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Redwood Nine

By: RoyceConnors



This story is loosely based on the show, Sons of Anarchy and is a prequel to where the show starts. It tells of the beginning of the club and how they met. In this, the opening chapter, JT and Piney make the decision to start it and the first members are chosen. In reference to the First 9 and the original chapter, I called them the Redwood Nine. 

Chapter 1 E Pluribus Unum

The last tour of Vietnam ended in 1967 and the army was behind them, but JT Teller and Piermont 'Piney' Winston wanted to get even further away. Coming back to the California they left over three years earlier, they became disheartened by the rejection of them, like others, as veterans, as heroes, as those who bravely and proudly served their country for two tours. They were shunned, almost despised in some cases, leaving them blackened by a country that took what life they had and destroyed it, leaving many bitter and resentful of their nation. With little to go on, some turned to crime, some to booze and drugs, while others strove to make a life for themselves, despite the adversity against them. It was their country too and they wanted a part of it, a part they would live in, under their own rules. Rules based on an anarchistic way of life, were ones that favoured them, ones they felt compelled to follow, if they wanted to find a place of their own to exist.

John Thomas Teller was a free spirit at twenty eight years old. He'd gone by his initials since he was ten, when his dad started calling him that. He was never one to be tied down and held in one place too long, so he yearned for his freedom and independence. Since he left Charming High School, he never found much use for the education they taught him, but they did teach him how to learn and teach himself. He became an avid reader of material that appealed to him, rather than what was considered appropriate by his teachers. JT became a self-taught man, but one with insight and intellect. Even during moments of downtime between missions, he would invariably be found reading two, sometimes three books and papers at a time. He had a thirst for knowledge, so long as it had a purpose to him. To say JT was a passionate man, was an understatement. 

Piermont Winston was JT's best friend since public school, when at the age of ten, he stepped in to back up an eight year old JT, who was fighting against three of the local bullies. Together, the classmates turned the beat down JT was getting, into a lesson that stayed with the bullies ever more. Piney had been kept back twice, making him a couple of years older than JT, but his friend soon helped him with school and passing grades. It wasn't until high school, when Piermont shot up in height and size, dwarfing his friend and other classmates, that JT gave him his nickname, Piney, in reference to his similar growth to the huge redwood pines that grew around them. Piney hated school and only went because JT was there and there was nothing much to do otherwise. By grade nine, he felt they had taught him all he needed to know and by grade eleven, Piney spent more time skipping classes, than going to them. He had no problem with people calling him a big, dumb oaf, as long as they didn't mind getting a beat down for it. 

Trouble was always walking behind them and it wasn't hard for it to quicken its pace and join them. Having worn out his welcome in Charming, he stayed in Lodi with JT before and after the war, hitch-hiking in and visiting with his mother and younger brother, while his father was at work. JT and his mother had left Charming when he was seventeen and moved to Lodi, when his father died in a work accident and she couldn't afford to stay there on her own. They moved in with her widowed sister, Nancy and her son, Henry, who JT had no time for, related, or not. 

When he was old enough and could afford it, he found his own place, leaving the misery of living with two grieving widows and a momma's boy. Eventually, Piney joined him when his dad tossed him out and they struggled to make ends meet, until Piney started working at the grocery store packing bags for people and returning carts. He was almost happy, when they let him stock shelves, for ten cents an hour more. Today wasn't a day for sitting around idle, it was about friends getting together and without knowing it, changing the course of their lives and local history. This day in August 1968, was the beginning of a birth. A birth that would spawn many sons to be born.

Driving around in a boosted '65 Chev Impala, the pair shared a six pack of beer and a pack of cigarettes, using up a portion of their combined money. The car was almost new and they checked out the power features of it, including the horsepower. Listening to the local radio station, Jimi Hendrix was playing Foxy Lady and it was being well received in the car. JT turned up the volume and Piney's hands started keeping the beat on the dash, then the glowing cigarette ash dropped on the carpet.

"Hey, you dropped the heater, man."

Piney looked at him and shrugged his huge shoulders.

"So?"

JT looked at him and then burst out laughing. Piney pulled open the tab on another beer and passed it to JT, then opened another beer for himself. They clinked cans together and swallowed back a large gulp each, then set the cans on the glove box tray and went back to drumming along to the song with their hands.

"I am digging this guy's music, man. Listen to that guitar playing."

"No shit, Piney, he's got a sound all his own."

Music was another of the things that had changed over the years since boot camp. Songs began speaking to them and getting them to think, instead of being mildly amused by it. The sound was theirs, it was their generation's contribution to the history of man and music. They felt defined by it, inspired by it, to be able to separate themselves from the mainstream of society. Rebellion of society's rules, was what they desired. Things were only wrong, if they thought they were wrong, not because a small segment of humanity decided this was the best thing for everybody and made a rule about it.

Stealing a car was second nature to both of them. When you couldn't afford to own one, stealing one for the night, was the next best thing. Walking through the parking lot on the way to the store to buy beer, that Saturday morning, it was shear luck to find the dark, blue Impala with the doors open and the keys still in the ignition. The way they looked at it, the owner must have wanted it stolen for the insurance and they were doing him a favour. Either way, the tank was almost full, the radio was cranked up and four six packs sat on the floor at Piney's boots. They stopped at the first phone booth and called their friend, Lenny and told him the news. In five minutes, an impromptu party was happening and the day was shaping up. Hopefully, it would see many of the old unit together and sharing good times again.

Kettleman Lane out of Lodi was clear of traffic, almost as if everyone had decided to stay off it and let the pair enjoy the ride alone. They turned off Kettleman Lane and made a left onto North Hwy. 88, JT flooring the gas and burning rubber around the corner, both of them impressed with the performance. The carefree day became one of concern not long later, as the temperature gauge began climbing into the critical zone. They were miles outside of Charming, so JT decided on trying for the first service station, or pull over, as the red light blazed at him, telling him he didn't have long or he'd kill the engine. With nothing but fields in sight and a knock starting in the engine, he opted for pulling over and checking it out. 

"Fucking Chevys, Why the hell can't GM put a decent thermostat in these things? Look at what we put those five tons through, back in basic. Temperature was way hotter than this, man and those fuckers never overheated. Bastards at GM, can suck my dick."

"Maybe it needs a few beers too, JT."

"Like I'd waste good beer for this piece of shit. If anything, Piney, we should just drink all the fucking beer and piss in the radiator."

"Now you're talking, my friend."

Piney drained the half can he had and opened another, taking another giant gulp of it, as JT pulled over onto the soft shoulder. He slammed the side of his fist against the dash, then his palms off the steering wheel.

"Temper, temper, JT. How did we know the owner has overheating problems?"

"That's the problem with this country, Piney. Nobody takes care of anything, anymore. It's all going to shit and no one cares."

Piney shook his head and laughed, pushing JT out of the car with his boot and onto the ground, as he was getting out.

"Fuck, Piney."

"Lighten up, John. It's a new car, a lovely day, we got beers and smokes and Lenny has some girls he says are good to go and he scored some grass. Seems to me, this is minor."

JT looked at Piney, shaking his head, as he dusted himself off, Piney got out after him and put his arm over his shoulders, as they went around to the front of the car, then JT felt for the latch and opened the hood. He raised it up and they looked at the engine, trying to see the source of the problem. Waving away the steam, he saw the cause and cursed some more.

"See what I mean? A fucking, new car and the fan belt is gone. Doesn't have more than fifteen thousand on it and it's shot. It's all shit, man, I'm telling you. Give me a fifty Merc and I'd be happy as pig in shit, Piney. There's a car that will last. It's a fucking tank."

"I would have thought you'd had enough of tanks by now? I know I have. You know what I do miss from there, JT?"

"What, Piney?"

"The grass, man. That has got to be the best shit growing. I could do as many tours as they asked me to, as long as I got to sit around and shotgun that shit all day. Too bad the little gooks don't know how to make a decent tequila like the wetbacks. I'd be in heaven. Get me a couple of those little 'Nam honeys and I'd be all set. One can roll a joint and pour me a glass and the other can suck on my big dick."

JT laughed uproariously, slapping his leg several times.

"Doesn't take much to make you happy, does it, Piney?"

"Not really, I'm a simple man, with simple tastes."

"Nothing wrong with your tastes, Piney. Nothing at all. So, what the fuck are we going to do about this piece of shit?"

"If we intend on getting around in it all day and back to Lodi, I suggest we be nice guys and buy the fucker a new fan belt."

"Yeah, we owe him that much, I guess. So, where do we buy one? Maybe your underwear are big enough to wrap around the pulleys?"

Piney's even temperament and sardonic wit always took John out of a mood and brought him back to an even keel. If anyone could poke fun at him and live, John could, but it was never degrading or demoralizing. Respect was their bond. They started thinking of the idea of the owner seeing it and then laughed.

"See the fucker's face when he looks under the hood and sees my gotchies wrapped around, fucking skid marks and all."

That got them laughing harder to the point they had to catch their breaths, clapping each other on the shoulder.

They started to look at where they were, when the sound of a rumbling V twin could be heard coming up from behind them. They looked past the hood and saw the speck of light blue getting closer. Without even flagging the rider down, they could hear the engine gearing down as it approached. The Harley Davidson came to a stop ahead of them and the rider killed the engine, flicking the kickstand out. He slid his goggles onto his army helmet and dismounted. The two could see he was around their fathers age, mid fifties or so, but a look that said he walked a different road than them. He walked back to JT and Piney at the front of the car, smiling, his hand out as he approached.

"Hey boys, bit of trouble?"

"Yeah, busted fan belt."

JT shook hands with him.

"Jake Harding."

"Hi Jake, JT and this is Piney."

"Hey JT, Piney."

Jake shook hands with Piney and walked up to the car, looking it over, admiring it more than inspecting. Jake looked at the beers in their hands and quickly looked them over.

"I have a wrecker to tow you, but I have a feeling you're not interested in spending that kind of money. I got a belt at the shop, I can go get one and bring it back. You boys okay with putting it on?"

Jake looked at them, as they went back to his bike.

"I'll need a wrench or two. Half inch and nine sixteenths outta do it."

"I'll bring you a couple that should fit."

They walked back, when JT realized something. Jake was just putting his helmet on, when JT ran up to him.

"Hey Jake, don't you want some money or something first?"

"I trust you boys, besides, where are you going?"

"Yeah, guess you got a point there. Hey Jake, thanks, man."

Jake smiled and shook JT's extended hand, then stood up on the kick start and worked it to the prime spot, then kicked down hard, firing the '49 Panhead FL Hydra Glide up. JT and Piney stared at the bike, as Jake rode off, shifting up through the gears.

"That's what I want, Piney."

"What?"

"A bike. The hell with cars, man. Think of it. Open road, wind in your face, twin pistons pumping away like that. Fucking freedom, man. Fucking freedom."

"Bugs in your face, rainstorms, Highway Patrol chases, pushing the fucking things."

"Come on, Piney, think about it. Remember in 'Nam, riding around on the same bikes. You loved it, man."

Piney leaned back on the hood and lit up another cigarette.

"Yeah, it was fun. I did have a great time every time we went out. My dad still has his old Indian in the backyard, I'd love to get that going again."

"Yeah, that's sweet. He hasn't ridden it in centuries, so he might sell it to you."

"Sell it? Shit, man. I'm hoping he gives it to me."

"Yeah, we'll see how that works out. Let's see if you two can be in the same room together, let alone talk about buying his bike. I'm going to ask Jake if he knows of any old bikes I can get for cheap and fix up."

"You're really into riding, aren't you?"

"Yeah. You know what I was thinking?"

"What?"

JT pushed his dark hair back from his face, as he watched the Harley disappearing down the road, the throaty rumble fading with it. He turned to Piney with a revelation in his eyes.

"A club, man. A motorcycle club, like the Angels over in Oakland, except no crime and shit, just ride and be like brothers again, like back in 'Nam. Every guy we know can ride. We should do it, Piney."

Piney could see and hear JT's enthusiasm in his words.

"Brothers, I like that. Only time I ever felt like I had any real family, was when we were together. I knew my ass was covered and looked out for the guys like they were my kin. What should we call it?"

JT thought, but came up with nothing off the top of his head. He took the pack of cigarettes out of Piney's denim jacket pocket and lit one up with his army issue Zippo. 

"I got something, just not sure what yet, but we gotta get a club started, man. Maybe like, the Redwood Riders. Nah, too hokey, sounds like some faggot cowboys. Something that says who we are, that's what we need."

"Yeah, we gotta do something, JT. We ain't doing nothing special and we're doing it for way too long."

JT looked at Piney and smiled, then gave him a friendly punch on the arm. They sat back against the grille, relaxing and enjoying the warm, summer weather. JT went back and turned the key to accessory, turning up the radio. The Count Five was playing Psychotic Reaction, getting the two friends to start rocking their heads in time with the beat. 

"Wish we had a joint, Piney."

"Well, if we did something, instead of nothing, we might have some money for dope."

JT looked at Piney, the attitude one of annoyance, over an all too familiar subject.

"So, what do you want to do to make money? Go work at the mill? The docks? Pump gas?"

"You know I don't, but we gotta do something, JT."

"Yeah, I know, Piney, I just hate the idea of busting my ass for some asshole, fifty hours a week and take sweet fuck all home for it."

Piney looked at his boots, as he dropped his smoke and crushed it, thinking what he would like to do, to be gainfully employed at some point. The distant rumbling got their attention and they looked far off down the road, seeing the powder blue dot coming closer. JT announced his coming.

"Alright. Let's hope Jake's a good, old boy and knows his fan belts."

"Won't that suck a horse dick, if he comes back with the wrong one."

"Old fuck will just have to go back and get the right one then, won't he?"

Jake cut across the road to their side and stopped, but left the engine running in neutral. He got off and reached inside his worn, denim jacket and pulled out a new fan belt. JT took it and did a test fit for size.

"Looks like the one, Jake."

Jake pulled two wrenches from his pocket and handed them to Piney, who checked for fit on the nuts and bolts.

"Thanks a million, Jake. Right ones."

"You boys come and see me down at the garage when you're done, alright?"

Piney turned back to him and raised the wrenches.

"As soon as we get her running. What's your garage called?"

"Jake's Auto Repair. You'll see my bike out front, can't miss it."

"We'll see you soon then, Jake."

Piney and JT waved at Jake, as he climbed back on and cracked the throttle a couple of times. With a quick nod of his head at them, he turned the bike around and headed off to the shop. JT stood and listened to the bike, as it went through the gears and sped away, softly stroking the beard growing on his chin.

"That is such a sweet sound, isn't it, Piney?"

"Sure is. Nothing but the sound of power and lots of it."

"I can imagine five, ten, shit, twenty bikes all going down the road together, that rumble coming from each one. Fucking awesome, Piney."

Piney looked down the road at the blue speck, listening to the fading thumping of the air, trying to picture what JT described to him. He turned to his friend and looked at him, smiling to himself, as he saw JT looking far off into the ether at what could be. He loved that his friend was so passionate about life and could imagine things in his mind, then make that imagination a reality. JT sucked in school like he did, but he picked up enough to know how to dream and dream big.

They got to work loosening the bolts holding the alternator and moved it, so the new belt would fit around all the pulleys. Piney pulled back on the alternator, pulling the belt tight, then JT tightened the bolts and checked the tension. He checked the radiator cap for heat and then unscrewed it. He checked how much fluid they lost and it was minimal, so he closed it again.

"That ought to do it. Let me start it and see how she runs."

JT went around and reached in to the dashboard and turned the key, bringing the engine to life. Piney looked at the belt closely, to make sure it ran in the grooves of the pulleys correctly.

"That's a good belt, JT. Even the knock is gone."

"Great Piney. Close the hood and let's go see Jake and square up."

Piney closed the hood with one hand and both of them climbed in, closing the doors and smiling. JT revved the engine, looking back down the road and put the Impala in low gear. He floored the gas pedal, the tire spinning through the gravel and then screeching loudly for over one hundred feet on the pavement, as the 396 V8 churned out horsepower, to leave a rubber signature behind. JT kept his foot planted firmly, letting the big block engine wind out. He heard the high-pitched revving and slid the shifter into drive and felt the car surge forward, quickly approaching one hundred miles an hour.

The pair thrust their hands out the windows and pumped the air, hollering loudly against the rushing wind, as they hit the three digit number. Piney spotted the speed sign up ahead and pointed it out to JT, who slowed the car down to the regulation driving speed of fifty for the area. 


Redwood Nine Ch. 02



Chapter 2

Brothers in Arms

Wayne looked at the six men and hesitated in walking up to the door. Lenny stood front and centre, guarding his territory, with a show of his brute strength. Wayne strained to make out the faces of the bodies and began recognizing some. 

"What do you want?"

The words were given with disdain for his presence and he felt his reason for being there, becoming unworthy of the hassle that could result. 

"You fellas wouldn't happen to know about a pizza delivery guy having some pizzas stolen from his car, would you?"

No one replied at first, not wanting to initiate a conversation. Lenny knew Unser had nothing and shrugged it off.

"No, don't know nothing about any stolen pizzas. We done?"

Wayne looked at them all standing in the doorway, doing their best to intimidate him and he felt they were succeeding in achieving their goal. He was going to just leave it at that, but decided to toss one more question at them and see how it played out.

"Just one thing, actually. Could I speak to Harlan Walters?"

"Harlan Walters? Ain't no Harlan Walters here, man."

Wayne got the response he wanted and hit them with the punchline.

"That's funny, his car is parked around back, just figured he'd be here. Any idea why that is?"

That put everyone on the defensive, especially JT and Piney. Suzy squeezed her way through the men, wrapped in the same bed sheet Lorraine had worn earlier. The guys looked at her, wondering what she was doing.

"I'm Suzy Walters, that's my dad's car. I borrowed it, that's why he not here."

Wayne was totally taken off guard by that, not expecting anyone to come forward. He looked at her and wasn't sure if he should take her on her word. He looked at the men again and then to Suzy.

"Do you have any identification, that says who you are?"

Suzy gave him a sarcastic look, addressing his attention to the fact she was wearing a sheet.

"Yeah, right. Do I look like I have any on me?

"Don't get snide with me, young lady."

Suzy backed off a bit, but kept her composure, while the guys motioned forward, showing they were backing her.

"No, officer, I'm sorry, I don't. I left it at home."

Wayne thought of the background on Harlan and asked her a question.

"So Suzy, what does your father do for a living?"

Without skipping a beat, she replied.

"He works."

The guys all laughed, bolstering her attitude again and she laughed too. JT put his arm around her and finally spoke out.

"She's telling the truth, man. Her name is Suzy Walters and she lives in Lodi. I know it's her dad's car, because he gave me the keys, so we could come here today. Wanna see them? Got them right here in my pocket."

Wayne didn't recognize JT at first, the beard disguising his face, but the voice gave him away.

"That you, Teller?"

"Yeah, it's me Unser."

Wayne wasn't sure how to handle him at first and approached it from a common bond.

"Haven't seen you since you got back from 'Nam."

"Heard you were there too."

Wayne could hear the lessening of tension and a sense of familiarity starting. 

"Yeah, Marines. Did my tour, killed who I had to, got a couple of medals, then got my ass out as fast as I could."

"Did two tours myself, so did Piney. You remember him?"

"Yeah, good to see you, Piney, thought it was you standing there."

"Hey, Wayne. So, like being a cop?"

"Yeah, it's okay. They had an opening for new recruits and there wasn't much else around when I got out. Seemed like an okay thing to do. Just carrying a smaller gun now and driving in a comfier vehicle. I like to think I'm doing something good for Charming, keeping it safe and all."

JT sensed Wayne wasn't out to hassle them too much and was just feeling them out. It seemed he was happy to reacquaint himself with them, like they did in school. He was an okay guy, just afraid to get into anything and just sat on the sidelines and watched from a safe distance. He was surprised to know he had enlisted in the Marines, instead of waiting for his notice and that stood well with him.

There was an unwritten code among American men, that they shared a respect for fellow servicemen, despite what branch they served in. Wayne could see an easing in tension between them, an understanding that no one was going to be hassled on either side. Knowing he was batting zero on getting anywhere with the pizzas, he was only interested in getting to know the unknowns in the house. With nothing coming back on the Impala, he was willing to go along with the story Suzy and JT gave him and call it quits. If anything did come up, he knew where to start looking to find the guilty parties.

"Well, everything seems to be in order, you guys have a good evening, sorry for bothering you."

"Yeah, you have a good night too, Wayne."

Wayne turned and flipped his hand up quickly in a wave and headed back to his cruiser. The guys watched him get in and radio someone and then pull away slowly. They waited until he was out of sight and then they went back in and locked the door. The girls were still half naked, hiding in the bedroom with a single sheet wrapped around the five of them. 

"It's cool, Lorraine. You and the girls can come out again, the cop is gone."

The entire group of girls moved as one with the sheet around them, into the living room. They were giggling now, the worry of just a moment ago vanishing, replaced with the joy of sexual playfulness.

"What the hell are you girls doing?"

"We're having fun, Baby."

Lenny looked at Lorraine quizzically, wondering what fun they were talking about, so were the others.

"What kind of fun?"

"We're just checking out each others boobs. We had them all smooshed together in here and now we're just feeling them. Who wants to have a booby squish between us all?"

Lenny looked at her, then at the others and saw the deviousness on their faces and knew they were serious. He smiled as broadly as his mouth would allow to the guys, seeing them all taking the same interest and moved in first.

"I'll go first on that. Squish away, girls."

Lorraine opened the sheet enough for Lenny to squeeze into the middle of them and then closed it around themselves again, trapping Lenny inside. In seconds, the large breasted women were rubbing against Lenny, pressing them against him. Lenny was laughing like a kid and the guys were cheering them. Before Lenny knew what was happening, his jeans were being undone and numerous hands were pulling his jeans down and groping at him. With so many hands and so little space, he had no way of objecting and shortly, had no want to, as he felt his erection being fondled by several hands. Despite his aversion to feminine wiles, he accepted all the kisses and caresses, all the large breasts grinding into him and especially, all the loving hands that were thrilled at playing with his cock. 

Before he knew it, he was feeling so over-stimulated, that his cock began twitching, readying him to ejaculate. With no way to stop the inevitable, he felt his semen rushing up his shaft and quickly smeared over his cock and belly, as hands enjoyed taking him to the top and beyond. He started twitching and bucking, the body wracking spasms taking him to a point, he just drew in a huge breath and let out a long, loud whoop, as he finished cumming. When the girls could tell he was spent, they opened the sheet and tossed him out, beckoning the next guy to come in.

Lenny stood there naked and smiling giddily, not caring in the least about his nudity in front of everyone, his cock still dripping semen from the tip.

"Fuck, that was awesome! What the hell do you call that?"

"We'll call it the Circle Jerk of Ecstasy, won't we girls? Who's next? All these tits are getting cold in here."

The girls started egging the guys on, about being chickens, that they were afraid of a bunch of girls. Wally had no shame or worry and quickly dropped his pants to the floor and dashed to the girls. They opened up for him and let him in. Once again, they started giving him the same treatment and he clearly showed the effects of it on his face. The guys stood in awe, as Lenny pulled his pants back on, still laughing happily, then looked back at Wally, already losing control and succumbing to them.

Once Wally was spent, he too was tossed out of the circle and his pants kicked over to him, the girls leaving the sheet open enough for the guys to see what awaited them inside. His reaction was near the same as Lenny's, smiling in astonishment from the experience. JT was still standing with Suzy at his side and turned to her.

"Don't you want to get in on that?"

Suzy looked up at him and gave him a lascivious look.

"Wouldn't you rather I give you a little jerk of my own?"

JT looked at her, realizing what she was offering and smiled at her, nodding his approval. Suzy moved in front of him and kissed him softly first.

"Hold the sheet for me, unless you want everyone to see what I'm going to do to you?"

Her eyes spoke volumes about what lay in store, so JT took the corners of the sheet from her and kept her covered, as she began kissing her way down his chest, getting on her knees. No one was paying any attention to them, the circle of women holding the other guys in awe, as they imagined what they were about to experience. Suzy began undoing JT's pants and dropping them down his legs. JT looked about, seeing if anyone noticed, then felt Suzy's hands take him and stroke him softly and slowly. A second later, he felt the warm wetness of her lips take him and suck on him. He stood as still as he could, but his face couldn't keep its composure, as Suzy's lips brought him shaking into blissful oral pleasure.

Lenny was looking at Keith swarmed by the women and happened to look around at everyone, spying JT in concentrated euphoria, a rocking motion under the sheet at his crotch.

"What the fuck you got going on over there, JT?"

JT opened his eyes in surprise, realizing he had been found out and looked at Lenny. He smirked at him in embarrassment, but Suzy continued her manipulations regardless, letting him know he was going to be finished off, whether he wanted to be, or not. JT tossed his head back, the feelings overwhelming him and he didn't realize he had dropped the sheet enough for Suzy to appear doing her business on him.

"Alright Suzy! Go for it, Baby."

That was enough for the other guys to turn their attention towards him and saw what was going on. They too joined in at cheering Suzy on and a moment later, the girls stopped their fun and watched a spectacle of pure sex. Keith was disappointed, but seeing what had their attention, he became equally engrossed in the action. JT couldn't hold it back any longer and groaned loudly, as Suzy brought him to his epitome of pleasure. He dropped the sheet and held her head to him, as he thrust his seed into her mouth. Suzy stayed with him until he was sated and spent, pulling her mouth away and then licked off the remains. When she finally finished, she let go of JT's flaccid member and put her hands in her lap and looked up at him smiling.

At first the guys cheered and then the girls joined in, watching JT stand in embarrassment, trying to smile, as he pulled Suzy up to cover himself. Keith was still in need of being finished off, JT's distraction halting his impending orgasm.

"Ladies, now that JT has enjoyed a wonderful, climactic finish, could we get back to mine?"

His soft, lilting accent had them swoon and fawn over him again and shortly, he was happily re-engaged in the Circle Jerk of Ecstasy. The pretence of the sheet was dispensed with and the girls worked in earnest at pleasing the big Irishman. Keith roared into his orgasm, not caring who, or what was causing it, as he held onto the girls and let them take his weight. 

With little left in the need for modesty, panties were soon being shed and twelve bodies came together, the room becoming a writhing mass of sexual flesh. As JT and Suzy found a spot to lay together, he looked at her with something deeper than lust. She could see he was happy with her and was curious to know why.

"I didn't say thank you earlier, for what you did with Unser. That was really cool of you to do that. I think he would have had us, if you didn't say what you did. You really saved our asses and I just want to say thanks."

"Hey, anything I can for my guy."

"Really want to be my girl, don't you?"

Suzy smiled happily, nodding, letting him know she was serious. JT saw her enthusiasm and felt the anxiousness of her body against his.

"Let's see how it goes then, shall we?"

"Yeah, let's."

No more words were spoken, as their mouths found a better way to speak what they were feeling between them. All around them, couples were forming into one, their bodies coupling in all manners of sexual gratification. With no room for everyone to sleep together, Wally's plan he mentioned earlier, came into play and they headed off to the Starlight Motel. JT waited down the road a bit, while Wally pulled in front of his unit and parked. He opened his door and let Ann-Marie, Keith and Mary in, then looked around for signs of anyone and ran to the street to wave JT in. JT drove up and let Suzy, Piney and Gloria out and then drove around the back and parked the car. Unlike Harlan Walters, JT took the keys and locked the doors.

He made his way back to Wally's room and went in, seeing how crowded it was with all of them in there at once. Wally's contraband was indeed everywhere, anywhere that space wasn't important to him to use otherwise. He was busy moving everything off the extra bed, so Keith and Mary could use it, then he was going to check out the room next door and see if it was ready to use. He reached into his back pocket and took out a lock picking set and showed everyone, winking and saying he'd be back in a minute. Everyone sat on the beds waiting and it was no more than a minute and he was back. 

"Right on, fucking beds are made and everything. Remember, don't turn on the lights and Harold won't know you're in there. He'll be halfway through a bottle of bourbon soon and pass out. So, for now, we can hang out in here, until we want to go to sleep, or whatever."

Everyone caught the whatever and eyes looked at one another, remembering what they had just done, signs of acknowledgement coming out. Suzy's giggles got them going and in moments, they were all laughing, the pot making everything laughable to them.

"Anyone want a nightcap?"

Wally reached in his night stand and took out a baggie.

"What's that, the Jamaican, or the Panama stuff?"

"Hawaiian."

They all looked at the baggie of golden brown buds and leaf, seeing how different it looked from the other two. He passed it around for everyone to smell and look at, then took a bud out and broke it up on the night stand.

"How did you get shit from Hawaii, Wally?"

Wally looked at them all, as he kept breaking up the bud.

"You guys were in 'Nam and smoked the shit over there, right?"

"Oh yeah, fucking awesome shit, man. We'd load up a pipe of it and stuff the stem down the loading port of the Ithaca and one guy would blow on the pipe and pass the end of the barrel around to the other guys. One hit and you'd be fucked up. It was great."

"Yeah, I heard about guys doing that. Shotgunning right?"

"Yeah, it's like three tokes at once."

"Cool, have to try that. So get this, these guys I know, are ex-Army like you guys and they figured on shipping this shit back here. It was too fucked up to get it from there, but buddy gets transferred to Hawaii and next thing you know, he's got seeds from one guy in 'Nam, shipping them by transport to him and this shit loves growing there. They have a buddy here who picks it up at the base with his shipment and he's able to get it on the street here. Gets a couple pounds at a time and I was lucky to snag a bag for myself. You guys thought the Panama Red was killer, wait until you smoke this shit."

Wally's pitch for it had them all in awe of the joint he held to his mouth and lit. The smoke was sweeter and spicier, as noses picked up the aroma. One by one they took a few puffs and passed it on. By the time it went around once, there was little left, but in its wake, was a cacophony of coughing from them all. In moments, eyes were closing and weak smiles came across faces, as the herb took its effect. 

"Oh, wow, man, that shit is out there, you know what I mean?"

Wally smiled to himself, seeing all the happy faces around him. He looked at JT, nodding in agreement. Ten minutes later, bodies were finding their way to horizontal positions and the couples called it a night. JT, Piney, Suzy and Gloria all snuck from one room to the other, quietly sneaking in and closing the door. JT peeked out the curtains towards the office and Harold hadn't seen them. The room was identically set up as the other one, so they felt around, until their eyes adjusted to the dark.

Beds were picked and soon, clothes were stripped off and bodies slid under the covers, giggles and whispers fading to kisses and moans. None of them were energetic to actually have sex, the intimacy fading to cuddling and sleep. 

Both couples were sleeping soundly in the morning, when Wally came in quickly and shouted for them to get up quick. The four of them sat up, looking at him for a reason to leave the cozy warmth they were in.

"Cops! They're in the office right now talking with Harold. Might be about the Chevy."

That was enough to get them scrambling for their clothes. They hastily put what was needed on and carried the rest back to Wally's room.

"We gotta get out of here, man, like all of us. They might even be after all this shit I have."

The eight of them looked at the contraband, knew they had illicit drugs, a stolen car with their fingerprints and they laughed. It seemed the least likely thing to do, but they did and Wally kept a vigil at the window, looking at the office to see what was going on. With little else to do, they snuck out to Wally's car and piled in one by one. Despite the need for discretion, the car had no intention with going along with their plan and broke the calm air with the rumble of a leaky muffler. They looked to see if the cops noticed, but they were able to leave the lot without incident and drive back to Lenny's. Turning off 88 and onto Euclid, an ambulance passed them with its lights flashing, but no siren. Wally pulled over and they watched to see where the ambulance went to. When it turned left before the right bend, they knew it went into the motel. They sat there for a bit, wondering what had happened, that called for an ambulance and the cops to be called, but felt it was best to leave, while they were out of the picture and no one needed to know about them. Wally said he'd know later, when he went back to his room and asked around.

Once they were back at Lenny's, they pounded on the door and woke Otto up. He opened the door for them, wiping his eyes and squinting from the daylight.

"What's up, man? Why are you guys here so early?"

"Cops showed up at the motel. Not sure why, but we felt it was best to get our asses out of their."

Cindy was still sleeping, naked and sprawled on the pull-out bed, as they came into the living room. Otto gave her ass a smack and told her to wake up.

"Hey, fuck off, that hurt."

Cindy rolled over, rubbing the red hand print on her cheek, trying to brush her dishevelled hair out of her face. It was though everyone wanted to wait until she was fully exposed, before they let her know they were there. She looked at Otto and then saw the eight faces looking at her, smiling. She screamed and ducked under the sheet to cover herself.

"Like after last night, you're worried about them seeing you naked?"

Otto grabbed the sheet and stripped it off of her, baring her again, with no chance of covering up. Gloria took pity on her and picked up her clothes, handing them to her one piece at a time, then stood in front of her to block most of the view. Cindy pulled her T shirt on and tucked the bottom into her cut off jean shorts. She ran her fingers through her hair, doing her best to make sense of the way it was supposed to sit, then Gloria stopped her and did it for her.




Redwood Nine Ch. 02



Lenny came out of the bedroom, with Lorraine trailing behind, both still half asleep, both with only their pants on. Lorraine didn't care about everyone seeing her breasts, the need for modesty, worn off after yesterday. 

"What's up? You fuckers in the mood to party already?"

JT went over to him and shook his hand, then explained what happened. Lenny perked up quickly, the talk of trouble bringing him around to full alertness. Lorraine wasn't as bothered by the news and went around hugging and kissing everyone hello.

"I can make coffee, would everyone like some?"

There was a hearty round of yeses from everyone, so Lorraine went in and was followed by all the girls, except Suzy, who stayed by JT's side. The small house became filled with smoke, as they all lit up cigarettes, so the guys went out back and talked about their business, while the girls talked about so much inside, it was a steady din of chatter coming through the walls. JT could see Suzy's face looking at him through the window, wishing she was out there with him, instead of being in chatterbox central inside. The old percolator sat on the counter bubbling away, as the girls talked about the guys, the sex and naturally how good they were. 

Outside, the talk was of a more serious nature. The subject of what to do about the Impala, what to do about Wally's stash of contraband and what to do about finding a place to crash on Sunday night, becoming the main focus of discussion. Lenny seemed to be far enough removed to have clarity, despite just waking up a half hour earlier.

"Look, here's the deal. Wally, you got no reason to be worried, brother. Whatever is going on, it ain't about you, or you'd be in cuffs and a cell already, right? It has to be something else that went on. Who knows what happened while you guys were sleeping, could be some asshole came in and started a hassle with the clerk."

Wally thought on it a bit, weighing the plausibility of it.

"Shit, I wonder if old man Henderson came in and surprised Harold. Harold gets drink every Saturday night, because the weekend day manager is his cousin, who he helped get the job for him, so he won't say anything. The old man hates boozers, so no telling what he'd do if he came in and found Harold passed out drunk, instead of his cousin. Shit, probably give him a whack with the Louisville Slugger, he keeps behind the counter."

By sheer coincidence, that was very close to what had actually happened. Old man Henderson did indeed show up and catch Harold passed out, with an empty bottle of bourbon beside him and the stench of it reeking off of him. Instead of taking the bat to him, he was beating on him with his fists and kicking him, once he was down on the floor, when Harold's cousin, Lorne showed up. Not knowing who it was at first, that was beating his cousin, he grabbed the bat and swung at the man's head for a home run. It was only after he hit him again two more times, that he saw the face and recognized who it was, but by then, blood and grey matter had decided the outcome and old man Henderson lay dead. It sobered Harold up enough to call the cops and go over their story, to blame it all on the dead man, because he couldn't deny anything they said.

"Okay, there you go, Wally. Nothing to have a shit about, man. Just wait until we see what's happening and then worry, cool?"

Wally could see he was over-reacting and heard the calm in JT's voice.

"Yeah, cool. How long should we wait, before we go back and see?"

"Give it a bit to play out, Wally and then Otto, Keith and I can take a ride out and see what's going on. We can pretend we're just looking for rooms and check things out. What number is your room? We can see if there's any interest in it."

"I'm in ten, JT and Piney used eleven."

"Hey Lenny, you and Otto need to see if you can check on the Impala, see if it's okay."

"Yeah, we can do that. Okay, after a cup of coffee and a smoke or two, we'll head out and see how our day is looking. Find out what the girls are doing and if they're hanging out, or they need to go. Wouldn't mind a repeat of the Circle, if they stay."

That had all the guys discussing the possibilities and letting the threat of trouble fall away. Suzy was first out of the door with two cups of coffee in her hands and two lit cigarettes in her mouth, followed by the others, as they brought them out a cup each. It was black, no sugar, but the caffeine was a welcome boost. JT took a cigarette from her mouth and a cup from her hand and gave her a small kiss.

"Thanks, Babe."

"You're welcome, Lover."

JT looked at the twinkling in Suzy's eyes, her body language an offering of herself to him. JT pulled her to him and she cuddled in happily. The other girls were getting much the same treatment as well, the guys buttering them up for later. Wally felt how Ann-Marie was pressing into him and knew she didn't want to leave, so he asked the others.

"Do you girls need to go home, or can you hang out with us some more?"

That got the guys to hold onto their women a little tighter, hoping they felt their desire, as they looked at them. The girls started looking among themselves and then Suzy piped up first.

"I'll stay, but I need to shower at least, first."

The others felt the same and it was discussed that Lenny, Keith and Otto would take off and check out the motel, while the girls took turns showering. When everyone was back and ready, they decided on going out to the lake and enjoy a day outside. Lenny went in and got dressed, while Otto and Keith sat on their bikes and waited for him. Cindy hopped on the back behind Otto and pretended she was riding with him, wrapping her arms around his waist and laying her head on his back.

"Ever been on the back of a bike, darlin'?"

"No, but I bet it's fun."

"Yeah, it's fun. Scary too, at times, but mostly, it's fun. When we go out to the lake, I'll let you ride with me, like that?"

"Oh Otto, I'd love to. I can't wait. Hurry back, okay."

Mary was rubbing up against Keith, asking him about riding with him later.

"Love to, darlin'. Been a lonely ride so far, so I'd love the company."

Mary began kissing Keith with numerous pecks about his face, letting him know how happy she was to be going. Despite Gloria's arm wrapped around his waist, Piney's interest was in Mary and his desire to have her beside him instead.

Cindy hugged Otto tightly from behind and then got off, when Lenny came out to get on his bike. She gave him a big kiss and then stood back with the others and watched, as Lenny, Keith and Otto got ready to start their bikes. They primed their kick starts, then Otto jumped down on his and the engine roared to life, the twin cylinders bellowing out, to obliterate the quiet, Sunday morning. Keith jumped down on his, doubling the deep pounding of the air. Lenny jumped down on his and it didn't start. He worked the starter again into position and kicked down hard, the engine almost catching.

"Need to tune that baby up, Lenny."

"Shut up, Piney. Why don't you start it then?"

Piney walked up and more or less pushed Lenny off his bike. He grabbed the bars and pumped the starter and then jumped down it, and sparked the engine to life. It ran a bit rough at first, black smoke belching out the exhaust. Piney revved the engine up, clearing it out, as the noise reverberated off all the walls around them. Once the engine ran smoother, he let it idle and got off of it. Lenny gave him a nasty look and then smiled happily.

"Thanks, brother. Now get the fuck off my bike."

Piney laughed at him and dismounted, then hugged him, clapping their hands on each others backs.

"Have a good ride, brother."

"Thanks man. See you guys soon. Peace."

Lenny held up his fingers in a vee, as did Otto and Keith, before they clutched and put the bikes in gear and rode down the driveway. Everyone gave them the same sign back and followed them down the driveway to the street. Lenny and Otto twisted the throttles and the bikes roared off in twin cylinder thunder, Keith twisting his throttle right after and catching up, the thumping of the engines changing with their shifts. JT and Piney stood and looked at them, feeling the need to be riding with them.

"Soon, Piney, that'll be all of us heading out like that. Riding as a club, as brothers."

Piney slung his arm over JT's shoulder, realizing more of JT's dream and what the club meant to them. Already he was getting familiar feelings, like he did back in "Nam, the ones that felt like family. They walked back around to the back and into the kitchen, refilling their cups with coffee from the urn and heading into the living room. Only the girls were there, sitting around and talking and drinking their coffees.

"Where's Wally and Ann-Marie?"

"In having a shower. The water heater isn't the best, so to save hot water, we can go in pairs."

"I like that idea, sweet cheeks."

Piney had Gloria shift over and fondled her, tickling her as well. Mary glanced over, trying to watch surreptitiously, the faint look of jealousy showing in her eyes. JT hugged Suzy to him, looking in her dark, brown eyes, as she looked into his matching shade.

"Scrub my back and I'll scrub yours."

"You can scrub me front and back, Baby."

"Hey, if you two are going to waste water, we're going first."

JT looked at Lorraine sitting on the couch and questioned her.

"Who's we?"

Lorraine looked at JT, then put her arms around Mary and Cindy.

"Us. We'll have a shower first, won't we, girls?"

Mary and Cindy looked at Lorraine and then to the couples and took a smug expression.

"Yeah, the three of us. The hot water will be finished when we are, so you guys will have to sit and make out, or something, while you're waiting."

The shower turned off and shortly after, Wally and Ann-Marie were scooting out with towels around them and into the bedroom. Lorraine took the girls hands and they got up together.

"Our turn. Ready girls?"

Lorraine looked at them and then started taking off her top. Cindy and Mary followed suit and by the time they were closing the door to the bathroom, they were down to their panties. The shower turned on and in a minute, giggling started and never stopped the whole time they were in. 

JT sat in an armchair and Suzy cuddled on his lap, while Piney sat on the end of the couch close to him and Gloria snuggled into him. 

"I'm liking all of this, Piney. How about you?"

"I'm going to agree with you on that. Haven't spent a Sunday any better than I'm spending right now, in a long time."

"I wish the place in Lodi was bigger, we could have some good times there."

Suzy sat up and looked at JT.

"What's your place like now?"

JT lowered his eyes, almost in embarrassment, then looked at her again.

"It's a shitty one bedroom in a complex. Piney sleeps on the pull out bed in the living room."

"Well, technically JT, once I pull the bed out, I'm sleeping more in the kitchen."

They laughed at Piney's poke of humour to their situation.

"Let's just say, it'd be really crowded with the four of us there."

Wally and Ann-Marie came out of the bedroom, dressed and hair brushed and sat on the other end of the couch. Wally looked around and turned to JT.

"Where's the girls?"

"All three of them are in there now, can't you hear the giggling?"

Wally listened closer and then heard one of the girls shriek and then a round of giggles started again.

"The three of them are in there together? That's a lot of tits in the tub."

"Wally!"

Ann-Marie slapped his arm.

"What?"

Wally looked put out by her actions and looked at her offensively.

"That's not nice to say."

"Are you fucking kidding me? Every one of us here knows how big those tits are in there, they know how big your tits are too, so what's the hassle?"

Ann-Marie could see Wally was edging towards being pissed off and didn't want to start anything with him and spoil the day for everyone.

"Well, okay, but it just doesn't sound nice to hear."

Wally looked at her incredulously, trying to fathom why the word tits upset her.

"Are you fucked up, or what? Who here thinks tits is a bad thing to say? Come on, honestly, who thinks it's a bad thing to say?"

Everyone looked at Wally, shaking their heads no, or just shrugging.

"Tits, tits, tits, tits, tits, tits."

Ann-Marie just turned away from him and went into a huff on her own, knowing no one sided with her. 

"Come on, Annie, don't be like that. I mean, what? We should all call them breasts, or boobs, jugs, what? It's just a name. Be thankful you have nice tits. You could be like me and have plain Jane tits."

Suzy grabbed her breasts and jiggled them.

"You have nice ones, they look okay."

"Nice what?"

Ann-Marie faltered, almost wanting to say breasts, or boobs and then looked at everyone quickly and shrugged.

"Okay, tits."

They cheered her and made her feel okay about saying it, by getting into a quick chorus of, Tits, tits, tits. Suzy took it a step further and took off her top and then bra, shaking them about. The guys cheered her and spawned the removal of Gloria's top as well. Piney was quite happy and went about fondling and massaging the soft masses. Ann-Marie knew it was a losing battle and undid the buttons on her jean vest and shucked it off. Wally's attitude changed as well and his smile reappeared, as he grabbed handfuls of her breasts, massaging them playfully.

"Tits, with a capital T, tits."

The guys were happily playing with the girls, who enjoyed the attention paid to them, then the door opened and three naked women came out giggling, soaking wet and trying to cover themselves, as they picked up their clothes. They noticed all the girls were topless, then stopped heading for the bedroom and just slipped their panties and jeans on. They came and joined them, sitting where they could.

"So, started on the fooling around early, huh.?"

Suzy spoke out before anyone else did.

"It's all Ann-Marie's fault. She didn't like Wally saying tits and one thing led to another and now we have our...tits out."

Lorraine looked around at all the bared breasts proudly on display and cheered.

"Let's here it for tits!"

A chorus of tits, tits, tits started again and breasts were being fondled by everyone, even the girls. The sound of Harleys coming down the street, had the guys cease their breast play and head out back. The girls stayed inside and watched, as Lenny, Keith and Otto rolled around and parked. The thunderous drone stopped and they dismounted, smiling. That had the other three feeling relaxed at what they had to relate to them. Lenny gave the command to head inside and start rolling, because they had some news to tell them. 

The guys walked into the living room where the girls had went back into and saw them topless. Lenny immediately assumed the worst.

"Did you fuckers already do the circle jerk thing? You couldn't wait for us to get back?"

Lorraine pulled Lenny towards her, a surprised look on her face.

"What do you mean, already?"

That had the girls looking at him as well and the guys looking as guilty as Lenny.

"When were you planning on letting us know we were supposed to be doing that?"

Lenny stuttered and hesitated, looking at the other guys and found himself on his own to explain.

"Yeah, I admit it. We were talking about it outside before we left, so we didn't have time to tell you, okay?"

The guys knew it to be true and gave a spoken agreement to it. The girls looked at them and once again, had lasciviousness written on their faces.

"So maybe we can do that later? What do you say girls?"

The girls looked among themselves and intimated it might be possible, but never made anything look positive to the guys. Lorraine ended the moment and asked him what happened. Lenny broke away from looking at all the bared breasts and got back to what happened. JT and Piney rolled a joint each and lit them up, taking a hit and passing them in opposite directions. Lenny stayed standing and got their attention.

"We got to the motel and rode up to the office, but this cop stops us and asks what we want. I said we're looking for rooms and he said they wouldn't be renting out any rooms for a while. I asked him why and get this. Wally, know how you said old man Henderson would take a bat to Harold, if he caught him drunk?"

"Yeah, hates boozers, like I said."

"Seems he came in and found Harold passed out and started beating him and kicking him. His cousin, the day manager..."

"Yeah, Lorne. Total doorknob. Harold got him the job."

"Yeah, so he comes in and sees the old guy laying a beating on his cousin, so he goes and grabs the bat and does a Joe DiMaggio on the guy's head. Didn't know it was him, because they hardly ever see one another and didn't recognize him. Smacked him a couple of more times and 'Holy Grey Matter, Batman' the fucking guy is dead. So the cop says that anyone who is already there can stay, while the owner hires some new people. Looks like you guys have a room for a while. Just act like you've been there and say you've paid up for the week, Not your fault the guy is a drunk and didn't write it up. Maybe he was stealing from the till too. Cops will believe any bullshit you tell them, at this point."

They could see how the idea could work, as they sat and smoked the joints, smoke rings floating through the air. Suzy was stroking a length of JT's hair, when he looked at Lenny.

"You know what I was thinking. Since we start at Jake's tomorrow, why not bring your bike by and we can give it a tune up, so it'll run sweeter. Say hi to Jake, too."

"Yeah, maybe I'll do that. Fucking thing was hard to start again, on the way back."

"Hey JT, think I can bring my car around?"

"Get that noisy muffler fixed, Wally?"

"Yeah, hard to do things quietly, when my car is screaming at everyone to look at me."

"I'm sure Jake won't mind the extra business, might help us get steady jobs. I wouldn't mind working with him, I think I could learn a lot."

"Yeah, he knows his shit, man. Seen him raise some cars from the dead and get them running again. Knows how to make horsepower too. Seen a car he did up for a guy in town. Red '57 Belair, took the old 283 out and dropped in a 327 out of a wrecked Malibu. Threw in a cam and tweaked the four barrel, plus some other shit and this thing screamed. Smoked the tires up through first and second and got a good squawk hitting third. Do a buck thirty easy in the top end."

The girls were becoming bored with the car talk and wanted to have some fun instead, so Lorraine got up and made an announcement. 

"Okay, we want to have some fun, instead of listening to you guys talking cars, so you have two choices. First one, we get dressed and go to the lake for a ride and get some burgers, cuz we're starving, that sounds good to us, or two, you guys sit and talk cars and we'll find some way to have fun ourselves. What do you say, one, or two.?"

Lorraine wiggled her two fingers at them, then all the girls joined her and stood beside her.

"Well shit guys, looks like we're going for a ride to the lake and getting some burgers. We'll take the 88 and cut off at 12 into Valley Springs, then take 26 and there's that great, little burger joint just before the cut off to New Hogan Lake. Get your tits covered girls, they won't let you out in public like that, why, I don't know, looks good to me."

The other guys agreed, disappointed to see all the breasts being covered up again. The girls teased them, but hugged and thanked them for taking them to the lake.

The guys who were riding, got their bikes started and steadied them, as their dates got on and wrapped their arms tightly around them. Everyone else piled into Wally's car and rolled the windows down. His radio crackled out a song through the broken speaker, but it was recognizable enough to enjoy. Lenny led the way and soon, they were on the road in a convoy, heading down to 88. People on the street stopped and looked at the motorcycles going by and the car full of people behind them. Heads shook on some, while others held a secret admiration for them. Rolling up to a stop sign, they were joined by a boy on a bicycle, who was eager to ride along with them.




Redwood Nine Ch. 02



Lenny pretended to drag race with the boy and let him get a little bit ahead and caught up to him, edging him on to go faster. The boy was grinning ear to ear, as he raced alongside Lenny, until his pedals would turn no faster. Lenny pulled up beside him and shot him a peace sign and got one in return. Everyone held one up to him, as they passed and the young boy pumped his hand in the air triumphantly. That boy would join the club a decade later and wear the patch proudly in Washington, as their first president. Greg "Razor" Jensen watched his future roll down the road and turn towards SR88, his future being decided by the exhilaration he felt in riding with them.

The ride east along SR88 was enjoyable, the sun warming the air and filling their faces with the freshness. They took the cutoff to take SR12 east to go around Camanche Lake and heads were constantly turning to admire the scenery. The Sierra Nevada range was rising in the distance, adding to the splendour to the vista, of the natural landscape in full bloom.

They were coming towards Burson, the road was straightening, when a motorcycle came up from behind the car and then began passing them. Wally looked in his mirror and saw the rider, having to do a double take at what he saw.

"Check this guy out, man!"

Everyone turned to look out the driver's side windows, as the rider started going by them. He waved at them, sitting side saddle on the bike, neither hand holding the bars. He continued passing the car and then the bikes, waving at the riders and passengers. They watched him lean and roll the bike into the lane again and then he swung his leg back over and twisted the throttle full and pulled away quickly from them. He disappeared from sight down the road, leaving the others astonished by his feat. 

They were discussing it in the car, when Wally started pointing down the road. They stopped talking and looked, trying to see what Wally was looking at, then the movement caught their attention. Lenny, Keith and Otto spotted him as well and pointed at him. Coming back towards them, was the rider standing on his seat, his arms out in a cross, easily going forty miles an hour past them.

They all waved at him, cheering him and his feats, feeling they were for their benefit. His hand waved to them and heads craned around to watch him, as he passed. He bounced down onto his seat and then hit the brakes hard and turned back again. The rider sped up and passed the car again, then slowed as he came up to the bikes. Lenny moved over in the lane and let him ride beside him, as they started talking to one another.

They continued talking all the way into Valley Springs, then Lenny led them onto Route 26 and shortly, pulled into the parking area of Benny's Burgers. They all dismounted the bikes and the others piled out of Wally's Chev, milling about in a group by the bikes. The new rider was checking over his bike and making a couple of adjustments, while talking to Lenny.

"Yeah, it gets a little out of whack, when I do that."

Lenny saw everyone around him, so he introduced the rider to them.

"Hey, this here's Chico. I told him he was welcome to join us on the ride, as long as it was okay with you guys. Is that cool?"

They looked at the happy, Hispanic face, smiling at them, truly wishing to be in their company. His sleeveless jean jacket was well worn and frayed, holes in the knees of his jeans, but there was something endearing about him, that said he would be good to have along. Everyone introduced themselves and shook his hand, then had to ask about his trick riding.

"Got a dead man throttle, man. Just let it go and it stays at the speed I'm at, you know?"

"So no return spring?"

"No. I like it like that."

The civilians looked at him with wonder, why someone would do that and do what he did. The veterans understood him, though, through their own experiences that they lived. It wasn't hard to understand that life was short, live it every day as your last and never regret anything you did, only what you haven't done. 

The girls broke up the discussion, urging the guys to order some food. They went up to the counter and once everyone had placed their orders, they began opening bags and emptying pockets for money to cover the tab. Chico halted what they were doing and walked to the counter and took out a thick roll of bills. He paid for it all and put his money away, then turned to see a look of amazement on their faces.

"What? Never see a Chicano with money before?"

They assured him they meant no disrespect, just that they were surprised by the amount he had. Everyone thanked him for covering the bill, but a few of the guys were more interested in how he made that much. Chico looked at them all and knew there was a common bond that had formed between them, so he looked at Lenny and asked him to take a short walk with him. Lenny lit up a cigarette and offered one to Chico, who gladly accepted it and the light, then exhaled and told Lenny how he made his money.

"I run grass up from Tijuana. Mi amigos come across and I bring the shipment to a house in Oakland. I do the drop off and I get a hundred per run. I just got back a day ago and thought I'd go for a ride and see someplace different, than the five highway between Oakland and TJ."

"All you do is make runs down and back? That's it?"

"Yeah, nothing else. I do two, three runs in a week and I have more than enough to enjoy myself. Don't have time to have a place to call home. Since 'Nam, things have been shit, muchacho."

Lenny knew just how he felt, empathizing with his situation. 

"No worries, brother, most of us are in the same boat. Me, JT, Piney, we've all served. Piney and JT twice. Some of them don't have a place they call home, either. I got this shit hole in Charming, one bedroom, kitchen and a bath. I get the place cheap, because it's in between a couple of businesses. Place sucks, but I can afford it with what I bring in every month. Lorraine picks up some money doing waitress gigs and makes decent tips, the tits are a bonus there."

"Know what you mean, man. Noticed quite a few nice grande tetas over there."

"Grande what?"

Chico held his hands up to his chest, describing large breasts with them. They looked back at the girls and Chico mentioned Gloria and Mary in particular. Lenny agreed with him, but never told him about the previous night's activities. They re-joined the others, just as their orders started coming out. They sat at the rickety picnic tables, numerous initials and names, among other things, carved into the top's surface. They dumped their small boxes of fries into the big carry tray and shared them amongst themselves. Chico ate like a ravenous animal and finished his burger long before anyone else. JT noticed and wondered.

"A little hungry, Chico?"

"Yeah, man. I don't get to eat that much when I'm doing a run, so it's nice to fill the tank. I could eat another one of those."

"Hey, no one's stopping you, brother. Help yourself."

Chico left and went back to the counter and ordered again, while the others began talking about him. The guys liked the fact he was a vet like them and saw action, letting them know he had courage. Courage he continued to show in his daredevil feats. The girls said he was polite and liked his smile, some saying he was cute, to the detriment of their dates egos. It became a consensus, that Chico was a nice guy and everyone felt he should be welcome to join them. Suzy and Lorraine, were busy twisting up a couple of joints, when Chico came back, munching away on his burger. Half of it was gone already and he wasted no time in finishing it off, when he saw the joints.

"Mi Amigas, you roll like angels."

He went to sit and stopped and then let out a loud, protracted belch, finishing by rubbing his stomach. 

"Shouldn't have had the onions, sorry."

Lorraine smiled and piped up after hearing him say that.

"See? Polite, just like I said."

Chico smiled and bowed to them, then spread his hands wide, offering himself to be accepted. 

"Stop making us look so bad, Chico. Gonna be hard keeping friends that way."

Chico looked at JT and then to the others, picking up on the words he used.

"Guess that means you think of me as a friend, si?"

"Yeah, Chico, we think of you as a friend. You're alright, man. You're alright."

"Thanks, man. I appreciate that. I like you guys too. You like to have fun and live life the way I do, sort of."

"Yeah, sort of. Don't think anyone here is going to be standing on their seat, or sitting sideways on their bikes. But ride, brother and you'll never ride alone."

"That right, muchacho? Never rode with anyone before."

They could see how the offer of a brotherhood of riders appealed to him. He spent all the time they were smoking the joints, asking about what it was like riding in a pack. The girls were getting anxious to get to get to the lake, so they cleared away their garbage and got back to the vehicles and started them up. It was a short ride down R26, but they attracted the attention of all they passed, some interested in the bikes, while many male viewers were more interested in the beautiful women and their breasts. 

They turned down a dirt road and made their way slowly over the gravel, as it threatened to spill the bikes, if they moved the wrong way. The view of the water came between the trees, letting them know they had arrived. New Hogan Lake was small, but the water was clear and mountain fed, though not many went there, choosing the more popular Camanche Lake instead. The girls took the blankets they brought and laid them out, making themselves comfortable and sunning, while the guys smoked cigarettes and skipped stones across the water's surface. 

The girls discussed what was most important to them, beauty tips, clothes and of course, sex. They lay on the blankets and quietly discussed the merits of each guy, until the got to Chico and then it was wonderment and speculation that spurred them on. The guys stood by the water's edge, discussing issues about the club and how to deal with them. Rules and regulations were formed and voted on, setting down the basis for how the club would be run. One thing they had no idea how to get, was a clubhouse, a place to hang out together and use for their own uses. Chico made his first offering to the club's benefit, when he said he'd talk to his contacts in TJ and Oakland on the next run and see if they were interested in increasing the amount that came north. If each rider could bring in the same run money, they could set themselves up in no time. 

JT and Piney made an agreement to have their bikes running and on the road in a week's time, as long as Piney's dad sold him the bike. Keith said he'd stay for the club and do what he could to get it started and Lenny said he'd quit working at Oswald Construction in a heartbeat, if they got the runs to do. 

The girls became bored of sitting and took a walk along the water's edge, some splashing about, other's just letting the small waves lap over their feet. The sound of splashing feet in the water, had them turn and all the guys had taken their shoes and boots off and were coming for them. The girls dashed away as best they could, most shrieking and giggling. Their top heavy weights left them easy to catch and the guys rounded each girl up and then they carried them out a short way into the water and fell back into it, soaking themselves.

Protests of ruining hair and soaking clothes wore off, as the guys wrestled playfully with them. After wearing themselves out, they got out of the water and headed back to the blankets. 

"So what are we supposed to do now with soaking wet clothes?"

The guys looked at Lorraine, sitting on the blanket with the other shivering girls, the blanket wrapped around them. Lenny looked at her and the others and shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know about you girls, or even you guys, but I'm going naked. I'm going to wring out my shit and hang it up to dry, catch some rays and tan this body."

Lenny shucked off his T shirt and squeezed out as much water as he could and hung it on a tree branch. Every girl watched intently, as he unzipped his jeans and pushed them down his legs. He stood and wrung them out, then hung those beside his shirt. Lenny stood naked, gasps and murmurs starting from the girls. The other guys weren't about to be outdone by him and soon, they too were undressing to vocal admiration of their bodies. Chico was hesitant about getting involved, unsure of his place still, among the group, but the girls assured him they wanted him to follow suit and strip down. It didn't take much to remove his jean jacket and T shirt, but he was sketchy about baring it all. The girls removed whatever apprehensions he had, when they chanted repeatedly for him to strip.

Chico looked quickly at the guys and then to the girls, as he undid his pants and slowly shimmied them down. When he took them off, he received a round of applause and cheering, along with admiring stares. He stood close by the guys in the sunshine and joined them in looking at the six women with the blanket wrapped around them.

"I think it's time for that circle jerk thing again, what do you say guys?"

They heard Lenny's request and they all became excited to do it. They started into a steady stream of coaxing them out of their clothes and to get in a circle. They stood up in a group and slowly, one piece of clothing each at a time came out, until they were naked. The guys gratefully wrung and hung each piece for them. They held the blanket around them and Lorraine held the end open for the first guy to join them.

The guys looked amongst themselves again, determining the order, when JT made the decision.

"I think it's only fair, that since we've all done this once and we have a new friend among us who hasn't, I think he should go first and try the Circle Jerk of...what was it again?"

"Ecstasy!"

Several of the girls said it at once and Chico's eyes went wide, wondering what they had in store for him. He looked at the guys nervously, his hands over his cock and balls, covering them protectively.

"Come here, Chico!"

The girls beckoned him in, calling him and giving him looks of lust-fuelled playfulness. Chico looked at the guys, his hopes he wasn't being tricked by them. JT knew what he was thinking and assured him.

"Trust me, brother. It'll be the wildest, best time you ever had. If you want, I can go first and show you?"

That had the other guys complaining that they would go first and Chico saw they were serious.

"That good, hey muchachos?"

"Si, Chico. Mucho fun-o." 

Chico gave JT a leery look with a cocked smile.

"You need some lessons in Español, amigo. Stick to English, eh?"

JT laughed, knowing he had very little idea of what he said, but hoped he spurred his new friend to trust him. Trust was something JT relied on, something he built his friendships and relationships on. If Chico was going to be a good fit for the club, one thing he would have to do, is trust his president completely.

"I'll take your word for it, Prez."

Chico looked at JT, his eyes mostly, judging what he saw in them and knew in his heart, he was a good man. Chico winked at him and turned to the girls, taking his hands away and raising them in the air, whooping happily, as he made his way into the circle of women. Immediately, they corralled him and began pressing their lush breasts into him, then their hands went to work on his semi-erect member. His smile faded into blissful reposes, feeling he'd lost all control over the situation and gave himself over to them. 

The guys cheered him on, but it was unnecessary, as Chico grimaced in his moment of climax and felt himself being drained. The girls finished him off and then shoved him out of the circle and back in front of the guys. He was grinning with a satisfied look on his face, still getting off on a euphoric trip of bliss.

"Go wash off in the lake, man. Cool off a bit."

Chico came out of his aroused reverie and then dashed for the lake at a full run. He took off from a large rock at the water's edge and did a crazy flip in the air, screaming wildly, before he splashed into the water. He came up whooping loudly, clearly exhilarated by the experience.

"Told you'd like it, Chico."

"Never doubt you again, JT."

Chico affirmed his statement, by pointing his finger at him and nodding once with vigour. He laid back and floated in the water, using his hands to propel himself. Otto wasted no time in getting between the girls, while the others were focused on JT and Chico. They turned and saw him being bombarded with breasts and lips, relishing every iota of stimulation, then he too, was succumbing to his own ecstatic release to the girls. He stumbled out of the circle holding his spent member in his hand, a silliness written on his face. He just smiled, as he stumbled past them and into the water, falling forward like a cut tree. 

He came up, shaking the excess water from his moustache and long, dirty blonde hair. He stood a few feet away from Chico in the waist deep water, looking at the guys, as one by one, they took their turns. Wally, then Keith, Piney, Lenny and then JT, all took their turn in the circle and then joined the guys in the water. The girls stood up on the beach, wrapped in the blanket, looking at them, then dropped the cover and made as quick a dash as they could for the water and their partners.

Lenny saw that Chico was feeling a bit left out, not having a partner of his own. He whispered to Lorraine to go over, while he was getting out to roll some joints for everyone. Lorraine gave him a sweet kiss and fondled him under the water, then waded over to Chico, as Lenny waded out. Chico was surprised by Lorraine pressing up against him, her breasts making an impression in his back. He turned towards her and quickly looked at Lenny, calling out to get his attention away from rolling. He pointed at Lorraine behind him and shrugged his shoulders, wondering what was going on and if it was okay?

"Enjoy Chico, Lorraine's a good girl."

JT and Piney said it almost together.

"She's a good girl, Chico."

Chico turned back to Lorraine, floating behind him.

"Hold me up, so I can float better, Chico."

Chico put his hands underwater and put one under her shoulders and one under her waist. Lorraine moved his hand down, so it was under her ass cheeks and Chico made no attempt to oppose her. Happily, he floated her around, admiring her large breasts, floating on the water's surface just inches from his eyes. The others ended up doing something similar with their mates, some a little more intimate in how they held them up. They passed the afternoon away, enjoying the chance to know each other better, talking amongst themselves on the blankets. The novelty of nudity was lost and they sat around naked, laughing and joking with each other, as a group, as one.

The sun was getting lower in the sky and the air getting too chilly to stay nude, so they donned their clothes, despite the slight dampness and got ready to go. The ride back the same route taken, was as pleasant going home. Chico stayed with them and followed them into Charming, stares and looks reappearing on the faces of those on the street. Lenny took a quick look for his racing partner, as he came down his street, but didn't see him. They pulled into the driveway, one by one, then the cacophonous roared died away, as the engines stopped. 

One thing no one had noticed coming in, was the large white sign, with red letters, glued to the front door. They were just getting into smoking a joint, when the front door was knocked on loudly, with force. Lenny went to answer it and opened the door to a man in a dark, grey suit standing there.

"What do you want?"




Redwood Nine Ch. 03



Chapter 3

Home Sweet Home

Lenny was sitting in the small cell, his head in his hands, when Wayne Unser came into the cell room. 

"The guy you pushed, is willing to forgo any charges, if you're willing to replace the pants you wrecked, when you pushed him down."

Lenny raised his head and looked at Wayne, his expression one of disdain.

"The fucker wants me to pay for his pants, after he gives me a week to find a new place? Is he out of his fucking head?"

Wayne looked away, not wanting to give away his own feelings on the matter. He was more, or less on Lenny's side, knowing the notice had been given in an underhanded manner. He had seen the notice come in and saw who was issuing it. Jacob Hale had finally put together a group of buyers for the old property and he had no thoughts of what it did to anyone, by its issuance. He was supposed to post a public notice first, which he didn't and he was supposed to give prior notice, by way of letter, before posting the notice, which again, Hale didn't do. 

"I'm just passing along the message he gave me. I think it's BS, just like you, Lenny, but I have to do my job. It's either that, or see the judge and see what he wants to do with you."

Lenny looked at Unser, realizing he was venting his anger to the wrong person and apologized to him. Unser could see Lenny was at his wits end and took pity on him. He couldn't in his heart of hearts, act so harshly on a fellow serviceman, especially one who was being mistreated in such a shoddy manner.

"I'm going to do something I'll either regret later, or it'll come back to benefit me, that'll be up to you. I'll pay for the guy's pants. I know you ain't got the money to buy them and I'm not going to keep you in here, because you can't, that's not right in my book. Maybe one day, you can find a way to pay me back."

Lenny looked at Wayne with new eyes, ones that weren't so biased towards him, because of the uniform. Wayne unlocked the cell and opened it for Lenny to leave. Lenny walked out of the cell, but before he walked down the hall, he turned in the privacy of the cell room and looked at Wayne.

"I really appreciate this, Wayne. I won't forget it, promise."

"I just hope you can find a place by the end of the week. No way I can help you out with that, sorry"

"Yeah, me too, but hey, you've done enough and I appreciate that. You're alright, Wayne."

Lenny held his hand out to Wayne and after a brief moment looking at it, took it and shook his hand. Wayne walked Lenny back to the front desk, where JT and Wally were waiting for him. Cheers went up, when they saw him, happy this part of the ordeal was over. Lenny had no belongings to claim, so he came through to his friends and was greeted warmly with hugs. Wayne looked on, disguising his envy at the camaraderie, as he turned and went back to his desk, to call Mr. Neeson about his pants. He liked feeling he was part of the gang back then, even though he was more on the fringe, than an actual part of it. Seeing his old friends, brought back memories of happier times, when life was a lot simpler to live.

The trio headed out to the car and Wally pulled out of the station, noisy muffler and all, to the disgruntled looks of some officers coming into the station. They cheered the good fortune Lenny had received from Unser and asked about him and what brought him to do that. Lenny gave them a new perspective he had for him and felt Wayne could be a good ally to have, if they could convince him he was more or less a part of the gang again. JT laughed at the mention of it, but understood how it could benefit them later. 

They pulled into Lenny's driveway and Lorraine was out back waiting for the car to stop. Lenny got out and Lorraine hugged him, tears still coming from her eyes. Lenny hated mushiness, but understood why Lorraine was like that and hugged her close and comforted her.

"Okay, let's get inside and roll a joint. I need a big, fucking, huge one after that shit."

They went in and sat around, discussing the situation and what solutions they could come up with. JT and Piney were willing to find another place with two bedrooms and share it with them and that became the most plausible solution. Wally said he could talk to the owner of the motel and ask if Lorraine could work the desk, giving them some possibilities of making money and a place to live.

With no other ideas to go on, the subject was put aside in favour of lazing about and what they were going to do about dinner. Once again, Chico came to the rescue and offered to buy dinner for everyone, handing over twenty dollars to Lorraine. Wally was called upon for driving duty, while three of the girls volunteered to do some shopping. Ann-Marie, Cindy and Lorraine piled in with Wally and they took off for the downtown area, to some merchants who sold locally grown produce. 

Wally waited outside and leaned against the fender, having a cigarette, while the girls went inside to shop. His mind was always on making a buck at something and something just made itself known to him. He noticed the real estate office a few doors down and walked to the window and looked at the residential and commercial properties available for rent. He went in and took a list off the pile on the counter and walked back out, before anyone had a chance to ask him anything. 

He ran down the list of places available and crossed off the residential ones that weren't possibles. He was left with four places he could show Lenny when he got back and hoped one was what they were looking for. The girls came out with several bags of food and piled in the car again with Wally, heading back to get started on the cooking. 

Wally pulled in the driveway and noticed all the guys were hanging around the bikes talking. The girls got out and kissed their partners, then joined the other girls inside, while Wally joined the guys. He found out the talk was about finding a place for a clubhouse and Wally quickly took out the list he picked up. They went through each place and marked off possibles and crossed off ones the guys knew to be unsuitable for their purpose. One that stood out from the others, was one that garnered the most attention. The big Quonset building on Jake's property was up for grabs and tomorrow, they would be heading there to work and to see if Jake was in possession of their new home/clubhouse.

There wasn't a rental price listed, but going by the ones that were posted, it would be far more than they could afford. 

As day turned to night, talk of the Impala came back into question. They knew they had to take it back to Lodi and park it in the same spot, or close to it. After a round of joints, goodbyes were said and everyone that was going to the motel to sleep, piled in Wally's car.. They pulled into the motel lot, to find several police cars still at the office. Not wanting to draw too much attention, Wally killed the engine and coasted to his parking spot in front of his unit. No one came out to them, as they got out and went into Wally's unit. JT, Piney and Wally all went to the office to get the key for next door, going with the ruse that the clerk made an error in registering them. 

They walked in and they were immediately set upon by the officers.

"Stop right there, come no further. This is a crime scene and you're not allowed in it. State your business."

JT told the officer he needed his key for room eleven. The officer looked at the sign in book and couldn't find his name listed. Wally gave him his name and it was present.

"We came in at the same time, officer. We've been here all week and maybe next week, as well. I know the clerk had been drinking when we signed for the room, so maybe he goofed and didn't write him in, but he's been in the room beside mine all this time. What happened anyway? Where's Harold, he'd know."

"I'm sorry, but he's down at the station for questioning, along with his cousin."

"Is old man Henderson around? He knows too."

The officer looked at them, turned to his fellow officers, then dropped his voice to a whisper.

"It's Mr. Henderson who was murdered. Seems he lost it on Harold and Lorne bashed his head in with a bat. We're trying to piece it all together, but it's looking like manslaughter, but he could get off, because of the circumstances."

That had the guys look at him in wonder, Wally remembering what he said earlier in that regard. JT motioned the officer closer to keep whispering.

"So how do I get in my room now? There's four of us in that room."

JT looked worried, doing his best to convince the officer of his situation. The officer looked at JT and the others and then back to the other officers, making sure they didn't see what he was going to do. He reached into the docket and took the key for room eleven, handing it to JT. 

"Just stay to your rooms and avoid the office. The owner said someone will be here in a day or two to work the desk."

JT took the key and thanked the officer, walking out and looking at the key in his hand, smiling. They got back to the room and showed them the key, receiving cheers for their accomplishment. JT and Wally took off in the cars, heading back to Lodi to drop off the Impala, hopefully without being seen. He pulled onto the street the lot was on and spotted the flashing lights of a police car in the lot, the officer talking to a man in a suit. He drove past and pulled over on the side of the road, out of sight of the lot. He quickly wiped down the car with his sleeve and left the keys in the ignition. Wally pulled up beside it and JT jumped in, leaving the scene unnoticed. JT kept looking back and no one approached the car, while he could see it. Once they turned the corner, they both breathed a deep sigh and smiled.

"Did it, Wally. We're free and clear now. Time to head back and get some sleep, big day tomorrow, man. Best bring your car around after lunch, give us some time to work on what's there first."

"That's cool, JT. I have to see a guy in Stockton about some cigarettes and another guy in Lodi about some radios, so I'll be there some time after lunch."

They pulled into the motel lot and went into Wally's room, where everyone was still waiting. They relayed the news that everything went well and after a quick smoke, they were heading to their room and sleep.

The sun came streaming through the thin curtains, making its way along the wall, to shine into JT's eyes and made him wake up squinting. He peered through slits at the cheap clock on the nightstand, noticing the time. At first, it didn't mean anything to him, that it was seven thirty nine, until his head caught up and he realized what today was. As fast as he could get out of bed, he was waking Suzy, Piney and Gloria, letting them know the time. Piney realized quickly what the time meant and he wasted no time in getting dressed, In less than five minutes, they had relieved themselves and kissed the girls goodbye, telling them they'd see them later on. The girls happily went back to sleep, nothing else was on their minds. 

It was three miles down the road to Jake's and they walked quickly, half running the distance to make it on time. They were a few hundred yards down the road, when Jake's bike came up the road towards them. Jake got off his bike to open the gate and heard JT and Piney calling to him. He turned and saw them, waving and motioning with his hand and arm to hurry up. They did a short jog to the driveway and walked the rest of the way, once they reached the gate. Jake parked his bike at the side of the office and opened it up. He flipped the switches and all the florescent lights flickered and buzzed, as they came to life. The bay doors opened and JT and Piney looked at their future, for the next week at least.

"Okay you guys, the work orders are in the rack, so take the top one and work your way down. I have to finish this overhaul and get it the hell out. If you have any problems, give me a shout."

"No problem, Jake. What about parts? Are they here, or do we order them?"

"Most of the parts are here, but if you need a part, the number for East Bay Automotive is beside the phone."

Jake looked at them to see if they had any more questions and then went to the rack and put on his dirty overalls. JT and Piney put their overalls on, Piney's being a bit short in the legs and getting some laughs. They took an order each and went to the cars they were for. Jake watched them go about their business and felt comfortable they would get the job done.

JT had his first car done in half an hour and parked it on the opposite side of the other cars, alongside the Quonset building. He took a moment to wipe a window and peered inside to see what it looked like, but it was dark and piles of boxes blocked his view. Piney finished twenty minutes later and parked his car beside JT's. By lunch time, Jake looked at the line of cars to be worked on and almost half of them were finished. He smiled to himself, glad he made a good choice in letting them work for him.

A lunch wagon pulled in the lot and blew the horn, letting them know he was there. The driver pulled up to the bays and stopped, getting out and lifting the side of the box up. JT and Piney had no money left and just sat on the ground in the shade, backs up against the fence. Jake looked over at them and called them over.

"We're okay, Jake, Thanks."

Jake somehow knew they were broke and called them over again. They went over to him and the driver, who were talking about something, when they arrived. The Italian born man was very expressive with his hands as he talked, somethings looking like a choke hold and cutting a throat, that had the guys worried. The short, balding man had a big smile though and that came out easily, mellowing out their trepidations.

"Guys, this Franco. He comes every day at lunch and he's agreed, on my say so, to let you run a tab with him and I'll pay him at the end of the week for you both. If you keep working as good as you are, it'll be worth it."

"Oh, hey, almost forgot. Lenny's coming in later to have his bike tuned again, it's running shitty and another guy is coming in later for exhaust work. Muffler is shot for sure, not sure about the pipes. Might have some more work later."

Jake looked at them both and smiled with some pride in them.

"Give them what they want, Franco. On me."

JT and Piney looked at Jake with admiration, his continued kindness, an unexpected event in their lives. They introduced themselves to Franco and he stood with pencil and paper, adding up what they purchased. They took their food and went over to the picnic table under the overhang at the back of the storage building. Franco closed up and tooted his horn at them, as he left. Jake unwrapped a sandwich and took a bite. He drank from his cup, but the guys could tell it wasn't hot coffee. JT got Jake's attention and nodded towards the cup.

"What's that you're drinking?"

"A little homemade wine. Franco makes a great tasting red, goes great with pastrami."

The guys watched Jake enjoy another drink and a bite of his sandwich smiling, then JT nodded at the building beside them.

"So Jake, we noticed you have this place for rent. How much are you looking to get for it?"

"I'm asking five hundred a month. That's just for the rent, the utilities are extra. Why do you ask?"

"Honestly, we need a place to live, Jake. Someplace close, that is. Got a shit hole in Lodi, Piney and I live in, but it sucks. We have no way to get here every day and a friend just got an eviction notice yesterday and has to move by the end of the week. I said we could get a two bedroom for the four of us, but we have to find one we can afford. You know him. Lenny Janowitz. Rides a Harley, built like a small tank."

"Shit, I know Lenny. Got evicted huh? That's the shits. Out by the end of the week, you said?"

"Yeah. Him and Lorraine, his girlfriend."

"Yeah, I know Lorraine too, good girl."

That made Piney and JT laugh out loud, hearing Jake say that about her, after what went down over the weekend.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing Jake, it's cool."

Jake wasn't going to let it go and asked again, pressing him harder. JT knew he wasn't getting off the hook, without an explanation. JT stumbled for the right words, unsure of how to say to Jake, that they played with Lorraine's tits all weekend. He looked at Piney, who shrugged his shoulders, finding no help with him. Beaten, he couldn't look Jake in the eyes, as he stared at his sandwich and told him.

"Okay, if you really have to know, Jake. Lorraine let us feel her tits and when we did, Lenny said she was a good girl, so when you said it, it reminded us of that."

His explanation was simple and to the point. Jake looked at him and then to Piney, then laughed.

"Yeah, she has got great tits, doesn't she?"

JT and Piney were aghast by Jake's mention of her breasts, something unexpected and completely out of character. Talking about about a war time memory was one thing, but to talk about someone they all knew was different all together.

"Don't look so surprised guys. Last time they were here, getting the carb set, I believe, Lorraine decided on sunbathing on this very table and took her top off and laid here getting a tan."

That had the guys agog with amazement. 

"Are you shitting us? She laid right here, on this table we're sitting at and went topless in front of you?"

Jake smiled happily at the memory, nodding vigorously, as he chewed his food.

"Yeah, I stood there for at least ten minutes, just staring at them. Yup, she's a good girl."

JT and Piney laughed hard, almost bringing up their food. They calmed down and JT tried to get serious, but just had to look at the expression on Jake's face and he would break out laughing again. 

"So where was I? Oh yeah. You want five hundred for this place, right?"

Jake looked at him with a more serious expression, helping him not laugh anymore.

"Hoping to get it, anyway. Might take as low as three fifty. The place is full of crap inside and there's only that part of the yard to use. They come in the same gate, but they have no parking along the side here. This railing divides my side from the rental side."

"You said you'd take three fifty?"

"If I had to go that low. I'm hoping to get more, naturally."

JT looked at Piney, who looked back at him, something passing between them unheard, but they understood, nodded at each other and then JT turned back to Jake.

"I can give you four hundred, maybe four fifty. Between Piney and me, Lenny and Lorraine and maybe one or two more guys, we could afford it. We could clean the place out, make it our clubhouse and make some rooms for sleeping."

"You did say you wanted to start a club, I remember that. Clubhouse, that's interesting. If I'm not mistaken, and I could be, have to check to make sure, but the county by-laws state that a clubhouse may have up to a certain number of rooms for temporary stays. Has to have a kitchen, bedrooms and a shitter for every ten members, I believe. At least I remember it was like that when I rode with a club." 

That had JT and Piney sit up and take notice. 

"You were in a club, Jake?"

"Yeah, years ago now. Rode with the East Bay Riders. All of us got leather jackets and had our crest on the back. Twelve of us, all cruising together up and down the coast. Some of the best years of my life, some of my worst."

"Why were they your worst?"

JT and Piney looked at Jake with concern, wondering what could be so dire to make Jake look so despondent at the mere mention and thought of it. Jake looked at them, his eyes already telling them how much it hurt him. He stared at the table and took a breath to calm his feelings, roiling up inside him.

"It was back in '53. We were coming back from Big Sur, taking the 101. We were outside some shit hole place called Gilroy, about eighty miles south of here. It was a great day, I remember. Sunny, warm and then we head into Gilroy and we hit this patch of fog. We barely drove a mile in it, when a truck coming the other way, crossed the line and took out four of us instantly. Two more died in hospital a few days later. I was lucky and went for the ditch, just missed Geezer's bike sliding at me. I had no broken bones, but I scraped all the skin off my right leg, when I slid. I lay there for days in the hospital, thinking about it and my dead buddies. When I was able to leave the hospital, I wasn't sure if I could ride again. My leg was killing me, but I started it and rode home, then hung my jacket up. I never rode with anyone again, as a club member."




Redwood Nine Ch. 03



"Holy shit, Jake. Six guys? What happened to the driver?"

"That's just it, Piney. Nothing. Cops came and investigated and let the guy off. Barely had a scratch on him. Said the fog was so thick he didn't know he crossed the line and didn't see us, until it was too late."

"Fuck, Jake. That's bullshit, man."

Jake was downhearted, his usual fervour faded away.

"I really liked being with them. They were my buddies from the war. We'd been through hell together, fucking bullets and bombs missing us, taking out the guy beside us. We make it through, only to be wiped out by a fucking wetback driving a fruit truck. No fucking licence, either. That was all he got charged with, nothing else. I lost my faith after that. Lost some belief in the country I fought for, too. Six heroes dead and not one got a hero's burial. Lefty was lucky to get a burial. I paid for a small headstone and a few words, it was all I could afford at the time."

The guys could see it was hard on Jake, having to relive the memory again. JT didn't want to dismiss Jake's feelings, but he wanted to get back to the building. He let it sit for a moment, letting Jake get himself composed again.

"So, what do you think, Jake? Want to rent us this place?"

Jake could tell that JT wanted to end the discussion about his club and friends and he welcomed the diversion. 

"Sure, you guys can have it for four hundred. All the shit that's in there now, just put it on the dock here and I'll get a bin in to take it away. If there's anything you can use, you're welcome to it."

"That's fantastic, Jake, I don't know how to say thank you enough. This is great news. Yesterday ended up so shitty and today just wipes that out. We can get to it after work today and see what we can get done."

"Jake, if there's anything we can do for you, just name it, we owe you big for this."

Jake could see the conviction in Piney's expression and knew it to be honest and heartfelt. He found a smile in himself and let it come out, as he told them something.

"You're actually doing me a favour renting it. County has been at me to rent it or tear it down. I had until the end of this year to rent, or down she comes. Now I can be happy knowing who's renting it and it helps you guys out, so it all comes out to the good. Alright, if you boys are done, Let's get back to work. In fact, give me a hand with the overhaul and that can free up the bay. Damn thing has been on the hoist for more than a week now."

"Let's do it then, Jake."

The three walked back and JT smiled, when Jake patted his back, smiling at him. They went about putting three sets of hands to work and in an hour and a half, they lowered the Studebaker and Piney climbed in and readied to start it. JT crossed his fingers and Jake gave him a nod to go ahead. Piney turned the key and there was absolutely nothing, not even a click. Jake looked under the hood and lifted a battery cable that wasn't attached.

"This might be the problem, Piney. That was your job."

Piney looked guilty, knowing he had overlooked that major detail. Jake wiggled the terminal on and tightened the clamp.

"Give her a shot now."

Piney turned the key and it almost started. He pumped the gas and hit the key again, this time the 289 V8 starting and running smoothly. Piney revved it a few times and the choke came off and idled properly. 

"Good job, guys. Thanks. Piney, take it up and down the street and see how it runs."

Piney waved and put it in reverse and backed away and turned to go out. JT noticed the thin line of fluid trailing and yelled for him to stop. He slid under and checked for the leak. He called out to Jake for a wrench and tightened the nut to the transmission plug. He slid out and pointed at Jake.

"That was your job, Jake."

Jake shrugged and accepted his wrong.

"Too many cooks in the kitchen. Should have went around and checked myself, sorry guys."

JT stood up and smiled at him.

"Hey, no sweat, Jake. It's was minor, it's fixed."

Piney started it up again and drove off out the gate, turning left towards the motel. He went past it, looking at the office to see if anything was happening. The lot was clear of enforcement, but a new car was parked in front of the office. He pulled a U turn and headed back to the shop, pulling in and parking it beside the others on the finished side. Jake asked how it ran and Piney said it was smooth as silk. 

"If I let you get back to those cars, you're going to be finished in no time. You guys are good, you work fast and stay with it."

"Army got us like that Jake. JT and me would rather be in the motor pool, so we picked up on things fast and did what we were supposed to."

"Here's what I'm thinking. Let's go push that bike over and get a look see at where to start. Tire is flat, but it should still hold air, so let's pump it up and roll it into the bay. Put some gas in it and see how it runs. Might have a runner by the end of the day, maybe not."

JT wasn't wasting any time and dragged the air hose over towards the bike and ended up ten feet short. Piney and Jake came over and between the three of them, pushed the old bike away from the fence and closer to the end of the hose. JT put air in and watched the tire filling up, smiling that it was still good. They pushed it over to the garage and into the bay and set the kickstand. JT grabbed a rag and started giving a quick wipe down to remove the big debris that had collected on it. He opened the tank and got a jerrycan of gas and poured a gallon into it. 

He put the lid on and looked at Jake, wondering what to expect, when he kicked on the starter. He primed the starter and was happy it moved freely. He felt for the right timing and kicked down hard, the engine doing nothing, as a result. JT tried again and got a burp of a sputter. After two more tries, the engine coughed and caught, sputtering to life, albeit roughly. JT gave the throttle some gas and the engine began smoothing out. Jake bent down and used a screwdriver to adjust a couple of screws on the carburetor, making the engine run smoother still. JT killed the engine, smiling broadly at Jake and Piney, getting off and looking at it.

"Runs great, Jake. I'll spend some time going over it with the oil can and make sure everything is moving freely and then check the brakes and see how good they are. If the tire holds out, I could actually ride this soon, maybe tomorrow. We got to get out to see your dad, Piney, see what he's willing to do with his bike."

Piney shrugged his shoulders, already showing defeat at getting it. JT and Jake could see it clearly on him and Jake put his hand on his shoulder. 

"Tell you what? You and me go out and see your dad and I'll make out like I want to buy it and you're just letting me know about it. If he's willing to sell, I'll get it for the best price."

Piney's attitude changed in seconds, to one of hope. JT knew the last person Piney wanted to talk to, was his dad. They parted on bad terms, his dad telling Piney he was worthless and good for nothing. When he said he was his greatest disappointment, that was all Piney could take and called him every name in the book and then left, tearing the screen door off its hinges. That was eight years ago and they hadn't spoken since. Piney kept in touch with his mom, but she kept letting him know his father hadn't changed his mind yet.

Jake used the Studebaker to get there, putting it down as a test drive and Piney got in with him. They took off to Piney's parent's house, while JT stayed and worked on his bike. Jake and Piney didn't say much about the rift between him and his father, but talked more about the bike and when his father rode it. Piney told him he bought it before the war, so he could ride around. He said his father told him of trips he took and the goods times he had and things he saw. It wasn't long after he met his mother, that his dad no longer rode. Jake had a feeling his dad had given up his own dreams to settle down and raise a family. He was going to go on that assumption and play that angle.

They pulled up to the house and Piney knocked on the door. His mom answered and as soon as she saw him, she started crying and hugged him. Piney hugged her, giving her time to show her feelings and then he asked when his dad would be home. She said he'd be home at five, as usual and asked why. Piney explained about Jake wanting to buy the bike out back and she was more than happy to take him around and show it to him.

Jake and Piney pulled the ragged tarp off the bike and looked it over, then Jake checked the engine, to see if it was seized. When the starter moved through the cycle, Jake smiled and clapped Piney on the back.

"Might be a runner, Piney."

"So, Jake, how do you know my son?"

"Piney works for me, Mrs. Winston. He's one of my mechanics. I was mentioning I was in the market for a bike and he told me that his father had one, he might want to sell."

"Trust me, Jake. He'll sell it. I've been at him for years to get rid of it. It's sat here for almost twenty years and he's never taken the tarp off."

Piney perked up, hearing how his mother would be pushing his father to sell the bike. Jake checked out as much as he could with a visual inspection and was happy with what he saw. 

"Mrs. Winston, could you please tell your husband I'm interested in buying his motorcycle and I'm willing to give him two hundred dollars for it. I'll call and come back tonight after dinnertime and bring the money with me, if he finds that acceptable."

"What's your last name again, Jake?"

"Sorry, never gave it to you. It's Harding. Jake Harding."

Jake and Piney thanked her and left to go back to the shop, but not before she laid some motherly love on her son. Piney seemed embarrassed by it, but Jake let him know it was a good thing, that one day he wouldn't be able to complain about it. Piney thought on that, as they made their way back. Piney looked at Jake and felt closer to this man, than he did to his own father. 

They pulled into the garage lot and Jake parked the car and walked to the bay, where JT was tweaking the engine, trying to get it to run better. Jake came up and hit the switch to stop it. JT looked at him with surprise, wondering why he did it.

"Take the plugs out and clean and gap them. That'll make it run better and you'll have better results."

JT understood and his disgruntled feelings vanished.

"Sounds great though, JT. Doing a good job on it. Looks like Piney might have his bike too. Talked to his mother and she wants it out of the yard. She'll pester the poor guy into selling it."

"Right on, Jake. Piney, looks like we're in business, buddy."

Piney was smiling happily, knowing their plans for riding by the end of the week, were coming to fruition. JT took out the plugs and cleaned them, checking and adjusting the gap on them. He put them back in and pushed the boots on the ends. He primed the starter and with hardly any effort, the bike started and ran as smooth as the day it rolled off the line. JT kicked the stand up and backed it out of the bay. Jake and Piney watched, as JT rode around the lot, getting a feel for it and if anything was out of order, or not. After several laps, he pulled in front of the bay and beamed a smile, showing almost every tooth.

"Take it down the road and give it a bit of a run, clear out the pipes."

JT pulled away and gave it a good amount of throttle, heading down the lane, then hit the brakes hard and tested them. He went left and Jake and Piney listened to the bike fading in the distance.

"Damn, Piney. Bike sounds great, maybe I should have kept it?"

Piney looked at Jake and saw he wasn't serious, but knew he had just let go of something he had held onto for years, because of sentimental value. There was something about Jake that had both guys wondering about him. He came out of nowhere to befriend them and every time they were together, he was enriching and making positive changes to their lives. 

They heard the sound of the Harley coming back, but it had a different tone, then they noticed it was two bikes. JT pulled in and then Lenny. They rode up to the bay and shut the bikes off.

"How are you, Lenny?"

"Okay, how are you, Jake?"

"Doing well, thanks."

Jake shook hands, then turned his attention to JT and the bike.

"How did it run, JT?"

"Great, smooth and the shifting is better now, too. I was turning around to come back, when Lenny was coming down the street. I think the front tire is losing air though. Feels a bit spongy now."

"I'll order a new one tomorrow. Anything else?"

"Nope, don't think so. Just needed a real good cleaning and oiling, bit of tweaking and she's nice. Wanna go for a ride, Piney?"

Piney wasted no time in jumping on. He rocked the bike onto the front tire and agreed it needed air first. JT filled it to the right pressure and Piney fired it up easily, with his weight. He clutched in and shifted it into first. He made a smiley face at everyone and headed down the lane. He turned right and headed towards SR88, letting the throttle out and getting the wind in his hair. He was more than a mile away, when he noticed a car coming up behind him, so he backed off on the throttle and slowed down from sixty to forty. The car tailed him, but wouldn't pass. He figured the best way to deal with it, was pull over, turn around and go back to the shop. He began braking and pulling to the side and waved the guy to go past. The car moved over, but slowed with him.

Piney looked over at the driver and was taken off guard, unsure of what to do, when he saw it was his father. At first, he felt like taking off and racing away from him, but something about the way he was looking at him, made him decide to stop. He edged over as far as he could and his father pulled in behind him. Piney killed the engine, the air becoming thicker, with the silence. He didn't look back, but heard the door close and knew his dad was coming to him. He got off the bike and stood beside it, leaning back against the seat. He picked a spot on the ground to stare at and watched, as the shadow covered it and then stopped.

"Piermont, I need to talk to you, son."

His voice wasn't harsh in tone, more distressed than anything. Piney still didn't look up, but showed resentment on his face.

"Call me Piney, I don't like that name."

"It's your name, son. We named you after your grandfather. Named Lester after your mother's dad."

Piney could hear the change in his dad's voice, when he spoke of his brother.

"Your mother told me you were at the house today with Mr. Harding, looking at the bike. Told me you were working for him. I had to come and let you know, son."

Piney was still refusing to look at him, but raised his head slightly, when he heard he wanted to say something and assumed the worst about the bike.

"Came to tell me, you don't want to sell the bike?"

"No, Mr. Harding can have the bike for all I care."

Piney's eyes twitched up further, hearing the bike was his, but unwilling to show his happiness.

"Son, Lester was killed. The Army sent us notice, after you left."

Piney raised his head and looked at his father. He could see he was doing his best to hold himself together, as he looked at him. Piney got off the seat and in a moment, all that had been between them vanished, the reality sinking in.

"Oh dad, not Lester."

"I'm so sorry son, but he's gone. They'll be sending him home soon and I'd like for us to be there as a family, to welcome him home and lay him to rest."

Piney looked at his father, his stoic look of earlier, melting away and tears came to his eyes. With the same need to respond, they hugged close, grabbing at each other's clothes to hold them together as close as they could. They stood on the side of the road and wept, unaware and uncaring of the cars that went past. They stayed connected, until they assured themselves of their bond, as father and son again. Piney broke away from the hug, but held onto his father, not wanting to break the connection. He wiped his eyes with the heel of his palm, squeezing out the tears, as he caught his breath and checked a few remaining sobs.

"I have to get the bike back, dad. I have to tell JT about Lester."

His father looked at him and knew he had to go back, back to a life of his own choosing. Piney could tell that his father was going to leave, if he went back.

"Come with me, dad. Just say hi to JT, talk with Jake for a bit about the bike at least."

Piney searched his father's eyes, as he searched in his, hope that all animosity was gone and forgotten between them. One thing his father could see in his eyes, was the desperate pleading for him to stay, no matter what the reason. All he needed to do was nod and smiles appeared for both of them. They hugged again, both happy for the reconnection between them. Piney let go and got on the bike, quickly starting it. He readied himself to go and looked at his dad.

"You look like a rider, son."

Those words, he took to heart, for they showed a recognition about him, something his father refused to do for all these years. Piney looked back and slowly turned around and headed back to the shop. His father got in his car and did a U turn, following him back down the road and into the lot. Piney pulled up in front of the bay and killed the engine, getting off and saying nothing to Jake, JT and Lenny, who were looking concerned about him. They saw the '61 Chevy Biscayne pull in the lot and Piney was directing the driver where to park. They watched the driver get out and JT recognized who it was and told the other two. They watched the pair approach them, seeing the somber faces and knew a great hurt was upon them. Piney brought his father over to meet Jake and then put his arm around JT's shoulder and walked him away from the others, without saying anything to them. 

The three men stood and watched Piney talking to JT. Piney couldn't look his best friend in the eyes to talk to him, knowing he would lose the fragile composure he had mustered together. Only his father knew what he said, that made JT hug Piney close and begin to sob. They watched the two best friends comfort each other, then Jake had to ask Piney's father what was going on. With tears welling in his eyes, he looked at strangers and told them of the notice. The two ex-servicemen felt the pain, as if it was one of their own, knowing the anguish of his loss. Jake shook his hand and hugged him, offering his condolences, then Lenny did the same, sharing in his grief. 

They looked back at JT and Piney, understanding their need to share this in private. Jake helped Piney's dad into the small office and sat him on his chair, letting him rest himself. He held out his hand to him and introduced himself.

"I'm so sorry, but I don't know your name, sir."

"Stanton Winston, just call me Stan."

Stan shook Jake's hand and offered up a weak smile. Jake decided on something positive to say.

"You've got a good boy there, Stan. I only met Piney a few days ago, JT, too. Both good boys. If ever two men could be called brothers, they could."

Stan looked at Jake and then to his son and lifelong friend, comforting one another. He looked back at Jake, his eyes telling a story, before he spoke.

"Known JT since he was a young boy, back when he was Johnny. Watched him and Piermont grow up together. It was all over him, that Piermont and I haven't spoken."

Jake knew something had happened in the past, that had caused a rift between father and son and now he was aware that the cause was a friendship.

"What happened, Stan? I can't see how their friendship caused a problem."

"It was back when they were in their teens. Piney and JT were caught stealing a car, just to go joy riding and ended up wrecking it. They were arrested and I ended up having to pay for the damages, because JT's mother was widowed and had no money to pay for it. I told him not to hang around with JT anymore, I forbade him to. We argued and fought over it and he ended up leaving and moving in with JT, over in Lodi. I was worried he would end up doing nothing, but get into trouble with him. When JT talked him into joining up with the Army and become paratroopers, I was afraid I would lose him over there. When his mother told me he was back, I was so happy, but I still couldn't bring myself to forgive him. When Lester enlisted last year, I prayed that God would protect my boy and bring him back safely, just like Piermont. Now he's gone and I can't stand the thought of losing the only son I have left."




Redwood Nine Ch. 03



Jake laid his hand on Stan's shoulder, unable to console him, but knew what Stan was letting go of, knew that he had to get it out and face it. He patted his shoulder and left him be, as he heard a car coming in, with a noisy muffler. He walked out to see Lenny going to the driver and talk to him. Jake figured that must be the other person that JT said needed work done. He looked at JT and Piney, no longer weeping and hugging, but talking, while they leaned on the hood of Stan's car having a cigarette.

He walked over to Lenny and his friend and introduced himself. Lenny introduced Wally to him and explained why he was there.

"Yeah, I kinda got that when he came in. Looks like you came at a bit of a bad time, I'm afraid, Wally."

"Yeah, Lenny was just filling me in on what's happening. That really sucks, losing your brother like that. Younger brother, right?"

"Yeah, his father is in the office and he's taking it pretty hard. Seems there was some bad blood going on between them for a long time and now they have to deal with that. So, you need me to see what you're needing under there and fix what's making all the noise and Lenny, you're looking for a bit of tweaking on your bike, right?" They both agreed and waited for Jake to decide what to do.

"Lenny, bring your bike in the first bay and Wally, you bring yours in on the other one and I'll get it up and see."

They parted and the guys started their vehicles and moved them into the bays, while Jake went to JT and Piney.

"Guys, you should go in the office and talk with Stan. He needs to know things are right between you all. Too much has gone unsaid, for far too long and it's time you dealt with it. Go talk to him and put the past behind you. Whatever happened, isn't worth losing your family over."

They listened and heeded Jake's request and walked together into the office and quietly closed the door behind them. Jake watched them go and felt a goodness in his heart, knowing he had assisted in mending fences in a family. He went to Wally's car and adjusted the hoist pads to sit under the frame properly and hit the lever to raise the car. Lenny and Wally stood together in silence, the feeling that talking, would only lead to bringing up emotions none of them wanted to feel.

Jake looked under the Chevy and tapped the rusty exhaust with his screwdriver handle, from the manifold back, flakes of rusted metal breaking off as he went. He reached the end and looked at Wally forlornly.

"All you have is rust under here, Wally. This needs a new exhaust, front to back. There's not one piece worth saving, or even can be saved."

Wally looked at the rusted pipes and then to Jake, shrugging his shoulders.

"How much for a new one?"

"Pipes, muffler, clamps, hangers and such, around seventy bucks. Labour will run you thirty, so you're looking at a hundred to make it run quietly."

Wally reached in and took out his money and counted off a hundred dollars in twenties, tens and five dollar bills and handed them to Jake. Lenny glanced at the roll and raised an eye, wondering how lucrative Wally's business actually was.

"How soon can the parts be here?"

"I can order them and have them here tomorrow. Should only take an hour or so to replace it."

"Sounds good, Jake, thanks. Be here as early in the morning as I can, then."

With that issue dealt with, Jake lowered Wally's car and lowered the pads, so he could back his car out. Jake went over to the other bay and took a look at Lenny's bike. He looked at Lenny and shook his head at him, after he checked the oil.

"You gotta take better care of it, Lenny. Look at how black the oil is. This should have been changed long ago. The chain is loose, the tires are low, I don't even need a gauge to know that. That's just looking at it. I hate to think of what I'll find if I dig deeper."

"Sorry, Jake. Have a few things on my mind lately."

"So I heard. JT told me about the eviction and have to be out by the end of the week. Something not right there, Lenny. I'm no lawyer, but I know they have to give you more notice than that. Thirty days at least. Oh, got some news, might make that not seem so bad. I was talking to JT and Piney earlier about the storage building there and I agreed to rent it to you guys for four hundred a month. No utilities running, so you'll have to pay for those as well. I said they could start cleaning it out tonight, but if you guys want to get started, I can unlock the doors and let you get started now."

That put a look of happiness on their faces and they were only to happy to get started. Jake smiled to himself, wondering how stopping to lend a hand, had turned into helping others find happiness in their lives. One thing he was happy about, was the company. Clay was a good mechanic, but he was headstrong and didn't listen to reason, some times. He hadn't seen the horrors of life and appreciate what he had here at home. He was always wanting more and never satisfied with what he had already. JT and Piney presented themselves as men, ones who understood about listening to orders and how a life could depend on carrying out those orders, the way they were given. Clay was prone to adapting the rules to suit his purpose, but it rarely worked out in his favour. Hopefully he would learn a thing or two from JT and Piney and listen to them.

"I'll see what I can do to make your bike run a bit nicer, but you're going to have to come in and get those other things attended to and soon. Things going wrong on a bike, are a lot different, than things going wrong in a car, remember that."

Lenny nodded, looking guilty for his neglect and heeding the warning.

"I can come in tomorrow, same time as Wally. We can do some work on my bike, while you fix his car."

Jake turned to him and softened his look of disappointment, hearing the change in his attitude towards something so important.

"Do you good to get your hands on it. You should know your bike inside and out, like it's a part of you. When you know it, the littlest thing is noticed, nothing escapes you."

They listened to Jake describe things and knew he was a seasoned rider, one who knew the spirit of riding. He broke off from his thoughts and beckoned them over to the building and unlocked the door. The dusty smell hit their noses and got them sneezing from it. 

"Didn't say it was in move in condition. Let's get all the doors and windows open and get some fresh air in here."

Lenny and Wally went about opening windows, while Jake unlocked doors and opened them. He pushed up the loading door and a huge cloud of dusty air rushed out. Wally and Lenny came through and they stood to the side, coughing, looking at Jake like he was selling them on a bad idea.

"Give it a bit to air out and I guess put some kind of mask on, until the dust is swept out."

"No shit. I'd suffocate trying to breathe that in. Like you said, needs a bit of tidying up."

They stood talking about the stuff inside and where to put it, when the office door opened and the three men walked out. JT walked in front and it was a heartfelt sight, to see father and son walking together again, a connection made between them. They came over to the building and joined the others, taking a brief glance inside. JT covered his mouth and nose with his T shirt and walked inside and looked at the swirling dust moving around the piles of boxes, discarded parts and general trash and debris. JT came back out and swept the dust off himself and looked at the others looking at him.

He looked primarily at Piney, Lenny and Wally and smiled. He nodded his head towards the building and smirked.

"Home, sweet home, guys."



Redwood Nine Ch. 04



Chapter 4

Vie de la Mort 

Stan invited everyone back to his house, the chance to have his family together again, outweighing the emptiness of loss. All the guys cleaned up as best as they could and Wally took Lenny with him, while Piney, JT and Jake got in with Stan. The ride there, was spent mostly staring out the windows in silence, everyone reflecting on the moment and what place it took them to inside themselves. Stan pulled in the driveway of his ranch bungalow and Wally parked on the street. Several cars were out front, letting them know other people were there as well. As they got to the door, sobbing could be heard and Stan hesitated in turning the knob and going in. Piney put his hand on his dad's shoulder and gave it a soft squeeze. Stan patted his hand and then turned the knob and opened the door.

Lorelei Winston saw her husband and son walk in and burst into tears. They went over to her and hugged her, letting her know that they mended things between them. The others stood patiently at the entrance and waited, a great uneasiness at so much sadness around them. Stan rose and welcomed them in and introduced them to those already there. Lorelei looked at JT, seeing him for the first time, since Piney left home. Her hands opened to him, beckoning him to come to her, her need to bond clearly given to him. JT went over and hugged her, letting her know how bad he felt about Lester. She held his face in her hands, looking into his tear-soaked eyes, seeing the same pain she was feeling herself. She held him close, mothering him to her and JT accepted it graciously. Until the rift started, Lorelei had treated JT as her own son, because he cared about Piney so much.

Stan could see that his wife needed to have a connection with her children and urged Piney and JT to stay with his mother for a bit, while he took the others to get some of the food on the table and go out back to look at the bike. Piney hugged his dad and for the first time since the divide between them started, he had a reason to thank him. Stan kissed his son's cheek and held him tightly, hearing his son say something positive to him. He gave him as fatherly a look as he could and patted his cheek softly. 

Piney went to his mother and Stan took the others into the kitchen, where paper plates and everything needed, was laid out. They filled their plates and went out back, standing together and holding them, as they ate. Stan came out and walked past them, straight over to the bike and pulled the tarp off, then stood looking at it. The guys could see he was thinking of something, as he stared at it, then he turned and came over to them.

"How's the food? Help yourself to more if you want."

They thanked him and Jake noticed Stan's divided attention between them and the bike. He could tell there was still a connection to it, some untold reason he had held onto it all these years.

"Had some good times on it, I bet?"

Stan kept looking at the bike and smiled.

"Yeah. Saw a lot of America on it. Met many of its people along the way."

"So why did you stop riding, if you don't mind me asking?"

Stan looked at Jake, saw it was an honestly asked question and looked at the ground and then back to the bike. After a brief look, he turned back to Jake.

"Time to stop rambling, I guess. Met Lorelei and had Piermont a year later. Always meant to keep it in good shape, just never had time. Always hoped he'd want it one day, but he seems to be into cars and no interest in bikes. That's okay, I know it's going to be in good hands with you, Jake. I know you'll fix it back up and get it running nice again. She's a good runner, you'll see."

"It's a Chief, isn't it?"

"Yes. '39. The twelve hundred was a smooth engine, much smoother than the Harley V twins. More power too. Got it late in the production year and that's why it has the big fenders. They weren't on most of the other '39's and I lucked out. I like the look of them. I guess it's a bit '39 and a bit '40 actually."

Jake could clearly see why Stan had held onto the old bike all these years. He had wanted Piney to enjoy what he had, those many years ago and share that with him. It was the dream of a man, a moment in his life, when he had felt freedom. A feeling that had possessed him and was held dear by him, in hopes it would help his son to become a better man, the way he felt it had changed his life. Jake gently put his hand on Stan's shoulder and walked him towards the bike and away from the others. When he felt he was out of earshot, he turned Stan towards him.

"Stan, I really feel I have to be honest with you and come clean about something."

Stan looked at Jake with questions written on his face, wondering when he had been lied to.

"The bike isn't for me, Stan. It's for Piney. He was so worried about having to face you and talk to you about it, positive you'd never sell him the bike. So, I was going to buy it for him. He really wants to ride with JT and the others standing over there. It's his dream, Stan. One he wants to live out. I'm real sorry about pulling a fast one on you, Stan, but I was just doing it for your son."

Stan listened to Jake, heard everything he said and stared at him blankly. Little by little, all that was heard, started finding its way to his heart and helped him understand what it meant. He looked at Jake with teary eyes, ones that were finding a peace in his soul. JT and Piney came out at that point, with plates of food and stood with their friends, glancing over at Jake and Stan by the bike.

"What do you think Jake's saying to your dad, Piney?"

"Hopefully to just give him the bike for free."

"Don't you wish. No, really, look at your dad. He almost seems happy about something."

That had all the guys looking at the pair by the bike. Jake was talking to Stan and it looked like what he was saying, was making him smile, like it was bringing him a peacefulness. Stan reached out and shook Jake's hand, clasping his other one over it. The guys could see that Stan was grateful for something and Jake held Stan's shoulder with his other hand, as Stan talked. When he finished, the two men hugged, patting each other's backs. The guys all looked at one another, mostly to Piney.

Stan and Jake broke apart and Stan turned to Piney and waved him over, a smile on his lips, tears still in his eyes. Piney walked over to them and looked at Jake, then to his dad.

"Jake and I were just talking about the bike, son. He told me he wasn't buying it for himself, but for you. Pier....Piney, this bike was always meant to be yours. I wanted you to ride it and see what I got to see, feel what I got to feel. I was just waiting until you were old enough to give it to you, then all that happened between us. I'm so sorry, son. I realize it was wrong of me to try and separate you two. I know how close you two are and I should never have tried to stop that. I should have been a better father to you and to JT. I know how lost he became, when his father was killed, how he had no one to guide him anymore. I should have realized that and taken him under my wing, instead of turning him away. Instead, all I did was cause problems for everyone, because I was mad and acted stupidly and didn't think first. I've lost so much time with you, I don't want to lose anymore. Please forgive me son."

Piney was standing stalk still, listening to the outpouring of emotion from his father. Every word he spoke, seemed to erase more and more of the hurt he held inside, until he finished and felt nothing but love for his father again. His tear stained face smiled in peacefulness and pulled his father into a bear hug. His father returned it equally, knowing his forgiveness was granted and his son was returning to him. They wept together openly and Jake patted both their shoulders and walked away back to the others. JT looked at Jake with wonder, trying to imagine what he had said to Stan. Jake nodded his head, not saying anything right off.

"Looks like I'm going on a trip."

JT seemed puzzled how that came out of what he had just saw.

"Where to, Jake?"

"Going to be riding the coast. Do a run to Big Sur, then up the coast to Eureka and back."

"Why are you doing the run?"

Jake looked at JT and then over to Piney and his dad, still embraced in bonding.

"Promised Stan, I'd take you boys on a run and show you, what he can't."

"Piney's dad wants us to go on a run together? Why?"

"He knows you boys are forming a club. He always wanted to go riding with Piney, it turns out, so now that he doesn't feel he can ride anymore, he's asked me to. You boys ready to club ride?"

JT looked around at Lenny, knowing he was the only other rider there, asking with his eyes if that was something he wanted to do. Lenny shrugged, his expression saying he wasn't sure. They walked a short distance away to talk.

"Have to call Otto and see if he can make it, Chico too. My bike is almost ready, yours is getting taken care of tomorrow and now we just have to get this bike back to the shop and make it a runner."

"My bike may be ready, but I still have a place to find."

JT put his hand on Lenny's shoulder and looked at him squarely, keeping his voice low.

"You work at Oswald construction, right? There's got to be material lying around at the sites, that we can use. Once we get the place cleaned out, we can make some rooms to start with and then worry about a shitter and kitchen later. This run isn't happening for some time yet, man. Just check out what we can get our hands on easy enough and we'll get a truck to haul it to the clubhouse."

"They have a yard truck, that they leave on site. They use it to run material from the drop point at the main road and distribute it to the lots. No plates on it, but the tank is always full and the keys are easy to get."

JT and Lenny shook hands happily. JT nodding and Lenny agreeing.

"Done deal, man."

"Done deal, brother."

JT stood beside Jake and looked at Piney and his dad talking about the bike. The loss of Lester was still in the background, but on the surface, they were enjoying the life they still had to live. Finally, they walked over to the rest and Stan came up to JT. He looked at him in a way JT hadn't seen come from an older man in a long time. It was the way his father used to look at him when he was younger. Stan walked JT away and slowly paced his steps, just moving away for a little privacy.

"JT, there's been too much hurt, over something so minor. I owe you an apology, son. I should never have taken such a hard line with you boys. You and Piney are like brothers and you were like a son to me, JT. After your father died, I should have done more to fill in for him, but instead of fathering you, I ended up trying to control you. It was the disappointment I felt, when I had such high hopes for you both. I thought you were going to drag Pierm... Piney down with you and didn't want him wasting his life, getting in trouble. I shouldn't have acted the way I did."

JT didn't interrupt Stan, as he confided to him and shared what had been between them, all these years.

"When you boys went off to war, I prayed every day for both of you to come back safely. I knew in my heart that you wouldn't let anything happen to him, so I became more concerned for you at that point. When you boys stepped off the plane and I saw you, I was so happy and relieved. I thought we could put the past behind us, but I had done so much damage between us, JT. You boys wanted nothing to do with me and I didn't blame you. You weren't going to listen to me anymore, weren't going to heed my words to do what I thought was right."

JT was holding it together on the outside, but inside, his stomach churned, the emotions that Stan was stirring up from the past, were coming back and being felt. This time, they were being dispelled, giving him the chance to let go of them, but feeling them still, brought back memories of what was.

"I was so wrong, JT. I know it now. I don't own you, or have the right to command you at will. You're both supposed to make your own decisions and all I was supposed to do, was guide you, explain what happens in life and let you decide which way to go."

Stan paused and hesitated slightly, as he went to put his hand on JT's shoulder.

"You're a good man, JT. You've turned out fine, son. You have a good heart and a good head on your shoulders. You know enough to think first and act later, Piney doesn't. You watched over him all these years and you've been more of a brother to him, than he was to Lester."

JT felt Stan's hand squeeze him tighter at the mention of his name, 

"I want that again, JT. I want to be a father for you again and feel I have gained back a son, for the one I lost."

JT lifted his head slowly, turning to Stan as he did. He saw that look, the one a man wore when he was proud of someone and that someone was him. It took little else for him to let go of the past and accept what was given to him with love.

"Oh, Pops."

In the instance of hugging, JT was once again feeling grounded, felt he belonged somewhere and stopped feeling alone and separated from family. Just calling Stan, 'Pops' again, was a sound from his lips that brought happiness to his heart.

The guys watched them and not one felt less of JT, for his show of love and willingness to forgive, but instead, made them prouder of the man who would lead them. JT and Stan came back, teary smiles on both of them, that Piney took in his own heart and felt deeply, wiping away that bitter moment in time that had divided them and closing the ends together to erase it. 

Wally and Lenny were becoming unsettled, knowing it was proper to pay one's respects, but time was ticking and work needed to be done. Lenny turned to Jake and whispered that they wanted to go and clean, but weren't sure if that was disrespectful. Jake nodded, understanding what was asked and said he'd take care of it.

"Stan, I'm so happy that you've been able to work things out with Piney and JT and we'll come by soon and pick up the bike. I know I speak for all of us here, when I say we are so sorry for your loss. War doesn't solve a thing and does nothing but kill young men, we know that. I feel so bad, that your son had to be one of those to pay that price. You let me know when he comes home, because I'd like to pay my respects to him as well and say goodbye to a fallen comrade. His passing should be honoured in the highest manner possible."

Stan looked at Jake with deep feelings of gratitude, proud to know a man who knew honour, as a part of his life. He nodded most agreeably, finding it hard to get words out. He looked at Jake and then to the others, pausing on JT and Piney standing together.

"I'll let you know, Jake. I'm honoured, I really am, thank you."

They shook warmly and with compassion, the bond forming between them as friends, becoming stronger. When Jake felt it was a good time, he broke Stan away from the moment to tell him of their need to go.

"Stan I truly would like to stay, same as these guys, but we have a storage building that needs emptying and cleaning in the worst way. Lenny needs to move in somewhere by the end of the week, seems developers have him evicted from his house and they did it somewhat illegally, in my book. So please forgive us for having to go. Thank you, for your kind hospitality and we'll see your wife on the way out and say the same. It's been a great pleasure meeting you, Stan, it really has."

Stan looked at him and then to the others, seeing that need to go, written on each one. He looked at his son and saw the conflict of going and staying on his face.

"You know what? Let me get changed quickly and I'll come and help. Lorelei has her family with her and doesn't really need me to be here and I'm sure she'd agree, that helping my sons and their friends, is more important than standing around feeling sad and sorry for myself."

They all agreed wholeheartedly that he should join them, so Stan began thanking them. JT got his attention.

"Hey Pops, let's get moving."

Stan heard JT use the name and felt a warmth come over him. He smiled and nodded happily, as he hurried inside to change. The guys all stood for a moment and took stock of everything. So much had happened in such a short span of time, it was hard to keep up with everything and keep it in order. One thing Jake realized straight off, his ordered world he had created, was now going to be filled with chaos and confusion, until an new order was made to make things right again.

They went in and said goodbye to Lorelei, wishing her peace and they could see she was smiling through the pain, as she held Piney and JT to her. From a great pain of loss, she was able to have the great joy, of having her family whole again. When Stan came out in his work clothes, they said goodbye to everyone and piled into the cars once more. Stan did his best to keep the mood happy and let Piney put whatever music he wanted to hear on. They enjoyed the ride back, the sombreness of the moment past and the chance to be back to a more normal feeling, happily received.

They pulled into the garage lot, to find Ann-Marie, Suzy, Gloria, Mary and Keith, sitting on the picnic table waiting for them. Once again, things didn't work out as planned, as they had said they'd be back after work to see them. Wally parked, but Stan dropped everyone off and said he would go buy some beer and snacks. Once Stan was gone, the reason for all of them being there became apparent, when Suzy explained. Jake went in to the garage to close things up, knowing nothing more needed to be done today, the guys doing such great work and getting farther than he hoped

They had been sitting in the room after a good shower and cleaning up, when a woman knocked at their door. She said she was the wife of the owner and wanted to know who they were. The girls explained their lie, as best as they could to convince her they were real guests and it was the clerk who screwed up. She wasn't buying it and when they said they had friends next door who would vouch for them, she asked why they were staying there and not recorded in the book. One thing led to another and the woman asked them to leave. Keith had brought them one by one to the shop and when no one was here, they became worried about what to do.

Jake walked past them and opened the doors to the building, letting it air out a bit more, as talk of where to sleep became an issue. The girls were wanting to go back to their own places, but leaving their new beaus behind wasn't an appealing prospect. The guys started going in and dragging out the junk and debris, stacking it and making room on the dock, for everything to come out. They used the old pump truck to move the skids out, but it was leaky and would lose height rapidly, unless they continued pumping. Bit by bit, more and more of the place became exposed and ideas began happening. 

The girls moved the picnic table as far away from the dust and dirt billowing out the doors, as the guys stirred up years of settled filth. Stan pulled in and parked, then came to them with several cases of beer and a couple of bags of snacks. He asked if they were wanting any and they immediately said that was the closest they were coming to dinner that night. He looked at them with surprised concern, wondering why they had no way to have a proper meal.

"Would you young ladies like to have something better to eat? There's plates and plates of food at the house, that no one is going to eat. You're very welcome to come and eat whatever you'd like."

The girls found the idea more to their liking, a selection of things to choose from, instead of popcorn and chips. Suzy was curious enough to ask about the reason for all the food.

"Were you guys having a party?"

Stan looked at the innocence on Suzy's face, completely unaware of the death of his son. He became a bit unsure of how to approach the subject, becoming more nervous in his mannerisms.




Redwood Nine Ch. 04



"Are you okay, mister?"

Stan caught himself and took a few deep breaths, assuring them he was fine. They could see a sadness in his eyes, despite his smile worn weakly. He knew they were aware and lowered his eyes.

"My son, Lester, was killed in Vietnam a few days ago. We just got news of it today. That's where we all were earlier. My oldest boy Piney and JT, came with their friends and paid their respects to my wife and I. We just got back here to try and clean this place up."

Suzy and the other girls felt for him deeply, all expressing their sadness at his son's passing. Mary turned to look at Piney, seeing a man she felt an admiration for, beyond her own secret lusting for him. He was a man she could see had a commitment and had a strength to keep to that commitment. Knowing he had just lost his brother, she saw that he wasn't about to dwell in the misery of loss, but was dedicated to being with his other brothers and helping them live. She looked at the big Irishman and felt the lust of physical want of him, but Piney touched her on a deeper level, one that opened some pages in her heart and wrote words about him there. 

When the guys saw that Stan was back, they took a break and dusted themselves off and pulled down their makeshift masks. They saw the girls acting warmly towards him and knew he must have told them of his loss. Stan turned and saw the guys coming over.

"Hey guys, the girls were just telling me that this was the closest they were coming to dinner tonight. You won't mind if I take them back to the house for a bit and let them eat?"

Piney was first to encourage them to go, then the others agreed and urged them to go and enjoy the food, as well. It was obvious they had nothing to do there, but get dusty and dirty and eat junk food, so they agreed and Stan had them all get in his car and he took them to his place. The guys were happy for a break and opened the beer and bags of chips, doing nothing more than wiping their hands on their pants and reaching in the bags. They talked over some of the ideas and they came up with a general floor plan, of how it would eventually look like. Without thinking, Wally began rolling a joint in front of everyone, including Jake.

"What's that you got there, Wally?"

At first, Wally didn't equate what he was doing as anything untoward, until he realized who asked the question. At first, he tried to cover it up, but realized how stupid it seemed. He looked at the others and in guilt, came clean to Jake.

"It's just some pot, Jake. I like to have a hit after work and unwind. Find it works better than booze and no hangover in the morning."

Jake looked at Wally's face, reading it and his eyes. He motioned for him to pass it over and Wally hesitantly gave it to him. Jake smelled it and felt it, then passed it back.

"Loco weed. Tried that down in Santa Fe one time. Tasted like burning rope, can't say it did much for me."

That had the tension level drop immeasurably, in an instant, as they waited for Jake's reaction. He watched Wally finish rolling and lit it up, sniffing the air.

"Smells a bit different from what I remember."

Wally took several puffs, then testing how far Jake was willing to allow it, he motioned to pass it to him. Jake looked at it and then quickly to the others, seeing looks of expectation on their faces. As casually as he could, he just reached over, took it and smelled the smoke, then took several small draws like Wally had done and then blew it out. The guys waited with baited breath, waiting to see what Jake said.

"A lot nicer tasting than the stuff I tried years back. Smoother too. The other shit made me just about barf my lungs out."

The acceptance of it made everyone relax and feel at ease, as they took their turn and passed it on. Jake watched them all and studied their reactions, not seeing anything out of the ordinary in them. Once it had gone around and finished, he saw that eyes were closing and smiles were worn a little easier. For all the talk of the horrors of the plant, that kept being bombarded on them, he was failing to see any signs of what they talked about.

"Well, I don't see all the hoopla about the stuff myself. It doesn't seem to affect you guys the way they says it does, so once again, I'm going to have to believe what I see and not believe a word of what those assholes in Washington say. I don't mind you doing it, just not during work, or anywhere customers might catch wind of it, okay?"

All the guys agreed without question, thanking Jake for his understanding about it. The last of the beer in their hands was drank down and they got back to cleaning, now with a happier disposition to go on. In another hour of dedicated work, they had the bulk of the stuff out and the floor was almost bare, except for some office furniture and materials, as well as things they felt were usable. They were sitting on the table, enjoying the beer and snacks again, when Stan drove back in with the girls. 

They all got out and came over, giving hugs and kisses to their partners, happy to be well fed. Stan looked at all the stuff moved out and peeked inside.

"It's all empty. Guess my help wasn't really needed."

Ann-Marie saw the look of disappointment come across his face and it saddened her to see it. She thought of earlier and knew it would maintain his happy mood.

"Mr. Winston, we needed you, thanks and tell Mrs. Winston we'll be happy to come by any time and see her. She's so nice."

Stan's face did brighten at her words and then looked at all of them, a loving smile showing warmly.

"No, thank you, girls. You have no idea how much happiness you brought to her, by coming over. She truly enjoyed having you there and getting to know you all. She told me it was almost like having a daughter and her friends over."

The guys listened to the girls talking to Stan and saw that the worst of the pain was over, his smile easily worn and a happy disposition was in his heart. They saw how he doted on them, treating them almost like daughters of his own and they lapped it up. It was just hard for them to imagine Stan's reaction, if he knew about their little Circle Jerk of Ecstasy, or their enjoyment of romping about naked. Regardless, they didn't want to do anything, that could upset the mood and destroy what had taken so much to achieve. 

Stan felt the need to leave and be with his wife, but thanked everyone for their kindness and would be honoured to have them there, when Lester came home. They assured him they would be and he made sure he went around to everyone to shake hands and received kisses on the cheek from a couple of the girls. He stood finally in front of his son and JT, both showing a new happiness on their faces, ones that had been lost for such a long time. He hugged JT first, letting him know how pleased he was to have him back in his life. JT smiled even happier and said he was glad to have a father again. Stan gently held JT's cheek with his palm, a few gentle pats and a look that said all it needed to.

He looked slightly up at Piney, now a couple of inches taller than he was, looking at his only flesh and blood.

"I love you, son."

Piney's composure quivered, as the words burned into his heart, waiting in need all these years, the need to hear them. His smile broadened, as his eyes held a look of inner peace.

"I love you, too, dad."

The equal reaction in need, to hug, had them bonded in their connection, still strong in affirming it completely in their hearts it was all real. Stan reluctantly let him go and waved goodbye, as he drove away from them. The air became alive with silence, as they all stood there together. Eyes turned to look at one another, an unspoken question seemed to be shared by them all, 'What do we do now? The thoughts of sleep were getting close and most weren't in the mood to rough it out. It was nine forty now and something had to happen. Jake sensed it too and could see no one's mind was coming up with a solution to it. He went over to Keith and asked him about the woman at the motel.

"Tell me, who was the woman at the motel, who asked you to leave?"

Keith told him he didn't know her name, just that she was in charge. 

"She's the owner's wife, she said. Bloody, great ring on her finger to prove it."

Jake was pretty sure he knew who she was, but his next question would confirm it.

"What did she look like?"

Keith used his hands to explain, as much as his words, to describe her.

"Aye, she was a right, nice looking woman. Five foot eight, or so, red hair, great ti.., you know, breasts. Her attitude was'ne all that nice, I'm afraid, wee bit too much on the bitchy side for my liking. Said she was there all week, so we're buggered to get back in again."

"I think I can help you guys with this one and you might not even owe me, if it works out the way I'm thinking."

Jake walked into the garage and took off his overalls. He cleaned his hands and then washed his face and brushed his hair in place roughly, with his fingers. He walked to his bike and looked over at the group standing by the building, as he put his helmet on. He looked off into space and thought about times past, a moment remembered, a smile appearing from thoughts of it. He started the Panhead and warmed it up, then pulled up to the group and stopped, the heavy thumping, pounding the air and reverberating between the two buildings.

"Just sit tight. I have to go see someone and maybe we'll have a place for you to sleep. Smoke another one of those joints if you like, no one should be coming in now."

It was his wink and the smile that left them guessing most, as he shifted into gear and roared down the lane way and out onto the street, the exhaust notes declining in volume, to a muted silence again. Eyes turned to Keith, wanting to know what Jake had asked him. He told them he just wanted to know who the woman was at the motel. With nothing else to go on, it left more questions, than answers, as a couple of joints were rolled and enjoyed. 

There was little more, than dead calm at the motel, only the faint sound of a TV on in the back office, the canned laughter louder than anything else, made it a comedy show. The sound of a motorcycle interrupted the peacefulness and grew in volume, until it was certain, the destination was the motel. The noise made loose items rattle and buzz in the room, as it vibrated through the thin walls. The red haired woman watching the show, got up and closed her robe tighter around herself, then turned off the TV, walking around the outline of the late Mr. Henderson and what remained of him, then out of the back room, ducking through police tape, to go towards the counter.

Outside, Jake was doing his best to fix himself up and look as presentable as he could. The one thing he knew he had to do, was make sure he looked at the woman the right way when he saw her and his chances in succeeding in his goal, was almost a certainty. He walked to the door and opened it, just entering in, as the woman came from the back room. Both of them stopped where they were, when they made eye contact. Whether Jake had succeeded in putting forth enough of the look he wanted to give her, didn't matter. The fire that ignited in her hazel-green eyes, was more than enough for Jake to see, that a return to the past was on her mind.

"Hi, Marlene, great to see you.

"Hi Jake, great to see you too. So, what do I owe this unexpected pleasure to?"

The directness never threw Jake off his game, his knowledge of who and what Marlene Brock was, was well known.

"I heard there was a bit of trouble here earlier. Some friends told me there was an impromptu baseball game that happened and got out of hand."

"That's about as close as I'd call it, too. What the fuck is wrong with people, Jake?"

"Not sure how to answer that one, Marlene. Seems there's something wrong with everybody."

Marlene raised an eyebrow at Jake, her expression changing and body language adjusting to it.

"And what's wrong with me?"

"Not a thing, Gorgeous, not a thing."

The attitude went right back to one of interest and she invited him to come inside. She ducked through the tape and held it for him, then skirted the outline and blood and showed Jake to the couch. Jake looked at the outline and the dark stains on the thin carpet and then to Marlene, who chose to sit to his side, in the arm chair. 

"See you've had the decorators in. Can't say I'm fond of the new style. I prefer the less dramatic look, helps me feel more at ease."

"I couldn't agree with you more, Jake. So, just here to see if I'm okay, or was there something else you wanted to talk to me about?"

As if on cue, Marlene crossed her legs and allowed a good view of them past her knees, as the pink, satin robe slid away. Jake could feel her eyes studying him, as he continued to look at the carpet, then started to chuckle to himself.

"Jesus, Marlene. You still have the most beautiful legs I've ever seen. No, sexy. Definitely the sexiest legs, I've ever seen."

Marlene couldn't help but smile at herself, enjoying the tease and flirt with Jake and getting what she wanted out of him. She stretched them out straight and caressed her hands up from her knees, slowly making the robe expose more of her thighs.

"Okay, enough of these, tell me what you want, Jake?"

"I have some friends down the street that are in a bit of a bind. Seems they got a job with me and moved from Lodi to Charming and of course, your place being as fine an establishment as it is, chose to rent rooms here, so they could be just down the road from work. But see, here's the problem. They finished their first day of work, plus help me clear out that big storage building and deal with some terrible news, one just lost his brother in Vietnam. We came back from his grieving parent's place and they find their girlfriends and other buddy sitting there with all their stuff."

Marlene was becoming more and more immersed in the telling, as Jake worked his brand of seduction on her. As well as she knew his weaknesses, he knew hers.

"We asked them why they were there and they said a woman threw them out of their rooms. Said they weren't registered, or something, so she tossed them out. I was shocked. I thought no way would Marlene do something like that to these good people. There must be some kind of mistake, I mean, they even had the key to give back. That couldn't have been you, I know it couldn't, you wouldn't do something like that."

Jake finished it off by placing his hand just above her knee. He looked in her eyes deeply, searching for her answer. Marlene looked at Jake, her expression one of compassion, her look showing her tender side, then quickly changed to a snide laugh.

"Fuck Jake, you're getting better with age. You could never have pulled off a story like that, without giving it away, long before you got that far. So, the freeloaders still need a place to sleep?"

Jake smirked and chuckled, shaking his head at himself.

"I thought I had it pegged. Looked like I had you there at one point."

"Yeah, you did. That part about the losing the brother, that was good."

Jake went serious on that and Marlene looked at him in wonder.

"What? What did I say?"

"He really did lose his brother, Mar. That, I'm not bullshitting you about, that's straight. I really was at his parents house and all those kids you tossed out, including me, are going to welcome him home when he lands and pay our respects, to lay him to rest."

Marlene took his hand and held it in hers, showing true response of her sadness in her eyes.

"Seriously? Damn, Jake. I'm so sorry. How many more kids have to die? It just gets worse and worse, every time I hear the news. I was watching some stupid comedy show just now, because the news depressed me too much. Nothing like looking at the screen and seeing the outline and the announcer talking about it and then looking there and seeing it. I just wanted to waste some time until I was tired enough to go to sleep."

"How long are you staying to run the place?"

"As long as it takes to hire three people to take over for the other ones. Once I know they won't screw it up, I'm back south again. It's nice here in the summer, it's just too cold in the winter. Clive says he hates it up here. He only has this place to use as a write off and couldn't give a shit about it. I kind of like it, myself. Little fixing up and some paint. I certainly like the scenery."

Her hands gave away her feelings, as much as her eyes did, as she looked at Jake.

"I can help you out I think, if you can help me out."

Marlene took it intimately and leaned forward, her bountiful cleavage coming into focus and played its part.

"What do you have in mind?"

Marlene's playfulness showed in her smile and her mannerisms, as she waited for Jake to tell her.

"I think I can get a couple of the people you need right away. Couple of the girls back there would be more than happy to work here for you. Better than serving tables, or taking off their clothes. They seem smart enough, from what I've seen, so they shouldn't be a problem. Anything that needs fixing, got a strapping, big Irishman you just kicked out, could turn his hand at a few things for you. Want the place to look nice, you got a live in handyman to do whatever you need. How's that?"

Marlene was smiling happier and happier as he went on. Once he finished, she looked at him coyly.

"So, what would you like in return, Jake?"

Her hand found its way onto his leg and was rubbing it softly and suggestively, her eyes focusing on his.

"Need rooms for those people I mentioned just now. Would really help in me closing my place, so I have the chance to do other things, I'd rather be doing."

Marlene was good and read every word between the lines easily. She patted his leg and rubbed it, looking into his eyes. 

"Go. Tell your friends to come back and have their rooms. I'll meet them in the morning and see if I agree with your assessment of them. I do like the Irishman, very cute. And Jake, hurry your ass back as well."

Jake smiled and pulled her into a kiss. 

"Darlin', once that gate is locked, I'm not waiting for anybody to get here. Leave me some hot water for a shower and a spot on the bed beside you and I'll be there to warm it soon."

Marlene had lust written all over her. As much as they were no more than good friends together, at best, they lusted hard for each other in bed. One thing both of them knew, since they met and since they parted, was first loves never die, they just get brought back, to relive at a later time. Whenever fate brought them together, they never wasted the chance to rekindle the flame and burn in its sinful pleasure. Clive Brock might have been 'lucky' enough to marry her, after she left Jake, but he never got all of her heart when she said, 'I do'. Jake had won that prized part of her, despite his misgivings. It took little to retain it in her though, knowing she had the best of everything from one man and one man who brought out the best of everything sexual in her.

Jake kissed her with that familiar passion and she responded with her body presenting itself to him. He broke away and looked at her on the verge of entering lust, smiled at her and patted her firm ass. 

"Hold that thought, I'll be right back. Just leave the keys behind the counter for them and they can get them themselves. I want you ready for me."

Jake turned and made his way to the tape and carefully stepped through. Once he made it and stood, he heard Marlene call his name. He stopped and turned to her, as she let the robe slip from her shoulders and slide to the floor. The sheer white nightie barely covered her anywhere, its shortness almost exposing her crotch, while the deep vee plunged so dramatically, there was no chance to miss the view she presented




Redwood Nine Ch. 04



"Hurry."

Jake winked and smiled, heading out the front and started his bike. He rode back, smiling happily, knowing many smiles were going to be made. Pulling through the gate and down the lane, the faint aroma of pot could be smelled. He stopped right beside them and shut off his bike. All eyes were upon him and the news he had for them. As patient as they were for him to do his thing, it was now just after eleven and bodies were needing rest.

"Ready for a good night's sleep you guys? Get your asses down to the motel and pick up the keys behind the counter. You've got rooms for the week and maybe jobs, we'll see tomorrow about that, but for now, you have your beds to sleep in again, so get down there, pronto. I have to get this place closed and back there myself."

There was as much confusion, as there was happiness. For all that they had a place to sleep, it was what Jake had done, that had them wondering.

"So, Jake. What gives? How did you get our rooms back.?"

"JT, just remember this. Ask me no questions, I'll tell you no lies."

Jake followed saying that, with a wink to him. The office was closed, the bay doors down and locked on the garage. The doors on the building were closed and everyone except JT was in the car. 

"I'll see you there then, Jake."

"Yes, on you go, I'm good here. See you and Piney in the morning. Go, go."

Jake urged him to go, as he sat on his bike and started it. He followed the car to the road and then locked the gate as quickly as he could. It wasn't a race to get there, but Jake ended up passing Wally and pulled in first. The door to the backroom was closing, as JT came in to the office to get the keys, briefly catching sight of red hair and head to toe skin. He smiled at the door, thinking of Jake on the other side. He was almost laughing, when he reached the car and handed Wally his key. No matter how much they pestered him, he wouldn't say what he knew about Jake's après work activities. Just the joy of a hot shower and lying between the sheets, was enough to bring bodies together and sleep to come over them fast.

Jake broke the silence of the still, morning air, the twin pipes thrumming their notes in perfect harmony. Curtains were pulled aside, tired faces looking at the source of the noise and closing them again. Jake put it in gear and slowly made his way down to unit eleven, then sat for a moment, wondering if he should check and make sure the guys were up. Thinking back on yesterday, he decided they could sleep a little longer, if they had to, but he'd call Marlene by nine, if they weren't at work yet. He pulled out and twisted the throttle, instantly feeling the fresh air swirl around and then begin rushing into his face, as he shifted up through the gears. As good as it felt, it was short-lived, as he approached the gate and slowed.

He unlocked the gate and pushed it open, then went back to his bike. He went to ride up to the office and saw the bay doors open and JT and Piney busy working on their first car, making him sit and wonder. He slowly rode up and parked beside the office and shut the bike off, brushing his hair back with his fingers. He looked at JT bent over one fender and Piney bent over the other, and watched as they seemed to be racing to see who could change their spark plugs and wires first. JT was finishing his third and Piney was just starting to gap his third one. Jake decided on not interrupting and just watched them.

JT pulled the last boot from the plug and went to work loosening the plug with a speed handle. Piney was using a ratchet and socket with an extension, tightening up his third and snapping the boot over the end. He pulled his last boot off and went as fast as he could to get the plug out and catch up to JT, who was gapping the electrode. Piney tossed the old plug and took the new one and slid his gap tester in. JT was tightening his side, when Piney slid his plug in the hole and started the threads going and twisted his big wrist as fast as he could. JT pulled off his plug wire and put the cap end in, then Piney started doing the same. JT pushed the boot cap on and stood back, just a few seconds before Piney.

"Good come back try, Piney. Nice speed JT. Mind telling me how you got things started up without a key?"

JT and Piney laughed, knowing Jake would be asking that question.

"You really must have been in a hurry to get back to the motel. The side door over there was wide open, wasn't even closed. We jumped the fence, because we were tired of waiting. We've been here for an hour already."

"Speaking of the motel, let's hear it. Who is she?"

Jake could see the guys weren't guilty of anything more than hopping the fence, thinking back and realizing he very well could have forgot the door in his haste. He lost little time thinking about it, as the day was starting off far better than he expected. The morning wake up was something he truly missed with Marlene, as she felt the first thing he should feel is pleasure and her soft lips knew how to awaken and arouse that in him easily. He looked at the guys, knowing there was no skirting this and passing it off lightly.

"Marlene Brock, an old friend. We go back a long ways to when we were young and foolish and fell in love. We lasted as long as we did on how good we were in bed, but out of there, that proved hard in making work. She has rich tastes and you guys can see, just looking around, I ain't that guy. We both knew it, so she went in search of Mr. Money. She met Clive Brock and married him. She's happy enough with what money can buy, but she has no real desire to be with him in bed. That's sort of where I fit in. Whenever she makes it into Charming, we always scratch that itch, until the next time. So, going back to last night and me saying to Keith, you might not owe me, depending on how it turns out, I may just end up owing you guys. If you only knew how she likes to wake me up and I ain't telling."

That had the guys laughing and well informed enough, to know who their boss was, outside of work. They all lit up a cigarette and looked at the car they had just finished. Jake got in and turned the key, starting it up and revving it a bit. The engine ran smooth and quiet, all eight cylinders firing properly. Jake shut it off and got out, then looked at them, nodding approvingly. 

"Very nice guys. So how long did it take?"

JT smiled and said it was under five minutes to remove and replace the wires and plugs. Jake looked at them, quite proud of themselves for their efforts. He patted them both on the shoulder and walked in to get his overalls on. Piney closed the hood and put the car over on the finished side, then walked over to the next car, a '62 Oldsmobile Starfire. The starter whined loudly, when Piney turned the key, so he got out and waved JT over. JT and Jake went over and the three of them pushed the heavy car into the bay. Piney had the hoist set up and went to work raising it, while JT went to the rack and took the next order. He grabbed the keys for the '59 Monarch and brought the lumbering beast up to the front of the bay and stopped. Jake watched them and could see they were giving this their best efforts. Before JT got started working on the Mercury, Jake called him into the office. Piney was busy with the broken starter, already getting the old one off and the new one out of the box to put on, as JT passed him and patted his shoulder. 

Jake was sitting behind his desk and had JT close the door to the shop. 

"I wanted to talk to you about running the office here. I know it doesn't look like much, but if you don't keep up, it can be a miserable pain in the ass to do. The reason I want to show you, is this. I'm getting on in years, fifty eight this November and I'd like to think I'll get to do more than just fix cars and ride my bike around town. I'd like to take a vacation or two, before I stop riding. I been at this since 1949, when I took over from Carl Ingstrom and he got too old to run it anymore. I haven't had a day off, except weekends and the odd sick day here and there, since then. Twenty years, guys. That's a long time to just spend working and doing not much else. Last night made me do some thinking."

JT smirked at him, thinking of what he imagined happened.

"I bet it made you do some thinking."

Jake saw the humour in it and laughed too, but focused on where he wanted his thoughts to go.

"Yeah, and a lot of other things than thinking, but really, I did do some thinking on where I'm at and where I'm going. Like I said, I'm getting on and it made me realize I'm working for nothing. I stop here and what do I have waiting? Nothing. Sure I can ride, but I have only so much life that riding fills. Lying there beside Marlene, made me realize how much I enjoy having someone to go to sleep with and wake up to in the morning. Even if it's not her, I realized how much I want that to be my life. Maybe I'll get lucky and meet a woman who likes riding, maybe know how to ride herself, now wouldn't that be just a little slice of heaven, right there."

JT could understand Jake's thoughts completely, seeing how they could end up being his own thoughts one day.

"The guy I have now, Clay, he's good at running the shop, but he's no good with the books and keeping up with the office duties. I went away last year for three days, just three days and I came back to four days worth of work to sort it all out. I wasn't happy. Took the shine off the apple in a hurry, that's for sure."

JT knew Jake was grooming him, but for what position, he had no idea. All he was hoping to get out of this, was a job and getting dirty all day working on cars, was okay with him. JT could sense Jake was looking for more than that out of him and focused on what he was saying.

"Here's what I'm hoping can happen. I'd like to show you all that happens here, so if I do get an urge, to just run off and go riding, I know things will be in order, when I get back. I'd like to make you the manager, JT. You've got a good head for fixing and you have a sharp mind for thinking. It ain't rocket science we're talking about, but the time has to be put in, to get it done. Clay isn't that guy. So, listen up and I'll go through it all quickly, just so you get an idea of what it all is you need to do and then we'll go over each thing at a time in detail, so you know how to do it."

"So, this Clay guy isn't all that smart, or not that interested in it?"

"Not interested. He's the kind of guy that always needs assuring he's doing good and doesn't know himself, if he is, or not. Always trying to impress everyone. Don't get me wrong, he's a nice enough guy and gets along well, even funny at times. He's a damn good mechanic, so I keep him on. But when it comes to me, I'm stuck. I either go and come back to tons of paperwork and shit, or stay and keep everything running smoothly. I'd like to make you into a manager of sorts, run this end of things and keep the parts and bills in order and let Clay run the shop and maybe I'll be able to get out and live a bit more, see some of the new highways they've built. A lot has gone on, on the other side of those mountains, that I haven't even seen yet and I'd like to."

JT could hear the desperate pleadings hidden in Jake's words, as he talked about the office, but it translated to riding the open road more. The whole idea stunned him, originally, more than happy to just find a bike and make some money to ride it. Now, he was being asked to take on more responsibility and actually run the business, while Jake took time off. With the idea in his head, that the clubhouse was his new place of residence, it didn't seem all that difficult a task to do. The Army provided him with more than a gun and a parachute, during his two tours. Besides motor pool duty, he'd done a stint in supplies, but the immense amount of inventory to be in control of, was too daunting.

Managing an inventory a mere fraction of what he had before, would be easy enough to do. Oils were bought in bulk for the shop and cases of cans for the customers. Most everything else was an order item, that of course, needed to be ordered the day before, to use the next day. Invoicing and billing were things that almost made him go brain dead, but he could do them in small doses and get by.

"Manager, huh? Must have impressed the hell out of you already, Jake, or she's put some ideas in your head you can't shake off."

"Bit of both, I'd say. What do you say? Want to give it a shot and see if you're up to it? Means more money too, just so you know. Not going to make you work harder than the others and pay you the same."

JT considered that part and what it meant to have more money. More money, meant building his bike better, making it a more reliable rider. More money, meant materials and furnishings for the clubhouse. More money seemed to be something he was going to be looking for at every turn. Legal was much more appealing to do, but JT knew he was not opposed to something of an illegal nature, if the benefits outweighed the risk of being caught.

"I think I can do that for you, Jake. Paperwork isn't all that much. Three different coloured sheets that go to the customer, to your files and the account files. The black book is the order book for Oakland petroleum, I know that's for the oil and lube that you get in bulk. The brown book is for East Bay Automotive, that's where you get the cases of oil and filters, plus most other parts. The green book is for everyone else, I'm guessing, like Stockton Welding and Gas and stuff like that. Pretty close?"

Jake smiled in awe, seeing JT knew most things without being told and just through observation. 

"That's pretty well just what it is, JT. The small one in the drawer is for services you might need, like sewage clean out and plumbers and electricians. I'm thinking this is going to be much easier explaining to you, than Clay. Just do me a favour, don't say anything about the manager thing to him. He could get all bent out of shape over it, if he didn't understand what it was about. I'll let him know the job is about all the things he hates doing and he'll be happy he never has to worry about it."

"Makes sense. So, do you want to go over anything else, or should we get out there and get to work?"

Jake smiled at him, knowing he was well aware of what was required and it would take very little to bring him up to speed, if he wanted to go anywhere. 

"Let's get the tires on that Merc changed and get that out of the way. Once Piney is done with the starter, there's only two more jobs that actually need to be done today. Wally and Lenny are coming by any time now, so I'll cut the old pipes and when Dennis gets here from East Bay with the pipes and muffler, I can put those on and Lenny should be done doing an oil and filter and if he didn't get spark plugs, get him to clean and gap the ones he has, at least that will help. I could smell it the moment he pulled up yesterday. The smell of the exhaust was rich with unburnt gas. You smell it after he does it and you'll see the difference. Cup your hands behind the pipes and gather it, you can smell how rich, or lean it is. Check his air filter too. I know I replaced it the last time, but if he is having the problems I know he's having, I'm sure it's just black."

JT stood in front of Jake, the person he was looking at, taking on so many forms at once. From stranger to friend, boss to co-worker, father to son. Jake seemed to know just what he needed at the right time, to move forward. He realized how ordered his life had returned to, since meeting Jake, Piney sensing it too. They needed the orderliness of the army life, but not the same politics. Jake represented that order, able to command, but stand easy with his men and enjoy them as equals. JT took note of that, knowing his role as president would need to be run the same way. All thinking by both of them stopped, when Piney knocked and came in, saying the starter was done on the Olds and wanted to know if he should start on the tires on the Merc.

JT and Jake said they'd finish up talking later and JT went out with Piney and got the Merc started and backed out, so Piney could put the Starfire on the finished side. JT moved the Monarch into the bay and put it up halfway, so he could get to the tires easily. The impact gun, spun the five nuts off quickly and JT bounced the tire to Piney as he came in and he transferred the movement towards the tire changer. As Piney mounted the wheel, JT had the other tire off and went to the rack to get the required tires that were listed on the order. He grabbed the two and rolled them over to Piney, as he finished removing the first tire and was cleaning the rim. JT went over and checked the brake drums, to see if they were set right. He took the flat blade screwdriver out of his back pocket and slid it in the adjustment hole in the back, clicking the wheel, until the right amount of drag was on the drum. After both were set, Piney rolled the first tire over from the wheel balance machine, to JT and then spun the second to test it for balance. Hammering on a wheel weight in the right spot, Piney took the wheel off and rolled it to JT, who lined the holes up with the studs and shortly had the gun spinning the nuts on tight. After a quick second check, he hammered the hub caps on with the heel of his palm and wiped them off. He dropped the car to the ground and when the wheels touched the floor, Jake called out the time he had been keeping.

"Sixteen minutes and forty eight seconds."

JT and Piney stopped and looked at him, wondering what he was talking about.

"That's how long it took for you two to take them off, balance them, adjust the brakes and put them back on, caps and all, in that time. You guys aren't pit stop fast, by any means, but working together as fast as you do, you could make a lot of money with steady business. Most of the work I get is small stuff, like oil changes, tires, exhaust and such. That's where the fast money is at." 

They could see Jake had something of note and worth he wanted to share with them and they tuned in to him

"Sure, doing a big overhaul like the Studebaker is worth lots of money, but it takes lots of time to do. You end up making shit sometimes, if it goes wrong. Small jobs, that's good, fast, steady work. That's what you want here, what I wish I could have here, actually. Two teams. The work is always being done by one, so there's no stopping, till the job is done, or the parts run out, which they shouldn't, as we were talking about earlier. The less time spent doing the job, the more you make per hour. If you can do that every fifteen minutes, you look at how many cars in an hour, minus your in and out time and breaks. Three each team, times two, is six cars per hour easy. Times the average cost per job and now you see how much money can be made. Just have to be ambitious and want to work that hard every day to do it, but the money is going to pile up pretty fast."

JT looked at Jake, nodding like he agreed, but actually, he was trying to fathom how Jake uncannily seemed to know what their plight was and came up with an idea to solve it. His thoughts were wiped clean by the sound of Lenny's bike coming in, followed by Wally in his car, both reverberating their cacophonous sound off the walls. True to their words, they were here at nine to work. Before they could shut the engines off, another motorcycle came into the lot and roared up quickly. The guys knew instantly who it was, but Jake was leery about the speed he was approaching at. Chico skidded on the back tire and fishtailed slightly, as he stopped in front of the bay. He killed the engine and shot his big, toothy smile at JT and Piney, as he put the stand down.

They hugged and shook hands, then JT introduced Chico to Jake. 

"Yeah man, I was riding through Stockton, see this guy sitting there with the trunk open, talking to a couple of dudes. He tells me we have a new clubhouse. Says I'm going to like this place."




Redwood Nine Ch. 05



Chapter 5

Predator and Prey

Keith was busy fixing the cabinet doors in one of the unit's bathrooms, going through his order sheet of jobs to do, that Marlene had started him on. He was swinging it open and closed, checking how well it worked, when the door to the unit opened. He leaned back and poked his head out of the door to see who it was. In his heart, he was hoping Mary had changed her mind and came back, but he saw the tight, black, Capri pants and knew it wasn't her. He glanced out farther and saw the rest of Marlene. The light material of the white, vee neck sweater was stretched over the curves of Marlene's breasts and Keith took further notice of them. Marlene was bent over, to put a drink on the table and Keith could see her mounds were moving naturally underneath her top, letting him know she was bra-less. Even from twelve feet away, the outline of her nipples were visible and Keith's mouth went dry, as he imagined them. Marlene walked over to Keith, the sway in her hips accentuated, making his eyes remain focused on everything from the neck down and the knees up. Marlene let the corners of her mouth turn up, knowing her prey was caught in the trap.

"I brought you a cold drink, I thought you might be thirsty. How's the job coming?"

Keith was still transfixed on the lush curves of Marlene's hips and ass, as she rotated them back and forth for him, pretending she was looking around in the room. She reached down and gently touched his hair with a soft stroke and Keith snapped out of it and looked up at her. She was well aware of where his interest was held and smoothed her hands down her hips, as a result. Keith swallowed, trying to get some spit happening.

"Job is going well, Mrs. Brock. Just have to change a light bulb by the bed and this unit is ready."

"Please, call me, Marlene. Mrs. Brock makes me sound so...old. You don't think I'm old, do you, Keith?"

Keith stammered a bit and firmly said no, shaking his head vigorously to quantify it.

"Good, I hate the thought of getting old. Now, back to work. I would like it very much, if you could do the work on the next unit and then come and see me in my place. There's a few things that need attending to right away. Just knock and come on back, I'll be in the living quarters, tending to a few things myself, so don't wait for me to answer, okay?"

Keith saw the smile and smiled back, saying he would get right to it. That made Marlene happy and she bent down to give Keith a kiss on the cheek, her vee neck draping open to expose more of the curves, then softly wiped the lipstick away. Keith could smell her perfume and the scent was intoxicating to him. The innocence of the closeness aside, Keith was as aroused, as if she had just stroked his cock. He watched her, as she walked back out, a little twitch of her ass cheeks at the end of every step, sending little flashes of her sexuality at him. Keith stared long after the door closed, imagining Marlene naked, as she did everything she had just done. 

Marlene walked down to unit ten, where Ann-Marie and Suzy were going over the procedures for guests. They had washed out their underwear and had them hanging over the shower rod, sitting on the beds with only towels around them. Marlene knocked at the door, but didn't wait for an answer and walked in. The girls were surprised at first, until they saw it was Marlene, but still felt the need to be guarded of themselves. 

"Oh, didn't know we were doing this naked. How nice. I like the look."

Suzy and Ann-Marie were taken off guard by Marlene's forwardness, as she looked them over with interest. Suzy felt the need to explain themselves.

"Sorry, we thought we could rinse our things out. We haven't been home in a few days to get clean clothes. We're hoping the guys will take us back tonight, so we can have a change of clothing here."

Marlene smiled at them, then walked to the bathroom. She looked at the bras and panties hung up and looked them over, before she looked in the mirror and preened her hair. She came to the doorway and looked at the two girls, sitting and looking at her, then looked them over again.

"I need you girls to go into Lodi and do some laundry. I need you to take all the dirty sheets and towels in and then fold them and put them in the closet where I showed you. You can use my car, but be careful not to scratch it, or wreck it, I get very upset at that happening, I love my car."

Marlene's look told them she was capable of making things very unpleasant, should they do any damage. They sat there looking at her, waiting for her to say something else, or leave, so they could get dressed. When she just stood there, they weren't sure what to do. Marlene could see they were unsure and clapped her hands at them.

"That's it, girls, let's get a move on. Chop, chop."

Marlene's insistence to act immediately, had them nervous, knowing it meant being naked in front of her. Ann-Marie looked at Suzy, who looked at her and then walked over to her underwear hanging up and felt how damp they were. She turned to Marlene and shrugged her shoulders.

"They're still damp. Maybe in another hour, they'll be dry."

Marlene looked her up and down and then at Suzy.

"You need underwear to do laundry? I didn't know they were necessary for that?"

The girls understood that Marlene wanted them gone now, so Suzy got off the bed, turning her back and unwrapped her towel, baring her ass to Marlene. Ann-Marie looked at her and Suzy just shrugged her shoulders, as she began putting her jeans on. Ann-Marie stood and tuned her back to Marlene as well and dropped her towel on the bed, then began putting her pants on. Marlene stood and watched them both, looking at each, with a sense of power and control.

Suzy pulled her T shirt over herself and slid it over her breasts, tucking the bottom into her jeans. Ann-Marie was wrestling to get her larger breasts covered with her vest, as fast as she could. When they were ready, Marlene looked them over, judging their appearance. In a bold move, she stood in front of Ann-Marie and began quickly undoing the buttons to her vest. Ann-Marie gasped at her intrusion, hesitating to stop her, her breasts almost bared, but Marlene didn't pay any mind, as she undid them all and started at the bottom again. Slowly, she did them up and left the top one undone, leaving a good view of cleavage, then patted both mounds underneath the denim, as though she was smoothing out the material.

"There, that's better, not so lop-sided looking now, because the buttons were out of order."

Ann-Marie turned every shade of red, as she looked at Suzy and then back to Marlene. Marlene saw the look and put a look of innocence on her face.

"Hey, you want to go out with the buttons all wrong, go ahead. I thought I was just helping you out."

Ann-Marie wasn't completely satisfied with her answer, leaving her with a great sense of uneasiness, as she went to cup her own breasts in protection. She looked at Marlene, her face showing confusion about how to respond and Marlene picked up on it. She smiled and gently cupped Ann-Marie's cheek. 

"Sweetie, I like cock, so don't get all bent out of shape over it. If I get a yearning to swing that way, I'll look you up. To be honest though, those felt nice and from what I can see, they liked it too."

Ann-Marie and Suzy both looked at Ann-Marie's breasts, when Marlene pointed to them. There, as bold and proud as they could be, were Ann-Marie's nipples poking through the thin denim. The flush darkened between her breasts and her face went beet red. She stood there looking guilty about them, balling her hands into fists and becoming unnerved. Marlene was happy with the response and chuckled a bit, before she made her way to the door. 

"The keys to my car will be on the counter, along with the bags of laundry. Do a good job, girls. See you when you get back." 

Marlene left and walked back to the office. The girls looked out the window and watched her, noticing the sexuality in her walk and how she carried herself. They closed the curtains and looked at each other, missing Marlene cupping her breasts, as she passed the unit Keith was working in. They got their bags and Ann-Marie stopped, still unnerved about what had just transpired. She pulled the front of her vest open and looked at her nipples, a look of disappointment coming to her face.

"Got to you, did she?"

Ann-Marie looked at Suzy, her face showing the truth, despite what she said against it.

"Hey, don't sweat it. I think you got great tits too, doesn't mean I want to make out with you, or anything."

Assurances aside, Suzy could tell Marlene had made a deeper impression in Ann-Marie than she was willing to admit. They went up to the office and found the keys where Marlene had said they'd be, along with five dollars and two bags of laundry sat waiting on the floor. They took them to the trunk and put them in, then got in the '64 Buick Riviera and started it up. Suzy put it in reverse and backed out, then pulled out of the lot and off towards Lodi. 

Marlene was watching them through a slit in the curtains, making sure they were gone, then began undressing, as she walked back into her room. She looked in the mirror and made sure she looked her stunning best, then pulled the sheets down on the bed and lay on it, in wait. Her hopes that her timing was as planned, came about, as she heard Keith's footsteps on the landing and then the door opened up.

"Back here, Keith."

Keith followed the voice and looked into the room. He didn't see Marlene there, so he ventured in further and looked about, then saw the feet on the bed. He moved slightly forward, taking in more and more of what he saw. Bare feet, turned into bare legs and the more Keith looked, the more he realized that Marlene was stark naked on the bed. He hesitated, wondering what to do about it, when Marlene called out to him again.

"Don't be shy. Come on in, I won't bite."

Keith summoned up his courage and walked to the doorway, then looked at Marlene sprawled on the bed. She was naked and motioning with her finger to come to her, then patted the bed beside her. Keith looked at her, his libido peaking and governing his thoughts, as the rich scent of her womanhood wafted to him. He stared at her breasts, capped in light pink, the soft curve of her belly, leading to the dark, red triangle of hair between her legs. He fought with his conscience, deciding what to do, when Marlene parted her legs slightly and ran her hand over the thick mat of hair, then up over her breast, flicking the nipple as it passed. Keith swallowed hard and took one step forward, closing the door behind him.

Suzy and Ann-Marie were enjoying the luxury of the Buick, but Suzy could tell that Ann-Marie was still focused on something else. It wasn't hard to imagine what had her attention, but she wondered what had her so riled up, she couldn't let it go.

"You're not still thinking about that woman touching your boobs, are you?"

That brought Ann-Marie out of her thoughts and back to the present.

"I am and it's freaking me out."

Suzy could see that it was and wanted to know why. Ann-Marie stared out the window, but she wasn't looking at anything.

"I don't know, that's just it. It's not the first time another woman has touched my boobs, Christ, we were all doing it to each other all weekend, almost. It's something about her that has me all fucked up and I don't know what."

Suzy could see her frustration in trying to make sense out of it and decided on asking questions and seeing what helped.

"Okay, do you think she's attractive?"

"Well, yeah, she's gorgeous."

"No, not if your think she's pretty, if you think she's attractive?"

Ann-Marie seemed puzzled and Suzy explained.

"I mean, you know she's pretty, but does she look attractive to you? Are you attracted to her?"

Ann-Marie digested Suzy's words and realized what she meant, then turned in shock to her.

"Are you asking me if I find her like, sexy? If I have the hots for her, or something?"

"Well, yeah. Do you? Hey, it's okay with me, if you do, it's cool, you know."

Ann-Marie thought about it more, trying to decide if she really did find Marlene sexually attractive, or if it was just how she touched her.

"I...I'm not sure. I don't know what I think, right now. I mean like, yeah, she's really, good looking, but I don't think I find her like, sexy to me, or anything. It's how she touched me that got me all fucked up. It wasn't play touching like we did, it was more than that. Maybe the way she looked at me, I don't know. All I know is my nipples were hard as rocks after she did it and...and."

Ann-Marie left off without finishing her thought, but Suzy felt it needed to be and asked.

"And what? What else did she do, or make happen?"

Ann-Marie looked nervous as she looked at Suzy, unsure if she should tell her. Suzy motioned to do it and held her hand. It might have been the connection made physically that helped, but Ann-Marie sighed and looked beaten, as she told Suzy what else happened.

"I..I got wet between my legs. I mean, I can feel it right now, how wet I am."

Suzy held Ann-Marie's hand a little tighter, letting her know she wasn't letting what she said, affect their friendship.

"Got to you that much, did she?"

"That's just it. Was it her, or can any woman make me feel like that?"

Suzy looked at her sitting there, staring out the window with an uncertain look in her eyes.

"Do you want another woman to touch you? Maybe you should ask yourself that question."

Ann-Marie looked at Suzy and squeezed her hand, the fear of the unknown about herself, coming through in her expressions. She stared back out the window, staring far off into the ether, looking for her answer, then turned back to Suzy.

"Touch me. I want you to touch me, like she did."

Suzy was so taken aback, she had to watch her driving, it stunned her so much to hear it.

"You want me to what?"

"Touch me, like Marlene did. If you make me feel that way, then any woman can. If not, then it has to be her. Does that sound way too weird, or what?"

Suzy could see the desperation in her eyes, the truth being the only thing that would bring an end to her turmoil. She pulled over to the side of the road and put the car in park and turned it off, then sat looking at her feet on the pedals. She turned her head to Ann-Marie and could see she was completely beside herself with confusion. She thought to herself on what was asked and realized it wasn't much different than playing under the blanket with the guys. She took a deep breath and turned in her seat. Ann-Marie turned to her and looked at her, the blue in her eyes awash with emotion, just roiling below the surface.

"Okay, but you have to swear you'll never tell anyone we did this, alright?"

Ann-Marie could see that Suzy was willing to forgo her own boundaries, in order to help her figure out her own. She turned as much as she could and faced Suzy, her hands in her lap and her eyes fixed on Suzy's dark brown ones, now filling with an uncertainty of their own. Suzy looked up and down the road, checking for cars and then moved towards Ann-Marie. Slowly she brought her hands to Ann-Marie's vest and held onto the top button. She looked into her eyes, as she undid it, waiting for her response. A slight intake of breath and a flutter in her eyes, was all she was giving away, as Suzy went to the next one. The quivering skin on her breasts, let Suzy know she was exciting her, but unsure if it was sexual in nature, or nervousness. The last two buttons were undone and the sides parted, as the weight of Ann-Marie's breasts pushed them open. Ann-Marie breathed in deeply at the release, further exposing herself.

Suzy stared at the partial exposure of them and then looked in her friend's eyes, seeing she was getting more restless and her breathing increasing. She went to do up the bottom button, then Ann-Marie held her hands, stopping her. Looking deeply into Suzy's eyes, she held onto them and brought them up to her breasts and gently held them to her. Suzy looked at her hands resting on her breasts, feeling the heat emanating from them. She looked in Ann-Marie's eyes and saw an aching need in them. What possessed her to do what she did, was something that would take many hours of thought to know why later, but she leaned forward and kissed Ann-Marie on the lips softly. Her hands slipped under the vest and began massaging the mounds, as their mouths sought greater interaction. In moments, what was supposed to be a friend helping a friend, turned wildly sexual, their hands becoming eager for more. Suzy fumbled for the lever to make the seat go back and pushed it. They fell back, Suzy landing on top of Ann-Marie, the vest laying open and her breasts bared, her nipples ripe and succulent. They looked at each other, lust-starved and wanton, then Suzy's mouth found the pink flesh and suckled.

JT and Piney went back to the shop after lunch and helped Jake finish up with the day's work. Three more cars came in for work and two more were scheduled for service in the morning. Jake was putting the wires on the distributor cap and snapping the boots on the plugs, just about finished with it.

"Thanks for letting us work on the building, Jake. The guys are marking off the floor right now, where we decided on things. Once we get some wood and stuff, we'll get to putting up walls and dividing it up properly. We figured we can get four rooms along the far side and a shitter at the end for everyone to use. How hard is it to put in a line for toilets and stuff? We were thinking of a bathroom for each room, or is that too much?"

"Five bathrooms? I'll say. You can get maybe three, tops, or else the line won't be able to handle it all. It wasn't designed for residential purposes, so keep that in mind. At best, I'd say a full bathroom in the president's quarters and a communal one for everyone else to shower in. Have a sink and toilet at one end for everyone to use, because then you have to think of the kitchen and bar and the drains for them."

"Wait, we can have a bar?"

"Of course. It's a legal residence, as required by law to have a kitchen, bath and bedroom, so it's legal to drink in it."

JT stood and thought about that addition to things and told Jake he'd be right back, some remodelling of the floor was going to be needed. Jake laughed, as JT and Piney headed back to the building to discuss a bar and whatever else that went with it, while he reached in and started the Dart, hearing it run smoothly and smiled to himself.

Ann-Marie pulled her jeans up from her ankles, doing up the zipper and making sure her pubic hair didn't get caught in it. She started doing up the buttons on her vest and looked over at Suzy, her pants still undone, as she pulled her T shirt over her head and unrolled it down her body. Her nipples were still hard and erect from her own mouth and hands stimulating them, then smiled to herself, something inside her, making her happy she did that to her. Suzy looked over at Ann-Marie, their eyes meeting and sharing the moment. There was a quiet understanding, that what had just happened between them, was something that would stay between them only. There was also a mutual hint in their eyes, of not wanting it to be the only time.

The guys got together and listened to JT talk about a bar, coming up with ideas on what should go with it. Tables and chairs were thought out and how much room was needed, then how big the bar should be. They looked around and figured it should be as close to the front door as possible. They marked off a thick line to show where the bar area should go and everything seemed to flow from that point. By the end of the day, the entire clubhouse was laid out on the floor in marker, each area noted for its use. Chico had to take off and head back to Oakland and see his contact there. Wally, JT and Piney washed up in the shop and got out of their overalls. Jake told them he'd see them at eight, or maybe sooner, giving them a wink, that he may end up at the motel again.




Redwood Nine Ch. 05



Wally smiled proudly, when he started the Chevy and it purred quietly, running smoother than it had in years. He shouted out to Jake that he was truly happy with the work he did and said he'd be by tomorrow with a little something for him, to show his appreciation. The guys waved to Jake, who waved back and they headed out of the lot and back to the motel. They talked about so many things at once, any one of which was just as important as the other. They realized it was easier to just sit and reflect and smiled, listening to the radio blare out a song through the broken speaker, uncaring it was barely recognizable. They pulled into the lot and up to their units and saw Keith coming from the office towards them. They got out and called to him, making him stop suddenly in surprise. He regained his composure and walked to them, now wearing a big smile.

They went into Wally's unit and sat on the beds, discussing everything that had happened and what was planned for later that night, when they were going to the site for material. After a joint and several cigarettes, JT asked where the girls were. Keith said he had no idea. He'd been working in the units all day fixing things and only knew they had gone to Lodi to do laundry, but that was hours ago. He said he was just telling Mrs. Brock that he was done for the day, when they showed up. He decided on not telling the guys of his afternoon romp with Marlene and how good she was in bed, letting that be his secret to keep with Marlene. What the guys would have been decidedly jealous about, was that Marlene had a repeat performance planned for later. With nothing else to do, they continued talking and smoked another joint. A half hour passed after they killed the joint, when the sound of tires on gravel entered the room. JT flipped the curtain open and saw Suzy behind the wheel of the Riviera, driving past them and up to the office.

Suzy pulled up and stopped, then got out and opened the trunk. She and Ann-Marie took a bag each and she closed the trunk lid. They went into the office and called out to Marlene, that they were back. Marlene came out smiling, only wearing her robe, her hair wet from being in the shower.

"Finally made it back I see. No problems, I hope?"

Ann-Marie stayed by the door and stared at the floor, not wanting to make eye contact with Marlene. She chose to cover her breasts with her hair, removing any chance of her finding a reason to touch her. Suzy handed her the keys and stood closer to her, as she told her how things went.

"We had to get change for the machines. That took us forever to get someone to make it for us. It's like it's too much of a hassle to count out a few quarters and swap them for a bill, or something. And of course, I drove really slow, so I didn't damage your car, like you said. It's a really nice car, I liked driving it. Really smooth."

Suzy made her excuse sound as convincing as possible to her, trying to come up with some reason they were more than an hour longer than they should have been. Marlene looked in Suzy's eyes and saw her waver and knew something more had happened. She looked at Ann-Marie still staring at he floor, wanting nothing more than to be out of there. As she looked back, she noticed the twin peaks still showing through Suzy's T shirt. Her eyes travelled back up and saw Suzy looking in her eyes, that look that said something of an arousing nature had transpired between the two young women. With a knowing smile of guessing what happened, she teased the end of Suzy's hair and winked at her. Suzy flustered and tried not to show it got to her, but the eyes told all to Marlene. 

"That's okay, as long as it's done. Thanks Suzy, that's all for today, Ann-Marie, be a dear and put those away in storage for me. See you tomorrow, Suzy."

Marlene's tone was soft, but a underlying tone of authority accompanied it. Suzy looked at Ann-Marie as she walked out, seeing one of worry, coming back from her. Ann-Marie hesitated to move, until Marlene walked over to her, invading her comfort zone and closed and locked the main door. She picked up a bag and went into the back, to the storage closet and opened the door. She turned on the light, opened the bag of folded towels, then began putting them away, when Marlene brought in the other bag. The small room became instantly claustrophobic, as her presence filled it. Ann-Marie turned towards her, a stack of towels in her hands, looking like her breasts were laid on them for presentation. Marlene literally ate her up with her eyes, as she slowly closed the door behind her, shutting off any chance of escape.

"I thought you might need a hand, so I brought these in for you."

Marlene kept her eyes fixed on Ann-Marie's, dominating her with them, as she began undoing her robe.

Suzy went into her and JT's unit and sat on the bed, reflecting on her encounter into a sexual unknown. She cupped her breasts and felt her nipples, finally letting go of the arousal inside of her. As she crossed her legs, she became aware of the wetness inside and went to the bathroom to wipe herself dry. As she did, JT came in the room and called for her. She pulled the bathroom door open a crack and let him know she'd be out in a minute, as she cupped her mound and felt the still present sensations Ann-Marie had left in her. She pulled up her jeans and looked in the mirror, setting her composure and fixing her hair. She walked out and acted like nothing out of the ordinary had happened, as she hugged and kissed JT with passion. He lifted her up and she wrapped her legs around his waist, still kissing with fervour. JT walked over to the door and fumbled for the lock and locked it, before stepping forward and falling with Suzy to the bed.

JT had no idea why she was so aroused and wanting him, but none of that mattered, as she pushed his jeans down and took hold of him. He worked at her jeans and slid them down, Suzy kicking her feet out of them and spreading widely for him, as he lay atop and looked in her lust-fuelled eyes. He groaned loudly in pleasure, as he felt himself being guided into the hot wetness she had for him, her legs wrapping around and holding him deep inside.

A knock on the door a few hours later, had JT dressing quickly and finally answering the door.

"Oops, sorry to bother you two, but we have to get ready to go, JT."

"Okay, Piney, be with you in a second."

JT kissed Suzy and told her to keep it warm, that he was coming back for seconds. Suzy giggled and said she would be waiting. She gave him a quick flash of her nudity, as JT put on his jean jacket and blew her a kiss, on the way out. Wally, Keith and Piney, were waiting in the car for him and once he closed the door, they were on their way. They drove down to Jake's and opened the gate and then the building, making sure they took the least amount of time possible doing it. They waited for Lenny to arrive and he was good on sticking to the plan and arrived on time. He pulled his bike in around back and shut it off. He got in with the other guys and they drove out, closing the gate behind them. JT set the chain and lock, but didn't lock it properly, wanting to get in as fast they could and close it again.

The trip to the construction site had them going over everything again, making sure Lenny had scouted out the materials they needed and where they were on the site. It wasn't long, before they turned off, down the unfinished road and into the site. Wally killed the lights and drove behind a few trees for cover and killed the engine. Lenny got out and ran over to the site trailer and used his key to get in. He picked up the keys and ran over to the yard truck. He started it up and the guys dashed over and jumped on the flatbed. They rode to the first stop, a house that was finished on the outside and they slid a full skid of drywall onto the bed, then they drove down the dirt road to a new foundation and loaded all the two by fours of two skids, on top of the drywall. They drove around to the supply hut and Lenny opened the lock. They took a box of nails and a box of screws, then Lenny locked it back up.

With the shopping done, they were driving back to Wally's car, when JT smacked Lenny's arm to stop and pointed to something he spotted, sitting on the porch of one of the houses. Piney and Keith jumped off and ran up and grabbed the sink and toilet, still in their boxes. Taking it slow over the rutted road, they parked by the car and tied the material down with rope, while they put some plates on it to take it out of the site. Lenny turned the lights on and only one headlight was working. They checked the back and it had no brake lights and only one tail light. With no other choice, they left the yard and drove back to the shop, Wally tailing close behind, so no one got a good look at the truck.

They made it to the shop without incident, but whether anyone spotted the Oswald logo on the truck,was another matter. JT opened the gate and closed it behind them, as the vehicles pulled around back to the loading dock. Piney pushed the roll up door open and it wasn't long, before a line was formed and material was being loaded into the building. It took only ten minutes and the truck was empty and the doors closed. They got back in and drove back to the gate and Wally and Lenny pulled out, then JT closed and locked the gate behind them. He jumped in with Lenny and they were off to the site again. It seemed everything went exactly as they expected, as Lenny parked the truck, took the plates and put the keys back where he found them. He jumped in the car and Wally was just pulling out of the site, when a cruiser drove up and blocked their path. Lenny slid the plates under the seat and joined the others in trying to remain calm.

Wally's headlights shone on the car and they could see the officer behind the wheel, was none other than Wayne Unser. He didn't put the flashing lights on, but got out and walked to the driver's side window. He shone his flashlight inside the car and saw who it was. Wally rolled down his window and waited to see what happened. 

"How are you guys, tonight?"

They answered him that they were okay and asked how he was. Wayne knew something was up, but nothing seemed out of place to him.

"So, what brings you out here?"

That's when Lenny felt he had to speak.

"I brought them out to see where I work, Wayne. We were cruising around and I noticed we were close, so we stopped by, Not much to see when it's dark, so we were just leaving."

Wayne remembered Lenny's rap sheet and knew he was telling the truth about that. Whether that was the whole truth, was something he had to prove to himself.

"You wouldn't mind opening the trunk for me, would ya?"

Wally looked at the guys and turned back to Wayne.

"Not at all, Officer."

Wally shut off the car and took the keys. He opened the trunk wide and stood back, so Unser could inspect it with his flashlight. The cavernous space was empty, except for some garbage and a spare tire. Wally waited for Unser to say he could close it, then got back in the car.

"Everything seems okay, Sorry to bother you guys. Old man Oswald has been on the chief's ass, about theft from the sites."

The guys did their best not to show any reaction to what Wayne said. Lenny finalized everything for them.

"I know what you mean. I lost two days pay, because some fuckers stole the material we were going to use. I get my hands on those fuckers, I'll get my pay out of them. Bastards."

Wayne saw the anger in Lenny's eyes and knew no work because of no material, meant no pay for him.

"Yeah, I don't blame you, Lenny. Sorry to bother you guys. You have a good night."

"You too, Wayne."

The guys smiled at Wayne, making him feel a sense of friendship between them, then Unser walked back to his car and moved it, so the guys could leave. They waved to him, as they drove past and headed for home. Once they were out of sight, they whooped and cheered at pulling it off. They made it back to the shop and JT opened the gate and waited, while Lenny got his bike and started it up. He was more than happy he'd had it looked at today, the last thing he wanted, was standing there trying to start it all night.

