***T-M***
Pulling into her usual space, she spotted Clay sitting at the picnic tables with Bobby. With an unbelievably tight schedule, Gemma only had a few minutes to spare before heading home to get ready. The morning and afternoon had flown by leaving her no room for relaxing. Grabbing a clean shirt and jeans from the back seat, she closed the door and walked toward her husband.
His eyes followed her as she came closer. Taking in her appearance, he liked the casual look on her. Gemma Morrow might be in her fifties, but the woman could still bring a man to his knees, especially him. As hardened as the life of an outlaw had made him, she was both his anchor and his greatest weakness. He had always loved her, even when she belonged to another man, a man who carelessly threw her away. Seeing her trademark smirk, he smiled back at his wife.
"Hey baby."
Leaning down kissing her husband, "Hey yourself." standing back up. "Everything okay?"
With a nod of his head, "All quiet. You ready for tonight?"
"As ready as I can be." Gemma replied, brushing her bangs to the side. "Brought you a change of clothes. I need to be at the auction by five, so you'll just need to meet me there."
"Okay. Is Tara going with you?"
Shaking her head, "No. She's coming straight from the hospital. Supposed to meet Olivia outside."
"How did you ever talk Olivia into this?" asked Bobby, folding up the newspaper.
Rolling her eyes at her husbands smart ass smirk, "Just simple persuasion."
Looking between Clay and Gemma sensing there was more to the story, "Well, Gem, I do believe you've broken Juicy boy's heart by having T-M sponsor her. Poor shit thought he had the chance at buying a date with her."
With a surprised look on her face, "Juice? Did I miss something?" suddenly confused at why Juice was wanting Olivia as she walked toward the office. "Shit. He has a dick...of course he'd want her."
***Outside Charming***
He placed the last item in the black duffle bag sitting on the small kitchen table. Sliding the zipper closed, he could feel the blood flowing swiftly through his veins at the anticipation of what was to come later. After all his planning and extensive prep work, she was finally going to be his, if only for a short time. He knew and accepted that his time with her was limited, before he would turn her over to his leader, but for the next few weeks, he would take from her what he wanted. Sliding the rug back, he lifted the hidden door, and slowly made his way down into the makeshift bunker. The room was ready...she would have all the comforts she would need while she was in his presence. Giving the room another quick glance, he mentally confirmed that everything was in place for his special guest. Climbing back up the steps, he closed the hatch, carefully concealing the hidden room with a rug. Checking the time on his watch, "It won't be long now."
***Olivia's Condo***
She was sipping on her second Ginger Ale, as her stomach remained uneasy. Thankful that she took the afternoon off, she would be perfectly content to just continue and lounge on her couch for the rest of the night. Checking the time on her phone, she groaned knowing she had to get up and start getting ready. She needed to be at the auction by six which gave her a little under two hours until she needed to leave. Sending a quick text to Tara confirming she would wait on her before going inside, she walked into her bedroom, praying tonight went well. A basket of unfolded laundry caught her eye still sitting on her bed. "Crap." having forgotten about it earlier, she quickly started putting away the clean items, coming to a stop as she reached the bottom finding three pair of solid black boxers. A soft smile covered her face as she thought about the man they belonged to. It didn't surprise her to find them in her laundry since it wasn't the first time she had found his belongings mixed in with hers. Whether is was a random t-shirt or pair of boxers, she would just neatly fold and place them on the island in her closet. What was unsettling to her was how easily she had broken her firm rule of no sleepovers with him. Since the bet misunderstanding had been resolved between them, she realized he had spent every night but two with her, something that she had only allowed maybe three times in a prior four year relationship. She found herself noticing different things about him. Happy was very hygienic, had remarkable table manners and picked up after himself. Thinking back to a recent late night talk they had sitting on her couch, she remembered him telling her how his mom expected him to keep his room clean when he was growing up. A trait he brought with him into adulthood. Hearing her phone beep brought her out of thinking about him. Thankful for the distraction, she refused to allow herself to over think anything that involved Happy Lowman.
...an hour and a half later
With her makeup applied, all she had left to do was pin her hair back and slip on her dress and shoes. As she found her favorite lip gloss, she heard a knock at the door. Quietly making her way down the hall, she adjusted the tie on her robe and checked the peep hole. Her recently calmed stomach started doing flips as she opened the door and came face to face with Happy...and Tig.
"Hi." she said, the first one to speak as she stepped aside to let them in.
It had surprised Tig when Hap had said they needed to go to Olivia's, saying that he wanted to do some recon on Zobelle's store, but having just witnessed a brief moment of eye sex between the two, he now doubted his brother's true reasoning for being here. His own personal track record with women sucked ass, but he wasn't stupid when it came to recognizing two people who were clearly drawn to each other. Walking around his brother, he walked toward one of the living room chairs and sat down.
