***Sunday afternoon***
She pushed her buggy into the cart return and started back across the parking lot. Discretely scanning the area, she said a silent prayer that so far she hadn't run into anyone she knew. Opting for a casual outfit of her favorite worn jeans, white tank top, flip flops and her beloved Braves ball cap, Olivia blended in well with the residents of Charming. Pulling out of the supermarket parking lot, she mentally checked the grocery store off her list and felt relieved to only have one more stop. All that she had left to do was to stop by the gas station to fill up the SUV, then back to the condo where she could relax, regroup and not worry about running into anyone. Seeing the BP station come into sight, she turned into the parking lot, pulling up to an open pump. She noticed a sign on the pump saying she'd have to pre-pay. Grabbing her wallet and keys, she climbed out making her way inside.
He had just enough time to pick up another pack of smokes before he needed to meet Darby. Rolling into the parking lot, he pulled up to the building and cut the engine. Looking around, he unfastened his helmet, putting it on the handle bar. He was almost to the door when he saw her walking out.
"Olivia." he called out seeing her immediately stop. He kept walking toward her as he took in her very laid back appearance. "Almost didn't recognize you, gorgeous."
That's the point she thought as she reluctantly turned to greet him. "How are you Koz?" she asked hoping this conversation would be over before it started. All she wanted to do was pump her gas and go home.
"Good. Heading back up to Tacoma." his replied. "Whatcha doing today?"
"Just getting gas." she stated, motioning to her vehicle as she slowly started walking toward it.
"Let me do that for you. Don't want your hands to smell like gas, do ya?" his voice thick with politeness. Before she could refuse his offer, he had the hose in her tank. "Nice day today." he said making small talk. "Yes, it is." she commented, turning her head as she heard a dog barking.
His mind flashed back to seeing his brother standing half naked in her door. Clinching his fist, a slow grin showed itself on his face. "You know, I never dreamed Tig would drag Happy into his little game."
She turned her head hearing him speak. "What?" she said honestly having not heard what he had just said from the dog barking.
"I was just saying that I never imagined Tig would get Happy involved in keeping me from patching into SAMCRO. I mean I know those two have some pretty wild imaginations, but I never thought they'd involve you." he finished seeing her mind start to wonder.
"What are you talking about?"
"The bet." he stated trying to look hesitant about saying anything but he was already starting to enjoy the look of confusion on her face.
"Bet. What bet?" she asked, still not understanding this conversation at all.
His ran a hand over his mouth ensuring he kept the smirk off his face at seeing her reaction. "Damn...I didn't want to be the one that told you this shit." he falsely confessed.
"Didn't want to tell me what?" she asked watching him return the hose back to the pump now that her vehicle was full.
Keeping his enjoyment hidden, "Tig made a bet with me a few weeks ago after you were introduced to us. To be perfectly honest, I wanted to fuck you and Tig bet me that if I succeeded in being the first, he'd vote me into SAMCRO. Didn't know that he got Happy to beat me to it."
She had never been punched in the gut or shot but what she was currently feeling had to be comparable. Everything was speeding through her head. Tig was usually the friendliest with her, Happy's odd protectiveness of her...
"I'm not going to lie to you. I agreed to the bet, but seeing that you weren't interested in me, I didn't give it anymore thought." He again lied as he watched her. "Truthfully, you don't seem like his type...since he prefers blonds." Although he was still uncertain if she had actually fucked Happy, the look on her face gave him hope that this little soul bearing conversation was doing what he had intended it do. "Damn, maybe I shouldn't have said anything..."
Shaking her head, "No, I'm glad that you did." she responded, quickly erasing the confusion off her face.
"Listen, I know I probably came on too strong, but I'd really like if we could start over." his said, his charm seeping out. "I'm Koz." as he extended his hand toward her.
At the moment she was having a hard time focusing on anything. Not taking his hand, "Thanks for pumping my gas." she said as she opened her door, climbed in and started the SUV without so much as another word to the biker. Pulling through the parking lot, she was determined to get home and forever erase anyone with SAMCRO from her mind.
As she pulled out of the gas station, he started laughing. Stupid bitch. Serves her, Happy and Tig right for fucking him over. Glancing at the time on his phone, he climbed on his bike and started the engine. "Fuck. This day just got a whole lot better." he laughed as he pulled off.
She could be free of cancer kept repeating in his head. Reaching for another wrench, he wiped the sweat from his forehead with his free hand, putting his attention back on the project in front of him. He had been caught off guard at the doctor wanting to meet with him before his Sunday afternoon visit with his mom. The drug protocol his mom had been on the past few months was working to shrink the tumor and now surgery to remove it was the clear option. Even more surprising was that his mom was going one step further and having a double mastectomy to hopefully ensure she would never go through breast cancer again. He realized that it was obvious his mom and Dr. Horton had discussed the details thoroughly before he had been made aware of things. While the doctor was explaining the procedure and the follow up care, he stared at his mother. A small framed woman normally, he had noticed over the last few years as she had been battling this God forsaken disease that she seemed even smaller. But the woman sitting across from him earlier appeared to be larger than ever and clearly determined to win judging by the smile she had on her face. She had been sick for so long now, he was having a hard time imagining her not. He had made a vow to himself when she was first diagnosed that he would do whatever necessary to get her the drugs she needed and he had, never missing her monthly supply no matter what the cost. It was the least he could for her after causing her so much anguish and grief in his thirty eight years. He wouldn't allow himself to feel relief...not until he knew for sure that her cancer was gone.