Lenny pulled his bike out and JT locked up again. Lenny headed back home to Lorraine, while the guys headed back to the motel. They pulled into the lot and the headlights illuminated the light blue paint of Jake's bike. They tried to imagine when he rode past them and figured it was when they were at the site and that's why they never heard him. Still feeling at ease about it. They split up and headed to their rooms and their women, calling it a night and making plans to start building tomorrow. JT walked in and was greeted with a naked body laying on the bed, a smile and a welcoming gesture to spur him to get undressed.

Piney lay on his bed and wished Gloria didn't go, but wished even more, that Mary had stayed. He was enamoured by her looks and her body, lusting more for her, than Gloria. Keith sat in his room and looked at the empty bed across from him and wished Mary was there with him, but memories of that afternoon flooded his thoughts and he looked towards the office and the seductive charms of Marlene, filling the empty spaces in him.

Wally hugged and kissed Ann-Marie, happy to find her naked in bed, but she wasn't responsive to him and he wondered why. She said she was tired and not feeling that well, so he let her be and got undressed and climbed into the other bed. He turned out the light and lay on his side facing her. Ann-Marie lay there in the dark, staring at the ceiling, hoping Wally was asleep, as her mind took her back to the office store room and Marlene. She could feel the excitement in her loins, the ache in her nipples, as she lay quivering under the sheets. Her hands found their way back between her legs and her breast, cupping them to herself hard, pressing against the hot flesh and felt the wetness begin. Slowly she let a finger begin sliding inside and imagined Marlene again, taking her and making her feel so wonderful. If only the moon shone a bit brighter, Wally would have noticed the rapid movement under Ann-Marie's covers, as she relived that afternoon's awakening.

Morning found them all with a different outlook on life. The guys were on their way to fulfilling a dream, while the girls were putting a new perspective to their sexuality. JT and Piney were grateful for Wally joining them and the ride into work. They were sitting at the table, having a smoke, when Jake pulled in. He smiled at them as he passed and parked in his usual spot. JT and Piney went over and said hello to him and asked how his night was with Marlene. His expression said it all, even though he said very little about it.

Lenny pulled in, with Otto right behind him, the Harleys making sweet mechanical music. An old pick up came in shortly after them and pulled up beside them. JT and Piney went over to greet them and Otto introduced a guy he worked with, Steve. He said he was there to load Piney's bike and bring it to the shop. JT took Otto and Steve over and introduced them to him. He explained the situation and Jake said Piney could go with them and get his bike. After a round of handshakes and thank you's, Piney took off with them to realize his dream at last. 

JT went to work with Jake, working on the cars with the same enthusiasm he showed yesterday and Jake was beside himself happy, with his performance. Wally was busy in the building, laying out the wood to make frames, then came over to ask JT if they had a hammer, so he could get started nailing it together. It became the first disappointment of the day, to find that nothing existed on site. Wally said he'd go and get one and took off in his car.

"You boys got some wood to put together?"

"Yeah, we scored some two by fours last night and brought them by. A friend told us about them and said we were welcome to them."

"That's decent of him. Get very many?"

"I think we have enough for a wall or two, so at least it's a start."

Jake nodded, happy JT was making a go of things and not just talking about it. They worked together as a team, finishing the car and putting it back in the lot, then JT brought in the next one. They worked solidly for an hour and finished three cars, when Wally pulled in and parked, raising a hammer above his head, as he went into the building again. Minutes later, the pick up came in with Piney's bike on the back and Lenny and Otto following him. The pulled to the side of the garage and everyone held onto the bike, slowly bringing it back to solid ground again. Piney thanked everyone for their help and sat on the bike, smiling happily that he would soon be riding it with them.

Jake was standing and admiring Otto's bike, looking at the paint and finishing details he had done. Otto walked over and stood beside him.

"Not bad, huh?"

"Beautiful bike, Otto. I love the paint work you did. JT was telling me about it, but seeing it, makes mine look plain Jane."

"Thanks, man. It took me months to get it all together. Like I said to JT, a bit here, a bit there and then it all came together. Just a lot of hard work more than anything."

"It shows, Otto. You did a fantastic job."

Otto was proud of his accomplishments and took no umbrage at showing it. He was pleased that Jake was as into bikes as they were, giving them common ground to stand on. He got on and started it, the sound low and sweetly throbbing. He said goodbye to everyone and told JT and Piney he would be back after work to help with the clubhouse. He gave the throttle a couple of revs and put it into gear and sped down the lane, letting the sound become deafening, as the pipes blared out the soulful harmonies. Steve waved out the window, as he followed behind, heading back to the body shop.

Piney was eager to get started on his bike, but knew he had to do his day's work first. Reluctantly, he got off and pushed the bike out of the way and started on an order. He pulled it into the bay and began working on it, but his head would invariably come up and look over at his bike.

Back at the motel, Suzy was ready to get started on whatever Marlene had for them to do and walked next door to Ann-Marie's room. She knocked on the door and waited, then knocked again, when she didn't answer. She called out as she opened the door and looked in, finding the room empty. She had no idea where she was, so she went to the office and walked in. Suzy called out for Marlene, that she was there and heard her voice come from the back. She stood waiting and then Marlene came out, fixing her hair and adjusting her clothes, slightly out of breath and a look of happiness on her face.

"Good morning, Suzy, ready to get to work?"

"Sure, what do you want me doing today?

"I need all the rooms vacuumed and dusted, so you can get started on the end one."

Suzy acknowledged her order and went to go, then stopped and turned back to her.

"You haven't seen Ann-Marie, have you? She wasn't in her room."

"She's giving me a hand with some things I want to do in my room, seeing as I'll be here for a bit. When she's done, I'll send her down to help you."

Suzy was sceptical of her answer, but she had nothing to oppose it, so she went to the storage locker and took the upright vacuum and dusting kit with her. Marlene watched her go into the end unit and closed the door to the office. She walked back into her room and into her bedroom, undressing as she went. She looked at the bed and smiled happily, the look of desire in her eyes. Ann-Marie lay naked on the bed and Marlene wasted no time in joining her, as arms entwined bodies, and lips resumed their stimulation, moans of pleasure coming from both of them. Ann-Marie stifled a cry of passion, as Marlene's mouth covered her sopping wetness, her fingers grasping her hair, desperate to hold her there.




Redwood Nine Ch. 05



Keith was given the day off, so he gladly took off and rode to the shop to see the guys and get to work on the clubhouse. He pulled up beside the other bikes and got off. He greeted JT and Piney, as well as Jake, then made his way into the building and joined Wally. Once they said hello, it was a normal course of action to smoke a joint to get into the mood, before they looked at the boards all laid out and started nailing them together. 

The walls echoed the sounds of work, as hammering came from the clubhouse and impact wrenches spun nuts on and off, in the shop. Jake didn't say anything, but smiled as he listened, knowing that things were getting accomplished. The sound of Franco's horn blowing, signalled it was lunch time and all the guys put their tools down and walked over. They bought their food and drinks and headed over to the picnic table by the clubhouse, as Franco closed up and blew his horn, as he left.

The guys ate hungrily, working up an appetite from their efforts. Jake enjoyed his glass of wine and asked how things were going with the building. 

"Great, Jake. Keith and I have two rooms built and standing and a third is almost ready."

"That much? How much wood did you guys get?"

That put an instant stop to their easy feelings and eyes looked back and forth among themselves for an answer. JT felt he had to take the lead, as his position demanded he protect his brothers.

"Not really sure, Jake. We picked up a bunch of wood that was lying at the back of the building, beside Otto's work. He said it had been lying there for years, or something and no one was using it, so he told us we could have it. Hope no one thinks we stole it. That would be the shits."

Jake was appeased with the answer and agreed it would be bad for all concerned, if it was. That had the mood stay a bit tense, as they ate and finally finished, almost glad to be away from anymore questions. As Jake walked back to the shop, an audible sigh of relief could be heard from almost all of them, feeling they were close to getting caught and escaping it. Talk turned to one of caution, no one wanting to have everything they had, taken away in one fell swoop.

JT and Piney went back to work and put forth their best efforts, so they could finish and start on Piney's bike. When Piney pulled the last car out, Jake looked over at JT and told him they could start on Piney's bike and see what it needed. His smile told Jake he was happy he could knock off and help his friend, which was all Piney needed to hear, when he came back. Together, they pushed the Indian into the shop and began the cleaning of it first. Once it was free of dirt and debris, They began looking over the bike carefully, noting what was worn and what was still usable. After a good half hour, they gave the list to Jake and asked if they could call and order the parts under the company name. He was more than happy to let them have his discount and Piney went in and ordered the parts.

Piney got on the bike, after putting in fresh gas, then primed the starter and looked at JT. He jumped down on it hard and the engine caught and sputtered, then died. Piney's face was an expression of sheer happiness, knowing he could actually hear it run today. Once again he primed it and jumped down, the engine coughing and catching roughly. Little by little, Piney coaxed the engine to rev faster, the carbon build up in the cylinders belching out black smoke from the exhaust. It refused to run smoothly and JT tried adjusting the screws on the carburetor, getting nothing better as a result. Jake heard the engine and knew what was wrong, so he walked over and took the screwdriver from JT and readjusted the screws JT had set and then adjusted the timing. 

As if by magic, the engine began purring smoother, the roughness gone. Piney revved it up several times and smiled at the power. He shut it off and dismounted, standing beside JT and Jake, looking at it.

"I bet this thing will be roadworthy by tomorrow and we can go riding soon, JT."

"Looking forward to the day, brother."

"I'll go with you guys on the first outing. I want to make sure both your bikes are running well and won't break down. Nothing spoils a ride faster, trust me."

JT and Piney agreed the first ride would be the three of them and asked Jake about the road trip he was taking them on.

As hammering continued in the clubhouse, Jake started describing the roads and the sights along the way. The guys could see Jake was remembering it fondly and hoped he didn't return to the moment riding became a hell for him. One thing they did get out of Jake's descriptive telling, was that they were going to see a lot of beautiful scenery, while riding on some spectacular highways. 

JT could hear what Jake was saying, but back in the recesses of his mind, he was leading his club and every member was patched, the ground shaking rumble of a dozen bikes cruising together. He felt the exhilaration in his soul, knowing the dreams and wishes of a spirit denied, were becoming a reality he was founding. A reality that brought together the kindred spirits of like men, men who wanted to belong to something they believed in and felt it was worth dying for. 

*

Thank for voting and commenting, Both are always welcome.

RC



Redwood Nine Ch. 06



Chapter 6

The American Dream

Friday morning became a culmination of events, as the guys looked at an empty lot and nothing to do. Jake had JT and Piney bring their bikes inside and both were given a thorough going over. Every filter was changed, tires changed and set to the right pressure, every point on the bike that moved one way or another, was lubricated and made to operate smoothly. Jake looked them over after they were done and had JT start his first. He waited until it was warmed up and then listened to the engine, giving the throttle little twists to hear the response. He adjusted the carb and the timing, getting it to idle smoothly, the exhaust sounding sweeter in tone. He revved it up and let the throttle go and watched for the engine's response, happy with the way it performed.

"Start yours up now, Piney. Let's see if we can make this old Indian sing a war cry again. The paint came out nice, looks good. Indian's are lucky to have DuPont in their corner, they like to show off their paints on the bikes. Harley-Davidson should take some lessons from them. Smart looking bike. Okay, let's hear it, son, let her rip."

Piney and JT heard the first use of the word son come out and wondered what brought that out. Piney, gave the throttle a prime and then the starter, rising up and kicking down hard. The twin cylinders came to life instantly, rumbling out the slash tip pipes and echoing in the yard. Jake waited until it idled and did a few minor adjustments and checked it out.

"Damn, Piney, your dad would be real happy to see and hear his bike like this again. I think we should go see him after work and show him the bikes and the hard work you've put into them. You should be proud boys, either one of those bikes is worth having and riding. I know I'll be asking to have a turn on them."

JT and Piney looked at each other and then back to Jake. The same thought was shared between them and both offered their bikes to Jake.

"Be my guest, Jake. I'd be happy if you did take it. You'll know right off if something isn't right, long before I do."

"Same with mine, Jake. I made it look pretty, but it wouldn't be running as nice as it is, if you didn't work your magic on it. Dad's going to be real happy when he sees it, thanks to me, but he's going to be happy with you, when he hears it."

Jake smiled at them, raising his eyebrows and looking at them to make sure. The guys assured him they would be honoured if he took the first ride. Jake sat on Piney's bike and walked it out of the garage backwards, then turned and put it in gear. The bike started off smoothly, no hesitation to want to go, as Jake gave it a bit of throttle. The sound reverberated back to the guys and they smiled, hearing the power and tone come to them. JT backed his bike out and got it ready for Jake, when he came back from riding Piney's. They stood against the wall of the office, lighting up cigarettes and enjoying the sun shining on them.

"Just think, Piney. It was barely a week ago that we boosted that Impala and talked about getting bikes and starting a club. That was just an idea I had and look what we have, man. Bikes, a clubhouse, jobs, chicks and guys we can call brother and ride with. Like, how did all that happen so fast?"

"JT, I've always known that you can put your mind to something and figure on how to make it work. I know I don't have those smarts and most likely, never will. You saw something that day in your head and you knew it was something good, something right. You've always had a good heart, brother, knew it since we were kids. You were the only kid who would talk to me and play with me in school. You knew I wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed, but you stuck up for me and didn't mind it. That day when I saw you get humped on by Dave, Kenny and Robbie, I saw red and lost it. It hurt me in here, JT, in my heart. I loved you like a brother ever since and I know you've loved me the same. I don't have much of anything I can say I ever counted on, but I know I can count on you, like you can with me."

"Always, brother, always. We're just two spirits wandering through life and we found we had a connection and began moving through it together. It's like, I can't imagine my life without you in it. It's like, you've always been there, no matter what shit happens to us. Yeah, we can always count on each other, Piney, no matter what."

JT and Piney shook and hugged, affirming their connection as brothers, then leaned against the warm wall and let the sun splash on their faces, as they finished their cigarettes. The faint throb in the air, let them know Jake was coming back. As it got closer, they could hear Jake was letting it out and then started to slow and downshift. He pulled in the lot and roared up to the bay.

JT and Piney could see the smile on his face, knowing the ride had impressed him enough to cause it.

"How was she, Jake?"

"Piney, you are gonna love it. She rides smooth and she has lots of go in her yet."

"Yeah, we heard you coming up the road, it sounded good."

"Mine's all ready for you Jake. Jump on and take her out, let me know how it is."

Jake went over and started it up easily, the engine warmed and ready to go. He revved it a couple times and let it coast around and then twisted the throttle and let it rev up close to the limit. JT and Piney cheered Jake, as he waved back at them. He turned left and the guys listened, as Jake let the engine wind out between gears, getting the most power out of every gear. The sound brought an excitement to them, knowing they would shortly be in control of that power themselves. Piney sat on his bike and enjoyed the feel of it, as JT looked it over.

"You gonna paint yours, JT, or leave it as is?"

"Right now, I don't mind the army look, but yeah, looking at yours and Otto's, I'd like to paint it up nice. Do the frame all black like Jake's, not sure what colour I would like it to be, but I wouldn't mind something like Otto's, that has a few colours to it."

"Yeah, I like that look, too. I like that metallic he used on the orange part, that's sharp, man, real sharp."

JT nodded, trying to imagine a paint scheme in his head and putting colour to it, when the roar of the engine blared out to them. Jake must have been enjoying himself immensely, his smile broad and heartfelt, as he pulled into the lot and stopped where he started from. 

"I love this bike, not saying yours isn't good, Piney, just that it brought back memories, of my days riding one like it in France. Felt like I was running the course again between posts and looking for Jerry. Good running bike, JT, not a thing wrong with it. So, what say we get mine going and we go for a run. Let's go to...Black Mountain and back, there's some good roads to ride and give the bikes a chance to get settled in to running again."

JT and Piney started their bikes and waited for Jake. He kicked it hard and it fired up easily, not needing much to warm up and be ready to go. Jake put his helmet and goggles on, then looked over at the guys.

"You might want to think about something for your head to wear and definitely get something for your eyes. Won't take but one bug, or stone to make you decide, trust me. Get a bug in your eye, better get prepared to hang on and ride out some big pain there, it's gonna hurt."

Jake's warning had JT and Piney thinking, knowing what the pain Jake described would feel like and compounding that with holding a bike up at the same time, made sense to them.

"Let's stop somewhere, so Piney and I can get some sunglasses then, that should work for now. We'll figure on head gear later."

Jake nodded and motioned with his arm to follow. For the first time, the lot was alive with the sound of motorcycle thunder, riding out of the gate in unison. They rode together, Jake out front leading and JT and Piney riding side by side, discussing how their bikes were. Smiles were broad and well worn, as the first mile was passed. Jake pulled into a convenience store and the guys went in to buy sunglasses. After looking at several styles, they bought the ones they liked and went back out wearing them, acting like stars with them on. Jake laughed and told them to get on, firing up his bike, then JT and Piney did as well. The clerk came to the window to look at them, feeling the vibration through it. She stared at them as they left, seeing the freedom they must have been feeling, their hair blowing back in the wind, unconfined by the worries of other men and safety, fully in control of their destiny, as engines were given a free rein to go. She could feel how it aroused her inside and smiled at them, something sensual stirring in her loins, as she walked back behind the counter.

Jake took them west along Kettleman Lane through Lodi and picked up the I-5 hwy. and headed south. He had each of them ride beside him, so he could look the bikes over, as they rode, looking for anything wrong. Once he was sure they were okay, he gave his Panhead a good twist of the throttle and his bike roared ahead of them, climbing up to seventy miles an hour. JT and Piney followed suit and closed the distance between them and stayed at the safe distance Jake told them to. Jake leaned into the bend, as it swept to the right, taking the cutoff to I-205 towards the coast. Smiles grew bigger, as they followed his lead and cruised behind him, feeling themselves become more like one with the bikes. Man and machine uniting in a common bond to move forward, each depending on the other to accomplish their duty to perform. 

When the road straightened, he looked back and smiled at the guys then turned back and twisted his throttle wide open. The light blue Harley belted out its cadence rapidly, as Jake went faster still. JT and Piney weren't sure enough about their bikes to go that fast yet, so Jake backed off and the Harley burped and popped with the back pressure as it slowed down again. JT and Piney caught up and they formed their triangle once again, moving as one entity on the road.

The flat farmland of the valley gave way to the view of foothills in the distance, as they skirted past the small town of Tracy. It wasn't long before the road began to climb up, as the hills began, along with the I-580. The air cooled, as they went higher, but Jake kept up the same speed, riding comfortably with one hand on the throttle, his eyes ever vigil for the signs of police cars. They crested the mountain and began descending, coming up on Livermore. Jake pulled into a roadside diner and stopped near the door, Piney and JT doing the same. They shut off the bikes and did their best to untangle their hair, as Jake took off his helmet and ran his fingers through his shaggy hair and smiled at them. They gave up and joined him, walking inside and finding a table by the window.

They sat and waited, looking at the menus and shortly, a forty something woman, dyed blonde hair and a decent display of feminine wares showing in the front, came over to take their order. She looked them over and then noticed the bikes out front. 

"You with the other guys? They left about ten minutes ago, you just missed them."

She could see the looks from them, that they didn't know what she was talking about.

"The other bikers that were here. Around ten of them. Had jean vests with patches on them. Oh, you don't have patches. So, you're not with them?"

Jake looked at her and smiled, shaking his head.

"Sorry, darlin', not us. We just like riding motorcycles. No club members here. So, which way did they go?"

"Took off towards the bay, Oakland, I think."

Jake just shrugged his shoulders to dismiss it, but he was more concerned about running into them and worried about invading their turf. Things had changed since he rode and the clubs he met up with, up and down the coast. Somewhere, it had all turned bad and the whole image of motorcycle clubs was changing and not for the good.

"Well, I hope they have a nice ride. Me, I'd like to try your house special, it looks okay."

The waitress wrote down his order and looked to JT and Piney.

"Sounds good, I'll have one too."

"Make it three and it's easy."

She smiled at JT, as he shot her a smile.

"What would you like to drink with that?"

Coffees were the choice and she wrote it down, peeking up to look at JT. She smiled and said she'd be back with their coffees. She went and put their order in and poured three cups and tucked sugar and cream packets in her apron. She balanced the two cups in one hand and picked up the third and moved gracefully back to the table, placing all the cups nicely in front of everyone. She took out the cream and sugar and placed it on the table and left to stand behind the counter.

Jake looked at JT and glanced at the waitress, then back, whispering to him.

"Think Karen has an eye for you there, JT. Just as much came right out and said hi, I'm yours."

JT looked at Jake and glanced as casually as he could, over at Karen and noticed she was looking at him. They made eye contact and she smiled her prettiest at him. JT smiled back and turned his attention to Jake again.

"Looks like. Looked at me right now, like she'd devour me. Never been with a woman who's older than me."

"Oh, JT. Have you got some living to do, my son, my son. You have no idea what lovin' is all about, until you've been with a woman who's been there, seen it and done it. It's not all hurried and fuck like rabbits, no, no, no. An older woman wants to take time, enjoy everything and make it last. She'll teach you things about pleasing them and you, no young hotsy-totsy is ever going to do. Take my girl, Marlene for instance."

Jake stopped, just as Karen walked up with their orders. Once again, she placed them nicely in front of everyone, then asked if they'd like more coffee, her eyes never leaving JT's. He said sure, even though no one said if they did, getting her smile to come out broader and more suggestive. Her hips gained a little more sway in them, as she went back for the pot. She came back and topped off everyone's cup and placed more sugar and cream on the table. As she went to go, she casually placed her hand on JT's shoulder and turned back.

"Just call if you need anything."

They thanked her, but she was more interested in JT's response, which was turning and looking up and winking at her. Her smile brightened and she bounced off to serve other tables.

"Put some pep in her step, JT. Get a night with her and she'd just eat you up. That's the kind of older woman I'm talking about. To you that is. Hell, I'm almost old enough to be her dad, but I'd give her a go if she let me."

JT looked at Jake and was enamoured by him in so many ways. One minute he was talking like a father to him and calling him son, then he would be just as bold and blunt as his buddies, talking about bikes and chicks. His compassion for Stan and Piney, in their loss and his honour in commemorating it. His take on life and how it shadowed his own, making his own decisions on right and wrong. He reflected on the changes in his own life because of him and put it down to the trust and respect he bestowed in him. Hearing him now, telling him he should experience the pleasures of an older woman, then he remembered Jake was going to tell them about Marlene.

"So, back to Marlene. You were going to tell us about her. What little goodies can you share about her?"

Jake looked about and leaned forward, keeping his voice to a whisper.

"She can suck a cock like you've never imagined. No gagging with her. Just loves to enjoy it. That's how she woke me up the other morning. She knows more positions to get into, than I ever imagined. I thought I'd been around some and done a few things, but after being with her, all those years, I knew squat. Turns out her husband spends more time making money, than enjoying it. Poor Marlene sat at home being bored and neglected, so she wanted sex and lots of it and she knew who to turn to when she wanted it, me. She got a hold of these books about sex positions and stuff, from the east some where and figured on trying them with me. Jesus, boys, honestly, some of the things we did, I didn't think were humanly possible to accomplish, but we did it and man, just....just trust me, when I say, if you want to know what sex is, more than just fucking, don't pass up a chance with an older woman that you get to share some valuable life lessons with."

JT and Piney sat there, hanging on every word, engrossed in the secret world of sex, being shared by an elder, experienced in the pleasures of the unknown. They finished their meals and coffee and JT looked around for Karen and caught her attention. He motioned for the check and she went to the counter and then came over and handed it to him, then she walked back to the cash register and waited for him. Jake gave him a ten dollar bill and told JT to tip her nice. JT took the money and the bill and then noticed the writing on it. She had put her name on it, but added a tiny heart after it and an arrow. He turned it over and saw her phone number, then smiled and walked over.

Piney and Jake watched, as JT shared some words with her and she responded with smiles and whispered comments. JT shook her hand and she didn't want the connection to end, letting it hang on, until he walked away from her tucking her number in his pocket. JT was smiling, as he motioned for them to go and Jake and Piney joined him, as they walked outside. Jake had everyone check their gas for the ride back and felt a ride down the road to the station was the best idea. The guys donned their new shades, as Jake put on his helmet and goggles, then one by one, they let everyone in a one hundred yard radius know, they were ready to ride. 

They rode down 580 into Livermore and pulled into the first station a mile away. All of them topped up and Jake went in to pay. As the guys sat on the bikes waiting, they could hear the far off rumble of motorcycles coming. They looked down the road for the source, waiting to see what came around the bend. One by one, bikes started coming around the bend into view, the sound of their engines increasing. Jake came out and stood with the guys, watching the growing spectacle, of a club riding together. Eyes made contact with them, looking at each other as they passed. 

Jake wasn't showing any emotion to the club, but something JT could see on his face, said he had issues with it. He had no idea what it was, but the look he wore made him concerned. There was no hope in talking, as the deafening roar of thirty bikes was captured in the concrete canyon. Eventually, the end riders came into view and rode past, staying in formation, then began becoming a fading rumble of sound, as they crested the hill and disappeared over the other side of it. 

JT and Piney looked as amazed, as kids watching a parade, while Jake just stood firm, his head turned and his eyes focused on the hill, a set on his face that showed his inner feelings on what he saw.

"Holy shit, that was awesome, man. Fucking spectacular. I could feel it in my feet, the ground was shaking so much. See, Piney, that's what I was talking about, when I said what it would be like if we have a dozen riders together. You can feel it and hear it, all that power in the air and we'll be leading it."

Jake heard JT's feelings on what happened, then added his own.

"JT, it is great to ride out in front of your club. It's a proud moment in any man's life, when his brother's choose him to lead. You have to always remember though, that with that power to lead, comes a responsibility for each and every member who is riding behind you. You lead them to a destination on every ride and it's up to you to decide if it's a safe road, or one filled with trouble and danger."

JT understood what Jake was saying, but knew that more lay between the lines of what he said. He decided the direction the club would take in life, whether it was a legitimate organization, or one that shunned law altogether. 




Redwood Nine Ch. 06



"I understand, Jake, but you have to admit, that looked out of this world awesome."

Jake could see how taken JT was by the spectacle and then shared what he knew and they didn't.

"Do you know where they're going? Do you know the purpose of that run they're making? I know you don't, because if you saw what I saw, you wouldn't be thinking the way you are now."

JT and Piney looked at Jake, trying to figure out what they missed and Jake knew they didn't have a clue.

"You didn't see the guns they had. I saw a few that were showing from under their cuts and know they're going somewhere to make a point with them. With who, I don't know, but you don't ride with that many guys and carry guns, just to club ride. That's what I'm talking about."

JT and Piney were aghast at the mention of guns. They were shocked that they hadn't even noticed and how unaware they were when they looked at something. Jake was once again opening their eyes to the reality of things, things that killed men and dreams. 

"No fucking way, Jake. They all had guns?" 

"I didn't see if every guy had one, but I saw enough, to guess every one was packing one. That's not the type of club you want to lead JT, trust me. If you do, you'll be saying goodbye to a lot of your brothers and that shows a lack of love for them, if you're willing to drive down the road filled with danger and trouble."

JT thought hard on what Jake was telling him. His responsibilities were not only to himself, but to every member, as it was in his hands to decide. He looked back at the hill the bikes went over, imagining now if that was as exciting as he previously thought. Jake saw the mood had turned serious and didn't want them to dwell on it too much and distract them from the ride back.

"JT, you too, Piney, just think more on where you want this club to go, before you get into anything. Only takes one thing to set a whole lot of trouble in motion. Anyway, think on that later. Let's get these bikes back on the road, we have to go show them off to a man, who will be very pleased to see them."

Jake's mention of Piney's dad brought the focus of the ride back to them, but the knowledge shared, was now being processed in each of their heads, as they broke the calm and brought the engines to life. The ride back, brought the wind in their faces again, smiles forming more with every corner they leaned in to. Jake drove back east along I-580 and back over the mountain ridge, heading down to the valley. The big sweeping curve to the right, had them skirting the base of it, as they headed south.

The land was arid and dry, almost desert like, save a few sparse outcroppings of vegetation. It was like a line of green painted on the horizon, as they approached the thousands of acres of orchards and crops. Jake pointed it out and shouted as loud as he could, that they were at the viaduct and would be heading back after they got off the 580.

Jake took the long, sweeping cutoff to SR132, rising up on the overpass, giving a panoramic view of the plantations. Piney almost lost control, becoming too engrossed in the scenery and had to slow down and get a handle on it again, before he caught up to JT and showed his fright. JT laughed and gave his bike a bit more throttle, leaving him behind. Piney came off the curve and twisted his harder, hearing the V twin blare out the power through the exhaust. JT caught up to Jake and swung around him on the left and then Piney followed after. Jake twisted his throttle, a smile coming to his face, as the straight away stretched out before them. 

JT kept his throttle full, letting the bike go to its limit in top gear. Piney began closing the distance, the Indian twin more powerful and Piney smiled, as he leaned into the wind to cut down drag. Just as they got neck and neck, Jake's bike roared past them both in the opposite lane, leaving them both behind. When Jake had proved he beat them, he backed off on the throttle and the engine burped and belched, as the pressure released slowly. JT and Piney caught up and then Jake motioned to slow right down, that they would be taking the off ramp on the clover leaf up ahead. They formed a line and leaned into the circular curve, keeping the speed well above the posted caution limit, then began roaring along I-5 again and back towards Lodi.

The long, straight road brought back higher speeds, as eyes travelled back and forth for signs of the law. They came to where the 205 cut off started and headed east on SR120 taking a different way back. They were coming up on Manteca, where they would take the ramp to go north on SR99 towards Sacramento, when something caught Jake's eye and he began slowing down. JT and Piney spotted it too and wondered what it was, Coming closer, it became evident what was causing the flashes of light.

It took little for three veterans to understand the need to take action and twisted the throttles as much as they could, taking the sweeping bend to the left to avoid the gunfight. The club they saw earlier, was engaged in a gun battle with another club, from what they could tell. Staying low on the bike, JT looked over, at the scene, seeing bodies and bikes on the ground, flashes going off repeatedly. 

They escaped unscathed and kept looking back over their shoulders, eyeing the scene behind them. They followed Jake's lead and stayed low and sped up as the road straightened. They came up to the first interchange and a quick look to the left, they saw numerous police cars heading towards the scene, but two took the on ramp to the direction they were going. Jake knew they were safe now and had no reason to worry and began slowing down, as the cruisers approached. The lights and siren had them pulling over and were shortly cut off on both ends, the officers getting out with guns drawn and taking cover behind their vehicles.

"On the ground, now! Hands above your heads, Now! Do it!"

There was no hesitation by them, as they got off their bikes and laid face down and put their hands behind their heads. One officer came over with his gun pointed at them and began frisking them, checking for weapons, while the other radioed in they had them and continued covering them with his weapon as well. When they were satisfied they weren't armed, they asked for identification and the guys reached in their pockets and took their wallets out and showed it to them. The officer took it and gave it to the other officer, who ran them through the system. Jake looked at the cop and got his attention.

"We're not part of that back there. We just came to the interchange, when we saw the gangs shooting at each other, so we got the hell out of there. You can see we don't have patches on our backs."

The cop let them sit on the ground, as he waited for the information on them to come back. 

"Do you know who those guys are back there?"

"Hell's Disciples and the El Locos. There's been something going on between them for some time now. Guess it happened. So what did you see?

They began explaining the scene and the carnage of man and machine. By the time they finished telling them of all they knew, the officer was guessing it was a chance meeting, or a planned ambush, or maybe a bit of both. The other cop came over with their identifications and handed them back, saying they came back clean. The first officer moved his cruiser out of the way, allowing the guys to start their bikes again and pull out on the highway again. 

The mood became a sobering moment in riding for them, as they cruised in silence, reflecting on the event. The next thirty miles back up 99 and across to Charming, had their first ride over and filled with much to digest about a club and the reality of what they were up against. They pulled up in front of Piney's parents house and backed in on an angle, then shut the bikes off. Before the echo of the engines wore away, Stan was out of the house and coming to them, followed by Lorelei. Stan greeted Jake warmly and hugged both JT and Piney, then grinned at seeing the bikes. Lorelei said hello to Jake, but quickly went to Piney and JT and loved on them. Under the circumstances, neither objected to it and returned it with the same affection to her, despite eyes peering out of windows at them. 

Stan took a quick look at Jake's and JT's bikes, but couldn't wait to see his old bike again, now that his son had taken away years of neglect and brought it back to its former glory. He looked at him, the pride he was feeling beaming from him. Piney told him to sit on it and see if it felt the same. His dad sat on it and immediately sat like a seasoned rider.

"Dad, take it around the block, it runs great. Jake did a fantastic job in getting it tuned up."

Stan looked at Piney and then back at Lorelei and saw the nod to go ahead. Stan gave a try at starting, but the heat of the ride had the pistons tight against the cylinder walls, making it hard to turn over. Piney offered and put his weight to it and had it running. Stan thanked him and sat on it, revving the engine and enjoying the feel again. He clutched and shifted into first, letting the clutch out and feeling the joy of his spirit, being freed for the first time, since he stored it away with the bike. 

He rode down the street, going through the gears, as if he had been riding it all along. He stopped and turned around, then came back, giving it more throttle this time and enjoying the thrill of speed. He pulled up in front of the house and stopped, a look of giddiness on his face, then he stopped the engine and backed it in again, putting the stand down.

He got off and looked at it, taking in all it's former beauty and the way it looked now, feeling nostalgic for her in his heart.

"Yes, very nicely done son. Very nice. I really hope you have as much fun on it like I did and take good care of it, not like I did."

The little poke at himself had them chuckle, but everyone could see how emotional Stan was at that moment. Looking at two parts of himself that were once separated, now becoming one, he teared up, knowing his life was being carried on through his son, that a part of his spirit, his dream, was continuing with him. He hugged him proudly and Piney did the same to him, thanking him for the bike and the forgiveness of past digressions.

Lorelei had them all come inside to make something to eat and drink for them, the guys happy to be doted over, only asking for coffee, or tea, knowing it made her feel good and kept the thoughts of Lester, in the silence of her heart. As they sat in the living room and Lorelei went into the kitchen to prepare things, Stan told them of the notice that Lester was coming home tomorrow and the funeral two days after. They all said they would be here at the house and ready to go as one to greet the plane with him, making Stan smile a sad smile, doing his best not to regress into a grieving father.

Lorelei brought out a tray, with, cups and the coffee pot and poured a cup for everyone. She let them add milk and sugar, while she went back in and continued making sandwiches. Jake waited until she was out of earshot, then told Stan about the events that happened on their way there. JT and Piney confirmed it, adding their take on it, as well. Jake stressed to him about the dire situation developing along the coast with motorcycle clubs, now turning to crime and fights breaking out over turf wars. He was worried about taking the boys for the ride he promised Stan he would do, in light of this development.

Stan understood, thinking of safety above all and realized that the road wasn't as friendly a place as it used to be and it didn't always lead to new adventures and meeting people. A sadness came over him and they knew the reason. 

"Don't worry, dad. We'll find a way to have a trip like you wanted us to."

Stan's smile began reappearing and patted his son's knee. Lorelei came out with a platter of assorted sandwiches and put them on the table, happily inviting everyone to dig in and eat. She stood for a moment watching, until hands dug in and began eating, then she went back into the kitchen. 

"How's mom doing, dad?"

"She has her moments, son. Trust me. This is a good one."

Piney understood and his smile was bittersweet. They decided on eating, to fill the silence that arose between them, a plausible excuse not to say anything more to depress the situation. Once their cups were empty and all the sandwiches eaten, due to Lorelei's prompting to finish them, they thanked her and said they had to get back to the shop, to close up. Warm exchanges were given, as they left the house, then curtains were once again pulled open, to see why the windows were rattling. The three riders rode out single file, keeping their speed and noise down. Pulling onto the main street, the throttles were twisted harder, as they headed into Charming. 

Heads began turning to them, young boys looking in awe, young women looking with aroused interest. Many just looked at them stone faced, unsure if they were to be even considered desirable. The sound left an impression in every one of them and they would remember that feeling, no matter how it made them think. The guys twisted the throttles a little more, as they left the downtown core and on towards the shop. Once again, the reverberating thunder of all three bikes rang between the walls, as they pulled in. They pulled up to the office and saw a Triumph Thunderbird parked beside the wall. They stopped and got off and Jake called out.

"Clay. Clay."

The guys turned and saw him coming out of the clubhouse, waving to them as he walked over. Jake called Clay to him and asked him first about his grandfather.

"How is Lionel holding up, Clay.?"

"He's hanging in there still, Jake. He's tough. Mom is sitting with him and she'll phone if there's a change. Figured I better get back and help do some work.....but......I see you've got that handled."

"Clay, I'd like you to meet JT and this is Piney. They'll be helping out here now. Got some ideas for business I want to talk to you about, when you come in on Monday."

"Great, be here at eight. So, when did you get the barn opened and cleaned up? What are you building in there?"

"That, is something else I need to talk to you about, now."

Jake led Clay away and told him about JT and Piney, the club that was forming and the clubhouse now taking shape. He told him about the events that had happened while he was away and brought him up to speed. Finally, he let him know about JT being given the manager position and made sure he described the duties to him well, so he knew it was everything he wanted to avoid. He took it well and agreed Jake needed to get away and was happy he was more or less on his own in the shop and only answered to JT about parts and supplies needed and used.

They walked back over and Clay went straight to Piney and offered his condolences to him. Piney shook his hand and thanked him. They offered their hopes his grandfather would get past this and live for many years to come. There was an ease in the unknown, as shared feelings of family made a tie. JT made the first offer of friendship and offered to show him around the clubhouse, but first, he wanted to see his bike and talk about the differences between British bikes and American made iron horses. It seemed to be the uniting factor for everyone, as they went over and looked at the Thunderbird and then the Indian and Harleys. Twenty minutes and they were blending in together, meshing under one banner, biker.

The tour of the clubhouse and everything planned for it, had Clay feeling disheartened about it. JT could see he was looking a little less happier than he thought he would.

"What's up? Look a little down about something there, Clay."

"All this. You guys have a great thing going here, I really dig it. Thing is, I'm going in next year. I got to finish my year in college and go to boot right after."

"Clay, take it from any of us that have been there. Join the paratroopers. As scary as that sounds, trust me, we all did it, made it through our tours, listened to what we were told and came home again. Look at this way, you can jump from a plane and float to the ground, then hump it a couple clicks to the front, or, you hump it ten or twenty clicks and then get into it. One way or the other, you're getting into it. You decide, but that seemed to work out best for us on two tours. Don't forget to think of where you're going to go, on your reenlist trip."

"My what?"

"They didn't tell you? If you finish your first tour and sign up for another, you get a furlough of your choice, where you want to go, before you start your next tour. Sort of a bonus for staying alive the first time, so they can see if you're good enough to do it again."

Clay thought about what JT was saying, judging for himself the differences in danger, one way, or the other. 

"Where did you guys go?"

"Hawaii. Lived on base, but you have leave to go just about anywhere, like a tourist. Just have to be ready for the transport and don't be late, when it's time to go."

Clay took it as a good deal, never having been on a trip any further than a couple of hundred miles with his parents. It brought back the memory of them and being killed on vacation, while he was at his grandparents and never seeing them alive again. Now his grandfather was passing away and his grandmother wouldn't be around much longer, ending any ties to family for him. Seeing the world on Uncle Sam's dime, sounded good to him. 

"Vacation sounds good. Nice to get away from it all and relax, before it's time to go back to work."

His sarcastic humour had the guys laughing and they found themselves warming up to Clay. JT made an offer that settled Clay's despondency and made him feel some worth to them.

"Tell you what, Clay. When you finish in 'Nam and come home, you still want to join, we'll have a spot for you waiting. Only one thing you have to do."

"What's that?"

Get an American Bike. The Triumph is nice, but it's not a great bike for long cruises, like we're going on."

Clay took offence to JT saying his bike wasn't as good as his American made one.

"My Thunderbird can ride all day with any one of those bikes out there. Just as fast, or faster."

JT heard the challenge and took him up on it. Once it was met, it was game on for the both of them, as they headed to their bikes. Jake stopped sweeping and watched them.

"Where you boys going?"

"Settle a little bet, Jake. Clay says his Limey bike is better and faster than American muscle, so we're going to see who eats their words."

"I can tell you right off, the Triumph will beat you off the start and kick your ass in cornering, so you better be prepared to see just how fast you can go, because that's the only way you'll beat that Triumph. Well, that and a long distance ride. Triumphs are notoriously bad bikes for breaking down on long rides. Too much vibration and it works all the nuts and bolts loose. Harley, or Indian will win hands down every time. Guy who figures on how to put the best of both bikes together, now he's going to have a winner on his hands."

Before either of them had their engines started, it seemed the answer to their challenge had been met with words. They looked at each other and a look of truce was given in gesture, both of them dismounting and shaking hands.

"What were you racing over, anyway?"

"I was saying to Clay, that when he got back from 'Nam, we'd hold a place for him in our club, but he had to ride American, to be in it and he said his Triumph was as good, or better than ours."

"JT is right, Clay. For the kind of riding you do in a club, you want a bike like theirs. Triumphs are nice for a hundred or so miles, but after that, you better pull over and check your nuts and bolts and see their all tight, or still there, for that matter."




Redwood Nine Ch. 06



"Yeah, maybe you're right, Jake, you too, JT. I just like the old girl, she's a sweet ride. Got me everywhere I had to go and back....but.....I admit, the trips weren't always that long, like you said."

They looked at the Thunderbird and the opposing twin cylinders of the 650cc engine, showing signs of oil leaking from seals and a couple of drips on the ground below, had more evidence of leakage.

"There's your proof right there boys. That much oil coming out like that, over a couple of hundred miles, that bike might as well be left where it is, because the engine will be seized solid. Ride over."

With no dripping or seepage from the Indian, or Harley present, Clay had to come to reason with the facts.

"Okay, the Thunderbird goes, but it's going to take some time to find another bike I can afford. Not like the Army is releasing me with a severance package of several grand. Keep an eye out for one for me and if you can sell my bike while I'm over there, I can use that money as well to buy one."

"Okay, that's doable. Just sign the paperwork and if we see a bike that you'd like, we'll put something down on it to hold it for you."

"Hey, that's great JT, thanks a million, buddy."

"No probs, man, but don't thank me yet. You got to get your ass back here to ride it. Don't screw me over and leave me with some bike and you go get your ass shot up over their."

"Hey, I'll do my best not to."

"So what do you think of the club and the clubhouse, Clay."

Clay looked at the dirty, dingy building, as many lights working as not, the smell of neglect still lingering in the air.

"I like it. This place is going to be fantastic, if it turns out like you say it will. I can't wait to put on a jacket with the crest on it and join you guys."

"We won't have jackets. We'll have 'cuts' that we wear."

"Cuts?"

"Jean jacket with the sleeves cut off. Goes over your riding jacket, shirt, or just it alone."

"Okay, I can dig that. So what does Jake say about all of it?"

"What do you mean? Jake's been behind us and this, since the beginning."

"He has? Funny. He always told me he wouldn't have anything to do with clubs and riding ever again."

"Yeah, he told us about half the guys getting killed that time down in Gilroy, that fucking sucks."

"Yeah. Plus the other time in Berkeley, when his friend was shot. That was it. He said never again will he put a patch of any kind on his back. Said it was just a target for idiots to shoot at."

"Wait, he never said anything about a friend getting shot. When did that happen?"

Before Clay could answer, Jake walked around the corner and into the building.

"Three years ago. Coming out of a store we just bought smokes and a drink in. Guy rolled up, pulled out a 45 and put two into my friend, Oscar, right in his chest. Dropped the poor guy dead. Turns out, it was a mistaken identity. The guy was looking for some rider from another club and mistook Oscar's patch for the other guy's patch, he was looking for. Mistake or not, Oscar was dead and it was all because he had a patch on his back. The asshole shot at me too, but I dove down and hid under the front of a car. He wasn't after me, so he left after he knew Oscar was dead. I lay on the ground looking at him, blood trailing out of him and there was nothing I could do. Swore then and there, that I'd never patch in again with a club."

The guys looked at Jake, seeing the memories flood over him, taking him back to a place he didn't want to go to. The horrors of reality, of what was supposed to be, the American Dream.



Redwood Nine Ch. 07



Chapter 7 

The Homecoming

JT and Piney did their best to look presentable for Lester's homecoming. The flight was landing at Stockton, at two forty pm and they were sitting in Piney's parents living room just before noon. The bedroom door opened and Suzy came out looking the best she had in a week. Ann-Marie came out right after and the change was incredible. Till now, she had been wearing tight jeans and a jean vest, but taking them home to get clothes brought about a different side to them. Wally and Keith came in from the backyard, the remains of smoke still swirling about them, both of them, like JT and Piney, finding the best they had to put on. 

The low rumble of bikes, had JT and Piney going to the window and seeing Jake on his bike, Lenny and Lorraine on his and Otto and Cindy on his, then Clay coming up at the rear. Keith and Piney both had the same thoughts in their heads, not seeing their partners show up. The guys went out to greet them and hugs were shared by everyone. Piney had to ask Cindy, when he greeted her, if Mary and Gloria were still coming.

"Oh yeah. They're coming. They had to wait for the cab to show up and they'll be here soon. They can't wait to see you guys, they really missed you."

Piney and Keith both had smiles that grew and didn't seem to want to stop, as they heard that the lonely days of the past week were over and some loving was in order. The guys caught Otto up on what was happening in the clubhouse, leaving out the five finger discount shopping they did to get it, as well as telling them about the incident on the 205 junction. Otto and Lenny said they heard about it, but to know Jake, JT and Piney were a mere hundred yards from the action at best, had them concerned things could have been worse.

JT said he wanted to call a meeting and discuss some of the issues that had come up and let all the guys hear it at once. They had to wait for Chico to get from TJ and see what both ends said about joining up, so it would be during the week and they would let them know. Once the need for talk was over, the bikes became the focus again and Otto looked both over, then at Clay's Triumph. Keith was interested in it as well, having ridden one back home. Keith and Clay then began discussing the merits of the bike, despite any of its shortcomings, while JT got Otto thinking about painting his bike. The basic frame and engine would be black, instead of olive drab. Otto gave JT some ideas on how to do those and then looked at the tank and fenders. 

"Man, those are some ugly fenders. The tank looks like a tank, too. Has no lines to it. Know what? You need to find some new ones, from a different model and put them on, or else cut them off shorter, so they don't look so, you know, ugly."

"You know, you're right. That's exactly what's wrong with the look. It looks like something the Army would use and not something for the public. What kind of bike do you think would work? Another Harley, say newer?"

"Yeah, that would work. Might have to mess with it a bit to get it to fit right, but that's nothing. Might try some fenders like Jake's and I can bob them."

"Bob them?"

"Yeah. That's when you cut it shorter. See, like this."

Otto used Jake's fender as an example and showed with his hands where he would cut the fender off and trim the sides. JT liked the idea and said to check out where some wrecked bikes might be and he'd go have a look.

Lorelei called everyone in for cold drinks and cigarettes were put out, as they walked to the house. Piney held the door for everyone and noticed a car coming down the street and then a sign on top. He hesitated to smile, until it stopped in front of the house. He let it out and called to Keith to come to the door. Mary and Gloria got out and waved to him and Piney waved happily back. Keith came and saw it was the girls and his smile returned broadly, as he waved. Piney and Keith went out to them, ready to hug their long awaited partners. The guys became a bit confused, as Mary went to Piney and Gloria went to Keith.

"Guys, we need to talk to you about something and hope you understand."

The guys listened to Mary intently, Piney trying hard not to show his happiness at the turn of events, while Keith was trying to be as accepting of it as he could, as Gloria put her arm around his waist.

"The real reason we didn't want to stay, is because we were with you guys and we wanted to be with the other guy. I like you, Keith, you're a really sweet guy, but I really like Piney more. Gloria likes Piney too, but she likes you just as much. So we talked about it and figured this was the only way it could work, or just not be with either of you at all. So we hope you guys like how it works out."

Piney was quick to express how happy he was with it and looked to Keith, a pleading in his eyes to accept. Keith looked down at Gloria, feeling her breasts pressed into him and her hands holding him and couldn't find a reason it wasn't a fair exchange. With the agreement in place, they turned to their new partners with new feelings to express. Arms hugged and lips came together on the front lawn, the curtains wide open and everyone watching them. A dull cheer rose inside and several of the curtains across the street were opened and faces peered at the two couples embracing.

They came inside to share the news and even Stan and Lorelei were pleased.

"Isn't that funny. When you girls came by the other night and I was saying how Mary was like a daughter to me and all her friends were over, now here she's chosen my boy, how lovely."

The moment seemed to capture everyone, the foretelling seeming to be happening before them. One thing that everyone was aware of, was the pleasure of smiles and holding back the sombre feelings until it was necessary. The time seemed to steal away from the moment, as Stan noticed it was time for everyone to get into the cars and head to Stockton. The girls went with Stan and Wally in their cars, while the guys got on their bikes and started them up. Dogs began barking uncontrollably and people came out this time, as most wished Stan and Lorelei well on their trip. Some were just plainly annoyed by the noise, no matter what the occasion. Like an orchestra warming up, each bike an instrument being tuned, the disharmony continued, until they played in unison on the main street and the air became alive with their sound.

The bikes led the procession through town and on towards Lodi, then down 99 and on to Stockton Metropolitan Airport. The faces didn't hold smiles the same, as the ride down just days earlier, their destination causing an ever-increasing reality of their mortality and how life could be ended, no matter what age, no matter what cause.

They pulled off 99 onto Arch Airport Road and went around the landing fields, following the steady left bends, until they saw the Army transport parked in front of the first hanger, soldiers gathered around informally. They pulled into the parking lot and then the roar died and eyes were upon them. They stayed together and Stan went over to a captain, standing by another family and talking to them. Stan approached and introduced himself and the captain removed his lid and shook his hand, acknowledging the loss of his son. He said he was his commanding officer over there and his loss was tragic to his whole unit. The booby trap that killed him, was instant in his death. Captain Geoffrey had him on point and he had just said the way was clear and took several steps, when the trap sprung.

No one understood what made Stan cringe and feel agony, when the captain clapped his hands together tight, but it brought tears to Stan's eyes and a comforting hand on his shoulder from the officer. Lorelei went to him, her own tears flowing, just from seeing her husband in pain. Piney went over as well, while JT held back with the others. He held onto Suzy tighter and she tightened her hold on him in response, sensing his own pain at seeing Stan. 

Piney came back with tears in his eyes and took JT aside and explained what had happened. JT immediately slumped, shaken by how he died and knew the agony he did feel, as he bled out. The dozens of bamboo spikes were lethal, but death took an agonizing minute to come, as the body went into shock and succumbed to blood loss. Thankfully, any chance of an open casket was never possible, but the damage would have prevented it anyway, his face shredded beyond recognition, or repair.

JT went over and consoled Stan and Lorelei, along with Piney, then one by one, they all came over and joined in, sharing in their grief. The sound of turbine engines coming in, had heads turning to the skies, to see the transport plane coming in. The Army colour was ever-present, as well as the white star and bars on the sides. The soldiers that were milling about, immediately formed lines and stood at attention, squaring off lids and jackets to look parade smart. These were the same young men that Lester was tasked in protecting. They had come to thank Lester and let him know his loss would not be forgotten by them

The jet touched down and taxied around the ramp way, following the uniformed soldier's directions. The wheels stopped and the engines screaming whine began dropping fast, as the pilot shut the turbines off. An instance of quiet proceeded and then the colour guard marched to the plane. A ramp was driven over and raised to the right height of the door. The back hatch of the cargo area was opened and swung back, then the ramp moved closer. Two hearses slowly pulled up and stopped, the drivers opening the back door to load the coffins in, then stood solemnly in wait. 

Both families stood in wait, their children coming home again, forever ending who they once were and now having to live with them in memory. The first coffin came out and the soldiers snapped to attention and saluted, as it made its down and came to a stop at the end. The honour guard came forward and six soldiers took a handle and as one, lifted it to their shoulders. The captain gave the order to move and they moved in unison towards the hearse, then stopped, lowered the flag-draped coffin onto the hearse floor and slid it in, always keeping hands in contact with the coffin, until it was at rest. They saluted and did an about face and returned to their position by the plane, for the second coffin.

Both families wept, regardless of who's son was inside them, both losses tragically felt by each. The last coffin was loaded and the lone bugler began playing Taps for them. When he finished, the doors to the hearses were closed, finalizing the moment. Lester was home.

The hearses waited, as the families readied themselves in their vehicles, waiting to lead them back to their respective funeral homes. Lester's hearse pulled away and the procession made its way back to 99 and north to home again. The ride was slow and hard to do for Piney, riding behind the hearse, knowing his brother was yards ahead, laying in the back. 

Slowly through town, they made their way, heading to Dubrowski's funeral home. People turned and watched, many bowing heads and paying tribute to them, as they finally pulled into the driveway and up to the service doors. Everyone parked and came over, as the staff opened the door and brought Lester's coffin out and carried it into the viewing room, where it was readied with Lester's picture and some of his favourite things. The coffin was gently laid on the stand, then the staff bowed and quietly left the family to be with him.

So little could be said, only feelings being felt, as Lorelei placed her son's picture on the coffin and laid herself over it, weeping with the comfort of knowing her son was there with her, with her family, with those that cared about him. Only Stan and Lorelei stayed in the room, while the others went out and lit up cigarettes. There was no way to lighten the mood that existed among them, only comfort and ease the pain of loss.

"I can't wait to get back and smoke a big joint after this, man. I mean, a big one."

Lenny used his hands to describe how big a joint he wanted and everyone nodded and agreed. To everyone's surprise, Jake piped up and agreed with them.

"I think I could do with some of that as well. If it calms you down like Wally says, that's just what I need about now. Lord knows I hate going to funerals."

JT remembered what Jake had said earlier about his friends being killed and then one shot, trying to imagine how hard it must be to go to that many funerals, for fallen friends and brothers. Watching his own father be buried, had left him emptier inside than he had ever known. There was always a piece of him missing, no matter how long he looked at his pictures, or remembered things they had done together. Memories could never replace the moments and Jake was living with a lot of memories.

Stan and Lorelei finally came out and Piney offered to do the driving. Mary got in beside Lorelei in the back and held her hand, while Stan sat beside her holding her other one. The girls all found room in both cars and the guys broke the humbled silence, as one by one, engines were kicked into life and the procession moved out of the parking lot and back along the main street, eyes watching them pass. 

Unser sat in the barber chair at Floyd's Barber Shop, his thick hair getting shaggy around the ears and neck, getting a notice by the Chief and told to neaten it up. The large glass panes of the windows began vibrating and then the low rumble came through to him. Floyd stopped cutting and they both turned and watched the bikes and two cars pass by them, both knowing a son of Charming was home and being laid to rest.

After dropping off his parents and everyone saying goodbye, Wally dropped Piney off to pick up his bike at the funeral home and everyone headed to the motel. It was a relief to the soul for everyone, just to let it go and relax, while Jake headed up to the main office and went to see Marlene. Baggies were unrolled and papers were soon filled and rolled, bringing about Zippo lighters. The room was engulfed in smoke in no time, so they opened the window to let it out.

Two minutes after they began airing out, a knock came and Jake was standing there.

"You know, there's so much smoke coming out from down here, it looks like there's a fire. Marlene was going to call the fire department, but I said it was everyone having a cigarette after the funeral home. I told her I'd tell you guys to slow it down, or take it outside, just to make her happy."

They understood the warning and knew not to upset Marlene and began putting out cigarettes, as the joints were still going around. Jake reached in and intercepted one of them and took a few hits and blew the smoke out and then did it again.

"I sure hope this calms you down, like you say it does, Wally. I'm wound up tighter than a drum right now."

They all assured him he would feel much mellower soon, as he waved and walked back up again. They all seemed to sigh in relief, happy it wasn't more of a hassle than that. Piney got up and held his hand out to Mary.

"I think we should go for a walk and talk about some things. What do you say?"

Mary looked at Piney and smiled, then took his hand. Keith looked out of place with his feelings, as he saw her with him, then felt Gloria's hand touch his, reminding him he was still wanted. Piney and Mary went for a walk down the side of the road, holding hands, talking animatedly and intimately about the changes.

Keith wasn't as concerned about emotions and spiritual connections, as much as a physical one with Gloria. He offered his hand to Gloria, who smiled as she took it, then Keith excused them to go to his room and discuss the issues at hand. That little bit of love and enjoyment of life, brought the others back to the reality of life as they lived it and the heartbreak of loss was being eased in their souls.

When talk turned to the clubhouse, bikes and going on runs, the girls took their leave and went next door to better discuss issues more interesting to them. Amidst heartbreak and sorrow, love and happiness always found a way to grow, their young hearts demanding it.

The girls were getting down to the serious business of bras and deeply into a discussion about them, when a knock came at the door. Cindy reached over and opened the door to see Marlene standing there.

"Can I help you?"

"No, sorry. I'd like to see Suzy and Ann-Marie though."

Her tone entered the room and the girls looked at Suzy and Ann-Marie, as they got up and went outside, closing the door behind them. Marlene walked them away, so they were out of earshot, then turned to them. Suzy and Ann-Marie halted abruptly and looked at her. 

"Tomorrow, I'm going to need one of you to dust and vacuum my room and one of you to come with me and do the shopping. I'll be getting my nails and hair done, so who would like to do what? Or do I have to choose?"

Suzy and Ann-Marie hesitated, looking at each other, then quickly decided on what they'd do.

"I'll stay and do the housework and Annie will do the shopping. What time do we start?"

Marlene seemed happy with the choice and looked away thinking animatedly.

"Let's start at ten, you come and start cleaning and I'll take the fairy princess with me and drop her off at the store. My appointment is at ten thirty, so that gives us lots of time."

"Why did you call me a fairy princess?"

Marlene could see that she was hurt by it and smiled.

"Sweetie, with your looks and that white, blonde hair, just put a pair of wings on you and you're perfect."

Ann-Marie smiled happily, enjoying the description of herself and Suzy noticed it, wondering why she cared so much about it in the first place. She saw the way she looked at Marlene and how she was looking back at her, that briefest of moments that spoke volumes of untold words of what they knew. Ann-Marie blushed slightly and her breathing gained in speed, showing some excitement at tomorrow's chores. Suzy couldn't put it all together yet, but something more was going on between Ann-Marie and Marlene, than met the eye. 

The little pat on Ann-Marie's cheek before she left and the smile, left an indelible impression in her, as she looked at her friend, who was still watching Marlene walk back into the office. The tiny flickers up and down, let her know she was eyeing her boss from head to toe, a small smile still curling her lips.

"Alright, so what gives?"

Ann-Marie was startled from her thoughts, as Suzy turned her towards her. She looked at her friend and could tell instantly that she had been found out, or the suspicion was high enough to make her confront her this way. She looked into her eyes and saw that an answer had to come from her, or it would never stop, until it did.

"Nothing gives, what are you talking about?"

Suzy hoped her friend wouldn't take this route, so she forced her to deal with it.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about, Annie, don't bull shit me. I know there's something going on between you two, so what is it?"

Ann-Marie knew her avoidance of it would never satisfy Suzy and her reference to something going on, would never be put to rest, until she told all to her. Ann-Marie took Suzy's hand and walked her away from everyone and everything, not wanting anyone, but them, to know what she was going to say. The old bench at the far end of the lot afforded them a place to sit, as Ann-Marie looked about for anyone, then turned to Suzy.

"You remember that day that I got all fucked up over Marlene touching me?"

Suzy looked at her and saw the truth hiding behind her fear and did her best not to react, as she said she did.

"Later that day, when we came back after we had made out in the car, she told you to go and told me to put the laundry away."

Suzy remembered and knew something had happened that day, but nothing was said.




Redwood Nine Ch. 07



"I was putting the towels away when she came in. She closed the door and took off her robe and she was like, naked under it."

Suzy could see Ann-Marie was fighting to hold it together, the secret she was sharing, so dramatic a thing to confess. She held both her hands to assure her and urged her to go on.

"I didn't know what to do, so I just froze and she came to me. I stood there and she began undressing me and touching me, then she kissed me and I don't know, I just started kissing back and touching her. She..she...she did things to me, Suzy. Wonderful things, things I had no idea about doing. What we did was nothing, compared to what she did, what anyone has done."

Suzy tried to fathom what Ann-Marie was describing and it seemed borderline to rape to her, but at the same time, another part of her found it sexually stimulating. They had sworn to keep their tryst a secret between them, but Ann-Marie was adding something more to it, something much more. 

"Is that it? Is this why Wally has been acting so down and shitty this past week?"

"I, I'm so confused, Suzy. I like Wally, he's really nice, but Marlene made me feel so incredible. When I lay in bed and she put her mouth on me down there and used her tongue."

Ann-Marie seemed to drift off into thought at the mere mention of it.

"Wally does nothing like that for me. It's like, I lay there and just let him do his thing to me and he gets off, but I get nothing."

"Wait, wait, back up. When were you on the bed? You said you were in the store closet, when she came at you?"

Ann-Marie was instantly guilty with every look and gesture. Suzy saw it clearly and Ann-Marie was almost crying. Suzy pulled her to her and comforted her and Ann-Marie was grateful for the connection between them.

"The next morning. She sent you to go vacuum and dust. She said I was helping her, remember?"

Suzy knew the moment and looked at her, waiting for her to go on.

"She told me to come in early, so when the guys went to work, I went in to see her. I was lying in bed, when you came in."

Suzy kept holding her hands, but looked at her from a new angle once again.

"You, you like girls, don't you?"

"Oh Suzy, what if I do? I mean, I want to have babies one day and have a family, but I really love what she does to me and...and...I."

Suzy was hanging on every word and her head stuttered in time with Ann-Marie, then waited for her to continue.

"Okay, so you like making out with girls and, what?"

"I liked doing it with you, too. I know you liked it doing it with me. You know what I'm talking about. I made you orgasm better than JT can, you said so."

Suzy could see that Ann-Marie was trying to justify her actions through her and she was inclined to understand it from her viewpoint, having the memories of them that day, still fresh in her mind, coming back at any time to haunt her thoughts and stir her emotions. Even when making love with JT, moments would creep in, to add to the thrill in her mind. Looking at her, she tried hard to let go of moral tradition of right and wrong, just a friend struggling with a monumental decision to make.

"You did and I liked everything you did to me and I did to you, I admit it, Annie. It was special, it was different in every way we can describe, I get it. What I want to know, no, what I want you to know, is if you like doing it with girls, more than guys?"

"I don't know. I like being with a guy, I like feeling him inside me. I like kissing and stuff, but another girl touching me, I get so hot and wet and stuff. Marlene made me shake so hard, I almost passed out. The feeling was so out of this world crazy, like I was on a trip. I know you don't know what I'm talking about, it's really hard to describe, but if you could feel it, like just once, you'd know what I mean."

Suzy was beside herself morally. On one side, she was decidedly hetero-sexual, fully enjoying that side of herself and happy to be that way the rest of her life. On the other, she had an awakening, unlike any other awakening. A flower had taken seed in her and she nurtured its growth, one that had shown a beauty she enjoyed seeing, one she wanted to blossom. What Ann-Marie had described was not as unknown as she imagined of her friend, as Suzy was guilty in her own mind, laying in bed alone after JT left and fantasized about it, her hands those of her lover, those of a woman.

"How much better can it be than how a guy makes you feel? I know we made each other feel, like different, but it wasn't like, way better than how JT makes me feel, you know what I mean?"

Ann-Marie put on her best convincing expression and held Suzy's hands a bit tighter in hers.

"Has JT ever made you see stars, when he did something to you? Has he touched you inside your pussy and made you get so wet, you made a puddle on the bed? Can he play with your nipples and suck on them and make you almost orgasm from it? Has JT put his face between your legs and licked at you inside and stuff? If he can do that and make you orgasm better than ever, then he's one incredible guy. I'm just saying that Marlene knows things a guy doesn't. She knows what I'm feeling, when she touches me. She knows when to do things at the right time and one thing she never does...is leave me hanging there waiting to be finished myself."

Suzy tried to digest the impact of what Marlene had done to her friend, imagining how it would be if she were in Ann-Marie's place. Her own body responded with an answer and she felt the ache in her nipples and the heat and moisture between her legs. Forbidden fruits were always sweeter to the taste, but always came with a price. Suzy knew that the price she had to pay for those fruits, was with her soul and how much more was she willing to spend, to taste the sweetest fruit on the tree.

"If we get a chance, I want you to do it to me, whatever it is she did to you, you do it to me. Okay?"

Ann-Marie was relieved to the point of an entire body sigh, hearing her say it. She had a look of yes, but a hesitancy to say it. Suzy could sense it too and wondered.

"I'll do it, it's just, I don't know if I can do it like she can. I know how it felt to me, but I don't know if it will feel the same to you?"

"I get you. So, how do I know what you got to feel?"

"Let her do it to you."

Ann-Marie's response floored Suzy completely. On the one hand, she had agreed to continue this between them and carry it a bit further in their exploration, but now, she was being asked to have a stranger, one who had taken advantage of her friend, do things to her, in a quest to find taboo sexual pleasure.

"And I just walk up and say, 'Hey Marlene, how's it going? By the way, Annie tells me you're great at making girls orgasm, want to do me?', or how do you see that playing out?"

Ann-Marie sat there and looked about, making sure they were still alone.

"I'll talk to her tomorrow, when she takes me to go shopping. We'll be alone and I can ask her somehow, about you. I'll see if she like, wants to do you too. I can say we've done stuff, but I told you about what she did and you want to try it too. I bet she will, she seems to really like girls and she likes guys too, so maybe, I can have both, too."

"I gotta hear how you intend on just somehow casually dropping this in her lap."

"Easy. You saw how she looked at me just now. She's going to be all over me, before we get to town to do shopping. When she's got her hands and lips on me, I'll say how much better she kisses me, than you do. She'll want to know what else we do and I can tell her then."

"That easy, huh?"

"Yeah. That easy, just watch. I'll ask her tomorrow and I'll tell you what we end up doing."

Suzy's happiness was nervous emotion, roiling just below the surface. The desire to experience life's pleasure's, always overrode the need to remember society's code and values. The mind would come up with any number of reasons to justify experiencing that unknown pleasure, in hopes it brought them to an experience, far greater in bliss, than any other they had felt to date. Suzy slowly stood up, looking around for signs of anyone and sat down again, the wooden screens giving them two sides of privacy.

The pair looked at each other, sharing the journey into the unknown and smiled like kids getting away with something. When their eyes met and shared the emotional connection, other feelings took hold and they kissed passionately, enjoying what they knew to be good between them. Hands searched for soft mounds and massaged them from out side their clothes, as tongues battled for lustful dominance.

Walking back down the road, holding hands and smiling, Piney and Mary made their way back to the unit. Mary stopped talking, when she saw movement and noticed the girls. She motioned to Piney and kept him quiet, as they walked a bit further to see who it was. Both took a gasp of breath, when they saw it was Suzy and Ann-Marie engaged in a heated session of kissing and petting. Ann-Marie's hand had found it's way between Suzy's legs and she was rubbing it fervently.

Breaking out of the shock, they quietly walked away and went the long way around to the unit, leaving the pair to finish in private. Words were hard to come by, as they didn't know how to approach the subject matter, so they walked in silence and reflected on it in their minds. Their footsteps on the gravel, signalled the girls and they quickly broke apart and straightened themselves, before Piney and Mary walked around the tall hedge row in front. They stood and acted as though nothing happened and walked towards them, smiling and waving. Piney and Mary waved back, but their smiles were hard put to be there. 

Little was said, as the girls went back into the unit where the others were and Piney stood outside with Mary, talking with her quietly. The girls could sense something was up with them and began wondering if they had been seen by them. Little looks flashed their way, let them know they had, or suspected it.

The girls walked in and were asked what the bitch from hell wanted them for. They acted with as little emotion as they could and downplayed what their orders were for their daily chores. Lorraine seemed happy about their plight, Suzy seeing her pleasure in it and asked.

"What? Like that we have shitty work to do tomorrow?"

"No, kiddo. I'm happy I didn't come and take the offer and stayed at the restaurant. I'd be screaming already and leaving."

"Well, maybe, but when you don't have a job, it puts some cash in my pocket at least. Besides. I have a place to live, as well."

Lorraine heard that and it sparked a thought in her head.

"Oh, Lenny was telling me that they have two rooms almost done at the clubhouse, so we can live there soon. Not sure I'm going to like all the construction going on, but hey, at least we're not on the street."

Mary was next to have something remembered.

"Oh, you know what? When we were talking with Stan, I was saying how shitty it was that you guys got kicked out and he said he was going to look into that for us. He said it didn't sound right to him, that the notice was too short. He said the same thing, that it should be thirty days, before you have to leave, not a week. I bet the Hales are trying to pull a fast one again. They might have been here since Charming started, but that doesn't give them the right to boss people around, no matter how much money they have. He's just lucky his dad is a judge and pulls some strings, because I heard he got caught doing things that could have sent him to jail, but his dad got him off."

That had the girls thinking more positively about Lorraine's situation and like magic, undergarments became the topic of interest again. Just feet away, on the other side of the wall from the girls, the guys were talking shop still and discussing the idea of more members. Wally said he knew a guy that might be a good member to have join, if the guys liked him. Wally told them of a contact he had, who got him pretty well anything he asked him to get. The guys started joking and asking if he could get some outlandish items and Wally said this guy would only ask when they wanted them and how much they were willing to pay. 

They wanted to know more about him and where he was from. Wally said he had no idea where he was from, or anything about his past, really. He had met up through a mutual acquaintance for a buy and got to know him. He started buying off him and then started asking for things and he got anything Wally asked him to get and as much as he wanted. The guys were becoming more intrigued by this stranger and asked who he was.

"Tom Whitney, anyone heard of him? Goes by Uncle Tom on the street. He's sort of hanging out in Lodi, because of the connections he has and his sources to get shit. He told me he used to ride a bike at one time, not sure what kind, but we were yakking about bikes one day and he told me."

JT looked at the guys and they seemed to be interested in him, so he told Wally to bring him around to the clubhouse, once Chico was back and they had everyone there. Lenny stopped all talk of shop and most anything, when he turned from the small writing desk and showed everyone his masterpiece of herbal magnificence. It held close to a quarter ounce and took six papers to hold it, but he proudly displayed it, then lit the end, the tip going on fire, as he drew in a larger toke. The guys took a large toke each and before half of it was done, the room was so thick with smoke, they could barely see themselves. Lenny took the joint and opened the door and walked next door to the girls and barged in with it, passing it to Lorraine. 

The girls were put out off their girl time, but saw what Lenny had to offer and were happy for the intrusion. They all got to take two hits and then Lenny took the joint, kissed Lorraine and left, just as quick as he came. He went back into the room and the guys could hear the girls hooting and hollering happily.

"I am so in need of a good fuck, lads. It's been a tough week, so it has. And I'm blessed to have another lovely lady to accompany me, so I have, so we'll see how that goes, shall we? Charming is quite, charming."

"Good on you, brother. Nothing like the old switch-a-roo to get you thinking. No one saw that one coming."

"I'm looking forward to that old switch-a-roo myself. Mary and I would like the room for a while tonight, JT, so that we may better acquaint ourselves."

Piney's stab at eloquence had them laughing and joking about it, dropping their voices so they didn't carry through to the other side clearly. Despite their caution, the girls were eavesdropping on them with glasses to the wall and ears pressed against them. Lorraine and Cindy were whispering a play by play of what they were saying and they all took notes. Ann-Marie and Suzy acted just as interested in what their partners might be saying, but the stolen glances between them, had other moments of pleasure being thought of. Mary was ever vigil to catch those glances and save them away till another time to discuss.

The office was quiet from the outside, but the further inside one went, the muffled sounds became clearer and more recognizable for what they were. Groans and grunts, moans and sighs, echoed off the walls, as Marlene relieved Jake's stress her way. Jake's hands were filled with the vibrant red tresses of Marlene's hair, holding her tightly, but leaving her to move at will, as she bobbed slowly, up and down in a sensual rhythm. He felt her twisting her head, making him let go, but she never took her mouth from him, as she moved around. He opened his eyes to see her leg straddle his head, then the light faded, as she sat back on him.

The night and the reconnecting over, heads awoke feeling better, feeling a warm body next to them. Room after room, couples stirred and arose, relieving themselves and climbing back under the sheets to snuggle. Suzy looked at the clock and saw it was only eight thirty, then turned to JT beside her, his eyes still shut, but not sleeping. She nuzzled in close to his ear and whispered as soft as she could.

"I have to go to work in an hour or so, so we have lots of time still. Can I play with it?"

JT didn't move, but cracked his eyelid open and squinted at her. He could make out her smile and then felt her hand on his chest, caressing him softly, slowing finding it's way a little lower each time. He smiled and gave a slight nod and closed his eyes, as she snuck a peek over at Piney and Mary, to see if they were paying attention, then slid her hand down between his legs and laid her head on his chest, enjoying herself. The only thing JT gave away, was his breathing, as Suzy brought his member to hardness and lovingly stroked it. She lay there unmoving, except her hand, feeling it swell and throb to her touch. 

JT's breath and body couldn't maintain the cloak of secrecy, as he neared completion, his breath getting ragged, his body writhing in ecstasy. Suzy knew he was almost there and ducked her head under the sheets, taking him the final few steps orally. JT couldn't stifle his groan of pleasure and Piney looked over at him, a smile coming across his face, remembering how he had the same problem last night with Mary doing the same to him, but they didn't get caught at it.

The time marched on, despite the desire to stay entwined in bed and Suzy had to get up and get ready. Today made her especially happy, having had the chance to go home and pack clothes. She opened the drawer and took out clean panties and a bra, along with a T shirt and her jeans and headed into the bathroom. Fifteen minutes later, Suzy came out with her hair combed back and put in a ponytail, her face clean and make up free. She laid on top of JT and kissed him goodbye, then said goodbye to Piney and Mary, now opening their eyes to her.

Suzy left the unit and walked to the unit next door and knocked. Ann-Marie came to the door and greeted her and closed it behind her, as they started off for the office. They looked at each and shared a moment, thinking back on yesterday's request on the bench and Suzy sighed.

"Don't sweat it. Once you get over the weird part, it's fantastic, you'll see."

"It's not that part I'm worried about. I'm worried about how you tell her about it."

Ann-Marie could see the nervousness on her face and in her eyes, as they reached the office door. Marlene was dressed and ready to greet them, as they came inside. As casual as she would call her clothes, she looked radiantly sexy. Her sleeveless, light green top clung to her and accentuated her curving mounds with details of every tiny nuance that broke the smooth surface. Her white pants were painted on, the material so tight against her skin. She modelled herself for them, as she saw the looks they gave her, turning around completely and posing at the end.

"So, how do I look?"

Ann-Marie let her guard down easily, her feelings for Marlene coming through clearly.

"You look gorgeous. I love that outfit."

Marlene was satisfied with Ann-Marie's response and turned to Suzy, looking for hers. She looked at her, getting her caught in her own eyes and held them. She almost chuckled when she saw Suzy gulp.

"You look really, really nice."

"Really, really nice? Well, I guess that's better than just nice."

Suzy felt silly saying her reply and thought again.

"Yeah, it's really nice and...it makes you look sexy."

Marlene smiled broadly at hearing the word.

"Sexy, now that I like. You think I look sexy, do you, Suzy?"

Suzy wasn't prepared for her, questioning her choice of words and looked at her. She naturally ran her eyes up and down Marlene, thinking of an answer to reply with. Marlene's eyes held an expectancy in them, pushing Suzy to respond.

"I like how your clothes make you look. I think it's sexy looking."




Redwood Nine Ch. 07



Suzy hoped that got her off the hook to explain herself further, but Marlene knew the bait was being nibbled and she wanted to see if she could make a strike.

"If my clothes make me sexy looking, I guess I must be sexy to you. Am I sexy looking to you?"

Suzy could feel the trap closing around her, with no chance of escaping it. Marlene's question, was as direct as they came. Once again, Marlene suppressed a smile, at seeing the nervous gulp.

"I guess so. I mean, I don't know. You look sexy dressed like that."

Marlene knew she had her where she wanted her and took over.

"You are a dear, thank you."

Marlene shimmied over and gave Suzy a kiss on the cheek. 

"Now, let's go to my room and I'll show you what I want you to do for me. You can wait for me in the car, Ann-Marie."

The request had Suzy thinking twice on what she was asking her, as she felt Marlene's arm go around her shoulder and lead her to the back. Marlene gave Ann-Marie a look to go and wait, which she did obediently, while she went into her area with Suzy. She stood with her arm over her shoulder, pointing out what she wanted attended to and then walked her into her bedroom. Suzy hesitated, as they got to the door and Marlene sensed it. With a little pull of persuasion, she had her walk in and stand beside the bed. Suzy was clearly nervous, standing so close to Marlene, knowing what she was secretly wanting to experience with her, looking at the unmade bed in wonder.

"I want the sheets changed and the room vacuumed. I want the bathroom cleaned, as well. If you get all of that done, before I get back, be a dear and do the few dishes in the sink."

Suzy just nodded, still swallowing the lump in her throat and stood still. Marlene turned and looked at her, noticing the nervousness and the way Suzy was reacting towards her. She took Suzy by the shoulders and turned her to face her, putting her fingers under her chin and making her look in her eyes. Suzy was awash with emotion inside and became lost in herself, unsure of what to do. 

"Are you okay? You don't look very well?"

"My stomach feels kind of weird."

Marlene put her palm on Suzy's forehead and felt her temperature. 

"You do feel a bit warm and you're flushed. Maybe just coming down with something."

Suzy nodded, hoping it would satisfy Marlene's curiosity, but it didn't. Marlene sat her on the bed and sat right beside her, their hips in contact and put her arm around her waist.

"You seemed fine when you came in and it wasn't until we came in here, that you started feeling your stomach get upset, right?"

Marlene's questioning was leaving Suzy with no other recourse, but to agree, so she nodded, looking at her hands in her lap, fidgeting with her fingers.

"So what could get you in such a state like this, by standing in my bedroom?"

Suzy just shrugged her shoulders and continued looking at her hands. Marlene brushed back a stray lock of Suzy's hair, tucking it behind her ear, making her close her eyes and sigh slightly, at the touch. Marlene saw it and smiled in triumph, knowing her hook was set and all she had to do now, was reel her in and land her.

"It's not something else is it?"

"Like what?"

Suzy's answer was just what Marlene wanted to hear.

"Maybe I'm the reason you feel that way. I think I make you feel nervous and that's what's causing your tummy to be upset."

Suzy was out of avenues of escape and she knew it. Marlene had trapped her in her web and she was just waiting for her to make the next move, knowing she would be faced with the truth.

"Maybe you should just lie back and let it rest. Let me just rub it gently and see if I can soothe it for you. It's the least I can do, seeing as I seem to be the cause of it, right?"

Marlene started gently pushing Suzy back, at first resisting her, then giving in and laying back. Marlene moved Suzy's hands to lay at her sides, then laid her hand on her tummy and began slowly moving it in circles.

Suzy's breathing increased and she closed her eyes, as she felt the sensations course through her body, exciting her. Marlene watched her closely, looking for tell-tale signs of arousal and saw what she was waiting for. Suzy's nipples were hardening and poking out through the thin material of her bra and T shirt. She increased the pressure slightly and widened her circles, just coming close to the rise of her breasts and down low enough to slip under her waistband of her jeans. Suzy shivered at the intimacy and Marlene was sure she had a new plaything to explore. When she could see Suzy was reaching a level of arousal she wanted her at, she stopped rubbing and lay beside her.

"There, how's that? Feeling better?"

Marlene knew she had done the opposite and caused more turmoil inside her. Suzy took a deep breath and sighed, her eyes still closed and an expression of guilt still present. 

"It's still feeling all fluttery, but I'll be okay."

Marlene placed her hand on her abdomen and caressed it softly, then leaned to her and kissed her cheek.

"Just take your time then and don't upset yourself. I'll check in on you, when I get back."

Marlene got up and looked at her on the bed and smiled, as she walked out and saw Ann-Marie still waiting dutifully in the car. Marlene got in and started the car and then put her hand on Ann-Marie's thigh and smiled at her. Ann-Marie smiled back at her, a look in her eyes that said she was willing to do anything, should she be asked to.

The guys got up and dressed, sitting on the side of the beds and looked at each other. JT passed Piney a cigarette and then lit both up. 

"Think the girls like their jobs here?

"Suzy seems to be okay with it, Ann-Marie has been acting weird, so Wally says. Maybe she's upset having to do something she really doesn't want to."

"Suzy has been getting a lot more into sex. Every time we're making out, she has me doing things to her."

Piney raised an eyebrow at JT, then smiled innocently.

"And you're complaining? What could she have you doing that was so terrible?"

"Fuck off, Piney. I'm not complaining, asshole. No, it's weird. We been making out lots, since we met. It's just like, since last week, she's been asking me to try things. I thought she was happy with what I was doing. Didn't complain once."

"So. Maybe she wants to try different things. Not saying she's bored with you, but just she wants to do other things."

JT looked at Piney and smiled. His simple wisdom and his outlook always made more sense, than the complicated mess he could turn things in to, over-thinking it.

"Yeah, guess I have some more to learn about pleasing women. Maybe I should give Karen a call and see what she can teach me. Jake said I should learn from an older one and show the young ones a thing or two. If Suzy is that into sex, let's see what I can do to help her along."

"Now, that's a better attitude, JT. See, there's always a bright side to every cloud, you just have to look at the right side of it."

"You're my most, trusted friend, Piney. You keep me on the ground and focused. So, maybe it's time I made a phone call?"

"That's your call, JT."

The play on words had them laughing and they got washed and dressed, ready to take on what the day brought to them. JT and Piney left the room and got on their bikes, starting them up and letting them warm up. Their smiles were broadly worn, as they backed them up and put them in gear. Suzy lay on Marlene's bed, listening to the rumble of the engines leaving, as her hands continued to quell the sexual heat in her loins.

Marlene drove towards Lodi, Ann-Marie sitting beside her, constantly looking over at her. Marlene was becoming unnerved by the incessant peeking and slowed down and eventually, pulled over and stopped.

"Why do you keep staring at me? What is it?"

Ann-Marie was thrown by the attitude Marlene took towards her. Her smiles vanished, to be replaced with fear and worry, as she looked at Marlene. Marlene could see the upset, but she didn't respond to it, instead, preying on it for control.

"What gives, Ann-Marie?"

She was almost in tears, as she turned and looked at her.

"I, I, was going to tell you some good news, but now I don't know if I should."

Marlene could see she had saddened her and finding out it was something good she was going to tell her, had her soothing the younger woman, taking her hand and caressing it softly.

"I'm sorry for snapping, Sweetie. Go ahead, tell me your news."

Ann-Marie began calming down, catching herself to stop from crying.

"You know Suzy?"

"Well, yes, I do know a person who works for me, by that name."

Ann-Marie fought against the ridicule and continued.

"We were talking and I told her about us."

Marlene went white and turned to Ann-Marie in shock and rage.

"You did what?"

"It's okay, it's okay. She's not going to say anything to anyone, because we have a promise we made, that she wouldn't."

"And what makes you think she will keep that promise? Any one finds out about us and neither of us, is going to very happy with the results."

"We can trust each other, but what I wanted to tell you, was that when we were talking, she told me she wants to experience what I got to."

Marlene started to take more interest, hearing what Ann-Marie was saying.

"She wants to experience what, exactly?"

"What you do to me. I was telling her how you make me feel when you do things to me and she wants to know what they feel like too."

"Little Suzy?"

"Yes."

Marlene looked at her, Ann-Marie nodding to convince her she was telling the truth. Marlene thought back on earlier and why Suzy was in such a state and it all made sense now. She smiled at Ann-Marie and took her hand again. Ann-Marie's smile began returning, as she saw Marlene's smile coming around.

"So little Suzy wants me to teach her the pleasures of being with another woman, does she?"

"Yeah, she wants to feel the things I did."

"Well, my little, fairy princess, that's some very good news. I'm going to have to find a way to reward you for that, if she is, as you say."

Marlene looked ahead and then into her mirror, then pulled Ann-Marie to her, who gave no resistance. Softly she placed her lips on Ann-Marie's, savouring their delicious fullness. Ann-Marie knew what was coming and prepared, by moving the seat latch and lowering the back of the seat down. She looked in Marlene's eyes, as she began undoing the buttons on her vest and then the button and zipper on her jeans. Marlene smiled lasciviously, as she looked at the white skinned beauty laying in wait of her. As her lips touched Ann-Marie's, her hand disappeared under the waistband of her panties. 

The ride to Lodi became more interesting, as Marlene pondered all she knew and all she suspected about Suzy and Ann-Marie. If Suzy was as interested as Ann-Marie said she was, the stalk and hunt part of it was done. All she was faced with, was releasing her catch from the trap and playing with it. 

The guys were hard at work building, almost the entire crew getting together for the first time, along with Clay. The four rooms were finished on the inside, but from the outside, they looked like unfinished areas no different than the rest of the framing going on. They were coming up to the end of the two by fours and the two crews divided them between them to finish what they had began and within an hour, work ground to a halt. 

Hammers were put down and tool belts untied from waists, as they sat at the desk and took a break. They looked around, seeing the skeletal shape of the rooms and were pleased with the build they had done so far. It would take another two skids of lumber and far more drywall than they had taken the first time. Talk immediately turned to acquiring more materials and where they could get them.

Lenny said Oswald was going ballistic about the thefts, so that left him out. Clay said he could get his grandfather's pick up to use, which only left where to get materials. Wally piped up and began talking about Tom Whitney again. He said he would get a hold of him and see if he knew where they could get their hands on some sheet goods. They became curious as to what he was able to get and Wally could only say that he hasn't missed on something yet. Anything he had an order for, Tom was able to fill it.

One thing was obvious, Tom was a natural thief, but it wasn't the petty, purse stealing, pickpocket type. He was a serious in, to a field most had no idea about. The club needed more than materials to become what they wanted it to be and buying the things they needed, wasn't in the near future. Even with the run money they would be getting from joining Chico, it wasn't enough to make ends meet and have money left over to keep moving forward. The talk turned to one of a shopping list, one that catered to their needs and wants, with little left out.

What they wanted to know from Tom, was how much that list would cost them and when he could get each item. The necessities were agreed on, that they were needed before anything else, then an order of importance was put to each thing, so they knew when to let Tom know to find each item.

Before they came to Lodi, Ann-Marie did up the buttons on her vest, smiling and sighing contentedly, as Marlene fixed her hair in the mirror. She turned to her, smiling in triumph, that her plaything pleased her well.

"I'll pick you up in an hour or so, so don't be too quick in going through the aisles."

"Okay, I'll get the frozen stuff last and that should help."

"Good girl. You can be such a smart thing sometimes."

Marlene pulled into the plaza parking lot and pulled up to the grocery store. She gave Ann-Marie a quick kiss on the cheek and shooed her out, as she drove off to the salon. She pulled Ann-Marie's panties out from between the seats and gave them a sniff, then tucked them in her bag. Another trophy to enjoy later. She enjoyed being fussed over by the staff, as they began doing her hair and nails. She closed her eyes and pictured Suzy, then pictured what she would be like naked and then imagined her lying on the bed waiting for her. The image literally made her squirm in her seat. 

Ann-Marie got a cart and began shopping from the list. As she stood at the fruit section, a woman came and stood beside her, then casually leaned towards her and whispered.

"You might want to do your zipper up."

Ann-Marie put her hand down to her pants and felt the soft hairs through the opening and gasped.

"Oh geez."

She zipped up quickly and ended up catching some hairs in the zipper and yelped in pain. Now it became an embarrassing episode to keep herself covered, while unbuttoning her jeans and slide one hand down and undo the zipper with the other. The woman did her best to provide a bit of cover for her, as she struggled to get the hair freed. Once it was, she held her hand over it and did her zipper up again and rubbed the inflicted area, to soothe the sting. She thanked the woman for her help, her shame showing clearly. The woman patted her shoulder and smiled.

"They make panties for a reason, Sweetie. You should wear them. I only go without them if I'm wearing a long dress, but I do like that fresh air feeling myself."

The woman went off and left Ann-Marie to her own devices, as she looked about and saw she had brought little attention to herself and began acting normally again. It wasn't until a few minutes later, she realized she was wearing panties when she left the room that morning. She smiled, thinking Marlene had them, enjoying her scent.

With all the materials finished, the guys were at a loss to do something and riding was the only thing any of them were interested in doing. Hands were washed and one by one, metal came to life with a kick of the heel. Throttles were twisted, announcing their presence even more, as JT led his friends out of the lot, the air, the road, the world becoming theirs. They road through town, leaving it in a lower gear to raise the level of sound from their exhausts. People stopped whatever they were doing and turned, as the riders cruised past them. Windows rattled and dogs barked and snapped wildly at them, yet nothing phased them from their mood, as they commanded the attention and showed a brotherhood united, one riding for their own cause.

Their echoes faded, once again leaving the impression of their sight in the minds of those still looking at them. The road to the hills, brought winding curves and long sweeping arcs that had them riding as one, following the lead of their president. Only Otto bore the future logo of the club on his cut, but the club learned to ride as one cohesive unit and one day soon, every member would be patched with the name and logo, riding with honour of it, as a brotherhood, as a club.

Calaveras was pretty country to ride in. Hills were easy and rolling, views appearing and disappearing, as they made their way along little used back roads. The sound of the bikes echoed back to them in canyons, cut from hard stone faces long ago, by men who had the same desire to travel in that direction. The road brought a freedom of solitude, a oneness of men and machine, both beating internally with the same sense of purpose, to live.

Suzy had finished the bathroom and was vacuuming the bedroom, cleaning under the bed, when the upright vacuum picked up something and jammed. She pulled it out and turned it over, to see what it was and found a pair of blue panties wrapped around the beater bar. She pulled and tugged, unrolling them and held them up. It only took a minute to jog her memory and realized they were Ann-Marie's panties. She tucked them in her back pocket and went back to vacuuming, casually glancing at the bed and imagining Ann-Marie and Marlene engaged in sexual situations, her mind conceived them doing.

Ann-Marie finished shopping and went through the checkout, the bag boy putting everything in her cart, but his eyes never leaving her body. She walked outside and looked for Marlene, but there was no sign of the Riviera. She sat on the bench, with the groceries in the shade, watching for the car coming down the road. She only waited a little more than five minutes, when Marlene cruised into the parking lot and pulled up to her.

"Been waiting long?"

"Nope, just finished."

"Good, nothing should have melted yet. Okay, load those bags in the trunk and come sit beside me."

Marlene used the remote opening button in the glove box and opened the trunk, then patted the seat beside her. Ann-Marie opened the trunk wide and loaded the six paper bags into it. She closed the trunk and pushed the cart to the side, then got in and sat close to Marlene, smiling happily in her accomplishment.

"Did you get everything?"

"Yup and I have your change in my pocket."

"Good girl. Okay, let's get home again."

"Okay. I really like your hair. They did a nice job on it."

"Thank you, Sweetie. That's so nice of you to say."

As much as Marlene showed a mock surprise, she had been expecting some notice by her. Ann-Marie looked at her, admiring her looks and Marlene lapped it up happily.

Suzy finished the vacuuming and began dusting, when Marlene and Ann-Marie came in and carried the bags in with them.

"Suzy, be a dear and help Ann-Marie put the groceries away."

Suzy put the cloth and dusting spray down and helped empty the bags of food, while Marlene went and checked herself in the mirror, then inspected the bathroom and bedroom, before coming back out.

"Nice job on the cleaning, Suzy."

"Thanks."

Suzy and Ann-Marie finished putting everything away and then folded the bags and tucked them under the counter. They came and stood in front of her, as she sat on the couch.

"That's a big job done, thank you girls. Ann-Marie you've been a big help and you can have the rest of the day off to enjoy. Suzy, I need to ask you a few things, if you wouldn't mind staying."




Redwood Nine Ch. 08



Chapter 8

21 Guns and a Flag

The grey morning sky, set the mood for the day of Lester's burial. It couldn't have been written into a script any better than nature had done. Familiar faces gathered together, but a pall hung over them and smiles were hard-pressed to find. Little was said, no one really sure what to talk about, in worry of showing any disrespect. Cigarettes were gladly smoked, giving a reason not to talk, as they stood in the front yard of the Winston house. Piney, JT, Lenny and Jake, all chose to wear their dress uniforms for the occasion, while the others found the best they had and tidied it up. 

Each vehicle had been washed and cleaned and a funeral sign put on each one, including the bikes. An Army car pulled up and the same captain at the airport, got out and walked past the group and up to the front door. Stan answered and invited him in. Piney was curious and went in to see what he was there for, not having any idea what it was about. He came in, as the captain was explaining the details of the ceremony and what would take place. Stan held back his tears, thanking the captain gratefully. The captain shook Lorelei's hand and then stood in front of Piney and held his hand out to him. Piney shook it and then smartly snapped to a salute. The captain knew it wasn't demanded to salute indoors, but under the circumstances, he smartly returned it to Piney and put his hand on his arm and squeezed it, then walked back to the car and left.

Piney looked at his dad, who was happily grieving, holding his mom's hand.

"What did he say, dad?"

"Your brother will get funeral for a hero, with full honours."

Piney's loss was eased with the knowledge his brother's life was being honoured, medals being awarded posthumously, for his bravery and valour. Piney went out to relay the news and that brought heartfelt congratulations, knowing it was a little bit more, to make up for the loss, such a high price to pay for metal and coloured ribbon.

They let the time tick away, waiting until there was none left to postpone the inevitable, as they got into the cars and the bikes began leading the procession to the funeral home. Faces showed sympathy and forgiveness to them, as they passed, the citizens of Charming showing their respects to one of their own. The procession stopped at the funeral home, parking in the designated area for them. The shine on the hearse reflected the attention to detail paid to it, as it sat in wait to play its part.

The small room was filled with guests already, many being some of Lester's friend's and school mates, while a large contingent of soldiers stood together in the waiting area. The guys recognized the soldiers from the airport and went to them, introducing themselves to them. It wasn't long before they were outside talking and sharing stories about Lester. Stan came out and told them the ceremony would begin shortly, ending the moment of lightness and returning them to the heaviness of rites and passages of the dead.

With the ceremony and speeches done, pall bearers took their place. On the one side, Stan, Piney and JT, raised the coffin to their shoulders, while three of Lester's unit, stood on the other side and raised him up as well. In synchronized movement all six walked as one, carrying the body of the fallen to the hearse. They lowered him down and transferred him onto the rollers in the hearse, sliding him inside for his last ride above ground.

The quiet click of the door was louder than anything, as it signified the beginning of a parting. A parting of mortals and a welcoming to the spiritual. Everyone started up their vehicles and formed the procession that would take them to the cemetery. Wayne Unser was waiting in his patrol car and led the procession with his lights flashing, clearing the road ahead of traffic. They travelled the route unfettered, many paying respects and bowing, while others had hung flags along the route. 

Lester wasn't the first to come home in a box, Charming already laying five of its sons to rest. The elders knew this wouldn't be the last procession they saw, before this war was over, but the young ones took it hard, seeing someone their age, falling in contradiction to their belief they were invincible. They slowly pulled into the cemetery and drove along the lane to the grave site. The people at Dubrowski's had set up the site and had everything ready for their arrival. The bearers once again raised Lester up to shoulders and carried him to the site and laid him on the elevator stand. For now, it would hold him up with everyone, keeping his place among the living, but only a button to push and he would descend into the earth and rest forever, among those that had passed before him.

Reverend Madock of their church, Charming United, took over the proceedings and said all the words he knew to say on this occasion, adding in many personal moments Lester shared with others in his life. When he finished, he passed his position to Captain Geoffrey, who stood at the podium and gave his own eulogy. Stan and Lorelei were proud and honoured, to know they had raised a fine son, the captain's words expressing his own pride in leading Lester. Even the stalwart faces of his colour guard, were hard-pressed to remain unemotional, as they stood at attention and listened.

With speeches and last words over, the honour guard were readied and the captain had them readied for salute. The seven white rifles were loaded with blanks, but as each command was given to fire, bodies shook with shock, at hearing the reports. When the third volley was finished, the echoing sound faded, leaving the scene cloaked in thick silence. A lone piper stood away from the site, the skirl of his pipes sounding, as he filled the bag with air. In moments, the haunting sound of the pipes began playing Amazing Grace, filling the emptiness of space with the melody.

Tears fell and were wiped away by some and proudly displayed by others, as they listened. It was the voice of Lorelei singing along, that soon had the others joining in and singing with her. The piper moved forward in step towards them, hearing their voices unite with him. When the last chorus was sung and voices went silent, he played the last chorus solo, fading slowly away and holding the last note in sustain, then the silence blanketed them again. Some began to weep at the beauty of their last rendering to Lester, then a lone corpsman stood near the foot of the grave and blew Taps on his bugle.

Every word, every note, brought a further finality to Lester's time with them above ground. The honour guard came forward and stood three to a side along the coffin. Following the captain's order, they began lifting the flag and tri-folding it, shaping it into a traditional triangular shape. Pristine white gloves passed it man to man, until it was given to the last and tightened smartly into shape, then presented to the captain. He placed one hand under it and one hand over, then walked with ceremony to Mrs. Winston and stood before her. She looked at him, her eyes awash with tears and emotion, as he bowed to her and presented the flag to her. Stan held her shoulders tightly, partly in comfort, partly in support. The captain stood and saluted her, then turned slightly to Stan and held it, then snapped his hand down and turned on his heel and stepped back to his men. 

As a cohesive unit of one, they marched slowly from the site. finishing the last of their offering of ceremony. One by one, white rosebud stems were laid, everyone taking the last moment to say farewell. Stan and Lorelei watched the small procession of people pass in a line, taking a rose and placing it atop the gleaming wood of the coffin. A young woman, was standing with the soldiers and they were comforting her. One took a letter from the inside pocket of his jacket and gently handed it to her, as if it's worth was important to handle it that way.

JT stood and watched and then motioned to Piney to check it out. The soldiers were comforting her, as if she had suffered a loss at Lester's passing. He didn't recognize her and neither did Piney, the black veil over her upper face blocking the view, but she was being helped by a couple of soldiers, as she came forward and took a rose and kissed it softly, before placing it on the coffin. She let her hand rest on the top of it for a moment, then began walking away, with the soldiers. 

JT and Piney went over and stopped her, asking who she was. The soldiers seemed protective of her, so they used as gentle a manner in how they talked to her. She raised her veil and neither knew who she was, by recognition as a local. She was very attractive and slim, her looks putting her in her early twenties. Her blue eyes were paled with sadness, but sparkled with the tears she shed. Piney felt his place was to ask her and introduced himself to her. She took his hand gently and held it, looking at him like he was someone to her.

"My name is Rachel Underwood. I was dating Lester and we were going to get married, when he came back."

Piney was floored, never having heard his brother talk about her once, or his parents mentioning anything about her. Piney had a look of disbelief on his face, as he digested her words. She could see it and took the letter from her purse, that she had been handed earlier. She gave it to Piney to read and he took it out and began reading his brother's last words to anyone.

The more he read, the more her words were truth to him. For two years, Lester had been dating a girl from his college in Stockton and had fallen in love with her. He had felt the same as Piney towards his father, siding with his brother, but keeping his life personal, never saying anything about himself to his parents. Now, he was meeting someone who had shared something with his brother, had grown close enough, that they wanted to share their lives together. She looked at him and he looked at her, at once the strangeness of being unknown, became a closeness of family. 

His arms opened to her and Rachel knew what he was offering to her. It wasn't the comfort in sorrow he gave, it was the recognition of wanting to be part of his family, that he offered. Rachel accepted it and folded herself into him, his large frame dwarfing her petite one, as he held her to him. Mary saw the interaction and without knowing what was happening, took offence and strode over to them. JT caught her before she made it half way and stopped her. He told her who she was and her face immediately took one of sad compassion for her instead. She had JT let go of her and assured him she would be okay, then went and stood beside Piney. 

He noticed her presence and let go of Rachel and introduced them to one another. They hugged in solace and shared in her loss. Stan and Lorelei noticed the incidents and wondered themselves, who this young woman was. Stan left Lorelei sitting with the flag in her lap and went over to his son and the soldiers gathered around them. It was Rachel looking at Stan, that had everyone turn to him, as he approached. Piney took the lead and took a couple of steps to him and stood with him, as he looked at Rachel.

"Dad, this is Rachel Underwood. She was dating Lester in college."

Stan held his hand out and offered his condolences, based on his belief they weren't that close.

"Dad, Rachel and Lester were going to get married, when he got back from his tour."

Stan looked at Rachel differently, seeing her in the new light shone on her. Her eyes were filled with tears, looking at him, hoping the man that Lester had told her about, wasn't the one before her. He held both hands to her slowly and she looked at them, seeing the acceptance of her in their offering, the truth of his heart, the purpose of his act. 

Rachel took his hands and stepped towards him, their eyes focused on each other. Emotion spoke out, as words failed them and they hugged, comforting and sharing their loss, now knowing the two of them could just as easily be family, if fate had allowed it to happen. Stan cradled her to him, as he walked over to Lorelei, who sat with anxious desperation to know who she was. Stan sat her down beside his wife and watched as they looked at each other, then told Lorelei who she was.

Piney stood with JT and his friends, as he watched his mom break down and hug Rachel to her. They held each other tightly, Lorelei clearly bonding with the last remnant of her son, in an earthly form. Piney went over to the soldiers and began talking to them about Rachel and how they knew her. More and more, he saw another side of his brother, one he thought he was close to and saw that even he didn't know things about him and his life. That knowledge found its way to his conscience and he knew the feud between him and his father, had also affected they way his brother acted towards his father, as well as himself. 

He looked at his mother and father with Rachel, treating her more like a child of their own, than a stranger. He held Mary to him and she accepted his comfort and leaned into him. JT could sense a communal desire to finish their business there, standing amongst the graves was beginning to creep them out. He tapped Piney's shoulder and whispered the desire to go and he nodded, understanding the duty to respect had been paid by everyone and asking more, was taxing their personal freedoms.

They went over to Stan, Lorelei and Rachel, sharing stories of Lester that they didn't know about. Piney told them they were heading back to the house and would meet them there, as guests were wanting to leave the cemetery. They all hugged the parents, many accepting Rachel as a family member as well, as they made their way from the site, everyone taking one last moment to touch the coffin as they went by. 

The serene stillness of the grounds was fractured over and over, as one bike after another was started. Lester's unit stood at attention and saluted Piney and the others, respecting the brotherhood of men, as they all shared one in kind, the bikers and those in the cars flashing peace signs with their fingers. The bikes pulled out of the grounds and began the journey to Piney's parents house, Wayne standing beside his cruiser and holding his hand up to them, showing his recognition to them. JT bowed his head to him, the others following suit, as they passed him and slowly rode through town. 

The gathering at the Winston residence was a crowded and somber event, as some shared thoughts of Lester, while others could do no more than offer condolences. It surprised them all, when Stan and Lorelei walked in with Rachel, who had agreed to join them and brought Lester's best friend, Corporal Mark Underwood, Rachel's older brother. So much of Lester's unknown life was coming out, that Piney's parents were rapt with them both, hearing so much more of who Lester was. The cane and severe limp, told of injuries sustained and healing, but his smile told them he was forgetting the reason he got them and was moving forward.

The guys knew they had done all they could, as well as the girls and they quietly went outside and left Piney and JT to let Stan and Lorelei know they were going. Despite the new attachment to Lester's life, the couple came out and said goodbye to each and every one, thanking them for everything. Mark and Rachel came out and said goodbye as well, hoping they could all stay in touch. Promises were made and fate would decide if it happened to come to pass between them.

The ride to the clubhouse was slow and easy, everyone feeling the drain in emotion and how it took so much joie de vie from them. The rumbling growl resonating throughout the compound died, as bikes were backed in a line against the railing and Wally pulled to the clubhouse and parked close to the doors. They congregated in a group under the overhang, sitting on the picnic table. Jake opened the door and went in, then opened the loading door. Everyone walked over and to their surprise, several chairs and a couch were sitting just inside. 

"Thought you guys could need some seating in there. I saw them sitting there at the curb and asked the owner if he'd hold on to them for a minute and I'd get a truck and pick them up. Clay got his grandfather's Ford and we loaded it up and brought it over. They said if we want the tables, they're buying new ones and said they'd phone and let me know. So, if you don't mind used, you got yourself some seating to enjoy."

JT shook Jake's hand and hugged him, then looked at Clay. Clay gave him a look that said he was sorry for not telling, but hoped it was worth it, holding his arms open to him. JT accepted the offering and thanked him for his contribution, confirming his place in the club and a patch to wear when he got back from his tour. The standing rule still applied, no matter how much he did for the club, he has to ride American iron and JT said he would keep his eye out for a good one, if he spotted it.

Jake went over to his office and came back out with a paper bag. He took JT by the shoulder and led him along, the others following behind. He stopped at the front gate and opened the bag for him. JT looked in and then back at Jake, then at the flagpole beside him. He unravelled the rope and lowered it, so the snap rings were at his hands. He reached in and took out the flag, attaching the rings to it and then raised it to the finial, then tied it off. He turned to see faces looking at the Stars and Stripes waving in the breeze, a look of pride showing on each one. They all looked up at the flag, then JT felt Jake's hand on his shoulder and he put his hand up and hung off his, as they knew that moment was significant in remembrance, as well as a dedication to commemorate.

Lester's body going into the ground that day, was also the day that the building was no longer derelict, it was a living thing again in his honour, something coming back from the ground. That act on its own, spoke more about Jake, than anything they could hear, or read about him from any source. He was someone they could believe in, someone who represented a character of truth and understanding in their being.

Wally went to his car and opened the trunk and took out a small paper bag. He waved it at the group and waved them over. Once they were around him, he handed the bag to Jake.

"Sorry, I'm a little late on getting it, but my guy came through for me, finally. Hope you like it, it's supposed to be good stuff."

Jake knew it was a bottle of liquor and as he took it out, he looked at Wally, seeing the number twelve and then, that it was a single malt scotch. He looked it over, staring at the dark, amber liquid inside.

"I haven't had a drink in fifteen years. I think today is a good day to have one. We need some glasses."

Wally waited until everyone was trying to come up with an alternative and opened his trunk again. He took out a sleeve of plastic cups and began passing them out. Jake shook his hand strongly, thanking him for his gift, but more the show of honouring his word to him, that made him the grateful man he was. Jake cracked the seal and poured a good shot into every glass and despite the objection to the taste, they all drank down several gulps, in toasts to Lester, to Wally, to the club, to the clubhouse and finally, the most heartfelt, to Jake. The girls went to the pop machine to get sodas to drink instead and Jake used his key to open it up and let them have what they wanted. Baggies were unrolled and makeshift tables of boxes and drywall were used to roll joints. Everyone went inside and Wally pulled his car up as close as he could, to play the radio. One thing they said quietly, that was going on the list for Tom, was a new radio and speakers for Wally.

Despite the crackle and fuzzy sound, it was enough to change minds and attitudes back to the free spirits they were. Jake was serenaded by them, as they sang along to songs played by the likes of, The Strawberry Alarm Clock, The 13th Floor Elevators and more of the sounds of the west coast rock scene. What caught all of their attention, was the announcement of a new British band making its debut in the USA. Despite the poor sound quality, Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin, came out of the speaker and captured them with its driving beat of the guitars and drums, the singer's voice, a constant stream of energy coming from within him. The Brits had invaded with something worthwhile this time, the way they heard it. 




Redwood Nine Ch. 08



Jake was enjoying his re-acquaintance with alcohol, imbibing in the pungent spirit liberally. A boisterous side came out of him and he asked Suzy to dance with him, to a song he recognized. JT looked at him and wondered why such a fine man, one with such a loving heart, never became a father. Stories of his life had remained untold and there was little anyone could really tell him, except one person, Marlene Brock. He was going to make a point of talking to her about him, getting to know more about the man he admired.

The night wore on, the bottle finally emptied and consumed, as they sat around listening to the still of the night. Jake was passed out on the couch, leaning against Lorraine, with his head on her shoulder. There was little left in any of them to continue partying, so the call was made to head to the motel. They helped Jake into Wally's car and the girls piled in after, then the guys fired up their bikes, the sound amplified by the still air. No matter how quietly they tried to ride, the sound of the engines was more than the night air could absorb, its echoing rumble carried far off into the blackness.

They made it to the motel and JT went up and knocked on the office door, hoping to wake Marlene. The porch light came on and JT turned and gave a thumbs up sign to them. Marlene opened the door and looked JT up and down. Hesitantly, he explained the day and how Jake ended up in the condition he was in. Marlene seemed quite upset that Jake had been drinking and gave him a key for an empty unit. She closed the door, but stayed by the window, looking at them take Jake into the room, her heart saddened to know he had drank.

They made him as comfortable, as they felt comfortable doing and pulled the covers over him, leaving him to sleep it off. They went into their respective rooms and there was no desire for anything, other than the comfort of sleep.

Not long after eyes were closed and sleep taking over, Marlene snuck out of the office and down to the unit they put Jake in. Quietly, she went in, making sure eyes weren't on her. She pulled back the covers over him and began undressing him, until only his boxers were on. She lay beside him and gently stroked his head, brushing back his shaggy, salt and pepper hair. 

"My poor, sweet man. You've kept that demon away for so long. I wish I knew what made you open that bottle again. Sleep well, my Darling."

Marlene hugged Jake, who was snoring in his stupor and had no idea of her presence beside him. She kissed his cheek and covered him again, then stood and looked with worry at her life-long lover. She quietly snuck back out and walked whisper quiet in her slippers, back to her room. She pulled the covers up to her neck and lay in the darkness, remembering Jake's last battle with the demon and how he nearly lost everything, including his life.

Morning, found eyes opening in protest to the brightness of the day, the after effects of the alcohol doing it's historic duty to make things as unpleasant as they could. Pulling the covers back over heads, worked to relieve the pain, but nature's calling was greater and the need of relief outweighed the need for darkness. Squint-eyed bodies sat and stood, the feeling bringing an inner calm, that allowed them the chance to walk blindly back to bed and snuggle under the warm sheets with a warm body next to them.

No one made a move to get out of bed, until well after noon. JT and Piney stood outside their unit in just their jeans, having a cigarette and feeling the warm air around them. Keith came out of his and lit his cigarette and walked down to them. As he passed Wally's door, he pounded hard on it once, then shot a broad, wicked smile and laughed. Keith said hello to the guys and turned, when the door opened and a bleary-eyed Wally stuck his head out. 

"Fuck! Let a guy get some sleep around here, will ya."

He no sooner finished saying that, when he was pushed outside naked, Otto following right after with an unlit cigarette in his mouth. Otto walked towards the guys and shot his remark over his shoulder at Wally.

"You gonna stand there with your dick hanging out, or get some pants on and join us?"

Wally cupped his hands over himself and dashed back in, shortly coming out, doing up his pants. The guys were laughing, as they welcomed him, keeping his embarrassment level up.

"What the fuck, man? I finally had Ann-Marie enjoying some time with me, you know?"

"What do you mean, finally? I thought you two were banging each other every chance you got?"

"I wish, Piney. Last night was the first time in like, almost a week."

"No shit? A week?"

"Yeah, no fucking idea why, either. She lets me do it one night and then she starts sleeping in the other bed. She acts like she wants to be with me, but it drives me fucking crazy every time I come on to her and she acts all cold, when we start getting naked. Last night was the first time she put out, like all the way put out, since she started working here."

The guys were stunned to know that, thinking a sexy chick like Ann-Marie, would be putting out more than she did. Piney was the only one thinking of other reasons for her actions, thinking back to Suzy and her on the bench. Mary and him, decided it wasn't something they needed to share, the personal nature of what they did, something between them, but now he realized it was affecting someone, someone he was going to call brother. He now began the wrestling match in his mind, deciding how he was going to deal with this information. 

One by one, doors opened and girls looked out, to see what was happening. The talk of girls and sex ended abruptly and they just smiled and said hello to each one, as they came out. When Ann-Marie came out with only the sheet wrapped around her, all male eyes were upon her, thoughts of her sexuality and their own desire to pleasure women, raced in their minds. Ann-Marie could feel the desire on her, at once feeling uncomfortable. The other girls noticed the eyes on her and looked at her as well, wondering why she had their attention.

The split of the sheet showed her thigh to her waist, as she turned to go back in. The side of her breast showed, giving a fleeting glimpse of her nudity. The door closed quickly behind her and the girls turned to the guys to know what was going on. Despite any real words spoken, no one had any reason why they were looking at her. The girls said they'd be out in a minute and wanted a smoke first. The guys gave them one and lit them, before they went back in and began dressing.

The guys stood there looking at one another, wondering among themselves about Ann-Marie. Otto gave Wally a poke with his elbow, as he stood beside him.

"How can that gorgeous hunk of woman, not want more sex? I don't know about you, but she looked sexy and I mean sexy. All naked under the sheet like that."

"Yeah, and I'd have my dick it in right now, if you guys didn't interrupt me."

"So, want to tell us what she's like?"

Eyes looked at Otto and then to Wally, just as interested in knowing the answer. He could see the interest and felt proud he had a woman the other guys desired. He described the things he knew they wanted to know and that was stats.

"That hair colour, is the same down there too and really soft. Her tits, they're like two soft pillows with these little nipples on them and her ass is great. She loves having her tits played with, but lately, she wants me doing other stuff to her, like with her pussy, I mean."

That had JT taking note of Suzy's actions in bed and her new tastes in sexual pleasure. Everything Wally was saying, was something he noticed with Suzy. Before Wally could say more, the girls started coming out and joining them. Suzy looked JT up and down with an eye.

"So, you guys going to get dressed, or is the Tarzan look in for today?"

JT beat his chest and hollered like the TV Tarzan, then hugged her. He started taking stock of how she touched him and responded to him. What he did take stock of, was how she looked at Ann-Marie, when she came out. It was the emotion in her eyes, something more than friendship, something more intimate in nature. He looked at Ann-Marie and saw the glances at Suzy, sharing similar looks towards her. Things didn't make any sense to him, but it was something that needed investigating further. He wasn't having any trouble getting laid, like Wally was, but things had definitely changed, since they took up residence here. 

There were too many variables to put together and nothing was making any sense, so he left it in the back of his mind to deal with later. He went in and finished dressing and was sitting on the bed, when Piney came in and sat beside him.

"I think we need to have a little talk, brother."

"What about, bro?"

"Suzy and Ann-Marie."

JT looked at Piney and saw he had knowledge of something, the tone of his voice confirming it. Piney could see he wanted it now, but shook his head.

"When we're alone, JT."

Piney's set on his face and the look he gave him, had JT realize it was best to take his advice and wait until the right moment. His head wasn't prepared to deal with deep thinking, or issues to deal with. Everyone was milling about, deciding where to go for some breakfast, when JT said he would join them later. He and Piney were going to the clubhouse first and would meet them at Lumpy's Restaurant after. No one questioned them about their detour, figuring it was business related to Jake and paid no mind to it. Wally had the girls pile in, while the guys all started their bikes. After a few minutes to warm up, they left the parking lot and headed in different directions.

JT drove the few miles to the garage and pulled up to the gate, but didn't get off his bike. Piney stopped beside him and shut his bike off as well. JT leaned on his handlebars and avoided looking at Piney.

"What is it, Piney? I know something is up with those two, so give it to me straight, what do you know about them?"

Piney looked at the same imaginary point in space, as he took out his pack and offered one to JT and took one himself. JT accepted the light from him and waited, knowing he had to give his friend a chance to prepare. Piney took a long draw and blew out the smoke. Before it was finished, he began speaking.

"Suzy and Ann-Marie were kissing. Mary and me saw them the other day, sitting on the bench at the end of the parking lot."

JT turned his head and looked at Piney, his disbelief showing.

"I swear, JT. Not only that, Suzy had her hand between Annie's legs, rubbing her like crazy and Annie had her hand up Suzy's top, feeling her tits. Shocked the shit out of Mary. We left them alone and walked past, down to the far entrance and came in. They acted like nothing happened and you guys had a fun time that night, if I remember the noises right."

Despite Piney's attempt at humour, JT knew everything he was saying was true. It shook him to the core and rattled his head about all he thought he knew and could believe in about her. He continued to look off into nothing, but his eyes saw all they needed to. Piney saw it unnerved his friend, knowing he had to be the messenger and bearer of bad news to him, but he held fast, knowing he had done the right thing in telling him.

JT tossed the cigarette away and started his bike. Piney did the same and JT took off towards Charming and Lumpy's Restaurant. He pulled up beside Otto's bike and saw Lenny's bike there as well. Piney pulled up and parked as fast as he could, as JT marched to the entrance and flung open the door and began looking around. He spotted everyone and walked over to the tables. He stood firm, his face showing a determination to keep a rage under control, as he looked at Suzy and Ann-Marie, pointing at them as he spoke.

"You two, outside. Now!"

The forcefulness of his last word had them both get up and walked behind him, as he went outside. Piney came and sat down beside Mary, who knew instantly he had divulged their secret to JT. No one else knew, but were certain something of a grievous nature had taken place and the two girls were responsible for it. Mary and Piney gave nothing away, as they all watched out the window, watching the two girls stand with heads bowed and JT clearly losing it on them. 

Suzy said something to him, making him turn and walk away to his bike. Before anyone could do anything, JT had it started and was racing out of the parking lot, cars screeching to a halt to avoid him, horns blaring in protest. Everyone got up and hurried outside to the two girls, now standing there crying hard and asked where JT was going. Piney took hold of Suzy's shoulders firmly and made her look at him.

"Where did he go?"

Through heaving sobs, Suzy looked at Piney and turned in the direction he went.

"To the motel, to see Marlene."

Piney looked confused at what part Marlene played in it all, but if they told him she did, he was going to find out just what it was. Piney turned to Lenny, a look of worry on his face.

"JT needs his back watched, we need to go."

Quicker than anyone else reacted, Lenny was on his bike and racing off after him. He was winding it out as far as he could between gears, the report from his exhaust echoing between the buildings, as he went to take care of his president, as he had sworn to do. 

Before anyone started another vehicle, the screeching of brakes was heard from down the street once again. This time it was accompanied by the sound of crunching metal and then horns blaring steadily. Faces turned to one another in shock, as the realization of what just happened, sunk in.



Redwood Nine Ch. 09



Chapter 9

Guilty, until proven innocent

Faces acknowledged the crash, as reality set in. Piney and Otto were on their bikes and hurrying towards the scene, as the girls got in with Wally and followed them. They came up to the intersection, unable to see much, because of the steam escaping from broken radiators. Piney stopped and jumped off, frantically looking for Lenny and his bike. A voice from the sidewalk got his attention.

"If you're looking for the idiot on the bike, he kept going like a bat out of hell, that way."

Piney looked over at the man that spoke and saw him pointing towards the motel. Fear and relief took over at the same time, knowing JT was driving just as wildly as Lenny was and thoughts of twisted metal and bone raced through his mind. He looked at Otto, still waiting on his bike.

"Go, to the motel."

Otto revved up his engine and popped the clutch, twisting the throttle wide open. The rear tire spun and smoked, as he tore off and began shifting up through the gears. Piney jumped on his Indian and gave it all he could and followed. Heads turned and watched them, wondering what was going on in Charming. The roar of engines faded, as sirens approached the scene, drivers and pedestrians milling about the wrecked cars, talking about the craziness of the bikers.

JT began gearing down, as he approached the parking lot of the motel, his focus on the office at the end. He entered the lot and began fishtailing on the gravel, holding on to it, keeping it upright. He straightened out and slowed to a stop at the curb. He stopped the bike and got off, marching into the office, the screen door slamming off the wall outside. No one came out, so he began yelling.

"Marlene! Marlene! Get out here."

No sound came from the living quarters, so JT went back and looked in. The outline of the corpse and its remains, were finally cleaned up, but a faint stain was still present. He yelled once more and walked in, taking a better look around. He looked in the bedroom and stared at the bed, knowing that's where Marlene had taken advantage of Suzy and Ann-Marie. He turned and strode out of the room and opened the door to the outside and looked around. 

Marlene's Riviera was still in the parking lot, so she must still be there, but JT had no idea where, until he remembered putting Jake in the room. He began walking towards it, when he heard Lenny's bike racing up the road towards him. He watched for who it was, but he continued towards the room undaunted. Lenny pulled into the lot and roared towards him, waiting until the last second to brake and stop. He got off and ran over to JT and stopped him from going any further.

"Hold on, brother. What are you thinking about doing? Let's think this over, before you start something we can't stop."

JT's anger was as present as it ever was, his determination to carry through on his thoughts, the reason people worried about him. Lenny stood in front of JT physically and barred his progress. 

"It's not your place, Lenny and none of your business. This is between me and that fucking woman in that room behind you."

Lenny was worried their voices were carrying into the rooms and tried to hush JT down.

"I said, get the fuck out of my way, Lenny. I mean it!"

Lenny wasn't going to let JT get involved in anything, while he was in that state of mind. He now knew Marlene was the root cause of the trouble, but what it had to do with the girls, was still a mystery. JT began pushing at Lenny to get out of his way, but Lenny stood firm, his size and weight, no match for JT.

Piney and Otto pulled into the lot and came right up to them, before stopping and getting off their bikes. They helped Lenny to keep JT under control, but the commotion began bringing attention to them. Curtains were opened in the occupied units and one unit in particular, had opened theirs. Jake looked out the window and saw JT being held back by his friends, the obvious direction he wanted to go to, was his unit. Marlene had assured him he had done nothing wrong, or committed any crimes, that she was aware of, leaving Jake to wonder why JT felt such hostility towards him.

He pulled on his pants and put on his boots, then lit a smoke and looked at Marlene.

"Guess we'll see just what did happen last night, Mar."

She gave him a kiss and sat on the bed, as he went to the door and hesitated for a moment in turning the knob, then opened the door. JT stopped fighting briefly, at seeing Jake, but his anger never diminished.

"Where is she, Jake?"

"Where's who, JT?"

"Marlene. Where is she?"

Jake looked at JT, stunned that his focus of rage wasn't him. He looked back at the unit and saw Marlene in the window, looking at him with fear in her eyes. It wasn't a fear of the unknown he saw in them, it was the fear of being found out about something, he knew he saw. His knowledge of her tells, told him she had committed a violation of some kind against JT, for him to be acting the way he was towards her.

"You tell that fucking bitch to get out here, Jake."

Jake spun back at him, his eyes glaring wildly at him. JT was taken by surprise at the ferocity of his look.

"Who the hell do you think you're talking to, boy?"

JT knew he had overstepped the boundary with him and realized his own place. His own rage lessened in the presence of Jake's.

"What ever the hell your problem is, you ain't going to go about it like that. You certainly ain't going to be acting like that to Marlene. Now you settle your ass down and act like a man and not some wet behind the ears kid, with a school yard grudge. One thing you learn JT Teller and learn well, show respect to women. You don't hit a woman ever and you treat them with respect, you got me?"

JT looked at Jake and saw a man who deserved his respect and to heed his warning. The guys could sense JT backing down and his eyes lost the anger in them. Jake saw he ceded to him and would comply with his orders.

"Now what the hell do you want with Marlene?"

Now the reason seemed embarrassing to him, as he tried to think reasonably and how to present it as such. He sighed and his shoulders slumped, as he couldn't come out and just say what it was. Now it almost became an embarrassment to him to have to ask her. Marlene saw the change in him and stood in the doorway. All eyes were on her, as she held their interest.

"Come inside, JT. Come tell me what has you riled up. I'll be fine Jake, JT isn't going to do anything, he promises. Don't you, JT?"

JT looked at her and then to Jake and nodded his head that he would comply.

"Let me hear you say it, son"

JT heard the use of son again and knew the disrespect had been put aside, his response now telling if he was in or out of Jake's graces.

"I promise, Jake. I'll show some respect to Marlene when I talk to her."

Jake knew he was sincere and shook his hand, then used his thumb to point over his shoulder to Marlene.

"Go on, but trust me, I'm going to know everything about this and it better be good."

JT looked at the seriousness in Jake's eyes and swallowed the lump in his throat. Marlene stood at the door and beckoned him to come in. What was once a raging animal she had to face, was now more like a scolded child in submission. JT walked past her and into the room, then Marlene turned and waved to them and closed the door. Jake asked for another smoke and waited for a light, then looked at all of them.

"What the fuck is going on, boys? I get a little drunk and the whole world decides to come apart at the seams. Somebody start talking."

Piney knew it was on his shoulders to set things right with Jake. He walked him away from the others and once he was far enough, he started to explain what he knew about it all. The guys watched them, as Jake kept looking at Piney every time he explained more, then stopped and turned him to face him. Piney nodded his head and raised his hands to say he couldn't give more to him. Jake looked at the unit and back to Piney, obviously making him confirm something. When the answer was still yes, Jake scratched his head and clapped Piney over the shoulder and walked back to the rest of the gang. Jake was shaking his head and seemed to be getting a smile on his face. 

The rest wanted to know, but Suzy and Ann-Marie weren't saying a thing. Mary walked over and stood in front of them and scowled her meanest at them. 

"It's all because of you two idiots. Piney and I saw you the other day. Oh yes, don't give me that look. You were both sitting right over there on that bench, right there. Piney and I came down the road and we were coming in that end of the driveway and saw you both. Don't try to deny it, we saw you. You had your hands all over each other, kissing like a couple of school girls."

That had everyone, who was still in the dark about it, brought up to speed instantly about the girls, but it didn't explain anything about Marlene yet. Suzy and Ann-Marie stood guilty as charged, their innocence shattered beyond repair, as all eyes went upon them. Tears started forming in both their eyes, as they waited for sentencing. Without knowing that they did it, the others began moving away from the pair, shunning them.

Sitting on the bed with his head down and his hands picking at themselves, JT was unsure how to broach the subject that had him seething a short while ago. Marlene sat on the bed across from him and looked at him, feeling a sense of control over the situation.

"So, what is it, JT? Why were you so upset at me?"

JT raised his eyes and looked at her, hearing her tone and knew she knew what it was about, but wanted to hear him say it.

"You know why. Suzy and Ann-Marie told me all about it. What the hell are you doing messing around with other women? You're married and have Jake even. Is that how you get your kicks, anyone that suits your fancy, you just figure it's okay to have sex with them?"

Marlene was still smiling, not phased at all by what JT said to her.

"JT, you sweet boy. You have no idea what pleases me. Do you think I forced those girls into having sex with me? They happily got naked with me and enjoyed themselves. You can ask them yourself, if they're willing to be honest with you. Ann-Marie has been at me all week to have sex together. Your little Suzy, she asked if I'd do her, she wanted to do it with me. I swear."

JT listened to Marlene and looked in her eyes, seeing there was no lies being told, only the brutal truth he didn't want to believe. He tried to understand her, but knew he had nothing in the way of worldliness, compared to her. Jake had said she was bored and looked at sex books to amuse herself and having sex with other women must have been one of the chapters she enjoyed.

"Suzy wanted to do it? She actually wanted you to do things to her? Why?"

"Poor, poor boy, you feel so let down, I know. You think you're not man enough to satisfy her, but in reality, you're not woman enough."

That made JT wonder what she meant by that.

"There was nothing you could do to satisfy her, not the way I know how to. Once that lovely bit of fluff, Annie had a taste, she told Suzy what I did and the rest is history, so they say. She stood right in front of me and told me she wanted me to make her feel like Annie did. How was I supposed to say no to such an offer? A sweet, sexy thing like Suzy, telling me she wants me to make out with her, I couldn't pass that up."

JT knew his rage was selfish in nature, his pride being the offended party. He was still in shock, hearing how his girlfriend was enjoying the idea of making out with another woman. He looked at Marlene, unsure of who he was looking at. 

"Why?"

"Hmmm, let's just say I have no problem sucking cock and licking pussy. I enjoy sex and love feeling a man inside me, but a woman can do things a guy just can't understand, let alone do. Have you made Suzy orgasm four times in a row? I have. I can do it different ways too. Do you know anything about a woman down there? What everything is and what it's like when you touch it different ways? I do. Are you starting to understand it better now? It's nothing against you, or to do with you really. It's just learning about themselves from an older woman, who knows a few things they don't."

Once again, JT heard a speech that was all too familiar. He had just sat with Jake and heard how being with an older woman, would be an eye opening experience well worth pursuing. Now he was hearing the same talk, but from an older woman explaining how the girls got to know things the same way.

One word entered his head and stayed there, as he tried to figure out everything. Fair. Was it fair, for him to learn things and not Suzy? Was it fair, that she had done something in private and now had to answer for it publicly? Was it fair, that he be the one to judge her, when his thoughts to commit a sexual act, weren't with her? The more he thought on fairness, Marlene kept thinking on seducing him.

"Don't be so hard on yourself, JT. I know it must be hard to accept and understand something like this."

Marlene saw the battle of the mind going on in JT and played it to her advantage. She moved from her bed and sat beside JT, making sure she sat as close as she could beside him. She gently brushed his hair back from his face, using comforting moves to begin touching him. Her soft voice was soothing to JT and she knew he was falling under its spell.

"You're a wonderful, young man, JT. You're handsome and well built and I'm sure any woman would love to be with you."

JT heard the boost to his ego and ate it up, buying into Marlene's game. His expression changed and Marlene caught it, deciding she could take it further.

"I think you're very handsome. If I was a younger woman, I'd want to be with you."

JT heard that and made him look at her, looking at a woman who seemed to be offering herself to him. Marlene picked up on his look and played on it some more, seeing how far JT was willing to let things go between them. She continued stroking his hair softly, soothing his troubled soul and insinuating herself on him. Her breasts pressed against him more firmly and she waited for resistance, but none came. Feeling her moment was right, she turned and gently persuaded JT to lay his head on her breast and caressed his hair.

The heat between her breasts released the fragrance of her perfume to JT, entrancing him in its sensual pleasure. Marlene was positively beaming at that point, feeling triumphant in her control of JT. 

"There, there. JT. Don't get bent out of shape over it. Think of it this way, Sweetheart. She now knows things about pleasing herself that you now get to know and do for her and..."

Marlene could see that JT was listening and paying attention to her words, lulled by them to seduce his mind to her will and take advantage of him.

"...she now knows ways to please you, that neither of you knew before. Wait until you experience those pleasures, then tell me if it was worth Suzy gaining that knowledge from me. You, I would love to teach things to personally."

JT's thoughts stopped instantly, as he heard her say those words to him. A million thoughts raced into his head at once and each one was screaming at him to listen to it. The ones that won out over the others, were the ones that made the greatest impact on him so far. It was Jake advising him to be with an older woman, to experience life's pleasures, then his description of what Marlene was like in bed. Then remembering what Marlene had said about Suzy learning and experiencing things, things that were ultimately going to lead to greater pleasure for him.

He took his head away from resting against her and saw the look in her eyes, saw the desire to make good her statement to him. He could feel the softness of her hands on him, at one feel, comforting, at another, controlling and directing. He had no idea what she was seeing in him, but she knew he was under her spell. Her hand came to his cheek, her thumb caressing it, but he could feel the subtle pull in her fingertips, urging him to come to her. Her lips parted slightly, pursing in fullness, as he felt them meet his. 

JT was dominated by her mouth, insinuating her demands on him to respond. His logic was overruled and emotion took over, as her lips brought him alive with lust and sexual longing. Her hands went into his hair and grasped it tightly, holding his head firmly to her, as she devoured him into submission. JT's hands re-actively went around her body and clung to her, holding her tight to his body. 

When she knew he was hooked on the feeling of her, she pulled away and saw the starvation and need in his eyes.

"Let me teach you, JT. Let me show you how wonderful it can be. Suzy will love what I can show you and she will be more than happy to do what I taught her, about pleasing a man. Haven't you seen the difference in her? Haven't you already felt some of the things?"

JT knew she was telling the truth. Suzy had been doing things to him that she never had before. Things that even he had never discovered about himself and realized he could do. He looked into Marlene's eyes, the green becoming more predominant in them. They told him that all he had to do was say yes, then unknown pleasures of the flesh would be bestowed upon him, by her. As a confirmation of her word, she took JT's hand and placed it on her breast, offering it to him.

"Like it JT? Know what to do to with it and make me horny for you? I'll teach you how to do that."

Her hand went to his crotch and she cupped his package in her hand. Softly she caressed and squeezed it and JT sat spellbound by her boldness, the directness in avoiding all the teenage round about ways of making it to the next base. 

"You'll have no idea how wonderful I can make you feel, unless you let me show you."

JT felt his cock getting harder and harder by the second, as Marlene's hand manipulated it into a burgeoning erection.

"I'm not getting any complaints down here, JT. What about up here?"

Marlene put her finger to his forehead, as she continued massaging the constricted mass of tubular growth. JT swallowed and tried to get spit going, his mouth becoming very dry. Everything that made sense to him before he walked in, now seemed confused and challenged to believe in. He looked at Marlene and went with his feelings, the ones emanating from his groin.

With his hand on her breast, her hand on his erection and her face inches from his, he was lost to say anything other than, yes.

"Show me."

Marlene's smile broadened, her prey landed and ready to play with. Her lips met his and the heat was turned up in how they interacted this time. Lust was the only thing that mattered and the only thing that needed satisfying. JT allowed himself to be taken away by her, giving himself over to experimentation in the unknown.

Marlene pressed herself against him, trapping his hand against her breast, her hand continuing to arouse him and further his need for satisfaction. It was as though his moan was her signal, for as soon as he did it, she broke away and everything stopped suddenly for him. Her eyes held his, as she fixed herself and straightened out her clothing. She turned and looked at JT's cock, a swollen mass of sexual need and caressed it softly, then looked him in the eyes again.

"We'll have to work something out, so we have some time to enjoy ourselves properly. We can't have everyone knowing our business, now can we. I certainly can't wait to get this bad boy out and play with it more. Very nice, JT, I bet you can please a woman very well with it, can't you?"

"I, I...do okay, I guess."

"Mmmmm, when I'm done, you'll know you can and be a master at it. Why do you think Jake and I have been together all these years? He's learned what it takes to please a woman and got good at it. You can do the same."




Redwood Nine Ch. 09



JT was rapt with her, everything and every word becoming of such great importance to him. Somewhere, back in the recesses of his memory, thoughts of Jake came to the fore and he looked at Marlene in another light.

"I want to know more about Jake and who he is. If anyone knows him, you do. I really look up to him and he seems like a guy who should be, I don't know, like, remembered or something."

Marlene's attitude changed as well, hearing JT's feelings about Jake.

"He really likes you, JT. Not too many people impress him, but he sees something in you, that he admires. Most nights we've been together, he is always mentioning you, about something you said, or did. Almost made me jealous, I'm just joking, but he does think of you quite a bit, you and Piney."

"What about Clay?"

"Clay, he likes, but he has issues with him, at times. Last time I was down, I dropped by and the tension between them was so thick, you could cut it with a knife. To this day, I have no idea what it was about, but they seem to have put it behind them. Jake's a pretty understanding kind of guy, you know that, but some things he just can't abide by. You saw that earlier, before you calmed down."

"Yeah, scared the shit out of me. I never saw that side of him and it took me by surprise."

"Oh, Jake has sides to him yet, you haven't seen and probably won't. I only know them, because we have history. He knows all my sides, but between you and me, this business between the girls and me, he doesn't really know about yet, so it's going to be fun trying to explain this fiasco to him. He hates when shit hits the fan and more so, if the fan is pointed at him. I won't deny it, or try to lie to him, JT, but he's going to be one pissed off camper, when he finds out what I've done. I'm not worried, you know why? Love. No matter what I did, he knows I love him and he loves me. What I did with the girls wasn't love, it was just having fun. He knows how bored I get sitting around and idle hands and all, Marlene ends up being a bad girl."

JT sat holding her hands in his, leaning on every word, to know who she was and who Jake was. It seemed the two of them had come to terms about certain things about themselves, that allowed them to be who they wanted to be, despite the worry of being adulterers. Their love for each other always trumped anything else and accommodations were always made to keep it alive.

"What did you do to them, to get them to do things with you?"

"Ann-Marie was what really started it all. I fixed the buttons on her vest and brushed away the wrinkles on her vest and she got turned on by it. I was reading about ways to please a woman, from a man's perspective mind you, but I thought I could do that and wondered if she was maybe willing to try. I gave it a try and she wasn't sure at first, but after her first orgasm, she was pretty much hooked on it and was ready to be my sex toy. Suzy and her end up having a little fun together, when they were going to Lodi to do laundry, that same day. I got it out of Ann-Marie's mouth that they did things and I'll say this, they stopped at pretty well nothing. She told me straight out that Suzy went down on her and she made her orgasm. Ann-Marie didn't return the favour, until the other day. She walked in on me going down on Suzy and positively looked jealous. The favour was returned and returned well. Seems Annie has a talent for it. Only took five minutes or so and Suzy was shaking like a leaf."

JT was spellbound, listening to the details of what Marlene and the girls did together. Never in his wildest fantasies, did he imagine women doing what Marlene had shown them. Hearing things about Suzy that he had never known, or even been aware of, made him understand how inexperienced he was.

"Did you know that Suzy can orgasm from just having her nipples sucked on the right way? It's true. I can show you how I did it and she'll be thrilled you know how too. She's a very sexual girl, JT, she really is. That girl loves sex and she wants lots of it."

JT thought back to the first time with her and how she was and Marlene was right, Suzy was an avid participant. Knowing that about her now, he was realizing how wrong he was to accuse her of things, that he himself was willing to try. In realizing that, he understood more about himself and his role as president. How he had to be accepting of his brothers and their desires in life and how they may not mesh with his. It had him understand acceptance and understanding, then compassion, a part he was becoming aware of, that was needed to temper it all.

"Maybe we should call them in and see if we can't straighten all of this out between us and not embarrass them any further out there."

JT looked out the curtains and saw Suzy and Ann-Marie standing together, apart from the others, the shunning already happening. JT looked at Marlene and knew she would make sense of it all, so he nodded. He lit up a cigarette and blew out the smoke, bowing his head and looked at the floor, thinking on what might happen in the next few minutes.

Marlene opened the door and everyone turned to her. She looked at Suzy and Ann-Marie and called them over, making everyone wonder what was going to happen next. Jake began following, thinking he could get in on it at last, but Marlene put her hand up and shook her head.

"Sorry, Baby. Not yet. We have a few things we have to get cleared up now and then you can know after that, I promise. Okay?"

Marlene's pout and sweet look, had Jake submit and accept a kiss from her, then he went back to the others still standing around and asked for another cigarette. Suzy and Ann-Marie wore looks of worry, as they walked past her and into the room. JT didn't lift his head, until Marlene closed the door and the three women stood to his side.

"JT, we need to mend some hurt feelings between everyone. You know now that there's no need to feel hurt, or be mad at anyone. Suzy, go sit with JT and let him know you still care about him and still feel the same in your heart. Go on."

Suzy looked at Marlene, hesitating, then went and sat beside JT. She looked at the floor like he did and took a deep breath.

"I'm so sorry if I hurt you, JT. I didn't mean to do that."

JT took her hand and laced fingers with it and held it with his other one. He turned his head towards her and looked at her, her eyes in suspended emotions, ready to show one of several, depending on his answer.

"I know that now. Marlene's been explaining it all to me and why you two did what you did. I kind of understand it, but I'm not sure."

"I know. I wasn't sure at first either. I didn't know why I wanted to, but something inside made me want to. JT, I know things now, things I never would have known."

"I know, Marlene told me and I got a taste of some of them. You did things to me you didn't do before and some you did differently. I didn't know how, but it felt great, so I wasn't complaining. Now I know how you knew how to do that."

Suzy's face eased into a guarded smile, hearing JT accept what had happened.

"I just don't know about you and Marlene being together and you and Annie and what all that means?"

Suzy knew what he was talking about and shifted a little closer, so more of them were in contact.

"Baby, it doesn't mean I don't want to be with you and it doesn't mean I want to be with a woman. I just experienced something that changed my life and I really liked what it was I learned. I know it's weird that another woman showed me all of that, but it was supposed to be a secret, something only Annie and I knew about. I didn't mean for anyone to get hurt, especially not you JT, I really like you, in fact, I really love you."

JT heard the words Suzy used when she spoke to him, hearing them, but not registering them yet. When his mind caught up, he looked at her, her face returning to one of suspended worry. He thought of his own feelings for her and how much he enjoyed having her as a part of his life. She gave him no need to regret her presence at any time, every incidence of dealing with different situations, Suzy had always been at his side and stuck by him. He knew she had strong feelings for him, ones he desired to feel from a woman. Suzy was what he was wanting and all he had to do was accept what was and agree to move on together.

"I'm sorry I freaked out on you at the restaurant like that, it just threw me for a loop. You too, Annie, I'm sorry. I really like you too, Suzy, I really do. I think you're a really, cool chick and I dig how you are with me. I think I love you, too."

"Oh JT."

Suzy hugged JT tightly and kissed his cheek and moved his face, so she could kiss his lips. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him tight, not wanting to lose that moment with him. Marlene was smiling happily, some in part at the couple expressing their love, but more in part of lessening the blow she would have explaining it all to Jake later. In triumph, she took Ann-Marie's hand and pulled her to her side. Ann-Marie came happily and nestled against her and looked at her, her eyes clearly showing a great sense of relief. Marlene couldn't help herself at seeing her look that way and used her other hand to pull her face towards her and kissed her.

Ann-Marie was taken off guard by it, but soon gave in and enjoyed the feel of Marlene's mouth on hers. JT sensed something and opened an eye, catching the action between the two. He stopped kissing Suzy, who wondered why they stopped and followed JT's stare. Marlene and Ann-Marie were fully embracing and kissing passionately, then sensed they were being watched and stopped. Marlene looked at them as though she was surprised at their reaction.

"What? After what we just talked about?"

"Sorry, it's just I, you now, haven't seen two women doing that before."

"Yeah, I guess it is a bit of an eye opener, isn't it?"

JT nodded, his face showing complete agreement.

"Do you want to see what it looks like? Want to see Suzy?"

JT looked at Suzy, wondering if he did or not, wondering if she did or not. She looked at him and could see she had no objection to doing it, more a look of him agreeing with her doing it.

Objections to it gone, a curiosity in it took over and he motioned with his head to go, to her. Suzy gave JT as loving a kiss as she could and felt it returned. She got up and went to Marlene and Ann-Marie and stood with them. Marlene put her arms over both of them and looked at JT.

"Want to see her with me, or Ann-Marie?"

Without a moment of pause for thought, JT answered her.

"You."

JT shifted, so he was more comfortable on the bed and waited. Marlene gave Ann-Marie a quick kiss and turned Suzy to her. Suzy put her hands on Marlene's hips and waited for her. Marlene put one hand behind her head and one around her shoulders and pulled her into herself. Suzy's head tilted back and her mouth was eagerly ready for her. Their mouths met and their arms secured the bond, as they began kissing deeply, with knowing passion of what would transpire.

JT observed them and studied how they kissed and touched. He tried to imagine himself as Marlene and if he held Suzy like that and if she held him the same. More and more the subtle differences could be seen and what it was, that made it not only different, but more exciting to her. The sounds they made, came to his ears and he could hear the passion in their kisses, how Marlene was evoking it from her. 

As much as he wanted to watch them continue, they stopped and stood looking at each other for a moment and JT saw the fire in their eyes. The raw, animal lust to sate their inner desires raging in them. He was astounded that they had only kissed, but so much transpired emotionally between them and he was curious to know how to do that.

Suzy came back over and sat beside him again and put her arm around him. Looking at her just a moment ago, she looked like someone completely different, than who she was again, sitting beside him and being his Suzy. Marlene was caressing Ann-Marie's arms, looking at her, while she held on to her waist. JT couldn't help but notice the bountiful breasts that they both had, were pressed against one another and rubbing together. There was a sexuality about it he didn't understand, but he could see it and feel it between them. Suzy took his attention back and looked at him.

"Did you like seeing me kiss her?"

"Kinda. It was different to see, than seeing a guy and a chick doing it."

"Did it turn you on?"

Suzy was anxious to know that in him, as if it was important he accept it and enjoy it.

"I guess so."

"You guess so? Really?"

Suzy put her hand on JT's cock and felt the hardness in it, then smiled, almost like Marlene would.

"Someone is more sure of it than that. Come on, did it turn you on?"

JT was caught by that and knew words weren't getting him out of it.

"Yeah, it did."

"Cool."

Suzy smiled happily, as if she had accomplished a goal and achieved something. JT looked at her and smiled, then pulled her into a hug and kissed her, in a way that had the same level of love she knew and relaxed into him. Marlene had gone ahead and enjoyed herself, despite their presence in the room and bared Ann-Marie's breasts, encased in the white cotton bra. Suzy gave a loud ahem to them and made them look at her. Marlene saw the look on her face and then her nod to what her hands were doing. She looked at her hands resting on Ann-Marie's breasts, her intent on plying the cups back and exposing the milky flesh of them. She patted them and closed the zipper of her top again, then looked at Suzy.

"At this stage of the game, I think we should consider ourselves lucky and not push it."

"You're right, Suzy, I'm sorry. I do love them though and she makes it so easy."

Ann-Marie was still smiling happily, not bothered in the least by what had happened. He tried to understand Wally's frustration in bed with her and saw how happy she was, giving it up freely for Marlene. Was Ann-Marie more into women, or was Wally just boring, after experiencing what Marlene introduced to them. Either way, things were different between everyone now. Nothing would be the same between them all, once they were all made aware of what had happened.

Outside, everyone was talking about what they knew and speculated on what they didn't. One of them was quite happy that his secret hadn't come out in any of this. Keith just sat against the hood of Wally's car and smoked his cigarette, Gloria resting against him, doing the same. He was content to let his involvement remain unknown and unaccounted for, already privy to a taste of Jake's other side. He'd already had a taste of Mary and then Marlene inviting him to enjoy her and now Gloria was happy to be with him. He was counting his blessings that all of this had come to pass and nothing amiss had happened to spoil it, as he felt Gloria's hand caressing his leg casually.

The door opened and JT came out holding hands with Suzy and Ann-Marie came out after, smiling happily. Marlene stood at the door and crooked her finger at Jake and he showed a sense of relief on his face, that he was finally getting to the bottom of why he was rudely interrupted. Marlene gave him a kiss as he passed her and she waved at everyone else, as she closed the door behind her. The sound of the latch clicking shut, had heads turn to the trio who came out and began looking for answers.

They stood and listened, as they explained how a little experimentation led to a lot of trouble. It was decided to leave Marlene out of it as much as possible and explained it was something she had said to the girls that had them try it. After a round of twenty questions and some stern warnings by the other girls to keep it to themselves and not try anything on them, things became easier between them and tension levels dropped to a calmer feeling more suited to a Sunday. Wally seemed pleased with the way Ann-Marie was acting towards him now, as she hugged herself to him, her breasts mashing into him. With all of that taken care of, talk returned to one of breakfast and if they could get back to the restaurant now. Piney made the suggestion to ask Jake and Marlene if they'd like to join them, so JT went up and knocked. Jake called out to him.

"What is it?"

"It's JT, Jake. We want to know if you and Marlene want to join us at the restaurant for breakfast?"

"No thanks, JT. We'll take a pass. You guys go ahead."

"Alright, Jake. We'll see you later on."

"See you."

Jake listened to hear him leaving and then rolled back over on top of Marlene and looked at her. She slid the sheet down his back and grabbed the cheeks of his ass and held them, as he slid himself inside her slowly, watching her enjoy the sensation she loved so much. One thing Marlene knew about Jake. It was easier to explain things, when he was having great sex with her. 



Redwood Nine Ch. 10



Chapter 10

Travellin' Men Pt. 1

Monday was a return to the normal world and work. JT was helping Jake remove a transmission from a '61 Ford Ranchero, while Piney and Clay were working on separate vehicles. Jake kept his eye on everyone, watching how they worked and how they worked together. The phone rang and without asking, JT went over and answered it. He wrote down the information and hung up, then came back to the job.

"Another job, JT?"

"Yeah, Mr. Kanter over on Freemont wants his car repaired, but needs it towed in. Told him we don't do towing yet, but we'll be happy to do the work, if he brings it in."

"You know, I need another wrecker. I'm losing work, because I don't have one that works right, but I was too busy working, to drop everything and even start picking the cars up anyway. Even with Clay here, I was hard pressed to work in the office, fix cars and drive a truck. I'm thinking we have enough guys now, that a truck is a good thing to get. You guys hear of a good half or three quarter ton, hopefully a duellie, let me know. I know where I can get my hands on a used wrecker to put on it. The bed doesn't matter, just the chassis and cab. Oh, running well would be nice too."

"Look no further, Jake. I know just where to go to find one. I'll talk to Wally tonight and ask him to get a hold of, what's his name...oh yeah, Uncle Tom. This guy knows where to get everything, he says, so let's see if he's as good as his word."

"Okay, let me add one more thing to the list. Not stolen. All I want is a decent truck to put a unit on the back and that's it. I'm only looking to spend a few hundred on it at best, but I got to have the title, or all bets are off."

JT and Piney understood the need for legalities in this situation and wondered if Tom did know of legal sources of enterprise. Thoughts of tow trucks were dashed from their thoughts, as the roar of a Harley came into the lot. The big smile showing on the rider, meant only one thing, Chico was back. He raced up and as usual, waited until the last minute, before hitting the back brake and skidded up to them sideways. He flipped his bike to the side and got off, going straight to JT and then Piney, hugging them both happily. He went to Jake and respectfully offered his hand and smiled at him. Jake took it firmly and pulled him to a hug, clapping him on the back.

"Welcome back, Chico. Glad to see the ride was okay. No troubles?"

"A pleasure, Senor Jake. The bike, she's okay, but I heard a little rattle happening in the back somewhere. I was just passing Modesto when I first heard it."

Jake knelt down and began looking Chico's bike over, shifting moving parts to see what could make the noise. He checked the tension on the chain and it was extremely slack. 

"This might be the cause of it. Holy shit, Chico, the tension nut is gone. You, my boy, are one lucky son of a bitch. This chain could have jumped off the sprocket at any time and seized the wheel."

To stress his point, Jake picked the chain off the sprocket easily, showing how close Chico came to ending the ride differently.

"I'm not saying the way you ride this thing is wrong, Chico, but if you want to come in my lot and ride the way you do, make sure you ain't going to kill anyone, when you hit the brakes and expect to stop. What I'm saying, is take better care of this bike. If you ride with the guys in a club and your bike screws up, every guy behind you can be involved if you lose it. Remember that, all of you. Lone riding is one thing, but club riding is totally different and I explained this to you before, I know I have. Everyone from JT back, depend on the bikes they ride and the ones they ride with. Not a good thing to carry with you the rest of your life, knowing a brother is badly injured, or dead, because you didn't take care of your ride and endangered everyone with it."

The speech silenced them all, knowing every word Jake spoke, was an invaluable truth to them. The point of riding as a club and respecting it, depended on each member doing his part. JT knew a rule had to be made, regarding the safety of each bike that rode in the club. When lives were in the balance, every precaution needed to be taken care of, before engines were started and the formation rolled out onto the road. 

"Clay, go see if you can find a nut to fit this and make this thing rideable again. No way I'm allowing this bike to be ridden, until it's fixed. Might as well go and relax, Chico, you're not going anywhere, until it's right."

Chico had no objection to staying put, his ride to Oakland done and answers were forthcoming to their enterprise. He shook Jake's hand and thanked him for his kindness and assurance his bike would be safe to ride again. Chico slowly walked away aimlessly towards the clubhouse, so Jake gave JT and Piney some time off to go talk to him and catch up on things. It would be lunch time soon enough, so a little more time off wasn't a problem.

JT went over and opened the door and they went in. The bay door opened wide and JT and Piney showed Chico what had been accomplished so far. He was impressed with what he saw and what was in the works. Once the tour was over, they went and sat on the chairs and couch, lighting up cigarettes, then JT filled him on all the things that had happened and the need for new rules to be made. He explained that he would have to stick around town for a few days, so they could have a full club meeting about everything. Two more guys were being considered, Clay being one and needed his approval to be accepted, as well as the patches being prepared for them.

Chico agreed and said he would stick around, as long as he had a place to crash and park his bike. He just got his run money, so he was carrying his usual several hundred dollars. It didn't take a stretch to tell him a room at the motel would be easy to get for him and his bike would be with theirs. Chico's smile was broad and well felt, as he heard things were moving forward, despite the troubles faced so far. He said he knew of the El Locos and had passed them riding a few times. He said they left him alone and never bothered him on his runs. Whether it was his ethnicity, or the fact he wore no colours, or patch, that they gave him a clear road to run. He didn't get any trouble from the Disciples, but they seemed unhappy with his presence on the same road as them. What all of it led them to, was the main question that needed to be asked, were they in business to ride?

"You guys are going to love this. I talked to my guy in Oakland and told him how many bikes we had, that we could do this and he said he'd talk to our guy in TJ, who would let us know if it was good. I fucking rode the whole way there man, wondering if Luis was going to be pissed at me, or if he would say fuck you and never come back, or say sure, let's do this. Fucking relatives, man. They act like the big shots on both sides of the border, but I'm the one running all of this shit. Without me, they have nothing but a lot of space between two points. Only thing is, Luis grows it and Manuel sells it. If either says no, I get the stick with the shitty end, you know?"

JT and Piney were still waiting for Chico to give them the answer, but figured that many hours alone, he just wanted to talk to someone and they let him have his say.

"So I get to the border, my cousin is sitting at the truck stop and he has this look on his face, like he wants to kick my ass. I think, fuck you Luis, what's wrong with me bringing in more business? I get off my bike and walk over to him and stand in front of him, you know and like, look at him the same way he's doing to me. He stares me down and then he smiles at me and hugs me. I'm not sure if he has a knife or he is really happy to see me, so I'm getting ready for him to move on me and he looks at me, still smiling at me, so I'm thinking, okay, what now. Fucking Luis, gilipollas sits me in his truck and tells me he has over a ton of weed to move and more is coming. He needs it out of Mexico and up here mucho pronto. I said we could do it at a two hundred per rider, he says one hundred, like I get now. So I say, Luis, you need it moved, I have it moved, but it takes more money and the ride is getting dangerous."

JT and Piney both acknowledged the present danger of gang violence and continued listening, to see what Chico managed to get them. Even if it was still one hundred per run, it was good money to bank and get something started for the club.

"He says, how dangerous? I told him about the new gangs forming and everyone wants a piece of what we have already. I told him guns were being carried and if they want me to ride loco weed north for a hundred per run, they could find someone else who wanted to put their life on the line for it. This wasn't just going for a long ride anymore man, this was trying to get through enemy territory and I had enough of doing that in Vietnam. So my cousin looks at me and gets it through his head, that what he can make moving all that weed and what it's going to cost per rider, he smiles and says sure, let's do it. So guys, do we have the bikes?"

Cheers were shouted out, then quietened down, when the plan was set and dreams were becoming realities.

"Sure do, Chico. Piney and I are on the road and running great. Already did a good run, so we know they're good on the road. Keith and Otto are good and Lenny is looking for bags. You know, I had another thought we might hit your cousin with."

"What's that, JT?"

"This was all about motorcycles running it up to Oakland, but what about a car? We could move way more shit that way per run."

"Okay, I see what you're getting at, man. You thinking of Wally?"

"Yeah. His car is running pretty good now and I think it could make it down and back with no problems. I mean, think of that huge trunk and how much we could put in it? He could carry as much as us and more. We could ride as protection and use ourselves as a distraction. Everyone will be looking at all the bikers, but they'll miss the guy in the old car just driving along, minding his own business. We happen to get pulled over for some reason, or another and they find nothing on us and Wally just keeps going like he doesn't know us. We catch up later on and make it to Oakland and unload where your other cousin wants us to take it to. No one suspects a thing."

"So how do we do the transfer from down there and get it into the trunk? Don't think Wally's car can make it where we have to go. Don't have a bike, you ain't getting there, unless you walk."

JT thought for a moment.

"How hard would it be to make a couple of runs from where you meet your cousin and somewhere Wally can park. We can carry it to him and load him up and then he heads out first and we follow a mile behind."

"Yeah, yeah, that could work. Not hard for a bike to get through one at a time, single file. Wally can park at a spot I know of. No one can see him, if he sits there and we can make the runs. If we have big enough bags, we can carry it all in one run back and forth."

"I wonder how much Wally's car can handle, before we decide to load it up? That's the last thing we'd need. Wally busted down, with all the weed in the trunk."

That thought was left for the meeting to be answered. With Chico caught up with everything, he reached into his vest pocket on the inside and pulled out a joint.

"Latest crop, might as well see how good it is."

Chico lit it up and drew in deeply, then passed it to Piney, who did the same, passing it to JT. They sat and savoured the smoke in their mouths, judging the taste and how it was making them feel. Nods were given and they sat and consumed it, relaxing on the furniture, feet up on the drywall table. 

Wednesday was the day of the first official meeting of the club. They all gathered after work hours and JT shut the gate and locked it, making sure there were no interruptions. Jake was off to see Marlene for dinner, so they knew he was settled for the evening. They opened beers and toasted the clubhouse and the club, then JT took control, as he sat at the desk and the others milled on, or around the furniture. All of the issues were discussed about Chico's news and new rules set down about bike safety. Otto said the patches would be ready by Thursday night and all they had to do was bring in a cut and the guy would sew them on. No one had any new issues to discuss, so JT called the meeting over and slapped his palm on the desk. Friday was their first day to ride as one, to ride as a brotherhood, to ride as the Sons of Anarchy.

Jake had a visible worry on his face, from the moment they announced the ride. He couldn't begin to tell them things to watch out for and always stay together in a group. JT could see it was more like a father seeing his boys go off for the first time, than a stranger telling them to have a nice trip. He wished they'd gone out with him first, so he could show them the rules of the road, how to act as one at all times. He did his best in the time available, to give JT and Piney all the tips and thoughts he could think of, doing his best to make sure the trip was safe and they got back whole.

Friday morning came and bikes began pulling into the lot. One by one, the line of bikes grew, until everyone was there, present and accounted for. Jake, for his part went to each one and gave it a thorough going over, making sure things were tight and secure and no leaks were happening. The guys were in the clubhouse with Chico, going over the route and the destination. He explained how the hand-off worked with him and how to pack their bags properly for the ride back. The one thing Chico was most concerned about, was the ability of the guys to ride for such long hours.

It was five hundred miles there and the same back and he was concerned that they might not be able to handle riding for up to sixteen, or eighteen hours straight. JT, Piney and Lenny knew the last time they ever endured anything of that duration, was back in 'Nam. This was a lot less stressful than jungle warfare and less exhaustive physically, so they didn't feel the need to worry. Keith said he was used to long rides and missed them, having spent so many hours crossing America. Otto was the only one who was unsure of longevity in the saddle and decided this would be a test of his endurance and see just how far he could make it.

"You know how you see me doing things on my bike and you think I'm like, showing off and thing, but mostly what I'm doing, is stretching and relaxing on the ride. Once you guys get some miles behind you, you'll feel better on your bikes. You'll know how it balances out and moves to your body, so you learn to do things and keep it straight, that way you don't have to keep stopping to work out stiff muscles, man. That shit hurts, you know?"

They understood Chico's reasoning for his stunts, but they were sure they wouldn't be doing any Flying Crosses any time soon. With everything said, that could be said, it was time to head out. The guys walked out of the clubhouse to their bikes and Jake was there beside them. JT locked up the building and stood beside Jake, before he went to his bike.

"You take good care of these boys, JT. They're depending on you to get them there and back, remember that, son. If you run into any trouble out there, call me, you got my numbers, doesn't matter the time, just call, I'll be there as soon as I can, okay?"

JT saw the worry from Jake caring about him so much and what he was ready to undertake. His eyes were swelling with emotion, trying to remain stoic, but just underneath, everything he felt for JT and his club members, was ready to gush forth from him. Knowing that same feeling inside his own heart for Jake was ever-present, he just hugged him tightly, then felt him respond in kind and they held in bond, no words to express what they felt for each other. Assured of themselves, Jake held onto JT's arms for a moment longer and looked at him. 

"I'll be here waiting for you to come home, you just make sure you get here, understand."

"I will, Jake. I promise."

They hugged one more time and JT went to his bike and sat on it. He looked down the row of riders, waiting for his signal and he stuck his finger up and twirled it, to tell them to start up the bikes. One by one, the heavy metal horses were brought to life and readied to ride. When JT felt all the bikes had been warmed up enough, he clutched and put it in gear. He looked at Jake and nodded confidently to him and started the inaugural ride. One after the other, they pulled out and followed JT out of the gate and on towards 99.

JT was up at the lead by himself, Piney and Lenny behind him, then Chico and Keith behind them and Otto riding at the back solo. The tanks were full and ready to make the first leg of the journey, to where the first gas stop and food was scheduled. JT pulled off Kettleman Lane and took the ramp onto 99 and the highway became theirs. JT twisted the throttle and took them up to sixty and began cruising, the others staying close with every move. The riders settled into their seats and got comfortable, as the miles of highway to travel, stretched out before them. Canteens were brought to drink water if they were thirsty and not have any reasons to stop and take more time than they needed. 

Otto rode at the back, his view, one that made him smile with pride. For everything that JT didn't see, Otto did. Six riders all moving simultaneously as one, six riders wearing a common patch on their backs. He looked at his artwork personified by the addition of the club name across the top and California as their home. He took his left hand off the grip and felt the rectangular patch on the left breast of his cut and knew it said Redwood Original, then the one on the other side that said First Nine. Otto seemed to sit a little taller in the saddle after that, his height making him the shortest member of the club, but still one who garnered respect in other ways.

Everyone seemed to be more aware of themselves, as they rode in formation and not a car passed, without at least one face turning to stare at them. It gave them a sense of being, not as an unrecognizable person, but someone who belonged to a group of individuals who acted as one. Their strength was in their numbers and every man contributed to the power they possessed.

The flat land made the ride easy on the bikes, as each one purred its tune to the RPM they revved at. The meandering highway became boring, the mountains off to the right, just a never-ending line on the horizon, while to the left, large expanses of flat land were either irrigated to bear fruit, or lay dry and barren in the sun. Every rider wore dark shades to ward off the glare of the sun, as it reflected off cars and the steady haze it left above the road's surface. 

Chico sped up a bit and pulled alongside JT and pointed at the exit that was coming up. He knew from experience, that this station fill up guaranteed him enough gas to get there and cruise around, before the trip back. It also gave everyone a chance to stretch and get the blood flowing to idle body parts again. The road signs indicated they were only thirty miles, or so from Bakersfield, making some happy they had made it this far already. Chico led them to the truck stop and pulled in the lot. He rolled up to the pump and greeted the attendant, who he knew well from his many runs.

"Chico, buenos días, mi amigo. Como esta?"

"Eh, muchacho. Brought you lots of business this time. This is the club I was telling you about. We need six full tanks, amigo and we'll see you on the run back tomorrow."

Fernando smiled happily, knowing his sales for the day, just became better, than they were looking before. Chico waited until the last tank was topped off and he peeled off a twenty and a five and told Fernando to keep the change of three dollars. They parked their bikes and went into the diner at the other end of the lot. Stares and looks were immediately given to them, the moment they walked in and none were an invitation to sit and join them. They ignored the visual threat and went in as a group, their numbers warding off any notion of verbally attacking them. 




Redwood Nine Ch. 10



Reputations had been made regarding bikers, the constant news reports of violence and turf wars over drugs, had made it to every ear and they had formed a collective opinion, that bikers were undesirables. Nothing but miscreants and malcontents, bent on destroying what they felt their great nation was about and stood for. 

They sat at two tables and waited for service, looking over the menus. Chico looked around for his favourite waitress and saw she was being talked to by the cook. What he could make out, was that the cook didn't want her coming over to serve them. Chico saw her head lower and nod, then she began coming over.

"Hey Novio, what's up? I saw Joe talking to you and he don't look too happy, neither do you."

Marietta looked saddened greatly, having to tell Chico what she was told to do. 

"He told me to say he wasn't serving you and said you have to leave."

"Joe said that? What the fuck, Baby? I've been coming here for years to this place. I'm going to talk to him and find out what his problem is, man. This is bullshit."

"Oh Chico, don't start anything with him, I really need this job. I have nothing, if I lose this."

"You'll always have something, Marietta. Me."

Chico got up and went over to Joe and called him from the kitchen. Joe's head stuck out the serving window and it didn't take much imagination from the hand signals given, that he wasn't even entertaining the idea of discussing it with Chico. Chico motioned he would come over the counter, if any more of the same attitude came from him.

The guys got up quickly and came over to him, causing other diners who sided with Joe, to rise in his defence. It quickly became a standoff, both sides able to cause some serious hurt to the other. JT got his club moving towards the door, eyes always on guard for sudden moves. The door swung closed and it's closure was an end to hostilities. They got on their bikes and started them, then Marietta came out to Chico and threw her arms around his neck, obviously telling him in Spanish, how sorry she was and letting him know she didn't feel that way towards him, or his club. Chico pulled her to him and kissed her passionately, expressing his feelings through his lips and hands. Marietta stood after the kiss and looked at him, the uncertainty in her eyes, that she was looking at him for the last time.

"I'll see you on my way back, Marietta, tú eres mi corazón."

Chico took her hand and kissed it, looking deeply into her dark eyes, then let it go, still fixed with them, as he snapped the throttle a couple of times and joined the others waiting for him. JT started off, but Chico looked back one last time at Marietta, standing in the parking lot by herself, her eyes telling him her heart was going with him. Chico snapped his head back smartly to her and followed the flow of the club, as they pulled out and headed on to the border. 

Empty stomachs made for an uncomfortable ride and the attitudes given to them, made for an uncomfortable welcome to the road. They headed south through the farmlands and came to the junction of 99 and I-5, where the mountains lay in front of them and the highway began cutting through them. Chico rode beside JT with a firmness to his face, that meant only one thing, he was still reeling from the disrespect he received from Joe. The only thing that made him different than before, was the patch on his back and the brothers that rode with him. JT looked back at the black strip of asphalt ahead of him and began considering the ramifications of choosing this lifestyle. Was society going to rebel back against him, as much as he was rebelling against it? 

The passage cut for the highway afforded little in the way of scenery, just a continuous point on the horizon to focus on. Chico seemed to be getting himself back under control and letting go of what happened earlier. JT saw the ease in his face and the casual riding style he got into and hoped the worst of it was over for him. It was becoming clear to everyone, he imagined, that what was their life before, wouldn't be the same anymore. 

The break from mountains wasn't as welcomed as they hoped, as Los Angeles loomed before them, the thick layer of smog hovering over the city. The flow of traffic seemed to keep growing exponentially, the closer they came to it. The road suddenly became a very crowded place, that changed the dynamics of how they rode. Drivers showed their distaste for them and cut them off, giving them the finger and generally giving them dirty looks. 

JT couldn't understand why the level of animosity against them was so high. He couldn't comprehend why people would have such a great dislike for them, yet not know them in the least. The line of headlights coming up towards them, let them know a club was riding their way. As they approached, JT raised his left hand to them and waved and received nothing but stern faces looking back at him. The brotherhood that had existed between all riders, seemed to have been diminished, to only those of the club they rode in. More and more, he wished he had Jake's counsel on everything. His words of leading them down the road to trouble and danger, weighed heavy on his shoulders, as the responsibility to their safety grew with each passing occurrence that happened to them.

Finally getting past the city core, one thing they noticed was the change in the air. The cooler mountain air was warmed, now becoming more appealing to feel on their skin, as the mountain range to their right began fading away in height. I-5 swung in a large sweeping right curve, leading to the coast, then a sweeping left, bringing them along it. The first sign that everyone saw, that made them know they were close, were the start of palm trees growing alongside the highway. The feel of the sea air hit them, the salty smell and cooler offshore breezes mixed in pockets that they rode through, eventually evening out to one temperature again.

The ride was still exciting, as new places were visited and the differences in the people became evident, the closer to the border they came. Traditional Mexican culture was everywhere, as they rode in through San Diego. The bright colours were displayed flagrantly everywhere and on everything, making it all look festive. Hawkers were selling anything and everything Mexican to make a buck from the tourists, as canned music blared from loud speakers. Chico waved to a few of them and before they came anywhere near the border, he had JT turn off and follow him down a side road, heading back east towards the hills. 

On and on, the road wound through the rising foothills, the road getting worse in its state of repair, the further they rode. Chico turned right down a dirt road, the afternoon sun on their backs, casting long shadows of elongated shapes of them, over the craggy hillside. Slowly and carefully, each rider maintained his balance, as they avoided potholes and loose gravel patches. Just when things looked like the road was no longer able to be traversed, Chico slowed right down and rode in first gear, heading on to a trail only able to handle a two wheeled vehicle. The guys became nervous, any mistake and their bikes would face damages that could stop them dead. Jagged rocks along the sides came perilously close to ripping into the casings, or puncture the tanks and tires. Chico rode it like it was a wide open street, knowing it so well.

When it looked like they would be riding on virgin ground, Chico pulled to a stop in a small clearing and cut his engine. The sliver of orange streaked over the horizon, a bright spot of red in the middle, sinking down past the mountain tops, as they all shut the engines off and stood in the bleak wilderness. Bodies were stretched and relieved of the aches, after riding for so long. Chico gave a shrill whistle, sounding much like a bird, then a minute or so later, a similar whistle was returned. Chico smiled and led the guys down the hill a hundred feet, to another small clearing amongst the brush. 

He pointed across the border, to an area similar to what they were in. The guys strained to see in the slanting light and saw a pick up truck, painted almost the same colour as the desert floor, blending in to look invisible. Two men stood in the bed and waved to Chico. They shouted in Spanish and then the two men began raising something on the back of the pick up.

"Okay guys. Get ready to catch some dope."

They had no idea what Chico was talking about, then he had them look at the pair on the truck again. They had raised something that looked like a large letter Y. One of them slipped a band across both sides and Chico readied himself. One of the men pulled back hard and aimed, then released the package. The projectile soared up on a sweeping arc, travelling over two hundred feet, before Chico caught it like a football and put it on the ground. The guys immediately understood what was happening and it instantly became a game of catch, all of them readied for the next package coming over. They carried their catch to the bikes and filled their bags, each one holding more than enough pot to put them away in jail, for a very long time.

One by one, the kilo packages came sailing over to them, until there were no more. When all of them were over, the two men dismantled the makeshift slingshot and laid it in the truck bed again, covering it with a tarp. They just started shouting something over to them, when one held the other's arm and they both stopped and listened. In a second, three shrill whistles were given and they jumped out and began cutting branches off the brush around the truck and laid it over it. Chico knew what the signal was for and he too sprung into action. His knife was out and he was slashing off small branches as fast as he could.

"Plane. Cover your bikes. Border patrol spots us, we're fucked, man."

The guys needed nothing more to get them moving. Before the single engine plane was almost in sight, the truck and the bikes were covered with brush and the guys were taking cover under the trees, the others lying under their truck. The sound became louder and louder and they knew the plane was close, almost overhead. It was moving as slow as it could to stay aloft, but the passenger was constantly scanning the border area with binoculars, looking for any signs of infiltration.

When the plane passed over head and began moving away, Chico cautioned them to stay put, until it was out of sight. As the sound faded, Chico and his cousin knew enough to get out of the area as fast as they could, the return flight coming in half an hour after re-fuelling. The bikes were cleared off and the bags stuffed with the last few kilos of marijuana. Once the last one was stashed and the bag shut, the bikes were started and Chico waved to his cousin and friend across the border and they waved back, as they drove away, back to the homestead and the plantation of sweet, green cash, growing in the fields. Chico switched his headlight on, the others following suit, as they paced their way slowly along the treacherous path way.

Keith was threading his way behind Lenny, when he wobbled slightly on a rock, throwing his balance off. His bike only veered to the right slightly, but it was enough to catch his shin between the engine block and the rock jutting out. Keith felt the pain hit and jammed on his brakes, doing his best to lean it towards his good leg. The guys stopped to see what happened and got off their bikes, seeing Keith having a hard time holding up his bike and dealing with the pain of what happened.

With no other choice, Keith had them put his bike on the stand and they helped him walk the rest of the way down the trail, to the dirt road. JT was understanding how difficult it was for someone to get to where they were and the reason they went there, but he couldn't risk having his guys getting hurt on every run like this. JT went back and rode Keith's bike off the trail and parked it beside his, the others following behind him. Keith pulled up his pant leg slowly, exposing the site of his injury. Blood was soaking his pants, but it was unknown how bad the cut was. When it was bared, the guys used headlights to provide enough light to adequately assess the damage to him. Luckily, it wasn't broken, but the contusion was already swelling and beginning to take on a nasty look to it. Chico took off his bandana and wrapped it around the gash on Keith's leg, making him wince and utter oaths to God and Jesus, but it stemmed the flow of blood.

Once they had Keith attended to, JT discussed the issue with Chico and said they would have to remove some of the rocks, so this didn't happen again. Chico was about to defend himself and blame it on Keith's inability to ride as well as him, but caught himself, as he looked at his brothers, wearing the same cut as him and realized he had a responsibility to them.

"Sorry, JT. Next time we come down, we'll make it easier to get there. It's just, I know it like the back of my hand, you know? We picked it because it was going to take a good rider to get back there. I made the trail, amigo. I started that over a year ago, riding over shit, until I had a path to that spot. Not a bad idea, eh, muchacho?"

JT could see Chico was proud of what they had developed as an effective method of getting the marijuana across the border. It was secretive and quiet, except for the rumble of their bikes, that he imagined carried far off and might give them away. One bike was one thing, but six, or more, was going to create a problem and JT knew it.

"It's great, Chico. It's a good idea. I have some ideas I need to talk to you about though, when we get back. Speaking of which, it's getting dark now and Keith needs some better care for his leg. Maybe we should hang out down here and start back in the morning."

"Yeah, maybe we should, JT. I know a place to go that's close, been there a couple times myself to get patched up. I have to see Marietta as well and see how she is. Fucking Joe, that cocksucker, if he fires her for this, I'll kick his ass, man. He treats her like shit."

JT could see the emotion in Chico's eyes, when he spoke of Marietta and knew he cared for her greatly. He calmed down and looked at everyone, looking back at him with a sense of dis-ease on their faces and changed back to a smile. Hot-blooded Latin, or not. Chico had a side to him that went beyond traditional stereotyping. 

"Okay, I know a good place to go for the night. Clean beds and a shower. We need to bring the shit inside with us, too. Can't be leaving that out for the fuckers to steal."

"True, Chico. Okay, you lead the way back and take us to the clinic, so we can get Keith patched up, then we'll head to the place you know about and sleep it off."

"Okay, let's get going, you know, that plane is coming back soon and we have to be out of here."

JT got everyone ready to ride and checked on Keith, still nursing his leg to stand on it, but he got on his bike, after Lenny started it for him. JT got on his bike and everyone started them up, then Chico led them out and back along the same derelict road they came in on. Finally, making it on to a better paved road, the guys started relaxing again, able to ride without worry of damage or injury. Throttles were twisted around, bringing the speed up and the formation began.

Chico rode beside JT, helping lead the way to the clinic, that was on the outskirts of San Ysidro. The desolate darkness of the back roads, left them in the isolation of their own headlights, as they wound through curving bends, making their way back down the hills to flat land. The appearance of a street light brought civilization to them and faint smiles were worn, knowing the hardest part of it was over now.

San Ysidro was rolling up the carpets and shutting off its lights, by the time the guys rode into town. Chico kept following the same road, as it changed from one name to the next, then finally turned down a side street and pulled into the parking lot, that had a small red cross, flickering on and off, only half the sign that denoted the place, San Ysidro Free Clinic, was lighting up. The guys parked their bikes and helped Keith with his, then helped him off of it. JT slung Keith's arm over his shoulders and bore his weight, as they helped Keith hobble inside.

The nurse behind the counter took a look at them and tried to veil her thoughts of them. They got Keith to the counter and told her what was wrong with him, so she went and got a wheel chair for him to sit in, then began asking all the necessary questions, to fill out the forms. The guys were more concerned with getting Keith attended to, than going through the bureaucratic system the clinic used. The nurse gave them a look that quelled anymore backtalk and they left her to her work. 

"JT, go get the guys set up with rooms and make sure you get one for me, will ya. I'll be here for a while with this lovely lady, so I will. Won't I, love?"

The nurse clearly enjoyed Keith's accent and his flirtatious manner towards her.

"Yes he will. He needs X-rays and the doctor is busy tonight, so it will be a while, before he can see him. There's at least five or six patients ahead of him and if someone comes in that is need of more serious care, he'll get bumped behind that one."