"You got plans tonight, Doll face?" asked Tig knowing where she was going, but wanting to see what Happy would say.
With a careful glance toward him, she looked back toward Tig, "I'm going to the Rose Garden auction tonight." watching as Tig shook his head.
Running a hand over his mouth to hide his smile, "That's right. I forgot." he lied thinking back to the earlier conversation at the garage. Happy hadn't said one word about it, had been completely mute in regards to the woman standing in front of them being auctioned off for a date. Deciding to push the envelope a little more, "You excited about meeting some new men?" noticing from the corner of his eye Happy turn and walk toward the windows.
Watching the man she had been sharing her bed with for almost two months turn and walk away, she ignored the punch just felt in her gut and answered the question. "I just hope I can help Gemma reach their goal for the gardens. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to finish getting ready." giving Tig a soft smile and heading toward her bedroom, without looking toward Happy.
He kept staring down at the empty alley below as Tig walked over, now standing beside him. With the two prospects seeing Weston earlier in town, Happy thought it would be a good opportunity to watch and see if he and Zobelle were meeting at the cigar store. He wanted the son of a bitch dead as soon as possible, needing to inflict as much pain as he could. His instincts were constantly on high alert, constantly eating at his gut that he was even more evil than they already knew. Feeling eyes watching him, "What?"
"Anything happening?" questioned Tig, watching the same empty alley as his brother.
He didn't speak, just shook his head no. He knew the odds of seeing Weston enter or leave the store below were slim, but always the soldier, he was perfectly okay standing where he was on the off chance he did. The sound of heels, caused the two men to turn around, watching as Olivia walked back into the room. Tig had thought the woman standing across the room from him was gorgeous from the first time he'd met her, but seeing her now, he was at a loss for words. Noticing Happy unable to blink beside of him, he turned back to Olivia.
"Damn, doll face." smiling at the brunette, "That's all I got...Damn!"
"Thanks, Tig." appreciative of his compliment, although she felt unsure of Happy's reaction to her. He just stared at her and with his lack of response, she felt the sudden urge to leave a few minutes early. Grabbing her keys from the table, "Well, I better be going. Here's a key to lock the dead bolt whenever you leave." as she placed the spare on her entry table. "Have a good night." giving a quick wave as she turned and walked toward the door, as the two men stood silently.
He still didn't have a voice. She had took it from him the minute she walked into the room. The first word that came to his mind every time he saw her was beautiful, but seeing her tonight, he didn't feel like that did her justice. He had noticed the dress last night in her closet as she was putting up clothes, but seeing it on her just now left him speechless.
Tig stood silently in disbelief, shocked that Happy still had nothing to say about the woman who just walked out the door. Sure he was his normal unemotional self, but after witnessing with his own eyes some semi-intimate moments between the two, the man still staring at the door had to have some thought on what she was doing tonight. Looking toward Happy, he just shook his head and turned his attention back to the alley below.
As he snapped out of his frozen state, he caught Tig's expression. "What?" he demanded.
Looking over toward his brother, "You serious?"
"What the fuck was that look for?" he questioned.
Still dumbfounded by his lack of reaction, he was prepared to bite the bullet, so to speak, and take whatever would come out of his next statement. "Just can't believe that you don't have anything to say about her going to this date auction." seeing Happy's jaw twitch slightly and getting nothing but his typical cold stare. Tired of trying to get anything out of him, he refocused back on the alley. "Guess I was wrong." he stated knowing Happy was still looking at him. "Apparently you don't like doll face like I thought you did."
He was about a second from knocking the shit out of Tig, but his years to learning to maintain his reactions kept him from losing his temper. The vein in his neck was throbbing as his blood flowed feverishly through his body. Needing to keep his mind off of the woman who just left he took a deep breath, clinching his fists and continued to look for Weston.
***Charming Gardens Auction***
So far the evening had been surprisingly pleasant, although the date auction part of the night had yet to start. Her stomach turned at the thought of what was to come. Taking a final sip of her white wine, she gently placed the mostly full glass of Chardonnay onto the waiters tray as he passed. Scanning the room, she locked eyes with Christy who motioned her over.
"Hi." she whispered to her co-worker, not wanting to interrupt the conversation between her husband and another man.
"Hey." smiling back at Olivia. "How are you doing?"
Letting out a sigh, "Anxious...nervous...you know all those normal feelings one has when being auctioned off. Other than that, I'm great." she replied again feeling her stomach knot up.