Tightening the last bolt, his mind switched focus to the other woman causing him worry. Olivia. Shit, when did he start worrying about some woman? he thought as he put his tools away. It wasn't his nature to concern himself with the feelings of others, especially a woman, his mom being the only exception. But sure as shit here he was, actually concerned about a certain sexy ass brunette that he could get out of his mind. To make matters even worse, he tried to find her after her abrupt departure last night to come up empty handed. After confirming she had left the clubhouse, he woke Reed up to get him to drive the tow truck back so he could get his bike. Of course Reed had been threatened to keep his mouth shut or else he'd be able to suck his own dick on a sucker stick. Finding her not at home caused him to feel the need to actually go look for her. After a quick check of her office, he doubled back to her condo to again find her not there which caused irritation to join in on his worry. Where the fuck had she gone?
***T-M***
Walking through the clubhouse door, Reed and Johnny couldn't decide who stunk more. After yet another day of jogging through the country roads outside Charming, they could mark off another four abandoned structures where Weston could be.
"Mark off four more." stated Johnny to Bobby, Tig and Chibs, as he handed Reed a water bottle. "That gives us only three more routes to check."
"Going ask Jax if we can knock at least one out tomorrow." replied Reed. "Thinking we go out early. See if we can spot him before he heads into town."
Tig would never admit it, but even he was impressed with the initiative the two prospects were showing in finding were Weston was hiding out at. Standing up from his favorite spot on the couch, "Don't do shit until Jax gives the okay. He's back late tomorrow." he stated as he walked away.
"You two need to put in some hours in the garage tomorrow before Gemma has both your asses." spoke Chibs as he dealt the next hand.
***Olivia's condo***
She couldn't think of a single thing to do...the entire condo was so clean you could eat off the floors, her impeccably organized closet was in order, she had even planned her outfit for the next day...and it was only six o'clock. She was desperate to find something to keep her mind occupied. Having already skyped with her mom and grandparents, with every piece of laundry washed and put away, she was officially out of anything to keep her mind busy and not constantly replaying what had happened the previous night. After leaving as quickly as possible last night, she'd spent the rest of her evening and early morning driving up the highway, attempting to clear her mind of his rejection. His constant closeness to her all evening at dinner and his protectiveness of her at the gas station vanished as he stared down at her on his bed. As much as she wanted to believe that he had wanted her, even as she could feel his own arousal, the truth of the matter was he didn't. She had completely misread the situation, her own attraction to him causing her normal perceptive intuition to abandon her. The unexplainable spark she had felt since the first time she had met him was completely one sided. Having been blindsided earlier today in learning his interest in her had been the result of a bet, she now couldn't shake the feeling that his recent sleep overs with her had been at the request of Clay Morrow. As angry as she wanted to be at how SAMCRO had invaded her privacy, she actually understood their hesitation and suspicion. As wrong as it may be, she herself never took someone at face value, choosing the "wait and see" approach with people. She had always kept people at arms length, letting them prove themselves to her. If they failed, she didn't have to deal with any type of attachment, she could just move on. Now was time to put the past month behind her and stop dwelling on issues she couldn't resolve. The best thing for her to do was to focus both her work and free time on the new community. If that meant she would have to sacrifice her personal life than so be it.
***Monday***
Pulling into to T-M, he backed the bike in his usual spot, ready to put in some hours in the garage before taking a few hours of down time to prepare for tonight's run. He walked into the clubhouse, acknowledging his brothers on the way to his dorm to change. Opening the door his mind flashed back to her. He knew without a doubt that she wanted him the other night but he pulled away, stopping things before anything happened. The blank faces of every sweet butt he'd fucked face down on that bed came flashing through his mind at warp speed. No named bitches with their exaggerated moans and excessive begging plagued his vision but doing nothing to excite him. She already had him on the verge of exploding when he had her pressed up against the door. He had never been one for kissing or even making sure the woman got hers, but with Olivia he couldn't deny he was enjoying taking his time and watching her body come alive for him. Being the selfish bastard he was, once he got off, he'd stop not giving a shit if the bitch below him did. However, Olivia Parker was different, he realized that the first time he kissed her. So different that the thought of taking her on his bed felt completely wrong regardless of how fucking right it was to have her beneath him. Running a hand down his face, he couldn't think about how the other night had got fucked up. Grabbing his smokes, he walked out of his dorm, thankful for the distraction of a broken transmission needing his attention.
***Main Street Diner***
Swallowing the last bite of her grilled chicken salad, she blotted her mouth, placing her napkin back in her lap. "Thank you for lunch Elliott."