The guys almost started protesting, but two things stopped them from going any further. The first was the stern look on the nurse's face, that said if they argued about it, they were going somewhere else for treatment. The second was Keith's face, clearly expressing his desire that they leave, so he and Nurse Crenshaw, could be better acquainted. JT herded the guys out of the waiting area and back to the bikes, as Keith smiled past the pain at the mid-thirties brunette, as she moved a bit closer and crossed her legs, continuing to write down his information. 

By the time he was being put onto a gurney, nurse Nancy Crenshaw was enamoured with the Celtic charmer and pulled the curtain right around them. As she assisted him in undressing and getting a gown for him, maybe it was a mistake and maybe it wasn't, but he knew the size of the gown she gave him, was far too short on him, barely making it down to his thighs, or closing in the back and covering his bare arse. She helped him onto the bed and left him no choice, but to 'innocently' expose himself to her, as he lay down. He could have sworn he heard her purr, before she covered him with a sheet, keeping his injured leg exposed to the waist. He tried to see where her eyes were looking at and his crotch seemed to be the general direction they were always focused on.

As a tease, he squeezed his ass cheeks and raised his hips up slightly, causing the sheet to outline his package better. Keith definitely heard her breathe in deeply and almost sigh, as she breathed out. When the doctor arrived, all flirtation was off and the nurse stood to the side, as the elderly man began looking at his chart and then at his leg. Amorous thoughts were obliterated, as the doctor began moving his leg around and probing the injured area.

Chico pulled into the parking lot of the El Rancho Vega motel, riding up to the main office. The bright neon colours spelled out the name and also lit up one word they hoped to see, vacancy. He told JT to wait and then took off his cut this time, his face showing the regret of doing it, but they knew it was more important to get rooms, than fight against bias and discrimination. He went in and began with his smile and a warm Latin welcome to the man behind the desk. The guys sat waiting, wondering if the man would come out and tell them to get lost, then Chico came back out to them. He said they should hide the cuts for now, as Jose inside, was already against bikers, but Chico's long standing of using his rooms, got them a pass. Chico sat with the cuts and waited, until they started coming back out. Chico went in and paid for all the rooms and thanked his friend graciously, maintaining his good standing.




Redwood Nine Ch. 10



Chico showed them to the rooms and they rode down to the end three units and parked in front. They took the bags off and carried them inside, putting them close to them, under the beds. Chico said he had to take off and go see Marietta, before they left in the morning, so he made sure they knew how to get back to the clinic okay, then hugged each man, before getting on his bike and headed towards Bakersfield. 

Chico had every intention of making up time to travel over two hundred miles, what ever way he could. The moment he was upright, coming off the on ramp onto I-5 north, he twisted his throttle wide open and the Harley belched out the V twin's happiness to play along. Chico couldn't even read the blurry numbers on his speedometer, as it started closing in on one hundred MPH. He leaned forward, cutting down on his drag and let the bike pick where it wanted to run happily. 

The Los Angeles section had him lose some precious minutes, keeping it just above the speed limit, but pushing it every chance he felt he could get away with it. The night air was cool and rushed through his hair, blowing it back behind him, as he continued to wear his shades to block the wind. Once he was away from the core and the bright highway lights, his hand twisted towards him more and more, slowly climbing up in speed to where he needed to be. The signs for Bakersfield came up and Chico headed onto SR99 and the western side of town. The cheap motel wasn't all that great to look at, but Marietta was happy to have it and was able to save some money staying there, hoping one day to be heading north to Berkeley and going to school. 

He pulled into the lot and went towards her unit, noticing the lights on and smiled that she was in and awake. He got off his bike and knocked at the door, then saw the curtain open and close quickly, before the lock was opened and she opened the door to him. The smile he had for her began fading quickly, as he saw the state of her face. The more the light was cast upon it, the more Chico could see the bruises and black eye, as well as the split on her lip and swelling gum line.

His face was a mix of rage and sadness, not knowing which to feel first. Marietta moved to the centre of the room and stood nervously. Chico came to her and gently held her to him, not wanting to cause her any more pain. Marietta assured him he could hold her, as she clung to him tightly and began sobbing hard on his chest. Chico kissed and stroked her hair, unsure of where to start on what happened. Marietta spared him the confusion to decide and opened up.

"It was Joe and two of the other guys, the ones who were at the counter. You left with the gang and when the other people left the restaurant, they took me in the back and did this to me. They said it was all my fault and called me a cheap, Mexican puta, a cono. They...they...raped me, Chico, all three of them."

Marietta couldn't go on any more, breaking down and clinging to Chico desperately, hoping he wouldn't turn her away in shame and disgrace. Instead, she felt his arms hold her tighter to him, assuring her, she was still wanted by him and cared for. Chico sat her on the bed and calmed her down, so he could have a better look at her. He wanted to take her to the hospital, but she refused and wouldn't even entertain the idea of filing a police report against them. She was in fear of her life and he knew she only wanted to be away from there and end the terror. 

He was beside himself on what to do and knew in his heart, only one thing would satisfy his blood lust for payback, Joe. He told Marietta he needed to take care of something and she held onto him, knowing he was bent on revenge. He broke away gently, trying to assure her he wasn't going to do anything to get into trouble and would be back for her shortly. 

"Pack what you need, Marietta, I'm taking you back with me. I have a place you can stay and be safe. It won't be hard to get a job, I promise. I'll take good care of you, mi corazon, I swear."

Marietta held him with all her being, as she heard him say what her heart needed to hear. Whether it was all true or not, she felt more at peace after hearing it. She wanted to kiss him, but her lips were barely healed shut and painfully swollen. He kissed what he could of her face with passion and said he'd be back in an hour, or so. He walked out and got on his bike, his face turned away from Marietta, his expression becoming one of pure hate and malice. He wore that expression, until he pulled into a station and up to the booth. He grabbed a plastic gas can and filled it up, then left it beside his bike, while he went in to pay for it, explaining that a fellow rider ran out of gas, way back at the junction. He felt that gave him a plausible cover story, as he left and held the tank in his lap, riding back out and on towards the diner. 

He killed the engine and coasted as far as he could, before he stopped and pulled his bike off the road. He leaned it on the stand and took the gas can and looked for anyone about. The station was closed, as was the diner, but the lights above the diner, told Chico, that Joe was home and awake. He spotted two cars around the side and smiled, knowing they belonged to Hank and Doug, his two fat buddies he hung out with and played poker together, just like a night like tonight. He went to them and looked at the window above them, then back at the cars.

He opened the door to both cars and liberally poured gas in them, then he began circling the areas where there was a means of escape. He poured a good amount up and down the staircase, doing his best not to make any creaking sounds and finally finished the can off, trailing a line away from the building towards his bike. He looked at the place with the men inside and lit his lighter, bending down to the ground. He dropped the lighter into the liquid and it erupted into a flame, moving quickly along the line of gas. He kicked it away and put it out, stuffing it in his pocket again.

Chico got on his bike and fired it up, watching the fire begin to catch on the wood siding of the building and stairs, the flames racing up the sides and covering the windows. He waited long enough to see the door open, then close quickly again, knowing they had no means of escape, then pulled out onto the road and opened the throttle wide, leaving the event to play out as he hoped.

Before he pulled onto Panama Lane again, he looked back and saw the night sky aglow with the blaze from the flames, then the first explosion rocked through the air to him, then the second one. The burning cars provided added colour to the inky blackness, as Chico rode back to see Marietta. He was miles away, when he heard the first siren responding to a call, then the propane gas tanks at the back sent out a deafening blast, the fireball roiling into a living mushroom, as it rose into the night sky. That made his face set a little looser, but the look was of pure vengeance served, as a small smile curled his lips, feeling the traces of the blast wave hit him. 



Redwood Nine Ch. 11



Chapter 11 Travellin' Men 

Pt. 2

It was well after two a.m., when the quiet of the night was disturbed by the low rumble. It grew louder and louder, then vanished all together, as Chico cut the engine out on the road and coasted into the parking lot and up to his unit. He helped Marietta off the back and then got off himself. He untied her suitcase that they used as a makeshift seat and walked to the door. Chico listened to hear if Otto was asleep, or awake and heard no noise. He tried the handle and Otto had left it unlocked for him. As stealthy as they could be, they crept in and closed the door, looking to see if Otto woke up. Chico was hoping the long ride had exhausted him and he was out like a light. 

Marietta changed in the bathroom and brought her clothes out, dressed now in a cotton nightie. Chico just undressed at the end of the bed, leaving his boxers on and was waiting for her in bed, holding the sheets open for her to get in. She looked at him and fought against the thoughts of rape still consuming her mind, her body still feeling the violation and came to the bed. Chico's face showed all the compassion she needed to see, to allow her to lay with him. Chico let her have her way and stayed still, only allowing their sides touching, to be the only contact.

The hot air in the room, held the suspense around them, then Marietta reached with her hand for Chico's and felt the acceptance of it in his. After a deep exhaustive sigh, Marietta turned to Chico and lay her head on his chest, putting her arm around him and felt the solace of comfort in his presence. She felt his arms slowly wrapping around her and holding her to him, the love that they gave, made the world disappear and all that was wrong in it, too. She held back the need for tears, as they only added to the pain anyway. Every salty drop stung her lips and brought back the moment of pain, when Joe backhanded her face so many times, she lost count.

She lay her leg over his and felt the warmth of it against the bruises left by brutal fingers. She felt it ease the ache of mental and physical hurt, feeling the love from Chico, coming from every part of him. She turned her face and with as much pressure as her swollen lips would allow, she tenderly kissed Chico's chest and lay her head back down, closing her eyes and knowing somewhere deep inside her, things were going to be okay.

Neither of them saw Otto looking at them, then he closed his eyes, smiling to himself that Chico would have a story to tell about the woman in bed with him. Chico let out a long sigh of his own, releasing the tension and stress of reliving the act he had just committed. He held Marietta a little tighter and closed his eyes, hoping sleep came quick and deep.

Keith was laying in bed, the sun beaming in on his leg. The gash required seven stitches to close, but luckily, the shin bone was only badly bruised, with a small hairline fracture that would heal okay, the doctor said, but may come back to haunt him later in life. He was able to ride, but walking would require a cane or crutches for a few weeks. Keith remembered laughing at the doctor, when he asked about coming for a follow up visit, then remembered he would be coming back down and scheduled a tentative appointment for two weeks time. Lenny woke up and looked over at Keith staring out the window.

"Hey, how's the leg, man?"

"Hey, Lenny. Morning to you. The leg's no bad, aches to shite, though. Bloody pounding going on all the time, so it is. It's settled down some now. Christ, just my fucking luck, yeah. One little rock, led to me hitting the bigger rock. That trail is bloody dangerous. I get where Chico is coming from, keeping it secret and all, but it needs to be easier to ride than that."

"Yeah, I agree. JT talked to Chico already about it, so next time we're down, we're bringing some tools, so we can make it safer to get in, but still keep it hidden. I almost hit that same rock you did. It just jumps out at you."

"Aye, and bit me a good one as well."

Keith and Lenny lit up cigarettes, while next door, JT and Piney were doing much the same, lying in their beds and talking over everything. So many things happened that needed talked about and decided on. The presence of other clubs that acted hostile towards them, meant a need to protect themselves and that meant the carrying of guns as well. With the danger of what they were getting into becoming greater and greater, JT was realizing more and more, as he told Piney, he had no idea that this was happening out there. 

"I just wanted to start a club to ride around with the guys, Piney, not get into gun battles with other gangs over territory. I figured making these runs would be easy, just go down, load up and come back to drop it off. What if we're coming back and they come up behind us and want to let us know we're on their turf. Do we act friendly? Give them the dirty looks and give them the finger and just keep riding? Pull out guns and battle it out on the road like we saw them do before? Maybe do nothing and they waste us? We need to talk this out more, before we end up in over our heads. I just wanted to get money for the club, so we could build something for ourselves, we could be proud of. I had no intention of getting us into something this far outside the law. We're not talking a night or two visiting with Unser, shooting the shit about old days, we're talking Stockton, or somewhere else and long time, hard time, Piney."

Piney took the last drag off his cigarette and put it out, then looked at JT.

"JT, ain't nothing we can do about things here. We can talk all day, until that fucking rooster starts crowing again tomorrow morning, but the fact remains, my friend, just get this over with now. We're in it all the way already, shit, I can smell the stuff under my bed. No matter where we are, as long as we got this shit on us, we have trouble. Now get us home and we can talk this out then. Right now, I'm real fucking hungry. I could even handle those burritos."

JT made a face at the mention of eating that kind of food for breakfast. He was willing to wait it out, until a place served something he was familiar with and knew the ingredients. Piney laughed and agreed he would wait as well, then they got up and got ready. 

Otto got out of bed very quietly and did what he had to, before getting dressed and sneaking out of the room. Chico stirred, hearing the click of the door and then the shutting of it. He rolled his head over and saw Otto had left him alone with Marietta, then turned his head back to look at her. The clock said it was nine forty three, so they had close to six hours sleep. She was still laying on his chest, never leaving him throughout the night. His arm felt like it was asleep, but he didn't want to disturb her from sleeping as long as she could. He tried to look at her face better, to see how she looked in the daylight. Even from the bad angle he was at, he could see the swelling and discolouration on her cheek and mouth, the blackened eye clearly defining the damage inflicted to her.

Chico felt her stir and awaken, as her hand moved from his chest and pushed the hair away from her eyes. She looked up at him and saw the look in his eyes he held for her. The instance of worry left her and she began smiling, until the pain hit. The trauma of last night was back to her, but Chico calmed her and held her, letting her know it was over and it was time to heal, inside and out. He leaned forward and kissed her head, then she laid it on his chest and caressed it as well. 

Chico was happy she wasn't completely damaged mentally by it and knew it would only take time and love to heal the damage done. He wanted nothing more, than to have that moment last forever, but he knew he had to talk to JT and the others about her and make up an explanation about her injuries. Marietta's refusal to testify against them or bring any attention to herself, anymore than what had already happened, gave Chico the idea to blame it entirely on someone else, who would forever remain unknown. The ones who were guilty had been dealt with and nothing tied Chico to it. Marietta would back him on anything he said and he knew it, just by the way she held onto him. 

She had smelled him when he came back to her last night, the stench of gasoline on his clothes. Chico had told her about the rider running out of gas and she bought that story, based on her belief in him, but riding to this motel and going past the diner, even from a distance, she knew that was what was lighting up the night sky, along with a multitude of flashing red lights. She decided never to question him about it, convincing herself, that a just vengeance was done in her honour and she owed it to the man who did it for her. 

She got up and showered, taking the time to wash away the troubles in her soul, watching them all spin in the water, as it went down the drain. When she finished drying off and dressing, she came out brushing her wavy, black mane, the tips reaching to her waist. She was about to pull it back and bunch it up, then Chico stopped her and begged with his eyes for her to leave it down. She smiled and let her hair fall down, her dark, brown eyes dancing with a sign of happiness in them, as she looked at Chico admiring her.

Chico touched her hair gently, arranging it how he felt it should look to him. He finished and stood back a few steps and looked at her with great admiration in his eyes, as he looked at her from head to toe. Marietta showed great relief in her spirit, as she saw the look in Chico's eyes, telling her she was beautiful. She laid the good cheek against his chest and hugged him, making Chico happy in his heart, which translated to his noted smile.

"Baby, I got to see JT now. You can stay in here, or go for a little walk, but stay close, okay."

"Si, Chico. I'll just stay here, till you come back."

Marietta lifted her face to him and Chico kissed all the areas he knew wouldn't hurt. His smile assured her peace of mind to be alone in the room, as he walked out the door and up to JT and Piney's room. He knocked on the door and JT answered it, dressed to go, Piney the same and Otto sitting on the bed next to him, smoking a cigarette.

"Chico, made it back okay. Fun night with Marietta?"

JT's smile faded, as he saw the look on Chico's face, that something wasn't right and bad news was forthcoming.

"Some shit happened last night, man. Bad shit. Some dude in Bakersfield jumped Marietta, after work. He beat her bad, man, real bad and he raped her too."

Chico saw the shock hit their faces, as he explained all he came up with for a cover story, even explaining about the gas smell on him. They sat in awe of hearing it happen and then Chico explained about Marietta being down in the room.

"Shit, Chico. I saw you guys come in last night and didn't want to disturb you. Fuck, man, I wish I'd known."

"It's cool, Otto. Nothing you could do, man. I couldn't even do anything. She doesn't want the cops involved and just wants to forget it happened. I told her she could live with me up in Charming, at the motel for now and find her some work. I don't know what else to do, JT? I can't leave her here all alone."

JT saw the desperation on Chico's face, trying to understand everything that happened and now how to deal with it. JT knew immediately, that there was no way to get Marietta back with them on the bikes. They had to come up with a way to get the pot back to Oakland and get Marietta back as well. JT knew he would be doing exactly the same thing, if it was Suzy.

"We need to make a call. We need Wally down here pronto and help us with this. Either him, or Jake will be here even faster. I'm leaning towards calling Jake. I know he'll say nothing, until we're back and that's all I want at this point, is everyone back in Charming and whole. I got some money I can give to the guy at the desk, if he'll let me use the phone to call long distance, won't he, Chico?"

"I'll go with you, JT, make sure he does."

JT and Chico left and went up to the office and Chico persuaded the clerk to let JT use the phone and slapped a five dollar bill on the counter to cover it. The clerk gave JT the go ahead to make as long a call as he wanted. JT dialled the number he knew Jake would most likely be at and he picked up on the second ring. JT sighed in relief and began explaining what had happened and that they were okay, but needed him to come and transport someone back. True to his word, Jake never asked any more questions than he needed to and said he was on his way and to stay put. JT hung up with a great relief off his shoulders, knowing things were in progress to resolve the issues. JT and Chico thanked the clerk, who nodded and smiled, as he tucked the five note in his shirt pocket.

The rest of the guys were milling around a picnic table outside the office waiting for JT and Chico to come out. Chico was hit with so many questions at once, wanting to know why the change in plans was happening. Chico calmed them down and began explaining Marietta's plight and circumstances and the need to call Jake to come get her and her things. The ride was still going as planned, just Chico's share of the haul would need to be carried by the others, while he went with Jake and Marietta to her motel room to get the rest of her things. They would be less than an hour or so behind, so they would ride slower and let them catch up and ride back in a pack. If they made it as far as the diner, they were to pull over and gas up and wait for them. Chico never flinched or showed any reaction, at the mention of the diner, going along with everything like normal.

Chico went back to his room and brought Marietta out to meet them, now under better circumstances than before. Marietta was very shy and withdrawn, knowing the guys knew about her violations. JT was first to introduce himself to her and held out his hand to her. Marietta looked at it, waiting for her to take and looked in JT's eyes. His eyes held a warmth and friendliness that she could see and slowly took his hand.

"Very nice to meet you, Marietta. Chico explained what happened and I want you to know, you'll be safe with us. We're not going to let anything happen to you, I promise."

Marietta could see the compassion in his eyes and heard it in his voice, as she squeezed her hand tighter around JT's, accepting his kindness. One after the other, the guys introduced themselves and did their best to assure Marietta, they would help her get settled in Charming and get the girls to show her around. By the time they finished, Marietta was smiling with real happiness, helping to drive the fear and apprehension she was feeling, far from her thoughts. 

The need for food had everyone asking Chico where they could get some good food to eat. Marietta said she could cook breakfast in the efficiency unit, if they brought food back. There were many wishes of thanks and gratitude by the guys to her, making her feel closer to them. Chico had Marietta stay in the unit for now and enjoy the peace and quiet, while they went to the local grocers to get food for them all. JT had Piney and Keith stay behind to guard her, making Chico feel relieved and proud, he and his companion were treated with such accord and respect. 

Chico led them out of the motel and along the main strip, to the area where the local growers gathered to sell their produce. They parked on the side of the street and walked through the stalls and wagons lining the dirt aisles, still offering a good selection to choose from. The guys weren't sure of what they were looking at sometimes, some of the local foods never making it out of the area. Chico started making suggestions of what Marietta could make, out of what was available and began doing the shopping. Lenny's eyes always seemed to spot the prettiest women and pointed them out to Otto and JT, as they walked along. Many had warm, friendly smiles to give to them, showing their interest in them. 

They gathered enough for a good breakfast feast and headed back to their bikes. Walking up the aisle of carts, they spotted a group of bikers stopped in front of them, looking them over. They were patched members of a group, but no idea who yet. 

Eyes met one another as they approached, a look of caution in every one. The leader of the group spoke out, ending the stalemate between them. JT could only guess at his weight, but it was close to three hundred pounds easily.

"Nice bikes. Saw them as we rode in. Didn't recognize them and wondered who they belonged to. Name's El Roca, I'm president of the Aztecs, this is part of our club with me."

JT approached him and held his hand out as he introduced himself. The giant man took it and held it firmly, making it a possession, instead of a greeting. JT didn't flinch at the insult and instead, accepted it and left his hand there as he talked. 

"How you doing, El Roca? I'm JT, I'm president of the Sons of Anarchy and this is a couple of my guys. We're based out of Charming, up by Stockton, what about you?"

"Hey JT, Stockton, shit man, long way from home. What brings you down to my territory?"

"My buddy, Chico here. Came down to get his girlfriend and bring her up there with him finally. He said we should check the place out, it was real friendly and the people were great, so was the food. Heading back up later today."

"Yeah, nice place to visit, JT. So, no other plans for here?"

JT looked at El Roca, as he let his hand go and wondered what he meant. The Chicano president knew he didn't from his expression, so he asked again another way.

"Just want to know if we'll be seeing more of each other in the future?"

"Who knows, El Roca? We may come back in the winter and warm up in the nice weather you guys get here. Maybe you can let us know of some nice areas to ride in, pretty country from what I've seen so far."

JT was laying the compliments on thick, knowing El Roca was pressing him for info on any trade, that might be going on behind their backs.

"Yeah, okay, JT. Maybe see you in the winter then, tell you some nice roads to ride on. Any sooner, you're gonna make me wonder why and I'll be looking for an answer. Adios, amigos."

He never waited for an answer and ordered his guys to start up and move out, eyes looking back and forth at each other as they passed. Once the sight and sound of them faded, their friendly warning still hung over them. JT knew the best thing was to make themselves scarce and draw as little attention to themselves as they could. They started up and headed back to the motel, keeping a sharp eye out for any bikers of any kind. Chico was watching too, but his knowledge of the area told him to watch out for much more than just bikers.

They pulled into the motel lot and headed down to their rooms, relieved to see Piney and Keith relaxing with Marietta on the picnic table they had pulled closer to the unit. They parked and brought the food inside, letting Marietta unpack it and laughed, as she shooed them out of her small kitchen to get started. She hugged Chico with great love and affection, then with the most delicate of touches, kissed Chico and shooed him out as well. He smiled broadly and walked out to the other guys, as they heard pans and other things coming out to get started.

Otto came out with a joint and lit it up, taking a good haul and passed it to Lenny. JT told Piney and Keith about the Aztecs and their warning to not be seen around here for a long time. JT turned to Chico and asked him to come up with a new route to come down, so they would avoid any chance meetings with the Aztecs. Chico knew of some routes and would get a map and make sure which way was best. JT was curious about the Aztec leader and asked him about his name.

"Chico, what does El Roca mean?"




Redwood Nine Ch. 11



"The Rock. A very fitting name for him. He's good to have as a friend, not so good, as an enemy."

"Let's try and stay on the good side of things with him then."

"Si, JT, a very wise decision."

With nothing else to do, but wait for breakfast and Jake, shirts and cuts were removed and the guys let the sun work its magic on them. Lenny brought up the subject of tattoos and that started a mutual conversation of what they would accept as club tats and what were personal. Most liked the idea of getting the Reaper somewhere, as well as SOA being shown at all times some where on them. 

It wasn't long, before the smell of food cooking wafted out the window to them. Noses were sniffing the air and whetting appetites, as Marietta went about preparing the last of the meal. When stomachs began to get anxious to taste the tempting treats awaiting them, Marietta called for them to come and grab a plate and utensils and get their meals. Rank and file took over, as each lined up in accordance to their standing, JT standing happily at the head and enjoying the first serving. Marietta loaded his plate and gave his cheek a caress, smiling in thanks to him. JT smiled his broadest smile at her and gave her a kiss on her good cheek, then made his way to the table. Piney was equally affectionate to her and by the time Chico held his plate out to her, she hugged him instead, her happiness an outpouring of how she was treated.

"Chico, mi amor, estoy tan feliz. Tus amigos son tan maravilloso para mí." (Chico, my love. I am so happy. Your friends are so wonderful to me)

"Te dije que eran hombres buenos, les confiaría mi vida y la tuya." (I told you they were good men. I trust them with my life and with yours.)

Marietta kissed him firmly, despite the pain and thanked him, then happily served as much as his plate would hold. Marietta took what was left, but her plate was still covered with enough food to satisfy her appetite. The only words spoken, were words of praise and thanks for her efforts, making Marietta smile happily, then quickly toned it down and winced at the pain, but let them know she was grateful for it all.

With breakfast done and more than enough praise heaped on Marietta, the guys washed up the dishes and pans and cleaned the kitchen. Marietta went in after and tidied up the kitchen better, so it was a little neater and cleaner, then joined the guys and relaxed enough to talk about herself, mostly in generalities and her love of Chico. She was recalling their first real date, when Jake pulled in the lot and stopped, then saw them waving and drove down to them. The guys then noticed that Marlene was with him in the Riviera, sitting as close as she could beside him. Jake stopped and took his arm from around Marlene and turned it off. He got out and looked at everyone, making sure they were all okay, then spotted Marietta and her battered face. 

Chico stood beside her and introduced her to Jake, but didn't remember Marlene's name. She spoke up and introduced herself.

"Hi Marietta, I'm Marlene, I own the motel where Chico is staying, so I guess we have a new guest there now. How are you, Sweetheart, are you okay? Nothing is broken is it?"

"Hello, Senora Marlene, a pleasure to meet you. I am so thankful to you, for letting me have a place to stay. I will do my best to find work and pay you the rent as soon as I can, won't I Chico?"

"Si, Senora Marlene, she is good to her word. I will cover the room and any costs for her until she does."

Marlene looked at the couple, then more at Marietta, taking hold of her hands in hers, her eyes travelling from head to toe and back.

"You just come with Jake and me and we'll get you back to Charming, honey. My place isn't that much better than this, but you'll be safe and well taken care of. You'll need some time to heal and I'll see what I can do to help with the bruising and swelling. It's a bit tough to look for a job with your face all bruised and swollen, I know, so, come, let's get you there and there's a bunch of girls your age, I'm sure you'll get along just fine with."

Marietta truly beamed with happiness at what was being given to her and couldn't help but hug Marlene in gratitude. Marlene felt the ripe, young body press against hers and as innocently as she could. held her to her and felt what she could. Jake finished his talk with the other guys and made the arrangements to meet up by a certain point, or wait for them. Marietta got her suitcase and thanked everyone with a hug, before getting in the back seat of the Riviera. Marlene got in and then Jake, waiting for Chico to follow them. JT and Otto had bags big enough to carry Chico's share of pot, so with a final goodbye, JT led the club out of the motel and on towards I-5 and the long ride back. 

Chico led Jake back to Marietta's motel, on the outskirts of Bakersfield, while the club continued on 99 north. Chico was about to pull in the driveway, then spotted the patrol car at the office. He told Jake to follow him back to the far entrance and come in to the rear of Marietta's unit. Chico went over to the car and asked Marietta what she still needed from inside, then stripped off his cut and held it against the window and smashed it. He waited as he put his cut back on, looking around for any signs of being heard or noticed, then slid the window frame open and climbed inside. He was only in for a minute, then began tossing things outside as fast as he could. Jake popped the trunk button and began loading it into the trunk as fast as he could. 

Chico told him it was all out and began climbing out the window, when the door was being knocked on. Chico went out the window as quietly as he could and told Jake to get out of there now. Chico started his bike after Jake was out of the lot and began riding away, as the officers came to the broken window and saw him leave. They ran back out and got in their cruiser and began chasing Chico. Chico kept to the speed limit and looked back, when he heard the siren approaching. He slowed and pulled over, then cut his engine and waited for the officers to approach.

"What's the problem officer? I wasn't speeding."

"What were you doing back at the motel? The window is broken in a unit we were just in and you were right there when we looked out."

Chico laughed and smirked at them, making them take a more aggressive stance towards him.

"Hey, hey, relax. I don't know nothing about any broken window. I was just leaving the room of a chick I slept with last night."

"What's this woman's name and what unit is she in?"

"Shit, man. I didn't get her whole name, just her first name, you know? She told me her name was Consuela, but likes to be called Connie. She's in room fourteen, or fifteen, I think. One of those two, I don't really remember what room I was going into, just following some sweet ass through the door, you know?"

The cops looked at him and looked him over, wearing only his cut and nothing underneath, left little for him to hide anything. They had nothing else to tie him to Marietta that they knew of, so they told him he could go. Chico smiled broadly as they walked back and he started his bike, leaving a small patch of rubber, as he powered off the gravel, onto the pavement. The cops watched him go, then turned around and headed back to Marietta's now vacant unit. Once there, there was nothing to show who she was, or where she went. The only thing they could come away with, was that she worked at the diner, stayed at the motel and was now gone. The explosion and fire had razed the building to the ground and the charred remains of three males were found in the rubble. The only conclusion they could come up with, was that she showed up and saw the place demolished and went looking for a new job. Anyone they questioned had said she got along well with the owner and was well liked by many frequent customers, so they discounted her as a suspect. It would be months later, before someone came forward and mentioned a small incident with bikers, but no names could be remembered, or any details about any of them. Still, bikers and Chico made something click in one of the officers and he wrote it down in his notebook for referral later, to see if anything panned out. 

Chico joined back up with Jake on 99 and headed north on the highway, where the rendezvous with JT and the others was planned at the junction. They came up to the club sitting on the side of the road, about a half mile after the burned out diner. Jake and Marlene never even noticed Marietta hiding her face as they went past the diner, then pulled in behind the club. Chico pulled up to the bikes and stopped, then got off and joined the others.

"Chico, the fucking station burned down last night. I told Jake to meet us here, so we could gas up for the trip back. We're heading up 99 the whole way, so where's the nearest station we can get gas at?"

"Not far, JT. Maybe twenty, thirty miles. We got lots of gas to make it there."

"You know anything about the fire?"

"Not a thing, man. I was too busy looking after Marietta and her shit, you know. It did look kinda bright that way, when were coming back to the motel, but I didn't know it was the fire that was doing it."

No one had any suspicions about Chico and the fire, so they got back on the bikes and they followed him towards the gas station. Jake looked in the rear view mirror and noticed how disturbed Marietta seemed since they left the scene. The diner had something to do with her, in one way or another, but he had no idea what. He kept an eye on her and noticed the further they went, the calmer she seemed to get. 

Jake followed the club and watched their formation and how they rode. He saw how they followed everything JT did and didn't break from it and smiled, knowing they were listening to his guidance. He wondered what had gone on, on the ride down and what had happened since they arrived. From how he was reading JT, he was carrying a load of burden on his shoulders and hoped he understood what he was getting into now.

When they came to Modesto, JT led the club off the road and into a parking lot, the call of nature and a good stretch becoming necessities for them. Jake parked beside them and stopped. Marlene turned to ask Marietta if she needed to use the bathroom, then noticed she was fast asleep. She told Jake to get her a drink and a bite to eat, while she stayed with Marietta. Chico came over to see Marietta, but Jake steered him away, telling him she was asleep in the back seat and to let her rest. Marlene quietly got out and got in the back with Marietta, as the others headed inside the restaurant.

Sitting beside her sleeping form, Marlene began looking Marietta over, checking her out and assessing her assets. She could tell Marietta was in good shape, no signs of any fat on her. The hem of her dress had ridden up her legs and Marlene took every advantage to check them out. She began moving forward, so she could peer down the front of Marietta's dress, when she began to stir. Marlene sat back and moved away slightly, not wanting Marietta to get nervous. Marietta opened her eyes and looked about, seeing nothing of any familiarity. Marlene noticed her confusion and took her hand.

"We're not far now. The guys are just taking a rest and we'll be in Charming in less than an hour. How are you feeling? You had a good long nap back here."

"Oh, Senora Marlene, I feel like I could sleep for a week. I'm no bad now, the face, it still gives me pain if I move it the wrong way."

"You poor thing. It's really getting dark and nasty looking. Once we get back, I'll get an ice pack started on you and then see what that leaves us with. Not much you can do with black eyes and swollen lips, I'm afraid. Give it a few days and let it rest and it should stop looking so bad."

"I saw my face in the mirror today and it looked as bad as it felt."

Marlene saw the pain come to her face as she recalled it. She moved closer and put her arm around Marietta and held her to her, comforting her softly. Marietta responded to her need of caring affection and hugged herself to Marlene. Marlene enjoyed feeling the Latin lovely pressed into her and held her close. The guys came back out and looked relieved in many ways, as they sat on the bikes. Jake looked into the car and saw Marlene hugging Marietta and feared the worst. He quickly made it to the door and noticed the way Marietta was holding Marlene, then the comforting stroking of Marietta's hair. Marlene turned to Jake after seeing the shadow come over her and smiled at him. It softened the fear in his eyes and face and he smiled back, then opened the door. 

"I got you girls a couple of sodas and a box of fries, for the last leg home. Not much, I know, but it'll tide you over till we can get to some good food tonight."

"Gracias, Senor Jake. You are very kind to think of me like that. Senora Marlene is also very kind, she makes me feel very safe with her."

Jake looked at Marlene and read her sentence of expressions, saying she was innocent, but she had a hot spot growing for her. Jake gave her a look of warning to back off and let her be. Marlene shrugged her shoulders slightly and nodded, Marietta never catching a single thing between them. Jake got in and started up the Riviera, the smooth purr and quietness impressing Marietta. Jake turned on the air conditioning and directed the cool air to the back, letting the girls get the most of it. Marlene and Marietta settled in together and began sharing the fries, sipping the Cokes through the bendable straws, as Jake pulled out behind the bikes and paced them at a safe distance. 

Marietta began paying more attention to where she was, when Jake said they were coming to Charming in a few minutes. JT led the club to the clubhouse, while Chico waved and led Jake on towards the Starlight Motel. JT opened the gate and let everyone in, then brought his own bike in and closed and locked the gate again. Just the click of the lock, gave JT the peace of mind he needed, to know the worst was over. He rode down to the others and parked his bike, shutting it off and bringing a quiet to the compound again. They stood and looked at each other, realizing they had pulled off the first run and made it back whole.

Smiles appeared at first, then broadened and turned into laughter, then into hoots and hollers, as they celebrated their success. JT opened the door and they carried their bags inside and once again locked the world out and felt safer with their stash. The kilos were unloaded and stacked inside a large metal cabinet that was left over and now served the purpose of being their safe. They sat around the chairs and couch, some pulling up a box to sit on. Joints were lit and passed around, taking a moment to let them unwind and get the road out of them.

"We did it guys. First run done and we're back in one piece and whole, more or less. How's the leg holding up, Keith?"

"Aching to high heaven, but a few more beers and joints should work the trick."

Keith put his leg up on the makeshift table and stretched out, taking advantage of his injuries and playing them for as much as he could get.

"We're going to need Chico to get cracking on figuring a new route, because I do not want to face down any of the clubs we saw and certainly, El Roca and his club, left a strong enough message, not to be seen there until winter. We're going to need to protect ourselves from them, should we end up dealing with them at some point. I mean, let's face it, it's as much their road, as it ours, except they have guns and muscle and we are short on both. I hate the thought of carrying guns, brothers, but if we're going to get this club off the ground, we need that run money and we need to make sure they leave us alone, to do it."

Everyone knew JT was right about protection, but carrying a gun meant stepping up to a new level of violence they weren't prepared for. The vets knew about guns and getting them and ammunition, wasn't really a hard thing to achieve. What was difficult, was knowing when to use them and when not to. One wrong move, could set off a chain of events, that could leave brothers wounded, or dead. The debate carried on, as more joints were rolled and talk of money versus danger was hashed out.

Chico showed Marietta to their unit after they arrived, bringing her bags in and the assortment of knickknacks, but Marlene said she wanted to get some ice and ointment on Marietta, taking her to her own unit and attending to her. Chico was left standing with Jake outside, unsure of what he should do and Jake chuckled and clapped his hand on his back several times.

"She'll be fine, Chico. Marlene will get her attended to, seeing how she doesn't want to go to a hospital. There's no idea what really happened to her, until she's really looked at, you get my meaning?"

Chico thought of what Jake was saying to him, trying to get his meaning, then it began to dawn on him, what Marlene would be looking at. He smiled and nodded, as he pointed at his head, letting Jake know he understood.

"So, what now?"

" The guys should be at the clubhouse still, so go see them. I'm going into Charming and see if there's any jobs that might be available for Marietta, once she's better of course. She do anything other than be a waitress, Chico?"

"Si, Senor Jake. She was studying in Mexico to be an accountant, but she had to come here to get better at it. She's been saving since she left and trying to make enough to get into Berkeley. I give her as much as I can to help her out, me, I don't need that much, you know. Just need to keep my bike running nice and sweet and everything is cool, Esai."

Jake was impressed with both Marietta and Chico. Despite outward appearances, Chico was a very loving and devoted person to Marietta, giving her all he could, his flamboyant stunts and macho attitude, disguising that side of him. Marietta was obviously a gifted woman, one who was trying to overcome the adversity of life against her and was doing what she could, to eke out a piece of the good life. There was no doubt in Jake's mind, that anything Marietta achieved in life, Chico would benefit from her success in gratitude. He saw the devotion and the strength of their love for one another. While Chico stared off down the road towards the clubhouse, Jake looked at him and imagined him as a father, what he might be like as one, if he and Marietta had a child together. He could see a devoted father, one who would be protective and supportive of his child. If he was doing his best to help the woman he loved get ahead in life and better herself, he knew Chico would do the same and more for his child.

Chico turned back to Jake, his big smile coming out.

"Senor Jake, muchas gracias, mi amigo. You are truly a fine man I am proud to know. What you have done for me and my, Marietta, I am in your debt and will always be there for you, whenever you need me."

"You're most welcome, Chico, my pleasure. No need to worry about being in debt with me, though, it wasn't that big a deal to get there and back. Marlene would appreciate a car wash and a tank of gas, so that won't set you back much, but make up for it all. That Riviera is a sweet ride for the long haul, I'll tell ya. Marietta was asleep in the back and Marlene was as relaxed, as if she was in her home. The radio in that car, now that would sound good in Wally's old thing. Damn, that '54 is solid still. He keeps it maintained and not drive the shit out of it and that thing will never die. Where is Wally, by the way? Haven't seen him around the last few days."

"From what the guys told me, he's out looking for this guy named Tom and see if they can find some shit. Said they needed a truck with heavy duty stuff on it, for something."

Jake smiled, knowing they had put a priority on finding a new wrecker chassis for him. 




Redwood Nine Ch. 11



"That would be for me, Chico. I told them I needed a new truck to turn into a wrecker and get some tow jobs happening. I didn't think it would be at the top of the to do list. You met Tom yet? Hasn't come around as far as I know."

"No, I been out of town mostly and haven't seen him yet. I'm supposed to vote this guy in as a member, but I need to see the guy, to know if I like him, or not, you know?"

"Yeah, have to agree with you there, amigo. Hard to judge a man by words, actions make the man who he is."

"Yeah, yeah, exactly, Senor Jake, that's what I mean. You're a very smart man, I knew that right off with you. You know life very well."

"Yeah, I have been around the block a few times. Kinda got it figured out some, on how it's all supposed to work, so that keeps me in line with things."

Jake could see the admiration on Chico's face, as he talked with him, knowing he hadn't had the best chances in life, but was making up for it, as he went along in life.

"I can learn a lot from a man like you, Senor Jake. My father was gone before I was three and my mama, she was working all the time to put food on the table for us. I had no time for school, but I knew I had to be smart and learn what I could. The Army helped me some, at least I know how to read and write pretty good now. But I know guys like you know shit, shit that makes a difference in things. I see how JT and Piney look up to you and I know why they do. It's because you're a spiritual father to them, to all of us. I remember how you looked after us before we left, only someone who really cares, in their heart, you know, does shit like that."

Jake felt humbled by Chico's words. All his life he had doubted himself at being a good father and never wanted to have children of his own, ones he never wanted to let down, or disappoint. He looked at the young men who he had befriended and saw that each one was becoming like a son to him. He could see himself in each one, in one way or another. Each man seemed to come from a place of solitude in their lives, the forces of fate now bringing them together at this moment. Jake began to realize what he had desperately wanted all his life, was now his, a family. He had been blessed with boys who cared about him, looked up to him, admired him, counted on him, confided in him, maybe one day, even feel a love for him. He knew the feelings in his heart for them were strong. He realized how much he cared about them and wanted them to do well, even if it cost him in the long run. His life had always been half lived, no matter what he did, but now it seemed to be coming a full circle, like he was finally completing himself.

"Thanks, Chico, that's mighty nice of you to say that, I appreciate your words. They mean a lot to me, to hear them. Look, head off to the clubhouse and see the guys, I'm going to head into Charming and see some old friends and see if they can help me out. I'll see you guys later on at some point."

"Okay, Senor Jake, sounds cool. She'll take good care of my Marietta, eh?"

"No worries, Chico, she'll be fine. Marlene knows what she's doing."

"Okay, see you soon, amigo."

Chico took Jake's hand, but hugged him affectionately, then strutted off to his bike proudly. One good kick to start it, then Chico backed it up and put it in gear. He snapped his head at Jake and let the clutch out, roaring off the lot and onto Euclid Ave. Jake looked at the office and thought about checking in, but decided what he didn't know, was better than knowing. He primed his bike and gave it a good kick, bringing it to life. A few twists of the throttle to smooth it out and he let it idle for a minute. He thought of who to go and see and made a mental route of where he was going. He put his bike in gear and let it coast out slowly, then headed into Charming.

Marietta was lying on Marlene's bed, a package of frozen corn wrapped with a tea towel, placed on her cheek. Marlene was applying small dabs of ointment to Marietta's lips, were they were split, doing her best to be as gentle as she could. Marietta made as little fuss about any pain she suffered, knowing Marlene was doing her best to take care of her. With all the visible damage attended to, she sat beside her and stroked her hair. Marietta accepted the caress and closed her eyes, letting the soft touch soothe her. Marlene looked down along her body and stopped at her crotch. She stared at it and wondered if Marietta had done anything about cleaning herself out.

"Have you flushed yourself, since it happened, Marietta?"

"Flushed Senora? What is flushed?"

"Have you rinsed yourself out inside, since the attack?"

"I don't know how to do that, Senora Marlene."

"I have a douche bottle and some vinegar, I'll boil some water and let it cool, then add some vinegar and hopefully, it'll kill any sperm inside. I'd hate to see you become pregnant after it all.."

Marietta's eyes shot open wide at the mention of becoming pregnant.

"Dios mío, no permitas que eso suceda. (My God, don't let this happen) Oh, please Senora, I don't want to be pregnant, do this thing, this flush for me. I beg of you."

Marlene patted her shoulder and got off the bed. She went and closed the bedroom door and locked it, then climbed back on the bed by Marietta's feet.

"I think we should get a look at you first, Sweetie. I imagine they weren't very nice when they did it and hurt you inside."

"Si, they were brutal to me."

"Lift up your dress and let's get these panties off and see what they did. If you're torn up too badly, it's going to sting something awful, if I squirt the douche inside you."

"I don't care about that pain, I care about being pregnant with a child of that filth."

Marietta raised her dress up to her waist and Marlene slid her fingers under the waistband of her white panties. Marietta raised her hips and felt her hips bared, exposed once more to a stranger. Her apprehensions weren't about her exposure in front of her caregiver anymore, but the sight of what had happened to her. Marlene had Marietta hold her knees up and spread her thighs wide apart, then gently began splaying the dark lips open, exposing the vibrant pink of her vaginal canal. Marlene eased her fingers in gently, prying open the slick walls and looked for tears in the lining. 

Even with just the light of the twin sixty watt bulbs in the fixture overhead, Marlene could see the signs of tearing and knew she had been dry when they did it. She knew it must have been extremely painful to have undergone such a horrific experience.

"Sweetie, there's some very bad tears in there. They were so cruel to you, weren't they?"

Marietta's eyes filled with tears at the mention of it and Marlene knew it was still very fresh in her mind. 

"If I use it, it will really sting badly and I don't want to cause you any more pain than you've been through already."

"Please, the pain is nothing, compared to the shame and disgrace I will feel if I am pregnant. My Chico will never have anything to do with me, if I have it and I can not lose him."

Marlene saw the determination to endure whatever it took to make sure whatever plans she had with Chico, were going to happen and nothing would come between her and fulfilling them. Knowing in her heart, the pain she was going to be feeling was going to be excruciating to bear, her heart went out to her, feeling the pain herself in empathy. She went to the kitchen and began boiling some water in the kettle and took the vinegar out. She went into the bathroom and retrieved her douche bottle and took it to the kitchen as well, then came back to bed. Marietta was still obediently holding her knees up, exposing herself to her view, so she took the opportunity to look at it for her own enjoyment, pretending to be examining her for anything else. Once she was satisfied with what she saw and smelled, she told Marietta to let go and relax, while she waited for the kettle to boil.

The whistle signalled the heat was reached and she went in and sterilized everything, then poured some water into the bottle and then added some vinegar. She screwed the top on and shook it, as she came back into the room and locked the door again. She went to Marietta and took her hand, leading her off the bed and into the bathroom. Sitting on the toilet, Marlene explained what she had to do with the slender tube and looked at the fear in Marietta's eyes. The young woman looked down at herself and spread her legs, sitting up to insert the tip inside herself. Slowly she pushed it in, until it was almost seated against her. Marietta looked at Marlene, the pain she imagined she was going to feel, already showing on her face, as she held the bottle in her hands. The agonizing screams could be heard outside, as Marietta began squeezing the bottle of warm, acidic water inside herself. 

Marlene held Marietta's head to her breasts and let the screams be stifled by her. Marietta wailed at the assault to her exposed nerves, already inflamed by the defilement. Marlene softly stroked the soft, wavy tresses, soothing the hurt as best as she could. Marietta finished what she could of the water and pulled the tube out, letting it drop to the floor. Marlene waited until there was no more seepage coming from Marietta and helped her back to the bed. She went back in to the bathroom and rinsed a facecloth under cool water and wrung it out, then took it and a towel back to the bed and sat by Marietta's hips. 

Marlene coaxed Marietta's legs open, as she held her cupped hands to herself, the agony of the vinegar still leaving her reeling from the stinging pain. Marlene moved her hands away and placed the cool cloth over her inflamed core and pressed it against it, letting the soothing cool of the cloth calm the hot flesh. Marietta felt the ease coming to her and let Marlene have more access, spreading her legs wider apart. Marlene gently splayed the dark lips open and let the cool seep deeper inside, helping to calm the irritation. Marietta's tears subsided to mewling and weeping softly, as the worst of it had passed, the relief from the stinging setting in, as well as the hope, she had stopped any chance of becoming pregnant.

Marlene gently pushed her finger in, letting it go deeper inside Marietta. The intrusion was accepted, the cooling relief welcomed, the trust in Marlene to provide for her aid, allowing her to let such an intimacy happen. Marlene wiggled her finger a bit deeper and held it, using her other fingers to gently splay the lips open wider. 

"Si, gracias Senora Marlene, the cool of the cloth is taking away the sting. Do you really think it will kill their seed and stop me from getting pregnant?"

"Sweetheart, I can't give you any guarantees that it'll work. It all depends on how soon you do it afterwards, that counts. At this point, it's a fifty-fifty chance. I wish I had better news to tell you."

Marlene took the cloth away but left Marietta's lips splayed open. 

"We'll let the air get to it and keep it cool. How are you feeling now, any better?"

"Si, yes. The stinging is now almost gone and it feels good to know, whatever they left in me, is gone as well."

"Yes, that must make you feel good. It doesn't look so bad now, either. The tears will heal in a day, or two and it would be a good idea to avoid any, you know, sex with Chico. Maybe give it a week to heal properly and if you want, I can have a look and see how well you've healed, before you do anything with him. I'd hate to see you re-tear it all and suffer that pain again."

Marlene made sure she left a good enough reason in Marietta's mind, to warrant another visit between her legs.

"Si, I can not thank you enough, Senora Marlene. You have done so much to take care of me already. I will come to you in a week and you will let me know how healed I am. I love my Chico and wish to be with him, make him happy to be with me."

"You love Chico very much, don't you?"

"Oh yes, with all my heart. He has always been so kind to me, since we first met. I had just come from Mexico and I was lost and didn't know where to go. He rode up on his motorcycle and asked where was I going. I told him I had a job in Bakersfield, but didn't know where to get the bus to go there. He took me on his motorcycle and took me right there and then took me to where I was living at the motel. I would still be standing there at the border, if it wasn't for him. He came often to the diner that I worked at and always made sure I served him. He would pay for his bill, but he would always give me a tip that was more than his bill."

Marlene was amazed to see how comfortable Marietta was, talking about Chico and herself, all the while still holding her lips apart and exposing the pink core inside. Marlene let her middle finger rest between her other fingers, laying it lightly against the exposed flesh. As subtly as she could, she began moving it back and forth, looking in Marietta's eyes and smiling along with her. No matter what had happened to Marietta, Marlene couldn't put her own deviant needs aside. Marietta may not have noticed, but Marlene did, feeling her finger become wetter, as she continued the delicate stimulation.

Marietta broke away from talking about accounting, when she had a shiver of pleasure run through her and realized the difference in how she felt between her legs. She realized the delicate manipulations Marlene was doing and tried to imagine it was to help her somehow, but the stimulation was becoming more a feeling of arousal, than one of calm, soothing relief. She didn't want to stop Marlene, in fear of disrespecting her and her offer of assistance to her, but she was beginning to feel things she didn't want to feel, with another woman doing it.

Marlene noticed the change in Marietta's attitude and knew she was aware of what she was doing to her. She continued doing it, still pretending she had no idea she was stimulating her and was only trying to help her. 

"You were saying you were saving for Berkeley. How much more do you need for tuition?"

Marietta swallowed and looked a little nervous about talking, but continued her discussion of herself. Marlene applied a bit more pressure to her finger, feeling it become slicker and easier to move around. Marietta stared off at the ceiling and then the far wall, as she tried to not focus on herself and just talk about her plans with Chico after graduating and getting a job. Marlene's knuckle began bumping against her clitoris lightly, adding to the discomforting pleasure Marietta was feeling. Marietta started to lose her train of thought, as the pleasure kept interrupting her concentration. Marlene inwardly smiled to herself, knowing she had accomplished what she wanted to do and insinuate herself intimately with her. 

Marlene nonchalantly took her finger away and to Marietta's surprise, licked it clean. Marlene looked at the glistening wetness still exposed and let the tender lips go back to their normal position.

"I think you're on the mend, you seem to be lubricating okay and that'll keep it from drying out. That's a good sign that nothing is wrong, so you'll be fine if you have sex later."

Marlene's explanation of the pleasure she felt, seemed to make sense to her and eased some of the agitation she was feeling. What wasn't eased, was the knowledge of pleasure being given to her by another woman, a pleasure she obviously had enjoyed. Marlene had her relax and get dressed again, acting like what she had done was a normal process. Marlene turned her back to Marietta and held her fingers to her nose and inhaled the fragrance Marietta imparted to them.

Chico pulled up to the gate and yelled out, blowing the horn as well, to get the guys attention. JT came around the corner and ran up to the gate, seeing Chico waiting. He let him in and locked it again, running back to the door, as Chico parked in the line up and shut his bike off. Several guys stood at the door waiting for him and once he came to them, back slapping congratulations and cheers were given, for pulling off the first run. Beers were opened and joints lit in celebration to their success, then talk of getting the haul to Luis in Oakland and the next run became priority. Chico was pressed for the new route to take and eventually, the protection of the club and the cargo they were hauling, came into focus again, the words guns and gangs, became ones used on everyone's lips.



Redwood Nine Ch. 12



Chapter 12: La Vie en Lunettes Roses

With the first run over and cash in their pockets, the guys were eager to make more, the desire to be up and running as a club, becoming a common focus. The guys asked Chico how Marietta was doing and his big smile came out at her mention. He said she was doing much better and owed it to them and the girls, for all of their support and kindness to her. The bruises would go away, just like the swelling did, Marlene keeping an eye on her every day was helping too. Keith was asked how his leg was coming along and he stood up and bore his weight on it. He said the bone ached like shite all the time, but the gash had mended well and the bruising was just an ugly yellow and brown now. They were sitting, talking over some ideas, when the door opened and Wally walked in, shouting his arrival back. The guys welcomed him in and then noticed the other guy he brought with him.

"Guys, this is Uncle Tom, the guy I was telling you about. Say hi and then listen to what we have to tell you."

Tom came forward and let the club have a look at him, as he went and shook everyone's hand. They sized him up physically and found nothing impressive about him that way and waited for word of what would convince them, he was worthy of acceptance. Lenny shot out the obvious question.

"Why do they call you Uncle, Tom?"

Tom laughed out loud at hearing the question, one that seemed to be asked constantly of him.

"I guess it's because I'm like everyone's uncle, the Dutch Uncle some call it, you know what I mean? They come to me for everything they need and I get it for them. Not sure how it all started, but it seemed to stick with me ever since."

The tall, thin man with shaggy, brown hair smiled, showing several teeth missing from his mouth. With introductions done, Wally got their attention again and told them of their news.

"Guys, check this out. Tom and I spotted some great shit for the clubhouse, over in Stockton. There's a place that closed down a little while ago and they're going to gut it. Right now, there's a bar and a couple of pool tables inside that are ours for the taking. We have to get there real soon, or they're gone, 'cause someone else will grab them. That's one thing, the next thing is, we found a sweet, '62 GMC cab and chassis with dual axles, sitting in this guy's yard. I'll check with Jake if he likes that kind of truck, but the guy only wants two hundred and fifty bucks for it. Oh, Oh, check this out. The guy has an old Harley sitting around back that Tom is looking at. It needs some work, but I said you guys would be able to get it running right for him." 

"Sure, no problem, as long as it isn't seized. Sounds like you guys have been busy. Nice going Uncle Tom."

JT raised his beer can to him in salute, the others joining in and offering up a small cheer.

"Thanks JT. Hey, almost forgot. Wally said you guys were needing more sheet goods to finish the walls, right?"

"Yeah, we ran out of drywall in the bedrooms."

"Would panelling work for you guys?"

"What kind of panelling?"

"Wood panelling, the thin shit that looks like wood planks stuck together."

JT looked at Tom and then the others, expressing with his face he had no problems with that and saw none of the others did either.

"That'll work. How much can you get?"

"How much do you need?"

JT seemed surprised, but realized Wally had said he could get pretty well anything they wanted and always came through.

"Off hand, enough to go around this entire place and the interior walls we make as well."

Tom looked around and started guessing at how many sheets it would take to complete the job of finishing all the walls. 

"Gonna take a shitload of panels to do it, maybe three or four skids of them, at least."

"Guess that's a bit much to ask for, is it?"

Tom laughed, Wally joining in, sharing a common joke between them.

"I never said that, JT. I can get you your panels. I know a place in the south end of Stockton, that makes that shit. I got a truck big enough to haul it all in one shot, too. Can't be making trips back and forth, if you know what I mean?"

"Yeah, I got you. What kind of truck do you have, to pull it off?"

"A good flatbed, a five ton. That shit ain't light, when it's on skids. Anyone know how to drive a forklift, by the way?"

Lenny held his hand up to him.

"I got that covered. I drive one all day at the job site."

"Great. Maybe we should go and check it out and see what kind of plan we can come up with."

"Good idea, Tom. Leave nothing to chance. We've come close to getting busted a couple of times and fluked our way out of trouble."

The guys seemed to like Tom and his attitude towards them and the club. They could see how he could be an asset to them, supplying them with virtually anything they asked for. JT sensed the common like of him and called for a vote of membership. A unanimous yes was given and beers were opened and more joints were rolled in his honour. The time flew by, until Wally decided they had better make their way down to south Stockton and scope out the site for the panelling, then maybe drive by the truck, Tom mentioned about, in the north end. 

JT and Lenny went with Wally and Tom, in Wally's Chevy, while the others hung out by the bikes and talked shop about them. The drive to Stockton was filled with questions for Tom and who he was. Not much more than a sketchy childhood and a life of being on the road, was mostly all they could get out of him. He had dodged the draft two years back and had been on the run ever since. He had a place of his own at one time, but abandoned it to avoid prison time and losing it all anyway. His training as a locksmith had come in useful on many occasions, knowing how to pick locks and open safes. JT and the other vets, could understand Tom's reluctance to go over there, having served themselves and knew what he would have endured, had he gone.

His business was good when he was free, but now he had to keep moving around and staying at places that no one knew of, leaving little, or nothing of a trail behind him. He now made it his life's work, to know how to steal just about anything, making his talents a highly valuable commodity to have. He knew how to by-pass alarms, hijack trucks, hot wire a vehicle, or any other means of acquiring what he needed to get. What made Tom laugh, was his confession that for all he stole, he had very little to show for it. Possessions became hard to carry around with him, so he stuck with only what he needed, a suitcase of clothes and a couple boxes of memories he couldn't part with. 

The commercial area in south Stockton, just off 99, had street after street of businesses, in all manner of types. Wally kept passing the streets, until he came to the second last one and turned left. He drove a couple of blocks and slowed, as they passed the yard that held all the panelling. Lenny spotted the yard forklift truck and knew he could drive it. Tom said he could wire it to run in seconds for him and Wally said he could get his hands on some bolt cutters, to cut the links in the fence. The road after this one went along the back of the lot and held the best means of entry and exit for them. Stacks of skids containing the panelling, were four high, making it necessary for the forklift to pick it up and load it.

Tom pointed across the street at the metal supply company and the five ton flat bed. Tom could have it around the back of the yard, by the time Lenny had the first skids ready. They could only guess at the number of sheets per skid, but figured four would cover everything they had to. 

Tom cautioned them on what to wear, so they wouldn't be seen easily, so black or dark clothing was a must. Tom estimated they had six hours to accomplish the heist, from the time of the last place in the area closing, until the first trucks were being loaded in the morning. If all went to plan, it wouldn't take more than two hours in total to load and unload the skids, then bring the truck back and park it. JT had it all figured out in his head how it should go and praised Tom again, on his abilities to find things. With that said, Tom suggested they go check out the truck he spotted, along with the bike.

The drive to north Stockton was easy going up 99 and they turned off at 26, making a right, to go over 99 again, going west along Fremont Street. Wally pulled left onto N. Windsor Ave and drove down the road a short ways, before he pulled into a driveway. The front and back yards had been paved over and almost all the space available, was occupied by cars and trucks of all kinds, as well as parts of them. Wally pulled around back and they saw the owner, sorting through metal and tossing it into battered, old drums.

The old man squinted and then recognized Wally's car, putting a toothless smile on his face. He stopped what he was doing and came over to the four young men, who got out and looked about. Introductions were made by Tom, then the old man, Gus, took them back to where the truck was. JT looked the '62 Chevy C30 over, noting the heavy duty options, then spotted that it came with a 327 V8, the first year it came out with one. The glass and body were good, then spryly, Gus jumped in and pumped the gas several times, firing it up after several cranks and ran it for a minute. Gus shut it off and stood beside the guys, now making a decision.

"How much did you say you wanted for it, Gus?"

"I want two fifty for her. She's worth every penny."

"Can I use your phone to call Charming? The truck is for my boss and he has final say in it."

"Sure, who's your boss?"

"Jake, Jake Harding."

"Well no shit, Jake Harding, eh? How is that old son of a bitch? I ain't seen, or heard from him in a coon's age."

"You know Jake?"

"Shit, yeah, I know Jake. Did some time with him in Stockton. Knew him for close to three years, then he got out and I never seen him again, until a ruckus over that woman landed him inside again for a couple of nights."

"What time? What ruckus?"

JT and the others were dumbfounded by the information about Jake. Jail time was the last thing they imagined him doing, but this man served time with him and Marlene seemed to always be a part of his life, for the good parts and the bad ones.

"Got himself a nickel for putting a beating on some fella. Seems he called his woman some pretty nasty names and tried grabbing her. Judge wouldn't have given him as much time, but witnesses said he was kicking him when he was already down and out, busted his face up pretty bad, near killed him. Really great guy, one of the best I ever knowed, just don't cross that line with him regarding women."

"Yeah, I noticed that. Gave me a helluva talk down, for just saying something to Marlene."

"That wouldn't be Marlene Brock, or is it?"

"Yeah, yeah, that's her. Damn hot looking woman too."

"You seen her?"

"Yeah, she owns the motel we're staying at and Jake and her are catching up on old times again."

"I'll be Billy B. Frig. Jake's got it bad for her still. Her husband finds out, they'll be singing a different tune. He's got a temper as bad as Jake's and the muscle to back it up. Had a set to the last time he and Marlene hooked up behind his back. Landed them both in jail for a cool down. Saw him in the yard, didn't say much to me though. No idea what that woman does to him, but he'd risk it all for her."

JT and the others were enthralled at knowing more about Jake's past, than they already knew.

"You say this truck is for Jake?"

"Yeah, he needs a new wrecker for the shop. The old one just died and nothing's worth fixing on it."

"Tell you what. You go back and tell Jake he's got a truck, but he has to come and see the owner about it first. I'd like to see that old soldier again. Don't tell him it's me, I want to surprise him. Just tell him, 328 west, he'll know."

"Thanks a million, Gus. 328 west. Got it. Great meeting you and sharing some things with us. Jake keeps kinda hush hush about himself and doesn't say much."

"Yeah, he's always been like that, as long as I can remember. Like pulling hen's teeth to get anything out of him. Only one else I know that got in, was that woman, Marlene."

"Seems she's still the only one who knows anything."

"You boys want to know Jake better, you just come by with a bottle of Old Grandad for me and I'll tell more stories about Jake Harding, than you'll hear anywhere's else."

Gus' nod and look, assured them he knew quite a lot more about Jake and his unknown past. It was hard to truly admire a man, when most of his life was missing for the picture to be complete about him.

"Deal, Gus. Hey, thanks again for everything. I'm sure Jake is going to want this for a wrecker, so let me get your number and I'll give it to him."

Gus hobbled on his bad leg into his garage and came back out with a grease stained business card for a trucking company, with his number on the back. JT slipped it in his back pocket and shook Gus' hand, 

"Tom was saying you had an old Harley he wanted me to look at. Where's that at?"

"Over this way, behind that bus."

Gus led them through the maze of parts and wrecks, towards the old school bus at the back and pulled the tarp off the bike. JT sat on it and checked out the usual things and then tried the starter. It was stiff, but it moved and that was all JT wanted to know. He laid it on the stand again and checked out the engine and suspension, looking for signs of leakage and came away nodding.

"Workable. Pretty rough shape though. What do you want for it?"

Gus looked at JT and then to Tom, deciding on what to charge for it.

"Gimme seventy five for it and it's yours."

"Got yourself a deal, Gus."

Tom took out a small roll of bills and peeled off four twenty dollar bills and handed them to Gus. Gus took out a roll twice the size and flipped through it with his thumb, to find a five. He picked one out and handed it to Tom, wrapping the twenties around his roll and put it in his pocket again. Eyes carefully noted the value of the rolls mentally and were impressed with what they saw. Might be dirty, boring work, but Gus made a sizable sum of money, from scrap metal and parts.

"I'll get a truck and pick up the bike soon, Gus. Need anything from me?"

"Nope, I'm good for now. If you see anything interesting, give me a call and I'll let you know if you should pick it up, or not."

"You got it. Thanks, Gus."

"My pleasure. Hope it runs good for you. You guys ride too?"

"Yeah, just started a club, Sons of Anarchy."

JT turned around and showed him the patch.

"Not bad, one of the better ones I've seen lately."

"See many clubs around here?"

"Oh yeah. See all kinds going up and down 5 and 99 and across 580 into Oakland."

"Seen a couple on 580 ourselves, didn't we, Piney?"

Piney gave JT a leery look and never said anything, then turned back to Gus. Gus asked what they were into and JT just said they liked to ride together and that was all. Gus seemed happy with that and headed back to the bins again. JT thanked him again and said he'd be in touch and bring a bottle down to him. Gus' toothless smile came out and a happy wink followed. With their quest over, they headed back to Charming, with talk of Jake being the main subject and his relationship with Marlene.

They pulled to the gate and saw it was open, so they went right in. The bright colours and designs on the VW micro-bus were hard to miss, as were the hippies that were milling around it. JT saw Piney looking at the engine, shaking his head to the long haired man beside him. Wally pulled in where the bikes were and shut the car off. JT walked over to Piney and the guy beside him. For the most part, there wasn't much of a difference between himself and the other guy, except for the way he was dressed. He looked at the headband made from a flag, as well as the billowy shirt he wore. He noticed the bell bottom jeans and the thick, leather belt with a pot leaf for a buckle. The braided, leather necklace he wore, held a large peace symbol at the bottom, all wrapped in different coloured strings to look like a rainbow.

"Hey there, name's JT."

"Hi JT, I'm Moon Child, or just Moon, like most call me."

Moon held out his hand and JT accepted it, shaking it happily. JT couldn't help but notice the round, pink lens of Moon's glasses.

"So Moon, what's with the pink glasses? Haven't seen anything like those before."

"Just looking at the world through different eyes, JT. The world is what you make out of it, right? We're heading to a place in Calaveras, where a friend has two hundred acres of land and a house. We're going out there to live and practice free love, man. No more society bullshit about what we can and can't do. All we want is peace and smoke the good herb, you know?"

"I can dig that, Moon. We're sort of the same. We just started our club, the Sons of Anarchy. We want to live by our own rules as well. After 'Nam, it seemed like the whole country went to shit when we were over there. Jake, the guy that owns this shop, gave us the only decent job we could find. Now we're mechanics. So hey, speaking of which, what's wrong with this thing anyway?"

"Fucking engine, man. We got to here and that's as far as it wanted to go. It died the second we stopped right here and it won't even fire up now."

"Damn, that sounds like it's fried completely, if it won't even spark."

"No shit, man. We're supposed to be there this afternoon, but there's no way now. You think you guys can get this thing running again?"

"Not sure, man. Give it a try and let me hear what it sounds like."

Moon went in and turned the key and the starter wouldn't turn the engine over. 

"That's about as seized, as seized gets, Moon. No way this engine is ever going to run again."

"Awww, shit, dude. How the fuck are we going to get out to Calaveras now? I better talk to everyone and let them know what's happening."

Moon called his friends over to him and explained the situation. Faces went long and discouraged by the news. JT knew the predicament they were in and the need to be somewhere else, other than here, with him. 

"JT, you know anywhere we can set up a tent for the night?"

"You thinking of camping out, until the thing is fixed?"

"Not much choice, man, unless you know of some other way to get us and our stuff out to Calaveras?"

JT could see their plight. He thought about the motel, but figured they'd imposed enough of themselves on Marlene already. Money was obviously an issue with them, their combined resources going to be depleted by the repairs, so that was out. He thought of the open fields next to the motel property, that were vacant and unused. 

"Got an idea that might work, Moon. Come on into the clubhouse and we'll smoke a few joints and talk it over. I think you'll agree with me."

"Cool man. You have a good spirit in you, JT. I sense that. We should let Flower do an aura reading on you, see what colours you are."

"What the fuck are you talking about, man? What aura? What colours?"

"JT, come, let's share what you have and what we have, then we'll talk of ideas and auras."

JT was mystified by Moon and what he was talking about, never hearing of the things he mentioned before. The guys rolled up the bay door for JT and Moon, followed by four girls and two more guys. Being good hosts, they let the girls have the seats and the guys pulled up boxes and crates to sit on.

"We're not quite up and running yet, so we just make do with what we can find for free and go from there."

"That's cool, JT. We do the same thing, too. We're all from the San Francisco area and had enough of the shit from the man, telling us how we had to live. Golden inherited some land from her grandparents last month, so we're heading out there to live. There's a small house there now, so we can build more rooms on to it and grow our own food as well."




Redwood Nine Ch. 12



"Uhm, who's Golden?"

Joints were going around and around, as both groups rolled up samples of what they had. Moon took a hit off the Panama Red and looked at the joint, as he tasted it, then felt the high hitting him.

"Sweet grass, man. This is killer shit, dude."

JT smiled, as he saw the expressions Moon made, as the pot mellowed him out totally.

"So, Golden, you were going to tell me who that is?"

"Oh yeah. She's part of our commune that we started last year in Frisco. She's out there now at the house waiting for us to show up with food and shit. That's why we need to get out there as soon as possible. She had enough for a couple of days, plus what was left from her grandparents and she has no car to get into town to get more. At least the well is good and she has water, but there's no phone to let us know how she is. See why I'm worried, JT."

JT could see the same care and concern for those he was leading. Whatever differences in lifestyle they had, the common bond was a love and respect for those they were with. 

"Guys, we need to give these good people a hand. You heard their situation, so how can we help them? I came up with an idea that will work for a night or two, but they don't have that kind of time to sit around, not when Golden is out there and ready to starve. Let's hear some ideas from everyone, you guys too. In fact, let's find out who everyone is, so we know who we're talking to. I'm JT."

"I'm Moon Child, or just Moon."

"Piney."

"Chico."

The guys said their names and then the guests introduced themselves, girls going first.

"Spirit."

"Flower."

"Poppy."

"Rainbow."

"Star Rider, or just Star."

"Phoenix."

The guys looked at them all, after saying their names and Piney was first to ask why the change. Moon smiled, as he looked at them through slitted eyes, behind the pink lenses.

"We gave up what society called us. We gave ourselves new names, ones that reflected who we were inside. A name is nothing more than letters after all. You use initials, most everyone else has a nickname instead of their full name. You're no different. Our names just sound strange, because no one ever thought of calling themselves that."

JT chuckled out loud, realizing the similarities between them, the others realizing the choices were all individual like they had done themselves, just breaking the confines of normal convention even farther they they were. He shook Moon's hand and agreed with him totally on that point. Wally made the first offer of friendship to them, as he blew out the smoke of his hit.

"JT, Moon, I got an idea that might solve everything and give everyone a good chill about this."

Everyone focused on Wally to hear what he was going to say.

"What if we go and get Golden out in Calaveras and bring her back here for now. It's only what, forty, fifty miles to there? So we can be there in half an hour or so, then bring her back here and she's out of danger, or anything."

Moon had a look of pure relief wash over him, after hearing the offer.

"Shit, Man, that's a great idea. What's your name again?"

"Wally."

"Wally, that would give my soul the peace it needs. How soon can we go?"

"Anytime man. We're just sitting here, doing nothing, so we can go now."

"Let me get my stuff from the bus and I'll bring Spirit with me for the trip."

"Cool, I'll stop off and get Annie to come along with us, too. She's getting antsy sitting around the motel all day and would love to get out, sound good?"

"Sounds good, Wally. I owe you for this gratitude you've shown us. All of you. JT, before we go, what was your idea that got us in here, in the first place?"

JT perked up, his head getting foggy from the herb's effects.

"Oh yeah. I was thinking, there's all this land sitting vacant beside the motel. Maybe flatten the grass down and pitch a tent. You can use our washrooms to shower and stuff, so that helps with that part of things. We can help you get food and stuff, but cooking it might be hard. Oh yeah. Tom has a great eye for finding shit, so I'm tasking him with finding another engine for you. There's a guy I just saw earlier that has all kinds of engines lying around that are still good, so he might have one for that thing."

Moon looked at JT, his eyes holding the thoughts in his heart for him, after hearing of his idea and offer.

"It's divine fate of the spirits to meet, JT. The bus made it to here, because it knew it would find salvation at your door. Fate brought us together, because it knew we would be in the company of kindred spirits like ours, ones who would offer us shelter and comfort in our time of need."

"Can't really argue with any of that, Moon. Jake is kind of like a father to us all and he helps us with guidance and wisdom. I know this is what he would do in this situation."

"I'd like to meet Jake sometime, he sounds like he has a spirit I would enjoy knowing."

"Sure, he's an open kind of guy to shit. Doesn't get all bent out of shape if we smoke some pot and drink beers, as long as we don't go crazy."

"I do believe he will prove to be interesting, JT. Okay, I'll go get my things and Spirit, if you're ready, we should get going with Wally and pick up Golden. Star, Phoenix, you unload the bus and we'll take everything up to the lot by the motel. We can set up camp and rough it, until the bus is fixed. How far is it to the motel from here?"

"Not far, about three miles down the road that way."

"Not that far to go then, Star. Can you carry everything in one trip?"

"If the girls can carry the packs that far, we might make it."

"Wait, the guys can give you a ride on the back of their bikes and make things a whole lot easier that way. Save time and walking, not to mention sore backs and legs."

"We have been blessed to no end by your hospitality. We are forever in your debt, JT and will repay this kindness back to you, whatever way we can."

JT was going to deny his debt, but saw the conviction of his words to him and felt it was better to let the honour stand between them. They shook and hugged, then Wally went and got his car, while Moon brought a knapsack from the bus and got in the front with Wally, while Spirit sat in the back. Wally blew several short beeps as he left and turned down the street and was gone.

Star and Phoenix started unloading all their gear from the back and under the tarp on the roof. It presented quite the load to divide, to travel with, so they broke it down into two trips and they would take the girls and Phoenix up first and drop them off and then come back and bring Star and all the knapsacks themselves. Once the first load was ready, the guys got their bikes started and got the girls and some of the equipment on the back. 

It was a slow, easy ride down the road, not wanting to spill, or scare the girls, who were clinging on tightly, never having road before. Even Phoenix had a need to hold onto the back of Otto, unsure of how to ride properly as a passenger. The trip over, the bikes stopped as close to the field as possible and the new riders happily got off. Cindy, Suzy, Gloria, Marietta and Mary came out, hearing the bikes come in. They looked at the girls getting off the bikes and jealousy was written on their faces. Keith was first to see them coming and the looks they had. He made his way towards them and held them back.

"Girls, girls, I'd like ye's to meet some nice folk in a bit of trouble. They've had some bad luck with their engine conking out on them and they'll be needing to set up camp in the field there, for a spell. We have to go back and get the rest of the stuff and get Star, as well. That's Phoenix there, the darker skinned chap. Come and say hello to the girls and see if they need to use the facilities."

The girls were cut short to move any further, hearing who the girls were and why they were riding with their guys. The more Keith explained, the more concerned for them they became. It was the mention of Phoenix that grabbed their attention and they looked at the five people and noticed one was a guy, with long, straight, black hair down his back, obviously native American. He wore a brown leather headband and a matching leather vest. He was trampling down the grass to delineate the site, making a squared off area to pitch the tent, the girls following him in a line and trampling everything down. Keith brought the girls over and made introductions, getting them to join in, then bid them goodbye to join the others and get the rest of everything and Star. A hug and a kiss later, the thunder of V twins dominated the scene, as they headed back to the clubhouse.

The girls associated easily, as they helped trample grass, but they were entranced by the good looks and fit body of Phoenix in front of them. Whispered talk was passed back and forth about him, as the girls wanted to know more, but they didn't see the big smile on Phoenix's face, having overheard their cautioned talk anyway.

JT and the others roared down the lane way and stopped in front of Star and the rest of the stuff. They were loading it up, when a horn started blowing at the gate. Everyone stopped and looked, then noticed it was Clay coming in his Grandfather's truck, his arm out, waving at them. He pulled up and got out, saying hi to everyone and then was introduced to Star. His smirk and chuckle at his name, earned him a couple of slaps on the back from Lenny and JT both, for his attitude towards him.

"Respect, Clay. That's his name, no reason to laugh at it. Like Clay is any better? Don't see him making fun of your name, do you?"

Clay realized his name held negative connotations to it and his full name Clarence, held ones to a noted TV clown.

"No, sorry JT, sorry Lenny."

"Not us you need to say sorry to. Star is the one who you insulted."

Clay looked chastised and put in his place, as he turned to Star and held his hand out to him.

"Sorry man, didn't really mean anything by it. Just never heard anyone called that before."

"Apology accepted, Clay. Full name is Star Rider, but Star is cool."

The full name almost set Clay off again, but he caught himself instantly and shook his hand a bit more and let it go. JT clapped his arm over his shoulder and talked to him.

"Need your help, brother. All this stuff will go up the road a lot faster in the back of your truck and giving Star a lift to the motel."

"Sure, JT, no problem."

The tents and gear, including an old barbeque, were tossed in the back and in short order, a line of bikes with Clay and Star trailing behind, made their way out and on to the motel.

"Those are great guys you know up there, Clay. Moon is very happy with JT and his kind spirit. Your friends have been very generous and shared whatever they could with us. We're strangers to you all, yet we have been welcomed by you and given the gifts of love and peace. I know Moon will always have a place for you all at our table and share our food and love with you. You are always welcome to join us anytime you wish."

Clay felt like he was in another world, listening to Star talk about things the way he did. He was still unaware of the communal living arrangements they would have, or any of their understandings of their lifestyle. He was happy enough to be pulling into the lot and stopping at the field, unable to fathom any more spirit talk. Hands were unloading things, before they even got out of the truck, as Phoenix grabbed the tents in both hands and walked them to the site. He opened the first bag and unloaded all the canvas and poles. Everyone watched, as he flattened out the tent and took the main pole in with him and raised the centre up. Star took a couple poles and put them in the corner holes, so JT grabbed the other two and the tent was raised completely. Piney took the tether lines and stakes, slipping them over the tips of the poles and pressing the stakes into the soft ground with his boot heel, securing the lines in place.

Star had four sleeping bags in his hands and under his arms and tossed them inside, then went back for the others. The girls went inside the tents and had them all laid out for sleeping. The club guys and girls just stood and watched the others set up camp, turning a vacant field into a campsite in less than half an hour. A few rickety lawn chairs were set up, along with the barbeque, making it more like a family campsite.

Once everything was in place and readied, everyone congregated again and began talking about each other. The girls were far more acceptable of the name changes, than the guys were, the idea of being born again as the new identity, made all the sense to them. They asked if any of them needed to use a washroom and it was an instant separation of males and females. The guys sat around talking with Star and Phoenix about what got them to change their outlook and way of life, like themselves. A common disenchantment with how American life had become something different, different from what they had believed before and what they believed it to be now. The values in life held no real meaning to them, the way they did to their parents. Money only brought misery and trouble and taking it out of the equation, was the best way for them to avoid dealing with it.

JT sensed a commonality between them, a kinship of souls that ached to be free. He understood the differences in the paths they chose, although both were heading away from the mainstream way of thinking. He felt pangs of self-condemnation, knowing his path had led his people down a slope into a life most despised, while Moon was leading his, towards a life of peace and love. The die was cast for them and changing who they were, wasn't going to happen, but JT began feeling the niggling pangs of making hasty decisions based on emotion, instead of logic and understanding. 

Everyone was getting along well, no one discounting the other for life choices made, as the afternoon wore on. Food was brought up by the girls and Star asked if the guys could take him into town and buy food and charcoal for the barbeque. Clay made amends for his attitude earlier and offered his services to them. Star showed his happiness at Clay's acceptance of them, no longer feeling they were society's dregs. A list of things to get was made, then Star and Clay got in the pick up and headed into town to shop. It was decided to share a meal with their hosts and offer their own hospitality.

Wally was enjoying the ride with Moon, listening to him talk about their commune and the lifestyle they wanted to live. Spirit was in the back with Ann-Marie, sharing a joint together, leaning towards each other for support. They were sharing thoughts on living as one, how each girl could be with any guy and any guy could be with any girl. Ann-Marie couldn't grasp the concept of such an open lifestyle, one where the institution of marriage had been fully entrenched into her mindset. Spirit began explaining their concept of love and how it applied to all of them, not just between two people. Love was to be shared, just like the grass they smoked. Smoking it to them, was an association with love and the two were synonymous. She said everyone in San Francisco, called it the Love Drug and people like them were called Hippies, because they were hip to the scene and what was happening.

The car seemed to be alive with the energy of positive vibes inside, as the four shared thoughts and soon shared an admiration and respect for each other. Moon said openly, he truly enjoyed the freedom of riding on a bike, the oneness with his spirit and nature had convinced him of the need to get one of his own, for riding the land that cars couldn't travel on. 

Wally followed Moon's directions and the slow, winding road nestled between the hills, came to an end at the entrance to a property. It was thick with bush and trees all along the front, an old, steel gate sitting derelict on its hinges, never being moved for over a decade or more. The dirt drive was nothing more than tire tracks with tall weeds growing in the middle of them and along the sides, curving subtly, taking them back past the trees surrounding them and into a large clearing. A worn out fence surrounded a small two storey house, that had a wrap around porch, both still in a decent state of repair. Wally slowed and pulled up to the front and shut it off. They got out and Moon called out for Golden.

The peaceful quiet, was softly enhanced by the field birds and their whistles and chirps to each other. Wally took Ann-Marie's hand and walked off the drive and into the field a short way, to look at the view. Moon shouted out again for Golden, then movement was seen about twenty feet in front of Wally and Ann-Marie, in a patch of field daisies. Slowly, they saw a head rise up, covered in golden blonde hair with a yellow headband, tresses that seemed to keep appearing, the more she stood up. Finally standing, with her back facing them, she spread her arms open to the sun and let it wash over her, her hair covering her past her ass. 

With her arms out straight, she turned and Wally and Ann-Marie could clearly see she was naked. The same colour of hair adorned a spot between her legs, highlighting the dark bronze of her skin. She smiled happily and dropped her arms, running past the stunned couple and jumped into Moon's arms and kissed him passionately. His arms held her close, as his lips met hers, their connection one of great joy and love. Golden broke away, her smile showing white teeth and a happiness that could only come from within. She turned and saw Spirit standing to the side and went to her, hugging and kissing each other, no differently than she had with Moon. 

Wally and Ann-Marie were agog with the display of nudity and free loving, watching the two girls express themselves so openly. Ann-Marie was finding herself attracted to the naked nymph before her, admiring not only her body, but her freedom to enjoy something she had to hide away from everyone and keep to herself. Golden and Spirit finished and stood holding hands, as Moon made introductions.

"Golden, this is Wally and Ann-Marie. Wally, Ann-Marie, I'd like you to meet Golden, she's our spiritual guide. She helps us to become one with nature and draw from its goodness."

Golden came to Wally first and hugged him. Wally stood perplexed, unsure if he should touch her naked body. Golden pulled Wally's face to her and kissed both cheeks softly, then gave him a soft kiss on the lips, before letting him go and stood in front of Ann-Marie. They looked into each others eyes for a moment first, something passing between them that the others could sense as well. Golden moved forward and took Ann-Marie's hands and put them around her waist. She put her hands around the back of Ann-Marie's head and pulled her forward to her face, then kissed her lips. Deep breaths were drawn, as emotions were lit inside each other.

Willingly, Ann-Marie moved a step forward and her hands went around Golden's back, their kiss increasing in passion. Golden reached up and took hold of the hair clip holding Ann-Marie's hair up and released it, letting all of the white tresses spill down her back. Mouths sought greater interaction from their lips, as tongues were slid between them.

Wally was speechless, as he watched his girlfriend enjoy herself openly with another girl. He wasn't sure if he should feel jealousy, or resentment. He had no idea what emotion to feel at that point, as none of them made enough sense to act on. Moon could see it clearly and went to him.

"Are they not beautiful together, Wally?"

"What do you mean beautiful?"

"The love they share. I can't read souls as well as Golden and Spirit can, but even I can see they share a bond between them. Golden can sense things in a person, read them like a book and she sees something in Ann-Marie, that she is drawn towards. Whatever Ann-Marie is feeling, Golden is sensing it and responding to it. It's a gift of love they share between their souls and love is a beautiful thing, is it not, Wally?"




Redwood Nine Ch. 12



Wally stood and watched the loving kiss between Golden and Ann-Marie, trying to see past his own feelings for right and wrong and tried to look at it through Moon's eyes. His girlfriend held the naked stranger to her, as if they were lifelong lovers, reuniting after a long absence. Their hair spilled about them, wrapping them in a cloak of gold and white strands blending together. As hard as he tried, understanding what they shared together, was far beyond what he could comprehend, with what he knew life to be like as he knew it.

The pair separated, still holding each other, their smiles showing a true happiness coming from within. 

"She is my twin, Moon. My spirit twin. I was just searching for again her in my meditation, as I have for three years now. She's here, Moon, she's finally here."

Ann-Marie was unsure of what Golden was talking about, but she understood the connection between them. She felt it the moment she looked in Golden's eyes, seeing the gold flecks sparkle the second they looked at each other. She felt a sense of being one with Golden, that they were meant to be joined some how. She kept holding her hand, looking at Wally with a richness of love in her heart, seeing confusion and sadness awash over his face, as he looked back at her.

Ann-Marie pulled Golden along with her, as she went to him and hugged him. 

"Wally, I really like you, I do. You're a really great guy and you're fun to be with. Please try to understand this side of me, please. I know it's weird that I like other girls, I don't really understand it yet either, but I do. I knew after being with Marlene and Suzy, that I did. I like guys too, I do, but I like this part of me as well. Wally, please don't hate me, because of this."

Wally could see how distraught his girlfriend was, coming to grips with her own sexuality and trying to appease his wounded pride and manhood. He didn't want to do anything that would lose what he had, but he didn't know how to handle the threat to his relationship with her and how he fit into it all anymore. Golden could see the conflict of emotion between them and looked at Moon, who nodded to her, as if they had shared a mental thought between them with just a look. She moved closer to Wally and took his hand, placing it over her firm breast, letting her stiff nipple press into his palm. She held it to her and looked into Wally's eyes, his confusion rising in wonderment. Golden used her other hand to pull Wally to her and kissed him, evoking him to respond to her, then felt his hand cup her firm mound and squeeze it gently, as his lips began answering the call of arousal. 

Ann-Marie took a step back and watched, as Golden folded herself into him and he accepted her, hugging her close. The passion Golden injected into her lips, was transferred to Wally's and his libido was taken over by the nubile, young woman, her naked skin aglow with the light of the sun, her hair shimmering around her. Wally froze momentarily, as he felt Golden's hand take hold of his burgeoning growth between his legs and fondled him. Wally's eagerness to want more, had him forget the moment he was in and ignored everything, but the intense pleasure he was feeling with Golden.

Just as he was at the point of wanting to make out with her, his passion inflamed to its zenith, she stopped and held him close still, as she whispered in his ear.

"Do you wish to make love with me? Complete yourself with me? Do you want to make me feel the power of your love, or just satisfy your carnal needs?"

Wally stood and breathed hard, holding the beautiful, bare flesh of a woman offering herself to him and looked at Ann-Marie beside him. He could see she had no animosity towards him, nothing that told him he would be doing wrong, if he said yes to her. He looked at Moon and Spirit standing arm in arm, looking at him and smiling, a small nod from Moon to say he was okay with whatever he wanted to do. Wally looked back at Golden, her brown eyes sparkling with the gold flecks in them, holding him entranced by them, as she continued looking at him with the same intensity of sharing herself with him.

"I, I, don't know. I want to say yes, but it feels so weird to say it. I really like Ann-Marie and want to make her happy, but now I want to make you happy as well and it just doesn't make sense."

"I know it's hard to understand, Wally. Love is such an incredible thing, it has more power than you can ever imagine. It can make us do things that we would never think of doing before. It has the power to heal your soul, heal your body and mind. Think of the last time you felt love, real love, Wally and how you felt being in that state. How did it make you feel in your heart to feel that?"

Wally thought back to moments in his life when he had felt love. Moments in his childhood and growing up. He remembered his first girlfriend and how head over heals in love with her he was at the time. He could see what Golden was talking about, the incredible feeling that was in him, when he felt he was loved, or loved something. It sort of made sense to him now, how love was something more than sexual, that it was something he had experienced and enjoyed. How it translated into Ann-Marie and Golden sharing that depth of love, was still hard to grasp.

"You have a hard time understanding why Ann-Marie likes other girls, don't you?"

"Yeah. I kinda understand the love thing a bit, but you two doing it together is just strange. I don't get it. How do you get off, if neither of you has a dick, or anything?"

Golden smiled at him and Wally saw the peacefulness in her eyes. A peace that seemed to calm the unsettled sea of emotion in him, a peace that he found solace in his heart with, that quelled the raging turmoil of confusion and ignorance.

"I know you don't get it. I don't know too many guys who do. How we find pleasure together, is different than how you do. We understand our bodies and how they work. We know what our hearts need to feel, to become aroused and how to touch ourselves in ways you can't understand, because you have no knowledge of how those parts of us feel. We do. Ann-Marie knows the beauty of her love and is able to share it without doubt, without the bounds and bonds of society saying it's wrong to love like that. She has accepted it in her spirit, that she is that way, that she can share her love with someone, no matter what gender they might be."

Wally stood looking at the two women, unable to fathom the ideals presented to him, his own morals and values still being dictated by society's standards. Moon came to him and put his hand on his shoulder, disrupting his thoughts of the two women and got his attention.

"Wally, you know why I wear these pink glasses?"

"Haven't got a clue, man."

"It's so I can see the world more like a woman does. I've always seen it through the eyes of a man, just like you. I didn't understand it either, the way women see things, how they feel things guys don't. I think of Mother Earth and Mother Nature and how we feel comforted and loved by them, as we go about our lives and pay no mind to their power and greatness. Women are the soul of the earth and we are the spirit. You feel that spirit with JT and the others, whenever you are together, don't you?"

"Yeah, I do. It's like being with brothers, sort of, I guess."

"That's exactly what it's like. You and I are brothers, Wally. Even though we come from different fathers and mothers, we are still one, still family, still brothers. Every man is your brother, no matter what his colour, no matter what his beliefs in God are. We are learning to treat all men with respect, but more so, we are learning from our women, that love is a power within us. We can try to deny its existence in us, but its light will always find a place to shine, in even the darkest of souls. "

Wally began getting an inkling of what it all meant and began putting all the bits and pieces scattered in his head, into something intelligible he could understand.

"So, Annie isn't really a dyke or anything, she's just connecting with her spirit twin, which is Golden, am I getting it?"

Moon smiled and patted his back.

"That's more or less it."

"Who my spirit was, long ago, I have no idea, neither does Annie. What I do know, is that we were joined at one time in the past and shared something special, something powerful that completed us."

Wally began becoming lost again in Golden's words and Moon put his arm over Wally's shoulder and walked him inside with Spirit. Golden and Ann-Marie stayed outside together and waited until the others had gone inside, before looking at each other and clashing together in passion, kissing and loving on one another happily.

Moon looked through the cupboards and the fridge and saw there was very little left to eat.

"Damn, Wally. We came at the right time. Golden has nothing left to eat here. I wonder how long she's had no food? Doesn't matter, she's coming back with us now and she'll have all the food she can eat. Let me get her in here to put some clothes on and we can get back to the others. Hard to keep her in them once she has the chance to shed them off of her. I'm sure they're all wondering what's happened to us, we've been gone way longer than expected."

"Yeah, I noticed she has a tan all over, no lines or anything. I can see why you call her Golden. Her hair is like one shade of gold and her skin is like another darker kind. Even the sprinkles in her eyes are gold. She's like, really gorgeous, you know." 

Moon could see Wally was smitten by her looks and had an interest in her, but it was on a physical level only. Spirit spoke to him for the first time since arriving.

"She likes to feel as close to nature as she can and when we're all together, all the girls, we sit among the daisies and meditate in the nude. I felt weird at first, like anyone would doing it for the first time. After the first meditation we did together, I felt the energy in me and the love in my heart. I felt more at peace and happier than I ever was, living with my parents and doing what they wanted me to do. I moved out and joined Moon and Phoenix three years ago, then learned I had powers in me I never knew I had. Freaked me out at first, but with the love and understanding from everyone, they helped me know what it was I had and how to use it. I'm still learning, but it's getting easier, now that I accept it and know its a part of me, that it was with my spirit, long before I was born."

Wally heard Spirit's introduction into this new world and he found an association of feelings with her. His own life had been one long disappointment, since he left school at sixteen. He had no home, no job, no real future, just a shared brotherhood with eight other guys, who had lived similar lives like his. He could see how a common love, a common bond between men and women could happen, like these people were having. His thoughts were broken, as Golden and Ann-Marie walked in, hands held tightly and both smiling broadly. Wally couldn't deny what he saw, was good. It would challenge his conscience for days, trying to come to terms with it all, but he found a smile of his own, as he looked at them.

"I gave Annie her new name. She is now called, Azure Cloud. Her hair is like the clouds, so soft and white and her eyes are blue, as the sky is this day. Everyone, say hello to Azure."

Wally stopped himself from shaking his head, hearing Ann-Marie's new name. He looked at her and saw how happy she was with her new name and couldn't diminish her happiness in any way. She came to him and hugged him, kissing him with more passion in her lips, than he had felt before. It was like she had an awakening in herself and he could feel the energy in her kiss, as she aroused his own passions. 

Golden went into the bedroom with Spirit and was back out in five minutes, dressed in cut off shorts and a short sleeved white shirt, tied at the waist, with barely enough buttons to close the front enough, to keep her breasts from being exposed. Moon was hugging Ann-Marie, telling her, her name was well suited to her, the white mane of hair now left down and free of any ties, or pins. Wally looked at the transformation and liked what he saw. There was less of the formal dress up and more of the natural look. Golden came up with something behind her back and told Ann-Marie to close her eyes.

Ann-Marie stood still and closed her eyes, waiting to see what it was. Golden brought her hand up and fixed Ann-Marie's hair a bit and then slipped a light, blue head band over her head. She slid it down, so the band was across her forehead and the turquoise stone set in silver, was in the centre.

"Open your eyes."

Ann-Marie reached up and felt the headband and went over to the mirror to see it. She cried out happily, seeing how the colours were hers. She came back and hugged Golden tightly, her thanks being given in bond, rather than words. Wally smiled, liking the transformation even more. 

"One more thing, Azure. Allow me."

Golden began undoing Azure's all too familiar jean vest and slipped it off her shoulders, leaving her in her bra only. Golden reached behind her and undid the clasps and slid the straps down her arms and let the cups fall away, leaving her bared. She had Azure put her vest back on and did it up for her, doing the same as Marlene had done before and smoothed out imaginary wrinkles over her breasts. 

"Much better. When you come here, you'll learn clothes are restricting to your freedom to express who you are and won't wear any, like I do."

Azure/Ann-Marie smiled excitedly and nodded, then joined hands with Golden and Spirit and went out to the car, the three getting in the back seat and talking excitedly. Moon looked at Wally and picked up Golden's knapsack and small carry case.

"Wish you had a better radio, man. It's going to be noisy as hell in the back with those three talking, trust me."

Wally realized Moon had been driving around for quite some time with them and would know, if anyone, what it was going to be like. He shrugged his shoulders and just accepted what was, so much happening in such a short time, he knew his head would be deep in thought the whole way back. He started the Biscayne up and turned around, heading back out the drive and past the rusted gate, the three voices in the back all talking at once, somehow understanding each other, while Moon had his eyes closed and seemed to be letting himself drift away, where the sound didn't penetrate. Wally just focused on the road ahead, remembering where the turns were in reverse, as his mind began making sense of who he was and what he believed. 

The combined group at the motel, were sitting around in a circle, talking about the changes in their lives and the world around them. Star described the scene happening in the Haight-Ashbury district, in San Francisco and how things were happening there, that would soon change the way every person in America would think. Phoenix was working away at the barbeque readying it for the food to go on and shouted over to them, hearing what they were talking about.

"Psychedelic, man. The world is no longer black and white, like before. It's made up of rainbows of colour, all blending as one, to become the new reality. Love is the beauty, peace is its colour. When you learn how to dig it, it all makes sense."

JT heard what Phoenix said, but wanted to know how they had made this discovery and how they made sense of it.

"So, how did you guys get to this understanding of things? I can dig what you're saying and everything, but I don't know how you got to see things in colour, if all we see is black and white."

Star looked at him, his face stating a revelation to be expounded upon them.

"Acid, man. It's the ticket to your mind. Society locked your mind up the day you were born and threw away the key. This will open it again and let you see what they don't want you to see. Freedom, real freedom. You can see what they've lied to us about. How they've shackled our minds to believe what they want us to believe and not what's really there. Their world is just bullshit man, it's just about money and greed. None of them are happy with what they have, because they always want more. We found true happiness in love, in peace and being at one with everything. All we need is the air to breathe, clean water to drink and food the good earth provides for us. Everything else is a trap that closes tighter and tighter on you, holding your will to them, to live their way."

JT and the others could relate completely with that understanding of things. These people were just like them in so many ways. They had a common love of one another, albeit theirs, less affectionate and intimate in nature. They had an understanding as well, of the collapse of society as it stood now and knew changes were needed to make it better for everyone. They had banded together as like individuals and shared a common goal, of peace and happiness.

The twilight of the sunset was broken with headlights coming down the road to them. At first, hopes were that it was Wally and Moon coming back, but the sleek automobile told the Charming group that Jake and Marlene were back from dinner and a movie in Stockton. They pulled up to the office and got out, then heard JT calling behind them and turned around. They walked down the lot to him and JT could see that Marlene wasn't smiling and Jake wasn't either.

"Shit, we go to dinner and a movie and I come back to squatters living next door. This better be good, JT."

"Hi, hey, I'm sorry, let me explain, before you say anything. It's all my idea and at the time, we didn't have anything else we could think of to do. These people pulled into the garage, Jake and their engine in the VW microbus is fried, like it's seized tight. They're on their way out to Calaveras to a place out there and now they're stuck here, until they get the bus fixed. Money is a bit tight, considering the repairs they need, so I thought of the empty lot beside the motel here and figured a couple of days to camp out, until they're running again."

Jake looked at JT and smiled warmly at him, seeing the kindness his heart had shown to strangers. He looked at the newcomers and realized they did look a bit strange. Marlene was noticing too and took better stock of who they were. JT led them over and did introductions. Jake wasn't buying the new names they called themselves and laughed openly. Marlene thought the girl's and their names were cute and the guys were definitely getting her attention, new names or not. Jake looked at Star, as though there was a familiarity with him.

"What's your last name, son?"

"Rider. Star Rider."

"No, not that silly ass name, I mean your real one, your dad's name."

Star did his best not to take offence to Jake's comment.

"Chapman."

"Your dad isn't Dick Chapman, is it? You sure look like him, at least in his younger years, not sure about now."

Star looked stunned that someone knew his father and recognized him, in his own face.

"Yeah, how did you know?"

"Son, when a man saves your life, you tend to remember him pretty good. I'd be nothing more than a headstone and a forgotten soldier, if it wasn't for him. He ever tell you what he did in the war?"

"He tried, but I don't want to hear it. I hate war and everything it stands for and does to people."

Jake could see the passion of Star's beliefs in how he felt about the war and went about his speaking in a milder tone.

"I get that. God knows I feel the same way at times, but here's the thing, son. None of us wanted to go over there and shoot Germans. We sure as shit didn't want to get shot at either. We were told to do a job, that it was our duty to protect the way of life that we knew, at all costs, so you can stand here freely and tell us we're all bastards, because we picked up a gun and shot some people. Think to yourself what it would be like, to wake up one day, and you find yourself taken and beaten for no other reason, than some asshole has thing against your type. Imagine that as your life, because if we didn't go over and do our duty, that's what your life would be like, as a Nazi Kraut. You don't want to know what your dad did in the war? Doesn't matter, I'm going to tell you anyway, so you know what a damn, fine man your father is and how proud you should be, to be his son."




Redwood Nine Ch. 13



Ch.13 Peace, Love, Blood

Tom was good to his word, at finding an engine at Gus' yard. Clay threw some plywood in the bed and picked it up with him. Three hours after bringing it back, Moon went in and started it up. The engine had almost half the mileage, than the old one, giving them hope, the bus would be running for many more years to come. Moon promised to come by often for servicing and making sure they stayed in touch with one another. Moon and JT took it for a test run and also used the time to share some final thoughts with one another. Moon extended an open invitation to him, to come anytime he wished. JT was happy to know there was a place he could go, when dark skies were threatening and he needed shelter. The drive ended and Moon was very pleased with everything. He felt assured in his heart, that everyone who rode in it, would arrive safely at their destination. 

Jake gave JT and Piney the afternoon off, so they could help them tear down the site and help them get packed up. They'd become close, as friends, sharing many good times together after work, sitting under the stars and enjoying the chance to share thoughts freely. Both groups melded well when they were together and enjoyed the time to bond, many becoming sad at their departure. One had the need to make a decision at that point and looked at both sides she had to choose from. Ann-Marie looked at Wally and her eyes welled with tears, ones she shed for her choice of leaving him. Her choice was to become Azure Cloud and live a life of free love with her spirit twin, Golden. She stood beside her and held her hand, both of them glowing happily in the sunlight. Wally couldn't deny her, her happiness, clearly finding what her heart was looking for. He felt the pangs of hurt in his heart, that he wouldn't enjoy her company each night, but he knew it was selfish to feel like that, knowing she would never truly be happy with him. 

Her bags were packed and she was ready to say goodbye to everyone and the life she knew. She looked at the office, hoping to see Marlene one last time, maybe just to thank her for opening her up to this part of herself, maybe just to be with her physically one more time and feel her body next to hers. It never came to be, as she climbed in with the others and the bus started up and ran smoothly. Peace signs were flashed back and forth between them, hands held high, smiles large and bright on their faces. The radio came on in the middle of Eric Burden's, San Franciscan Nights and Moon turned it up, filling the van with the sound of their city.

The week had gone well, work was coming in and business was getting better, the faster they worked. Jake took off on Thursday, saying he had an appointment in town. He never said what it was about, but Jake appeared to be pleased about going. Friday saw a re-appearance of Moon and Spirit in the micro bus, on their way back to San Francisco to pick up the last of their things from Moon's apartment. They would be heading back through later in the day and hoped to meet up for a bit. JT said he'd love to get together, but they had a run to do and hoped they'd catch up soon. Saturday was a building day and one that everyone was happy to work hard at. Despite the hours of breaking concrete with a sledge hammer and shovelling away the debris, they had all the trenches dug and sat drinking beer, taking a well earned break.

The plumber was installing the last section of sewer pipe, an elbow joint with a flanged end, where the common bathroom would go. The guys had smashed the concrete and dug a trench to the main line for each sewer line they needed. In JT's room, the pilfered toilet and sink were being installed by the guys, as they tightened down the nuts and screws. With everything all connected and ready, the plumber had Otto turn the water main on and waited for the water to fill the pipes. The sound of it could be heard running all around them, as the water filled every space it could. When the sounds stopped, the plumber went to the sink and slowly turned the cold tap on and released the air pressure that had built up. The spurting water came out and finally ran clear of air. He turned it off and did the same to the hot water line. He gave the toilet a flush and checked for leaks, proclaiming it ready for use. When they had the floor done properly, he told them to replace the gasket and it would be alright.

They hadn't procured another sink and toilet yet for the common bathroom, but Tom had taken care of that end of things and he and Wally were picking up a set. Clay had gone along with them in his grandfather's pick up, the objective to obtain the bar and pool tables that were available. Lenny rode with him and they took the ride time, to get to know each other better. Lenny asked him if he had decided on what he would do on his tour.

"You figured on what you're going to do over there next year? Jumping is a helluva lot better than humping."

"Yeah, that much I got figured out. I'm still not sure on the jumping part yet. Heights aren't one of my favourite things."

"Don't worry, Clay. You join up with the Sky Rangers, they'll get you over your fear of heights. It's funny how the bullets flying all around you, tend to make you forget about falling from the sky and you can't wait to get down."

"Great, that makes me feel so much better about it."

Lenny laughed and clapped Clay on his shoulder, as they pulled in front of the closed bar. Tom took them around the back, where he jimmied the lock and they went in, The place looked like hell inside, an obvious closing party taking place, before it was abandoned. The bar was cleared off of empty bottles and dust and they looked it over. It was in decent shape and not too badly worn. Wally looked to see how it was mounted and took a screwdriver from his back pocket and began loosening the screws. Once it was free, they lifted it up and hauled it to the back door and outside. The pool tables were okay, no rips in the table's surfaces, but it was badly stained from spilled drinks and ashes from cigarettes. They unbolted the top from the legs and carried the top outside and leaned it up against the bar. The did the same to the other one and Wally pocketed the bolts and washers in his jacket. They carried it out and the legs, then Clay went to get the truck and Tom stopped him. 

"We have something else we need first, remember?"

The guys followed him back inside and into the washroom. He stopped and pointed with both hands at what they needed to get. They looked and realized the need for another couple of sinks and toilets, despite the deplorable state they were in now. Lenny used his foot to flush both toilets, then Wally took a pair of pliers out and began loosening nuts and bolts to lines, as well as the water inlet on the first toilet. Several times he got up and let out his breath and gasped in another, before going back and finishing the job.

He was more than happy to be finished with them and moved to the sinks and started on them. Lenny strong-armed the toilet off its base and tipped the thing over, letting the water and whatever waste and refuse was still in it, pour out onto the floor. The stench had complaints coming from the others and Lenny laughed.

"Fuckers get all bent out of shape over a little stink like this? You guys ain't smelled nothing yet, till you smell the insides of a man all blown open."

"Fuck off, Lenny. That's gross, man. That stuff is just fucking awful, dude, c'mon."

Wally's words were commonly felt by the others, as they covered their noses and mouths, fending off the fetid smell as best as they could. Lenny carried the unit outside and set it beside the other things, then went back in. The other three came out with two sinks, a paper towel dispenser and a wall mounted soap dispenser, they obviously never bothered unscrewing from the wall. Wally looked at him as they passed, a snide look on his face. 

"The toilet's for you, shithead."

Lenny laughed loudly, not bothered by the insult at all. He went in and emptied the contents on the floor again and picked the porcelain commode up and carried it out to the other one. He put it down and looked at the other guys just standing there and not moving. He looked around where they were looking and noticed the two black guys standing there at the corner of the building, handguns pointed at them. The meaner looking one spoke, using his gun to point at them.

"What are you guys doing here?"

Tom figured it was his place to speak up, seeing that it was him that had them in this situation.

"Hey man, we have permission from Marco to take this stuff. Who are you?"

"I'll tell you who I am. I'm the guy with the fucking gun pointed at your face and I say you don't have permission to take shit from here, it's our shit."

Lenny started to laugh uproariously, like he had just heard the funniest thing ever.

"What the fuck you laughing at, asshole?"

Through the hitches between laughs, Lenny tried to explain.

"Dude, we didn't take your shit, we only took the toilets. We left your shit on the floor."

Despite the threat of death, the others couldn't help but catch the humour and laughed as well. At first it was mostly snickering, but it soon turned into belly laughs, making the hoods look at them strangely.

"What the fuck you talking about?"

"Hey, go look for yourself. We told the guy we needed a couple of shitters and sinks for our clubhouse, he says sure, help yourself. You want your shitters back, that's cool, here they are. Up to you to put the shit and piss back in, if you want it the way it was."

The two black teens looked at the two toilets sitting in front of them and the stench that was coming off of them. Neither had any objection to them leaving their presence. The one who seemed to be in charge, moved closer to Lenny and pointed the gun at his head.

"What else you think you're taking?"

"Just the sinks, the bar, the two pool tables and that's it, nothing else we want."

The leader of the two, looked at the tables and the condition of the bar, then looked at his buddy behind him. He turned back to Lenny and squared him up.

"Gimme a hundred and it's yours."

Lenny laughed, as he looked at him, then in trained combat fashion, he disarmed the young man and pointed the gun between his eyes, pressing the barrel hard into the skin, making sure he knew what his position was. Lenny knew this one was subdued and looked with certain death in his eyes, at the other one.

"Put the fucking gun on the ground and kick it over. Do it, or I empty your buddy's brains onto the pavement for you to see, then I'm going to shoot your fucking balls off and let you bleed out. Drop out it, now!"

The immediate threat to his buddy's life and his own, was more valid than their own was to them, so he slowly lowered it and dropped it to the pavement. He kicked it towards Clay, who picked it up and walked with right back to him and held it to his head, the same way Lenny was doing.

"Now, who the fuck are you assholes?"

"This is our turf, man. Anything that's here is our shit."

"Looks like it's our shit now, right?"

The black youth flinched, as Lenny was holding the gun to his head and pressed it in harder, making his point. He nodded agreement to him and waited.

"You still haven't said who you are. What's your name, Sambo?"

The eyes shot back at him, hearing the insulting slur.

"What? Don't like being called, Sambo? Alright, what the fuck is your name, nigger and no more bullshit."

The eyes shot pure hatred at Lenny, but it didn't phase him in the least, having seen the same look dozens of times in Vietnam, on the faces of prisoners he had questioned. He smacked the side of the gun off the back of the black teen's head, letting him know he had the power to do it and get away with it. Lenny spoke quietly now, in almost a friendly tone.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't realize you were a retarded nigger and don't understand English. I want to know what your name is, boy and why you're pissing me off and trying to ruin my day?"

The teen toned down his emotional responses, knowing it would only result in further beatings from Lenny. He tried to look back at his friend, but Lenny held him fast and made him pay attention to him.

"My name is Bennie."

"Thank you, Bennie, nice to meet you. Now, why are you making me have a bad day?"

"We're supposed to get that shit. Fat fuck that owned the place, owed us and never paid up. We were taking what's supposed to be ours, man. You white boys are fucking us over now and we're still not getting paid back what's owed to us. Who's given who, a bad day, whitey?"

Lenny never took offence at the slurs shot back at him, as he looked at his opponent.

"Well excuse me. No one told me you had rights to any of this. When I went in, I didn't see any notice posted and I don't see anything out here either, so how am I supposed to know it's yours? I got a need for those shitters and sinks, don't suppose they were high on your list of things to take, were they?"

Bennie looked at Lenny, seeing he wasn't trying to be mean to him, just trying to maintain control and talk to him. He eased up on his stance and backed down his aggression towards him and felt an ease in return. Lenny lowered the gun from between his eyes, but kept it pointed in his direction just in case.

"No, don't want no shitters, man."

"Tell you what, Bennie, here's what I'm going to do and try to make this a good day for all of us."

Bennie was amenable to listening to a deal that ended the threat and things could move forward.

"We really want all this shit. We need it for our clubhouse and that means more than your debt with Marco, to us. You said you wanted a hundred for all of this and as you can already see, I ain't happy with paying that kind of money, for something I already have for free. You can understand that, right?"

Bennie nodded, but kept waiting to hear where he would be walking away happy at the end.

"You don't really need any of this shit, do you? You were just hoping to bust it out of there and make some money off it, right?"

"Yeah, yeah, that's all we want, man. Just make some money, so we can live, you know."

Lenny could see this was more an act of desperation, instead of a turf related issue.

"What do you usually sell to make money? What kind of shit do get your hands on?"

"What you want to know for? None of your business what we do?"

"Bennie, Bennie, I'm trying to help you out here. I'm asking, because I might have something for you to replace the money you lost in this deal, just give me a chance and listen."

Bennie tried sizing up Lenny to weigh his words and see where he was coming from and if it was some kind of trick. He could see from the others, that there was a definite reduction of threat to them, from their captors, giving him reason to believe his words were true.

"We try to score shit and sell it cheap, you know. Find a warehouse, or a truck with some good shit in it and take as much as we can."

"Tom, I think we have another source of distribution for your business. Now Bennie, I'm going to put this gun down and my buddy over there is going to do the same and I want you both to sit and listen to me and my friend here, because we want to make you your money back and a lot more after that, are you in?"

It took nothing for Bennie to know that he was being offered something far better than a bullet in the head and agreed, turning to his friend and seeing a concurrence from him to accept the offer. Lenny released the hammer and put the safety back on, then held it out to Bennie, who looked at it and saw the trust being showed to accept it and call a cease to hostilities between them. He tentatively took the gun and slid it into his pants at the back and waited for what came next. Clay followed Lenny's lead and gave his captive back his gun and went back and stood beside his brothers.

"You guys like smoking grass? Don't mind smoking it with a bunch of whiteys?"

"Nah, nah man, it's cool. Look, sorry about the shit earlier man, you know how it is? Just making a dollar to live another day, you know."

"Yeah, yeah, I get it, Bennie. Sorry for the names I used. I knew you guys weren't looking to cause trouble with us and figured you were just looking for money. We all are, fuck, that's why we're taking shit like this, brother. We can't afford fuck all either. Look, might as well put this bar to some good use. Let's just stand around like we know each other and smoke some grass, listen to what we have to offer and if you don't like what we have to say, you can leave at any time, but I think you're going to like what we have for you."

Bennie looked around at the guys at the bar, none of them showing any animosity towards him, or his buddy, Lamont. Baggies were on the bar and joints were being rolled, letting him know that things were, as they were supposed to be, according to Lenny.

"So let's start this off better and do this right. Bennie, I'm Lenny, that clean cut, college boy is Clay, the guy with the fine herb, we're about to smoke, that's Wally. This guy here on this side of me, this is the guy you really want to know. This is Tom, or as he's known around town, Uncle Tom."

Bennie's eyes went wide in surprise, at hearing his name.

"Shit, dude. I heard of this guy. You're like some kind of magician, or something. I hear you can get into any place you want and get anything at all. My cousin told me all kinds of stuff about you, man. Says you're the best in the business at this shit." 

Tom looked humbled by the thoughts about him, never really realizing how he was thought of, on he street.

"Who's your cousin?"

"Randal, has a set out the west end he runs with, Bay Black Brothers, they call themselves the Three B's."

"I know him, Sold him some electronics and stuff, I found in a container."

"Yeah, yeah, that's him, man. That's my cousin. Shit, dude, Tom, right?"

"Yeah, Uncle, if you please."

"Right, Uncle Tom, dude, my cousin has been looking for you. He's been freaking out, you know? Made a shitload of money off of it and wanted to do another deal, but you disappeared and no one knew how to get a hold of you."

Tom smiled broadly, so did the others, finding out their former foes, were actually allies looking to hook up again.

"And you almost shot the poor fucker instead. Wouldn't that just fuck up your cousin, man?"

"Shit yeah. Hey, really, we're sorry about the guns and shit earlier, alright? Like we said, we're just looking to make a buck of our own."

"Bennie, I told you were going to go away happy, didn't I?"

"Yeah, you did, Lenny."

"Well, let's finish these joints and listen up, because this is your lucky day, brother. Your cousin will be shitting himself happy, once you talk to him."

"Cool, bro', you white dudes are alright, man. You're like a bike gang, right?"

"We like to think of ourselves as a motorcycle club. We're just enthusiasts enjoying a simple pleasure and causing no one any grief."

"What's the club called?"

"Sons of Anarchy."

"Club, yeah, right."

Lenny heard the sarcasm in Bennie's voice and read it on his face and laughed, getting everyone laughing and the atmosphere at the back of the closed down bar, became jovial and friendly, despite the ever-present odour of human waste from the toilets, lingering in he air. The ideas were discussed and after another half hour of talking and another joint, Bennie was hugging Lenny like a brother, as was Lamont. The barrier of racial separation was broken, setting up a partnership of sorts between them, that offered a very sizable increase in the personal wealth of those involved. 

What had started out between them as hostilities and a possibility of death, turned into a kinship of sorts, where instead of hatred and animosity between them, there was a growing respect and kindred feelings forming between them. Tom said he'd be in touch with Bennie soon and sit down with his cousin, Randal to discuss the terms and conditions. With the set up he had now, he could conduct his business in a faster and larger scale, as long as he had a way to move the goods he acquired. Randal had a decidedly large customer base to rely on, making him a valuable partner to have. Consumer goods were big ticket items in the hoods and ghettos of city cores and out lying areas and they had an in already to the business and clientele. 




Redwood Nine Ch. 13



Bennie and Lamont gave the guys a hand loading the bar and tables into Clay's truck, then, reluctantly, sliding the toilets along side. The sinks went in the cavernous trunk of Wally's Chevy and after a round of shaking and hugging, the guys waved goodbye to their new allies and headed back to the clubhouse. They shook their heads in laughter, in both vehicles, as they talked about the whole thing again and the way everything turned out. Somewhere, in the far off corners of their minds, everyone, but Clay, were thinking about the gift of love and if it somehow played a role in what happened.

The pair were blowing their horns, as they came down the lane way, letting the guys know they were back. Bodies began appearing and then the roll up door was opened. Clay backed the truck up as far as he could. At first, the guys rushed to the back to get to everything, then smelled the stench and were stopped in their tracks. They backed away, holding their noses and waving at the invisible assault. Lenny and Clay got out laughing, seeing the reactions of everyone.

"Awww, little bit stinky for you little boys? C'mon Clay, grab a shitter and bring it to the shop and we'll hose them down."

Clay and Lenny grabbed a toilet each and walked them to the shop door and turned the hose on them, letting it run as clear as it could. A rag was taken to the outside and in no time, they looked almost usable, despite the memory of their former glory, still fresh in their minds.

The others waited until the air was dissipated enough to breathe, then took the table and legs out of the back and carried them in, then hands grabbed the bar and hauled that inside, close to where it would eventually go. Lenny and Clay brought the cleaned out toilets over, no more signs of the vile contents remaining inside, then took them to their perspective locations. A wax seal was put on the flange and the toilet was carefully lowered down and pressed into place and seated. The nuts and washers were slipped over the bolts and tightened down securely. JT attached the water inlet and turned the shut off valve open, listening to the water fill the tank and checked for leaks. The tank finished filling and JT looked at everyone, as he readied to push the lever. 

The release of the tank water and the swirling torrent in the bowl finished and began the start of the cycle again. They checked for leaks and saw there were none. A rousing cheer for their efforts went up and talk of having decent bowel movements in a proper toilet, were brought up. Tonight was the night for picking up the panelling and the guys were going over anything they could think of that might happen and how to deal with it.

The tables were put back together and set on the floor, but cues and balls were still needed to play. Tom said he would pick some up in a day or two. No one questioned where he was going to get them, it was now generally understood by all, that if Tom said he was getting something, it was only a matter of when and no need to know from where.

They sat around and listened to Lenny tell them about Bennie and Lamont and the new connection made with them. JT called for a vote, to officially accept the new arrangements and it was passed unanimously. Having Tom as the club adviser for their new profession of merchandize distributors, gave a great sense of relief, knowing they weren't going in blind and facing all the unknown traps awaiting them. Tom would make sure that they always had a good supply of sleeping pills on hand and explained the need to let a sleeping dog lie, as they went about their business. He informed them how peanut butter and a few slices of bread, with the pills crushed on top, could quieten an entire pack of dogs if he needed to.

The door opened up and to everyone's amazement, Piney's dad, Stan, was standing there. They welcomed him in, but he waved them off and to their surprise, called JT to him. JT had no idea what it was about and went to the door and then outside. Piney went over quietly and got as close to the door as he could, to listen. His father's words were too quiet to hear, but the sound of JT beginning to cry, made him alarmed to what it was. He didn't know whether to walk away, or go out to him. Despite the infringement on his privacy, he couldn't bear to know his best friend was hurting badly, just yards away.

He walked out and saw his dad holding JT in his arms and consoling him. JT was weeping hard, the tears coming in steady streams, as JT continued to hold Stan's coat in his fists. Piney looked at his dad, his concern showing for his friend and his need to do something for him. Stan called him over with a nod of his head and Piney came over and gently put his hand on JT's shoulder. JT felt it and saw who it was, then turned to him immediately and continued to cry, as he held on to him.

"Piermont, JT's mother just passed away in hospital. She'd been suffering from complications, from her problems with drinking and she wasn't strong enough to fight anymore. Her sister called us, because we're the only ones she knows, to tell us about it and hoped we could let JT know."

Piney looked at his dad, the sadness he was feeling for JT, as much as when Lester died. His own heart broke down and felt the loss, as his mind played back moments he could remember with her. Stan patted the shoulders of both young men, as they stood in support of each other and walked inside the clubhouse again. The guys turned towards him, wondering what had happened and why JT and Piney didn't come back in. He came over to the bar and stood with them, summoning up his strength to speak to them. He saw the bottle of Jack Daniels and asked for a shot, happily hitting it back and wiping his mouth, before he looked at them.

"Guys, I have some bad news. JT's mother has just passed away. We got a call about an hour ago and his aunt told me the news about her. I just figured you guys would be here."

The guys were crestfallen, hearing the information about her death. They were lost in that moment, unable to come to terms with it and what response would be appropriate to JT. Lenny didn't care about frailties and appropriate measures and headed outside. He looked at JT and Piney sitting on the picnic table, Piney's arm over JT in comfort, both of them distraught by the news.

"JT, man, I'm so sorry about your mom. What happened?"

JT looked at Lenny, despite his size and strength, the softness in his eyes told him he was feeling the hurt he was, even though he'd never even met her. He knew in his heart, that that level of pain, could only come from the devotion and commitment Lenny had for him. He looked into Lenny's eyes with his tear soaked ones, seeing the soul and spirit of the man before him. For all his tears and sobbing, Lenny never thought less of his president, nor was he diminished in his eyes. 

For all that the club members looked to JT for strength in his leadership, they were eased to know he could temper that strength with a kindness and know he was leading them with heart and not just power lust.

The guys took strength from Lenny and soon followed him outside and into the scene of suffering. Clay seemed to understand better than anyone, what JT was feeling at that moment. For over seven months, he'd been waiting to feel the same, once his grandfather passed away. Several times already, he'd raced out to Stockton to be with him, his grandmother calling to say it could be his time, only to have him get past the episode and recover, keeping the suspense of grief in check until later.

He stood in front of JT and crouched down, so he could look up at JT's bowed face.

"JT, I know how hurt you are right now. I understand what you're feeling and going through. It hurts to know you'll never see her again, or talk to her, but if you think of her and not you, you'll see she's in a better place. I'm not going to get all preachy and shit, on ya, I ain't like that, but, you know in your heart, that she is. Lenny told me a while back, how you haven't really kept in touch with her, but we all know you really loved her, JT, we know that."

JT raised his head slightly, looking at Clay and feeling the understanding between them.

"You're a good son, JT. You loved your mom, like any good son would. Just 'cause we don't always see them as much as we should, doesn't make us bad guys. We just have lives we got to live and they know that. It's no one's fault that shit happens, man. We all gotta die at some time, we know that. This was just your mom's time to go, that's all. I love you, brother and I'll do whatever I can to help you get through this."

Clay's words did more for him than anything else at that point. JT raised his head up completely and looked at Clay and then the others, looking back at him. He felt a depth of connection with Clay, his words coming to him, with a strength of conviction in them, As much as every member's face held sadness and sympathy on it, Clay's words brought him past the grief and back to an understanding of himself, that he found the comfort in knowing, that he hadn't dishonoured his mother, by not seeing her as much, or taking better care of her.

He got off the table and hugged him tightly, getting the same in return from him. Any doubts about Clay were washed away from his mind and anything he already felt against him, he let it go from his thoughts. He felt the many hands of his brothers laid upon him in conjoined sorrow and loss, the weight of that burden, being lifted by them. 

They closed up the clubhouse and Stan said he'd meet them back at his place, once they got cleaned up. There was no real immediacy to be quick, knowing no matter how long they took, nothing would have changed, from the way it was at that moment. The bikes were ridden slowly, somehow in honour of the woman who had passed. They cruised into the lot and parked and the girls began coming out to greet them, but the somber expressions they wore, took any thoughts of happiness away.

A dower gloom hung over everyone, knowing the loss of a mother, was hard to take. What made it worse for JT, was the end of his past and any connection to it. They were all crowded into JT and Piney's room, when the door knocked and slowly opened. Jake stuck his head in and looked about at the faces everyone wore and knew a tragedy had struck.

Jake noticed the focus was on JT and his heart sank. JT looked at him and knew he was suffering hard. His face softened into a look of empathy and compassion, as they looked at each other.

"What happened, son?"

"Mom died, Jake. This morning. I didn't even know she was sick. She's gone, Jake, my mom is gone."

Jake walked in and took hold of JT's cut and pulled it slightly. JT was breaking down again, as the thoughts rushed in to haunt him again.

"Come JT, take a walk with me, son. I think you need to get a lot out right now and I know you can't do it with your friends all around you."

JT nodded his head, as the tears he was doing his best not to shed, spilled down his cheeks. He went out with Jake and they walked towards the road, all eyes watching them from the room. The pair stopped just beyond the hedge and out of sight, but even behind walls and closed windows, JT's wailing could be heard by all of them.

Jake knew he had to let it all out of him, as JT sank to his knees and continued wailing and railing at the skies. He caressed his head softly, not saying a word, letting JT have the healing relief of grieving openly. Once JT had finished the greater part of his sorrow, Jake helped him stand and hugged him tightly, feeling JT respond and connect. He understood the guilt he was feeling, not being a better son, he knew losing her, was JT's severance with his birth into this world and all connection to it. Despite his age, JT had become orphaned, alone in the world now, with no roots, or history.

Jake knew from his own life, what that meant to a man, in his heart, in his soul. He waited until JT was standing under his own strength and then led him down the road, to begin voicing all his heart was feeling and come to terms with the reality of it. Jake made the offer of helping with arrangements and JT said he wanted his mother to be buried next to his dad, if it was possible. Slowly, with each step, JT came closer to his future and walked away from his past.

The others began talking of flowers and headstones, the coffin something the girls felt they knew would be best for his mother. No one had a clue how to pay for it all, but it became an onus they wanted to bear the weight of and spare JT any further anguish, in dealing with it. They knew it came down to favours being called in and favours to be done. The girls had whispered conversations of clients at the club they danced at, going beyond the bounds they normally lived by and talked of sexual services.

The guys had to take a walk outside to discuss other means of raising the much needed cash. Piney spoke to Chico, in front of the others, knowing it was all about club business, despite the personal loss by their president.

"Chico, we need to do a big run and fast. You heard what we need to get and it doesn't take a whole lot, to know this is going to be big money to cover it. Get a hold of your cousins and tell them you need to do another run and this time it's huge. We're taking Wally this time and doing the trunk run, like we thought of before. If it can hold as much as I think it can. This will make us the money we need and more, which is good all around for everyone."

They all looked at Chico with expectancy. The idea was clearly a yes from them all, as he looked at their faces. He looked away to a spot no one occupied and thought, rubbing his chin, as he thought of what he knew.

"Okay, okay, if we take Wally, we have to do a couple of runs from the drop off, back to where Wally can park the car. If we get there a little earlier, we can clear the path a little better, so no one gets hurt this time."

Eyes turned to Keith and all agreed it would be wise to make it safer, but at the same time, keep it disguised. 

"How much should I say we're getting?"

Piney looked around at everyone and announced the weight.

"Five hundred pounds."

Whistles and gasps flew, hearing the number and quick minds figured out the end amount of money. 

"Shit Piney. You know how we get it over the border, man. It'll take hours to get that much over in one shot. Two pounds a piece means catching two hundred and fifty of those fuckers and running them back to Wally, wherever he ends up sitting."

"Lenny, unless you have something to throw down instead to make this money, we're out of options. Anyone got something, anything, we're all listening?"

Piney looked at everyone, an expectancy that someone would have something better, but heads were blank of thoughts and ideas.

"Chico, make the call now and get things started. We'll have to map out the route for Wally, so he doesn't get lost. It's best if we go in first and get started on our end and Wally can get there an hour later, that way no one puts us all together. Like we talked about before, Wally will be after us and he'll follow behind. If anyone is going to get any attention, we will, so Wally can keep going and make it to Oakland and do the drop. We'll be clear of anything, so we'll get a pass and be back on the road."

Chico spoke up, before anyone else did, feeling what he was going to say, to be of consequence.

"Amigos, listen up. You know last time we had a fly by from our friendly border patrol, we had everything timed for that. We're going to need to figure out how long it's going to take to shoot those things over, before we have a visit. We can't be spotted by them, or we can just sit and wait until the patrol gets us, because we'll never get out of there, before they arrive. One thing you might be forgetting as well, mi hermanos, not only do we have our side watching for shit, the other side is watching as well. Mexico is getting pressure from our government, to stop the flow of drugs coming in, so they're going to try and make it harder to get shit across, including people."

The last part of what Chico said, had them wondering what he meant. Otto was the most interested and needed to know what he was talking about.

"Chico, what do you mean people?"

"Mexicans, mi amigo, wetbacks as you call them. I was lucky enough to be born on this side of the border, that's the only reason I'm American. Mi mama, she made it across in time to give birth to me on U.S. soil. Many wish to come here, many don't make it. They are willing to pay to get across, whatever way they can. The border is being patrolled more and more, making it harder to find spots to cross. Some are making a fortune, off the life savings of these people. If I could find a way to do it, I would make sure many come here and find better lives."

"How much money does it cost, to get across?"

Keith's question had the others wondering as well.

"Five hundred dollars per head. They arrange to meet at a certain spot on the other side, then they bring them over in the middle of the night."

"How many come at a time?"

"As many as the car, truck, bus, whatever, can hold. It's a thirty mile dash to freedom, muchachos. They get dropped off in a safe area and they have to find a way to get from there, to where they want to go."

"Wait, you're telling me it's five hundred a head and it's as many as the thing will hold? So even taking five or so, that's twenty five hundred bucks right there."

"Si, there is much money to be made doing it, but the risk is just as high. It's some serious time in prison for importing illegals into the country. Just cross with some shit you don't declare and see how much they get in your face about it. How do you think they'd feel about bringing in a hundred illegals in a night?"

"Shit, fifty grand, man. Fifty fucking grand. Imagine making that in one night?"

Everyone tried to imagine Wally's words and what fifty grand was even like to see in their hands, at one time. It sparked a light in every one of them, a light that would continue to glow, with the desire to make it glow its brightest, when making that amount became a reality. Piney brought it back to the present quickly, not letting any of them drift off into thoughts of it.

"That ain't happening anytime soon, so let's focus on what we do have on the table and that's making this run as profitable as we can. I think we need to see just how much weight Wally can take, without looking like his bumper is scraping. I know that trunk is big enough to hold it all, just wondering if the shocks and springs can handle it."

"I can put some helpers on the leafs and that will stiffen them up and take more weight. Okay, I have an idea. Piney, Keith and Lenny, you weigh at least six hundred or more pounds in all, so you guys get in the back and that'll be the weight of the dope and more."

That made sense and they squeezed into the back seat and everyone looked it over, to see how much clearance was left. Tom had a thought and asked Wally to open the trunk. Wally opened it and then Tom asked the three to stand in the trunk together. They stepped in and held on for support. Now they saw that the weight hanging over the axle, made it drop twice as much.

The three jumped out and the Chev went back to it's normal height.

"Yeah, thought that might happen. If all the shit is in the trunk, it's going to bring the ass end down real low and they'll know you're carrying something heavy. Let's get those helpers and we can put those on. I'd like to ride with you Wally, if that's okay with you guys?"

"Fuck yeah, Tom. If your bike was up and running, you'd be riding with us. For sure come with Wally and help keep an eye out for shit."

"Cool, give me a chance to use those binoculars I picked up."





Redwood Nine Ch. 13



"What binoculars?"

"Last week. Thought I was getting electronics. I saw the ics at the end, in the dark and thought that was one of the boxes. Turns out it was optics and there was a case of the things inside."

"I could do with a pair of those."

"Sure, Piney. Anyone else?"

Every hand went up and Tom knew to just bring the case and let everyone help themselves. No one wanted them and he couldn't unload them any where, so he was happy to be rid of them and ultimately, come to good use and help the club as well.

The guys were standing around smoking cigarettes, when the door opened and Lorraine came out. She came to Lenny and walked him away from the others and began discussing something in hushed tones. Lenny's loud exclamation of 'WHAT', made everyone look at them closely. They walked further away and Lenny was obviously blown away with whatever Lorraine told him, but he was also smiling about it, as well. He was shaking his head, as he walked back to the others, smiling bigger and bigger.

Lorraine didn't stop, but kept walking back into the unit and closed the door. The click of the latch, once again brought attentions turning from a woman, back to the guy responsible, for the answers. Lenny looked at the faces, waiting to see what he had been told and saw faces in the window looking out at him, waiting to see what happened when he told them the news.

"Okay, the girls say they can raise most of the money in a week. Now, here's how they figure on raising it. The girls, while they're at the club they dance at, make extra on the side, doing, ahem, favours for guys. They know what kind of money they can make between now and a week's time, doing that. Now, what they're going to do, I have no fucking idea, man, but they said they want some protection, just in case, because none of them have done this kinda shit before, so they'd like us to watch their backs, while they do their thing and get paid. What do you think of that?"

Every guy looked at his brothers, then all heads turned towards the window, faces vanishing behind closed curtains. 

No one knew how to start that off, still coming to terms with their women doing things with other guys. Lenny looked at them, stuck in indecision and gave his thoughts.

"Guys, it's like this. The girls love us, that's obvious, right? I mean, they wouldn't be doing this kind of shit, if it wasn't for us, right? Whatever they decide to do for money, is their business, not yours, as long as they come back to you every night whole and not getting fucked up out there. I got a lot of feelings for Lorraine, you know that. Shit, we been through all kinds of shit and we're still together. I figure it's because she knows I care about her and even though she fucks up some times, she knows I can forgive her, just like she does for me. Otto and Piney will tell you straight, I've let more guys than you can imagine feel her tits and it's nothing. She wants to fuck some guy, it's her business, not mine. I can tell her not to, beat the fucking shit out of her and tell her not to, but you know what? She's going to fuck that guy, whether I know, or not. Women are like that. We're like we are. Tell me a sweet piece of ass doesn't lay her tush in your lap and says she wants you to fuck her silly and you're going to say no? I don't care how much you say you love Cindy, or Gloria, or Mary, or whoever, you know, you're going to go for it and hit it hard. Fuck the consequences. Right then, it's all about your cock and her pussy and you wanting to fill that gash up with every drop of your cum. Call me a fucking liar, I dare ya to."

No one could, because they all knew they would and have in the past. They had a rethink of things, after coming at it from a different perspective.

"Guys, isn't anyone looking at the big picture here?"

They looked at Lenny and waited to see what they were missing.

"It was only a half hour ago, we figured out how to make a shit load of money to cover the costs for JT. It'll cost fifteen bucks for the helpers and ten minutes to put them on. It's another twenty, if Wally wants to get heavy duty shocks for it. We could load close to a half ton in the back and it wouldn't show. We know that's going to give us a huge amount to bank for the club and shit and then we can try to do it that way more often. The girls, doing that shit for us, come on. Steady cash. They can make tons of daily for us and they can stop anytime, right? But hey, they stop, doesn't mean we can't hire new talent to replace them, riiiiight?"

That instantly made all the sense in the world, after Lenny's explanation. Heads started wrapping around the idea of sexually active women and a steady cash flow, no one finding anything objectionable to the idea. As they stood pondering ideas about it, they saw Jake and JT coming back down the road to them. JT seemed more in control of himself and Jake was telling him things, JT nodding, giving them hope the worst was over for their president. Piney went to them, while they were out of earshot and joined them the last few hundred feet, asking his friend how he was doing.

JT threw an arm over Piney's shoulder and found the gift of a smile in himself, as he neared his brothers, who stood in worry of him.

"I'm okay, man, thanks. I just needed to get it out of me. It just hurts the most, not knowing, or having the chance to see her one last time. I gotta have some time, Piney, sort all this shit out and what's happening. Jake knows what I mean. I can't be leading the club and dealing with all this. I need you to run things for a while."

"Me run things? Shit JT, I don't know how to run all this."

"Lenny will help you, trust him, okay. I just can't do it right now. Jake's going to help me out with my mom whatever way he can, so I feel better, knowing I can lay her to rest properly."

Piney looked at his best friend, coming to terms with what was and the past fading into memories of who he was. It was a time of transition for him, the strings of family severed from his reality, leaving him adrift in the world and he needed to get back on course.

"I'll do it JT. Lenny knows the deal. Are you up to some good news?"

JT looked at Piney, his normal gruffness smoothed out to a gentleness on his face, that said there was something to smile about, amidst all the gloom.

"Sure, Piney. Let's hear some good news, buddy."

Piney slung his arm over JT's shoulders and walked him over to the guys and stood with them. The curtains were moving slightly, female eyes looking at the scene twenty feet away. Piney began explaining the need for Jake to go and be with Marlene and he knew things were being planned, that weren't in accordance with the law and hoped they weren't planning anything that would end in the situation being far worse, than it was.

Once the door closed to the office, Piney began explaining the new run down and the amount they were coming back with. That shocked JT out of his grief and made him focus on what they were planning. Lenny and Chico said they would take care of everything and explained to JT, how they had thought out the new route, the path getting cleared and making sure the air patrol was figured out. The risks were big, but the rewards were greater, if they pulled it off. JT asked about guns and Piney said they wouldn't need them, the run looking like what it was, nothing else. 

When Piney thought JT was up to speed on the run, he looked at the others and told him what the girls were thinking of doing. JT shook his head and looked stunned by the announcement. Piney calmed him down again and Lenny jumped in at that point and explained it the way he had before. JT listened to his reasoning and it made sense that way, but he wasn't sure if he was good with Suzy, or the others giving themselves up like that, for the sake of money.

When the guys faces turned to the unit, with the girl's faces looking back at them, it was time for them all to talk about it. Despite some faces peering out of other units, wondering why the congregation was happening outside, they came together, as couples, assuring them that they still were and not to worry.

Talking about what they were willing to do, or at least try, had the guys thinking again, as they looked at them and imagined them doing things with strange men, the same things they had enjoyed doing with them. Thoughts changed expressions, as they looked at their women, coming to a harder realization of what they were thinking of letting them do. Eyes searched in their partners eyes, searching for an answer that might be there, somewhere after it all went down. Would they still feel the same about each other? Would they be able to get past what their woman had done with others? Would it be worth the cost in love, to make a financial gain from it? 

Suzy spoke out for the girls, letting their side of things be heard, before a decision was made. She knew JT was hurt by the thought of it, despite the well meaning intentions for his benefit.

"Guys, listen. I know this is freaking you out, but think about it? All of you guys have seen us naked and let's face it, seen us having sex. Most of the girls are getting naked for guys every day and no one says a thing. All of us have made a little extra, letting guys have a little feel, or stroked some of their cocks. It's part of the business, always has been. All we're saying, is that, we're willing to step it up a notch and just do it for the money, that's it, that's all. It's a half hour, in and out and he's gone. All we want is for you guys to protect us, so no one hurts us, or tries to skip out on paying."

She could see that the guys were thinking about it, the girls not doing anything one way or the other, to persuade them.

"If you guys say no, that's okay, it's cool. We don't have to do it. We just thought it was a good way to make some fast money for JT's mom. Baby, you're the one that needs to say yes or no, not me. I'm okay with whatever you decide, I want you to know that."

JT looked at Suzy, her eyes showing her trust and belief in him, then looked at the other girls and saw a similar look in their eyes. The weight of decision immediately felt crushing, having so many lives to be responsible for. He wasn't sure he could bear that burden, trying to add it to the one he was already dealt with. 

He looked at his brothers and knew what they were ready to put themselves through, for him. Everything kept coming back to him and his choice of leading them, grew heavier and heavier with responsibility, with each thought he had about them. At that moment, he became lost in his world and fell out of touch with it. 

He looked at the eyes looking at him and he knew they could see him failing. Whatever strength was in him, was fading rapidly and leaving him weak and vulnerable to his emotions, ones now spinning out of control. He lost his reasoning, his logic, his focus on everything. Nothing was right at that moment, nothing he really wanted was happening, it was all skewed around by things out of his control. The more he looked at their faces, the more his illusion of being their leader faded.

He saw it on their faces, as he crumbled to the ground, unable to face anything else coming at him. Nothing Piney said, seemed like good news and even the club going all out for him, left him feeling guilty. The entire world caved in on him at that moment, consuming his entire being. Suzy knelt beside him, stroking his hair, her own tears flowing abundantly. She looked about at them, a need for help being given.

The group stood and looked at him, on his knees before them, unsure what to do, as he sobbed once more into an oblivious state. Piney didn't care what was going on in his mind at that moment, all he was concerned about was his best friend lying on the ground helplessly. He scooped him up in his arms and carried him to his unit. Lenny opened the door and Piney laid JT down as gently as he could on the bed and Suzy laid beside him and cuddled in behind him, holding him close. Piney and Lenny didn't need to be told and left Suzy to tend to JT. They closed the door as quietly as they could and went to join the others.

The faces spoke all that was needed to be said. Lenny and Piney looked at them all and showed their disappointment in them, their faces saying the man inside grieving, had lost face with them.

"That man in there is my best friend and I know what kind of man he is. I look at you all standing here and I can see you thinking he's weak and not a good leader. How much is one man supposed to bear on his shoulders, before he crumbles, like he just did. I know some of that is my own doing, by being stupid enough to tell him about you women. I should never have said anything. The run we have to go on, is more than he can bear doing at this point. More than anything, he needs our support, not more problems to worry about. We fucked up, plain and simple. We put him over the edge and that's why he's in there like that now, not because he's weak."

Piney stood there like an angry bear, ready to battle anyone who disagreed with him. No one wanted to, no one felt they had anything they could say against it, for they all felt the guilt. It was a guilt born of selfish feelings, of monetary gain, as the end result. As much as intentions were good, the moment to bring them about, was completely wrong. 

Suzy was doing her best to calm her lover beside her. His sobs had subsided to softer whines and whimpers, as thought after thought invaded his mind and tortured him. Beaten into emotional submission, JT wanted nothing more than to vanish and become invisible. Through course sobs, he tried to relay his feelings to Suzy, his only need, to be at peace in the world he was in. Suzy knew her man had lost all sense and reason about himself and nothing she could do, could help him. Her own tears fell hard and heavy, knowing she had to accept part of the blame, for speaking out so casually about doing sex for money.

JT lay there a broken man, having been pushed beyond his limit to bear so much weight and crumbled under the burden of it. She got up and went outside and waved Piney over to her.

"I don't know what to do, Piney? Nothing I say or do, seems to help him. All he said he wants, is some peace from all of it. He wants to disappear, or something, just make it all go away. Piney, what should we do?"

Piney stood looking down at the helpless woman, half his size, but equal, in caring for the man inside suffering. He tried to think of what his friend needed and suddenly walked away from Suzy and over to Wally.

"Wally, I need your car, man. I need to take JT somewhere, so he can get over this. He's hurting man, bad, real bad. Make me a map, so I can get there."

Wally understood Piney's need and tossed him the keys. He went and brought the car to the door of the unit and left it running, as he went in to get JT. Everyone waited, held in suspense and disbelief of everything happening, as they watched their president being carried in the arms of Piney, out to the car. Suzy opened the back door and Piney laid JT on the seat and helped him get in. Suzy closed the door and ran around to the other side and got in beside him. 

"I'm taking him to see Moon. I don't know anyone else right now, who can help JT find the peace he needs."

The guys put the words peace and Moon together and knew Piney was making the right choice. He jumped in the car, looking at them with concern. Wally finished drawing a crude map and pointed out landmarks to watch for. Piney thanked him and looked at Lenny.

"You're in charge Lenny, keep this shit together, until I get back. We don't need anything else happening, to make things worse."

Lenny understood Piney's concerns and assured him he'd be on top of everything, then Piney pulled out of the lot and headed towards Calaveras. The guys and girls stood still, the sense of shock still holding them to their places. In a matter of hours, the day had gone from one of a positive outlook, to one of great pain and misery and nothing they said or did, made it change the direction it was going in.

As they stood talking about it, nothing they said, seemed to ease the guilt they felt, knowing they hadn't thought of the ramifications of their words to him. JT was feeling bad enough about his mother already, compounding his own guilt onto the loss, then hearing how the guys wanted to do a run that was far beyond what they had done and were prepared for, the burden of responsibility for them all, landing on his shoulders, to make sure they made it there and back whole. It was hearing how the girls would cheapen themselves for money, despite their intentions and reasons for wanting to do it.

He couldn't bear the thought of seeing them having sex with strange men, allowing themselves to be plundered for all of their worth, giving away all that was good about them. He knew in his heart, if he agreed to it, he would forever damn himself, for treating a woman he cared about, in such a low manner. Realizing how callous they were towards JT in his time of suffering, the good intended thoughts, became more like insults to them. They put themselves in JT's position and imagined what it must be like to be in his shoes and walking the mile of misery he was.

Piney had to make several course changes and go a different direction, but he started seeing the landmarks Wally described and knew he was on the right road. The gate at the end, was just as Wally had said and he knew, with a growing sense of relief, he hoped he had found the peace that his friend needed. He drove down the lane and stopped at the door. It burst open and Azure came running out to greet them, thinking it was Wally. She never even made a motion to cover herself, now following Golden's directions to be naked and be one with nature. Piney stared at her nudity, as she stood close to the car, unable to avoid enjoying something so pleasingly presented to him.

Piney got out and Azure looked perplexed why he was driving and Wally wasn't. Piney tried to keep his eyes above shoulder height as he spoke to her, but they dropped several times, to glance at Azure's bountiful display of her breasts. 

"Go get Moon, Annie, JT needs him bad."

Azure looked in the back seat and saw Suzy comforting JT to her and ran in, holding her breasts, to stop them from bouncing around wildly. Moon came running out to them, after hearing Azure's cries for him to come. He opened the door and looked at JT, curled up in the seat, divorcing himself from the world around him. He looked at Suzy, his face a mix of worry and compassion, as he helped her out and went in beside him. Suzy went in with Azure, unconcerned about her nudity and into the living room. It took her a second to look around to shake her from her state of mind and toss her into one of equal concern. 

Everyone was sitting around in the nude, waiting for her to come in and then came to her. They welcomed her, just as they had before, except now the people she hugged, were stark naked and pressing themselves to her. She looked at Star and saw him before her, waiting to greet her, then felt the arousing sensations inside, as her eyes saw his toned body and exposed manhood. Nervously, she held him and felt his body pressed to her. So many thoughts rushed about in her head at that moment, lust, desire, guilt, remorse and the longer she held him, the more she felt. She let him go and Phoenix was next. His body was even more defined and muscular, yet despite knowing it would cause her more unrest, her eyes had to look at what was between his legs. He was endowed with something much thicker and longer than Star, or JT, making her breathe in quickly, in surprise. He eyes shot up quickly to his face, but her guilt showed, as she hugged him and accepted his welcoming to her.

Moon was helping JT in, holding his arm over his neck and assisting him with every step. They all rushed towards him, concerned about his state of well-being, but Moon waved them off. He helped JT up the stairs and into his bedroom, then laid him on the bed and sat on the side, letting JT find his own comfort in himself. He patted his shoulder and told him he'd be right back and left him in the room.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 01



Chapter 1: Eye For an Eye 

The guys could hear the sirens screaming out the emergency, as they sat in the clubhouse, discussing tonight's run to Stockton. They paid no mind to them, nor could they hear the phone constantly ringing in the office of the garage. 

Cindy hung up the phone, once more dialling the number for the garage, in hopes someone would pick up and she could tell them the news. Only Lorraine stood with her in the office, while the others were outside, consoling one another, the sight their eyes had just held, blanketing their minds with the horror.

The first car to pull in, was patrolman Mark Mason, heading for the group of girls. He stopped and got out and was immediately set upon by them, as they all tried to tell him what happened. Despite the chaotic confusion, he picked up all the key words he needed to hear. Murder, gun shots, dead, office.

He made his way past the girls and headed into the office area and saw Cindy and Lorraine on the phone. Mason looked at them and they both pointed in the direction of the living quarters. He went past them and went inside, looking around for any signs of a crime and found none. He walked in further and looked about, then saw the bodies in the bed. He rushed to Marlene and checked her pulse, then went around to Jake and did the same to him. 

He rushed back out, up to the girls on the phone.

"Have you called for an ambulance?"

Cindy and Lorraine both nodded, looking at the officer with terrified eyes, as they waited for anything else.

"One of them is still alive and if that ambulance doesn't get here soon, she won't make it."

The girls put it together instantly on his admission of the sex. Marlene was still alive. The officer ran back into the bedroom and did his best to stem the flow of blood, to buy her as much time as he could. Despite the location of the bullet wounds, Mason put his hands over Marlene's ample breasts and applied pressure to the entry wounds, doing his best to keep the blood from staining the white sheets any further. He breathed a small sigh, as he heard the ambulance's siren coming up the road.

Not long after, two more police sirens could be heard and Mason breathed a bit easier again, knowing he could start investigating the crime. The voices let him know the attendants were in the office and he called for them to come back. They wheeled the stretcher in and the first one rushed to the bed.

"He's gone, this one's just barely hanging on. She's been shot twice, I got my fingers in the wounds, stopping the flow."

The other attendant came in with his emergency kit and opened it, taking out everything he'd need. Mason readied his one hand, so the attendant could pull away the sheet and the other could apply a clotting agent and compress. They counted it off and they all moved together, with only a few seconds taken to apply the agent and cover it with the compress. Once again, they readied themselves and the hands all moved as fast as they humanly could and bared the other blood soaked breast, sealing the wound and applying the compress. 

IV lines were run and readied, then they pulled the sheet back and exposed Marlene. Critical situation, or not, male eyes couldn't help but quickly take in the sight of her beautiful and sensual body. Hands went under her and shortly, she was transferred to the gurney and the IV lines installed. Oxygen was started and a mask was put over her face. No more than ten minutes after arriving, the ambulance attendants were leaving with Marlene and putting her in the back of the Pontiac ambulance. The siren and lights were started and the driver wasted no time in getting out of there and on towards St Thomas Hospital. 

The two police cars raced into the lot and pulled up to the girls, still standing in front of the office. Lorraine and Cindy gave up trying the garage and stood with them, as Mason came out, wiping his bloodied hands with a paper towel. He waited until the two officers joined him and they went inside. They were in for five minutes, then they all came out again. Mason called Lorraine and Cindy over, knowing they were calling someone, when he went in the first time.

Lorraine recognized Unser and showed recognition to him, remembering what Lenny had said about him before, when he was let go and Wayne had covered his costs of new pants.

"Okay, now one at a time, you first. What's your name?"

"Cindy, Cindy MacDonald."

"Okay Cindy, did you make the call?"

"Yes."

"So you were the first to see them?"

"No. Lorraine was. Everyone was screaming, but I ran and called from the office."

Cindy pointed at Lorraine and then looked at the girls. Mason looked at Lorraine next.

"So you were first to see them? What's your name?"

Nervously, Lorraine looked at the officers, as she summoned up her courage to talk about it.

"Yes. I'm Lorraine Nelson. We were sitting in our room talking, all of us girls, when we all heard these sounds that we thought were firecrackers going off, so we all came outside to see. We saw a guy come out of the office and run to his car and he took off fast, squealing his tires."

Mason, Unser and Kiligrew, all became interested at that point. Mason asked the all important questions, after hearing the news.

"What did this man look like?"

Lorraine thought for a moment and recited her memories.

"I remember he was tall and had a good body, like over six feet tall and he worked out, or something. He had a blue sports coat and black pants and I think his hair was dark too. Anyway, he jumped in this black Caddy, a really, new one and took off, out that way and then he disappeared and I don't know where he went."

Mason looked back at Cindy.

"Do you remember what happened, Cindy? Did you see what Lorraine did?"

"Yeah, just like that. I remember him the same way. Never saw his face or anything."

"I don't suppose either of you, or the others happened to catch a plate number?" 

Both Lorraine and Cindy shook their heads.

"We were down at unit fourteen, when it happened and we saw the guy. It was too far to make out any numbers or anything."

"Okay, look, thanks girls. You've been a great help. Stick around here and don't leave the motel, we'll need to ask you and the others more questions."

Lorraine turned to Wayne and asked him what was on all their minds, as Mason went to his cruiser and radioed in all the information he had been given.

"Officer Unser, could you do us a huge favour?"

"Sure, Lorraine, what is it?"

"We were trying to get a hold of the guys to tell them, but no one is answering down at the shop. Could you go and let them know what's happened? They're probably in the clubhouse."

"Sure, no problem. Are they all there?"

"Most of them, I think."

"Okay, I'll head over there right now. Kiligrew, seal off the area and take some measurements of the tracks in the gravel and the skid marks out on the street. We got to find out who this guy is and get him off the streets. I'll be back in a minute and we'll start figuring out just what the hell happened here."

Kiligrew went to the trunk of his squad car and took out his kit, taking out the necessary items and went to the door and began taping it off with yellow tape.

"Wayne."

Unser turned back to Lorraine, hearing his name called.

"Thanks. We'll all feel better having the guys here with us."

"Sure, Lorraine, you're welcome."

Lorraine's smile at him, made him feel a modicum of happiness, seeing and hearing a recognition of him as a person and not just a cop. He smiled back and got in his car and headed down the road to the clubhouse, running everything over in his head, trying to come up with an easy way to break the news to them and not deal with the aftermath of hostile emotions.

The guys were smoking a couple of joints, when they heard a pounding at the door to the clubhouse. Piney went over and checked it out, opening the door and saw Wayne Unser standing there. Piney took immediate reaction and slammed the door shut. He whispered as loud as he could to put the dope away, that it was Unser outside. No matter how well they stashed the dope, the lingering aroma of the herb hung heavy in the air. The door was pounded on again and Piney knew he had no choice, but to answer it.

He opened the door and stood holding it, waiting for what Wayne had to say.

"Piney, I don't care about the pot you're smoking in there, I need to come in and talk to you guys. Wanna let me in?"

"What about?"

Wayne looked at Piney, trying to decide what to tell him it was about.

"Nothing good, but you gotta hear it anyway."

Piney didn't like the tone of voice or the look Wayne gave him, as he let him in. The guys sat around looking guiltier, than the innocence they were trying for. Wayne almost laughed, if it wasn't for what he had to say. He looked around and noticed one person missing, one he knew would need to hear his news.

"Where's JT?"

"Here's not here right now, Wayne."

"I guess you'll have to tell him then, when he does come back."

"Tell him what, Wayne?"

Wayne looked around at everyone, their faces waiting for the news he had to tell them. He knew once he finished, the looks he was getting now, would change to ones he didn't want to see. He took a deep breath and readied himself for the repercussions.

"Just had a call, to respond to a shooting at the Starlight Motel. I just came from there. Girls want you to get back there to them, they're kinda freaked out, if you know what I mean?"

The guys looked stunned at first, hearing about a shooting at the motel and then hearing how the girls might be involved. Piney spoke their pressing questions to him.

"What happened? Who got shot?"

Unser looked nervous, as he began telling them what happened.

"About an hour ago, we got a call from Cindy. She called to say there had been a shooting at the motel. We arrived and found two people lying in the bed, two shots to the chest each. One is still hanging on and may or not make it, but the other one died at the scene."

"Who was shot, Wayne?"

Wayne could see the faces filled with dire concern, as to who it was. He couldn't look any of them in the face, when he told them.

"The woman, Marlene Brock, she's the one who's in St. Thomas right now. I'm sorry guys, Jake didn't make it."

"Fuck! What the fuck, Wayne? Jake's dead?"

"I'm afraid so, Piney. I can't say anything else at this point. I just came down, because the girls need you back there right now."

There was no more need of words, to make the guys spring into action and rushed out the door to their bikes. Wayne went to his cruiser and waited, as the bikes started pulling out in a line and headed towards the motel. The guys weren't heeding any of the rules of the road, as they sped through the first two stop signs and were speeding up. Wayne hit the siren and pulled around them, escorting them there.

The girls were still in a highly distraught state, unable to come to terms with everything. They froze instantly, hearing the bikes coming down the road, then got up and rushed outside. The guys saw them and rode towards them, as Unser shut off his lights and pulled up to the office again. The guys stopped their bikes and dismounted, immediately needed for comforting hugs. They gave them a moment to feel secure and had to ask what they knew.

Lorraine explained everything she had seen and told the officers, when the black, panel truck pulled into the lot. Everyone saw the word Coroner on the side and the reality came crashing in harder. Piney and Lenny headed up to the office, hoping to find out anything else, as the gurney was unloaded and taken inside. They waited for a bit, hearing the gurney hitting the walls, as they tried getting it outside again. They stopped at the back of the truck and Mason had them wait.

"Do you two know the man who was shot, Jacob Harding?"

Piney and Lenny said they did and Mason asked the attendants to open the zipper on the black body bag.

"Can you identify this man as him?"

Piney and Lenny looked at the face that appeared and knew it was Jake. Once again, Piney stared at the face of death of a loved one. He knew in his heart, the pain he was feeling at that moment, that he did feel a love for the deceased man before him. His voice started breaking, as he answered.

"It's him, it's Jake."

Lenny nodded to affirm it and the attendant zipped it closed again and loaded Jake and the gurney into the back. Once it was locked into place and the doors closed, it pulled out of the lot and Piney could feel something leaving him and going with it. Mason clasped Piney's arm and said thanks, as the officers walked to the cruisers and talked about all they knew at this point. The pair stood looking at the black panel truck vanishing down the road, then Lenny turned to Piney and hit him with a question, that took his breath away, like being punched.

"How do we let JT know about this, Piney? He's already freaked out enough and this is going to make him go ballistic, man."

Piney heard the words, each one unfathomable to the weight they carried. They felt like a ton of steel loaded on his shoulders, with each one. At this point, even he felt like he would lose it like JT and go off the deep end. 

"I have no idea, Lenny. No idea at all. I just dropped him off a few hours ago and he was a total wreck and I mean he was out of it. I have no idea what Moon has done for him, if anything at this point. How do I tell him this? It'll fuck his head up so bad, he'll never be right again."

They stood there for a minute thinking, until the voices calling them, got their attention. They saw everyone waiting by the unit, anxious to hear of anything they knew. Slowly they walked down to them, Piney feeling like he was walking the last mile.

Piney told them there wasn't much else that they knew and identified Jake's body for the cops. Piney looked at Mary and hugged her tightly, kissing her head several times.

"I need to go see my parents again, Babe. I'll have to tell them about this and God, I hope they know what to do, because I'm fucking lost right now. I mean, what the fuck is happening?"

"I don't know, Piney, but I'm scared. I never seen a dead person before, not like that."

Piney understood, so did the others, as their women hugged them tighter at Mary's mention of being scared. Troubled times had befallen the club and Piney knew it was up to them at that point, to either pull it together, or call it quits. His own simple reasoning, told him he made a commitment to JT and the club and now he had to decide if it was worth honouring that commitment any further. He looked at the other guys, each one wearing the same cut and patch, each one committed like him, to the brotherhood they formed together.

He felt it was time to put it all to a test and see if what they started, was still something they believed in. 

"Wally, I need you to take Lenny and Mary to my parent's place."

Lenny and Mary looked at him, wondering why he wanted them going there.

"I need you two to explain this to mom and dad for me. I can't really ask anyone else to do it. I'm going out to Calaveras to see JT. This, is something only I can tell him."

No one could argue with that, no one wanted to. Wally nodded and patted Piney's back, as he went for his car. Lenny hugged Piney tightly, knowing what he was faced with doing and wished him well in telling JT. 

There were wishes by all of them, in hopes JT wouldn't be devastated by this. Uncertainty was worn on every face, as Lenny and Mary got in with Wally and took off, then Piney sat on his bike for a minute, gathering his thoughts, before he started it up and looked at every one, a mix of sadness and trepidation on his face. He rode way and off to Calaveras, to a destination he felt sicken his stomach more, with every mile he came closer to it.

Stan came to the door, after seeing Wally's car pull in the driveway. He welcomed them in and brought them into the living room, where Lorelei was knitting and watching The Rifleman, with him. He turned it off and had the three sit on the couch together, then asked if they'd like anything to drink. Lenny looked at the others and then to Stan.

"Have anything like Jack Daniel's in the house? I think we're going to need it, Stan."

Stan smiled at first, thinking it was a joke, but the somber faces told him the bottle was going to be necessary. Stan went to his cabinet and brought back a bottle of Canadian Club whiskey and four glasses. He sat a glass in front of them and poured a good amount in each, then waited with dreaded expectation, as to what they had to tell them.

"Something bad has happened and Piney asked us to come and tell you."

A wash of relief swept over both Stan and Lorelei, knowing it had nothing to do with Piney, but their concern was still present, hoping it wasn't about JT.

"What is it, Mary?"

Mary started to tell them and stuttered to a stop, unable to say the words from her mouth. Lenny knew she was doing her best to tell them, but she was too broken up to do it. He couldn't think of a gentle and easy way to say it and blurted it out.

"Stan, there was trouble at the motel. Someone came and shot Marlene and Jake. Marlene's in the hospital, they don't know if she'll pull through or not. Jake didn't make it, he died. They don't know who it was yet, but the girls gave them a description of the guy they saw and the car he was driving."

Stan and Lorelei were horrified by the news. They didn't know Jake very well, but for the short time they did, he had made an impression on them, about how he cared for the guys and took them in, how he showed such a great amount of respect to Lester, as well. More and more, the reality of the repercussions were being felt, as the news travelled. Lorelei couldn't figure out why Piney wasn't there telling them.

"Why couldn't Piney come and tell us this?"

Lenny looked at her and Stan, his face a look of concerned worry.

"He's on his way out to Calaveras to tell JT, right now. JT's so fu.., screwed up right now, we have no idea what this'll do to him."

The parents sat there putting what they knew JT's state to be in and from Piney's explanation of him breaking down and taking him out to see the hippies, they became frantic, thinking of what the news would do to him. The frustration of being unable to do anything, fell upon Stan and Lorelei as well, adding to the growing list of people involved and facing the same dilemma. 

"I'd like to stay, folks, but we have to get back to the others at the motel and the cops might still want to ask more questions."

"I understand, Lenny. Thanks for letting us know. We have no idea what to say, I'm afraid. All we can do is pray and hope the good Lord finds a way to sort it all out. You need anything, you let us know, okay?"

"We will, thanks. I just pray JT is going to be able to handle all of this. I know I'd have a hard time doing it."

Stan nodded his head in agreement, that what had befallen the young man in such a short time, was more than any man could imagine bearing the weight of. He hugged them all and then Lorelei did the same, giving more of her love and attention to Mary, feeling she needed that support. The three of them got back in the car and waved goodbye, as Wally pulled out and drove away. Stan went back in and looked at his wife. He could see she was barely holding it together herself, so much death and misery darkening her life. He went and hugged her tight and felt the urgency to never let go, until she let him know it was okay to.

Piney rode back along the same route as earlier, avoiding any of the wrong turns he made before and stopped at the gate. He sat idling for a moment, trying to muster all his head had gone over, for the last fifty miles. No matter what he came up with as a way to lead into it, it always ended the same way, miserably. With no other choice, but to face the inevitable, he put it in gear and rolled in slowly to the front of the house and stopped. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 01



Naked women came out to greet him and that was the last thing he needed at that point and discouraged any contact with them. His gruff manner put them off and they stood back from him, wondering why he was in that state.

"I need to see JT, where is he?"

"He's out walking with Moon, out there in the valley somewhere. Moon took him to mediate on the peacefulness and calm his spirit."

Piney saw a glimmer of hope, that JT wasn't as bad as he thought he was, hearing that he was out walking. The girls asked him to come inside and they'd make him something to drink and eat, if he was hungry. He asked for alcohol, in any form, but was told none was on the property. He asked for the next best thing and Suzy quickly rewarded him with a pre-rolled joint and a light. He took a deep draw and held it in, feeling it relax him to a much lesser state of distress, than he was in when he arrived. He never bothered to offer anyone else hit and smoked it by himself, feeling he deserved a whole one for all he'd been through already. Suzy could only imagine what it might be this time, that brought Piney back so soon. Whatever it was, it wasn't good news, judging by Piney's lack of smile, or any humour. 

He was finding a small modicum of peacefulness, as he sat in the old, red velvet arm chair, with his eyes closed. The girls sat away from him, letting him have his space and the need to let go of what was bothering him. His eyes shot open the moment he heard Moon and JT coming back in. They walked into the living room and JT was looking around for him. Piney was shocked at first, seeing JT and Moon both naked and exposed to him, but he could also see a sign of calm and peace had returned to JT as well. Seeing that made him bite back the words he had thought of to say and fought for new ones to say instead.

"Hey JT, I see you found the new lifestyle to your liking. How's that working out for you?"

JT was smiling at the words, clearly happy with where his head was, at that moment.

"It's the greatest feeling, Piney, you got to try it."

"I'll pass. I just don't feel the urge to let everything hang out and run around naked, dancing in the flowers and shit. I'm glad it makes you happy though. How are you, buddy, feeling a bit better about things?"

"Yeah Piney, I'm doing okay. Moon helped me sort it all out and I'll be coming back tomorrow. I just want to be somewhere else than back there, right now. Jake knows what I mean. I have to see him when I get back and see what he can help me with, to take care of mom."

Piney froze inside, not wanting to give anything away just yet. He was hoping for something to lead him into it and make it easier to say.

"Yeah, I can dig it, JT. It was just too much to deal with and everyone's sorry for dumping it on you like that."

"That's cool, Piney. I know they were just trying to help. It just fucked me up having everything hit me all at once and I didn't know how to handle it, when I was already fucked up thinking about mom."

Piney nodded, looking at the nothingness of space, his mind off in its own dimension at that point. He looked at Moon, putting as much of a smile on his face as he could.

"Could I talk to you, Moon? I want to know if you can help me with something too."

Moon welcomed him to join him and Piney got up and stopped, rubbing his hands on his pant legs.

"Could you do me a favour though? Could we not do the naked thing, I'm just not there yet."

"No problem, Piney, hang on."

Moon went over to the old rocking chair and took his robe off the back of it and pulled it over his head and let it fall and cover him, almost to the floor.

"Better?"

"Yeah, thanks."

"Alright, come. Tell me what's on your mind, Piney."

Piney walked up to JT and they one arm hugged each other and smiled, but Piney knew JT sensed trouble in his eyes, when he looked at him. He walked outside with Moon and strolled along the worn path to the fields. JT sat in the same armchair Piney was in earlier and relaxed, the fact his best friend was there now, making him even more at peace.

Piney waited until they were almost out of sight of the house, before he stopped and looked back and then to Moon. Moon waited, as he saw Piney collecting himself, knowing he had something of tremendous importance to unload.

"How's JT doing, Moon? Really. Is he ready to deal with shit yet?"

"He's over the worst of it, but he's still carrying a lot of hurt inside and it may be a while, before he's fully over the loss of his mother. I know that's not what you want to hear and want to ask me something else, am I right?"

Piney nodded, looking out at the valley and the hills beyond, as he readied himself to tell Moon the news.

"I came up here, because some seriously bad shit just happened at the motel and JT needs to know, but if I tell him, it could really fuck him up bad. I don't know what to do, Moon?"

"How bad is the news, Piney?"

"Bad, as bad as it fucking gets, Moon."

Moon looked at Piney squarely and could see in his eyes, Piney was fighting against some serious issues he was dealing with.

"Can you tell me? I might be able to help, if I know what it is, you have to say to him."

Moon could see a sign of hope in Piney's eyes and knew it was a chance to relieve himself of some, or all of the burden he was carrying.

"Not long ago, only a few hours actually, someone came to the motel and shot Jake and Marlene. Jake is dead and Marlene is barely hanging on. JT just told me he has to go and see Jake tomorrow and talk about stuff to do for his mom and how do I let him know this shit happened?"

Moon was devastated by the news. It was far beyond what he imagined it to be and was left reeling to begin thinking on how to tell JT about it, knowing his fragile state. Moon looked at Piney, then back at the house where JT was resting in a peaceful state, then looked off to a place of hope, one where he hoped to find an answer. What he had just learned about Jake, from JT, was that he was like a father to him, someone he had grown close to, admired, respected. He could tell from JT's choice of words, that he held strong feelings for Jake, ones he would call love.

Knowing how the loss of his mother hit him, he could safely assume just as much pain and anguish would be felt, knowing of Jake's passing as well. There was no choice of keeping it from him, he had to face his mother's funeral in a couple days and he'd know what happened then. Finding out that way, he could only imagine JT wanting to dig his own grave and jump in, cover himself over with dirt and die.

There was only the truth to be told, no matter what. All he wanted to come up with, was a way to tell JT and keep him from losing it. He looked up at the sky, the blue fading with the sun going down, searching it for the answer.

The scene at the motel had settled into an uneasy calm, as the reality of everything was accepted. Now, it was dealing with the aftermath of its effects. They huddled in one room together, the feeling of safety in numbers, giving the girls the only sense of security they had, despite the guys being there with them. Otto voiced his thought to everyone and the guys felt another hit to the spirit.

"Does Clay know about this yet? He's back out in Stockton, doing the college thing, isn't he?"

Once more, the aftermath of the tragedy, brought more hurtful thoughts to their minds. As they thought more on it, they realized Clay was just as close to Jake, as JT was. He'd been with him longer and had more history between them, but they weren't as sure of Clay's feelings for Jake, as they were with JT.

"His number is in the shop somewhere, I can go find it and call him, let him know."

Lenny nodded and thought on it, then decided he needed some distance from all of it and said he'd go do it. Lorraine was overly clingy and driving him crazy trying to deal with it, making him become edgy and he didn't want to lose it at this point, over something trivial. She eked whatever attention she could from him, before he left and pouted hard, as he went out and jumped down on the starter and fired up his bike. Some watched through the curtains, as he rode down the road to the shop, while others looked up to the office, to see what had transpired since they last looked.

The scene was ominously quiet, with no more sirens and flashing lights. No more police radios squawking on and off and garbled voices, or vehicles coming in and going out. Things seemed to be back to normal in a sense, except the knowledge of a murder still hung like a shroud over them.

Piney finished his cigarette and looked at Moon, hoping he'd searched the sky and everywhere else, to find the answer. He crushed it out on a rock and flicked it away with his finger, then spoke softly to ask.

"Did whoever it is, they are, give you an answer, Moon?"

Moon turned to Piney slowly and he saw the face of desperation pleading with him that he had.

"Yes, they have given me an answer, Piney. Not a magic one, that would somehow relieve us of this burden, but an honest and truthful one. No matter how I asked, the answer always came back the same. JT must know what has happened and know the truth of it. I asked for a way to tell him and not destroy the fragility of his spirit and the reply was always the same, tell him with love. Piney, no matter how we tell JT, it's always going to come down to the same thing said to him, Jake is dead, plain and simple."

Piney couldn't argue with any of what was said, nor could he deny whoever/whatever the reasoning of being honest. All it came down to, was their love of JT and sparing him any further injury to his soul and the love they had, was the only answer to their dilemma.

"So, how do we tell him, Moon? Can't just say, 'Hey JT, just thought you ought to know some asshole just came to the motel and shot Jake dead and Marlene's in hospital fighting for her life.', or is that what we're supposed to do?"

Neither of them knew JT had come out and walked over to them. He was just behind them, covered by the bushes between them. It wasn't until they heard someone trying to catch their breath, as though they were fighting to breathe, then a sickened cry wailed out. Moon and Piney were shocked by the sounds of extreme agony in his voice. They jumped up and pushed past the bushes, heading for the source of the sounds. They saw JT on the ground, his head between his knees, silently sobbing, then his head raised and he gasped in a deep breath and wailed as loudly as he could again, until the breath was spent and exhausted with grief.

They sat to either side of him and laid hands on him, but nothing took him away from that moment he was in. Moon and Piney could see the pain written clearly on his face, the tears pouring in rivers of salty anguish down his cheeks. He just sat and wailed, until his voice grew hoarse and ragged, then laid his arms on his knees and laid his head on them, his sobbing weakening, as he drained himself of any and all energy he had recently built up.

"JT, I'm so sorry, brother. I didn't know you were there, man. I didn't want you to find out like that, I didn't. I was asking Moon to help me find a way to tell you, so it didn't end up like this. Awww, man, I am so sorry."

Moon's soft voice spoke next and he accompanied it with a soft stroking of JT's hair.

"It is true, John. We were sitting here asking the spirits to find a way for us to break this news to you."

JT fought against the turmoil in his body and mind and asked them what happened. Piney knew that onus landed on him to explain and began, telling everything he knew had happened. He tried to tone it down and soften it, in any way he could, but the truth was the truth, no matter how much he tried to sweeten it. The final part of telling him they had to identify his body, had him shiver, knowing the reality of death was coming to him.

JT's sobs seemed to end suddenly and a different attitude seemed to be taking him over. He raised his head and one thing the both of them saw on JT's face, was rage, one that was growing with each breath he took.

"I know who it was, that killed Jake."

The pair were stunned by his announcement, knowing that even the police had no suspects yet. Piney looked at JT and watched him turn his face to him, the rage glaring out of his eyes.

"Fucking Clive Brock, that's who."

"How do you know it was him, JT? What makes you say that?"

JT's voice was pure malice in its tone, as he explained.

"Only one person would want to see Jake and Marlene dead and it's him. Gus told us they had a run in before and ended up in jail and Marlene told me Jake would never leave her, no matter what Clive threatened him with."

Piney understood JT's logic, knew in his heart, that he was more than likely right in his assumption, but he was still stunned at how he had put it together so fast, when everyone else was still reeling in shock about it.

"How do you know, JT? What makes you say it was him?"

"I know Moon, I just do. It's weird, but I feel like Jake just told me himself. I could hear his voice in my head telling me, it was him."

At first, Piney was going to pass it off as frivolous thoughts and realized how much power he'd seen first hand, when it came to what he'd seen already. He thought more on that and realized Jake's spirit could very well have come to him and told him. He looked about the scenery, the splendour of its beauty a backdrop to what lay unseen about them. He challenged his own beliefs and gave him the benefit of the doubt and accepted his explanation.

"Jake told you it was him, JT?"

JT's face had lost the sadness in it and was replaced with nothing more than vengeance, payback for the loss in his life, payback for the loss of his father figure's life. 

"As clear as you talking to me now, Moon."

"Then you must tell the police and have him arrested, JT."

JT's face was set in stony determination at that point, no more weakness of sad emotions engulfing him in misery. 

"Take me back, Piney. I need to deal with this."

Piney was unsure what JT meant, by dealing with it, but it was better than what he thought this was going to turn out like.

"Sure, JT. Go get your clothes on and you can ride with me on my bike."

JT needed nothing else to be said to him and he got up, wiping the grasses away, that had stuck to the bare flesh of his ass. He strode with absolute purpose towards the house and Moon and Piney followed after him. JT went in and up the stairs to where his clothes were and got dressed. He never even looked around for Suzy to tell her he was leaving, as he came back out smoking a cigarette and was anxious for Piney to get started.

"JT, be careful, my friend. We will be down in a day to be with you, to lay your mother to rest. Our thoughts are always with you and we pray for your spirit to be healed."

JT knew Moon had done all he and everyone could for him at that point and hugged him, letting him know how grateful he was for all they'd done. He asked Moon to keep Suzy there, until they came down the following day. Moon knew without being asked, that JT wanted him to break the news to Suzy, sparing him that onus in having to do it himself. He hugged Moon closely, letting him know how much he valued their relationship as friends, then looked at Piney and told him to start it up. 

The deafening rumble obliterated the peacefulness, birds and small animals taking flight from the scene. Piney readied himself and JT sat on the small bumper seat behind him. He put it in gear and the pair moved off down the lane to the road, no heads turning back to look, or hands waved to say goodbye, as the engine roared louder, Piney twisting the throttle and gearing up, as the came to the road. Moon listened to the sound fade away, wondering what fate was going to bring to his friends.

JT put his hands on his knees and leaned into Piney, moving with him in synchronized balance through every corner. Even though Piney was going as fast as he could, JT felt the urge to go faster still. It seemed no amount of haste, could get him where he wanted to be, fast enough. The beautiful panorama was wasted on them, only the strip of blacktop between the lines was all that mattered. Every straightaway stretch was met with faster speeds, slowing only enough for corners and bends. 

Once out of the country, traffic picked up and soon, Piney was waiting for the right moment to pass the car in front and get ahead. Car after car was pulled past, by them, riding the yellow line, even if a car was coming the other way. Horns blared at them and curses yelled from windows, but nothing phased the two from doing what they had to do. 

For all that the focused destination was Charming, once they hit the city limits, Piney's dread became more pronounced, as JT's vengeance-fuelled rage could be felt behind him, getting stronger with each mile they closed in on it. They reached the final stretch of road and drove it with purpose, coming up to the motel, now seen in the distance. 

The sound was heard inside by the group and it had them all getting up and going outside, knowing Piney was back. It surprised them all completely, seeing JT on the back, but their worry grew more and more, as they took stock of the look on his face. There was a look of certain death in it, for the one he was thinking of. Piney pulled up to them and stopped, everyone unsure of how to even approach JT at this point. He got off and looked at them all, their faces full of uncertainty in them, combined with the fear and sadness they felt. He couldn't think of anything to say to them, anything that would ease their minds, while his was reeling with blood lust.

JT walked away and up to the office, where an officer was still stationed outside. He went to the cruiser and the cop came out to see him. JT didn't recognize him straight off, but it dawned on him that he was familiar. Their eyes met and the cop said hello.

"Hi John, guess you don't remember me. From Charming High, we were in the same classes together."

JT was stunned by the announcement at first, making him break his train of thought and threw him off of it. He looked at him closer and remembered back that far in his mind, the memory coming to him. Kevin Needham wasn't someone he knew very well, but he was a decent enough guy.

"Kevin, Kevin Needham, right?"

"Yup. Officer Needham, now. How are you, John? Terrible thing that's happened."

JT hesitantly shook his hand and stood looking at the office door.