Christy couldn't help but feel anxious for her new friend as she reached out for her hand. "I have no doubt you'll be highly sought after, if the looks you've been getting all night is any indication."
Casually looking around the banquet room, "I'm not sure if that should make me feel better or worry me more." noticing Christy's husband Shawn turn toward them.
Leaning closer to the brunette, "Well, I know for a fact that Kevin is looking forward to winning a date with you." as she motioned slightly to her right.
Giving a polite smile at the comment, she did another visual sweep around the room, spotting Tara who was now standing with her boss from the hospital. She excused herself and headed toward her best friend. Halfway across the room she could feel eyes on her. She had even noticed some less than polite stares from several women. Ignoring everything around her, she stopped in front of the doctor.
"Thinking about making a run for it." she confessed.
Tara couldn't help but laugh at her. "Pretty sure Gemma would explode. I'd advise against bailing." giving her usually calm girl friend a hug. "I promise I'll be right beside of you all night." trying to ease her nerves.
Knowing she was overreacting, "Thanks." she replied. "Where's Jax?" wondering why he wasn't here.
"At home with Abel. Thought we could give Neeta the night off."
Nodding her head, "That's nice."
The next forty five minutes flew by. She had mingled with most everyone in the room, and even had a good laugh at Elliott vowing revenge against Gemma for making him participate. Christy had officially introduced her to Kevin who worked with Shawn at the fire department. She couldn't deny he was very attractive but she hadn't felt any spark when they shook hands. He definitely showed interest, going as far as giving her his card if he didn't end up winning the date with her. Always remembering her Southern manners, she politely accepted it and continued to make idle conversation. Thankful that Christy, Shawn and Elliott were standing with her and Kevin, she felt her stomach knot up tighter noticing Clay walk through the door, followed by Chibs, Bobby, Juice and Opie, surprisingly without their kutts. A feeling of disappointment came over her realizing that Opie was the last one to enter. Suddenly not sure why she thought he would come, she silently reminded herself that he hadn't said anything about tonight all week, and she knew that he was aware of it. Chibs had brought it up while they were having lunch at Ralph's on Monday and all he did was look out the window. She hated that it was bothering her that he obviously didn't care if she went on a date with a stranger, but after his lack of any reaction earlier at her condo, she had no choice but to scold herself, remembering exactly who he was. A confirmed bachelor. Wanting to clear her mind of him, she walked over to Tara. "I'm going to step outside for some air. I'll be right back." she said, walking toward the balcony doors.
The fresh cool air felt wonderful as she stepped onto the stone terrace. The banquet facility was built overlooking a lake with mountains in the background. Glancing back into the main room, she had to give Gemma credit in how well the event was organized and the flowers were simply beautiful. She turned back toward the lake, closing her eyes actually wishing she could click her Jimmy Choo heels together and be back in the quiet safety of her condo. Hearing the door open, she enjoyed the last seconds of alone time before she was greeted.
"Well hello there."
Not recognizing the voice, Olivia turned toward the woman. "Hello. I'm sorry, I know we met the other day, but I can't place your name."
"It's Luanne. Luanne Delany."
Feeling bad for not remembering her name, "I'm so sorry. Of course, you're friends with Gemma. Please forgive me, I'm usually very good at remembering names."
"No apologies need, darling. You must be excited about the possible options you have tonight." giving her best effort at being polite. "There's plenty of single men in there." motioning back toward the banquet room.
Shaking her head in disagreement, "Not excited. More like very nervous." Olivia said giving the lady a friendly smile.
Taking another sip of her Scotch and soda, "Don't be nervous. I think it's quite smart of you to find someone you have more in common with."
She was instantly suspicious, but hid any reaction. "I'm sorry?" feigning ignorance.
Deciding that this was a prime opportunity to make sure this outsider knew her place, Luann felt obliged to school her on some things. "You know, I think it's smart of you to do this. I mean you're meeting men you have more in common with. Men you can relate to."
She couldn't tell if the woman in front of her was giving her a compliment or not. Something about the woman standing in front of her screamed trouble. Deciding to take the high road, "I'm not really looking to meet anyone. Just a great opportunity to help Gemma's charity."
"Well it's good to know that you're doing this to help Gemma...instead of trying to make Happy jealous." taking another sip of her drink.
"I'm sorry?" keeping her voice calm and polite.
"Honey, it's in your best interest to just move on from your little fuck fest with Happy and find someone more to your speed...unless you like being his pussy of the moment?" Luann questioned.
Refusing to allow this woman any satisfaction, Olivia just smiled back. "Whatever is or isn't going on between Happy and myself, is not any concern of yours."