Smiling back at his associate, "You're welcome." he replied. Noticing they were the only two in back of the diner, "Olivia, are you really okay?" he asked, needing to make sure she was truly okay after being attacked by the same man who had raped his daughter.
"I promise I'm fine, Elliott. Don't be worried about me." the brunette stated, hating to see the man across from her so distraught. "Tristan is the only one you should be concerned with."
Sitting back in the booth, he let himself relax deciding to trust Olivia when she said she was okay. Just as he was about to ask her if she was having any issues with SAMCRO, a voice that made him want to rip his ear drums out, came closer to their table.
"Elliott...what a nice surprise to see you this lovely afternoon."
Taking a deep breath, he politely responded, "Liz, how are you?" silently praying she'd be quick in her response.
"Just wonderful. How's that adorable daughter of yours?" she asked her voice as sweet as syrup.
"She's great. Thank you for asking."
"We must have you two over for dinner soon, Elliott. It's been ages since we've gotten together. We really need to catch up after I get this auction fundraiser behind me." she spoke as she inspected the young woman sitting across from him.
He was already thinking of every reason he could think of to get him and Tristan out of yet another boring, pretentious dinner party with Robert and Liz Ashford. "I didn't realize this year's fundraiser was going to be an auction?"
Slightly rolling her eyes, "Oh, yes. We're having a date auction with several of Charming's best looking and available citizens. You can thank your good friend Gemma Morrow for the suggestion." her words thick with sarcasm.
"Well, if it raises the money, I guess it's not a bad idea."
"That's a big if. What little cultural events Charming has depends upon this annual event. We can't afford a disaster."
"I'm sure it will work. Gemma knows how important this event is. You know the rose garden competition is close to her heart."
"Yes, I'm aware of that. I just hope she can pull this off with...class." Liz Ashford spoke, her last word almost whispered as she looked between Elliott and his still un-introduced lunch companion.
Seeing Liz looking awkwardly between he and Olivia, "Oh, I'm sorry. Liz, this is my new associate Olivia Parker. Olivia, Liz Ashford." he replied, his hand motioning between the two women.
Extending her hand, "It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Ashford." her Southern manners out proudly.
She tilted her head to the side as she shook the younger lady's hand. "It's nice to meet you as well. I must say I've been eager to meet you since your name was registered as a bachelorette in the upcoming auction." the older lady stated completely surprised that Gemma Morrow actually knew someone so attractive and ladylike.
Did I just hear her right? she thought, "I'm sorry, I'm the what? a now confused Olivia asked, looking to Elliott thinking she'd heard her wrong.
"You're registered as one of the bachelorettes participating in the date auction." she replied, pulling a freshly printed flyer from her Dooney & Bourke tote. "I just picked these up from the printer this morning. I must say, not that I ever agree with Mrs. Morrow, but I do believe you will bring in a good amount at the auction." hearing her phone ring in her purse. Pulling it out, "I need to take this, but it was nice meeting you and thank you for signing up. Elliott, I'll be calling you soon." she said as she walked away from their table and out of the diner.
Stunned. She looked over at Elliott and by the look on his face, she knew that she wasn't dreaming. She had been unwillingly signed up for a local date auction. At the present moment she couldn't form a sentence in her head. She could feel the anger building in her body, angry that yet again someone associated with SAMCRO had involved her in something without asking her. It was the final straw for her. She calmly looked up at Elliott who looked both shocked and nervous at the same time.
"I take it that you didn't know about this." he asked, watching her attempt to control her anger.
"No. No clue." her response short. Her phone beeped alerting her that she had a new email. The owner of a twenty acre property south of here was giving her permission to preview it for her new client. Yet another tie to SAMCRO. A tie that needed to be severed, something she truly didn't want to do, but had to. Placing the phone back on the table, she looked back to Elliott.
"Elliott, I truly enjoy this job and I'm so excited to be apart of this project. I really am."
"I feel there's a but in this conversation." Elliott cautiously said.
"This job offer was a great opportunity for me at a time in my life when I needed to make a big change and so far this job has been exactly what I've needed. But my private life is just that private and I will not tolerate anyone coming into it that I don't want. You have my word that I won't leave my job without speaking with you first, but if SAMRCO doesn't stay out of my life, I will take advantage of the buy-out clause within my contract. Please don't take this as a threat. My anger has nothing to do with you. But I'm finished being hazed by that club. I'm a grown woman, not one of their prospects." she finished as she slid out of the booth. "Thanks again for lunch." as she left a twenty on the table.
He was beyond furious. She hadn't come out and said it but he knew that something other than Gemma signing her up for the auction had her pissed. Taking a final sip of his ice water, he wanted answers and knew exactly who was going to give them to him. Olivia Parker was too valuable to his business for SAMRCO to run off.
***Tacoma, Washington***
Looking up from paper, Slade watched Koz walk into the bar with the brunette he'd been with last night. "It's nice to have you back, brother."
Pouring a cup of loaded coffee, "How's things here?" Koz asked.
His eyes scanned the room before he spoke, "All things good on this end. Is our contact straight in Charming?"