"Yeah, totally shitty thing that happened. The guy that got murdered was close to me, like a father, you know? I just talked to him hours ago and he was going to do everything he could to help me and now some fucker shot him. You know anything? Any idea who the guy was? How's Marlene, is she going to make it?"

Needham looked at JT and saw the turmoil in him, wanting to know whatever he could about it and make some sense of it.

"We have a description of the guy and the car and we have an APB out to the county and the state, on him. I can't say anything more than that, I'm afraid. Mrs. Brock is in surgery, from the last report I got and she's hanging on by a thread. The doctors told us she has a thirty percent chance of making it, she's in really bad condition. Both bullets hit her lungs, so they're trying to keep the oxygen in her, while they dig the slugs out and sew her up. It'll be a miracle if she makes it, that's all I was told about that end of things. Sorry it's not better news. Do you have any idea who it might be, that did this?"

JT tried not to let on about his suspicions and diverted any attention to himself away, by lying.

"No, I was out in Calaveras, when it happened. Look, my mom just died Kevin. This morning and I was out there, after I had talked to Jake, trying to deal with it, when Piney came and told me."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 01



"Awww, shit, John. I'm sorry to hear that. My deepest sympathies to you. You lost your dad a while back too, didn't you?"

"Yeah, when I was ten. Guy hit him head on and he was dead before anyone got to him, they told me. Now I just lost the next best thing to my dad. Jake was like a father to me. He just gave me and Piney jobs, let us have the old building on his lot to use for our clubhouse. Shit, he sold me my bike and helped Piney and me fix ours up for free. He was teaching us about all kinds of shit and was going to help our club any way he could."

"Yeah, sounds like Jake. My dad has gone to him ever since he took it over and I can remember him giving me free pop when I was a kid and letting me do things. I liked going there and seeing him. I know how you could feel that way about him, John."

JT looked at the office and then to Needham.

"Any chance you can take me in and I can see where it happened?"

Officer Needham looked at JT and knew he shouldn't allow it, but knowing the circumstances, he felt obliged to let him say goodbye, or whatever his need to be there was. 

"Okay, but just stand where I say you can and don't touch anything, understand?"

JT nodded and followed Kevin inside and into the living quarters. He ducked under the tape after Needham and stood looking at the blood-stained bed. He could tell by the amount of blood on the bed, where Jake had lain and bled out, dying where he lay. He looked at the other pools beside his and knew Marlene had been lying close beside him when it happened. He closed his eyes and fought back against the tears, holding on to the burning rage inside him. He would let those tears flow and quell the fires of vengeance in him, once justice was meted out, but not until.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, just hard to imagine, is all."

"Yeah, I guess it is. Hard enough when you see it happen, but when it's someone you know, it makes it ten times worse."

"Seen enough of my buddies die in 'Nam, also saved as many as I could, so they could come home too. I thought all that shit was over, when I left there. Now, I'm back and there's just as much fighting going on here, as there is over there. What? Is America at war with everybody, including itself?"

"You know, it almost seems that way, doesn't it? Unser was telling me about his time over there in the Marines and he had some pretty gruesome stories to tell. The last murder Charming had, was when those two drunks had it out with each other, over a bottle of booze no less and when the one drunk broke the bottle, the other one flipped out and bashed him in the head with the bat. That didn't bother folks much about it. This is going to cause some serious shit upstairs, when it all comes down. No one likes this happening in their town, they all want to live safe and sound, knowing the worst that could happen is a fire, or they get nailed for speeding."

JT nodded his head, agreeing with Needham, that what used to be, was a bunch of fond memories of days gone by. Today brought a new realization to Charming, one that would forever stain it's reputation and continue to grow bigger, as events played out. JT felt he'd seen enough and walked away, making sure he didn't disturb anything and went outside. The fresh air cleared his lungs of the taste of death in the air inside. He thanked Officer Needham and went down to his unit, where everyone was congregating. 

The faces looked at him, each one wanting to see the man they hoped to see. He felt the steel wrapping his heart harden, with each step towards them. His emotions were being buried deeper and deeper inside him, being put away for a time they were needed and right now, they were the last things he wanted to distract him. 

"Guys, come with me. We're going to the clubhouse, we need to talk."

Nothing else was said to anyone, as he got on his bike and primed it to start. He looked at the guys and gave them a look that he meant business, when he gave that order. The guys understood and without even a proper goodbye, they got on their bikes and prepared to ride, as JT started his and everyone followed. Throttles were twisted several times each, the engines belching out the exhaust notes. There was no need to worry about other guests being disturbed, for once they had been questioned, they were packed and out of the motel and on to destinations unknown.

The girls waved to them as they left, but got nothing in return, as all their attention was on JT, leading them away. The ride was fast and purposeful, to make the short distance in as short a time as possible, JT's need to get to the issue that he was focused on, dominating everything else. He stopped and opened the gate, then drove down to the clubhouse and parked in his spot. The others followed and everyone backed in to their positions. Otto was last, having closed the gate and locked it again. He stopped and brought a quiet to the compound, as JT unlocked the clubhouse and walked inside. 

The others followed and went to the seating and waited for him, as he paced back and forth, obviously collecting his thoughts. When he was ready, he walked in front of them and looked at them with a look none had seen in him before, not even Piney. His words were calm, but filled with strength in their conviction, as he spoke to them.

"We have a new mission tonight. Forget the panelling, that can wait. This is all we are going to be doing, until it's done."

"What's that, JT?"

"I'll tell you what it is Piney. We're going to find the fucker who killed Jake and shot Marlene and fucked up everything we have and we're going to kill him ourselves. This guy isn't going to get off, or even spend time in jail and get out. No, this motherfucker is going down, by my hand."

The guys looked at him, unable to digest the words he just said. Murder was the farthest thing in anyone's mind, for what they were thinking it was about. As heads began wrapping themselves around it, JT could see he was being considered in a justifiable way. He knew they understood his reasoning and why he had to make this happen, but hearts were still swayed by the issue of laws.

"Tom, you know where everything is and how to get it. I want guns, enough for each of us. If we're thinking of getting them for the runs, we're not doing anything anyone hasn't already agreed on doing. All I'm saying, is we're going to use them on someone who deserves the bullets and you know he does. I know who shot Jake and Marlene and I want this fucker dead."

That statement had them look at JT, questioned looks on all of them, wondering how he could possibly know.

"Gus told us about Jake and Marlene's husband getting into it before and what happened. He told us this Brock guy has as bad a temper as Jake's. Who else would shoot them both? Look where they were shot, for fuck's sake, c'mon guys. It's him, Clive Brock, that did it and that motherfucker is history, when I see him."

No one could question his logic. Those that had heard Gus speak about it, knew JT was right in his words. They knew in their own hearts, that Jake was a well liked man by them and anyone who knew him. The blame kept aiming in the direction JT was looking at and they were coming to agree with his thinking. Piney voiced his concerns about it all.

"Okay JT, say it is him. How are we supposed to do this? Just walk up and put a bullet in him?"

"No Piney. Look, we have lots to go on, probably more than the cops. We know what kind of car it was. We know what the guy looked like. We know Brock lives outside L.A. somewhere, so we just need to find out through Marlene somehow, where he is and go there. When I was in the bedroom, I saw some of her stuff there and something might give us an address. I don't know how long they'll keep a cop at the motel, but the sooner we get in there and look around, the sooner we find what we need and get this guy."

Heads nodded, feeling they were doing a justifiable act. Jake had touched each of their lives in a positive way. He had made a difference in them and gave them back the gift of hope and the desire to dream again. Each one knew the patch on their back was there, in part, thanks to Jake. It became a matter of purpose, of respect paid to that man, for all he had done and who he was.

Tom said he knew of several contacts to get guns from and all he'd need is money to get them. The run money was more than enough to cover it and JT looked at them for a way to get into the bedroom and search for information. 

"I'm your man there, JT. You give me a diversion and I'll be in and out in no time."

"What kind of diversion are you talking about?"

"Nothing much. Just keep the cop busy and his eyes off the office and I can use a flashlight to look around."

"Shouldn't be hard. The stuff I was talking about, is on the dresser and by the left side of the bed on the night table. I saw some envelopes and some letters by the bed and some of the stuff from her purse was on the dresser."

"We need to get that tonight. That'll all get picked up and put into evidence, then we'll never see it again."

"Then we do it tonight. This is on us, guys. We bring justice for Jake to this guy and we do it together. Hey, where's Clay?"

"Stockton. He's back in school again. I don't even know if he knows about this yet."

"Shit. Anyone know his number?"

Piney tapped JT's shoulder.

"Everything's in the office, JT. Jake has that book in the desk, with all the numbers in it."

"Right. Okay, Lenny, call Stockton and see if you can get a hold of Clay. Don't fucking say a word about Jake being dead, he'll end up trying to get here in some fucked up state and kill himself. I know he'll want to put a bullet in this guy, just as much as me. Just tell him it's club business and he has to be here now. Tom, see if you can get a hold of any of those guys you talked about and see what we can get our hands on. This time next week, I want to be reading about this fucker in the newspapers. Lenny, here's the keys to the office."

JT took the keys out of his pocket and tossed them to Lenny, then he and Tom headed over to begin making calls. JT looked at Wally and saw his attention peak, ready to do what he asked.

"Wally, roll a big, fucking joint and get me high."

JT ran both his hands through his hair, pulling it back tight, then let his head roll backwards.

"I don't know what I'd do without you guys, I really don't. Mom dying, now Jake murdered. I fucking lost it. Totally spazzed out into la la land. Moon got my head straight again at least. No idea what was in that tea they gave me, but I zoned out before I was finished drinking it. All I know is, I had some healing shit done to me and when I knew what was happening again, I was naked, sitting in the middle of them and they were all naked. I felt like I was in another world and none of this shit was there. Moon took me for a walk and we sat there on this cliff, looking out onto the valley and I could see shit, floating in the wind towards me. I had no idea what it was at first and then Moon told me they were answers. All I had to do was look and the right one would come to me. I asked him how and he said it would look different than all the others. I paid attention to the wind and there it was, shining brightly among all the other ones and it just came right to me."

The guys sat there listening to him and wondered just what he had taken and if he was still on it. He was saying the most bizarre things, as he toked away on the two paper joint. 

"Seriously guys, it was exactly what I needed to hear and everything was alright. I was coming back to tell Piney about it, when I overheard them talking about Jake. I was thinking I should have asked for an answer and seen what I got, but what I'm thinking in my head right now, is as right as it'll ever get."

That started making sense of everything he said, despite the round about way of saying it. Those that really knew JT, knew that was his style and waited for the end, when it all made sense. No one could argue the point and no one wanted to. As every member thought more about it, they knew they would be feeling the same thoughts of revenge, as JT.

Lenny and Tom came back in and sat down and relayed what their calls got them.

"I called Clay and told him we had an emergency meeting and to get here as soon as he could, but not to break any speed limits, just to be here soon, so, less than an hour and he should be here."

"Thanks Lenny, we can deal with him once he's here. I have no idea how he's going to take this. Tom, what did you find out?"

"I got a hold of two of the guys I know and they both said they could help us out. The best we're looking at is army issue nines and both have ammo for anything they have."

"Great Tom. Any idea what we're looking at money wise?"

"One is good for twenty a unit, they other wants twenty five. Ammo is the same for both."

"Who do you like better to buy from?"

"My guy in Lodi. I know he's more, but he's always got quality stuff, never wants to deal anything shitty and get a bad name for it. Every piece he has is clean and untraceable. I could get them now and be back in less than an hour. Just have to go back and make a call and get Wally to drive me out there with the cash."

"I'll get you the cash, go make the call now and we'll get that over with."

Tom got up and headed back to the office, while JT went to the metal cabinet and opened the lock. He took the cash box out and opened it up. He counted off two hundred and fifty for ten guns and another hundred for ammunition for them all. He put the rest of the cash in the box and closed it, then put it back and wished there was far more in it, than there was now. He folded the bills and tucked them into the top pocket of his cut and went back to the arm chair and sat down, just in time for the joint to be passed to him.

Tom came back five minutes later, a look of expectation on his face.

"All set. Have to meet him in half an hour at a place not far off Kettleman. Just need the money and Wally and I'm on my way."

JT reached in his pocket and took out the folded bills and held them out to him.

"Enough there for ten guns and ammo for each of them. I figure a hundred should cover that?"

"More than enough. Want the change, or more ammo?"

"More ammo."

Tom looked at JT, taking a moment to ponder his motives for more ammunition, then Wally shook hands on his way past and joined him, heading outside and into Wally's Chev. The new exhaust and muffler worked well enough, that no sound of it was heard starting up, or leaving.

Piney had sat on the couch and remained quiet throughout everything, since they arrived. He'd been keeping his eye on JT and making sure he was who he was supposed to be. He was concerned this was all a facade and at any time, he would collapse under the pressure again. He was surprised to find his best friend handling everything quite well and staying on track, not dwelling on any of the misery he knew he must be feeling.

"You okay, JT?"

"Yeah Piney, why?"

"Just wondering. Not that I'm complaining, but I just figured you'd be handling things a bit differently, after this morning and all."

"Yeah, I can see why you'd be thinking that way. I lost it before, plain and simple. Just too much all at once and it fucked me up. I got it together now, don't worry."

Piney nodded his head, a couple of the others did as well, accepting his answer, but not completely convinced.

"What if the cops already know about Brock, JT?"

"Let's just hope they don't, Keith. He's ours to take care of."

"You're right set on doing this guy in, aren't ye?"

JT looked at Keith and then the others, seeing the same question on their faces.

"And you're not? This guy murdered the only man, most of us think of like a father and he shouldn't pay for that? I don't give a fuck if he was sleeping with Marlene, or not. He didn't deserve to die because of it."

"Aye, for that, he should pay. Jake was a decent man, no denying, that's for sure. I truly liked the man, so I did. I travelled the breadth of this entire country lads and it wasn't until I came to Charming, that I felt I'd found a place, where I'd like to stay. Truth, it was mostly you lads that convinced me, but I admit there was a part of me that stayed, because of Jake as well."

"Anyone else have any doubts, as to why Brock has to meet with some mayhem?"

"Mayhem?"

"Yeah, Piney, mayhem, as in madness and mayhem. You know what I'm talking about."

Piney looked at JT with different eyes, after hearing him mention that phrase. He thought back to Vietnam and some of the missions they went on. Warfare became disorganized and disruptive in the jungle sometimes and it was all a man could do to stay alive, was just shoot at anything he saw or heard. Shit happened because of it and he knew men had died by bullets, fired from their own rifles. They had called them M & M missions, madness and mayhem.

"JT, that shit happened in 'Nam. This is Charming. We don't have guys running around madly, shooting everything in sight."

JT looked at Piney with objection on his face.

"We don't? What do you call what the asshole who just shot up the motel, doing?"

Piney could see that JT was right in his thinking on it. This sort of act, was just like what happened in Vietnam, but it was happening here in Charming, instead. 

"What the fuck is going on, JT? What happened from the time we left and came back? Nothing is the same anymore, nothing. It's like the whole country just got up and left and some other country, some fucked up one, took its place. It might look the same as the one we left, but nothing happening is the same."

"I told you, Piney. The whole country is fucked up and it's those assholes in the White House that are doing it. The only good news that's come out of that place in years, is that Johnson isn't in the running for re-election. That fucker has done more to ruin this country, than anyone else. I hate fucking politics, but having some asshole like him running the country, is it any wonder we're in the state we're in?"

"No shit, JT. I have to agree with all of that. Kennedy had some good ideas and I bet things would be a helluva lot different, if he wasn't shot. He was against this fucking war and didn't want to get involved, but they shot the poor bastard and that asshole Johnson jumped right in and got us into it anyway. If anybody should have been shot, it was that stupid fuckhead."

"I heard they're going to ship off seven hundred thousand soldiers this year, or next. The Tet Offensive back in January, has them all running around like chickens with their heads cut off. McNamara was saying it's winding down and now they're increasing troop deployment. Fuckers have no idea what the fuck they're doing."

"Do any of them, Lenny? All I want, is to live in a country that can get along with itself and a chance to have a decent job. Is that asking so much?"

"Nope, not at all. I want the same. I think we all want that, don't we guys?"

Every guy nodded and voiced an agreement to Piney's statement, as each felt it was their right to have that. The political debate went on for a bit longer, everyone adding their thoughts to the state of the nation and what they wished would happen. The blaring exhausts notes of Clay's Triumph, cut through the walls and let the guys know he had arrived. They waited for him to come in and greeted him, then gave him a seat beside JT and opened a beer for him. Clay was grateful for the attention, but felt the increase in tension coming from the guys. He assumed it was the issues that he was here to vote on and waited to hear what it was, as he sipped at his beer.

JT lit up a joint and took a good toke, before passing it to Clay. He waited until he finished blowing the smoke out, before he started talking.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 02



Chapter 2: Men of Mayhem

JT waited until the light of day, to look at the envelopes and papers Tom took from the room. He sat on the end of the bed smoking a cigarette, looking at the papers beside him. He picked up a hand written letter and began reading it, realizing it was from Jake to Marlene. He read the words coming from Jake's heart, about how he felt about Marlene and his reluctance to ever let her go. He was apologizing for his actions, which JT assumed to be about the fight he was in, that landed him in jail, then put the letter aside, not wanting to read about his affairs of the heart, but to know where his killer lived.

He found an envelope addressed to Jake that was unopened and looked at the back for the return address. A smile grew on his face, one inspired by the knowledge that vengeance was now closer to a certainty, than at any time before this. 2830 Southridge Drive, in Palm Springs, became an address of deliverance, a destination of bloody revenge.

He looked at the address and the name Brock, the two synonymous with the same feeling in him. He looked over at Piney beginning to wake up and Mary refusing to be disturbed from her dreams and rolling over towards him. Despite his feelings to observe privacy issues, his eyes couldn't help but continue looking at Mary's abundant breasts exposed to him. He was so transfixed on them, he didn't see Piney sitting up slightly to look at him. 

Piney's eyes followed the direction JT was fixed on and knew they were trained on Mary's exposure.

"Pretty nice, aren't they?"

Piney whispered words stunned JT and he blushed rapidly to a colourful, beet red. Piney quietly chuckled as he pulled the sheets over Mary, then got out of bed in his boxers and strolled into the bathroom to relieve himself. He came back out and saw JT had gotten over his embarrassing moment and wanted him to go outside with him. He pulled on his pants and grabbed his pack of cigarettes off the nightstand, heading outside with JT.

Piney lit up a cigarette and looked at JT through the plume of rising smoke, as he spoke.

"I found him, Piney. I know where the son of a bitch lives."

Despite his whispered words, the impact of them brought a dawning realization to the day. Words were going to become actions and whether he was for or against pulling the trigger, he had committed himself to the task and accepted the consequences as they came.

"Where is he, JT?"

"Palm Springs. Lives on Southridge Drive. Once we go today and have our gun practice, I say we make plans to take a little trip south and do some sightseeing and find out exactly where this guy lives and get some background on him. We're going to need to know what he does and where he goes, so we can figure out a place to take him down."

Piney could see the set in JT's eyes, how focused and determined he was on this one issue. He knew nothing would dissuade, or deter him from succeeding in carrying it out, the mission he had set his heart to, one it needed to accomplish, to be whole again. He couldn't deny his own feelings toward Clive Brock weren't honourable, wanting justice to be done for Jake's death, but carrying out the roles of Judge, jury and executioner, pushed his limits of reasoning. 

Doors started opening and more guys came over and joined them, brushing hair with fingers and lighting smokes, stretching arms and backs to work out the kinks. Faces turned to the morning sun and let it wash over their faces, basking in the warm glow of a September morning. The normalcy of JT's demeanour, put the guys at ease, that he hadn't faltered and regressed back into his former state.

Keith opened his door and began stepping outside, when he was halted by a hand pulling him back. The guys noticed it and watched, then saw a semi-naked Gloria kissing him passionately. Keith accepted it and responded to it with his own passion and held her tightly to him. Gloria put her hands around the back of his neck and the sheet slid away, exposing her completely. The embracing couple didn't notice, or didn't care, as they continued the loving display for all to see.

The whistles, claps and cheers, had them disengage their hungry mouths and take stock of themselves. Gloria realized her exposure then and dashed back inside. That brought a greater round of applause from them and Keith smiled broadly at them, taking a small bow and limped over to them.

"Aye, now that's the way to start the morning, is it not, lads?"

"Good on you, Keith. How's the leg now?"

"It's no bad, JT. Healing well, just the bone aches if I use it too much."

Keith lit up a cigarette and inhaled the smoke, along with the fresh air. 

"Grand place this. Warm sunshine, clean air, fresh water and absolutely, lovely women, who make a man feel good to be alive."

All the noise and loud voices, had the rest of them awaking and getting out of bed. One by one, doors opened and bodies made their way outside. Some of the girls did a fast scoot in night shirts and skimpy sleepwear to Lorraine's room and disappeared inside, after kisses were blown at the guys and some flashes of bare skin shown.

Lenny laughed to himself, as he saw them go in and shut the door to him, ending his view of them. He lit up his cigarette and blew out the smoke, then looked at the guys.

"Anyone else get a little speech from their old lady, last night?"

The guys all said no, that they had nothing in the way of a speech, or a request of any kind.

"Figures. It's always my old lady that has to do this and I end up having to deal with it, shit."

"What's that, Lenny?"

"Here's what I got, JT. Seems the girls have been doing a lot of talking, not about the fucking thing again, something different. Since the murder, they've been told to stay here and not go anywhere by the cops. They've done their investigation and they don't need the girls for anything anymore. So, they want to know if there's anywhere else they can go and stay, instead of here. I kinda don't blame them, really. Must be really fucked up, having to hang out in a place where people died like that."

The guys thought about it and understood quite easily, how unnerving it must be to have this constantly in their faces, every hour of the day. JT could see the consensus among them, that changing locales might be in everyone's best interest. The clubhouse was mentioned and shut down instantly, JT reminding them that club business and personal business never mixed together. There was only one place that everyone could think of, that would suffice in their needs, Calaveras.

With no phone, or way to contact them, it was decided to take the risk and impose on them, the hopes their friendship could handle such an imposition. Lenny said he'd get Lorraine to go shopping and buy lots of food and stuff for everyone, so they didn't come empty handed. JT said he'd take some cash from the club money and use that. Wally went in and got dressed, a hopeful smile on his face, as he wondered about Azure and if she was still willing to share some free loving with him.

The girls were informed of the decision and they couldn't have shown their happiness any more than they did. Happily, they were back inside and packing their things. JT got dressed and rode down to the clubhouse and was back in fifteen minutes with the money. Lorraine took the money and tucked it between her breasts, then laughed and took it out and put it in her pocket.

"A girl can dream, can't she?"

"Sure you can, Lorraine, just not with our money, unless you want to earn it?"

The mood took an upswing with the humour and the desire to be with friendly faces and peaceful environments. Wally took off with Lorraine and Cindy to do the shopping, while the others stood around outside, enjoying the beauty of the late summer day. The door to the office opened and the officer came out and looked down at them and then went to his car. He used the radio and made a call, then came back out. He looked around, seemingly trying to figure something out, then headed towards them.

The guys became slightly nervous, knowing it most likely had something to do with last night's mission. They didn't recognize the officer, someone from out of town most likely and waited for him to say something.

"Did any of you guys happen to hear anything last night?"

"Like what, officer?"

"Noises of any kind. Anything out of the ordinary?" The guys looked puzzled by his questions on purpose, feigning any knowledge of what they knew.

"Not sure what you mean. Out of the ordinary? What noises would they be?"

"Like someone walking around outside, late at night, windows opening and closing. Those kinds of noises."

"Those aren't out of the ordinary. Lots of people go for walks around here late at night, at least they used to. Windows are always being opened and closed, unless you're talking something like my window, now that makes a helluva noise when you open and close it. Anything wrong?"

"Yeah, some evidence in the bedroom is missing. I'm supposed to collect it and bring it in for examination, but it's not there. I just called Officer Unser and asked him and he said it was there last night, when he did his walk through. It's not there now and I have to find out if you might know anything that will help me."

"I have no idea. I was sitting with Wayne..., Officer Unser, in his car for like almost two hours, shooting the shit about the old days and stuff. We used to go to school together and then we lost touch when we went over to 'Nam. Just catching up on things, but neither of us heard anything, at least while I was out there with him."

"How long was that?"

"I don't know, maybe two hours, like I said. It was close to midnight, I remember that, when I went out to him. Everyone was asleep, or in bed, by that time and we finished talking around two, two thirty, something like that."

"Okay, thanks. What's your name?"

"JT, sorry, John Teller."

"Thanks John. I'll call Unser back to confirm, not that I don't believe you, just have to dot all the I's and cross the T's. I'm not taking the shit for this stuff missing, no way. Anyway, said too much already, thanks."

The officer went back to his car and radioed in. The guys and girls stood and watched the animated conversation, imaging what they must be saying to one another. The officer slammed his door and started it up, then roared out of the lot and back to the station.

Mary looked at Piney, a wonderment on her face.

"What was he talking about? What stuff is missing?"

"No idea, sweet cheeks. Looks like he was supposed to pick something up and it ain't there."

Mary shrugged her shoulders, unable to make sense out of it, neither could the other girls, but the guys were breathing easier, realizing they were out of the woods and not suspect in it. JT had a small thought about Wayne Unser and felt he should repay him for the kindness of their talk, but more importantly, the perfect alibi to throw the trail off them. With the motel to themselves, everyone headed into their perspective rooms and spent some time with their partners, some just sharing a quiet moment together, helping each other through it all, while others found the relief through passionate loving, the connection to life again, coming back to them. One couple sat holding hands, praying together for an end to troubles and a needed presence of peace to reign over them.

Marietta had faced enough with the beating and rape, then carried the secret of Chico's murder of the guilty ones. Her life had been uprooted and put in chaos, unsure of what the next day would bring. Just when the light of hope was beginning to shine upon her, the blackness of despair covered it and blocked it from her world. Jake and Marlene had presented a new start for her and now it was thrust backwards to a point, further than where she had been. All the kindness Marlene had done for her, was being felt in sadness for her, knowing she was now clinging for her life, after she had done so much to help her with her own.

She had come from her room, just the day before, after letting Marlene look inside her and remembered how happy she was, to know the tearing had healed and she could make love with Chico and not worry. Her own mother would have never cared for that way, instead, shunning her for getting pregnant and blame her, for asking for it. Love for her, was a rare commodity to have and she treasured each feeling of it she felt.

Hearing now, of the place they were going to, Marietta was sceptical about it being a place of peace and quiet, the people there, filled with love. The idea sounded more than strange to her, but Chico assured her, that the guys wouldn't have chosen this location, if it wasn't somewhere safe. That seemed to ease Marietta's mind, as she once again filled her suitcase and bag with all her belongings. She couldn't help but feel the disappointment of being so close to Berkeley, the one place her heart cried out to be in and now she was moving away from it again. 

Wally's car pulling in, had whatever activities the others were engaged in stop and they were coming back outside. The girls all brought their suitcases and bags out with them and they were loaded into the trunk. Wally closed it and smiled, happy it held everything. They stood together, as couples and as a group, looking at the place they had called home for only several weeks. For the short time they were there, so much had happened, so much life had been lived. It had changed them all from who they were at the beginning, just over a month earlier.

Wally got in his car, then one by one, the girls got in and prepared themselves to begin living a hippie lifestyle. None of them had a clue what to expect, the new subculture still in its infancy stage. It didn't seem to be anything to be frightened about, but the change in the way things were done, was a new experience they were uncertain about. Free love still sounded like another way to put out for guys easier, more than anything else.

The drive put everyone in a better mood, feeling more like a weekend ride, than a move to a new locale. The hour long cruise, finally came to an end, as the rusted gate came into view and the procession passed it and drove to the house. One after the other, naked men and women came out to greet them and the faces on the women took a different take on things. Moon, Star and Phoenix stood on the porch, while the girls, with Azure and Suzy leading the way, surrounded the car and welcomed the girls. 

Despite the naked welcome, the girls seemed happy to be there, knowing anywhere else than the motel, would provide some much needed peace of mind. JT got off his bike and went to Moon and despite his nudity, JT hugged him close. He finished and Suzy was waiting for him, her own need for bonding with him, something he felt a need for too. None of the other guys had the inclination to approach the nude men and greet them the way JT did, but, they said hello without prejudice. The naked girls coming over to greet them, had smiles peeled back on their faces, to show how appreciative their enjoyment of them was. 

Their own girlfriends, became jealous, seeing the enjoyment their men were having, with firm, naked bodies pressed against them. Moon saw the animosity forming and called everyone inside, ending the conflict, before it progressed any farther. The girls took their bags and suitcases from the trunk, while the guys picked up all the bags of groceries that they bought. Wally looked at Azure, his heart ready to be crushed if she spurned him, but he saw her smile as she came to him, then felt her arms around him. He waited for her to make the first move and she knew he was giving her that opportunity. She put a hand behind his head and pulled his face to hers.

"Hi Wally, I missed you."

She pulled him closer and pressed her lips to his. Wally felt the rush of pleasure hit him and he returned his own feelings of separation with her. Once they were happy with the results of getting reacquainted, they walked in together, Wally's hand sliding down from her shoulders, to happily come to rest on her ass.

Moon stayed outside with JT, while the guys and girls mingled nervously with one another. Moon waited until no one was near them and looked at JT, his face asking him, without words spoken.

"Moon, I know we've imposed on you already, way more than I could ever think of asking, but I really need your help, at least for a week, maybe more."

Moon smiled warmly, as if knowing already what was asked of him.

"This is because of what happened, back in Charming?"

JT nodded and looked at the ground, while he thought on his words.

"They can't stay at the motel all day, not knowing what happened there. Everyone else is gone and I know we're going to get booted out ourselves. No one is there to take care of the motel, so it's just a matter of time, right?"

Moon could understand JT's situation and wanted more than anything, to relieve him of the burden.

"JT, the girls are very welcome to join us, you should know that. You and the others are like family to us. You took us in and helped us every way you could and befriended us, when others turned us away. We could never do that to you, no matter how many times you came to me for help. There is no score that's tallied, that me, or anyone else looks at, to say we're even and paid back for favours done. You will have help, whenever you, or the others need it, always."

JT looked at Moon and felt his heart ease, the strain it was under, causing him some pain with every beat it took. Moon could see the release in him and smiled, knowing at least one more burden had been relieved from his friend, as he felt the hug in gratitude. 

"How are you, John? Has your heart let go of the pain?"

"Not completely, Moon. I don't think it'll ever ease up, not until that guy has had justice served on him."

"I can understand that, John. The law will make sure he is punished for what he has done."

JT never let on that he was considering himself the law in this matter. He felt justified in carrying out the punishment warranted for the crime committed and wouldn't be deterred from carrying it out. Moon could read the feelings coming from JT, but didn't voice his concerns. Whatever was keeping his friend in the here and now and helping him get through this, was all he could hope for him. He could feel his own sadness in himself, knowing a blackness had formed inside JT and was growing steadily.

He clapped his hand on JT's shoulder and beckoned him to come inside and enjoy the time spent together with friends. JT let his thoughts go with the breeze, as he knew they'd be there, the moment he walked back outside again.

The girls came back downstairs, after they were shown where to put their things and the immediate issue of bedding came up. There was barely enough for the ones there, some sharing a bed already. Tom, in his ever present mind of finding items needed, came up with an idea that made all the sense in the world to him.

"Guys, why don't we just take some beds from the motel? Not like they're going to be used much anymore. Once they decide to do something with it, we can put the shit back."

The thought began sinking in, to how it solved all their problems and made the situation they had, seem resolved and it was only borrowing, not stealing. The next thing to figure out, was how to get the beds there and not get caught. They knew the twenty four hour watch was over, but the sight of numerous rooms being emptied of beds and some furniture, might cause some to question their actions. Once again, a late night trip to the motel was planned and Clay would get his grandfather's pick up and Moon would use the VW bus to take whatever he could carry.

For tonight at least, the girls would have to share whatever bed space was available and make do, until everything could be arranged for them. Looks were passed between them, as they imagined the sleeping arrangements. As much as the guys wanted to stay and enjoy the pleasurable interlude with their women, JT had them back out and on the bikes, ready to take care of more pressing issues.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 02



Starters were kicked and engines easily came to life, ready to partake on another journey, wherever their riders asked them to go. Throttles blurted out horsepower with every twist, a total contradiction to the quiet, peaceful life their friends led. One by one, the riders pulled out of the gate and began riding hard, Wally trailing close behind. The serenity slowly came back, as the sound of the bikes faded away between the hills.

With the guys gone and this, their new place to stay for however long, the girls followed Suzy and Azure's urging to join them and at first with great reluctance, they eventually gave in and agreed to try the naked freedom of the lifestyle. The girls went upstairs and undressed and came back down nervously and stood in front of Moon, Star and Phoenix. The guys hugged the nervous girls one by one, accepting them as a part of their commune. 

"Where's Marietta?"

"I guess she's still upstairs. I'll go see what's taking her."

"Alright, Lorraine."

Lorraine started up the stairs and held her breasts, as they wobbled about wildly. She went into the bedroom and saw her sitting on the bed, just a hair away from crying.

"Sweetie, what is it? What's the matter?"

"I can not do this. I can not expose myself to everyone like you are doing."

"Awww, It's weird, I know. I'm still feeling kinda weird, but it'll pass. It's just different. No one is doing anything, like having sex or stuff. They're just waiting for you to come down, so they can welcome you and join in a circle of love."

Marietta looked at Lorraine with confusion, never meeting the hippies before, like the others and having an understanding of what their commune was all about.

"What is this, circle of love?"

Lorraine could see where Marietta's mind was going with that and laughed.

"It's not what you think, Marietta. We just sit in a circle and hold hands. Everyone concentrates on a feeling of love and shares it with everyone else. That's what Suzy told me, anyway. Her name here is Stardust, so if someone calls her that, that's why. Azure's name is Ann-Marie, or Annie, as we called her. I don't know what the names of the other girls were, you know, Golden, Spirit, or even the guys, for that matter."

Marietta seemed to be more accepting of the circle idea, although the full exposure of her body still held her back. 

"It's the naked thing, isn't it?"

Marietta looked at Lorraine and nodded, then lowered her head and fidgeted with her hands in her lap. Lorraine put her hand on both of them and gently squeezed them.

"Honestly, Sweetie, it's a pretty nice feeling, once you get over knowing you are naked. I'm naked and sitting here with you and I don't feel weird about it. I know you're not going to try anything on me. Are you?"

Marietta looked at Lorraine with fright, assuring her she wouldn't touch her. Lorraine took one of Marietta's hands and placed it on her thigh and held it there. Marietta looked at it and went to move it away, but Lorraine held it there.

"Relax, I'm not going to do anything. I just want you to be able to sit with another woman and be naked and touch her, without feeling like it's sexual, or anything."

Lorraine slowly took her hand away and let Marietta's remain on its own. She left it there and let the idea of the touch seem okay to her. 

"Not so bad, is it? Okay, maybe I should have shaved first, but it's not so weird to just touch me, is it?"

Marietta laughed about not shaving and gave Lorraine a small caress, bringing Lorraine's hand over hers and a smile coming to her.

"See, just two friends having fun together. Nothing scary going on down there either. Just a whole bunch of people, who do nothing more than love one another all day. Doesn't sound scary to me. I'm kinda interested to know what they do, actually. Suzy and Annie were telling me all about what they did so far and they're happier than pigs in shit, really. So, don't worry, Sweetie, honestly. You'll be okay and everything will be all right."

Marietta felt more at ease about everything, at least as far as being with Lorraine was concerned. Lorraine stood and took her hand and helped her up. She smiled and looked in her dark, brown eyes, seeing happiness in them. She gently pulled Marietta into a hug and after a slight pause, it was accepted and returned. Lorraine finished the hug and held Marietta by the arms, looking into her eyes again.

"Not so bad hugging a naked woman, now was it?"

Marietta blushed and looked down, smiling to herself. Lorraine lifted her chin up and looked at her.

"No, it wasn't so bad to hug a naked woman."

"Okay, now let's get you naked and get you comfortable doing it naked yourself."

Marietta became nervous again, her nudity now in question. Lorraine began undoing the buttons on Marietta's blouse and she let her remove it. Lorraine turned her around to face away from her and help make it easier, not to look at her while she undressed. She undid the clasps to her bra and let her decide when to take it off. When her hands went to the straps, Lorraine reached around and undid the button and zipper on her jeans. Marietta slowly let the cups fall away from her breasts and then pulled her pants over her ass and let them fall down her legs. She stepped out of them and stood again, looking at the wall in front of her, her hands unable to take the last vestige of modesty away.

Lorraine slid her fingers under the waistband and pulled them down for her, working them from front to back, until they were at her feet. Hesitantly, her feet stepped away from them and she was naked. She used her arms and hands to cover herself, still unable to deal with the exposure. Lorraine put her arms around her from behind and hugged her, letting her hands stay around her waist. Slowly, Marietta dropped her hands and turned around, leaving no room between them. Her arms went around Lorraine and held her tightly, laying her head against her shoulder. Lorraine held her close to herself, feeling the softness of their breasts pressed into one another, the soft curves of their bodies melding together.

"Doesn't feel so bad. I kind of like how you feel, hugging me. You're a really good hugger, you know that?"

Marietta pulled away and Lorraine could see a smile, happily playing on her face.

"Really? I'm a good hugger? You remind me a bit of my mama, when I hugged her. Your pechos feel like hers did and she is much like you in size."

"My pechos?"

"Si, you're uhm, these."

Marietta didn't know the word and just touched her own breasts at the sides.

"Oh, breasts. I gotcha. My breasts feel like your mother's did."

"Si, yes. She was very blessed like you, to have such large ones. I did not get such a blessing, I'm afraid."

"Oh Sweetie, your pechos are very pretty looking, at least what I see. They fill out a bra nicely and have some bounce to them, nothing wrong with that."

Marietta cupped her breasts and looked at them in her hands and looked at Lorraine's.

"Still, the men will look at you, before they will to me."

"Imagine how hard it must be to get a guy to look at you, when Mary, or Gloria are showing theirs off. First time I saw either of them naked, I was like, 'Holy shit, they're fucking huge!' I always thought I had big ones, until they showed up, but you know what, boob size doesn't mean anything here. No one cares, not that I've ever seen. As far as being the smallest, you are far from being that. Poppy barely has bumps, she's so flat-chested, but she doesn't care."

"But they are all so beautiful looking."

"And you're not? Come on, Marietta, you're as beautiful as any woman here and you know it. The only reason they look beautiful to you, is because they feel it inside about themselves and you're not. You have nothing to hide, you have gorgeous eyes and I really love your lips, especially when you smile. You have a great body from what I see and I can't think of one thing I'd be ashamed of, to show off."

Marietta felt her confidence gain, hearing how someone felt about her and shared things about themselves and others, in a way she could accept herself, as beautiful.

"Want to go meet everyone and enjoy some love?"

"Okay, I will do it."

Lorraine took her hand and they came down together, the group already in a circle and holding hands. They broke apart and stood once more, as they greeted Marietta. One by one, she went around and was hugged and kissed on the cheek, finally coming to the men. Her nervousness soared and they could sense it. Phoenix smiled warmly and held his arms widely to her, letting her move into him, when she was ready. Slowly, she moved forward, until her breasts touched his chest and pressed herself into him. Phoenix gently held her to him, letting her gain an acceptance of it.

"Welcome to our commune, Marietta. Here, you will be cared for and loved by all who reside in this house. I welcome you."

Marietta heard the soft, deep voice and felt a security in it, as she raised her face to him and accepted his kiss to both her cheeks. She was released and she went to Star and accepted his embrace a bit easier. Moon waited until it was his turn and took both her hands in his. She looked in his eyes as he spoke and saw the comfort of peace and a serenity of the love he held for her.

"Marietta, we have welcomed you into our flock and are ready to share the love we hold in our hearts with you. Are you ready to accept our love and give us your love in return?"

Marietta looked into his pale, blue eyes and could see why they called him Moon Child, as his eyes looked like two full moons. She looked around quickly at everyone else and happily nodded.

"Yes, I accept your gift of love and will share my love with all of you."

Moon hugged her and Marietta felt the joys of love and peace bond with her inside, despite his nakedness and the presence of his manhood pressed against her. She went and sat in the middle of the circle and faced Lorraine, smiling at her, in her acceptance. Moon led the group into a common focus of love on Marietta, letting her soul be bathed in its light.

JT turned down Euclid Avenue and twisted the throttle wide open, shifting through the gears as fast as he could. The others did the same and kept up to him, as they passed the motel and roared on towards the clubhouse. The brown Studebaker Arrow parked at the office, was missed by them, it's colouring blending in so well with the backdrop of the mahogany stained motel. The driver heard them and watched them go past, then started his car and followed them. 

The guys pulled to the gate and JT let them in. He was just closing it again, when he heard the horn blowing. He opened the gate and went to the car that pulled up. He looked at the businessman wearing a fedora and black framed glasses, as he rolled the window down.

"Sorry, we're closed. Not sure when we'll be back open. You can try Smitty's garage, they're open."

"I'm not looking for any servicing to be done. My name is Arthur Lowen. I'm going to assume you might be John T. Teller."

Lowen held his hand out to him to shake it and JT was wondering who he was, as he took it.

"Yeah, that's me. What's this about?"

Arthur picked up a paper off his seat and looked at it.

"I know this probably isn't a good time for you right now, but I'll need you and a, Piermont Winston, as well as Clarence, Clay I believe, Morrow, to come to my office as soon as you can. I'm an attorney and Jake was in my office a couple of weeks back and made some amendments to his will. You and the others are mentioned and there is quite a bit to go over, regarding this business and transfer of ownership to you and Clay. Please call my office and let my secretary know when you can come in, just please, do it sooner, than later. Teller, Teller, why does that name ring a bell with me, for something else?"

Lowen sat pondering for a minute, thinking of what it was and then remembered. What it was, had him get out of his car and show the respect it deserved.

"I remember now. I read about your mother passing away, is that right?"

"Yes, she did. Two days ago."

"I knew your mother, oh, a long time ago, when we were kids, but I remember her always being such a nice person. Always smiling and saying hello to people. She was good in school too, always had good grades, beat me in math, most times."

"I never really knew that about her. She never talked much about when she was a kid. I can't remember much more than my dad dying and she just went downhill from there. After she moved in with Aunt Nancy, I couldn't take it anymore, the both of them going on about it day after day. Once I got my own place, I didn't see her very often."

Arthur saw the change in JT, the moment he mentioned his lack of visiting time with his mom. He shook his hand in condolence, his face showing sympathy to him.

"John, I'm real sorry about your mom, like I said, a really nice lady. Make sure you call me as soon as you can and set up an appointment. Make sure the others are there as well, okay?"

"Okay, Mr. Lowen. Thanks for telling me about my mom, I like knowing stuff about her, I didn't know before. Seems I'm learning more about the people I care about, after they're dead, instead of alive." 

"It happens that way, sometimes. I try to be with my little girl Ally, as much as I can. I don't want to see her grow up and not know who I am, like some of the other fathers. I want her to know I'll always be there for her, because she's my little girl and always will be."

"You sound like a great dad, Mr. Lowen."

"Call me Art."

"Okay. Call me JT. That's what my dad always called me, so I stick with it."

"Nice. Good to remember him that way."

"Yeah, looks like that's what my life is becoming, a whole lot of remembering."

Arthur could see that talking about his mom and Jake, would only further exacerbate his condition and sadden him even more. He placed a hand on his arm and smiled, then got back in his car.

"See you soon, JT."

"Yes, you too, Art."

Arthur backed out of the entrance and waved out the window, as he drove away. JT closed the gate and locked it, then turned to see all the guys standing at the entrance to the clubhouse waiting for him. He started his bike and rode down, stopping in front of them and parking it. 

"Piney, Clay, we have an appointment to make for next week. That guy was Arthur Lowen, he's an attorney that Jake went to see a couple weeks back. Something to do with his will and us three are involved somehow."

Piney and Clay looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders, no idea of why they would be called in to see a lawyer. JT opened the clubhouse and they went in, taking seats and getting down to business, by opening beers and rolling joints. JT took his usual chair and opened his beer, taking several good swallows of it. 

"Back to business. The dope run, where are we with that, Chico?"

"All ready to go. Talked to Manny and he says he can handle whatever we bring up. He's got the message to Luis in TJ and they're all set too. The fly by's are timed, so we don't have much of it to waste. We might have to do a cover up in the middle of it, like we did the last time, you know, so we'll cut branches and shit at the start, so we make sure."

"Sounds great, brother. Wally, you got your car ready to make the trip?"

"Yeah, Jake helped me with the spring helpers and gave it a once over the other day."

The mention of Jake caused a pause, but JT kept the focus in what they needed to do.

"Guys, we need to figure a way to check out Brock's place, without us all showing up and giving it all away. I can't see all our bikes riding around the place, not causing a few people to take notice. We can't really be seen, you know. We don't want to waste this guy, or even worse, not waste this guy and get fucked by the pigs for it."

It became a question no one had any ideas to even put forth, until Clay came up with something.

"Okay, check out what I'm thinking and see how it plays out."

JT gave Clay the floor to voice his thoughts and everyone paid close attention.

"What if I drive the truck down, instead of my bike? I mean, it gives us something to use that no one would suspect. We can drive up and down any street and just look like we're lost, or something."

"Fuck! Right on, Clay, I love it, man. I got it, you and I will go down in your truck, while Piney takes the lead on the run. We can go to Palm Springs and scope the place out, then hook up with the guys for the ride back. We got those binoculars now, so we can check things out and not be seen near the area. I just want to see where that Caddy is and what the asshole looks like. Once we know his face, he's a dead man."

JT's face said it all to them. This run was more than a money making venture. This was a mission of revenge and nothing more. The dope was just a means of being there and making some much needed money, but the focus was on Clive Brock and putting a face to the name. A name they wanted to see engraved into a headstone

Marietta opened her eyes after the circle of love ended and looked around at everyone. Her first thoughts were on the way she felt. Her smile grew wider and wider, the more she realized how she was feeling inside. There was a sense of peace her soul had cried out for and was now being enjoyed. The other feeling that had consumed her completely, one that made her feel better about herself than she ever had before, was love. There was no mistaking it, what it was she was feeling, for the faces on every person she looked at, showed her that love. Every pair of eyes was filled with it, the look on their faces spoke it. It gladdened her soul to the point she began laughing, lightly at first, then more openly and joyously in its meaning, the sensations tickling her spirit with happiness.

The ride out to Clay's former home and the land he knew of, was rode in purpose, keeping to the rules and making it there safely. The bikes were stopped and eyes took stock of the area, looking for any signs of people, or listening for their voices. When the area was presumed devoid of people, they took out the guns and clips and everyone learned how to load their gun properly. Once they were familiar with how they worked and how to aim and fire, Clay showed them some of his old targets he used to shoot at with his rifle.

Clay readied his pistol to fire and aimed it at a fence post fifty feet away. He squeezed off five quick rounds at it and every one was a hit, as splinters flew of the post after each shot. He looked at the other guys and smirked.

"Had a little practice already. Let's just say, if that fucker is that far away from me, he's dead. Each of you guys should be able to shoot that far and hit it."

JT went next and took his military stance for firing. He squeezed off five rounds and saw he hit it three out five times.

"Not bad. Haven't had one in my hand for a bit, but it'll come back to me."

"Not bad shooting. Haven't seen too many can hit it, let alone three times."

Piney took his turn and fired his five, hitting hit four out of five times. He smiled and shrugged his shoulders, as he laughed.

"Shouldn't have breathed on that shot, oops."

Clay looked at him with admiration at his achievement.

"Nice shooting, Piney."

"Thanks, Clay. I didn't get as rusty as JT did. Like riding a bike, sort of."

"Yeah, exactly. Don't matter what I shoot, rifle, gun, all the same. I must have wasted a million rounds out here, shooting at shit."

Every guy took a turn and got a feel of how the gun felt going off, some for the first time. Once they emptied their clips, they reloaded them and readied them for firing again. Those that had a hard time hitting the post the first time, continued practising on it. Clay and the vets moved down a bit further and he showed them a target almost twice as far. The corner ahead sign was already damaged, from years of ballistic abuse by the locals, so a little more wouldn't really be noticed. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 02



This time Clay held his gun at his side, like it was in his holster, then snapped it up and fired five more rounds. The sound of the bullets pinging off the metal signified a hit with each one. He turned with a big smile at his efforts, visually bragging to them to do better. JT went next again and stood with the same pose. When he felt ready, he snapped up his pistol and fired five rounds, the fifth going wide from the kick of the recoil. He shrugged off the miss, as he moved to the side.

"First four would have killed the fucker anyway."

No one argued his reasoning and let it go without remark. Piney stood in the same spot and just raised his pistol and squeezed off five fast rounds, each one hitting close to the first one. He walked over with a poker face, then smiled.

"Dead."

JT smiled and patted him on the shoulder. Lenny took his turn and snapped it up, but only three of his made the target area. He put a defiant look on his face as he walked back.

"First three were for him, last two for the assholes behind him."

While the others laughed at Lenny's remark, JT started thinking on it more.

"You know, I never thought of that."

"What, JT?"

"I just assumed we'd be going after one guy. What if Gus really was talking about muscle being guys and not guns?"

Everyone stopped firing and thought on that for a moment. No one had any idea who Clive Brock was and what he was capable of doing. One thing was perfectly clear, he had no qualms about putting two bullets into two people and walking away. Things took a different perspective to it, as it turned from just shooting a guy dead, to taking on an unknown number of men, all who could possess the same penchant for pulling the trigger, as Clive Brock did. 

"Doesn't matter guys. We're still doing this run and Clay and me are still scoping this place out to see what this guy looks like. Maybe we'll learn something, maybe not, but I want to know as much about this fucker as I can. If he has guys to protect him or anything, we'll know about it. I want to know what this guy does for a living and find out if we can hit him that way somehow. If this guy goes to stripper bars, I want to know which ones. We need info on this guy and the sooner the better. I don't think anyone wants to walk into a surprise ambush and get wasted, before you pull the trigger, now do you?"

Everyone agreed to hold off on retribution, until they knew for sure what they could be up against. The run was going as planned and JT once again looked at his brothers and spoke with conviction.

"I know this is all about my needs, to take care of my mom and I can't thank you guys enough for doing this for me. Just know that if any of you face anything like this and need help, it will always be here for you. This club will always support its members in every way. We are only as good as the heart we put into this and how we honour our commitments to each other. I'm proud to call myself a brother to you all. More so, I'm very proud to think of myself as a Son, one born to this world like each of you, to be someone I can be proud of calling myself. I pledge my heart and soul to this club and every member in it. I would gladly give my life, to protect each and very one of you."

Every guy took stock of JT's words and how they made them feel about themselves and their own commitment to the club and its members. Every man was an island unto himself, before they got together, but since they joined, there was a coming together of men, of minds, of hearts. Each one shared a common belief in freedom, each one, a desire to be free in spirit. The club was giving them that and like a family, they were sons of one mother, one who birthed them from her womb. A mother called Anarchy. 

Guns were fired with a greater purpose in mind now, as those minds began thinking it was about defending their own lives and not just taking another. One by one, more of the bullets they fired, began hitting their marks, as they spent the afternoon filling the air with the smell of cordite and gunpowder.

Marietta hugged Lorraine first, holding her close and enjoying the feel of her next to her own body. She felt cleansed of all the sins of her flesh, that had happened to her since she was young, making her feel whole and complete. Her kiss was warm and affectionate to her, nothing sexual to it in context. She moved from girl to girl and then man to man, completing the circle and felt like she was one with them. Moon called for food to be prepared and a celebration to take place afterwards. Tonight would be one of sharing and enjoying each other, coming together as one love, united by all.

The embarrassment of nudity soon wore off on all of them, as no attention was paid to it by anyone. Little by little, the concept of shedding clothes to free the spirit, was coming to them all. Horrors and dark dramas, that were recently a cause of stressful pains, were vanishing in the light of love and peace, as the commune exercised its gifts of sanctuary over everyone. It would also be a night of new awakenings to pleasures of the mind and body, as Golden set about preparing a large batch of herbal tea, one laced with peyote. 

There was a different feeling in every guy, once he had fired his gun with deadly intent. Bullets had a purpose now, one of safety and control. They put them back in their bags and looked at one another as something different yet again. Whether they realized it themselves or not, they had become outlaws. Each man had a conviction in his heart now, one that was enforced by the rule of blood and bullets. Society didn't want them and that meant society's rules weren't theirs to obey either. Their rules superseded any of the ones set forth by those before them, no longer feeling the need to obey them. Society's rules denied them, cost them their freedoms, made them pay with the cost of their lives, so rich, fat cats could sit back and enjoy the good life at their expense. The ride of selfish excess was over for them, no longer would they reap the benefits from their toil. Take, would have to become give, for anything to work between them again. 

JT thought about quite a lot on the way back to Charming, as they all did. Life wanted to deal him some hard blows and it almost took him out, but he steeled himself to it and hardened himself for the times ahead. Rushing into the wind, his face alive with the air hitting it, his lungs filled with the freedom it held, he knew he would always have a fight to wage, against any and all, who dared try take it away from him.

Once the sun had set and a fire started in the pit, Moon had everyone congregate around its warmth. One by one, he ladled a small amount of tea into cups and handed them out to everyone. Once everyone was holding a cup, he raised his up, the others following suit. He blessed their gathering and spoke of the gift of love and all its power and glory, then drank the tea down. The others followed his lead, but the newcomers were having a hard time getting past the bitter taste. Moon saw them and helped them understand its purpose.

"Sometimes we must face some bitterness in our lives, but it is tempered with the rewards of great pleasures, as well. This is life's bitterness that we drink and soon, we shall enjoy the great pleasures of love among us."

It helped with the reasoning of it, but still did nothing to take away the taste, as they drank it back and put the cups in the basket. Moon had everyone join hands around the fire and start to dance in a circle, the new girls learning the steps from the others. Slowly, they figured out the sequences and became more adept at them. Smiles grew brighter as they did, the simple enjoyment of doing it and sharing something new, had many naked bodies dancing around the firelight, feeling its warmth on their skin, as the tea began taking its effect on them all. 

Sensations became heightened, colours issuing a new vibrancy, the touch of the hands in theirs, almost electric in feel. Skin tingled and came alive with sensations, bodies feeling pleasures from within, taking them over. Kisses were started and passed to the person beside them, adding to the sensual feelings they were experiencing. Slowly the kisses became more intimate in nature and tongues were introduced, lasting longer and longer with each person. None of the initiates were put off, or offended by what they were feeling, or experiencing.

Marietta was enjoying a loving kiss from Golden, when she felt arms embracing her from behind. At first they caressed her stomach and thighs, but soon became more intimate in their approach, cupping and kneading her breasts and nipples, then a hand was exploring her between her legs, urging her to part her thighs for her. Desires swimming in her head and the pleasures her body was enjoying, had her part them and felt the soft touch of fingers stroking her there, sending a shivered response from head to toe, because of the sensation. 

Loving had never been imagined to happen like this, for Marietta, or any of the other new comers to this lifestyle. It was near impossible for them to deny themselves the gifts they were receiving, in mind, body and soul. Dancing ended completely and bodies came together in a writhing mass of carnal pleasures on the packed ground. Whatever body a hand touched, or part of themselves that was engaged in an act of loving, was loved and pleasured from the feelings coming from their hearts. 

As sparks from burning wood floated up into the night sky, a group of people became as one, united in a common love of one another, one that banished boundaries and beliefs from them. Love was the only true thing to believe in and all the beauty it was able to bestow on them. A body was a thing of beauty and every body was adored by all. When the embers died down and the night air chilled them, a trail of bodies wandered back inside and upstairs. 

It seemed no matter how much pleasure was enjoyed, feminine minds and bodies wanted more. The men were sated and spent, lying down on their beds and asking for sleep. The girls left them, only somewhat discouraged by their inability to continue, as they all went into the other room and pushed the beds together. Laughter and giggling turned into oohs and aahs, as hands and mouths found their way back to carnal pleasures of the flesh. 

The age of women had come, where their liberation from the standards they had to adhere to before, were being tossed aside for new ones. Ones they found more to their liking and favoured them, instead of men. Free love was undeniable in its power. Enjoying pleasures of the flesh for the first time, gaining an understanding of their own sexuality and what was pleasing to them, was a freedom every woman could grasp a hold of, burn their bras for and wave a banner in support of it. 

As much as the men rebelled against an unjust society towards them, the women were doing the same. No matter what person called them self an American, each and every one had an issue with the government, Lyndon B. Johnson, the primary source of complaint. Civil unrest was only the result of what lay deeper in every citizen. For each and every one had been taught in school, that it was their right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It was now a time of recognition to those truths and the lack of the government's part, in providing any means for its people to achieve, or acquire them.

The time had come, when the people began writing their own rules and others followed them, causing a division in generations like no other before it. Too much had transpired to reverse decisions, once made. Once turned from the mainstream, there was no reason to go back, there was nothing there to go back to.



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 03



Ch.3             Due Unto Others







The dull, morning sunlight made its way into the bedroom and washed the mass of feminine bodies in light. Naked, entwined with each other, they slept with the comfort of peace, finally sated in their joys of exploring their sexualities. The effects of the peyote had brought them past the thresholds of right and wrong, past the boundaries of moral conduct and into the light of love, unbridled and unconditional in its context. Beliefs of what it was had changed, no longer tempered by the thoughts of the church, or society's regulations on morality. The release of the spirit took them past that, past where others had been afraid to go, because of fear.

The guys woke to the same light of day, but love wasn't what had filled their spirits the night before. Scenario after scenario was played out by them, trying to come up with imagined events to deal with. All of them played out the same way, taking out the subject and walking away whole and undetected. Where the girls had spent the night filling their hearts and minds with the power of love, the guys had spent theirs, consumed in the power of hateful vengeance.

Some of the guys began dismantling beds and getting them ready to transport out to the commune, while others broke into the office and went to the store room. They grabbed plenty of bedding, as well as towels and anything else they thought would be useful. They took as much as they felt, knowing the motel would never miss it, because no one was going to open it again, at least not for a very long time. JT couldn't imagine anyone wanting to own a place, where three homicides had taken place.

He made a note to take a ride into town and go to St. Thomas Hospital. Marlene had pulled through and he needed to see if he could talk to her and see how she was doing. He also wanted to know if she could give him any information on her husband. If he missed his guess, she would want to see him dead, just as much as everyone else did. Forgiveness was hard to give to someone, when the pain of bullet wounds was still fresh in her mind and in her body.

Clay's truck was loaded with mattresses and a large dresser on top of them, then the whole thing tied down securely. Wally packed his car with all the supplies they stole and the group was once again heading out of a place of misery, to one more akin to Eden, although one where sex wasn't frowned upon as a sin. The clouds were getting denser and heavier in moisture, the threat of rain increasing the closer they came. The first drops stung their faces, as they began riding into the oncoming wall of water approaching. There was no other choice, but to continue riding, slowing down to avoid skidding on the slick road surface and lessen the impact of the rain on their skin.

Ten miles felt like fifty, as they rode in the drenching rain, soaking everyone on bikes to the skin. Hair was whipped back and fluttered wildly, as rain was blown through it. Unrelenting in its volume of water, the riders were equally unrelenting in giving up on their destination. The gate was passed in great happiness and horns were blown repeatedly to let them know they were there. The door opened and the group came out to see them and saw the cargo they were hauling. Seeing the state they were in, bodies came out and assisted them in getting the beds and dresser inside. Water dripped in puddles from the beds and dresser, as they sat on the porch, as did the guys, as their clothes began to drain the rain from them. 

"Come, all of you. Inside and get out of those clothes and dry yourselves. We have a good fire going and we'll hang your things up to dry out."

"What about the stuff in the car?"

Wally's statement made them remember and JT looked at them and shrugged his shoulders. 

"Shit, that's right. We still have a bunch of stuff in the car to bring in. We're wet already, so let's go get it guys."

The rain gave them no peace from the drenching, as they dashed to the car and retrieved the sheets and pillows and all the rest of the supplies. They spared it from getting more than a few drops on it and handed it to drier hands to take. Boots and shoes were taken off on the porch and then cuts and shirts followed. Water was wrung out as much as possible and the girls took them and hung them over chairs and sat them closer to the fire. Pants were hesitantly undone, but only JT and Lenny took them off, without thought.

"What? Little shy about dropping them, boys? Worried it shrivelled up to nothing?"

Some started taking them off at JT's prompting, while others were still unsure about exposing themselves, despite the uncomfortableness of being cold and damp, their jeans stuck to their skin. The girls came over with towels and held them up in front of them for a screen, making it easier to do. Once the pants were down, the towels were wrapped around and tucked closed. There was no need to ask them to stand by the fire and warm up, as their women came and hugged them, sharing their warmth with them. Moon looked in the front hall at the beds and stacks of pillows and several pillow cases full of toiletries.

"I do believe you have more than enough beds to take care of everyone and more for guests, The sheets and pillows and all the little soaps and shampoos, are a blessing indeed. I know the girls are happy to have it. Aren't you?"

The girls all gave their thanks to the guys for bringing them the little luxuries and making their stay as pleasant and comfortable as they could. Phoenix and Star picked up guitars and began playing songs that everyone knew and sang along to. The chills were shaken off and the warmth of fire and friendship comforted them from the cold and rain, as well as the evil that was blackening their hearts. Deadly sins were put away from thoughts, as loving joy made its presence felt in them.

"You know, I don't think this rain is going to be letting up any time soon, JT."

Everyone listened to the heavy thrum of the drops pelting the roof and the walls. It was a certainty that riding was impossible under those conditions. As it was, they were assuming their bikes were going to be hard to start, once the weather did clear. JT agreed with a nod. 

"I have the same feeling, Piney. Guys, I do believe we're going to have to make up some beds and get some sheets and pillows on them. Moon, want to show us where the dry ones are going? The wet one can dry out down here I guess, for now."

Moon smiled and let his happiness be known, that they were staying overnight, at least. 

"Follow me guys."

Moon started up the staircase, while the guys doubled up on the mattresses and followed him up. Moon took them into the first bedroom and had one mattress put in there and another in the second. He had the third put in his room and then the guys took stock of the sleeping arrangements in the one room. Lenny piped up and voiced everyone's thoughts.

"What the fuck happened in there? Looks like the 42nd Airborne did a run on it."

The girls couldn't help but start giggling and laughing, when they heard Lenny, so Moon explained.

"The girls rearranged the beds last night to accommodate their...... sleeping habits. Something about warmth in numbers, or sharing body heat. They seemed to enjoy it. Didn't you girls?"

Every female shouted out yes, some still unable to stop giggling about it. There was some leery looks, as to what it was all about, but questions would probably bring about answers best left unsaid. Chico was still wondering about Marietta with disbelief. He had left her here a day ago, full of doubt and worry and now she was almost naked and giggling like the others about what happened last night. Something truly amazing must have happened, to transform her like this and he needed to know.

That same thought was running through all the guys heads, wondering what their women had gotten up to, in the short time they were gone. Getting friendly was understandable, but the girls were openly affectionate to each other and Moon, Star and Phoenix weren't deprived of any either. Questions were being raised and red flags were raised with them. The idea of their women being sexually available to anyone, including another woman, just wasn't sitting right with them.

Lorraine was picking it up from Lenny and she pulled Gloria and Cindy to her, so she could whisper something to them. They heard what she had to say and nodded in agreement. Lorraine spoke out, so everyone could hear.

"I bet you guys would like to enjoy another round of our Circle of Love, wouldn't you?"

Lenny knew exactly what she was talking about, as did the others. Only those who had never been initiated into it, had no idea what they were talking about. 

"Who wants to be first?"

No sooner did Lorraine say that, when she began undressing. Gloria and Cindy followed suit, then all the girls were quickly shedding the few clothes they had on, the new ones knowing that if it meant getting naked, it must be fun. Moon looked to JT for an answer to what was going on, his face showing happiness in what he was thinking, but a question in what it was about.

"You have a Circle of Love that you practice, JT?"

JT smiled and slightly blushed, as he explained.

"The girls came up with it a month or so ago. It's actually call The Circle Jerk of Love, if I remember correctly."

JT saw the look on Moon's face when he told him and then saw the girls forming a circle of sorts. They were all naked and waiting eagerly for the first participant, as Moon looked at JT.

"I guess a demonstration is better than any words I can say about it. Seeing as I'm the leader, I'll go first and show you how its done."

The girls cheered JT, as he came over and they parted to let him in the centre of them. They closed around him and in seconds, hands were upon his body and breasts were pressed into him. JT's broad grin showed the enjoyment of what their circle could bring and the guys who had never partook in it before, were stunned to see such a display of open sexual gratification. Despite their worries of exposing themselves in front of others, members stiffened and became erect, pressing their existence against the towels. The ones who had no qualms of exposure, were reacting the same to the spectacle and cared little that they were in that state.

With a round of cheering, JT was finished off and sent out of their midst. He stood there smiling euphorically, semen still dripping from the end of his spent manhood. The guys that knew about it, were clamouring to be next, but the girls motioned for Moon to be next and he hesitantly accepted.

"What's the worry, Moon? Only a bunch of horny women who want to make you blow your load everywhere."

The raw, sexual energy was emitted abundantly from the girls, the new ones to it, finding it to their liking and beckoning Moon to them eagerly. Moon stepped into their opening and they quickly closed around him and his face was all anyone needed to see, to let them know the pleasures he was experiencing, were better than what the girls had been shown by him. He succumbed to it quickly, their manipulations and stimulating bodies, so intense a sensation to feel. In minutes, he too was releasing himself liberally in jetted spurts of pleasure. The girls parted and Moon was gently pushed out, the fingers beckoning the next participant.

Moon staggered over to JT, who was laughing at his state, which was much the same as his, when he was finished. Moon looked back at the girls, as they closed around Piney and shook his head.

"Really? Circle Jerk of Love?"

JT laughed harder, hearing Moon's response.

"Their idea, Moon, not mine. Honestly though, isn't that a fucking blast? Just feeling all those tits against you, rubbing you like that and then who the fuck knows who's hand is doing what to you. They came up with that, the first time most of us were together. I think we wanted to stay with them, after that. Nobody wanted to lose out on a great time, or a great girl. None of us were expecting to have girlfriends out of it, either. We were just looking to party and have a good time and the next thing we know, we're all hooking up and going out, dating and stuff."

"Fate brings many strange and wonderful things to us, JT, as we walk along the paths of our lives, but that was one to make you stop and think."

Piney came stumbling out panting and smiling happily, his spent erection wobbling about and dripping semen from it.

"Hey Piney, get that thing under control, will ya?"

Piney saw JT and Moon looking and pointing at his cock and he looked down at it, seeing the long trail of thick fluid dangling from the end. He turned and walked over to the circle and wiped it off on Poppy's ass cheek. He turned back to JT and Moon, looking for their approval, getting a smack on his ass from Poppy.

"Better?"

"Much, Piney. Nice touch with the ass wipe though, very tasteful."

Piney smiled and walked over to them, no longer concerned about his body, or how he measured up. 

"I'm an artiste, JT. I thought I used a lot of flourish in that stroke, don't you?"

Moon and JT couldn't help but break out laughing hard, Piney's humour and mannerisms making it hard not to. Star was almost spinning around, as he was ejected from the circle and Lenny was pulled in right after. The girls were making short work of the guys and ending any shyness, or doubts about themselves. Once finished, the guys stood naked and sated in pleasure in front of the fire, as they watched one after the other, be taken care of by the Circle.

When all the guys were finished, the girls stood and looked at them, a sense of dominance and superiority showing on their faces. Lorraine seemed to be acting as a leader, or at least spokeswoman for them, as she spoke to them.

"Now, no more getting jealous and stuff, okay you guys? We know that's what was happening, we're not stupid, you know. You guys should all be friends by now, we all are, aren't we girls?"

The girls sent up a rousing agreement to her and she continued.

"We learned how to get along and share our love with them, as well as the guys. Don't get all pissy and shitty, Lenny, you said you could fuck anyone you wanted, right? Fair's fair, isn't it? Anyway, we've all been with each other, each and every girl. I also fucked Moon and Star and Phoenix and so did every other girl here. If you guys can stop being idiots for a minute, you'd understand why we did it too."

Anger was fading quickly, as heads tried to understand what Lorraine was saying to them. Knowing that every girl had had sex with the three guys last night, had them wondering about the 'sleeping arrangements' discussed earlier. Knowing that every girl had engaged in sexual activities with other women, had some wondering themselves now, the way JT and Wally had earlier, because of Suzy and Annie having their experimentation. It was hard to see them in that new light, shattering all perceptions of them, of who they thought they were. They waited now for Lorraine to finish, wondering what else the girls had concocted for them.

"We want to know something about you guys now. Me and everyone else, want to know what each guy is like in bed. Yeah, Lenny, every guy and here's how we want to do it, too. What? You going to say we can't?"

The guys looked at Lenny and saw his temper was ready to flare up and explode on her. JT moved and put a hand on his shoulder, interrupting his focus.

"Might want to rethink this, brother. You just stood in the middle of them and had another round of their fun and you know damn well, it wasn't just Lorraine's hands doing all that to you. You have no problem with fucking another woman, so why can't Lorraine do the same, or do you own her somehow, that we don't know about?"

JT's words ate their way through his anger and into his logic, making him think past the selfish emotions and understand where he was coming from. He could see the defiance in Lorraine, for him to continue challenging her, knowing if he did, any thoughts of sexual pleasure would forever be denied to him. He weighed it all out and relented his position and gave in. Another person who silently weighed out JT's words, was Chico. He had been harbouring thoughts the same as Lenny, but his confusion lay in other areas. What had happened to his Marietta? Just a week ago, she was a helpless victim of brutality, frightened and in fear of her life. Now, she was standing before him naked, unashamed of herself, or the intimacy she had with the girls around her, as she hugged Flower, their faces cheek to cheek, bodies pressed together comfortably.

"So, anyone else have any objections to whose cock, goes in whose pussy? Come on, let's hear it. If you do, you can sit it out and not get to know how every single girl feels like, inside."

The contradictions in every guy's head started up at that point. They looked at their girlfriends and then to the other women around them and couldn't help, but imagine what they would feel like to be with. Lorraine could see that none of them wanted to pass up the opportunity and ended it up with a sarcastic slap for them, just to let them know they were in control.

"I'm glad to see every guy is letting their dick head think for them, instead of the dumb one on top of their shoulders. Okay, want to know how we're going to do this?"

Before anyone else answered, JT spoke out for them, seeing the insulting remark be taken in offence by some.

"You have the floor, Lorraine, what do you have in mind?"

With the power given to her, she immediately set about setting the scene the girls wanted them to make. The guys obediently started doing what was asked, then Lenny stopped and looked at Lorraine.

"When did you girls decide all this?"

Lorraine smiled happily in her reply.

"Last night. After the guys couldn't get it up anymore for us, we thought about doing this, the next time you guys came up. One thing, pretty well all of us, found out last night, we really like fucking and having orgasms. Oh, and another thing, all of you guys have got to learn how to lick pussy properly. That's something we want you guys to just sit and watch us do, so you'll know what it is that we want you to do to us. Now, hurry up and help get this set up, or you'll be the last one to get anything."

Lenny's emotional confusion prevented him from going to one feeling, or the other, he was having. He shook his head and let it go, knowing anything he said or did, wouldn't make anything better, or solve anything for him. He joined the guys in laying mattresses down, so that almost all of the floor was covered by them. Sheets were thrown over them and pillows placed about in designated spots. Twelve spots were made and Lorraine had the guys take them, their women laying them down and making them comfortable. Scarfs and cloths were brought out and made into blindfolds, the girls trying to put them on the guys, but to much refusal. Once again, Lorraine called the shots.

"Hey, it's all part of the fun. Maybe we should explain why you need to be blindfolded and that way you won't be scared, little boys."

The guys took a visual objection to being called little boys, but held off retaliating to it.

"Here's what we're going to do. We blindfold you and then we're going to either suck you, or stroke you and then fuck you and you have to guess who it is. Girlfriends don't do boyfriends, because you'd know right away that it was us, so now we'll see how good you can guess, at who you think it is. Ready?"

The guys had no objection now to being blindfolded, knowing what awaited them once they were. They laid back, heads on the pillows and waited anxiously for the pleasure to begin. The last thing they heard, was Lorraine inviting the girls to begin and then the movement on the mattresses, had the guys libidos peaking with expectations. Hands and mouths brought flaccid flesh to gristly erections, ready and willing to serve whatever needs were asked of them. Moans came out of the men's mouths, as they tried to imagine who was bestowing the pleasure on them. After the third woman, no one cared who was doing what to them, it all felt good. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 03



The fire began to dwindle, it's heat no longer radiating the warmth it once did, but the room remained comfortable, due to the high amount of body heat expelled. Girls enjoyed long, sensual rides of ecstasy on swollen members, savouring the different nuances of each guy. Each guy was enjoying the same nuances, feeling the warm wetness wrap them in a sheath of liquid lust. 

Aromatic pine and cedar wood was added to the fire, filling the room with the scents. The guys were beginning to decline any more action, to their already well used cocks, ending the mystery woman session. They took their blindfolds off and looked about at the girls, trying to figure out who had done what to them. Some made correct guesses, while most never had a clue, but enjoyed whatever was done and whoever did it.

Lorraine had the guys get up and sit around the outside of the mattresses, while they took over centre stage on them. 

"Now, we want you guys to watch what we do to each other. We're not saying we don't like what you try doing to us, we're just saying we want you to do it better, okay?"

The guys were amenable to it, understanding they were okay, just being taught how to do it better than they did, didn't seem like a put down. 

"The first thing we want you to do better, is kiss. Take some time to do it and enjoy it more. Girls, let's show them how we like to be kissed."

The girls were paired up and Lorraine was with Marietta. Chico and Lenny were sitting beside one another and turned to each other, knowing their women were involved with each other sexually. Neither knew what to make of it, so they turned back to watch them kiss. Every guy watched intently, looking from one pair to the next, seeing how their lips met and tongues danced rhythmically with each other. Despite being worn down to the point of being unable to get it up anymore, the guys found their members responding to the sight of Sapphic loving. The way the girls held each other and caressed the other, was so different than any of the guys imagined doing. As foreign as it looked though, every guy was taking stock of it and made notes to try it that way.

They stopped kissing and then Lorraine smiled, as she looked at the faces looking back at her. The males were rapt in attention, some with mouths agape.

"Hope you paid attention, there will be a test afterwards. Now, onto other parts, like breasts for example."

Lorraine cupped her hefty mounds in her hands, as did some of the other girls.

"These, are not squeeze toys, no, no, no. You have to be gentle when you touch them. See these things? These are nipples. Lenny, pay attention, you need to know this. These are attached to our breasts, they also have a lot of nerve endings in them and they fucking hurt, when you treat them too roughly. You want to end a fun time in bed quickly? Hurt them and it's all over for her, and you. Got it, Lenny?"

Lorraine's look at Lenny, had him tone down any macho manliness, as she made sure he was well aware of his shortcomings in that department. The rest of the guys paid attention to the breasts and the soft fondling of them by the girls, as they demonstrated how they liked to be touched. 

"Marietta, would you like to show the guys just what they should be doing, when they lick and play with them?"

At first, Chico and the others thought she was going to touch herself, but in a bold move, she came around to the front of Lorraine and cupped her breasts in her hands. She leaned forward and slid her tongue out and began softly licking the turgid tip, bringing it to its stiffest peak. She wrapped her lips around it and suckled it gently, making Lorraine sigh with pleasure from it. Chico sat dumbfounded, his jaw dropped and eyes fixed on what he was seeing. Marietta rolled her tongue around the stiff flesh and kissed it softly on the tip, then sat back again. 

"Oh wow, now that was wonderful. Thank you Marietta."

Lorraine gave Marietta a kiss and it was returned with a sensual mouthing of her lips. They stopped and Lorraine continued.

"I know you guys don't know what that feels like, but to us, that's heaven, to have them treated like that. Right now, I'm soaking between my legs from that. That's what we want you guys to do to us, when you do that. Now, I'm going to move to the side, because I want Suzy and Golden to demonstrate the next thing you guys need to know how to do properly. Anyone guess what that is?"

The guys had no idea what it was, but the three men of the commune, had a very good idea what the girls were most interested in having the guys learn. 

"I didn't think so, because none of you, except JT, I'm told, understands what to do down here."

The guys looked at JT, who blushed in his acknowledged abilities, then back to Lorraine, who was pointing between her legs. 

"I need you all to move in a little closer, so you can see this. Come on, a little closer."

They shifted themselves as close as they could, so everyone could see what Lorraine wanted them to and then she parted her legs and exposed herself completely to them. They guys were spellbound by the complete lack of modesty, or decorum. 

"Okay, here's your first lesson to know about women. All the parts and what we like to have done to them."

Lorraine went about showing them her clitoris and explained how that and each part of her felt during different acts and touches. Every man was focused intently, unwilling to blink, in case they missed something. Never before had any of them been given such an in depth education of a woman's sexuality. Once she was finished showing every part of her pussy she could think to explain about, she moved to the side and had Suzy and Golden get ready.

"Now, I want you to watch how Golden touches and uses her mouth on Suzy. Pay attention to things that happen to her, so you'll know when you're doing it right. Golden, anytime you and Suzy are ready."

None of them was prepared to see such a display of how to pleasure a woman's pussy, the way Golden was doing to Suzy. It amazed them to see Suzy succumbing to an orgasm and Golden had yet to touch her with her hands. When she did, her fingers did things to her lover, the guys could only guess as to what it was, as they were buried deep inside Suzy.

By the time Golden was finished, Suzy had came three times, the last time, intensely earth shattering for her, as Golden used a combination of mouth and fingers. Golden licked her fingers clean and smiled, as she wiped her mouth clean, then looked at the males, completely in awe of the spectacle. None of them had any idea, that a woman was capable of such sexual energy and able to enjoy the act, much longer than they could. 

All the girls wore a look of superiority, knowing they had done something far beyond what any of the guys could have done. Suzy finally sat up and closed her legs again, much to the disappointment of the guys, who were staring quite openly at her glistening sexuality, smeared liberally with her own slick juices.

It was obvious to all of them, that they didn't have the first inkling of what pleased a woman in bed. They looked at their partners, waiting on the mattresses, looks of rampant sexuality appearing on their faces. Piney looked at Mary, her huge breasts being played with by Spirit, as they sat together, trying to figure out what had made the change in her. Just weeks ago, she was adamantly chastising Suzy and Ann-Marie, for doing what she was doing now, yet here she was, stark naked, comfortable with someone else's hands caressing her body and it was another female doing it. Piney was at a loss to explain the dramatic changes in all the women, for none were who they were, when they met. 

Piney looked at Moon, Star and Phoenix, knowing they had bedded his woman, for all he knew, repeatedly. That in itself, was easy to understand, but imagining her with another woman, let alone a dozen of them, was beyond comprehension. He looked at his brothers and saw the same look of wonder on their faces as well. The women they had met, come to know, made love to and shared some dramatic moments in life with, had transformed, mutated in a way, to become someone else. It was hard to understand what he was feeling at first, but it soon dawned on him what it was. Respect. 

He had found a new respect for the women. What he knew them to be before and how he had treated them, had him take stock of how little he had cared about their happiness and enjoyment of life. They had rose in standing in his mind and that same look was happening in others, as well. The women had taken a bold step forward in themselves, coming to new understandings of themselves and awakening parts of themselves that had lain dormant and unused. They were who they were now, there was no putting it all back in the box. What Piney was thinking and feeling, was on every mind at that time, that they had different women to deal with and the old ways were gone. Changes were coming and they were long overdue, by the women's way of thinking.

The moment was over and Lorraine could see they had made their points with the guys. They were looking at them with new eyes and that's all they were hoping for, a change. 

"Well, how do you like the way we want our bodies treated? I don't know about the rest of you guys, but I'm hoping Lenny paid really good attention to the way Golden was licking and fingering Suzy, because I really want some of that, right now. Girls, it's time for the test and see how well they paid attention."

Lenny looked sheepish and embarrassed, having the light shone on him. Lorraine changed her position and sat with her feet apart, exposing the brown haired patch to everyone, then she crooked her finger at Lenny and urged him to come to her. She laid back and let her legs fall to the sides, then parted her lips and gave him a look of wanton lust.

"Come, Baby. Show me what you learned and make me cum, like Golden made Suzy do."

Lenny hesitated, until the guys started egging him to do it. He knew he had to, or face ridicule from them, so he wiped his chin, as he thought of what he had seen Golden doing, then crawled on his hands and knees to her and started kissing up her legs. The girls began cheering him on, as he got nearer to his goal and Lorraine was enjoying his efforts happily. 

Marietta shocked Chico by doing much the same thing. She lay back beside Lorraine and parted her legs to him and crooked her finger and pointed between her legs, to where she wanted him to go, as well. Hands clapped his back in encouragement, the voices of his club brothers all prompting him to do it. Chico moved hesitantly towards her, unsure of himself for the first time in his life, as an adult. Marietta smoothed her hand over the black, crinkly hair and parted her lips for him. 

Boldness was an understatement, as Chico stared at the core of her pink flesh exposed and moved in closer. In his own effort to show his love for her, he softly kissed the tender lips, much like he would kiss her mouth. Marietta's hands went to his hair and held him there, caressing him, as she enjoyed the intricate pleasures his lips and tongue were bringing to her. That sparked all of the girls to beckon their men to them and each knew what his task was to undertake.

This was about their partner's pleasure, not their own. The time of sex being the sole domain of pleasure for men, was over. Denial had gone on too long and women wanted their piece of the pie and they wanted it with all the toppings. The revolution had started and it was gaining momentum with every passing of the last days of 1968. Calaveras was now home to that new awakening, one where it was happily promoted. No one could foretell where the revolution would take them, but the direction it was going, was to a place where the people were happier and that won out over anything else. 

Cries of ecstasy and moans of blissful pleasure filled the room, as women enjoyed the efforts their men were putting forth. Despite the onset of thunder and heavier rains, loving was the only sound that mattered to ears inside. Every guy put his best effort forth, not only wanting to please their women, but finding an enjoyment in doing it, as well. The viscous juices soaked faces and mattresses, as the girls expelled it from themselves in euphoric bliss. For them, this was a pivotal moment, one that brought them closer to being equals, at least for now, in bed.

Hours had passed, as faces and fingers diligently working at orgasmic delights, were slowed and stopped, as women let their partners know they were sated in bliss. The writhing mass of flesh came to a stop and partners were congratulated on achieving new heights of sexual ecstasy for them. Not one guy had even an iota of complaint, about doing what they did, or doing it with numerous people around them. Hugging and cuddling was affectionately given, the guys accepting it happily now, knowing it's all because of them and their efforts.

Moon wiped his mouth and chin clean of Spirit's juices and announced the need for food. With no power to cook on the stove, it became a lesson in roughing it, as the fire was stoked and wood added to make a good bed of coals. The girls went in to the kitchen and took out all the foods that were going to spoil first and began preparing them. The easiest thing to make was a stew, so a large pot was filed with water and the girls kept adding ingredients to it.

JT and the others sat on the mattresses and smoked cigarettes, while Phoenix and Star Rider rolled joints. They quietly discussed what they had just done, astounded at what their efforts had evoked from their girlfriends. The girls were chattering away in the kitchen at each other, so many talking at once, it was hard to understand half of what they said, but the laughter let them know how happy they were.

"Can you fucking believe it? I had no idea girls could do that kind of shit. I knew they got wet inside, but I didn't know they came like guys do, or at least sort of like guys do."

"I know, Piney. I thought I knew all about Lorraine, until now. I was like, 'who the fuck are you?', you know? Seriously, when she started doing all this shit, I wanted to thump her in the head for acting like that and saying some of the shit she did, but I'm glad I didn't, thanks JT, saved my ass on that, but really, I don't know about you guys, but I just found a real enjoyment in putting my face between Lorraine's legs and eating her out."

One after the other voiced their sentiments on the subject as well. Most had never done anything like that before, or even knew about it. What had all of them take stock of, was their nudity. Phoenix brought that to their attention, as he lit his joint and passed it to Otto, sitting beside him, putting a hand on his shoulder as he did.

"Here you go, my brother. Let your mind be free and let your troubles drift away in the smoke. I am happy to see you are accepting of your natural being now. Shedding the clothes of man, allows you to be who you really are."

Otto finished his toke and held it in, as he looked at Phoenix, holding the joint to Tom beside him. He blew it out and coughed, laughing to himself at what Phoenix had said.

"Right on. I'm a fucking naked biker, who's stoned all day and paints shit. Maybe we should just wear our cuts and ride naked all over the place, what do you think?"

The guys laughed uproariously at Otto's take on his new self. The idea of nude riding had them all laugh as well, until JT stunned them.

"Let's do it. Once the rain stops and we can get the bikes running, we should do that. Put our cuts on and go for a little cruise in the country. Not far I mean, holy shit, last thing I want is to have a fucking sunburn on my dick. Just a couple of miles and back, just to see what it feels like. I think it'll be a blast, myself."

"Are you fucked up, or what? No fucking way my ass is going out there naked on a bike."

"Chicken, Lenny?"

"Fuck you, you big, Irish asshole. You like bees and other bugs on you? Thought that hit on the leg hurt? Try dropping your bike for whatever reason and see how the road rash feels. You want pain? Wait until you see your skin smeared on the pavement for fifty feet and tell me how that makes you feel? Fuck you, chicken. I like the way my body looks, I didn't spent all this time working out to have it fucked up looking with scars."

"You are in great physical form, Lenny. I wouldn't call you chicken for that decision. I would consider that a wise choice. As much as the idea is appealing, the consequences could be great, should anything happen."

"Exactly, Star. Thanks man."

"For what, Lenny?"

"For sticking up for me like that."

"Oh, I wasn't sticking up for you, I was merely pointing out the obviousness of consequences for ones actions. You always have the right to choose your own path, Lenny, no one can take that from you. What one wishes to do in their life is up to them. It's nice to have suggestions to go on, but each one should be thought out and considered for the good and the bad in it."

"Okay, but it still sounds like you stuck up for me."

"So be it then, Lenny. I will say, that I agree with your decision and support your choice."

JT saw the understanding being shared and how the guys absorbed its meaning in their own lives. Little by little, everything that was offensive to them before, was becoming an accepted way of doing things. Had anyone said before meeting Moon and the others, that they should get together naked and let other guys fuck their women in front of them, dead bodies would be lying on the ground. All that was, wasn't anymore. Twelve men sitting around naked and not one was embarrassed, or concerned about being in that state. That would never have happened a week ago, no matter how wild they got. Something had happened because of their meeting. A new understanding and a new awareness of themselves, was taking place before their eyes and none were actually aware of it happening to them. The acceptance was so gradual, it was taken as normal behaviour.

"Okay, so no naked riding, but the idea of it, is really cool to imagine doing."

"I take it riding brings a certain sense of freedom for you, John."

"Moon, riding a bike is like instantly freeing your spirit. The second your feet leave the ground, everything that bothers you, starts getting left behind. The farther you go, there's nothing left but you and the road. You twist the throttle more and it hits that certain speed, when everything seems to vibrate at the same frequency, or something. That's when I start feeling like the bike and me are one, like we're one thing. That's when I'm feeling the freest."

"I understand that completely, John. You and the bike have come into a harmony with one another. Like we do with nature, you find it in motion and power. When you reach that speed you mention, you have found the harmony of your frequency, as you put it, with the frequency of the bike. I do wish to experience that, John, it sounds like something I can appreciate."

"Deal. Before we leave tomorrow, if the rain let's us that is, I'll take you on the back of my bike and find a road we can get up to that speed and show you what I mean."

The idea appealed to more than Moon, getting Star and Phoenix asking to go as well. Keith and Lenny said they'd take them and that brought an expectation of an experience they were looking forward to. Calls came from the kitchen, that the food was ready and to come and get it. The hunger outweighed anything else and the small kitchen became packed with naked bodies and food. 

There was a definite lack of plates and eating utensils for everyone, so plates were shared with partners, along with forks and knives. Once served, the food was eaten with ravenous hunger to satisfy the bodies needs. Laughter and happiness was added, as jokes were shared throughout the meal. Two dozen people sat in couples, enjoying all that the simple life had to offer. Monetary possessions weren't the source of happiness for them, it was peace, love and honest friendship. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 03



After dinner cigarettes and joints were lit and casually smoked, as they lounged about and rested. Azure was with Wally, making him a very happy person while he was there. He was feeling like all had returned to the way it was, until she spoke out an idea to everyone.

"When we're ready to have some more fun, I have an idea we should try. I think it'll be lots of fun."

"What idea is that, Azure?"

She looked at Moon with a big smile and then told everyone.

"We should put our names in a hat or something and the guys pick one and make out with who they chose."

Wally was crestfallen in a heartbeat, feeling lessened by the idea, that Azure had no more feelings for him, than anybody else.

"I think that sounds like a wonderful idea, Azure, but we should ask our guests if they are okay with doing that first, I think. John, what do you think? Would you and the guys like to try that with us?"

JT looked at the guys and saw there wasn't any real objection to it, but Wally seemed to be unfavourable to it. Azure could see it, when she turned and looked at him.

"Awww, Wally. Don't be sad, Baby. It doesn't mean I don't like you, because I do. You know what, even without picking, I hope you get to be with Flower. I know you'll be happy being with her, won't he Flower?"

Flower looked at Wally and smiled with more than warmth in it, as she nodded her head to him. Wally was unsure about it, but the idea of experiencing something with a different woman held an appeal he couldn't deny. With a shrug of his shoulders and a nod, the idea was accepted and Spirit went and got a sheet of paper and wrote all the girls names on it, then cut them in strips and put them in a wicker basket.

JT went first and picked Golden and to his surprise, Suzy was excited for him.

"You are going to have so much fun, Babe. Golden is awesome to be with."

JT remembered Suzy's session with her earlier and figured he would be experiencing something truly unique, being with her. Piney went next and picked Poppy. He looked at the tiny girl and saw she had no objection to being with someone, as big as him. Piney smiled nervously, feeling Mary holding on to him still. Spirit went to all the club first, then offered the basket with three names left in it, to Moon, Star and Phoenix. Moon picked Suzy, Star picked Azure and Phoenix picked last and the name left was Mary. 

Piney glanced at Mary and saw her happiness in being chosen by him and didn't feel so bad about being with Poppy. Once all the smoking was done, couples paired up in their chosen format and got comfortable. There were questioned looks between the guys to their girls, but they were for not, as the girls were paying attention to who they were with now and not them. Once lips met and hands touched, thoughts were gone and physical pleasure was all that mattered.

The mattresses became a writhing mass of flesh making love, bodies responding to the lessons recently learned and practised with great enjoyment. JT was enamoured with Golden, looking at someone who possessed such incredible looks and body to match. Every part of her he touched, was like a piece of perfection to him and the more he did with her, the more he became completely engrossed in doing his best, to bring about the greatest satisfaction he could present for her. 

"Do you want to love me, John?"

JT looked into Golden's eyes, upon hearing her question. He nodded his response to her and very quietly, a yes spoken to her.

"I want to love you, as well."

JT was a little astounded, to feel Golden's hand take him and guide him to her moistened core. He felt himself part her folds and enter her inside, his eyes closing at the blissful feelings he had. He took over again and pushed himself deeper, completing the connection between them. There was nothing in his mind at that time, than pure pleasure. No pain, no hurt, no sadness or remorse was felt, as Golden worked her inner musculature along the length of him, causing him untold bliss in his mind, as his body was filled with Golden's offering. She held him to her, her legs softly wrapping around his waist and continued doing her manipulations, until JT began shaking. She could feel his release inside her, filling her with his warmth. Golden kissed JT hard and with passion, as she milked him dry of his seed.

"I love you, JT."

JT looked in her brown eyes, the golden flecks alive with sparkles in them. Through hoarse, panted breaths, he replied.

"I love you, Golden."

JT could feel her tighten her hold him, her arms and legs squeezing him tighter, as she clung onto him through her orgasm. JT looked at the intense pleasure awash on her face, the look of euphoria exposed to him. It was then that he realized what making love was all about. He felt his own pleasure soar inside him, knowing he had brought Golden to such heights. It wasn't about him, it was about her. A new dawning of love and its offerings came to him, He didn't quite understand all of its concepts, but the roots were taking hold and growing.

Golden's mouth eagerly sought his, her tongue writhing sinuously with his. JT remained buried deep inside her, her presence around him instigating arousal in him once more. He was astounded to feel himself getting erect and nothing more than the velvet walls of muscular contraction were doing it. He thought back to Suzy's happiness in him picking Golden's name, knowing now what she meant, when she said Golden was awesome and fun to be with. Knowing how Golden was making him feel, he could only imagine what Suzy and Azure must have felt with her.

Azure was pretty well attached at the hip with her, most times, never being away from her too far, or too long. The connection they had, brought about a tremendous change in her, bringing her inner being to fruition and letting her be who she wanted to truly be. Any thoughts of anyone and anything vanished in a misty haze, as pure, unconditional love brought him back to the reality of the moment. JT became lost in her, feeling himself become consumed by her presence, wanting nothing more than to be one with her, again.

There were repeated couplings by everyone, as they made love with their new partners. Once more, love found its way past the darkness and lit up the souls, of those engulfed in life's chaos and misery. The night was filled with the sounds of nature, as thunder rolled through the valley and rain pelted off the house. Inside, the sounds of nature continued, as bodies came together and voices expressed themselves in gratitude, for the love that was being shared and presented by them.

Jealousy never had a place to take hold in them, as no one had the need to feel it. JT raised himself on his arms, arching his back, as he strained through his release of ecstasy. Golden held him tightly to her, pressing her crotch into his. He opened his eyes, the foggy realization of what was happening, still swimming in his head. His eyes found Suzy's and saw she was looking at him. Their eyes locked and spoke silent words between them. Moon was thrusting in and out of her slowly and JT could see it clearly before him, then he looked back into her eyes and saw the love in them, for him, not who was pleasuring her.



He could feel his own seed still spilling from him, into Golden's depths, yet felt his own love for Suzy in his heart. Smiles played on their faces, accepting what was happening and what was between them. One thing they both understood was still between them, was respect. Despite being engaged in sexual activities with other partners, there was no loss of love between them. 

Golden's hand reached up and pulled JT back to her, embracing him to her and wrapping herself around him, as she cried out in blissful passion, her own orgasmic pleasure reaching its zenith. Beyond all the noises around him, he could hear Suzy's passion being cried out above the others. What he would come to know later, as to why, he smiled at hearing her, happy that she was being fulfilled in pleasure.

The joys of the body exhausted, couples lay back and cuddled in, enjoying the afterglow of euphoric bliss. Once they were all over the moment, couples came back together, embracing and kissing, joining together in a bond of new love for one another.

The biggest change that no one actually felt right off, was one of equality. It would come later, as couples united together in love and the happiness of both of them reaching a sated need for pleasure. Sex, what was once something that was the sole dominion of men, was now something shared by both sexes. Something the women had felt was long over due and entitled to it and all the happiness and pleasures it held. The change would be felt world-wide by every woman, in one way or another, causing a shift in focus of who they were and what their position was in the world. Every man would see a woman's power increasing exponentially, as the rise of the Woman's Liberation movement took shape and forced the world to notice them.

Wherever bodies felt comfortable, eyes were closed and sleep was welcomed by them all. As the storm dwindled, the rain became nothing more than a soft hiss, the thunder long since passed by and echoing faintly through the air. The peace and love felt in their hearts, would grow throughout the night, but would soon be engaged in a conflict of epic proportions in the days to come, as the dawn would bring the realities of life back to them.



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 04



Season 2

Ch.4 Fate Accompli

Fate was true to form and played everything out the way it wanted. The storm had passed, leaving the air clear and fresh and the day, ready to begin, but Fate had thoughts of anything it wanted, in store for it. Eyes were opened and looked at the day anew, with opened minds to see new things. JT appreciated the feelings he felt inside himself, none of the prior misery holding any ground. With the sight of the growing dawn, came the dawning of his life and what was still awaiting him to attend to. 

While some still slept in Euphoria's arms, JT got up and made his way outside, standing at the end of the porch to relieve himself into the bush growing there. Birds were happily praising the passing of the storm and life was celebrated gaily by nature's creatures. JT zipped up and breathed in the air deeply, stretching his body as far as it would go. Looking around at the property, it was hard to imagine anything bad happening in such a serene setting. Life seemed perfect here, so far removed from society's reach and influence.

He tried to imagine what kind of people Golden's grandparents were, living out here alone, living off the land. He wondered how much influence they had on Golden, in being who she was today and if they were like-minded people themselves. He had to laugh at his own thoughts, as he imagined the aged couple wandering around the place naked together. Life would indeed be well lived, if he had a place like this. 

Suzy came out wrapped in a blanket, with two lit cigarettes in her hand. She gave him a long kiss, then put one cigarette in his mouth and smoked the other. JT put his arm around her, as they looked at the valley brightening with the rising sun, diminishing the long cast shadows of earlier. 

"I love you, Suzy."

Suzy looked up at JT smiling happily.

"I love you, JT, with all my heart and soul."

Lips were met with a stronger sense of their love for each other, as their hearts shared what they held inside. The door opened and several couples came out, looking much the same as JT and Suzy. Blankets and sheets were the easiest thing to stave off the still, cool air on the girls skin, while dry pants felt good to the guys. The needs were the same as JT's and the bush at the end of the porch, was well watered with urine. The guys checked their boots and shoes and found them still damp. With no other choice, they were pulled on and they went over to the bikes, wiping off the rain that still sat on them.

JT looked at everyone, as he primed his starter and jumped down. Nothing even sounded like a spark of life in it.

"This might take a while guys. Let's see who the lucky fucker is, that has a running bike."

One after the other, starters were jumped on hard, in hopes their bike had weathered the storm and would start. Only one bike cracked the morning silence with metallic thunder and that was Piney. Scowls were worn, as he smiled proudly at them all.

"Fucking Indians. Best bikes going."

"Fuck you, Piney, my Harley will kick your Indian's ass any day of the week."

Piney turned to Otto with a seriousness on his face.

"Let's go then, Otto. Today looks like a great day for a race. Let's do the road two miles out and turn and two miles back. Ready? On your mark, get set, go!"

Piney popped the clutch and spun the tire, shooting mud up in a spray. He braked after a few feet and stopped, turning around to Otto again.

"You gotta be on your bike to race, Otto. Oh that's right. You ride a Harley and they don't run. Sorry about your luck."

"Fuck off, Piney. I'll get my bike started and then we'll see who's laughing."

Otto primed his starter and jumped down hard and the engine coughed. Otto looked at Piney and smiled evilly, as he jumped down again it almost caught.

"Now you're fucked, Winston. Let's race."

"Ooooh, I'm scared."

The guys and girls were laughing, enjoying the friendly feud between brothers. Otto jumped down again and the engine caught for a few seconds and died. He jumped down once more, after adjusting the choke and it roared to life, Otto revving it up to clear the moisture out. Keith got off his bike after three attempts and rubbed his sore leg.

"I'm sorry boys. I can't jump anymore, the leg's buggered. Can one of ye's give it a go for me?"

"Sure, brother."

Wally came over and adjusted the choke and held the throttle wide open, as he jumped down hard on the starter. The engine coughed and sputtered, but Wally kept it going long enough, to clear out the cylinders and got it running smoothly. Wally got off the bike and held it for Keith, who came around and got on.

"That's grand of you brother, so it is. I thank you, my leg thanks you."

Laughter rang out again, then one by one, the bikes began showing signs of life. They let them run and warm up, drying out any remaining moisture, as they stood on the porch again in a group.

JT looked at the bikes as he spoke, voicing the reality everyone was still hesitant to acknowledge.

"I have to go to Dubrowski's and get things set up for mom and then I have to go to St Thomas and find out about Jake and what I'm supposed to do about him. Piney, I'd like you to come with me, but I need you to be at the shop and take care of everything there. All the customer's cars need to be picked up and all the suppliers need to be informed to stop deliveries. Call all the suppliers and let them know what's happened, if they don't already. Once I take care of all of this, I'll get to the books and square them up. Look up Arthur Lowen and call his office and tell him we'll be in tomorrow to see him."

The guys were greatly eased in their minds, that JT was back in the saddle and riding hard. He was focused and calm and that was all they needed to see. There was an expectation from them to help and JT saw it. 

"Lenny, I want you and the guys to start digging up whatever we can on our friend. I want to see something more, than what we have already and know who he is."

Despite the cryptic speaking, it drew more attention and questions.

"What friend is that, Baby? Do I know him?"

"No, no one you know. Would you come with me, Suzy? I'd like to spend the day with you. I want to go and see how Marlene is doing, too. She might be strong enough to talk to us and let us know what happened."

"Yes, I'd love to, JT. I want to see Marlene too and see how she is."

All the girls and most of the guys were anxious to know how she was, as well. JT thought for a moment.

"Okay, once I'm done at Dubrowski's and I know what I'm supposed to do with Jake, I'll call the shop and everyone can come to the hospital and we can sit in the waiting room, I guess. No way we can all go in."

There was an agreement that being there, was as good as they could hope for and a hope they could at least peek in and say hi. A brighter tone was given to the somber start of the day, knowing there was still a life to celebrate and wish well in her recovery. JT took a moment to think of Jake and realized he was no longer a part of the present, now a memory of the past. Despite what part of his life he was now in, his death would always be a part of his present day, every day, until justice was served in his behalf.

"Okay, the bikes all seem to be running okay, so let's shut them down and go inside and get started. Any chance we can get a cup of coffee in us?"

"Yes you can, JT. One of things you brought was instant coffee, so we just need some boiling water and you're all set. I believe we have milk and sugar as well. Once we have the farm up and running again, we'll have eggs and fresh milk."

"Where are you getting animals from?"

"We'll sell the bus and use the money from that. Gotta be worth a couple of cows and some chickens at least. Phoenix and Star have almost finished repairing the barn, so it can hold the animals again. The girls and I have been making fences for them, from the old fence that used to be there. One thing I would greatly appreciate, if you come across any, is nails. We're getting very close to being out of them."

"Not a problem, Moon. Lenny, make that happen for them, okay?"

"Not a problem. I'll stash a couple of boxes at the back of a house and wait until dark and get them. Oswald has chilled out a bit, since stuff hasn't gone missing in a while. They won't miss them, they always over order, just so we don't run out."

"I can't say as I approve of stealing, but the gifts we are given, are always accepted with gratitude. Money has become a scarce commodity, so we reuse every nail, bent or not."

"Money isn't an issue for us, Moon. The club will be happy to gift you some money, especially since you're taking care of our women. Knowing they're safe and away from all that shit back there, worth the green, brother. How much do you need? Couple hundred do you for now?"

"Seriously, John, you have no idea how grateful we are. Our friendship has blessed us in many ways. We seem to have what you need and you have what we need. Speaking of need, those materials we said we would need at some point, is getting to that point. We need to get some added living space built, before winter arrives. As much as everyone is comfortable being together, it is not good to be cramped together, like we are. Trust me when I tell you, the joy of having any bathroom time, is a rare commodity."

Looking around at the dozen women, JT and the others knew exactly what Moon meant and chuckled.

"Understood. I promise, we'll get that material to you soon. Give us a couple of weeks to get everything back to some kind of normal and we'll get the stuff you need and hopefully, our time to help build it."

No one could argue what the two were discussing and planning, the matter of a vote wasn't in question, when it came to the situation they were all in. As much as they needed Moon and his people, they needed them and their assistance. They had a reliance on each other to survive at this point, neither able to go it alone.

JT and Moon hugged, thankful for each of their parts played, in making two dozen lives as happy as they could.

"Now, before we take off, I do believe three of you want to experience some high speed harmony. Let's do that and we'll head out afterwards."

Phoenix, Star and Moon got on the back of the bikes and the riders were off, the passengers hanging on tightly. They cruised through the winding roads between the hills, keeping things easy to get used to, taking the curves slow and not banking too steep. Once the road became straighter, the throttles were twisted open and the speed was doubled in seconds. The passengers clung on for their lives, feeling the forces trying to pull them off the backs of the bikes.

Eyes began to squint tightly against the onrushing wind, as the speed went over seventy. The last curve ahead was it and then it was a long, straight stretch for over ten miles. JT banked into the long, left hand sweeper and then twisted the throttle open wide and the exhaust spoke everything that was needed to be said. The need for speed. Triple exhaust notes blared into the open air around them, as they reached the magic speed of one hundred. JT turned his head and shouted back to Moon to feel what he was talking about.

Moon focused on the harmony of the notes, each one in tune with the other. JT held it right on one hundred miles per hour, letting Moon experience what he was feeling. The speed and the sounds all became one thing, blending into a vibration that hummed through them. Moon was understanding what JT was experiencing and understood where his freedom lay. He could feel it coming from JT, the energy of what he was feeling was strong. The road was where JT belonged, it was his place of freedom, a place where he felt at one with everything.

The long, straight stretch ended and the guys slowed down to turn around.

"Did you feel it, Moon? Did you feel how it all comes together at that speed?"

"Yes I did, John. Definitely not something I'm looking forward to doing again, but I understand it better. I felt that blending of the vibrations at a hundred and it is your point of absolute freedom, the point at which it is strongest in you."

"No argument there, Moon. I do feel freer. Maybe I'm going fast enough to leave all the bullshit behind me?

"That would be good if it was true, wouldn't it? Unfortunately, bullshit can go as fast as anything else, or the world would be moving at a hundred miles an hour, just to leave it behind."

"Fuck it. I love what I'm feeling and that's all that matters."

Moon had no reply to offer and sat still, as JT started back along the winding road to the farm. The riders pulled into the lane and stopped in front of everyone, who were waiting for their return. The passengers got off and despite their feelings of being scared, their smiles were evidence of the thrill they had.

"John, I can't thank you enough for the ride and the experience, it was most... illuminating."

"Glad you liked it, Moon. Okay, we need to get things in gear and do what we set out to accomplish today. Guys, we ride to the clubhouse and get things started and Moon, whenever you and the rest are ready, come down and wait until I call and we'll head to the hospital and hopefully see Marlene."

"Sounds good, John. It'll be a while yet, before we have a dozen women ready to go. Figure around noon and we'll be there."

JT looked at the seriousness of Moon's face, as he told them and had to laugh, as he looked about at the women and saw the state they were in. He reached out for Suzy and pulled her into a passionate kiss and embrace, to which she gladly responded to.

"Once we take care of club business, I want you by my side for the rest of the day, okay?"

"I'll be stuck like glue, Baby."

Some of the other guys expressed similar invitations, wanting to continue yesterday's developments at some point. Once goodbyes were said, the bikes were kicked to life and throttles twisted to spur them to readiness. JT took a last look at them all and the house behind them and smiled warmly. He gave a nod of his head and let the clutch out, moving towards the gate. The rest followed and the club was once again in formation and filling the air with conflicting notes of horsepower.

The fifty miles to ride, was done with haste and purpose, nothing pleasurable to what they were riding for. JT pulled to the gate to open it and found an envelope stuck in the fencing. He pulled it out and saw it was addressed to him. He looked it over and saw it was from Arthur Lowen, then tucked it in his cut and opened the gate. The guys rode in and JT closed the gate, but didn't lock it. He rode down and parked, the guys wanting to know about the envelope.

He left them in suspense, as he opened the door and turned the lights on. The bay door was opened and the guys waited for JT, as he took the letter out and opened it. He read for a minute to himself and then smiled, the more he read. He looked at the guys, looking at him with smiles, waiting to know the good news.

"Guys, listen to this. The guy that came by the other day and I was talking to, the lawyer guy, anyway, he's telling me here, that we have some money coming to us and he is releasing some of it today, so I can take care of my mom's funeral. It looks like, hang on, you have some money coming to you, as well, Lenny."

"Me? What am I getting money for?"

"Hang on, let me finish reading this part. Okay, looks like you owe Stan a huge thanks. He went to see Art and told him what happened when you were evicted. Seems Hale pulled a fast one on you and to keep it from becoming an issue, he's agreed to compensate you one thousand dollars, instead of being taken to court."

"No shit? A grand? Right on, dude. I like this Art guy already. Stan did this?"

"Yeah. I guess he felt you were getting taken for a ride by Hale and decided it was a shitty ride. Went to see Lowen and talked to him about it. Guess we'll find out what legal shit they did to get it, when we see him. Looks like a change in plans, I guess. I'm going to the shop and call him and see if we can get in to see him today. Once I know what kind of money we're looking at, I can head over to Dubrowski's and know how much I can spend on my mom."

"Moon did say Fate always liked to have a few cards up its sleeve. Guess it played a wild card for us."

"No shit, Lenny. This news couldn't be better. Fuck, this takes a load off my mind."

"I bet it does, brother. Okay, call this guy and lets get this party started. I think we need to see Pops at some point today and thank him, too."

"Yeah, we do need to see him, Piney. Alright, I'm calling now, back in a minute."

JT left and opened the shop office, sat at the desk and phoned Lowen's number. His secretary answered and JT told her who he was. Harriet Becker told him Mr. Lowen would like to see him as soon as possible, as well as the other three parties, Piney, Lenny and Clay. JT told her they would be in to see him in less than an hour and hung up. He left the office and went back to tell the guys the news and told the other three that they had to go to Lowen's office. Wally and Tom were tasked with digging up information on Clive Brock, while the others were put to work loading clips and cleaning guns. 

The four left and rode out to see Lowen, while the others started on their tasks. The ride was short, only a couple of miles into town, when they pulled in the parking lot and shut down the engines. They went into the office and Mrs. Becker called in to Lowen, to say they were there. Arthur came out and greeted them, then welcomed them into his office. Once everyone was settled, he took out the file and opened it.

Arthur took out an envelope and handed it to Lenny.

"This is your settlement cheque that was mentioned. Stan told me about it and I know Jacob Hale and talked to him. Once I told him what had happened and that I was going to bring the case to court, he made sure his son paid out of pocket, or he'd be finished in the real estate business. Spend it wisely, Lenny and enjoy."

Lenny took the envelope and opened the flap and looked at the numbers and words confirming the amount and smiled broadly, as he folded it and tucked it inside his cut pocket. Arthur took out another file inside the folder and opened it.

"This is Jake's last will and testament. He came in a few weeks back and we made some changes to it. You boys certainly made an impression on him, because he left pretty well everything to you."

The guys were floored to hear what Jake had done on their behalf. They had no idea what, or how much Jake had, but just the thought that he cared about them so much, made each heart in the room a little fuller with a sense of love and respect for the man. 

"Now, the biggest thing that changes, is ownership of the garage. It is Jake's request that the garage be called Teller-Morrow now. John, you'll own fifty one percent of it, making you the majority shareholder and Clarence..."

"Clay, please."

"Yes, sorry. Clay, you'll own forty nine percent. Neither of you can sell your half, without the other authorizing it, is that understood?"

"Yeah, I can understand that. But why does JT get more than me? Why isn't it fifty-fifty?"

JT wondered that himself and looked at Arthur for the answer.

"Jake, and I for that matter, felt it best to have a majority owner, for the business' sake. It has nothing to do with liking one of you more than the other."

That appeased JT's questions about it, but Clay wasn't happy with the reasoning and it showed.

"Okay, to the next item, the large Quonset building, now used as your clubhouse, will remain in the ownership of the club, known as the, Sons of Anarchy, for as long as the club remains as such and the taxes are paid on it every year. This shall last to perpetuity, meaning forever. Only the club itself, has the right to sell it, or rent it out. No one person has any rights to it."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 04



"So it belongs to the club and no one can boot us out of it?"

"As long as its use remains the same and the taxes are paid, no one can say anything to you, unless town council passes a vote to change the purpose of the land, but that won't happen. I know for a fact that the town has designated that land and all the land along Euclid, to be commercial. Rest assured boys, as long as the building remains standing, it will be your clubhouse."

"Jake did all of this for us? Why?"

"I can well imagine that you're all curious as to why he did this. I was too, quite frankly, but after he told me, it made sense and it will to you as well."

They listened to Arthur describe the conversation between himself and Jake and what had transpired in it. More and more, they understood how Jake felt about them and who they were. Jake had felt himself come alive again, because of them and the club they formed. He could see each one of them like a son and three of the young men sitting in front of Arthur, had made a significant enough impression, to warrant a place in his will. JT felt a deeper sense of honour towards Jake and silently vowed to make sure he was honoured well by him.

"Okay, moving on. As to Jake's motorcycle, one 1949 Harley Davidson, blue in colour. He wishes you to have that, John. It was his belief that you would appreciate it more than anyone else and take care, to keep it in good running order."

JT was speechless and overwhelmed, while Clay showed his resentment in his expression.

"Clay, Jake has left you his 1957 Cadillac Eldorado convertible and his 1962 Oldsmobile Starfire convertible. I have the keys to both vehicles here in my possession and they are stored at his place in Lodi. He has stated that you have always wanted them, so he asks that you take good care of them."

Clay didn't look all that happy to be receiving his inheritance and JT wondered why. Whatever it was, he tried to assume it was more about avenging Jake, than receiving his stuff. The subject of money came up and attentions were given to Arthur.

"Jake had an insurance policy for twenty five thousand dollars, that he was leaving to his estate, more or less to tidy up things and pay for his funeral. He bequeathed it to you boys, minus his costs for taking care of his affairs, but there's still quite a sum left over. After reading through it, it appears there's an indemnity clause that states, should Jake meet with an untimely end, anything other than natural, or suicide, his policy is doubled, so the amount in total, is fifty thousand dollars, minus of course, the expenses previously mentioned."

"So like forty thousand, give or take?"

"Around that, John. He made you executor of his estate, so from here on in, you are in charge of dealing with his affairs. I will of course assist you in any way, legally that is, to make all necessary changes to the titles of property and transfer all monies to your account. I have everything in a trust account, at present, so once I have the number to your account, I can have the bank transfer it."

"Shit...sorry. I don't have an account anywhere."

"Not a problem, John. You can open one at any bank and I'll take care of it from there."

"Thank you so much, Art. This has changed our day considerably, from what it started out like. I have to go to Dubrowski's now and get that attended to now. This is going to make things so much easier, knowing I have the cash to pay for things. I want to do my best for my mom and give her the best funeral I can."

"Dubrowski's will do an excellent job and they'll attend to all the details. I think we're pretty well finished here for now, gentlemen. Once you have the account number for me, I'll have the funds transferred to you. The other thing Jake asked me to do, was take of you all, as your club's attorney. Should any of you need advice or representation, just call the office and I'll see to your needs. We can discuss the fees I charge later, but for now, take care of yourselves and we'll be in touch. Thank you for coming in."

"No, thank you, Art. You have made us all very happy guys today. The club is going to breathe a big sigh of relief, knowing we haven't lost everything. The only thing we really need now, is a place to live. With the motel closed, we lost our places and now we have a dozen people looking for a new one. We have some friends out in Calaveras, but that's too far to ride every day to come into work and back. With this money, we should be able to finish the clubhouse and at least the guys can live there through the week, while we're working and then take a ride out to see the girls on the weekend."

"The shit just never stops piling up for you John, does it? I have no idea how to help you there, I'm afraid."

They were surprised to hear Arthur let down his guard and talk shop with them like that, but the answer didn't help with anything at all. They thanked him once again, as they shook his hand and walked out of the office. Before JT started up, he looked at the guys beside him.

"I'm really liking this Fate guy. Yesterday and today, totally blows my mind. Couple days ago, I felt like dying and now it's like I have the best life ever, like everything is going our way."

The other three thought back and had to agree on the complete switch in events and how everything played out. Bikes were started with happy faces, as they headed off to Dubrowski's with easier hearts in their mission. The short ride across town, was met with stares and faces of disgust, as the four riders blared through the core of Charming and let everyone now they were there. 

The staff at Dubrowski's were very polite and respectful to them, despite their appearance. They sat with a young woman, dressed very conservatively and listened to what the choices were in services. JT asked what the best service was and without question, ordered it. The topic of coffins was brought up and the girls had given their thoughts to the best choice for her. The brochure was shown and they picked the one that looked closest to the description. All the necessary personal items were asked for and JT said he'd have to talk to his aunt and have her pick out the best pictures and which dress she should be dressed in.

Jake was the next issue he had to talk to them about and they assured him, that once the police released the body to them, they would have him prepared and his arrangements taken care of. 

The meeting was over and spirits were lifted from a burden of emotional weight, lessening the hardship each heart had to bear. The cost, despite being as lavish as JT requested, was only eight thousand and change, leaving them just over forty thousand dollars for the club. Each head had thoughts about the money, but only the thoughts in one head, weren't about personal gain. JT rode along Euclid slowly, his mind on materials for the clubhouse and materials for Moon and the others. It was a blessing, a gift of Fate, that the money was given to them and JT wanted to put it to its best use.

They pulled into the lot and found the gate open, driving down and seeing the bus and the Chev parked down by the door to the clubhouse. They parked the bikes and went in, where everyone was engaged in smoking on one of several joints being passed around. They were passed to them and Keith got out of JT's favourite chair and stood with Gloria. They waited until JT was seated and finished toking, the looks of expectation on all their faces.

"Good news, everyone. Very good news. Seems the man we knew as Jake Harding, had feelings for us, the club that is, and left his business to Clay and me and made sure the clubhouse belongs to the club forever. Not only that, he left us his insurance money and it's more than enough for us to finish this place off and get stuff for the house in Calaveras. It'll be a couple of days, before I get the money, but, when I do, we are building an addition and finishing this place off as soon as we can. I was thinking on the way back here, that the guys are going to have to live here, at least the ones working here. No way we can be riding fifty miles here and back every day, especially not when it's raining."

"That's understandable, but where will you stay?"

"Right here, Moon. We'll have rooms for four and be able to make a kitchen and stuff to cook and eat. We'll ride out on Fridays after work and stay until Monday morning and make a big ride in, unless it's going to rain and we leave early or something. I don't know all of it, but that was what my head was wrapping around, while we on our way back. Now, the money is club money, so we need to vote on what we do with it, but as Mr. Lowen said, we have to take care of Jake's affairs first and then make sure the taxes and whatever else shit we need to pay, is paid and then whatever is left, is what we have to spend. So, seeing as all the guys are present, we can have a meeting and discuss the money and what to do with it. Let's do that tonight here and then head out to the farm later on."

The club members agreed and happy smiles were worn by all, as the day was played out in Fate's hands. The decision to go to St. Thomas was made and everyone packed up and got in the car and bus, the guys getting on their bikes. The rumble of the noise was frowned upon by many at the hospital, as they pulled in and parked. More frowns and disparaging looks were given by those inside, as they went to the waiting area. JT and Piney went to the desk nurse and asked about Marlene and what room she was in.

JT and Piney went down the hall to room 308 and saw a police officer stationed outside her door. He patted both guys down for weapons of any kind and then let them go in. Marlene was lying peacefully, most likely asleep, when they went in. The click of the door had her slowly open her eyes and look at them. It took her a few moments to focus her eyes and her brain, then recognized JT and weakly smiled.

"JT, how nice that you came and Piney too."

"Hi Marlene, how are you feeling?"

"Other than a couple of shots to my tits, I'm doing alright. JT, I'm so sorry about Jake."

Marlene's attempt at humour was weak, but the mention of Jake had her tearing up. JT held her hand and felt hers tighten on his, as she fought back from crying. Once she had herself under control again, JT spoke his thoughts.

"This was your husband that did this, wasn't it?"

The admission shocked Marlene, that the truth was known by him.

"How do you know?"

"I figured it out myself. Only one person I know, would want to do this."

Marlene looked at JT and knew she couldn't lie to him.

"It was Clive. He caught me and Jake in bed, pulled out his gun and called me a piece of shit whore and Jake a low life scumbag, then he shot Jake and then shot me. Last thing I remember, was him smiling at me, then I passed out and woke up in here."

JT and Piney expressed their sympathies to her suffering and she took both their hands in hers, her eyes expressing her thanks, that she was not to blame for their mentor's death.

"I need to ask you something, Marlene and I hope you tell me everything."

"I'll try, what is it?"

"I want to know everything about your husband and I mean everything."

"Why do you want to know about him? What are you planning, JT?"

JT looked at Piney and with strength and determination set on his face, looked at Marlene again.

"We're going to take him out. He's going to pay for what he did to Jake and you. I need to know where your place on Southridge Rd. is and if I can do it there, or is there a better place to do it?"

"JT, you have no idea what you're getting into. Clive is connected to some very bad people. Please don't get involved."

Marlene's face was a vision of worry, as she looked at JT, but he wasn't phased by the warning.

"Too late. He made me involved, when he pulled the trigger. We've made our decision and we're just hoping you can tell us anything that will help us."

Marlene could see that anything she said, wouldn't dissuade them from their focus and intent. She looked at JT, then to Piney, seeing the same strength of conviction in them.

"If you try to do it at the house, he'll have no less than two guys with him. Benjy and Dominic are always with him. JT, Clive isn't a businessman, not the way you think of it. He's connected to the mob, that operate out of Las Vegas. I met a few of them once, when they came out to the house and trust me JT, they are not nice men. How many nice men do you know, that carry guns around all the time?"

JT and Piney could see the stress they were causing Marlene, by asking her about it, so JT did his best to calm her down and relieve her of the worry.

"Well, if you put it that way, maybe we should let the cops handle it."

Marlene was visibly happier, hearing him say that.

"Good idea, JT."

JT changed the talk back to her, taking her mind off the previous subject matter.

"How long did the docs say you'd be in here?"

"Couple of weeks, at least. Have to wait until the lungs have healed properly and then I can get these tubes out of me."

"Yeah, they must suck being stuck in you. Does it hurt much, where he shot you?"

"Yes, specially if I breathe in too hard. Not doing anything strenuous for a while, that's for sure. Surgeon told me it was my breasts that saved my life. The bullets didn't do as much damage, because they slowed them down, or something. Guess big tits are like having protection from bullets, too bad they weren't made of steel and they bounced off, like Superman."

Marlene gently cupped the sides of her breasts, as she explained, JT and Piney unable to avoid staring at their size and shape, Marlene could see their interest and smiled.

"Hope they still look good with bullet holes in them."

That took away anything sexual in their thoughts, as they imagined the scars and the cause. 

"Would you like to see anyone else? Everyone is in the waiting room, wanting to know how you are and if they can just say hi."

Marlene was taken by surprise, by the acknowledgement of so many who were there to see her.

"Everyone? All the guys?"

"And girls, even Moon and all his people are out there."

"The hippie people that camped out, are wanting to see me, too?"

"Yes. They are really, great people, Marlene, they really are. Suzy and Azure are really anxious to see you."

"Azure? Who's that?"

"Oh, Annie is called that now. She's living with them now and they gave her that name. Suzy is Stardust, but she still likes Suzy."

Marlene found a smile and let it grow on her face, then almost laughed, but the pain hit and stopped it immediately. She held her hand to her breast, where the wound was and winced at the pain.

"No laughing either, I guess. Shit, that hurts. Okay, maybe just Suzy and Annie for now and I'll say hi to the others later. Tell them all thank you so much for caring about me and I appreciate their kindness and I'll try and see them a bit later, when I'm up to it. But for now, yeah, let me see my girls, I miss them."

JT and Piney wondered what it was she missed about them, but they smiled and went out to the others and told the girls Marlene wanted to see them and told the others her wishes. Suzy and Azure scurried to the room and slowly opened the door. Marlene smiled happily and the girls went in and sat on the bed to either side of her. She took a hand each in hers and looked at them, a mix of sadness and happiness, as well as a longing in her eyes and on her face. Azure leaned forward and softly kissed her lips, making Marlene moan slightly in missed pleasures. She sat back and Suzy leaned in after her. Marlene accepted the kiss, enjoying the interaction between them again.

"I missed you girls, I really did."

Suzy and Azure were happy knowing how they were thought of by her and assured her they felt the same.

"We missed you, too. You have no idea what you've done for us, Marlene. Because of you teaching us about stuff, we have learned so much about ourselves now. You'd love what we're doing now, you really would."

"What's that, Sweetheart?"

Marlene could sense the excitement in them, wondering what they had discovered.

"Free love. It's the greatest thing ever."

"Okay, explain that one to me. What's free love?"

"Okay, you know JT is my boyfriend, right?"

"Yes."

"Well, even though he's my boyfriend, I can make out with any of the guys and it's cool. He can make out with any of the girls."

"You're shitting me? You can fuck whoever you want and it's all okay?"

"Yup. Just last night, we made out with every guy there and Golden made me cum three times, right in front of everybody."

"Who's Golden?"

Azure got her attention from Suzy.

"She's my soul twin. You really have to meet her, she's so beautiful and loving."

"Wait, Golden? Isn't she the one that showed up just after I arrived? Long, blonde hair and the dark tanned skin?"

"Yes, that's her. Honestly, you really should meet her soon."

"I'll try and see everyone soon, but right now, I'm still really tired and hurt like a bitch."

"I wish we could help take your pain away. The girls could only imagine how sore it must feel, being shot there."

"Trust me, it's really painful. Not going to be so pretty to look at any more, not with a couple of big scars on them."

"Who cares about scars? They'll still look nice, to us, anyway."

Marlene could see the love the girls had for her and she was feeling very touched by it.

"I do love you both, I really do."

"We love you, Marlene. Now, get better real fast, okay? I want a big hug and kiss once you can do it."

"I'll do my best, Sweetie. Now, give me a kiss and come back soon, I need to rest for a bit."

The girls smiled, knowing they had brought a glimmer of happiness, to an otherwise crushed soul. They could only imagine what Marlene must have to think about, as she lay there with nothing else to do. Losing her life long lover, her husband shooting her, wanting her dead. Her life ruined and never to be anywhere close to what it was. Life was at its nadir, coming to the lowest point she could reach. Loving kisses were given by both girls to Marlene and the gentlest of hugs offered. The girls could see it in Marlene's eyes and the look on her face, they were all she had for friends, or any other relationship now.

They blew kisses, as they walked out the door and Marlene pretended to catch them, smiling at the presents. The door closed and her smile quickly changed shape to a depressed frown again. How could she find happiness now, her lover dead, her marriage over, her life ruined? Getting better, meant leaving the hospital and suddenly, there was no place for her to go to. Marlene immediately felt an abandonment from life. The flimsy facade she had lived, was over, never something she could return to, or want to.  

All she had now, were nine young men and their girlfriends, as anything resembling a friend. It saddened her to think that she no one her own age she could call a friend, one who cared about her. The only women she knew, were the wives of the men Clive brought home, but they were as shallow as she was. Her life was nothing but an endless want, never being happy with anything she had, because there was always more to be had and money bought it. Jake had satisfied every sexual want she had, now that was gone, as well. In the time it took for four bullets to be fired, so much had happened and so much had changed. Life was taken with seriousness now, realizing how short and fragile it could be.

The life she had lived belonged to Clive, as it was all his money she spent to acquire and maintain it anyway. She had no job skills, no way of supporting herself, once she had to start living again. Clive might have to pay her alimony, if she got her divorce, but the first cheque, would most likely be the only one she received, because he'd send it along with a bullet and make it her last.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 04



Knowing JT and the guys wanted to kill Clive, it struck her that they might be her saving grace and help her get something of her life back. If they could do it and not get caught, or worse, get killed themselves, it would be worth the risk. Her life was in mortal danger each day she was alive and she knew it. She hadn't divulged the shooter to the police, feigning temporary amnesia, because of the shock. Sooner or later, the police would find out who it was, but Clive had lawyers and connections and eye witness testimony, or not, he stood a better chance of walking, than being convicted.

She knew it was a lousy way to start a friendship, but she had to ask for this, from them. She had no where and no one else to turn to. If she wanted to live, she had to do it. She resigned herself to telling JT everything she could about Clive. If he was going to pull this off, he'd need to know absolutely every last detail she could think of, that she knew about her husband's life. Yes, Clive Brock needed to die and she was going to make sure she played as much of a part in it, as she could. 

That vengeful desire brought about a change in how she felt. She could feel the power grow in herself, the power from pure hatred. No matter what it was that gave her the strength, she began to feed off it. As she lay thinking of bringing about her husband's death, the door opened slowly and several faces appeared, followed by more behind, trying to look in. Smiles were worn and waves were given. Despite the contradiction to her feelings, she smiled at them and weakly waved back.

"I'll see you all soon. Give me a few more days. Thank you so much."

Whispered agreements were given, along with more kisses sent to her, bringing her smile broader across her face. Once again, the door closed and the smile faded, as she went back into thoughts of revenge and everything she could remember about her husband's habits and usual haunts. She wanted to give JT and the guys as much of a chance to do it and get away with it, but above all, come away unhurt. Nothing was worth the price of that.

The group left the hospital and rode back to the clubhouse. There was a need to discuss club business, but the need for Moon and the others, was more pressing in their situation. When everyone was sitting and rolling joints, JT began talk of what kind and size of addition was needed.

Amounts for materials to buy for the addition they would build, became the afternoon's focus. Despite the monetary amount afforded, Moon always remained frugal in his approach, wanting to spend the least and get the most out of it. Lenny made sense to him, as to why more money was needed.

"I build houses all day, Moon. I know what it takes to put one together properly, so it'll last. Trust me. The money we spend on this, is worth every penny. I can understand the money thing, but this isn't something you go short on, not unless you want it falling down, or fixing it every week."

Moon relented and accepted the advice. The girls had one specific request in the design and that was a large bathroom with more than one bath. Moon was very agreeable to the idea, thinking back to this morning's rush to have bathroom time to get ready. If there was one thing that was crucial, it was more bathrooms. Pieces of paper were sketched on and some crumpled and tossed away. Bit by bit, the ideas of a new addition took hold and they ended up with something almost the size of the original house itself. Lenny said he'd take the design to his building supervisor and have him look it over for code errors and design flaws. Even though there would never be a permit filed to build it, Moon wanted to make sure it was safe to live in.

Talk of celebrations were raised, in honour of the addition and JT suggested that everyone, but the club, go and prepare, as they had things they needed to discuss privately. There was no disagreement from anyone, but suspicions were raised in some, as to the nature of their subject matter. Goodbyes were given with happiness, as well as more money from the club's funds to buy everything. The guys watched them drive off to town for food and sundries, while they closed the door to the world and discussed the issue on all their minds, Clive Brock.

"Okay, after talking to Marlene, it seems our friend has some connections to the mob, or something in Vegas. I think if I can talk to her alone, in a day or so when she's stronger, I might convince her to tell me more. As it is, she doesn't want us trying anything on him, because she's worried we'll get hurt, or killed. I don't blame her, I have the same worries too, but this is still happening, with or without her help. So what I did get, was this..."

JT explained what he could get Marlene to divulge, but even the little she did, gave them a huge step forward, knowing what they were facing now. JT's prior suspicions that Gus was talking about men and not guns, was correct, but realized both were correct. They faced men with guns and all they had on their side, was knowledge about them and the chance to plan it out carefully. Only the vets had pulled the trigger, with the sole purpose of killing a man. It would remain to be seen, if the rest could do it as well. There could be no hesitation, once faced with a gun pointing at them, it came down to kill, or be killed.

Cars were heard pulling in and stopping, ending anymore talk of revenge. JT and the others walked out side, to see two Sheriff's cars stopped by the office and they were looking over the garage, when JT called out to them.

"Can I help you?"

"We're here to seize all property and place it under county control."

"What are you talking about? Why do you have to do that?"

"Mr. Harding had no heirs, or living relatives known, so his property goes intestate and is held by the county."

"No way. This place was left to me and Clay here. We just came from the lawyer's office and he has all the paperwork there. You can call him from the office and ask him yourself. His name is Arthur Lowen, I have his number right here."

One of the sheriffs took the number and went in with JT and phoned it. He waited to be transferred and then talked to Arthur. It didn't take any more than two minutes and the sheriff hung up the phone. He looked at JT and relayed what he was told.

"I was informed by Mr. Lowen, that Mr. Harding had amended his will just recently and that's why it didn't show up in County records yet. As such, the writ of seizure is forfeit in that instance. Sorry to have bothered you and my condolences on Mr. Harding's passing."

"Hey, no problem and thanks, we'll miss him, a lot."

"You're welcome. So, you're the new owner?"

"Yes and Clay as well. Jake left the business to both of us."

JT pointed at Clay, then the officer looked back to JT.

"And you are?"

"Oh, sorry, JT, John Teller."

"Nice meeting you, John. Okay, looks like we're finished here, you guys take care."

"Will do."

The Sheriffs left and the guys sighed deeply, thankful they made no mention of the marijuana smell wafting about them. They went back into the clubhouse and revived the issue of revenge.

The commune was alive with happiness and joy, everyone in a celebratory mood. They unpacked the van and car, Wally joining the other three guys and chopping wood for a fire for that evening. They laughed and joked, all the while naked, enjoying the good times shared between them, when the girls came out with lemonade for them. No matter how many times he saw them, the sight of twelve, naked women walking through the field of grasses and wildflowers, had Wally get sexually excited. He wished at that point, he wasn't totally naked.

"Quite the sight, eh Wally?"

"Yeah."

Moon, Spirit and Phoenix chuckled, seeing Wally become enthralled with the sexual beauty of the girls. 

"Better keep that under control, or they'll think you have something in mind for them."

"What do you mean?"

Phoenix pointed to the growth happening between his legs and Wally went red and cupped his hands over himself. The girls came to the clearing and passed out the lemonade. They were finding it amusing, to see Wally struggle with his excitement and asked him if he was still shy around them. He blushed harder and Azure came up next to him and slid her hand over his. She showed her surprise to the others animatedly, as to what she was feeling. She knelt down and began pushing Wally's hands aside, but he was adamantly refusing to move them and expose his erection.

Azure was just as adamant and coaxed him to move his hands, with soft kisses to them. The look of ecstasy swept across his face, as she slowly engulfed him, enjoying his offering. Wally was so excited by her manipulating lips and tongue, he quivered and shook in minutes, the problem with his erection now resolved. Azure stood and pecked a kiss on Wally's lips, as he stood with his eyes closed, still enjoying the euphoric bliss of what she did. 

"How do you like free love, Wally?"

"Phoenix, it's fucking awesome, man."

Wally could care less about his spent manhood dangling between his legs, the afterglow was all he concentrated on. 

"Come, we're done here, time to make some food ready for the feast. The guys will surely appreciate the meal we are preparing."

"No shit. I saw that hunk of meat you bought. That'll feed an army."

"I do believe we have something close to that, don't we?"

"Yeah, I guess we do."

The four naked men walked up to the group of girls and Wally put his arm around Azure and Golden, walking back to the house with them.

The guys had made as many calls as they could, to get more background on Clive, but no one had much to say to them about him, or his business affairs. The police had questioned him thoroughly about his whereabouts that day and he had an alibi that seemed to hold weight. The secretary was easily swayed by Keith's charms and accent and managed to get that much from her. Piney phoned all the suppliers and everyone he could think of, to let them know of the changes, but to keep the accounts open for now. 

JT couldn't help but wonder why Marlene hadn't given up Clive to the police, as soon as she was able. Hearing how her husband was connected, made things seem more understandable. Marlene was in fear of her life and that's why there was a cop stationed outside her door. She was afraid for them to get involved, because she knew her husband was able to make trouble for the club, if they did anything. Things began to nag at JT's mind and wouldn't leave him alone. He had to know, or he would never find peace in his head, until he did.

"Guys, I say we wrap it up and head out to the girls and some good eats. I'm dying for some good food and some more of that good lovin'."

Hoots and hollers were yelled out by them and no further prompting, than JT getting them to clean up first and get out. After he locked the door and handed the keys to Piney, he told them what he wanted to do.

"You guys go ahead and I'll catch up. I'm going back to see Marlene. I want to ask her something, just me and her this time and see what she says. I think I can get her to tell us something more about him."

"Okay, JT. See you back at the ranch. Say hi to her for us."

"Will do. Hey, pick up some beers before you go out, maybe some wine for everyone else, they seem to like that shit."

"Gotcha, I'll make sure the bar there is stocked."

JT started up, the others following him and then they headed to their destinations. JT went into the hospital and waited until he was searched and cleared by the officer, before knocking and going in. Marlene had her gown pulled down and was looking at her wounds. She raised her hands quickly, then saw it was JT and smiled. 

"They took the bandages off this evening. I was just looking at the wounds, want to see?"

JT flustered, one side wanting to see them, but the other feeling it was wrong to look.

"JT, they're only gunshot wounds and Christ, I'd think you'd have seen enough tits by now, not to get all shy about it."

Marlene lowered the front of her gown and held it, so it didn't expose them completely, then JT walked to the bed and took a closer look. The bruising made them look grotesque, while the sutures holding the wounds closed, foretold of nasty scarring to follow. Marlene could see it in his eyes. 

"Not so pretty looking now, are they?"

JT was unable to find an answer, unsure of telling a lie or the truth to her. He tried to keep it light and not add to her misery.

"Maybe avoid wearing those tops that show lots of cleavage, other than that, they'll still look nice.

Marlene found a smile for him, his words giving her a modicum of feeling attractive.

"You are a sweet boy. You say the nicest things to a woman."

Marlene covered herself up and asked him for a kiss, with her arms out and puckering. JT bent in and received a hug and a soft kiss to his cheek, giving her one back the same. Even in hospital and coming back from death's door, Marlene still had a sensual womanliness to her scent, that JT inhaled and savoured. 

"Marlene, I really need to talk to you."

She looked at JT, knowing what he was wanting to ask, her current feelings for Clive, making her change her previous answer.

"I need to talk to you too, JT. Sit on the bed with me. I want you to know, I changed my mind. I want to see my husband dead. I lay here after you left and thought about it some more. I'll never be safe, not as long as he's out there. He wants me dead and there's no denying that, so every breath I take, I feel like it could be my last."

JT sat with Marlene and she took his hand in hers, holding it with a firmness, that JT could only understand as security.

"We're not going to let that happen, ever. That lowlife will be dead and never have the chance."

Marlene had tears come to her eyes, the conviction of JT's words making her feel the security in them.

"I want to help you kill him, JT. I'll help you any way I can and tell you everything about his movements and anyone I can think of that he is associated with."

JT smiled at Marlene, in part from her agreeing to help him and also, because he was closer to succeeding in his one quest in life at present. By the time JT left the hospital and sat on his bike, he couldn't help but smile happier. Armed now with what he knew and would know about Clive Brock, it was a done deal that he was going to die and soon.

*

Dear readers, please leave a comment and let me know if I should continue with this series. I hope you've been enjoying it and would like to know what you think of it so far. If I receive no comments at all, I'll take it as a no and finish it here.

Thanks kindly,

RJ 



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 05



Ch. 05 Portends 

Marlene sat on the couch in her former residence of the motel, looking around at the walls and the floor. Even with the stains gone, she could still see where the old man had lain dead. With a heavy sigh, she turned and looked at the bedroom, the bed now gone, along with anything associated with the event.

The event. It had been demoted to being called the event by the police and the news reporters, everyone calling it that. It was more than just an event to her, far more. It was a pivotal moment for her, one that was life altering in every way. The girls finished packing all her clothes and belongings into suitcases and dragged them out to her. Suzy and Azure sat on either side of her and held her hands.

"That's everything in there packed up, is there anything else you want to take?"

"No, the less from here, the better."

"Yeah, maybe you're right. I guess we should get going then."

"Yes, Suzy, it's time to get going. I don't want to spend another second in here. Give me a hand girls and let's get this show on the road."

Suzy and Azure helped Marlene up from the couch and then took a suitcase each and followed her outside, Wayne Unser was assigned to be with her at all times and opened the trunk of his cruiser, when they came out. The girls put the cases in, while Wayne helped Marlene into the back seat. The girls got in the back with her and Wayne headed off into Charming, to the Holiday Inn. Marlene stared at the office as they backed out, a thousand memories of Jake and her, flooding her mind. So much love between them, so much shared right there in that room. It was hard not to shed tears, knowing one good thing in her life was over and never to be felt again. She realized how love, was far more important than the money she had desired for happiness. She had all the money she had ever wanted and more and not one dollar of it made her feel as good, as the feeling of loving Jake.

The girls helped Marlene get settled in the room, while Unser went about securing the hallway and the stairways. A comfortable chair was brought out for him and he started taking his watch shift outside the room. Not a thing would enter or leave, without him knowing about it and what it was. Until there was a break and they had an idea of who it could be, Marlene was in danger from anyone and he was charged with keeping her safe, until she could identify the shooter and bring him to trial. 

Suzy and Azure helped Marlene get undressed, to get changed into lounging clothes that were more comfortable for her to rest in. They gave her a quick sponge bath to freshen her body and made sure she was still beautiful to them, kissing her all over, as they dressed her. Marlene was appreciative of everything they did, kissing them both lovingly, a hint of lust added to show she was still of a mind to want to be with them, at a later time. 

"So what should we talk about, or would you like to do something instead, Marlene."

"I'm not much for talking right now, Suzy. I don't have a clue what to talk about anyway."

"Want to talk about free love some more?"

Marlene perked up at the mention of it and looked at them both, a smile growing on her lips.

"Yeah, tell me more about free love and what you are doing, it sounds interesting."

"Okay. I think I told you that every girl has been with every guy, right? Well, we've been with every girl, too. All the things you taught us, we've done those things and tons more."

Marlene sat back and put her feet up, holding the girl's hands, as they excitedly told her everything they had done with all the guys and girls so far. Being Marlene, she was in her element, as she heard what they had done sexually. 

JT and the guys were down in Palm Springs, looking every bit as normal as they could. Their cuts were left back at the clubhouse, along with their bikes. They drove around the back roads that gave a view of Brock's place. Using Marlene's Riviera was taking a risk of being spotted, but seeing numerous similar models being driven through the neighbourhood, Marlene's shouldn't bring too much notice to it.

They brought out the binoculars and focused on the back of the property, the higher ground affording them a clear view of everything, but the front. Clive was entertaining some friends on the patio and they didn't seem to be there for a social visit. Without the aid of sound, they could only guess at what they were saying. The look on one man as he spoke to Clive, definitely said he wasn't happy with him for some reason. Clive was trying to apologize, or pleading with him. The man wasn't accepting whatever Clive was saying and stormed away, out of the yard.

They saw a car pulling away and it was a black Cadillac Coupe de Ville. That made them begin to wonder if Clive was the shooter, then Lenny seemed to be putting it together in a different focus.

"No, no, I don't think that guy shot Marlene. JT said she was positive it was Clive that did it, so I'm guessing buddy in the Caddy, is pissed at Brock, because the fucker used his car and now it's wanted in connection to the shootings."

"Shit Lenny, I bet you're right, brother. Makes sense to me. Brock didn't want to use a car that Marlene, or even Jake recognized. He took that guy's car and did it and probably didn't tell him. I bet those guys are mob guys down there and our friend Clive is in shit with them. I wonder."

JT went back to looking at the patio and their subject of interest. Clive was definitely trying to calm down the other two men that stayed and they weren't buying whatever Clive was trying to sell them. Clive looked like he was close to begging them to accept it and then they relented and gave in to him. Clive was extremely thankful for whatever they gave him and even through the lenses, he was sweating bullets enough, to stain his shirt with it.

"What are you wondering about, JT?"

"Just something that I was thinking about, considering what I see and what that guy was pissed about. Here's my take on all of this. Let me know if I'm way off on this, but I think we might be looking for a meeting."

"With who, JT?"

"Those mob guys down there."

"Are you fucking nuts, or what? Why the hell would we want to talk to those guys for?"

"Just listen, Piney and you'll see where I'm going with this."

JT explained his thoughts on the mob guys not being happy with Clive and how it might be to their benefit, to let them know they want Clive dead and if they'd be open to the idea of them killing him. There was objection to it and acceptance of it. One side argued their point and the other argued theirs, both feeling they were right in their thinking. JT let it go on for a while, in part to see if they could work it out themselves, but mostly to see where everyone stood.

"Guys, guys, hold up. Stop already!"

The argumentative debates ended abruptly and they looked at JT.

"Both of you are right in what you're saying, but what makes me lean towards having the meeting, is what you're missing the point of. Clive fucked up right? He obviously used that guy's car without telling him, or he wouldn't have left so pissed off. The other guys were grilling our friend hard enough afterwards, that he was sweating like a pig and that I saw. Now, why do I think it's a good idea? Here's why. Marlene is still alive and she's under protective custody. If she turns evidence about Clive doing it, it's going to lead back to those guys eventually and that's why he's shitting himself right now."

Things started making more sense to those opposing, understanding now, that the mob was faced with the situation they were in, but from a different perspective. Getting rid of Clive, solved a great many problems for both sides. Knowing Marlene had information that was damaging to them, put her at risk, but knowing Clive was out of the picture completely, might keep their relationship one of mutual assurances.

The six hour drive back to Charming, had heads getting into the idea of talking to the mob and another drive east to the city of sin. JT wanted to see Marlene and talk to her about everything, so he was going to get dropped off at the Holiday Inn and see what she thought of the idea. As good as they thought it was, unless Marlene was of the same mind, it was just useless thinking. JT knew in his heart, he had a way with her and she would accept it, once he had a chance to explain it all. He kept telling himself that, every step he took, until he was ready to knock on the door. He took a deep breath after being cleared by Wayne and knocked. Suzy opened the door and was ecstatic with happiness at seeing him. 

He came in and Suzy closed the door, hugging him tightly and kissing him passionately. JT was happy to feel that love for him, grounding him with someone and something. They walked into the suite, to see Azure completely naked, sitting beside Marlene, who was quite enjoying having her beside her in that condition. 

"Hi JT, we were explaining free love to Marlene."

"Oh, I'm sure she's very interested in knowing all about it."

"Stop JT. Let me have a little fun, will you?"

"Sure, Go right ahead, Marlene, enjoy yourself."

Marlene gave JT a sly look, after his response.

"If I was back to my old self, I'd like to enjoy you for an hour or two."

JT went red, despite all he had been through with the others, but there was something about Marlene that always put him off balance. 

"Yeah, I'm sure you would. Let's just get you better first and see what you're able to do."

Marlene cooed softly to him, hearing him say that.

"Now that's the answer I was looking for."

"What? What answer?"

"You didn't say no, you said let's see what I'm able to do first. Ooooh, sweet boy, I can do so much right now to you."

JT blushed again and Suzy laughed, hugging him tightly.

"I'd love to see what you can do to him, too, Mar."

"You would?"

"Sure. Why not? Knowing what she knows, I'd love to see what she knows how to do to you. She just made Azure cum, not more than ten minutes before you walked in the door. Never even raised her heart rate, she knew what to do, didn't she, Azure?"

"Oh yeah. God, I love the way she touches me inside. I really want Golden to meet Mar and see them together. Shit, I'd like to have both of them doing me together."

"Oh, Azure, I'd love to do that."

"Is that all you girls do all day? Sit around talking about sex and stuff?"

The girls looked at JT and couldn't help but laugh. 

"Want us talking about clothes and make up instead? Cooking, that's a good subject, any of those a better thing we should be talking about?"

JT couldn't argue with Marlene, that the sex talk wasn't interesting to hear, but he was way out of his element to feel comfortable.

"No, sex is fine."

"I make you nervous, don't I, JT?"

He stood there in front of three women, one of them naked, one with her hand in his back pocket cupping his ass and the other convalescing, yet coming on to him and wanting to have sex with him. 

"Yeah, you do, all of you do. I mean, yeah, free love is cool, but, c'mon, I feel like a piece of meat standing here."

"Baby, that's wonderful, you get it now."

That threw JT for a loop and had no idea what she was talking about.

"Get what?"

"You know how a woman feels now. You guys always look at us like that, like we're a slab of meat."

"Really? I do not."

"Really? Yes you do. Before you say anything else, answer me this. If you guys don't think of us like that, how come there's strip clubs for you guys to just come in and drink beer and look at naked women? We don't have any clubs like that to go to. We don't get to look at guys dancing around on a stage naked, throw a couple dollar bills at him to wiggle his stuff for me."

JT had no place to start a rebuttal and stayed quiet, knowing he couldn't argue with her statement.

"Okay, you have a point there, but you don't think I treat you like that, do you?"

"No Baby, I don't. I think you're a wonderful man and have a very loving heart. You care about me and I know it. I don't ask for much and anything I do, you've never given me a hard time about it and I'm really happy you don't. After last night, I know you love women, but you really care about making them happy. Every girl said so."

"Every girl said what about me?"

"That you're a really good lover. Spirit loves the way you kiss and Golden said she loved the way you fucked her. Azure, what did you like about doing it with JT?"

"Me, I loved how you licked and sucked my clit. Fuck JT, I think I came four times with you. I like the way you kiss too, it turned me on more, when we were fucking and I came harder."

JT blushed a deep red, hearing about his sexual prowess being talked about so openly. The girls enjoyed playing on it, but JT found nothing enjoyable about it. It was the weirdest feeling for him, to be a guy and hear women talking like guys. Equality was hard to accept sometimes, it was so foreign to the normal way of thinking. 

"JT, you can't say no to me, you just can't and you know it. Look at these legs and tell me you wouldn't want to be between them and feel them wrapped around you?"

Marlene parted her robe and let it fall open enough to see her legs displayed to her upper thighs. He looked at them and knew in his heart, he'd lusted for them in his mind. Openness was the order of the day, it seemed, so divulging his desires didn't seem out of place, after such an offer.

"Yeah, I would. I always thought you were hot, since I first saw you. Since that day in the motel room, when the four of us were there, I got so horny that day. I admitted it then, I really liked watching you and Suzy kiss and wished it was me."

"Really? Liked it that much did you? You should have said something then, I'd have been more than happy to satisfy that desire. Come, sit beside me and let me show you now. Come."

JT was hesitant, but Suzy pulled him over and had him sit beside her. Marlene wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned into him. JT looked at the green-eyed lust for him and gave in. He closed his eyes and leaned into her. He felt her lips press against his and then her mouth instigated the emotion from them. He shut out the thought of Suzy and Azure looking on and concentrated on what was happening. Kissing her was something he had fantasized about, even while being with Suzy. She was that one older woman who had planted a fantasy in him, like so many younger men had happen.

For being in a weakened condition, it was hard for JT to imagine where Marlene found the strength in her passion, but it was wonderful to experience. Her tongue twined with his and stroked it softly. He couldn't help his arousal, as she started sucking on the stiff length of his tongue. Her hand sliding up his thigh, had him thinking she knew what would happen, from what she did to him. When it cupped his burgeoning growth, he was ready to let her do anything to him.

While she evoked more arousal from his mouth, he felt a pair of hands unzipping his pants and freeing his erection. He felt Marlene's hand take hold of him and what she knew about it, she began showing him. Hands tugged at his jeans and he let whoever it was, pull them down his legs and take them off. He was going to be experiencing something extremely pleasurable and he wasn't going to put up any argument, or resistance to it. When a wet tongue joined in to play along, he was sure this was a momentous occasion to remember.

Lenny was leading the guys through possibilities of what a meeting might go like. If there was going to be a meet, it had to be on neutral ground, someplace safe enough to avoid an ambush. If the mob guys carried, so did they, but they wanted all guns kept out of it, to avoid any chance of things going completely wrong. Piney was adamant about making sure they had their backs covered at all times. They had nine guys and no one was going to be left in a compromised position. 

There was just as much talk, that the mob guys might be completely friendly and acceptable to it all and none of their worries were founded. No matter how much they debated and played out scenarios, they needed JT there and whatever he had learned from Marlene. If she could provide them with a way to get in contact with them, it would make it easier to set things up. Cold calling on the mob, was something everyone knew was frowned upon, an untimely death, the usual result of doing anything like that.

JT laid back on the couch, his head lolled back weakly and panting heavily. Marlene was kissing his cheek, while Suzy and Azure were wiping their mouths.

"Holy fuck! I think I came, like a gallon of cum. Wow."

"So how was it? Having an older lady do you?"

"Honestly, I can understand why Jake didn't want to give you up. Wow, you're incredible."

"Why thank you, JT, I'm glad you liked it."

"I'm not even going to ask how you know all that stuff. It was just, incredible. Then you two joining in, holy shit, that was almost too much."

"So let me ask you that question again and see if you have a different answer."

"What question is that?"

"Anything wrong with us sitting around talking about sex all day?"

JT shrugged and looked at them, not finding a single reason or excuse that he did earlier.

"Nope, I can't find a thing wrong with it. Maybe talk from morning till night and know everything there is to know about sex."

"You know Baby, that's a really cool idea. We should sit around for a whole day and talk about it. We could have a love in, out in the field and everyone gets to say what their fantasy is to try and have it happen. Everyone should have their fantasies come true."

"Oh, Suzy, I am so jealous. I would love to do that. This is as close as I'll ever get, to anything like that. Not until all this is over."

"Shit."

"What, JT?"

"I came here to talk to you about something and I'm supposed to be with the guys talking to them right now about it. Girls, please, can you do me a huge favour and find something to do in the hotel for an hour. I have to talk to Marlene about some private stuff, about Jake, you know, so could you do that for me?"

"Sure Baby, we can do that. Come on, Azure, let's go down and see what's happening outside. I'll roll a joint for us, while you're getting dressed."

"I'll be dressed, before you even have the paper out."

Azure picked up her strewn clothes and put them on, while Suzy had the pot out and a paper in her fingers. Azure pulled her top over her head and adjusted her large breasts into place, as Suzy licked the glued end. With a final twist and set of the glue, she slipped it in her cigarette pack and got up. They kissed Marlene warmly and then JT the same way, as they held hands and left the room. They said hello to Wayne and told him they'd be back soon and went down the elevator.

"So JT, what did you need to talk to me about, that was so important, it interrupted me making love to you."

"Clive."

That brought the focus between them from sex and back to a mutual passion they shared.

"What about him?"

"We were there watching the place, from the road above yours. There were three guys sitting out back on the patio and they didn't seem very happy with Clive. One guy he talked to, got up and looked really pissed off at something and took off. We saw him leave and it looked just like the car that was spotted at the motel, by the girls. At first we thought it was him that shot you, but you know it was Clive, right?"

"Oh yeah, no mistaking who shot me, JT. It was my asshole husband."

"So, any idea who drives a newer Caddy Coupe de Ville, a black one?"

"Yes. Jimmy Cacuzza. Gianni Cacuzza's son. Gianni runs things out in Vegas and Jimmy runs things on the west coast. So the asshole used Jimmy's car, instead of his own and now it's the wanted car. His ass is in the fire now."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 05



"I was hoping you'd say that. I told the guys about this idea and it'll only work, if you help us, me especially."

"I said I'd do whatever I could to help you kill him JT, what do you have in mind."

"I want to sit down with this Gianni guy, or even his son and tell him what I want to do. I bet he'd go for it and here's why I think he would. Clive fucked up, so no way he can get out of that. Jimmy is going to have to get rid of his Caddy and that's going to piss him off big time, because I bet he really likes that car. So that's strike one. Strike two, he tried to kill you and he killed Jake, so he's a wanted man and sooner or later, he's going to get caught and he might rat them out to get off, or a lesser sentence time, or something, so that's a swing and a miss. Strike three, because he tried to kill you and you know so much about him and those guys as well, that they don't want you telling everybody about them, so they'd rather see him go away, instead of him trying to finish what he started."

Marlene's attitude kept changing, the more she heard and by the time JT had explained the facts as they were, it didn't sound like the suicidal mission that it did at the start.

"I'm thinking it should go something like this. You call them and talk to them, because they'll know who you are. You tell them about us and let me talk to him after. We'll set up a meeting somewhere safe and talk about our plan. We'll have our guns, if they have theirs, but we'll ask to keep them out of this. I can't see why they'd say no. They get rid of a problem and don't have to do a thing and you're life is out of danger again and no worries about all the trial and court shit. You give them your assurance you won't talk and everything goes back to normal.'

"JT, JT, JT. You make it all sound so easy. Your putting a lot of faith in Gianni to do this. He could just as easily take care of Clive and me and get back to normal again. My assurance means nothing to them. The only assurances they have, are dead people. It does sound good though and I guess it's up to me to see if he'll take the meeting. I know he likes me, Lord knows he's hit on me enough, so that might cut me some slack with him. He knows I can keep my mouth shut, because I do know some things that could be damaging and haven't said anything. He'll know that anything I know, will be held by someone, in case something happens to me, so that puts something in my favour, so yeah, I'll give Gianni Cacuzza a call and see how it goes. Are you guys really going to do it? Not the meeting, killing Clive, I mean."

"Marlene, every guy that rides with me, is waiting for the moment that they can empty a clip into him. If we get to him, he'll look like a fucking pencil, he'll have so much lead in him."

Marlene tried not to imagine the sight of such a thing happening, but the blackness of revenge in her heart wanted to. Something inside her wanted him to suffer greatly at JT's hands and those of his club members. They would be her angels of death, the ones who would ride into his life and cast him from the face of the earth, one where she would still walk freely.

"I am praying for you JT, you and all your club. I know what you're doing and why you're doing it. I owe you all so much for what you've done. I paid for a headstone for Jake, at least I can still phone and do something for him. I asked if I could go to his funeral, but they aren't sure if that's a good idea. I hate the thought of not being there, JT. He's the love of my life and I'd be crushed, if I couldn't be there."

"Give me a minute. Wayne is outside and I know the guy from way back. Let me talk to him and see if we can find a way to get you there safely."

Before Marlene said anything, JT got up and went to the hallway. Wayne was leaning back on the back legs of the chair and greeted him. 

"Hey, JT. How's things in there, okay?"

"Yeah, Marlene is doing okay. There's one thing that's really bothering her though and that's not getting to Jake's funeral. She said you guys were worried about her safety."

"Yeah, we have no idea who it is that did it and if he wants to come back and finish her off."

"What if she stays in the car, until it's time and then me and the guys will surround her, so she can be protected from any angle. She can say goodbye to him and we can get her back in the car safely afterwards. She'll come right back here and be under guard again. No way anyone will get a chance to get near her. Come on, Wayne, you gotta let her go. She's loved the guy her whole life and it's her last and only chance to say goodbye to him."

Wayne thought about JT's offer and what they were willing to do. If he went along, at least there would be an officer present and that would make ten men protecting her. With that much manpower, he couldn't imagine anyone getting a chance to get to her.

"I'll run it by the chief and see what he says. All the guys will be there right? I'll try and swing it, that if I go along, it'll be a detail of ten men watching out for her. He doesn't have to worry about overtime and such. Cheap is cheap and he's as cheap as they come, like it comes out of his pocket, or something."

"Thanks Wayne, I really appreciate this. I really liked the guy, I mean as much as saying, I loved the guy like a dad, you know. I want to know he had the best we could give him and it would mean everything, if Marlene was there."

"Yeah, he did a lot for you guys, but you did a lot for him too. Talking to the fellas at the station, they were telling me he wasn't doing so well, then you guys showed up. Said they never seen him so happy. Like you guys brought him back to life, or something."

"Really? What was going on before we got there?"

"From what I got out of it, he was sliding back down and heading for jail again. Most wondered if he'd hit the bottle and get back into his old ways. You guys turned him around some how and gave him something to live for, I guess."

"No way? We did that? I know he liked riding and all that, but I didn't know we helped him get over something."

"Looks that way. Okay, my relief will be here real soon and I'll go talk to the chief about your idea and see what he says. I don't see him saying no, myself. I know he wasn't all that keen on telling her no before."

"Thanks a million, Wayne."

JT shook his hand and went back in. Marlene saw the smile he couldn't hide and had one for herself because of it.

"What did he say?"

"I told him my idea and he's going to run it by the chief and see what he says. He thinks it'll be okay and he said the chief wasn't happy saying no to you before, so this might change his mind."

"JT, I love you, I really do. You make me so happy. I couldn't ask for anything more than that. Thank you, thank you so much."

JT looked at Marlene and saw the love she was talking about. There was no lust in it, nothing but the joy of happiness of one heart being touched so deeply by another. He wanted to hug her, but he was afraid to hurt her and Marlene could see that.

"Sweet man, when I'm well enough, I'll hug you and show you how much I love you. As weird as it sounds, Jake would be so proud of you, right now. I know he'd be happy, knowing I was being taken care of so well."

"Funny, I think of him like a father, but I don't think of you like a mother. You're something different."

"Different? Like what?"

"Like, someone older that I wouldn't think of mom things to do with."

"Ah. It all becomes clear now."

"What becomes clear?"

"Why I make you so nervous. I'm your older woman crush. It's alright, pretty well every young man has one at one point. You can date as many girls as you like, but you'll see, or be with that one certain woman who does it for you. Something just hits you when you see her and you get all hot and bothered for her. What was it about me, that got you going?"

JT had nowhere to hide from the question, the truth so flagrantly exposed by her.

"Your smell."

"My smell? I smell?"

"No, no, not like smell, like it was bad, like your natural smell."

"Oh, my natural scent, you mean."

"Yeah, that."

"Interesting."

"What is?"

"That you find the scent of my body so stimulating. That's what got Jake into me. He loved how I smelled to him. You're a lot like him in many ways, you know that?"

"I am?"

"Yes. You have the same heart as he did. You like so many of the same things and done so many as well. You know, it occurred to me, I never asked how your mother's funeral went the other day."

"Oh, it was good. I saw my aunt and cousin and Mr. Lowen showed up. A bunch of mom's old friends came to say goodbye and even a couple of women she used to work with came. The flowers you sent were really nice, thanks. There were lots of really nice flowers that people bought for her, that made me feel better. I guess what made me feel the best, if you could call it that, was seeing my parents together again. The people at Dubrowski's really helped with that, getting the cemetery people to do that for me. Reverend Madock did the service for her and said some really nice things about her, too."

Marlene saw how talking about it, was bringing JT into a state of sadness and didn't want him dwelling on it too much. 

"I'm sure her soul is happy and at rest, JT, for all you did for her."

"Yeah, I hope so anyway. Now we have to say goodbye to Jake in two days. I hope we can do as well for him."

Marlene caressed his cheek gently and kissed it softly.

"We will, JT. After tomorrow, you'll know it was done right for him."

JT looked at Marlene with hope stained on his face.

"I hope it is, Mar, I hope it is."

"It will be."

JT took some comfort in Marlene's words, but until the ceremony was over, that would be the telling point of success, or failure. The door knocked, signalling the girls return and the end of their private conversation. JT went and let them in and nodded to Wayne again, before closing the door.

"Have a nice talk, you two?"

"We talked and got things straight. Thanks for giving us that time."

"Baby, I know you need lots of space right now. You're going through so much and still so much to take care of. I just want you to know that I'm always here for you, whenever you need me."

"Thanks Babe, that means a lot to me."

"We're all here for you, JT. Everyone is ready to do whatever it takes to help. No one expects you to do this all by yourself."

"It's great having friends, it really is."

"We love you, JT, you're a very beautiful man, inside and out."

"Thanks, but we'll stop there. Beautiful, I ain't."

"I think you'll get lots of disagreement with that, JT. At least from what I've seen so far and what I know about you."

JT raised his hands for them to stop, not wanting any more compliments shed on him.

"Thanks girls, that's nice of you to say all that about me, but that's enough, okay?"

The girls pouted their inability to continue praising him, but relented to his wishes.

"I better phone the shop now. Those guys were expecting me, like an hour ago. We have to get into town and buy some suits. The guys felt bad about not dressing better for my mom's funeral, so they want to look better for Jake this time."

"Sherman's downtown will be the place to get those. Harry makes the best suits in town, trust me."

"Thanks, Marlene. Sherman's huh? We'll head over as soon as we're ready to roll. I can't wait actually, some of those guys have never been in a suit, so it should be fun to watch."

"Do you still need my car?"

"Yeah, if you don't mind? Hard to get nine guys around without it."

"Use it as long as you like, Sweetie, I'm not going anywhere in it, anytime soon. Just don't wreck it, I'll be pissed if you scratch it, or dent it."

"I treat it like a Rolls-Royce, Mar. I won't let anything happen to it."

"Good. I may hate that bastard, but I love that car."

JT crossed his heart and saluted like a boy scout.

"I promise. Now, I better make that call to them and get my ass out of here."

JT went over to the phone and called the shop. Piney picked up right away and JT told him he was ready to get picked up.

"It's about time, man. You've been there for almost two hours now."

"Sorry brother, had a few other things to attend to while I was here. It's all good now, so let's do it, Piney."

"Be there in five. Meet me at the door."

"Will do. See you."

He hung up and looked at the three women on the couch. Marlene had them cuddled in beside her and they were caressing her legs and leaning in to her.

"I take it you three will be okay?"

"Oh yes, we'll be just fine, JT. I have a cop at the door protecting us and two sweet girls to keep me company."

"Yeah, I guess you will. Have fun, you guys."

"Come say goodbye and go be with your buddies, JT."

JT went to Azure and gave her a hug and kiss, then to Marlene and finally Suzy, who he lavished more attention on.

"See you tonight, Baby. Save some of that lovin' for me, okay?"

"I'll have more lovin' for you, than you can handle, Babe."

JT smiled happily and walked to the door. He looked at the three nestled comfortably on the couch and knew that once the door closed, something sexual would transpire between them, in one way, or another. He thought to himself briefly, how fun it must be, being a woman and doing the things they did. He smiled and walked out the door, heading down to the front door, to wait for Piney. He rolled up in Marlene's car and stopped in front of him. JT got in and they headed off to the clubhouse. Once there, he gathered everyone and they headed to the downtown core and Sherman's.

It was as amusing as JT thought it would be, watching the guys try to put themselves together in a suit and tie. Harry Sherman was just as amused and had them all stop and wait, while he went to each guy and helped put him together properly. In ten minutes, he had nine dishevelled men, look as dapper as the best dressed men in magazines, except for the long hair and the facial growths.

Harry took an elastic band and pulled JT's hair back and put it in a pony tail, lessening the look of his scruffiness. JT looked in the mirror at his image and was surprised to see how he looked. The others thought it was a good look on him and looked for elastic bands themselves. Harry had them all stand in a line and looked each of them from head to toe, fixing and straightening ties and shirt sleeves. As foreign as the suits felt, they did their best to wear them well.

"Okay, you guys are looking pretty good. If I may make a suggestion though, you all need better footwear to do those suits justice. If you go down the street to the left, you'll come to Goodwin's and he has a great selection of shoes."

"Do we have to take the suits off first?"

"You know, hang on. Let me pin those pants cuffs first and then go down. You'll have a better idea what looks good with them."

"Thanks, Mr. Sherman. I think I speak for all the guys, when I say that we'd be dead in the water, without your help."

"My pleasure, gentleman. Now, one at a time, just step up on the podium and I'll set those cuffs with pins."

JT went first and then the others took their turn and once everyone was done, they headed down the street in their suits, to appraising looks from some women and nods from some men. The guys enjoyed the change in attitude towards them, but they knew it was only the clothes and not the person wearing them, that they approved of. They got to Goodwin's and JT held the door for the guys and followed them in.

The sound of the bell, brought George Goodwin from the back and through the curtain. He looked at the well dressed, young men and wasn't sure what to make of them at first. JT approached him and held his hand out to him.

"Mr. Goodwin?"

"Yes."

"Hi, Mr. Sherman said we should come down and see you about some shoes for our new suits. We have to have the pants adjusted to fit the shoes, he said you could help us out."

George looked at him and then to the others and then looked at the shoes they were wearing. He almost laughed, seeing such fine suits, worn with scruffy boots and shoes. 

"Sure. Have a look on that rack on the wall and the one across from it. That's all my shoes for men. I guessing it's a formal affair of some kind, so stick more to the rack on the wall, the other side is more casual. Let me know if you need any help."

Before George made a move to the back again, Tom asked him something almost every guy wanted to ask.

"I don't know what size my feet are now, can you do the measurement thing?"

"Sure. Have a seat and take your right shoe off."

One by one, the guys slipped their right shoes and boots off and waited to be measured. They went to the rack and looked for their size. After numerous tries, they found a pair that they liked and felt good wearing. The nine pair of shoe boxes were put on the counter, while the guys held their old footwear and got used to the new shoes and break them in a bit. JT called for George and he reappeared and saw all the boxes on the counter. His smile was happily shown, knowing the dollar value of the sale.

"Did you each find a pair you liked?"

The guys pulled up their pants legs and showed him their choices. He looked at each pair and nodded his approval.

"Nice choices, gentlemen, very nice. They'll last you a good long time, as long as you take care of them. Is this all on one bill, or separately?"

"Make it one, Mr. Goodwin, I'll pay for them all."

George smiled happily, ringing each pair up and watching the total rise. JT peeled off six hundred dollars and handed it to George, who tucked the bills in the register and gave JT back forty three dollars and change. 

"If you need anything else, please come back and I'll get what you need."

"Thanks again, Mr. Goodwin, you've been a great help."

"My pleasure boys. You say hi and thanks to Harry, I'll be up to see him soon. Thanks for coming in."

"Have a great day. yourself."

"Next time, call me George, okay?"

"You got it, George."

They left to a friendly wave and returned it, as they strolled down the street again to Sherman's. Once again, heads turned to admire the dapper crew, more than smiles given by some women to show their approval in their looks and were given smiles back, the guys enjoying the attention. They came back in and Harry was ready for them and didn't waste time, getting their pants cuffed to the right height. The guys were actually hesitant in taking the suits off, so Harry could hem them all on the sewing machine. Dressed in their normal clothes and their cuts, they became themselves again, the charade over.

Harry was done in half an hour and came out with the finished suits, all covered in plastic wrapping to protect them.

"I wrote the names on the tags, so just pick yours out. They're all hemmed and pressed, so you guys will look top notch. Tie your hair back like I showed you and you'll look spiffy."

The guys laughed at the word spiffy, not hearing that term used, since their fathers time.

"Yeah, I liked that look, made me look all grown up looking."

"We all have to grow up one day, don't we?"

"Speak for yourself, Mr. Sherman. We never want to grow up, not if it means having to give up riding."

"Yeah, I see you boys riding through town. You look like you're having fun. Damn noisy though. Makes the windows rattle, every time you go by."

"Really? Sorry about that. We didn't know that happened. We'll try and keep the noise down, when we come through town then. I guess it would be annoying to hear us and have the windows vibrate."

"Hey, don't get me wrong, you guys ride your bikes through town, just thought you should know about that."

"Good to know. We don't want people hating us and we don't know why."

"Don't think people will hate you, but they'll be a might tiffed after a while."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 05



"Tiffed?"

"Annoyed, upset at you, that sort of thing."

"Gotcha. We'll make sure we don't get folks tiffed at us. Thanks again, Mr. Sherman."

"Harry. Call me Harry. Mister makes me feel like I should dress better."

The guys laughed at his humour and enjoyed meeting and getting to know the townsfolk, as a club. There was a feeling of acceptance from them, yet a distance was still between them. They were different and they knew it and there would always be that separation between them. As long as there was respect, there would be peace.

The guys headed back to Calaveras and made sure their suits were hung up carefully and their shoes kept in the boxes. The circle of friends sat in the living room and shared the return with fresh lemonade and a round of joints. Piney refused to settle for lemonade, when he knew there was a fresh supply of beer in the fridge. 

"I say we make our list of materials tonight. Lenny's boss said the plans were good and once we get the stuff here, we can have the frame up and siding on, in a week, or so. Everyone cool with that?"

There was no concerns by anyone, other than getting it started as soon as possible. JT looked around at everyone and voiced his next thought.

"The other thing I'd like to do tonight, if it's cool with everybody, is have a prayer or something for Jake. It's his day tomorrow and I'd like to say goodbye to him, from all of us. I guess what I'm thinking about is like, I'm hoping we can talk to his spirit, or whatever and let him know how much we cared about him and what we thought of him, you know?"

"I know exactly what you are wishing for, John. I think that is a wonderful gesture of our love for him. Once the feasting is done, we'll have a ceremony in the fields and wish Jake's spirit well, as it leaves this world and begins anew in its new life."

"You think Jake's spirit is going to come back as something?"

"Not necessarily, John. His spirit could leave here all together and travel to a place unknown to us. Our spirits are energy and energy can not be destroyed, only transformed. It stands to reason then, that Jake's spirit didn't die with him that day and it is going to transform into something else."

"What? Like a dog, or something?"

"Maybe. Whatever his destiny is, John, his spirit will become whatever it is meant to be. We have no idea what we will be after we leave this earth, but we will be something, that is a guarantee."

"I never even imagined that kind of shit happening. That's pretty far out, man."

"As far out as that may be, it is still a fact we must remember."

"Yeah, I guess so. So you know of something to do, like I'm talking about?"

"Yes, I do. We'll call his spirit to us and say our goodbyes, then we must wish him well and let him go on his journey. We can not ask him to stay with us, as that would be selfish and unfair of us to ask of him."

"Yeah, I understand that. Do you think he'll hear us?"

"He will feel the energy from you, from all of us. He will know what your words mean."

Clay was shaking his head and snickering at what he was hearing, still not accepting the spiritual and mystical thoughts. 

"You don't believe in any of this, Clay?"

"C'mon, talking to spirits and shit? The love thing I can understand, but this stuff, I just don't buy it."

"You are still of a mind, that you have to see it, to believe it, correct?"

"Yeah, I need to see it for my own eyes, or else it's just make believe shit."

"So you consider yourself an intelligent man and can reason things out for yourself? You don't need explanations for everything, right?"

"Yeah, I'm smart enough to figure things out."

Moon came over and sat beside Clay and had him hold his hands up. He took a deep breath and blew against Clay's hand. 

"Did you feel that?"

"Yeah, I felt it."

"Did you see it touching your hands?"

"No, I can't see wind."

"But you'll agree that wind is real, even though you didn't see it."

"Yeah, I agree with that."

"You believe in some things you can't see, but not others."

"But wind is different shit, than what you're talking about."

"How, Clay? How is it different?"

"You're talking about ghosts and shit and that ain't real."

"I wouldn't go as far as to call a spirit, a ghost. A ghost is a manifestation of an entity, that lived a previous life, or something along those lines. A spirit is an energy force, something that carries everything it has experienced and takes no shapes, or forms. Here's another thing to help with understanding. Since you've been here, you've experienced free love, right?"

"Yeah, cool shit."

"You agree that there is such a thing as free love, right?"

"Yeah, I agree."

"Have you seen it?"

"I seen it happening."

"You saw the physical effects of those feeling it, but not the love, itself. If you saw it, what did it look like?"

"I didn't see nothing, I just saw stuff happening because of it." 

"But you do believe it's real?"

Clay had talked himself into a corner he couldn't get out of and he knew it.

"This is why, when people deny the existence of such things, like spirits, they do so out of ignorance and doubt. How can that be real? All make believe and fairy tale stuff."

Clay knew he had no rebuttal for his side and recanted his opinion. Poppy stroked his hair and kissed his cheek, making him embarrassed even more, knowing he was outnumbered and outmatched.

"All you have to do is open your mind to the possibilities and don't deny the existence of anything you can't see, or explain away."

The guys sat silent, some in agreement with Moon, while others harboured feelings the same as Clay and sat quiet about it. No one could honestly deny the existence of the things Moon was talking about and had to accept that it may be real.

"I think we've had enough talk, I think it's time to feast and celebrate. Let us all enjoy the preparation and the company we keep."

Following human behaviour passed down since the beginning of time, the men went outside and prepared the fire and the meat for roasting, while the girls congregated in the kitchen and prepared the side dishes of vegetables and rice. 

Piney went in after ten minutes to fetch a round of beers and saw that all the women had shed their clothes and were cooking and preparing the food naked. He walked back out, shaking his head to himself, then felt a hand hold him back. He turned and saw Mary looking at him with a deep love in her eyes.

"Love me tonight, Piney. Take me somewhere you haven't taken me to, yet."

Piney wasn't completely sure what she meant, but knew she was looking to make love on a grand scale later.

"You got it, Sweetness."

Mary pulled him into a passionate kiss, Piney unable to fully respond with his hands full of beer. Mary finished and looked in his eyes and Piney felt smitten by her. He knew he was in love with her and everything about her.

"I love you, Piney."

"I love you, Mary."

The kiss they shared after, was felt deeper, the meaning of it something of greater importance to them. Mary gave his ass a light smack, as he headed back out with the beer. Moon was asking JT how he was doing now and if he was handling everything okay. Piney listened carefully to JT's response and was happy knowing the worst was over and healing would just take time. 

The fire was getting under way and a large bed of coals was already forming, as the guys added more wood on to it. Talk of tomorrow's funeral for Jake became the conversation around the fire, as each expressed his thoughts on him and remembered who he was. Moon was smiling, as he quietly listened to them. JT noticed and wanted to know why.

"I was thinking of tonight and how we have to ask him to join us, but you are already doing that."

"Doing what? Asking him?"

"Yes. To call a spirit to you, you must focus your thoughts and energies on it and you are doing that now. I can feel his presence among us as we speak."

"Jake? Jake's here with us now?"

"Partly. He heard you and is responding."

"How do you know this shit?"

"Clay, all it takes is an open mind and a desire to believe. Simply put, we are all nothing more than energy, like everything around us is, living that is. We can connect with any living organism, as long as we understand the energy we are connecting with."

"Okay, that's just too fucked up. Let's just stick with the spirit call to Jake."