Taking a step closer to the younger woman, "Happy's SAMCRO and our club is my business. You may think you have his attention, but you're just a number in a very long line of available bitches who are more than willing to be his fuck toy."
She counted to twenty in her head before responding, "I appreciate the talk, but my personal life is off limits."
Sitting her now empty glass down on the stone wall, "Darling, I hate to tell you this, but with your brief little fling with Happy, your personal life is our business. You may think that Gemma got you to do this to help her charity, but make no mistake, nothing Gemma does is without reason, and I would guess it's to keep you close, since you're currently fucking Happy and an outsider." Luann stopped talking, choosing to stand there silently and gauge what little miss perfect would say next.
Olivia Parker had delt with plenty of women more cunning than the one standing in front of her and like the ones before Ms. Luann Delany, she wasn't about to be intimated by this one. Letting her anger subside, she took in the woman who was staring back at her like she had just won a war. She guessed Ms. Delany was at least fifty, but judging her layers of bad makeup, a dress that was possibly two sizes too small and over processed hair, Olivia was quickly coming to the conclusion that the lady standing in front of her was trying to hold onto her youth, and from her viewpoint, was failing miserably. Ready to respond without forgoing her manners she spoke. "Ms. Delany, I'm very aware that I am an outsider in regards to the Club, but as Clay knows, I have no interest in what SAMCRO does since he and I have discussed that issue at length. And to address your concerns about Happy, again whatever goes on between he and I is our business and it's not up for discussion with me. If he wants to tell people, then that's his decision. I can assure you that I'm well aware that he's a grown man and will do what he pleases with who ever he chooses. I have no desire to change him." stopping to take a breath. "Now if you will excuse me, I believe it's almost time for the auction and I had best be going so I don't miss a man that's more suitable for me." Giving a soft smile, Olivia stepped around Luann and walked away.
At this very moment Luann would give anything to slap that shit smile off her face. Who does that bitch think she is? Quickly lighting up a smoke, she needed to calm down before she went back in. If only she had brought something stronger with her. Currently out of her favorite pick me up, she mentally reminded herself to make a pit stop on her way home later. Stubbing out the cigarette on the wall, she flicked it out onto the manicured lawn and headed back inside.
With the sound of the door closing, he stepped out from the shadows. He had walked outside maybe ten minutes ago for some fresh air when he happened to hear the two women talking. Staying out of sight he overheard their conversation clearly. What he witnessed didn't surprise him. Having known Luann since high school, the woman never failed to show her ass to anyone she felt threatened by, but with the look she just had on her face, he had no doubt that she realized Olivia Parker wasn't to be bullied. Still not knowing the brunette that well, he was expecting to see her lose her cool after Luann's speech, but it never happened. She remained silent and calm as the older woman ranted only to respond politely probably knowing it would piss the woman off more than being yelled at. A devilish grin now on his face, his wife wasn't the only one that was starting to like her.
...two hours later
She suddenly felt the urge to throw up. In just a few minutes, it would be her turn to be auctioned. Gemma had kept her word that she could be last, Olivia secretly hoping that either all the men would have dates by now or would have run out of money, but again her hope was dashed. Looking around the room, she knew she needed to just suck it up and pray for the best.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we have reached our final bachlorette. Miss Olivia Parker just recently has made our lovely town of Charming her home. Recently relocating from Chicago, Miss Parker is an associate and real estate broker with Oswald Properties with an extensive background in interior design."
Olivia stood with Tara right by her side as promised as the Mayor of Charming, who was acting as the night's auctioneer, gave a brief bio of her life. Thankful that she wasn't having to stand on some platform as her possible dates looked her over, she felt at ease with her best friend steadfastly beside her. Hearing the mayor finish his intro, the bidding started.
"Let's start the bid at $200." as he looked around the room.
"$200" responded a man off to the side of the room.
"$250" replied Kevin, who was smiling back at her, still standing with Shawn and Christy.
Taking his job seriously, the mayor gave out a challenge, "The bid is currently $250...who will give $300 for this lovely woman?"
$400", a new bidder now getting into the game.
$450" again a bid from the firefighter she had met earlier.
"$500" from the man she knew worked at the local bank.
With her nerves still on edge, Tara was doing her best to keep her calm. She had decided when the bidding started that she was simply going to tune everything out and not pay any attention to how much she was going for.
"You okay?" whispered Tara
Giving her a slight smile, "Oh yeah...just peachy."
She was about to say something to Tara when she heard the mayor. "Okay...the current bid is $1000...do we have anymore bids?"
It's almost over she thought, eagerly excited to not only get this over with but to get home. Knowing this was coming to an end, she exhaled the breath she had been holding most of the night and tried to relax.
"Okay, if there are no more bidders..."