Grinning back at his president, "It's all set. Won't have any problems making our drops. SAMRCO's too busy dealing with white power shit to notice."
This deal would bring the two of them some serious cash, but Slade couldn't help wanting to make sure their private business stayed that, private. "No one in Charming knows about this, right?" he asked, looking at Koz for any hesitation
He lit up, blowing the smoke up in the air, "Man, no one, I mean no one other than you, me and our contact has any fucking clue about this little side venture, and I plan on keeping it that way."
"You honestly think Hap's not suspicious?"
Slowly shaking his head and he laughed, "Doesn't have a clue. Besides, I have a feeling he's got his hands full in dealing with a fuckin' bitch who's ripping him a new one about now. It's clear sailing for us."
It was obvious something had happened in Charming that Koz hadn't told him about, "what the fuck you talkin' about?" the Tacoma president asked.
"Did you by any chance meet Jax's old lady's friend, Olivia? Brunette, fuckin' tight body?"
After a few seconds of racking his brain, "yeah, I remember her." he replied.
"Well Tig bet me that if I fucked her, he'd vote me in SAMCRO. The fucker got Happy to hit it first." Koz stated, his rage increasing at the memory of finding him at her condo.
"You shittin' me?"
Shaking his head no. "Seriously, it's alright though. I felt obligated to inform the bitch before I left that she was nothing more than a fuck and go for him to keep me from patching in. I'm sure she's let Hap have it by now." As pissed as he was at the situation, he felt vindicated at watching the news sink into her smug face.
He could see that Koz was pissed off about the situation, but as long as their new business venture was safe, Slade didn't give two fucks about what was going on in Charming. "As long as our shit's solid, fuck the rest of em."
***Outside Oakland***
She felt like she'd been in the car forever. Stepping out of the Range Rover, she opened her center console, retrieving the glock her brother had given her. Tucking it in the back of her black skinny dress pants, she made a mental note that she needed to apply for her concealed carry permit. With her phone and keys in hand, she locked her SUV, making her way up the winding sidewalk to the front door. The home was in desperate need of a damn good contractor or better yet, a bull dozer. Focusing her mind on what the client was looking for, she took in the amazing setting and views that this property had to offer. Taking some pictures with her Iphone, she would send them to Deidra later tonight.
She had quickly toured the five thousand square foot, severely outdated home and made her way outside when she heard a vehicle coming up the drive way. After everything that had happened with Anthony Weston, she could feel her heart slamming in her chest and the voice in her head screamed for her to get in her car and haul ass out of there. Deciding to listen to her head, she was almost at the SUV, when the Black Escalade came to a stop right behind her car. With her hand behind her and ready to pull her gun, she felt a wave of relief then confusion at seeing Laroy climb out of the back passenger door.
"This is a surprise." Olivia said not knowing why he was there.
"Dee told me you were previewing this place. Thought I'd check it out." he replied, his eyes hidden behind his designer sun glasses. "How big's the property?"
Feeling herself relax, "The property has twenty acres. The house is just over five thousand square feet but is in dire need of bull dozer." she said honestly. "What attracted me to this property is the view from the back of the house. I think it's exactly what you're thinking of. Let's walk around back."
He was impressed. It was secluded but close enough to the city for Deidra to not feel like she was living in the wilderness. The view overlooking the valley below was breathtaking. He was in total agreement with Olivia that the house was a total loss, but this property could actually work...of course if the price was right. Walking back over to his new real estate agent, he prepared himself to be hit with the asking price.
"Not bad." he stated, not wanting to show his true interest in the property.
He's interested she thought to herself as she watched him walk around the property. It truly was a great opportunity for someone looking to build their dream home. The property had stunning views overlooking the valley below, huge mature trees and appeared to have the privacy that he stressed was a must have of his.
"It definitely has potential. A buyer could have local recycle companies come in to remove any usable materials from the home before it would be demolished which is a great tax credit." she stated, using her years of sales to potentially raise the interest in this property. "Looking at the comps in the surrounding areas, this amount of acreage rarely becomes available. Most sales involving this size of property are located at least another hour or more from here."
She had impressed him again. It was obvious that she had done her research on this area. He could see why Dee had been fond of her from the beginning. She was professional, but approachable. Not pushy like every other agent they had interviewed. But most importantly, she seemed comfortable around him, didn't seem on edge or nervous. Most people took one look at him and instantly saw a black gangster. He didn't get that vibe from her. "It is a unique property. I've lived in Oakland all my life and never knew a house was even up here." he replied smiling at her.
Returning a smile of her own, "That's were a good agent comes in handy." The second the words were out of her mouth, she was reminded that it was in her best interest to terminate this agent/client relationship before it got any further. Taking a moment to formulate her thoughts, she heard him speak.
"I know this is the first property we've looked at, but I'd like to bring Dee up her. Whatever we do, it has to be to her liking or I won't do it."
"I completely understand. I can email you all the information for you to share with her." Taking a deep breath, she started, "Mr. Davis."