"Okay, Clay. I know it's a hard concept to grasp, but maybe one day you'll experience it and understand what it is."

The guys were fence sitting on which one to side with, the idea so far fetched to believe, but then the opposite still held merit, in what they knew already, that led them to believe there was a truth in Moon's words. Smoking joints and drinking beer helped them keep quiet, as they stood around the fire and watched the flames dancing into the twilight sky. The spit was placed over the fire, as the flames died down and the coals glowed brightly, the twinkling embers casting the heat needed.

Phoenix and Star came out with two large roasts of beef, skewered on a rod and laid it in the vee. Wally followed behind them with a glass jar and a brush.

"What's that, Wally?"

"My special barbeque sauce. I need someone to turn the spit, while I baste the thing. Anyone want to do that?"

"If someone would fetch me a couple of beers, I'll stand here and turn this for you, Wally."

"Thanks Piney, cool."

"I'm on the beers."

"Thanks Lenny."

The stars began to sparkle to life in the cobalt sky, as they stood around the rotating meat, watching Wally slather sauce liberally over it. The aroma had many mouths watering for a taste, as the girls came out to join them. Glasses of wine, were clinked with bottles of beer, the start of a night of celebration and spiritual connection. Everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves heartily, when Moon went completely serious and concentrated. People began asking what was wrong, but Moon bade them to be quiet, as he concentrated. A couple of minutes passed and Moon seemed to be released from whatever it was that had taken him. Everyone waited for him to come back to focus with them, worry and wonder on their faces, as they waited quietly. Moon looked at them and smiled weakly, but warmly.

"Jake will be with us tonight. He has returned at our request to join our celebration and will talk with us. He asks that we enjoy ourselves now and when we summon him, he will join us here at the fire."

No one knew how to respond at that moment, To this point, none of the commune had even witnessed Moon receive a message from beyond before, leaving them in awe of the spectacle, as well. Clay couldn't accept the idea of it and mocked it openly.

"Hey Jake, before you go, you still owe me two weeks pay and holiday pay. They got any money where you are? Something I can convert into real cash?"

Clay laughed loudly by himself, finding it all humorous, until none of the faces he looked at were smiling and no laughter was heard. His laughter subsided immediately and Poppy smacked his arm, showing her dislike of his rudeness and disrespect of the moment.

"Jake found it easy to communicate to me. Spirit was with me, listening to us, weren't you?"

Spirit looked at Moon and smiled, unashamed of what she had done.

"You did very well for your first time. It took me several attempts to stay focused and connected. Jake is very eager to say his final words to you all. He asked me to join you, when you talk Moon, so you don't miss anything."

"I appreciate that. It is hard to hold on to an unknown energy like that. I felt him drifting in and out and it was hard to keep him at a constant."

"Yes. You and he have to be in sync with each other. The wavering in and out, is because you're both trying to harmonize with each other. He is moving at a different speed than you are and you need to move at the same, to be able to stay in contact strongly."

"JT, I do believe that ride this morning was planned by fate. Your feelings of speed and vibration and the understanding of it, has allowed me to understand what I must do tonight, to talk to Jake. We must ride at the same speed and the same harmonic frequency, so we are moving as one, like you and your bike."

"Wow! No shit? I did that for you? Or, fate did that for you, whatever."

"Yes, you did. Fate might have wanted it to happen, but it was your choice to make it happen. I think Spirit and I should take a moment alone and practice the technique involved in doing this."

"Cool. Don't be too long, the meat is almost done and so is the rest of the food."

"I won't be joining you for dinner, as a fast will allow my mind clarity. I really want to do my best to talk to Jake. I know how important this last time together is. Spirit and I will eat later, but please enjoy what is prepared and we will see you in a while."

Moon and Spirit left hand in hand into the house, leaving some in disbelief, some in awe and some in complete denial. Minds thought to themselves, out of respect for what could be, or fear of reprisal. Eyes stared at the glittering twinkle of the embers, as drops of fat flared up in flash flames. Sticks were used to pull the foil-wrapped potatoes and corn, still in their husks, out of the coals then gingerly flicked into a wicker basket. They were carried inside by Poppy, who was still showing her displeasure to Clay, by ignoring him. Clay didn't take it seriously, as he drank his beer and smoked a joint.

Once the meat was declared ready, it was taken off the spit and carried into the house. Piney and Wally laid it on the plates and it was carved off the rod, in mouthwatering slices. Plates were eagerly held out for some and Wally played the part of server and dished out whatever the eater asked for. When he laid three, thick slabs of juicy meat on his own plate, there was still enough for seconds and leftovers. Previous thoughts of spirituality were abandoned, for the joy of feasting in celebration. Mouths consumed the sumptuous meal, along with beer and wine in abundance. 

Minds and hearts knew what was still present and pressing in their lives, but the moment took them to a place where none of the real world existed anymore and only what they created around them, was the reality. Clay waited for a pause in the conversation, where he broke in.

"Hey, everyone, I just want to say sorry about earlier and mouthing off like that. I just didn't know how to handle that shit that Moon was saying and... you know, I just..."

"It's cool, Clay. Jake knows you like him and meant nothing bad towards him."

"Yeah, Otto, I was just goofing off and didn't mean nothing wrong by it."

Poppy was happy to hear his apology wasn't asked for and was heartfelt in the way he gave it. She pulled his face towards him and kissed him deeply, letting him know he would receive more later. Clay smiled and raised his beer to the fire and yelled out.

"To Jake, best guy I ever knew."

Drinks were raised in response, then voices called out in unison and with honour, as Jake was saluted proudly. Clay received a couple pats on the back from Otto and Lenny, making him happy the guys weren't pissed at him still. Spirit came back out and asked everyone to come up to the house and get ready. The fire site was cleaned and readied for later with more wood, then everyone followed in pairs in single file, along the wildflower lined path. The streaks of burnt orange glowed brightly in the sky behind them, the edge of night, still creating a blend of blues from dark to light, where the sun had set long ago, unbroken by nature's brush.

Moon was standing naked in the living room, looking at the low fire in the fireplace, as the group came in. He turned smiling towards them.

"I hope everyone has eaten well and enjoyed the foods offered."

No one was phased by nudity anymore and immediately responded with praises for the preparation of it. Bellies were rubbed to show their happiness at the fullness they felt, some burping as well. Moon hushed them to speak.

"Everyone, it's time to get ready for our talk with Jake, so I'd like everyone to undress and we'll begin with a circle of love, so we are all connected. The more focused our energy is, the better our conversation with Jake will be. I hope he'll be able to speak to every one of us and share his final thoughts and feelings with you."

JT became very excited by the idea of being able to actually talk and hear Jake one more time.

"Wait, let me get this right, Moon. Are you saying that Jake could actually speak to me and I can hear him and if I talk to him, whatever way you're supposed to do it, I could do that?"

"Most definitely, John. I am no different than you in this regard. As I said before, Jake just found it easier to talk to me at that moment. I've never done this before, or had a conversation with a spiritual entity. I have little understanding of it all, from an experience side of it, only what I have learned and been told by Spirit, what she understands of it. Her connection to the spiritual world is strong and gets stronger, the more she understands what it is and how she is a part of it."

"So, how do I talk to him then? Is there like an order, or does he just pick and choose who he talks to, or do I have to make a connection with him?"

Moon could see how anxious JT was, to know how to communicate with Jake and did his best to explain what he knew and then Spirit explained what she knew about it. Some of it didn't make sense, because of the ignorance of the subject, but much did. It made sense to many of them and as clothes were shed, questions were asked on how they could all talk to Jake and he could talk to them. Even Clay began getting caught up in it all, despite his objection to the reality of any of it. The circle was formed and hands were joined, as questions ebbed and the need to unite spiritually was started. 

Half an hour later, couples emerged into the inky night sky and the chirping of crickets. The trail was walked and the group circled the dwindling flames. Wood was added and soon caught fire, lighting the faces and bodies once again joining hands. Moon led them into a group meditation to focus on Jake and welcome his spirit to them. He asked Jake to come and talk to everyone, wanting him to bring a peace to his time here on earth, before he went on his next journey. At first, no one seemed to be feeling anything, but there was a group reaction to the increase in energy they were feeling among them.

Moon took the same serious look again, his eyes shutting tightly, as he concentrated on what he was feeling.

"Jake has joined us and thanks everyone for welcoming him. His spirit is brightened by the energy we extend to him. He is quite taken by the love we have for him and never realized the feelings he had for you guys, were being felt in return. He says he felt like he did when he rode with his club and felt like he was a part of something again. He wishes he could be with you on your rides and enjoy the wind in his face, like you do. He hopes he can talk to each of you and you hear him and he can hear you."

The faces of everyone seemed to take on a more serious expression, as they concentrated on connecting with Jake. JT was sure he was being spoken to and strained to hear the words. He began to look upset, his inability to make the connection frustrating him. As quick as they frustration started, a look of sheer happiness erased it, as he felt the connection happen. Jake seemed to be right there in front of him, yet he dared not open his eyes and break it. He could feel his presence strongly and spoke with his mind to him, telling him everything his heart was feeling. When he finished, he felt a surge of energy wrap around him and he would swear to his dying day, that Jake was holding him. He listened for a voice, something that he could hear, or understand coming back to him. Piney squinted a look at him and saw the strained expression on his face, as he worked at listening, 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 06



Ch.6  Squeeze, Don't Pull

 "Yeah, who is it?"

"Hello Gianni. Bet you weren't expecting a call from me?"

"Mar, Sweetheart, I'm so glad to hear you're alive. Fucking Clive, what the fuck? He's out of his head pissed off and does this stupid shit. How are you, Darling?"

"At this point, Gianni, alive and holding. Look, I want to run something by you and see what you think. I know this will sound really strange at first, but hear me out and I think we can bring this whole mess to a conclusion, everyone is happy about."

"I'm listening."

Marlene explained her situation and how it would affect him, no matter what, should anything happen to her. Gianni knew the sort of information she was privy to and the damage she could cause. Marlene knew she had made her point about her need for protection and then explained how she would bring a close to everything, using the club. Gianni was against the idea of outside interference and Marlene knew why, but explained the need for a sit down with them and at least talk it out. It would keep them at arms length from the hit and have no involvement, other than make sure it happened for the club. 

Gianni voiced no more objections, as Marlene explained the finer points of it all to him. With Clive gone, her life was out of danger, Jimmy would get a new Caddy out of it and the bosses back east wouldn't have any reason to suspect it was him, because he would be with them. Jimmy would set things up, so the club could do the hit and he'd have a solid alibi as well. The only people who would know the whole story, would be them and no one else. Security to keep it quiet, came from knowing who was who and who did what. 

Gianni remained quiet on the other end of the phone and Marlene knew his mind was all over this idea. She knew what made the man happy, but she also knew what pissed him off enough, to have a trigger pulled to solve a problem. This was one of those problems and he was already pissed at him, for other things he screwed up on and reasoned it was time to solve it. Knowing he would never be associated with it, or his son either, it weighed heavily on the for side. He tried to think of a reason to be against it, but little was there to balance it and Marlene knew it.

Being lucky enough to have a stupid husband with power, served her well, in knowing details and secrets about his life that she kept a record of. She remembered the day she presented him with a copy of some of it and the look on his face, when he knew he was screwed royally. She never imagined he'd go to this level of malevolence towards her, but appearances can be and were deceiving. 

Marlene heard the quiet grumbling and knew that Gianni was for it and was just trying to seem undecided. She was smiling, as she waited for him to say the words. 

"About this meeting Mar, who's going to be there?"

"Just the leader, or everyone, your choice. I do have a request from them, that no guns be allowed during the meet, just to keep things friendly."

"No guns, eh? So they got guns, or don't got guns?"

"They got guns, Gianni, they just don't want them involved. You bring them, they bring them. Fair's fair, right?"

"Yeah, so just the leader alone, no guns?"

"Yes, as long as it's just you, then. You can both have back up outside, but some place neutral and people present. You okay with that?"

"Lemme think a second, Mar."

Marlene happily waited for Gianni to ponder it all over, because she knew it was a go, just Gianni looking after his own ass first.

"Okay, the meet is good. I won't be there, but Jimmy will be there instead. It's his territory anyway, not mine. How do we get in touch with this club?"

"I'll pass the message on to my end, that it's a go and I'll make sure he's here for a call from Jimmy and they can set the place and time then."

"That's good. That'll work. I'll call you and let you know when Jimmy will be calling and you make sure your guy is there and we'll see if we can come to a happy ever after in this story."

"Gianni, I can't ask any more than that of you. Thank you. You're a sweet man and I'm sorry that asshole had to spoil everything for us."

"Mar, I always liked you, you know that?"

"Of course I do. It was hard to look in your eyes, because they were always looking a few degrees south of level every time we were together."

"Hey, what can I say? You got great tits, girl. God decided to do some of his best work, when you came along."

"Well, when you put it that way, I'm glad I help you get closer to him when you see them."

"I gotta ask you, Mar. Did he really shoot them both?"

"Yup, sweet things saved my life, so the doctor thinks. Jake is dead and I'm alive. Only thing different are those big, full breasts of mine."

"Shit Mar, no kidding?"

"No kidding Gianni. Both of them. One just above the left nipple and the other below the right nipple."

"They still...you know...look okay and everything, right?"

"Shit, Gianni, with the right top on, you'd still get a hard on when you looked at them."

"Yeah?"

"Oh yeah. If they didn't, I still have other ways of getting you hard."

"No shit. The ex told us a few things you liked doing. If even half the shit he said was true, I still couldn't imagine it."

Marlene heard him use the term ex and knew Clive was already dead to him. She also liked hearing how interested Gianni was in her. Having him on her list of allies would be beneficial, if not pleasurable. 

"Who knows, Gianni. One day, after all this has blown over, I give you a taste of some of that magic he talked about so much."

"Mar, I'd shoot the fucker myself for a taste, but Trudy found out, she'd cut my fucking balls off in the night and choke you with them."

"Got a point there, but a chance meeting with no one knowing, let's just see what fate has in store for us. I've had my eye on you too, you know, just so you know. So, keep all that tucked away someplace safe in your mind and we'll talk after all this is said and done."

"If this goes like you say it's going to, I'll make sure you're well taken care of and don't be thinking nothing bad. I mean, I'll make sure you have a nice place and car, money for the girlie stuff you all like to buy. It was wrong, what he did and I don't approve of hits on women, he knows that, cheating wife or not. There's legal ways to settle things, without bullets and he brought heat on us. Jimmy wanted to whack the fucker the other day, but I said Clive had to buy him a new one and dispose of the other one. You know how Jimmy liked that Caddy, it was his first one and that's a special car. Now he has to crush it and turn it into soup cans, because the jerk stole it."

Marlene was relieved to hear how badly Clive had been screwing up. The bosses wouldn't approve a hit on him, not yet anyway, so he had to deal with him on his own. Getting rid of him quietly, with no ties to them, made good business sense, as well as keeping things quiet about themselves. Marlene was also happy to know she was on good terms with someone, who could make her vanish without a trace, either in a good way, or a bad way. Money came with a price, as well as interest. As long as the bottom line broke even, or looked good for them, she knew she could live a somewhat peaceful and happy life, once all this was over.

"Maybe just take Clive's Corvette. He loves that car, like Jimmy liked his Caddy. Seems fair."

"You know, it does, doesn't it? I'll mention it to Jimmy and I'll let him know how you're doing. The boy likes you, too, what can I say? He was asking how you were, just yesterday. He'll be happy to know you're okay and going to be fine."

"Amazing how far a great set of tits and a good ass will get you these days, Gianni. Tell Jimmy thank you for thinking of me, that's really nice to hear. It was hard coming out of surgery and realizing I had no one to worry about me, or be there. Funny enough, it was my guy and his crew that have taken care of me all this time. They loved Jake and now they're doing their best to make me feel loved and cared for. They really are great guys, Gianni. All they want is justice for Jake's murder, nothing else."

"If you say they're okay, then they're okay by me. It's been great talking to you, Sweetheart, but I have a guy coming in my office here and I have to let you go. Talk to you soon about that other thing."

Gianni put the phone down, as Clive walked into the office with Benjy at his side. Clive had a look of suspicion on his face, but Gianni's look at him, saying he was pissed, stopped it in its tracks.

"So, I gotta deal with this thing, you started. The bosses said to make it go away, so that's what I got to do."

"No, hey, Gianni, I said I'd take care of it and finish the job."

"Shut the fuck up and sit down and listen."

Clive sat and didn't say anything, as he waited for Gianni to continue.

"You caused enough fucking trouble, going berzerk over a cheating wife. Maybe you treated her better, she wouldn't have cheated, maybe she would, who knows? What I do know, is this. You stole Jimmy's Caddy. Don't fucking try to lie and say you told Vinnie, you were just borrowing it for a minute and Jimmy wouldn't know. You were gone half the fucking night and drove to Charming and shot her and the guy. Now I have a stiff and a live witness who can finger you and that leads shit back to Jimmy and me. That's not a good thing, not in our business and you know that."

Clive went to apologize and Gianni held his hand up to stop him, which he did instantly.

"Since you can't do a thing without fucking it up, I'm making Vinnie the capo and you can do what he tells you to do. You don't have a smart enough brain to lead and make good decisions, so maybe you need to follow, so you know how. Don't fuck it up and piss me off, Clive. You know what happens to guys who do. Now, you owe Jimmy a new Caddy, that's if he still wants one. You know how special that car was to him and now you fucked it up for him. Not a good thing. So, when he finds another car he likes, you go and buy it for him and deliver it to him. No questions asked, except where to pick it up. You got it?"

"Yeah, Gianni, I got it. I'll buy whatever Jimmy wants. So, do I still get my same take?"

"No, Vinnie gets your share, you get his now. Learn to earn, I told you that when you started this thing with us."

"But then I won't have enough to buy Jimmy the car he wants."

"Don't play the poor paisan with me, I know how much you've made and how many accounts I put money into for you."

Clive didn't speak another word and accepted what was. He waited to be dismissed and Gianni Cacuzza waved his hand at him to leave and turned his back. As Clive left the room, Gianni thought of ways to set him up for a hit, by the bikers that Marlene assured him were up to the task. Getting rid of Clive made all the sense in the world to him and keeping Marlene alive, assured him nothing would come out about the former relationship he had with him. Thoughts of Marlene and what she could possibly do to him sexually, made more sense as well. Castration, or not, a night with Marlene was something he and his entire crew, spent nights talking about and imagining doing things with her. 

"Benjy, get my son on the phone and tell him I need him here immediately for a talk."

"Sure, Boss."

Benjy left the office and closed the door very quietly, as he went to his own desk and phoned Jimmy to come in. Gianni smiled and chuckled to himself, imagining Clive being taken out by a bike gang and how they might do it. 

Marlene sat back in the couch and did her best to take a deep breath and breathe a sigh of relief. She looked across the table at JT, sitting in the armchair, anxiously awaiting her news.

"We're on. He's going to take a meeting, but his son, Jimmy will be there instead. When he tells Jimmy to set it up, you and him are going to sit down alone. You heard me say no guns, so I hope he sticks to that. Jimmy isn't like Gianni and gets a bit hot under the collar and goes off like a rocket, sometimes. I just hope he keeps it together for the meeting."

"I saw how pissed he was that day and he certainly looked like he could be that way."

"Trust me, JT. Even if he says no guns involved, make sure you're protected."

"If I'm searched and he's searched, what's the worry? We're just talking."

"Jimmy acts, more than talks. Gianni knows he's still got some learning to do and he'll make sure he doesn't screw this up. From what he just said to me, things are going to be okay."

"I guess the chance to get in the sack with you helped a bit too."

"Oh, JT, Gianni's had his eyes on me since he met me and he's more than once put his hands on me, but he knew where to draw the line."

"So you decided to erase the line, did you?"

Marlene could see that JT was becoming defensive about her, not liking that she was so free in giving herself to men.

"Why JT, if I didn't know better, you sound a tad jealous. I like that."

"I'm not jealous, I just don't think it's a good idea to throw yourself around like that."

"So I should save it all for one special guy then? I don't have a special guy anymore, unless you want to be my special guy? Do you want to be my special guy, JT? Want me to save all my loving, just for you?"

Marlene's hand slid up his leg, as she leaned in and caressed his cheek with the other. JT embarrassed too easily and Marlene played on that knowledge.

"I, I didn't mean me, Mar. I just meant, you should have someone and do all that stuff, like you did with Jake."

"I have to really care about the guy, before I can do what you're talking about, JT. Gianni would be happy as a pig in shit, just to feel my tits and play with them. He's just a little boy, like most every guy and loves big tits. He hasn't got a clue what to do with them, but he loves them all the same."

JT imagined the mob boss as a baby, suckling on her nipple happily, as she played mommy to him. He had to laugh at his own twisted humour and Marlene was curious to what he was thinking about.

"Nah, just had a thought that was funny to me."

"Come on, share. I need a good laugh."

"Yeah, okay. I was imagining him as a baby in diapers sucking on your tit and acting like a baby does."

Marlene did get a good rise out of it and had to stifle her laughter, to prevent hurting herself.

"If you saw Gianni, you'd know how funny that would look."

"If I knew what he looked like, maybe."

"Trust me, it's funny. I don't know if you'll ever meet him, but picture Jimmy twenty years older and fifty pounds heavier and that's Gianni."

"Big guy, I take it?"

"Oh yeah. Gotta be six two, two twenty, two thirty. Still works out twice a week to stay in shape. Almost made the Italian Olympic wrestling team, back in the thirties, but Mussolini and his shit, had them moving here, just before Hitler made him an ally. He wanted to try out for our Olympic team, but he wasn't allowed, but he still stays in shape and even now at fifty two, he can kick the shit out of most guys half his age."

Gianni Cacuzza sounded very formidable, someone who was imposing, not only in size, but power. JT weighed everything against himself and his crew, finding his side becoming more mismatched against theirs. Even without guns, he didn't like the odds against him. While Marlene rambled on about Gianni and her own feelings for him, he was trying to come up with a solution to the balance of power.

"You know, if I did want to chose a special guy, I'd chose you, JT."

That shook JT from his thoughts, her proposal to be intimate together, something touching many fantasies off in his head.

"Why me? I'm like, half your age and no money, or stuff."

"JT, I've found that money is more problems than it's worth. I love that feeling of being with someone I desire. I know you're not that naive, to not know that I desire you."

"Yeah, I kinda knew that, but what about Suzy? I love her and she loves me. I don't think she'd go for that, even with the free love thing happening."

"You do know Suzy loves me, right? I mean, you've seen her around me, Azure too. Suzy even wanted me to play with you the other day, remember? It was Suzy that pulled your pants down and enjoyed watching me stroke you, while she and Azure enjoyed the rewards."

"Yeah, how could I forget that."

"So why would you ever want to say no to me then?"

JT felt trapped between a rock and a hard place, his love for Suzy, battling with his lust for Marlene. She could see him weighing it out and wanted it to come out in her favour.

"JT, I'm not trying to pull you and Suzy apart, I'm just hoping you can squeeze some time in for me."

JT understood where Marlene was coming from and her sexual needs, the driving impetus for her desire of him. He knew full well about Suzy and her and how they felt towards each other. JT didn't want to get caught up in a triangle between two women and thought of a way to put it off.

"Mar, right now, I barely have enough time to stop and think, let alone get involved in something else. I need to talk to Suzy about all of this and maybe we should do it together, just so she knows both sides of it. But right now, come on, I got too much going on, to think of that stuff."

Marlene could see the frustration rising in him, knowing he was hedging on how to get out of the situation. One thing that did make her feel good, he never said no.

"Okay, I won't say another word about it, not until you talk to Suzy, promise."

"Okay, that's cool by me too."

"Can I at least get a kiss?"

JT looked at her with scepticism, her eyes full of mischief, as she looked at him, her fingers softly running up and down his arms.

"Just a kiss, no more, okay?"

"Just a kiss."

Marlene moved closer and JT put his arms around her, feeling her breasts begin to press into him. Marlene's hands brought his face to hers, then her lips took his and he knew she wanted to put everything into it. Marlene feasted on his mouth, savouring it and teasing it. JT followed along blindly, his control diminishing the more she evoked her seduction on him. He felt her hand grab his ass and pull him into her, grinding herself against his throbbing gristle. Against all reason, he stopped her and pushed away. He looked at her and she was rabid with lust. 

"Jesus, Marlene, just a kiss?"

"I like to put myself into something, if I want to do it right. Did it feel right to you? Sure felt right to me. I love how fast you get hard."

"Alright, stop. You promised, now, I gotta go anyway, the guys are waiting for me to let them know what the score is with Gianni."

Marlene pouted her disappointment, but her eyes were happy with what she did get.

"Okay, spoilsport. Off you go, I know you have to see them. Azure and Suzy should be here soon, so I'll be okay. Maybe Wayne can keep me company for a little while, he must get lonely and bored being out there."

"Don't start up with him Mar, come on, be nice."

"I'm joking, JT. I am happy he's looking after me tomorrow. I'm happy all of you are. You're all I have left in this world, to know someone is thinking of me and I'm not totally alone."

"I can never see you being alone for very long, Mar, but I know what you're talking about and yeah, we'll always be thinking of you and looking out for you."

"More than anything, that's really all I need. I just can't help the rest."

"You really are something, you know that?"

"I do and thank you for noticing."

"Noticing what?"

"That I'm really something."

JT rolled his eyes and smirked at her, then gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and quickly moved to the door, leaving Marlene standing there, truly pouting now, as he blew her a kiss and walked out to the hallway. 

"Big day tomorrow, eh?"

"Yeah. Hey, Wayne, thank you man. I mean really, thank you. Mar is so happy because of what you did for her. I promise we'll follow everything you want us to do, to protect her right. Really starting to add up a bunch of favours we owe you. Trust me, we'll make good on them, Buddy, I promise."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 06



Unser smiled broader hearing JT call him buddy.

"Hey, no problem, JT. I know things are shitty right now, for you and the club. Whenever you can, there might be a thing or two I might need you to do for me."

"You got it, no questions asked."

"Thanks, JT. I'm really glad you and the rest of the guys stayed in Charming, it's good seeing the gang still together. Like the old days, 'cept me wearing a badge now."

"Forget the badge, Wayne. You're alright. Look, gotta catch up with the guys, they're waiting for me, but, hey, we'll hook up and have a couple beers and shoot the shit again, as soon as life gives me a chance."

"Sure, no problem, man. You take care."

"Always, you take it easy too."

JT left to a happy smile and an assurance he had a connection with the police and that was good to have, considering the business they were in and the crime being planned. He went out and fired up Jake's Harley, now his, but the feeling wasn't there yet, that it was truly his. He rode it the way Jake had done and enjoyed the feel of the bike, compared to his old Army bike. He cruised through town and out to the clubhouse, enjoying the looks he got from people, especially a lot of the young, excitable women of town.

He walked in and joined the others, listening to what was being discussed. They finished up and gave JT the floor to relay the news from Marlene.

"We're in. Mar talked to the boss and he's arranging a meet with his son. Seems his son is very pissed at Clive, so we have him to talk to, when it happens."

"Any idea when that is?"

"Mar will let me know when they want to talk again and then I talk to the son, Jimmy. I think we're looking at one or two days tops for the call, no idea about the meet yet. One thing Mar did warn me about, was that, even if they agree to no guns, make sure my ass is covered and everyone else's too. She doesn't think they'll try to ambush us or anything, but she said Jimmy is hot-headed and doesn't think sometimes, before he does shit."

"So, we carry, or we don't carry?"

"I was thinking on the way over, how we should make this happen, so we are protected and we still look like we're going by the rules."

"How you figure on doing that, JT?"

"Lenny, it's time we paid a visit to our brothers of another colour in Stockton. I think we need Benny and Lamont to help us with back up."

"How are they going to help us?"

"If everyone is unarmed and they pull a fast one on us, we'll have our friends come out and they'll have guns trained on them. We'll know how many they're bringing, so we'll just make sure we have more guys."

"Sounds good, JT. I can live with that."

"Great Piney, everyone? Yeah, or nay?"

A unanimous yea went up, making JT smile in triumph.

"Okay, the other thing. Tomorrow, we have to be at Mar's hotel at nine and pick her up, then Wayne will lead us to Dubrowski's and then the cemetery from there. He wants us to follow his orders to the letter and I assured him we would. It's all for Mar's safety, after all, so just do whatever he says and don't question, okay?"

Everyone agreed to his request and JT saw the moment go somber.

"Hey, do that tomorrow. Right now, we got some planning to do and how we're going to pull this off. We don't get this right and we're joining Jake for a long rest."

JT's words hit home and they snapped out of remorse and concentrated on putting a plan together, where they looked like they were abiding by the rules set out, but guaranteeing them safety, just in case Marlene's suspicions about Jimmy were real. Tom knew how to get a hold of Benny and his brother, who would agree to backing them without question for two reasons. One, it was their meal ticket that was being put at risk and secondly, it was happening on their turf that they controlled. Both reasons guaranteed them an assurance of co-operating with them, on this plan. Tom left to make the call, while JT pondered with the rest, on how to set Clive up.

JT remembered something that Marlene had said to Gianni, that gave him an idea.

"I think I might have something, check this out. When Mar was speaking to Gianni, she mentioned something about giving Clive's car to Jimmy in exchange for his Caddy. Jimmy hasn't decided on a new car, I'm sure, so what if we do something like this. We get Jimmy to send Clive to look at a car he's interested in. We give him an address that takes him out in the country somewhere, someplace quiet and no one will hear, or see us. When he comes down the road, we'll find a spot where we'll be waiting in an ambush and stop him there. We have guys come up from behind and block off any escape. We pull him out and one guy drives the car away, while the rest of us haul the guy way into the woods and we take care of him there. No one sees us, no one hears us and our friend meets the mayhem he deserves and we ditch him out there. No one goes up there and hey, once the animals get a sniff of him, they'll dispose of him."

Faces spoke everything that needed to be said, but JT called a vote on the idea and it passed unanimously. Now it was up to Jimmy and if he would co-operate, instead of screwing things up even more. Tom came back in, holding both his thumbs up.

"We're a go with Benny. He's rounding up his brother and a couple other guys and they'll meet us whenever we want. I said to stay by the phone, because it could be very shortly. I wasn't sure how soon you wanted to meet."

"That's cool, Tom. I think we know what we need to do and they'll know the area and the best way to cover us. Go tell them we'll be there in half an hour. Okay guys, let's get this show on the road."

The guys left the clubhouse and locked up. They started the bikes and waited for JT to lock the office after Tom finished and they headed out of town to Stockton. They pulled off 99 and headed into the Kennedy area of Stockton, the area clearly not noted for being upscale in any way. They turned on to 13th Street and the houses were in a poor state of repair, as they slowly cruised past the black population that lived there. Two houses down from the abandoned and stripped Pontiac, they pulled into Benny's place and shut the engines down. Benny, Lamont and several others came out to greet them and the suspicious eyes of the neighbourhood were eased, to know that trouble hadn't come with them.

The meet didn't take more than half an hour, the plan simple enough to understand and a plan of action needed, something that would have to wait until the exact location was decided. JT said he would push for Stockton as the meeting area and hoped Jimmy would pick the actual location and give Benny time to put something together to stay out of sight, but be ready to act in a second. With nothing more to discuss, they shook and got back on the bikes and headed out of the Kennedy area, north to another person that JT needed to get in contact with.

The rumble of bikes brought the old man's head out of a barrel to see who it was. The happy, toothless face was pleased to see his guests, as JT went up and greeted him.

"Hi Gus, how's it going?"

"Good days, bad days. How's by you, JT?"

"Doing the best I can, Gus. You still coming tomorrow?"

"Yep. I'll be paying my last to Jake. Damn shame to hear about that. Knocked me off my chair when I saw it on the news. Thanks for that call, by the way, really appreciate you doing that for me."

"The least I could do, Gus."

"I'm gonna miss that old bugger, I really am. I just knew messing around with that woman would land him in a heap of trouble, I just knew it. I told him so a couple of times and I think that's why he wouldn't talk to me anymore after that."

"Yeah, he loved her to the end and I know she did as well. So, the reason I wanted to talk to you now Gus, is that we need information on someone you might know."

"Who's that?"

"The Cacuzza's. Gianni and Jimmy. More Jimmy than Gianni."

Gus looked at JT with surprise, the kind that came from mentioning trouble by name.

"You talking about the guys Clive Brock worked for, ain't ya?"

"That's right."

"You just like kicking the hornet's nest, don't ya? You know those guys are the mob, right?"

"We know who they are, we just want to know more about Jimmy and what he's like."

"Why the hell you want to know about him for? He's just as likely to shoot you, as much as shake your hand. Bad seed there, boys."

"So, you would agree that he can't be trusted to keep to the agreement, if he makes one."

"Nope. Only agreement he'll keep, is one that he decides to make. You might think everything is on the up and up, but Jimmy doesn't play that way. No sir."

"That's good to know. Makes things easier for us to know what to do then."

"What's your plan?"

"We're setting up a meet with him, to discuss some arrangements for a mutual friend."

"Your talking about Brock and doing something to him, ain't ya?"

"Can't get one past you, can I?"

"Nope, been around too much, to know what's written between the lines. You have any idea what's going to happen, you go and take care of Brock, like you're talking?"

"Actually, yeah, we do know. I know from a very reliable source, that Gianni Cacuzza is for our idea, but he's leaving things to his son. We're just trying to get a better idea of what to expect, if we meet him."

"Jimmy, huh? Told you he was a bad seed, right? Well, that's just part of it. As much as the boy's got a temper, he got himself a thirst for blood, too. I know from people I know, that he won't think twice about pulling the trigger, before saying something. You try talking and he'll start shooting."

"We said no guns at the meet, or we'd bring them too."

"Even if there are no guns allowed, he'll try and keep things in his favour."

"Yeah, we thought he might, so we have a plan in play to stop him from doing that."

"If you have something already, why do you need me?"

"My ace up the sleeve, Gus. No one will suspect you, if you're in the area. You can blend into the neighbourhood and watch what's happening and stop something, before it happens."

"I gotcha, boy. I think I know what you're jabbering about. I'm the cavalry and rush in to save the day."

"Yeah, that's it. You're my John Wayne and come to save the fucking day."

"I got you now, too, JT. I was trying to figure what you wanted Gus to do and now I got it."

"Okay, fill me in, because I don't get it."

"Sure, Otto. Lenny knows that we need as much back up as we can get, because we don't know squat about Jimmy and everything is pointing to a bad meet. We have Benny and his guys staking out the area that gets picked, but they might not be close enough to stop something from going down, until it's too late. If we have Gus stationed close by, where he can rush in, we stand a better chance of staying alive and keeping control, until Benny and the boys make it to us. We're talking about less than a minute of time here, but that amount can find us alive, or dead."

"Shit. Now I got where you're going."

"Anyone not up to speed on all of this? Speak up and let's make sure everyone knows what we're talking about here."

No one was unsure of what was at stake anymore, or what part each player had in it. Heads nodded in agreement, some in part to JT's brilliance at looking ahead and planning.

Arrangements were made to talk again after the funeral and a call from Jimmy, to where the meet would be, giving them a day or so at best, to set their plan up. The ride back wasn't spent enjoying the wind, but focusing on who they were becoming and coming to terms with it. No one had joined with the intent of killing people, or committing crimes, but it had come to that out of necessity, the circumstances life kept putting them in, forcing them to act that way.

Jake's last day started well, eyes opening to a cool, clear day. The late, summer morning was crisp with the hoar frost that had settled overnight. The ground glittered like tiny jewels, as the sun rose and danced its rays over it. Moon stood there naked, feeling the coolness on his skin, as the small sedge bush was given his morning dose of urine. One by one, every guy did the same, the small bush apparently happy with the amount of acids it was given. Some stood naked, while others still wore pants, as stretching and squinting eyes welcomed them to the day. 

"Tomorrow will be a harvest day for us. Many of the crops need picking, or the frost will ruin them. We have done well, for what we could save of the old crops and have fields ready for next year, so we will do even better."

"We get those animals you want and maybe even a tractor and this will be Green Acres on acid, man"

"What tractor, Lenny?"

"Oh yeah, we didn't tell you guys that last night. We were talking about this place and what we needed to do and Piney started going on about it being like that show and then we were joking about you sitting on the tractor naked and the girls walking around you. Then we figured, hey, they should have a tractor, it's a fucking farm and they need a tractor to do farm shit. So, we decided to look around for a decent used tractor and buy it. Maybe get some of things you pull behind it, to plough and cut and stuff."

"Seriously? You wish to buy us that?"

"Well, we thought it was more like for all of us. The girls and some of the guys will be here, so, it's like a shared thing."

"That is how a commune works, Lenny. Nothing is owned, it belongs to all. We don't do things for the self, only for the good of everyone."

"I guess that's like our club, too. What belongs to the club, belongs to every member."

"More or less. You all have your own bikes and as far as I know, no one else gets to ride them. I can't see you letting that happen, actually. You have great personal possession to them, I see it when you talk about them and how you care for them. Even Jake left his bike to you JT and not the club. Would you share that bike with every member?"

JT looked at the guys standing there beside him, each one looking to see if he would let him. JT looked at them with pride, letting them know how he was thinking of them, then turned to Moon. 

"No way. Not a chance in hell, I'd do that. I'd shoot the first motherfucker who put his ass on the seat."

Laughter broke out among them and hugs were given to the guys, to show it was all in fun. Despite the joking around, every guy knew that JT had every right to do what he said. No man touched another man's bike, ever. That bike was his connection to freedom, where his spirit was freed and became one with everything. Touching that bike, was worse than touching his woman and people would get seriously hurt or die doing that. Those feelings stayed amongst the club and were never expressed, but sensitive intuition, picked up the vibes between them and wondered what kind of brotherhood they had formed.

The girls were wrapped in sheets, as they stood in the kitchen and dining room, making coffee with scrambled eggs and toast to eat. When it was ready, Poppy came out and called them in. When Clay walked in, she grabbed him by his package and pulled him to the side.

"You, were awesome last night. I love how you learned to go down on me. You know what I want to do tonight, if you feel like it?"

Clay was smiling proudly and excited to imagine what was coming.

"What's that, Sweetheart?"

"I want to do a sixty nine with you in front of everybody and show them how good we are together."

Clay looked at the tiny, young woman, smiling happier than anything about it, her eyes sparkling.

"Baby, I'll lick you till you scream for me to stop."

"Oh, Clay, I can't wait. Okay, let's get some breakfast and then get ready. I can't wait to see you all dressed up in your suit."

"I'm top of the line, Baby, top, of, the, line."

Clay gave her a soft kiss and they walked in to join the others already eating. The food was finished, along with second cups of coffee, before they all started getting ready. The air was warming, as the hours passed, until twenty two young adults came back together, looking as well dressed, as they'd ever presented themselves. They squeezed into the three vehicles and slowly left the lane, each car loaded to its capacity and more. They made it to Dubrowski's at eight thirty, with almost a half hour to spare, leaving plenty of time for JT and Piney, to pick up Marlene at the hotel. They happily climbed out and straightened themselves out, some of the others attending watching them with a bit of amusement. JT and Piney left and drove the short distance across town to the Holiday Inn. True to plan, Wayne Unser's cruiser was parked out front and he was waiting outside the door. The door was open and Marlene was dressed and ready, slowly pacing the floor. The pair looked at her and were stunned by how beautiful she looked in her tight black dress, the hat and veil nestled atop her red hair set in an elaborate style. The shawl helped hide the bared cleavage and fresh scars, but otherwise, she was stunning and radiant.

"Hi guys, come on in. Tell me, do I look okay?"

Marlene slowly turned, giving them ample time to take her in from head to toe. She finished rotating and stopped, looking at them for their opinion. She smiled, as she saw the stares and knew she had it still. Both of them nodded, unsure if they should say something and blow their cool. 

"You boys look fabulous in your suits. I like the hair tied back like that, very chic. Nice shoes, too. Goodwin's obviously."

"Yeah, Harry says hi, by the way and thanks you for the referral. He heard about everything and offered his condolences."

"He's a great guy. I bought Jake a suit there for his birthday and a pair of shoes at George's. He looked so good in that outfit. I wonder if he still has it? I haven't seen him wear it in years and never asked if he kept it."

"What did it look like? I have to meet up with Mr. Lowen and go to Jake's place. Clay has to come too, because of the cars, so maybe I can ask if you can come, seeing as you were about the closest thing to family he had. Maybe there's a few things that you should have."

"Oh, JT, please. Ask if I can, I know Jake was a sentimental, old fool deep down and saved some stuff, I'm sure. I'd love to see if any of it is still there."

"You've never been at Jake's place before?"

"No, it was always off limits. He wanted to have a place where my husband wouldn't catch us, so I never got to see inside it. I drove by once, just to see it, but never the inside. I was too scared to stop and peek inside, in case someone saw me and told him."

"It'll be a trip to the unknown then, for all of us. I don't think even Art has been inside yet."

The door to the bedroom opened and Suzy and Azure came out. JT caught his breath and Piney had to close his mouth, as they looked at them. Both were transformed into absolute beauties, their hair and make up, done so well. Their dresses were new and fit them perfectly, making them look at Marlene again.

"I figured they deserved them and the hair and make up too. I called my hairdresser and his make up artist and had them come to do this for us. I think they're worth every penny I spent, don't you?"

They were both speechless, as the girls showed off their new look. Heads nodded again, dumbfounded to speak once more. Francois and Alfonso came out from the bedroom, holding hands and that dropped both of the guys mouths. Seeing homosexual behaviour so openly displayed, just took things past anything they had tried to accept. JT backed up and into the hallway and looked at Wayne, nodding his head towards the gay men and giving him an estranged look. Wayne shrugged his shoulders and whispered.

"She said they were here to do hair and make up. They were clean and they don't really look the type to be doing a hit, do you?"

JT shrugged his shoulders and took a few steps back in and stood beside Piney again. Suzy gracefully walked to him and let him take a closer look. She was pleased to see him enthralled with what she had chose and watched his admiring stare.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 06



"Wow, you look awesome, Babe. All you girls are knockouts. You guys, you did a great job on them, good stuff."

"Merci, tres bien, monsieur. I would be happy to do your hair, as well." 

JT smiled embarrassingly and waved him off.

"I think we should get going girls. Piney, if you'd escort the girls and I'll escort Mar, we'll let Wayne lead the way and make sure we're clear. Ready out there, Wayne?"

"Yup, I'll head to the elevator and go down and send it back up. If it stops between floors on the way up, go back to the room pronto, remember?"

"Got it."

Wayne took the elevator down and then sent it up. It arrived without interruption, so they got on and headed down. They pressed the G button and the car began descending and JT felt Marlene's hand tighten on his arm. He put his hand over hers and rubbed it lightly. Marlene put her other one over and held him. The car stopped on the second floor and everyone went into a panic mode, waiting to see who was there. The doors opened to an older couple, who were shocked by the group, who looked in fear of their lives. When they saw it was okay, they sighed and relaxed, making the couple hesitant about getting on. Piney saw their worry and smiled.

"Sorry, thought you might have been someone else."

The man looked up at him, as they continued down.

"I hope we don't meet this person either, he sounds terrifying."

That almost had them laughing, as the car stopped and the doors opened. The couple went to exit the car and saw Wayne in front of them with his gun drawn. They became frightened and panicked, dashing back into the car and into the group, beginning to come out. Piney caught them and held them, sticking his face between theirs.

"It isn't him either, he's a good guy."

The couple looked at him and back to Unser, who put his gun away, then exited the car and went to the front desk, instead of the doors outside. The only words they could make out were about fear and guns and leaving, as they lambasted the desk manager. Unser went outside and checked to make sure and waved them out. The group surrounded Marlene and went out to the car. They put Marlene between the girls, while JT and Piney sat up front. Wayne motioned them to follow and they made their way to the funeral home. The short ride was over and the same procession walked inside around Marlene. Unser went to Lenny to make sure no strange people showed up and was told everyone checked out.

They entered the chapel and took their designated seats, while Wayne stood at the doors to watch everyone at once and still keep an eye on the entrance. Reverend Madock came from the back and stood at the pulpit at the head of Jake's coffin. He looked at the faces and warmly smiled at them, then a personal one to Unser at the rear, along with a small nod. He led them through the ceremony in his usual fashion, relying on his personal touches and the personal knowledge of his townspeople. Gus was asked to come and say a few words and they were surprised, those that had met him, to see him with false teeth and fairly well dressed. He showered his praise of character and strength that he said Jake had. He never took it to his shady side and left everyone with a good sense of the man and parts of his unknown life. Marlene went up and said much the same and showed the softer side of Jake and left many with tears. To everyone's surprise, Arthur Lowen went up and spoke. 

His eulogy left the guys speechless, with how far back he had known him. He spoke of things that even surprised Marlene. As much as his rendition of Jake's life was far more complete, it left a lot of unanswered questions about Art, himself. JT went up and spoke the words that he and his brothers felt about Jake, adding how he himself felt like he had a father again. He expressed the love of his friends for Jake, as well as Marlene, then stifled a sob as he finished. With all words spoken, the service concluded and Rev. Madock bade them to raise the coffin and carry it out. JT and Piney were on either side at the front, while Art and Gus took the middle positions and Keith and Lenny took the rear. They raised it to their shoulders and paced out to the waiting hearse, in perfect step together. They lowered him and slid him into the back, hands kept with it, until it was secured in place.

The door closed and the guys went back in and escorted Marlene out to the limousine for her and several girls, making it more comfortable for the others to go to the cemetery. Two miles felt like two hundred, the distance to cover weighed down with sorrow and finality. The hearse slowed and stopped in front of the grave site area, the procession following suit. The pallbearers resumed their duties and carried Jake to the platform, laying him down gracefully. Gus winced a couple of times, showing some of the hard knocks in life that bothered him now. Marlene was brought from the car and was surrounded by twenty four friends, making Wayne smile in amusement at how seriously they took his warnings.

With no one's knowledge, three hundred yards away, lying on the roof of Ryan's Hardware store, was Clive Brock, a high powered hunting rifle resting on the frame of the sign, the telescopic sights trying to fix on the red haired head amongst the crowd. 

Reverend Madock gave his final blessings, commending his body to the ground and his soul to heaven. Those that knew, were feeling his presence among them and some joined hands. As show of tribute to him, the crew took off their suit coats and displayed their cuts underneath. JT saw Art smile at the show and closed his eyes and gave them a nod. A corporal on home from leave, played the last call for him, bringing a finality to the service. The guests paid their last respects, by laying a flower on the coffin. Stan and Lorelei handed the mourners a flower and a memorial card as they passed. The guys waited until the end and helped Marlene rise and walk her to the coffin.

Clive wiped his forehead, the sweat beading up and dripping down into his eyes. He focused through the scope again, waiting for the one clear shot he needed. He watched the procession thin, one by one and saw the guys surrounding her, as she walked to the grave. Faint glimpses of a shot appeared and were lost, before he could pull the trigger. When Marlene went to place a flower on the coffin, a break between the bodies, gave him the opportunity he needed and he pulled the trigger in desperation. 

Marlene kissed the flower, then bent forward to kiss the coffin, where Jake's face would be underneath the gleaming, walnut wood. As her lips touched the wood, the bullet splintered the top less than a foot past her head. JT pulled her back and covered her with his body, shielding her from another shot. Piney stood behind him, turned towards the angle the shot came from. His time in the war, had honed his skills at figuring where a shot was fired from, without the need for instrumentation. He looked at the line of stores and the signs above, along Grace Street, on the opposite side from the cemetery.

Unser had his gun drawn and looked where Piney was looking. From that distance, he had closer to a zero chance of hitting anyone, than anything else. Piney spotted movement over on the hardware roof and pointed it to Wayne. They scanned it for further signs, but nothing was seen. JT and the others had Marlene in the limo, then told the driver to stay put. He went back to Piney and the others, looking for any signs of trouble. Everything had gone back to the serenity of what it was earlier, lessening the threat, but the sight of the bright, blue Corvette turning the corner from Mission Rd., onto Grace St., caught Lenny's attention and discreetly pointed it out to Keith and Wally beside him.

Unser dashed back to his cruiser and radioed in what had happened, calling for back up to search the area, but the guys knew it was a waste of time, Brock was on his way out of town already and headed back to Palm Springs. JT climbed in with Marlene, who was crying and scared to death for her life. He sat across from her and she saw him, begging him to protect her. The girls moved so he could hold her and she buried herself into him, ruining her hair and make up. Unser came to the driver and told him to follow him to the hotel. He got in his cruiser and while radioing in, he started driving faster than normal through the cemetery grounds. 

JT and the others hustled Marlene into the hotel, to surprised looks on the guests. They got her in her room and locked the door, while Unser stayed downstairs and talked to the manager about the situation and safety concerns for Marlene and the other guests. In her room, Marlene was catching her breath and trying to stop crying. She looked at the half dozen men and felt a sense of security from them, that allowed her to relax. Wally, Moon and Piney had quickly herded the girls into the cars and bus, heading to the farm and safety. In fifteen minutes, what had been a scene of frantic people and frenzied movements, had turned back to a calm, peaceful setting once again. Jake lay in his coffin atop the platform, still keeping him with the living, while a small bluebird landed on the golden, wood surface and investigated the flowers, now scattered about from the panic. 

Marlene calmed down enough to start asking questions. With only the club members present, they told her it was Clive that did it and Lenny confirmed it by noting the blue Corvette leaving the scene. Marlene's fear returned, but also a look of anger mixed in.

"Fucking Gianni, that lying bastard. If he told him to do the hit, after we had made a deal, I'm as good as dead, you know that?"

"I don't think it was him, I think Clive was trying to clean up his own mess and save some face with him. Gianni didn't sound all that happy about him, so maybe we should call him and see what gives?"

"Make the call, JT and talk to him. I don't think I could do it right now."

JT dialled the number she gave him and waited for the other end to pick up. Benjy answered and JT announced who he was and who he was calling for and asked to speak to Gianni. He waited for almost five minutes, before he heard a click and he was off hold and heard Gianni's voice.

"You should have a very good reason to be calling this number, JT."

"Yes, I do, Gianni. I'm sitting here with Mar right now and she's unable to talk, because a fucking bullet just missed her head by inches not more than an hour ago. You want to tell her why that happened? She was under the impression we all had a deal and now this happens."

"What? What are you talking about? What hit?"

"We were at Jake's funeral and Marlene was laying a flower on the coffin, when a bullet just missed her head and went into Jake's coffin."

"I don't know nothing about that. I didn't order that hit. I told Mar we don't do hits on women, ever. This, I will look into, JT. Can I talk to Mar? Will she talk with me?"

"I'll ask her, hang on."

JT covered the mouthpiece for privacy and looked at Marlene, calmer now and agreed to talk.

"Okay, hang on, here she is."

"Gianni, please tell me you had nothing to do with this."

Gianni could hear the desperation in her voice and knew it wasn't a trick of some kind.

"Mar, I swear, I had no knowledge of this. I told your guy that and I will look into this myself. You should know me by now, Mar. If I say something to you, it's the truth. I said I would take care of you and I will, but not like this. Was this Clive? You got any proof of it?"

"A couple of the guys saw a light, blue Corvette leaving the scene just after and that's what Clive drives. It had to be him, unless someone used his car and tried to make it look like it was him. That's why I'm worried this might have been you and you're setting him up as the shooter."

"Trust me, Mar. This thing has not come from me. I assure you again, I did not order a hit on you and never will. Can I talk to your guy again?"

Marlene passed the phone back to JT.

"Yeah?"

"JT, listen to me carefully. I am a man of my word and when I say to you, I did not do this thing, you can take this as the truth. I did not put a hit on Mar and never will. Jake knew it and was a man of my own heart. He respected women they way I do, that's why we got along. Even all the cheating shit that went on between him and Mar, I turned a blind eye, because I knew he respected Mar, as much as loved her. I have no reason to want Mar dead and furthermore, I don't want her dead. I want her alive and well. She might have a problem with sharing beds, but she's a classy broad and knows the score. I trust her to do her part, just like she trusts me to do my part."

JT listened to Gianni and had to believe him and take him at his word. He made all the sense and divulging his knowledge of Jake's affair and stating he had no issues with it, made him agree that he wasn't the one who ordered the hit.

"So how do we handle this now, Gianni?"

"We go ahead as planned. Jimmy knows about this and my wishes for the outcome. The meet goes as planned and I want the same as you, JT. I want this issue dealt with and put to rest. I have a business to run and don't need interference like that, getting in the way,. You can understand that?"

"Yes, I do understand that. I'm in the same position and my business is suffering too, because that asshole is making my life miserable and everyone else's as well. I'll be here tomorrow to take the call and set this up. From myself and my club, I thank you for helping us out like this."

"I thank you as well, JT. This thing is making both our lives miserable and you take care of this thing like you say, I want to talk to you after and see if there's a way we can help each other out and make up for this mess that's happened."

"I'd like that, Gianni. You wish to speak to Mar again?"

"Yes, please."

Mar took the phone and sounded less stressed now, after eavesdropping on the conversation.

"I'm here, Gianni."

"Mar, Sweetheart. Are we good? You don't believe for a second it was me that did this thing, do you?"

"Not now, Gianni. You can understand why I did though, can't you?"

"Yeah, I can understand it. I'd probably be thinking the same thing myself. No, Darlin', you have no reason to fear me. Clive, that cocksucker, is dead. This was it. Even before, I felt maybe he was a little bit right, but now, the fucker dug his own grave, taking that shot. I gave him an order to leave you alone, period, that I'd handle it now. I'm really glad he's a fucking putz and can't shoot worth fuck. It would be a bad thing to see you hurt, Mar. A very bad thing."

Marlene knew by that, that a very bad thing would be considered a reason to go away permanently. Gianni liked to think of it as an underground vacation, one you never came back from. She felt better, knowing it was only her ex involved and not Gianni, going back on his word.

"Thank you, Gianni. Knowing that, it makes me feel a lot better. The guys can keep me safe and I have an officer watching me twenty four hours a day, So there's no way he'll get another chance. You have Jimmy call tomorrow and we'll get this thing resolved as fast as we can."

"I will, Mar. You take care of yourself, Sweetheart, okay?"

"I will, I'm in good hands. Thanks again, you're a wonderful man, Gianni. I really appreciate your help."

"My pleasure. Talk soon, Mar."

"Okay, bye for now, Honey."

Marlene finished with a couple of kisses to the phone and hung up. She sighed and smiled in relief, looking at the guys looking at her.

"Everything cool, Mar?"

"Yes, we're cool. I believe Gianni and this was all Clive. He must really be panicking about this, if he would go against Gianni's orders.

Only the staff of Dubrowski's and Charming Cemetery were present at the grave site the following day, after police had recovered the bullet from the coffin and the coffin maker did his best to make repairs to it. The flowers were gathered again and placed atop it, as the button was pushed to lower it into the ground. Rev. Madock felt it necessary to be there again, doing his best to erase the tragedy and bless the spirit of the man inside, to finally be at peace. Once lowered, the site was cleared and the shovels were thrust into the soil, filling the hole back in, one shovel full at a time.

The call came that same day, while JT sat beside Marlene on the couch. Her usual flirty self started the conversation and JT was glad she knew how to keep them on a happy note. She blew a couple of kisses into the phone and passed it to JT. Jimmy told him he would meet him and asked him where. JT said he would pick the city, which was Stockton and Jimmy could pick the place, making it fair to both. Jimmy was agreeable to the deal and said to sit tight, while he thought of a place there.

Five minutes passed and Jimmy said he'd take the meeting at a bar in south Stockton, in the Manteca area. The place was called the Nueva Luna Lounge and it was on W. Yosemite Avenue, between Maple and Main, on the north side. He gave a time of two pm and said to be there, or he'd cancel if he wasn't.

JT assured him they'd be there and confirmed that no guns would be present at the meet. Jimmy said there wouldn't be, but JT heard the way he said it and knew not to trust him on his word.

JT hung up and looked at Marlene, with a look of worried expectation. She knew what he was thinking and feeling, knowing he had committed himself and his club to go into harm's way.

"It'll be okay, JT. You have a good plan for back up and I don't think Jimmy is that stupid, to know he's been outmatched and doesn't know to back off. He wants to keep his image of being a tough guy and save face, but he's not suicidal, neither are his men. You're all about the same age, so figure that into it and you know these guys aren't that smart yet. Not like you, anyway. You're like Jake in that way, you know how to look ahead and see what could happen and prepare for it. The guys that have served, know how to do things in a situation like this, so I know you can be prepared for anything, but the others, I can see how little they know and what could happen."

"I know, Mar. We've all done our best to share what we know with them. I'm pretty sure if the time came, they'd do the same as us and shoot to kill."

Marlene wasn't as sure as JT was about it, knowing who they were up against, even with a no gun policy.

"You really think they can pull the trigger?"

"They know to squeeze, not pull, Mar."



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 07



Ch.7            Reflections of Deception   





JT and the club rode into Stockton the day of the meet, a few hours before schedule. They met up with Benny and Lamont and noticed the small army of black youths they brought with them. The numbers looked impressive enough, but the average age of seventeen worried him greatly. They stopped and got off the bikes and greeted them, then got down to the task at hand. 

Benny said they scoped out the meeting place and the area around it, letting them know there was an ample amount of places that they could stake everything out from and not draw suspicion. JT wanted to know if there were any advantageous spots to be ambushed from, or be left without an exit. They told him the place was in the middle of the block and there was only one way in and one to get out back. The other bit of news that put everyone on edge, was that it was a confirmed mob hangout. Whoever was inside during the meet, was going to be on Jimmy's side, so JT became leery about going in alone and looked to Piney and Lenny.

"I want you guys inside somewhere. Wherever their guys sit, you guys stay just as close to me. No way these fuckers are pulling a fast one on us."

"What about guns?"

"There's not supposed to be any, but now we might have a problem with that. They could stash them anywhere in there and even if we search all the guys, we'd need to search the whole place too and they'd be bitching about that."

"So what do we do about it then?"

"I'm not sure, Piney. This wasn't talked about, so we have nothing in place to do anything about it, other than hope we don't get fucked in the deal, or talk to Gianni again and gripe to him about it. He might just tell us to fuck off and then decide to kill us, or not."

No one had any ideas on how to safeguard their president and his two top men, once inside. They were contemplating outcomes of every kind, when the rumble and whine of gears shifting, made them look to the parking lot entrance. Gus was rolling in with the 62 GMC he was going to give to Jake, pulling up to the gathering.

"Not too late am I?"

"Nope, right on time, Gus. Come on down and listen to what our situation is and see if you can help us with how to handle it."

The respectable look he had at the funeral was gone and he was back to his usual dishevelled look, as well as leaving the false teeth behind as well. He gummed a smile at them, standing in the circle. He listened to JT's worries and what was unknown about inside the club. Gus pondered it all and opined his thoughts.

"Here's something. I give you what, say ten, fifteen minutes to go in and get acquainted. Now, I know these guys and they know me, but they don't know, I know you. You got me so far?"

"Oh yeah, I'm following you."

"So, I go in there, see and of course, they won't say nothing to me and they wouldn't bother to frisk me, 'cause I got nothing to do with what's going on. I sit and mind my business like and have a drink or two, shoot some shit with the guys and if anything does go south, I'll have a gun and pull it out, making sure no one else does. There'll be guys outside the door, right?"

"Oh yeah, all the guys. I say we ride up and stop out front. Keep the guns in the bags and show we're not carrying like we said, but nothing was said about having them right next to us."

"Good, I'll holler loud enough for them to hear and they can get in there and get things under control."

"That sounds cool, old dude. Me and my boys will be hanging near by and can be there in thirty seconds."

Gus spun around to look at Benny, his face showing the offence to the remark.

"Who you calling an old dude, you young fuck?"

JT saw the reaction to the slur and didn't need that getting involved. He stood between them and held them back.

"Benny, we don't refer to people in terms that way, not if you're going to be doing business together."

"I ain't got no business with him. What's the problem anyway? Guy's an old dude, ain't he?"

Before Benny did another thing, or JT even saw what happened, Gus was by him and had his hand around Benny's throat and was squeezing it tighter and tighter, making Benny panic for his life and his gang getting threatening for it to stop.

"Gus, Gus, back off, let him go. You made your point and I'm pretty sure Benny knows it too, don't you, Benny?"

Benny did his best to nod his head, as he struggled to get air. JT placed his hand on Gus' sinewy arm, patting it to let go. When Benny's eyes seemed to be bulging enough to pop out of his head, Gus let him go and stared him down, as he collapsed to the ground gasping.

"Old dude, eh? I'll fucking old dude ya. Learn some respect for people. Honestly JT, you gotta learn to pick better friends. Insolent, little bastard."

"I think he gets it, Gus. Just calm down and try not fuck things up before they start. This is for Jake remember, so let's not disrespect him with this, okay?"

"Yeah, you're right. Although Jake wouldn't stand for that either and would'a done the same thing, maybe squeezed a little harder and said fuck it, stupid asshole deserved it."

No matter how threatening the youths tried to look, Gus struck a chord of fear in every one of them, backing them down rapidly, as he looked at them.

"Let's not go there, Gus, these guys are helping us and they're not the enemy. I say you save that same feeling for the guys inside and use it on them."

Gus took a deep breath and calmed himself, relaxing the anger and hostile stance he was taking. He held his hand out to Benny and waited for him to take it. He helped dust him off and gave him a hearty pat on the back. Benny still had a look of fear in his eyes, as he looked at Gus, who played it to his advantage.

"Sorry about roughing you up, young un, but I figured you needed a lesson in respect. Never know who you insult, might just take enough offence to it and settle it with a bullet to the head, know what I mean?"

Gus pulled a .45 revolver from behind his back and spun the chamber in front of Benny's face, snapping it shut, solidifying his position as trouble with a capital T. He tucked it in his pants, behind his back again and winked at Benny. Tensions slowly eased between everyone, as Gus no longer paid attention to the gasping Benny. Lamont went over to him, but Benny pushed him away, still trying to save some face. 

"Are we good?"

"I'm good, JT."

"That's good, Gus. How about you, Benny?"

"Cool."

"Alright, let's get back to why we're here. I like your idea Gus, that puts us a step above them. Benny, you and your guys cover both ends of the back alley and see if you can get a few on the roofs, without being seen. They'll be looking for a ground level assault and won't know to look up. War has its benefits, I guess. Piney, you and the guys will be right outside the door, so someone stay close to the guns, so we have quicker access than them. Surprise is on our side here guys, so as long as we take advantage of that element and keep control of everyone, we can avoid gun shots and anyone getting shot, or killed."

"So, what you want happening, if they get guns and start shooting?"

"Shoot back at them, Benny. This is supposed to be a friendly meet, so if they break the deal, all bets are off and it's kill, or be killed."

"Gotcha, bro'."

"I want it clear that we don't shoot first, is that understood by everyone?"

No one was unsure of what JT ordered and nodded heads in their show of acceptance. 

"I say we clear out of here and get ready to go. Gus, give me the time and I hope you get in without any problems. If you get stopped from going in, we might have a problem situation that puts us behind the eight ball."

"No worries, JT. I'll get in. Like I said, they know me, I come here to drink and shoot the breeze, so they'll have no reason to suspect I'm there for anything else. I do have a history, you don't know nothing about, so give me a little credit here, that I know what I'm doing. This ain't my first go round, doing this sort of thing."

JT clapped him over the shoulders, showing he was willing to put his faith in him and could hold him to his word. No one had any questions, as to their part to play, so they left the parking lot en masse. Benny and his gang pulled up the next street over and parked, waiting for the meet time of two. JT and the guys rolled up at five minutes to and parked in a line up, along the curb out front. The thunderous rumble of nine bikes quieted, but it had aroused the attentions of those inside, bring Vinnie and Louie outside. As much as they knew bikers were coming, the club still made them take a tougher stance, to show their authority over the situation.

"You's the guys to see Jimmy?"

"Yeah. You's the guys to make sure we have no guns?"

"Yeah. Open the vests and let Louie pat you down."

"No problem, but open your jackets and show that you have no guns first."

"We got no problem with that."

Vinnie and Louie opened their jackets and showed there was no shoulder holster and turned, so they could see nothing tucked in the back. They both raised their pant legs and showed they had no back up stashed.

"Now, if you please."

JT opened his cut and let Louie frisk him, while Vinnie kept a careful eye on everyone. One by one they were cleared and satisfied no one was carrying.

"I'll go in alone as agreed, the guys will stay here by the bikes."

"You must be the JT, they're expecting."

"That's me."

Vinnie opened the door and let JT enter, then Vinnie and Louie stood side by side and barred the way. The guys sat on their bikes and acted casual, while guns and ammo were less than a foot away from several hands. JT was right in his assumption, that the guys wouldn't pay any attention to an unbuckled saddlebag, leaving them with no more than a second or two and they were armed. 

JT walked in and looked around, getting waved over by a sharp dressed, young man, about his own age and knew it was Jimmy. From Marlene's description of him, he could see the attitude immediately and knew to be on guard.

"Come, sit at my table and talk to me, JT Teller. Let me know why I should let you whack one of my guys."

JT went over without hurry, taking his time and showing he wasn't being commanded. He sat down and looked around at the patrons and knew every one of them, were with Jimmy and would back him up, no matter what he did.

"Nice to meet you, Jimmy Cacuzza."

JT held his hand out and Jimmy smiled, as he shook it.

"Do you want a drink, or something, JT?"

"A beer would be nice, bottle is good, thanks."

The bartender was paying attention and opened the cooler, taking out a bottle of Michelob. He passed it to a large man, who brought it to the table and went back to his stool. JT felt like he was sitting in a lion's den, as he took a long swig of beer.

"That helps take the dust out of the throat. So, Jimmy, we need to talk about the thing your father told you about."

JT hoped they'd get right down to business, but Jimmy started playing him.

"What's that, that my father told me about?"

JT looked about and figured everyone in there was in on it, so whispering wasn't needed.

"Clive Brock and what he did."

"What if I think Clive was right to shoot the cheating bitch?"

"That's up to you to decide about her, I want him for killing Jake Harding."

"That's the guy he popped, for doing his wife, right? Maybe he deserved it too."

JT wasn't liking the way things were going. What he had agreed to with Gianni, wasn't in play here. He took another drink of beer and shrugged his shoulders, as Jimmy waited for a reply. 

"You have the right to think that. All I'm saying is this. Your dad and me talked and came to an understanding about Clive. He said you were going to help me. If you are, then let's stop the crap and talk. If not, I'm out of here."

JT's ultimatum didn't sit well with Jimmy, taking offence to making a decision, instead of dictating what he wanted. JT could sense the rise in tension, then the door opened and Gus walked in on schedule. He paid no mind to JT, or Jimmy and went straight to the bar, saying hello to some people on the way over. He sat so he was sideways to the bar and had his back turned enough, so no one would see the gun behind his back. He ordered his usual and the bartender poured a double of well scotch, sliding it over to him. Gus thanked him and took a good swallow, then looked around casually, as he spun the liquid in the glass, making the ice tinkle loud enough to make some look his way. He stopped and turned away, looking more at the other people in the club and how they were acting. 

"Well? Are we talking, or am I going for a ride?"

Jimmy was getting hot under the collar about JT's demands and couldn't hold back.

"You don't tell me what to do, see? I tell you what's going to happen. No one walks into my place and orders me around."

Jimmy's guys became aggressive, getting up and moving closer. Gus didn't show any recognition to it, keeping any attention away from him. Jimmy stood up and looked at JT with contempt.

"I think these dirty bikers need to learn some respect. Take him out back in the alley and teach him some."

Gus noticed the bartender, Dominic, reaching under the counter, to where Gus knew he kept a .45 for protection. Gus smoothly reached back and took his gun out and pulled the hammer back, making everyone freeze where they were. Eyes were on Gus immediately.

"I'd be a lot happier, you slide that over to me nicely, Dom. I'd hate to put a bullet in a damn good bartender, for no good reason, other than being stupid."

Dominic slowly picked up the pistol and slid it along the counter to Gus.

"You sure you know what you're doing, Gus?"

"Yup, sure do, Dom. Let's just say, Gianni would be a might pissed at all of you for doing this. That young man has a deal on the table, that Gianni would like to see happen. You go against your dad, son, you're looking at more than a good spanking. These guys? Nothing but a fucking memory, Jimmy. You know it, I know, they know it. You want to sign their death warrants, cause your nose is a bit out of joint? Grow up and act like a man and stop being a pompous ass. If you were my boy and did this to me, I'd have your ass out back and put a fucking beating on you, until you did understand. Now sit down and listen to what this man has to say to you and do as your told."

With Dom's .45 in one hand and his revolver in the other, no one made a move towards him, because he had already proven to them who he was and what he could do. JT sat amazed at it all, totally thrown off balance by Gus' actions and how he talked to the mob. To his astonishment, Jimmy stared down Gus, but sat back down and looked at JT.

"So you wish to discuss with me, a proposal to take care of Clive. How would you like this to happen?"

JT felt the pressure disappear instantly, but not the ill feelings towards him and sipped his beer again. 

"As I said earlier, your dad agrees that Clive should go on a vacation and not come back. I told him that if we do it, no connection comes to him or you, keeping you both out of it. We just need a way to get our hands on him and we'll take care of everything else. There'll be no trace to be found, so he'll just stay a missing person. We had an idea you might like."

"What's your idea, JT Teller?"

JT could see that, as much as he was listening, he was still harbouring a big resentment and wondered if he was being taken seriously, or just complying to the threat of hot lead to his brain.

"You're pissed, because Clive stole your car to do the hit on them and now you have to get rid of it. Your dad said you really liked that car, so I figured, why not let you have Clive's car and you can trade it in for a new Coupe de Ville, along with whatever cash Clive has, to make up the rest. We have a spot out in the mountains, close to the border that no one goes to. Very quiet and works for what we need to do. You tell Clive you found a guy selling a Caddy that was just like your old one. He drives out to see it and we ambush him, bring the Corvette to you and everyone's happy."

"Just like that? I'm just supposed to give up one of my best earners, so my dad can feel happy about things? I'm supposed to be happy getting a used car and a big loss in income and my dad says this is a good thing. I said I'd take the meet and talk, but this is over. This just ain't happening, not that way."

The men moved again, making Gus remind them that he was still there. While the attention was on him, Jimmy pulled out a small pistol from his waistband and pointed it at JT's head. He got up and made JT rise as well, using him as a shield and a hostage. 

"I'll remember this, Gus. No one pulls a gun on me and lives."

Jimmy dragged JT backwards towards the rear entrance, making Gus holler loudly. It stopped everyone momentarily, waiting to see what he did it for. Nothing happened to cause alarm, so Jimmy continued on. Outside, Vinnie and Louie heard the yelling and raised voices and turned to go in. They barely had the doors open, when they heard the sound of gun after gun being cocked and readied to fire behind them. They stopped and looked back, to see eight guns pointed at them and eight faces that said they were serious. Piney walked them in and they fanned out inside, joining Gus in covering the people sitting at the tables.

Jimmy didn't heed the threat approaching him and continued backing outside with JT. He used his back to push the bar latch and pulled JT into the blinding sunlight. Jimmy looked around to decide which way to go, then heard no less than a half dozen guns cocked above him. He looked up squinting at them, trying to see who they were and was surprised to see the black gang members up there.

"Who the fuck are you guys?"

"We're the fucking guys going to put a bunch of bullets in your dago ass, unless you let that guy go."

Jimmy looked at them, then behind him, then noticed the alley blocked at both ends by more of them. With no where to go and the club members coming out now as well, Jimmy lowered his .22 pistol and put his hands up in disgust. JT straightened himself out and turned to him. He started poking him in the chest as he talked. 

"I think you'll have to explain to your dad why you did this, 'cause I sure as hell ain't. Should have listened to Gus and done what was on the table with me. Now, I can already hear your dad saying, 'This is not a good thing that you done, this is a very bad thing'. If I got it right, that means some serious hurting coming your way. I'll spare you that pain and leave it to your dad, because he's going to be really, fucking pissed at you for this fuck up. Have a good day, Jimmy, nice meeting you. If your lucky, maybe we'll meet again...maybe we won't."

JT patted Jimmy's cheek and left him standing in the alley by himself, as he and his cohorts disbanded, his crew walking back through the club and out the front door. No one spoke to them, or made any move to stop them, as they mounted up and followed JT back to their meeting spot in the parking lot.

The cars and bikes gathered together and stopped, everyone getting out, as shows of bravado and machismo started being displayed. Gus pulled in after with the rig and stopped close by.

"Fuck, JT. We showed that motherfucker who's boss. Should have seen his face, he come out the door and see us all up there with our guns on him. Shit bro', I could almost smell the ka ka in his pants up there, he was so scared."

"Don't kid yourself, Benny, he'd just as soon put a bullet in you first, trust me. What I want to know, is about you, Gus. How do you know these guys?"

JT spun and looked squarely at Gus, his eyes demanding answers from him.

"Well, I didn't always buy and sell scrap metal and such. Was a time, I did a few other things that made money. Not legal mind you, but I had to be a tough bastard to do it, or get my ass handed to me in a hand basket. I had to add some lead to a few guys to make my point, that they should take me serious. That's how I met Jake. He was in for drunk and disorderly and assault and a few other things, so we had a fairly long time to get to know one another. Jake saved my ass a couple of times from getting my bell rung. I owed him my life and respected the man, no matter what he was into."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 07



"So, you worked for these guys?"

"Nah, not Jimmy. I'd never get involved with someone like that. He's more trouble than he's worth. I did things for his father. I was called upon to settle issues that needed taken care of, if you get my drift?"

"So you whacked guys for him?"

"Not necessarily whack them. Sometimes, if there was no choice, but mostly doing like I did to Benny. Just make a point. I made a point to the wrong guy and ended up being inside with him. Jake took him out with a couple of shots somehow, but he'd already knocked most of my teeth out. The rest just kinda broke off over time. Jimmy knows I'd have no problem pulling the trigger on any one of them. They know Gianni is in my debt for life."

"Gianni owes you?"

"Something like that. I did something like this before, for him, standing pretty well in your shoes. Everything went south on the job, because of a rat. The guy was coming after Gianni and would have killed him, but I stepped in and put two in his head before he could. I got spotted by a couple of witnesses, who fingered me in a line up and I was going away. Gianni got my sentence reduced, by saying it was self defence and could have got me off probably, but they said I didn't need to put the last four bullets in his face. Got a bit carried away, I guess."

Gus finished and left everyone speechless. Benny had a seriously new respect for the man he had considered an old dude and looked at him in the new light. JT and the others were left flabbergasted by the insight of all that personal history. 

"I say we call it a day and go home boys and relax. This is done as it stands and all you have to do is call Gianni and explain what happened and he'll take care of it and make sure it doesn't happen again. I have to say, that was fun. Haven't done anything like that in a while. Felt good to have some heat in my hands again."

"Guess so. Gus, we'll be out to see you soon. We really have to sit and talk about stuff. Maybe I'll need two bottles of that stuff you like."

"Now you're talking, JT. You boys have a good ride back and you boys, I'll see you around town."

"Yeah, cool Gus. We'll see you around, dude."

"Now you're learning. Be good, don't fuck up."

"You got it."

Gus shook his hand, leaving things on a good note between them. Benny, Lamont and their guys loaded themselves into the cars and headed back to 13th Street. Gus climbed into the big GMC and started it up. 

"You guys still need this as a wrecker, just come by and get it, it's yours. I was giving it to Jake anyway, so you might as well have it, you needed it."

"Damn Gus, that's really great of you. I hope you come by the shop sometime and see us."

"Never know which way the wind blows, JT."

"Do me a favour? Keep an eye out for a good wrecker unit for it."

"Will do. Be good, stay whole."

Gus smiled his toothless smile proudly and happily at them, waving out the window. They waved and got on their bikes, unsure of what to take away from today's meeting. Charming was a welcome sight, as they rode in, making sure they kept the volume of their bikes down, as low as they could. Harry Sherman was standing on the sidewalk, looking at his new sale sign in his window. He heard the bikes and turned to them. He smiled and waved, getting the same in return, making others on the street, wonder about their association.

As things in Stockton went back to its normal routine, Jimmy finished cursing and swearing, breaking and throwing things about. He sat down and fumed over things, as his guys waited for him to calm down. Vinnie asked the one question all of guys wondered about.

"So, how come we didn't just do what your dad asked and avoid all that shit?"

"Because I'm not Gianni Cacuzza, I'm Jimmy Cacuzza and I do things my way."

No one wanted to say anything in return, seeing the rage coming from him. He looked at Vinnie and made him cringe slightly.

"Get my dad on the phone. He's going to need to hear this from me first. FUCK!"

JT stopped at Arthur Lowen's, while the others carried on out to Calaveras. He went in and said hello to Harriet, who acted as those one of her sons had come home. She called into Art and he came out a minute later smiling.

"Hi JT, how can I help you?"

"Hi Art, I wanted to ask you a favour. Not for me, but for someone else."

"I'll see what I can do. What's the favour?"

"You know Marlene Brock right?"

"Yes, I know Mar."

JT heard him use her nickname and wondered how well he knew her. 

"You know we have to go to Jake's place tomorrow and go through his stuff, right, so would it be okay if Marlene came with us? I was thinking that Jake might have a bunch of stuff that should go to her and she could go through it and take what she wanted. I think it would mean more to her, than me having it."

"You tell Mar she can most certainly join us. I'm so glad nothing happened to her at the funeral. That was horrible, what happened? Do they know who it was?"

"Can we talk in private, Art?"

"Sure, sure, come in the office. Harriet, please hold all calls for now."

"Will do, Mr. Lowen."

Art took JT inside his office and closed the door, seating him in a comfy chair. 

"So what is it you want to tell me?"

"You're supposed to keep things secret between us right? You can't tell anyone, anything I tell you?"

"That's correct. It's lawyer/client confidentiality and allows you to tell me things and I have to keep them quiet and never disclose the nature of it to anyone, for any reason."

"Okay then. We know who shot Marlene and Jake."

"What? You know who did it? Why haven't you told the police?"

"Because the other people who are involved, would rather not have the police involved."

"Who did it JT and who are the people involved?"

"Clive Brock, Marlene's husband."

"No need to tell me the people involved and don't want the police in on it. Only ones I can think of right off the top, are the Cacuzza's."

"You know them?"

"Not personally, but I have a good knowledge of them and what they do. So what are you going to do with that knowledge you have?"

"Truthfully, kill Clive Brock. He's going to be served the justice he deserves for killing Jake."

"I can't fault you on those grounds, JT, but you're talking murder. Do you have any idea what the consequences are?"

"Yes I do, Art. Peace of mind and knowing justice was served. We have a plan in place to take care of it and there's no way we can get caught. Trust me. I just talked with Gianni Cacuzza before Jake's funeral and he supports me."

"Of course he supports you. He has nothing to lose, where you have everything to lose."

"I won't lose a thing, Art. The only thing I hope to lose, actually, is the hate in my heart, it's really painful."

"I understand that completely. I felt the same pain and had to let my own hate go. JT, I can't do anything as a lawyer for you. As a friend, all I can say is, don't get hurt, or killed. Honestly, I felt like killing Jake's killer. Now that I know that it's him, I almost wish I was."

"Why? What do you have against Brock?"

"He's the real reason Jake stopped riding with us. He did it for our safety, so none of us would get hurt, or killed, because of something meant for him."

"Wait, wait, wait, back up a second. You're telling me you rode with Jake in the club he was in?"

"Yes, I did ride with Jake in the East Bay Riders. It was all we could come up with as a name at the time. We rode around that area and figured it was like our territory. Jake had a run in with Brock years back and ended up in jail together. You know that's where he met Gus Borgdanatov, right?"

"That's Gus' last name? Borgda something or other? Wait, why is that name ringing a bell some how?"

"Made the news a while back, didn't think you'd remember about it. You were pretty young back then, not even a teen I bet."

"Ten actually. I remember sitting with my dad, watching it on the news. The day after Gus went away, my dad was killed in that accident."

"That would be about that time, yes. The reason I dislike Clive Brock, is because of the death threat he gave Jake, for sleeping with Mar. He said he'd have his guys shoot anyone wearing an East Bay Riders jacket. The only thing he could do, was keep it off and never wear it again, swearing to Brock, he was no longer with the club and to keep it personal. Jake went downhill from there and started drinking, getting into fights and ending up in jail, or hospital to get patched up. He even stopped seeing Mar for a while too, but that made things even worse, so she came back into the picture, to save him from killing himself and had to have a secret affair."

"Wow. I always wanted to know more about Jake and just figured no one was around that knew him well. I was surprised to meet Gus and that he knew Jake and getting to know Mar and how much she knows, but you? Not in a million years would I ever think you rode in a club. I was real curious about you, after what you said at his funeral."

"They called me Slick. I used to have the duck tail hair style and used to use tons of Brylcreem in my hair, so it would stay in place better. My hair was slick with the stuff, so the name fit. No matter what, my hair was easier to comb into place at the end of the ride, than theirs, so I was happy with it."

"No way, Jose. Slick Lowen, sounds cool. Bike rider, huh? Still ride?"

"No, I stopped riding the day Jake left the club and handed in his jacket. I parked my bike and put a cover over it. I think I've looked at it five times since then, each time, after another member died."

"How many of the guys are left?"

"Including me, three. I'm the only original member left now, the other two were accepted later."

"You helped start it up?"

"I was Piney back then, JT. Jake was you. It was an honour to show people that you were an original member, that you blazed the trail for the others to join and follow along. When Jake found out you wanted to start a club, he was the happiest I've ever seen him in years. You truly brought him back to life, JT. You and your guys were helping him re-live those glory days of before, when he was out front, leading us and let me tell you, Jake was the best. As far as I'm concerned, I've never met another leader of a club, as good as Jake was. That man loved the club and every member, like we were family."

"Yeah, I got that about him. I feel like that with my club and my guys. I told them a little while back, that I'd proudly give my life for any one of them, because I know they would for me. They proved it to me today and I'm proud of them, Art. I really am. For a bunch of guys that society hates and wishes would go away, we're great together. We all help out and make things good for everyone, not just themselves and that let's me know they're into the club like I am. Shit, we have the clubhouse almost done now. They've put every hour they could into it and it shows. We have rooms and bathrooms, one working shower for now. We have the kitchen almost done, just need some appliances and stuff, so I have so much pride in them and what they put together with me."

"Just like Jake. That was his hopes for that building you're in, that it would have some day been our clubhouse. Nothing ever happened after Clive's threat and Jake was stuck with the garage and the building he had no use for. You can see why he wanted to help you boys so much, with everything. He was getting to relive it all over again. Remember the first time you went out with him? You and Piney. Took a ride together out to Livermore, or something. Jake felt like his old self that day. Even with the gang war going on, his only thoughts were about you guys and not him. He actually enjoyed it all. Loved the thrill of it."

"Yeah, it was thrilling, but at the time, it scared the shit out of us. I'm pretty sure one of the new dings on my bike, was from a bullet."

"That's why Jake left. He didn't want any bullets headed in an innocent man's direction. When he came to me to make his changes to his will, he was like Jake back in the day. He was excited about you guys, like he was a part of it and of course, thought of you guys like his riding brothers and you mostly, like the son he never had. Clay left a bad taste in his mouth sometimes and they got into it a few times. Clay can get a bit twisted in his thinking. He's smart, but he thinks he's smarter than he is and that's bad. Jake almost fired him once for telling a customer, a woman no less, that she was stupid for driving the car without any oil in it. It was her husband's car and she was bringing it into the shop for him and had no idea what the problem was. The lady actually started crying, he made her feel so bad. Jake sent him home and said he'd call him if he wanted him back. Jake, being the big hearted soul that he was, took him back and things were okay again, until he said something to Jake that was insulting and disrespectful that pushed Jake over the edge. If Mar hadn't showed up that day, who knows what might of happened, but she calmed them down somehow and he let it go. Clay is a nice guy for the most part. Good worker, always thinking about things to make things better for himself. He wants to go places, but feels he deserves things he doesn't. He tried to play off his dead parents and now his ageing grandparents, who I believe his grandfather is close to dying, last I heard."

"Yeah, keeps coming back from death's door all the time. Since I've known him, he's rushed away three times, because it might be his time. I feel sorry for the guy. It must be hard to keep going through that all the time."

"It is, but Clay will try and play it to his advantage and use it to get ahead somehow."

"I have to say, Art. This little conversation has been an eye opener about stuff. So what time are we meeting tomorrow?"

"If you and Marlene, along with Clay, can be here around ten, that would be great. That way I can take care of things here with Harriet and spend some time there with you. I bet there's a couple of things I'd be interested in seeing, if Jake kept or not." 

"I'm kinda excited about going. Finding out what Jake has from the past and stuff, should be cool."

"It just might be at that, JT."

Art said goodbye to JT, who rode away with new wonders to consider. He couldn't shake the image of Arthur Lowen being a club rider, a founding member no less, as he rode through town and on towards the farm. He loved the trip out there, every time he rode the route. The twists and winding curves made the trip an experience each and every time.

He rolled through the gate and many came out to see him, a naked Suzy, happier more so than anyone. She had a wreath of daisies on her head and her normally, long straight hair, had multitudes of braids throughout it, some adorned with brightly coloured beads.

"How do you like my new hair style?"

"It looks really cool, Babe."

"The girls did it for me. We want to have a special circle of love in the daisies shortly, so everyone is getting done up like this."

"Oh yeah? What's the special circle about?"

"We're calling for love and peace to come and be with us. There's been too much bad shit happening, so Spirit said we need to do a cleansing of the house and property, of all evil and darkness."

"I'd say that was a worthwhile reason to have one. Can't deny all the shit that's happened lately around here. You think it'll work?"

"I'm pretty sure it will. Other stuff has, so this might too. Spirit is in the kitchen now, making up a special tea for the circle. It's supposed to help with clarity and focus and call upon peace and love to come. Flower said she could actually feel it the last time, like it was touchable."

"Never would have believed half this shit before, if I hadn't seen and experienced it myself. Moon has shown us some crazy shit, hasn't he?"

"Oh yeah, but Spirit and Golden, now they know some crazy shit. Moon always asks Spirit stuff, so she can explain it to him. Golden, well, you know she has power over everyone. You just look at her and her eyes and you feel like you're in a trance, or something."

"How's Azure these days? Is she still all spiritual, or is she over that?"

"Oh, she's spiritual alright. Golden and her are in love. Not like you and me are, but different. Their souls are uniting as one or something and Golden asked Azure if she would marry her spiritually."

"Women can't get married to each other, just like guys can't, it's against the law."

"Not married like our parents are, a spiritual marriage."

"A spiritual marriage? What's that?"

"From what she told me, it's like, your spirit doesn't have a sex, like your body does, so neither one is male or female. Looking at it that way, there's no reason not to."

"Yeah, I can dig that. Makes sense, if that's what our spirits really are like."

"Talk to Spirit, she can explain it better than I can. Anyway, come on in, I still have to finish getting ready and there's a cold beer and a doobie waiting for you."

Suzy took his hand and walked him inside, where the girls were still doing things to each other to get ready. The guys were enjoying a round of beers, amused at the feminine procedures they went through. Keith started it off by welcoming him back, as others added to it.

"Welcome back, Mr. President."

"JT for Prez. He's our man,"

Salutes and cheers were given in honour of how things turned out for them today, JT graciously accepting the platitudes, knowing how he was regarded at that moment. He took a small bow and was cheered even louder. Suzy lit his joint and went and got him a beer, sitting on the arm of the chair with him. He looked over at Moon on the far side, in a chair similar to his, with Spirit stroking his hair softly. He tipped his beer towards him in salute and got a nod and a smile back in return.

Gianni Cacuzza was doing his best not to lose it on his son, after he finished telling him how the meet went. Vinnie and Louie stood at the door silently, unable to hear what was said over the phone, but knew Jimmy wasn't enjoying the conversation in the least. They winced when Jimmy winced, knowing what made him do it, they would soon suffer likewise later. More and more, every one of them realized that rules were not made to be broken and rewritten to suit themselves. Restitution had to be offered now and paid by Jimmy and that meant more money out of his pocket.

By the end of the call, when he said 'ciao, Papa,' he was back in line and no longer held the same grandiose feelings of calling the shots the way he wanted to. He was going to do what he was told, like it or not. Jimmy looked at his two men, trying to hold on to something of who he was as a leader. 

"Make a call to Marlene and tell her I will accept a meet with JT again. This time, I will meet him on his turf, by myself, on his terms."

"Boss, you can't go in alone, they'll kill you."

"Just do it, Vinnie. My dad says that's the chance I have to take for fucking up."

Vinnie knew not to argue the point any further, what was done, was done. He went and made the call, then came back in.

"So? I got a meet."

"Yeah, you got one."

"Sound like a one way trip to you?"

"Actually, the meet is with Mar and that JT guy, so I don't know what to think."

"Marlene is taking the meet? Maybe not so bad then. Mar is a classy broad and I doubt likes seeing a mess."

"Do we go with you and wait somewhere?"

"No, I gotta do this myself, my dad insists."

Vinnie had nothing left to offer as a suggestion and remained quiet, as Jimmy pondered his possible fate.

The circle of a dozen, naked women, sat hand in hand, focusing on the words Spirit was speaking to them. She was asking the powers of peace and love to come and watch over them, drive away the darkness and pain that had come and settled around them. The guys were doing much the same up in the house, but in a different way.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 07



They were talking about defending themselves from any kind of danger, natural, or man-made. Moon wanted nothing to do with any kind of firearms on the property. He would allow the guys to have their guns, as long as they were never brought out, or used. JT could only agree, as he knew he had no real say in commune policies. He left it off, telling them that they would do their best to keep trouble away from the farm at all costs and protect them. Moon didn't like that the club's business was spilling over into his life and the lives of his people. His intentions to live on the farm, were to get away from society's miseries and live peacefully. No one tried to defend them self anymore against that.

The morning seemed to continue the clouds of last night's discussion, as rolls of dark, grey masses, scudded across the sky. JT felt bad inside, knowing what Moon and the others wanted to achieve here and the club's actions were going counter to it. It was hard to weigh out the merits of each against one another. He knew that once committed and the act done, it was forever going to put them further into the darker side of life, crime becoming a part of their make up as a club. There seemed to be no logical answer to it, each holding its own, in worth and merit, that both had to exist. It was his dilemma, to find a way that they never came together.

They left their bikes in the shed and drove in to the clubhouse. JT opened the gate and got back in with Piney, Clay and Lenny, in Marlene's Riviera, stopping the door from closing, as he looked at the sign on the pole. Jake still seemed to be present with them and JT could sense it in himself. He knew there would come a time, when he would have to let him slip away from the real world and be a memory, but for now, Jake was alive and needed to be thought of, as such. He closed the door and saw that Piney and the others, were looking at him in wonder.

"Jake says hi."

"What?"

"Jake was just talking to me and said to say hi to you all."

Piney looked at JT perplexed, unsure if he was serious, or joking. He saw the same expression on the others as well.

"He did, Jake has a connection with me. That night brought us together and we know how to communicate, or something. He's watching out for us and he'll try to let me know if something isn't right. I don't know guys, I just hear it, or sense it, or something and I know it's real, not just shit in my head messing me around."

Piney shook his head and stopped by the clubhouse, as did Wally and the rest, in his car. JT heard the phone ringing in the office and dashed over to open the door. He scrambled over the desk for it and panted hello. He smiled happily hearing it was Marlene on the other end.

"Hi Mar, how are you feeling today? All set to see Jake's place a bit later?"

"Oh yes, I can't wait. I'm so excited, but nervous, because I have no idea what we'll find there. I was trying to think if there would be anything really private, that he wouldn't want everyone seeing, or reading."

"I get you. You know, maybe Art can help with that. He has to stay quiet about stuff, because he's my lawyer, so if anything turns up, he can decide who should read, or see what it is. Does that sound fair to you?"

"Very much. Thank you, Sweetie. Hey, I have some news for you. Some really, good news."

"Oh yeah? I could do with some of that. Hasn't been enough of that lately."

"No kidding. Anyway, I got a call a while ago, last night actually. Guess who it was?"

"Gianni?"

"Nope, Guess again."

"Clive?"

"How could that ever be good news?"

"Yeah, sorry. I don't know? Who?"

Marlene left a small pause for effect, then told him.

"Jimmy."

"No way. He really called you?"

"Oh yes. Not only did he call me, but listen to this. He has to set another meet with you, but this time it's on his own and on your terms. I said I'd take the meet here, except, I'm kind of worried about the cop at my door and if he recognizes who it is."

"Yeah, that wouldn't go over very well, would it? You know, I bet if Officer Unser was on watch, I could find a way to get him away from the door long enough to slip Jimmy in, then think of something to get him back out again, without being spotted."

"Oh, I like Wayne, he's very nice to me. I think he has a soft spot for me, too. If I order anything from room service, he'll go down and get it for me, as long as I keep the door locked securely. We might try something like that, that could work."

"Yeah, yeah, that does sound good. If I show up first and Jimmy calls to say he's there, you could call down and order something for us, like a lunch or something and they usually bring it on a cart, don't they?"

"Yeah, that's the way they do it, why?"

"I was thinking of this idea. Wayne goes down to get the order, like usual, nothing out of the ordinary, right? So we sneak Jimmy in, up the stairs and have a very, quiet meeting in your room with the door closed, so Wayne doesn't hear us, then, when we're done talking, I pretend I'm saying goodbye to you and I'll tell Wayne that I'll take the cart back down to service and he'll be happy not to have to make the trip. You could spice it up a bit and invite him in to have some of the stuff we ordered, that we leave for him. You lock the door behind him, making everything all safe and sound and treat him to a little, and I mean a little, Marlene magic."

"Oh JT, I do like how you think. I can certainly carry out my end and Wayne won't know what hit him. Your part seems to be perfect to do, nothing at all out of place there. You even look like a nice guy for doing Wayne a favour. Not a single reason to suspect you of anything, or me either, for that matter. Everything appears to be as everyday routine, as it has been."

"That's what I was hoping for, too. Just do things like normal and no one notices."

"I wonder how Jimmy will like being stuffed under the cart to get out again?"

"I say we don't tell him, until we have to. Make him think he'll be leaving the same way, then spring it on him, just like he sprung his shit on me. Let's see how he likes it. At least I'm not threatening his life, like he did to me. I'll just say it's the only way out of the room, unless he wants to climb down the side somehow."

"Great. I can't wait to see his face after that gets laid on him. He tries to look like he's so tough and powerful all the time, but really, he's such a softy inside. I know Jimmy's weaknesses, just like Gianni's. I didn't get this far in life, just having good looks and great tits. Well, used to have great tits anyway."

"Mar, honestly, you have fabulous tits, even with the scars. You flaunt them at any guy and he'll look past those scars and love them like all the others."

"Can I flaunt them at you and get you hooked on them?"

"I'm already hooked on them. I'm just not acting on it. I love Suzy, Mar. I sort of mentioned it to her the other night, about the three of us."

"What did she say?"

"She's not sure either. I mean, she definitely wants to make love with you again and I'm cool with that, but having some sort of relationship, or ongoing thing, she's not sure about, you know what I mean?"

"Yes, I understand. I do like that she wants to be with me still. She's a lovely, young woman I've grown fond of and more than just the sex part of things. She's done so much for me, Azure too. You know, that name really suits her, you know? Azure. I like it. I wonder what name they would give me, if they all met me?"

"No idea? You know, once this part of it is over and things are safe for you to go out again, I want to take you out there and meet them."

"Oh, I'd love that. I love being in the country and smelling the fresh air and everything is so peaceful."

"Then you'll love this place. We have most of the new framing done on the addition and pretty soon, we're hoping before winter sets in, we have it finished and it'll be awesome. It's mostly bedrooms really, so only two people have to share a room together. It's pretty cramped when twenty four of us sleep together after a love in and there's no room to breathe, let alone move around."

"Holy shit, JT, are you serious? Twenty four of you are there?"

"Yup, two dozen happy people running around naked and not a care in the world. Make love any time you feel like, with anyone who wants to do it with you, not too hard to take."

"Oh my God. I wouldn't know where to start. I wouldn't care, I'd get to everyone, sooner or later. Oh my, I think I'd like to be a hippie, JT."

JT couldn't help but start laughing, imagining a naked Marlene running around, lusting after every body that she fancied.

"Want some ideas on what the commune is all about, talk to the girls when they come and get them to share it with you. I used to think it was all bullshit stuff, all that spiritual gobblety-gook stuff and meditating, but being there and doing it, I believe in it one hundred percent. Want to hear something really crazy?"

"What?"

"Just a little while ago, just when you were calling actually, I stopped to open the gate and suddenly I can hear Jake talking to me, like he was standing right in front of me. I didn't see anything, but I could hear him plain as day. The guys think I'm going nuts again, but honestly, we made a connection the other night and we can communicate. He told me he can hear me clearly."

"Seriously? You can talk to Jake?"

JT could see Marlene wasn't questioning him to oppose, or doubt it, but more in hopes she could say something to him.

"Yeah, seems that way."

"Can you talk to him anytime, or make an appointment, or whatever?"

"I'm not really sure yet. I don't know how it all works. I just know he talks and I can hear him. I talk and he can hear me, but he seems to always talk first, so maybe that's how it works. You know what? When I see Moon and Spirit again, I'll ask them how it works and how to do it, if there's a way I can contact him first about something."

"Shit, JT, this just sounds so bizarre, but honestly, if you could say some things for me, so he knows how I felt about him, I'd be so grateful to you. We always just took things for granted and never really said how we felt about each other. I was laying there with him, just before Clive came in and was thinking how I loved Jake so much, that I would be more than happy with what I got from a settlement, after I divorced Clive. I never got to say those words to him and I would be so happy in my heart, that he knew that."

"Damn, Marlene, you were really going to do that?"

"JT, I was even realizing how futile an existence I was living. I would wake up miserable every day, worse if I had to sleep with Clive, instead of in my own bed. I told the asshole I didn't like his mattress and needed my own, just so I didn't have to get touched most of the time. My marriage was a total sham and it just wasn't worth the money I got, for what I had to put up with. Jake hung in there, year after year. He never pressured me to leave Clive, but I knew more than anything, that I was his life. He loved me more than anything else and accepted what I gave him. I didn't deserve such a wonderful man, as him, JT. I didn't. I was horrible to him and caused him so much pain and suffering, because he loved me."

JT could hear Marlene breaking down into tears, but knew she was letting go of harboured feelings of regret and the remorse for doing what she did. He listened to the sobs and weeping, feeling her pain in empathy. He waited until she calmed herself, listening to the sniffling and blowing her nose dry.

"I'm sorry, JT."

"No, Mar, it's okay. I know how you must feel, knowing that. No matter what you did with Clive, I know you loved Jake with all your heart and that's what matters, right? One thing I'm learning, is that love isn't always about fun and games. There's some serious shit that can fuck up and I mean, it'll fuck you up. I just had a crash course in it and let me tell you, I went through hell, just like you, having to come to grips with what it was and not what I thought it should be."

"Yes, you did, didn't you? Please JT, ask your friends how to do it and if maybe even I can talk with him. Oh God, I'd do anything, give anything, to be able to do that one last time."

"You know, I don't see why not. If you learn how to do things that we learned, no reason you shouldn't be able to do that, like I did and do now. One thing though, and I understand why Moon explained it to me that way, but we'd have to do it really soon. I know it's hard to understand some of this stuff, when you never heard it before, but trust me, it's real. Jake only has so much time left to be here, even in spirit form. His energy is supposed to go on to the next place, level, time, whatever, so we have to let him go. Moon says we could disrupt his cosmic flow of energy, by holding him back and he loses his place in line. I know it's more complicated than that, but it's the easiest way to explain it. Even Piney knew what he was talking about and that says something."

"If Piney can understand it and do it, then I know I can."

"Well, Piney can do it, because he learned to let go of things from the past and cleansed his spirit. You have bad energy inside you and you have to get it out, so you are in harmony with the good energy. You get that, right?"

"Yes, comes through pretty clearly. I must have a ton of bad shit I've been hauling around. Is it hard to get rid of?"

"Actually, it's pretty easy. They sit you in the middle of a circle of love and they start meditating, like you're doing and you all focus on love. It's like this light surrounds you and you can almost feel the bad stuff leave you. They did it to me and I felt really great afterwards. If you saw what I was like before they did it, you'd know how real it was. So, I'd say they could do the same for you. The girls would have you fixed up in no time, doing their thing in the daisy circle every day."

"What do they do in the daisies?"

"They did one last night and it was a special one, so they all had their hair done in braids and beads and flowers and stuff, then they sat around a fire naked and held hands. They did a meditation and then they all rose and they hugged and kissed and shared the power of what they received, with each other, making it more powerful, or something."

"I like the sounds of that. Sounds like a lifestyle I could really get into. So, all of those people are available for fun if I want? And they want, of course."

"If they accept you into the commune, that seems to be the way things work."

"Hmmm, I hope you can take care of this soon, I think I need a lot of healing, inside and out."

"We can talk about that soon. We have to be at Arthur's shortly, so we'll be by in fifteen minutes to get you. I have a few things to do here and get the guys going and I'm on my way."

"See you soon, Sweetheart."

"See you soon, Mar."

They hung up and JT went back and talked to the guys about the plan that was just made. The guys couldn't believe it, but JT assured them, that Jimmy was coming and meeting him and their business would come to a satisfactory end. JT got Clay with him and they took off in the Riviera to pick up Marlene. They pulled up to the front doors and parked, going in to the lobby and getting a nod from the clerk to go right up stairs. The doors opened and they saw it was the officer from the night of the murder. They walked down the hall to him, each showing recognition to each other.

"Officer Needham, nice to see you again. You doing the ride along today?"

"Nice to see you again too, JT. See, I remembered the initials this time. Yup, I'll be following you around. You're going to the deceased's residence, I'm told?"

"Yes, I was made executor, so I have to go and figure out what to do with his stuff."

"Okay, any idea how long you'll be?"

"Not sure, maybe an hour or so, maybe more. No one knows what to expect, once we're there."

"Yeah, I guess so. I just need to know, so I can call in and let them know the details."

"Gotcha, wish I could be more specific. Say, any leads yet on who the shooter was?"

"I wish I had better news to tell you. Without anything from Mrs. Brock, we're stuck with an average guy in a black Caddy. So far, they've checked out twenty seven possibles and none of them are even close to being a suspect. The chief has put out a call for a wider search to other parts of the state."

"So, this guy could be from anywhere? Out of state even."

"Yes, so you can see how hard it is for us, to even start somewhere."

"I hope she remembers soon, too, we all do. Jake was a great guy and didn't deserve this. His killer needs to be brought to justice."

"If we catch him, he most certainly will have justice served on him."

"Good to know and thanks, at least knowing something, is better than guessing."

"Like I said, I really wish it was better news."

"Yeah, nothing we can do, until then. I'll get Marlene and we'll get things underway, okay."

"Great. I'll go down and make sure the way is clear."

Officer Needham went to the elevator, while JT knocked on the door. Marlene was literally beaming with happiness, as she opened it. She was wearing a very, tight sweater and Capri pants, nothing but imagination, separating her from being naked and the soft, green colours covering her.

"Hi guys, just let me get my hat and bag."

Marlene walked to the table where her things were and the guys couldn't help but watch her hips sway. Marlene chuckled and the guys didn't know why, until they saw her looking at them in the mirror.

"Who wants a little piece of it? Don't be shy."

No one took her up on the offer, but stood embarrassed at being caught. She walked up and sashayed past them and down the hall. JT closed the door, as they rushed to catch up to her. They stayed as close as they could to her and Marlene took advantage of that, copping a feel of Clay's and JT's asses, as they rode down in the elevator. JT had to chuckle at Clay's reaction to it and the three were laughing, by the time the car doors opened on the ground floor.

Officer Needham wore a smile, seeing them come out and was happy to see the change in attitudes. He was thinking well of the guys, knowing they had brought some happiness to a very troubled woman, with little, or nothing to be happy about. He waited until the guys moved out and followed them the short way to Arthur Lowen's office, waiting in his cruiser and continually doing a circular check of the area, roof tops as well. Arthur and JT came out five minutes later and he followed both cars to the Harding residence in Lodi. 

He parked across the street from the small, red stained house and watched JT and Clay, along with Marlene and Arthur, approach the house, then radioed in his status. They needed to get in touch with the San Joaquin Sheriffs, who had jurisdiction in the area. Mr. Lowen opened the door for Marlene and JT to go in, then went with Clay to the garage out back. A few minutes later, Lowen went inside and nothing moved after that, letting him take a more relaxing attitude.

JT and Marlene slowly moved about the room, looking at everything carefully, not touching anything, to disturb Jake's last moments there. Marlene walked into the kitchen and saw the dirty dishes in the sink and then looked in the fridge. She closed it and looked in a couple of cupboards she knew were for food and checked them.

"At least he was eating okay. The stuff in the fridge should get thrown out really soon, or it'll be really bad inside the fridge. The open stuff in the cupboards should go too, unless you like it and eat it yourself, or any of the others might like it. Take all the food for sure and anything here in the kitchen, you were saying you needed appliances and stuff for your clubhouse."

"You're right. I'll get Clay and the guys to come with the pick up and move it all. Here I was thinking when I came in, 'What the hell am I supposed to do with all this stuff?', now I have a use for it, thanks, Mar."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 08



Chapter 8: Respect

Jimmy was happy the meet was with JT and Marlene only. He knew wearing any kind of weapon, would only bring further hostilities towards him, something his father warned him strongly, would not be a very good thing. He stopped in the plaza a couple of blocks away and made the call. 

"Hello."

"I'm here."

"Where?"

"At some plaza a few blocks from the hotel. What's the plan?"

"Go to the east entrance, there's a side door that's usually locked to the outside, but I'll have a guy there to open the door for you. Knock three times, wait for a count of three and knock three more times. He'll ask through the door, 'The balls are big on a moose'. You respond with, 'Not as big as mine were', remember that?"

"Are you fucking kidding me? I ain't saying no shit like that. Just open the fucking door when I knock."

"I was pretty sure, after talking to Gianni, you follow whatever I say, so I can protect Marlene and everyone's interests at heart. Should I get Gianni to explain it all to you again?"

JT did his best to keep a straight face, as did Marlene sharing the conversation with him. There was a long pause and then Jimmy said he'd follow the password, his voice clearly showing his displeasure at agreeing.

"Okay, leave in about five minutes and walk the couple blocks, that way no one sees your car and spots you. We'll place an order after five minutes and the cop will go down and get it. My guy will sneak you up the stairs and I'll let you in."

"Sounds easy enough. What floor?"

"Fourth. Room 420. They save the floor for special people and stuff like this, so it's quiet right now, just us."

"Four freakin' floors, you want me to walk up?"

"Not unless you can fly, or climb up brick walls. Or, you can wait for the cop to get the order and come up the elevator with him."

Jimmy knew there was no other choice and accepted the exercise. 

"Wait five and start walking, okay?"

"Got it."

JT hung up and both he and Marlene burst out laughing and rolled on the back of the couch. Marlene didn't care about the aches and small, sharp pains, the laughter was a good healing for her.

"He is so pissed at you. JT. That was funny, the moose has big balls."

"I just thought it up. I didn't like his attitude and felt he needed a little more humbling."

"Trust me, he needs lots of that. Okay, what should we order for us and a little treat for Wayne after."

"What does Jimmy hate the most?"

"Oh, I know that. Salmon Mousse, caviar and truffles. He wanted to act all suave for this woman and ordered them, thinking he could handle the taste. He took one bite of each and almost threw up each time. I was sitting not far away with Clive and Gianni and Trudy. It took all we had, not to laugh out loud and spoil it all for him. Since then, whenever we want to piss him off, we tell him we're having one of those for dinner and to invite a guest."

"He must get pissed."

"You know it. Like I said, he has an image problem. He isn't as big as his father, so he tries to act tougher than he is. Clive told me he caught him acting out things in front of a mirror, trying different ways to look as tough as he could. Jimmy was pissed at that, like you wouldn't believe."

"Okay, let's order it and I'll call down to Piney and let him know. I better tell him the password, or he'll think some lunatic is out there."

"You are so bad, JT."

"Yeah, ain't I?"

Marlene called and placed the order, then JT called down to Piney to go to the door and gave him the password. He tried his best to not laugh too loudly, but he guffawed down the back hall, shaking his head. JT opened the door and told Wayne about the order and he said to lock up and he'd go down in a couple minutes to get it. JT closed the door and waited for the knock in a few minutes, crossing his fingers at Marlene.

A casual knock came a little later than they thought, until JT opened the door and saw a panting Jimmy. Working out was not part of his routine, like his father. He ushered him inside quickly and closed the door, securing the first part of the meet.

"Nice to see you again, Jimmy. Hope the walk up the stairs wasn't too much for you?"

Jimmy looked at JT with a quickness of his temper, but caught himself and calmed down.

"It's not so bad."

"Good, come into the bedroom and we can talk there. Mar ordered something to eat and drink, so the cop will be here soon with it. We'll be safe in there."

Jimmy followed JT into the bedroom and stood in the middle, trying to find a place of power to sit. The only chair was a flowered brocade wing back, that was truly feminine and looked at JT with disdain at the offer to sit.

"Okay, before we go any further, Jimmy, let's stop all the bullshit between us and get down to business. Fucking sucks when someone else calls the shots and makes you look bad, doesn't it? I really didn't like the double cross and holding the gun to my head. That made me want to let the cops handle this and fuck you and your dad for doing that. But you know? I'm a pretty decent guy to know and honestly, now that it's you and me here, no one else, I know you're an alright guy under all that tough guy shit. All I'm asking is to let me in, just a little, put a little trust in each other and make our lives a whole lot better than they've been lately."

Jimmy listened to JT and saw the offer to end all the unfounded animosity he was feeling and relented with his eyes, nodding his head.

"I can go with that. I actually like the way you handled yourself at the meet. You had balls walking in there by yourself, knowing it was my place and still went unarmed. I respect that. After my dad and I had a little father/son talk, it was made aware to me that with Clive gone, it gave me a chance to explore new opportunities to increase my business. He explained to me that at the present time, I am only working the southern end of the state and there is a lot of business north of me, where you live here."

JT was surprised by the turn of events and Jimmy actually admiring him. The offer of doing future business together, had an interesting end to it and he waited to hear what was offered.

"I need a reliable form of transportation that comes south to my area. I can expand in Frisco, or Oakland and all I need is someone to run the takes to me. I understand you have a business already down here and it makes you a very tidy roll every time, am I right?"

"You know what we do?"

"I know you have some relationship with our neighbours to the south of us. I can guess it's that hippie hay the college kids are smoking."

JT felt exposed, having no idea how Jimmy knew about it. No one outside the club knew, except Chico's cousin and his crew and they were sworn to die, or kill, to keep the family business secret. He was at a loss to explain it, so he opened up.

"Yeah, it's a small favour we do for a friend. We help him out, he helps us out. Makes it worth our while to be consistent and on time. We like to think we are trustworthy and can handle things."

"I get that myself, so does my dad. It is a rare thing that we allow anyone from outside the family to do a business like this with us."

They heard the faint knock at the door and knew Wayne had arrived with the lunch cart. They stayed quiet and listened to what was said. JT heard himself asked about and called out like he was in the bathroom across from him. That was all Wayne needed to hear and left. Marlene came and told them he was outside again and to come and enjoy some lunch while they talked. Marlene reminded them how loud they could talk, before Wayne would hear them.

"Now, why you two talk, don't mind me, when I laugh every now and then, so it sounds like JT is talking to me and I'm laughing at what he said. That way the cop outside thinks it's still just JT and I in here, okay?"

"Got it, Mar."

"I got it, Mar. So what did you order?"

"A couple of your favourites actually."

"That's nice of you, Mar, I'm touched."

"Just to smooth things over and make it go nicer for both you boys to get acquainted. Shit, Jimmy, I remember when Clive first started and the hard time you gave him. He started having second thoughts about joining, you worried him so much. Look how he turned out? Now you have a second chance at getting things started up the way you wanted to originally, without the hard time and the worry, not to mention the fuck ups. Shake hands, make up and settle this problem together. You both win out of this, if you let JT explain his side and you explain yours. Now, talk quietly, I do the laugh bit and let's have a nice time."

Marlene's hands were on each of their cheeks, looking at them with her slyness and sensuality being played for them. She loved to have that power over a man, but now she knew it wasn't to be abused, for anything, not knowing what she did now. She turned and opened the door and took both by the hand and led them to the couch, while she sat in the chair. Jimmy extended his hand to JT, who saw the honesty of its offer, knowing Jimmy meant it as a start to being friends and settling the past and leaving it there. Jimmy was realizing that JT wanted him to be a powerful boss, who was in control of his crew and conducted business in a respectable manner. 

They shook and felt a sense of trust pass between them, both feeling better about the outcome of the situation. They sat and Jimmy looked at Mar, a look passing between them that showed his gratitude to her. As much as his father had forced him to deal with this in a better way than he had, he had expected to be humiliated beyond belief and made to swallow his pride, or even worse, be another John Doe toe tag recipient, until someone could identify what was left of him. He truly appreciated Marlene's way of settling things better, than what he imagined might happen.

Marlene took the plates and gave one to each of them, then took the lid off the first tray for Jimmy.

"I think I remembered most of your favourites."

Jimmy saw the caviar and salmon mousse, as well as the other things he hated and looked at Mar with a growing resentment. Marlene looked at the tray and showed a mock surprise.

"Oops, wrong one, that's ours. This one is it, my mistake."

Marlene took the other lid off and a sampling of fine Italian anti-pasto, small meatballs, in a nest of angel hair pasta, the aroma of roasted garlic and butter wafting from it, and three delectable manicotti bursting with filling from the ends. Jimmy's look immediately went to one of complete adoration, knowing Marlene had played a joke, but made amends by remembering every one of his favourite dishes. She saw the look and smiled playfully at him.

"Thought I wouldn't remember, didn't you? Well guess what? Look what's for dessert."

Marlene lifted the smaller tray on the shelf underneath and showed Jimmy a half dozen chilled cannolis. His face melted even further, as he kissed his fingers and prayed to her.

"Bless you, Mar. You're an angel. But hey, that pink stuff, that fish mush stuff, there. I can eat it now and not want to end my life."

JT couldn't help but laugh and Marlene joined in, making it sound normal and fun inside to Unser. Marlene held her hand to Jimmy to wait and then motioned with her hands for him to continue.

"The other things, look like mama made them at home in her kitchen."

"She did. They were here this morning, special delivery from your dad. His way of saying don't fuck this up son, I love you. I'm sorry you fucked up, but here's another chance."

"Yeah, guess you would know, Mar. Always been a smart dame, dad knows it too. He told me keeping Clive around was a lot worse than losing you. Clive was expendable, you have our desire to stay alive and live a long and healthy life and keep what's secret, secret between us."

"Couldn't see your dad seeing any other way really. I never did anything to bring heat to him, Clive did. I just fucked someone worth fucking, instead of him. He was an asshole with money and I used him, Jimmy. I used him for everything I could get. Look what it got me? Nothing. Honestly, what have I got left now? No house, no furniture, no real possessions, other than my beautiful Rosa-lee."

"Who's Rosa-lee?"

"Rosa-lee is my car. I love my Riviera, like you love your bike and you loved your car. I have my clothes and some decent jewelry, but the one thing I don't have anymore, that makes me feel the worst, is not having any kind of future any more. Gianni says he'll help me out with things, but really, all I'm doing is existing after that. My life as it was, done. Gone. Finished. I have no way now to take care of myself on the week to week thing. What do I know how to do, but me being a mobster's wife?"

Jimmy gently patted Marlene's arm, holding it gently.

"We'll take good care of you, Mar, we promise and not just a handshake and some bobbles to play with. JT and his people want to help you too, so you got a lot of people who want you to have a good life. You got friends."

"Yes, yes I do have friends and they mean the most to me."

"Okay, let's settle this Clive thing and we shall talk about something you must keep very quiet about, and I do mean quiet."

"I'm pretty sure I know what quiet is all about. In 'Nam, quiet meant the difference between a bullet in your head, or not. I'm pretty sure it still means the same thing now."

"Yes, yes it does, JT. I'm glad we can discuss things with an understanding of how they work."

"Not that hard, really. Just a little respect and desire to make money."

"That's a good thing, respect. I said I needed to teach you some, but it looks like you showed me instead."

"Always glad to help out a friend, Jimmy. So look, the Clive thing is pretty easy like I said. I'll give you an address that we pick out somewhere close to our spot. All he knows, is that he's doing what he was ordered to do and making things right again. He won't be suspecting anything and won't be armed, or at least have it on him, because you tell him it's just a citizen and don't show the piece to him. Have someone drive him to the address and drop him off to talk to the owner. When he gets out, your guy drives away and he's left for us to do our thing. We'll make sure it's never known who did it, or why, because the local wildlife are really good at scavenging a meal and don't like to have anything go to waste, if you know what I mean."

"Yeah, They'd be lucky to find him, after that. Very good way of tiding things up, I will mention this to my father. Fucking damn sight better than digging a big hole and pushing dirt over him. This is a good thing, JT. I'm learning new things already. This plan you have, I'm for it. I like the way it's planned out and how you thought it out. You have some smarts JT, I like that."

"Thanks, Jimmy, I'm glad you're on board with us. So, any questions about the plan? Anything you can think of I might be leaving out?"

"I don't see anything going wrong at all. I just make sure the scumbag follows my orders to go buy a car, I'll have one of my guys drive him and have him come back alone, that about it?"

"That's about it, really. Just have to convince him nothing is wrong and nothing to suspect."

"This, I can do."

Marlene burst out laughing, surprising the two and then JT joined in and had a good laugh with her. Jimmy smiled along, shaking his head at the facade they put on. They quieted down again and continued, while Marlene spread another amount of salmon mousse on a thin cracker and savoured the delicacy.

"So Jimmy, you said you had something we might do for you? What's that?"

"My dad gave me this state to run our business and it's time to expand north from where I am. You have a good thing up here, very quiet and everything, so there's no heat on you all the time. I need someone like that in this area. You seemed very surprised that I know about your business trips, am I correct?"

"Yeah. How do you know about it? Who told you?"

"This lovely lady, she told me."

JT spun his head and looked at Marlene, confused to no end why she would tell him and waited for her answer to quell the rising turmoil of betrayal growing in him.

"JT, in this line of business, it's good to know people. I know you're thinking I betrayed you, I can see it written all over you, but trust me Sweetheart, this wasn't betrayal, it was a business opportunity I wanted you to have. I know Gianni well enough by now, that once he accepted your offer, you were both in bed together, whether you knew it or not. When you do business with these people, it's not just a one time thing and everyone walks away and forgets about it. It's something that never goes away, ever. It's not a bad thing though and here's why."

JT's feelings of betrayal began to vanish, but were being replaced with feelings of stupidity and ignorance instead. He was trying to come across as someone who knew the game, but now his naivety was being exposed to him and he had nothing to hide behind any more.

"You made an offer to him, not him helping you. Gianni's indebted to you for this and in return, he feels it's his responsibility to keep things at par. Owing in this business, is, well, not a good thing, to use Gianni's words. You're solving an issue for him, in a manner that puts him in the best light. He's safe from suspicion, his operation is safe as well. All his people and all of Jimmy's are in the clear and Gianni knows you're taking the chances in this, not him. So you see, it's quite a favour to have to return in kind."

JT could see the glimmers of understanding it all, coming together in his head. Marlene hadn't betrayed him, he'd been too unaware of who he was doing business with and focused on his own needs of the plan. He had no idea about the ramifications of his idea, once it was accepted. He looked at Marlene, feeling he had been played, even a little bit, wondering why she hadn't told him this end of things before this.

"So, now I owe Gianni something, or how does this work?"

"No Sweetie, you don't owe, he does. You unfortunately, have to let him help you now, so he can return the favour. This is him helping you, the only way he knows how."

"That's right, JT. Mar is saying the truth here. My dad wishes to make things good for you, like you did for us, so we want to offer you, what basically is, free money."

"Free money sounds good, how much are you talking about?"

"Okay, let's start back at the beginning again, before the confusion thing, set in. I know about the run down south, all Mar said is that it was frequent and regular, not what you did, I guessed that. Not as stupid as I come across sometimes, I know, but listen, JT, here's what we would like for you to do for us. Getting an operation started up in this part of the state ain't a hard thing to do. What is hard, is getting what's up here, back down there. It's no secret that me and my boys are somewhat known to the authorities, you can understand this, right?"

"Yeah, not a month goes by, that I don't hear your family name on the news, that's connected to something that happened."

"Exactly my point, JT. We have no way to do this, without every cop within a hundred miles looking over our shoulders. So here's what I came up with and tell me this ain't a sweetheart of an offer."

"I'm listening, Jimmy."

JT seemed more at ease and comforted, his position wasn't usurped from under him. It was no longer a game of seeing who was tougher, or had more control, it was about mutual satisfaction of both their businesses and that was his primary concern.

"Every time you guys head south to do a run, you come down empty and you make nothing, correct? I'm looking at the run down to make you money and maybe more than the run back will make you."

"I'm with you, so far."

"Good, you'll like this. We can arrange a drop off place, somewhere convenient that's quiet. We load you up with our takes and slips from our business up here and when you get down south, we can have another quiet and discreet place to meet and unload you. You continue on to your usual meeting place, except now you already have a large wad of cash to start back with. Nothing out of the ordinary, that you don't always do, am I right?"




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 08



"Shit, Jimmy, just haul some cash down to you, that's it?"

"You were hoping for something more?"

JT saw the look of offence coming to Jimmy.

"No, no, I'm just surprised that's all we have to do. Shit, that's nothing for us. How much are we talking here, on our end I mean?"

"To make it worth your while to do it and be happy, my father thinks two large would be a good number to do that, each and every run."

"Two hundred bucks? Is that like each, or something?"

"No, no, two large, means two thousand, not hundred. There are many things you may not understand, about the language we speak, but cheap is not one of the things we like to be known as. Once we get to know each other better, we'll teach you how things work, so you know how to do your business better and keep it safe. I'm not saying any of your guys are like this, but we have found, that it's our own guys that are the biggest problem with keeping our business safe. Our thing, is not like it used to be, back in the day. Too many fucking rats are running around now and think of only their worthless asses, if they get caught."

"You're right, none of my guys is like that. It would be like turning in your own brother, or something. The club is tight and everyone is happy with where we're going with it. I actually had no plans at all about getting involved in criminal shit, it just seemed to land in our lap. The run down south was supposed to be about getting our club up and running and getting the clubhouse finished. We have the appliances coming in soon from Jake's place, so we'll have a completely finished place, we can live in and do shit. One of my guys has a certain speciality, that brings us income from our retail operations."

"What kind of retail operation, if you don't mind me asking?"

"Well, we have a line on consumer goods, in large quantities and we distribute them through our network of associates."

"Your associates being the niggers on the roof, I take it?"

"Uhm, we don't use that word, especially not around them. Makes for a bad business arrangement, if you catch my drift. I try to remember that word we were enjoying earlier, respect. It seems to make things go smoothly and the results turn out better."

"Yes, right again, JT. I must learn to accept the things that are and not take such an offence to them anymore. This country has lost its way and we have assholes in power that have no fucking idea how to run it."

"Jimmy, couldn't agree with you more."

Marlene laughed and tittered, making a show of it again, then JT accompanied her, keeping up their appearances. Jimmy had to cover his mouth from laughing, his amusement at the display overwhelming him. Once more, they calmed and Jimmy continued.

"So, we are offering you two large a run for your services, is that satisfactory to you, JT?"

"Jimmy, that's a fucking great deal, what did you call it?"

"A sweetheart of a deal."

"Yeah, it is a sweetheart deal. You're right, it is more than we make for the run back. This money will help us finish the farm off and buy all the beds and stuff, for everyone. We're really hoping to have a tractor there before the winter sets in, so we can clear the lane to get out."

"You turning into that TV show, JT? What's it called, with that lawyer guy and his fancy wife, move to some shitty farm that needs fixing all the time. What the fuck is that called again?"

"Green Acres."

"Yeah, yeah, that's it."

Both Marlene and JT hushed Jimmy down frantically. There was no doubt, that his voice wouldn't be heard by Unser out in the hallway and waited for a knock. JT got up and went over to the radio and turned it on, turning the tuning knob to different stations. Marlene nodded her head, knowing what he was doing. He left it on a soft music station and made sure the music was loud enough for Wayne to hear.

"Hopefully Wayne thinks it was the radio and not someone else in here."

Jimmy apologized facially to them, not wanting to talk yet. They assured him it looked okay and nothing was given away. Jimmy looked curiously though, at JT.

"You know the cop outside is called Wayne?"

"Yeah, known him since I was in high school. He's an okay guy, actually. I was thinking he might help me out some time, if we can get him on our side some how."

"That's easy. Blackmail. Get something on him and use it against him. Nobody likes their dirty little secrets shown all over the place."

"I'm sure it does, Jimmy, but I like to handle things a little differently, if you don't mind. I want him as a friend to the club. I don't want to make him fear us, I want him to like us and look out for us. Give us a heads up about stuff, before it happens."

"That is a good way to look at it, JT. No reason to want to see harm come your way."

"Exactly. So, when do you think you'll be ready for us to do a run for you?"

"When's your next run down?"

"Next weekend. We leave Friday, back on Saturday and home in the late afternoon."

"We should have a run ready for you then. I will let you know where and who to pick up from and the same down south. Since Mar is able to get a hold of you, I'll let her know everything and pass it on to you, that good?"

"That's cool, Jimmy. We have to vote on it, but I don't see anyone objecting to that kind of cash, for doing nothing."

"What do you mean vote? You don't make the decisions?"

"It's a club, Jimmy. This is club business and everyone has a say, if they want to do it or not. If we have a majority vote, we all go in, whether they were for, or against the idea. Respect, Jimmy, that's all I can say."

Jimmy looked at JT with great thought of him. JT showed that he had learned from him as well.

"Yeah, I guess we need to learn from each other how our businesses work, so we don't have misunderstandings."

"Trust me, JT. Misunderstandings get people killed in this line of work. You don't want anyone thinking you're doing something, you're not."

"Yeah, I can see that, Mar. So, we should get together soon and explain the languages of our businesses to each other."

"Yes, a very good thing, JT, a very good thing."

"I like the sounds of it being a good thing, as opposed to a bad thing."

"See, you're learning already."

"Yes I am, Jimmy. So, we better wrap this up and get you out of here, so you can get started on your end of things."

"Yes, I should. JT, it has been a pleasure doing business with you and I look forward to our enterprises helping each other out."

"Me too, Jimmy. I had a feeling we could work off the same page, if you gave me a chance."

"JT, from the bottom of my heart, my apologies for the way I acted to you earlier. I hope you can forgive me for that and not hold it against me?"

"Apology accepted and already put in the past. Thanks, Jimmy."

"My pleasure, JT. Mar, you're the best, I love you, Sweetheart. This has been a very nice meet, one of the best, my thanks."

"My pleasure, Jimmy. Give my best to your dad, for me."

"I will."

The guys rose and JT held his hand out to Jimmy. Jimmy looked at his hand and moved it away. He took him by the face in both hands and kissed his cheeks, before hugging him. JT was stunned by it, unsure of what he supposed to do, but the affection of the hug to him, meant the same as his own brothers doing it. He returned the hug and patted him on the back, letting him know his customs weren't rejected.

"This is another thing we do, to show we are good with one another. It's our way."

"No problem, Jimmy. Just something new I have to get used to. Not sure how the other guys would feel about it, but I'm cool."

"Eh, we make you a paisan, yet JT."

"A what?"

"Never mind, you'll be alright, my friend. You'll be alright."

"Yeah, I think I will be, Jimmy."

"So, now that I need to go, how have you taken this into consideration?"

"You know, that's the one part I'm kind of feeling bad about telling you now. It was part of the little games shit we were doing earlier."

"What do you mean by that?"

JT became nervous and Marlene knew it was hard to get out of, even with an explanation.

"It was my doing, Jimmy. I thought it up. The only way to get you out, is for you to squeeze under the cart and let JT take the cart down to the service area and let you out there."

"You're fucking kidding me?"

Jimmy was looking pissed at the idea and could see on JT's and Marlene's faces, that it wasn't another joke.

"Sorry, buddy, it was all we could think of, honestly. I mean, the cop is just outside and he'll come in to get the cart when it's time to take it back. I'm going to offer to take it down for him and get you out."

"This is the best you could think of?"

"Well, yeah, unless you have something better?"

"Look, the cop is going to get the cart and take it down, why can't I go down the stairs I came up? He goes down the elevator, I go down the stairs, he comes back up, everything here is on the up and up and I'm taking a nice stroll through your fair town, back to my car and leave quietly."

"Shit, that does sound easy. Sorry, should have thought of that myself. Okay, look, sorry about all that earlier shit, things are forgiven between us and we're starting fresh, so I just want you to know, I'm happy with how things have turned out and hope we can work together for a long time."

"I feel the same. It looks to be a good partnership between us. I will talk to my people about your need to expand your retail division and see what they can do to help. We're always looking at new means of income and this has something of interest to me, so I'll pass it on with my blessings."

"Jimmy, don't let anyone say you're not a great guy, because you are in my books."

"Mar, if I could be that guy in your life, I'd be the luckiest guy on the face of the earth."

"Awww, that's sweet, Jimmy, thank you. Jake is a hard act to follow though, but someone has been riding the same road and caught my eye."

Marlene's eyes never gave it away, but JT's sudden shift to one of uneasiness, made Jimmy glance at him. Jimmy gave him a look of being impressed and JT shrugged.

"Good luck with that, hope it works out for you both."

"I hope it does too, Jimmy, but only one of us is interested right now."

Jimmy eyeballed JT with wonder, unable to understand why he wouldn't accept her offer.

"You shitting me, JT? You don't want to be with Mar?"

"I kind of have my hands full right now and another woman in the mix will surely fuck the whole thing up big time."

"What do you mean?"

"I have a girlfriend and I love her, Mar loves her too and Suzy loves Mar back. The problem that starts, is that we live in this commune right now, out in Calaveras, on that farm I mentioned and we sort of have this thing between us all, that the twelve guys can be with any of the twelve girls, as long as it's cool between them. So, bringing Mar in, is kind of throwing a wrench into it."

"Wait, wait, wait a fucking second here. You telling me you're banging a dozen broads? Anytime you want?"

"Sort of like that, Jimmy."

"Jesus, what kind of outfit you got, JT?"

"The best kind, Jimmy."

"No shit, I gotta rethink my end and what I'm doing wrong."

"Nice works some times, sometimes it doesn't. Just gotta know when, right?"

Jimmy pointed at his head, then at JT. 

"You guys think about a lot of shit out on that farm, don't you?" 

"We've had some interesting things explained to us."

"Tell me some time. Now, I'll go to the bedroom, while you get Barney out there to come and get the cart, then I'll take that short walk through town and talk to you soon about things."

Jimmy went to the bedroom, as JT and Marlene shook their heads at his attitude still. JT went and told Wayne they were done, but they saved some for him to taste. The smile of thanks was all JT needed to see, to know Wayne would make things easy for him. JT watched him go in and say hi to Marlene, getting a very friendly welcome and an invitation to come back and enjoy some delicious treats with her. 

"Thanks Wayne, I'll make sure Marlene locks up properly after I go. You'll love the manicotti, absolutely delicious beyond words."

"Manicotti, eh? Never had that stuff before. Okay, you guys know the drill, so, you take care JT, say hi to the guys for me."

"Sure will, Wayne, sure will."

Wayne happily wheeled the cart out and waited, as he heard the locks engaged and continued down the hall to the elevator. JT heard the ding of the elevator bell, signalling its arrival. JT counted to ten and began unlocking the door. Jimmy just started walking out into the hallway, as the doors were shutting on the car. Unser never saw who it was, but it wasn't anyone he knew to be inside and that had his alarm bells ringing. As the car began to drop, he knew he would never know who it was, unless someone decided to let him know. How did someone get in and when? Why were they there? So many questions needed answering and he knew silence was his only answer.

JT went down with Jimmy and said goodbye, watching him slip his sunglasses on and stroll away down the street. Jimmy was either very good at making him self blend in, or he was truly enjoying his walk through town, as he smiled at people passing and acted like nothing mattered to him. JT went around to the parking lot and got on his bike and started it. The feelings of possession were slowly shifting in him, as he held the handlebars and remembered it was his bike to ride now, not Jake's. He pulled out of the parking lot and headed across town to the clubhouse, as wanton eyes watched him from her suite window. Memories and desires flooded her emotionally, the blue Harley Davidson the key to the past, she mourned for in her heart.

"How did that meet go?"

JT looked at the guys, looking at him for the answer to their future.

"This, was what the first meet should have been like. We got everything on the table and discussed it and Jimmy is on board with the plan all the way this time."

"Do you trust him, Prez?"

"Completely, Chico. We got all that macho shit out of the way and got down to business and let me tell you, Jimmy is quite a guy when you get to know him. He sees our need to take care of Brock and how it helps him and his dad. I'd like to meet his dad, actually. He sounds like a decent guy, despite his reputation for kill first, ask later. He has a good head on him and knows how to do business."

"Okay, he sounds alright, but we already know what his son is like too. He doesn't act like his dad and that's what's worrying us, JT."

"Hey, I'm standing here, aren't I? I'm smiling, aren't I? Would I be doing that, if I thought for a second it was all bullshit with Jimmy?"

No one could argue with him, not knowing the whole story, but doubts lingered in their minds just the same.

"Want more proof it's all cool with us?"

"Yeah JT, I think all of us want some assurance, we're not going to end up in the woods as animal food, like our friend is supposed to."

"I can understand that, Keith. I'd probably be thinking the same as you guys, until I knew what I know now."

"Would you care to share that with us, Mr. President."

"Gladly, Lenny. Gentlemen, we, are now in a position to more than double our run money, every trip we make. A guaranteed two grand a run. Want to know how we do that?"

That kind of cash per run, had every head cocked and tuned in to JT.

"I thought that would get your attention. Guys, the Cacuzza's would like to do some business with us, in a large way. Seems we made enough of an impression on Gianni, a lot in part to Marlene's word, that he feels we are trustworthy enough to be part of their operation."

"So what do we have to do, to make this two grand, JT?"

"You'll love this Wally, all of you will. All we have to do is meet up with their guys at a secret location and they'll load us up. We do our ride like usual and make a stop on the way and do the drop off. They give us the two grand and we continue to our pick up and come back. Tell me how sweet that deal is?"

Everyone was whistling and mumbling in awe, the amounts getting totalled in their heads.

"So what are we hauling down there for them?"

"Money, Piney. They want to expand their gambling business up here in Frisco, or Oakland, somewhere, but they're too closely watched by the cops and feds to move anything. We are now their prime source of transportation and another item that hit the table between us. This is another thing that made me feel good about things. Jimmy's going to talk to his dad and some of the other guys in charge and talk about our retail operation, maybe get a chance to expand that, to an out of state operation."

"I think Benny and Lamont would be a might pissed off, we suddenly switch sides and go with the Cacuzza's."

"We're not switching anything, Clay. We're still doing our normal business with them. Nothing changes there, except we make them and us more money. If we get the go to move stuff south to Jimmy's end and maybe even over to Nevada, Benny and the boys are going to be very busy, finding enough stuff to keep up with demands. Tom, you're end of things just moved up in status too. If this is a done deal, you'll need to find a way to keep up as well. I know you're good, probably one of the best in the business, but what's your take on it? Do you think we're getting in over our heads?"

"Presently, I could double what I'm doing now and have no problems keeping up. More than that, I have a few ideas I might try out to make it work."

"Great, I'll leave it in your hands to run, but let me know if you think we could be in trouble with anything. That way we can deal with it, before it deals with us. I'd rather be on top of a situation, than under it and digging my ass out of it."

"Yeah, I can dig it, JT. I have it under control, so, no sweat man, we're cool on my end."

"So, what do you say guys? Let's hear your votes on all of this. First, let's vote on doing business with the Cacuzza's. Yea, or nay?"

JT looked at every member and smiled more and more, as each one confidently voted yes to it. He added his own yea to make it unanimous and they pounded the table and cheered.

"Okay, next. Yea, or nay on doing these runs for the Cacuzza's?"

Once more the yeas were unanimous and the table pounding and cheers came out.

"To increasing our retail distribution with the Cacuzza's, yea, or nay?"

No order to the votes was given, as they were all in agreement to the deals offered. JT pounded his fist on the table to conclude the votes and as the norm, joints were rolled and beers were opened in celebration. JT sat with his beer and a joint in his hands, enjoying the aromatic fragrance of success, his mind contemplating the outcome of his endeavours. Three months ago, he was pretty well broke and penniless and a dead end job. No vehicle, no home, no real life at all. Here he was now, relaxing on comfortable chairs and enjoying the fruits of his labours and a life others would be secretly envious of.

He let his eyes fall on the cabinet, knowing inside was more money than they knew what to do with now and more was on the way. The account at the bank was sitting in the mid-thirty thousands and Art had taken some of the money and paid the bills and accounts off. He also set up a schedule for them, so that the bills were automatically paid out of the account they started for the business, leaving them with little to do, but start the healing and get back to living again.

JT was starting to consider keeping the business closed for now, just using it for personal use only. With every member, except Wally, having a bike now, there was a need to adhere to Jake's golden rule of bike maintenance and safety. They made more than enough to pay for the monthly expenses and stay closed, making the compound a much securer place to conduct their business. As the guys mentally spent money like it was going out of style, JT was looking at his club differently. He was beginning to see it more as a business enterprise, instead of a brotherhood of riders. Money was becoming more of the focus, than the common love they shared. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 08



He tried to weigh out the good and bad of it, whether what was started, was still what it should be, or was what they were becoming, more of who they were instead. Before he let his mind sway one way or the other, he decided a talk with Moon about it, would help give him a better focus. He hoped they could sit on the outcropping again and he could see the answer come to him again. He could see the separation in lifestyles they had and knew the divide was getting wider, no matter how much love they had for one another.

The sun was warm and bright, the fall afternoon absolutely beautiful, as Jimmy listened to Bobby Darin singing Mac the Knife on the radio. He snapped his fingers in time with the beat, smiling to himself at what he had accomplished in this meet, compared to the last. Less than a quarter mile back, hiding behind the cars between them, Clive's Corvette was tailing him back to Palm Springs. Inside, Clive sat and tried to think what Jimmy was doing in Charming and why he was seeing Marlene. He hoped beyond anything else, that he was finishing her off, but nagging doubts about it, kept him from truly believing in it. He opened the glove box and looked at his gun sitting there, hoping he wouldn't have to use it on Jimmy. Suspicions began playing games in his head, making him think a myriad of possibilities. None of them seemed good to him.

JT walked over to the garage by himself and looked around, taking in the memories of sounds and smells, the remaining traces of his time with Jake still lingering.

"I miss you, Jake. I hate that I never got to tell you how I felt about you. You made me feel like your son, the way you cared about me and Piney, the way you helped us out. I want to believe in my heart, that I'm not disappointing you, that what I'm doing, is something you would do. I know now, why you stopped riding with the club that you and Art started it. You were a great man, Jake, you really were. I was really proud of you and liked being around you. You taught me so much and I know you could have taught me a lot more and I hate that you'll never be able to do that for me."

As JT let his heart pour out to the spirits in the bay, Clay had heard him talking and waited, before opening the door. He heard JT expressing all his feelings and divulging things that only Jake could have told him, yet were never told to him. He took his hand from the handle and turned away, the jealousy from being left out of Jake's 'family', leaving him bitter and resentful. Instead of going back into the clubhouse, he went to his bike and put his helmet on and sat on his Triumph, looking at the light, blue prize at the other end, In his heart, he deserved that bike and that position and one day he would have it. He started his bike and roared down the lane way to the end and rode off towards town, His resentment towards Jake and JT grew, with every shift of the gears and twist of the throttle. 



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 09



Ch.9           The Tangled Webs We Weave 





Marietta stood looking at Chico, her half-naked body glowing with the sun behind her. Chico pulled on his pants and held his hands out to her, to come to him. Marietta stepped into him and felt his arms around her, smiling at the feeling of him.

"Marietta, mi amante dulce, odio tener que dejarte." (my sweet lover, I hate to leave you)

"Chico, don't be too long with the guys today. I want to spend some time with you. You have been so busy, making the clubhouse and the addition here, I hardly see you and I miss you, mi amor."

"Si, I know, Marietta. I want to spend more time with you, too, but I have to do these things with the club, you know?"

"I know, but it doesn't stop me from feeling the longing in my heart."

"Mine too, We will have all day, once we take care of things."

"You are a good man, Chico. You do what you need to do and I will be here waiting for you."

"You and the other girls are picking crops today, yeah?"

"Si, They need to be brought in and stored for winter. We are going to learn how to make preserves today. Golden's grandparents taught her, so we will have something called jam and jelly."

"Jam and jelly?"

"Si, I don't know what they are, but Golden says they are nature's decadence. We should have some ready by tonight, so you can taste them."

"Cool, sounds good, Baby. Okay, I got to go now, JT wants us at the clubhouse early to take care of things. I hope all this shit ends soon, I want to get back to doing what we like doing best, Baby, loving each other."

"I love you so much, Chico."

Chico looked deeply into the darkness of her eyes, seeing the intensity of her feelings for him. Her hands were eager to express those same feelings, as she touched his face and arms. Chico hugged her tightly, his arms engulfing her with his love, showing her his feelings in a way he could express. For a lack of words, Marietta knew exactly what he was feeling and telling her. She was happy to look in the mirror again and saw no more signs of the abuse, letting her mind put it in the past, so she could believe in a better future again. Her bared breasts were flattened against his torso, but she knew Chico could feel the hard points of her desire, showing him her passion to love again. 

"I love you too, Marietta. I'm so happy that you've liked living like this. I was so worried you wouldn't dig it and wouldn't want to stay."

"Chico, you said these people would show me love and help me deal with the rape and they have. Every one of them has shown me such beautiful love and I have come to love them too. I have never been loved so much in my life, until I met you, now your friends. I have never seen such care shown for each other. No one is allowed to be unhappy and any problems one person might have, are shared by the others and it is taken care of."

"I'm glad you see that, too. I like these people, they're good people, like I said. I wasn't sure you know, if you could understand all this stuff, but I see you now, you're beautiful face, the happiness in your smile, how God damn sexy you are. I like seeing you like this. You look free, like a bird that can fly away and do anything it wants."

"I do feel free, Chico. Star Rider is even teaching me what he knows about accounting and other things, so I can do well when I finally go to Berkeley. I so want to go, Chico, my heart is aching to be there and learn, so I can make us a better life together."

"Marietta, I will make that dream come true for you, I promise. When we come back tonight, I will know if I have some news for you."

"What news, Chico?"

"If dreams come true, or not."

"What do you mean?"

"You'll see. I have to go, Baby, they're starting up already."

"Okay, Chico. Ride safely and come to me tonight."

"Later, alligator."

Marietta smiled at the humour, as Chico gave her a quick kiss on the lips and a pat on her ass, before dashing out the bedroom and outside. All the guys were on their bikes, warming them up and saw him come out, doing up his cut.

"Sorry amigos, just talking to Marietta about some things."

Lenny sat on his bike beside Chico's, as he came around to the left side. He held a pointed finger and made a circle with his other hand, then slid the finger back and forth through the hole.

"Have a nice talk, did you?"

"Fuck you, Lenny. I actually do more than just fuck my girlfriend. I talk to her about things, you know?"

Lenny saw the anger at his reference to having sex and held his hands up to Chico, showing no offence given.

"Sorry man, not like it was a bad thing I said. No one here would blame you for wanting a last taste before leaving, would you, guys?"

The others saw the conflict and wanted to start the day off on a good note, but Lenny was right in his assumption of what took Chico so long. Chico looked around and saw the shoulder shrugs and other body language, to show they agreed with Lenny.

"Yeah, guess so. She is a hot mama, my Marietta. I could spend all day with her, making love."

"So could I. So could every guy here and in there. Shit Chico, every girl in there thinks she's hot too."

Chico at first took offence to Lenny, saying he would like to do the same to Marietta, then realized every guy was again agreeing silently and he had to think of past experiences he had seen himself, involving Marietta and several of the girls. He shrugged his shoulders, tossing off anything offensive about it and smiled broadly, his teeth showing, in typical Chico fashion.

"Guess I picked the best one in the bunch, eh?"

That raised some objections from the guys, feeling their woman was equally as attractive and desirable.

"I'll put Cindy up against Marietta any time, man. Your woman is fine, don't get me wrong, brother, but Cindy can do some things to you, that'll change your mind."

"Hey, guys, we could have this argument all day, about who's chick is better than the other, but we have a friend to see about, unless you forgot? Want to get that hog howling, Chico and we can talk titties and ass, when we get back."

"Right on, JT. Ready to ride in a second."

Chico did all his start up routine and jumped down, the engine starting and in seconds, burbling out sweet exhaust notes. He twisted the throttle several times and it ran smoothly, before he shifted it into first gear and nodded to JT. JT smiled back at him and motioned with his hand to move out, as he clutched and shifted into first, taking control of his brothers, as he led them to their first mission of defining the club's level of criminal involvement. One to be known as murders, thieves, drug runners and above all, anarchists.

As they rode through town, despite their efforts to control noise levels, the continuous rumble of thunder caused heads to turn their way. As the guys glanced from side to side at the townsfolk, it became noticeable to them, that there was a different look on their faces. Unmistakeably, it was admiration they saw. The people had been made aware of their loss, the common sorrow and shows of support, the aid to the victim, Marlene, guarding her with their own lives and an unspoken belief, that they would help put an end to the tragedy and help them feel safe again. Even they were understanding the need for necessary evils to be present, to avert the real danger of something actually happening.

The hesitant waves showed a beginning to their acceptance, bringing smiles out on the guys, happy to let them know how they felt. To their greatest happiness, they all waved to several, small boys on their bikes, making them feel special with the friendly acknowledgement. Stares were always there, but the focus of emotion was ebbing, from disdain and more to tolerance. As they left the downtown core and headed towards I-99, the sound of a siren going off in short bursts, had them turning heads and pulling over. 

Officer Needham got out of his cruiser and nodded hellos to the guys, as he passed them to go to JT. That made the stop a friendly one and the guys began following behind him.

"I saw you guys passing and needed to bring you up to speed on where we are in the investigation. We have a witness who spotted a blue Corvette leaving the scene of the cemetery shooting, and a description of a guy, that seems to match the identity of the first shooter. We're looking state wide now for anyone with a black, Caddy Coupe de Ville and anyone owning a blue Corvette, 64-65 model years. Once we start getting some matches to cars and the descriptions, we'll start going through them all and see who's who and hope we find our guy."

"Great, Kev, that's great news. Oh, sorry, Officer Needham."

"That's okay, no one else around to worry about it. Yeah, so that's where we're at and it shouldn't be too much longer, before we start narrowing the list down to some good potentials to look at. So, you guys going somewhere?"

"Yeah, just headed down to see some friends in Stockton, stop in and see how Clay's grandpa is doing, that sort of stuff."

"Nice. Hey, you guys have a safe run down and Clay, hope everything's okay with your granddad."

"Yeah, hey, thanks."

Clay shook Needham's hand and several patted his back, as he walked past. He smiled and waved, as he pulled out and did a U turn, heading back into town. JT had the bikes readied and they were happily on their way to commit an act of sin, they had been told since childhood, would damn their souls for eternity. No one cared about eternity, or their souls, only the ending of one worthless soul, in repayment of a priceless one.

The highway became theirs, the constant roar of exhausts and headlights glaring, warning those in front to give way to the club, as they made their way south. Hearts were steeled against conflicts of morals and values, as they prepared themselves for the damnation, every mile they got closer. They would call from Bakersfield, letting Jimmy know of their arrival to the area. That would give them an hour to get set up and in place, while Jimmy put the plan in motion to send Clive to his final destination.

Clive pulled into Jimmy's driveway on time, giving Jimmy plenty of time to talk about things and get him prepared to go. Vinnie was sitting in the living room, while Jimmy was out on the patio, relaxing on the chaise lounge and basking in the sun. Vinnie let him in and showed him out to the patio.

"Hey, Jimmy, great day, huh?"

"Very, nice day, Clive, a very, nice day. There's some iced tea on the table and some glasses, help yourself to a glass. Make sure you get some ice in it, keep it cold for you."

"Yeah, thanks, Jimmy."

Clive went to the table and poured himself a full glass and took and long drink, then filled it up again, before sitting on the padded patio chair close to Jimmy. He never saw the looks shared between Vinnie and Jimmy, showing their dislike for him, but those looks were changed back to the facade they had to wear, to make sure no suspicions were raised, as he turned to come back.

The guys pulled into the parking lot of the burned out diner, Chico's friend Fernando, no longer behind the counter in the kiosk. JT went into the phone booth and dialled Jimmy's number, putting the second phase into motion. Vinnie heard the phone and went inside to answer it, coming back out with the phone, trailing an endless phone cord behind him. He handed it to Jimmy, who knew to look at him like he didn't know who was calling.

"It's the guy, who has the Caddy."

Jimmy took the phone and sat up, putting his attention into his part now.

"Hello, you are the gentleman who has a Caddy he wishes to sell, am I correct?"

JT laughed quietly, knowing that's what Jimmy's cover was.

"Yes, I do. We're at our first stop and we'll be gassing up here and heading to the location, so we'll be there in twenty minutes or so and get set up. You can send the asshole to me anytime in the next ten minutes or so, okay."

"Yes, I love that about them too, excellent riding car, very smooth and very powerful. How many miles are on it, if you don't mind me asking?"

JT played along with the charade, so Jimmy didn't feel too silly doing it.

"Three hundred and fifty thousand."

"Three thousand and fifty, you must not drive very much, then?"

"Only to do hits on assholes."

"You had regular service on it, I presume?"

"Sure. I got head in the back seat every day, might even been a few shot spots still on the seat."

"Great, great. I love the seats in them too, very comfy to sit in. Normally I drive, but some times it's nice to sit back and be chauffeured around, you know? So, how much you asking for it?"

"A shot to the head."

"Sounds reasonable. I would have asked the same for mine. I can't make it out there myself, but I have two associates who will come out to buy it. You are okay with cash, I presume?"

"Or blood."

"Great. I will have that in large bills for you. All you need do is sign the title and we can conclude this transaction of ours. It has been a great pleasure talking to you, Mr, Winston."

"You too, Jimmy. Now send the fucker my way and let's end this fucking thing with a happily ever after."

"My father would agree with that, too. I look forward to driving the car and promise it will be very well taken care of."

"Thanks, Jimmy, talk to you soon."

"Thanks again, yes, you too. Goodbye."

Jimmy hung up and smiled, knowing everything was going according to plan and he would be enjoying the efforts of another's labours, so that he would see an increase in his luxurious lifestyle. Clive looked at Jimmy, waiting to hear how much it was going to cost him.

"You, my friend, are very lucky. The car I had to destroy, cost me sixty six hundred bucks. This guy, who you're buying the exact same car from, colour and everything, is only fifty five hundred. You heard me tell him I'm sending a couple of associates to pick it up. Vinnie will drive you there, you pay the man, you carefully, and I do mean carefully, drive the car back to me and I will be in a much better mood, when I see you again. This thing, between you and Mar, it's over, done. I took care of it the other day. Now, from here on in, you do not fuck up one thing, do I make myself clear?"

"Sure, Jimmy. Honest, thanks, I won't fuck things up again, promise. I'll even prove to you that I deserve my position back, too. Wait and see, Jimmy."

"We'll see. For now, go get the guy's money and Vinnie knows where this place is, so he'll drive you out there. Oh, Clive, one thing. No fucking guns, okay? This is a civilian and he doesn't need to be seeing iron hanging off you, capice? Leave it here, till you get back."

Clive did as he was told and took his holster and gun off, then put his sports coat back on, leaving his only real chance at survival on the table, beside the man who was sending him to his doom. 

"Vinnie, make sure everything goes as it should, just in case. I miss my car."

"Gotcha, boss. I don't think we'll have any problems, do you, Clive?"

"No. Take fifty five hundred to this guy with the Caddy, make sure he signs the title, bring the car back here, making sure there's no scratches or dents on it, job done, Right?"

"You understand it well enough, now let's see if you can follow that."

"C'mon, Jimmy, don't be like that. I made a mistake, I'm sorry. It won't happen again, because the bitch is taken care of, like you said. I should a put two in her head, instead of the chest. Fucking tits saved her life, what can I say?"

"I don't want to hear about that shit. You piss me off enough already, making your problems, my problems. You know that's not a good thing. That's a very bad thing, but my father feels you should get a pass, because she was a cheating bitch."

"Hey, Gianni's the best. I owe him big time for this and I'll make it up to him too."

"Sure. Now you two, get going and get my car already. The fucking guy will think you're not coming, or sell it to someone else. That would really not be a good thing."

Clive knew to shut up and count what blessing he got. To him, fifty five hundred to save his ass, was worth every penny. He followed Vinnie to his car, where he held his hand out for the keys. Clive dug in his pocket and somewhat regretfully, dropped them in his hand. For the first time since he owned it, he sat in the passenger seat and felt lost. Vinnie started it up and pulled out of the driveway, heading off towards the mountains, far off in the distance.

The guys had arrived at the location and would divide up into two groups. JT would be the road block, while Piney came up from behind and cut off the escape. Vinnie would stay where he was and they would take Clive from the car and drag him into the wilderness. The closest person living anywhere near the spot, was two miles away, making the chance of being noticed almost impossible. They went into the woods to find a spot that fit their needs for an execution, finding a large, dead tree, that had been hit by lightning and was charred from it. Its haunting appearance amidst the thriving forest around it, made it suitable for the deed. Tom pointed out a small pack of coyotes watching them from a distance, letting them know nature was ready to do its part, once they had finished theirs.

Vinnie tried to make the trip seem pleasurable and talked like friends with Clive, joking about things and remembering old times together. As much as Clive enjoyed the conversation, he began getting a feeling everything wasn't as it should be. Vinnie had never been that friendly a guy to him before, but maybe his new position had changed who he was and he was trying to act his new role out. As pleasant as everything was, something didn't sit right with him.

The guys looked at watches and knew the time was coming up, so they went to their waiting areas out of sight, about a half mile apart and watched for the car coming. They weren't sure of what car they were coming in, but the fact that no one came out here, made whatever car, the one to stop. The echoes of the Corvette's high performance engine, growling out the notes, let them know it was time to get set. Lenny was up in a tree, facing in the direction JT and the others were in and used his knife blade to reflect the sun at them. He flashed it three times, then slid it back in his sheath, climbing down again.

JT and the others saw the flashes and started their bikes, following JT along the winding road to the spot. Piney and the others watched carefully as the Corvette passed, then started up their bikes and followed Piney from out of their cover. 

Vinnie saw the bikes pull out and follow him, but paid no attention to them, keeping Clive unaware of the trap about to happen. Clive happened to glance in the right rear view mirror and saw the reflection of four riders behind them. He could see they were a fair distance back and staying there, so his worry level dropped again. The spot was coming up and they rounded the bend at the same time JT and the others were coming from the other way. They were fanned out, so there was no chance to go around them, making it necessary to slow down and stop. Clive became worried and looked at Vinnie to react. Vinnie looked at him and put the car in park, instead of reversing back, as the riders stopped and began getting off their bikes. Clive began to panic and remembered his back up piece. He pulled it out and saw Vinnie hold his hands up, then noticed the guns each biker was pointing, was at him and not Vinnie.

"What the fuck is going on, Vinnie?"

Vinnie turned and saw the small pistol come up, Clive unsure of where to point it. He reached over and snatched the gun from Clive's hand, 

"I do believe these guys have an issue they would like to talk to you about."

"What? What issue? I don't even know these guys."

Clive was looking at the four men coming closer to him, the guns all aimed at his head, making him in total fear of his life. The five bikes came up from behind, then Clive could hear the cocking of hammers and knew those guns were aimed at him as well. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 09



"I think they know you. Seems you killed a friend of theirs and they wish to discuss this with you."

Clive succumbed to the knowledge he was being set up and looked at Vinnie with a desperate plea for his life.

"Why, Vinnie? Why are you setting me up?"

"Actually, I'm not setting you up. Gianni, is setting you up, because you shot Marlene, that was a bad thing to him, you know that. Jimmy is setting you up, because he is always going to be pissed about the car and the disrespect you showed him, also very bad things. Me? I'm just following orders, like you were supposed to do. Nothing personal Clive, it's just business."

Clive looked at the nonchalant look on Vinnie's face, seeing how little his life was worth, when he heard the car door open and hands began dragging him out. He began screaming for help and to show him how futile his attempts were, the guys shouted along with him, making him realize his folly in trying to get help of any kind. Tears began running down his cheeks, as his mortality was now only a question of time and that amount was very short. 

"Save the tears, you piece of chicken shit. Big man with a gun in your hand, shooting defenceless people and then trying again from a rooftop at the funeral. Oh yeah, we know it was you. Spotted that Corvette leaving the scene. Even the cops don't know who to look for, so before they even know to look for you as a suspect, justice will already have been served on your sorry ass. Now start fucking walking."

Clive refused to walk and was pushed to move, falling to the ground to avoid the inevitable demise to his life. Piney and Keith dragged him away, crying out to be spared, but it all fell on deaf ears. JT hung back and talked to Vinnie.

"You can go back and tell Jimmy this has been taken care of, or you can come and see for yourself and make sure."

"I'll wait here and just listen."

"Suit yourself, Vinnie."

JT cocked the slide on his pistol and walked away into the dense bush. Clive could still be heard screaming in the distance, until it suddenly stopped, making Vinnie believe they hadn't killed him, just fed up with his whining and stopped him. He listened for any sounds of a car approaching, but nothing stirred the air with sound, only the preparations of Clive's execution. 

The charred remains of the tree, became the backstop that Clive was to be tied to. As a last show of humiliation, they made him strip naked, before his hands were tied back hard, stretching his chest tight. He was white with fear, his eyes wide with terror, as he watched the guys line up in front of him and take aim. 

Vinnie stood in the serenity of the moment, until he was startled to react, as nine guns began firing repeatedly. He had no idea how many shots were fired, but a quick count of ten per man, said Clive was now a lot heavier, with all that lead in him. He got in the Corvette and looked into the dense brush, before starting it and driving away.

The guys let the quiet settle into the woods again, the frightened reports from animals quieting again. They looked at the bullet-riddled body, hanging limply from the tree stump and felt they had carried out what was expected of them. JT walked up and looked at the perforated corpse, then spat on it.

"People are going to learn, they don't fuck with the Sons of Anarchy."

That act brought them all to the same level, as they all felt the same and spat on the corpse. They hiked back out with Clive's clothes and went through the pockets, taking out anything that identified him. The money was pocketed and everything else was put to flame, destroying the last of Clive Brock's time on earth. The clothes would be deposited in a used clothing bin and put to a good use again, instead of destroying them. They started up and followed JT back down the hillside, leaving the remains of their initiation to serious crime, behind. Unknown to them, the coyotes had checked out their departure and were now investigating the smell of fresh meat prepared for them.

The ride to Bakersfield was one of reflection, as they thought on their deed. Justified or not, it was still taking a life and that was hard to get used to in most of their souls. Clay rode along smiling, not a shred of remorse for his part in it. Riding slightly behind Otto at the rear, no one could see he wasn't affected by the sin, instead, revelling in the thrill of it all. JT stopped in Bakersfield again and made the call to Jimmy, telling him it was all taken care of and said they'd talk soon. Jimmy only said thanks and hung up, smiling even wider about the accomplishments. His father would be happy, he would be happy and money would soon be coming in better than ever. He opined to himself out loud.

"I like these biker guys, not such a bad bunch of guys after all."

Jimmy got off the lounge and took his robe off, diving into the pool and cooling off.

Vinnie enjoyed driving the Corvette back to Jimmy's place in Palm Springs, finding a good station and whistled along to the song. His life seemed to be improving and the move up, made him feel better about things, as well. One day, he might be the owner of a nice car like this and thought about Gianni's golden rule, learn to earn. He felt he had learned a valuable lesson today, that orders are given to follow and not disobey, as Clive's now prime example of that, rang in his head.

It only took five minutes and the body had been brought down to the ground by savage teeth, then those same pointed canines went to work tearing into the tender insides, where the rich organs lay. Blood stained mouths feasted on the epicurean delight given to them, feeling the nutrient-rich meal energize their bodies. It wasn't long before greed set in and members of the pack began tearing off pieces of the body for their own enjoyment, dragging them off to places unknown.

JT pulled into the compound and smiled at his brothers, as he held the gate for them. He rode down after locking it again and backed his bike to the railing. He stopped the engine and looked down the row of men looking back at him. His heart was filled with pride, at the honour his brothers had showed in avenging Jake's death, but his heart also felt the pangs of remorse, knowing they had taken that step willingly into becoming complete criminals, forever in fear of being found out for their crime.

He opened the door to the clubhouse and was about to go in, when a horn blew at the gate. He told the guys to go in and walked up to see who it was. He got halfway there and saw it was Wayne Unser and smiled, thinking all was friendly, but no like smile was returned. As JT opened the gate for him, he wondered what had soured Unser's disposition towards him.

"Hey Wayne, what's up, Buddy?"

"I need to talk to you about something and I want a straight answer. When I went down with the cart, I saw a guy coming out of the room and it wasn't you. Want to tell me who it was?"

JT could see Unser knew the truth, but wanted to see if the fragile relationship they had, was worth continuing. Lies would only end it for sure, especially if he was found out, so he pondered the truth and how much he should divulge to him.

"You're right, Wayne. Someone else was in there with us."

"And this person was?"

JT hesitated in telling him, knowing the name would spark off a flurry of more questions.

"Someone Marlene knows. I gotta ask you, Wayne, how much do you guys actually know about this case and who's involved?"

"We're just putting together all the leads from witnesses and whatever evidence we got. Honestly, we don't know shit and that pisses me off, specially knowing you know something and Mar knows something and neither of you two are talking. I want some answers JT and I want the truth. You owe me that much, at least."

JT thought on Wayne's words, weighing out the need to maintain their friendship and thought more on what to say. He also picked up on his use of Mar and knew she had wooed him well, after he left.

"Yeah, you do deserve to know about it, Wayne. I'm just not sure how much I can say about it, without putting myself in danger."

That made Unser think on what JT knew and how serious it could possibly be.

"Well, tell me what you think you can tell me. That's better than the nothing I got now. I'm not liking the sounds of this so far."

"Neither did I Wayne, but I had no choice. It's really fucking complicated and all I wanted to do, was find Jake's killer and have him brought to justice. Marlene does know who the shooter is. She told me and swore me to secrecy, to protect her live. If you run a background on her, you'll see she's married to Clive Brock."

"Yeah, we did and he came up clean, had an alibi that checked out, according to the cops down in Palm Springs."

"I suggest you dig a little deeper into his life and you'll find some interesting connections he has. I can't say who, because of the secrecy thing, but those connections made Marlene a sitting duck to get killed."

"What connections, JT? You talking mob shit here? 'Cause that's what it sounds like to me."

"Hit the nail on the head. Marlene was in fear of her life, not just because she was caught cheating, but also because of what she knows."

"Holy shit, JT. You talking about a mob hit on her and Jake?"

"The first time was Clive, the second attempt at the funeral, we weren't sure about. I talked to the boss myself and he assured me that it was all Clive and nothing to do with them. I asked him how to protect Marlene against any more attempts and he told me what I had to do, because the cops wouldn't even know where to start looking, by the time a bullet found Marlene and finished her off. So, can you see why I had no choice?"

"You saying that you got in bed with the mob about this?"

"Sort of, Wayne. I had to do what they told me, if I had any chance of protecting Marlene. It was either Clive, or Marlene that could live, so we chose Marlene to live."

"Hold on, let me see if I'm getting this right. You talked to the head of a crime syndicate and made a deal with him, to save Marlene. This deal involves you and the guys to do something for them. This something is about killing Clive, am I correct so far?"

"You're correct, it does."

Wayne looked at JT, trying to surmise if he had anything to do with killing someone and remembered the depth of feeling JT had for Jake and realized it wasn't something he could overlook.

"Did you do it, JT?"

"Kill Clive Brock?"

"Yeah."

"Yeah, we did."

Wayne was stunned by the honesty of JT's confession. He looked at him and saw the pride on his face, but deeper in his eyes, was a hurt that was eating at his soul.

"And where is the body?"

"No idea now. I can guarantee you, that where we left him, he isn't there now."

"So, what happens to you now, with these guys?"

"What we always wanted all along. Marlene is safe from harm and no more threat to her life. They said they were in our debt, for taking care of it and they would contact me somehow and let me know what's what. As far as I know, it's all done and everyone goes home happy."

Unser looked at JT, then glanced down at the other bikes and knew the guys who rode them, were inside the clubhouse. He thought of how the townsfolk were taking to the club and accepting them. They admired the honour the club showed to those who had passed and the devotion to protect a person, even putting their own lives at risk. He thought on how the situation was now resolved and put to an end, saving them any more expense in investigating. 

"So, what should I do about all this, JT? I'm a cop, I arrest bad guys. You're a confessed murderer and I'm supposed to what? Let you go?"

"Yeah, Wayne, that's exactly what you do. You have a body? A weapon? Shit, Wayne, you don't even know anything. All you got is my word to go on."

Unser knew that JT was right. Even using his confession as a starting point, he wouldn't be able to make a case that would stick. The cost would put the department in debt and the results would still, more or less, be the same.

"What am I supposed to do then?"

"Become the hero."

"What do you mean, become the hero?"

"What if we work together on this and I feed you everything you need to know to put it together. You say you've been doing this on your own time, so no one suspects anything. You tracked down some leads and they panned out. You say you know who the killer is and put out the call to catch him. Because Brock is from another part of the state, you have no jurisdiction to pursue it, so you pass it off. You leave out anything that points to me, or the club and you come off as the town hero, who solved the big murder in Charming."

"You really want to do that?"

"Sure as shit, I can't be the hero. Might as well be someone who deserves the recognition and in my opinion, that's you." 

Wayne looked at JT in a new light. Who he was before in high school, even after the war, was not who John 'JT' Teller was now. He had to look at a man who had committed a murder and accept that he was going to make him look good for it. The whole idea seemed plausible, one that he knew with a bit of tweaking here and there, could definitely put him in favourable light with the chief. 

"Okay, we'll do it your way, JT. Let's get together and work this all out, so I know how to put it together."

"What are you doing right now?"

"I'm on patrol."

"Join us for a bit in the clubhouse and you can get the whole story from everyone inside."

Wayne couldn't ask for more co-operation, to put an end to a case. What he was still finding hard to accept, was the guys he knew, weren't the guys he knew anymore and wondered now, who they really were. He went back into his cruiser and radioed in that he was busy with the investigation, running down a lead. He pulled through the gate and JT closed it behind him. Wayne looked in his mirror and saw the lock being shut and wondered what he was getting into. 

JT led him into the clubhouse, where a thick layer of pungent smoke hung in the air. The guys turned and saw Unser and immediately panicked. 

"Guys, guys, it's cool. Wayne isn't here to bust us for smoking pot. He's here to solve the worst crime in Charming history and we're going to make him a hero."

The guys sat stunned, wondering just what the two had been talking about all that time.

"I told Wayne about Clive and what we did to him. No, don't get all fucked up about it, just listen."

JT explained everything, the way he had to Wayne and the dawning of the idea took hold and the guys agreed to the plan. An hour passed and Wayne had written two and a half pages of notes, detailing the events as much as possible and leaving out anything that pointed to the club in any way. By the end, Wayne looked at the club, seeing their commitment to him, to make him shine in the department's eyes. No one had put that much effort into his career, or future before, making the outlaw club something he had to admire, despite the contradiction to his badge.

Wayne thanked every member of the club and stood at the door, before leaving.

"Hey, that funky shit you're smoking, as long as it stays in here and not out there, I got no problem with it, just so you know."

"Thanks Wayne, you're alright, man."

"You know JT, of all the people I know and work with, you guys are the nicest of the lot. Every cop I work with, wants to get ahead of the rest and they'll kick your ass to do it. All the ones I call friends, hardly have the time of day for me. I hate to say it, but you guys are still the best friends I ever had."

"That's their loss, Wayne. We know you're an alright guy. That's why we're doing this for you and not them. Maybe one day you make chief and they have to follow your orders and you sit back and chew them out, if they screw up."

"Yeah, wouldn't that be a hoot. Me, chief."

Wayne chuckled and walked out with JT to his cruiser. Before he closed his door, JT stopped him.

"You know, Wayne, stranger shit has happened here. You making chief isn't that hard to believe. Look at us. We were a bunch of nobody losers, before we met Jake and he helped us become who we are now."

"You think Jake would approve of what you did?"

"You know, I wondered about that. Honestly, knowing how honourable and respectful he was about things, he would have done what we did. That's why we did it. To us, we carried out the justice that he deserved, nothing more, nothing less."

"Maybe, JT, but it ain't right to take the law into your own hands. That's what the system is for. That's what my job is for."

"How long before you figured out what we knew?"

Unser was at a loss, knowing his side was still at the starting line and JT had crossed the finish line already.

"If it wasn't for Clive being a bad shot, we'd be attending another funeral. You know someone got past you at the hotel, Marlene could be dead. You can't protect her forever, so it was just a matter of time, before she took a bullet."

"I can't argue with any of that, JT, but it still ain't right."

"Right or not, Wayne, it's done. Marlene is guaranteed her safety, no more assholes shooting people up, no mob people looking to get into things. It was the best solution to all the problems this caused. I told you we had no choice, Wayne, you can see that, right?"

Unser had to think JT's logic over and had to agree, right or wrong, it was the best and only solution to the problem. 

"Sometimes you guys are the best solution, sometimes you're not."

That was all Unser needed, to sum everything up for him. He had to agree to himself, that the outcome was the ideal solution to it all. Now, he had to put the story together and look like a hero. One thing he thought of, as JT closed the gate behind him, you never know who your friends are, until they show themselves.

JT went back in and saw the guys still in disbelief of what he had done.

"Guys, we need to have Wayne on our side. If you hadn't guessed it or not, we're wanted criminals. Only difference is, no one is ever going to be looking for us. We are officially an outlaw club now and no way we can ever go back to just being a bunch of riders, enjoying the pleasures of motorcycle riding. I look at Wayne as our 'Get out of jail free' ticket. I don't think he even realizes it yet, but he's now a part of the murder, by way of association. He knows who did it and isn't telling, making him an accomplice."

The guys understood what that meant, having someone on the force who was favourable to them. Anything coming their way and Wayne would be obliged to let them know, preventing them from getting caught at something. A deeper sense of admiration came over everyone, except Clay, who felt JT would never deserve his admiration. Not for taking away what should have been his and his envy of everything JT was and had. 

The smell of cooking berries filled the kitchen with a glorious aroma. Marietta stirred the pot with a wooden spoon slowly, savouring the tantalizing smell. It seemed so simple a thing to do, to make jams and jellies. Mason jars were washed and ready for the hot, syrupy fluid. When Golden checked the consistency, she said it was ready and to remove it from the heat. They ladled it into the jars and then screwed the lids on tight, once it cooled down enough. The rest was poured into a large container to be used now, prompting many spoons to be dipped in it and tested for flavour. Marietta took her first mouthful and proclaimed it heavenly.

Distant rumbling meant only one thing when the sky was clear, the guys were home. Only Golden and Azure stayed behind, minding the stove and the pots of preserves that still simmered away, as the others went out to greet them. Moon and the others came from the barn and the crew was happy to see happy faces on every one of them. Hugs and kisses were shared, then the desire to share their culinary efforts had them going inside. JT hung back and called Moon to him. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 09



"Can we have a quick talk? I really need to talk to you about something."

"Sure, John. Here, or somewhere less public?"

"I'd like to go to the outcropping again. I'm hoping you can help me focus on the answers in the sky again."

Moon could see JT was hiding behind a mask of smiling ease, but turmoil lay just underneath.

"Let us walk, John."

"Can I come too?"

JT looked down at Suzy, a sense of worry about him written clearly on her face.

"Yeah, sure you can come. Maybe you need to know some of this stuff too."

Moon led the way, while JT took Suzy's hand and followed him through the fields, along the narrow, worn trail to the outcropping. 

The kitchen was instantly crowded with eager mouths wanting to taste the delectable treats. Golden became agitated at not being able to tend to the stirring and called a halt. Everyone froze and looked at her.

"I want everyone out now and form a line and come by one at a time and get a taste."

No one argued and hurried into the dining room and formed a line. Azure used a teaspoon and gave each person a taste of each kind, letting them enjoy each one. Golden smiled mischievously to herself, as she slowly stirred two pots at the same time. 

The three sat on the grassy rocks, looking out on the great valley in front of them. Few clouds were present in the sky, as Moon asked JT what was troubling him. JT held Suzy's hand a little tighter, as he looked to the valley and told them.

"We killed a man today, Moon. Shot him at least a hundred times. We left him for the coyotes to eat and dispose of him."

"You are referring to the man who killed Jake and shot Marlene?"

"Yes."

Suzy couldn't help but gasp in shock at what her man had done. She listened closer, wanting more than anything to know why.

"You are troubled now by what you have done, even though you felt justified in doing it, am I correct?"

"Yeah, It's eating at me inside and I can't get it to stop. I know it was right to avenge Jake's death, every guy felt the same. He had to die, or people would always be in danger, so there wasn't any choice. I killed hundreds of Vietnamese and none of that bothers me, but somehow, this does and I don't know why. I was hoping to have an answer come to me, like before."

"This is not an answer that comes on the wind, John. This is an answer that comes from within. You must accept what is and what can't be undone. You chose freely to do this, now you must make peace within yourself. I can't condone the taking of another's life, but this man was bent upon bringing an end to a life of someone you, and everyone, cares for. I can only offer this from myself. I do not hold your actions against you. I understand, that peaceful negotiation is not a solution to a problem sometimes and harsher methods must prevail. This is one of those times, in my opinion. As much as I could never pull a trigger the way you did, I could be nothing more, than eternally grateful to you, for saving my life."

Suzy pulled his attention to herself, caressing his cheek softly.

"Baby, you did what you knew you had to, we know that. No one is going to think less of you because of it. We all look up to you and Moon, too, for leadership and guidance, as well as keeping us safe. We feel safe with you Baby, all of us do."

"That is true, JT. Every person here feels you are a good leader and can trust you. Your selfless gifts, show a caring side that is weakly felt in others, but they respond and follow your lead. You make the lives of those around you better. No one has ever felt less of a person because of you. You are a good man, JT, no one will deny it. You have to believe that yourself and understand the need for your actions and take comfort that those you swore to protect are safe, like you did as a soldier."

JT equated that to himself, putting things in the same context. He had to think of this as a mission in Vietnam, where he knew it meant killing a man, who was no more than a civilian with a rifle. He found he could accept it that way in his heart, that it wasn't a murder, just a mission he was assigned to perform. JT nodded his head, knowing the answer he was given, was what his soul needed to know.

They began walking back together, JT's arm slung over Moon's shoulders, his hand clasping Suzy's lovingly. The house was alive with shouts and laughter, merriment obviously being enjoyed by them, as the trio entered. They were immediately ushered to the kitchen to sample the delicacies of nature, spoon after spoon fed to them. The friends and good times were infectious and soon made all the prior troubles pass away, no more thoughts of them, nor were they cared about any more.

Wayne sat at his desk, going over the notes he had, trying to put it all into a format that looked like he had done everything. With everything he had, he had to leave out much of it, if it was to look like he had done all the leg work and put the pieces together. There, sitting on the page in front of him, was one line of text, that made it all come together. All he had to do, was figure out a way that he would know that and he could be the hero JT said he would be.

Chico went over to JT and pulled him aside from the others, hoping to get an answer he would be happy hearing.

"JT, I wanted to ask you something. It's not for me, but my Marietta. You know it's her dream to go to Berkeley and study all that number stuff, right? So, I was hoping, that with all that money we made and all the money we'll be making soon, I was hoping we could pay for Marietta to go to Berkeley."

"How much is it, Chico?"

"I don't know, but Marietta does."

"Doesn't matter. Whatever it is, it's worth sending her. You tell her she's going to college on us, okay."

"Seriously? You really mean that?"

"Of course, I wouldn't say it, if I didn't."

"JT, you're the best guy I ever knew, man. I love you, bro'."

"I love you, brother."

Chico hugged JT affectionately and kissed his cheek, embarrassing JT, but making him smile with great happiness. Moon saw the exchange and knew the burden of his prior act, was being outweighed by the results it gave. He watched Chico go to Marietta and walk her outside.

"Marietta, your dreams have come true, Baby. You're going to college, like you want."

Marietta heard the words, but it didn't register right away.

"You're going, Baby. You're going to Berkeley."

"I am? I'm going to Berkeley, really Chico?"

"Yes, Baby, you're really going. I told you dreams come true and I would make that happen."

"Oh Chico. I am so happy. I love you, I love you, I love you."