"$2000." said a new voice from the back of the room.
The new bid had her attention, but it wasn't the amount that was bid, it was the voice it came from. Tara looked toward the area the voice had come from, then looked back at Olivia. Seeing the same expression that mirrored her own, she turned back toward where the bidder was. "You've got to be kidding me?" spoke Tara now confirming it was him. She couldn't help but to roll her eyes the instant she saw Olivia's ex-boyfriend. Turning her body to face her, "Don't worry. I'll bid on you myself before he wins this auction."
It shouldn't surprise her that he would do something like this, but it did. How did he even know about tonight? she thought as she watched him raise his glass of Bourbon to her. Still the same arrogant ass, she noticed. She found it odd that she was now wishing to be bid on by anyone but John. Looking around the room, while trying to not look desperate, it appeared that her she was out of luck. To her dismay, she was about to be won by a man she sorely disliked.
"Well, it looks the the winning bid will be $2000 if there are no other bidders. Anyone? Last chance for a date with the lovely Olivia Parker." stated the excited mayor as John made his way over to the cashier, reaching inside his suit jacket for his wallet.
Silence filled the full banquet room as she watched him smile back at her.
"$3000."
A miracle had just happened. A man standing on the opposite side of the room just over bid John. She had noticed him earlier as she walked back from the restroom. He looked to be in his late twenties, possibly early thirties and could easily pose on the cover of GQ Magazine. They hadn't spoke to each other, in fact, he had quickly looked away from her. Right now she didn't care who the man was so long as he won the date.
John Williams never lost a deal and he wasn't about to lose the chance to win her back. "$3500."
Gemma was on cloud nine watching these two men try and out bid each other. All she could focus on was keeping her father's beautiful rose gardens in pristine condition and the money raised here tonight would do just that. Looking over toward Olivia and Tara, she saw their faces and realized that the man in the dark suit was someone they both knew and from the looks of it, someone they didn't like. Deciding to watch how this was going to play out, she stayed where she was and observed.
"$4000."
Still standing by the cashier, "$4500." as he threw his black American Express down on the table, as he smirked back at the younger bidder.
The mayor and cashier eyed each other as soon as the card hit the table. Wanting the bidding to continue, the mayor had to remind the two gentlemen of the rules. "Sir." seeing the man turn toward him. "Tonight's auction is a cash only event. We don't accept credit cards or checks." as he pointed to the clearly written rule posted on the table.
Brent couldn't help but smile at hearing the mayor. Confidently walking toward the cashier's table, he pulled a generous amount of money from his pocket. "I have cash and I believe the winning bid would be $2000 since this man can't pay with the correct funds." smiling back at his now furious competitor.
Looking between the two men, "Yes, the winning bid is $2000." confirmed the mayor as he watched the winner count out the amount in hundred dollar bills. "I believe this will cover it." stated Brent watching the mayor eye's grow large as he handed him the money.
"Congratulations! You have just won a date with Miss Parker."
"Thank you." he responded shaking the mayor's hand. Looking over his shoulder, he noticed she now looked relaxed. After a minute of applause for a successful auction, he quietly made his way over, seeing the suit man now standing in front of her.
"Olivia, how about we go some where and talk."
Shaking her head, "No John. There's nothing for us to talk about."
"Miss Parker?"
Thankful for the interruption she quickly turned toward the man who had just won a date with her. "Hi."
"Hello. Brent Davidson." he said extending his hand.
"Olivia Parker." she replied as she shook his hand. "It's nice to meet you."
"Same to you." noticing suit man glaring at him from behind her. "I wanted to give you my information so that you can contact me and we can arrange our evening." handing her a business card. "I apologize, but I must be leaving now."
Somewhat caught off guard by his abruptness, she accepted his card. "Of course. I can give you a call at the first of the week?" she questioned.
"Sounds good. It was a pleasure meeting you. Have a good evening." he stated before walking away.
"Hey." Tara said putting herself in between her friend and the ex. "So who was he?" seeing Olivia hand her the card.
He wasn't going to let her walk away from him, not after he'd flown in to surprise her. Stepping around Tara, he put his hand on her elbow, slightly pulling her. "Honey, let's go talk."
She had always hated when he did that. Using her hand to remove his hold of her arm, she stepped back and looked him dead in the eye. "John, I'm not going to say this again so please listen. We have nothing to talk about so stop asking. Enjoy your evening, but it's not going to be with me." turning her attention to Tara. "You ready?"
Knowing she wanted to get out of there, "Yeah, let's go." the doctor replied grabbing Olivia's hand as they made their way toward the door. Spotting John already standing outside the entrance, Tara pulled Olivia into the ladies room. Looking at her confused friend, "He's right outside the entrance. And from the looks of it, he's waiting on you."