"Laroy. Please call me Laroy. No need for formality." he stated.
"Laroy", she said with a soft smile on her face, "Before we get too involved in this process, I feel that I need to let you know that I'm not exactly sure I'm the best agent to help you and Deidra."
Tilting his head, "Do you not want to work with us?" he questioned, completely caught off guard at her statement.
"No. Actually I would love to help you with your dream home, I just feel there may be too many conflicts that won't allow me to do my job to your standards."
He honestly didn't know where she was going with this but felt it was best he know, "Olivia, what's the issue?"
Taking another deep breath, "I don't have an issue with you or Deidra. I'm not trusted by SAMCRO and from putting things together on my own, I'm pretty sure that you and the club have a relationship of sorts. I honestly have no idea of why I'm such an issue for them. My only connection to Charming is my friendship with Tara. Basically, I don't want issues. I want to be able to do the job you've hired me to do without being watched or babysat but apparently that's not a freedom that I'm going to have with you and Deidra as clients."
"What makes you think that?"
"Well, I didn't come to dinner Saturday night alone. I hadn't even told anyone about our meeting and Happy shows up at my condo out of nowhere."
"Olivia. Without going into too much detail..."
Holding up her hand, "No need, I don't want details."
He couldn't help the smile on his face, "I do have an arrangement with SAMCRO. We've done business together for years now, and it's an arrangement that we both want to keep. My ties to Happy go back to childhood. I've known him since we were seven years old. Got nothing but respect for him." he said. "To be completely honest with you, when Dee asked me to meet with you, I asked Hap to look into you since you live in Charming. He confirmed that you were clean, so I told Dee that we could interview you. I have to know who I'm dealing with on such personal issues."
Shaking her head in agreement, "I completely understand and again I don't need details." she finished letting out a small laugh. "I could provide you with my personal information that I gave his club when I found out they had pulled a background check on me. Bank records, school transcripts, even my medical records."
"You willingly gave them all that?" he asked, stunned that she would be so forthcoming.
"Yes, I did. I have nothing to hide. Believe it or not, but I have no skeletons in any closets. Just tons of clothes, shoes and purses."
He couldn't contain his laughter. She had so many qualities that reminded him of Dee. "Well, the way I see it, you have no choice but to help us find the home of her dreams. I make it a priority that I don't disappoint her, so letting you walk away isn't an option."
She could tell why Deidra adored this man. He had charisma and could probably charm a dead body. "I really appreciate your confidence in me, but..."
"No buts. I can personally guarantee that you will not have any issues with SAMCRO in regards to working with us. I trust Happy won't allow it as well." he said, noticing she looked uncomfortable at the mention of his name. "It's obvious the two of you are at ease around each other." He couldn't help stating, his own curiosity getting the better of him.
"It's merely him looking out for his club. I can assure you that he has no interest in me otherwise." her mind betraying her as flashes of him walking out on her came across her mind.
Laroy Davis knew he wasn't imagining what he had seen between the two at the club and at his home. The woman in front of him was in denial whether she would admit it or not. He had no doubt that his longtime friend was drawn to the beauty standing in front of him, so why did she think differently? After thanking her for showing him the property, he made sure she was in her vehicle before he told his driver to leave. Taking a final look at the property as the SUV made its way down the driveway, he made a mental note to call Happy before the day was over.
***Teller-Morrow***
Elliott decided it was best that he didn't come straight to the garage after his lunch with Olivia. He needed to cool off, not show up and rip into Gemma. He couldn't remember a time that he hadn't been friends with Clay and Gemma. Although they came from two very different lifestyles, he could always count on them for support as they could from him. Hell, he wouldn't have made it through his wife abandoning them and God only knows he wouldn't been able to survive Tristan's attack without Clay and Gemma. Knowing that Clay was prepared to end Weston's life for hurting his daughter, he would forever be grateful, but he couldn't allow his association with the club to ruin a very lucrative business deal. He parked his SUV in the front parking lot and walked into the office.
Looking up from the parts magazine Clay was surprised to see him. "Elliott, what brings you by?" he asked.
Taking a seat on the couch across from the desk, "In the neighborhood. Thought I stop by. How's business?"
Clay leaned back in the chair, letting out a puff of smoke from his cigar, "Good. What about you?"
"Market seems to be bouncing back. Hoping for some pre-sales once we get the model built. If the cost of materials stays down, I'll be in even better shape come Fall." he replied, seeing Gemma pull in the parking lot. He and Clay both waited as she made her way to the office.
Coming through the door, she sat her purse down on the desk, "Hey babe." addressing her old man first with kiss. Standing back up, "Elliott, it's good to see you." she said walking over to hug her lifelong friend. "How's our girl?"
Smiling back, "She's good. At gymnastics practice this afternoon."
"Well tell her I plan on taking her shopping this weekend." she spoke gathering the unfilled orders from the drop box. "I'll let you two finish talking..."
"Actually, Gemma, I need to talk to you both." he replied as he watched Gemma turn around slowly. "How long we known each other? Going on thirty years, I think." starting the conversation.