Marietta hugged Chico and smothered him in kisses, showing her gratitude as much as she knew how. Her excitement continued to grow and grow, the more reality set in. She ran into the house and yelled her announcement to everyone, getting congratulations and praise from everyone. Moon looked at JT and smiled at him. JT must have sensed it and turned to him, seeing the smile and knew there was a feeling of great admiration for him. He smiled back and slightly nodded his head to Moon, acknowledging the accolades. 

Chico came in and was equally congratulated by everyone, for making a loved one's dream come true. They watched Chico basking in the light of his brothers and friends, enjoying the loving thanks of his girlfriend. Marietta knew who had made this possible and came to JT, hugging him with the greatest of love and affection, as she whispered her thanks. She kissed JT's cheek softly and then smiled happily at Suzy and hugged her. Marietta was at the peak of happiness at that moment, lifting everyone's spirits up with her.

Vinnie pulled into Jimmy's driveway and shut the engine off. He sat for a while, admiring the feel of the car one last time, before he got out and went inside. Jimmy was waiting and smiling happily, knowing the thing was done and he could look at moving forward.

"You saw this thing being done?"

"No, but I heard the shots, boss. They unloaded their clips into him."

"Every guy?"

"Must have been. I heard them shooting and didn't stop until they were empty and it was a lot of shots."

"Shit. That's gonna leave a fucking mess."

"It's out in the woods somewhere. No one gonna see him there. I spotted some coyotes hanging around, so, they're probably taking care of the disappearing part."

"No shit?"

"Yeah, looked hungry, too."

"Poor bastard, but he deserved what he got."

"Yeah, guess so."

"You brought the Corvette back?"

"Yeah, Jimmy. Really nice car to drive."

"You like that car, do you?"

"Oh yeah, Jimmy. I was thinking how much I would like one. I remember what your father said and learn to earn. I hope I earn enough to buy one of my own."

"Vinnie, consider it yours. Myself, I don't like the thing, not my style, but if it pleases you, it's yours."

"Really Jimmy? No shitting me?"

"No shitting you, Vinnie. You earned it. You do as you're told and follow orders and you will see the rewards for doing that. This is just an example of that. Please, by all means, enjoy the car, on me."

Vinnie was beside himself with happiness, enjoying the rewards already, for understanding the rules and playing by them. Jimmy whistled happily, as he went to his room to get ready for a night of celebrating. Vinnie went out and sat behind the wheel of the Corvette, getting used to it being his own.

He felt the car all over again, knowing it as his now, relishing the fine leather and wood grain finishes. He started it up, revving the engine and had to go for a drive. He pulled out and drove the car with a new sense of pride, in part for what he drove, in part for his feelings of earning it.

Marlene sat in her hotel room, feeling the relief of knowing she was safe. She had no feelings of sadness, only regret, as she thought of Clive for the last time. From here on in, she was going to start living life again, but this time with a sense of purpose to it. She looked at her bared breasts and held them tenderly in her hands. She ran her finger over the bullet wounds and shivered. She noticed the swelling of her nipples and smiled, knowing the blemishes to her pair of perfect mounds, was minor to their overall appeal. There was still hope for her yet, to use her assets to her best advantage. It all came down to who deserved them the most. The possibilities played in her head, as she absently played with the turgid bud in her fingers.



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 10



Ch.10                   Agus Go Mairfidh Na Man Go Deo            









Wayne Unser never expected too much out of being a cop. When he got out of the service and landed the job, he was just happy to be making steady money. His trucking business with his father, was starting to make some profits and things were moving forward at a slow, but steady pace.

Looking at the sheet of paper on the desk in front of him, he knew this would be a career changing item, once he put it in front of the chief to look at. The one bit of information that put it all together, came to him suddenly in a flash, making him doubt it at first. Once he thought it all through, he laughed at himself for the obviousness of it.

He picked up Clive Brock's sheet, sent by Telex from the DMV. He could see the description matching witness reports and the ownership of a blue 1965 Corvette, made him as sure as he'd ever be, that he had the right guy. He left his desk and knocked on Chief Harvey Grant's door, getting a request to come in.

"Unser, what have you got for me?"

"Well Chief, I have the identity of the shooter in my hand."

"You serious? You know who it was?"

"Almost certain. Everything points to this guy as the one. Look for yourself."

Unser handed his sheet to the chief, after he sat down, watching him look it through carefully and put the sheet down, looking back at Unser. He never said a word and picked up the phone. Unser was inwardly smiling happier than he ever had, as he heard the chief put out a call for Clive Brock's arrest.

"This is great police work, Wayne. How did you figure it out?"

"It was something one of the witnesses said. Lorraine Nelson mentioned right at the start, about the size and build of the guy, as well as his hair colour. The alibi Brock gave, didn't seem to be as air tight as we thought it was, making me think he might be the one. I kept plugging away, on my own time of course and started putting it all together. I showed the Telex we received to a couple of the witnesses, who couldn't say positively it was him, but there was enough, that made me suspicious enough to dig further."

"Excellent work, excellent work. This is what I harp on you guys about all the time. This is how you solve crimes. Well done, Officer Unser. If this is the guy, you've earned yourself a promotion."

"Thanks Chief, just doing my job, is all."

"And a fine job it is. This is what we needed, to put this in the history books and get everyone off our asses about it."

"Glad I could help."

"Great attitude, Wayne. I knew you'd be a good cop, when you joined. Just knew it."

Wayne could see how happy Chief Grant was about him and the information, holding the sheet like an award. Wayne knew it was the chief's ticket to get re-elected again, assuring him of another term and a chance to stay employed. He got out of the chair and went back to his desk, replaying the scene in his head again and marvelling at how it all worked out.

He had to stop and think of JT and how his part made it all happen. His friendship with him had become more of a solid thing to hold, not the amiable recognition from days gone by. He tried to make sense of the change in direction JT had gone and where it might end up. Despite the leanings to criminal activity, there was a goodness about JT, that said he did things for a reason and it always led to helping others. He had a hard time faulting him for his motives, but wondered what part he would have to play, should JT, or the club get into trouble.

JT stirred in bed, awakening slowly. He wasn't aware of what was happening at first, but opening his eyes and feeling the warm, wetness engulfing him, he let it take him to where Suzy wanted him to go. He lay there enjoying the loving interaction, feeling his stiff arousal reaching its zenith. Suzy used all her experience to bring JT awake with pleasure, hearing him gasp and moan, as his body stiffened. JT felt himself become spent, drained completely of his seed.

Suzy came out from under the sheets and smiled at him, as she wiped the corner of her mouth.

"Good morning, Baby, have a nice sleep?"

"Oh yeah, but I liked waking up better. Good morning, Babe."

Despite what she had just done, JT had no problems kissing her.

"You deserved that, you know. I love you, JT. More than anything, You're the best guy I ever met."

"I really love you too. I know it was just supposed to be a bunch of fun when we met, but after everything that's happened, you've stuck by me and always been there for me."

"I always will, JT, always."

"And I'll be there for you too, always."

"I know."

"Yeah? How do you know?"

"Because I'm the only one who can make your toes curl when you cum."

JT laughed and grabbed Suzy, rolling over on top of her.

"You do way more than that, Babe, way more."

JT bent forward and kissed her, getting a desire to make it more. Suzy parted her legs and JT needed nothing else to know, what she wanted most.

Marlene woke up and felt freer than she had in years. The realization of her permanent separation from Clive, plus the knowledge of being taken care of financially, made the day one to embrace and feel joyous about. She got out of bed and put her robe on, heading to the bathroom. She was sitting enjoying the feeling of release, when a knock came to her door. She called out to wait and finished relieving herself and cleaning up. She got to the door, as another knock came. She unlocked the locks and opened it to see Officer Unser standing there.

"Wayne, how nice to see you, come in. Shall I order you some coffee and something to eat as well?"

"Yeah, that would be real nice, Mar."

"Wonderful, let me make that call right now and then you can tell me why you're here so early."

Marlene ushered Wayne to sit on the couch, while she called room service and had breakfast ordered up. She hung up and looked at Wayne, smiling happily at him.

"So, what's up, Doc?"

"Got some good news for you."

"Really? What is it?"

"I think we know who the shooter is. We have an APB out state-wide for him right now. We believe it was your husband, Clive, that did the shooting."

Marlene tried to look surprised by the news.

"Clive did this to me? He murdered Jake?"

"Looks that way? You remember anything now?"

Marlene made out like she was searching her memory for clues, anything she could put together.

"I remember waking up in hospital and thinking about Clive, but I didn't think of him shooting me. Are you sure?"

"Hundred percent sure. Got it from a very reliable source, that it was him."

"Who? Who knew it was him?"

"Your friend, JT."

"What?"

That truly stunned Marlene to hear that. She couldn't imagine why he would divulge anything about what went on. She tried to see if Wayne might be playing her for confirmation, so she played her charade a bit more.

"Yup, came to me and told me everything. From the time you and Jake got shot, to the other day, when he told me he and the guys shot him dead."

"He told you that?"

"Certainly did. You can ask him yourself. I don't blame the guy for doing it either. What's done is done and that's the end of it. Clive is dead, you're safe, no mob people going to be nosing around and everything goes back to normal. JT and the guys can't be arrested, 'cause there's no evidence. All seems to have worked itself out."

Marlene couldn't find words to say, shocked by the truth to stay quiet.

"What he didn't tell me, is who the other people were, that are involved in all this. I got my hunches and they're pretty good ones and I'm hoping you can clear up any doubts about it."

"He told you everything?"

"Except names."

"In that case, I'll give you one name and one name only. It's all you'll need to answer your doubts. Cacuzza."

"Gianni Cacuzza? The mob boss in Vegas?

Marlene just nodded and said no more about it. The door was knocked, signalling the arrival of breakfast and Wayne went and opened it. He took the cart and thanked the bellboy, closing the door and locking it, before wheeling the cart to Marlene. She went about pouring the coffee and sliding a cheese danish on a plate, handing them to Wayne.

"Wayne, don't ask me anymore about this. I really can't say much, secrecy, you know. That secrecy is what's going to keep me from joining Clive. I'm not in that end of things, I just happened to know things that are sensitive to them and I made a promise to keep my mouth shut about them. JT gave you enough to go on, so Clive was fingered, but everyone else, wants to stay unknown."

"Guess that's enough to answer my questions then. So, the other good news that I need to tell you, is that you're free to leave this place and go where you want. With Clive dead, no more need to put you up in this place. To be honest, it's costing the department a fortune and the chief is very happy to stop spending money."

"Yeah, guess I racked up a pretty big tab?"

"Being as it's the biggest thing to happen in this town, no one is questioning the cost too much. People are already hanging around the motel and taking pictures of it. One of the officers had to chase out some guys looking to get some souvenirs. Lot of sick folks out there."

"Sure are, Wayne. So, I guess I better get the girls here to help me pack and start looking for a place to live. Can't see me going to Palm Springs anymore. Any good places for sale here, Wayne?"

"I can bring you the local newspaper and you can check the ads. Couple of real estate places have listings they put out, I can pick those up for you."

"You are a sweet man, Wayne, thank you."

Marlene placed a soft, loving kiss on Wayne's cheek, making him fluster slightly. They went back to eating breakfast and talked about Charming, nothing more said about Cacuzza's and Clive.

It wasn't long, before the farm was a hive of activity. The fall morning held promise of fair weather and warming temperatures. The stack of sheathing was being whittled away, one piece at a time, as they screwed the panels to the floor beams. The outside was clad shortly after and the addition was now looking more complete. Lenny and Star were on the roof shingling it and doing the flashing, while Keith was on power saw duty and made all the necessary cuts to the wood. Despite knowing what it was going to sound like, ears were covered to fend off the irritating noise.

The girls weren't idle, bringing supplies and water to the guys. Little by little, the addition was finished off outside, to the point several of the guys started on the inside, installing wiring and plumbing fixtures. The girls inside, were happy to see three drains sitting side by side, knowing they were where the three tubs were going to be. Three sinks were hung on the new drywall, fitting them to the plumbing and attaching the taps to each. Upstairs on the second floor, more interior walls were going up, eventually cladding the room in drywall. 

The girls called a halt to building, as the sun was getting close to setting and the dinner they prepared was ready to eat. The sound of boots clomping down stairs and ladders, let them know they were on their way to the table. The guys washed up outside and came in to see twelve naked women ready to serve them. The girls escorted their partners to the table and sat them down. Plates were laden with plenty of food and glasses were filled and bottles of beer opened. They were told to enjoy the meal, as the girls stood by and waited to serve them. 

Moon held his glass up to the guys, who followed his lead.

"To the girls, for doing such a magnificent job on the meal and their desire to make it more pleasurable with their beauty."

They cheered and drank, toasting them all, then Keith got their attention to speak.

"Slainte chuig na fir, Agus go mairfidh na man go deo."

They all looked at him strangely, no one having a clue what he said. Keith chuckled at the looks he got then told them what it meant.

"What I said was,' Health to the men. May the women live forever'. It's Celtic."

The girls thought it was a lovely thing to say, while the guys were more interested in how to say it. The table was filled with sounds of mispronunciations, as the meal was eaten and friends enjoyed the company. JT called Suzy over to him and she scooted to his side.

"Aren't you girls eating?"

"We had ours before you, so we could do this for you guys."

"This is awesome, Babe. Great meal and everything."

"Wait till later, Baby."

JT saw the devious look of playfulness and watched her go back to join the others. Once the meal was done, two freshly baked pies were brought out and divided into sections. They had a choice of blueberry and mixed berry pie, served with a choice of coffee, tea, or drink of choice. Not a guy sat at the table afterwards, wanting anything else. Bellies were rubbed and burps came out to relieve the gas, as the girls cleared away the table.

As much as nudity was commonplace, the sight of the twelve girls looking radiantly beautiful, had them turn to look at them. Despite the lack of make up, they were breathtaking in their display. Golden took a couple steps towards the guys and spoke to them.

"Tonight, once you have rested and digested, each of you will be given the gifts of our love. You will be bathed, adored with love and then pleasured."

The guys sat there with the happiest of expressions, hearing what was to come.

"I bet Oswald would get a shitload more houses built, if he threw this service in."

"No shit, Lenny. I never built a house before, but I could certainly get into this way of doing it."

Tom laughed and slapped Lenny's back, getting the other guys anxious to get started. The girls began preparing the bathing area in front of the fire, laying towels down and bringing out a bowl of steaming water. Golden took several small vials of oils and scents and added some to the water. She swirled her fingers through it and looked at Moon, beckoning him to come first. Moon walked over and stood for the four girls, as they undressed him and stood him on the towels. Moon closed his eyes, as the girls took cloths and soaked them in the water, then washed every part of him, from face to feet. 

The guys sat and watched carefully, as he was given a gentle rubdown with oil, knowing that was what awaited them, when their turn came. Once he was adored by that four, they laid him on one of the motel mattresses and the last four girls surrounded him. Golden motioned for JT to come and he walked quickly to them and stood. He smiled happily, as he felt his clothes removed and closed his eyes. As calm as he tried to be, he couldn't help become aroused during his cleansing. It was given a little more attention, but once his feet were done, he was moved to the adoring. There, he received a bit more attention to it, making him moan in ecstasy.

Seeing a sort of assembly line going, the guys didn't feel it would be long before they got to experience it all. Tom knew he was far down the list and rolled a joint, lighting it up and passing it along to those who were left. The pungent smoke battled against the fragrant scents of the water and oils in the room, as twelve men were eventually stripped and bathed, rubbed down and loved upon to total satisfaction. 

They sat around wherever they wanted afterwards, enjoying the euphoric feelings of the pampering. The girls rolled joints and lit them, as well as cigarettes for those who wanted one. Golden stood in the middle of the room and spoke so everyone could hear.

"To our men, we thank you. We know the efforts you are going to, to make this a place for all to be happy. What my grandparents left me, has been transformed into a beautiful place of love and peace and each of you has done so much to make it so. The comforts we have just provided you, pale in comparison to what you are doing for us. None of this would exist, had it not been for the kindness and generosity of every man here to make it happen. So, once again, to our loving men, we thank you, we love you, we always will."

Cheers and applause went up from everybody, hugs and kisses shared liberally. JT wasn't sure if it was done for the house they were building, or to help ease the troubled souls they were harbouring. Whatever the reason, it was welcomed gladly by all. He looked at Moon, comfortable in his presence amongst everyone, in tune with all that was around him. He looked at Spirit beside him and knew she was his guiding force, his constant that he drew his bearings from. He held Suzy a little tighter, feeling she was the same for him. He knew in his heart at that moment, he wanted to be with Suzy, forever at his side, no matter what they did. She was his constant, his someone to feel grounded to, someone he could start to call family. One of his own.

When JT opened the gate to the compound the next morning, there was an envelope wedged into the links. He pulled it out and saw his name on it and held it in his hand, as the guys rode past him to the clubhouse. He opened it, as he sat on his bike, reading the happy news inside. He rode down and parked and held up the letter to the guys.

"Marlene is free to leave the hotel. She got word yesterday that she was no longer under police protection and can go anywhere she likes."

Cheers went up for the news, as JT opened the clubhouse and let the guys in, then continued.

"I'm going to have to go in and see what her plans are. If I miss my guess, she's looking for a place to live now."

Heads nodded, but no one was coming up with anything to take to her. Wally thought back to when he picked up lists at the real estate office in town and said he'd see if they had anything. JT knew to himself, what Marlene was hoping she could do and imagined telling Moon and the others of her wishes. He equated it to putting a fox in a hen house, letting Marlene loose on the commune, like that.

Marlene's situation was put aside, as the guys needed to talk about more pressing matters to them. Now that Clive was a done deal, they needed to focus on the new business arrangements with the Cacuzza's. The request to run money was easily accepted by them and didn't even need a vote to pass. A drop off point before they hit the highway, was one they wanted to choose. The run money from the first trip down, was immediately slotted for Marietta's tuition, making that a priority and making Chico beam with pride at the show of importance. JT stunned them all with his next bit of news.

"Guys, I want you to be the first to know."

"Know what, JT?"

He looked at Otto, then every face, before he spoke.

"I'm going to ask Suzy to marry me."

"No way? Seriously?"

"Yeah, Lenny, seriously. I love her, guys. She's the best thing that's happened to me, other than the club and stuff, I mean. I couldn't find a better chick if I tried."

"So, when you going to ask her?"

"Not sure, Piney. I just came to the conclusion last night and thought I'd let you guys be the first to know."

They looked at JT for a second, then Keith started off the cheering and everyone joined in, patting their president on the back and shaking his hand. As loud as the cheering became, they could hear the horn at the gate, blowing loudly and repeatedly, making them take notice and head outside.

JT walked with Piney and Clay to the gate, to find Wayne Unser there, smiling happily.

"Hey Wayne, what's up, man?"

"Can I come in and talk? I got some news I'd like to share. Some good news for a change."

"Sure Wayne. Always up for more good news. Got your note in the gate just now, so Mar will be happy knowing that. Come on in and tell us what else you got."

JT opened the gate and Unser drove through and down to the clubhouse, parking by the bikes. He stood looking at them, admiring them, as the guys walked back down.

"Love the bikes, guys. Always wanted to try riding one of these things."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 10



"Oh yeah? You into riding, Wayne?"

"Yeah, Clay. Just 'cause I'm a cop, don't mean I don't have fun. I see you guys riding around and it looks like fun. I just don't know if I could handle it, or not."

"I bet you could ride mine. It's a smaller bike and a lot lighter than the others."

"Oh yeah? What kind you got?"

"Triumph, Daytona model. Six hundred and fifty cc's."

"Which one is that?"

"The only one that doesn't look like a real bike. The second one."

Wayne went around and looked at it, seeing the differences from the others. He never saw the sarcastic look he gave JT, for saying it wasn't a real one and needed an American motorcycle.

"Yeah, it does look a lot smaller, still don't know if I could ride it though."

"Why not?"

"'Cause I don't know how to work the things, the clutch and shifting and all that."

"Shit, Wayne, we can teach you that, it's easy. Tell you what, Buddy, if you really want to know how to ride, we'll find you the easiest bike to learn on and you can ride a bigger bike when you know how."

Unser was overwhelmed by the offer, once again, finding the outlaw bikers to be the nicest people he knew.

"You got it. I really want to ride one of these things. Like I said, it really looks like fun."

"Way better than riding a bicycle, but kind of the same. The gear shifting part is easy, once you get it figured out."

"That's the part that bothers me, Piney."

"We'll have you riding in no time, Wayne. So, hey, what's the good news you wanted to tell us?"

"Oh yeah. You know about Mar and that we put the finger on Clive Brock for the hit, but what you don't know, is that, I'm up for a promotion, because of this."

"No way! A promotion? What will you be then?"

"No idea really. Only place up from where I am now, is deputy chief, but I doubt I'm getting that job. Whatever it is, I hope it makes me more money."

"Why's that, Wayne?"

"Awww, it's nothing you guys need to worry yourselves about. Just got some problems at home to take care of now."

"Hey, you're our buddy, Wayne, of course it matters to us. What's up?"

Wayne looked at the concerned faces, knowing they were truly wanting to know.

"It's my dad. Took sick a little while back and he wasn't getting better. Doc says he has something wrong with his kidneys and they ain't working right any more. Says he has to go on this machine and get all his blood pumped through it, to clean it and stuff, 'cause the kidneys ain't doing their job right any more."

"Shit, Wayne, I'm sorry to hear that. He's going to be okay though, right?"

"Yeah, sort of I guess. Doc says there's nothing they can do to fix it, so he has to do this the rest of his life. Costs a fucking fortune too. Whatever I make from being a cop and what the trucking business pulls in, I can just make enough to pay for everything and nothing else. This promotion is going to really be a lifesaver for me."

"Hey, Wayne, you need any help or anything, just let us know. We'll do what we can to help out."

"You guys are really great guys, you know. I hear the talk at the station among the guys, about the club and how they feel about you. They don't know you, like I do. They just know the other clubs that do crime and figure you're just the same as them. I tried talking to them and saying you guys were different, but they don't care. They just want to believe what they think."

"You know we're different and that's all that matters, right?"

"Yeah, guess you're right. So, anyway, that's what I came to tell you guys. Just thought you'd like to know the hero bit is playing out like you said and I owe it all to you guys. Thanks, all of you."

Wayne was congratulated and assured that should they need them, the club was there to help. Unser got back in his cruiser and started it, looking at the bikes one more time.

"I'll let you know when I got enough guts to try out the riding thing, okay. You guys have a good day. Stay out of trouble now, okay?"

"We do our best, Wayne. Sometimes it just finds us."

"Yeah, guess it does. We'll see ya."

"See ya, Wayne. Deputy Chief Unser, I mean."

Wayne laughed at hearing it, but opined on the validity of it happening in reality, as he drove away waving out the window. As they saw him round the corner and disappear, Lenny turned to JT.

"You know JT, I don't even think he's put it together, that he's even part of it, like we are."

"Looks that way, Lenny. Guess we'll have to remind him, when that time comes and we need a favour."

The guys went back into the clubhouse, JT pondering the timing and need to inform Wayne that he was now an accomplice to their crime, by way of association and not divulging the knowledge of the kill. What did make him want to concentrate on Wayne, was the need to solidify their relationship to one of dependance. The more they could do for Wayne, the more obliged he would be to do things for them, using his pull in the station to smooth out any wrinkles life kept making for them.

"Guys, I want to do something for Wayne's dad. I want to see if we can raise some money for him, so the treatments don't bankrupt the poor guy. We have him in our pocket and can use him to take care of things, but this is something else. I see the way the people of this town look at us now, you guys seen it too. We have a chance to get them on our side more, if we look like really good guys doing something to help out a member of the community. We can get Wayne on board with it and make sure people know what it's for, so they'll be more likely to help out and put some money in the pot."

"Shit, JT, you're always working an angle, ain't you?"

"Always, Tom. One thing I'm finding about leading you guys, is that the shit lands on my shoulders to make things right. I respect every guys opinion, when it comes to voting on shit, but most of the time, I have to come up with the solutions to vote on and it isn't easy sometimes. I'm looking at this as a way to have people like us and not want to kick us out of town. If they think we're as nice as them and do good things for everyone, we look like people worth having around."

Voices sang out their understanding of where JT was going with it, seeing the need to look presentable, while conducting the illegal trade unbeknown to them, under their noses. JT was once again looked upon with admiration by his brothers, having praise heaped on him and adulation awarded to him. Clay smiled like the rest, but his mind seethed with the envy once more, seeing the magnitude of JT's leadership and his own shortcomings to ever think like him.

Once the discussion was over, JT said he had to see Marlene and figure out where she wanted to go. Wally reminded him of the real estate office and JT thanked him and said he'd stop and get a list of properties. He hugged his brothers and headed outside to his bike, while the others rolled joints and talked about their leader, sharing their feelings about him. Clay felt that was the last thing he needed to hear, or do and went to the office, pretending he had to look for something, his anger showing on his face, the moment the door closed behind him.

JT parked at the Holiday Inn and went up to Marlene's room. It felt odd not to see Wayne, or another officer stationed out front, then remembered there was no more need for protection. JT rapped the door with his knuckles and walked in, never expecting what met his eyes. He stood looking directly into the bedroom area and saw Marlene standing there naked, listening to the radio, as she applied lotion to her body. He closed the door quietly and watched her every move, as her hands glided over her smooth skin, touching areas JT wished he could touch. 

Marlene turned to the door, sensing a presence watching her. She saw JT spellbound by her nudity and decided to play the moment. With the grace of a female tiger, she walked towards JT, her eyes fixed on his, as she approached. She stood right up to him, letting her body just touch his. JT looked in her eyes, her lust for him insatiable in desire. His own desires that he did his best to keep under control, were beginning to show and Marlene could see it. Her hands slid up his chest softly and went around his neck. Using a subtle pull towards her, her mouth found his and he was instantly lost in her seduction. His hands found her body and went to work exploring what he had only imagined she would feel like.

Jake's words about older women kept playing in his head, as he felt Marlene undressing him. He put aside any feelings for Suzy in his heart and mind, as raw lust and desire swept through him, helping her bare his body to her. Marlene slowly sank to her knees in front of him, undoing his pants and lowering them down his legs. He felt the cool air of the room wash over his manhood and then the warmth returned, by way of warm hands and an even warmer mouth. Despite the pleas of objection from his conscience not to do it, his fingers made their way into the rich, auburn tresses and held her to him.

Clay looked around the shop, unhappy and dissatisfied with how everything turned out. To him, this garage should have been his alone to have. He'd put in years of working with Jake, whereas JT had only been there for months. Nothing would convince him he was treated fairly in it all, nothing.

JT lay in bed, looking up at the ceiling, as Marlene snuggled into him and caressed his body softly. She lay her leg over his and he could feel the heated core of her sex against his skin. Images of her from just moments before, played against images of Suzy and how he just proclaimed his love for her. Inviting Marlene to the commune to meet everyone, was becoming something he worried about. He tried to figure how everything would play out if it happened and who would be with who at the end.

The charred stump would keep the secrets it held, never divulging what it knew, until a keen eye might notice the pock marked surface and investigate. Nothing but some dried blood remained in the spot where Clive Brock used to be. Sitting several hundred yards away, deep inside the burrowed home of a family of gophers, little was left of Clive Brock's head, as the young pups nourished themselves on the nutritious bits inside, mom and dad helping themselves, as well. Nature thanked Clive for his kind contribution to the Circle of Life, as numerous species of animals and insects continued living, as a result of him.

Vinnie pulled into Louie's driveway, stopping behind the older Buick Le Sabre. He blew the horn and waited to see Louie's face when he came out. He got out and stood beside it, as Louie came out and was shocked to see his former boss' car being driven by Vinnie.

"How do you like my new car? It's a gift from Jimmy, for doing a good job and not fucking things up."

"Jimmy just gave it to you?"

"Yes, but I earned it. Like Gianni always says to us, 'Learn to earn', so I did and this is what I got because I did."

"No shit? Fucking eh, paisan. You fucking lucky goombah. Does one thing for Jimmy and he hands you a car. A fucking Corvette, no less. Must be really happy Clive went on vacation."

"Sure is. Went out to celebrate last night, I come by this morning to check up on him, fucking clothes everywhere. I counted four different dresses, before I got upstairs. I open the bedroom door and there's at least eight broads in bed with him. Fucking naked, every one of them. Fucking, sweetest tits on some of them too. I closed the door and left them to do what they do and came here to show you my car."

"And you don't call me about this thing? I get left out of this, why?"

"Eh? What the fuck? Who you talking to? You do remember the change in rank not too long ago? I'm a fucking boss now, not a fucking paisan, like you. Show some fucking respect, Louie, or you'll be doing shit work to make money."

Louie looked at Vinnie and knew he had stepped over the line. Despite their equal standing before, none of that mattered, once you moved up. The friendship had new rules and new boundaries and they had to be adhered to, or face the consequences.

"Sorry, Vinnie. I need to remember we're different now. No disrespect, my apologies."

Vinnie saw him humbled and put in his place, then reached to him and pulled him into a hug.

"Eh, we're still friends, Louie, just I got more say so than you. One day, it'll be you doing a thing and getting moved up, like me."

"Yeah, maybe, Vinnie."

"Learn to earn, right?"

"Yeah, learn to earn, Vinnie."

Vinnie held Louie by the face and kissed both cheeks, then put his arm over his shoulder and turned him to the Corvette.

"Want to take her for a spin and see what she's like?"

Louie looked at the car and then to Vinnie, his attitude perking up instantly at the chance.

"Sure, Vinnie, thanks."

Louie got behind the wheel, while Vinnie sat in the passenger seat, getting a sense of what Clive saw for the last time. Louie started it up and shifted into reverse and backed out. He moved it into first and revved the engine and popped the clutch, screeching the tires for twenty feet, or more, then shifted into second. The smiles were big, as Louie went for a joy ride in performance heaven.

Jimmy woke up and opened his eyes, sensing bodies beside him. He sat up and saw all the women on his bed and thought back to last night. He climbed over them and went to the bathroom, relieving himself happily, finding a song to whistle, as he looked at the bed and decided today was a day to enjoy his way and he had all he needed to enjoy it, just feet away. He flushed and checked his hair and smoothed it out, before crawling back on the bed and kissing all the girls.

Louie was enjoying the feel of the Corvette and the horsepower under the hood. They were taking a secondary road, nicely paved and seldom driven on, Louie going around the bends a bit faster, seeing how well it would handle. Louie couldn't believe he was doing over sixty, yet it tracked smoothly and effortlessly. He pushed it to seventy and Vinnie got a bit nervous, watching the scenery rush by in a blur. The last thing either of them expected to see, was a tractor pulling a flat wagon, loaded with fruit. Despite the high performance braking system, nothing could stop the front end of the Corvette from sliding under the back of the wagon, the axle shaft finally stopping the car.

The farmer slowly got up off the ground, feeling the pain of the fall and looked at the rear of his wagon, now sitting several feet higher. He walked back to look and saw the Corvette, then noticed the back of the wagon, was well past the passenger compartment. The smell of gas was present in the air, that made the farmer move further away as fast as he could. He made it ten feet back, when a wire shorting out, ignited the fumes and the car burst into flames, the heat singing his hair. The blast wave knocked him over, as the entire car was engulfed in flames. He rushed to his tractor and started it up, doing his best to get his wagon off the burning car. After several attempts, the wagon scraped violently off the top of the car, flames starting to catch the wood bed on fire. 

He got far enough away and stopped again, rushing back to put the flames out on his wagon. When they were out, he turned to the car, seeing two headless bodies sitting in the seats, completely engulfed in flames. The gas tank exploded, making the farmer crouch on the ground in fear to protect himself. The flames roared with more intensity, now fuelled with an abundant gas supply. He started to rise, feeling it was safe, when a charred head hit the ground just feet away and bounced on the road. He signed the cross over himself repeatedly, muttering religious oaths in defence of what he saw. Once he found the strength in his legs, he began to run and all he wanted, was to be as far away from the horror as possible. 

As Jimmy started on the third woman of the day, he was disturbed by the constant ringing of the phone and screamed out for Vinnie to answer it. After yelling three times, he got off the bed and picked up the phone, letting the caller know how pissed he was at the disturbance to his good time.

"Yes, what is it?"

"Jimmy Cacuzza?"

"Yeah, who's this?"

"This is Officer Jacobson of the Palm Springs Police Department. Do you know a Vincent D'Angelo and a Clive Brock?"

"Yeah, I know them, so what?"

"I'm sorry to inform you, Mr. Cacuzza, but there's been an accident and both of the gentlemen were killed."

"What? What you talking about, dead?"

"I'm sorry sir. The accident was rather horrific in nature and we're not really sure of one of the people, but we found identification on one, saying he was Mr. D'Angelo. We ran the plates and the car is registered to a Clive Brock. We are assuming that is who the other person is. Without a means of identifying him, we can't be sure."

"What do you mean you can't identify him, why not?"

"Sir, as I said, it was a rather horrific crash. Both people in the Corvette were decapitated and then the car burst into flames, burning both bodies beyond recognition."

"Holy mother of God, are you serious?"

"I'm afraid so, Mr. Cacuzza. There was no way to put out the fire and by the time the fire department arrived, the flames were pretty well out already. Do you know if Clive Brock and Vincent D'Angelo were driving the car today?"

Jimmy thought about what had been said. Despite the tragedy of the moment, a situation arose, where a finishing end to Clive could be made officially.

"I think they were. I know Vinnie loved the car and Clive always said he'd let him take it for a spin sometimes. You telling me the one time he lets him take it for a drive, he wrecks the car and dies?"

"As terrible as it sounds, that might be just what happened. If we can't truly identify the body in question, we'll have to assume it's Mr. Brock that's our John Doe, unless you can think of who else might be in the car."

"I can't think of anyone else. I know they were together yesterday and Vinnie was bugging him about driving it, so it has to be them."

"Well, thank you for your co-operation, Mr. Cacuzza. We'll be in touch if we find out anything else."

"Yes, please let me know."

Jimmy hung up the phone, looking off into space, as he thought of the end results this would bring. He turned and saw the faces on all the women, looking at him in dread of the terrible news. He shrugged and laughed it off to them.

"It's okay, nothing's wrong. It was a guy I know playing a joke on me. Wait till I get my turn back at him."

The girls believed him and laughed along, ignoring the prior call and what they thought it was about. Jimmy began hugging and kissing them, getting them back in the mood for more fun. He wasn't going to let careless stupidity ruin a day of fun for him. In his mind, there was no great loss to him, nothing that wasn't easily replaceable. Guys like Vinnie and Louie were plentiful, all waiting to climb up the ladder and earn large. His problems were solved, nothing tied anything to anyone and everyone moved forward peacefully.

JT felt Marlene's finger tracing a haphazard pattern over his chest and stomach, as he pondered his situation. He had done something he was told he should do to learn about life and did it with the woman he said would be the best to learn from. He trusted the man's opinion highly, that it was okay to do that and he did. He lay there now, thinking of how right everything was supposed to be, but nothing did. All the fantasies he had about her, should have remained fantasies, now that he had experienced what he had desired so greatly. Marlene was just as incredible in her talents, as he imagined, but the only real emotions involved in it, were lust and desire. He lay there thinking of what Suzy had told him earlier and wiggled his toes, knowing they hadn't curled tight, because of the talents lack of love.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 10



Without saying anything, JT got up and went to the bathroom, closing the door behind him. He looked in the mirror at his own face looking back, seeing the disappointment his conscience was feeling. For all the power he felt he had, none of it mattered, when he realized how little of it he used in making the right decisions. He urinated and flushed and then washed himself clean, removing any sexual traces of Marlene on his body. He looked at himself again and didn't feel cleaner in the least and knew it was his soul that was dirty and knew it would be a monumental task to remove the stain his actions just caused.

Suzy lay on the bed talking to Azure and Golden on either side of her. She was telling them how much she loved JT and how sure she was that they would get serious soon and maybe marry. Azure looked away from her finger, as it languidly traced spiral circles around Suzy's breast.

"You think JT is that serious about it?"

"Yeah. We talked the other night and again in the morning and he said I was the best thing that ever happened to him."

"He put you ahead of the club and his bike?"

"Well, not ahead, but the same as them."

"That does sound serious. You guys would make a great couple, you know. I really think that, don't you, Golden?"

"I think so too. JT shows his love the most, whenever it's about you, at least how I seen it. I see the love in him and I know it's because of you Suzy, so yeah, maybe you will become a couple."

Suzy smiled happily, having her friends feel the same as she was, making her believe her fantasies weren't far fetched ideas of fancy. Golden softly brushed away several loose strands of hair away from Suzy's face and leaned in and kissed her. There was a great deal of affection and loving in it, but it wasn't about arousing passions, or satisfying lusts, it was just a loving expression between them.

The wreckage of the Corvette was loaded onto a flatbed truck, the electric winch pulling the chassis over the pavement, making horrendous scraping noises that had ears covered to fend off the screeching. The tilt bed lowered, raising the car to a level position and then the scraping continued, until it was fully on the bed. On-lookers from around the area watched the scene, as officers tried to put the event together for the reports. The driver of the tractor returned after the car and bodies were gone and explained the accident and why he ran away. Even the officers were shaken by the thought of witnessing what Juan Fernandez Castillo must have experienced, seeing everything and having a head drop beside him from the sky.

The sun was almost set, leaving an orange streak of light stretched across the horizon, as the scene was cleared and everything was put back to operating condition. No matter how much the accident was put behind them, or locked away to forget, the melted pavement and blackened outline would always bring it back, anytime anyone passed over it.

JT got dressed in silence, as Marlene watched him. He did his best to avoid talking and finding himself unable to tell Marlene what he was feeling. He didn't want to hurt her in any way, knowing she never deserved it, but he wasn't able to be there with her and feel comfortable anymore. He was walking to the door, when Marlene finally called to him.

"JT."

He stopped and turned his head to her, giving her one chance to say something.

"I know you're not feeling very happy about what we did, but, before you go, want to at least tell me why you came."

JT's heart softened, knowing he was being as hard hearted as he could be. He turned and sat in the chair and looked at her forlornly. 

"I came to see if you had any idea on where you want to live, but I think I already know that answer."

"I would like to at least go and see the place. I do have to thank all of them for all their sympathy and everything they did. At least let me enjoy doing that much, okay?"

"Mar, I, you can't... they're not... I don't know."

"If they like me, why can't I stay?"

JT knew he couldn't put her off the idea of going to the farm and like it or not, it was going to happen.

"You have to promise me, Mar."

"What's that JT?"

"You don't say anything to anyone about us and what we did, especially Suzy."

"I promise."

"And you have to abide by the rules."

"I will."

JT looked at Marlene, his doubts and fears of what might happen, playing in his head.

"I'll go and ask them now if it's okay to bring you out."

"Thank you, JT. That really makes me happy."

"I'm glad you are, because I'm not."

"Why, JT?" Why aren't you happy?"

"Because, like I said before, I really love Suzy and I want to marry her."

"Marry? Love her that much, do you?"

"All my heart, Mar."

"She's a lucky girl, JT. A very lucky girl."

"No, I'm a very lucky guy, Mar. I feel like I don't deserve her now, the way you felt about Jake."

Marlene could see where JT's head and heart were at. She began to understand what it was she wanted to have with Jake and now began to realize she never really knew what love was. She looked at JT with a growing regret of satisfying her sexual needs, at the expense of JT's feelings of love. 

"I'm so sorry, JT. I shouldn't have tried to take advantage of you, like I did. I know you're in love with Suzy and it was wrong of me to try and get between you. Please forgive me, JT."

JT could see that Marlene was understanding what he wanted in his life. Despite her nude body showing through the sheer peignoir, JT offered a hug to her and she gladly accepted the invitation to show her sorrow and regret. He hugged her with love and Marlene knew what it was she was feeling from him. After a few minutes, Marlene pushed away slightly and looked up into JT's eyes. They shared a look between them and Marlene knew that he still loved her, but there wasn't a speck of lust, or desire in his eyes. 

"I'll let the girls know you need their help and have Suzy drive your car over. I guess you're okay to drive it again."

Marlene thought about it and smiled.

"That's right, I can. I miss my Rosa-Lee."

"Why did you call her Rosa-Lee?"

"That was the name of the maid we had, when I got her."

"Why would you name your car after the maid?"

"Because she was the first person I ever made out with in it and she was the first woman I ever fooled around with."

"The maid?"

"Yes, she was a beauty, JT, even prettier than Marietta. We made out like rabbits, every chance we got. It wasn't until Clive caught us, that he sent her away somewhere and I have no idea where, either. He was hoping he'd have her as a play thing, but she hated him and somehow we ended up together. I'm not even sure how it happened, but after it did, we could hardly keep our hands off each other."

"Shit, you really get yourself into some situations."

"Yes, I do seem to do that, don't I? What can I say? My pussy rules my head sometimes."

"Yeah, I noticed that. You're going to have to keep it under control when you're out at the farm. I know I said we have free love happening, but it's not like you think. It's not just running around and fucking everybody silly all day. It's all based on respect and trust and most importantly, love. All of us have been initiated into it and we all understand what it's based on. You go in there and think you can just get naked and have sex with everyone, it's going to be one big disappointment after another. You could ruin what they have doing that."

Marlene thought on her sexuality and her insatiable lust for sexual pleasure. She realized that was all she really knew. Love wasn't something she was shown in any depth of meaning. Love always seemed to equate to sex for her. Since she was a teenager, guys wanted nothing more than to sample her body and all the things she was willing to try. The popularity she had, was based on shallow feelings for her, nothing more. Sex was all she knew and how to use it to her advantage.

"I want to learn what you know, JT. I want to know what love really feels like with someone. I know I loved Jake, I do, but what I was feeling, I really didn't know. No one but Jake has ever loved me before, JT. I know you and the girls do, but I've never shown that back to you, because I don't know how."

"What do you mean, you don't know how?"

"I don't know how to love someone, JT. I've never done it before and no one explained what it is to me."

"I'll have the girls come and get you, Mar. I'll let the others know as well and we'll try and set you up somehow, at least for a little while. If they decide you can stay, then that's cool with me, but no more you and me stuff, not unless Suzy agrees."

"Deal, JT."

"Okay, you better get washed up and dressed and try not to look like you're ready to fuck the first thing that moves."

"What do you mean?"

"Like you were dressed the other day, when we went to Jake's place."

"What was wrong with that? That was a lovely outfit I had on."

"Shit Mar, it was so tight, it looked like paint, not clothes. We figured a bra was probably hurting you and that's why you didn't wear one, but we could see your tits and nipples, just like I can see them now. Those white pants, they were so...fitting, I guess you could call it, that I could see your pussy plain as day, when you bent over."

"Really? I didn't realize that. How did it look?"

"Mar."

JT's look of warning not to go there, stopped her from teasing and she smiled instead.

"Okay, I'll dress less sexy and more whatever, then."

"Whatever is good, just so long as no one sees what you look like, before you undress."

"That's going to be a challenge. I'll have to go through what I have and see if I actually bought anything like that."

JT ran her wardrobe through his head, of all that she'd worn so far and nothing came close to sedate.

"Good luck, Mar. I'll see you out at the farm later, once I get back with the guys. You just learn to behave and if you want to do anything, learn about love. You'll be surprised what you don't know about it. Like I said, the girls will straighten you out."

"Thank you, JT, for being a truly loving friend to me. Despite all the trouble I've caused, you still hang in there and help me and I truly appreciate that. I really do, thank you."

Mar's hand on his cheek, was soft and caressing, but it held another purpose and he could tell it was the beginnings of love, as friends, not lovers. He pulled her to him and hugged her close, caressing her deep, red tresses down her back.

"I love you, Mar."

"I love you, JT. I'm beginning to know what that means."

"Won't be long and you'll know it as well as everyone else. Not hard to understand, just hard to accept and make the changes in your life for it to be there."

"I'll accept it with an open heart, JT."

"I know, Mar. I know you want happiness more than anything else and these people will help you find it."

"I can't wait, JT. I get to start my life over and now I have a chance to do it right and not make all the mistakes I did before."

"Exactly. See you soon, Mar."

"Okay, JT. Ride safely."

"Always."

JT gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and left the room, leaving Marlene by herself again. She walked back in to the bedroom and slipped the peignoir down her arms, exposing herself to the mirror and looked at herself anew, as to who she was inside. No matter how hard she tried to get past the well endowed breasts, the still tight cheeks of her ass and the lush core of her sex between her legs, there was nothing else to see. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes, as the realization took hold, that she was no more than the sum of her parts and nothing else. The emptiness she felt inside, was due to nothing being there. No heart, no spirit, no soul. She wrapped her arms around her body and sat on the bed, tears beginning to flow from her eyes, as she began to take stock of who she was and didn't like who she met.

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Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 11



Ch.11             All Together Now





The old Harley came off the back of the pick up slowly, as the guys eased it down. The flat tires made it near impossible to move properly, as four of them pushed it into the bay and set it on the stand.

"Well, there it is Wally. How do you like her?"

Wally walked around the old bike, checking out the need for a great amount of work to be done. Despite the numerous hours it would take to tear down and recondition it, he was smiling, imagining it finished and riding with the others. While he ran his hands over the '40 Knucklehead, the others were unloading something far less impressive, but equally as desirable. It only took two of them to get it off the pick up and wheel it into the bay beside the Harley.

The difference in appearance was like night and day between the old Harley and the Honda 250.

"Damn, is this thing ever tiny, compared to our bikes. It's like a fucking bicycle with a motor."

"Yeah Lenny, not much to it, is there? But you know, it's all we need to get Wayne riding and move him up to a bigger bike."

"Yeah, guess you're right. I could have rode this when I was nine."

Wally was sitting on his bike, getting a feel for it, going through the controls and sizing up the weight of it. Piney had his toolbox open and started undoing screws, taking off parts and putting them in a pile. Several others, including Wally, went and got tools and did the same.

JT removed the spark plugs and cleaned them up, then re-gapped them, before screwing them back in. He checked the oil and saw how black it was.

"I really wish people would remember that the oil needs changing more than once."

He showed the guys the tarry blackness on the dipstick and saw like reactions to it. He brought the pan over and drained it, disappointed in what he saw. While it drained, he went in and ordered a new oil filter and a couple of other parts, to bring the Honda back to a riding condition. He put the plugs back in and filled it with oil, checking the level and then put a gallon of fresh gas in the tank.

Everyone watched, as JT primed the kick start and hardly used any effort to kick it. The engine coughed and sputtered, sending cheers up it would run. He kicked it again and it almost started. JT got off and used a screwdriver to tweak the carburetor screws and adjusted the settings. He tossed the screwdriver to Otto and kicked the starter once more, bringing the small engine racing to life. JT gave the throttle several twists and cleared out the accumulated carbon, sending some black smoke out the exhaust pipe. The guys complained about it, making JT laugh, as he backed it out of the bay. He started riding it slowly, checking how everything worked and found the controls confusing, being different than his bike.

"Shit, man, the controls are different on this thing. It's four up on this, instead of four down."

JT kept riding, testing the brakes and clutch, as well as the shocks, then let it go down the lane as fast as he could, braking hard at the end. He turned it around and revved it up, popping the clutch and doing a wheelie for thirty feet and let it back down again. The guys started hooting and hollering and no sooner was JT off of it and they were all wanting to try it out. One by one, they rode the little Honda and had more fun than they imagined. Chico was the one who impressed them and rode down the lane doing a wheelie and turned around and went back up, before letting it down and coming back, stopping with a fishtail skid. 

"Fuck, Chico, how the hell did you learn to ride like that?"

"It's easy man. Just have to know how to balance a bike right, you know? I just get the front end up, make sure it's up high enough, use the gas to steady it out and keep my balance. Easy, man."

Lenny got on and started it up riding down to the gate and turned around. He revved it up and popped the clutch like Chico had done, but didn't back off fast enough and ended up on his back, with the bike laying on its side, still running. He got up and kicked the bike and picked it up. He rode back and got off, looking at his skinned elbow and back.

"Oh, nice road rash, Lenny. That's gonna sting. Want a little iodine to keep it clean?"

"Fuck you, Otto. If you're so good, you show us how to do it."

Lenny held his elbow and watched, as Otto got on and rode down to the end and turned around. He revved it up and popped the clutch, doing a wheelie and feathered the gas like Chico had said and brought the bike down the lane and dropped it down and stopped.

"Fucking breeze, Lenny. You're just a shitty rider, let's face it."

Lenny went after Otto, who ran around the compound with Lenny trying to run after him, but his scrapes hurt too much to catch him. Lenny heard the laughter from everyone and knew he had no sway for his failure.

"Fuck it. Who needs to do the stupid things anyway. That don't make you a better rider, not dropping your bike, or hitting anything does."

"I'll agree with you on that, Lenny."

"Thanks, JT."

"You still suck at doing wheelies though."

Lenny was going to say something back, but smiled and laughed it off, as he held his elbow and back.

"Yeah, I suck, so what?"

JT got on the little bike and took off doing a wheelie and rode it almost to the gate and stopped. He popped another one and kept it up all the way back, smiling happily. He stopped and shut it off and put it on the stand.

"I think Wayne is going to enjoy learning how to ride on this thing. If he can't ride that, there's no hope for him and he should just stick to bicycles and cages."

"No kidding, that thing is a cinch to ride, JT."

"When you going to tell him?"

"I was thinking of making more of a party out of it."

"What do you mean, a party?"

"Something like this, Piney. Say we have a bit of a bash, have the gang all here, some beer, Wayne doesn't mind the dope and we have a barbeque. Get the music playing and let Wayne have a fun day with us. He'll get to see we're just a fun bunch of guys, do things like everyone else and puts him on our side more. We teach him and everyone else how to ride and everyone sees why we like riding so much."

The looks of astonishment on their faces, let JT know they hadn't come anywhere near thinking along those lines. He caught the look on Clay's face, seeing the anger looming just under the surface. He wondered why he was feeling that way and then saw Clay look at him and knew it was about him, that he was feeling that way. He thought of why and all he came up with is envy and jealousy. He couldn't see why he would feel like that, not after all he had received and his future taken care of. He had a little laugh to himself, that it might be his lack of confidence in doing a wheelie.

"Now that, sounds like a good reason to have a party."

"Sure does, Keith, although I could party every day."

"Tom, if you wake up, it's a good reason to party."

"Yeah, sounds about right, Otto."

Laughter rang out, but JT wondered if maybe he did party too much. 

"Okay, you guys finish taking Wally's bike apart and get it cleaned up and ready to put back together. Make a list of what it needs and order the parts from East Bay. Maybe by tomorrow sometime, Wally gets to take his first ride and his first ride with the club. I have to go get Mar and Moon said it was okay to bring her out there. Remember what I said, don't encourage her to be all sexual and let the girls get her head straightened out first."

"Shit, JT. I'm ready to drop my drawers in a second if she asks me."

"Lenny, you're a fucking slut, dude. You'll fuck anything that even smiles at you."

"Hey, if she's got a nice wet pussy for me, what, I'm supposed to say no?"

"Well, not unless Lorraine has just as much chance to do the same."

"Shit, man, you know how to spoil a good thing, don't you?"

"Fair's, fair."

"Fair sucks."

"So does Lorraine and she's fucking awesome, man."

Lenny looked at Clay and then had to remember commune rules, calming down his rage quickly.

"Yeah, don't abuse the privilege."

"Sure, Lenny. As long as she says yes. I can cum down throat as much as I like."

Lenny didn't care about rules, the club, or his brothers and went at Clay, grabbing his hair and laying punch after punch into his face. Clay was unable to fend off the barrage, as his face was split open by the boney knuckles pounding him. The guys stopped his punches and pulled him off Clay, preventing him from anymore punishment. Clay went down, holding his face, as the blood dripped from open wounds.

"You fucking say anything like that again, brother, or not, I'll bust your fucking head and no one going to stop me the next time."

Lenny's fury was in full rage, the guys straining to hold him back. JT stood and looked at both of them, seeing moments of Clay that might have caused the furor between him and Jake. Disrespecting women was one thing, but disrespecting someone's woman was far worse. He wondered if Clay had said something about Marlene and ironically, it was Marlene who came to Clay's rescue. Sides of Clay kept popping out at odd times and some of the things were a little disturbing at times. He thought back to the time they got their guns and went practise shooting. No one had any problem with shooting signs and inanimate objects, but Clay took great delight in shooting as many birds in a flock as he could, before they were out of distance. He said it was good practise in hitting a fast moving target. If he could hit a bird, a guy would be easy as pie. 

JT grabbed Lenny and walked him to the clubhouse with authority in his hold of him and the calm in his voice.

"Let it go, brother, let it go. I didn't like what he said either. I'll have a talk with him, once his head stops ringing and let him know that kind of disrespect will not be tolerated, if he wants to get patched in after his tour."

"He better remember it has to be unanimous, or he doesn't get in. No fucking way am I riding with a fucking asshole in the club. I'll kick the fucker off his piece of Brit shit when we're on the highway and go back and run him over myself a couple of times. No one talks about Lorraine like that. You'd kick his ass too, if it was Suzy he said that about and you know it."

JT went into the clubhouse and let Lenny go, leading him to the couch beside his favourite chair. JT reached behind him to the fridge and took out two beers and handed one to Lenny.

"Roll a joint and have a beer. Just chill out, man and stay cool."

"Yeah, fuck him, I don't need that shit. Straighten his ass out, JT, or I will."

"I'll talk to him, Lenny, I promise. Now, don't you roll one of those elbow macaroni things again, or I'll make you do it again. I showed you how to make it even, so just take your time and smooth it out so it's all level. Yeah, that's it. Now, tuck it in and start rolling it up. Not so hard, think of it as a really long nipple you're rolling."

Lenny chuckled at that and the tension flew out the window, as Lenny rolled the joint up and licked it. He held it up to JT for his approval. JT took it and looked at it.

"Much better, buddy., much better. Just gotta ease up on how tightly you roll it and just let it catch and let the action do its thing."

"We smoking, or yapping?"

"Smoking."

"Light it up already. All I give a shit about, is if it lights, smokes down to the roach and it doesn't run down the side or shit."

"Ah, but it's all in the patience of the moment, as you savour the delights of your efforts."

"Fuck, they need to give you one of those stupid names, like they have."

JT inhaled the smoke and let it out, then did it again and passed it to Lenny.

"What's so stupid about their names? I think they're cool."

Lenny sneezed his toke out, trying not to laugh at JT. Once he got himself under control, he tried again.

"Cool? Fucking Moon Child, Star Rider, Phoenix are cool? And what? Phoenix doesn't get a last name, or first name or something? Just Phoenix?"

"Yeah, it's like Cher. She doesn't have a last name."

"Sure she does. It's fucking Cher Bono. She's married to Sonny right, so she has his last name."

"No, Cher is her stage name. Whatever her real name is, that's got Bono after it, not her acting name. She's just Cher, period."

"So, those are still stupid names they have. And the girls, Poppy? Flower, Spirit, Golden and now they call Annie, Azure. Come on, dude, that's fucked up."

"Can't be saying that man, honestly, think about it. The only reason you're Lenny, Leonard, whatever, is because your mom and dad decided that name. What if you got to chose your name instead, what would you call yourself?"

"Zeus, man. Fucking God of Olympus and chuck lightning bolts at your ass."

"See, that's a name you feel suits who you feel you are. Nothing wrong with that, right? So, they chose somewhat more peaceful and loving names, man, see where I'm getting at?"

"Yeah, guess you're right. You know, as smart as I'm supposed to be, you still have a way of teaching me shit."

"Just life shit, Lenny. School shit is one thing, life shit is another. I don't ever remember Mrs. Clayborne teaching us anything about what we've been through lately. Comes as a complete shock to my ass, you know? Like, did I miss this class, or something?"

"Shit, I remember her. She was a pretty decent teacher. Didn't get all bent out of shape because you weren't sitting up straight and just let you relax and learn. I actually think she helped me enjoy learning. I wasn't all that thrilled going to school, until then. She helped me understand how to figure it all out, what I was actually there for to do."

"Yeah, she did the same for me, more or less. I hated school, but I understood about learning shit and why it was important and not just goof off in class. Remember in 'Nam, all those packages I'd get and they were books and papers that I read. It wasn't fucking Huckleberry Finn shit I was reading, it was finding out about people who saw life differently and saw how they viewed it all. I told you I was hiking out near the Nevada border, back about ten years ago now, I guess and came across that writing on the wall by Emma Goldman, right?"

"Yeah, when you came over that day and told me about starting the club."

"Yeah, well those words had a huge impact on me. I understood them so clearly and what each word meant. I wanted to live my life like that and not like they want us to be, 'Stand up straight, touch your head, yes sir.' and repeat until fully conditioned."

"Yeah, that about sums it up right."

"So when we came back and found the place in a total shit storm of bullshit, I figured we had just as much chance as anyone at doing something good for people. I mean, think about it, what's wrong with how we do things, really?"

"We kill, the government kills. We steal, the government steals. We settle arguments, they settle arguments. So there's no difference in what they do and what we do, except, we don't demand taxes out of it. Who's sounds better so far? Who's system is fairer overall? Really, we're a bunch of good guys with a penchant for making the right people pay the tab for our well being."

"When you say it like that, who can argue with it?"

"Exactly. We just live by our own rules and do our own thing and we all try to get along peacefully. Look at the race riots over the last few years and how the government handles it. We just met a bunch of black guys and we had some problems at the start, just like they did and look how we resolved our differences? We're all making money and to boot, we got some brothers that are willing to look after our asses in a jam. Let's see if the assholes in government can do that? Get out of their fucking offices and go face to face with some black dudes and talk it out. Never going to happen, Lenny, never. Fuckers just like to sit there in that fucking place and make decisions and they don't give a shit what it does to people. I swear man, somebody's going to get pissed off enough and do something about it."

"What do you mean?"

"Like blow the fucking place up. Shit, dude, they got no problems blowing presidents and other big leaders away, what's going to stop them from taking the White House out, or Congress, or whatever? Nothing."

They were getting deep into the discussion, when the door opened and Clay came in, the bruising and swelling well under way. The bleeding had stopped, but the remains were still present down his chin and face, his shirt splattered with it. He walked up to Lenny's side and gave a sigh before he spoke.

"I'm sorry, man. That was wrong of me to say that about your old lady like that. She's a really great gal and I'm sorry I didn't respect her, like I should have."

Before either Lenny or JT could speak, Clay turned and started walking away again. They let him get to the door, before they called him and stopped him. He turned and looked at them, and they could see the knowledge of getting his patch, was riding on his apology.

"Come here, Clay."

Clay walked with his head bowed, not looking at them as he walked over. JT started remembering things that Art had said about him and wanted to play them out, if he could pick them up himself.

"You know what you said was wrong. You came in here and apologized to Lenny for it. Why?"

Clay was unsure of what JT meant by it.

"What do you mean why? I don't get it?"

"What made you come in here and say that to him?"

"I said something bad, I thought about it and I was wrong and needed to apologize to him."

"So you did it because you care about your brother and know you disrespected him?"

"Yeah."

"What about me and the rest of the club? Don't we deserve an apology too?"

Clay tried to think of why he needed to make that apology and couldn't think of one.

"We're a brotherhood, Clay. What you do to one of us, you do to all of us. It could just as easily have been Poppy, or Azure, or even Suzy. Now doing that, I'd have beat your face in too. I don't blame Lenny a bit for rearranging your face like that. Be thankful that's it and nothing more permanent in nature, like kick your balls in, you know? Think of how punches you got and imagine them as kicks to the balls, not a pretty picture, is it? So really, you got off lightly, when you think about it?"

"No, I guess not. Sorry JT, sorry again Lenny. I'll go over and tell the other guys too."

"Clay, learn one word foremost and learn it well. Respect."

"Got it, JT."

Clay turned and walked out slumped shouldered in defeat, the door closing and leaving them alone once more. 

"You think he wasn't sincere, or something, JT?"

"Yeah, I think he's truly sorry for pissing you off, but it's why he said sorry, that I was trying to figure out."

"I don't get you either, with why."

"It's something Art told me, before, when we were at Jake's. He told me how Clay will use anything to his advantage to get what he wants. He told me how he played off his parents to get sympathy. I thought that was kind of low of him for doing that. I wonder how many times his grandfather has really been at death's door and how much was bullshit, you know? He could be doing whatever when he's gone out of our sight. We don't know, we just trust him at his word."

"Well, I got a call from his grandmother once and she said Clay should come home right away, so it can't all be bullshit, but yeah, how many times are for real and how many aren't?"

"My point exactly. I think back to Jake having problems with him and what they were about. He doesn't have much respect for things, no matter what it is. Women in general, orders, nature, for fuck's sake. Remember the birds he shot that day? I thought he was a bit of a sick fuck, after doing that, even though I could understand the reasoning of it, it was the way he said it and the look on his face."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 11



"Yeah, yeah, I remember that day. Guy wanted to shoot anything and everything. If it moved, it was as good as dead to him. That was a bit off, if I do say so myself."

"No way he can say the beer or the dope did it, because we all had no thoughts about shooting anything living, at least not then."

"Yeah, guy can be a bit off, can't he?"

"Yeah, I guess, but not really in a real bad way, you know? Not like he'd want to do anything bad to us, but he did like shooting Brock. If I said reload and shoot again, his clip would have been out and a new one in and emptied, before we had ours emptied. Guy just loves shooting shit and live things aren't out of the question."

"Freaky, dude. Hand me another beer, Prez."

"Sure, roll another joint, Sarge."

"Sarge? JT, please, nothing that evens sounds like Army shit."

"Yeah, better just stick with Lenny."

"Yeah, much better."

"So, you better? Nose back in place and ready to get some shit done?"

"Sure bro', let's do it, man."

JT and Lenny stood and hugged, then headed back outside. The shop was sounding busy with the sounds of tools being used and music playing in the background. JT recognized the song and told Otto to turn it up. Otto reached behind him and turned the volume up, making heads tune in on the song. On the Road Again, by Canned Heat, had heads bobbing and bodies moving to the beat of the music, as Wally's bike was torn down to the frame. 

Otto used a hammer and dolly to bang out the dents in the fenders, making the once bent metal, perfectly smooth again. Piney was degreasing parts and Tom and Wally had a sheet of sandpaper each, taking down the finish and making it ready for paint. Clay was sitting with the engine between his legs, cleaning the built up grease and gunk that had accumulated over the years. He had his back to everyone, his face set in pained anger, as he cleaned and thought of his shame and disgrace. To him, he had only spoken his form of truth and didn't deserve what Lenny had done. Lorraine had serviced him numerous times at his request and she was happy to do it. 

JT said goodbye and drove off in the Riviera to pick up Marlene. He pulled up in front at the doors and went to the elevator to go up. Before the doors opened, he heard his name called and saw Marlene in the lobby, relaxing on the couch, with her bags about her. He went over and saw she was anxious to leave the hotel, but something wasn't making her completely happy.

"All set, Mar?"

"Yes. Paid my bill, bags are packed and I'm as ready as I'll ever be, I guess."

"You guess?"

"Sit for a moment, JT."

JT sat beside her and she took his hand, holding it as a source of comfort to her.

"I was thinking about the farm and how I am and truly, is it really a good idea that I go there?"

"Sure, Mar. Moon said it's okay. The girls are excited about you coming and teaching you stuff. Azure was jumping up and down, she was so happy to know you were coming. I think she really misses you a lot."

"Really? I do miss her too. I'm scared JT. I know what I'm like and I don't want to cause any trouble while I'm there."

"Don't worry, you won't. I sort of told everyone to keep their hands off of you and there's no sex, until you are accepted and understand the rules of the commune.

"No sex at all?"

"Nope, none. I'm sure you can go a week without it, can't you?"

Marlene looked at JT with doubts in her eyes, knowing her desires for it and what was awaiting her at the farm.

"So, not even a little hanky panky?"

"What do you mean?"

"Not even a friendly handshake?"

"If you're referring to the handshake you gave me, certainly not."

"Shit, this isn't going to be any fun at all, JT."

JT chuckled, seeing the disappointment on her face and the emoted pout.

"You can do it, Mar. Just think, you go the whole week and learn the rules and you'll be having non-stop sex, until the parts wear out."

"Oh, my parts have a lot of life in them still, trust me."

"I wasn't totally referring to your parts, Mar. I know how into it you are, remember?"

"Yes you do, yes you do."

"Come on, learn the rules and see what else you might find interesting to try. You still want a chance to talk to Jake one more time, don't you?"

"Oh JT, I do. I really want to do that."

"Can't be having sex and talk to him at the same time. What do you want to do more?"

Marlene looked at JT with speculation, sizing up the priority of things.

"A week, right?"

"Hey, sooner if you put everything into it to learn."

"Okay, a week and I hope they can teach me how to talk to Jake. I really want to do that, more than anything else."

"Then let's get these bags in the car and we'll get you out there to get started."

JT called over the bellhop and asked him to help him with the bags out to the car. He loaded them in the trunk and closed it, then handed a ten dollar bill to him and thanked him kindly for all his help.

"That was nice of you JT. Tipping him that much."

"He deserved it. I'm sure you had him at your beck and call and had him running up and down to serve you."

"Yes, I did have him come quite a few times, didn't I?"

"And I only guessed. So, all set?"

Marlene was about to speak, when Unser showed up at JT's window and knocked, startling him.

"Sorry, JT. I heard at the station Mar was leaving the hotel and just wanted to come say goodbye."

"Oh Wayne, that's so sweet. Thank you so much for everything you did for me, I really appreciate it. I hope I get to see you again sometime."

"Me too, Mar, I'd like that. So, where did you decide on going to?"

"JT is taking me out to the farm in Calaveras to meet everyone in the commune again. They've been so wonderful to me and I'd like to thank them, maybe stay a little while and relax in the country. I think that would be good for me, right about now."

"Calaveras ain't all that far, hopefully you'll find some time to make it back into Charming. Maybe sit and have a coffee and a couple of cannolis."

"Oh, I'd like that very much, Wayne. I hope we can find some as good as Mrs, Cacuzza makes."

"She made those?"

"And the manicotti, too."

"No shit?"

"No shit."

"Damn good cook, that's for sure."

"Trudy's forte. No one is hungry in that household."

"I bet. Okay, guess that's about it. Just wanted to say bye and we done that."

"Don't fret, Wayne, I'll be back in town before you know it."

"Oh, Wayne, drop by the shop. We picked up a little something for you. I think you'll like it."

"What's that?"

"Go see."

Wayne's disposition perked up more and patted JT's shoulder, as he left and went back to his cruiser. JT started up and pulled out the lane, onto Main Street and on through town. Marlene looked from side to side at the houses and the people.

"This is really a nice little town, JT. It really is. Everyone looks friendly and the houses are lovely. If things don't work out at the farm, I'd really like to come back and live here."

"It's a great, little place. Not much in the way of excitement, or entertainment, but Lodi isn't far and there's a few places to go there."

"True. It's nice to know I have options at least."

"They're always good to have, Mar."

"Yes they are, JT, yes they are."

Marlene went back to looking out the window at the town passing by, as she reached over and took JT's hand in hers. JT could sense the connection was friendly, a sense of comfort in taking it. They drove past the motel, now abandoned and the windows and doors boarded up. They both looked at, taking away different memories and feelings of the place.

"I wonder what I should do with the place? I don't want to run it and honestly, who would want to stay there? I was thinking of selling it, but for the same reasons, who would want to buy it? It's like it has a curse, or something on it."

"I know what you mean. First the old guy gets it in the head with a bat, over boozing no less, then Jake and you get shot, all in a couple of months apart. Hard not to believe something's wrong with it. You know what I'd do?"

"What JT?"

"I'd make sure my insurance was up to date and burn the place to the ground. I'd get the money for the building and then I'd sell the land to someone and let them deal with the curse. Get money twice for it and come out to the good, in the end."

"Just like Jake. That would have been his solution to it, as well. Straight up and to the point. No messing around trying to fix anything."

JT felt Marlene's hand tighten on his and wondered if she felt she was holding Jake's hand and not his.

"Made sense to me."

"Makes sense to me, too. I think I know how Gianni can help repay me with a small favour as well."

"Why get him to do it? Why not let me and the guys do it?"

"Because Gianni uses professionals who make it look like an accident and no chance of arson. With all the break ins the place has had, no one would suspect anyone but trophy seekers."

"I think Jake rubbed off on you too. That sounds like Jake's style."

"No Sweetie, that's my style. I learned the business, remember? I just never got involved in anything. I still know a lot of things in my arsenal of knowledge of them."

"Maybe I have to watch out for you too?"

"Oh JT, the worst I could ever do to you, is fuck you to death and you know it."

JT laughed happily, knowing Marlene would gladly end his life that way, if he wanted it to happen. Marlene let their hands rest on his thigh and went back to looking at the scenery, enjoying the trip into the country.

Wayne pulled into the lot and drove down to the garage, where the floor was littered with parts and pieces of Wally's bike. The guys were going over everything, making sure it was good, repairable, or replaceable. He got out and looked at everything and tried to imagine that this was what JT wanted him to see. They saw the puzzled look on his face and Piney asked him why.

"I saw JT at the hotel, before he took Mar over to the farm. Before he left, he said I should come over, because you had something for me. It's not this pile of crap, is it?"

"Shit no, Wayne. JT was talking about this little beauty right over here. Come check this out, you'll love it."

Piney took Wayne around the side of the office, where the Honda was parked. Wayne looked at the small bike and became giddy with happiness. Piney told Wayne to get on it and see how it felt. No sooner had he sat on it and felt how light it was, he was asking to ride it.

"You know what, Wayne, hang off on that for a minute. JT wants to do something you'll like more. He wants to have you come on the weekend and join us and the whole commune for a sort of party."

"What sort a party?

"Sort of a, 'Learn to Ride' party, you could call it. Close the compound and play music, have a barbeque and we teach everyone who wants to learn how to ride. I'm thinking some brain buckets might be a good idea."

"Brain buckets?"

"Helmets."

"Oh right, good idea. Don't need my melon getting squashed by the bike, if I tip over, or something."

"It's no harder than riding a bicycle, Wayne. Once you know the clutch and gears, it's a piece of cake."

"Yeah, piece of cake."

"Don't make it out to be some complicated thing. It's the same as a standard car, just switching hands and feet to do it."

"Yeah, piece of cake."

They laughed and then Wayne asked when the party was again.

"This weekend, hopefully, as long as the weather holds out."

"Good, I'm off duty this weekend. Nice to have one of those, once in a while."

"What's that?"

"A weekend off. Always working the Saturday, or the Sunday, so I never get a real weekend."

"Bummer."

"So tell me. What's that pile of parts on the floor all about? Looks like somebody took all the screws out and it fell apart."

"That's about accurate. It's Wally's new bike. Well....not new, but his first one. We want to make sure it's a good runner and no problems. He can decide what he wants for a colour after. Safety first."

"Yeah, good idea. What kind is it?"

"Sportster, a 62. Guy Wally got it from, had it sitting in his garage for the past five years. Really wanted to ride it, but he couldn't keep his balance on it and dropped it so many times, he got sick of picking it up. Otto banged out all the dents and we'll make sure every nut and bolt is good, before we put it back together. Not much to it, really. Goes together pretty quick, as long as nothing is fucked up."

"I hope I'm not like that guy and get fed up falling over. Too sore to pick my sorry ass up again."

"You really need more confidence, Wayne. You'll always fail if you keep saying you will."

"Philosophy one of your new past times now?"

Piney had a good laugh over that and continued.

"I just picked up a few things that made sense to me. Most of what anybody says is bullshit, but sometimes, someone got a handle on something and figured it out."

"True words, Piney."

"So, let us teach you and you'll see how easy it is and kick yourself for not realizing you had it in you all along."

"Okay, Piney, I'll give it my best shot, but I ain't promising anything."

"All you have to do is believe and do your best and you'll be having a blast in no time."

"So, what time on the weekend?"

"If Saturday works, let's be here around eleven, that way everyone has lots of time to try riding and we can enjoy the whole day."

"Sounds good. Anything I should bring?"

"Just your confidence and a need to have fun."

"You got it, Piney. See you guys on Saturday."

"Great Wayne, see you then, Buddy."

Wayne was smiling happier than he could remember. Old friends were treating him like a good friend, whispers were going around that he might be made deputy chief and his dad was doing okay, despite the kidney problems. The townsfolk had heard he solved the crime and he was close to hero status with them. Already, little favours were being done for him. Free coffee and sandwiches, Floyd gave him a free haircut and Jose at the dry cleaners said his next cleaning was free. 

He got in his cruiser and looked in the mirror at the guys in the shop, knowing that all his good fortune rested on the shoulders of guys, that most people wanted to avoid and some wished would just go away and never return. His heart felt a hurt for them, deep inside, knowing they were being wronged by people's judgement of them. Criminals or not, they were the best people he knew in town and he swore to himself, that if they needed him, he would go the distance for them, like they were doing for him.

The guys watched Unser drive away and knew the hook was set deep and reeling him in was going to be easy. They did like him and no one wanted any harm to come to him, but if they needed him, the friendship would come second to the blackmail, in guaranteeing them assistance.

JT felt his stomach do a few tiny flip flops, as he drove past the gate and stopped in front of the house. Marlene was looking it over and there was no disappointment on her face, as she took it in. The door opened and girls rushed out to the car. Marlene did her best not to show her excitement, as several were topless and the bared breasts looked like invitations to play. She got out and was swarmed by the girls, hugging her and letting her know how happy they were she was there and doing better physically. Marlene looked over her shoulder at JT, who shook his head and smiled, as the girls ushered her inside. JT popped the trunk lock and took the bags out and closed it again. He carried them inside and put them down in the foyer, listening to the constant chatter of voices, telling Marlene about everything.

He let a smile come to him, as he saw Marlene trying to keep herself under control, when the girls were making it near impossible not to. They came back down after a quick tour and sat in the living room, a warm fire burning and casting a welcomed warmth to the air. Azure was making her a tea and something to eat, while the others sat around her and began the process of initiation to the commune. Spirit was explaining love and all its powers to her, when he cleared his throat to get their attention.

"Girls, take good care of Marlene. I have to get back to the shop and do some things. We'll all be back by dinner time and get together then. Don't confuse her with everything all at once, just a bit at a time, okay."

"Don't you worry, JT. I'm catching on pretty quick already. I might be old, but I can still learn new things."

The girls immediately objected to her saying she was old and JT knew she had them in her palm already. He chuckled as he waved and walked back out to the car and drove back to Charming. He was barely a mile away, by the time Marlene was getting undressed and sat in the middle of a circle naked, the girls already doing a cleansing of her soul. Marlene couldn't help but sneak as many peeks at the girls, as she could. It took all she had, to quell the sexual desires and focus on true love instead.

JT parked the car and walked into the bay, where the parts were cleaned and sorted, ready to go back together. He got a hearty welcome from them, Clay still hesitant in expressing any emotion at present.

"Nice job, guys. The bike will go together a helluva lot easier now. So what parts does it need?"

"Hardly a thing, JT. Even though the guy dropped a zillion times, the damage was easy to fix and it's just the small pile over there that needed replacing."

"Shit, Wally, That's it?"

JT looked at the half dozen parts and it was all cosmetic things, letting him know nothing mechanically was wrong with it. The frame was sanded and painted a gloss black, hanging from the hoist by a couple of wires, while other parts were sanded and primed.

"So, did you figure out what colour you want it painted?"

"Yeah. Otto's going to spray it shiny black and do some flames, with silver pinstripe around them, on the fenders and tank."

"Sounds nice, man, can't wait to see it. Can't wait to have you riding with us finally, either. Your Biscayne has been the best and we still need it, but I always feel you're missing out."

"What am I missing out on?"

"Wait till this pile of nuts and bolts is together again and tell me after you go for your first club ride, what you're missing out on."

"That good, huh?"

"Ride and then you tell me what you think yourself. If you don't feel the way we all do, something's wrong with you brother. The moment your feet leave the ground, it's total freedom, I can't describe it any other way."

"Can't wait, JT. I watch you guys from behind all the time and trust me, it looks awesome to see you all move together like that. Where do I get to ride?"

"Beside Tom. It goes, me up front, Piney and Lenny, Keith and Otto, Tom and you, then Chico and Clay at the rear. If we go on a long ride, Lenny will ride at the back, as road captain, like on our runs south."

"Right, right. I was getting confused seeing the order change and wondered if I would change too and didn't know when."

"No, your place won't change. Just Lenny's."

"What does he do as a captain?"

"He's like the leader at the end. If something goes wrong at the rear of the pack, I won't know about it. Lenny can handle what it is and then catch up again, or signal to stop."

"I got you now. I got a lot to learn, don't I?"

"Not really. What we need to do more than anything, is get some miles under you and know what your bike feels like. Once you know how it rides, then you start riding beside someone and know how to stay to your side of the lane. Cornering is a bit tricky, but you follow what the guys in front are doing and it gets easy pretty quick."

"Lot more than twisting a throttle."

"Yeah, but all the other shit is just as much fun too. Wait until you know your bike and you'll be itching to club ride. Too bad we can't figure a way to let you ride and make up for what the car carries."




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 11



"Yeah, but that's okay, I'm used to it and besides, since I got the new stereo in it, the sound is fucking awesome. Otto is going to paint our logo on it somewhere too, so it's more like a club car."

"You thinking on painting your car? I kind of like that black primer look. Kind of nasty looking. You know what would look really cool, is to get some chrome wheels for it. Maybe a nice sets of Cragar mags, or even a set of spokes from something."

"Yeah, yeah, shit dude, that would look wild. I'll do that. Get Otto to shoot a fresh coat of primer again and then do the logo somewhere. I know a place in Stockton that has custom wheels for sale."

"Let me know how much and I'll cut you the cash."

"Fuck that, JT. I'll go with Tom and do a crash and dash. They have shitty locks and no alarm system. Just a mean, old dog that Tom has the nighty night pills for. Anything else you can think of that might look good? Might as well make a list, so I know where to get it fast."

"We got more than enough cash to cover it, Wally, you don't need to steal it."

"Nah, this guy needs it. He scams guys on stuff all the time. I saw him sell a set of used wheels to a guy and told him they were new and charged him new price on them."

"How do you know they were used?"

"I sold the fucking things to him, just the day before."

"No shit?"

"No shit. I saw this 63 Fairlane with a set of Halibrands on it. Checked out it was his place and waited until all was quiet and left him with a set of shitty wheels and flat tires. I was in the next day to get my cash and there he was selling them to the guy. He cleaned them up and that was it. So, he deserves a little payback that way. I got twenty a wheel, he sold them for seventy five a wheel, fucking crook."

"Kettle calling the pot black, Wally."

"What?"

"You're a thief, calling another thief a criminal."

"I don't do what he does, though."

"You don't? The guy that has a car sitting on four shitty wheels and tires, isn't thinking the same about you?"

"Yeah, maybe, but he's got insurance to cover it. This guy Doug just rips people off, period. If it wasn't for the fact I have a place to get rid of stolen car parts, I wouldn't go near the guy. Tom feels the same, he knows him too."

"Okay, just don't get caught. Just make sure it doesn't look like a break in and they might not notice anything gone."

"Sure, we can do that. Rather take my shit and burn it down and put him out of business instead."

"I'm sure you would, but let's just keep this one as clean as possible. No sense making trouble for ourselves, over wheels and shit."

"No sweat, man. In and out and no trace of us ever being there."

"Cool. Look forward to seeing the new wheels and the paint job. So, what's left to do today on this thing at our feet?"

"Not much really. Everything's been apart, cleaned, oiled and it just needs put back together. Other than paint, it's almost ready to go. Piney said the parts will be here by ten, so it shouldn't take long after that to have it ready."

"Once it's together, I'll take a test ride and make sure everything is working right."

"Yeah, I'd like that. No sense me finding out something is wrong."

"Safety first, brother. Safety first, always."

"Yeah, I remember Jake telling us that."

"He said a lot of things that I remember, because I know it means it keeps you and the others alive and whole."

"He was a really great guy, he really was, JT."

"Yeah, one of the best."

"I say we call it a day and head out to the farm. Moon, Star and Phoenix were out looking at a couple of tractors for sale, so we'll see what they came up with. I hope Marlene is getting along with all the girls and isn't molesting the shit out of them."

"Is she really that horny all the time, like everyone says?"

"I won't lie, she endless in her thirst for sex. She loves it and girls count too. Suzy told me about Mar and her doing stuff and it made me wish I was a girl. Like I said though, no sex until she's accepted by the commune."

"Yeah, okay. Sure hope she gets accepted, I'm hoping she wants to check me out some time."

"If she is, you'll have no worries about getting laid by her."

"You done it with her yet?"

JT looked at Wally, knowing in his heart what he'd already done with her.

"Nothing drastic. Just had a feel of those gorgeous tits and some hot kissing. She did grab my cock once and had me hard in seconds, but I didn't do anything with her. Kind of felt weird knowing Jake was just with her."

"Yeah, that would be kinda weird feeling, wouldn't it? Specially knowing he can talk to us and shit. Think he can see us some how?"

"You know, I never even thought about that, if he could see us. Damn, would shit hit the fan, if he did."

"Yeah, I'll stick to the plan and keep my hands to myself, well all the other girls actually. Hey, has Azure and Golden been with you lately?"

"No, why?"

"You heard they want to get spiritually married, right?"

"Yeah, Suzy told me that the other day."

"Well, they've been getting in tune, or whatever it is they do together and they can have orgasms when they're kissing, nothing else. Fucking freaked me out you know. I felt them both after and they were just as wet as when I knew they orgasmed during sex."

"No way? That's cool! I gotta see that for myself. I want to see if I can do that to Suzy too. That would freak her head out big time. Come home and she kisses me and I make her cum in her pants."

"No shit, eh? I'm really good with them being together now. They certainly make sure my dick ain't hurting for some action."

"No kidding. Last time I was with them, they took turns sucking on me, I swear, I thought I was going to heaven. Whatever they got going on between them, I have no arguments about it. More power to them, I say."

"Yeah. Never thought for a second, I'd be making out with a chick who's into another chick."

"No shit, Wally. I look at what I had done and knew about at the start of the summer and now it's half way through fall and I feel like I was living under a rock, or something, all that time. Not sure if I'm okay with gay guys though, that still doesn't sit right with me."

"What gay guys?"

"Oh yeah, you never met them, just Piney. They were at Marlene's hotel room, the day of Jake's funeral and they were doing the girl's hair and make up. They came out of the bedroom holding hands and I just about shit myself."

"Holy fuck, seriously? Holding hands?"

"Not only that, the one guy kissed the other right in front of us. I thought I was going to hurl, man."

"Oh fuck, that's just gross, man."

"Like I said, I can dig the girls being together, but guys, uh uh, no way, Jose."

"You got that right. Okay let me get my car and we'll get the guys out of the clubhouse and we'll go make out with some hot women and drink beer, listen to some good tunes."

"Got my vote. Okay, let me round them up."

JT went into the clubhouse and had them up and heading out to the bikes, shutting everything down on the way. JT locked the door and got on his bike, looking at the guys feeling relaxed and easy about everything. It was good to see, but hard to feel, knowing they were okay with being criminals and killing wasn't wearing on their souls. He began to wonder if it was just each of them that felt like that, or was it because he wasn't showing any remorse, or regret to the crime they committed? Were they just following his lead and he was corrupting good men into bad ones? Responsibility to his actions began playing on him, making him think more about who was doing what and why.

The formation rode out and Wally closed the gate and locked it, as he drove behind them, paying closer attention to what they did and what he would soon be doing. He watched the fluid motion of the club and knew he had to prove his worth as a rider to ride with them, or continue driving behind them like he was.

Calaveras was alive with the colours of fall, as the road there was painted vividly with rustic tones from reds to yellows. They were less than a mile from the farm, when Tom's bike hit a patch of wet leaves on a curve and the bike slid out from under him. Wally slammed on the brakes, while Chico veered around him and stopped. Clay slowed down and looked, then sped up to catch the others. 

Tom got up and held his left leg by his ass, obviously not broken, but more than likely badly scraped with the slide and he'd be joining Lenny in showing off road rash wounds. Wally and Chico picked up the bike and put it on the stand, noting no damage occurred, except some scrapes and scratches. JT rode back and stopped, getting off fast and coming to Tom.

"You okay, man?"

"Yeah, just slid and scraped my ass up some. Nothing bad. How's my bike?"

"It's okay, man. Wally and I stood it up and checked it out. Nothing's busted, just dents and scratches, you know."

"Thanks Chico, Wally."

"No problem man, you okay to ride the rest of the way?"

"Not sure if I can sit my ass down on the seat. Fucking thing stings like a bastard right now. Hang on, I gotta see how bad it is, before I know if I can ride or not."

Tom undid his jeans and very carefully lowered them down, doing his best not to touch the afflicted area. The groans and moans told him him it looked bad before he even turned around.

"Shit man, that's bad. I don't think you should try riding."

"I can't just leave my bike here."

"Tom, think you could drive my car? Might be easier than riding?"

"Yeah, I think I can sneak one cheek on the seat and work the pedals. Still doesn't get my bike back, though."

"I'll ride there. It's not that far. I'll take it slow and easy and it should be that hard."

"Go for it then, Wally. Don't kill yourself, okay."

"I won't. I need the practise and now I know to watch for patches of leaves."

They helped Tom into the car and closed the door, as he shifted about to find a comfortable position and still drive. Wally sat on Tom's bike and got a feel for it, sizing himself up against it. He made sure it was in neutral and primed the starter like he'd seen, then jumped down and instantly had his leg shot back up. 

"Make sure it's on the right stroke, or it'll do that."

Wally tried again and worked the starter to the right spot and tried again. The bike fired up and he smiled happily, as he twisted the throttle a couple of times.

"I can dig this."

"Ready for your first ride?"

"Oh yeah."

"Okay, Piney, lead the guys home and Chico, hang back with Tom and make sure he's okay driving. I'll give Wally and me some open rode to ride on."

"Got it, JT."

Piney went to the head and got them moving out behind him, as Tom started the car and saluted to JT, before he put it in gear and winced in pain, as he started off. They watched them go until they were out of sight and sound, then JT told Wally to follow him and do what he did. JT started off and Wally was good with letting the clutch out and didn't stall it. He rode behind his president and instantly felt like he belonged there, riding with his brothers. He felt the pride of truly being a member of the Son's of Anarchy motorcycle club.




Please vote and leave a comment, thank you. RJ



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 12



Ch.12 Pay the Piper

The meet with Jimmy's men went easier than they thought, the stacks of money fitting in the bags with room to spare. The exchange made, the ride to I-99 was a short one, before they opened their bikes up and cruised the highway south.

Despite being a man short, Tom recovering with the help of the girls tender loving care, the club rode down to TJ as scheduled, the Friday afternoon chillier than before. They never even made it out of Stockton, before jackets came out of the bags to cover bare arms. Once buttoned up, the riders took control of the road they were on and no one interfered with their space on it. Looks given to them might still show resentment towards them, but there was a respect that was afforded them, the common patch worn by all, showing a force of many to reckon with.

The drop off spot at the back of the restaurant went just as easy with Jimmy's men, getting unloaded in minutes and a thick envelope handed to JT in return. The envelope was stuffed inside his cut and the ride continued on to the border area. Smiles were broader, knowing what they had made, before the run even started.

The warmer climes down south had the jackets opened and the shivers ending. Wally pulled into his hiding spot to wait, while the rest of the guys rode along the improved trail. They parked and readied their bags, as Manuel and friends did the same on the other side of the border. Once ready, a steady stream of kilo bricks flew over the fence and were caught by the guys and stuffed into bags. Once all were filled, Manuel took a break and kept watch, as the guys rode slowly out to Wally and filled his trunk with them. They rode back and the process started all over again, kilo bricks arcing in the air to ready hands.

The sound of a jeep echoed from between the hills, letting them know company was coming. Manuel had informed them of the increase of border watching and knew the jeep would travel away from them first, before heading their way on their route. The friendly skies above were clear and bright, affording them ample time to spot a plane coming. They acted like they were playing catch football, the seriousness of their actions not showing, when the faint drone of an engine was heard. At first, only one engine was heard, then a second could be made out. Bodies began moving as fast as they could, collecting the branches and covering their bikes. Manuel was doing the same and he and his friends were under the truck, waiting for the fly by.

The first plane flew overhead and passed heading west, while another was coming east and passed a few minutes later. Wally watched from the safety of his car, looking through his binoculars and watching the watchers searching for his friends. The planes passed and the guys gave them a few minutes to get out of sight, before they uncovered the bikes and said quick goodbyes, getting out of the area fast. Wally was loaded and the bikes evened out for weight, before they began their journey back north. They cruised along the old road slowly, the potholes and ruts making it treacherous to ride on.

Their speed increased, once they got on the smoother secondary road, making it more like the pleasure ride they wanted people to think they were on. The highway was a few miles down the road, their cut off coming up to go north again. JT leaned into the corner and led the club onto I-10, unaware of the Aztecs riding north a half mile back.

La Roca saw the club and looked back at his Sgt. At Arms and nodded for him to pull up beside him.

"Looks like our friends from up north are back again and I don't see no girlfriends this time. I think we need to have a talk and see what's up."

La Roca twisted his throttle, getting the same response from the others. The numbers were about the same, each club riding with eight members, but the mindsets were completely different in both. Wally saw them coming up behind him in his mirror and beeped his horn at Lenny in front of him. Lenny looked back and saw Wally pointing behind him and looked past and saw the formation of bikes. He didn't need to do anything more, than speed past everyone up to JT and cruised beside him.

"Looks like we have some riding company behind us. Our friends, the Aztecs, I'm sure, are coming up on our asses. I say we get a move on and put some distance between us."

"Gotcha Lenny."

No more was said, as JT opened his throttle wide open and surged ahead. The others did the same and passed Lenny, waiting to duck back in to his position. He pulled beside Wally and shouted through the window to him.

"Don't let them pass you. Block these fuckers and hopefully we get out of their territory in time."

Wally nodded and eased off, as Lenny pulled in front of him and checked his pistol in his cut, flicking off the safety. The Aztecs were moving flat out as well and gaining on the heavier bikes. Wally moved to the left and took up both lanes, letting the Aztec leader know he wasn't letting them past him. La Roca sent two riders ahead of him to go around either side of Wally, but he veered sharply back and forth, making them back off on their attempts.

Wally could see the anger on La Roca's face and knew they had no chance of stopping and working this out peacefully. JT looked back and saw how close they were and knew trying to outrun them, wasn't an option anymore. The large, green sign showed Palm Springs to be five miles ahead and JT hoped they could make it there and find some safety in a public area. He could hear Wally's tires screeching, as he rocked the Chev back and forth across the lanes. 

When a shot went through the back window and miraculously passed by everyone, JT knew their time for running, had run out. Up ahead, he could see the roadside restaurant that still looked busy and pointed to the guys that that was the destination to seek cover. JT raced into the parking lot, followed by the rest and pulled as close to the building, as possible. They got off their bikes and made for the door in as much of a hurry as possible, without drawing too much attention to themselves. The Aztecs were close on their heels, parking behind the bikes, so they were blocked in, offering no chance to escape.

JT and the guys walked to the back, where the restrooms were, leaving plenty of space and people between them and the Aztecs now coming in. They spotted one another and looks were shared, both sides knowing what was on the table now. La Roca sent three guys outside and around the back, cutting off any exit from there. Things looked dire for them and JT hoped beyond anything, it didn't erupt into a gun battle with so many innocent people that would be caught in the crossfire.

The front door opened and to JT's biggest surprise and happiness, Jimmy Cacuzza and several of his crew walked in. He came towards JT and his club, showing great happiness at seeing them.

"Stopping off for a bite to eat, before you head back up?"

"Not really, Jimmy. We seem to have some pissed off bikers from down here, who don't like us riding in their territory it seems."

"Is that right? Let me look into this."

Jimmy and his men walked over to the Aztec crew, letting them know they were in charge.

"You gentleman have a problem?"

"We got nothing to do with you, just those guys you were talking to."

"Those gentlemen happen to be friends of mine and are very welcome to be in my establishment. You and your friends are equally as welcome to enjoy the atmosphere and a fine meal. What I will not allow to happen, is any of my guests to be disturbed by any disruptions. Do I make myself clear?"

La Roca wasn't going to heed Jimmy's words, until he saw his men open their jackets and showed them the pistols inside. La Roca knew enough not to try anything and backed down. He looked at JT and the others at the back and stared them down with a look of death to them. JT moved forward towards Jimmy, as the Aztecs moved to the door.

"Thanks Jimmy, Thought we were goners there, for a moment."

"Not while you're in my establishment, it won't."

"This is your place?"

"One of them. Why are these dirt bags after you anyway?"

"They don't like that we cross their territory on our runs, I guess."

"You are moving your goods through someone else's territory and not paying for the privilege?"

"Why? None of his business what we do."

"Would you be happy with some other crew operating in your fair town and not pay up anything to you?"

"Yeah, I see your point, so what should we do about it?"

"Hang on, let me see if I can smooth out some hurt feelings here."

Jimmy went outside, where the Aztecs were still waiting for the club to come out. He walked over to La Roca and motioned him to come talk to him. The huge man got off and met Jimmy halfway and looked as though he would rather take his anger out on him, just as easily.

"I am now made aware of what the conflict between you two could be. I was told my friends have not been good guests in your neighbourhood and forgotten to thank their hosts properly, are you following me on this, so far?"

"Si, I understand you, hombre."

"It would make me very happy, if you and one of your associates came back inside and we'll see if we can clear up this misunderstanding. It seems my friend is new to the business and didn't understand the rules properly about paying a safe passage fee through someone else's territory." 

La Rocha could see that he was being treated fairly and for the most part, with a fair amount of respect. He called his second over to him, a man who looked the part of enforcer to a tee, and they followed Jimmy back inside. He called JT over and explained what was going to happen. His club went outside, along with two of Jimmy's armed men to watch over them and avoid any conflicts, while he and Lenny went with La Rocha and his guy, Renaldo, into the back office with Jimmy and one of his men.

Once everyone was sitting and easing up on tensions, Jimmy took a neutral position and began.

"JT, It seems you are not aware of certain things one must do, when being in one's territory and conducting business, while in said territory."

"What's that, Jimmy?"

"If you wish to do business like you are doing, it would very polite of you to offer some compensation to those whose territory you're doing business in. Mr. La Rocha here, is upset and rightly so, for not receiving anything for safe passage through his territory. You can see why he and his associates are upset with you, am I right, Mr. La Rocha?"

"Si, this is the problem."

"So you see, JT, this must be resolved, so that both of your operations are able to work together and none of this happens again. I feel it would be fair to offer him a little restitution for hurt feelings and come to an agreement of co-operation."

"So, what do you feel is a good restitution and cost per run?"

"Knowing what I know about your business and the need for more business for these gentlemen here, I would offer them five hundred for compensation for past runs and two hundred to have safe passage."

"Make it a grand for back payments and two hundred is good with me."

"That's a bit much, La Rocha, for back payments, we haven't done that many runs since we saw you that time. How about we split it and go with seven fifty and two a run?"

"Sounds good, I can live with that."

"Now, see how easy that was? No blood spilled, no hurt feelings and everyone goes away happy."

JT reached in his cut and took the envelope that Jimmy's men gave him. He counted off seven hundred and fifty and another two hundred, then handed it to La Rocha. The big man held it up and looked at JT. 

"You are welcome to come and visit my lovely area any time you wish, JT. I look forward to seeing you soon."

La Rocha stuffed the bills into his cut and reached across to shake JT's hand. Once again, JT felt his hand dwarfed inside the large hand taking it. This time, there wasn't the same control used and it was taken as a sign of good faith in the bargain.

"I'll make arrangements to meet up when we come down and visit. I'm glad we could settle this, without problems. Honestly, La Rocha, my club doesn't want any trouble. We just want to enjoy riding and make a little money to have a good life."

"Si, JT, my club is the same. We aren't looking for trouble, but we also don't want business that should put money in our pockets, going into someone else's."

"And this, is how civilized people conduct business. I'm happy I could be of help in bringing a resolve to your business conflicts. Now, I have some business to attend to of my own. So if you gentlemen wish to discuss other matters, please feel free to enjoy my establishment and discuss things over anything you like, it's on me."

"You are a good man, Senor Jimmy. I and my club thank you for doing this for us. We will show our thanks to you, whenever you are in our area and need to say hello."

"My pleasure, Mr. La Rocha. JT, as always, be good and stay whole, my friend."

Jimmy shook hands with both of them and his new right hand man showed them outside and into the restaurant, talking to the manager, before returning to join Jimmy. JT went to the front and asked to have some seating for sixteen and the manager began putting an area together for them in the back, keeping a good distance between them and the regular customers. The leaders went out and invited their clubs in to eat and talk, allowing Jimmy's other men to go to the office. The two clubs sat opposite each other, in part to keep an eye on things.

After a good meal and several beers each, the two clubs shook each others hands and left the place peacefully and with laughter following them. The other patrons felt easier in their leaving as well, as the clubs sat on their bikes and gave directions to their new meeting place. The deafening roar rattled windows and glasses inside, as the two groups split and headed in their own directions.

The ride back to Charming was still feeling a bit uneasy to the guys, having to deal with unknowns and what it might cost them in the future. As much as money was coming in, money was going back out to pay for it. Business might be good, but it had its down sides to it, as well.

Oakland was the fun part of the run, unloading the pot and getting paid. Chico was as close to JT as he could be, when his cousin handed him the money. JT saw the face on him and laughed.

"Chico, what are you worried about? I said this money was Marietta and it is. I'm just hoping we don't come up short before the next run."

"What do you mean, prez?"

"That little contribution to the Aztecs, took a huge bite out of the run money. I might have to pay for her tuition in two runs now. I wasn't expecting to pay out half our run money like that."

"Yeah, I guess so. It's okay, two runs, three runs, as long as she's going, it's okay with us."

"Don't you worry, brother. I said she was going and I meant it."

"You're the best, JT"

Chico hugged him and went over to his cousin, speaking Spanish and laughing heartily. JT went outside to the guys and told them it was time to party. Cheers went up and the bikers started the celebrations off, the ride back to Charming, one of play and enjoyment. The guys were getting comfortable with their bikes and started playing a game of tag along Kettleman Road, as they came through Lodi. When they got to Charming, JT stopped at the drug store and picked up something. No one knew what it was, as they headed to the clubhouse. They went in and JT straightened away the money first, then took out the paper bag from his cut. The guys broke out laughing, when they saw it was a gag get well card for Tom. Everyone signed it, but most poked fun at Tom's riding skills, as well as the large scabby patch on his ass. No matter what they wrote, it was done with love and concern for him and wished him well.

With club business taken care of, they went over to the shop and looked at the progress on Wally's bike. It was only a couple hours away from being ridden and tomorrow was a designated build day for it, making Wally excited to get on his own bike at last. Otto said he would do his car, once the bike was up and running, but what made Wally worry about it, was Otto saying he would do something totally different and wild to it. 

They finally packed up and headed out to the farm by late afternoon, the fall weather getting cooler and bringing out jackets to ride with again. They pulled up at the entrance and noticed the old, rusty gate was missing. JT looked around and didn't see it, then rode down to the house and parked by the barn. Phoenix came out of the barn and called the guys inside. They followed him in and saw why the gate was missing. Moon and Star were holding a newly finished wooden gate, painted rainbow colours and a sign on it that read, 'Welcome to Peaceful Acres.'

"Is that what Golden wants to call the place?"

"It was this, or Welcome to Golden's Gate of Love."

"I like this one better, I think."

"Yeah, we do too."

"So, is it ready to go on?"

"Yes, we just put the hinges on and ready to take it out, when you came in."

"Okay, let's do it then and get it hung and see if it swings."

The guys helped carry the heavy gate out to the entrance and lifted it up, so Phoenix could screw it into the post. The guys let it go and gave it a swing to close it. The gate swung halfway, then a loud cracking sound started and the post snapped off, the gate falling down.

"Shit, that sucks."

"Yes it does, Tom. It appears we need a better post to hang it on."

"No sweat. We just pull this sucker out and stick a new one in, no?"

"Might not be as easy as that, Chico. The bottom part is probably three feet in the ground and I don't see how we can get it out."

"This is why we need a tractor, man. See, I knew it was a good idea to have one."

"Yeah, you're right, Lenny, we do need one here."

"We found one for sale that we liked. The farmer two concession roads over has one."

"How much is he asking for it?"

"Six hundred dollars. I bet he'd take five hundred, if we gave him the cash."

"Wally, Moon, let's go get a tractor, shall we."

"What? Right now?"

"Sure. I got the money on me right now. Let's go say hello to Old MacDonald and buy the tractor."

"Are you sure?"

"Positively sure, let's go."

Wally went and started his car and JT and Moon got in, as he stopped by them.

"We'll be back in a flash with the tractor, see if we have anything around here we can use to attach to the post, so we can pull it out."

The trio drove away, as the rest began looking in the barn and elsewhere for something to use. Moon gave Wally directions to the farm and they pulled in the lane way, the tractor sitting where it was the day before. They stopped and got out, looking it over and JT jumped up and sat on it, checking it out. He was sitting there pretending to drive it, when they heard a voice shouting at them from the house. The farmer didn't look very happy with JT sitting on it, so he got down and waited until he came up to them.

"What you doing on my tractor, boy?

"Just checking it over."

"You ask a man permission, before you just decide to hop on it."

"Sorry about that, but we're interested in buying it and I was looking it over. My friend here was out the other day looking at it and asked me to look it over and see if it was mechanically okay."

"She's a good working tractor, nothing wrong with it."

"Good, good. You wanted six hundred for it, right?"

"Can we hear it running?"

"Sure can and the price is still six hundred."

Before the farmer passed him, JT stopped him and held his hand out to him.

"Sorry, don't believe I caught your name. I'm JT, this guy is Moon, he was by the other day looking at it and this is Wally."

"Nice to meet you boys, you can call me Walter. So what you president of, JT?"




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 12



"Oh, a motorcycle club. Wally is a member too, but Moon isn't."

"That must be you guys I hear coming along the road at night sometimes."

"You hear us way over here? We're like two roads over from here."

"Oh, I know where you are. You're out at the MacDonald farm on 10th."

"Yeah. Did you know them at all?"

"Oh sure, know most everybody within ten miles of me. They were a nice couple, real nice people. Shame what their kids done to them."

"What do you mean? What did the kids do?"

"Guess the granddaughter hasn't said much about them, I take it?"

JT and Wally looked at Moon, wondering how much he knew and hadn't said, but he looked just as interested in knowing as they did.

"The kids apparently came up a few times and caught the two of them wandering around the fields in God's clothes. Thought they'd lost their minds and had them put in a home for old folks. Lindsay, poor guy, he couldn't take it and died not even a year there. Eloise, she didn't want to live without him and just willed herself to be with him, so I was told. The granddaughter, poor thing, she was devastated."

"You mean, Golden?"

"Golden? Don't know who that is. I'm talking about Christine. She was thirteen when it happened and from what I hear, she took off from home and hated her folks for what they done to her grandparents. She loved them more than her own, I think. I know they just adored that little girl. I liked her too, sweet girl, always happy and wanting to talk about things. My missus, God rest her, she loved her too. She'd come through the fields yonder, picking wildflowers usually and end up in our yard. Jessie would always bring out some lemonade, or such and sit with her for a bit. Never had kids of our own, so she was might special to the both of us. Really kind of miss her, you know, never did end up knowing what happened to her."

"She's back at the farm, Walter. That's who Golden is now. She doesn't go by Christine. Her grandparents left it to her and now Moon and a bunch of the others are there and really fixing it up again. Me and my crew are helping them out, with building an addition on it and fixing the barn. Moon and his guys have readied some of the fields for planting again and even managed to save some of the crops from this year."

"You're all out there now? That's a pretty small house. How many of you, are there?"

"Right now, twenty four and we just had a new arrival, so twenty five, but me and my guys are temporary right now until we can find a new place to live in Charming."

"Charming, nice little place. Don't get there much, but it's a nice drive in. Heard about some ruckus going on lately, something about a shooting."

"Yeah, but that's all over with. Figured out who the guy was and the cops are looking for him, so it won't be long."

"Yep, can't have things like that happening. So, I got to ask. Why do they call you Moon?"

JT and Wally were interested in knowing too and listened up. Moon saw them and smiled faintly.

"My eyes. They're such a pale blue, they look like blue moons, sort of. That's why I have the name."

"Yeah, yeah, I see that. So, that your real name, the one your folks gave you, I mean?"

"No, it's just a name I go by now. My name is Mark, but I haven't been called that in.....fifteen years now."

"Moon suits you. So, want to buy my tractor do you? Want to hear it too, so let's get her started up then."

Walter left the trio agog with the information, as he climbed up and primed the Massey-Ferguson to start. The engine fired up easily and belched out black smoke, then cleared and ran almost clean,

"Good motor, PTO is good, tires ain't too bad, another couple seasons left in them. Give her a greasing and she'll work smooth as silk."

He stopped it and climbed down again.

"Well, you want her?"

"Six hundred, right?"

"That'll put the keys in your hand, son."

"Won't even haggle on the price."

"Mighty nice of you, JT. Hate letting a good thing go for less than its worth."

"My pleasure. Is this okay to drive to the farm?"

"Sure. I'll drive it over for you. I can show you how everything works on it. Give me a chance to say hello to Christi again, maybe."

"Okay, but we better make sure everyone is decent."

"Still wearing God's clothes, are they?"

"What do you mean, God's clothes? I don't get it."

"Naked, boy. God brought you into this world naked, not a stitch on you."

"Ah, got you. Never heard that before. Yeah, Golden likes that sort of freedom thing."

"Guess she got that name for her hair and eyes, I take it."

"Not too hard to figure out."

"So, we going? Need a ride back though."

"Sure, no problem there."

The guys got back in the car, while Walter started up the tractor and followed behind. Walter motioned for them to go on ahead and he'd be along, the tractor barely going more than twenty five MPH. Moon thought that to be a good idea and have a chance to talk to Golden about her past and let her know it caught up to her again. JT couldn't help but think back to his visions of her grandparents running around the fields naked and wondered if he had imagined it, or had a vision of them somehow.

Everyone was outside by the new gate, holding it in place and admiring it, as the the car pulled up. JT stuck his head out and shouted to them.

"Looks great, but you better move it, we got a tractor coming through here shortly."

Cheering and hollering prevailed, as the gate was moved to the side and Wally drove up to the barn. Golden's look said she knew something from her past was coming, knowing the three guys were in the car. Moon got out and went straight over to Golden and took her aside. Her smile continued to fade, until it was gone all together, JT could see that her past was something she wanted to forget, at least what had caused pain and suffering. He watched, as Golden held onto Moon and he could tell she was weeping, feeling the memories of what happened, must be haunting her. She turned and stood with Moon, looking at the gate through tear soaked eyes and seemed to be dreading the arrival of Walter on the tractor. 

JT stood with Suzy, quietly whispering what he knew to her, Wally sharing the same news with Azure, letting her know more about the person she wanted to spiritually marry. The sound of the tractor could be heard coming down 10th line, the steady drone of the engine getting louder and louder as it came nearer. The tension in the air was almost palpable, the news shared causing a growing concern. 

The red machine appeared, with Walter bouncing slightly on the spring loaded seat, his eyes searching the crowd of people in front of him. His face showed the recognition they were expecting, as his eyes found Golden, next to Moon and Spirit. A smile weakly came to his face, unsure if he was someone she would want to see again. He pulled to a stop not long after the gate and shut it off, letting the air around them quiet again. He climbed down and looked around at everyone, nodding a hello to them all. 

He finally looked at Golden and everyone looked at her for her reaction. There was a thickness in the pause of time between them, both looking at each other, then Golden left Moon's side and ran to Walter, tears beginning to stream down her face.

"Oh, Walter."

Walter took her in his arms, as she ran into them, hugging him tightly. He held her as a father would hold his daughter, loving on her greatly, the longing from separation coming to an end. 

"My little Christi, I'm missed you so much girl."

"I missed you, too."

The two stood and held each other, rocking side to side, as tears came equally and freely from both of them. The commune felt the relief of seeing their re-connection, the unknown vanishing to leave them with feelings of empathy and sympathy for the pair. No one moved, letting the scene play out the way it should. Golden stood back and wiped her eyes several times and sniffled.

"I really missed you, Walter and Jessie too. I felt so bad not being here when she died. I found out when I was in San Andreas, when I saw the lawyer about this place and he told me. Walter, why did that all have to happen?"

"I don't know, Christi, I don't know. Some folks just can't understand why folks do what they do and can't accept it. Just isn't right, to their way of thinking. Your folks couldn't understand why they were like that and thought they were loco, or something. We tried to tell the doctors they were good folks, but they wouldn't listen to us, no matter what we told them. Your parents thought they were doing the right thing, that's all I understand, but I can't abide their decision. Lindsay and Eloise never hurt nobody doing what they did, no sir."

"I loved them so much."

"I know you did, Buttercup, I know you did. We'll all miss them."

Moon motioned for everyone to leave them alone in privacy and to go inside. They left the couple alone in the lane, still unwilling to break the connection between them. As the group sat and got comfortable, every face had the same expectation of knowing what was going on. The club and the commune were rapt with attention, as Moon calmly explained what had happened to Golden's grandparents. Names that were anonymous before, became spoken knowledge, bringing the past into the present. They all felt their pasts come back to them, who they were and who they wanted to be and who they had become, by leaving parts of themselves behind.

Golden's past was upon her and Walter was a part of it, that had any ties to the part she treasured. The pair had walked aimlessly about the property, before coming into the house and seeing everyone looking at her.

"I guess you all know what happened here and what happened to my Nana and Papa. I hated my parents for what they did to them. That's how I ended up in San Francisco. I ran away and never spoke to them again and I never will. You are my family now and that's all I'll ever need."

The tear stained face showed the truth of her words, everyone knowing how heartfelt they were. Walter stood behind her, his hands on her shoulders, still acting the way a father would stand with his daughter. Azure broke through everyone and dashed to her, her own tears streaming down her face and sobs hitching in her breath.

Walter looked at them, his face a show of regrets, as he took responsibility for stirring up old emotions and raising ghosts from the past. Moon saw him and went over taking him and leading him aside from the girls.

"It's not your fault, Walter. Don't think for a second you did anything wrong. Spirit knew there was something still eating away at Golden, no matter how much she became immersed in peace and love."

"I still feel bad about upsetting all you young folk. If it wasn't for me coming out here, Christi would be fine and putting this behind her. Now it's back in her life and I know how much it hurts her."

"It would have come out sooner or later, Walter, it had to. Fate wouldn't let this lie unanswered and unresolved in her, it had to come about. Fate just decided today was the day."

"Fate or not, Moon, it still tears at the heart to see that little girl like that."

"I guess she reached her limit to hold it all inside and after seeing you again, she knew she couldn't continue to live a lie. I'm glad it was you, Walter. If she needed anyone right now to let this go, it's you."

"If she needs me, I'll always be there for her. My missus and I hoped she'd come stay with us, after it happened, but she let out as fast as she could, the moment her folks turned their back to her."

"I always thought something was bothering her, but she hid it so well from us. Only Spirit could truly sense something in her, but she kept her thoughts about it secret."

"Spirit, I take it that's one of those girls in there.?"

"Yes, the one I was just standing with. Long, dark, brown hair and slim, her, right over there."

Moon pointed out Spirit and Walter saw who he referred to. 

"Nice looking girl."

"My life's companion, my soul mate."

"Yeah, know what you mean there. Jessie was my soul mate. Like peas in a pod, we were, two peas in a pod."

"Say, Walter, would you like to stay and have supper with us? We have more than enough, because we're always feeding an army every night."

"You sure? You don't think the others will mind an old bugger like me hanging around? Can't say as I shared a meal with someone in a while."

"You're not the only person over thirty here, Walter. Marlene is too, I believe close to fifty herself, but please, don't ever and I mean ever, tell her that."

"That the pretty redhead over yonder?"

"That's her."

"She looks sorta familiar, not sure why."

"Not really a secret, Walter, but that ruckus you called it, over in Charming, the shooting."

"Yeah."

"That was the woman who was shot. She's a friend of everyone's and we're looking after her for awhile, at least until she knows what she wants to do."

"You're right, nice folks yourself, you know that?"

"Thank you, Walter, that's really nice of you to say."

"Don't see what all the fuss is about, all over this hippie thing you kids are doing these days. All I'm seeing, is you wanting the war to end, the riots to stop and you're all going around talking about loving one another and such. How's a body supposed to object to that?"

"Yeah, we feel the same way. One day they'll listen to us and stop the killing and hating. Maybe we'll get someone who'll listen and they won't shoot him, if he agrees with us."

"Ain't that the truth. So, let's go in and meet these nice people of yours."

"Sure Walter, come on in and make yourself at home. Anything we have, you're welcome to it."

"That's right neighbourly of you, Moon, right neighbourly."

Moon put his arm over Walter's shoulders and walked him back in the room and took the time to introduce him to everyone. Golden shared in it and recited some past moments they shared together, when she was a young girl. Laughter became more pronounced, as the past expressions of hatred and remorse were put aside and left alone. The house was filled with humanity of all kinds, the harmony of love making it a place to feel at home in. Smells of dinner cooking had yearnings for it being called out, the girls calling back out to grab a plate and utensils and line up. Walter was served first and given a comfortable chair, a fresh beer opened and brought to him. He smiled with great happiness at being treated with such kindness and care. 

The boundaries of age and the barriers of acceptance, were challenged and broken down by them, as they shared stories of the past and present, of what was and what it is now. One thing that was certain, was the commune had a new friend and someone who would make sure they were taken care of so they could make the farm work properly. 

JT took a moment to study Marlene and see how she was doing, if she was fitting in or not. She was laughing along with everyone and not really showing her sexual side, which made him happy to see she was truly trying. What did make him take a bit of interest, was how she and Phoenix seemed to be getting along. They weren't acting like a couple, but a like of each other was there between them.

After dinner, they took Walter for a tour of the house and the addition. They were showing him the new bathroom and the spot where three tubs would go. Walter asked if they had the tubs yet, to which they said no, it was hard to find free standing tubs anywhere. As a stroke of luck, Walter had seven or eight back at the farm, that he used for feed troughs, but he was only using two now for his cows since he downsized. The girls were excited beyond belief that he had just what they were looking for and they were free to take. 

It was close to midnight, by the time they went to take Walter back home, who promised to be back out soon to show them how the tractor worked and help pull the broken gate post. Golden hugged him with great love and affection, kissing his cheek and laying her face against his chest. Azure came over and did the same, joining her spirit twin in expressing their love. 

Wally pulled down the lane and stopped in front of Walter's house, a big hound getting up off the porch wagging his tail, as he saw Walter get out. He stood with his dog and waved goodbye, as Wally drove back to the farm, the tail lights red glare getting fainter with distance.

Walter went inside and sat in his armchair and switched the table lamp on. He reached in between a group of pictures and took a small, framed picture out of it. He held it under the light and looked at it, seeing Jessie and eleven year old Christine sitting together in the chair beside his. He looked at the empty chair, remembering seeing them there so many times, Christi sitting in her lap, while she read stories to her about princesses and fair maidens. He looked at the picture again and held it to his heart, feeling the tears come to him. It was hard for him not to let the feelings of being with her again affect him. Seeing her with his loving wife and how many years she was gone from their lives, never knowing where she was, or how she was doing. Now here she was again and as he looked at the picture, he knew she would never leave him again, without saying goodbye and staying in touch.

Golden was the centre of attention with everyone around her, listening to her explain in more detail, everything that happened to her grandparents and what her parents had done to them and why. Once she finished, no one could fault her for wanting to hate her parents. They would have sold the farm as well, but the will prevented it from happening. Everything else was sold off and spent on new cars and a bigger house for themselves, while her mother's parents were committed to a senior's residence. She only went once to see them and that was to let them know they would never go back to the farm again.

Golden left home less than a week later and never said another word to her parents and swore she never would again. Her limitations on her love, wouldn't allow her to accept what they had done and no amount of apologies could erase it from her heart. Before everyone went to bed, it was agreed on by the girls, that Golden needed a circle done for her in the morning. Bodies were happily snuggled up with, as the chilly night air set in.

Only two things were up and busy, starting the day at six o'clock and that was nature and Walter. He had the chain attached to the post and was shovelling around it a few feet down to make it easier to pull out. When the M-F diesel came to life, so did the sleeping people inside the house. Guys came out and looked at Walter on the tractor, easing the post out slowly, as girls watched from bedroom windows. The bottom of the post came out and Walter dragged it a few feet, before stopping and getting down.

"Sorry, couldn't wait all day for you folks to decide to get out of bed. Figured most normal people would be up and done most their chores by now."

"And we came across as normal people when,Walter?"

"Got a point there. Still, you want to run a farm right. Got to start as early as the day will let you."

"That's true, Walter and hey, thanks for pulling the post out for us. That looked pretty easy the way you did it."

"Why not? I'm the one put it in, in the first place."

"You did the posts?"

"Posts and fence. I helped with that barn yonder and that porch you sit on."

"Wow, no kidding?"

"Christi, I guess I should start calling her Golden now, knows. She was sitting with Eloise and Jessie watching Lindsay and me put them in. They painted the fence white, once we were done a section. Fast as we got one up, they were painting it."

"Lot of memories here for you, eh Walter?"

"Sure are, son. Spent many a night playing cards and having a party or two to celebrate a birthday or some such thing, you know?"




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 12



"So, all her grandparents did was run around the place naked and that's it? They sent them away for that?"

"Yep, just that. Like I said, damn shame it happened. Who gave a good God damn, if they walked around naked? No one. But those two came up and made out like they were a couple of fruitcake loonies. The whole county had a hard time dealing with it. No one agreed with their assessment of them, but they got all the fancy lawyering and whatnot and made it all legal and wasn't a thing we could do about it. Jessie was beside herself watching them leave. She said right then, they looked like they were going to their death."

"Wow, that fucking sucks, man."

"Yes, it did at that. Lost so much that day. Golden the most I think, more than anyone. She not only lost her grandparents, but her parents and me and my missus too. She was one traumatized little girl, let me tell you."

"Yeah, that would fuck you up pretty good, won't it?"

"Not that I like the use of that word you use, but it did do that to her. She was hanging on to Eloise's leg, refusing to let her go, when her mother pulled her by the hair and slapped the poor girl harder than I'd smack one of my cows. Only cried for a minute, then took this look in her eyes to her and we could see it, that she was separating from her. There was a barrier going up between them and Golden was making sure it would never be crossed."

"Damn."

"Anyway, don't like stirring up bad memories like this, puts a bad feeling in the air."

"Yeah, I get that same feeling, like it's almost something you can touch."

"Those two knew what love was all about, let me tell you. This place just made your soul feel good, just being here."

"Yeah, yeah, we get that too."

"So, you boys want to learn how to drive this thing and use the PTO?"

"Yeah, looks like fun."

"I guess. Sit on it enough hours in a day, kinda takes the fun part out."

"Yeah, I guess."

Walter went around the tractor, pointing out things of interest they should know about, before he climbed up and showed them how to start it and work the power take off to operate implements. Moon was first to get on and take control of it, riding up and down the lane way. Phoenix and Star went after and did the same. By the time everyone had a turn, the tank was almost empty and needed refuelled. 

The girls came out of the house and all the guys stopped dead, as a dozen naked bodies walked past them. They looked at Walter for his reaction and he was happily smiling at them, as though it was the most normal thing to see. Golden gave him a small wave, then smiled and continued on to the field and the circle of daisies.

JT looked at Walter, apparently unaffected by the nudity and shook his head.

"So, seeing all the girls naked doesn't bother you, Walter?"

"Why? Seeing God's handiwork is a thing of beauty, son. It's something to admire and marvel at."

"I guess so, never thought of it like that."

"No other way to look at it really, when you think about it?"

They watched the girls disappear into the field and sit down, then they headed inside to make a round of coffee for everyone. Walter shared a great many tales and thoughts with the guys, giving them a better understanding of how things were, only ten years ago. Christi was a nature child from a very early age, spending a great amount of time being naked. Her first visit to Walter's farm, was her standing naked with a large bunch of wildflowers in her hand, waving from the fence line. More times than not, that was how she arrived and they finally went around to see her grandparents and it was with their blessing that she could be like that, so they accepted it too.

More and more, the commune was seeming more like paying homage to her grandparents, than it was an expression of who they were as a group of like individuals. JT thought of the club and how diverse it was in make up, yet a common goal and respect of it was always upheld. However the commune started, what it was now, was something of merit and the roots of the seeds they planted, were taking hold in hearts and the purpose grew in each of them. 

One thing JT began to wonder about, was who the commune members were before they got together and changed identities. More and more of who they were was coming out, bit by bit, giving them a different perspective on changing who they were, to who they are. JT could see his club doing the same, each member changing who they were, to be the best Son they could be.

By the time Walter got back in his old, Ford pick up truck, the farm was given all the instructions to become successful and a gift of a milking cow from his herd. He said he'd talk to another friend down the road from his, who had chickens they could buy cheaply. Bit by bit the farm came together and everyone held the same idea in mind about it. Green Acres. The same situations existed there, as they did in the show, with all the quirky characters and zany lifestyle.

Everyone was helping finish the inside of the addition, the welcome gift of bath tubs were installed and paint was going on with numerous rollers. The air was thick with the smell of the paint and the pungent aroma of the herb, even with the open windows. They stopped and listened, as the sound of JT's bike pulled in and stopped by the barn. He went and sat in the living room, as the others came in after cleaning up.

"Hey JT. You get those things you wanted to get?"

"Yeah, One for each of us, Piney. Okay, guys, come and get a couple of new patches to put on your cuts."

The guys gathered around JT, as he took out a small paper bag and opened it. He took out two stacks of patches, one a bar patch, the other a diamond shape. He handed one of each to each member, then looked at the ones he had in his hand.

"The bar goes on your right side. Lenny, Piney, yours goes under your rank bars, same as mine. That's for your part in our mission that we accomplished."

The guys looked at the Men of Mayhem bars and knew it was for Clive and the part they played in taking care of him. They looked at the other one and knew what it was for automatically.

"The diamond goes on your left breast pocket, in memory of Jake."

JT showed them where they should go, using his, as he placed them against his cut. Both patches meant a great deal, but the small diamond held more meaning to it. The girls were quick to offer their sewing skills and took the cuts and patches and began sewing them on. Eyes were on JT, their admiration for him shining past any other feeling. JT slowly nodded in acknowledgement, saying everything with his expression. Clay looked at the patches, immersed in his own feelings about them. He needed to be patched in after his tour to get his patch and wear badges of honour like the others. He noticed JT looking at him and acknowledged the connection. JT motioned for him to come over. He held out his hand and dropped a small diamond badge in his hand. Clay looked at it, then back at JT.

"Thanks, JT."

"You deserve it, Clay, as much as anyone else does."

Clay wore a smile after, shaking JT's hand, then went back and sat with Poppy, looking at it and admiring the simplistic design. He took off his naked cut and gave it to her, then she went over to the other girls and sewed the patch on for him. 

JT knew that everyone deserved recognition for their part they played and knew at some point, each and every one of them, would pay with a part of their soul, for what they did. How much they paid, was up to each man's conscience, but the currency was still the same. The balance was tipping towards the bad, instead of the good, regardless of the intentions they began with. How much more debt their souls incurred, depended on the balance of good still left in their hearts.

Thank you for voting and leaving a comment. 



Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 13



Ch.13       Knots and Bows

The putt-putt sound echoed around the compound, as the small bike idled. Two dozen faces were smiling, as they watched Wayne Unser get last minute instructions on operating the controls. The helmet made him look like an astronaut, the clear bubble windscreen protecting his face. He pulled in the clutch and tapped the shifter into first and felt the connection. His face showed the remnants of fear and doubt, as he looked down the lane way and took a deep breath and exhaled.

"Do, or die, right?"

"No worries, Wayne, you'll do it perfectly."

Wayne slowly eased out the clutch like he was told, feeling it engage and gave the throttle a little gas. The bike moved forward and he let the clutch out all the way. He took a long time to bring his feet up, but eventually put them on the pegs and shifted into second gear. The bike went along easily and Wayne began riding towards the gate, staying close to the fence, so he had lots of room to turn around. He slowed and rounded the corner, leaning as he should, then gave it a bit of throttle and shifted into third gear, passing everyone on the picnic tables and into the back lot. He downshifted and turned to come back to the garage, getting waves from the guys to go around again.

The smile on Wayne's face was priceless, his fears and doubts overcome and the sheer pleasure of riding taking over. He sped up to thirty MPH and then turned and sped past everyone again, slowing to go into the back lot and turn around the pylons to come back to the shop. He slowed to a stop and looked at the guys, clearly beside himself with his new-found pleasures. He forgot to put it in neutral and it jumped forward and stalled, making him lose control and dropped it on its side. The guys went to him and helped him up and stood the bike up again.

"You okay, Wayne?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm alright."

"You were excellent at riding, Wayne. Just forgot to put it in neutral."

"Yeah? Did alright, did I?"

"Fucking yeah, you did alright. That shows me you have what it takes to ride. Like Piney said, just remember neutral, or keep the clutch in and hit the kill switch first."

"Yeah. Guess I was a bit excited and forgot."

"Happens to all of us, at one time or another."

The guys patted his back and congratulated him on his inaugural ride, Lenny handing him a beer, after he took the helmet off. JT held the bike, as Piney shouted out for the next one to try riding. Moon jumped off the picnic table and marched over quickly, making sure no one beat him there. He took the helmet and put it on, then let Lenny do up the strap properly. He sat on the bike and waited for JT to explain everything to him. Once they went through a dry run, Moon said he was ready to try riding. He turned the key and pointed out it was in neutral and then pressed the start button, bringing the 250 cc. to life again. 

They stood back, as he gave the throttle a few twists and then eased out on the clutch. The bike lurched forward and stalled, making Moon struggle to keep the bike up. JT explained about a little bit of gas being needed and Moon said he understood. He started it up again and went through the procedures, before letting the clutch out and giving it some gas. The bike went forward and continued going, making Moon grin excitedly. He was so happy staying up, he revved the engine to its peak as he went down the lane. The guys yelled for him to shift gears, but he couldn't hear them. The excitement must have confused him and caused him to forget other things and found himself heading for the fence at the end. 

They heard the clutch go in and the engine decrease in revs, but no brake light came on, as Moon went straight into the fence. The bike fell to its side, while Moon was slammed against the fence and bounced back. Whether Fate had decided for him to be spared, or sheer luck was the cause, he just missed the spinning tire and chain when he hit the ground. He held his shoulder, as he lay on the ground and the guys came running up.

"Moon, you okay, man?"

"Yeah, I think so. My shoulder hurts mostly, but I don't think it's broken."

They helped him up, while Lenny stood the bike up. Moon gave himself a once over to see what other damage he sustained. He rotated his shoulder, finding a sore spot and winced, knowing his riding day was over.

"How's the bike? Did I wreck it?"

"Nah, for a piece of shit, it holds together pretty good. I think they make them like this, because they know people will drop them all the time. Wreck this and get a real bike when you know how to ride good enough."

"Are you sure, Otto? I know a bunch of the others want to try it too."

"Let me see if it's okay, then."

Before anyone said anything, Chico was on it and started it up. The engine ran smoothly and the guys cleared a path for him. Chico revved it up and popped the clutch, doing a wheelie and riding down the lane to the clubhouse, waving as he passed the crowd and turned around again and rode back standing up, still doing a wheelie. He dropped it down and skidded to a stop, looking at Moon.

"Works just fine, amigo."

"How do you do that?"

"Easy. You say it all the time about being in harmony with things. I'm in harmony with the bike. We're like one, you know? I can feel it in me, like it's a part of me."

Moon looked at him and realized his own teachings were being taught back to him. He thought of his ride and realized his disconnection to everything that was happening.

"I guess I need to practise what I preach. I didn't even know what was going on really. I was just enjoying the fact I was riding it."

"That's why distracted riders, end up as dead riders. There's no place for it when you're out there on the roads. You hit a bump in your bus, no sweat. You hit the same bump on a bike and you're hanging on for dear life. The road is a very different world you have to live in, when you ride a bike everywhere."

"I think I'll consider this my lesson and count my blessings it wasn't worse."

Spirit came and stood with him, making sure he was okay and then walked back to the others to share his experience. Chico rode up to the group and asked who wanted to go next. Despite Moon's experience, Phoenix was eager to take his turn. Chico gave him the helmet and did it up for him, then went through his version of how to ride. Phoenix started it up and with assurance in his moves, he let the clutch out and took off. He rode past the guys still walking up and turned at the gate, coming back past them, shifting gears and braking, as he went into the back lot. He made two more laps and the smile when he stopped, said it all. Phoenix was a natural born rider.

Marlene came up to him and congratulated him, her kiss showing more affection than most would have thought. Phoenix put his arm around her and held her to him, making JT think she was growing closer to him and she with him. Despite the two decades difference between them, there was as much love being shown between them, as any other couple there. 

Suzy came out and said she wanted to try it and JT made sure she was well prepared for what would happen and readied her to ride. Suzy went through all the instructions and boldly took control of the bike, starting off easily and taking it easy down the lane. She turned and continued shifting up to third and into the back lot. She did three laps and stopped beside JT and shut it off. The joy and happiness in her eyes was speaking everything she was feeling. It was more than the thrill of riding it, it was the happiness in knowing she shared something as equally as important to JT, as she was and knew what it was he loved about it.

"I can see why you feel like you do about riding, Baby. That was awesome. I think I know that feeling of freedom you talk about. I'm still all shaky inside."

JT hugged her and helped take the helmet off, so he could kiss her. He pulled away and looked at her.

"My little biker baby. Maybe you can go riding with me sometime out at the farm. We'll bring the bike there and everyone can take turns."

Suzy got off the bike and hugged JT tightly, almost squeezing the air from his lungs.

"I love you, love you, love you, JT Teller."

"I love you, Suzanne Simpson. I really do."

They decided to take a rest and get the barbeque started, while several joints started going around. Wayne declined offers several times to try it, but happily drank his beer, as he talked with everyone, enjoying the chance to hang around with people that enjoyed his company. JT came over and clinked beer bottles in salute. 

"Come walk with me Wayne. I want to talk to you about some things."

"Sure JT."

The pair walked away aimlessly and JT waited until they were out of earshot, before talking.

"I wanted to ask you about your dad. How's he doing?"

"Shit, JT. The lady they got coming every day to take care of him, is costing me a fortune and I got no choice, he needs her. The dialysis is going to cost me more I'm told. Seems he needs to be moved up to twice a week soon. His kidneys ain't doing nothing anymore."

"Shit, Wayne, that's a bummer man. I'm sorry to hear that. No way you can get any help from the government to pay for any of it?"

"You kidding? As far as they're concerned, he served his purpose for them and now they throw him aside like he ain't worth anything to them. I got a great woman, named Della, helping me run the business, so that keeps that money coming in."

"That just sucks, dude. I mean, what the hell are we paying taxes and shit for? If you can't work, they let you die in misery? That isn't right, not in anybody's book, Wayne."

"Sure as shit ain't right in mine."

"You know, I was talking to the guys about something and I want to run it by you and see what you think about it."

"Sure, what you got?"

"Well, after you told us before about it, we were thinking of a way to help you out some how."

Wayne was warming up to it already, just knowing the source of the idea and its intent. They stood down by the gate and leaned up against it, each lighting up a cigarette.

"What if we put on some kind of charity event to raise money? We were trying to think of a way to get people to throw a buck or two, maybe even five or ten, into a pot to help pay for your dad. We raffle off a few prizes and people at least get something for their money. We could do free oil changes and stuff like that and maybe raffle off a car, or something."

"No shit, JT? Where would you guys get a car to give away? Don't know too many people willing to give something away for free these days, specially a new car."

"It doesn't have to be a new one. What if we build a car?"

"Build one? You don't think that's more expensive?"

"Not the way we can do it. Clay has two cars that he just got from Jake. One is a sweet Caddy Eldorado convertible. We could make it a custom job, with cool paint and some chrome goodies on it. Put in a new sound system and put that up for a raffle. Way less than new, but something a lot of people would want to have."

"Yeah. Yeah. I see where you're going with it. I like this, JT, I like it a lot."

"I figure we should be able to raise quite a few thousand dollars in total, if we do it right."

"Got any ideas on that?"

"Make it as much fun to do, as we can. If we can get some other people in town to help out, it could really take off. We have good people in this town, Wayne and I know they haven't lost what Charming's spirit is all about."

"You're right, JT. People do still have some heart here. I'll do whatever I can to get this going and talk to folks downtown, see what they're willing to do. If this works out, I owe you big time for it."

"Wayne, you don't owe us for it, man. This is us helping out a friend in need. It's about the people of Charming helping out one of their own. This could happen to anyone and they'd be in the same position as you and your dad."

Wayne looked at JT with an open admiration and deep respect for him. Any reservations as to his choice of lifestyle were dismissed, after weighing them against the strength of character he was showing him. Of everyone he had known since school and after, no one had ever shown such a side of them self to him. He knew he was never one of the 'In' crowd, or even on any popularity lists, but JT and even Piney, had shown him some recognition and let him hang around with them and the others. Now, over a dozen years later, it was still JT and Piney letting him hang around and showing him recognition as a friend.

"You're the best guy I ever knew, JT. Ever since we were in school, you didn't mind me hanging around with you guys and treated me decent, like."

"We always wondered why you never wanted to join in with us."

"I was just happy to be hanging out, didn't want to push my luck."

"Shit, Wayne, you missed out, buddy."

"Yeah, I'm sure I did. I wasn't keen on getting the same response, like I got from Roger Hesslington."

"Wow, that name's a blast from the past. I tangled with him when Piney and I were in Kennedy Junior High. Him and two buddies were kicking the shit out of me, because I gave Roger a new look when he smiled. They were paying me back, when Piney stepped in and we kicked the shit out of the three of them. Never came near us again."

"Could have used you guys a few years later. Roger laid a beating on me, for asking to join them one night for some fun. I was real sweet on this one girl, Karen Livingston, remember her?"

"Karen Livingston?"

"Yeah, blonde, tightest ass you ever saw, real pretty too."

"Oh yeah. I remember her. She was quite popular with the jocks, wasn't she?"

"Yeah, I guess. Never even looked at me once. I was hoping to get a chance to talk with her, when Roger and his buddy, Mike Bennet decided she was off limits and let me know in no uncertain terms to back off."

"Assholes."

"No argument there. My dad shit a brick, when he seen me walking in all bloodied and bruised up. Missing a couple of teeth still, but the beating left its mark on me. Never felt like trusting no one after that."

"Yeah, no doubt, but we never did anything like that to you."

"I know, but I was scared to mess up what I had and was happy to have that."

"That's a total bummer, man. I had no idea, no one did."

"I know, but that's cool. I got to see lots of fun happening and felt like I was a part of it."

JT looked at Wayne, feeling the sadness hit him, knowing what Wayne had gone through and suffered from. He slung his arm over Wayne's shoulder and hugged him.

"You're our friend, Wayne. From here on in, I don't want you standing off to the side, watching fun happen. I want you to enjoy it with us."

"Really?"

They were coming close to the tables packed with the women sitting around talking and smiling, all looking towards them.

"Fucking right, really, Wayne. Hey, let me ask you something."

"What's that, JT?"

"When was the last time you got laid?"

"What?"

"Pretty simple question to understand, Wayne."

"I know the question, just trying to figure the why."

"I know what I'm going to say to you will come across as the weirdest, most fucked up sounding thing you've ever heard, but check this out."

JT began explaining about the commune and the gift of free love. Wayne sat spellbound by what he heard. As incredulous as it all sounded, JT looked as straight up as ever, making him decide to believe him. JT could still see the doubts being harboured in him and called Suzy over. Suzy dashed to JT's side and held on to him, as she looked at Wayne.

"Baby, I was just explaining free love to Wayne and he still doesn't believe me. You tell him and maybe he'll believe you."

"I believe you, JT. It's just hard to imagine."

"Well, imagine this, Officer Unser."

"You can call me Wayne, when I ain't wearing the badge, Sweetie."

Suzy explained everything she could about free love to Wayne and saw how he was perking up to the idea that he had an outside chance of doing it.

"So, what do you think of that, Wayne?"

"Sounds like you guys have it made in the shade out there."

"How would you like to join us and enjoy what Suzy just explained to you?"

Wayne took a look of complete shock, trying to believe what he heard was real.

"You're serious?"

"Yes I am, Wayne. Completely serious."

"Any girl I ask, you're saying?"

"No, all the girls, is what I'm saying. Once you've been in the circle, you'll think you died and went to heaven."

Wayne chuckled in disbelief, yet knew the words spoken were true. He looked at Suzy, getting a smile and nod of acknowledgement.

"I'm in. I'd have to be insane, not to go for something like that."

"My thoughts exactly, Wayne. So what do you say we get a fresh beer and check out what's cooking on the barbeque. Something sure smells delicious."

"Yeah, I was catching a whiff of that and wondering what it was, myself."

JT and Suzy walked with Wayne over to the crowd around the barbeque, then JT went in and got a couple more beers from the fridge. Piney came in and went up to JT, as he opened the beers with a church key attached to the side of the fridge.

"So, how's it going with Wayne?"

"He's all for the idea and says he'll talk to people downtown to see if they'll help out. The more we can raffle off, the more money we raise for him."

"This is a great idea, JT. With Wayne on our side and the folks in town joining in, how can people hate us?"

"I don't think people ever hated us, just not into the lifestyle we have. When they don't see a threat to their way of living, they're not scared of us anymore."

"Yeah, guess we come across as scary guys to them."

"Anything out of the norm, is scary to them. They like their nice, quiet, sedate little lives. They don't want to have the big, bad world out there moving in."

"Then maybe we should keep it from moving in?"

"No way you can stop progress, Piney. Come on, let's get some grub before it's all gone."

They walked back out and JT handed Wayne his beer, as he munched on his burger. Wayne looked totally in his glory, enjoying the food and drink, the music and the people. He was excitedly talking about his experience to three of the girls and they were showing their interest in him. 

The compound was locked up, as the sun faded in the sky, a line of cars, including Wayne's, headed out to Calaveras and an experience Wayne would never forget. The caravan stopped at the farm and Wayne was looking around at where they lived and what they had done. Once they got inside, Wayne never had a chance to ask a question, before numerous feminine hands were undressing him. The guys watched a stunned and surprised Wayne being led upstairs, then a cacophony of giggling started and soon died down, letting them know the girls were naked as well and engaged in their brand of loving. The guys knew Wayne would never leave the room, until the girls made sure he was spent of every drop of his seed and left feeling sated inside and out. They knew he would also be given the gift of love and fill his heart with their kindness, further solidifying their relationship with him.

By the end of the month of November, on a Thanksgiving weekend, the townspeople gathered for the raffle in the Kennedy Jr. High school grounds. The mayor, Justin Pembroke, took the podium first and introduced himself well, it being election time next week and all, associating himself with anything to gain much needed votes. He thanked JT and his club, letting them know this was their doing and thanked everyone for participating and helping out, although it sounded like he was choking on the club's name, as he said it. He said a few words about the reason for it happening and then welcomed Wayne to speak further about it. His heartfelt speech brought a few tears, as well as an increase in sympathetic understanding, that any one of them could be faced with something like this themselves. 




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 13



JT let it all sink in for a few minutes, before he took the podium at Wayne's request. He grinned broadly as he spoke out loud into the microphone.

"Are you ready to win some great prizes?"

The crowd of citizens cheered and held their tickets in anxious hands. Wayne turned the drum, mixing up the ticket stubs inside, then called on Chief Grant to pick the first ticket. He shouted out the number, then Wayne used the microphone to let everyone hear it. The chief looked a little embarrassed, but held the stub up and waited for the winner to come forth. A small, heavy set woman came forth through the crowd, cheering loudly at her win. The chief checked the numbers and declared her the winner of the free wash and set at Pretenza's Hair Salon. 

One by one, the prizes were handed out and everyone was anxious to know who would win the beautiful 1957 Cadillac Eldorado, now painted bright metal-flake red, with pin striping and sporting chrome wire wheels, along with a new sound system. The engine was chromed out completely and given more horsepower, with a new intake and carb, as well as headers and a new exhaust. The upgrades were free, courtesy of Tom and Wally's midnight shopping at Stockton's finer automotive stores after hours. Otto's boss, Ihor Yestremski, gave all the paint and materials for free, as his contribution to the grand prize. It also got him a great amount of free advertizing for more business. Ihor's cousin, Ivan, did upholstery on the side and restitched the seats and panels in white, to match the top. Anyone who thought they could make more of their own money out of the event, got in on it. 

Wayne spun the drum and Chief Grant pulled out the stub and held it up to make more of a suspenseful moment. As everyone waited with baited breath for the numbers, he moved to the microphone and called out the numbers slowly and clearly. Not a second after the last number was given, yells and hollering came from near the back of the crowd. As the crowd parted, a young man came through up to the front. The chief checked the numbers and confirmed a match and a winner. He shook the young man's hand and asked him his name.

"Kevin McNeil."

Wayne handed the keys to Kevin and followed him to the car to check it out. The club stood around the car and congratulated him on his luck of the draw. Kevin got in and started it up, turning on the stereo and played with all the power features, grinning like the college boy he was. 

The festivities followed and a local band, the Timeless Minute, played covers of popular songs that everyone seemed to enjoy. Close to the end, the chief made an announcement that they had raised over three thousand dollars for Norman Unser's dialysis treatments. The crowd applauded and JT knew he had scored a victory in winning over the townsfolk. To his surprise, the chief called him up to the stand and announced to the people that JT was a fine, upstanding citizen and thanked him for his and his club's contribution to the community. Hearing the cheers, confirmed to all the members, that a favourable light shone upon them.

Before the crowd had a chance to disperse, the chief made one more announcement.

"It is my great pleasure to announce my decision, to make Patrolman Wayne Unser, my new deputy chief of police. Because of his diligence and hard work, even working on his own time, he solved the worst crime to happen in Charming. Patrolman Unser, please join me on the stage."

Wayne was trying hard not to grin too hard in his moment of triumph, as he walked to the stage. The guys patted his back and shook his hand as he passed, then walked on stage to the podium. The chief shook his hand and then removed his shield and took a silver shield out of a small case. He pinned it on his shirt and shook his hand proudly, turning so the photographers could get a good picture of them. The pride on Wayne's face, was all JT needed to know, that his plan to associate Unser with the club, in a friendly way, was paying off in spades. He knew it would be the hardest thing for him to do, if the club got in trouble and he opposed them. Whether Deputy Chief Unser knew it or not, he was an ally of an outlaw motorcycle club now. 

Two days later, Wayne pulled into the compound and knocked on the clubhouse door. Lenny opened the door and happily greeted Wayne and let him in. Despite the thick layer of illicit smoke, he went up and greeted them all with a handshake, then stood facing them all.

"Guys, I gotta say thanks, but that doesn't seem to cut it, for all you've done for my dad and me. The new DC badge, I owe it all to you guys. They're still trying to put it together down there and I thought I'd share some news we received from Palm Springs. Seems there was an accident out their way and it involved Clive Brock's Corvette. They found two bodies in the car, but they weren't identifiable. Seems they lost their heads and the car exploded and burnt to the ground, before anyone could put out the fire. They identified one guy through some identification they found, but the other guy was a mystery. Seems your new friend, Jimmy Cacuzza, put a finish to the search, by stating the other guy had to be Brock. As far as everyone is concerned, the killer is dead and the case is closed."

The guys sat speechless, hearing that there would be no more investigation into the matter and they were clear of any chance of connection to it.

"So, whatever you did with the body, I just hope it doesn't show up and bite you guys in the ass."

JT laughed out loud, the others joining in. Wayne looked puzzled as to what was humorous.

"Wayne, the most anyone will ever find of Clive Brock, is hidden in coyote shit by now. Where we left him, no one goes there, except the local wildlife and they looked pretty happy to see the meal we left them. Whatever they don't eat, there's a line of scavengers just waiting to pick at what's left."

Wayne saw how at ease the club was in divulging the truth to a murder they committed, finding it a little unnerving that they had no real remorse to doing it.

"So, you're betting on nature to do the clean up for you?"

"Why not? It's done a damn good job so far hasn't it? If there's anything left of him after the animals are finished, the rest just rots away in no time. The bones will end up in some coyote's teeth to gnaw on and what's left?"

Wayne thought on it and realized the way they did it, almost assured them that very little, or nothing would ever turn up. If it did, it wouldn't matter, because they would have no way of identifying what they found. Nature's forces would wipe away any trace of evidence to show how his death was caused. The case was closed and to him, it was never coming back into question.

"To be sure, at least one of you should check and see what's left and take care of it properly. Just make sure, like I said, that it don't come back and bite you."

"Good advice, Wayne, we'll do that. Thanks for the heads up on Clive, that's good to know."

Wayne nodded, letting them know they were welcome for it, but suddenly realized his own part he was playing in it. He looked at them with a new pair of eyes, ones that knew the men he looked at, controlled the outcome of his future. One word from any of them and his shiny, new badge and position would be gone in a flash, as well as standing on the wrong side of a jail cell, once his uniform was switched to prison garb blue. Whether it was a trap or not, didn't matter at that point. He was caught in it and knew he was at the mercy of the outlaws before him to survive.

"So, how does it feel being deputy chief now, Wayne? I hope they gave you a decent raise too."

"Yeah, I do get a raise with it and it makes things a bit easier to deal with, too. Dad sends his thanks and hopes he can thank you personally some time. I said I'd see if a few of you guys would come by and see him."

"Love to, Wayne. You know, that fund raiser really went well, didn't it?"

"Yeah, it did actually. That was a really good idea you had. The chief is thinking we should have more of them, so other folks and the community can benefit from them."

"Sure, always glad to help our town out."

Wayne tried to weigh the two sides of everything out. On the one hand, here was a group of guys who had committed murder and he could only guess at the other criminal activities they were involved in and on the other, the same group of guys, were the most influential at doing good things for the town and its people. The balance was far towards the good, but Wayne wondered when that balance might shift and how far the balance would swing to the bad. He realized there was another part to his new position that wasn't explained to him by the chief and knew the chief wouldn't understand it. He had to work with the outlaws and make sure his town remained safe and secure from trouble and make sure the club was spared any grief from the law.

"JT, seeings how we're all friends here and such, I need to talk to you about something that's eating at my craw."

"Sure, Wayne. What's on your mind?"

He looked at the beer drinking, pot smoking members and weighed his words carefully.

"I know where things are at between us. I know you guys just want to have a life and enjoy shit like the rest of us do, but I have a big worry on my mind and want to make sure we're clear on shit."

"Sounds serious, Wayne, what's up?"

Wayne took a deep breath and continued.

"I know you guys do bad shit, that it ain't all nice nice all the time. I just want to know from you, that bad shit doesn't end up in my town. I don't want to have to do nothing bad to you guys. Whether it was all a set up, or whatever, the fact is, I'm a cop and I have to do something if a crime is committed here in Charming."

"Wayne, Wayne, relax man. We're not going to do anything in Charming. We don't want to cause trouble, we told you that. All the shit that's happened, is because of someone causing it for us. We like our... no, we love our town just like everyone else and don't want people thinking we shouldn't belong here. You have my word and the word of my club, we'll never let anything we do, happen within the borders of Charming."

Wayne looked at JT, then to the others and got assurances that they would abide by their president's words. He felt a great relief, that he would be spared from doing something untoward to his only friends and hoped they never got caught on the outskirts either.

"Please see that it don't. I really like you guys. As much as I hate to admit it, you're the only friends I got. It tears at me to think I'd have to do something against you. I'll do what I can to smooth things over, if it ain't too bad, but the shit you just done, can't happen here."

"Understood, Wayne. Like I said, we just want to live our lives like everyone else. Trouble happens and we end up dealing with it, whether we want to, or not. We've never committed any crimes here and don't intend to. We might be bikers and all, but we're not criminals, or at least, we didn't want to be criminals."

Wayne nodded in agreement to what JT said, knowing he was speaking the truth and their desire to stay within the boundaries of the law. It seemed it was up to him, to make sure trouble didn't come their way, if he didn't want the club involved in it. They weren't looking for it, just like all the other law abiding citizens of Charming didn't want it, so it was his job to protect them the same way. How it played out, was yet to be seen, but the club was promising him their co-operation in keeping Charming safe and sound from trouble. 

"I see you guys got some new badges on your vests. What's that all about?"

There was a unanimous calling out for it to be called a cut by everyone, making Wayne embarrassed about it. JT eased his mind he meant no offence in what he said and explained what they were for.

"The diamond is in honour of Jake and what he did for us. This wouldn't even be a club, if it wasn't for him, so we felt we needed to show a lasting tribute to him."

"That's a really nice gesture. So what's the Men of Mayhem all about?"

"Honestly Wayne, it's for killing Brock. In 'Nam, there was a lot of mayhem that happened, you know about that shit. Guys just shooting at anything to save their asses in the jungle. It's sort of the same here now. We're just showing that we've had to deal with the madness of it and commit mayhem to resolve it."

"It doesn't spell out anything nice to people, if they see it. Mayhem is mayhem in anyone's books and they know it ain't good."

"Wayne, we really don't give a shit what people think. If they can't see we're more, or less, just like them, then too fucking bad. We've never given anyone a reason to dislike us and don't intend to. We do what we want now, because they don't want us to be a part of their little group. They said we don't belong, so we make our own rules about doing things. We made our promise to you and we'll honour it always, but anyone fucks with us, they're going to have to pay the price for doing it. If that means some mayhem coming their way, so be it."

"Well, make sure that mayhem lands outside our borders. I only got so much power to do things and I don't want to be backed up against a wall on anything. I'll do what I can to save you guys and give you a heads up on any trouble you might be facing, but once you do something, I still gotta be a cop and look into the crime."

"Like I said, buddy, no shit is going to happen here because of us. If it happens, it was someone else who started it."

"I guess that's the best I'm going to get out of it."

Wayne looked at them all, his face showing a sign of acceptance to what things were and shrugged.

"You have our word, Wayne. That's the best I can give you."

"I'll take you on that word, JT, all of you for that matter."

"Thanks, Wayne. So, you never did tell us what you thought of the girls little treat they gave you the other night. You sure looked happy coming downstairs again."

Wayne's demeanour changed in a heartbeat to one of thankful gratitude.

"That, was something I'll never forget. They did some things to me that made me hit the ceiling. I never knew that some of the things they did, even existed."

"Like what?"

The guys were rapt in their attention, waiting to hear, while Wayne reddened.

"Like how they touched me."

"How did they touch you?"

"It was, what's their names again? The one with the long, white hair and the other one with hair the same length, but really blonde?"

"You must be talking about Azure and Golden."

"Yeah, those two."

"How did they touch you, that blew your mind?"

"They used their, you know, boobs on me."

"Oh yeah, that is so cool how they do that."

The guys started recalling their own experiences in enjoying it, as well as some others, making Wayne more at ease with what happened to him and sharing his experiences. Half an hour passed and the previous worries about the club, faded back into less priority of importance, as he joined in reliving the pleasures of the dozen women. 

Spring couldn't come too soon for them, the cold wetness making the rides almost unbearable. The late April morning held a welcome warmth in the air, as they cruised out of Calaveras into Charming. As they came to the turn off, off of SR88 onto Euclid, they saw the flashing lights of the police and emergency vehicles. JT slowed as they passed, looking to see what had happened. Despite the car being upside down in the ditch, bent in half around a tree, JT knew what car it was. He immediately had everyone pull over and went back to see. The officer directing traffic recognized him and came to him.

"It's the Caddy, JT. The kid who won it, two of his friends, all dead. Not sure yet what happened here. No one saw anything happen, but one couple said the car passed them a mile or so back at a high rate of speed. The three inside were acting crazy, according their version of it. Can't smell any booze, or pot, so we'll have to wait for the autopsy to see if they were on anything."

"Shit, Mark. I'm hoping it was nothing mechanical. I couldn't live with myself, none of us could, if we found out it was something we screwed up on."

"Honestly, JT, I can't see that being the cause. I took the thing for a test drive myself and bought a ticket, because I thought it was a great car. You guys did an excellent job in making it what it was."

What it was. So much in his life was becoming what was and no longer what is. Hearing Mason's words made him take ease in knowing he wasn't the likely cause, but seeing one of the proud possessions of Jake, turned into a pile of wrecked metal, made him feel an ache in his heart, losing another piece of him to Fate. 

"Let me know what you find out, Mark, okay?"

"Sure JT."

JT patted Mason's arm and shook his hand before the guys got back on the bikes and rode the rest of the way into town. The spectre of the motel stood as a dark reminder of what was, the walls receiving new colours by way of graffiti. JT knew a day was coming, when it would be razed by fire to the ground and assumed most people who drove past it, wished it the same end. The more JT tried to hold onto memories of the past, they were vanishing and leaving him with only a present and future to look at.

They sat in the clubhouse, trying to get over their part in the loss of the young man and his friends. To them, the car would always point back to them negatively, because of its involvement. Clay was feeling even worse, knowing one of his remembrances of Jake, given away in good cause, was now turning the darkest light on him.

The event mired down what they had come in for in the first place. It was the last week of Clay's freedom as a civilian, before he went in to enlist. This was supposed to be his last hurrah until he came back and the guys wanted to make sure he was properly sent off. It would be hard to remove the stain of this from him, but JT felt he owed it to him, to do his best to try to. 

The P.A. speaker mounted on the roof, blared out the phone's ringing, something they had problems with before, dealing with missed calls. JT dashed to the office and opened it, reaching the phone and answering it. He listened to the soft, weepy voice of Clay's grandmother on the other end and knew this call was legitimately bad in nature. It didn't last long, before JT hung up and slowly walked back to the clubhouse. The guys watched him walk in and go to Clay, taking him aside to talk. No one heard the whispered conversation, but knew it had dire meaning, as Clay instantly broke down and let JT hold him. 

The others quickly gathered around them and asked about the cause. JT quietly told them about the passing and sympathies poured out from them. So far, the last week wasn't starting out well for Clay, with two deaths to affect him. Once Clay was under control, JT and Wally drove him out to Stockton. The trip was silently spent in retrospect of the man who had clung to life for so long, now finding no more desire to go on.

As they pulled into the driveway, Clay's grandmother opened the door and waited for them to come in. She had them sit after greeting her and poured a cup of tea for each and had a plate of cookies and another of quartered sandwiches waiting for them. There was little to offer, other than thanks to God for taking him out of his misery and giving him peace. Clay went into his grandfather's room and closed the door, wanting to be alone with the last male connection to his life.

Grandma Hazel seemed more at peace now, knowing her Clarence was at rest and she had no more daily stress of, 'is today the day'? The guys knew it stopped the delays and interruptions to plans, as they worked around Clay's needs, making their lives easier to focus on. It seemed the only person sad to see Clarence die, was his namesake grandson. Everyone else was finding comfort from it.




Redwood Nine: Season 02 Ch. 13



His funeral was simple and attended by few friends, although the commune and club all shared in the ceremonies, making Clay feel represented well. Clay wanted time by himself and asked everyone to go and he'd be back later. He kissed Poppy goodbye and watched the bikes and cars start up and slowly cruise out of the cemetery. He stood staring at the hole with his grandfather in it, watching the shovels of dirt begin to fill it back in. JT stood by the bikes alone, waiting until he was ready to leave. Clay left the site with a stony look on his face, steeling himself to the memory of his past. JT saw him approach and knew he was hurting hard and doing his best to suck it up and move on. He held him by his shoulders and looked in his grey/blue eyes, awash with conflicting emotion.

"I understand brother, I understand. I'm always here for you, Clay. Whenever the ghosts come and haunt you, let me know and we'll talk. I'll help you get through it, okay?"

For the first time, the true sadness from emotional loss was coming from Clay. His face was breaking from the stern exposure, his lips quivering in tight, strained grief. JT hugged him to himself and held him tightly, Clay responding in kind, as his tears and wailing sobs poured out to the peaceful grounds around them. JT waited until Clay had released the majority of his sorrow, then held him by the arms and looked him in the eyes. He never spoke to him, just let the connection between them speak for itself.

"You're my best friend, JT. You and the guys are my real family now."

"What about grandma Hazel?"

"She's my grandfather's second wife. She's no relation to me."

JT realized Clay was as orphaned from the past as he was. His only existence was with him and the club, as his only family like he said. 

"You're my brother and every guy in that clubhouse is your brother, Clay. You still have family. I accept your friendship and I'll honour it always."

They hugged tightly again, now in bond, instead of grief. JT led him to their bikes and they got on them. Before they started them up, JT looked at Clay with a smile. 

"You just get your ass back from 'Nam in one piece, so we can patch you in. You'll be one of the first nine members of the club, guaranteed. Like I said before, if I find you a nice Harley, or Indian, it'll be waiting for you when you get back."

"Don't you worry. No fucking Commie bullet is taking me out. I'll do my tour and notch the kills. Once I jump off from Hawaii, the holiday is over and it's time to do some mayhem on the gooks. When I get back, I got you and the club and the great shit we do. I'm even getting real sweet on Poppy these days too. Maybe I'll be joining in on the big hitching thing."

"That would be great, brother. Love the sounds of that. You two have really hit it off."

"Yeah, she's a great chick. I really dig her."

"Cool. Let's ride brother and enjoy the fresh air."

"Lead on, my captain."

JT saluted to him and Clay saluted back, then the roar broke the calm of the cemetery grounds, They rode back up 99 from Stockton and east on Kettleman through Lodi, noticing a sign on McGinty's bar, that an Elvis impersonator was fronting for a country band. JT thought of Piney and his recent quibbles about the radio always on rock stations and no one would let him hear any country music. He thought of a going away party for Clay and decided this was how he could solve two things at once and have fun doing it. The girls missed dancing as well, so it was a win/win for him.

JT turned and looked at Clay and couldn't decide if he was smiling, or hiding the pain. Clay turned to JT, sensing the movement and JT could see he was happy, his heart accepting his fate to face what ever life was going to throw at him. JT smiled back and nodded towards the farm and twisted the throttle. The Triumph kept up to the big Harley using more power, but the thrill was just the same, as the pair rode side by side in harmony with the road and each other.

When JT sprung the idea of the country bar as a going away party idea, most of the guys were against it. Piney took his stand and demanded his fair share of time to hear country music. Lenny was going to challenge him on it, until Piney pointed to his V. President patch and made sure everyone saw what he was pointing at. 

"Now that says I have some fucking authority to say something and you guys listen. I like rock music, but I still like to hear some good country music too. Some of it is really good. I know some of it is shitty, but there's shitty rock music too. You going to tell me the fucking Archie's, or the Monkees are great bands? Honestly? Give me a fucking break. I'm just saying, I want my time to hear my shit and maybe you'll learn to like it too."

"Not likely Piney, but yeah, it's cool to play your shit. Just don't turn it up too loud, so I have to hear it too."

"I'll turn it as loud as I like. You don't like it, the gate is over yonder. This is a brotherhood and we accept what every brother brings to the table, or did we forget that rule already?"

The commune and the girls sat quietly, as the club worked out the conflict, until Lorraine walked up and spoke.

"I know it's up to you guys what you do for a party, but honestly, all the girls and the other guys want to go. Phoenix really likes Elvis and so does Marlene. I like country and most of the girls do too. Just so you know."

She walked back to the others and waited, as the club looked at each other and then to Piney. JT settled it and said McGinty's was playing host to the Sons and enjoying one last bash with Clay, before he left for his tour. Everyone cheered, making the vote unanimous by everyone.

Friday night, the two dozen party goers pulled into McGinty's and sat at their reserved seating. They received plenty of looks across the spectrum, from dislike to like and some wanton lust thrown in for good measure. Meals and drinks were ordered and the tables began to get filled up with empty bottles. The manager came on stage and announced that the entertainment would start shortly, bringing some unruly comments from a table of college boys. Piney turned and shot them a look, which brought an instant quiet to them, making others happy to hear.

The Elvis impersonator was dressed in a one piece suit like he would wear and sported similar glasses and a wig. The fact he was grossly overweight, never helped in his appearance, but when he spoke into the microphone, it was hard to tell you were listening to an imposter. A few rude comments came from the table of college boys, but 'Bobby Elvis' didn't let it phase him, as he talked to the house band what songs to play first.

As he went to start, the loudest college boy began hazing him. Piney stood up and turned around to face him. The college boy showed no fear to his protest, so Piney grabbed him by his jacket and lifted him off the ground and held him high. The fear grew instantly, as he saw the look on Piney's face and his ability to cause great harm at that point. His friends stood up, causing the club to rise, then noticed the balance of power greatly in favour of the Sons and sat back down. Piney continued to hold the young man up and told him quietly not to say another word, or disrupt anything again. The terrified man nodded rapidly in agreement and Piney let him down and straightened out his jacket. He pushed the shaken man into his seat and gave him and his friends one final look of warning. Piney sat down and looked at Bobby, gesturing for him to proceed. Bobby talked like Elvis, using similar body language.

"I'd like to thank you for supporting me, good patron. Now, let's have a good time, shall we? Well it's one for the money, two for the show....."

Bobby broke into Blue Suede Shoes and the crowd became interested in the stage act, instead of the floor show. He went straight into, Don't Be Cruel, Hound Dog and Good Luck Charm right after, before taking a break and talking to the audience. 

"I think my friends over here at these tables, would like a little dance music, am I right?"

The group cheered and hollered that they did.

"Then let's slow it down and all you good people feel free to get up and get close with that special some one. Boys, on me. 'Love me tender, love me sweet...."

The band kicked in and shortly the dance floor became packed with people enjoying the rendition. Clay was holding Poppy in a way that was almost sexual, then she turned to face away from him and wrapped his arms around her. Despite the varied age groups and demographics, love was love and it was being shared openly by the dancing couples. Bobby played to them, putting in a performance that rivalled the King, himself.

After singing Can't Help Falling In Love, so the couples had a good amount of time to dance, he broke into Devil in Disguise and had them sit again, as he pointed out pretty girls in the audience he felt were like the girl in the song. Half way through the song, he came off stage and took Golden's hand and walked with her, turning her around for the audience and a great number of hoots and whistles rang out.

He sang to her for the rest of the song and then thanked her. To his great delight, he got a sweet kiss on the lips from her and he led her back to the table. 

"Let's have a big hand for the lovely lady. What's your name, Sweetheart?"

"Golden."

"Your parents picked that name right. You certainly are precious. Let's hear it again, for Golden."

The crowd of males clapped and whistled loudest, while many women were clearly jealous of her beauty. Bobby went back up on stage, getting more applause and requests yelled out. He took a long bow and went to the band. He came back to the front of the stage and looked at the club.

"We got time for two more songs, so let's make them good ones."

The guys and girls shouted out their requests, then Bobby whispered to the band. He counted off and broke into Jailhouse Rock, getting lots of applause from the guys, as many couples began doing the twist and other dances to it. He went into Heartbreak Hotel right after and had many stay up and dance. He thanked everyone, the club especially, as he left the mic and walked off stage. A rousing chorus of 'Bobby' was chanted out and he came and took another bow. He went to leave and everyone asked for more. He called the band back out and they got set up again.

"One for my biggest fan club to dance to. Come on up and get cozy."

The group got up, along with other couples and waited, then Bobby went into Are You Lonesome Tonight? The closeness was enjoyed and Bobby once again played to them, walking off stage and going amongst the club, singing to each couple individually. He extended the song an extra minute, then thanked them profusely once more. No one left the floor and clapped and chanted for more. Bobby looked at the band members and the country band going on next.

"What do we do here, guys? I know you have you're time all set, but they don't want to hear you yet, so it seems. Tell you what, Let me do one more song and I'll need your guitarist to help me. I'll do Viva Las Vegas and we'll just rock them out on it. Are you in?"

"Bobby, you won the crowd, man. They're yours and well just piss them off going on, so let's do it and give them a show."

The band and the guitarist figured out a quick improvisation, then Bobby welcomed them back on stage, with added cheering for the guitarist. The headliner lighting came on and made for a more spectacular finish, as the band and Bobby belted out the song. This time when they finished, Bobby thanked them and told them to come see him anytime, but to get ready for some great music, from a great band, Harvest Homestead. 

The cheering subsided and the crew dismantled the stage and set up for the band. Clay was feeling no pain and enjoying himself in the moment. JT was happy he wouldn't be leaving with the bitterest of memories to take with him. He knew what he had left in 'Nam, was worse now and hoped Clay was prepared to deal with the intensity. He knew Clay was straining mentally to hold it all together, but what was actually in his heart and mind, was something only Clay knew. 

The band came on to great applause and started off with a country rock song that had the mood of the room pick up. Piney saw how happy everyone was listening to it and smiled to himself. The band had everyone dancing and hooting and hollering along to songs, making the night for Clay something special, when the band dedicated a song to him and Poppy. Their hit song, Those Three Words, had every foot tapping and hands clapping, as well as minds thinking.

The Monday trip to Stockton International Airport was filled with mixed emotions, as Clay said his goodbyes to everyone. The guys gave assurances he'd be okay, while the girls, especially Poppy, showed their fears and worries. Whether Clay had any doubts or worries, he never showed them, as he hugged everyone one last time, as the sergeant yelled out for all recruits to start a line to board. Twenty four hands waved to him, wishing him well, as he walked up the ramp stairway and into the troop carrier, commandeered from TWA to provide transport.

No one knew which face in the window they were waving at, but the wishes were well sent all the same, as the plane taxied out to the runway and once cleared by the tower, began a flight to Hawaii. The group stood and watched it turn into a dot in the sky and disappear, before they headed back to Charming, to continue what they started sowing. 1969 was looking like a better year than the last and JT hoped it was a sign of good things to come. There was a new movement coming out of the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco. Moon had told them it was finally happening and everyone wondered what it was. Moon said they were calling it the summer of love and every person would unite in a show of love to stop the war and bring peace to the country. Several guys and girls wanted to attend, making it a social outing, as well as Marietta finally enrolling in her dream. It was JT's birthday in nine days, so it was decided to include it in the festivities and make May fifth, a day to remember for everyone.

The end of the sixties would mark a change in humanity, in the way we thought, the way we believed, the way we felt about ourselves and others. Moon invited JT to join him at Berkeley for a meeting, where noted speakers, like Abbie Hoffman and Phil Ginsberg were talking about the new order to arise. One based on a lifestyle much like JT and the club were living presently, anarchism. The new catchword was Yippie! and it had been making a name all its own. The leaders had proven their commitment to the cause, earning the name, 'The Chicago Seven', after the riot at the Democratic Convention in 1968. Change was coming, whether peacefully, or by protest, it was coming none the less. JT was very interested in hearing about it, his hopes an America that loved and cared about its own, might one day be a reality. 

Clay watched the miles of endless ocean pass beneath him, as the jet made its way west to Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu. In his mind, he was already shooting down the enemy. He was being sent there to kill and he was more than happy to fill their request. The idea of having the latest and best in weaponry, made it all that more fun to take part. Clay Morrow felt like a natural born killer, finally getting to do what he was destined for.

Please take the time to vote and comment, both are appreciated. Thanks readers.



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 01



Ch.1    Hometown Heroes

The tractor made continuous loops in the field, as Moon ploughed the soil and turned the forage crops under, making it ready for planting this year's crops. Walter brought over a three year old cow from his stock and the girls immediately named her Tinkerbell, because of the bell she had around her neck. She was fawned over by them and treated with loving kindness, becoming a pampered pet, more than a farm animal. 

Poppy was in her room, writing her first letter to Clay, letting him know how much she missed him already and wished he was back home. She brought him up to speed on how things were going, but everything ended with wishing he was there, doing it with her. 

Downstairs, the new stereo was playing country music to Piney's great delight, but after the night out in Lodi, no one opposed the music and found enjoyment in it. The house was finished, as far as building went, but the girls had the guys hard at work painting and making everything pleasing to the eye. Most of the girls were in the kitchen, doing the endless job of preparing food for the night's dinner, when a horn started blowing, as it came through the gate.

Bodies went out to see Walter pull up to the barn and stop. Smiles were broad on all the faces, as he pulled the tarp of the cage in the back of his pick up. The constant clucking of the chickens, let them know that fresh eggs would be on the menu soon. JT and Piney carried the cage into the coop and opened the cage gate. With food already on the ground waiting, they didn't take long in leaving the cage and getting used to their new home.

Golden stood beside Walter and held him, enjoying his presence again. He had become a constant fixture around the farm, helping out and just coming to visit as often as he could. Marlene was also becoming a useful member, doing her part by becoming the resident nurse. Any cuts, or sore muscles, were relieved by her ministrations. It came out eventually, that at one point in her young life, she had wanted to become a nurse and take care of people. JT saw a side of Marlene she had carefully concealed from everyone, one that showed a true, caring nature that contradicted her former nature of a money only kind of woman.

She seemed at peace with everything now and the past was vanishing daily into the forgotten mists of her mind. She was definitely becoming an item with Phoenix, which surprised JT greatly. He had expected the moment she was accepted into the commune, she would be moving in high gear to bed every member as much as she could. She did enjoy evenings sharing herself with everyone, but invariably, she would be with Phoenix. They looked like an odd couple, but love wasn't picky about that side of things.

Moon drove off the field and up to the barn, then stopped and jumped off.

"I love that tractor. I think I'm getting the hang of ploughing now. How are the rows, Walter?"

"From what I can see, you're doing alright. The field will grow what you want, that's for sure."

Moon looked proud in his achievements, going against his teachings of being that way. It was hard to fault him, considering this was his third attempt at ploughing it right. Walter went and stood beside him. 

"Glad to see you're getting up at a decent time now. Five in the morning is a nice time of day, isn't it?"

Moon looked at Walter with scepticism, his normal wake up time of nine not even arrived yet.

"I understand the need, Walter, but it doesn't make it nicer. I felt like I was the only thing awake at that time."

"Just seems that way, son. You'll get used to it and it'll seem as normal a thing, as any."

Moon laughed and clapped his arm over Walter's shoulders and walked away from the field and back to the house. The smells of breakfast cooking, had tired, hungry bodies rising and coming downstairs, as the others came in, leaving JT, Suzy and Walter on the porch.

"So, what do you youngsters have on tap today?"

"A bunch of us are heading into Berkeley to hear some people talk. After that, we're going to start celebrating JT's birthday."

"Today your birthday, JT?"

"Yeah. Twenty nine today, Walter. Starting to feel old, now that thirty is around the corner."

"Should be looking at settling in to a family soon. Don't want to be too old trying to look after young uns. I think you and Suzy would make good folks to raise a brood of little ones."

"I was kind of thinking the same thing myself, Walter. I dig my chick a lot, I really do. Suzy just blows my mind and loves me more than I could imagine being loved."

Suzy gushed with emotion, hearing JT speak so positively about his thoughts and feelings. She hugged him tightly, almost squeezing the air out of him.

"I don't think you'll get much of a complaint there, JT, not from the looks of that."

"I'll make as many babies as you want, Baby."

"Babe, let's just take it easy on that idea for now. We have tons of stuff to do first, before we go down that road."

"I know, JT. I'm just saying that when we do, I'll have as many as we want to have."

JT looked at Suzy, radiating her love clearly about her. It wasn't hard to see the glow, whether you knew about the spiritual side of life, or not. If there was ever a display so flagrant to understand what love was, JT was looking at it. So was someone else and wanted to know what the happiness was all about. Spirit came out side to get them to come in for breakfast and saw Suzy beaming.

"Someone is absolutely filled with love today. You could light up a room, you're glowing so much."

"Does it really show that much, Spirit?"

"Oh yeah, but to me, I can see all your light shining. Golden, Golden, come here and look at Suzy, quick."

Golden came out scurrying, her bare breasts covered only by her hair.

"Look at Suzy and tell me what you see."

Golden looked at Suzy and in moments, focused on her aura and saw what Spirit saw.

"Wow, I have never seen so much love glowing like that before. Okay, give it up. What did JT say to you?"

Suzy was a bit surprised to know Golden knew the reason for her love, making Walter chuckle at her.

"She's good at that, ain't she?"

Suzy showed her knowledge of Golden talent, with a rueful look.

"Yeah. Anyway, JT and I were just talking about having baby, or two, or three. Not like right now, but later."

"You will be a good mother, Suzy. I can see where your love is radiating from. Spirit, can you see it?"

Spirit looked at Suzy and then to Golden, not seeing what she was seeing. Golden raised Suzy's T shirt and put her hand over Suzy's womb.

"Here. This is the centre of her love. Her child will be born in a cocoon of love and be nourished by it."

They all looked down at Suzy's belly, then up to her face, her smile radiating the nuances of her feelings, knowing that new found information about herself. JT looked at her, sharing in that love, knowing it was because of his love for her, that made her feel the way she was. 

"Guess it's my job to add all of my love in there. I'm liking my part in it, so far."

"I like that part, too."

Piney's shouts from inside broke up the moment.

"Hey, your breakfast is getting cold and no one's making you a new one, so get it, while the gettin's good."

Walter held the door and ushered everyone inside. They went in and plates of food awaited them at their places. Marlene waited until Walter sat, then gave him a long kiss on his cheek and warm hello.

"You folks sure make a body feel welcome. Have to say, no doubt in my mind, your grandparents would be right proud of you, little girl, all you folks. I know I am."

Walter took Golden's hand and kissed it, expressing his feelings openly. Moon saw everyone getting into the mood and felt a joy in his heart, one that had been held back from feeling unfettered. The purpose and merit of the commune was strong in all of them, despite the prior savagery committed. He truly hoped his dear friend JT, was strong enough to stay the course and not slide too far to the darker side of life. 

As they drove in Marlene's and Wally's cars to Berkeley later, they noticed several store owners gathered together and they looked extremely upset about something. It was enough that JT felt he needed to come and find out what the problem was and if it might affect him somehow. He let it fall back into his mind, as the discussion in the car centred around the topic of the speech they were going to hear. 

After Marietta was enrolled in the accounting courses, they headed across campus to the hall, where the speech was held. It was close to being standing room only, by the time they found seats all of them could sit together in. They didn't have long to wait, until the Sociology professor took the podium and welcomed the guest speaker, Abbie Hoffman. Within a minute, he had the audience's attention and held it, as he incited them to see what was really happening to their country. Slides appeared on the screen behind him, punctuating his words and bringing a stark reality to everything. 

JT felt his own feelings being talked about, being explained and quantified by Hoffman and those around him. He felt his choice in anarchy was founded in the same beliefs as those the speaker mentioned, that what was now the powers that be, were corrupt and a deterrent to the happiness and well being of the American people. Those powers needed to be toppled and replaced with a new regime, one that allowed the people the freedoms they were originally granted under the Constitution. 

By the time the speech was over, there was an invigoration to the spirits of those attending. They came away with a greater sense and purpose of themselves, ones who would be blazing the trail to the new frontiers of liberty. Protests were needed and greater numbers involved in them. A show of force was always reckoned with, with more attention. Peaceful demonstrations were continuously being called riots by the police and by the media they controlled, but more and more, the average citizen was seeing past the charade and not only seeing the conflict in reports, but experiencing them themselves first hand.

The talk of anarchy and love went hand in hand on the way home, as they came into Charming. JT remembered the commotion earlier and asked Phoenix to pull over in front of Sherman's Clothiers. They all got out and went in, getting a warm reception from Harry, when he saw them enter. After catching up on condolences and pleasantries, JT asked about the owners looking upset earlier.

"Awww, JT, word just came out that Sears and Roebuck want to put in a big department store, at the corner of Euclid and Liberty. They put that thing in and half of Charming is out of business. I can't compete with them, neither can George and anyone else here. They start and we end, plain and simple. Not only that, we end up losing our homes and anything else we don't own outright."

"Shit, Harry, is that for real? Everybody in town will go under?"

"Sure as we're standing here right now talking about it. Won't be a store in town to buy anything at, other than that place. Most of us will see fifteen, twenty years of our lives go up in smoke and gone in a puff."

"No way. So, we can't stop them some how?"

"Don't see how, JT? They got the money and the backing from government to come in. All every one cares about is the dollar and who's pocket it stops at. They don't care if the dollar stops in my pocket for a bit, as long as it gets in theirs."

"Fuck that, Harry. That's bullshit. They can't just toss you out like that. We'll start a protest and make people stay away from Sears, so they'll have to close up and go, because no one will shop there."

"Honourable thought, JT, but the reality is, you try stopping people and they'll just call in the cops, or the sheriffs, or the army if they have to. Money talks, son, always been that way."

Futility came across all of them, realizing the reality of what was and how it was going to be, despite objections. 

"You want to know more, come to the meeting tonight at the high school. Don't think you won't be affected by them either, JT. They do auto repairs as well and you'll be hard pressed to compete, just like the rest of us. Keep that in mind."

A couple came in and broke the conversation up, so JT and the others said they'd see him at the meeting later. That left the couple wondering what they were talking about and Harry was glad to fill them in on his side of it. The rest of the ride to the farm was now a mixture of talk, ranging from staying the same, to the need for change. Some things should stay the same in their minds, there was nothing wrong with that way of life. Other things did need changing and it was up to them to stop the rape and pillage of Charming and the world around them.

