Chapter 164 – Problems at Walmart
It took a bit in Walmart to find everything on Gran's list. Not only was she going on a regular shopping trip, but she had a list of additional items that she was going to get for the apartment. There were also things that she wanted to get now and hopefully avoid coming in next Monday. She was hoping to not have to do a large shopping run until after the Fourth. She also had to figure in extra houseguests. She knew that with the press, that it would be easier to stay on the farm. Gran also didn't want to have to bother Abigail unless it was absolutely needed.
They ended up filling an entire cart with the other items they picked up. Gran took it to the service counter where they would hold it until she was done. She grabbed two more and went back to Katie and Elizabeth who were still in the aisle. Rob was glad they had the truck and that there was built in storage as well as a cover on the bed. After spending over two hours in Walmart, they were ready to check out. Katie and Elizabeth each pushed a cart while Gran went to retrieve the first one.
While standing in line waiting, they had their first real run-in with the press. A reporter shoved a recording device in Elizabeth's face and was rapid firing questions at her. Katie moved to get between Elizabeth and the reporter, but he wouldn't relent. The manager saw the commotion and moved to help.
"Sir." Rob said. "If you don't leave, I will have you arrested for assaulting these young ladies."
"This is a free country and I have a right to get a story." The reporter retorted.
"Actually." The manager said. "No you don't. This is technically private property and I am telling you to leave my customers alone."
While Rob and the manager were dealing with the reporter, Katie took Elizabeth to the service counter where they let them sit in the office. What Rob didn't realize was the manager had called the police and they responded. When they saw Margaret Sims checking out, they realized the problem. They also knew that they had to tread lightly because technically they were in public and they weren't sure what the policy was with Walmart.
"Officer." The manager said. "I want this man trespassed for harassing my customers."
"Let's go." The officer said. "Leave now, or you will leave in handcuffs."
The reporter continued to make a scene, but the officers led him away. The manager then turned to Margaret.
"I am so sorry, Mrs Sims." The manager said.
"Not your fault." Gran said. "We had security with us for a reason."
"Is there anything I can do to help?" The manager asked.
Gran looked at him for a moment.
"Actually there is." Gran said. "We have a lot of stuff as you can see. I was wondering if my security can pull into the tire center and we can load the stuff from there and leave. I am sure there is more press outside."
"Absolutely." The manager said. "Normally we don't allow people in the service area of the tire center, but I will make an exception for you this time."
"Thank you." Gran said.
"Margaret." Rob said. "I am going to pull the truck over there now."
"I will meet you there." The manager said.
Both nodded and left. Gran didn't talk to anyone else except the cashier that was helping her. Once she had everything rung up and loaded, the cashier went to get the other two who were in the office. Several employees then walked the group to the tire center which had actually been shut down for a bit. They got everything loaded and then left.
When Nathan came back with Kevin and Brandon, Jack went to the library and came back with several rolled up papers.
"I didn't know that you were going to be here, Sir." Brandon said when he saw John.
"You have a problem with it?" John asked.
"N – No." Brandon stuttered. "I just thought the other Mr Thornton was sitting in on this meeting."
Chris looked at Brandon.
"I thought I made it clear the other day." Chris said. "Thomas and Charlotte Thornton will have limited access to this property until further notice. Now, if you have a problem with the senior Mr Thornton running this meeting, then you can leave and go pack your stuff."
Brandon shook his head and took a seat.
"I asked if you had a problem." Chris said.
"No." Brandon said.
"Good." Chris said. "Then you will do what you are told, when you are told."
Chris looked at Kevin.
"Any problems from you." Chris said. "And before you open your mouth, just know that JP told me about what happened on Friday."
"No problem." Kevin said. "I do have a question."
"Go ahead." John said.
"What is the point of having security if they (pointing to JP and Nathan) aren't going to listen to us?" Kevin asked.
"Because I trust my grandson." John said. "He knows the risks and can objectively assess the situation. Both Nathan and JP know how I feel and I also know that they wouldn't put themselves in undo harm. If you have a problem taking orders from them, I can relieve both of you right now and have Devin find me people who know their place."
"No problem." Kevin said.
Kevin did shoot a glare at Jack that didn't go unnoticed by John, Andrew or Chris.
Once they were in the truck, Gran and Katie turned to Elizabeth.
"Are you okay?" Gran asked.
"Mostly." Elizabeth said. "Still a little shaken."
"Do you want to go home or finish shopping?" Gran asked.
"We just need bedding at Target," Elizabeth said. "Then Primal and the dry cleaners. I should be okay."
"While I was waiting." Rob said. "I notified the undercover teams. Two are already at Target keeping an eye out. One is keeping an eye on Primal. If it gets to be too much, let us know."
"I will." Elizabeth said.
"I can always call in the order to Primal and have them deliver it." Gran said.
They pulled into Target and quickly made their way in. They went straight for the bedding and found a beautiful country pattern with reds and browns. They got a couple extra matching sets. After grabbing a couple additional coloring books, they got out of Target without a problem.
Jack unrolled the large papers which were an overview of the property. He then looked at Chris and Andrew.
"Alright." Chris said. "Since we haven't had a show here in a few years, we need to review the security for that weekend. We will have additional security and it will be more tightly controlled than in the past."