"Yeah. Elliott, what's going on?" Clay asked sensing something wasn't right as he turned to look at his wife.
"I'd like to know why this club has an issue with Olivia, and please don't insult my intelligence and tell me you don't have one." He stated, getting right to the point.
Clay and Gemma looked at each other, both showing obvious guilt. "Elliott, we don't have a..."
"Really Gemma don't. Olivia was just informed at lunch with me earlier that she's been registered to participate in the upcoming date auction. You going to sit there and tell me you had nothing to do with that?"
Fuck Liz Ashford! If the bitch walked in Gemma's office right now, she rip her heart out through her ear. She could tell by the way Elliott was staring at her that he was pissed and Clay didn't look happy either. "Look, I..."
"The truth Gemma." Elliott said firmly not wanting to hear her excuses.
Seeing that she had no option but spill her guts, she sat down on the opposite end of the small leather couch. "Yes. I did sign her up."
"Why on Earth would you do that without asking her first?" asked Elliott wondering what in the hell Gemma was thinking as he watched Clay just shake his head, used to his wife's tactics.
"Look, I'm not asking for her first born child. The fundraiser needs as much money as it can get and I believe someone will pay big bucks for a date with her. It's for charity, Elliott. Don't see why it's such a big deal." she said hoping to end this conversation quickly.
He couldn't help but laugh out loud. This was typical Gemma. Never caring that someone may not want to be brought into her schemes. "Well it is a big deal, Gemma. She's a private person. The last thing she wants is to be put on display and sold to the highest bidder. Damnit Gemma. You're screwing with my business by pissing her off and I won't tolerate this shit, even from you."
Giving Elliott her WTF look, "How is she being apart of the auction screwing with your business?" as she looked over to Clay for back up.
"Answer me this. Clay, maybe you can enlighten me on this question. Why would she say she's tired of being hazed by SAMCRO? What else has happened that I don't know about." his anger rising at the looks of guilt on both of their faces. "Don't make me ask her."
"I'm just making sure that anyone around this club isn't a threat to us. I don't give a fuck who they are." spoke Clay looking his longtime friend in the eye.
He smirked, "Let me guess. You pulled a background check on her." he asked, a huge smile on his face. "Well, what juicy information did you find?"
"You can wipe that smirk off your face, my friend." as he took another pull on his cigar.
"Oh, I'm not smirking, Clay. I'm protecting my investment in hiring her. Let me guess. You found the same thing I found. Nothing." Elliott stated, knowing damn well Clay had pulled her info. "It's kinda funny that she doesn't have an interest in this club and she's being treated as if she's trying to patch in."
"I'm sure she'll get over it."
Shaking his head in disagreement, "I don't know about that. She came here for a job. Yes, being able to see Tara was a factor too, but her reason for moving halfway across the country was to work for me. And I'm now finding out that my two oldest friends have both invaded her personal life."
"Elliott you know what this club means to us, to everyone in it. I'll protect it however I can."
"Clay, you don't have to tell me what this club means to you two. You'll never know how grateful I am to you for everything you've done for me and Tristan, but I can't allow you or you", as he looks to Gemma, "to cause Olivia to want to terminate her contract with me."
"Contract?" Gemma asked, looking between the two men.
"Yeah, she signed a five year contract to work for me. Part of that contract is a buy-out clause she can use to terminate it. If she continues to have her privacy invaded, she plans on taking advantage of it. And I know for a fact she has the money to terminate it."
"How much?"
Looking over at Gemma, "$250,000." he said watching Gemma's reaction. "She gave up a six-figure salary plus bonuses to move farther away from her family for a $75,000 yearly salary and a rent free condo." Elliott explained hoping his point was getting across. "She willingly took a huge risk moving here not to mention a drastic change in salary. She's not a threat, Clay. I need you both to back off." he spoke looking them both in the eye. "If she quits because of an issue caused by SAMCRO, we're going to have problems. I've got too much invested in this project for someone to screw it up."
"I can assure you that no one with SAMCRO will be an issue for your business." Clay responded looking over at his wife. "Isn't that right Gemma?"
She kept looking between her longtime friend and her husband, who both clearly thought she was the problem. With her arms crossed, "Exactly what do you want me to do, Elliott?" she asked, both irriatated she was tattled on by that bitch Liz Ashford, but also plagued by guilt.
"Nothing. Gemma I want you to do nothing. Just leave her alone." With that being said, Elliott stood up from the couch mirroring Clay's actions while extending his hand. "We good?" he asked.
Shaking his head in agreement, "Always." Clay replied shaking his friend's hand.
***John's Place***
After the day she'd had, she needed a good, stiff drink. Discretely taking in her surroundings, she felt like a fish out of water in the dark, smokey, off the main road bar that she'd come across deciding to take her time getting home from a late evening at the job site. Truthfully, she just wanted to disappear for awhile. After driving about five miles down a winding road that could rival any country road in Georgia, the rustic bar came into view as if she was meant to stop there. It was perfect. Completely off her normal route home, she was sure that she could enjoy a drink in privacy and clear her head. Sipping on her Gin and tonic, she kept noticing the woman who had come in not long after her. She was sitting a few seats down from her at the bar, staring intently at the untouched drink in front of her. Thirty minutes had gone by and the woman hadn't took the first sip. Hearing her phone as it vibrated on the bar, she picked it up instantly feeling the tension in her neck.