Despite the carefully prepared meal and preparations for afterwards, no one was completely disappointed in the decision to go to Charming and voice their thoughts and concerns. Suzy assured JT he would be well taken care of once they got back, that he wouldn't miss out on anything. The school parking lot was filled with cars, the word spreading through town quickly. The auditorium was a confusion of words being spoken, as opinions became debates. Before anything turned too heated, the Chief took the podium and called for a quieting of the room. Once everyone had settled back into chairs and looked to the front, he announced the mayor, getting some boos as a result.

Despite the mayor's pleading that even though some jobs and businesses would be lost, overall, there would be more jobs for everyone and the town would benefit from having them. The people were split, mostly opposing the coming of the department store chain. With objections noted and a weak promise of the town's help in assisting those affected, the meeting was over and the auditorium was exited with people having a bad taste in their mouths. Nothing sat well and everyone began feeling betrayed by the elected officials they had put in place to run their town. 

Outside, talk of harsher, extremer methods of dealing with it were discussed. The most affected store owners and their loyal supporters talked of ways to discourage the corporation from even breaking soil. It was going to have to be something of an ominous and threatening nature to deter them building and change their decision to come there. JT listened to them all and saw that none of them had the character to carry out what they mentioned.

"I think I can help out in this regard. My club and I aren't exactly all that welcome here and we know that. The same reasons that you people don't like us, are the same reasons Sears won't like us. We'll make it very clear to them who this town belongs to and who decides to put in roots to do business. I don't think they'll take too long to pack up and find another place to set up shop, that's a lot more friendlier to them."

The townspeople looked at JT and knew their hearts held those feelings for them, just as he said they did. They looked at him again as one who presented himself and the others as saviours of their town. Their was no other recourse to follow, it was either beat, or be beaten, eat, or be eaten. JT could see the light in their eyes, that said they understood him and were prepared to listen to him.

"My club will put such a hurt on them to even get started, they'll be gone before the ground has any concrete in it. We'll keep it friendly and not hurt anyone, the Army showed us ways of doing that, but they'll get the message to leave and do it."

It was what they had said was needed to be done and there before them, were the swords to cut down their enemies and build a shield behind them, to keep others out as well. Charming could survive, as long as the outlaws were as bad as they thought they were. On one hand, they hoped they were, on the other, they dreaded the thought that they were that bad. Either way, there was no other choice, but an uneasy acceptance of what was. JT let them know he'd be in touch, then got on the bikes and started them up. The combination of man and machine, both exuding a power of threatening control, left the lot and dominated the city streets, until they were gone.

Their presence hung heavy in the air around those that stood in a circle, looking at each other and committing silently to supporting themselves and others, by allying with the Sons of Anarchy and their support. 

Despite the threat to the townsfolk and the club's new business, it was put aside and JT was treated to an evening of pleasure like no other. The sexual attention lavished on him by every girl, made him feel loved and adored by them, but Suzy was all he was truly happy in being with. He gave as much as he received and blended their spirits in loving union. The idea of children came to him again, as he slowly stroked himself inside her, wondering what his offspring would be like, whether a girl, or a boy. He imagined a day without using protection when making love with her and the seed he planted would take root and become their child.

Suzy looked in his eyes and he could see she was feeling the same way about him. Her love was endless and boundless for him, as his was for her. That alone, brought him racing to the finish, as he stroked long and hard inside her, their eyes locked to each others through the bliss.

"I love you, Suzy."

"I love you, JT."

Those were all the words that needed saying, as they rode the wave of ecstasy together, taking them to the euphoria that awaited them. 

JT and the club rode out to the site the next morning, where the new store would be built. The billboard that showed its presence amongst the surrounding neighbourhood, dwarfed anything around it and stood as a blight to the landscape of the town. Its presence did only one thing and that was to mark an end to the town as they knew it. There was no doubt that it could never be built, the question was how to do it and not be thrown in jail for it.

Answers were easily come by, as the crew arrived to begin readying the site for the foundation. The looks on the faces of the men, said they were immediately on the defensive, because of their presence. JT knew to play that to their advantage and showed he had no intention of moving away, so they could enter. The others followed his lead and took positions that were equally defiant in their posture and the stand off began. The foreman drove away and phoned the police, getting a hold of Deputy Chief Unser. 

Wayne listened to the frantic worker, but countered it with his questions, that threw the man off his train of thought.

"Did they threaten you in any way?"

"No, but they..."

"Did they say you couldn't enter the site?"

"No, but they're sitting..."

"If they ain't saying you can't go in and they ain't threatening you, there's nothing I can do about it. They ain't breaking no laws that I know of. Sorry, if they do, let me know."

Unser's tone of voice to him said all and he knew he had no backing to go about his work. The click on the other end meant there was nothing else to say and he hung up and went back to the site. The club were still sitting at the entrance, barely leaving room to enter the site, as they stood around enjoying a cigarette while they talked. The foreman drove up to them, but didn't get out of the truck, keeping a margin of safety between them.

"I called the cops and they're coming to move you guys, if you don't move now."

JT looked at the nervousness on the man's face and knew he was lying to save himself.

"Is that right? I guess we'll wait and see if they come then. I'm sure you told them we were threatening you and your guys, didn't you? That we were scaring all the big, tough workers. What are we doing? Nothing. That's what we're doing. The cops aren't coming here and you know it. You want to come to work here, you're coming into my town and you work when we say you can work."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 01



"Are you saying we got to pay you to work here?"

"Did I say that? No. I said you work when we say you can work. We run this town, or haven't you noticed the nice people here saying hello to us as they pass?"

The foreman knew JT was speaking the truth. Hardly a soul went by, either walking or driving, that didn't take the time to say hello and wave. Affirmation was planted in them, that the bikers were in charge and had no other choice but to heed the words offered.

"So when do we get to work here?"

"When you build something we want you to build. We don't want to see this piece of shit standing here, no one does. This thing is a creation of greedy money and that's all it looks like. This town has a spirit that lives in every business here, look at it, you can see it for yourself. Look at the street and how the people are with one another. Do you really think this shit hole is ever going to do that here? Not a fucking chance."

The foreman watched the street carefully, noting how store owners greeted and talked with everyone on the street, how the townsfolk associated with one another. It was as idyllic a setting as anyone could paint a picture of. The foreman looked at JT with understanding, mixed with his frustration.

"So, what am I supposed to say to my boss? I got a job to do and he expects it to be done."

"That's not my problem, it's yours. My problem is this thing you want to build and it isn't happening in my town. You want to tell your boss that, go ahead. Just know this, you cause me problems, I'm going to cause you problems. I know enough about the law, to know you haven't got a leg to stand on, no matter what I say to you. You try building it and we'll tear the fucking thing down and make sure you can't put it back up. Consider this our friendly conversation, the next ones will just be getting worse. Leave my town and don't come back, until you build something we want built. My town, remember that."

JT's look and words, hit home like a hammer to the forehead. He warily looked at JT, as he put the truck in reverse and backed up to his crew. After some arguing, the equipment was started up and began moving back to the yard. Eyes watched the procession go, smiles appearing on their faces, as their hopes were being realized. Some took the time to walk down the street to the club and began thanking them for what they were doing. JT and the others knew they had succeeded in what JT hopes for them were. Acceptance, nothing more.

It was to their greatest enjoyment and surprise, to see so many on the streets cheering and clapping, as they passed. Smiles were broadly worn on the club, as they waved and shouted back encouragements to them. JT twisted his throttle, the others quickly doing the same, letting everyone know the Sons were there and never leaving them alone. Protection always came at a price, but the price the townsfolk paid in accepting the club, was one that was paid with love. JT knew from all his talks with Moon and the others, that love was a far greater power to wield, one that brought loyalty and trust. His plans to make the club an accepted member of the community was paying off, even more than he imagined it would.

They pulled into the lot and backed the bikes to the railing, the quiet coming back to the area. Suzy stood in the door way and shouted to JT.

"We've been getting a ton of calls lately. What did you guys do?"

JT smiled at her and started laughing, the others enjoying the moment to reflect on it as well. The rest of the girls came out of the clubhouse and joined them, sharing the news of the day. 

"Anyone call that was important, that wants me to call back?"

"Oh yeah. Wayne called twice, he really wants to talk with you. Some guy named, something Hale called and was flipping out. I hung up on him, he was an asshole. Oh, Mr. Lowen called and said to talk to him immediately."

"Yeah, guess he wants to give me all the legal stuff about it, make sure I don't cross the line and do something bad. Okay, I'll call him and then Wayne and get the scoop on all this. Guys, time for some maintenance on the bikes. Let's get them ready for the run this weekend and make sure we don't have any surprises. Just give mine a lube and check the tires, I'll go over it once I'm done with the calls."

Every member went to their bikes and began doing the monthly servicing to them. Whether the bike ran perfectly, every part was inspected and tested. A part could run perfectly today, but a month later, it was a problem waiting to happen. JT and Suzy went into the office and his first call was to Art. Not soon after the hellos, Art went straight into his need to express the legal ramifications to JT's actions. JT assured him that neither he, or his club did anything violent, or threatening. All he did was express the town's desire not to see it being built and to build something they liked instead.

Art had to laugh at that point, knowing JT's way of explaining it, meant a more distinct form of aggression, using their presence as a weapon. He knew what kind of fear bikers presented to the public, their appearance in contradiction to the norm and that made people feel uneasy. He cautioned him on showing any force and never touch anyone, then thanked him for all he was doing.

"You know, Jake would be kicking up his heels at this. He'd be right along side of you. He loved Charming and the way the town lived. He would have been against the build, just like you."

"Yeah, I got that from him a few times."

Art cautioned JT again and advised him on the best course of action to take, before he hung up. JT called Wayne Unser next and got much the same from him. No one was against what he was doing, the common man of Charming facing extinction from progress. Wayne related what the call earlier was about and said the next time, bigger fish would be involved and they would come with back up. Unser explained his position, that he had to uphold the law, but gave JT every way to defend the town legally.

JT and Suzy left the office and went into the clubhouse, where he walked in and thrust his fist in the air, hollering they were champs. The others took up the cry and that bolstered them to feel powerful enough to take on the system. They were surprised to hear about the level of support they had from the town, bringing a closeness to them, one that favoured their presence. The afternoon had them all discussing the next stage of attack, on what they could do to deter the builders, without ending up in jail. 

Day two of the battle began with clear skies and idyllic temperatures and the club sitting down the street from the lot. The builders could be heard coming to the site and the guys began their next deterrent. One by one, they pulled out and began riding single file down the street, making as long a line as they could. They rode past the site, as the trucks neared the entrance, making them wait until the bikers passed them and they could turn in. By the time the last biker had passed, they had circled the block and rode past them again. They continued circling, preventing the vehicles from turning into the lot, bringing about horn blowing as the first sign of aggravation.

They made three circuits around the block, before tempers flared and push came to shove. Keith was just coming up to the entrance, when the foreman tried to cut him off and make it in the lot. Keith hit the brakes, but collided with the side of the truck, body slamming against the side as he turned. That brought out angers on both sides, as the club came to protect Keith and defend their actions. The sound of sirens coming, had the builders feeling they would be seen as in the right, saying the trouble the bikers was causing would stop immediately. Unser pulled to the scene and stopped, then two more cruisers pulled up and began quelling the hostilities between both sides. 

Once an investigation was under way, Unser discovered the cause of the accident and began writing out a citation for the foreman. When he saw he was being blamed for it and not the bikers, he began calling Unser numerous insulting names and swore to get even for it. Unser gave him a look and called over another officer.

"Needham, arrest this man for making threats against an officer of the law. You can start with that and I'll have others to add at the station."

The foreman was livid and struggled to keep from being handcuffed, but he was subdued and cuffed, then put into the back of the cruiser.

"Anyone else want to join your boss?"

None of the other workers challenged Unser and waited to know what was going to happen. Townsfolk gathered at the scene and supported the story, that the club had done nothing wrong and were merely riding through town in a safe manner. A black Lincoln Continental pulled to the scene and stopped, a large, rotund man getting out and heading to the core of the matter. Unser went to him and was blasted by him, before he was even twenty feet away.

Unser shook his head, as he listened to the complaints and threats from the department store executive. He waited until the man was almost breathless from venting, before he started back in on him. The executive stood and listened to the charges being laid against the foreman and a further caution, that his people had better practice road safety in his town, or they'd be denied access to the roads of Charming. Wayne gave him the full measure of his position and put the fat man in his place. 

With charges of insulting and assaulting an officer hanging over his head, the executive waddled back to his car and sped away from the scene, causing some to fear his driving. Unser spent over two hours investigating the accident and caused a delay in the crew getting their equipment on the site. It was early afternoon, when the floats were unloaded and the heavy equipment left on site. The haulers were driven away and the crew left, as their foreman was still incarcerated for his actions and not released yet.

Wayne stood with the club and told him that was the best he could do on his end and it was only a matter of days, before a hole appeared in the ground and a foundation was built. JT assured him he had done an excellent job in helping them and that further steps would be taken now to prevent any building to be started. Unser was leery of what the actions were and cautioned them to stay within the boundaries of the law, if they wanted his protection.

Day turned to night, as the club sat in the clubhouse, waiting for the darkness to come. Wally drove JT, Lenny and Chico to the back side of the site and parked. Each carried a bag and made their way to the equipment, climbing up and opening gas tanks. The bags were opened and the white crystals of sugar were poured in, then cleaned from around the filler hole, so no traces were left. The four went back to the car and drove away, no one the wiser for what they had done.

The club was parked along the curb of the street, watching the workers come to start the day, all of them wary about the inactivity of the bikers sitting there. The foreman looked at the club and made derogatory gestures to them and the club just smiled, as engines were started and the black, diesel smoke belched out of the exhausts. No more than five minutes had passed, when the engines began running rough and died, with no chance of starting them again. The crew inspected the engines and had no idea what was wrong with them, until spark plugs were pulled out and showed the cause. The foreman looked at the club laughing at them and jumped in his truck, taking off for either the phone, or a direct face to face with the police.

The Lincoln was back in half an hour, along with the county sheriffs, bringing the Charming police out in force as well. A stand off of authority ensued and the sheriffs had no choice, but to leave the site and the boundaries of Charming, having no jurisdiction in it. The executive was beet red with livid anger at the destruction of his equipment and demanded the club be arrested for it, but Unser only asked if he had proof of his accusations, getting the no he suspected. With no proof, there was nothing Unser could do and told the executive he was sorry for his loss, but his hands were tied by the law.

The executive once again got in his Lincoln and tore off down the street, but this time, he was stopped not far away and issued a couple of tickets for speeding and reckless driving, making him furious enough to rip them up and toss them on the ground. Before the man could move, he was taken from the car and arrested on littering and disobeying an officer. The people were smiling happily at seeing him taken away and that was more than he could take. He began hurling insults at them and threatened to sue the town. His crimson face expressing his fury, was all anyone saw, as the cruiser drove past slowly.

The club went to Lumpy's diner and sat having a meal on the house, when Unser came in and sat with them. He explained what he had done and congratulated the guys on doing a good job of sabotage, that nothing could point at them as the culprits. Unser was curious to know what was planned next, but JT pretended to zip his lips and Wayne could only hope it wouldn't be something that would be too dire in nature. He mentioned that the mayor was starting to get more than upset at the calls from the head office. His worship was in dire straights to lean either way in this matter. Business was one thing, but his constituents were another. Business helped pay taxes and create jobs, but the people were the ones that kept him in his position.

Calls were made from all points, to deal with the growing conflict, bringing about another meeting at the town hall. The cacophony of voices were clearly in favour of abandoning the new store, making those on stage very nervous about the situation. Jacob Hale Jr. took the podium and called for a quieting of the room, only to be booed off the stage. D.C. Unser went up and had the audience hush, using his hands first, then spoke to them. He welcomed the mayor to the podium and he received a cold reception as well. He tried to promote the store as a boon to the town, but raised voices drowned him out, in objection to what he said. The club sat at the back quietly, listening and knew they were favoured to continue harassing the builders.

The meeting was ended in indecision, the townspeople against it, while the powers that be, were trying to maintain the benefits of it. Once the opposition was gone, the town members began another meeting of their own, discussing what the club had done so far and what they could do themselves to assist them. No one wanted the club to face criminal charges, but they were at the end of anything remotely legal in their efforts. JT asked if anyone was willing to make up signs and begin a protest march and picket the site. That made many contemplate the idea, that it was a legitimate form of protest and one they felt able to participate in. 

At eight o'clock sharp, as workers came to the site, a steady line of protesters was marching back and forth across the entrance. As the men got out of the trucks to go to the site, they were barraged with shouts of not wanting the store in their town, to leaving and not returning and ending with 'No Sears Here.' Workers were at a loss to try and cross the line, as men, women and children marched and bolstered signs high for everyone to read. 

JT and the club were parked along the curb and sat on their bikes, looking every bit as menacing as they always had. It didn't take long, before Unser and two more squad cars were on the scene. They went to the club first and asked a few questions, before going to the workers and asking what their problem was. The stunned looks on their faces, almost had some laughing at them, as they pointed out the obvious to Wayne.

"I guess they don't want your store here. You know, as much as you have a right to do a job, just like the rest of us, they're the folks your people want to try and sell shit to. Has anyone at the head office taken that into consideration, that maybe it's a bad idea to open a store here and open one someplace else?"

"So what are we supposed to do then?"

"I'd call that fat bastard who was here yesterday and tell him to pack up and go. You tell him no one in Charming wants their store here, so it's just a waste of everybody's time to build it here. No one wants to shop there, so what's the point? Just end up closing it down and we have a big pile of shit we have to tear down."

The foreman shook his head, unable to understand the need for Charming to remain the way it was and not want the convenience of a large department store with everything under one roof. He looked at the faces of the people and they were speaking volumes of support for Unser's words, then back to Wayne, who shrugged his shoulders and gestured facially to say he had no other choice. 

"I can clear them away, that's not a problem. I can keep the bikers under control, but you still got that problem of no one wanting that store here, or you guys either, for that matter. Right now, I need my streets cleared of your trucks, so's I can get my town running properly again."

That seemed to settle everything for the foreman and he called for his crew to get back in the trucks and back to the yard. Cheers went up and continued long after the trucks had left the scene. Charming was saved and the store owners and patrons were relieved to know decades of service wasn't being pushed into the history books. Citizens united and stood as one, proud of what they had done for their town. Harry Sherman was the first to walk away from the throng and cross the street to the club. Starting with JT, he went to each one individually and thanked him, shaking their hands with vigour. 

The others saw him and it took only several to make the move over to them and the rest followed. The guys got off their bikes and came together with them, receiving the thanks they deserved, but never looked for it. The fear of the unknown, had become something of friendly familiarity, as they personally recognized the club openly and acknowledged all of their well meant support. Unser was quick to point out how well his dad was doing with the treatments and owed it to the club and the support they showed, even visiting him and keeping him company. 

The kindness was taken to heart by all, the protection of their town making them feel safe in their presence. JT took that moment to instil what he wanted them to believe of them and not what they had thought of them from media hype.

"I just want to thank everyone here myself and from all my club members as well. I know it's been hard for you to accept us, a bunch of guys who like to ride motorcycles and make a lot of noise and we're sorry about that, Harry let us know a while back about the vibration of the windows and everything, so we do our best to make as little noise as we can and avoid that. Our apologies. As for our business, Teller-Morrow Auto Service, we'll be back open soon for business, once we get everything settled and find a place to live. Seems our mutual friend, Jacob Hale Jr., enjoys making lives miserable around here, because he had Lenny here, tossed out of his place illegally last year. We've been living with some friends out in Calaveras since then, so if anyone knows of a place, we'd be happy to be good neighbours. One thing we'll always do our best to do, is keep Charming the way it is and promote our local businesses."

Smiles came out broad and happy, hearing words that touched the heart strings. The young men might look and act a bit differently, but their hearts were in the right place and that's what mattered to them. Differences aside, they were welcomed with open arms and promises of support to keep their business running.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 01



"I say we head over to Lumpy's and have a celebration. This is a great day for us all and we should show everyone what a great place this town is to live in."

No one could argue with JT, as everyone had booked off the day to support the protest and a rejoicing was in order. The area was cleared and cars and bikes made their way through town and over to Lumpy's. To see a large portion of the citizenry walk through his doors, had him coming to greet them himself and ask what the occasion was. When he heard about the protest and winning their fight to keep local business alive, he told everyone their meals were half price, which raised another round of cheering, as every seat was filled and temporary seating made to accommodate everyone. The staff was doing their best, along with Lumpy, taking everyone's orders and then helping in the kitchen to prepare the food and serve it once it was ready.

Laughter was always present and every age of person was enjoying the event. JT sat and looked at the club and the townspeople sitting together and the enjoyment of their presence among them, was one that his dreams had hoped for. He knew in his heart, that even being an anarchist, it all came down to the respect and trust that people wanted to feel. Knowing he had the D.C. of police as an ally and noted business men as well, JT was feeling assured he and his club could be a part of Charming and still outlaw outside its borders.

The celebrations and thanks given, JT and the guys rode back to the clubhouse with big smiles plastered on their faces. The door was opened and the beer began flowing, as joints were rolled. Toasts were made to JT and he toasted them equally for their parts. No mind could think of a reason they had made a wrong choice in becoming a Son. The patch gave them instant recognition and a new found respect for it. With money in their pockets and a desire to show it off, they headed out to Stockton and the bike shop for some custom parts. Otto had the body of Wally's Chev ready for paint and wanted to show off some of his talents on the bikes as well. 

The line of bikes and Chev trailing, pulled into West End Custom Bikes in north Stockton and parked in formation. Little Willy Bennet came out and greeted the club, letting him know he was the owner. Tom stepped from the back and surprised him, unaware that he was a member. 

"Hey Tom, didn't recognize you."

"Hey Little Willy, what's up, man?"

"Not much, just choppin' and chromin'. How do you like my latest stock?"

Willy drew their attention to the four bikes behind him and whispered oaths of their beauty were given. The sun played its magic on them, the highly polished chrome parts reflecting back the glistening beauty. Little Willy's painter, Mutt, had done his creative genius in the paint and pin striping, making each one look like a motorized jewel. The guys went over each one in detail, getting ideas for their own bikes. Willy was interested in what they were looking for, to make the changes on their bikes. 

Otto told him straight up he was doing the paint, but Mutt's work was excellent quality and gave him some ideas to try out. Willy looked Otto's bike over, admiring his paint work and complimented him on his abilities. The guys began naming all the things they wanted to change and Willy laughed loudly, his creations sparking off the imaginations of the guys. Chopped and raked was the commonest alteration wanted, along with some ape hanger bars and chrome wheels. Little Willy's six foot five stature was a complete counter to his name, as he ducked his head walking into the shop and showed the guys the samples he had. 

The crew were like kids in a candy store, every item bringing an excitement about it. The walk around took twenty minutes to look at everything, leaving every guy, save one, with ideas on what to get for their bikes. Mutt came from the back, after getting a shout from Willy to help out with the orders. JT stood by himself, watching his brothers enjoy the fruits of their efforts and enriching their lives. It wasn't how they got their money, it was what they did with it that mattered.

With everyone taken care of, Willy asked what JT wanted to get and he declined wanting anything. Willy wondered why and JT pointed out the light, blue Harley and told him the story of it. He showed him the diamond shaped blue badge and the initials JH on it and Willy was in complete understanding of the need for it to remain as it was, in its current condition. 

"One thing I would like the bike to do differently, is go faster. Any ideas on that, Willy?"

"I can bore the block and go with bigger pistons, maybe change the cam and go with shorter stroke rods. That would give you more power. You could change sprockets and get better range between gears, give you a higher top end speed. I got some neat tricks I can do and I can box anything I change and you have the original parts still."

"You know your shit, Willy. How would that change the look of it? I want it as original as possible, right."

"Won't see a single bit of difference on the outside, man. Everything is internal. It'll look exactly as it does now, just go faster than a fart in a wind storm."

JT laughed at the humour, making Willy laugh along.

"How much for doing that to the bike?"

"The engine work and sprocket changes?"

"Yeah."

"Well, seeing as you guys just spent a fortune in parts from me, here's what I'll do. You pay for the parts that it'll need and I'll do the work for no charge, brother, how's that?"

"You're shitting me? Just pay for the parts and that's it?"

"Already made a killing on your brothers' parts, that'll pay the rent for months and give me some cash to get some new parts I need."

"You're a fucking saint, Willy. So, when can you get to it?"

"How's next week for you? Drop it off on Monday and I'll have it ready before the end of the week."

"I can live with that. I still have my old bike to ride, so it won't be too hard."

"What's your old bike?"

"An old Army bike, Jake sold me last year. It's a '44 and still painted the way it was then. Good running bike and everything, just not real cool to ride around on, you know what I mean?"

"Why not customize the shit out of that then?"

"Maybe. Definitely needs something done to it."

"I got an idea for you, see what you think of it."

"What's that, Willy?"

"What if after we get your baby blue done, you bring the old one in and let me do some stuff on it."

"Like, what kind of stuff?"

"I need to buy another bike, so I can create something new. What if you let me do it to your old bike? I'll let you have the parts at my cost, just like I'm buying them and I'll do all the frame work and engine work for free. That way you get a wild custom bike and I get to work on one for free and not put the money up front. Just let everyone know who did it and send them my way, sound cool, brother?"

"So, how much we talking here?"

"That dark purple one out front you like so much, the parts and chroming for that cost me thirty five hundred. You good with that?"

"Thirty five and I have a bike like that one?"

"Less, if you don't want as much chrome on it and more a daily rider, but it'll be one kick ass bike still."

"Yeah, it'd need to be a daily rider. Here's what I was thinking, you know, the guys should be in on this too, check this out. Hey guys, listen up. Willy wants to do a new custom bike and needs a bike to use. I was telling him about my old one and he could use that, but here's the thing. What if we do it up for Clay, when he gets back?"

"Who's Clay, JT?"

"He's a brother who just took off for 'Nam and he's getting patched in when he returns. He needs a new bike and I said I'd keep an eye out for a good one for him. He has a '62 Olds convertible he wants to get rid of, so we have the title all signed and we could sell that and use that as some of the money needed. If we do a twenty five hundred dollar bike and get maybe half from the convertible, that would be just over a grand we need to raise for it. What do you think of that idea?"

The small shop was alive with roaring approval, as the club felt that was the best thing to be done. Willy waited until the cheering died down and asked about the car.

"It's in mint shape, Willy. Jake had it stored and kept it in perfect working order. Looks like it just rolled off the factory line, it's so clean."

"I might be interested in looking at it. My old lady wants me to get a car, so we can do normal people shit, like grocery getting and drive ins and stuff. If it's a topless, I could still get to feel the wind in my face and the sun on me and she'd be happier than pig in shit, too."

"Okay, here's what we can do. You're not open tomorrow, right?"

"No, I try to keep weekends clear, old lady shit, you know? Wants to see me more."

"Yeah, heard that a few times already, myself. Nice to be missed though, must mean we're okay guys to have around."

"Yeah, figured as much myself."

"So, what if we bring the old bike down and leave it with you and bring the convertible as well. You and your old lady can go for a drive in it and see if she likes it and you too, of course."

"That sounds cool, I can do that. She wants to go for a drive out to Oakland, to see her sister, so we can check the car out and I'll let you know when we get back."

"How long are you going to be?"

"We aren't staying long. Just need to pick up some stuff from her place and come back. This way I kill two birds with one stone. Make the trip something fun to do and I don't have to rent a cage to do it."

"What kind of stuff are you getting?"

"All her clothes and shit. The sisters aren't exactly getting along and Janice wants Becky to get her shit out now. Fucking women, man."

"Dude, you have no idea what we have to go through, right guys?"

Willy and Mutt were shocked to know about the twelve women they lived with and what they were up to most of the time.

"So, try having twelve old ladies to deal with and see what that's like. It's really hard to argue with them, when they gang up on you when they're naked and they start asking for shit, when your cock is sliding in and out of mouths. It's totally not fair. They get anything they want and we happily oblige every little wish they have."

"Seriously? Dude, where do I sign up? I'll be happy to oblige them."

"Thought you'd say that. Now, here's the other part of things. Becky would be with every guy there as well. Not only that, the girls have their own fun by themselves."

"What do you mean, by themselves?"

"I mean, the girls get it on with each other and have sex. Shit, dude, you ain't seen nothing, until you watched what these girls can do."

"You mean, like, dyke shit and stuff?"

"Well, that's a bit harsh, as Golden would say. She owns the property, but Moon more or less runs the commune.

"Golden, Moon?"

"Oh yeah, Willy, fun names too. Star Rider, Phoenix, Azure, Flower, Poppy, you might even get a new name, same as Becky. So, still like the idea of it? Here's the best scenario to help you decide. Imagine this gorgeous, young woman is sucking on you and fucking you silly, while you look at Becky swallowing another guy and getting the fuck of her life from him and you're happy to see it happen."

Willy went from sheer excitement to furious anger at the thoughts.

"See, has to go both ways, or it doesn't work. It's not all it's cut out to be, man. It takes a real understanding of what love is all about and how we have to let everyone decide for themselves what they want to do. You aren't going to let someone tell you what you can and can't do, are you, Willy?"

"No fucking way, brother."

"It's like that for everyone. They can't tell you and you can't tell them. So if she wants to head off and be some guy, she has every right to do that. I love my little Suzy, I'm thinking of marrying her, actually. She still does it with a couple of the guys and I know she's always goofing around with the girls and finding new ways to get off. It doesn't bother me a bit, because I know we love each other and everybody else. It's a whole new way to love, my brother, a whole new way to love."

"Shit, man. That's some fucked up shit. So, you're like a bike gang that hangs out with hippies in a commune."

"Exactly, Willy. It sounds really strange, but once you understand it all better, it makes sense. Trust me, every guy here has gone through it and we don't look or act like hippies, do we?"

"No, never would have even imagined anything like that. Still, fucked up shit, man. Fucked up."

"Yeah, maybe, but you're still thinking about how many mouths and pussies you could stick your dick in, in a day."

"Yeah, hard not to, man. Hard not to."

Laughter ended that part of things and talk went back to cars and bikes, a subject far easier to converse in for them. Arrangements were made to meet at a certain time and Willy said he'd put a rush on all the parts for the bikes. Handshakes and hugs were given all around, before the club mounted up and rolled out of the lot, following JT to say hello to Gus and see how he was doing. The dense rumble echoed off the buildings, as they came down Gus' street. The paved lot was still full of parts and wrecks, but they were new ones, letting the guys know Gus was still hard at work.

The noise subsided and the familiar grin greeted them, as Gus came out zipping his pants up. Handshakes were avoided and Gus apologized, wiping his hands on his pants.

"So how's things, guys?"

"Great Gus. Couldn't be better."

"Heard about the fuss you boys stirred up in Charming. Didn't want Sears coming in and ruining it, I hear."

"Yup. We heard what it would do to the town and even us, so we all joined in and ran the fuckers out."

"Getting all civic minded, are you?"

"Sort of. Really helps to live there, when people figure you're on their side, even if we do look like this."

"Got a good mind in you, JT. Jake would be right proud, the way you lead these boys. So, tell me, how did all that work out, you and Jimmy?"

"Shit, Gus, we're like best buddies now. We're doing an easy run for them every time we do ours, so it's not out of the way and we have a couple grand to boot."

"Nice tidy sum. No worries about getting caught?"

"Nah. We meet up in a secret spot, where no one can see us and we load up in private and split, then they leave after. Same at the other end. It's even on our way to our pick up spot."

"So, no worries of getting nabbed there? No other action happening?"

"Nope. Not only do we have almost a zero chance of getting caught, we also have another new ally down there to help out if we need it."

"Oh yeah? Who's that?"

"The Aztecs. Had a sit down with La Roca and worked things out, with some help from Jimmy, actually."

"Jimmy helped you with the Aztecs? Why the hell would he do that?"

"We ended up in one of his places, after being chased by the Aztecs and next thing we know, he's walking in with a couple of his guys. He found out what the beef was and had me and the big guy sit and work it out. Now, we have clear passage through their territory and protection if we need it. We pay them a nice chunk of protection money and everyone's happy."

"Getting to be quite the business man, JT."

"Starting to feel like it's a business, Gus. Since Jake passed, the shit falls on my shoulders to take care of. I'm just glad I got great guys to help me out. Their the real backbone of the club."

"Yeah, they are that, son. Looks like they found the wrecks I just brought in."

"What wrecks are those?"

"Figured I could make some money from wrecked cycles. Picked up a bunch of them a couple of weeks ago."

"Oh yeah? Anything interesting?"

"Couple of Harleys, an Indian, not much left though and the rest are Jap crap, Hondas and such."

"Might be interested in the American iron you got."

"Need them for parts?"

"Not parts, but something for a new friend to play with. What are you looking to get for them?"

"Wouldn't mind a couple hundred for the three you're talking about. What's your friend want them for?"

"He makes custom bikes and is looking for bikes to work on and he can use these, I hope anyway. Not too fucked up, are they?"

"The Harleys are runners I was told, the Indian is good for parts and that's about it."

"Let's check them out, Gus, might hook you up with a steady customer for them."

"That would be much obliged, JT. You really are quite the business man. How's the business going with our coloured friends? They behavin'?"

"Couldn't be better. Tom has things set up perfectly for them, so it's hard to fuck it up. They're smart enough to move it out of town fast and we now have another buyer, of certain quality goods."

"Who's that?"

"Jimmy Cacuzza. Has a good market on the other side of the mountains, moving it through his dad's network. He's making some nice money out of it and only has to transport it across state lines."

"Shit, son, you're getting real cozy in bed with them, ain't you?"

"Business, is business, Gus. Man's gotta make a dollar where he can, right?"

"Can't fault you there. Just watch your back and don't get too comfortable with everything. Things can change in heartbeat and it ain't so pretty to see, when everything does a twirl down the bowl."

JT saw the experience in Gus' eyes speaking, knowing that he had walked that line before. He'd already experienced the suddenness of change himself, his own life completely going 180 degrees the other way he was headed less than a year ago. Broke and penniless, living hand to mouth every day, had changed to cash in their pockets in a steady flow and no end in sight to what they could get their hands on. It was just as easy to spin around the other way just as quick again, like Gus said. The more legitimate ways to make cash were less lucrative with no real stress, but the stress of not getting caught had to be there, or the laziness would see them behind bars, or dead outlaws.

"We got it under control Gus. We'll make sure we don't get too comfortable. I don't think any of us are looking forward to doing time, any time soon."

"Good, not a fun place to hang out in, trust me."

Gus smiled again to prove his point and JT had to laugh, knowing it was meant in seriousness, but Gus just looked too funny not to laugh.

"Okay guys, what do think? These things worth buying?"

"The Harleys are okay, JT. The Indian used to be a pretty bike, ain't now."

"Gus wants a couple of hundred for the three of them, think they're worth it?"

"What for, parts?"

"Nope. Little Willy wants them. He just said he was hurting for cheap bikes to use. Let's use these as the down payment on my old bike getting done. If he's at twenty five hundred and we give him these, I'll get him down to half that in exchange. Once he knows he going to have a steady supply of wrecks and runners available, because of the deal, he'll go for it."

"Slick, son. Got a good head for putting things together like that."

"Thanks, Gus, nice to get a nod from one who knows the ropes."

"Call 'em as I see 'em. JT. Look, you set that deal up with Willy and I'll be happy with a hundred."

"Deal. Piney, ride with me. Guys, pull those out and clean them up a bit, we're going to make a deal with Little Willy Bennet and get Clay's bike a little bit cheaper, like half."

"Right on, JT."

"They'll look presentable, Mr. President."

JT laughed and shot a peace sign at them, as he got on his bike and took off to Willy's shop, less than ten miles away. Willy was surprised to see them again, as he came out to meet them.

"Willy, just got you the deal of a lifetime, I think we should go in and talk."

Willy was immediately interested in what JT had to say and brought them in the office to sit. Willy took a bottle of Jack Daniel's from the bottom desk drawer, along with three shot glasses, held with his thumb and fingers in them. The guys didn't fuss over the hygiene and watched Willy pour it up to the rim in each.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 02



Season 3

Ch. 2 Et Vobis, Fratres, ópere et omissióne, orare pro me 

The sheets of folded paper and ink, were the only things that kept Clay in touch with home. The words written on them, letting him know he was still who he was before all this, that there was something to return to. Clay folded the pages and slipped the picture of JT's old bike back into the envelope and tucked it into the top pocket of his jacket. He heard the command to mount up and fall in line to board the plane, making this the last friendly flight he would be taking for a while.

Sitting in the living room at the farm, Poppy read aloud Clay's last letter to everyone and knew that on that day, he would be committing himself to risking his life every day. He was twenty five hundred miles away now and going another sixty four hundred, before he would enter into a conflict that had escalated into a full blown war, with America taking the stand to throw more at the North Vietnamese than they could handle. Their tactics were proving futile, but no one paid attention to that fact and stayed the course. 

Flag draped boxes held the results on the tarmac, as row upon row were laid out after their final return flight. The hardest part for most to accept, was the average age of nineteen. Young men who had only just begun their lives, were given a uniform and a gun and told to be a soldier. Childhood games of playing war, had no bearing on preparing them for the reality of Vietnam. Too many faces held the shock of their death on them, never imagining a reality like the one they were in.

A group wish was given to Fate, the hopes it would be added into the scheme of things and bring their friend home again. No more could be done other than that, ending the circle and that part of the day. Bodies were back outside and into the fields, tending to the new shoots and weeding around them. Tinkerbell wandered freely about the grounds, happy to be around everyone. The chickens were producing more than enough eggs to keep everyone happy with their fill, as well as the ones that made a tasty dinner.

Walter and Golden pulled through the new gate and gave the horn a blow. Heads turned to them, as they got out and waved everyone over. There in the back of the bed, were a mating pair of geese and a family of ducks.

"Thought you might like a little crackling duck, or goose for Thanksgiving, this year."

The girls saw the ducklings and instantly loved on them. Walter shook his head and smirked at them.

"Don't get all attached to them, you'll be calling them dinner soon enough."

"No, Walter, they're so cute."

"They turn into big ones like the parents and make a good meal. You'll need three or four to feed the lot of you."

"No way, Walter. That's so cruel."

"Girlie, you got to eat, to live. You don't want them, I'll be serving them up come thanksgiving myself. My missus might have left, but her recipes didn't. I know my way around a kitchen still."

"Don't sweat it girls, we'll take care of them and do the deed at Walter's, so you don't see it. Funny, haven't heard one of you complain about eating chicken."

That made them stop and think about that thought, about the difference, or lack of it, between the two. They looked at the chickens pecking away lazily, content in their lives to exist that way, then looked at the baby ducks again. Attachments to familiar feelings, had to be severed, replaced with a primal need to exist, to look at the ducklings and think of food. Lenny and Otto grabbed the cage with the geese, while Tom and Wally took the ducks and headed to the barn. 

A bale of chicken wire was brought out, along with wire staples and they began fencing in an area for the new arrivals to live in. Walter knew all the tricks to making it go as easy as possible and in less than half an hour, they had two areas fenced in and they brought the cages out and opened them, letting the animals get to know where home was now.

Half a world away, the hot, humid stench of Vietnam, assaulted the noses of the new arrivals. Gear was unloaded and picked up off the tarmac, as S. Sgt. Greeley continued lining them up when they were ready. They boarded the troop carrier and took a short ride across base to their camp, a place they would call home for a long time to come. The carrier pulled to a stop, rocking everyone in the back enough to bang heads. Clay chuckled and rapped his knuckles on his helmet, as he looked at the guy beside him rubbing his head.

"They told us to wear them at all times out in the field."

Gilmore put his helmet on and looked at Clay with derision, not all that happy with the explanation for the lump on his head. They dismounted and were shown to their quarters, picking out bunks of their own. They unloaded their duffel bags into their footlockers, stowing away their gear and the last remnants of home. Clay had his pictures pinned to the wall at the head of the bed, using the pins left behind by the soldier before him. It was ironic, in a cosmic sort of way that, while Clay was landing and settling in on the bunk with his guns, the soldier who occupied his bunk before, was settling in for his first night back in the states, as his star spangled coffin was placed on the stand, making him number 317 on the list of the dead to line the hanger.

"Attention!"

Greeley's booming voice brought bodies to their feet and lined up at the end of their bunks, ramrod straight and eyes forward. Captain MacAfee walked in and took a short stroll down the line, looking at the men and what they were occupied with doing, before he came in. He stopped at Clay's bunk, noticing all his weapons on the bed and his pistol disassembled, obviously in the process of going back together.

"What's your name, soldier?"

"Private Morrow, sir."

"Why is it, you're the only one cleaning your weapons?"

"Sir, if my guns won't fire, I'm a dead soldier, sir."

"Did the rest of you hear that? He's a dead soldier if his guns won't fire. Remember that every time you're assigned to go on a mission. You're nothing but target practice for the Cong, if you can't fire back. Good work, Morrow, you'll make a good soldier."

"Thank you, sir. I'll always do my best."

Clay snapped a salute to the captain and received a quick one in return. The captain walked to the end and looked in the faces of each man, judging them against Clay and what his command would be like. No sooner did authority leave, when disgruntled faces looked at Clay. He stared them back down, showing his own strength of character, pointing at them as he spoke.

"Hey, I'm here to hunt, I don't know about you guys. All I know is, daddy said keep your gun clean and ready to fire, if you want to be eating dinner. I ain't here to make friends, I'm here to kill gooks, period. I got friends back home, good friends, ones I know will still be alive at the end of the month. You want to sit around getting all friendly and shit, go ahead, but I intend on coming back after every mission and I don't give a shit if you don't, got it?"

No one wanted to challenge Clay on his take on things, most of it making complete sense to them. Despite the awareness to the reality of where they were, Clay wasn't making inroads to being an accepted member of the unit. He sat on his bed and had the pistol back together and cocked in thirty seconds. He laid it down and took his rifle up, dismantling it in about the same time, then began cleaning and oiling each part carefully. Clay wasn't completely despised, the knowledge of their weapons being the only protection they had to make it home again, had kits coming out and the tedious task of weapons maintenance was put to task.

Greeley's form darkened the door way a moment later.

"Briefing in ten minutes, look sharp, be sharp."

His outline left and faces understood one thing, there was no more training, it was time to prove themselves as soldiers. Clay was first in the tent and sitting front row centre, before anyone else came in. Captain MacAfee glanced at Morrow, offering the slightest of recognition for his efforts. Once the platoon was assembled and ready, he pulled down a map of the area they were interested in. The mission was more a recon, than combat, but warnings to be sharp were heeded well.

Charlie was seen in the area and they needed to know if a camp was being set up anywhere. It would be a night drop, so they had plenty of time to prepare their equipment and themselves. They had to scout through five miles of dense forest and make it to their rendezvous in six hours for pick up at the LZ by chopper.

The club rode into Stockton with the Olds and Willy's wife, Becky was smiling happily looking at it. The paint and chrome sparkled, the leatherette seats glowing in the sunlight. JT pulled up on his old bike and Willy shook his head at the state of it. 

"You weren't shitting me about being original. Nice bullet hole. Runs good, no smoke. Still, I got my work cut out for me. JT, this is my old lady, Becky. Becky, this is JT and this is the convertible we might get. Not bad, man. Very clean."

"Nice to meet you, Becky. Told you Jake took good care of it. This car has been loved, brother."

"Yeah, it shows. So, Baby, want to see what it feels like to drive and piss your sister off some more, when we pull in with this beaut?"

"Ooooh, yes. I love it already, it's gorgeous."

Willy didn't need to know any more and reached out to shake JT's hand.

"Deal. After the happy sex last night, tonight should rock my socks off."

Becky punched Willy's arm, making him cuddle her to him roughly.

"Good on you, brother. Glad it's worth it to you. Really makes things work out for all of us. My buddy should be getting stowed away about now and looking at his first mission soon. You have all the time in the world to do it, so make it as nice as you can."

"No sweat, JT. I'll put everything I know into it and Mutt will do the wickedest paint on it, unless Otto does it."

"No, Willy, you have Mutt do his stuff on it. It should be from your shop."

"Thanks, Otto. Mutt won't disappoint you guys, I promise."

"I know neither of you will. Shit man, if it looks anything like the ones out front, Clay will shit himself."

"Cool, man. Alright, see you in a few days to get your parts. Let's see how this baby feels and get a taste of cage riding."

"When was the last time you drove a car?"

"I was nineteen, so almost ten years now. Don't worry, I still know how to do it. Like riding a bike, right?"

JT and the others laughed, realizing their concerns were unfounded, but well intended. Willy climbed in and slid the seat all the way back and admired the ample leg room for his size. He gave a thumb up and started it, as Becky slid up beside him and waved goodbye to the guys. Willy turned on the radio and drove away with a sense of pride on his face, Becky, a look of satisfaction that was pure gloating. JT shook his head and laughed, as the couple vanished into traffic.

"What's so funny, JT?"

"Just thinking of Willy and Becky. They just seem like the oddest couple. He's more like us and she's more like Marlene, without the smarts."

Those that got it laughed, while those that didn't just shrugged, as they got on the bikes again and followed JT back to the clubhouse for a meeting. JT wanted to appoint some new positions, so club business was taken care of and the money was accounted for. Tom and Wally were too busy with the increase in retail operations, leaving Otto, Chico and Keith, as potentials for the positions. The other order of business, was the decision on new prospects. Since the protest, many of the town's young men were showing up at the clubhouse, asking to become members. Some of the young women wanted to get to know them better too, having made it quite clear they were very interested in coming around and 'getting to know them better'.

The bikes were lined up and quietened down, leaving a pounding peacefulness in their ears, then bodies made themselves comfortable in the clubhouse, to await the news from JT. 

"Guys, looks like Operation Takeover worked and the town likes what we did. We couldn't ask for more support right now. Understanding that, we've had several guys showing up and wanting to join us, so let's have a vote on electing new members, yea, or nay."

New members were easily desired, as several of the young men interested, were already good friends with the club members. The next issue was an agreement of a time period to prove themselves and one year was the minimum anyone felt good with. It was voted on and passed, then what a prospect was required to do, to prove his worth. Servitude was the most likely requirement, with ideas ranging from demeaning, to well-intended, thrown out for consideration. JT disregarded the nastier ones and took notes on which ones to implement.

He finally got to the new positions he wanted to have and explained the need for them. It came down to the members deciding first, if they wanted the position and secondly, if the club agreed to their nomination. Secretary-Treasurer was the most important to have and the three members looked at each other, deciding who should hold the position.

"I don't know enough about that shit to do it, man. I don't write English that good and that counts me out."

"No problem, Chico, that's cool. So, it's between Otto and Keith, then. Guys, we really need someone to do this. I know both of you got what it takes, so should we just vote between you?"

The guys called for a vote and JT asked for yeas and nays on Keith and there were more nays than yeas, making Otto the new Sec. Treas. for the club. The table was pounded on and Otto was congratulated, albeit with reservations on his part. 

"Dude, it's easy. You keep a total of the money and what comes in and what goes out. When we have a meeting like this, I need you taking the minutes, to know what was talked about and what decisions we made. I can't do it all myself and it's important, Otto. Do it for now, until we can find a replacement, okay."

"Okay, JT. I'll do it for the club, brother. I can do numbers and shit."

"Right on, Otto."

JT handed the notebook of meeting notes to Otto and told him to close off this meeting, it was time to celebrate. Bottles of Jack Daniel's and tequila were brought out and shots of each poured. Joints were added to the mix with music and the afternoon became boisterous. The sunlight cracked through the darkened interior, as the door was opened and the guys saw several young women looking nervously in at them.

Lenny was up and over to them first and welcomed them in, holding the door for them and closing it behind them. The four females walked over to the club and stood smiling, as Lenny came up.

"So, let's start with some names, shall we? What's your name sweet thing?"

"Judy."

"And yours?"

"Lydia."

"Veronica, but I like Ronnie better."

"I like it too, and your name, darling?"

"Jessica, but I like Jessie."

Lenny pointed out each member and told them their names and then introduced himself.

"So, how can we help you young ladies?"

Jessie seemed the bravest and spoke for them.

"We really like you guys and your bikes, they're like, really cool."

"Thanks, baby, that's nice. See, we're not bad guys like everyone says we are."

"We don't think you're bad, not like that bad, like they do. Can we party with you?"

"Want to drink some beer and smoke some pot, do you?"

"Yeah, we'd really like to do that. We all smoke grass and everyone, but Lydia has drank beer."

The other girls nodded in agreement and the guys were interested in the anxiousness of the girls to join them.

"Are you girls old enough to drink?"

"I am and so is Ronnie, but Lydia and Judy aren't, they will be next year."

"Close enough. So want a beer and we'll roll a couple of joints?"

"Sure, cool!"

The exuberance on their faces, had the fridge door opened and four beers brought out and opened. The guys made room for the girls to sit and stood around them, checking them out a bit more closely. The music was turned back up, getting the mood up as well. Beers were swigged and the joints were soon inhaled, putting the girls in the party and the bravery to start flirting and showing the real reasons they were there.

"So, you really like us, do you? Which one do you like better?"

The girls became nervous, having to divulge their love interests. Eyes were cast to their choices, but voices were too afraid to confirm them. 

"You know, that's not really fair, Lenny. This is a club and every member is equal, so the girls should like us all the same way, right?"

"That's true, JT. So girls, do you like us all?"

Nods and yeas were given, showing no opposition to it, the friendliness getting more playful, as the girls relaxed into the club atmosphere. Lenny made the first real move on Jessie, looking to see how friendly the girls wanted to be. If one could be persuaded, the others would join in and follow along.

He began kissing her, getting more aggressive in his approach, as he tongued the unsuspecting girl into seduction. The other girls watched her, knowing what she did, was what they would be expected to do.

Lenny's hand left her face and travelled to her chest, caressing her just above the cleavage of her firm breasts. The soft moan from her throat, had Lenny getting bolder and slid it down and cupped the tender mound, squeezing it softly. Jessie's hand grasped at Lenny's hair in growing lust, as her mouth continued to accept the invitation, to show her feelings for the club. She never even flinched in protest, as Lenny's fingers began undoing the top buttons of her blouse.

The other girls became nervous, but aroused, wondering if their experience would be like that, if they accepted an invitation from one of the guys sitting beside them. Lenny opened the blouse and bared Jessie's body to her jeans, the flush across her breasts getting brighter, her breathing getting deeper from arousal. Knowing what was desired from her, she reached behind her back and unclasped her bra, slipping her arms from the straps and dropping it beside her. Lenny's hand caressed her creamy skin softly, the dark, pink nipples swelling in stiffening pleasure. 

That was all the guys needed to see and they began working on the other three, finding a nervous acceptance to the advances, changing to desirous enjoyment, finding their initiation would be equally arousing as Jessie's. Breasts were shared between members, the girls finding the multiple stimulation, as exotic as anything imagined before. The guys practised all the moves and techniques the commune had provided them with and it overwhelmed the new initiates to no end. Their bodies were explored and stimulated beyond what they had ever conceived of. 

Lenny got up from the couch and began undoing his pants, as Jessie anxiously looked on. Everyone had to put a halt on what they were doing, as they watched Jessie help Lenny out of his pants and without hesitation, took a hold of his semi-erect cock and stroked it with her fingers. Looking into his eyes, she slid off the couch to her knees and opened her mouth. Every pair of eyes, male and female, absorbed the scene and felt the ecstasy in themselves, as Jessie worked the thickening member deeper and deeper. There was an understanding, that was taken by all the girls, that their initiations would be a display of their sexual talents and what they were willing to do. Jessie was setting the standard to follow so far, so eyes spoke of their acceptance to continue doing that.

Guys began standing and opening their pants, letting the four girls have two cocks each to enjoy. They took each one and every guy let the nubile beauties explore their boundaries of acceptable sex. Members looked at other members and all eyes said they had found something new to enjoy. The eagerness to please, far outweighed the lack of talent, as the girls started to be rewarded orally for their efforts. Once cocks were satisfied, they were all stood and stripped down to the flesh, as the guys took their turns on them, showing them oral satisfaction unlike anything they had felt, or lusted for. 




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 02



Cries and moans rang about the walls of the clubhouse, as four, young bodies were taken to orgasmic bliss. The looks of rapture told the guys they were willing to give themselves over to them, anything they wanted to do was acceptable. As rejuvenated members were presented, each girl accepted a position on all fours, as the gristly flesh was slid inside from both ends. Each guy had a chance at feeling the warm, wet flesh of their femininity, evoking the need to feel fulfilled by them. Hips were pushed backwards in lustful urging, taking the tubular instigators as deep as they would go, driving themselves to the brink of sexual satisfaction. 

Semen oozed from both ends of them, as the guys released their loads. Gaping mouths and orifices, spoke of the satiation of their libidos and their bodies, as they caught their breaths. The guys pulled their pants back on and began sitting the naked girls on their laps, letting them cuddle in, as quivering thighs were caressed softly. JT looked at the girls, comfortable in the nudity amongst them.

"How do you like being friends with the club?"

Jessie was first to respond with how happy she was doing what she did. The others agreed with her and she continued.

"Do you like us? Can we come here and hang out with you guys?"

JT looked at the guys, clearly showing an eagerness to have them come by, then looked at the girls.

"Okay, you can come by, but you can't do it all the time. We have to be here alone at times and to be honest, we have girlfriends already, so don't be getting ideas that you're girlfriends. We like you and all we ask, is that you don't do stupid shit and bring trouble to us. Do it once and we never knew you and make sure anyone and everyone knows how much trouble you are. Is that cool with you?"

The girls looked to each other and then back to JT, nodding in agreement to the rules. 

"Okay, then let's have some beers and joints and have some more fun. I want to see what Ronnie is like, myself. Come here sweet thing, sit on my lap and let's get to know one another better."

Ronnie didn't hesitate in getting off of Keith's lap and quickly scooted across the floor on her tip toes, her breasts bouncing seductively in their fullness. Her full hips slid onto JT's lap, as her arms went around his neck. JT kissed her and found her desire equalled to his and more. He smoked the joint and held it for Ronnie, as she took a toke, then passed it it to Lenny. 

"I'm good. Let me take you to some place a bit more comfortable, Ronnie."

JT rose with Ronnie in his arms and carried her smiling past everyone, as he went to his bedroom. There was no opposition from the other three to go to a similar location, as they were carried to the other three rooms. 

The afternoon was spent in sexual gratification, both sides giving themselves freely to it. By the time they had to go, arrangements were made so the girls knew when to show up and when not to. The flirtatious girls walked with a different stride to their steps, as they walked back into town, talking about what they had done and how cool they were. It was instant status for them now, to brag that they knew the club and the others didn't. They knew to keep the sexual experiences a secret, if their status was to remain, so they decided what could be said and what couldn't. 

The cockiness was evident on the guys, as they rode back to the farm, riding out of formation and goofing off. Chico flew by at fifty, doing an Iron Cross and leaning into the soft curve ahead and dropping back down on the seat, to drop two gears and pop a small wheelie, then tearing off ahead. JT knew how happy they were, but the disturbing sense of betrayal kept nagging at him. Ronnie was amazing, more than he expected out of her, but his love for Suzy was something far more important and valuable to him, than a new piece of ass.

As hoped, the guys settled down by the time they were coming to the farm, presenting the look of innocence, to mask the truth. Deception was becoming a trait of the club, showing one face to woo the town, while the other could show as the true face of evil, one that had no remorse to killing. 

The unit's first drop in the night sky, made for nerves to prickle the skin to heightened sensitivity. The landing was textbook and the feeling of solid ground under their feet again, made for relieved minds.The chutes were folded and stashed in their packing, then buried in a shallow pit and covered with leaves. Eyes and ears were peaked for sights and sounds, as weapons were readied for use. The ten members of Tropic Lightening began making their way through the dense growth, keeping a distance of thirty feet between them, covering as much area possible on their sweep through. Gilmore was on point, a hundred feet or so ahead, Clay not far behind him on his right. The insects and nocturnal wildlife covered the forest with distracting noise, making it hard to hear any enemy chatter, or movement. 

Every step was taken with care, making sure their steps didn't give them away. Gilmore held his arm up with a fist, halting everyone. He took several tentative steps forward and then ran back screaming. Clay saw him coming and sucker punched him in the face, dropping him instantly and bringing a quiet back to the forest. Gilmore began coming to and Clay had his pistol out and pointed at his face, as he held him by the shirt front. The lethal inducement of death was evident in Clay's eyes, as he whispered to Gilmore.

"You fucking do anything like that again and I'll put a fucking bullet in you myself. You just gave away our position to every gook within a mile or more. Now we got to cover our asses even more than we had to. I told you I was coming back after every mission and I'm figuring you'll be the first one they send back home. Now shut your fucking mouth and tape it shut if you have to, but no one wants to hear another sound out of your mouth, you fucking coward."

Despite the horror of what he saw, Clay's threat presented a greater reason to let it go. Portman knelt down and asked Gilmore what he'd seen. Gilmore only pointed, the barrel of Clay's gun still making him mute. Portman went back to the spot he had stood at and looked about. Even in the gloomy darkness, the shape of a person could be seen. Portman stepped forward to see it in better light and then wished he didn't. He put his hand over his mouth and made his way back to the others, now gathered together.

"What is it, Portman?"

"Some kid, looks like, got hit with one of those bamboo traps. Spikes sticking out of him everywhere. Animals have already got to him."

The image made the men cringe, imagining it in their minds. Clay seemed unaffected and spoke in whispered tones.

"My friend's brother was killed the same way. Came home in a closed coffin, not much left to show. He was on point and cleared everyone to move forward. He took one step and the trap closed, same thing, bamboo spikes tore him up."

Clay brought the harsh reality of jungle warfare crashing into reality for them, as they looked at the area where death had occurred. Clay looked at the fear on their faces and the dread of ending up like that and despite his low ranking, had the men back on task and moving with extreme caution with every step. Five miles in the dense jungle, felt like five hundred, as they approached their pick up point.

Traces of dawn delineated the horizon with a faint blue streak, gradually taking away the bleak darkness and the horrors each mind had created in waiting for the finish. Eyes shared knowledge of the shared dread, realizing this was only a recon mission and firefighting wasn't even a part of it. What was to come, would test the mettle of each man and discern his sense of bravery and duty.

The thudding sound of the choppers blades spelled a beginning to calming their nerves, knowing it was only minutes to leave the area and head back to safety. The pair of Huey's slowly descended, until the runners bounced on the ground. The pilot held it steady, as the men broke up and headed to both choppers, climbing in and getting secured. Clay jumped up and stood watch at the entrance, scanning the bush for any signs. Once the last of the men were climbing in, the pilots were revving up for take off, when a bullet pinged off the metal beside Clay's head. His eyes were on the area and saw the movement in the bush. He opened fire with his machine gun on the area, as his chopper rose up and banked away from the area. 

Portman was on the opposite side and took on firing on the area, as a dozen Cong came out to fire on them. Bodies dropped, as bullets rang off the fuselage in return. The choppers raced off at top speed, disappearing over the treetops to safety. The pilots called back for status on the men and the chopper, getting good news that the craft was whole and flyable, but one of the men had been hit and bleeding bad from a leg wound. It was only five minutes to the base, as medical aid was started on him.

Clay looked at the guys in his chopper, letting them know that he was aware of where he was and what he had to do. They let their animosity of him dwindle, realizing why he was acting the way he was towards them. Clay waited until Henderson was transported away on a stretcher, before he jumped down and headed back to his quarters. The sergeant came to the door and told them debriefing was in five minutes. 

Once again, Clay was sitting in front of the captain by himself, as the others came filing in. When bodies were settled, the captain looked at Corporal Johnson for his report on what happened. Johnson began from their drop point and described what he knew from their observations. He didn't divulge Gilmore's fright and subsequent flight and screaming, but told of the trap and the young boy killed by it. No sign of encampments were seen, but they were attacked when they left, resulting in Henderson getting shot in the leg when leaving. The captain looked at Clay, hearing of how he handled the situation on his own.

"Morrow, I'm promoting you to Corporal and squad leader. I need someone out there who knows what he's supposed to do and come back safely and you show that to me. I hope you boys have a better idea what we're up against, out there. This ain't Kansas anymore, Toto and these people ain't munchkins. These little fuckers know this place far better than we ever will. This is their sandbox and we don't have the right toys to play with in it. It's men like Morrow, who go out and find them and kill them, that's going to make anything change in this war."

The pep talk was hitting home, more so in Clay, who was revelling in glory at his promotion and recognition of his attitude. He was in charge, nothing of great importance in scale, but he was the go to guy and those under him had to listen to his words and follow them. He was getting a taste of the power JT had back home and wanted to feel it like he did.

The captain pulled down another mapped out area and explained what they knew so far and suspected about it. This mission would be met with ground fire and the possibility of a constant fire fight on the ground, but they needed to know the strength of the Vietcong who were stationed there. Reconnaissance flights were unable to spot anything, but they knew they were there. There was an estimated forty to fifty troops, but they were unsure of how many had re-enforced the area and with what for armoury.

The club sat around the living room with the girls and enjoyed the time with them, singing along to songs played by Phoenix and Star. No one was even aware of what had transpired that afternoon, the memory of it put away and never thought of. JT could see how well his brothers could play both sides and hoped the loyalty to the club superseded anything of a personal agenda. There always had to be that loyalty to the club and every member, or it was a toothpick structure.

His dream of freedom was real and one they were beginning to live. JT wondered about his crew and the men he called brothers, if having that power and influence would corrupt them. He wondered himself, if he had abused the power bestowed in him. The strength to lead, was harder than the will to follow, having to set a course to stay on and commit to it, once heading to it. He pondered their course and he could see how thin the line was they were travelling on. Deviation from the course would only result in conflicts and bring a road to ruin for them.

The members of the unit congregated around Clay's bunk, as he gave his machine gun a quick cleaning. He saw their looks and knew their survival was in part, due to listening to what he had to say to them. He gave them all his knowledge of hunting and how to walk with a light foot. He told them how to spot movement in a camouflaged scene and said he'd personally shoot the next motherfucker who lit up a smoke while on a mission. Smells were easier to catch than sight and gave away their presence. Smoke was a perfect way to zero in with a mortar and blow their stupid asses up. Faces showed the ignorance of warfare and Clay preyed on it.

Once the power of Clay was instilled in them, he casually asked if any of them knew where to score some good grass. He told them the best shit grew where they were, so it shouldn't be hard to get it. The camaraderie began to grow, as the dire life they had to serve, was going to be enjoyed with some social engagements with the herb superb. Despite the change in atmosphere among them, the fear of a known killer leading them, left a certain uneasiness in them. Clay knew that each of them had to be like him, if they were going back home together. They would be killers, like it or not, or become another statistic and have a flag lain over them.

The last vestige of light was fading, as Clay and his unit mounted up in the DC3 transport. They were geared up and the flight control lieutenant made sure they were clipped to the static line. Guns were held with greater assurance to perform, knowing this would be their first real fire fight. Blackness spread out below them, nothing in the jungle giving a point of reference to know where they were. The lieutenant informed them the drop zone was coming up in two minutes and to get ready. Clay and the others stood in a line, looking out the open door and faces showed the dread of the unknown. 

"Go, go, go.", was all they heard and Clay led the way forward and disappeared into the night sky. Black chutes opened and the float to the ground began raising nerves to their maximum. Half way down, the sound of gunshots rang out, tracer bullets lighting a direction of the target. Clay wasn't going to just hang there and wait to be shot and began opening fire back, spraying the area the bullets were coming from. He unhooked a hand grenade from his jacket and pulled the pin. He knew the timer would go off in five seconds and that would give it time to fall to the ground. The explosion lit up the area, as the unit fired at those exposed in the light.

Moments later, feet touched down and bodies rolled, their chutes hastily removed and guns made ready. Clay called for a body count and was more than happy to know no one was killed, or wounded. They took formation and defended their position, waiting for an attack. Ears listened in strained effort, to hear a sound of the enemy. Bullets began hitting around them without warning, bringing a return fire from them where they thought they were coming from. Clay began moving forward, taking the fight to the enemy, the others moving in unison with him. They swept the bush with hot lead, hoping it found a body to hit and remove the immediate threat. Madness and mayhem began, as guns were fired at the enemy's position, there or not.

Clay's second grenade was lobbed into the area and exploded, sending bodies flying. They rushed forward and shot any of the enemy still alive. They waited for a second wave of attack, but none came, so Clay began the purpose of the mission and headed towards the suspected encampment three clicks away. As they neared the location, Clay had the others hold back, while he and Portman moved closer to the clearing. They observed the movement and numbers of personnel, as well as what equipment they possessed. 

Clay pulled back with Portman and made note to the others what they saw. He wanted to head back and circle around to get a better view of the area, much of it obscured by growth and camouflage. Faces looked back with trepidation, knowing it meant getting closer to the enemy and increasing the likelihood of getting shot. Clay saw enough backbone in a young soldier named Gorman and had him join him in manoeuvring around. Portman held their current position and watched Clay and Gorman disappear into the thick vegetation.

Close to half an hour later, they reappeared and Clay had them move out quickly. He didn't say what they had seen, but Clay's need to put distance between them and the enemy was one of dire consequence. Once they were several clicks away, Clay squatted and had the others huddle around him.

"They got at least a hundred men and I could make out mortars and small cannons, at least five of each. They were ready to move, when we saw them, so be sharp, they know we're here and know where we're going. We need to get back to base with this info and let command know what they're up to."

The unit heard the importance of the information, but the fear and dread of the enemy now on their trail, peaked their level of fear and eyes spoke of salvation from Clay to get them home.

JT woke up with Suzy laid atop his body, her warm flesh pressed to his. He lay there thinking of his love for her and what it meant to him. She was more than anything he had imagined a girlfriend to be and presented a love for him that was the epitome of his concept of it. His heart ached with the knowledge of yesterday's sexual deviations and knew his actions had to be accounted for. 

He kissed her head and slipped out from under her, heading outside. He stood watching Moon and Star working in the fields, seeing their dedication to the commune and nothing of personal gain. He turned to see Walter's truck pull in and waved. Walter got out and stood with JT and watched the tractor work the other field.

"Getting it ready for the food crop, good. Animals need their food as much as us. I can spare some, they don't bring in a good harvest."

"You're just the greatest guy, Walter. Everyone thinks so."

"Yeah, that right?"

"Oh yeah. You've done so much for us all and Golden is really happy. Moon was telling me how her spirit was cleared of her past hate and she really is happy now. You being here, makes her feel a connection to the happiness in her past."

"I love that little girl like my own. I'm happy she's past all that nonsense now."

"I think most here think of you like a grandfather to them."

"Well ain't that a nice thought. Never got to be a father, but made it to being a grandfather instead."

JT and Walter stood in the rising sun's light, watching Moon plough, while Star was hand seeding the rows. Bodies began coming out, squinting eyes in opposition to the light of day. JT went in and started coffee and tea, then got the fry pan out and began laying strips of bacon in it. Suzy slid up behind him and put her arms around his waist, laying her head on his back. JT held her hands to him and waited until she was ready for more. Her face was turned up to his, her eyes glowing with love in them, as JT bent and kissed her.

"Morning, Babe."

"Morning, Baby."

JT put one arm around her, while he flipped the sizzling strips of meat in the pan. Naked females rubbed their eyes and smiled, seeing their morning duties being done by JT. Mugs were brought out and coffee and tea poured in them. The aromas of breakfast found their way to noses and perked the foggy minds of the group to waken.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 02



Lenny was sitting at the table doodling on paper, while Lorraine sat on his lap cuddling with him.

"What are you writing, Baby?"

"We need something for our letterhead. I'm just trying to figure a way to shorten it up a bit."

"Is that the initials?

"Yeah, doesn't make any sense like that."

"Almost looks like it spells out Sam Crow, that place by Lodi."

"Yeah it does, doesn't it. Too bad we don't have any of the last letters to make it work."

"What's that, Lenny?"

"Trying to shorten our club name for the letterhead, Piney. It takes up too much space at the top. Hey, JT!"

"What's up, Lenny?"

"What's the name of our charter? If we start up more, we need to designate a location for us."

"Funny, I was wondering that myself. Charming just doesn't cut it, so I was at a loss for something to call us."

"Redwood."

"That's good, Piney. If we can think of a name with an O in it, we can make our name Samcro, like the corners Lorraine was talking about."

"An O? Let me think about that. Hey, how about Redwood Originals? We are the original charter and the others are coming later, so how does that sound?"

"Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Originals. I fucking like that name, dude. Our chapter can be called Samcro. Nice going, Piney."

Piney smiled and took a bow, pleased he had contributed personally to the club. The name was batted about and every guy agreed it was a good name to go by and acceptable to use for tattoos and club insignias. 

"I'll head into Stockton and see Kenny about making up some badges that say Redwood Originals. Any guy who starts in this chapter gets one. I'm thinking of getting another one made as well."

"What do you want on it, JT?"

"First 9. We need to let others know we were the ones to start this club and deserve the recognition."

"Yeah, I like that."

The commune sat quietly, as the club discussed the topic, but eyes watched and observed them closely. The show of recognition to themselves worried Moon, seeing the sin of pride wrapping around them with the idea. Pride was something good, when a person showed it for good reason, or deed, but when they took pride in honouring death, elitism and individuality, it brought a concern to him, to wonder where their hearts lay. He decided to speak with Spirit and have the commune do a prayer for the club in the circle. As much as their hearts were filled with love, dark forces were also present in them as well.

The rendezvous was still a torturous six clicks away, every step taken with death in mind of them. Clay had point and shone his penlight on his compass, looking at the direction to go. He turned it off and put them away, standing to a crouch and looking around. He motioned with his hand to move forward in the direction they had to go and used two fingers to point at his eyes and then where he suspected sniper lookouts and traps might be. 

Before they had moved out from their last position, Clay gave them pointers on what to look for, so they could avoid traps. They found two and marked them, moving on to their next position. Ground traps were easier to spot, once they knew what to look for and found three bamboo spiked holes. Clay might have come across as an asshole to them at the start, but asshole or not, he was keeping them alive and doing a good job on how to stay that way. 

Clay taught them to work in teams, one in front scouting for ground and tree traps, while the one behind watched the bush and the treetops for snipers. He saw their respect for him and knew he had earned it by doing his job. His move up showed the others he had what it takes to lead, his confidence in what he knew, kept his unit focused on him and every word he spoke. Clay was in his element.

Riding out to Willy's the next day, the guys were excited to pick up the new parts and get started putting them on the bikes. Willy heard them pulling in and went out to greet them. His smile told the guys the Olds was a hit with Becky and he was happy to relate how thankful she was. He took them to the shop and showed them the old bike was already stripped down and the cuts made to the frame for the chop and extension. The guys were impressed with the attention to detail he paid, removing unnecessary metal and grinding it smooth. Willy basked enough in his work, then went through to the store with them. Boxes and parts lay on the floor for them and it was like Christmas for them.

They packed them in Wally's car and it was as fast as they could get back to the shop to start putting them on. Wrenches and screwdrivers were removing the old parts and a pile of them began at the side of the shop. JT went around and lent a hand where needed, having nothing of his own to do. Before the end of the afternoon, bikes were started and tested out, making sure the new parts worked right. Smiles were on every face, as pride of ownership was shown by them all. 

Otto began the task of writing down everyone's choice of paint job, the difficulty increased, after seeing Mutt's work on his bikes. Otto asked JT if he wanted anything on his bike done, but it was a flat out no, that it would remain the way it was always, despite the prompting of Otto's thoughts on what he could do. Wally wanted his bike to look like the car, so he left it up to Otto to choose, but he liked the flat black that he was starting with.

The shop was closed and the club headed out to Calaveras, taking a slow trip through town. Heads turned to notice several bikes parked at the curb in front of the Hairy Dog and a biker standing out front having a smoke. He looked at the club and nodded to them, getting a nod back in recognition. He wasn't wearing a cut, but that didn't mean he and his friends inside we're completely friendly, making JT and the others wonder what their business was in town. They sped up and waved to the cruiser parked in the parking lot of the Save-a-Lot food store, getting a wave out the window back to them. 

JT would have to check in with Unser and see if the bikers were of any concern to them. As much as they had considered Charming as their own, it was a free place to live and come to. All JT hoped, was that it was a group of guys like they were in the beginning and nothing more. Competition with more than one club, would put off the balance of good the club had with the town and drop their favouritism with them. If the other club was conducting any business in town, JT definitely wanted to know what it was and make sure he had his cut of it. Free place to live or not, they were there first and this was their town based on that. The more JT thought of what was unknown and could be, his worries vexed his thoughts of the Eden they had created. 

How had starting a club with friends to ride motorcycles and live by their own rules, turn into a business? A business that operated a step or two over the line in the beginning and then jumped leaps and bounds into killing and claiming turf to defend. The thin line seemed so easy to fall off of, deviations and pitfalls lying in wait to trip them up. JT hoped what he had done was good, then thought of what he might have failed to do, to stay true to the intentions of it. He cast his eyes to the skies, looking for the answers sailing on them, hoping an answer to his thoughts would be there.

Thanks for reading, please vote and comment, ty



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 03



Ch.3               Libido Loca





Tom stopped in at the Hairy Dog and sat at the bar, saying hello to Wilbur standing behind it.

"Hey Tom, long time, no see, buddy."

"Been busy Will. First chance I've had in a while to come and sit for a bit."

"You boys doing another car raffle? I sure liked that Caddy you guys put together. Damn shame that kid won it and wrapped it around a tree, though."

"Yeah, wasn't a pretty sight, let me tell you."

"No shit. So you want the usual?"

"Sure Will, set them up."

Will winked at Tom and pulled out a bottle of Schlitz and poured a shot of whiskey into an old fashion glass with no ice. He placed the two on coasters in front of Tom and saw the question on Tom's face, waiting to be asked.

"What's up, Tom?"

"We noticed some bikers in here yesterday and wondered what they were up to. Any ideas on that?"

"Yeah, I know who you're talking about. Four of them. Been coming in and talking to people, mostly the younger ones. Been seeing a change in them too."

"What, the bikers?"

"No, the ones they talk to. Some come back in all spaced out like, some don't come back in at all."

"Any idea what they're doing? That sounds weird."

Wilbur looked up and down the bar and whispered his suspicions to Tom.

"I think they're doing drugs back there. Not sure what, but it ain't grass. Smoked enough of that with you to know the difference."

"So, it's hard shit they're doing?"

"Be my guess. Don't know what, but its got people looking and feeling different. Never seen folks look so bad before."

"Sounds like bad shit. Do me a favour, Will?"

"Sure, what is it, Tom?"

"Give the shop a call, if these guys come back in. Me and the guys would like to have a talk with them and see what they're up to."

"You got it. But say, Tom, don't start nothing in my bar, I can't afford the fixing up, if a fight starts."

"No problem, man. We'll do all our talking outside. We just want to make sure they aren't causing shit in our town, you know?"

"Yeah, I can dig that, Tom. They usually come in around four and hang around for a couple hours and split."

"Thanks, Will. Guess I'll be back in a few hours and we'll see what our new friends are up to. You say they head out back to talk?"

"Yeah, guess they use the alley way, pretty quiet back there."

"Think I'll head back and have a look around."

"Door's open to come back in."

"Might think of locking it while you're open, just to put a stop to your place being an easy spot to deal from."

"Yeah, yeah, I'll do that, Tom. Last thing I need around here is a bunch of stoners wandering around."

Tom nodded to him and headed out back. He took a look around the back entrance and only saw numerous cigarette butts from people standing there smoking. He went to the dumpster and poked around with a stick, moving garbage about and noticed several discarded syringes near the bottom. He picked two up and broke the needles off and tucked them in his cut. He walked back in and secretively showed them to Wilbur, before whispering he found them in the dumpster.

"I'll be back around four with the others and we'll have our little talk with them. Not good, Will."

"No Tom, it ain't."

Tom walked out the front door and got on his bike, starting it up and headed back to the clubhouse. He pulled in and parked in the row and went inside.

"Where's JT?"

"He's over in the office, doing paperwork shit. What's up, Tom?"

"We got problems, Lenny, big problems."

"Like what, Brother? Let us know."

"I'll get JT and be right back, this is bad news, man."

Tom reached in his cut and took out the syringes and showed everyone. They didn't need any more, to know what trouble had arrived in their town. Tom hurried out of the clubhouse and over to the office. He and JT were back inside in minutes and the club was ready to talk. Tom stood, so he could face them and told them where he had found the syringes and Wilbur's description of the people who had done it. The new bikers in town were setting up business to deal hard drugs and that meant a major conflict of interest. Hard drugs, meant people would become addicts and need a fix. Crimes would increase, so those dependant junkies could get the money to pay for it. JT saw the repercussions of it and how their livelihood would be gone in a heartbeat.

"This is bullshit. Fucking assholes think they can set up here and we don't know about it? Hang on, I'm making a call to our good friend, Wayne and see what he knows about this."

JT got up and headed back to the office to call and was back in five minutes.

"He's on his way and wants to see the needles for himself. He said he knew the guys were in town, but no one had complained about them, so they weren't being watched too closely. They will be now, fucking pricks."

They talked amongst themselves about it, until the door opened after a quick knock and Unser came in. He came over and sat with the guys, no pretence of office shown and none given in return.

"So, you're telling me these guys are dealing hard drugs out of Wilbur's place?"

"Will, doesn't know about it, Wayne. They go out back and deal out there and shoot up. Will just said he sees people come back in and they have a bad look to them. My guess, is that you check out what's in those needles and you'll know what they're dealing. Gotta be smack, or horse."

"Smack, or horse?"

"Speed and heroin. One gets you moving and the other shuts you down. From what Will said, it's gotta be horse."

"I gotta learn about this shit now?"

"Unless you want it going on right under your noses."

"Shit, JT, how bad is this stuff?"

"The worst shit, Wayne. You know what those opium junkies were like over there, so figure horse is worse than that."

"You shitting me? Those people were like zombies, or something. You're saying this shit is worse than that?"

"They make heroin from opium, Wayne. It's more potent. Gets you strung out bad and you're addicted to the high."

"This is bad shit. I gotta tell the chief about this pronto."

"Hang on, not so fast."

"What do you mean, not so fast?"

"Think for a second. You call in the troops and they'll just dump the shit and you have nothing on them. You need to catch them in the act and have evidence to make it stick. Let us set that up for you. They won't suspect us and want to do a deal with us. A couple of us go in and get friendly, say we're interested in it and go out back. You have some guys hiding in wait for them to make the deal and then bust them. Open and shut case and the fuckers are out of business and out of town."

"Sounds like a good plan. What about you guys, though? You're committing a crime, what am I supposed to do about that?"

"We're not doing anything wrong. According to us, these guys said they had something to show us and said we'd be interested in seeing it. We don't know what they have to sell, so we don't know it's horse and of course, unaware what we're doing is criminal."

"Yeah, that plays out okay, I can sell that story."

"So, Tom says these guys usually show up around four and hang around for a few hours and then split. I say we get a couple of officers on board and figure out the details. Tom knows the alley and where things are and where to hide, so we have you in place before they show up and do a check, if they do, then we come in not long after four and make contact with them."

"Yeah, we need to know their routine on this. Can you guys hang out there today and see what they do?"

"Sure. I'll have Tom go back and be there before they get there and see what they do. He'll be able to know how they operate and let us know."

Tom accepted that task and the plan was set in motion. They talked about the need to work together on it and that led to a unified position of keeping Charming safe. JT had given his word and the word of the club, that anything criminal always happened outside the boundaries of town and had proven his devotion to bettering the town and its occupants. There was a mutual respect for each other, as both sides accepted what was, as a means to a common goal. 

Tom sat at the bar talking to Wilbur, when three of the bikers walked in. Two sat down at a table near the back, while the third went through to the back. Tom and Wilbur sat silent, as they waited to hear them go for the back door. The handle rattled and then the guy came back in and talked to the other two. The apparent leader shouted out to Wilbur why it was locked.

"Had the fire marshal come through for one of those fucking surprise inspections and told me I had to keep it locked. I kept it open so I didn't have to put shit down to open the thing."

The guys quietly talked together, buying Wilbur's story, which Tom provided for him. The leader got up and came over to Wilbur, giving Tom a once over and getting a nod from him. Tom knew to appear as a friendly to them and gave no reason to concern the leader, as he nodded back.

"Any chance you can open it for us? Gets a bit stuffy with all the smoke."

"I get caught, it's a two hundred dollar fine."

The leader reached in his pocket and took out a large wad of bills. He counted off two hundred and held it out to Wilbur.

"Here's the fine money. If you don't get caught, it's cash in your pocket."

Wilbur looked at Tom, who shrugged and nodded, then took the bills and looked around to see if anyone noticed, as he tucked them in his pocket. Wilbur raised the bar and went to the back and took out his keys. He opened the lock and checked to make sure it opened. He came back and got a wink and a nod from the leader, before he went back to his table. Wilbur and Tom went back to talking, going along with the plan, as they kept an eye on everyone inside and who came in and went out back. 

Tom stayed for an hour and a half, leaving before the bikers did. He saw three people go out back and several just going to the table and leaving right after. He had observed their routine and level of security and knew how easy their job would be to pull off tomorrow. The club was anxious to know the details and then JT phoned Unser to come and join them again. 

Wayne pulled to the side of the clubhouse near the door and went in. The joints were being passed around and beers were being drank in liberal amounts. Despite the infractions of the law, Wayne waved away the smoke and sat down with them.

"So what do we know about them?"

"Wayne, fucking walk in the park. From what we got from Tom, these guys are amateurs and haven't got a clue what they're doing."

"I like that so far. So what's the lowdown on what they do?"

JT explained how they operated inside and out and Wayne knew the alley well after an inspection of it. He had two officers ready to go and the chief was made aware of his suspicions, making it appear Wayne was on top of his town and had a finger on its pulse. Wayne asked if they had anything non-alcoholic, but that was met with laughter, confirming a no. In response. JT countered it by asking what he would like to drink, if he came by. Wayne asked if they could have some grape soda on hand, he'd be much obliged for it. JT told Piney to put it on the list for the food run and Wayne smiled happily at the favour to him.

With the plan gone over and agreed upon, Wayne left and another round of joints was smoked, before they closed up and headed off to the farm. After parking the bikes in the shed, they went in and were greeted with the sight of a nude event. They looked at the point of attention and saw Phoenix succumbing to Marlene's ministrations. She was teasing the quivering shaft of her lover with her tongue and using it in the most sensual of techniques. Eyes became riveted on the action, as she coaxed Phoenix to the epitome of stimulation, providing only enough to sustain the level of excitement and not enough to crest the agony of unfulfilled ecstasy. He strained to get that extra bit, but Marlene knew how to control him and had him begin to plead for release. 

"Should I let him cum now? What do you think, has he had enough?"

The group asked for his release and Phoenix's eyes begged for her decision. She took hold of his shaft and stroked it down, then swallowed the head three times, sucking on it wetly, then raised her head and slowly stroked the throbbing member. In seconds the spasms began and Phoenix ejaculated strongly, the wads jetting out the end. Marlene circled her fingers around his scrotum and began pulling on it, as she synchronized her stroke. Phoenix groaned and moaned in bliss, as Marlene drained him of every drop he could produce. When Phoenix visibly collapsed back, Marlene let him go and swallowed the entire shaft and slowly drew her lips back along it. Phoenix quivered violently in reaction and almost whimpered. Marlene wiped her finger around her lips and sucked on it, then looked at everyone.

"And that's how you suck a cock, ladies and gentleman. I hardly did a thing, but you saw what it got from it, so it's not like using a plunger, as Cindy so nicely put it."

Cindy blushed at her thoughts on pleasing a man and looked at Otto, who looked back in hopes she knew how to do that.

"You can practise that shit on me anytime, Baby. Either that, or I'll go to the master, or is that mistress, of doing it?"

Cindy got up and tip toed over to Otto and hugged him, dropping one hand down to his crotch and cupped him.

"I'll show you how a cock gets sucked, want to see?"

"Right now?"

"Sure, I'm ready. Get undressed and lie where Phoenix was."

Otto looked at her and then the others, then began stripping down. He dashed to the bathroom and did a quick wash up and hurried back and lay down. Once he was settled, Cindy went about doing what she had seen Marlene do and instantly got the same reaction, enjoying the burgeoning growth with her lips. The couples paired up and watched together, as Otto was taken on a sexual journey, his moans and groans prompting the others to wonder if their partners had paid the same amount of attention. They were assured that they were quite ready to show them how well they understood it.

Cindy was absorbed in evoking Otto's pleasure, as she lavished soft, wet strokes with her tongue and used the lightest of touches with her fingers. Otto was beside himself with how well Cindy was doing it, writhing under her, as she worked him over. Words of encouragement came out and Cindy responded with more enthusiasm, enjoying the reactions from Otto. 

It was a mirror performance of Phoenix's results, as Otto humped and bucked, groaning into a similar spurting event. Cindy let it fall into her mouth, until it was finished and then followed Marlene's technique and took Otto as deep as she could and drained him. She let the spent member fall from her lips and land back on Otto, then kissed it and leaned up to look at everyone, hoping she had done as well. The looks at Otto and then to her, let her know without the words, that they were impressed. She was congratulated by the girls, Marlene mostly, as the guys gave her their compliments on a job well done. Otto got up and put his clothes back on, shaking his head still at what she had done. 

"Fucking awesome, man, awesome."

"No shit, I think we're all looking forward to seeing if our girls paid as much attention."

"I know what that's like already, Keith. Suzy had her lessons long ago on how to do that kind of shit. She was a very interested pupil in the subject and Marlene taught her lots, let me tell you. You think that was awesome, wait until she teaches the girls all the other shit she learned in the books she had. You ain't seen nothing yet."

"Maybe I should ask Suzy for a taste, if she knows so much?"

"Lenny, feel free brother, what's mine is yours. I haven't forgotten. She says yes, by all means, ask her to show you some things."

Lenny looked at JT and knew he was sincere in his answer. He walked over to the huddle of girls and tapped Suzy on the shoulder. She turned and smiled at him, then gave him a hug and a kiss, pressing her naked body against him.

"Hey beautiful, JT was just telling me you know even more stuff than what Cindy just did, is that true?"

"Oh yeah, way more. Why do you want to know?"

"I was hoping you'd like to show me some of what you know."

"JT okay with it?"

"Oh yeah, said it had to be okay with you, though. Rules, right."

"That's right. So, want to know what I do to JT, when we get alone and he learns what I know how to do, do you?"

"Oh, Sweetheart, I'd love to. Lorraine is great, but I know you have talent in that department."

"Some of the other girls know a lot too. I'm not the only one."

"Well, let's start with you and I'll see who else wants to show me their talents."

Suzy took Lenny's hand and led him back to the mattress where the guys were.

"Here? Or would you like a more private session?"|

Lenny looked at JT and he shrugged his shoulders, letting Lenny decide. He looked at the mattress and what he had seen Phoenix and Otto go through and decided on a more private introduction. Suzy's ass twitched seductively, as she led Lenny upstairs. The guys watched her pert breasts bounce, as she took the stairs, Lenny following close behind. The guys looked at JT, trying to get a read on him and see where his head was at. They knew how tight and serious he and Suzy were getting and they had avoided asking her in respect of that. Watching Lenny walk away with her, had them wonder what kind of relationship he was having with her. The standards set by previous generations were once again tested and challenged them to accept the contradiction to them.

Whether it was in response to Suzy and Lenny leaving together, or another reason altogether, Golden came over to JT and silently just took his hand, then walked upstairs with him. Once more, the guys were at a loss for an explanation, but figured the girls were in one of their moods to just pleasure the guys. Those inclined to join in and partner up, headed to spots more suitable for their chance to enjoy some sexual enjoyment, most not going with their mate. 

Moon watched and wondered to himself, as he sat with Spirit, noticing the disinterest in the partners to be with each other. The splintered connections of the group, were barely keeping everything together, the common goal of the commune being challenged. He wondered what would be brought by Fate's deal, as it dealt the next hand to be played. The game started having higher stakes and losing a hand meant the loss of something too valuable to lose. The three main pillars of the commune, were respect, trust and love. Moon knew if they lost any, or any of even one, the commune was in jeopardy.

Once the new sexual experiences were over and everyone came back to the living room, Moon and Spirit were gone and no where to be found. JT had an idea where and took Suzy with him. He walked out and headed to the point of the bluff, walking along the worn dirt path. He held the branches for Suzy to duck under and his hunch was right. Moon and Spirit were standing on the edge of the point, naked and illuminated by the moonlight. Their hands were raised above their heads and joined together, both of their eyes looking at the skies for the answers. 

JT and Suzy stayed quiet, knowing to wait until they were done. She held on to JT tightly, his arm holding her to him, as they shared a cigarette together. The puffs of smoke floated in the still night air, fading away above them, as JT looked at the skies and searched for his own answers. 

Moon and Spirit finally stopped and then hugged, before they turned to face JT and Suzy.

"You followed your instincts and knew where to come."

"Yeah, I had a feeling you two might be here."

"I summoned you here, with lots of help from Spirit of course, because we need to talk."

JT became a bit concerned, hearing the tone of voice and that he was summoned.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 03



"What do you want to talk about, Moon?"

"I'm worried, JT. I see a change in you and the club. I know the troubles you have faced and what you and the others have done and the reasoning for doing them. I see conflicts coming between us, where the purpose of the commune will be challenged and it can't be changed from what it is, or why did we decide to have it in the first place? We started this on three principles, JT, respect, trust and love. I know you and your club have done an enormous amount of work and given us so much and we are forever in your debt for that kindness."

JT and Suzy stood and listened to Moon and began realizing what they had done in opposition to those three principles.

"I have never opposed what you and your club do for profitable gain, as we of course, enjoy the commodity you transport. We have allowed weapons, despite our original rule of no weapons allowed, as we know they are for your protection only. Without them, we understand that society doesn't protect you against your rivals. You agreed to keeping them stored in the shed with your bikes, yet time and again, I see them under your cuts. I don't say anything, but it adds to other things I see happening."

JT knew he himself was guilty a couple of times, of bringing his pistol in the house. It was time to face the music, for the lax attitudes taken by them and he stood silent for more.

"I watched tonight, as sex was asked for and done without love. That was never what free love was about. Your worries of Marlene being a sexually rampant member are unfounded. She and Phoenix have become a strong couple together. She does things with love in her heart, I see it, so does Spirit. Tonight, she could have had either Star or me to show her techniques, but she wanted to show them with her lover. She has never gone and asked to be with anyone, other than Golden and Azure and you as well Suzy. It is all the guys who instigate a desire to be with her and I don't think I'm far off the mark, to say it's for sex and not sharing a loving experience."

That part hit home hard with JT, his own disbelief in Marlene being able to adapt to the commune's way of life. It was apparent now that he and his club were causing more of a disruption to it than anything else. He knew it and so did Suzy, that they had to stand guilty and listen to their transgressions.

"I'm worried JT, because you and your club are loved by us. We have shown respect and earned our trust, because you were different back then, you were an honourable man and your brothers were too. But more and more, we see you all slide out of focus of what we are here and worry it may be our downfall, if things continue the way they are."

"I can't disagree with anything you said, Moon. Not one thing. I've been seeing the same things myself and worry. I see what we do and what we've done and how it's affected us, how it's changed us. You know we never intended to get involved with what we did, it just happened. I wake up every day and wonder what Fate has in store for us today, which direction are we heading to. It took a lot to finally convince the people in Charming, that we weren't bad guys and even the deputy chief is on our side. I know all of that can disappear in a flash, if Fate decides today is a good day to fuck up. It scares me, Moon, it really does. I have eight guys who look to me for leadership and the right direction to go and trust me to do that."

Moon could see that his worries were shared in depth and founded in the same dread.

"I wanted what you have, Moon. That was what I truly wanted to have. I really dig this place and how we live. I haven't felt more alive in my life, since we started coming here. This is the perfect place to live in peace and love, in harmony with everything. I'm also seeing the disintegration of the commune as a whole and know there will come a time when compromise just won't cut it."

"I glad you understand, John. That's the hardest part to start with. I know you have a good heart and want only the best for those you care about. I see how you and Suzy have become a beautiful duet of happiness. Spirit talks of your auras often and tells me how beautiful they glow, haven't you?"

"Yes, it's true. I know how you're like when I see you apart and when you're together. You are good for each other, your spirits are happy together."

"I watched you go off with Lenny earlier and couldn't help but wonder why, even though he asked and you said yes. Has anyone not noticed that Spirit doesn't make love with anyone else, other than me? She has no desire to share herself with anyone other than me. I very rarely enjoy being with anyone but her, but should something be of a good to participate in it, I will be with another woman."

JT held Suzy a little tighter, realizing his feelings for her had been taken lightly, his true devotion put aside for communal fulfilment. Suzy lowered her eyes in submission of guilt, knowing she had only satisfied Lenny sexually, nothing of a true loving nature involved in it. JT thought of the new adorers of the club and how they treated them, how love was quickly falling out of the equation and replaced with nothing more than sexual gratification.

"This commune needs a spiritual cleansing, John. Each one of us has been stained by everything that's gone on. If we are to remain as one, we must be as one."

"I agree, Moon. How do you want to do this?"

"I was just asking for that answer, when you both came. The only thing that spoke to me, was this. We need to take you back to the beginnings, not with our commune, but back in San Francisco. You've never seen how all this started, even for us. I want to introduce you to some people and I want you to listen to what they have to say. They're the ones who taught us this way of life and how to be one with everything."

"Yeah, okay, I'm cool with that. Just me and Suzy, or the whole lot of us?"

"I think we should go as one. Everyone should understand what we started and how each person plays a vital role in keeping it together."

"Everyone it is, then. I'll let the guys know what's going on and bring them up to speed on what we've been slack in doing. You set this up with your friends and we'll do it, brother. No one wants to see this place have any trouble, so you'll have our complete attention."

"That's good to hear, John. I knew you would understand and take no resentment towards me."

"Not at all, Moon. I understand what your concerns are and you know I share them. I'm hoping there's no resentment to me, or the club."

"No worries there. Everyone is well liked, no one has had to apologize for their actions to someone, so respect and trust are still there. I'm just looking farther down the road than today and tomorrow and seeing where all the paths lead to."

"I try to do the same thing, Moon. Things might be great today, but the future has some nasty shit waiting to spring on you. It takes a lot to look that far down the road and see where the things we did today land and how it all looks."

"Leadership is not as privileged a position as people think, is it?"

"No argument there, brother."

"I think what we all need right now is a cleansing of the spirits. Come, let's see if we can get back to what we need to be as a commune."

The four walked back to the house in the moonlight, the lights of the house guiding their direction. The closer they came, the music of Donovan's Hurdy Gurdy Man wafted out the windows to them. Everyone was in the living room, a thick wreath of smoke circling above everyone's head. Moon waited until the song ended and then turned off the radio. Attention was given to him and he had everyone gather in a circle.

Once hands were joined together and focused on him again, he began telling them the purpose of the joining. Faces showed the recognition to concerns and some looked to JT. Moon led them through the commune's rules and purpose, reconfirming who and what they were. The club wore the most guilt for not abiding the rules, eyes cast to those they knew were the offenders. He finished chastising and focused on loving them, reminding them how important that love was that they shared. Heads nodded in agreement silently to all that was said, then the group hugged and kissed one another, confirming their bonds.

Sex was put aside for the rest of the evening, as everyone broke the circle and dispersed about the house. JT was standing with Suzy outside patting Tinkerbell, who had moseyed over to them when they came out, when Marlene walked up to them. She put her arms around both of them and stuck her head between them and kissed them both.

"I love you guys."

"We love you, Mar."

"Yes we do. I'm so happy you and Phoenix are together. You two are really happy with each other."

"Thanks Sweetie, we are. He really likes me and I really like him too. God, that man can fuck."

"Uhm, I didn't need to know that."

"Oh, give me a break already, JT."

"What? I don't need to know how good Phoenix is in bed."

"So much for free love, I guess."

"What do you mean, Mar?"

"You know, Suzy, ever since I met this guy, I wanted to bang his brains out and he knows it. Look at what he was like in the hotel that day, when I stroked him and you sucked him. He was okay with that, but try and get him to make out with me? Forget it."

JT was blushing again, his secrets being exposed for all. Tinkerbell didn't care and nudged him to stroke her ears some more, which JT obliged her by doing.

"Yeah, I remember that day. God you came like a fountain squirting, Baby. So, how come you haven't made out with Mar?"

"I...I, don't know, just feels kinda weird to, I guess."

"Making out with me would be weird? How do you figure that, JT?"

"Because...because you're like Jake's girlfriend and it feels wrong, I don't know."

"JT, Jake is gone, for months now. Yes, I still love him, I always will, but that doesn't mean my life is over. I still have love to give, lots of it."

"Why don't you make out with Mar, Baby? I have and you know it's okay with me if you do."

JT stood looking at the two women, wrestling with his feelings, knowing what he truly wanted to do was be with Marlene, but he was worried about how deeply he felt for her. Giving in once to those feelings, would only make them feel stronger in him, creating more between them than he knew how to handle. Suzy could see the turmoil in him and caressed his cheeks with her hands, as she looked in his eyes.

"You love Mar, don't you? I can see it on your face, Baby. I think I know why you're afraid to do it. You're worried you'll fall in love with her, if you do, don't you?"

JT knew he couldn't deny the truth, being exposed so blatantly and correctly. The girls could see it written clearly and cuddled up on either side of him. Marlene took that as her chance and asked.

"Make love to me tonight, JT. You and Suzy together. Let's have one night to be together and feel what we want to feel and stop denying it, okay?"

Marlene's palm caressing his cheek towards her face, made him look in her eyes and he told all with his eyes to her. Her lips coming towards his, were met halfway by him, as he kissed her, their lips becoming filled with eagerness. Feeling the acceptance in him, Marlene turned to Suzy and they shared a kiss before JT's eyes, sparking the memory from before and the arousal it brought him. They finished and no more words were spoken, as both women walked JT back to the house, leaving Tinkerbell to wander back into the barn.

The trio came in and headed straight upstairs, going to the room Marlene shared with Phoenix. The door closed and JT stood looking at the pair of women about to share themselves with him. Marlene began by kissing and slowly undressing Suzy, caressing her softly and kissing her body. Suzy undid the sash on Marlene's robe and slid it from her shoulders, then undid the buttons to her night shirt, exposing her lush mounds. Suzy bent her head and kissed both scars, as she slipped the shirt off her arms. Marlene let her head fall back and gave herself to Suzy, as she felt the waistband being slid over her hips.

JT watched spellbound, as the two naked women came together and embraced, kissing tenderly and with great affection. They stopped and turned to JT, the moment now upon him to live a taboo fantasy of his, without the guilt this time. He found a weak smile to wear, as they came and began undressing him. Once naked, they laid him in the middle of the bed and began sharing his lips, along with their own. He gave himself to them, allowing them to express their love however they desired. Soft hands turned soft flesh into rigid lust, as lips kissed and licked their way down his body towards the expanding growth.

JT spent the next couple of hours being treated to the shared experiences of knowledgeable lovemaking. He experienced the the warm wetness of both women, as they took turns enjoying his manhood, offering different ways to be taken. The women engaged in a sixty nine position and JT moved from one to the other, feeling the slippery tongues caress him, as the velvet sheaths wrapped around him in liquid lust. Their deep, guttural moans of ecstasy during every orgasm, brought them together in ways they had never imagined. JT lay between the women spent and sated thoroughly, as they loved on him, caressing his panting chest.

One thing was clear from the experience to him, love played a key role in the sexual part of life. Ronnie might have had enthusiasm and desire, but true satisfaction came from the soul, giving itself to the happiness of a loved one. He kissed both of the women tenderly, his arms around them both and hugged them to him. Marlene and Suzy laid their heads on his chest and kissed, then kissed his chest. 

A knock at the door, had Marlene call out to come in. The door opened and Phoenix stood looking at them, a smile on his face.

"Finally."

JT looked at Phoenix in wonder, what he meant by that.

"What do you mean, finally?"

"Marlene and you making love. She has told me often about her desire to be with you and your reluctance to join with her. I told her tonight to try, after the circle, I figured the love would be there to help her."

"You don't mind that Mar wanted to do that?"

"No, should I? She has told me all about you and how she feels. I understand her feelings for you and accept them. I don't feel threatened by them, if that's what you mean, JT?"

JT looked from Phoenix to Marlene and saw there was no hurt between them.

"JT, Suzy enjoys me often, many times with Marlene. Mar and I love what she brings to us."

JT looked at Suzy, finding out her daily activities involved sex more than he knew. Suzy saw the dawning of that and kissed him.

"Baby, you know I like making it with Mar and now that she's with Phoenix, we've had some fun together."

"Like, every day?"

"Not every day, maybe three or four times."

JT looked at the trio of lovers and took stock of his own involvement with everyone. He looked at Suzy again, staring into her eyes. She saw he was looking for answers and assured him she was his.

"I love you, JT. I love these two as well, just like all the others, but we enjoy doing stuff together, more than with some of the others. My love for you is different, than my love for them and you know that. I love learning new things to do and we learn them together."

"And then I get to know what they're like."

"Baby, you kept saying you didn't want to be with Marlene, so what could I do?"

JT knew he was the reason he was second in line and now it had been his own undoing that it was that way.

"You know that sixty nine thing we did and you fucking us back and forth like you did? We learned how to do that, Phoenix and Mar and me. It was as good as it was, because we worked out how to do it already with Phoenix."

JT looked at Phoenix, knowing he was making Marlene infatuated with his sexual prowess, but wondered how he affected his Suzy and if she was as infatuated.

"So, you like making it with Phoenix?"

"Oh yes, Baby. He's a wonderful lover. He's like you, that's why I like him."

It was still hard for him as a man, to hear his woman boast of another man satisfying her. He felt Marlene beside him, her leg slowly wrapping over him, her breasts flattening into his chest and thought how moments ago, she cried out his name in ecstasy, then looked at Phoenix and knew he had done the exact same thing with his woman.

"Join us brother. Let's love our women well tonight."

Phoenix smiled broadly at JT, then began taking off his vest. Suzy got up and knelt on the bed, undoing his pants and sliding them down his legs. Phoenix stepped out of them and Suzy took no hesitation in reaching for his near hairless groin and cupped him, pulling him into a kiss. Feeling the swelling growth, her fingers urged it to continue growing, using long, soft strokes. Phoenix's hands were on Suzy and held her to him, as she brought him to full erection. She wrapped her arms around his neck and Phoenix knew what she wanted to do. His hands cupped her ass cheeks and he lifted her off the bed. 

Her legs and arms wrapped around him, their tongues dancing wildly in their mouths, JT watched as Phoenix lowered his woman onto his cock and let her take all of it in one stroke. Suzy's ass quivered from the insertion, but her groan said she enjoyed every inch of it. Phoenix raised and lowered Suzy, JT and Marlene watching intently, as he stroked his full measure inside her. He walked to the edge of the bed and bent forward, so her head was resting on JT's belly. 

Marlene took hold of JT's cock and held it for Suzy, as she turned her head towards it and brushed her hair away. Her mouth engulfed it and suckled on it avidly, coaxing the growth to burgeon inside her, while Phoenix held her at the waist and stroked her deeply. Marlene kissed him and ran her hand down Suzy's body, finding the jewel nestled between her folds. Moans of bliss were heard, as bodies reached nirvana and needed release. Bodily fluids were expelled in copious amounts, as the first round was finished.

The two couples engaged in as many acts as they could, satisfying the two women to repletion. The rest of the people listened intently as they passed the room, on the way to their own beds, wondering what they were doing. The house was filled with the joys of love throughout the night, couples expressing their love openly.

Moon rose and went out just after five am to tend to the animals and found Walter milking Tinkerbell already. He smiled happily, the day starting out well. He grabbed the feed and scattered the grain for the chickens, the little beaks eagerly pecking away instantly. He filled the troughs for the ducks and geese and noticed the goose wasn't coming for food. She got up and turned around in a circle, more or less showing off the two eggs under her and sat back down, nestling on them. 

"Hey Walter, goose laid a couple of eggs."

"Really? Good for them. Maybe they're golden eggs?"

The sly way he said it, made Moon catch the pun in it and laughed.

Star came out ten minutes later, ready to tend the fields. Moon saw him and asked about Phoenix.

"I have a feeling he's sleeping in this morning. I heard them going at it for quite a while last night."

Walter laughed, while Moon knew he'd have to take over his duties that morning. Just then the door opened and Phoenix walked out, looking invigorated and ready for anything. He strode over, greeting everyone as he came. They saw the stride and knew it to be one from happiness, as well as being satisfied sexually. 

"Didn't think you'd be up yet. Heard you had a good night."

"Yes, we all did. Let's just say many things were cleared up and many hearts were made happy."

"Then it was a good night and well spent."

"Yep, I remember having a few of those nights with Jessie. Something just get in her to have fun and we'd be like rabbits all night."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 03



"Walter, nothing's changed. Something still gets into them and they want to go at it all night."

"Never got a complaint from me about it, that's for sure."

"Me either. So, Marlene and JT finally get things settled?"

"Yes, at last. He's denied himself through guilt, because of Jake, can you believe it?"

"Jake? Why Jake?"

"Felt there was still a connection between them to honour still."

Moon thought on that answer about JT and who he felt he was. For all of last night's worries, there was a strong good in JT that ran deep in him, one that he felt could weather out the coming changes and guide his club on a better path. He liked their sense of freedom, uniting man and machine in harmony with nature. If only the paths they were given to go down, weren't fraught with trouble, things might have turned out differently.

"Is he okay with it now?"

"Mar and Suzy made sure he was."

"You know for sure he is?"

"Oh yes. He invited me to join him and pleasure the women well."

"Hold on, let me get this in my head right. JT is with Suzy and you're with Marlene, right?"

"That's right, she likes being called Mar, just so you know."

"Right, Mar. So last night, Mar and JT got together and did the horizontal mambo and you're alright with that, because she's wanted to for a long time?"

"Oh yes. She had to do it, or she'd never be truly happy."

"I'm just not getting this free love thing, am I? You said JT asked you to join him and what, did them together in the same bed?"

"Sure. Did the same woman at the same time, too."

"You did what at the same time, with the same woman?"

"A woman has more than one place on her body she enjoys a man's cock."

"Now you've lost me completely. And what was Suzy doing during all of this? Never mind, I don't want to know."

Moon, Star and Phoenix laughed, seeing Walter trying to comprehend what they were doing with each other.

"Trust me, Walter. It's all done in the name of love."

"They never taught us that kind of love, ever."

"New days, new ways."

"Not sure I agree with the change from the way things were."

The door opened and JT walked out with Suzy and Marlene, all three smiling happily at everyone. He stood with his arms around them, as Phoenix came to them. Marlene bent over the porch railing to kiss him, her breasts falling out in the process. Phoenix kissed them both and helped tuck them back in when she stood. 

Walter looked at them and back at Moon and Star.

"So everyone is happy screwing everyone else?"

"You wax so poetically, Walter. We make love with one another. Uniting sexually is just another way to show that love to another."

Walter smirked at Moon and laughed, not buying his explanation. Star asked him about something to change the subject.

"How come you don't bring Duke with you?"

"I'd love to, but he's getting on and hates being far from home. Not the travelling man he used to be. He'd be gone half the day chasing something down. Now he likes to just lie on the porch in the shade and just bark at things and tell them to get off."

"Yeah, guess his bones are getting too sore. I remember our old dog, Bosco. Go all day until it was bed time. By the time he was twelve, we had to put him down, because his bones hurt so much to move."

"That's a bummer, Star, I didn't know that."

"That's okay Moon, it was a long time ago."

"Still, son, it's hard to lose your best friend like that."

"Yeah, he was a great dog, I really loved him."

"I bet he loved you too?"

"Yeah, he was my best friend back then."

"Duke is my best friend too. I know one day I'll come to the house and he won't be lifting his head to say hello to me."

Minds thought of what was to come for Walter, as he strolled up to the house, as more came outside. Breakfast and coffee done, the club headed into Charming to begin the eradication of undesirables. They waited for Unser to show up and go over everything one last time, before everyone took their places and put things in motion. Unser looked at the club, their confidence showing that they could pull this off and he left, knowing his men were set to go into position in the alley, before the bikers showed up. 

The afternoon was spent tweaking the bikes, adjusting settings to get the best out of the V twins. Tom and Wally went in the car and parked one spot up from the Hairy Dog. They looked up and down the street, checking for any signs of the bikers and saw none, before heading inside. Wilbur was behind the bar as normal and there were eight customers, mostly regulars, occupying the tables. Tom and Wally sat at the bar and Tom told Wilbur to relax, that he was looking too nervous. Wilbur took a bottle of scotch and poured a good shot into a glass, then bent down and shot it back in a gulp. He poured another one and did the same, before standing up and wiping his mouth dry. He got the guys their drinks and then began talking with them, finding their company supportive and reassuring. 

Just after four, the door opened and the same three walked in again. The leader nodded to Tom and Wilbur, giving Wally a look over. They sat at their usual table and the same guy went to the back door to check it. He came back smiling that it was open and got a smiling nod from the leader. Wilbur put their beers on a tray and carried it to the table, then went back behind the bar and talked with the guys.

The bikers seemed interested in coming over to talk to the guys, so they let it play out. The leader came over and sat with them and leaned closer to talk quietly. He asked if they were interested in scoring some high end horse and the guys played along as planned. The leader said his name was Billy and told them to meet him outside in a couple of minutes. Billy walked back to the table and one of the guys passed him something, before he walked to the back. He only looked over his shoulder once, as he went outside and the guys got up to follow him. 

Billy was over by the dumpster and motioned them over. Tom and Wally walked over, knowing ten feet on the other side, two uniforms were waiting for the deal to go down.

"You guys ever done horse before? Best fucking high you'll ever have. Check this shit out, man, it's top quality."

"What's the high like?"

"Fucking heaven, man. You just zone right out to heaven."

"That good, huh?"

"Shit yeah. You smoke grass?"

"Yeah, we puff."

"It's like, a hundred times better than that."

"No shit?"

"No shit. Want to try some and see? Best high you've ever had, just waiting here in my pocket."

"For free?"

"Yeah, man. First one is on the house. Selling dimes for twenty."

"Twenty for a dime. That could get expensive."

"Worth every penny. So, who's first?"

Before anyone else spoke, the officers came from behind the dumpster with guns drawn. They put everyone up against the wall and searched them, finding the drugs on Billy. They cuffed them all and walked them to the cruisers, putting Billy in one and the guys in the other. They took Billy away and released Tom and Wally, once he was gone. 

"The other two are still inside and one out front, what about them?"

"Deputy Chief Unser is probably out front now and ready to go in. Let me get him on the radio and see where he's at."

Dooley called for Unser and was told he was parked down the street and another officer was with him. The guys could hear Unser tell him to move in on the count of ten and waited, as Unser arrived and prepared to enter the building with guns drawn. There an was increase in the level of voices, as Dooley opened the door, then a single gunshot went off. 

Nothing went according to plan after that. The one in the front had seen Unser pull up and rushed in to warn the others. He had his gun out and saw Unser and the other cop come in the front and shot at them. Dooley gradually moved inside, unable to see past the hallway into the room. Unser and the other cop had guns pointed at the bikers, while they had three guns pointed back at them. Dooley snuck up to the corner and peeked around it. Unser spotted him and didn't show recognition he was there, but the other cop did and tipped the bikers off. One spun towards the hall and fired, while the other two kept their guns on Unser, moving towards the bar and taking Wilbur hostage.

Tom and Wally heard the shots and wanted to know what was happening, but dared not open the door. Neither of them heard Dooley sliding down the wall, as blood began soaking his abdomen. The pair used Wilbur as a shield from Unser, as they backed towards the door, keeping guns pointed at them. Tom and Wally were surprised to see the door flung open and Wilbur being dragged out by an arm around his neck, the other two right behind him. The trio were surprised to see the guys, but didn't consider them a threat and made their way along the alley.

Unser came to the door and was shot at, making him duck back inside. Wilbur was in stark terror, wondering if he would die from friend or foe. Tom and Wally took off the other way and made their way along on the street running along the other side. They stood at the corner of the building, watching the three bikers come towards them with their backs to them. Tom pulled out his gun and Wally did the same, as they neared their location.

When it looked like they would get clear, the sound of hammers being cocked, made them freeze and move no further.

"Let go of Wilbur now and don't fucking move, or you're fucking dead where you stand."

Tom's words had enough impact to make them obey, as Wilbur was released and the guns were lowered to the ground slowly. Unser and the other officer dashed the twenty yards as fast as they could and took over from the guys and cuffed them. Tom and Wally put their guns away, but Wayne had taken notice of them and they knew he would want to discuss the carrying of firearms in town. 

An ambulance raced to the front and the attendants were quick to have everything out and through to Dooley in the back. He was still alive, but unconscious, as they loaded him on the stretcher and raced back out to the ambulance and on to St Thomas hospital. Unser had the three bikers laid out on the ground, his gun trained on them, as the other officer went through their pockets and removed anything inside them. Packets of drugs were brought out and ended any more questions needed to be asked.

Despite being under arrest, the three looked at Tom and Wally, revenge written on their faces. The guys paid no mind to it, feeling any threat they presented, was a waste of time where they were going. Tom and Wally walked Wilbur back into the bar and sat down. They were all having a drink, when Wayne came in to see them.

"I'll need you guys to come down to the station, to fill out all the reports I gotta do on this. I also gotta talk about what you two have on you. That wasn't part of this and we need to discuss that issue."

"Okay, Wayne. No problem, we'll be down soon. Wilbur just needs to calm down a bit first."

"Yeah, I guess. How are you doing, Will?"

"Shit, Officer Unser, I thought I was a goner. When they stuck that gun to my head, I thought it was all over."

"Yeah, that can put a man in a bad place. Just take it easy, Will, it's all over now."

Will shook his head, unsure if it was as easy as he said to let it go, as he poured another shot and shot it back. 

"I'll talk to you two at the clubhouse, with the rest of the guys. I'm sure all of you need to be reminded of some rules around here."

Tom and Wally said nothing else and nodded in response to him, as he turned and went to his cruiser out front and headed off to the station. With the bikers gone, life started going back to normal, except for the ones whose supply was just taken away. Several people made a quick retreat the way they came, after seeing the police and the bikers being taken away. Despite the source being gone, the demand was still there by them and that need would soon become more trouble. 

Wally hung up the phone and went back to the bar and sat down.

"JT and the guys will be here in a minute. He was freaking out, when I told him what happened. He blames the cops for screwing it up."

Tom and Wilbur agreed with him, but ears had overheard the conversation and took note of what was said. One person still sitting at a table close by, was in need of a fix and the club had just deprived him of it. To him, that knowledge might buy him a couple of hits, if he told the right people about it.

The club could be heard pulling up, as the low rumble penetrated the bar and echoed about the walls. Moments later, the darkened interior was awash in sunlight, as the guys walked in and went to the bar. The guys hugged and shook Wilbur's hand, as they took the remaining seats and waited to hear the details of what went down. The guys looked at the blood still staining the floor, where Officer Dooley was hit. No word yet on how he was, but JT wanted to be there for him, to show their support and keep things good between both sides.

All that was said, was carefully noted by the unkempt man listening to them. He sat tearing the label off his bottle in little strips, as a cigarette hung from his lips. No attention was paid to him, as he drank the last of his warm beer and left. Wilbur went over to clear the table and shook his head at the mess that was left, looking at the door that was now closing.

Everyone went to the station to support Tom and Wally, as they gave their statements and then JT followed Unser to his office with them, to explain the guns they had. JT spoke out first in their defence.

"Wayne, if they didn't have them, where would those guys and Will be right now? You had one guy down and they had you pinned down inside. You didn't call for back up and if it wasn't for my guys, things would have ended a lot differently and you know that."

"Maybe, JT, but they ain't licenced to carry a sidearm, that's a crime, plain and simple."

"Guess it's time to pull a few strings for us, Wayne. You really want to bust my guys for saving your ass and Wilbur's too? People won't like that very much, even if we were in the wrong to have guns."

Unser sat and digested what was said and knew his ass was in that chair because of them and his life at home was easier to bear as well, because of all they had done. What he had wondered and worried about since the beginning, was coming to bear and he had to make the hard call. His only friends were looking at him, their eyes asking him to pull it off. He reasoned on the good that things were done in, that the club was only acting in conjunction with the police, to rid the town of a crime. No shots were fired by them and the word of criminals held no weight against them either. It was a pivotal moment in his life, when he sided with JT and the club to protect them and bury the truth about the gun charges.

He wasn't sure how to make it work, but he was the law and he'd have to find a way, or lose what was between them. It wasn't a bad thing between them, but it had just presented a situation where he had to break the law himself, to keep a peace that the town wanted. He wrestled with the legalities in his mind, as his eyes looked at the growing pressure to decide.

"I'll see what I can come up with about the guns. I ain't got a clue how I'm supposed to do it, but I'll do it. Just promise me one thing. From here on out, keep those fucking things hidden and don't bring them out. I don't want to have to deal with that shit anymore."

"Promise Wayne and thanks. If it was me, I'd just say what fucking guns are you talking about?"

Wayne looked at JT, thinking along those lines and shrugged, thinking it was as good as anything else to try and run up the flagpole. There was a strange logic to it that made sense, that he figured would play out in the end. He watched the club leave and moments later, the heavy pounding of the air reverberated around him, leaving him to sort it all out and those concerned, to come away clean.

Thanks for voting and let me know how you like it.



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 04



Ch. 4              Pay It Forward





With the bikers taken out, Charming went back to the day to day lives its people led, except for a half dozen citizens sweating out the first signs of withdrawal. Those individuals were hurting badly, the drug's hold on them not letting go easily. Many tried to offset the symptoms with pot, booze or pills, but nothing could replace what the heroin had created in them. 

Eyes were cast upon them, as they walked the streets aimlessly, unkempt and dishevelled. Their only goal was to find another hit and take away the agony they were in. The Hairy Dog was walked by, in hopes the bikers were freed and business was back, but the lack of motorcycles out front, kept telling them the truth of what they didn't want to know.

The sound of the club rolling through town had hopes return, but their presence was met with disdain for them. Them, being the cause for their suffering. The junkies were noticed and observed, the distress their faces carried hard not to see. The club rolled past them, following behind Wally and Moon, as they made their way west to San Francisco.

Everyone enjoyed the clear day and the warm weather, as they drove along, looking back at faces looking at them. The rush hour was over and the highway clear enough to enjoy the cruise, without dodging cars trying to exit the highway from two lanes over. 99 turned into the 205 and the club passed where Jake had taken JT and Piney on their first run. JT felt the pangs of memories hit him, seeing the familiar territory and equating it with Jake.

580 turned north after the hills and the group kept to it, avoiding the city traffic and cruised along the foothills. The city held nothing but noise and confusion and none of them wanted to be a part of it, as they neared the end of the mainland in Oakland. The sight of big water had everyone staring out the windows and the guys heads turning to take in the scenery. They began crossing the Bay Bridge to Yerba Buena Island, the roar of the bikes almost deafening, going through the tunnel, then over to San Francisco. The members of the commune began talking about the area to the others in the cars, explaining the city and the sights they saw. 

The drove along Haight St., looking at the rows of Victorian houses, some painted in bright colours, while those on the sidewalk looked at the club. Some waved and others marvelled at the bikes, as they rumbled lowly along. They passed Buena Vista park and soon, Moon pulled over and parked. The club lined up and shut the bikes off, bringing a quiet to the area. Cars and houses reflected the owners' lifestyles, as peace signs and flowers were prevalent everywhere. Large, colourful letters spelling LOVE, were seen written on anything they could be written on. 

"You can see where the roots of our commune began, JT. The people here, are the ones who have looked at society and saw the wrongs committed by government policies. They started the change happening that you see, helping spread the message to as many will listen. Come on, let's go meet them."

Moon went up and knocked on the door, waiting for it to open and listened to the music of Bob Dylan inside get turned off. The door opened and a long haired man walked out, an American flag used as a bandana to hold it. He wore a brightly coloured robe and had round, dark blue glasses on, his feet clad with sandals. He saw Moon standing on the porch and his smile stretched his mouth wide. The two hugged warmly, sharing a moment together, before Moon pointed out the group with him. 

"Spirit, Poppy, Phoenix, Star, all of you are here. My heart couldn't be filled with any more happiness to see you all. This is a blessing."

"Great to see you again, Free. I brought some new friends along as well."

Moon introduced JT and the club members, as well as their girlfriends to Free, who went to each one personally to welcome them.

"So what brings you all here?"

"I wanted to let JT and the club see how we got our start and how we came to form the commune."

"Wonderful, wonderful. Do you wish to start a commune, JT?"

"We sort of have one already and Moon thought it would be good for us to see how we can make it better."

"Excellent. The world needs more love spread around and we'll be happy to show you ways to improve. Come in, all of you, let's celebrate and then we'll go to the park and talk."

The throng of people filed into the house and up the narrow staircase to the second floor. The familiar aroma of marijuana wafted to them, as they came into the living quarters. Three others, two women and a man, sat around on the couch and chairs, each with a hose to their mouths, drawing smoke from the large hookah. They stopped smoking and stood up, all wearing similar robes to Free. The lone man in a corner never moved, or raised his head to acknowledge their arrival.

Free introduced them to the group and were welcomed to take a seat where they could find one. The two women and the other man passed the tentacles of the hookah to the women and Free packed close to a quarter ounce of pot into the large bowl. Before he lit it, he blessed the bowl and its contents, expressing the love shared between them in smoking it. He lit a propane torch and touched the flame to the bowl, the six hoses sucked on to ignite the herb. 

Every girl coughed out huge clouds of smoke and passed the hoses to the next person. Once it had went around to every person once, there was no call for another, as eyes turned red and closed to slits, faces wearing smiles of euphoric happiness on them. 

"What kind of shit was that, Free?"

"We grew it ourselves, so, I don't know what shit it is. I got some seeds from a friend who came back from travelling around Europe. He never said where he got them all from, but said it was all amazing shit."

"Well, he wasn't shitting you, that stuff is awesome."

Everyone else voiced their agreement, as they mellowed out from the hit. Free didn't want to spend time sitting around in a vegetative state and had everyone get up and led them outside and down the street to the park. They followed him through the trees, along the winding path, until it opened up to a large grassy area. Pockets of people were sitting around talking, some waving to Free and the others, when they noticed them.

Free had everyone sit in a large circle and waited until they were comfortable, before talking.

"Welcome to our home, everyone. This is where we first started talking of changing the way we lived and how we treated one another. We were all fed up with the way things were done and the rules they wanted us to live by, so, one by one, we went through everything we were opposed to and came up with an alternative that we liked instead. I'm sure Moon Child has explained the basic concept of who were are, is based on respect, trust and love, so I don't think we need to discuss what they are about."

Everyone sat and listened intently to the tall, slim man, his bearded face always showing an inner peace, his movements emphasizing his words in gentle motion. The concepts and beliefs of what they practised, were discussed more in detail, bringing a focus to what Moon was concerned about. JT understood, as did the others and saw where the conflict of ideals lay. In his own mind, he could see that the club and the commune were based on the same principles, but the direction and purpose were completely different in scope. He understood that crime and violence were a part of their lives, no matter how far removed they wanted to be from the system.

More than two hours had passed, before the group broke up and headed back along the street. The club seemed to stand out from the rest of the neighbourhood, most everyone adopting the hippie look. Girls had flowers in their hair and painted on their faces, many adorning their clothes as well. The guys with them, were hard to distinguish from the girls, their hair equally as long and dressed the same. No one looked at them with distaste, or disdain, but smiling and flashing peace signs at them instead. JT saw the unified belief of what they had just heard Free tell them about.

As they filed back inside and up the stairs, JT noticed Tom standing on the sidewalk and looking at everything. He walked back and stood beside him, noticing his look of despondency.

"What's up man?"

"I was just thinking of Beth and how she would just dig all this shit. She was in to all this sort of stuff, all the peace and love stuff."

"Who's Beth?"

"She was my girlfriend."

"Did you guys break up?"

"Not really."

"So, why aren't you with her, Tom?"

Tom looked at the ground, trying to decide if he should tell JT, then looked at him and saw the trust in his eyes and looked around for anyone who could overhear him.

"JT, I got to tell you something, but you can't tell anyone else, not even the club, okay?"

"Sure, Tom, I promise. What is it, brother?"

"I'm a draft dodger. Beth was my girlfriend and we were looking at getting married at one point in time, then I got my notice and decided not to go to join up. The only thing I could do was leave my business and Beth, so I wouldn't get busted. Tom Whitney isn't even my real name, it was my eighth grade teacher's name."

JT was stunned by the admission and looked at Tom with confusion.

"You're a draft dodger? No shit?"

"Yeah. I guess you think I'm a coward, or something?"

"No brother, I don't. I understand why you don't want to go. This war is bullshit man and I wouldn't have served if I had of known it was going to be like this. What did you do before you split?"

"I had a locksmith business. I made great money and had a decent place and shit. Beth understood, that if I stayed with her, I'd be sent to prison and lose my business anyway. She didn't want to see that happen, so we sort of had to break up, only because I could never be with her again. Like, I really dig Flower and everything, but Beth was really special to me."

"Shit, dude, that sucks."

"Yeah. So I left after I sold all my stuff and changed my name. I figured I could hide out somewhere and wait until the draft was over, maybe pick up where I left off."

JT offered him a cigarette and took one himself, lighting both and giving Tom a chance to collect himself and his thoughts.

"I started doing B and E's, so I could make some money to get by, small businesses and shit and it just seemed to be an easy way to make a few bucks."

"How long ago was this?"

"Back in '65."

"You've been on the run for three years?"

"Yeah. I got homesick once and snuck back into Sacramento, thought I'd take a chance and see Beth, 'cause I really missed her. I looked up her name in the phone book and went by her place, just to see her, you know?"

"Yeah, that must have been really hard to let her go like that."

"No shit. I could hardly put a thought in my head, that she wasn't in it. Anyway. I was sitting across the street from her place, waiting to see her come out and when she did, she was with this other dude and they looked real happy together, so I left and didn't bother going back again."

"Fuck, that's gotta hurt, man. I'm so sorry, brother."

"No, it's cool, JT. I'm glad she's happy now. She was really fucked up about me doing this, but I had no choice and she understood that. I can't stop thinking about her at times and today just brought back those memories again."

JT nodded his head in understanding, knowing the decision he made, had changed the course of his life, always running from the law and never having any place he could call home again. He imagined himself and Suzy in the same situation and knew how hard it would be to let her go.

"So, what's your real name?"

Tom looked around again, his fear of being found out weighing on him heavily.

"Steve Jacobson."

"No worries, brother, your secret will stay with me and I won't tell anyone, you have my word."

"Thanks, man. I know I can trust you, JT. I've never said a word to anyone about it, not even Wally."

JT put his arm over Tom's shoulders and hugged him to himself.

"Dude, it doesn't matter who you were before, you're one of us now. You're a Son and a brother to us all and we love you man, always remember that."

"I do. I had no idea what I was going to do with my life and then when Wally told me about the club and stuff, I felt like it was something I could belong to and feel like someone again. I'm happy again, JT. That's something I haven't been, since I left."

"You'll always have a place to call home with us, man, always."

"Thanks, man, it really means a lot to me."

JT looked in Tom's eyes and saw the feelings of devotion and knew he were sincere. They hugged and held onto that feeling of brotherhood, letting it reassure Tom that he was welcomed openly.

"Come on, brother. Let's go inside, before they wonder what the hell happened to us."

"Yeah, let's go."

Tom followed JT inside and up the stairs, walking into a thick layer of smoke hanging in the air. Everyone was immersed in a discussion about the commune and the many facets of it. Moon was relating some experiences of free love to the others and stopped when JT and Tom walked in.

"Hey, thought we lost you guys somewhere. Come on, you're missing out on some great smoke. Free broke out the hash and it's killer shit."

JT and Tom took the hoses passed to them and drew in deeply on them. The bubbling in the hookah stopped instantly, when the smoke hit them with its powerful affects. 

"Shit, that's wild stuff. What kind of hash is it?"

"It's red Lebanese, JT. A friend of ours sent it back in the mail from there, disguised as a souvenir dish and said there was spices in it as well. I just about shit myself when it arrived. He's been backpacking around Europe and northern Africa, checking out all the local dope they have and he sends back stuff."

"Cool. Never had hash before. I really like it."

"Yeah, has a smell and taste all its own, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, it's really spicy tasting."

"The gifts of nature bless us with its bounty."

"No argument here. I'd love to buy some of that."

"I don't know if there is going to be any more coming, but we will give you some of ours to take with you."

"How much?"

"It is our gift to you. Let me break a piece off."

Free took the plate shaped piece of hash and snapped off a large chunk and handed it to JT, still leaving a large amount for themselves. JT was impressed with the offer and thanked him profusely for his gift and offered to repay it any way he could. 

"Moon tells me you and a couple others are good with cars. Our old school bus died last week and it would be a blessing and more than repayment in kind, if you could get it running again."

"My pleasure, Free. Where is it?"

"It's in the back."

"Let me have a look and see what's wrong. Anyone want to help me?"

Piney and Lenny rose slowly, trying to keep their balance, suddenly feeling the effects hit them.

"You sure you can do this?"

"Yeah, JT, let's do it."

Free led them to the back and showed them the brightly coloured bus, adorned with flowers and peace symbols in every colour.

"Certainly is colourful. So what's it doing, or not doing?"

"It turns over, but it won't start."

JT raised the hood and looked inside the bay. He did a check to make sure everything was connected and asked Free to turn the key. The engine cranked over and over, but nothing sparked to life. JT checked the wires and found them in poor condition. He pulled on the distributor wire and it broke in half. He looked at Free and showed him the wire.

"This could be the problem. It needs a new set of wires and I bet a new set of plugs as well. Any idea where an auto shop is around here?"

"Sure, got a Pep Boys not far from here. I can go with you and buy whatever we need."

"Not needed, it's on us. I'll ride over and pick up what we need and have this thing running in no time."

"You're good people, JT. All of you are."

"Thanks, man. We do our best."

They walked back to the front and JT started up the bike, getting directions to the store from Free. They watched him ride off and Piney went back and stripped the wires off and removed the plugs. He went about inspecting all the systems and shook his head, then looked at Free.

"Man, this thing needs some work. Takes more than putting gas in the tank to keep it running."

"I admit I don't know anything about fixing it, but if you can get it running, it would be the greatest gift you could do for us. We're all heading out to New York state, to a place called Woodstock. They're putting on a concert with tons of bands and it's a whole weekend of music and getting together."

"Sounds great, when is it?"

"They're holding it in the middle of August. Moon says he's going with the commune, are you guys going too?"

"Didn't even know about it, until you told me."

"Oh. I guess he was waiting for the right time, or something."

"Maybe, who knows. Anyway, we'll get this running right and you and the others can get there safely. How's the brakes on this thing?"

"It stops, that's as much as I know."

"Better take a look at them too. You know what? You should bring this into the shop and we can go over it front to back and see what it needs. Can't really do much here in the back."

"Much appreciated, Piney. That sounds like a good idea. When is a good time to bring it in?"

"Anytime really. The shop is closed right now, but we're opening it up soon, can't stay closed much longer."

"Why is it closed?"

"Long story, Free. If we can get it running today, bring it in tomorrow and we'll go over it."

"I will. Sky and I will will make the trip over to you, if it runs, that is."

"Let's go in and I'll draw you a map and give you directions."

"Cool. Let's go do a bit more hash and wait for JT to return."

"Twist my arm."

Free laughed and led him back inside, where laughter and excited talking was going on. They were talking about Woodstock as well and the acts scheduled to appear. 

"Piney, you got to hear what's happening in August, brother."

Piney held up his hand and pretended he was concentrating, searching the cosmos for the answer.

"I see thousands of people gathered together, in a place far away from here. Music is playing."

The others sat in awe, thinking Piney was somehow in contact with the unknown.

"I see a name. Woodstock."

"How did you do that, Piney?"

"I'm in touch with the spirits."

The room hushed and everyone looked at him in amazement, until he could no longer keep a straight face and broke out laughing.

"Just kidding, Mary. Free told me outside just a minute ago."

"Piney!"

Mary smacked his arm, upset at being tricked, but Piney pulled her to him and hugged her.

Everyone laughed at the prank, as Free broke off another piece of the hash and lit it in the bowl. Free passed a hose to Piney and the chunk glowed brightly, as they inhaled the aromatic smoke. Time seemed to stand still, the moment holding them suspended in euphoria, until the low rumble of JT's bike returning, brought them back to reality. They waited for him to come in, but after five minutes of waiting, they realized he wasn't coming in and headed outside. 

"Hey, you're back."

JT raised his head from the engine bay and looked at them, then shook his head and went back to wiring the distributor cap with the new plug wires.

"Piney, think you're straight enough to get the plugs out and put them in?"

"Sure, JT."

Piney picked up the ratchet and plug socket and began spinning the plugs in one by one on one side and then did the other.

"I had the guy gap the new plugs, so be careful, we don't have a gauge to check if it's out."

Piney smirked at JT and began tightening the new plugs carefully, making sure the electrode went in the hole cleanly. JT snapped the cap on top of the distributor and sorted out the wires to go to the right sides.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 04



He and Piney put the boots over the plug ends and then JT asked Free to go in and start it up. The engine cranked over several times, then it burst into life, chugging through the build up, clearing it out eventually, to run smoother. Piney grabbed a screwdriver and adjusted the carb settings, making it idle properly. JT revved it up a couple of times and Free laughed in happiness at how it sounded. 

"You're a magician, JT. I can't wait to drive it again."

"Jump in, we should check the brakes and steering, make sure this thing is safe to drive."

Free climbed in and sat behind JT, while Piney sat opposite him. JT closed the door with the handle and put it in gear.

"I'm coming to your shop tomorrow, JT. Piney offered to go over it front to back."

"Good on you, Piney. I was thinking that myself, when I was at the store. Speaking of which, those guys were really good at helping me get the right parts for this thing. It's not exactly considered a popular model most people buy."

"Maybe so, but we couldn't ask for a better vehicle. We'll have to live in it, as we go across country and carry everything we need. Moon told me how you transformed his dead microbus into a living thing again. He's using it to go to New York, he trusts in what you've done to it. We laughed the day they left, to go to Calaveras and said it would never make it. As it turns out, Fate brought it as far as your shop and decided to introduce you to each other."

JT slowly pulled out of the back yard and onto the street, feeling for any signs of trouble in the steering and brakes. He crept along, listening for any unwanted noises and sped up, shifting into second. The old school bus ground through the gears, as it got up to speed.

"I'm beginning to understand Fate a lot more now. I used to think things were just coincidence, but it seems a bit more planned than that. There's always a reason stuff happens, so it turns out."

"Very wise observation, JT. It's true, that Fate always has a reason for things happening. It's up to us to understand what that reason is. If we can't understand the reason and accept it, we become disappointed in life and feel the world is against us."

JT nodded his head in agreement to Free's words, understanding his own feelings from a year ago and the reasoning for the club. Society's failure to accept them was his reason to create it and Fate played its part by bringing the members together. It had brought Jake into their lives, Moon and the commune combining for survival. Fate was just as willing to give, as it was to take away. 

The gears kept grinding each time JT shifted and gave a worried look to Free.

"Dude, I think the clutch is pretty well shot."

"How do you know?"

"Because it grinds through each gear. It's not disengaging properly."

"That's why it does that, I didn't know that. It's done that for a while now."

"I can tell. Take it easy coming out tomorrow and hope it lasts. A new clutch is going to have to go in this thing for sure. The brakes don't feel all that great either, feel pretty soft. So you'll need brakes as well. Oil and filter, lube everything good, check the suspension and steering, all the other shit that supposed to work. Even if I did it for free, it's still a lot of money to fix this thing."

"How much are we talking about, JT?"

"Close to a thou' easy. Parts ain't cheap, Free."

"I didn't even pay that much when I bought it."

"Look, let's not wear this thing out any more than we need to. Let's get back and talk about it there."

Free's face took a look of despondency, as well as failure upon hearing any plans to travel, were now out of the equation. JT pulled into the driveway and stopped in the yard. They went back inside and joined the others having a good time. Free turned the music down to get their attention and told them the bad news about the bus. The mood went immediately sullen, the previous talk of enjoying the concert, vanishing like the smoke out the window. 

JT saw how it affected everyone, including his own club, knowing their situation was much the same as Moon's and charity was a way of life. He knew it was futile to think of the problem and worked on a solution. It didn't take him long, until something came to him.

"You got a phone I can use?"

"Yeah, on the kitchen wall."

"Might be long distance to Stockton, is that okay?"

"If it gets us a bus, make the call, JT."

"Cool."

JT went in and dialled the number for Gus and waited.

"Gus here."

"Gus, JT. How are you old dude?"

"Just fine, punk. How are you, son?"

"Great, Gus."

Gus liked the poke in reference to Benny's slight from before and laughed.

"What can I do for you?"

"I was wondering if you had a line on any buses, like an old school bus?"

"Sure. Know of two right off."

"Short, or long?"

"Both shorter. No one wants them, all want the long ones."

"Hang on a sec."

JT covered the mouthpiece and called in to Free.

"Do you care if it's a short bus?"

"How many can it hold?"

"Short one will hold six to eight and room in the back."

"That works. How much and does it run well?"

JT talked to Gus again and explained the need for a good runner.

"Both are good runners. One's in better shape than the other. Good one, I'm looking for seven and the other I'd let go for five, maybe four."

"How about the good one and a trade in?"

"What you trading in?"

"It's a runner, but needs a clutch and the brakes are soft."

"I could go down to five for it then."

"Hang on again, Gus."

JT got Free's attention again.

"He's got a good one for seven, but said he'll give it to you for five, on a trade in for the old one. What do you think?"

"Will it cost much to fix up? No sense in paying the same for another one."

"Hey Gus, this good one, how much to make it safe and reliable for a long distance trip?"

"Not much, JT. Engine and tranny are good, nothing wrong there. Brakes felt good when I drove it in. I think all the lights work, not sure though. No broken glass anywhere, that's a plus, don't many that don't"

"So, maybe a hundred or so to bring it up to speed?"

"That would be my guess too. Like I said, she's a good runner as it is, but a hundred will make it last a good long time."

"Free, Gus swears it won't be more than another hundred and it will get you anywhere you need to go. So, six hundred sound good?"

"Oh yeah. Tell him it's a deal, I'll take it. Ask him how long he'll hold on to it for me, until I can get all the money together."

"What do you mean, you don't have the money?"

"No way, man. I have to see a few friends and see what I can scrape together. Give me a week or two and I should have it all by then."

"Shit, Free. I can't ask him to do that. He buys and sells and money talks, bullshit walks."

JT thought on it for a minute. 

"Yeah Gus, it's a deal, he'll take it. I'll bring the old one in and take the other one. I'll take it to the shop and go over it there. I'll have the cash for you when I arrive. Thanks, Gus, that's a favour I owe you."

"You don't owe me nothing, son. You're putting money in my pocket and it's me who should be thanking you and owing a favour."

"Call it even then Gus. Puts us both ahead in the end."

"That it does, my boy. So when you coming?"

"A little later on. I'm in San Fran right now and I got a pile of nuts and bolts to get to you. If I don't see you by dinner time, send out a search and rescue team."

"Which way you heading over?"

"The same way I came."

"Smart ass, like I know that."

Laughter came from both receivers and the two finished up and JT hung up the phone.

"JT, I heard you say you'd pay him when you got there, I just told you we don't have the money yet."

"You owe me now, Free. I can cover the up front money for it and when you collect it all, we're good."

Free looked at JT, then to Moon, his face showing the emotion of surprise, mixed with the sheer joy of JT's charity.

"It is that good and loving heart that I told you about, Free. I was just as taken by his kindness to us, in our time of need."

Free took a hold of JT by the arms, his love of him showing clearly and pulled him into a hug. 

"I love you, my brother. Your spirit is good and runs true in its direction. Listening to Moon describe things out at the commune, it seems Fate keeps playing a hand in causing that interference. Riding on the line all the time, must be hard to do. Wanting a life of peace and happiness and having troubles and misery come instead, can feel like a life of consequence. Even though your heart is filled with love and want nothing untoward come to you, trouble finds its way there regardless."

Every member felt the words hit home, the truth in their hearts as to who they were, believed more than the hype generated by the media as to who they were. People in town were taking to them a bit more and some were truly enjoying their presence. It wasn't hard to judge which images projected were true and which ones weren't. 

Present tally of crimes committed to date aside, none of it was sought after, other than a profitable ride south and back. Tom's retail business had a steady and growing number of clients, providing a very healthy monthly balance from it. The farm was fully operational and the shop and clubhouse were complete, taking no more from expenses and adding to the overall wealth of the club. The bikes were almost finished and it was all profit from there on out. Sharing their own good fortune with others, always seemed to come back and with greater reward for the generosity shown. This exchange would have to be given time, to see what rewards were returned and in what form they came in.

"It gives us a good reason to stay in touch and see one another again."

"I will, JT. You are good people, you and your club. I have truly enjoyed, so have we all, having you come and meet with us and share. As a token of our new friendship together, let me break off some more hash for you all to enjoy back at the farm."

"Really? Cool, Free, I love that shit. We don't get much of that where we are, so this will be great to have for those special occasions."

"JT, smoke as much and as fast as you wish. If you run out, let me know and it gives us another reason to meet again."

"Count on a visit regularly, then. We love the herb, but this is so mellow, man. Just a totally awesome high."

"Good, good."

Free took the plate of hash and snapped off more than a quarter of it and went into the kitchen for tinfoil. He handed it to JT and shook his hand again.

"You deserve much for your kindness, JT, all of you do. Now, where is this place in Stockton and when do we go?"

"Actually Free, it's better if one of us takes it out there, just in case it is ready to die. We have no problems getting a tow and getting where we need to go. Only thing you need to do is clean out your stuff and sign the title. I'll get the new one ready for you and give you a call. The only thing you'll need to do is bring your paints and go to town on it."

"I do like that idea, JT. How soon do you think it'll be?"

"Shouldn't take long to go over all the major areas and see what state its in. If Gus said it would only take a hundred, I might even do better than that. Jimmy Eight and a Half owes me a favour or two, so he might give me parts at his cost. I don't need anything for the service, it'll be nice to get back to that part of things again."

"Who's Jimmy Eight and a Half?"

"Oh, a guy we know at the parts store. Lost a finger and a half in an accident. He misses Jake and the fun he had with him, too."

"Moon told me of your loss and I can understand how it will change your life. The tear in that bond is very painful to your spirit."

"That's exactly how it felt. Everyone who knew him felt that way. He was that kind of guy, you liked instantly. I really didn't get to be with him that long, but it felt like losing my dad all over again."

"It's interesting when strangers can become part of your life and mean so much to you, never understanding what the real reason for it is, but it is all powerful in its feeling, in how they affect you."

The spaced out minds of everyone tried comprehending what the two were talking about, but there was a distinct dazed look on all of them. JT looked at them and smirked and turned to Free, hefting the hash in his hand.

"We are going to be soooooo wasted."

"Remember to pray to your guardian angels and thank them for the gifts. Karma is Fate's accomplice in the game of life and has cards of its own to play. You get back what you put out there. Always remember that, JT. What goes around, comes around. Part of the circle of life, like birth and death." 

"I will. I thought the whole guardian angel thing was a bit more hokey than praying was, until I got to see it happen. Now, I talk to them every day. Some strange shit happening that we can't see, but it's there, man, it really is."

"Be thankful for your gift of sight and belief, some never achieve it, because they refuse to truly believe."

JT and Free looked at Dreamer, who had sat quietly the whole time and now spoke.

"Shit Dreamer, I thought you were zoned and weren't even with us."

"I smelled Poppy and realized I wasn't zoning, when she kissed me. Then I noticed everyone else was here and thought I was somewhere else. Now I'm like, back together and getting caught up."

"So, tell me what you thought of it."

"Far, fucking out, man. That was one of the best batches yet. I think they got the formula down right, now. Tell them this batch is twice as good as the last, it hits faster and lasts way longer."

"Excellent. Anything shitty happen?"

"No way, man. Fucking awesome trip."

JT and the others had no idea what Dreamer was talking about with Free. As no one had asked why he was sitting in the corner all spaced out looking in the first place, they had no knowledge of a tiny drop of liquid on a blot of paper and the incredible change in what the mind saw.

"Just coming off an acid trip, JT. I have friends who are developing this stuff in the labs at Berkeley. They've been trying to get the dosage right and Dreamer did the first hit, to test it out. Looks like they've got the formula right now."

"He's on acid?"

"Not just any acid my friend, this shit is out there. They call this batch, Purple Haze. It's better than the Strawberry Alarm Clock they made last time. Half the dose and twice the high."

"Never done acid before. Anyone else done acid?"

JT looked at his club and the commune, finding only the commune had done it before.

"So, what's the high like?"

"Like nothing you've ever imagined. You'll see shit that isn't there and feel like you can fly. Your mind thinks of things it would never do when you're straight."

"So riding is definitely out."

"Oh shit, yeah, riding is out. You want to be with some straight people around to make sure your trip is a pleasant one. Seen a couple of people freak out and lose it."

"So, why the fuck do the shit, if it fucks you up like that?"

"It's the same risk you take walking across the street, did it hundreds of times and then that one time, pow, hit by a bus. The chance to go on the greatest head trip in your life awaits you, if you have the courage to do it, you just have to say yes."

The guys looked leery of getting into it, while their girls were eager to experience it without reservation. Having done peyote and mescaline already, they knew where the psychedelics would take them and imagined it the way Free described. JT was looking like a firm no to accepting the offer, when Suzy and Azure spoke up and stopped him.

"Baby, the girls would like to try it. How about we do it and you guys look after us?"

The other girls affirmed her words and he looked at the guys, not finding any real opposition to the idea, so he agreed to accepting some acid blotters. Free went up another flight of stairs and came back soon with a small sheet of paper.

"Here's thirty hits. Just tear off a tiny square along the perforated lines and that's a hit. If I know girls and acid, it should be a fun time."

"Okay, I'm still not sure about doing this. It might be okay for you younger ones to try, but what will it do to me?" 

Eyes turned to Marlene, Phoenix's arm holding her close.

"Age has never been an issue so far. I know a couple of guys in their forties who've done it and everything was cool with them."

"So I won't go crazy or anything, will I?"

"It might feel like it when you're high, but it all goes away after you come down."

"How long is that?"

"Anywhere from three to five hours, all depends on the person."

"That long? Will you take care of me for that long, Baby?"

"I'll take care of you always, Fire Spirit."

That was the first time anyone had heard Marlene's new name. Cindy was squished up against her on the couch and leaned in.

"I love that name for you. It's so you, to the max."

Everyone else started complimenting Marlene on her choice and Phoenix sat quietly smiling, happy with his choice for her. The worry of age and acid had passed, the security of loving friends more of a comfort than words.

"Okay, this has been an awesome, and I do mean awesome meet, man. I'll see what the girls are like and then I'll see if I want to rearrange a few million brain cells and send them on a journey. I'll call you real soon, Free and let you know when the new bus is ready. Don't forget the paint and stuff and we'll have a painting party and make it look like the old one. Speaking of which, we don't have much daylight left to do this, so Free, loved meeting you brother and thanks once again for the head treats."

"JT, I feel blessed for knowing you and knowing you and your club are good people. We'll start thinking of how we want to paint it and wait for your call. Take care, man, I hope the trip is good and nothing goes wrong."

The two hugged and that signalled everyone else to say their goodbyes and get ready to go. Once outside, the steady billow of smoke followed them. As everyone headed to their bikes, it became apparent as to who would ride JT's bike back. Phoenix walked up and said he would, making JT consider it. He had rode the Honda with no problem and was big enough to handle the heavy Harley, so he allowed him to do it. Lenny would lead now, while Phoenix rode with Piney at the back, so he could keep an eye on him. JT got in the bus and started it up, shaking Free's hand one more time and closing the folding doors. The gears ground into reverse and JT slowly backed out and onto the street. The formation got ready and Lenny signalled JT to head out. 

Hands waved for as long as they could, then distance lost them in traffic and the trek to Gus' began. JT was sweating through every stoplight, hoping he would stop and get it into gear again. Phoenix couldn't take the smile off his face, he was enjoying it so much. Piney couldn't help but smile back, knowing the exhilaration of what he was feeling. Once the highway was reached, worries lessened, as the bus kept up to the speed limit with no difficulties. 

The ride back was going well, the traffic not too heavy and easy to get through. Coming back along the 580 out of Livermore, JT spotted the long line of lights coming up from behind. It was hard to make out how many, but he knew it was at least twenty, or more bikes. He looked back and could see the guys saw them as well. Wally and Moon trailed behind a bit further and saw the bikers as they passed. The winged flaming skull of Satan's Disciples was on every back and they made their way up beside the club. 

No looks were exchanged by the other club as they passed, showing no recognition to them, then they slowed once they were abreast of them. JT was keeping his eye on them, ready to do anything if they threatened the guys. He saw left hands coming off the bars and reaching into their cuts and knew death was moments away. He swerved into the other lane ahead of the bikers and slowed down, letting his club speed ahead, while the gang was avoiding a collision with him. When Wally and Moon were almost beside him, he slammed on the brakes as hard as he could and braced himself.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 04



One by one, he felt the impact of bikes colliding into him and then each other. He jammed the shifter into second and floored the pedal. He shifted up as best he could and caught up to Moon at the rear. He looked back and saw the carnage he caused and felt good about whatever happened to them. He kept a vigil to make sure they weren't followed and felt better after getting on the 205 and pulling into Tracy. The first large parking lot they came to with people around, they stopped and took stock of everyone.

No shots were fired, but most of the guys had their hands on their own guns, after getting them out of their saddlebags. With heartfelt thanks to JT for his quick thinking and courage, they headed on to 99 north and Gus' place. Once they reached the cut off, Wally and Moon continued on to the farm with everyone and they'd see them later that night, after getting the new bus back to the shop. Phoenix went with the club, still thrilled to ride, even after the harrowing escape. Piney was impressed and proud of Phoenix's abilities to stay cool under fire and not lose it. He felt assured he wouldn't let anything happen to JT's bike and return it whole when they got to the shop.

Gus came out the moment he heard the bikes approaching, waiting to see his new acquisition. Even over the constant rumble of the V twins, the sound of grinding gears was noticeable. He winced with each down shift and heard the squeal of the brakes, as it came in his driveway. He looked at JT smiling happily in the driver seat and the doors popping open. 

"Not a bad runner. I should have asked more for it. Made it all the way from San Fran with no problem. Fucking custom paint as well. Purrs like a kitten. Hundred to fix her up nice and she's ready for the showroom."

"You could sell shit to a cow farmer, JT. So what the hell am I supposed to do with this monstrosity?"

"It's got lots of good parts. Sand the shit off it and stick it on another bus. It's not that bad really. Clutch is absolutely fucked and the brakes need replacing, but that's regular shit. Tranny might hold for a while yet and everything works on it otherwise."

Gus began looking it over and walked to the back. He looked at the bumper and back door and noticed all the dents and scratches. He reached down and pulled out a mirror from between the bumper and body, then ran his finger over some red staining the door. He looked at JT with raised eyebrows, waiting for an answer.

"We met some friends along the way. I thought they wanted a ride, but they had a hard time getting on, I guess."

"Yeeeah. Damn that pile of shit is getting mighty high, boy. Better offer a deal and unload it. So what happened?"

"Coming out of Livermore, along the 580 you know, just minding our business. I look in the mirror and see all these bikes coming up. The guys see them as well and just as they got alongside, I saw them reach in their cuts and knew they weren't along for a friendly ride. I cut over in front of them and slowed the bus down. They had to slow down quick, so the guys took off ahead of me and when Wally and Moon were beside me, I slammed on the brakes and waited for the impact. I felt at least five or six hit me and then the rest were piling on top of them. We didn't stick around to see what happened after, but they looked fucked up pretty good. I didn't know who they were until we stopped in Tracy and then found out it was the Disciples."

"Time for a new route west. No sense pushing your luck with them. Saw what they got into with that other club, so that should let you know how close you came to having your club vanish. Told you I see more and more gangs on bikes riding around and all of them looking to be number one. I don't envy you boys in the least and honestly, I get a little scared for ya's, every time I see one of those gangs and they're headed north of here and I wonder if they're in your neck of the woods yet."

"Been there, seen it and done it, Gus. Fucking bikers hanging out at the Hairy Dog and pushing heroin. Helped the local law take them down and told them we'd help keep that shit out of Charming. That's our town and we run whatever business goes on there."

"Good. You don't need that ruining the people. You're a smart one getting Barney on your side and fixing things for you. Get the people behind you, it's all yours."

"That's how we feel. No one shits on our doorstep and no one messes with our people. So, that's why the back looks a little out of shape, Gus. They messed with my people."

"Ah, you're a fine man, JT, all you boys are, don't forget that. Fine boys. Oh, gotta tell you. I love that new TV you had sent over. Picture comes in great and so does the sound. Sat with the little jigga-boo boy and had a beer with him. What's his name again?"

"Benny?"

"Yeah, yeah, Benny. Nice boy."

"Yeah, he is. But really Gus, gotta watch the names you use, you know. Jigga-boo or some of the others are you know, like a real put down to them."

"Jesus JT, I didn't call him a nigger. Thought jigga-boo wasn't so bad. Little black Sambo okay? JuJu boy?"

"Really Gus? How about just plain, old black. That young, black guy is really a better choice."

"Alright, young black kid. Touchy fucking people."

"Touchy, like I'll choke you and kill you touchy?"

"Shut up, JT. Come around back with that thing and the other bus is there."

Gus slapped JT on the back and walked around with the other guys, as JT fired up the bus one last time and ground it into first. He rolled it in slowly and went to where Gus wanted him to park it. The guys were all inside the new bus, checking it out and under the hood, when he walked up. 

"Start it up and let's hear it."

Piney started it up and it ran smoothly, no signs of wear being heard. Piney went through all the systems, getting a signal everything worked. He put it in gear and the bus showed no signs of broken suspension parts and stopped well. Piney shut it off and JT climbed in and looked it over. Even taking half the seats out, it still left them seating for twelve and a couple of fold down beds and storage. There were enough good seats left, that all of them would be in good shape, with no torn leatherette. 

JT went out and looked at the roof and then at the old one.

"Hey Gus, mind if we grab the roof rack for this one. They'll need it to haul all their stuff."

"Sure, not worth nothing to me."

"Great bus, Gus. Replace some belts and hoses and some new shoes and it'll be solid."

"Told you a hundred and it's good."

"Didn't doubt you for a second. I'd get rid of that old bus soon, though. Might be some people looking to find the former owners, if you catch my drift."

"It'll be a pile of parts soon enough and the rest heading off for scrap."

"Wish we could stay longer, Gus, but we have to get this thing back to the shop and make our way out to the farm after."

"That farm thing still doing okay?"

"Oh yeah. Walter is out most mornings and helps out. Gives us tons of stuff and shows us everything."

"Who's Walter?"

"Oh yeah, you guys never met. He's a friend of Golden's grandparents. He's known her since she was a little girl and he's sort of like family to us now."

"Sounds like a decent guy, like to meet him sometime."

"You should come out to the farm and spend a day there, Gus. I bet you'd love it."

"Yeah, come on Gus, this place has to get to you by now."

The guys coaxed Gus to agree to a visit and cheered when he accepted the invitation. 

"Alright, we'll talk about visiting later. You boys best be on your way with this thing and before you go, I do believe my pockets are still a bit light."

"Oh shit, almost forgot about the money."

JT brought out a roll of bills and peeled off six hundred dollars, handing it to Gus. 

"The title is clean and signed for transfer. It's up in the visor. Tank's at half, so you should top it up to be safe, no idea how good the mileage is on it."

"Will do, Gus. You take care and we'll talk soon. Thanks again for everything."

"Good seeing you boys. Always happy doing business and pleasure together. I'll be waiting for that invite to the farm, haven't smelled fresh air and seen open spaces for a while. It'll be nice to relax a spell."

"We'll have you out soon, Gus. Oh, bring your teeth along, there'll be some good eats as well."

"Better put a shine on them, then. Alright, get. Ride safe and stay whole."

Every guy shook hands with Gus and mounted up on their bikes, as JT got in the bus and started it up. The setting sun cast long, brilliant streaks on them, as Gus waved goodbye, a profitable calm setting in again. The highway north had thinned in traffic and let the club have an easy ride up to Lodi. The bus ran smoothly up 99 and they broke off at 88 to save time, even though it was more a trade route for farmers.

They were passing through the orchards, the cherry trees ripe with fruit, when JT saw the shadow coming from out of the trees and began swerving away from it in time. The fruit cart rolled onto the road and hit the side of the bus, send baskets of cherries flying everywhere. The club hit the brakes hard, trying to avoid wiping out on the slippery fruit, as JT stopped the bus. Keith, Otto and Tom dropped their bikes and tumbled, a chain reaction of events happening. The guys weren't hurt badly, the slower speed causing only some minor scrapes and bruising. 

Out in the orchard, they could hear the frantic cries of a Mexican worker. He sounded panicked and in great need, then Chico left his bike and ran into the orchard. JT and several others followed him in and saw him crouching by the labourer. A young boy was lying on the ground, his leg bent at an awkward angle and knew the agony he must be in. Chico told them the boy was putting baskets of fruit on the cart and the brake let go and it rolled over his leg. 

Suddenly it wasn't hostile feelings for the damage to them and their bikes, it was sympathy for an innocent boy in serious medical need. There was no question what was needed, it was getting the boy to a hospital and setting the bones again. Whether JT wanted to get involved or not, it didn't matter at that point, he couldn't walk away and leave them. He had Chico translate to the man what needed to happen. The man shook his head and desperately pleaded his plight.

"Prez, he got no money for doctors and shit. He doesn't know what to do."

"Tell him we'll get him to St. Thomas and have his son looked after. We can use the bus and lay him on a seat. Any ideas on making a stretcher would help too. We didn't come prepared for that."

Chico spoke Spanish and explained what they were going to do for his son. The father understood the need for a stretcher and laid his son down gently. He had them follow him to the cart and showed them the loose boards. One was long enough to break into two pieces and they needed something to stretch across it and tie it together. The man reached under the cart and took out a ball of twine, then stripped off his shirt to use. They went back and used a ground tarp under one of the trees and used that. In fifteen minutes, they put together a makeshift stretcher and carefully got the boy onto it. 

His cries were heart wrenching to hear, knowing how each little movement brought more agony to the injury. Chico found out the father was Miguel Rodriguez, his son was Domingo and they were just finishing the last of the baskets when it happened. He was up a ladder and Domingo was putting the baskets up on the cart. Somehow the brake must have released and his son's leg was rolled over, he could hear the bones breaking. There was no way to stop the chain of events that followed and now involved the club.

Innocence of everything aside, shit happened and it needed cleaning up. They carried Domingo in and laid him between two seats, his father sitting beside him. The bikes were checked and started and JT was more than happy to see Phoenix had avoided any damage to his bike. They headed towards Charming and took the fastest and smoothest way there. JT pulled up at the emergency doors and ran in. He was back out a couple minutes later with a nurse and two attendants bringing a gurney.

The nurse checked Domingo over and had the attendants use the makeshift stretcher to get him out. JT opened the back door and Piney had wheeled the gurney around. The attendants passed the boy out to the guys, who laid him down gently on the gurney. The nurse led the attendants inside and straight to X ray to assess the damage. Miguel looked at the club with his sincere gratitude, but an equal fear of the cost. JT calmed Miguel's fears and brought the club into a huddle out of earshot of him.

"The bus pretty well tapped me out for cash, what do you guys have on you?"

They reached in and took out the wads of bills and each counted what he had and JT added it up.

"Between us, we have over three grand, so we can cover this for him."

Lenny shook his head at the suggestion.

"Brother, it's going to run five, six hundred for the X rays and the cast, that ain't even including the setting of it. You're talking a couple of grand here. You know this guy has no money and you'll never see it again, ever?"

"Lenny, this isn't about getting it back, it's about being involved in this and resolving it. I know we didn't ask for it to happen, but it did. Is the guy going to pay for our bikes to get fixed? No, he isn't. Can he pay for an ambulance to get his kid here? No, he can't. Where do we stop our part in this? Leave them there, it's not our fault? Stop the bus and toss them out here? We were just given a couple of pretty decent gifts just a few hours ago, weren't we? Didn't Free say how Karma works? What you put out there, comes back to you."

"JT, you can be such a fucking bleeding heart sometimes. Let's make the guy's life better then and hope Karma has big pockets of cash to hand out."

"It's not about the cash coming back, it's about the good coming back. Look how all the rest of that shit has played out so far? Couple of grand got us a town on our side, didn't it? What a fucking bunch of miracle workers we are, helping this poor guy in his time of need. You don't think he wants to pay us back some how? He wants to any way he can. Just like Gianni did. Who's complaining about the rolls of cash in their pockets? We got those from favours. Those trucks heading east every two weeks is making our lives very comfortable, not to mention the travelling money we get going south and coming back."

Lenny understood where JT's line of thinking was, that cash came to them easily enough, it was what they did with the cash that mattered. Sometimes, seemingly giving it away, could end up bringing greater riches down the road unexpectedly. Things were handed to them, with little more than some effort on their part and it was becoming taken for granted.

There was no further discussion about whether to assist Miguel, or the cost involved, so they broke up and walked back over to him. There was a look of desperation setting in already, his own mind foretelling of the club leaving him at this point. Chico translated to him, what JT said.

"Miguel, let's go in and see how Domingo is doing. I hope they're setting his leg by now. Let's get the paperwork done and make sure he'll be okay."

"You are willing to stay and help me?"

Chico translated between them.

"Yes, we'll pay the doctors for you, make sure he gets the right treatment."

Miguel's eyes pooled rapidly, his face contorting to relief. He fell to his knees, thanking them all for what they were doing for him. JT laid his hand on his shoulder and bade him to stand again. Miguel tried to smile through the tears, as he looked at them all.

"Gracias, mucho gracias senors."

JT smiled and led him to the desk and checked his son in. The club confirmed that all costs would be covered before leaving, then they headed to the waiting area for news. Miguel couldn't stop pacing and praying for his son, no one minding the repetitive monotony of it. Two hours passed, before a doctor came in and asked for Miguel. His face collapsed into relief, upon hearing the breaks would heal, but he might limp a bit. He said he was sedated, but he could see him for a few minutes and that he'd be in overnight for observation. Miguel's face began a look of worry, knowing it was going to cost more, but he was now stranded.

Once again, JT assuaged his worries and offered him a room for the night. The gratitude was heaped on them, Miguel knowing the immense debt he was amassing with them, as the aid continued to come. He went with the doctor and saw his son laying there, a cast covering his leg to his hip and he wept for his pain. 

"He's not feeling any pain because of the sedatives we gave him, so he'll be able to rest. Only a few minutes now, okay?"

"Si, senor, uno momento."

The guys sat and talked about what was happening and JT explained he'd go with Miguel in the bus and stay at the clubhouse with him. Everyone else would head to the farm and let them know the score, then come back in the morning to start on the bus."

"JT, you sure you want to spend the night and you don't understand each other? I can do it."

"You sure, Chico?"

"Sure I'm sure. I got no problems with that."

"Okay, that makes it a bit easier, 'cause honestly, I didn't have a fucking clue how to tell him shit."

"I figured as much, muchacho. I told you, you need lessons, man."

They laughed about it and Miguel came back out, wiping away the tears from his face.

Chico asked how his son was and he told them about the cast and the pain.

"Miguel, we're going to take you to our clubhouse and we have a room you can sleep in and a shower to clean up in. I can make some food for us and we'll come back in the morning and go see Domingo."

Miguel looked at Chico and the others, still in disbelief he was being treated so well by them. They went outside and JT and Miguel climbed into the bus, while the others got the bikes started. They rolled out of the hospital and headed the few miles across town to the clubhouse. They stopped out front and went inside, turning on the lights and letting Miguel see the place. They showed him his room and the shower, then opened beers to relax with him. He was looking much more relieved and at ease, knowing things were going to be okay for his son and himself, as he smiled and laughed for the first time.

The guys spent only enough time to finish the beer, before they were back outside and ready to ride to the farm. Chico walked Miguel back inside and headed to the kitchen, where they began putting together a meal, while JT locked the gate and led the club out of town and on to the farm.

No one had paid any attention to the old Ford pick up parked in the parking lot down the street from them. They passed it, as eyes watched them and waited, then the headlights came on and they drove past the gate and compound slowly. Without their cuts on, no one would know they were members of Satan's Disciples. The bikers who were pushing the heroin, had been under their control and they had failed the patch in. Their loss wasn't as important, as the loss of income and the interference by another club. 

They were now sizing up the competition and deciding what fate was in store for them. They could either join them, or die. The pick up drove away towards Lodi slowly, bringing no attention to itself, or the trouble that would come.




Votes and comments are always welcome, please the time to let me know how you like it.

RJ



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 05



Ch. 5 Saints and Sinners

The enemy's movements towards the border brought about another mission for Clay and the Sky Soldiers of Tropic Lightning. The C-130 dropped open the back deck to empty blackness, not a light below to know what was there. Eyes were peeled on the red light, waiting for it to change to the green one and the smell of fear was strong in the cargo hold. Clay was at the lead, his hand on the tether strap, looking outside, then turned to give a last second instruction. 

"We land and form up at the rendezvous. No one be late for the party."

Heads nodded, while faces said nerves were at a peak. The flight deck commander heard they were less than a minute from the drop off point and readied the men. The green light flashed and Clay was off the deck and falling rapidly. His chute popped open and he looked up and watched the others exiting behind him. He could see the stars being blocked by the black canopies, as one after the other opened above him. He turned his attention to the ground and looked for flashes of gunfire at them. 

Clay had his machine gun at the ready, his eyes scanning the terrain for any signs, when the first bullets started coming at them. Only a brief flash of light let them know the enemy's position and how many were firing at them, their bullets silently coming up from below. Clay sprayed several bursts into the area, mostly to send the VC undercover and give them time to land. The bullets had little affect on determent, as flashes continued to be seen. 

Clay let the machine gun dangle from the strap, as he unhooked two grenades and pulled the pins. He judged the positions and tossed the fist sized armaments down. Just as the bullets covertly found their way up, the grenades did the same and none of the enemy knew they were coming down, exploding a second or two apart, ending anymore gunfire at them. Clay readied his weapon again and waited to shoot, but let it go and took the lines in his hands, as he neared the ground. 

He broke through the branches and landed, though his chute was caught above him. He peered into the ebony jungle, his ears listening for sounds, then took out his knife and cut his lines free. He shucked off the harness and heard his men landing behind him. One by one they joined up with him and took positions to defend themselves. In whispers, Clay took a count of his men and two were unaccounted for. They waited another two minutes and Clay knew they had to move out, whether they showed up or not. 

They fanned out and began moving forward, their silent footfalls bringing them closer to danger. They had no idea how many of the enemy were killed by them on the way down, or what defensive position they had taken. The crack of a branch ahead had everything stop, not a breath was taken, as ears listened for another sound. The silence was shattered a second later by gunfire and mortar shells exploding around them. Return fire started and bullets were sprayed in the direction anyone thought the sounds came from. Flashes of exploding light lit up the blackness around them, glimpses of where they were granting them some bearings. Clay ordered the men to move their position and split them up. Five men went to the right flank, while Clay led the men with him to the left. Shells kept exploding around the area they were in, tracer bullets finding the area and shredding the trees to splinters.

Covertly they traversed another hundred yards forward, then several grenades were hurled at the location of the mortar and the machine guns. In the brightness of bomb bursts, bodies were flung in arcs of disarray, then Clay and the others opened fire on them, spraying bullets into the night. Clay had his men rush the encampment, ready to kill any survivors, then the men on the right came in right after. Bodies were mutilated, torn apart by the blasts, while others writhed in agony. Those that were left, soon dropped their guns and surrendered to them.

"Fuck 'em. Kill them all."

The men heard Clay's orders, but were hesitant to fire upon the prisoners. Clay saw their hesitation and began putting short bursts into the wounded, then turned his machine gun on the ones holding their hands up. Some began to flee for their lives, but the others knew they couldn't escape and opened fire on them. No more sounds could be heard, as the last body dropped and the air became still again. The thick vegetation absorbed the sound rapidly, then insects and nocturnal wildlife masked the kill. Bodies were left where they were, while their armaments were gathered and a charge set to go off long after they were gone, then the hike back to the pick up began.

Feet trod as light as they could, no one making any more sound than they wanted to. Clay shot his hand up in a fist, halting anymore movement. He squinted hard, trying to make out the shapes through the trees. He couldn't see any movement of them, so he had the men move forward, careful to avoid an ambush of any kind. They were twenty yards away from the two shadowy figures, when Clay halted them again. He had them stay put, as he crept forward, the tension making him sweat and drip into his eyes.

He wiped them quickly and re-focused his attention again and saw the shapes were men. He studied them as best he could and then moved forward, making a noise as he walked, his barrel pointed at them and ready to fire. In the darkness, it was hard to make out details, but the lines hanging from the trees to them, made it apparent what happened to the other two members of their team. Carefully he approached them, always on guard against a possible booby trap. He reached out to the first one and checked for a pulse on his neck and his hand came away bloodied. He went to the other and knew there was no need to check for signs of life. Half of the head was missing in the back, remnants of grey matter clinging in strands from the skull.

He pulled their dog tags and motioned for the others to join him. They approached just as carefully as Clay had done and witnessed for themselves, the gore of war's brutality. Clay took out his knife and slashed the cords holding the bodies up. He shouldered one, while Private Ken Kennedy took the other. The way was slow going, but after hours of trekking through the jungle, the pick up crew was waiting for them. The bodies were loaded on board and the team sat on either side of them and silently thanked God that it wasn't them instead.

JT rode into Charming with Lenny and Piney, stopping at the Hairy Dog. Wilbur was happy to see them and offered them a drink on the house. Lenny and Piney took the free beers offered, but JT took out his cash and paid for them instead.

"So Will, any signs of bikers since then?"

"Nope, JT. Not a one. I am seeing a half dozen or so coming in and they look like death walking. That shit has a hold of them and they need help getting over it."

"I don't know anything about helping them, but I have seen some of the ones you mentioned, giving us some very nasty looks when we pass by."

"Of course. You took their source away. You're the cause of their misery."

"So, now what? We let them have the shit and everything's cool?"

As they were discussing the issue, the door opened and D.C Unser walked in and came up to the bar.

"Hey guys, saw the bikes outside and thought I'd see what's going on."

"According to Will, no more dealing is going on in here, but he said there's a bunch of people who are hooked on the shit and hate us for getting the bikers busted."

"That right? Who are these folks, Will?"

"You know them, Officer Unser. Tim Hargrave is one. Kyle, what's his name....Jennings is another. Lowell Harland and his buddy, Jimmy Franks. A bunch more. Not hard to spot them. Like I was saying to JT, they look like death walking."

"Yeah, have seen that look on a few people I've seen around town lately. This is because of that shit they were taking, right?"

"You got it, Wayne. Stopping the supply isn't the end of this. They need some help getting over the withdrawal symptoms."

"How we supposed to do that, JT? I can't force them to seek treatment."

"Maybe not, Wayne, but they need it just the same."

"You got any ideas on it then, Piney?"

"No, but something's got to happen. Can't have them out there wasting away on the street."

"Great, just when I think it's over, it's actually just beginning."

"You can wait until they commit an offence and force them into treatment can't you? Sort of like a condition of some kind?"

"Sure, but what crime do I let happen, before I do that, Lenny?"

"Hopefully nothing too bad."

"Wayne, I know it's bullshit, but are we supposed to let those people suffer because of stupid rules and shit?"

"Of course not, JT, but my hands are tied by the law that I'm sworn to uphold."

"What about the mayor, or city council doing something? Can't they vote some bullshit rule that allows you to do that?"

"I guess I can talk to his Honour and see what he thinks. You want to come with me and help explain all this to him?"

"Me? Like I'm an authority on this."

"You know a shitload more than I do, so yeah, you're an authority."

"If you think I can help, okay, let's talk to him."

"I'll give his office a call and see when he can see us."

"Fuck calling, Wayne. Just go and tell them you need to see him, because it's a matter of life and death and a possible crime wave, or something."

"Wish it was that simple, Piney."

"Let's make it that simple then, Wayne. Come on, let's go see the high and mighty and tell them what's happening in our town."

Wayne looked at JT and the others and saw it was a serious proposal. He ceded to any more contradiction to it and agreed. He said bye to those in the bar and went to his cruiser, while JT left money on the counter and told Will not to let Lenny and Piney enjoy themselves too much. JT went out and started up his bike and followed Unser to city hall and parked beside him in the 'Authorized Vehicles Only' parking. Wayne looked at him and pointed to the sign, making JT laugh.

"I'm here on official police business, I'm authorized."

Wayne had to laugh out loud and the pair entered the building. They rode up to the top floor and went into the office, where the mayor's secretary asked how she could help them.

"We need to see his Honour right away, Louise. Seems there's an issue that needs attending to immediately and we need to discuss it with him."

Louise began looking in the appointment book and JT stopped her.

"Louise, we meant like now, not a day or a week from now."

"I can't just put you in anywhere you want, he has a schedule to adhere to."

"That schedule is going to change anyway, unless we talk to him immediately."

Louise looked at the seriousness on their faces and wondered what it was that was so important, but pushed the intercom button and hailed the mayor. She told them who was outside waiting to see him and the importance of their need to see him and he replied to send them in, in a couple of minutes.

Wayne and JT took a seat and waited, until the mayor's door opened and they saw Brent Oswald come outwith the mayor. They exchanged pleasantries and then Oswald walked to the door, acknowledging Unser with a nod, but complete denial to show JT any recognition. The mayor ushered them into his office and had them sit, while he went around and sat in his over-stuffed executive chair.

"So, Deputy Chief Unser, Mr. Teller, how may I help you? I have a few minutes to spare, so please be brief."

"We have a problem with the junkies that are left, after the bust we did. It stands to reason that they're going to do something to get the next fix and crime ain't out of the question. I've looked this up and talked to people and they agree, they need help, but we can't force them to. We're hoping you and the council can find some way to make them, so we don't have any problems with them."

"How many of these, 'junkies', are we talking about?"

"As far as we know, not that many, maybe a half dozen or so."

"Can't you just lock them up?"

Unser tried not to take the reply too seriously, as he replied.

"I can't do anything, unless they commit a crime. You have the only authority to pass something and then I can enforce it. I just don't want anything bad happening to anyone, junkie or not."

"I'll talk to the council and see what can be done. Do you have anything to add, Mr. Teller?"

"Not much, other than what Deputy Chief Unser has said and that addicts aren't in their right minds, especially when they need the drug. It doesn't matter who, or what, if they can get high, that's all that matters. I'd hate to see some of the old ladies downtown getting mugged for their cash, or a home getting ransacked for anything valuable and maybe hurting the people inside. It's really bad shi..stuff that they were taking and they need help getting off of it. If they consent to go to hospital, I know they can get them off it and as long as nothing is available, they won't get back on it, hopefully."

"I'm beginning to see the threat here. I'll put a call out right away and have an emergency meeting called for tonight. Last thing we need here in Charming, is any more crime and murders."

"Couldn't agree with you more, your Honour."

"I'll get in touch with the Chief and let him know what we can do, if anything. Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Deputy Chief. It's nice to know you're doing your best to keep our citizens safe. I wasn't sure about you and your club, Mr. Teller, but so far, you've proved yourselves to be model citizens, I'm thankful for what you've done for this town and it's people. I hear them talk quite highly of you."

"You're very welcome, your Honour and we'll continue to be so. We love our town and always want to see it this way. If we see anything going on, we'll be in touch with Deputy Chief Unser immediately."

Mayor chuckled to himself, as he looked at them both.

"Who'd a thought the cops and a bike gang would work together?"

"Your Honour, we'd rather not be thought of as a bike gang, we're just guys who like to ride motorcycles and be like everyone else is. Gang just makes us sound like criminals."

"I have to agree with you there, Mr. Teller, you certainly don't act like those gangs west of us and south of us for that matter."

"Thank you, sir and please, call me JT, everyone does."

"Very well then, JT. Again, a pleasure to see you. Now, I have a meeting to attend and I'm running late. I'll let you know what we come up with. Good day, gentlemen."

There was nothing left to do but shake the mayor's hand and walk outside. JT pulled out his cigarettes and popped one in his mouth, then offered Wayne one. Wayne looked around and said they should go around the corner, so eyes weren't watching them. Wayne took the smoke and a light from JT and exhaled loudly.

"Thanks JT. So, think we got through to him well enough?"

"Yeah, he seems to have gotten the seriousness of it. I think he knows we've had enough troubles in town and he wants it to end, so he can seek another term. It's nice having him on our side though. I'm glad he doesn't mind the club being in town."

"After what you guys did last year for my dad and the raffle, he'd be an ass to go against you. Folks here really like you guys. Not a day that I don't hear somebody mentioning you guys and saying something good about you."

"Really? Cool. Like I said Wayne, anything we do that's skirting the law, it all happens outside our borders. I don't want you getting on our case about shit."

"I'd hate to do that, JT, I really would."