"All employees working that weekend will be in Coal Creek gear." John said. "They will also be required to have their badges on display. Those stationed on security will have strict instructions to not allow anyone without the proper badge past."
John looked around the table and saw people nodding.
"Don't forget." Nathan said. "I have a large group of friends coming up from Pennsylvania. They offered to help with security or whatever is needed. They have put on shows before both rodeo and jumping. Andrew, did you get the list of names I sent you."
"Yes, I did." Andrew said. "Impressive. And you know these people?"
"There were only a couple that I don't personally know as they are newer to the group." Nathan said. "But the leader of the group vouched for them and I trust him. I also promise we won't have another Gabe situation."
"What exactly is this club?" John asked. "I looked a little into some of the guys and they have minor records."
"It is the Flying Aces Motorcycle Club of which I am a full fledged member." Nathan said.
Everyone stopped and looked at Nathan.
"Don't look at me like that." Nathan said. "Their home base is less than an hour from where I grew up. I met them at one of the shows that I did when I was a preteen. I got talking to some of them about their bikes. After asking if I wanted to ride, I said I had no way down there since my father had taken off again. These guys took upon themselves to take me under their wing. They taught me how to build and maintain a bike. They taught me to ride and also how to shoot. I earned my colors. These guys do a lot of good and I respect them. They have helped kids who are bullied and have stood up for children who have been abused. They don't tolerate those that don't respect others. Most are vets as well. They have done rides to help raise money for disabled vets. They are a great group of men and women. They stand up for themselves and all those that don't have a voice, especially children. The problem comes down to they protect their own and most would give their life for this country. Some carry scars that say they did come close to doing just that."
"You are right." John said. "Most of the charges have been minor, but could be explained by them standing up for others. I admire their work with vets and children. Sometimes I have to remember that you can't judge a book by the cover. I guess I need to remember that more often."
"Thank you." Nathan said. "Like I said, it is a great group of men and women. They are mostly a sober club and they don't allow anyone to get on a bike that has been drinking. Most are working professionals. There are teachers, doctors, lawyers and accountants in the group. As well as mechanics and truck drivers."
"So are they bringing their bikes?" Lee asked.
"Most will probably bring their bikes." Nathan said. "They are coming up with motorhomes and have reserved spots at one of the local RV parks. They will tow their bikes up here so they can park the RV's and use the bikes to get around. And before you ask, yes they will be willing to display their bikes as long as people understand they are not going to be giving rides. I might convince them to give you a ride after the show and other people are gone."
"They are more than welcome." Jack said. "I have a feeling we will need all hands on deck. So if they want to help, I will welcome it."
"Agreed." John said. "My question to you, Nathan, is will you be in colors then?"
"No." Nathan said. "They understand that this is a different situation and I am working as well as jumping. I might go out with them after the event and then I will be in colors. I am having Devin send my vest and helmet up with Doug's mother."
"Devin knew about the motorcycle club?" John asked.
"Yes." Nathan said. "Especially since that is how I met him. His uncle is a member."
"Didn't know that." John said.
Jack ducked his head to hide his smirk.
"JP?" John said.
"Yes, Sir." Jack said.
"Something you want to say?" John asked.
"No, Sir." Jack said.
"Then let's get this moving." John said. "I have a feeling the others will be back soon and I promised Margaret we would be done when she got back."
On the way to Primal, Rob noticed several cars following them. After a couple quick calls, it was determined that only one was undercover agents. Rob took a moment, but felt it was best to be honest with both Margaret and Elizabeth.
"Looks like we have press or something following us." Rob said. "What do you want to do?"
"Let's stop at Primal." Elizabeth said. "I can always stay in the truck."
"Are you sure?" Gran asked.
"Yes." Elizabeth said. "You need to pick up the order and place one for this weekend and the Fourth."
"Okay." Gran said. "I will try to hurry."
"If you are okay going in." Rob said. "We will stay with Elizabeth. I can send two undercover agents in."
"Let's do that." Gran said.
Katie was on the phone and the two undercover agents who were outside Primal said they would follow Margaret in and help her with the order when she came out.
"I am sorry." Elizabeth said.
"Nothing to be sorry about." Gran said. "You have done nothing wrong."
"I still feel bad." Elizabeth said. "You have all this extra work because of me."
Gran turned in the seat and took Elizabeth's hand.
"This is not the first time I have had to deal with security." Gran said. "I am sure that it won't be the last. I am fine, no one was hurt and we got what we needed."
"Okay." Elizabeth said.
Rob pulled up to Primal and Gran went in. Two undercover went in while the others stayed in the truck. While they were waiting for Gran, Elizabeth and Katie pulled up Amazon and found some of the books they wanted to order for Opal. Elizabeth also found a few games and put them in the basket. She was going to wait until they checked what was at the farm, but she was pretty sure they didn't have these as they were newer games. As they were looking on Amazon, another idea came to Elizabeth, but she knew that she was going to have to talk to Jack first. She wasn't sure if what they exactly did for the Fourth, but if Cody and Opal were going to be there, she thought about ordering some items for the kids to have fun with.
It didn't take long and Gran was back with three coolers of meat. The undercover team loaded them into the bed of the truck while Gran climbed in. When Rob got the okay, he pulled out and headed to the dry cleaners. At least that was a drive thru and all they needed to do was drop off a few items.