayed with a man who cheated on me, several times actually, so that I would be alone."
"No, it just makes you human." Tara softly spoke.
"Well, after the cheating was exposed the fights and arguments started and never seemed to stop. Before I forget, I need you to recommend a gynecologist for me."
"Something wrong?"
"No, it's just time for my yearly checkup. I actually thought about going off the pill since I'm not having any action here. Hell, I haven't had any action for six months now." Thought Olivia at her less than active sex life.
"You're joking right? You haven't had sex in six months?" gasped Tara.
"Stop looking at me like I'm a freak! Yes, I haven't had sex in six months. Kinda lost interest in John after the tenth time I found out he was screwing around on me, not that our sex life was that great anyway."
"Not any good?"
"Well, let's just say I've had better. Not to mention for our entire relationship he bitched about the fact I wouldn't sleep with him without a condom. Call it intuition but I don't think I ever trusted him to be faithful. If a guy wants to sleep with me, he's suiting up. I know I'm on the pill, but it doesn't hurt to have that extra protection and besides children are not in my future."
"Hey, no judgement here. Now days you can't be too careful." Sighed Tara changing her position on the couch.
Happy rolled into the T-M lot with enough time to take a quick shower before he and Jax needed to leave to meet Laroy. Walking through the clubhouse he gave a nod to his brothers and headed to his room to shower. Showered, shaved and dressed, Happy had a renewed energy and was looking forward to hearing the gun proposal Laroy had called about. Seeing Jax sitting with Opie outside he lit up a cigarette and walked over.
"Hap, you ready to head out?" asked Jax seeing Happy walking over.
"Let's go."
"Need to drop some keys off to Tara. She's helping a friend get settled in off of Main Street. Won't take but a minute."
"Not a problem." Hap said climbing onto his bike.
Riding down Main Street Hap noticed Chief Unser walking. Gemma had informed everyone that Unser was undergoing chemo treatments and to keep an eye out for him. Unser had always been a friend to the club and now that his mom was fighting cancer herself, Happy had an understanding of what the sheriff was dealing with. Seeing Jax turn off into the new condo complex, Happy followed him into the converted parking deck.
"I look scary!" moaned Olivia glancing at herself in the bathroom mirror.
"Oh shut up, you look gorgeous as always. I'd say you have that "just out of bed" look that drives men wild!" laughed Tara.
"You must be on drugs. I've never had the ability to drive men wild."
Tara was about to correct her friend when the doorbell rang.
"I bet that's Jax. I left my keys with Gemma and he texted earlier that he'd drop them by here. "
"Good, it's about time I meet this hot biker that has my friend totally wrapped. I need to see if he's up to my standards." Joked Olivia knowing full well that Jax Teller must be something special to have landed Tara.
Jax stood outside the door with Happy. "Elliott's new associate happens to be Tara's best friend from Chicago. She drove down yesterday. Haven't met her yet but from what Tara's said about her, she something else." Happy just nodded as he saw Tara open the door.
"Hey babe." Jax softly spoke to Tara as he kissed her on the lips. "We're on our way to meet Laroy."
"Hi. Come in, I'll introduce you to Olivia. Hap."
Happy just gave his standard nod to his VP's Old Lady.
"Olivia, come out here and meet Jax." Yelled Tara.
"I'm coming." Yelled Olivia.
"Damn, I look horrible." Thought Olivia as she attempted to make herself presentable to meet her friends' boyfriend for the first time.
Screw it thought Olivia. Her low-rise worn jeans and fitted black tank would have to do.
Happy stood looking around the condo when he heard someone walking toward the room.
She walked into the room and saw Tara standing with Jax by the couch.
"Hi, I'm Olivia and you must be the famous Jax I've always heard about."
"Jax Teller, nice to meet you. Tara's given you rave reviews. Welcome to Charming! Happy, this is Olivia, Tara's friend from Chicago."
Olivia turned not realizing there was someone else in her condo. Turning around she was shocked. Standing in her living room was none other than "Mr. Silent". At least six-feet tall, shaved head, tattoos everywhere and a cut.
Happy had seen her from behind walk over to Jax and Tara. He immediately concluded that this bitch had a smokin' hot body. But when she turned to him when Jax said her name to him, he couldn't tell if he was still breathing. Something was familiar. Where had he seen her before? Gas station where that prick cashier was trying a little too hard to get her attention.
He saw her slowly walking up to him, almost as if she recognized him as well.
Extending her right hand and smiling, "Olivia Parker, it's nice to meet you."
Extending his right hand to hers, "Happy" is all he said silently thankful he had on his sun glasses because the look in his eyes was nothing but lust.