"He's nothing if not persistent." Olivia fumed. "I'm not spending the night in this bathroom but I don't want him to follow me home either."
It only took her a few seconds, "I have a plan!" exclaimed Tara, excited by her own idea.
"Do tell."
Twenty minutes later the two women exited the restroom, opting to go out the darker side entrance of the building. Quickly getting in their vehicles, they both left as Tara followed behind her. Patiently sitting in his rented Audi convertible, he was willing to wait her out. His persistence had paid off. Spotting the two coming around the side of the building, he watched as she climbed into her Range Rover, careful to not get her dress caught in the door. Letting another car out ahead of him to avoid be suspicious, he pulled out behind the car keeping her in eyesight. He couldn't help but laugh at the two women trying to get the upper hand on him, but failing. Now a short distance from the event, there was only one car in front of him.
***Olivia's condo***
She had made it home and without being followed. Tara's quick thinking had worked beautifully. She couldn't help but think how proud Travis would be of them. Having nicknamed them Thelma and Louise years ago for always thinking of creative ways to get out of any mess, she laughed out loud as she waited for the elevator. Thankful to almost be in her cozy home, she pressed the five button as the doors closed. She yawned as the night was beginning to catch up with her, now stepping off the elevator and beginning the short walk to her door. Turning the corner she had her key ready as a gloved hand covered her mouth and dragged her into a dark room.
***Spruce Avenue***
He sat and waited, giving her a few minutes to get settled before getting out of his car. Carefully placing his suit jacket on the passenger seat, he got out and walked up the stone sidewalk. Looking at the modest house he couldn't image why she chose this as her home, but he also didn't understand why she moved to Charming. Stepping onto the small front porch, he pushed the door bell and waited. Hearing foot steps, he folded his hands in front of him as the porch light came on and the door opened.
"John. How can I help you?" asked a very happy Tara Knowles.
Shocked and stunned. "Tara?"
Her plan had worked perfectly. "Yes John. Oh...I bet you thought Olivia lived here."
He had under estimated the two women. "Where's Olivia, Tara?"
"She's at her home."
"Which is where, since apparently it's not here."
"Sorry John, but I'm not telling you where she lives, nor does she want you to know. Now how about you get back in your car, drive back to the airport and fly home. She's told you for the last time that she's done and she means it. So do yourself a favor and go back to Chicago or I will call Travis."
His anger was boiling to the surface at being duped by her but he wasn't going to show defeat. Hearing her threaten to call her brother pissed him off but he knew better than to get him involved. The few times he had met the man, it was made clear to him that anyone who hurt Olivia would answer to Travis. Using his better judgement, he backed away from the front door and headed back to his car.
***Olivia's****
It had all happened within a few seconds. She had been pulled from behind, her mouth covered by a hand and was now standing in a pitch black room and held by the man behind her as she squirmed to get out of his grip. His one hand over her mouth and his other arm was wrapped tightly around her waist with her back pressed against his chest. She let out a whimper frantically trying to think of how to get away.
"Shhh..." he whispered in her ear feeling her instantly stop moving.
The second she was grabbed, she went into fight mode not wanting to be a victim. He pulled her into the dark room and quietly shut the door behind them, pushing her against the wall next to the door. She heard him touch the door knob, guessing he was locking them inside. Still fighting against his hold, she froze when he whispered in her ear.
He wouldn't let her scream, not wanting them to be heard. With his gloved hand still over her mouth, he lowered his head to her ear again. "Shhh...baby it's me."
Her legs almost gave out. She went from instant terror to relief with three simple words. She felt the glove move slightly from her mouth, allowing her the opportunity to speak. "Happy?" her voice barely there, afraid it wasn't really him.
"Yeah..." hearing her whimper. "Shhhhh...don't make a sound." as he turned her in his arms, feeling her wrap herself around him. As much as he wanted to sooth her worry, he was in full soldier mode. Taking the stairs up to her floor, he had caught sight of someone wearing all black ahead of him. Quietly following the person, he lost sight of him once he reached the fifth floor. Not knowing where he was, he knew she would be home any second and would take the elevator up. Quickly picking the lock on the storage room door, he waited. He let her walk past the door before he grabbed her pulling her inside the closet. The sound of boots caught his attention as he kept her close with one arm and tightly held the door knob with the other.
Her heart was still hammering against her chest, but she knew she was safe although she didn't know from what. She was tucked into his side, her arms locked securely around his waist as she heard someone try to open the door. She wanted to scream, but couldn't.
"Shhh..." he whispered even softer than the first time. She buried her face into his chest trying desperately to get as close as possible. Then they both heard it.