Back in town. Meet me for lunch tomorrow at the hospital. Love ya, T
She put her head in her hands at the utter mess her life was currently. Not that she wasn't excited to see Tara and hear all about her trip, she just didn't want to be asked a thousand questions about what had been going on, although she was sure that Jax probably knew by now about the bet. God, how stupid am I! Olivia thought as she took a long sip of her drink. She had always used her spot on intuition and gut instinct when it came to letting her guard down around people, but not this time. How had she let this happen? What had prevented her from seeing that he had been playing her from day one? For the past two days, her mind had betrayed her allowing her to replay every interaction she had ever had with him, especially the night of Lyla's wedding. Thinking about it was only going to give her a headache, so she forced herself to stop. She refused to waste anymore thought on him. She now knew the true reason he had shown an interest in her and she was now officially done, only one more thing she needed to do. Scrolling through her contacts, she came across his number. Without hesitation, she hit delete, removing Happy's number from her phone. Letting out a deep breath, she switched her phone to silent mode, deciding to enjoy the fact she was completely unknown in the rundown bar that she was currently in.
***Outside Charming***
Killing the engine on his bike, he put his helmet over the handle bar, making his way over to Laroy as he scanned the dark surroundings.
"Just us man." Laroy said, giving his friend a man hug. "Need to give you an update."
"On what." Happy asked, unsure what this unscheduled meeting was about.
"Olivia."
One word was all it took for every nerve ending he had to start twitching, making him feel like his insides were on fire. "What happened?" he asked, caught off guard that he needed to be updated on her.
Laroy instantly saw Happy's posture change from somewhat relaxed to battle ready in the blink of an eye. Holding his hands up, "Calm down. Nothing happened." seeing Happy digesting everything. "Just wanted you to know that I surprised her today while she was previewing a property for us." he finished watching the man in front of him. "She had text Dee earlier in the day that she was going, thought I'd take the opportunity to get to know her better."
Happy's head snapped at Laroy's last statement, raising a suspicious eye at him. Laroy couldn't help the chuckle that escaped his mouth, "Not that way, you shit." he said, leaning back against his Escalade. "She showed me around the property and gave some suggestions." the familiar smirk starting to show on his face. "I take it you didn't know I met her today?" he asked, seeing the surprised look on his face.
He just shook his head, starting to feel angry that he hadn't been told about their impromptu meeting, although he knew damn well he had no right to be pissed off about it. That knot that he had felt in his gut the past three days made it's presence known. He had no clue where she had gone the other night, much less anything else that she had done since he pulled away from her two nights ago. Running a hand over his face, he turned back to Laroy, sensing he was about to be questioned.
"We've been friends a long time, man. What's going on with her?"
He took a few steps, almost as if he was about to start a slow pace back and forth, before he turned back toward Laroy, "Like I said before, it's just us. I'll take it to the grave brother."
Happy knew without a doubt he could just Laroy. Their loyalty to each other had been proving time and time again over the years regardless of their different clubs. The close friendship between the two had made both clubs some serious cash and distinguished both SAMCRO and the Niner's as lethal as clubs can be. Already being a man of few words, trying to explain whatever the hell was going on between he and Olivia, simply left him speechless. Staring out into the darkness, "I have no fuckin' clue."
He knew that confused, completely fucked look. He'd worn it the year he had to chase Deidra, before she finally agreed to give him a chance. Hell, he still wore it now after almost thirteen years with her, not that he'd ever admit that to anyone. He could tell that Happy was interested in Olivia, but being the stubborn ass he always was, he wouldn't own it. "Somethings there." he said, deciding to go easy on guy.
His mind flashing back to her face as he pulled back from her on his bed, "wouldn't bet on it.", he stated feeling pissed off again.
Laroy just shook his head. "Man, you can't stand there an deny there ain't something going on between you two." moving to stand in front of him. "At dinner the other night, I think both of you forgot we were there."
Happy just looked back at him. "Seriously man. Dee noticed it too." that shit eaten grin back on the Niner's face.
***John's Place***
The two women had spent the past hour making idle conversation, both using the bar as a hide out of sorts. "Don't take this the wrong way, but you don't look like this is your scene." Sarah stated, eating another peanut.
Olivia shrugged her shoulders, "Actually, this place reminds me of the bars in the town I'm from in Georgia." she finished taking another sip of her second Gin and Tonic. "It's quite comforting." as she sat her drink back on the bar, again noticing the untouched drink of her new bar mate. "What's the deal with this?" she asked pointing to the glass.
Sarah fought back the tears that had threatened to fall all day, "That is the worst mistake I've ever made." she said, unable to look away from the double shot of Tequila. "I ruined the best thing I ever had." as a single tear fell down her cheek.
Olivia was heartbroken for the woman sitting beside of her at the end of the bar. She didn't know this woman, but could see her pain and agony not only on her face, but hear it in her voice as she spoke about what happened.
"Sarah, I'm so sorry I asked you." the brunette said feeling like a total jerk after hearing her story.
"You had no way of knowing. Besides, I caused my own misery, I just need to learn to live with it."
"I really am sorry." as she squeezed the blond woman's hand.
"It's okay." Sarah replied, using a napkin to blot her eyes. "So, you know my disastrous story about why I'm here, what's yours?"
Listening to Sarah's story made her current problems pale in comparison. But the minute she was asked about why she was hiding out in a run down bar, it all came rushing back...the embarrassment and total humiliation. Deciding if the woman sitting across from her could bare her soul, then so could she. It wasn't like they knew each other or would ever see each other again.
"It's that usual story where a woman moves to a new town, meets a man, who is the total opposite of anyone she's ever known, is stupidly drawn to the man, sleeps with the man, then finds out that he was interested in you to help another friend win a bet." she confessed feeling like a total idiot. "On top of that, the man goes with me to a dinner meeting, drives me back to his place, things get heated and he pulls away, tells me it's not going to happen and walks out of the room". finishing the rest of her drink and motioning to the bartender for another. "I swear, I'm usually not this stupid." looking at Sarah, who's face was sympathetic.
"Ouch." was the only word that Sarah could think of.
"Oh yes. Complete humiliation." Olivia replied, excited that she had a fresh drink.
The twosome sat and talked for awhile longer, before Sarah needed to leave. Olivia truly enjoyed talking with the woman, giving her a business card if she ever wanted to compare crappy men stories again. She was now back to being the only woman sitting in the bar, thankful that she was on the end with only one other seat. After hearing Sarah's story, she at first thought the woman was trying to take the blame of the end of her marriage off of herself, but the more she talked, the more Olivia could tell that Sarah was completely remorseful of what had happened. Her story was the exact reason she didn't allow herself to get drunk in public. Waking up in bed with her husband's friend and not remembering how she got there had to haunt her. Then to know that nothing she could have said to her husband or done to take his hurt away had to be devastating. In all honesty, she couldn't blame her husband. Cheating was her deal breaker as well.
With the window down in the T-M wrecker, he was enjoying the cool night air as he made his way back to the clubhouse. Taking the back roads on the way into Charming, he glanced over at the cars in John's lot immediately seeing a dark Range Rover that stuck out. Quickly turning around, he pulled into the dirt parking lot parking behind Elliott's SUV. He made his way to the door, seeing a decent crowd for a Monday night. Carefully taking a look around the bar, his eyes locked in on the one person he never expected to see here. "What the fuck is she doing here?" he said out loud to himself, seeing Olivia Parker sitting at the far end of the bar. He spotted an empty table in the corner, he made his way over and sat down without being seen. For the next twenty minutes, he sat there watching as she sat alone, obviously nursing her drink. Seeing John walk over, he motioned his head toward her, "What's the story with that one?" wanting to see if he knew anything.
John just shook his head. "Tigger, that one's out of your league my friend. Don't know her. Never seen her before tonight. Had a few drinks. She sat and talked with this other woman that came in and has been sitting there all evening." he finished as he wiped down the table next to Tigs. "Can't believe some idiot would turn her down."
"What?" Tig asked, his head turning toward the bartender.
Shaking his head in disbelief, "Heard her and the blond woman sharing stories. Apparently some dumb ass who should have his dick cut off, turned her down." as he looked toward Olivia. "Stupid fucker." as he walked away heading back to the bar.
Running his hand over his face, he had a sinking feeling of who the dumb ass was, but had no clue why he would have turned her down. Noticing that she was getting looks from other men in the bar, he slowly made his way over to her, coming up behind her. Sliding into the seat beside of her, he saw that she hadn't yet noticed him. Making eye contact with Lauren behind the bar, she walked over with a beer, giving her a wink in appreciation. Taking a long pull off his first beer of the day, he finally made his presence known, "Doll face, what brings you here?" he asked as he watched her slowly turn her face toward him.
Her night just went to shit...fast. Was there no where she could go without running into someone from SAMCRO? All she could hear in her head was Koz telling her about their bet, so she went with sarcasm. "Well it is a bar, so I would guess I'm here for a drink."
Okay, she was either a mean, bitchy drunk or she was pissed, or possibly both. "How'd you find this place?" he asked, treading carefully.
Looking back at him, she asked him bluntly, "Tig, what could you possibly want?" she asked, her evening of trying to erase the memory of the bet shattered as she sat next to the man who started it.
"You mad at me?" he questioned, not knowing where her hostility was coming from. All he got in return was laughter. She was laughing at him, as her hand patted his arm.
"Mad at you? Noooooooooooo. Now why are Earth would you think I was mad at you? I mean it's not like you made a bet with someone that they could be the first to fuck me now would it?" her voice now calm, her eyes piercing his.
Holy shit! was the only thought screaming through his mind.