"FUCK! Where is she?" the unknown person yelled as they could hear his steps getting further away.
Not sure where the man was, he refused to open the door. Turning his attention back toward her, he could still feel her shaking in his arms. "Olivia?" not getting any response. "Baby..." as he used his hands to tilt her face up toward his, gently rubbing his thumbs across her cheeks. "I need you to stay quiet." feeling her nod in agreement, her hands clinching his t-shirt. Keeping her body against his, he pulled his phone from his pocket.
Need u quietly at Olivias...text me when u get here.
Hitting send, he made sure his phone was on vibrate and put it back in his pants pocket. "Happy?" he heard her whisper.
"Yeah." lowering his head to hers.
Closing her eyes at the feel of his cheek against hers, "What's going on?"
Pulling her even tighter into his body, "I'll tell you when we get in your condo. Need you to stay quiet, okay?"
"Okay." feeling him kiss her forehead.
Fifteen minutes later, she was now standing in her kitchen, watching as Happy and Tig were in deep conversation by the windows. Her heart had finally stopped hammering against her chest but she still felt uneasy. Until Tig confirmed via text he was standing outside the closet he had drug her in, they hadn't said anything to each other, except for his request for her to stay quiet. Now that she was in her own home, she wanted answers.
"What's going on?" she asked, her voice causing both men to turn toward her as she looked at Happy to answer her question. Silence filled the room as he didn't respond. Keeping her voice calm, "Why was I just drug into a storage closet?"
"To protect you." He finally answered, his eyes never leaving hers. "Where's the black dress?"
"From what?" she replied, seeing him walk toward her. "It's a long story. I'll tell you tomorrow. Seriously though, what is going on?"
Stopping just in front of her, "Where's your gun?" knowing it couldn't be in the small purse she had been carrying.
"It's in the safe. Why are you..."
"Go get it." looking down into her confused eyes. Slipping one arm around her waist as his other hand goes around the back of the neck as his thumb grazed her cheek, "I need you to go get it." he whispers wanting her to understand.
She couldn't decide if he looked worried, pissed or both. "Okay." as she stepped back from him and went toward her bedroom. As she walked back toward the living room, they were both now standing by the door. "What's going on?" she asked again noticing both of them had guns in their hands.
"Stay put. Don't open this door unless it's Tig, and keep that in your hand." Happy ordered. "I mean it, Olivia." his voice sounding rougher than normal.
Irritated that no one had answered her question but realizing it wasn't the time to demand answers, "Okay, I will. But Happy?" waiting until she had his full attention, "When you get back, I would appreciate you telling me what's going on."
He could hear the worry in her voice, but he had to check things out. Giving her a simple nod, he motioned to Tig. "Let's go." as he opened the door, turning back toward her. "Keep both locks secure." as he stepped aside to let Tig pass. The two men stood in the hall until the door was shut and locked.
"Fucker may still be in the building. You take this floor and the fourth. I'll take the rest." as he check his clip, confirming it was full.
....forty five minutes later
She had changed clothes and was currently staring at nothing in her condo. Her mind was on overload, still fearful but surprisingly calm considering the situation. Doing as she was told, she sat as patient as she could, waiting for them to come back. Replaying his voice in her head sent a bitter cold feeling through her body. Was it really him? she thought assuming Happy was thinking the same thing.
KNOCK..KNOCK...
She jumped slightly on the couch hearing the knock at the door, thankful she hadn't screamed. Quietly walking toward the door, armed with her glock, she looked through the peep hole to find Tig standing alone. Opening the door, she stepped back as he walked through, quickly shutting the door behind him.
"Please tell me what in the world is going on?"
Running his hand through his wild hair, "Sorry doll face. You'll have to ask him." noticing her irritation at his refusal to answer the question.
"I'll be in my room." her voice flat, tired of the run around.
Taking his position back at the window, he kept watching for movement below. Only a short time later, he heard the lock turn on the door, followed by Happy walking back through it. "Didn't see anything brother. Checked every door on each floor. All were locked. None of them looked picked either." taking a breath. "Anything on your end?"
Shaking his head no, he glanced toward the bedroom. "She ask you anything?"
"Yep. Told her she'd have to talk to you." Tig confirmed. "Think she's a little ticked off right now."
Needing his internal rage to settle down first, "I'll handle it."
Raising an eyebrow, "Take it easy on doll face now. I like that girl." smiling back at his now glaring brother. "Heading out. You good?" seeing Happy nod in agreement.
There had been no movement in the alley below or her condo for the past half hour. The only sound was coming from the clock on the kitchen wall. With his rage contained, he headed toward her, fully prepared to face an angry woman. Slowly opening the door, the bed was empty, as the covers looked untouched. Scanning the room, his eyes fell on hers as she sat on the chaise in the dark. Making his way over toward her, he walked over to the window.
She was fully prepared to sit silently until her question was answered. Making eye contact with him as he walked by her, she watched as he stood staring out her bedroom window. Unwilling to compromise she waited.
The sight line from the living room was better, but he still had a decent view of the back entrance from her bedroom. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see her still sitting on the chair. In the darkness of the room, he couldn't tell from her face if she was angry or not. Turning back toward the window, "Saw a man dressed in all black when I got here earlier. He came up to your floor but was slipped out of sight."
She felt a wave of relief hearing him explain things. "Was it really Anthony Weston?" believing one hundred percent it was his voice that they had heard.
He turned facing her, noticing she was now sitting up on the chair. "Pretty damn sure it was." able to now see her face. "You okay?"
Shrugging her shoulders, "I am now." Looking back up at him. "Why would he be here?" she questioned. "I haven't seen him since that night at my office." confused at this man's sudden reappearance.
Happy had several theories that could answer her question, but none that were concrete. Not wanting her to worry any more than she already was, he kept those thoughts to himself. "Not sure, but the fucker shouldn't be near you." his words laced with venom.
She couldn't grasp why this man was still approaching her, much less why he had in the first place. It wasn't like she had paid him any sort of attention that he could have misunderstood. Suddenly feeling sick to her stomach remembering what he had done to Tristan, she closed her eyes.
He could almost see her mind trying to comprehend what was happening. "Olivia?" his voice almost a whisper, seeing her eyes open and meet his. "He'll never touch you."
***Outside Charming***
He paced frantically back and forth as the soles of his boots crunched the broken glass that covered the floor. His rage was so intense, he could feel the blood flowing through his veins. He had been carefully watching for her when she pulled in driving a different SUV, but he instantly knew it was her as she got out. How had his plan went wrong? He had spent the past week learning the building and how he could acquire her, but as he timed it to be in the perfect position to grab her, she vanished. He knew without a doubt he had heard the elevator arrive on her floor, but she never came down the hall. Pulling the rope even tighter between his hands, he went back over his plan, determined to find where it failed. Seething on the inside, he closed his eyes and refocused on his ultimate goal. "I will have her."
***Olivia's condo***
Curled up in bed after a semi-relaxing hot shower, she checked her phone, seeing no new messages but noticing the time was now after midnight. Mentally exhausted from the day, she was sitting propped up against the headboard as he walked back into the room. She had actually thought he would have joined her in the shower, but he hadn't. Since she had been out of the shower, he had been standing in the living room staring out the window and talking on the phone to someone. She noticed as he walked toward the bathroom, that his boots and kutt were off. Switching the lamp off, she snuggled down into the bed and shut her eyes.
He walked out of the bathroom to find the room dark and her asleep. Checking the alley one final time, he walked back around the bed, carefully placing his piece on the night stand. Pulling the covers back, he slipped into bed, his hands instantly reaching for her. Settling himself in her king size bed, he stayed turned on his side looking down at her as his hand ran up and down her back, ass and thigh.
"ummmmm...Happy" she whispered having just fallen asleep, moving her leg over his.
"Why'd you change dresses?" he asked, remembering her not answering him earlier.
It took her a few seconds to respond. "It's a long story. I'll tell you tomorrow."
Wanting to know now, he rolled her to her back as he hovered over her. "It's tomorrow. Why'd you change?"
Forcing her eyes to open, his face was just a few inches above hers as he waited for her to respond. "Really?" she asked just wanting to go back to sleep.
"Yep."
Forty five minutes later, she had explained why she wasn't wearing the black dress and what had happened at the auction. He kept himself in check as she told him about the man who had won the bid, finding that the more she talked, the more he shifted his body over hers to where he now laid comfortably between her legs with his arms braced on either side of her shoulders. "Sounds like you had an eventful night."
Unable to not stare back up into his eyes, "Oh yeah, just what every woman wants. To be bid on like cattle, have some man you don't know buy you and have an ex show up. I would have rather had a root canal." watching him search her face, his eyes now looking at her lips.
Lowering his lips to hers for the first time since she had been home, he slowly licked her bottom lip before slowly slipping his tongue inside her mouth, then pulling back. With his forehead against hers, "Want me to make it better?" he asked, feeling her hips slide against his cock.
She hadn't wanted him to stop kissing her, as she ran her hands slowly down his back. "You think you can?" she teased, her lower half feeling exactly how he could.
Slowly shaking his head, "No doubt about it." as he slowly started kissing her.