"Yeah, it's tough to have to bust your buddies."

Wayne looked at JT and smiled, always enjoying being called a buddy. His youth was spent on the fringe, never fitting in and making the real connection with another guy as a good friend. Here he was more than ten years later and the one group who had accepted him, still wanted him to be a part of them. He dropped his smoke and crushed it with his foot and held his hand out to JT.

"I like you, JT. I like thinking that I have friends, ones who do right by me and you have."

"Like wise, Wayne. You're a good guy, even with the badge. You don't shove it in our faces and act like a big shot. You're alright, man."

JT shook his hand and the two walked around the corner and went to their vehicles.

"I'll talk to you soon, Wayne. Let's see what the leaders can do about our problem."

"Yeah, I won't hold my breath. Take care out there, JT."

"You too, Wayne."

JT fired up the Harley, ending any more conversation between them. They nodded to each other and headed off in different directions, Wayne to cruise the streets and JT heading off to the Hairy Dog to get Piney and Lenny, then to the clubhouse to talk to the guys.

The same two men in the old, Ford pick up were parked across the street from where they were. Once JT and Unser left the scene, they started up and did U turn, heading back to Lodi to inform the other members of the club about their findings. Once told, there was no accepting the Sons as a possible 'friendly' club, their fate decided by their alliance with the police.

JT sat with the club and discussed the situation with them. Most felt they had done enough already to help, but JT assured them that they were part of the reason they had junkies wandering the streets. It was apparent that every action they did, ended up with a consequence and like it or not, they had to follow through. He reminded them that the addicts were good people at one point and had succumbed to the evils of heroin by coercion, not choice. Given a chance to decide, after knowing what would happen to them, they would have declined that first offer. 

It still didn't appease everyone's feelings of duty, leaving almost half opposed to the idea. JT could understand their reluctance, knowing it had nothing to do with them personally, but tried again in finding a common ground to understanding.

"Let's say it was some of the commune that were junkies now, would you deny them any help?"

No one said they would, but argued that they weren't.

"We sat here a few months ago and we all agreed that we needed this town behind us, correct?"

Agreements were given.

"How is this not part of helping them? They sure as shit didn't wake up one morning and say, 'Hey, I think I'll start shooting up heroin and become a junkie', did they?"

"No, JT, but why are we getting involved in it?"

"Because we care. Stop looking at now and look down the road on this. If no one does anything, what's to stop more assholes from coming here and turning people on to that shit? Unser and the rest of the force don't know squat about the stuff and sure as shit don't know how to deal with junkies going off the deep end looking for a fix. This puts us in that position we want and pretty well keeps us there. I just talked to the mayor and he said the people here really like us, they think we're alright guys and don't mind all the noise we make, because we do good shit for the town. We have our town guys, let's show them we care about it."

No one replied, as they pondered what JT had said. They had wanted the town on their side, but only to conduct their criminal enterprises without reprisals. The protests to stop big business had gained them nothing, except to endear them with the townsfolk more. Thinking past the obvious in their minds, they could see why their president wanted them on board with him and help take care of the citizens who had been hurt by the actions of others. It made sense to go the extra distance and firmly secure themselves in the town's minds, as someone who cared.

There was always a reason JT wanted things to happen, it just took him a long time and a lot of talking to get to the conclusion. It began making sense to those opposed and brought a common understanding to them all. The town was theirs, they had to take care of it. They decided to continue the conversation over lunch and headed into town to Lumpy's restaurant. They were riding along the main street, coming into the downtown core, when shouts and yells caught their attention. They spotted a man running along the sidewalk and the store owner of the convenience mart trying to chase him. The owner fumbled his step and fell, tumbling across the concrete, as the thief ran down an alley between two stores.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 05



JT motioned to the guys to go around and cut him off, while he, Lenny and Piney rode down the alley and around back. The thief was standing and counting his money, when he heard the bikes and stopped, cramming the bills in his pocket and taking off again. He pulled over garbage cans to block their way, but the rumble coming towards him, let him know his way was blocked. He froze and waited, as man and machine surrounded him and gave him no where to go.

His look was desperate, as though his life depended on him succeeding in getting away. Tears of frustration and submission to failure swept over him, his goal so close in sight and now taken from him. They watched him crumble to the ground weeping, no longer able to think of his needs, just the pain and emptiness tearing at him inside. They looked at the man, dirty and smelling of body odour, his skin pale and clammy with sweat. He looked around at the club, waiting to see what his fate and punishment would be.

JT walked forward and held his hand out to help the man up, the cowering thief unsure what the intent of it was.

"Take it and stand up. We're not going to beat the shit out of you, or anything. We know why you took the money."

The thief looked around at the guys and saw no aggression towards him, his fears diminishing, as he took JT's hand and slowly stood up.

"Now hand over the money and let's go back and apologize. Maybe the store owner won't press charges, if you give it back to him and say how sorry you are for doing it."

With hands shaking violently, he reached into his pocket and retrieved the wad of crumpled bills. He looked at them with the desperation of his need, knowing the suffering was going to continue once he handed the money over. He looked at JT with a pleading in his eyes, hoping he would still have a fix, or anything to take the abysmal aching away.

"Hurting pretty bad for some of that shit, aren't you?"

His head nodded rapidly, unable to completely let go of the salvation in his hands. 

"Let's square up with the owner and let him get back to business and if you agree, we'll get you some help to get off that shit."

The man saw the truth in JT's eyes and believed in him, as he slowly moved the cash closer to his hands. JT took the money and started walking him back down the alley and on to the street. The owner was nursing several bad scrapes from his fall, but smiled in relief to see the thief and his money coming back. Before the owner started in on the man to voice his anger at him, JT raised his hand and motioned to calm himself.

"What's your name?"

"Vernon, Vernon Wells. That my money you got there?"

"Yes, not sure if it's all there, but count it and see."

Vernon took the wad of bills and made his way past the small crowd. Sirens could be heard approaching the area, then Unser and another patrol car rushed to a stop in front of the crowd. As the officers approached, JT took the urgency away and assured them everything was under control. He handed the thief over to the other patrolman, who handcuffed him and placed him in the back of the car.

"What happened, JT?"

"We were coming through town and saw that guy running away and Vernon chasing after him. Saw Vernon fall and the guy took off down the alley. We cut him off and brought him and the money back. He's one of those junkies we just talked about, Wayne, sorry, Deputy Chief Unser. He's hurting for a hit real bad. He said he's willing to get help and I said if we get the money back and apologize real good, the owner might not press charges. I told you it would make good people do bad shit, so here's the first case and how do you handle it?"

Wayne looked at JT, then turned and looked at the man in the back of the cruiser, head bowed and crying miserably. He knew him and knew he wasn't a criminal, but a crime was committed and it was a matter of principle, versus a matter of compassion. He walked up to the store and saw Vernon finishing his count of the money.

"Is it all there, Vernon?"

"Yes, it's all here, Officer Unser."

"You okay? Not hurt too bad, or anything?"

Vernon showed him the bad scrapes on his hands, knees and elbow, the material shredded away and the raw skin angry with blood.

"How did it happen? He use a gun on you?"

"I was putting food on the shelves, when I heard the till open and saw that man grabbing all the bills. He took off and I was chasing him and tripped up. Those gang guys went after them and got him, that's all I know."

"Okay. They're not gang guys though, Vernon, they're a club and run a business in town like you do. So, this guy didn't threaten you, or hurt you, just stole the cash and took off?"

Vernon felt bad about being admonished for his choice of words, as he looked at the club outside.

"No, he never threatened me in any way, he looked more scared of me, than I was of him."

"Do you want me to press charges?"

Vernon looked at Unser with spite in his eyes.

"You throw that bastard in jail and throw away the key. He don't deserve to be walking the streets of this town."

"The most I could charge him with is attempted robbery. You got all the money back and nothing really bad happened. He didn't threaten you, or use a weapon, so the most he'd get is a year, or two. What he does need, is help. Let me take him in and then to St. Thomas and see what they can do to help. He's hurting bad and before this, he was a good person, never had any trouble with him. You really want me to make his life any worse than it is?"

"What's his problem, Officer?"

"He's one of the people who got hooked on that shit those bikers were selling. We need to help them get off it and get back to being normal people again. They just need help, not thrown in jail. What do you say, Vernon? Willing to give the guy a break?"

Vernon looked at the misery of the man in the cruiser, studying him and reasoning why compassion outweighed justice. He looked at the club members, talking with the police and other citizens, the respect for what they said being taken with consideration. The lines of distinction were blurred, in who was the good guy and who was the bad. Appearances were clouding the truths he relied on, seeing those he thought of as bad, being the ones who were doing the good. He looked at Unser again, his spite gone and a look of forgiveness coming across him.

"It's better this way, Vern. Trust me."

"Okay, but make sure he's watched over, he can't be out free, wandering around."

"No, he'll be under constant control at the hospital. He won't be back out, until he's cured. Let's just say it'll be like jail, without the bars."

"In that case, I can go along with what you want to do." 

"Thanks Vern."

Just before Unser walked out of the store, Vernon stopped him.

"Officer Unser, exactly how many of these people do we have around town?"

"Not really sure, Vern. Maybe a dozen. Maybe more, maybe less. Won't know till we see them. Not hard to miss, they look like death warmed over."

"Yeah, he did look sorta like that, didn't he?"

"Bad stuff to get a hold of you, Vernon. The guys are making sure the stuff stays out of Charming, keeping close tabs on things for me."

"So they're good guys?"

"Just stopped a crime and got your money back. Saved our town from big business taking over. Held that raffle for my dad and helped him out. Now they're the ones trying to help these poor souls shake this shit off. You tell me if they're saints or sinners. Have a good day, Vernon, hope that mends up fast."

Vernon never said anything, as Wayne walked back out and over to the small crowd still lingering.

"So who we got in the back?"

"Lowell Harland, twenty one, still lives with his parents on Grant Street. No priors, nothing before this at all, pretty normal guy otherwise. So what's the story on Mr. Wells? He going to press charges?"

"No, he's dropping them, so we can help the guy get straightened out. We'll take him in and let him know the score and if he goes in voluntarily to get cleaned up, he won't face any charges. He has to be declared clean by a doctor, before he's released."

"Sounds good. I'll get him in and start the paperwork. You want to let him know what the deal is, or should I?"

"Just start the paperwork. I still have to run this by the chief. I guess the mayor isn't going to have a hard time coming up with something to handle this now."

The officer left and drove away with Lowell in the back, his remorse unwilling to let him be at peace. Unser dispersed the small crowd and explained the city would be announcing something shortly, giving them something to calm themselves and something to worry about. Once they were alone, Unser talked to the guys.

"So, the shit has hit the fan and it's barely been a couple of hours since we just talked about it. The mayor probably knows about it already and so does my boss. I gotta go in and get this ball rolling and I need your help to do it, JT. I need to tell him how it's all supposed to work and what we're supposed to do about it and I ain't got all the answers figured out yet. Shit, I gotta run this town and I ain't got all the parts and pieces to make it work right. Feel like parking in the authorized parking again?"

"Well, that was fun, wasn't it? Okay, but we all park there. The club is in this as well."

Wayne looked at the faces of the club, seeing them anxious to do it.

"Sure, you can all park there."

Cheers went up from the guys, as Wayne went to his cruiser. Before he got in, JT shouted to him.

"Give us an escort to the station with the lights on and shit. Let's have a little fun."

Wayne smirked and shook his head and got in his cruiser. He saw the guys start up their bikes and waited for him to go. He laughed to himself and turned the lights on and hit the siren for a short burst, then lead the way to the station. The half mile ride was met with broad smiles, as Unser went through red lights with the club following close behind. No one questioned them as to the reason for the escort, but the curiosity levels peaked. The stares were more obvious, when they all lined up beside Unser and took up all the available parking spots. Unser led them in and went straight back to the chief's office.

He paused for a second and looked back at the guys.

"Just gimme a second with him, let me explain why we're all here."

They agreed and Unser knocked and heard the chief call to come in. He went in and they could hear some of what was being said and it wasn't long before the door opened and the guys found the chief coming from behind his desk and greeting them with handshakes.

"Nice work fellas. Wayne was telling me how you caught the guy and held him for him."

"Thanks, Chief Grant, but maybe Way... Deputy Chief Unser should explain things a bit further. The guy's just hurting for some of that heroin and needs help getting off it."

"Yeah, he checks out clean, no priors, hasn't been to church in over two months, I noticed, same church and all. He didn't try to hurt anyone, just wanted the money and gave it all back. No resisting. So, we talked to the mayor earlier..."

"So I heard. Might have ran it by me first, chain of command and all."

Wayne saw the look and knew he had stepped on toes, but a look of bygones be bygones was given and motioned to proceed.

"Sorry, you're right. It was a timing thing. JT and I were discussing it at the Hairy Dog. Will said there's no more bikers showing up, but there's a lot of junkies wondering where to get the stuff now. If Mr. Harland was looking for money, perhaps he found a source for it. I want to offer him a deal to get off. He goes to St. Thomas and gets cleaned up and back to normal and if a doctor says he's clean and fit, he can go home. I want to know where he was getting it, if it ain't in Charming. JT and his guys are keeping an ear to the ground for me, seeing if they get any hint of it being sold close by. Might not be our jurisdiction, but it's our people that are getting hurt by it and we have to deal with it, as soon as possible. I told the mayor I had no authority to just arrest them because they're junkies, they had to commit a crime and then I could."

The chief was nodding as he listened, happy everything was thought out and being handled. If it played out right, he could take some credit for it, if not, he could put all the blame elsewhere and stay clear of the aftermath. 

"No sooner do we leave the mayor's office and I start my patrol, and I get the call about Harland. I figure you should have as much as the mayor and more to go on. These people need help, that's all. How do we help them before they commit a crime? I asked him to see if council could adopt something to grant us that power. If you could get on this and push for it, they'd listen to you, more than JT, or even me."

"This is your idea, Teller?"

"More or less, sir. I know what he did was wrong, but it's why he did it that was wrong too. He wasn't in his right mind, it was that crap he's on, that's what's making him do it. We're doing our best to spot anybody selling that stuff, we've seen what it does and we don't want anyone in this town getting hooked on it."

"Funny, but we need more citizens like you guys."

"Why's that funny, Chief?"

"Well, you know, bike gang being the good guys. Usually the other way around, right?"

"Well, guess you learn something new everyday after all."

"What's that?"

"You can't judge a book by its cover. We're not a gang, Chief Grant. We're a bunch of guys who like to ride together, sort of like being back in 'Nam, when we watched each others backs. Calling us a gang, is like calling us criminals, isn't it?"

The chief swallowed his words hard, knowing he had insulted what was turning out to be model citizens, ones he was going to award a commendation to soon enough. His face spoke all the apologies needed, as it reddened deeper and deeper in embarrassment. 

"No, no, of course you're not criminals, it was just a slip of the tongue, sorry I said it. Please, go on, Mr. Teller."

JT shrugged it off and went on with his thoughts to the mayor. The guys couldn't help but start smirking and stifling laughs, as JT continued into the tenth minute of explaining everything. He paused to a stop and turned to the guys, seeing them motion to speed it up and get to it already. He realized he had rambled on a bit too much and let the chief digest what he had said. The chief looked at the guys again, more a look of acceptance and understanding towards them. Getting past appearances was hard for the generation before. Hair and beards were the norm on young men, some guys and girls looking and dressing the same, making it hard to tell one from the other. This was another case like that, where painting everything with the same brush, ended up with it painting your own face. 

"I truly appreciate everything you've said, Mr. Teller. I see where you're coming from and I have to agree with your logic and the compassion. No sense turning good people into criminals, they're much better helping the community to grow and prosper. I'll be getting in touch with his Honour shortly. Gentlemen, a pleasure to see you all again, ride safely and once again, my thanks. Deputy Chief Unser, if you'd stay a moment."

The chief shook their hands once again, closing the meeting, as Wayne showed them out and closed the door behind them.

"You really trust those guys, Unser?"

Wayne looked at the chief for a moment, then looked away.

"I do. Take away the cuts and bikes and we'd be pinning awards on them for being good people. I try to look past the obvious and see them for who they are. I was just as guilty for thinking gang at first, but I got to know them better and they're just a bunch of guys who like to ride bikes and have fun. Only calls I get about them, are ones to say they done something good. Yeah, I trust them."

Chief Grant looked at Unser, gauging the merit of his words and eventually agreed with a nod.

"Okay, I'll go along with you on that. Thanks for the info on these people, I'll get on the blower to the mayor right now and give him my take on it. I hope this doesn't land back in my lap as a pile of shit, Unser. I'd hate to see that."

"It can't Chief. It's a way to look good for the next election, trust me. People see you supporting helping them, instead of costing the taxpayers lots of money to house and feed them for as long as we got them, they'll back you all the way."

"Yeah, guess I can use that angle to cover my ass. Good work, Unser, I'm getting more comfortable with you as my second."

"Always got your six, Chief."

"Always a Marine. Taught you well."

"I understood the concept of it all. Like to think I did my country proud wearing the uniform."

"You're a good man, Unser. Alright, get out there and keep our town safe and I'll get to this matter."

"Gotcha, Chief."

Wayne smiled at him and got one back, then left the office and went outside, where the guys were waiting for him.

"So, what's the deal, Wayne? He going to back this idea?"

"I think so, JT. He seems to get the reason for doing it. He's calling the mayor now and pushing for it to happen, so we'll see what the council comes up with to solve this."

"Yeah, before the shit happens."

"Yeah, no kidding. I like my job, but I hate busting people I know, specially when it's someone else's doing that caused it."

Heads nodded, a consensus between them that sides were together on it and the town was being taken care of. 

"We were on our way to Lumpy's for some grub, when all that happened, want to join us for a bite, or a coffee?"

"Yeah, sure. I got time for a quick bite and a chat."

"Great, lead the way and we're right behind you."

Wayne laughed loudly, knowing they wanted him to do another escort through town to the restaurant. Thinking of what they had started and accomplished so far, he felt they deserved the recognition and started his cruiser and turned on the lights. He led the way and sounded his siren at intersections to let them through. People on the street stood and wondered, but no one showed any objection to it.

Lumpy's became a bit more boisterous when they sat and doubled the number of customers in there. Lumpy was out from the office to greet them personally and take their orders. The club were favourites of his, whenever they came in. The daily tallies were always good, especially when the club and the commune came in to feast. 

The club was enjoying the meal and talking to Wayne, when the door opened and Chico came in with Miguel. They came over and Lumpy was asking their orders before they were at the table. Chairs were brought over and space made for them, as Lumpy was back with cups, saucers and a pot of coffee. He poured two cups and asked if anyone wanted topped up, giving some to those who asked and emptied the pot. He was smiling and humming, as he went about refilling the pot and shouting in for the orders to come out.

Wayne was awestruck, when he was introduced to Miguel and heard his story. Without any knowledge of the event, the guys had taken it upon themselves to bring a good resolve to a tragic event.

"How is your son? Is he still in hospital?"

Miguel looked to Chico for the translation and replied to him. Chico told Wayne what was happening and Unser smiled and looked at the club members.

"You're doing all this for these people?"

"Yeah, couldn't just leave them there, or sitting at the hospital and no way to pay. So, while Domingo stays in the hospital, his dad here is a guest at the clubhouse. I think Domingo gets to go home tomorrow, is that right, Chico?"

"Si, we just came from there. The doc says he'll be okay and to come get the cast off in eight weeks. Said he's going to need therapy to build the muscles up again and walk properly. You don't want to know the price of what that is, I asked. So I figured, what if we buy the kid a bike, it's cheap and he gets to exercise and thing, you know?"




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 05



Miguel looked from face to face, wondering what was being said, only catching the odd word he understood. Wayne looked at the guys, discussing issues about the well being of an unknown Mexican migrant worker and his son. He shook his head at a thought he had and laughed out loud, stopping conversation and all eyes pointed at him. He noticed the looks and realized his faux pas and now had to explain himself to them.

"It's nothing, just had a silly thought run through my head."

Lenny wasn't as easy to let it go and pressed him to tell them.

"It was nothing, just a thought, that I thought, was, you know, funny."

Eyes kept pressing for him to divulge his secrets and he relented.

"Okay, okay. I was thinking you guys are like fairy godmothers, or something, the way you help folks and such. I had an image of you guys with the wings and wands and thought you made the ugliest fairies. There that's it, that's what I was thinking."

Piney got up and danced on his tip toes, twirling in circles towards Wayne. He stopped in front of him and pretended he had a wand.

"Poof, you're a pile of shit."

He danced back to where he was and the laughter went to a roar, making Wayne blushed red enough to make it look like his cheeks would bleed. Those that didn't know what was going on, looked over at them, wondering why they were carrying on. Seeing Lumpy laughing along, made some wonder what they had missed.

"So Wayne, us fairy godmothers would like to get our hands on a bike for Domingo. Who should we go and see, who'll give us a good deal on one. I could easily pick one up from some driveway, but we want it all legit and nice."

"That's nice of you Wally. Hate to hear some kid woke up crying, because his bike got stolen. You know, check in at Ryan's Hardware. I was in getting some stuff for dad's place and they had bikes in the back that ain't selling fast. Bet they'd be happy to sell you one cheap."

"Cool, thanks."

"Say, Wayne."

"Yes, Keith."

"How many bikes do they have there?"

"Not that many, maybe five or six."

"Any girl's bikes?"

"Girl's bikes? I don't know, maybe, might be one, or two, why?"

"Well, if the wee fella has a buggered leg, it'll be easier for him to get on it. I was thinking, if they're no that expensive, you know, twenty, thirty bucks or so, buy the lot and let a bunch of the kids have fun. Chico, ask Miguel how many kids there are?"

Chico asked Miguel and he looked around at the guys and the cop, wondering why they wanted to know about the children. Chico saw the worry and explained about the bicycles better and what the club wanted to do. Miguel was overjoyed at what kept transpiring, as every day brought another gift of kindness from strangers. He told Chico the number of kids and then started naming them off. Chico laughed and stopped him, making him pause. Chico said there was eight children between the two families, then asked how many were able to ride a bike. Miguel thought and realized that none knew how to ride, but five were big enough to try it.

"I'd say it's time to wind this up, thank Lumpy for a great meal, as always, then our good friend Wayne will make sure we get to Ryan's with all haste in our quest."

"You're kidding me? Another escort, to get bicycles?"

"We are emissaries on a mission of goodwill, we can't be held up."

Wayne shook his head, knowing he either went along, or they'd be pissed at him.

"Let's go then. You got a way of picking these things up?"

"Yeah, I got Clay's pick up, Miguel's not too keen on riding."

"Alright, let's do it."

JT paid Lumpy and shook his hand, leaving an extra twenty for himself in his palm. 

"See you boys soon, Good seeing you Officer Unser."

Everyone waved as they left and mounted up. Windows rattled and vibrated, as engines started up, then the procession followed Wayne, heading back into town and on to Liberty St. The curb space was filled and the noise stopped, then the throng went in to the hardware store. Paul Ryan was taken aback by the intrusion of so many at one time, then noticed Unser and wondered what it was about.

"What's up, Officer?"

"Hi Paul, got some folks here interested in those bikes you got in back. I was telling them about them and wanted to know if you'd give them a deal on them."

"You want more than one bike?"

"Yes, Mr. Ryan. We're wondering what you'd sell your stock for?"

"Call me Paul, JT, you're old enough to now. Just want you to know, I miss your dad, always enjoyed talking to him when he came in."

"Thanks Paul, it's nice to know people still remember him. He liked coming here, even if he didn't need anything."

"Yeah, nice to just be with the guys and shoot the breeze about stuff. So what do you need all these bikes for?"

"It's for a bunch of kids who can't afford them. One is for this guy's son, Domingo. The fruit cart rolled over his leg and broke it badly and is going to need therapy after, but there's no way in hell they can afford it, so we figured a bike would be good, once he could stand up okay. Then Keith figured a girl's bike might be better, because it'd be easier to get on, then he figured, why not just buy all of them and all the kids could ride."

"Helluva lot of figuring there, JT, but I like where it leads to."

"Yeah, you get used to it after a while. JT likes to tell a story if he has something to say."

It was JT's turn to blush, knowing he was caught rambling again.

"So, how many bikes do you need?"

"How many you got?"

"I have six set up and a bunch more still in boxes."

"Let's have a look."

Paul Ryan made his way past the garden tools and pointed out the dusty bikes sitting there. At one time, any boy, or girl would have been clamouring to have one. Now, they were considered too old looking and not cool enough to ride. The Schwinn's were great bikes, but looking cool wasn't what they were noted for. Miguel stood silently, but in great astonishment, at seeing the bicycles, knowing they were for his son and the other children and only a handshake away to own.

JT asked about the ones in boxes and Paul showed him the rack farther back with six stacked neatly. 

"So, what kind of a deal can you do for all the ones on the floor and the ones in boxes?"

"All twelve? Well, let's see."

Paul went about doing some calculations in his head and looked at JT squarely.

"You give me thirty a bike and I'm happy, how's that?"

"Twenty five and it's a deal."

Paul thought on it a moment and nodded his head.

"Seeings what you're buying them for, deal."

They shook and before they released hands, the guys were rolling the bikes up the aisle and out the door. They grabbed the six in boxes and stacked them in the back of the pick up and them lay the bikes on top of each other and tied them down. JT came out with Paul and they shook hands, as the club mounted up and brought the deafening roar of their bikes to life.

Unser stood beside JT and looked at him sarcastically.

"Suppose I have to escort you to God knows where now?"

"No, it's cool Wayne. We're heading to the shop and Chico and Manuel can put the rest of the bikes together tonight. It's been fun, Wayne, I like the VIP treatment."

"So, I can get back to being a cop again?"

"Sure, can't feel safe without our D.C. on the job. Thanks Wayne, you've been a big help."

JT and Unser shook hands, then JT led the club away and back to the clubhouse. Wayne stood with Paul Ryan and watched them make their way through town, losing sight of them, but the deep rumble continued echoing back to them.

"Good guys, that bunch."

"Never would have thought that myself, till now. That's a right decent thing they're doing, helping out others like that."

"Yeah, right decent, Paul. Well, better get back to doing my job. You have a nice day, Paul."

"You too, Wayne."

They waved and Unser drove off, while Paul Ryan stood shaking his head, amazed at what had transpired. 

Marietta was happy to see Chico back and came out to see him when she heard the truck pull in. Everyone greeted her affectionately, then went into the clubhouse with the boxed bikes. 

Beers were opened and joints rolled, as the bikes were taken from the cardboard casings Laughter filled the large space, as they talked about riding as a club on them, adding Unser's fairy godmother comments in as well. 

They assembled the half dozen bikes in no time and walked them over to the air pump to fill the tires. When they were checked out, the guys ended up riding them all and having fun following JT around the yard and through the buildings. Marietta and Miguel laughed and watched them, as they resorted to acting like kids. Once the fun and games was over, the bikes were left in the clubhouse and the shop locked up. Marietta had a dinner prepared for Miguel, who would spend one night alone, while she went back with Chico to the commune.

Tonight was the night chosen by the girls. The one where a trip into the unknown recesses of their minds was going to happen. Miguel said goodbye to the crew and watched as JT locked the gate, shutting him in for the night. He didn't mind the feeling of security, a stranger in a strange place. He watched them head away and went back in, looking at all the bikes lined up and served his dinner up on a plate, then sat looking at them smiling.

The club rode out to Calaveras, the road theirs to enjoy. Chico wanted to have fun, but Marietta's fears made him decide against doing anything. Several rode without hands on the bars, but no one attempted any of the tricks Chico was noted for.

They were well greeted before they even stopped, the girls anxious to begin their trip to acid land. The bikes were put away in the shed and Tinkerbell refused to let them go to the house, until she was given ample attention by everyone.

"She's getting pretty bossy, isn't she, Moon?"

"Maybe, but you know Piney, she gives us the sweetest milk and it's because of that affection she gets."

"Yeah, I do like her milk. Guess it's a decent payoff."

"It takes so little, to receive so much."

"True words there, Moon."

They went in and once the guys were settled, Moon took the small box and opened it. He tore off small squares of paper and placed one square on every girl's tongue. 

"How soon before they start getting off, Moon?"

"Not too long, Otto, about ten minutes or so."

"Alright. All packed for your trip, Baby?"

"Oh yeah, Baby. Take good care of me?"

"Sure will, Cindy."

The other girls expressed the same from their partners and when it was assured they were safe in their minds, several began undressing, stripping naked and started dancing around the room. The other girls were quick to follow and the expectant psychedelia had the dozen naked girls excited to experience it. They danced in a circle, the guys enjoying their feminine charms displayed for them.

It wasn't long before the laughter and giggling stopped and eyes began growing wider. The affects were subtle at first, but soon grew more pronounced, as the trip to LSD heaven began. It was amusing to see them explore the surreal world around them, as reality and fantasy blended into one for them. They were letting them do whatever they wanted to do, as long as they weren't going to get into trouble, or get hurt.

Golden and Azure found their connection together something to explore and began making out as they stood. Fingers disappeared inside their bodies, as their tongues writhed and twisted about the other's. Those that saw them, came over and their mouths were met with kisses, as hands excited their bodies.

The guys just sat and watched, taking in the changes to their women and weighed them against their own decision to try acid or not. They looked at each other, smiling at the display, knowing sex would be on the menu tonight, but the dish served, would be new and something exotic. Moon put on some psychedelic music by Donovan and the song Season of the Witch filled the room. 

By the first hour into the trip, none of the girls were making much sense about things and the guys began wondering how crazy they would get. Their part in taking care of them just got a bit harder to do, as the unknown world of acid came fully into effect.



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 06



Chapter 6 Que Sera Sera 

None of the girls were awake the next morning, when the guys started the bikes and began the journey to Charming to the clubhouse. Sitting around the chairs cleaning their guns and loading clips, the subject of acid was still the hot topic. The girls had proved to be quite a handful to deal with, as their minds were separated from reality and lived in a world of psychedelic make believe. Sex was even strange to get into, as their partners seemed more like strangers, than the women they loved. 

With the trips ending well into the small hours of the morning, none of the guys were overly eager to try it themselves. No one had any idea what it was like for the girls, but what they saw and heard from them, made them leery of it. Once the guns and ammo were packed in the bags, they headed out to Kettleman Lane to meet up with Jimmy's men.

They pulled into the abandoned warehouse lot and pulled around back, shutting off the engines and got the bags ready for the cash. Keith was standing watch at the corner of the building, keeping an eye out for the contacts to arrive and also to spot anyone taking notice of the place. The light, blue Cadillac came down the road from the west and pulled into the lot, making its way around the back. 

"Right on time, guys. Everything cool on your end?"

"Yeah, no one following us. This set up is good, JT."

"Thanks, it serves the purpose. So let's get loaded up and get this down to Jimmy. Good haul this time?"

"Oh yeah. Jimmy's going to shit, when he sees the take this time. Had some good action on the bets for the fight between Frazier and Quarry last month. The horses have been paying off too."

"Yeah, caught some of the action of the fight, sounded like quite the battle between them."

"Shit, Quarry was winning and then Frazier put a hurt on Quarry's face and they called the fight due to cuts. Lousy way to lose, guy should have won it."

"Yeah, sucks to be him, doesn't it?"

"No shit. I'm still hoping they let Clay out of jail to fight again. That guy is good, fucking stripped his title too, the bastards."

"I can't say I disagree with Clay's stand on not going to war. It's bullshit to put him in prison for not wanting to go."

"Yeah, that's crap. Okay, looks like your loaded, JT. You guys have a good run down, see you next time."

"Thanks, Johnny. You guys stay out of trouble, don't want to lose a good thing here, do we?"

"Not a chance. Ciao."

JT and Johnny shook hands and headed to their vehicles. The Caddy pulled out and headed back west again, blending in with normal traffic, looking every bit the same as dozens of other cars travelling the same route. JT had everyone start up and pulled out onto Kettleman, making their way to I-5 south. The old, Ford 150 pick up pulled out of the farmer's lane a few hundred yards back, keeping well behind the club, but close enough to follow without losing them.

The run down I-5 was met with the usual stares and looks, but nothing untoward spoiled the ride. The two in the Ford stopped and got gas at each stop the club made and kept their distance, as well as paying no attention to the club to cause suspicion. 

JT took the cutoff to head to the meet with Jimmy's men at the restaurant and the Ford stayed with them, but still unnoticed. The bikes pulled around the back of the building and stopped, while the pick up stayed out front and parked in the lot. One man got out and went inside to order some take out food and drinks, while the other kept an eye on the back, in case the club left. 

The two were sitting eating burgers, when they heard the bikes start up and did the same. The ride continued south to the next cutoff to head into the hills and the secrecy of the tail was jeopardized if they followed. They chose to continue and saw the club heading into a parking lot filled with bikes. The pair drove past and noticed another club waiting for them, seeing the greetings shared by both. They were only given a passing glance as they passed and headed further down the road and turned down a side road a mile farther along. They turned around and parked, getting out and looking back down the road to see what the club did.

JT made the payoff to La Roca and shared some pleasantries between the clubs, before getting mounted up again and headed down the road towards the men. By the time the club rode past the two men, they were pretending to be stopped to take a piss in the bushes and once again, no one realized they were being followed. The men got in the truck to tail them again, but when they saw the secondary road they took, there was no way to follow without being noticed. They turned around and headed back to the convenience store lot and acted like they were lost, pulling out a map and looking at it.

La Roca and the other members of the Aztecs paid them no mind, considering them as civilians just finding their way. Once they had concluded their own business, the Aztecs mounted up and rode off back towards the highway. The pair continued to pretend to look at the map for another half hour and decided the club had taken another route and got back in the truck. They headed to the highway and took the cutoff north onto I-5.

JT led the club back after an hour of catch and pack, then rode back down the trail and on to the road. They stopped at Jimmy's restaurant and got a bite, then filled up and began the trip home again. They came through Bakersfield and rode past the burnt out diner, passing the two in the Ford, who had stopped for gas. Seeing the club go by, they rushed through paying for the gas and took off out of the lot to catch up to them again.

Piney noticed the truck coming out of the lot and his memory of it being on the secondary rode kicked in. He kept an eye on it, as they continued north, but it stayed well back of them. Coming into Oakland, the club headed to the drop off spot with Chico's cousin and Piney saw that the pick up was still with them. He took notice of it and noted the men inside as well. The truck drove past them, both faces turned towards them and Piney took in as much detail of them as he could.

During the exchange, Piney mentioned to Manuel if he knew anyone with a Ford pick up, or matched the descriptions of the guys. Manuel said he didn't and wondered why.

"I saw that truck down south, parked on the side of the road and the guys taking a piss. Then I saw it pulling out of a gas station in Bakersfield and it tailed us all the way to here. They just drove past and I wondered if you knew them."

"No way man. We don't talk to gringos very much, eh?"

"Okay, just wondering. I never seen them before and now they're with us most of the day. I don't think they're cops, just hoping it's not another club. We had a bit of a run in, sort of, with the Disciples a couple of weeks back. Came up on us and pulled guns. JT was in a bus and cut in front and slammed the brakes on. Fuckers piled into the back of it and we left them there. Now I see these guys and I'm wondering."

Manuel looked at Piney with a dawning of information he had heard.

"Shit dude, you're the guys they have a hit on. We heard through the grapevine they want some bike gang dead. That's you, muchacho."

"JT, come here and listen to this, you're going to want to know all the details."

JT left Pedro and Chico counting the bundles and dividing them into area supply. 

"What's up?"

"I was asking Manuel if he knew this truck and two guys that followed us from 10. We passed them on our way to pick up, I saw the truck parked and they looked like they were pissing."

"Yeah, I saw them, so?"

"I spotted it again coming through Bakersfield, they pulled out of a lot and followed us all the way to here. They weren't cops, looked more like bikers, two of them. Manuel says the Disciples have a hit out on us for the highway thing in Livermore."

Manuel confirmed his source was good and the hit was legit. JT looked at Piney and began shaking his head, going into deep thought about their situation. He walked away thinking hard on what it was all adding up to. He turned quickly and looked at everyone.

"We got to get out of here, now. If there is a hit on us, we need to be in a better place than this. Manuel, we have to hold off on the runs, no way we can go against the Disciples on the open road and I don't want you guys getting involved. Guys, mount up, we're heading to the clubhouse and I need to call in a favour from our friend Wayne."

The hand off was put into high gear and money was transferred to JT. Chico hugged his cousin and friends, then started his bike and no more was said, as JT took off with the club behind him, every engine putting out as much power as it could. Eyes were constantly on the look out for the truck and any signs of a club or even lone bikers. No one was left from their suspicion, as they raced back along the back roads, trying to keep out of sight as much as possible. 

Once they made it through Lodi, JT began feeling a bit more at ease, knowing they were minutes from the clubhouse and the added safety of more ammunition and a place to defend from. They turned off of Kettleman Lane and headed up 88, not worrying about the stop sign, or speeding, as much as the possibility of bullets coming at them. Moving targets were harder to hit and JT wanted to keep moving until they were in the clubhouse.

The sign was a welcome beacon of safety, as they neared it. JT slowed down and pulled to a stop at the gate, hopping off his bike and opening the lock. He swung the gate open and rushed back to his bike. He kicked the shifter hard into gear and let out the clutch. As he started to lead the club into the compound, the Ford pick up came racing out of the lot down the street and closed in on them. Piney was just inside the compound, when gun barrels pointed out of the passenger window and opened fire. Bullets whistled past heads, as they sat and continued shooting at them. Bikes went down onto the ground, the riders making for cover as best they could. 

The tires squealed loudly, as the driver floored the gas pedal, leaving an echoing report of rubber, along with the echoes of gunfire. Bikes were shut off and the guys stood and checked to see if anyone was wounded. Piney was still laying on the ground, his face a tight grimace of pain. A stream of blood was coming from under him and everyone made it to him as fast as they could,

Lenny helped him up and checked his back, finding a steady spurt of blood coming from his shoulder. JT was already running for the office and fumbling with keys to open the lock. He dashed in and grabbed the phone, calling for an ambulance and then hung up and called the station for Wayne. Unser was on patrol, but the dispatcher relayed the call over the radio and told JT he was on his way. He asked JT if this was about the shots being reported and he said it was, prompting the dispatcher to radio for more cars to the scene. JT hung up and bolted through the door, making his way back to Piney.

"The ambulance is coming and Wayne should be here shortly, along with a bunch more cops, so we should be okay. How are you, Buddy?"

"Fucking hurts, JT. I can hardly get a breath without the pain taking it."

"Just take them slow and easy. Can we stop the bleeding somehow?"

"I got my hand pressing on the wound, JT, I'm doing all I can."

"I know, Lenny, just... FUCK! What the hell did we do to get shot at? This is bullshit man, fucking bullshit."

JT got up and stormed about the yard, cursing and swearing, unable to come to terms with what had happened. The sirens were a relief to hear, as the ambulance pulled in first and raced down to the group. The attendants were out and checking on Piney and getting the stretcher ready. The guys helped Piney up and laid him on it, then the attendant began looking at the wound. The second scissors appeared, every member called for him to stop, then helped Piney out of his cut, despite the pain it caused him. Lenny took the T shirt and tore it open wide for them, then stood back so they could help his friend.

They applied the clotting agent and dressed the wound, hooking up an IV of saline solution and loaded him into the back. Unser was pulling into the lot and raced down to the ambulance. He looked in the back at Piney and then looked around at the faces looking at him.

"What the hell happened?"

"We need to talk, but not with the other cops around. We have some trouble we need help with."

Unser looked at the cruisers pulling in and then nodded to JT.

"Okay, I'll have them take care of things out here and take some reports. Let's go inside the clubhouse and tell me how I can help."

JT led Unser away, while the others stayed and answered questions from the officers. The ambulance's siren had faded away, but thoughts of Piney in the back, were still being strongly felt. JT and Wayne sat down and Wayne waited for JT to decide where to start from. JT ran his fingers through his long hair, pulling it back tightly, as he pondered what and how much to say.

"We have a problem with the Satan's Disciples gang, Wayne. I have no idea how, or why it started, but we're on a hit list with them now. A couple of weeks back, we were coming back from San Fran, along the 580, we were visiting some friends of Moon's out there. We were this side of Livermore, when a bunch of Disciples pull along side of our guys and drew guns. I swung the bus over into their lane and slammed the brakes on and they piled into the back of it. We took off and got out of there. Nothing happened after that, then we were just out in Oakland, visiting some of Chico's relatives that live there. They told us they heard about a hit on us and we flew back here to be safe. We just pulled in, when this pick up stops and starts shooting at us and hit Piney."

Unser looked at JT and knew there were huge gaps in his story and barely half of it was said.

"JT, you want my help, I'm going to need more to go, than that. Those guys don't just start shooting up people for no good reason. You gotta tell me what you're doing out of town that's causing this."

It was JT's turn to look at Wayne and decide the level of trust to bestow in him. He knew he needed his help, but didn't want to lose any ground with him either. 

"You know we smoke grass, but we also bring some north from the border. Not a lot, but enough to keep a few bucks in our pockets. That's it, Wayne. We're not into anything that club would be into. We're not crossing territories or anything. I don't get it. We got back today and we found out about the hit on us. As soon as we found out, we headed back here and I wanted to let you know what was happening."

"So, you're hauling dope from Mexico to Oakland and that's it?"

"Yeah, that's it."

"So, nothing to do with anything in regards to our mob friends in Vegas?"

"No, shit no. They have no involvement in this at all. Only other thing I can think of, is those bikers we helped bust. They might have been connected to them."

"Now that makes sense. That would piss them off enough to come after you."

"We have to find out if they are connected, Wayne. If they are, this could get real ugly fast. I don't want shit hitting the streets of Charming, but we can't go out now, without worrying about bullets going off everywhere."

"I see your point. The Clive Brock thing was bad, but this ain't sounding none too good. I'll see what I can do about protection, while you're in town, but you leave the borders and I got nothing for you."

They looked at each other, both understanding the situation, but neither able to formulate a plan to deal with it. A darkness hung over both of them, as Wayne pondered what he could do on his end, while JT sat and smoked a joint and pondered his side. 

"If this backlash is from the bikers we busted, I think I can get some help from the county. It's obviously not something that's only Charming's problem, but theirs as well. I'll have a talk with the chief and run it by him. I'll try and swing it as only that and nothing you guys are doing."

"Shit Wayne, that would be great, because honestly, I'm not coming up with anything."

"I know you guys ain't looking for trouble, so I gotta do my job and protect you as citizens. Grant ain't going to turn down help, not after what we just did to help this town."

"Yeah, that wouldn't look good come election time."

"Okay, let me get this going, before anything else happens."

"Great, Buddy, thanks."

JT snubbed out the joint and shook Wayne's hand. They looked at each other with a common trust and bond as friends, before they headed back outside to the others. The scene was still chaotic, as bikes were picked up and damage assessed. Piney's Indian was scratched and dented in several places, ruining the original paint and metalwork. Some of the others were reporting their damage and the officers were busy noting all of it in detail.

Lenny was standing by the office and called JT and Wayne over to him. When they got there, Lenny showed them the bullet holes in the wall and the broken glass, then pointed to the holes in the bus parked in front of the bays

"We're fucking lucky brother. Every shot they took could have hit us. Look at where these holes are, right at head high. These fuckers want us dead."

Unser and JT judged the height and agreed, Fate had played an ace up its sleeve and spared them. They saw a car pulling into the lot and Unser recognized it immediately.

"Looks like the chief heard and now we can get him on board."

The black, Mercury Montcalm stopped and the heavyset man got out and looked around at everything. He walked to Unser and JT, while Lenny moved to avoid being involved. To have some privacy, JT took them into the office and closed the door, letting the chief have the seat behind the desk. He looked at Unser and JT, a disturbed look on his face that this happened and wanted to have a solution given to him.

"It was the Disciples, Chief. They put a hit out on JT and his club, because they helped us take down those bikers selling heroin. We figure that's the reason for it happening. I was just saying that we can protect them here in Charming, but we can't do anything outside the borders. I wanted to come and ask if we can talk to county sheriffs and get them in on it. It's not like those drugs are a Charming problem only, so they must have something going on too. I want to see if we can join forces and deal with this, so no shit lands on our doorstep."

"You know I hate shit on my doorstep, Unser and I hate scraping it off my shoes even more. I think county should get in on this too and help us out. I talked to council and they agree we have to deal with the junkie problem fast, so I doubt anyone will oppose having the county involved in dealing with this. You guys did a good thing for this town, by helping get rid of the bikers, but this obviously isn't the end of it. I'll call Chief Wade over in Stockton and see what they have on those bikers and bring him up to speed on this."

Grant could see the relief sweep over JT and Unser breathed a sigh of relief himself. 

"Chief, I know there's probably a zillion questions you need to ask, but my best friend was just shot and I'd like to know if I can go see him now."

"Yeah, sure. I'll get on this with Stockton and I'd like you to come by the station and fill in the details more for me."

"Thanks, Chief, I really appreciate it. I'll be in a little later, I just want to make sure he's going to be okay."

"Understood. I hope he's okay, too."

"Thanks."

JT gave a quick smile and headed out to the guys to let them know what was happening. He used Clay's truck to go into town to St. Thomas hospital with Lenny and looked around carefully at everyone and everything. It had come to the point, where they were in fear of their lives and all the members, wondering when the next attack would occur and by who. They went into emergency and asked about Piney and was told he was still in surgery, but his outlook was good. They sat in the waiting room and quietly discussed what the situation was. One thing JT insisted Wayne do, was post an officer outside Piney's room. If they did it for Marlene, they should do it for Piney. 




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 06



The doctor came out and asked them if they were there for Mr. Winston and said they were. At that moment, the doors swung open and Stan and Lorelei were coming through.

"JT, how's Piermont?"

"This is the doctor, Mr. and Mrs. Winston. He was just going to tell us how Piney is."

Eyes focused on the doctor and waited to hear what he had to say.

"Your son is going to be okay, the bullet didn't hit anything vital, but nicked a vein. We sewed it up and closed the wound, so he'll need a few days rest here and then he'll be okay to go home after that."

The relief swept over all their faces, knowing Piney would be fine.

"When can we see him?"

"He just came out of surgery and they'll be taking him to his room. He's still under sedation, so in about half an hour, check with the desk nurse and she'll let you know what room he's in."

"Thank you, Doctor, thank you so much."

"My pleasure, Mrs. Winston, Mr. Winston."

Stan shook his hand heartily and sighed in relief, as the doctor went through the swinging doors again and disappeared. The relieved parental faces quickly turned to ones of accusal, as they sat and looked at JT and Lenny.

"What happened, JT? How did Piney get shot?"

"I guess in a way, it's our own fault."

The reply stunned them with the admission and they wanted to know more details.

"We talked with D.C. Unser about it and the only thing we can figure started it, was because of us helping the police arrest those bikers selling heroin. This must be some kind of retaliation for that."

"Oh JT, no. I pray no one else gets hurt."

Lorelei was in full motherly mode, worrying and fretting about what might be. Stan was still calm and collected about it.

"You think this was it, or do you expect more blow back?"

"Honestly, this is only the beginning, in my opinion."

Lorelei's face was pure worry at the thought of losing another son and began crying. 

"Oh no, JT."

"Lei, Lei, calm down, that's not going to help, getting all out of sorts over it."

Stan put his arm around her to calm her, as he looked at JT and Lenny.

"What do you think is the outcome?"

JT looked at Lenny and sighed deeply, before looking at the distraught parents.

"These guys want us all dead."

"Oh shit."

Lorelei didn't chastise her husband for foul language, feeling her answer might have been the same.

"Do the police know about it? That they want to kill you guys?"

"Oh yeah. I was telling Wayne, Deputy Chief Unser, all about everything. The chief came to the shop and I told him and they're calling San Joaquin sheriffs to help out. The bikers are in their jurisdiction, so they're pressing the sheriffs to make sure it doesn't spill into Charming."

"Are they going to watch out for you boys?"

"I think that's the plan, Mrs. Winston."

"They better. I don't want to see anything happen to you boys, it would break my heart."

"It would break mine too, Mrs. Winston. I don't know what I'd do if I lost one of my brothers."

"I know what I'd be doing. I'd hunt the bastards down and kill every last one of them."

"Stan, don't talk like that."

"I would, Lei. If Piney was killed, instead of wounded, I'd be looking for blood right now."

JT and Lenny looked at the seriousness in Stan's eyes and knew the mild mannered parent could easily become a raging killer on the streets.

"Let's just hope it doesn't come to that. Look, it's been about enough time, let's go see if Piney is awake yet."

"Yes, JT, I need to see my boy and make sure he's alright."

Stan and Lorelei followed Lenny and JT down the hall to the nurse's station and asked which room Piney was in. They rode up to the third floor, then went down the hall and stopped at the door.

"You guys go see him first, Lenny and I will wait out here, till you're done."

Lorelei caressed JT's cheek and kissed it, then did the same to Lenny, making them blush slightly, while Stan patted their shoulders and opened the door for Lorelei to go in. Once the door closed, Lenny turned to JT.

"You think we'll be getting into more gunfights with these guys?"

"I don't see anything else, Lenny. These guys want us dead and unless we have some help from the cops, that's all we're going to be doing. I'm starting to worry about everyone at the farm and if they're safe or not. They wouldn't hurt innocents, would they?"

"Fucked if I know, JT. These assholes just opened fire on us in broad daylight in public. I don't think they care about innocents getting hurt."

"Shit! I'm going to have to tell Moon and the others about this. I can't have them being in danger and something happening to any of them."

"You think they know where we live?"

"They knew where the shop was. These guys have been tailing us for a while it seems. No way they would just know about the shop and stuff. They knew we'd be coming back to it and they were waiting for us."

"Yeah, this isn't good, JT. We have some serious shit on our hands."

"Yes we do, Lenny and the last thing I want, is to be wiping it everywhere. We need to get on top of this and find a way to end it."

"I don't see them shaking hands and calling it even. We fucked up their drug trade and got four guys busted, then we wiped out a shitload of them on the 580.I don't see these guys as the type to back off, or let something go."

"I don't either, Lenny. I see these assholes coming at us with every gun blazing and trying to kill us all. Jake was right about clubs. What it used to be, isn't any more. These guys are looking to control the area and who knows how much more. I know one thing I'm going to do after leaving here."

"What's that, JT?"

"I'm putting a call out to some people who might be able to help us."

"Who do you have in mind?"

"Jimmy and I want him to talk to La Roca and see if they're willing to help us. If we can get some more muscle and increase numbers, we might stand a chance of holding these guys off and saving our asses."

"Sounds good. Both of them are happy with our business arrangements, so I doubt they want to see their money dry up."

"I want to call Stockton and talk to Benny and Lamont and Gus as well. They have their sources to know what's going on. If we look more connected than we appear, they might not want to go to war with us."

"Makes sense, so how do we get around, without being spotted?"

"We have to drive and leave the bikes in the shop, or at the farm. From here on in, no one goes out without another guy and we all pack iron and extra clips, always."

"No arguments there, JT. I just hope it doesn't come to that."

"Me either, Lenny, me either. Hey, Piney's parents are coming out, we can go see him now."

The pair went over and talked to Stan and Lorelei and saw they were relieved to see their son was going to be okay. They said they were going to stay for a while and check in on him throughout the rest of the day. JT knew there was little or nothing they could do, but it appeased Lorelei's instincts to look after her son. JT and Lenny hugged them both and went in to see the fallen brother. Piney was lying quietly, his eyes closed and looked at peace, but his eyes darted open the moment he heard the door.

"Hey man, it's cool, just us."

"Fuck JT, I keep expecting those assholes to come and finish me off. Dad was saying you know why they did it. You didn't say anything about us, did you?"

"No way. I said the same to them, that I did to Unser. This was because we helped get those bikers busted. I told Wayne about running pot, but he didn't care about that. He figures the same as us, that it had to be over the bust. Brother, we're in some deep shit, man. I'll have Unser looking in to posting a cop outside your room, just to make sure, so you'll be okay while you're here. After we leave, we're going to the farm and talking to Moon and the others, let them know what's happened and be prepared for trouble."

"You don't think they'd go after them, or the girls, do you?"

"Piney, I don't know what these fuckers are capable of doing. They followed us down south and back, they know where our clubhouse is and they know we live somewhere, so I'm not taking any chances."

"Good idea. I don't know what I'd do if Mary was injured, or any of the others. This didn't work out as well as we hoped, did it?"

"No shit. I had no idea they were with the Disciples. I wouldn't have suggested what I did to Wayne, if I did. I thought they were just a bunch of bikers trying to set up shop here."

"It doesn't matter now, JT. Fucking Disciples are out for our asses and they won't stop till we're all dead. The pile up on 580 made sure of that. That's why they probably rolled up on us that day. We are in some seriously deep shit, JT. Seriously deep."

"I know, that's why I was telling Lenny, that I'm calling Jimmy, as well as Benny and Lamont and Gus too. I want as many people looking out for us as we can."

"You think they'll be able to help us?"

"I sure as shit hope so. If we end up on our own, we're as good as dead."

"Maybe the club wasn't such a good idea after all?"

"No Piney, the club is a good thing. What's not good, is having trouble land on our doorstep. We have the town, the police and all our connections happy with us. that says we're good."

"Yeah, true, but how much shit are they willing to put up with, before they don't like us again?"

"If people start complaining about us and blaming us, Unser will straighten them out and let them know why this is happening."

"You know, you were so right about getting Wayne on board with us. I doubt we'd be getting their help, if he wasn't."

"Maybe, maybe not."

Piney winced in pain as he tried to take a deeper breath.

"Look, you rest up, Buddy. Lenny is going to hang around and keep an eye on things, until Unser posts a cop outside. I'm heading back to the shop and start making those calls. The sooner we get some people on board and watching our asses, the better."

"Alright Brother, sounds good."

JT gently hugged Piney and shook his hand, holding the connection between them a moment longer, then JT and Lenny left the room.

"Don't let anyone near this room without a badge or you know them. These guys could pretend to be anyone."

"You got it, JT. No one will make it in that room, trust me."

"I do, Lenny. That's why I feel safe knowing you're here."

The two hugged hard, then JT left the hospital and drove back to the shop. All the way back, JT's fear level was piqued, eyeing everyone that looked strange to him. There was no trusting anyone unknown in town. For all that they were looked at as protectors of their town, they now needed the town to protect them. He found it hard to believe that he had to put his trust in people who not long ago, thought of him and his club as undesirables. He began hoping that what they had accomplished so far, was enough to sway support for them. 

Pulling into the lot, JT saw the club beginning the clean up and the cops still collecting evidence. The members stopped and came to him, anxious to know Piney's condition.

"He'll be alright. They took out the bullet and patched him up. The doc says he'll okay and can leave the hospital in a couple of days."

"Where's Lenny, JT?"

"I have him standing guard outside Piney's room, Otto, just in case."

Heads nodded in agreement, knowing Piney was the most vulnerable. JT looked around the compound, taking note of any weak areas that could be breached. 

"Let's get some chains and locks on the back gate, make sure that's secure and when we're here, let's get that old pickup of Piney's and block the entrance, so no one can bust through the gate. Otto, go up on the roof and see what it looks like from up there, see if we have some vantage points we can use. We can stash a rifle and some ammo up there and pick off anyone who comes even close to the clubhouse. I am not going to just sit back and let Unser and the cops handle this. Okay, you guys take care of those things and get us locked down tight, I'm going to make some calls to people we know and see about getting some muscle to back us up."

The guys immediately went about carrying out the instructions. Otto was on the roof and scoping out the perimeter, looking for spots to snipe from and still have cover from return fire. His time in the Army as a marksman, had served him well in becoming very proficient with a rifle. In his hands, anyone who dared make an attempt to come at them, would find that a kill zone existed within five hundred yards in all directions. Otto had received several commendations from his commanding officer for taking out enemy troops, mostly commanding officers left exposed to him.

JT finished talking to Gus, as well as Benny, both of them now aware of the situation and both prepared to do what was needed to protect them. He called Jimmy and began explaining what had happened and didn't need to ask for help. Jimmy's response was quick and to the point.

"I will have my guys move to Lodi and if those scumbags so much as ride past there to Charming, they'll be dead before they hit the border. I will talk to our Mexican friend and let him know about this. He will make sure his meal ticket stays intact. I know they don't make much money and losing what they get from you could hurt them, so I don't see them saying no."

"Jimmy, I can't thank you enough for this."

"JT, we are in your debt, remember?"

"I thought that was paid back?"

"That was for taking care of that thing. We are very happy with our new business arrangements and wish to keep that going. This is not a good thing for us, to have that interrupting our arrangement."

"No, it's not a good thing, this is a very bad thing, Jimmy."

"That it is, JT, that it is, a very bad thing. Calls will be made and things will be put in place immediately. Do you feel our thing is in trouble as we speak?"

"Oh yeah. No way we can do what we do, when they're all over our territory."

"This, is definitely not a good thing. We have expectations of a delivery soon."

"Not going to happen Jimmy. No way we can be on the road with no protection right now."

"Consider your protection in place. I will talk to my father and let him know what's happening. He will not be pleased about this and want it taken care of."

"Jimmy, these guys are armed and won't hesitate to shoot at you."

"JT, trust me, when I say my father will take care of things, they will be taken care of."

"I'll hold you to it then, Jimmy. Let me know what your dad wants us to do and we'll get together and put things in place."

"Just sit tight, JT. I'm sure my father will be calling you soon."

"Okay, Jimmy, will do. Hey, debt or not, thanks my friend."

"My pleasure. Too bad you're not Italian, you would make a good capo."

"Capo?"

"Captain. You would make a good captain in our organization."

"Well, no Italian in me that I know of. Irish all the way here."

"Hey Irish or not, You have our respect."

"And you have ours, Jimmy."

"A good thing, JT."

"Yes, a good thing, Jimmy. I'll sit tight and wait for your dad's call. Talk to you soon."

"Yes, talk to you soon, ciao."

"Ciao, Jimmy."

The call ended and JT took a deep breath and sighed loudly, the intense pressure lessening, being lifted from his shoulders. He walked to the door and looked at the guys doing whatever they could to defend the compound, turning it into a fortress, instead of a place of business. The phone rang and he was surprised the call came so soon. He rushed in and grabbed the phone.

"Gianni, didn't expect you to call so soon."

"It's Art Lowen, JT. I just heard the news about the shooting and Piney getting shot. Is he okay?"

"Hi Art, sorry, thought you were someone else. Yeah, the Disciples didn't like us killing their drug trade in town and are pissed off. Piney will be okay, no real damage. He'll be out in a couple of days."

"This is not good, JT. All I could think of, was Jake and the trouble we had. I take it Gianni, is Gianni Cacuzza."

"Yes. I'm expecting a call from him."

"JT, I'm real worried about your association with them."

"Art, we need help and our association with them is going to keep our asses out of a pine box."

"Maybe, but you should let the police handle this. It's what they're there for."

"Art, they're on the program already and are trying to get county involved. I'm just making sure that we don't get hit again. Look, I can't really talk right now, I'm waiting for that call. I'll call you soon and we can talk more later."

"JT, be careful. I'll cover you legally as best I can, but there's only so much I can do."

"I know Art. I know. If the shit hits the fan, I'm not waiting until the cops show up to do something about it, we'll cover our asses and deal with the fallout after we're safe."

"Guns are not good, JT. I can't stress how much trouble they'll cause."

"I know. It only takes a little bit of lead and bodies drop. I just don't want them to be my brothers, or anyone we care about."

"Call me soon, okay?"

"I will, gotta go, Art."

"Alright, JT. Be careful."

"We will."

Before Art could say another word, JT hung up and thought on his words. Art was right and guns had brought nothing but trouble since they picked them up. He countered that with his own thoughts on them and knew they would have been cut down already without them. The phone rang and JT answered hello, unsure who it might be.

"I wish to talk to JT Teller."

"Hi Gianni, it's me."

"JT, I just had a call from Jimmy. I am not happy with the events that have happened."

"Neither are we, Gianni."

"These scumbags are causing us more trouble than I like. It's not just you, but other business we do is being affected by them. I have discussed this with those above me and they agree, this situation must be resolved immediately. I have their blessing to do what I feel is necessary to conclude the disruptions to our business. I have people who are heading your way as we speak and will take care of this problem."

"That's great, Gianni, but how are they taking care of this?"

"They will let you know, when they get there. Tell them all you know about the guys and they will begin erasing the problem from the page."

"Okay, Gianni, will do. Anything you can think of that we should be doing right now?"

"Yeah. Keep your heads down and your asses covered."

"We're doing that."

"Continue to do so. I'll be in touch."

"Okay Gianni, talk to you soon."

JT hung up and pondered what Gianni had told him. Whatever he had planned, he would know soon enough, once the people he was sending showed up. Whatever the plan was, his only hope was that it brought an end to the violence surrounding them. He thought of all the killing and misery he had encountered in 'Nam and suddenly felt like he was back there again, except now it was in his home town. He looked out the window and saw the guys congregating and talking, so he went out to let them know the score.

The guys were overjoyed to know they had help on the way. Otto said he had all he needed on the roof and needed a rifle with a scope and he was set. JT explained the phone calls to them and that brought some much needed relief to them. It brought a greater sense of calm to his own state of mind, knowing his brothers were ready to accept whatever outcome arose. 

"Okay, I need to get out to the farm and let them know what's going on. Keith, you're with me on this, the rest, lock this place down tight once we're gone and keep those sidearms ready for trouble, if anyone shows up again. I don't know who's coming from Vegas, or wherever they're from, but they'll be arriving soon."

"Aye, JT. You want me to drive or ride shotgun?"

"You drive Keith, I'll keep watch. Let's just get there in one piece, okay."

"Aye, I'll make sure of it."

JT and Keith took off in the pick up and the gate was barred securely and the old pick up parked in front of it. The ride through town was easy enough, but once past the borders, the worry levels increased with each passing mile. Pulling into the lane way, the commune was surprised to see them back.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 06



JT asked where Moon was and was told he was on the tractor, pulling stumps with Walter for a new field to plant. He and Keith walked out to the area and saw them working on a large oak stump that wasn't giving up its hold. Walter saw them coming and waved, the guys waving back. Moon backed off the tractor and shut it down and jumped off to greet them.

"Just what we need, a bit more muscle to get this stubborn mule to move."

"Sure, we can do that, but I have to talk to you Moon, we have a situation we need to discuss."

"Can it wait until we get this out?"

"Sure, I guess."

"Okay, then let's get this stump out and we'll take a break. Got four out so far and that gives us half the field so far."

"Doing a great job you guys, looks good."

"Thanks, so let's get to it then, shall we?"

Moon jumped up and started the tractor, easing forward to get tension on the chains. Walter, JT and Keith went to work digging away at the roots and chopping them off. Slowly the stump began giving up its purchase of ground and the crackling of wood became more pronounced, as it began coming out. Moon gave it more gas and the tractor's torque was more than a match for it, pulling it all the way out. Moon hauled it over to the pile of stumps they had gathered and shut it down again.

"Alright, so what's the situation, JT?"

"Come, we need to go for a walk and talk about it."

Walter looked worried, feeling the situation had undertones of trouble, as he looked at JT and studied his expression. Keith led him back to the house to get a drink and rest, while JT and Moon went to the outcropping to talk. Once they were there, they sat on the flat stone and Moon looked at JT to begin.

"We have some serious shit to deal with, Moon."

"Like what?"

"You know we helped the cops bust those bikers dealing dope in Charming, right?"

"Yes, why?"

"We had a visit from some of their friends today at the clubhouse."

"What did they say?"

"Not much, they spoke with bullets."

"What?"

"Yeah and I'm worried we haven't seen the last of them either. We found out they have a hit out on us and they attacked us right after the run south. I have the police on it, as well as the county sheriffs, but I don't trust them to do what we need to do, to stay safe. I made some calls and we have some people coming to help us, but I'm worried this could spill over into this place."

"You think those guys would attack us?"

"I don't know, but I don't want to take any chances. They've been watching us and finding out what they can about us and I don't doubt they know we live here. If they can't get us in Charming, I'm worried they'll come after us here."

"JT, this is not good. I warned you long ago about what you were getting into and my concerns on how it might affect the commune. I can't have anyone put in harm's way by what you're doing."

"I know, I know. That's why I came here as soon as I could to let you know. I don't want to see anyone getting hurt, especially not innocent people. I've decided to keep the club away from here until this blows over."

"Do you really think this will blow over and that's the end of it?"

"I have no idea, Moon. I would hope it will, but I can't give you any guarantees."

Moon sat and looked at JT for a moment and then looked off into the ether, contemplating the new situation. JT waited patiently, knowing Moon was searching for an answer. He looked at the clouds slowly drifting across the sky before them and hoped the right cloud held the answer.

"I think it will be wise for you and the rest of the club to stay away from here. The girls are welcome to stay, we'll do our best to keep them safe, but I don't know about the club and the commune ever returning to the way things were. We have grown too far apart in our understanding of what we want here and how we wish to live. Running some grass north was one thing, but guns and violence were never to be a part of it. I don't know what to do right now, but you being here is putting us all at risk."

"I know, Moon and I'm sorry."

"I believe you are, JT. I know how good a man you are and your desire to live in peace and happiness is equal to my own, but the road you have gone down is not one any of us wishes to follow you on. The last thing any of us want, is to see someone get hurt."

"Already happened. Piney's in the hospital recovering from a shot in the shoulder."

"What? Piney's been shot? How is he? Is he going to be okay?"

"Yeah, yeah, he'll be okay, nothing too serious. He'll be out in a couple of days."

"My worst fears are coming to pass, JT. I saw trouble coming and told Spirit about it. She could see it too. We had our beliefs, bullets would be the bane of our existence here. I tried to believe it was only my worries, but now it has come to pass and my worst fears have happened."

"I'm so sorry, Moon, I really am."

"I don't doubt it, JT, but sorry isn't going to protect us now. You've created something for us that we wanted to stay as far away from as possible. How are we supposed to deal with this threat? We're not violent people."

"I know, that's why I want a couple of guys hanging around, just to make sure."

"And what, parade around with guns drawn?"

"No, no, nothing like that. I'll have them patrolling the roads around here, making sure no one even comes close to here."

"That I can live with, as long as nothing, and I mean nothing lands here."

"I give you my solemn promise to make sure that happens, Moon."

"Please JT, do all you can to protect this place from the trouble you've caused."

JT was going to rebut Moon's statement, but realized that even though they were not the cause of the trouble, it was because of their criminal involvement. Instead, he nodded in agreement and Moon put an arm over his shoulders, knowing the burden was landing on his shoulders to deal with everything.

"I know you didn't want this trouble JT, but it's happened and it's because of your choices that you've made. I tried to warn you and I know Jake warned you about getting involved in what you are doing, yet you went ahead and did it anyway."

"I can't argue that, Moon. Everything you said is true. I feel real bad about it all and sometimes I wish I could go back and change things."

"But we both know that can never happen. Choices were made and the repercussions must be dealt with. This has truly changed our relationship, JT."

"I guess it has, Moon. We'll talk about it all once this has been settled and there's no more threat of danger to this place."

"Yes, for now, let's go and tell the others of this news. They need to know what is affecting their lives."

With saddened hearts, the pair walked back to the house and went inside. The atmosphere wasn't as joyful as it normally was, eyes looking at JT to understand why.

"I have some bad news everyone."

JT told everyone what had happened and what was planned in response, but it didn't take away the feelings in their hearts, that the news created. Disappointment was clearly shown and JT felt every eye bore into his soul. With little else to say, he went to go back outside, when Suzy stopped him.

"It's not your fault, Baby. We know you didn't plan for this to happen. Everyone's a bit freaked out by it all. I know you'll do your best to protect us and we still trust you."

"Maybe so, Babe, but it's because of us that this is happening. I can see the hurt in their eyes and it's killing me to see it, knowing we've done this to them."

"Forget it, come on, let's go outside in the beautiful sunshine and smoke a joint together."

JT nodded and walked with Suzy outside and sat on the porch steps. She pulled a joint out from behind her ear and looked to JT to light it for her. JT used his Zippo to light it and looked at the insignia on the cover, feeling he was back to being a soldier and not a civilian. He slid the lighter back in his cut and took the joint from Suzy when she passed it to him. He drew deeply on it and inhaled the smoke, his mind still drifting to all parts of his brain, hearing and seeing moments of the past flash before him.

He passed the joint back to Suzy and bowed his head, as he let out the smoke. She started toking on it and then heard the stifled sobs coming from her lover. The moment her hand touched him, JT couldn't hold back the feelings of regret and cried openly.

Suzy knew there were no words that could ease him, so she snubbed the lit end out and put her arms around him, holding him in comfort to her. JT let his remorse out, not holding back the feelings that haunted his soul. Suzy knew her man was a man of honour, a man that cared and loved with all his heart. In his quest to be free, he had left behind one set of shackles and was now clamped in new ones.

She let him pour out his sorrow, letting him release all that was inside him. Once the sobs receded, he turned with tear soaked eyes to her, a need for forgiveness in them. She pulled him to her and kissed his brow softly.

"I love you, JT Teller. Nothing will stop me from doing that, nothing. You're the best man I know and everyone here will agree."

JT's eyes welled up again and he held onto her tightly, feeling a sense of normal, a sense of right come to him.

"I love you, Babe. I thank whatever forces that brought us together and never want you to lose what we have."

"You won't, Baby, ever. I'm your woman, now and for always. You can count on that and know it in your heart."

JT felt the relief in her words, knowing he wasn't going to lose his constant. What still ate away at him, was the loss of his sanctuary, the place where his soul could rest and be at peace with everything. He knew once this was over, he and the club would have to move out and never be as much a part of it again. Behind the curtains, Moon looked at them and felt his own sorrow, knowing he would be losing a dear friend, one he himself thought of as a brother. He felt Spirit's hand on his shoulder and he turned to her, tears forming in his own eyes.

"I hate sending them away, Spirit."

"I know, my love, but sometimes we must do things for the greater good. They'll still be able to come around to visit, so you won't lose him altogether."

"I know, but the change is feeling like a knife cutting me deeply."

"It will pass. It's the love you feel for him that causes it."

Moon nodded, but couldn't raise his head, as he turned away from the window and the man he had grown so close to. Keith sat with Gloria, waiting for Mary to get dressed and ready to go. When she came down, her face couldn't hide the pain of knowing her man had been hurt.

"He's fine, Mary, you'll see soon that he's alright."

"I want to go right away, Keith."

"Aye and so we shall."

Keith walked out with Gloria and Mary in tow, seeing JT wipe his eyes and sniffle.

"Are ye alright, JT?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'm alright."

"Mary's in need to see Piney as soon as she can."

"Okay. You stay here and watch over things and I'll drive her in to see him."

"Can I come too?"

JT looked at Suzy and as much as he wanted her by his side, his fears of putting her in danger outweighed it.

"I don't think that's a good idea, Babe. I don't want you coming into harm's way."

"So it's okay for Mary to?"

JT thought on it and realized the conflict in his statement.

"Okay, you can come, but don't leave me for a second, either of you, understand?"

"Yes."

"Okay."

JT went with Suzy and Mary to the truck and started it up. Everyone was on the porch looking at him and the familiar farewells weren't there, making him feel outcast already. He drove away in silence, heading back to Charming and the sense of dread was back upon him, his eyes constantly searching for anything out of the ordinary.

Charming gave him a sense of ease, as he came into town and drove along Euclid Ave. and turned onto Venture Blvd. where the hospital was located. He parked in the lot, but had the girls wait, until he was sure it was safe. They hurried into the building and went to the third floor, turning from the elevator and saw Lenny pacing up and down the hall.

"JT, good to see you back. Suzy, Mary, it's great you're here, he's been asking for you."

"What room is he in, Lenny?"

"312."

Mary dashed ahead, looking at the room numbers until she got to his room. She paused at the door to collect herself and slowly pushed it open. She looked at the bear of a man lying in the bed and her eyes welled with tears for him. Piney heard the door and then saw Mary standing there, a smile coming across his face, large and wide in happiness.

"Oh Piney."

That was all she could say as she went to the bed and held him.

"Hey, hey, it's okay, I'm alright, Darling."

He stroked her hair softly as he spoke, then she turned her face to him and kissed him strongly, showing her love for him. He held her to him, letting her feel the security between them, then she rose and took a tissue from beside the bed and wiped her eyes and blew her nose.

"Guess you really love me, huh?"

"Of course I do, you big lug. Oh Piney, I'm so scared."

"I know Mary, we all are. No one saw this coming and it took us by surprise. We'll be alright, don't worry. Now that we know what's happening, this won't happen again."

"I hope not, Piney, I really do."

"You and me both. Say, how long can you stay?"

"As long as you want me to."

"Great. Mom and Dad will be coming back soon and they'll be real happy to see you. You know, you could stay at their house while I'm in here. It would make it easier to come and see me."

Mary's face glowed with happiness, hearing how much her man wanted her. 

"You think they'd let me?"

"Sure. Mom thinks of you like the daughter she didn't have, you know that."

"I'd really like that. Think I can stay in your old room?"

"Mom would insist on it. Lester's room still holds too many memories, so she likes to keep it as it is. Sort of makes her feel like he's still here, just waiting for him to come home. Dad hopes she can get over it soon, he's getting tired of being reminded all the time of him. I mean, it's not like he doesn't want to remember him, just, you know, not every day all the time."

"Yeah, I can understand that. I still think of Jake, but I don't talk about him all the time. He was really nice to us, wasn't he, Piney?"

"Yeah, he was. Sort of felt like he was everybody's dad somehow. Loved having us around, that's for sure. Damn I miss his stories. He had some great tales to tell us, while we were working and stuff. I loved going for rides with him and JT, when we first got our bikes. He was a damn good rider, better than anybody I've seen. He knew that bike like the back of his hand. Knew if there was something off, just by the slightest change in something. I'm glad he gave it to JT, I know he'll keep in good shape and never change how it looks. Yeah, great fucking guy, that Jake. I'm sure missing him. He'd know what the hell to do about all this."

"Yeah, he made us all feel sort of protected, like he knew how to take care of anything."

The door opened right then and Piney's parents walked in. Lorelei saw Mary and instantly smiled with the greatest happiness at seeing her there. They hugged with great affection and kissed cheeks.

"I'm so happy to see you, Mary. How are you dear?"

"I'm good, never better. Can't say the same for the big lug in the bed behind me though. How are you, Lorelei?"

"I'm fine, just fine. Yes, what are we going to do with that boy?"

"Going to have to keep him on a leash and make sure he doesn't get into trouble."

"I'm all for that, but not too short."

The two women laughed, while Piney and his dad looked at each other and smirked and stifled grunts of laughter. Piney winced as he tried not to laugh and that was enough for the two women to attend to him in fine motherly fashion. Stan rolled his eyes and said he'd be out in the hall talking to JT and Lenny. Stan went out and saw that JT and Lenny were talking to an officer and went up to them.

"What's up, is there any trouble?"

"No, no, Stan. I asked D.C. Unser to post an officer out front, just to make sure Piney was safe. Stan, this is Officer Clark, he's doing the first watch. Officer Clark, this is Piney's dad, Stan Winston."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir."

"Yes, good to see you Officer. Thank you for looking after our boy, it takes a load off our minds about it."

"I'll do my best to make sure he's safe, sir. If you'll excuse me, I have to check in and let them know I'm here and on duty. JT, I'll talk to you later about who's expected to visit, so I can clear them without too much bother."

"Yes, I'll write it up later and hopefully have it done before your shift."

"I hope so too, now I have to go find me a decent chair to park my butt in for a bit, if you'll excuse me."

"Hey, don't worry, sit tight, I know just where to find one. I found out where they keep the good ones, not the shitty plastic ones that kill your butt after ten minutes."

"Much appreciated, thanks JT."

JT headed off to the store closet at the other end of the building, while Lenny took off for a drink.

"Good boys they are."

"Yes. They've been very helpful. JT seems like a decent sort."

"Oh he is. Like a son to us. Fine boy. Served two tours with my boy in Vietnam. Brought him back safe. Got medals, the both of them."

"He's the best guy I know."

"Is that right? You must be very proud, Mr. Winston and you must be quite find of him, Miss Simpson."

"Oh yes. proud as can be with them."

"Love him with all my heart."

"Ah, here's JT with a chair. Looks nice and comfy, too."

"Like I said, good boy. Looks after people well."

"He certainly does."

JT dropped the chair by the door and came up to Suzy, Stan and the officer.

"Thank you JT, that's real nice of you, appreciate that."

"No big deal, just don't say where you got it from. They'll lock the door and I won't be able to get another one."

"Gotcha, my lips are sealed."

Officer Clark shook JT's hand and went to the nurse's station to call in. JT looked at Stan and both had a look of relief on their faces.

"I think Piney's safe now, that's a load off my mind."

"JT, I can't thank you enough for taking care of Piney like you did. I don't blame you for what's happened, it's not your fault. This is a result of other people causing trouble. You did what you guys thought was right and so does everyone else. I know this must be tough on you. Hard enough taking care of yourself and even your friend, but I know how many people you have relying on you. You're a good man, JT. One of the best young people I know. You've shown me that people can be wrong and I was wrong to ever think you were bad for my boy."

"Water under the bridge, Pops."

"I do like hearing you call me that, son."

They looked at each other with the recognition of their love for one another and hugged in bond, patting each other's backs. Mary came out and saw them and began making a fuss to Lorelei about it.

"That's so nice to see."

Stan and JT laughed and walked over to see them. Stan hugged his wife, while JT hugged Mary. Piney could partially see what was happening as he looked out.

"Hey, that's my girl you're hugging, keep those hands where I can see them."

"Piney! It's only a hug and it's your best friend. I do like that you feel jealous, makes me feel special."

"You're special to me alright, so how about me giving me a hug?"

They all went in and everyone hugged him, making Piney smile broadly. Lenny walked in with his drink and saw them.

"Hey, no group sex allowed in the hospital."

That had laughter fill the room, as they stood by the bed.

"Look, you guys stay and keep Piney company. Lenny and I have to get back to the clubhouse and I have to go in and see the chief still, not to mention make up the guest list for the prince here."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 07



Ch. 7 Deuteronomy 19:19-21 

As their end looked certain, JT took one last breath, looking at the guns and the eyes of the men about to kill them. Time seemed to move in slow motion and seemed like an eternity before the first bullets were fired. Out of no where, a car smashed into the back of the Rambler, sending it forward several feet. They saw the front end of a Cadillac appear where the Rambler just was, then doors opened and two people got out. They saw two guys in suits go past them and then the muffled sounds of silenced pistols was heard. At least six shots were fired, then the men came back and looked at JT and Lenny on the ground.

"I assume you are JT Teller and associate?"

JT looked at the two men and realized they must be connected to the Cacuzzas.

"You the guys Gianni sent?"

"That would be us. Please, it would be a good thing for us all to leave this location as soon as possible. We'd rather not be discussing this with the police, or taking care of any witnesses."

JT and Lenny understood and got up, dusting themselves off and got in the back seat of the Cadillac. The driver calmly pulled away and drove out of the lot and headed straight towards the club.

"You know where the club is?"

"Yes, we just came from there and your people told us you were here. We are here to look after you, at Mr. Cacuzza's request. You guys okay?"

"Fine, fine, just a bit shaken up. Shit, that was a close call. Another second and we'd each be a pound of lead heavier."

"We just pulled in and saw the car going at you. We saw the guns go off and we headed straight for you."

"Thanks for making it there in time."

"Our pleasure. Mr. Cacuzza would not be happy if you were to come to any harm."

"Guess not. It would be a very bad thing if it happened." "You understand the language, a good thing. A bad thing would not be good to tell Mr. Cacuzza."

"Agreed, I've seen how much he doesn't like that and what happens."

No words were needed, to know the two men were capable of inflicting some serious damage to a person. The ride to the shop was made in quiet fashion, although some people stared at the car, it's front end crumpled and dented. Once inside the compound, the gate was locked and barred and the truck put in front. Everyone got out and JT and Lenny shook their hands and thanked the men properly. The guys wanted to know what was happening and JT told them of the near death experience and that Piney was guarded. Once the questions were all answered, the business at hand came back into focus. It was then that JT noticed two more men standing beside a car.

"I take it they're with you?"

"Yes. Marco, Luigi, come and meet these people."

The two men came over and were greeted and introductions were made.

"Okay, so Gianni told me you guys were coming to take care of those bikers. How do you four plan on going up against God knows how many bikers?"

"We have come prepared to do battle with these malcontents. There might only be four of us, but we come well equipped to handle situations like this."

"Oh yeah? Hope you packed a bazooka and some machine guns. You're going to need a lot of big guns to handle them."

"How did you know what we brought? Mr. Cacuzza tell you that?"

"Are you serious? I was just kidding about having them."

"We take our profession very seriously, that's why we were sent here. We are, how should you say, the clean up crew. We can go up against these guys with what we brought."

"You really have those things with you?"

"Do you wish to see for yourself?"

"Sure, haven't seen hardware like that, since 'Nam."

They went over to the trunk of the Caddy they came in and opened it. Luigi pulled back a blanket and sure enough, there lay a M60 machine gun with ammo belts. There was a host of other small arms and weapons that could outfit a small army.

"Wow, haven't seen a Pig since 'Nam."

"A which?"

"Pig. We called them that, because they were so big and bulky. Nice rifle, we're looking to get our hands on one ourselves."

"Oh yeah, why's that?"

"I want to put Otto there, up on the roof of the clubhouse with one, so he can take out anyone before he even comes close."

"You can use this one then."

"Don't you guys need it?"

"We have another one in the other car."

"Along with the bazooka, I take it?"

"Yes, and a few other things to get the job done."

"Oh yeah, like what?"

"Come see for yourself."

Everyone followed the hit men and waited for the trunk to open. When it did and the blanket pulled back, not only was there a bazooka and shells for it, there was also a small box of grenades and several more rifles and pistols. Whistles and sounds of awe were heard, as the guys looked over the armaments. When hands went to reach in, they were quickly stopped.

"Eyes only, no hands, please."

Heads moved in closer for a better look and then the four mobsters were looked at for their ability to handle them.

"If you're wondering if we are up to the task, you may have heard of certain elements of the crime world are no longer with us. They were considered to be dangerous and people warned us of their reputations. You know how to beat guys like that, my friends? You must have a better reputation than they do. Trust me when I say, we have a reputation good enough for Mr. Cacuzza to send us here to take care of this. So, enough about the toys, let's take a moment and sit together and discuss these bikers who are bothering you. The more you can tell us, the easier it will be for us to do our job."

"Alright, let's go in the clubhouse and we'll tell you everything we know. I have some friends digging into them too, so we'll know more soon. Tom will need some protection to keep the retail end of things going, so Gianni stays happy with that. We'll be locked down here in the compound, so we won't need too much protection. We get that rifle and Otto on the roof, we'll be well protected. Benny said he has a crew that can pack heat and keep watch as well, so we're looking a bit better on our end now."

JT held the door and ushered everyone in, then locked it behind him. Luigi waited for him and walked in with him.

"You've been busy, didn't waste any time getting some back up."

"Army had its uses. Get in shit, call for back up. Wouldn't mind an air drop or two of napalm about now, that'll solve the problem quick."

"Yes it would, but hard to keep quiet. Our way is quick and efficient and as little attention brought to us as possible. As such, you must forget we were here and what we did, the less people know, the better."

"Yeah, I can see why. No problem, we have no knowledge of you what so ever."

"Thank you for you co-operation, much obliged."

"Shit, I gotta tell you, it's funny you guys so are so polite and everything, but you come to mess some people up real bad."

"Who said one must be uneducated and uncivil to do a job like this? It pays to look respectable in our line of work. So, speaking of which, let us discuss these developments and come to a quick and satisfying resolution."

"Yes, let's discuss them."

Once everyone was seated and ready, the mobsters listened to everything the guys knew about the Disciples and where they were from. They asked for a map of the area and Wally went behind the bar and got one. It was laid out on the table and the location and routes were pointed out, showing where they were coming from and the best places to take advantage of. After only a half hour, the four were discussing ways of starting the take down and how it could be done. The guys had no idea what was said, as they spoke in Italian, keeping it as secret as they could. Alphonse saw the displeasure in not knowing what was said and explained the need for discretion. The less anyone else knew, the less chance of things being said, even in error. That made sense, as it was their show after all and they had no say in what they were doing.

With the first steps in place, Luigi turned to JT.

"We are done for now and we're in need of some supper. Do you know of a place that serves good Italian?"

"Sure. Place not far from here. Giovanni's. Best Italian we have here. Not sure if it's good Italian, but we wouldn't know the difference if it wasn't."

"I can only hope from the name, the man learned to cook like he's from there. Trust me, the stuff they pass off as Italian these days, isn't. If they got the real thing, you'll see what I mean. Do you care to partake with us?"

"What, eat too?"

"Yes, of course you too. It would be rude of us to not invite you to dine with us in your place. They do have take out I presume?"

"Yeah, they do. But hey, we all can't just go there, can we?"

"No, of course not. We'll pick up enough for us all and we will let everyone have some of each thing and have a taste."

"Okay, sounds good. I'll shoot you some money to cover our end."

"Not to worry, keep your money. Mr. Cacuzza has given us an expense account to cover anything we need while we're here."

"Wow, cool. Okay, get whatever you think is good Italian and we'll know what it is now."

"Would we be lucky enough to find a place to buy some good wine, Italian vintage preferably?"

"Yeah, like three doors down in the plaza. Charming Wine and Spirits will still be open, they have a good selection."

"Very good. Marco and Alphonse can stay and keep you company, while Dino and I collect our supper and beverages. So where's this place located?"

They gave directions how to get there, then they got in their car and waited, as the gate was opened and drove into town. The gate was locked, but Wally and Keith stood guard until they came back. The area was silent, nothing more than insects making noise and the far off sound of traffic. Wally and Keith leaned up against the fence and lit up cigarettes, practising blowing smoke rings in the still, night air.

"Bang, bang, you're dead."

Wally and Keith jumped in surprise at hearing the voice and looked to where it came from. Finally, they saw Otto on the roof of the clubhouse, pretending to be holding a rifle.

"You guys are supposed to be on guard. I snuck up and took all the time in the world to pick you off. Those guys could have done the same thing. I decided to come up here and keep watch, just to give us some distance to the target. We want to stay alive, so quit fucking around and keep your eyes open."

Wally and Keith dropped their cigarettes and squished them into the ground, then looked at Otto again, who pointed two fingers at his eyes and turned to point them in a sweeping motion. The guys understood and began scoping the area better, keeping quiet and listening for any change in sounds. Otto scanned the area all 360 degrees with binoculars, looking for any sign of the enemy. He could see certain points that provided a means of a clear shot at them and took note to keep a good watch on them.

Luigi and Dino came back to guns drawn at them at the gate and smiled at the two guards on watch. Wally and Keith put their guns away when they recognized them and opened the gate. The Caddy drove down and parked at the side of the clubhouse, while Wally and Keith finished securing the gate. Once everyone was in and settled, Luigi began opening bags and handing the containers to Dino, who opened them and explained what each dish was.

"I do believe these people have a good idea what Italian food is. He spoke Italian to us and said he was from Palermo, so I expect he paid attention to how they cooked over there. Now, do we have plates and some utensils, not to mention glasses for the wine?"

Tom and Chico went to the kitchen and began pulling out stacks of dishes and a tray of utensils, then some glasses. They were regular water glasses, but Luigi said they were fine. The two carried the plates and utensils over, while Lenny and Keith grabbed all the glasses. Luigi doled out some of each dish onto the plates and passed them out, while Alphonse opened the first bottle of wine and poured it into the glasses. Once everyone was set, Luigi held his glass up in a toast, getting the same in response from everyone.

"To a successful mission and good health to us all, Salut."

"Salut."

The glasses were put down and forks picked up, the sampling of the meal bringing sounds of joy from the guys.

"Aw, this is awesome, thanks guys."

"You are most welcome, bon appetite."

Smiles were on every face, as they savoured the meal, drinking the wine the way they were instructed. Luigi wiped his mouth with the paper napkin and tapped JT's shoulder.

"Do you have a radio by chance? We need to have some good Italian music to eat by, it helps in the enjoyment of the food."

"Sure, on the shelf behind the bar. Tune in the station you want."

"Thank you, much appreciated."

Luigi went over and turned it on, flipping the dial over to the station he knew of and tuned it in clearly. He was happy with the song being played and danced his way back to the table, getting cheers from his friends. The guys forgot about the threat and enjoyed the moment with the four mobsters, becoming Italians for the evening.

Outside, a Dodge Polara was stopped in front of the clubhouse, the windows down and the sounds of music and laughter coming out to them. The car drove off slowly, the windows rolled back up, as two long haired individuals took note of the security improvements and the new arrivals.

Moon sat in the living room, everyone gathered about him in a circle. He called a meeting about the news and what situation they were all in now. He expressed his feelings on how it had affected them and no one disagreed with the imminent threat to them. When Moon told them of his decision to have the club move out, protests were voiced loudly.

"I know you oppose my decision, but I have to remind you, that as long as they're here, the threat to our lives is increased. I'm not saying they can't visit, they just can't be here and have bullets coming our way, or do you want that?"

No one could oppose the threat, but hearts were saddened by the news, the club's girlfriends hurt the most by the news. The circle broke up and the girlfriends went outside together to discus what this meant to them and their relationships. They hated the idea of not being with their men every day, but Moon's words kept coming back into play and the realization of what had to be, sank in heavier. They had no where else to stay, especially one with some sense of security and peace. Tears were shed and hugs were shared by them all, as their lives were fraught with what was to come. 

Gus sat in his old pick up, casually smoking a cigarette, looking at the bikers congregated together. He counted fifteen of them and took note of their descriptions. A car pulled into the lot and stopped by the bikers, the two inside getting out and receiving hugs in welcome. Gus wrote down the description of the Dodge Polara and the licence number and noticed the two were explaining something to the others. Gus tossed the butt out the window and casually drove away, no one paying any mind to the old man in the old truck.

On his way back to his place, he saw the headlights of more motorcycles coming towards him and counted off at least twenty bikes and riders. He turned his head quickly and saw the Disciples patch and added their number to the number he had counted. The odds were stacking up heavily against his friends and thought on how to even the score some how.

The meal ended and the table was cleared away. The talk was light and friendly, nothing about the trouble brought to bear. The four men sat and told the club stories of the past, growing up in New jersey and how they got together as a team. They had all served in the Korean war and shared some of their war stories, sparking the guys who served in 'Nam, to share some of their own. A mutual respect was given, understanding both sides had seen their fair share of action and returned home whole.

Lenny quickly quieted everyone, listening hard to a noise outside.

"It's the phone, JT."

JT quickly dashed to the door and unlocked it, rushing to the office and bolting through the door. He grabbed the phone and hoped the other side was still there.

"JT?"

"Yeah. Is this Gus?"

"That would be me."

"Hey, great to hear from you. What's up?"

"Wanted to give you guys an update on what I dug up."

"Great, what have you got?"

"Not good. I was just keeping an eye on some of those bikers hanging around in a lot north of me. I counted fifteen of them. I saw a blue, Dodge Polara pull in and two more got out. Not sure what they were talking to them about, but the gang seemed to find the news a bit troubling, from what I could see."

"So there's seventeen of them?"

"Here's the next bit of news. I was on my way back, when I spotted some bikes headed my way and counted at least twenty heading in their direction. I checked out the patches and they were Disciples as well. Not sure where they're from, but now you have almost forty guys to deal with, maybe more, can't say for sure. This isn't looking good, son."

"No it isn't Gus. Good thing we have you and our friends north of you looking out for us. We've acquired some more assistance from our friends in the east, so things are coming together to put as at even strength at least. The cops are on board, so we should be safe here, just not so safe outside the boundaries."

"I hope to hell these guys are good, 'cuz these guys look prepared to do some battling to get to you."

"I'm pretty sure our new friends can handle it, at least from what I know about them."

"Good. Stay safe and I'll call you if I find out anything more."

"Thanks Gus. This is good shit to know about."

"Alright, son, be good, stay whole."

"You too, Gus, bye."

JT hung up and thought about what he was told, the numbers getting far out of proportion to his own. He left the office and went back into the clubhouse and told everyone what Gus had found out. The four mobsters showed no reaction to it, taking it in stride.

"I do believe it's time to get to work. You'll have to excuse us, so we may check this out for ourselves and make plans. If I miss my guess, we will be starting the need to deter these people from coming anywhere near this town. If I might add, it is a very, nice little town you live in."

"Thanks Luigi. So what are you guys going to do, or can you tell us that?"

"Let's just say, we are going to send a message to them, to avoid coming near here."

"Guess that's enough to know, good luck, hope you accomplish your mission."

"Yes, almost like being in the service again, isn't it?"

"No kidding, thought all that was over with, but I guess it never goes away, just picks up and moves to a new location."

"That it does. We, on the other hand, do not wish for it to live in our area, so we are going to ask it to move somewhere else, maybe not so politely."

The four got up and prepared to move out, loading weapons and readying themselves for combat. The crew looked on in amazement at them, seeing a highly proficient team get ready for conflict. The trunks were closed and the cars started, a final request to keep things locked down and safe, until they returned. The pair of Cadillac sedans rolled out and headed towards Stockton and the location of the bikers last know whereabouts. 

The guys went back in the clubhouse after securing the compound and locked the door behind them. Otto took the M40 rifle and made his way to the roof and began calibrating the scope. He looked through it to survey the area at a distance and paid close attention to the areas he felt were weak points to them. After checking the area to the front of the building, he moved and went to the back, laying on the roof and zooming in on certain points.

He was looking at the hydro towers in the distance, scoping them carefully for any signs and noticed a dark spot on one of them. He fined tuned the scope for a clearer view and saw someone making their way up the tower. He noticed the rifle strapped over his shoulder and knew the enemy had found one of the weak spots and was about to take advantage of it. 




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 07



He pulled back the bolt and readied a round in the chamber and focused through the scope, zeroing the cross hairs on him. He took a deep breath and let part of it out and relaxed. He flipped the safety off and waited for the man to take up his position. He saw him remove the rifle and ready it for action. Before he raised it to his head to look through the scope, Otto squeezed the trigger gently and the M40 blast shattered the silence around him. 

He continued to look through the scope and saw the man get hit and then fall over a hundred feet to the ground. The crew came racing out with guns drawn and looked about for the source of danger, then heard Otto above them.

"Over on the tower, sniper was taking up a position to pick us off. He's out."

They looked where Otto was pointing and noticed the clear angle from the tower to the clubhouse. They were sitting ducks the moment they walked out. 

"You sure you got him, Otto?"

"JT, even if I didn't, the fucker fell over a hundred feet, so the fall would kill him, if I didn't."

"Good work, Otto. Fucking knew you were the right guy to put up there. Better stay up there and make sure no one else is trying to get a shot at us."

Otto saluted and lay back down on the roof, scoping each tower and any high ground the enemy could fire from. JT and the rest of the guys went back inside and locked up again.

"I wonder if we should report this to the police, or wait for them to show up and say we don't know anything?"

"I say we let the cops find him and act innocent. No sense getting our asses put on the line. No one can accuse us of doing it and I doubt anyone knows where the shot came from."

"Good points, Lenny. Let's just sit tight then and wait to see what happens."

No sooner did JT finish talking, when the trap door on the roof slammed open and Otto was shouting down to them.

"We got cops coming. I can see the lights on the cars and they're headed this way."

"Thanks, Otto, stay up there and stay out of sight, we'll handle the cops at the gate and throw them off our trail."

JT went over to the office and made a call to the station to report hearing a gunshot and said he had no idea where it came from, or where it went. The dispatcher recorded the information and radioed to the approaching cruisers. In under five minutes, the front of the shop was blocked by cars with flashing lights and cops were looking to come in.

JT went up and talked to them, explaining that he had called and said they were inside, when they heard what sounded like a single gun shot, but they had no idea from where. The cops asked if they were okay, seeing the added protection around the compound and asked if the building was hit.

"No, not that we know of. Never heard anything inside, like a shot hitting the metal, we would have heard that."

"Can you open the gate and let us in, JT?"

"No reason to really. Nothing to see here and we're locked down tight, as you can see."

Officer Kevin Needham looked at JT and some of the others and could see they weren't going to get in, not without a lot of trouble doing so. He agreed to let them stay secure and said they'd check the surrounding area for any signs of anything.

"You know, if I had to make a guess at where the shot came from. It sounded like it came from back there, at least that's what it sounded like to us."

"Back where?"

"Behind us. Could be any where from the towers, to the building rooftops over there, I can't say, but it sounded like that."

"Okay, great. That at least gives us something to work with. You guys going to be alright in there on your own?"

"Oh yeah, no problems. The gates are well secured and blocked, the perimeter fence is secure. No way anyone can get in without us knowing about it. If they try, you'll be first on my list of people to call."

"Okay, JT. If we find anything, we'll let you know."

"Thanks, Officer Needham. It's good to have a heads up about shit like that."

"Understood. Take care in there and don't hesitate to call, even if you suspect something. Better a false alarm, than dead bodies."

"Will do. Good luck on your search, hope you find something."

The officers got back in their cars and drove around to the back of the compound, parking by the complex. Shortly, flashlights were on and the cops were scouring the area for any signs of where the shot was fired from. The guys went back in and chuckled at their ruse, hoping the cops did find the body and then wonder how he came to be dead.

Otto stuck his head down again and shouted in.

"They're headed to the tower, looks like they'll be finding a dead body. Want me to leave the rifle up here and come down?"

"Yeah, Otto. We'll be okay while the cops are around us. Come on down and relax."

Otto descended the service ladder after closing the trap door and went and relaxed with the guys. In ten minutes, the sound of horns going off at the gate, let them know the cops had discovered the body.

JT and Lenny went up alone, the rest staying inside.

"Hey guys, back so soon? Did you find anything?"

"Oh yes. We have a DB at the base of that tower over there. Found a sniper rifle close to the body. You wouldn't know anything about him, would you?"

"No, like I said, we were all inside when we heard it."

"He's got a hole the size of my fist in the back of his head. Someone took him out and used a high powered rifle to do it."

"Well, that definitely can't be us. We don't have any guns like that. If you want to verify that, call Unser and ask him. He's been all through this place and he's never seen one."

"I'll do that. I hope you're not lying to us, JT. We're here to help you guys and take care of this mess."

"Hey, we know and believe me, all of us appreciate the support your showing us."

"Okay, we'll be back if we find out you might be involved."

"Really? Like we aren't involved enough already?"

"You know what I mean, JT."

"Oh, I know what you mean, Kev."

There was nothing else to go on at the moment, so the officers went back and drove away from the shop. They could see the flashing lights behind the compound and knew the cops would be busy for quite a while there, doing their investigation and wait for the coroner to show up and bag the body. JT and Lenny went back inside and didn't lock up behind them, knowing the risk was almost nil to be attacked again.

"Otto, holy shit man, fucking great shot."

"Oh yeah?"

"Shit yeah. Cop said you put a bullet right through his head and took the back of it out." "No shit? I thought I hit him there, but he looked like he was just winged by it."

Everyone congratulated Otto on his marksmanship, letting him know how pleased they were he had retained the ability to still shoot as well as he did in the Army.

The two Cadillacs pulled into the parking lot down the road from the one they were told the bikers were in. Luigi got in the back seat of his and Alphonse got in the back of his. Dino and Marco began driving towards the destination, while the two in the back seats readied their weapons. The pair drove past the lot and saw the bikers still congregating and socializing among themselves. 

The power windows were lowered and the barrels of the M60 machine guns were rested on the door, the trail of the ammo belts lying on the floor. The pair drove further down and did a U turn, making sure there weren't any civilians, or police in the area. As they slowly approached the lot, the bolts were pulled back and readied to fire, the men donning ear protection against the ear-splitting sound of the machine guns.

While the bikers openly drank beer in public, laughing and joking, they weren't aware of the two cars stopping across from them. The deafening roar of the machine guns got their attention immediately, but not before bodies began dropping in large numbers. In no more than thirty seconds of gunfire, the guns were pulled back in and the pair of Caddies pulled away and drove off. No one got a good look at them, as they disappeared around the corner and headed back to Charming. 

The Disciples that were left, went to the aid of their brothers, but the damage from the large calibre rounds did their job well. Those that had body hits, were dead before they hit the ground, while others that were hit in the arms and legs, found it almost impossible to stop the bleeding and soon began dying as well. The carnage of the scene shocked passersby, as they observed the sight. Sirens were heard approaching and shortly, the scene was a brilliant display of flashing red lights. 

The sound of horns blowing in two short bursts, had JT and a few others heading out to see who it was. The two cars pulled through and drove down to the end of the lot and stopped, while the guys quickly closed the gate and barred it again. Once they walked back down, the four followed them inside for a debrief of the events.

"I do believe tonight's message will have them thinking twice, that you are easy marks. We believe their numbers were reduced close to half, so they will need some time to regroup, before they think of doing anything else."

"We did a little thinning ourselves, while you were gone."

"How so?"

"Otto was on the roof with that sniper rifle and picked some bastard off climbing the hydro tower behind us. Took the back of his head off."

"Is that a fact?"

"Oh yeah. Cops came and are probably still back there now doing the clean up."

"Are they still back there?"

"Maybe, want me to check?"

"Yes. If they are, we'd like to get the cars inside to avoid being noticed."

"I'll open the bays anyway for you, best not take any chances."

JT and Keith went out and opened two of the bay doors and the cars were put inside. The doors were closed and locked, securing them there. Talk of the actions taken so far, had a sense of relief and promise in it, as the situation took a turn in their favour. JT looked at his brothers, no longer seeing riders looking for freedom, but soldiers fighting for their lives. Every one of them was prepared to battle to the end and win their freedom back, but his fear of losing even one, weighed heavily on him.

The remaining Disciples left alive after the attack, rode back west to the clubhouse. None of them paid any attention to the old Pontiac StratoChief behind them, with three black youths in it. Benny, Lamont and his brother tailed them in hopes of locating their clubhouse outside Stockton's west end. 

The Disciples rolled into their lot, closing the chain link gate behind them, as the three allies sat down the street and observed them. When the sound of their engines stopped, they waited a couple of minutes, before taking a slow drive past, noting the small building's access points and the strength of the perimeter fencing. They wrote as much about what they saw as they could, then turned around and headed back to 13th St. In the morning, they were calling to Charming and share the information with their friends and allies. 

Far to the south, in the Buena Vista restaurant earlier that day, La Roca and his two top men sat with Jimmy Cacuzza, listening to what he had to say. The understanding of protection for the club, was one they knew they had to assist in, or face a sharp decline in income, as well as earn a bad reputation for failing to help them in their time of need. Jimmy also made it quite clear, that not doing so would be a very bad thing to him and needless to say, result in things happening they wouldn't like. La Roca assured Jimmy they were on board and willing to help their friends in the north and listened to what part he had to play in it all.

Early the next morning, the sound of thunder crashing, brought a miserable start to the day for everyone. The rain pelted down heavily on the clubhouse roof, causing a steady din of noise inside. The guys were awakened by it and looked out the windows at wave after wave being blown by the winds. No thoughts of action were contemplated, as they started making some breakfast. The four mobsters had slept in their cars in the shop and JT opened the clubhouse door and ran over to them. They were in the office cleaning their guns and repacking ammo belts for the M60s.

"You guys want to come in for some breakfast? All we have is bacon and eggs, toast and coffee, but it's better than nothing."

"That's a fine offer JT and we would be happy to join you. We'll be over in a few minutes, once we finish this."

"Great. Sorry about you guys having to crash in your cars, but we don't have much room for guests staying over."

"Not to worry. Today looks like a day to relax and sort out some things out."

The phone rang and JT picked it up, wondering who would be calling so early.

"Hey, Benny, what's up Bro'?"

JT heard what they had found out and told them to come up to the shop and they'd go over the information they gathered. Benny said they'd be there in an hour, or so and goodbyes were exchanged, before JT hung up.

"Alright. We now know where their clubhouse is and how well they're protected in it. That was our friends in Stockton that I told you about. They tailed the club out to the west end of Stockton after they left the lot."

"This is good news, JT. If we can hit them on home turf, the message will be better understood, that we mean business and not to mess with us."

"Yeah, shake them up a bit more and let them know they aren't safe anywhere either."

"Exactly. Today might be a nice day to take a drive out there. We can hit them before they have a chance to regroup and plan something else."

"You want to go out in this?"

"It's only rain. JT, I wanted to ask a small favour of you."

"Sure, name it."

"It would make us very happy, if while we are taking care of business, you and some of your guys might do a little body work for us on the Caddy."

"Not a problem. I can check around for some parts and swap them out for you. I don't think the bumper can be fixed, so we'll try and get another one for it, but everything else, we should be able to repair. You know Otto, our marksman. He works at a body shop, so we can get a hold of anything we need from there."

"That will be greatly appreciated, JT. We're done here, so let's make our way over to the clubhouse and have some breakfast."

The five of them dashed across the lot and into the clubhouse, shaking off the rain that hit them.

"Wow, coming down pretty hard."

"This is a good thing, makes it hard to spot us."

"Yeah, it would, wouldn't it?"

"Couldn't ask for better cover to operate in, almost as good as the night."

"You guys don't mind?"

"We are here to do a job, weather is not a factor in when we do it. We would be much obliged if we can clean up and have a shower afterwards, then we can begin our operation."

"Sure thing. Even have clean towels and all you'll need."

"You are a good host, JT. You and your guys have been very hospitable to us and we are grateful for your kindness."

"Hey, we owe you guys big time for this, it's the least we can do."

"I will have many good things to say to Mr. Cacuzza about you, upon our return. He spoke of you highly and it is easy to see why. You have made us feel welcome, in an otherwise unpleasant situation. Whatever it takes to fix the car, let us know and we'll pay you as such. Sometimes a car works better than bullets at solving a situation, you understand?"

"I sure do. I've never been that close to staring death in the face before, not even in 'Nam. When you smashed into them, I thought that was the guns going off and what dying felt like. Lenny and I looked at each other and couldn't believe what happened, it was just pow, change of equation. In seconds you were putting bullets in those guys and then looked at us and thought we were next. Then you said my name and put it all together. Hey, something I just realized. When the cops were here, investigating the guy we took off the tower, they never said a word about the two guys in the hospital lot and I was wondering why? They must know it involves us some how, I mean, I just leave with Lenny and minutes later, two guys are lying dead in a smashed up car. Not hard to figure out who to come to."

Luigi pondered that thought over, wondering why they wouldn't connect it to him.

"Perhaps this is one of those things they want to put together first and see what adds up. It's unfortunate that we made our presence known so quickly, but things as they were, we didn't have much choice. They may see it as something known, but best left alone and covered up. The less said, the better. Not too hard to identify the guys and you are under the good chief's watchful eye to be protected, so whoever it was that did this, it was in the best interest of all parties concerned in the matter."

"But we're talking about two dead guys, shot in the head three times, sitting in a hospital parking lot, you don't think that's a bit too much to cover up?"

"JT, please, don't be so naive here. The government is the best at covering up things. No news reports, no questions by anyone, make up some new news that takes their mind off it and it all goes away quietly. It's only two scumbags who mean nothing to them, nobody even. A blurb in the back page of the newspaper at best. Just make the car look as good as you can and don't make too much noise about it."

"What noise, Luigi?"

"You know, don't go shouting out you need a new front end for a 66 Caddy. The cops are probably looking for a car with a smashed front end, so be careful who you go to for parts."

"Oh, sure, no problem, I wouldn't have anyway, I know that. No, I know where to get parts for this without noise. I'll make a call to him after I check to see what I need and what I can fix. I know he can get those parts for me today. Might be pissed about driving in this rain, but he'll come through."

"Tell your friend he will be gratefully rewarded for his services."

"Oh, I think you know him, or should, anyway."

"Who is your friend?"

"Gus."

"No, not Gus Borgdanatov?" 

"Yup, that Gus."

"I haven't seen him in so long, it's been years. Mr. Cacuzza wishes he would let him help him, but he refuses, says he likes playing with junk."

"You know, he really is happy around scrap metal. You have to see him at work. Ask for anything and he's either got it, or knows where to get it. He goes to everybody's scrapyard and acts like it's his inventory. We got that bus from him for practically nothing and he'll still make money on his end."

"What do you want a bus for, if you mind me asking?"

"It's for friends of ours out in San Fran. Theirs broke down, so we're swapping it out for this one and fixing it up for them on the cheap. Not a lot of money, you know what I mean?"

"You are a very generous man, JT. You have a good heart in you. Yes, Mr. Cacuzza will hear good things from me on my return. Now, we must be on our way while the time is right. This rain works very well to our benefit, for what we wish to do today."

"Give me any hints to what that is?"

"I'll tell you when we get back, let's make it a surprise."

"Alright, sounds like a good surprise to hear about."

"Oh, it will be, trust me. They had a taste of lead, time for something else. Much easier and a lot quieter to do."

"Okay, sounds interesting."

Luigi got his men together and they headed to the garage with JT. The crew watched the Caddy pull out of the bay and head to the gate. Wally and Keith opened it and let them through and shut it again, the rain soaking them. The truck was put back in front and they walked back in dripping wet. JT looked over the front end of the Caddy and assessed the damage. The bumper on the front was smashed in and the grille dented, so they'd need replaced. The rest was cosmetic stuff he could straighten out good enough to pass. He opened the hood and saw the rad was a bit close to the fan, telling him the front support frame was going to need straightening. There was surprising little else for damage otherwise.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 07



He went in and called Gus and asked for the parts he needed and gave him the need for urgency in hours. Gus bitched and complained, but said he'd do it. He noted the car make and asked if it was someone he knew. JT said he was a friend of his and wanted to see him, but said he had to get the parts there fast to know who. Gus said he'd get right on it and weather or not, he'd be out that afternoon. JT hung up happy with things and stood at the door and yelled for the guys to come over and start tearing down the car. Cuts were pulled over their heads and they dashed over to the shop. The tool boxes were opened and the Caddy started getting dismantled and fixed.

Stan, Lorelei and Mary, dashed into the hospital, shaking off the umbrellas and themselves. They took the elevator to the third floor and went to Piney's room. The officer smiled and let them all go straight in, so Stan pushed it open for the women and followed them in. Piney opened his eyes and smiled when he saw them all.

"My family, how you all doing this fine day?"

"Hello son, how are you feeling today?"

"Not that bad, Pops, considering. Shoulder doesn't hurt as bad, but I'm not supposed to move it around much till it heals better. How are you?"

"Good, good. Mom and Mary fixed you some treats."

"Hi Mom, hi Mary. How are my two lovely ladies today?"

The pair came and kissed Piney's cheeks at the same time and mimicked their affections. 

"We made you some nice things to eat, dear, I know how horrid the food is to eat in here. Mary showed me a couple of new recipes too, didn't you dear?"

"Yes, we had fun baking, so I hope you enjoy it, Baby."

"Me too, so let's see what you made."

Mary took the tinfoil wrap off and sat on the bed and hand-fed Piney one of her treats. Piney savoured the delicacy and sweetness and kissed her, getting some icing sugar on her lips.

"Mmmmm, such sweet kisses."

Mary finished serving one of hers and then fed him one of his mother's favourites. He smacked his lips and relished the memory of the flavour. He looked at his mom and puckered his lips for a kiss and his mom was only to happy to respond. 

"Dad, you want some of these?"

"No, no, they're all for you. I had my fill last night, thanks. They made enough for more if you want them."

"Want me big and fat do you?"

"No, just happy. You don't have to eat them if you don't want to, we just thought you'd like something better than what we've seen you eat here."

"I'm not complaining, I can get big and fat. I love these things, eat them all day."

Piney tucked into another one and laughed, spilling icing sugar down his gown. Mary fussed on him and tidied him up and the parents looked on with great happiness at what they saw between them. It was the pivotal moment for Lorelei, to let go of one child and accept another. Piney could see on her face how happy she was seeing them together and felt he had achieved something in himself. Something he could appreciate and admire, as well as see that his parents felt the same way.

Gus was blowing the horn before he reached the gate and Wally and Keith jumped out of the pick up. They let Gus through and closed the gate, but used the truck to go down to the shop. They unloaded the parts and went inside from the rain. Gus looked at JT and asked who was here.

"Only know his first name, guy called Luigi. Three others with him, Alphonse,..."

"Dino and Marco."

"Yeah."

"No shit. Those fucking bad boys are in town are they? Gianni must want this dealt with fast and permanently, if he called those guys in."

"You know them, I take it?"

"Oh yeah, I know them. There used to be five in the clean up crew. I was the fifth."

"You used to do this shit?"

"I did what I had to do, to get a job done. The money was much better too."

"So what made you stop?"

"After serving time, I was too well known to the authorities, so I was useless as part of the team. These guys are unknowns, no records or anything. They only carry fake ID and never the same guy twice. Do a job, change your name, simple as that."

"Wait, I thought they said you had to be all Italian to be a part of them."

"I am. Borgdanatov was my step-father's name. He adopted me when he married my mother and I got his name. I was born Giuseppe Bonello and I'm Italian as far back as it takes."

"No shit. I figured you were Russian or something."

"He was Georgian, had money and liked my mother. Father was killed in the war, so she married him and that's how I came to be. So, where are they?"

"Oh, they're out delivering a message to the bikers, said it wouldn't take long, just there and back."

"Yeah, I can imagine the message. I heard of a shoot up at lot to the west of me, dozen bikers dead and as many wounded. Guess that was them."

"You'd know better than me what they'd do."

"I'm sure today will cause some news to be made."

"No doubt. They said they'd surprise me with what they did."

"You'll be surprised alright. So what happened to this thing?"

JT told him about the narrow escape from death and how they saved him and Lenny from certain death by ramming the car. Gus shook his head at hearing it.

"That wouldn't normally happen. They tend to be very discreet about how they do things. Less attention, the better. Make a lotta noise sure, but don't be seen making it. Gianni must have given strict orders to cover your ass well, for them to do that."

"I believe he did. Hey, there they are now. Wally, Keith, get the gate guys."

They drove up and let the Caddy in, locking it down and pulled in behind the Caddy going in the empty bay. They dashed in and the door was rolled down. The four got out of the car and saw Gus standing there and the greetings were emotional and heartfelt. Hugs and kisses on the cheek were exchanged then looked each other over. 

"Gus, what the hell, you look like an old paisan, you should be dressing well and enjoying life."

"Alphonse, I like what I do and I ain't looking over my shoulder. I haven't slept with a gun under my pillow in years and I sleep just fine. Money ain't near as good, but it's clean."

"It's your decision, I'm just saying."

"So am I, Alph, so am I. I know what I can have if I ask, but I don't need it to be happy, I'm happy doing what I'm doing. Gianni still makes sure he finds a way to show some gratitude to me. I don't mind that, but I earn my money my way and I make some good friends along the way. That's how I met these boys. They knew Jake and worked for him and I knew they had to be a good sort, if Jake hired them. Come to be good friends, haven't we, JT?"

"Yes we have Gus. Good friends."

"I heard about Jake and the shooting, my condolences to you all on your loss. I remember him to be a decent guy, checked him out for a while."

"What do you mean checked him out for a while?"

"I mean, JT, that when the Jake and Marlene thing was going on, Gianni had concerns if Jake posed a threat to the organization or not. I felt that there wasn't one, due to the way he conducted himself and told Gianni. The problem was then between Clive and him. I heard Clive did a disappearing act, hasn't been heard from in quite a while."

"Well, seeing as we're all sharing trade secrets, me and my club made Clive disappear, for killing Jake and shooting Marlene."

"Now that was a classy looking dame, Marlene. Saw her once at a thing Gianni held and she was gorgeous. I guess she's history too."

"Nope, still here and living a happy life with everyone."

"She stayed?"

"Yeah, loves it here, met some great people and lives with them now. Even met a new guy, almost half her age and they totally dig each other."

"No shit, good for her. I hope she is very happy, she deserves to be."

JT got Luigi's attention from talking about the Caddy.

"So, you were going to tell us what the message was as a surprise. What did you do?"

"Well, I did mention they got lead the first time and this would be a quieter delivery of the message this time, correct?"

"Yeah."

"We drove to where the clubhouse is located and checked it out. We saw all the bikes parked out front and we used several grenades to blow up as many as we could. We were already driving away, before they went off, but the fireball let us know that lots of gas went up and that meant bikes. Not sure how many we got, but I'm sure, not many are left able to ride on."

"That makes sense to what you told me before you left. Nice touch."

"If they are still wishing to carry out their hit on you, we can make sure they understand it's not a good thing to do. If they all have to die for it to end, we're prepared to do that."

"I'm sure you can. Blew up all their bikes, huh? That's going to really piss them off. Lose a shitload of guys one night and then most of your bikes the next. Hope it makes them think about stopping their bullshit."

"We're prepared to send as many messages as it takes."

"Trust me JT, when they say whatever it takes, they do whatever it takes to get the message across. So, when are you going to talk to them, Alph?"

"As soon as they reach out, then we know they mean it."

"Fair enough. Say, JT, think we can find a better place to talk? Kinda crowded in here."

"Oh yeah, hey, let's go over and we'll make some coffee and you guys can shoot the shit about the old days."

"Sounds good. Gentlemen, shall we retire to a better locale?"

JT was surprised to hear Gus talking in such polite terms and realized he was once like the others. One who was prepared to end lives at the command of another. Killing was nothing more than a contract, a job to do and nothing of personal feelings ever came into question. A man's life was regarded as just another piece of trash to throw out. Now, here he was walking with five of the most efficient killers on the west coast and they were like the nicest guys one would want to meet.

Stockton sent every available unit and emergency personnel to the scene, as the fire and explosions of gas tanks kept going off. Hoses were only making things worse, as the gas floated on top of the water and spread farther. The windows of the clubhouse were shattered and flames had made their way into the building. The bikers inside had been sprayed with broken glass, many bleeding from multiple wounds. They staggered and carried those unable to move themselves, out the back door and were assisted by the emergency personnel to reach safety. The sheriffs began investigating what they could, trying to piece together what happened, despite the raging fire now consuming the building in flames. 

With reports of several explosions going off first and then bikes blowing up, they knew it was retaliation from Charming some how. The sergeant went to his cruiser and radioed in for Chief Wade. He relayed what they knew so far and would update him on any new developments. Wade slammed the phone down and immediately picked it up again, dialling the number for Chief Grant in Charming.

Grant took the call and started off with pleasantries, unaware of the recent events.

"Knock it off, Grant. What the hell is going on in your town? We got more than a dozen DBs last night to deal with and now we have explosions going off and more casualties. I said I'd help you deal with the biker problem dealing drugs, but this is a fucking war going on here. You better get a hold of whoever you need to and put an end to this violence and I mean now."

"Hey, slow the fuck down here, Keith. I don't know a thing about that. Nothing has been said to me until now, so back off. I got DBs here myself and we ID'd them as Disciples. We got two who tried to do a hit on Teller and another guy of his, as far as we know and someone took them out very efficiently. We got another guy with the back of his head blown open, trying to climb a hydro tower and shoot at them. You ain't the only one with problems on their hands over this, I got my own issues to deal with."

Wade sat back after hearing his counterpart was having similar problems, but not pushing them back on him. He apologized and so did Grant, then Grant offered up a solution they were considering.

"Now, here's how we're looking at this situation. No one innocent is getting killed, or even hurt. No damage to public or private property either. The only ones getting hurt, are the bastards coming from your territory. Our thinking is to let these guys work out their own issues and we'll step in if it gets out of control and affects innocent lives. Unless you want to run up a huge bill with the county, setting up a task force, or calling in the Guard, this sounds like the best way possible to handle this."

Chief Keith Wade pondered the solution from as many angles as he could in his head. What Grant was proposing made sense from many of those angles and spared him a lot of grief in the process.

"Okay, I can go along with that, but if any of them take this beyond the two of them, we have to come down hard and I do mean hard."

"Agreed. You keep me up to date with anything on your end as soon as it happens and I'll do the same. I just want you to remember that my guys are innocents, as far as we're concerned. They're in this because they helped us, not because they're assholes like those Disciples. We're doing our best to protect them, so if you have to shoot someone, don't make it them, okay?"

"I understand and I'll pass that along so all my guys know the score. Talk soon."

"Thanks, Keith and let's hope this shit ends real soon."

"Yeah, soon."

The phones were hung up and heads were held in hands, the situation piquing to levels that made them both very uncomfortable. Both began making calls to relay the plan down the lines to the officers on the street.



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 08



Chapter 8: Pay To Play

The guys had the Caddy put back together and it was hard to tell it was ever damaged. They started it up and backed it out of the bay. The sun shone into the engine compartment and highlighted it well for them to see. No signs of anything mechanical was wrong, so they closed the hood and shut it off.

"There you go guys, almost like new."

Luigi looked it over carefully and agreed it wouldn't bring the slightest attention to it. Tiny flecks of paint were missing around the headlights, but it would only be seen on close inspection. 

"We must find a place to stay, preferably not too far from here, so we can respond quickly to anything that should arise. Any place you recommend?"

"Marlene was put up in the Holiday Inn, few miles from here. From what I could tell, it's as good as any place and easy to get around from there. Not far from highway access either, so that would be my choice."

"Holiday Inn it is then. Not that bad a place, we've stayed in them before. Is it far from that restaurant, Giovanni's?"

"Nope, you can almost see it from the hotel. Just a few blocks down."

"Perfect. I must thank you and your people for taking such wonderful care of us, JT. You have been most kind in assisting us and we are grateful for that. Makes our job that much easier. We will be in touch regularly and let you know what's happening, once we are settled in our rooms."

Once again, JT was embarrassed, when Luigi took his face and kissed both cheeks, before hugging him. The other mobsters weren't as forward to the other guys, seeing the thought of the kiss unappealing and shook and hugged instead. Gus looked at the four men and looks were given back. The five shared silent thoughts and memories, looks being played back and forth between them.

"Great seeing you guys again. I only miss the old days when I think of us together. We were a good team."

"The best, Gus. We miss you too and many times, your name is mentioned in passing, when we talk of the good old days. You be good my friend, vivere la vita che ti rende felice." (live the life that makes you happy)

Gus nodded his head and smiled, knowing his life was accepted and would never be questioned again. He and Luigi kissed each others cheeks and hugged strongly, the bond between them shared openly. Gus went to Alphonse, Marco and Dino, sharing kisses and hugs the same with each.

"Dio vi protegga bene i miei fratelli. Io sono sempre con voi." (God be with you my brothers. I am always with you)

JT was amazed to hear such well-spoken Italian coming from Gus. It confirmed his roots instantly and put one more piece of Gus together for him. Little by little, all the questions of the past were being answered. His initial desire to know the man, Jake Harding, had led him into events in his life that astounded him. He found it hard to fathom how a man could live as one person and be another so easily and readily, keeping the past quiet. He looked at everyone before him and wondered how many were like that. How many of the people he held close weren't who he thought they were, but a character they were pretending to be? Tom had divulged a completely different life to him. The commune all held past lives secret. He felt like the only one living one life only. 

The gates were opened and the four men in two Cadillac sedans rolled out calmly, heading into Charming and blending in with society. JT found it interesting how appearances were everything to people. It was what they thought you were, based on how you looked and how you dressed, not who you were as a person.

Gus made his farewells and said he'd be waiting for a call if he was needed again, then headed back to Stockton to resume his life in scrap metal. He took the only evidence of the crash with him in the truck, leaving nothing in the shop to be questioned about. The guys closed it up and went inside to talk about the next stage of things to happen. The initial attack had been turned around and now they hoped the Disciples were on the defensive and considering backing down. The losses to their club were adding up and becoming costly in numbers and strength. 

What everyone wondered, was how many charters of the Disciples there were in total and how many more might be coming to assist them. The unknowns weighed heavy on minds, as they pondered wave after wave of bikers hell bent on their demise. If the strength of their allies was any indication, it was looking like things were in their favour to come out on top. The one issue that worried them all, would one of them have to pay with their life before it ended?

The sound of a siren going off in short blasts had them rushing outside to the gate. Wayne Unser was standing out of his car so they could see it was him only and then got back in. They opened the gate and let him pull in, taking a look for any other signs of enforcement waiting in the wings. No signs were seen, making it a private meeting and one of good news they hoped. 

Everyone went inside and settled in, before Wayne told them why he was there.

"Okay, we all know the score here, right? You guys are in trouble for helping us and we're protecting you. We got San Joa on board and we're doing our best to get this taken care of. What's pissing off the wrong people, are the number of bodies dropping in Stockton and the recent explosions there as well, not to mention the diver out back of here and two Disciples are sitting in a smashed car with three shots to the head each, who do you think I'm looking at? I'm doing my best to keep you guys out of shit, but I know damn well this has something to do with you guys pulling this off. I don't see how, but I know it's you, so who wants to go first and enlighten me on what's happening?"

JT looked at the club and saw the faces say it was up to him to let Unser know something. JT looked at Wayne, standing with as much authority as he could, a demand for an answer to be forthcoming.

"Sit down, Wayne, you'll give yourself a hernia or something, standing like that. I'll try and fill in some blanks for you. Not sure how many, but I'll help you whatever way I can, alright?"

"Something's better than nothing, so let's hear it."

Wayne squished in beside Lenny and Otto, making some room for himself and waited for JT to tell him.

"Yeah, you're right, the shit in Stockton is about us. You're also right that we aren't the ones doing it. Who is doing it? I can't tell you that, but they are friends of a friend and that's all I'll say, okay?"

Wayne nodded he understood.

"These guys, are here to make sure those guys, don't make it to this town and the only way to do that, is stop them from coming here in the first place, that's all they're doing. How they're doing it, is up to them, we have no say in that. They have orders to do what it takes to get these guys to back off and they want them to know they mean business. I'd say they're doing that, don't you?"

"I have no idea if they are, or they aren't. All I know, is I got the chief screaming at me about it all and he don't know shit and wants answers. He knows it ain't you and it's someone else and he don't want shit blowing back on him somehow."

"Wayne, I gave you my word and so did the club. We're staying as low as we can for fuck's sake and haven't left this place for two days now. Other than the fuckers coming here, when they shouldn't have, we haven't caused any trouble. Okay, I'll admit one thing and one thing only. One of us did take the guy on the tower out. Who, I'm not saying and never will. I'll deny ever telling you this, so it's only good for your ears only, okay?"

"That helps solve one issue. Now all I need to do is find someone else to point it to. Nothing else?"

"No, nothing. Couldn't tell you anyway. I swear, we have no idea what they're doing out there, until we hear about it from you, or the other cops. They're independents and like I said, we have no say in it."

"Okay, at least that's something to go on. I'd rather have to spin some shit upstairs, than look like some ass that don't know what the fuck he's doing."

"Wayne, we got your back, Buddy. Told you that, showed you that. Start believing it, we mean it. We know we need each other to stay alive, so we don't want shit landing at your feet either, but come on, Wayne, how is any of this our fault? What do you have, to point the finger at us? Nothing. I'd be happy as pig in shit if I were you. Those guys are doing it quickly and as quietly as they can. Yeah, lotta noise and shit, but no one is getting hurt, only the ones causing it, so where's the problem in it?"

"Both chiefs are seeing it the same way. They told me to back off and let the bikers get what's coming to them. The sheriffs are doing the same. We're only getting involved if it spills into the public. One person gets hurt, JT and the whole county, us included, are coming down hard on everyone, you guys included. We gotta do our jobs, that's what we're paid to do. These guys you got handling it, they don't give a shit about civilians and such."

"You're dead wrong there, Wayne, hold on. These guys are very careful about how they do their thing. They take innocents safety first, before they do anything. They don't want any attention and hurting, or killing an innocent is out of the question."

"Killers with a conscience, great."

"Wayne, rather they not and just hurt anyone they want?"

"You're right, JT, sorry. Just getting a little hard to get a handle on it all. I really hope these guys do what they gotta do fast, so we can get back to normal shit around here. Getting this badge, ain't turning out to be as much of a blessing as I hoped. I'm the one gotta deal with all the shit, so the chief don't have to."

"Wayne, shits going to happen, whether we want it to or not, right? Let's just say these guys are professionals at what they do and are very good at it. How much better can it be than that?"

Wayne realized his situation was better having them involved. What they couldn't do, these hit men were. No one wanted to actually come out and say shoot the fucking lot of them, but minds were focused on that thought. With the information he had, it seemed easier to let things run their course and knew that some crazy things were going to continue happening, until this was over. How much landed in his lap, depended on the unknowns keeping it out of his town.

"Okay, I guess I can't ask for anything else, but at least this let's me get my bearings and at least try to be prepared for some wild shit happening."

"That's all we got, Wayne. We're all in the same boat. I'll help you with whatever I can, but it's obviously not going to be very much."

"Alright, JT, thanks. I'll cook something up to give to the chief and get him off my back. I swear, I'm going to end up a hunchback before I retire."

"Shit, we can call you Quasimodo then. We'll put a bell tower up and you can ring it every hour."

"Yeah, real funny, Lenny."

"Hey, just trying to get you to smile, Buddy. We do care about you, remember?"

"Yeah, I know. I care about you guys too, guess that's why I'm all messed up about things. I hate the thought of one of my friends getting killed, is all."

"Thanks, man. We worry about you too. You're out there every day dealing with it head on. You stand more chance of getting hurt than we do."

Wayne thought on that and realized his own situation better.

"Let's make it soon, okay? I want to enjoy my retirement, if I ever get one, that is." Wayne said goodbye and got back in his car, JT jumped in and rode up with him to the gate. JT opened it and looked about, then waved goodbye to Unser as he pulled out and headed back to the station. With the gate closed, he walked back thinking about the whole thing to himself. He looked at the shop and the yard, remembering the good times working here, not a care in the world. He looked beside him at the clubhouse and thought of all that happened since it became the House of Anarchy. His thoughts weighed in on how much trouble was caused by being who they were and how much was because of others. The loss of status in the commune was hurting the guys, himself included, being separated from their women and friends. That alone was enough to make his heart sink, but more came to mind and made it fall dramatically with the thoughts.

Conclusions were hard to accept for him, that blamed or not, they were paying the price for everything. Not much was adding up to the good anymore, making him question his choices and commitments. Was it all he wanted, or was it anything he wanted? Wanting to have a motorcycle club was the most appealing thing last year, nothing could have made him happier. Not even a year later and he was at a crossroads with himself, as to whether he had wanted the right things, or not.

Piney was getting dressed, while his parents and Mary waited out side. When he said he was ready, they came in and Mary immediately went and straightened out his clothes for him.

"Thanks Sweetheart."

"I want my man to look his best."

"You do a good job of that."

They kissed and heard a sigh from Lorelei as they did. They stopped and smiled at her, seeing the happiness in her eyes. 

"You all set, son?"

"Yup, ready to go, Pops. Let's get out of here and back home again, where it'll be nice to stop having things shoved in me all day."

They smiled, Stan more so, hearing him say he called it home again. They headed out to the parking lot, the officer right with them the entire time. Stan went and got the car and pulled up to the doors. Everyone got in and they waved goodbye to the officer and began driving away. The trip through town was a treat for Piney, having been tied down for almost three days. No one paid notice to the truck behind them and two men with determined malice on their faces.

Once through town, the road widened to four lanes and the truck moved over to the other one, coming up on Piney's side. As the truck began to close in slowly, pulling along side to avoid notice, guns were readying to be fired. Just as they were in position and had a clear shot on Piney, they were rammed from behind. Stan and the others heard it and looked over in shock.

Piney looked at the driver and passenger and knew who they were.

"Pops, floor it, Now!"

Stan didn't question his son and stepped on the gas pedal, pushing it to the floor. The Biscayne's six cylinder wasn't very powerful for the weight it had and moved ahead slowly. The shooters were trying to jockey for another chance when they were rammed again. Piney strained to look around and saw Wayne Unser coming up again on the rear of the truck. Finally the Chev was ahead of the truck and Unser took as hard a hit as he could at it. The truck went out of control, the back end swerving back and forth wildly. The driver tried slamming on the brakes, but it was their undoing and the truck pitched onto its side and began skidding in a shower of sparks.

Unser put the brakes on and followed the skidding truck until it stopped and then got out with his gun drawn. He slowly made his way around to the top side of the truck and saw the two inside. They were hurting from injuries, but he yelled for them to get out of the truck. They tried to get the door open, but the weight was too hard to budge from the position they were in. Unser told them to cover their eyes and began kicking at the windshield, already smashed from the impact. It broke open and the two crawled out, Unser pushing them to the ground despite their injuries. He cuffed them together and went back to radio in, doing his best to keep his gun trained on them.

He came back and retrieved the guns they had, using his pen in the finger guard to pick them up with. He put them in his car and went back to stand beside the two and keep people away from the scene. The faces of the people were stunned in wonderment and shock, seeing such a horrific chase and crash happen before their eyes. The guns just added to the fear and tension of the situation and Wayne knew the shit JT had mentioned, was going to keep happening like this, until his people resolved it. This was just luck, that he spotted the Winston's driving by and then saw the truck pull out after them. If he didn't, he knew it would be a multiple murder scene he was investigating, not an attempted one.

Stan stopped up the road and looked back, seeing the carnage and knew the danger was over. Piney told him to go back, but his father was hesitant about moving into harm's way. Piney opened the door and walked back as fast as he could. The others yelled for him to come back, but he ignored them and went up to Wayne.

"Fuckers tried to kill me and my family, Wayne."

"I know, good thing I stopped them."

Piney continued looking into Wayne's eyes, holding his attention there, as he struck out with his boot and kicked one in the face. Unser saw the movement, then saw Piney concentrate on the driver and kicked him even harder, snapping the man's head back and the sound of bones breaking. Unser pulled him away as quick as he could, knowing Piney would keep doing it until they were dead.

"Don't do it Piney, they're in custody, so I'm responsible for what happens now. I don't blame you for wanting to put a hurt on them, but I can't let you."

"I don't give a shit, Wayne, those fuckers need to die, badly."

Wayne tried to calm him down, but Piney used his weight and bullied Unser to the side and he went at the driver again, landing at least four good kicks to him, before Wayne wrestled him away. Bystanders came out and helped Wayne deal with Piney, not wanting him hurt, knowing they felt the same way and would want to do that themselves. Piney didn't object to the restraint of friendly hands, as his rage seethed in him. They finally walked him away and back up to where the car was and his distraught family. They stayed with them and offered support, as Unser checked on the condition of his prisoners. 

Despite what they might claim as assault, Wayne decided they looked enough like injuries from an accident and would state as such. He glanced up the street to Piney, who was walking with Mary by his one side and his mother on the other and knew he would settle down. He heard the sirens coming and felt the tension level drop enormously. When his officers came to him, he had them take care of the prisoners and direct traffic around the scene. He went up to Piney and his family to talk to them.

"You folks okay? No one hurt I hope?"

"We're okay, Officer Unser, no one's hurt, just a bit shaken up really."

"Yeah, something like this will do that to a person. You folks should go and get Piney off the streets, If these guys are dumb enough to try this, who knows what else they'll do. I'll come and get statements from you later at your place. I don't want you going out right now, not till I know it's safe, okay?"

"Not a problem, we'll be indoors. This is all about those drug pushers, isn't it?"

"Yes it is. I don't know why these guys are so pissed off at the club, but it's gonna stop, one way or another."

"It better and it better not be one of our guys that gets killed in the process. This is bad Officer Unser. We either need more cops on the job making sure these kind of people don't end up here, or people are going to wonder if we should keep Charming police, or not."

Unser thought on Stan's words and knew his position was in jeopardy, along with that of the entire department. It became his issue, his cross to bear, making sure his town and people were safe from harm, despite the trouble originating from elsewhere. The club was fast becoming a solution he would seriously have to consider as a means of deterrent. If no one wanted to mess with them, it made his job easier to do.

The wrecker arrived and hooked up its lines to the truck and began the process of slowly getting it right side up again. The truck bounced and shook, as it hit all four wheels, then the tow driver readied it to be towed away. Slowly, little by little, the scene was going away and going back to normal. It made Unser think on what normal was these days, the way things were changing all the time. Nothing was the same as it was five years ago. The world was shifting, to where, he didn't have a clue. All he knew, was he was going along for the ride, whether he wanted to or not.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 08



Piney phoned the shop and Lenny answered, happy to hear he was home. The smile vanished instantly when he heard the news about what had just happened. Despite the need to be protected in the compound, they weren't going to leave one of their own unprotected. Bikes were started and the gate opened, the club rolling out as one. It was less than fifteen minutes to get to Piney's, passing Wayne in his cruiser. Unser tossed everything on the seat and caught up to them, as they headed down the street to the Winston's. 

The bikes were parked so the driveway was blocked and there was no access to the house from the street. Piney held the door with his good arm and the guys went inside and greeted his family. Unser parked so his cruiser blocked the entire street and went in as well.

"What are you guys doing here? You're supposed to be locked down at the shop?"

"Wayne, we're not going to sit there and be safe, while Piney and his family have no safety at all. We're all safe, or none of us are safe. No one is getting near here. I don't care what the neighbours are thinking, let them think whatever they want. They'll know soon enough what happened and know why we're here."

"Look, I don't want no trouble happening here. There's no one around the shop to get hurt, but here, there's women and children all over the place."

"Then that makes it all the reason to have a car patrolling the area."

"I will, Mr. Winston, but I need the guys to get back to the shop pronto."

"Hey, don't tell us what to do. If we want to stay here, we'll stay here. You do your job and we'll do ours, got it?"

Stan and Lorelei saw the defiance in authority and the look on Wayne's face, that he was going to heed his words and do as JT told him. Confusion set in, wondering what was going on between everyone.

"Okay, but get back there as soon as you can, just so I know where you are and keep things safe, like I'm supposed to."

"No one is going to fuck with us, Wayne. We can take care of things here."

Lorelei gasped at the use of the language and was more than shocked at seeing the guns they were all carrying. JT took a gun out of his cut and gave it to Piney, who tucked it in his. Unser saw everything, yet didn't question it, totally shocking the other three. 

"You're allowing them to have guns, Officer?"

"In a way, I got no choice. Want me to take them away and as soon as I leave, you got some people with guns knocking on the door?"

Stan thought about it and realized the right to bear arms actually meant something in this case. As much opposed as he was to the Amendment, it made sense to have it there. The era was blurring into another one and nothing was making sense during the change. 

"No, I guess not. We're just not happy having guns in the house."

"Understandable, Mr. Winston, but I know these guys won't use them, unless they absolutely need to, isn't that right, JT?"

Wayne tried to look like he still had some kind of authority in the situation and JT realized it. He had made his point and felt Wayne needed that boost back up.

"Of course, D.C. Unser. They stay where they are and won't be touched, unless it's a do or die situation."

"Let's make sure it doesn't come to that."

"That would be on your shoulders to make happen, not ours."

JT passed the torch of onus back to Wayne, making him call the shots again.

"I'll have a guy patrolling the area and stop anyone that looks out of place. Better to have some people upset at the delays in things, than have something happen."

That seemed to finalize the situation to an uneasy resolve, both sides firm in where they stood. Unser said goodbye to everyone and went back to his cruiser and got on the radio. He stayed out front until another cruiser pulled up and he gave him instructions to patrol the immediate area and stop anything coming near the house. The two cruisers departed and inside the house, an uneasy feeling still hung in the air.

Lorelei looked at her son and JT, then to the other club members, her distress clearly showing.

"Why are you boys carrying guns? I don't like the idea of you having those."

"Mom, we have them so we don't get killed. We might as well just stand there and let them shoot us, if we don't."

"Piney, I've lost one son to a senseless battle, I don't want to lose another. You and JT, all of you boys for that matter. I just can't bear it."

Tears were coming the more she spoke and Stan comforted her, looking at the guys forlornly. He understood on one hand, but couldn't accept on the other. Life had become an arena of conflict, everything changing value and importance.

The remaining Disciples went back to the clubhouse, after being thoroughly questioned before being released. They gathered outside the smoking ruins of their clubhouse, the scattered remains of their once-prized bikes, now twisted and distorted beyond anything they looked like before. Rage brewed inside them all, the tragic loss of their brothers and the prized possessions, kept the blood lust boiling inside them. Despite all the loss, they swore to avenge the deaths and be compensated for the financial loss as well. The phone booth on the corner down the street was their only way of communicating now, but calls were made to distant charters and new replacements were on their way to continue the war.

Stink got his name, not for any smell he may have had, but for all the shit he caused. He was bent on making his club number one and wanted to prove that to any and all. It wasn't hard to keep the hatred for the Sons fuelled, putting the blame for everything on them. The club had six charters and so far four had come and been a party to the violence. The last two were contacted and he knew it would be four hours before thirty four riders would be heading north and south, joining up with him.

Spectators standing around, looked at the burned down building and motorcycles, the scene one of chaos and destruction on a grand scale. Several of those spectators were local black youths, ones who were listening to what was just said about more bikers coming. Those youths were part of the 3B's and it didn't take long for that news to reach Benny's ears and minutes later, through the earpiece of the phone, into JT's ears.

JT called Jimmy and told him about it and was told he would make a call to La Roca. JT thanked him and hung up, dialling the Holiday Inn and asking for Dominic Moderno, Luigi's cover name. The news was related quickly and plans of action were put into place. JT had the club prepare for another attack and for once, time was on their side to respond to the threat. JT thought about his talk with Unser and decided he needed a heads up on it, just to keep things tight between them. Wayne was very grateful for the news and called Stockton sheriffs and let them know.

Before clubs moved north and south, opposing forces were already being put in place. The southern borders of Stockton were put on alert to watch all roads leading in to the city, while those in the north watched as many roads as they could. 

Luigi and the team were ready in minutes and had the Cadillacs heading north and south. Luigi and Alphonse were becoming frustrated at seeing nothing but flat land in the valley heading north. They were north of Stockton, looking for high ground to snipe at the club, but nothing held any value as a position. They went through Thornton and came across an area along the Cosumnes River. It was well treed and gave plenty of cover to stay hidden, as well as a clear shot at the road for a half mile ahead. They turned off I-5 and pulled onto the secondary road and headed back towards it.

Five miles south of their position, the sheriffs were setting up their own place to lay in wait. They wanted to stop and detain the bikers, preventing them legally from making it to their destination. The sheriffs to the south were doing the same, picking a location inside their border that afforded them a way of stopping the club from reaching the other members.

Marco and Dino drove by them, heading outside their border and continued looking for the high point of land to take up a position. The land remained flat and useless to shoot from a point of cover. The hills to the west were too far away to take a shot, leaving them driving aimlessly in their search.

The highway coming north was filled with traffic of all kinds, but one group of vehicles stood out from the others. Sixteen bikes en masse were making their presence known to who they were and they were given right of way on the road. Reputations had been made not to interfere with them and they used it to their advantage, as the distance closed to Stockton. 

Ten miles back and closing, were twenty four bikes en masse, led by La Roca. They were tasked with disrupting the club from making it to Stockton's borders any way they could. La Roca's idea of disruption was hot lead on the open road. They would be able to cruise up to them unchallenged, as there was no rivalry between them. Once in place, guns would speak for them and cause the disruption they needed to achieve. 

Tom and Chico were cruising the back roads of Calaveras, taking ones that afforded them a good view of the surrounding area. Chico was dying to go to the farm and see Marietta, but Tom said they couldn't go near the place, to avoid bringing attention to it. The longing ate away at him, being separated from the woman he loved, as they drove to a point in the road and stopped, keeping an eye on the roads in the distance. Tom lit a joint and passed it to Chico, hoping it would lessen his misery, as he thought of Flower and how fond he'd grown of her.

The world seemed peaceful, but those that knew, knew it was only a matter of time and that peace would be shredded apart by guns and violence. It was still hard to come to terms with the why of it all, but facts remained, they were involved and had to see it through to the end, no matter how bitter it turned out.

The mood at the farm was one of sad remorse. No matter how it was explained, the impending separation of the two sides was imminent. Marietta knew it was only a day away before she started at Berkeley and would be staying with Chico's cousin and his family. Still, knowing the break up was happening, made her heart sink in despair like the others, sharing in their pain. Tinkerbell wandered over to the group of girls and nudged at them, but only received hands pushing her away. 

Moon and Star watched the girls from the porch, feeling their misery themselves. Moon had to harden his heart, knowing he had to stay strong and stand firm on his decision. As much as he tried to protect the sanctity of the commune, it was coming apart slowly, bit by bit, as love was put aside in favour of the negative feelings they shared.

Unser had his men stationed at all the roads that could lead to the shop, keeping an eye out for anyone suspicious in nature. What used to pass for normal, was now questioned and otherwise innocent people were stopped and checked out, before being allowed to continue to their destination.

Luigi and Alphonse took up their position and readied the rifles. The scopes were adjusted, then Luigi made his way up a tree to get a better view of the road in the distance. The bikes were easy to spot, as they made their way south to them, so Luigi climbed back down and picked up his rifle and told Alphonse to get ready. The low rumble of engines became louder, getting fingers on the triggers and eyes focused through the scopes. 

"We take out the two behind the leader, then take out two more farther back. That will stop them and hopefully decide to return. If they don't, we're going to have to rely on the cops to do it and they aren't the best back up to have."

"Maybe we should be using the M60, take out more of them then?"

"Maybe, but we need to do this quietly and that thing makes too much noise and points out our position too easily."

"Yes, not looking good for us this time."

The first sign of the bikes appeared over a low crest in the road and the two zeroed in on their targets. Luigi whispered 'Now' and both barrels discharged almost at the same time. By the time the first two bodies were blown off the bikes, the bolts were ejecting the cartridges and the scopes were focusing on the second targets. The leader heard the noise of crashing bikes behind him and saw the mayhem begin. Two more riders were taken down and their bikes began a chain reaction of crashing riders behind them. 

The scene was one of confusion, trying to deal with downed riders and the threat to their own lives. Some turned around and drove back the wrong way up the highway to escape, while others drew their guns and looked for the threat. Traffic piled up behind them, completely blocking their escape backwards, leaving them to take cover behind their bikes. Luigi and Alphonse dismantled the rifles and packed them back in their cases. They walked through the trees back to the Cadillac and put their guns in the trunk.

Luigi drove along the side road past the club, still unaware of where the threat was from. They pulled onto the highway and drove down to them, joining in with the other spectators and surveyed the damage they caused. Acting as innocent as the others, they asked what happened, looking as surprised as the other bystanders. 

Ten minutes later, sirens were screaming loudly, as the sheriffs arrived on the scene. The chaos was more then they could handle, dealing with the carnage on the highway and dead bodies, as well as the hordes of people now surveying the scene. Drivers became impatient, trying to drive past everything on the shoulder, making the two mobsters smile and knew they had achieved their goal and the mission was a success. It became a time of observation and noted the members and what they were saying to the police. 

La Roca had made up the distance between the two clubs, keeping a half mile distance to avoid suspicion. He raised his hand and pumped his fist, signalling his crew to get their guns ready. Hands reached inside cuts and flicked safeties off, then throttles were twisted to get them going faster. La Roca wanted to pick the right moment to ride by and take out the lead riders, then continue on, before they had a chance to retaliate. 

There was no traffic near the club, as the Aztecs began riding by the Disciples from San Diego. The Aztecs were doing closer to seventy by the time guns came out and the bullets began felling riders. As predicted, the rest behind panicked and swerved to avoid running over the members in front. La Roca kept his speed up, putting distance between them and the wreckage they caused. Eight of the riders were too injured, or dead, leaving ten still mobile. They took off after the Aztecs, engines racing through every gear to catch up.

The Disciples couldn't close the distance between them, both clubs running full out. It became a matter of who were better riders and would win or lose the race. Both had plenty of gas in their tanks, but the use per mile was high and distance wasn't in La Roca's favour. Staying on I-5 wasn't in their best interest as a result, so La Roca decided on another plan instead. He hoped the Disciples weren't as good on dirt roads, as they were. The first cutoff had them leaving the highway and heading into the plantation areas, racing by migrant workers who stopped to see them go by. Minutes later they watched the other club go by and workers found their way to the road to see the action.

The Aztecs were leaving the other club behind, proving their ability to ride on roads like that, was better than their adversaries. La Roca waited for a time when they were out of sight from them and had his club pull into the orchards and stash their bikes out of sight. They drew their guns and waited for the riders to show up and ambush them again.

The sound of the engines grew louder and they kept out of sight until they were almost beside them and opened fire again. This time bodies dropped and few were left able to ride. The procession ground to a crashing halt and before they could recover, La Roca and his men came out from both sides and began shooting the members as they lay bleeding and injured, or trying to pick their bikes up. Two minutes and a reloading of weapons, brought an end to the threat of the Disciples from San Diego. 

Blood ran and pooled, soaking into the dirt road and staining it. La Roca and his club got on their bikes and continued down the road to the first access road to I-5 and they began the trip home. They avoided coming up on the earlier hit and took the cutoff before it and headed east to the plantation roads to bypass it all together. Miles past, they headed back over and the sinister smiles of the Aztecs were seen on the faces of drivers on the I-5, making them contemplate the reason for such a look.

To the north and south of Stockton, enforcement and emergency personnel were trying to deal with the aftermath and calls were made to superiors to report the results. The information made its way to the top in minutes and before long, Wade and Grant were discussing it between themselves.

"I hope we know what the hell we're doing, Keith?"

"Me too, Harvey, This could really blow up in our faces and cause a shit storm to rain down."

"Yeah, the mayor is busting my ass every day to have this dealt with, but the son of a bitch doesn't have the first clue what we're up against. This ain't nickle and dime stuff, this is a fucking war we got going on here."

"Same here. I just don't have men and resources to handle anything and my guy thinks I could take on the Japs at Okinawa."

"Nice to be at the top and shout out orders and not have to worry about getting it done."

"Yeah. Okay, so what the damage up there? We got any innocents hurt?"

"You know, not a one. Twelve out of eighteen bikers aren't ever going to ride again. Seven dead, four by gunshot and the rest are so fucked up, I doubt they'll be able to walk again, let alone ride."

"Well, that's what we were hoping for, so nothing coming back at us hard there. Any word from the south end?"

"Not yet. Hopefully they decided not to come."

"Nice wish. If these guys are staying together like they are, they'll be heading your way soon enough. You have enough men to handle them?"

"Oh yeah, sent four cruisers, two men each, so I.... hang on, Harvey."

Wade was interrupted by an urgent knock at the door and ushered the person in. The dispatcher handed him the report sheet of what happened on I-5 north twenty minutes ago. He looked over everything carefully, looking for any signs of innocents involved and sighed in relief.

"Harvey, still there?"

"Yeah, yeah, what's up?"

"Just got a report come in. Seems whoever, took out some of the ones coming north, but none came into town that we know of. Some reports of them chasing another club north and then they left the highway somewhere and haven't been seen, or heard from since."

"You think they're coming here?"

"No idea, but be on the look out along back roads into Charming, they might try that."

"Who's the club they were chasing?"

"No idea. No one got their name or recognized the patch. Seems it happened so fast, they had no idea what happened, until shots were fired and bodies began dropping."

"Sorry about their luck, no skin off my nose."

"Mine either. Okay, looks like this round is basically over and we wait for the next. I hate this fucking not knowing. That's the part that pisses me off. I don't know what these guys are planning and can't do shit, until they do."

"Yeah, leaves us playing catch up all the time. Just lucky my guy Teller here, heard about them coming, from a friend."

"Still have my suspicions your guys are mixed up in this more than they're telling us."

"I had my D.C. check them out thoroughly and he said they aren't up to anything criminal that he can see. Fucking guys are like heroes around here to the people. I don't know Keith, the guys check out okay."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 08



"Alright, I'll go along with that for now, just do us a favour?"

"What's that?"

"Keep an eye on them a bit better and don't let a fast one get pulled on us. Not saying they are, just keep your eye on them and don't take everything as it comes."

"I'll do that and hey, thanks for letting me know, I'll put my men to the south and double up out there."

"Good. I'll stay in touch. Talk soon."

"Yeah, stay in touch. See you, Keith."

The phones went down and hands came to faces to wipe away the stress. So far, the payback was going as planned. How long it would, was still being pondered, but as Harvey Grant sat at his desk and thought over the news he was told, the payback was turning out to be quite the bitch for the Disciples. In less than a week, almost an entire club and its charters was taken out. If these guys still wanted to dish out revenge, they had to be suicidal and that made Grant worry on the thought.

It was hours later, that the bodies of the San Diego chapter were found. Officers arriving on the scene found it eerily quiet, for the destruction they observed. Not a soul could be seen for miles in any direction, nothing to disturb the peaceful setting. Calls were made and IDs acquired off the bodies, confirmed who they were and where they were from. The count of bullet holes in the bodies and bikes had the officers react with fear, knowing the ferocity of the kill and the determination to carry out murder, with little regard for life and the law.

The emergency rooms at the hospitals in Bakersfield and Sacramento were pandemonium. They were overwhelmed by the number of injured that kept arriving and no matter how hard they tried, some of the injured succumbed to their injuries and reluctantly, they moved to the next one in triage, leaving a line up of gurneys waiting to go down and see the coroner in autopsy. 

I-5 had become blocked with death and destruction, causing major headaches in transportation. It wasn't until late afternoon, that all the bodies and bikes were removed and the investigation over, that normality returned to the highway. 

JT dashed for the phone when it rang, trying not to sound too anxious. 

"JT, good news. There will be no action taken against you today. Seems your friends from down south were able to handle the ones from there, We took care of the north and no one is coming to visit, not for a while anyway. We were wondering if you would like to get out of there and join us at Giovanni's for a little celebration meal, I know you guys could use a break."

"Love to Luigi. What time?"

"Seven is good. We made reservations to include you already, just wanted to confirm that with you first."

"Not a problem, we'll be there. See you at seven."

JT was almost jumping and skipping back to the clubhouse he was so happy. The guys looked at him coming through the roll up door, still merrily dancing. Piney looked at him like he'd gone loopy. 

"What the fuck is up with you, JT?"

"Good news guys. No more Disciples are headed our way. La Roca took the ones out down south and Luigi said they got the guys coming from the north. We're invited to dine with them at Giovanni's at seven. Fuck me, I hope these guys get the message this is over. I for one have had enough already."

No one disagreed and shared similar sentiments, enjoying the break in tension and the reduction in threat. Beers and joints were started for their own celebration to the events, as they rallied together in triumph. No one gave anymore thought to rival gangs and bloodshed for the rest of the day. The bus was almost done and JT was eager to get it to Free, back in San Francisco. He and the others were looking forward to the painting party and so was the commune. He was hoping that the event would smooth out the hurts and help bring them back into the fold.

It had been two days without even a kiss from Suzy, the same for the others with him. Despite the close proximity to the farm, even Tom and Chico weren't able to reach out. Just as he thought of them, they were at the gate to come in. They parked and went in, finding the atmosphere of the place out of sorts, considering the situation. Once they heard the news, smiles were big and wide, as hopes to reunite with their womenfolk was coming closer.

They tidied themselves up and headed out the gate at six forty five, heading into town and a pleasant meal with new friends and allies. They were greeted warmly and seated, the waiters catering to their every need and want.

Stockton was a hotbed of raging anger, as the news of the clubs reached Stink. He was beside himself with how they were picked off and left like animals to die. He wanted whoever was available to end the Sons and finish off what they started. His reputation, as well as the club's was at stake and he didn't want to come across as a loser. Those who could still ride, he wanted them there and ready to finish the battle. Flash finished tying off his arm and raised a vein, then slowly pushed the needle into the distended vein and pushed the plunger. The rage eased immediately, as Stink felt the magic of the heroin take him. 



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 09



Ch. 9       All Good Things 



The day started off with a beautiful sunrise and a warmth in the air. As the guys left the clubhouse and sat on their bikes, it was a feeling of normal that almost seemed foreign. The threat was gone, for now, being told the enemy club was taken down giving them a chance to breathe easier. The gate was locked securely behind them and the eagerness to ride began. 

It was hard to keep them from speeding to the farm, the chance to be with loved ones outweighing anything else. Finally turning onto 10th line, all of them had expectant smiles on their faces, being moments away from rejoining with the women. When they reached the gate, it was locked and chained, a complete contradiction to the welcoming sign on it. The door opened on the house and bodies came out. The women were ecstatic to see them and ran to the gate. Moon and Star weren't as thrilled to see them and took their time opening the gate.

"The trouble ended, JT?"

"For now, Moon. Just heard that the threat is gone from them and we can relax."

"So they're still after you, I take it?"

"No idea, but there's no one to come after us, not much left of them."

"I fail to see how one can smile, knowing so many lives have been lost to all of this."

The smiles everyone wore faded, knowing they were showing happiness about it.

"Moon, no one died, that didn't need to."

"Death is not an answer to things, JT."

JT thought on it and knew the commune lived by that rule. Killing was not a solution to a problem.

"Can we come in, or should we leave?"

"You can come in, but only to visit. My decision still stands."

That made things a bit easier for them, knowing they wouldn't be denied the chance to be with everyone. Marlene looked at JT and he could see how hurt she was, that she was there now and he wasn't. She left Phoenix's side and went to him, taking him by the arms and looking at him with such sadness in her eyes.

"No matter what happens JT, I want you to know that I will always want you as my friend and never turn my back on you. I owe you my life and despite the violence it took to give me that, I for one, will never hold that against you, or the club. I want you to know I am totally against you and the club leaving here. 

The other girls heard that and voiced their own agreements to her words, faces turning to Moon in objection to his decision.

Moon saw the looks and the rebellion to his authority, feeling alone in his thoughts. Spirit saw him falter, unable to take a stand against everyone and walked away with his head down. She took his hand and walked with him, neither saying a word as they went into the field. Tinkerbell watched them go and turned to the group standing together and walked over. She went straight to JT and nuzzled him for attention. Suzy smiled and giggled a little at seeing it.

"See, even Tinkerbell knows you guys should be able to stay. She wants you too, just like we do. No one and I mean none of us girls and even Phoenix believes the trouble that's been caused is your fault. It's not right to blame you for it. You only did what was right and tried to protect people. Peace and love are great, the best, but sometimes we have to deal with problems like this and it's good to know we can count on you guys to keep us safe."

Golden had stood quietly by, listening to everyone and finally spoke up.

"Look, seeing as this place is mine and no one else's, I should be the one who has the final say and it's time I did. I don't agree with Moon. I know he's only looking out for us the best way he knows how, but he's wrong in this case. I can see staying away while this trouble is happening, that makes sense, but to ban you forever, no way. I'm making my decision right now and I say you guys can stay."

Smiles came to faces in a flash, hearing Golden's decision and knew it would be upheld by everyone. JT knew it was going to take many long talks with Moon over it, but he wanted to make things right with him and the others. The bikes were started and ridden into the barn and then the group headed inside. Phoenix went straight for the new hookah they bought and broke out the chunk of hash. The fragrance wafted about the room instantly and a celebration of sorts began in earnest.

The charred lot began filling with fresh bodies and bikes, as the remaining Disciple members arrived. Stink greeted each one strongly, everyone showing a strong support of the club with each other. Stink wasted no time in inciting their need for revenge, calling out names of the fallen and the loss of their status. It only took fifteen minutes for all of them to call out for blood, so Stink allowed them to get fuelled up, then had them listen to him on how they were going to do it. 

Moon was wrestling with his feelings, knowing he was right to protect the ones he loved and was responsible for. Spirit listened to him justifying himself, how what they had started was supposed to be and how it was supposed to be now. Spirit knew in her heart he meant only the best for everyone, but she knew the commune had made a decision and he would have to live by it. She herself could never tell him she didn't want them to go, knowing how abandoned he would become. She knew she was his constant and had to let him know she was there for him.

The speaker kept blaring out the ring tones of the phone, echoing through the compound, as the guys enjoyed a sumptuous meal and dessert with their friends. Benny hung up and looked at Lamont.

"Man, I tried like six times now, bro'. I don't know where they at? I gotta warn them, but the fuckers ain't picking up shit."

"I know, B, but we gotta keep trying. You know what's happening and we gotta do something?"

"I know who I'm calling, Mo. That cop dude the club knows, what's his name? The geeky guy they pushed up?"

"Oh yeah, that guy, uh, Wayne something. Shit man, what is it?"

"Under, Unger, some shit like that."

"Yeah sounds like that."

Benny looked up the number for Charming P.D. and dialled it. The dispatcher picked it up and answered.

"Lemme speak to Wayne Unger....please."

Benny nodded to Lamont acknowledging the politeness.

"Do you mean Unser?"

"Yeah, yeah, that's it."

"You wish to speak to Deputy Chief Unser?"

"Yeah, yeah, that's the dude, I need to speak to him like pronto, real quick, you know what I mean?"

"And what's the nature of your emergency?"

"Got to let him know some very bad dudes are coming his way, to make trouble for some dudes in your town. Is that enough emergency?"

"What's your name please?"

"I'm a concerned citizen, now let me talk to the guy already, or you find out yourself who's coming to visit."

"Hang on, I'll put you through."

Unser was trying to put a decent spin on the tower diver, when his phone buzzed.

"Yeah Sarah."

"Deputy Chief, got a guy on the phone that wants to tell you about some possible trouble that might happen. Not sure what to make of him though."

"Okay, put him through."

The click let him know the call was on and he answered.

"Unser here."

"Yeah, this is a friend of JT and the Sons. We just saw all these Disciples meeting at their clubhouse and they're planning something big. I don't know what, but those dudes are pissed off, you know what I'm saying?"

"Yeah, I know, go on."

"So like, they got about twenty, maybe thirty guys and the leader, uh, uh, Stink, yeah, he's setting something up. My guy couldn't really like hear that good, you know, but it sounded like they was planning on a raid on the clubhouse, or something. He didn't hear him all that good, but he heard they was doing something big and they're doin it soon, but we don't know when. I tried calling the shop, but no one's answering. I don't know how else to get a hold of them and thought maybe you did."

"If they're not in lock down, they must be out at the farm. No way of contacting them out there. Okay, what's your name again?"

"Just let them know B called, they'll know who I am."

"B, that's it?"

"Yeah, just B. Just let them know, okay?"

"Okay, thanks, B."

"Alright and uh, goodbye,"

Unser heard the phone click and shut off the intercom, then sat there pondering what he should do. The farm was way out of his jurisdiction and couldn't go there officially, but Calaveras had a station even farther than his from them. There was no time to waste, if they wanted to stay on top of this and be prepared. He went across to the chief's office and knocked. Grant told him to come in and he went up and stood in front of him, getting his attention from the desk.

"Chief, I gotta go out to Calaveras and talk to the club. They're out at the farm they live in and they got no phone or nothing. I thought of calling Calaveras, but they're even farther away."

"Why do you need to go out there?"

"I just got a call, some black kid named, B. He said he's a friend of JT and the Sons and they just heard the Disciples are planning something big, like some kind of raid, but they ain't sure where, or when. One of their guys was spying on them, trying to hear what they were saying, but didn't catch everything, just that."

"Okay, yeah, better go out there, no idea where they're thinking of hitting them, best warn them and make sure everyone is safe. I'll get Chief Wade on the phone now and let him know. Maybe they can hassle them and keep them from doing anything. I don't know who these friends are of the club's, but we'd be up shit creek without a paddle, without them."

"No kidding. Wish we had guys like that, most of the crime would be taken care of by them, before it happened."

Wayne and Harvey looked at each other after he said it and pondered their own worth as law enforcement officers. They knew they never prevented any crimes, only responded to them after they were committed. They both shook their heads together, then Unser took off and headed to his cruiser, letting Sarah in dispatch know where he was going. He put all his men on high alert to watch for any signs of either club and let the Sons know what's up.

He put his flashing lights on and made his way through town as fast as he could, before heading into the country and out to Calaveras. Despite the emergency, he couldn't help but smile, thinking about going back to where he had the greatest sex he knew he would ever have.

It didn't take long for Stockton police to begin making drive by checks on the Disciples. They did their best not to harass them, but they made their presence known. Middle fingers were raised at them on every pass, showing their displeasure. A '59 Mercury with faded two tone paint sat down the block from the clubhouse, a lone person sitting behind the wheel. The driver sat nervously, unsure if he should approach the bikers. Stink waved to come to them and after some hesitation, started up and slowly drove down, looking everywhere for anyone noticing him.

"So what did you find out?"

Winslow Westingham was sweating and shaking, clearly in the throes of withdrawal. He looked at the bikers at his window, hoping to get the hit he was promised. He saw one of them holding his hand out and opened it, seeing two hits in it. The reward was all he needed to start talking.

"They go to some place out in Calaveras, some farm on 10th line. The mailbox says MacDonald on it."

"Good, you done good, here you go, enjoy the high."

Flash dropped the small packets on the seat and Winslow snatched them up, holding them in his fist like his life depended on it. He scanned the area again for signs he'd been spotted and drove away, heading to a spot where he could get a hit into him as soon as he could, the need to end the aching misery washing through him.

Stink listened to the news and punched his fist into his palm, working the news into his drug-hazed mind. 

"Now we know where they live and let their guard down. They won't have no cops watching their assess out there, so we can hit them like we want this time. Fuckers are going to die."

The others cheered Stink, feeling retribution was theirs to command and mete out. The police barrier tape was pulled down and the club headed inside the burned out building to party, it's intent akin to a war dance preparing for battle.

The war of dominance on the streets and the money from trafficking illicit drugs, was fuelling the crime rate of major cities everywhere and those who saw an opportunity to make easy money, were taking advantage of it. The greed incited dealers to take out competition by any means, so they could monopolize the trade of whatever they dealt in. Like the government, they knew that control was the key to everything and enforcing that control was becoming a social issue that affected the entire populace. More and more, innocent people were getting caught in indiscriminate gunfire between two rival factions and killed. Newspapers screamed the headlines out in bold print and colour photos, while news broadcasters were playing on the public's rapt attention to it and creating specials to highlight it as well.

The image of war veterans enjoying the camaraderie of riding together was erased, obliterated by the new perception of anyone who rode a motorcycle in a group, was a criminal. They were anti-social, anti-authoritarians who created fear and distrust in everyone. Crime was rampant and little could be done. Good people were turned into junkies, addicted to the need for more and those who controlled it, were only too happy to keep up the supply. The government had denied them a chance to resume their lives, as they were before the war. The people had shunned them and showed their disdain when they came back. Now it was coming full circle, to where those who turned to crime and drugs, were getting what they originally wanted, but now getting it with force and violent action. The American people were theirs to control and the government was behind the eight ball to stop them.

Moon and Spirit came back in the house to everyone naked and loving as openly and pleasurably as they felt like doing. They stood looking at the happiness and he knew the atmosphere had changed completely, from what it had become after the decision. He couldn't bring himself to join in and he took Spirit upstairs to their room and closed the door. 

Wayne drove along 10th line and pulled into the lane, rounding the small bend and saw the gate was closed and locked. He parked in front and got out, scaling the gate and walking to the house. He was about to knock, then heard the laughter and fun going on inside and decided to look in the window. The room was a mass of nudity and sexual arousal, unable to discern who was who and what was being done to whom.

He stood back and chuckled to himself, thinking back again and pondering the idea of getting a chance to do it again. The news of the threat took over precedence in his head and he knocked on the door. The sound deadened immediately, then the curtains shifted to see who it was. The door opened and JT smiled broadly at him.

"Wayne, great to see you, Buddy, what's up?"

"Sorry to interrupt the things, JT, looks like a fun time happening. I had to come and talk to you about something I heard from a friend of yours, a guy named B."

JT's smile faded when he heard the initial used and knew it was serious in nature, if Wayne felt the need to come out of his jurisdiction to talk to him about it.

"Okay, I know B, what's up?"

"Can we talk a bit more private?"

"Sure, we'll go over to your car and talk. Let me get my shoes on first and I'll meet you there."

Wayne went back to his cruiser and waited, while JT quickly explained to a couple of members that the party was on hold and he'd let them know what was up when he got back. He pulled on his boots and put his shirt on, kissing Suzy and heading outside. Wayne was pacing and that worried JT.

"Stop pacing Wayne, you'll wear a rut into the lane."

The humour didn't lighten Unser's mood, but he stood and faced JT.

"This guy B, called me and told me all the remaining Disciples showed up at the clubhouse and one of his guys was close enough to hear some shit. He said they're planning a raid on you guys and he thinks he heard clubhouse, but he ain't sure. I got the chiefs informed and both sides are keeping things locked down, making sure any movement from them is kept in check."

JT thought about it and wondered how they could pull it off, knowing they were so well protected at the compound and they had no idea where they were right then. 

"These guys have got to be totally fucked up, Wayne. How do they think they can get to us at the clubhouse, when they know how fortified it is and we have guns. It doesn't make sense."

"Maybe not, but the chief thinks these guys are just plain suicidal and don't give a shit. We have all routes into Charming controlled, so there's no chance of getting to the clubhouse in the first place. We even have guys stationed close to the shop, so I don't see how they plan to do it either, but your friend says it's happening and that's all we got right now."

"Shit, Wayne. What the hell is with these guys? They get a little set back to dealing drugs and now it's all our fault. They tried to fucking kill us once already, before all this other shit started."

"What are you talking about? The time before all this started."

"I know, I should have told you, but we didn't do anything, other than save our asses again."

"What happened?"

"You know that bus in the yard, the one we're fixing up?"

"Yeah."

"We were bringing an old one back from San Fran, that friends of ours were trading in for that one in the yard. We were just out of Livermore and then about twenty Disciples rolled up on us and drew guns."

"Shit, what happened?"

"I saw them and swung the bus into their lane and slammed on the brakes. I felt a bunch of them slam into me and the others piling into them. We got out of there fast and didn't say anything about it. We weren't looking for any trouble Wayne, believe me. I think that was the first try at us to pay us back. I'm thinking that and the bust, have them extremely pissed at us and that's why it's so blown out of proportion."

"Yeah, that would do it. So where's the bus you had?"

"Gone. Turned into parts and scrap metal."

"That your friend Gus out in Stockton?"

"Yeah. He had the bus we got now and we traded him the old bus and cash for it."

"No chance of that coming back into play now. From what you said, you guys didn't break any laws, as long as that's what really happened."

"Hey, call out every guy and ask him privately and you'll get the same answer, Wayne."

"Okay, I believe you, just saying. There's always two sides to every story, but in this case, the other side ain't writing a good story to follow."

"No shit. So what should we do then?"

"JT, I ain't got a clue. I figured letting you guys know was the best thing and then you could call your people and put things in play with them."

"Yeah, guess that's about all we can do right now. Without knowing what it is they're planning, we're setting up for a maybe and that's it. Maybe they want us on guard and then get tired of waiting and then hit us. At least we know they're planning something and that's a start."

"Yeah, better than finding out after it starts."

"That always makes it harder to deal with."

"Sure does. So, I guess you got time to finish what you guys were doing when I came, so I'll let you get back to that. I know you guys haven't seen each other in a while and need to reconnect."

"Yeah, it's been tough, but we're making up for it. So, do you need to get back right away?"

"Not really, why?"

"Want another taste of before? The girls are in the mood and they wouldn't object to it."

Unser smiled and perked up, the offer to his fantasies coming openly.

"I guess I can spare a few minutes, everything's under control back there."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 09



"Minutes?"

"Well, maybe an hour."

"That's better. Come on, let's go say hi to the girls, shall we, Buddy?"

"Yeah, let's."

JT led Wayne to the house with his arm over his shoulder, opening the door and welcoming him to enjoy himself with everyone. The radio in the cruiser kept calling for him, but Wayne was already undressed and starting to begin the first of many pleasurable moments with the girls.

Winslow sat in the back alley, in the Mercury Monarch, tying off his arm after he readied the needle with a hit. He steadied his shaking hands the best he could, as he lined up the point with his vein. He pushed it in and flagged the plunger, seeing blood enter the reservoir. He pushed the plunger and felt the first traces of heroin enter his system. He emptied it all and pulled out the needle, then released the tourniquet and felt the rush of blood soaked heroin go straight to his head. He had no idea he had done pure heroin and had overdosed himself, with enough heroin for ten hits. The steady influx to his brain had him convulsing and seizing, as the agony of withdrawal, turned into the agony of a slow, painful death. Stink wanted no witness telling anyone what he was about to do.

A passerby using the alley, reported a man sitting in a car and didn't look like he was sleeping. A patrolman responded and checked Winslow Westingham's pulse and didn't find one. A call to the coroner went out and another statistic was added to the growing list of abusers and deaths due to heroin overdose. Winslow's body was loaded in a bag and taken away, back to a sterile room where pathologists removed his brain and studied the affects of the drug's damage.

The dispatcher had been trying to raise Unser on the radio for close to an hour, by the time he finally answered. 

"Unser here, go"

"Deputy Chief, finally. The Chief wants you back here at the station, pronto. He's starting to blow a gasket, so you better hurry back. Says he has something big, something important to talk to you about."

"Doesn't take much to do that. Okay, I'm done out here and I'll be headed back in a minute. I'll be

there in a half hour or so."

"10-4 Deputy Chief."

"10-4, Unser out."

Wayne looked at JT with a face of despondency, showing his displeasure in leaving the commune and the great sexual experiences. 

"What can I say, JT? Gotta get my ass back to Charming and forget about the life of Casanova. I know it's safe out here, JT, but if shit is happening, I need to get a hold of you quick."

"Yeah, I understand, Wayne. We'll be heading back to the clubhouse and locking down again. We just needed to see everyone and touch base with the girls."

"Yeah, I think I touched a lot of bases there too. Damn those girls know their stuff."

"They do, don't they."

The two smiled and laughed, sharing the humour together.

"Okay, gotta get my ass back to the real world again. Let me know when you guys are back and we'll get things in order."

"Okay Wayne, see you soon. We won't be too much longer ourselves. If they're planning something like a raid, we better be as ready as we can for it."

"Yeah, can't get caught with your pants down on this."

The pun had them both laughing again, the recent joining topping anything else at the moment.

"Alright, see you Wayne."

"You too, JT, Take care out there, okay?"

"Will do, Wayne."

Unser started up and backed out of the lane way and onto the road. He waved and headed back down 10th line and on toward Charming. JT went back in and saw the mass of writhing bodies, still engaged in sexual union. Suzy got up, her hair a mess of strands going everywhere. She walked over to JT at the door and pressed her naked body into him, pulling his face down to her, so she could kiss him. 

"You have to go, don't you?"

"Yeah, we got to get back and get locked down again. Unser heard some news about a raid on us, but they have no idea when, or where. Looks like fun time is over again."

"I hate that, Baby. I know you're protecting us, but you guys are in danger and it really scares me. I hate the thought of you getting hurt, Baby, I really do."

"I do too, trust me. I couldn't bear to see you even get a tiny scratch, because of all this shit. I want all you girls and the other guys to be safe and this is the only way to do it."

"I know, but I still don't like it."

"No one does. Wait until you here them moan and groan when I tell them its time to go."

"Right now? You have to leave already? Can't you stay for a little bit longer? Please."

Suzy's pleading came with a loving hand cupping his manhood, caressing it and fondling it to stir into arousal. JT felt the surge of sexual juices flow in him and he couldn't resist her temptations. They went back into the living room and Suzy wasted no time in stripping JT's pants off and working on his erection, getting him hard in seconds and laid back, opening her body to him to love her. JT felt her hand take him and guide him into her hot, moist core and sighed in ecstasy.

Unser parked and went straight in to the chief's office, doing his best to hide any signs of enjoying himself earlier. 

"What's up, Chief?"

"Got some more news from an informant. The Disciples apparently got their hands on some bigger guns. Now they have machine guns and assault rifles. No idea where the hell they got them from, but the word is out they're heavily armed and this makes that raid look more like invasion, than some drive by shooting."

"I told the guys and they're heading back into town shortly. They don't want any trouble happening out there, so they'll lock down at the clubhouse, until it's over."

"Good. We can keep them safe in there and handle these assholes as best we can. I have the men packing shotguns and whatever big guns we have, but we're outgunned in this, as it stands. I hope whoever they got protecting them knows about this and can do something to help us, because honestly Unser, I see bodies dropping in this one. No way we can have that many bullets firing and no one gets hurt. The sheriffs are packing bigger hardware now too, but even they aren't thrilled about going up against these guys."

"Jesus Christ, Chief, what the hell is going on out there in the world? It's like the war came back with the troops and everyone is going crazy."

"Yeah, feel like that myself. All we can do is get prepared to do some battling with these guys and hope we come out on top."

"Not sure we can do much more than we're doing already. We got every guy out there and this place looks deserted. When the guys get back, I'll let them know their friends are welcome to join in and help out. They got the guns to handle these guys, so it seems, so that evens things up a bit better."

"Yeah, do that. I'll look the other way on what they do, just so long as innocents don't get hurt. Just one and this thing is going to blow up in our faces and cover us in shit."

"And we don't want that, I know, Chief. I'll let the club know the score again and hope their guys can follow the rules of engagement. I can't help but see someone going down by one of the gang's bullets. They don't give a shit who gets hurt in this."

"Well, if these bastards show up, I want everyone off the street and behind closed doors. I don't want to see anyone get in the way of any action."

"I'll put the word out and have them clear the streets at the first sign of them."

"Good. Now let's get this done and get it over with. I'm sick and fucking tired of dealing with this."

"You and me both, Chief, you and me both."

Eyes shared similar thoughts and nods confirmed they were on the same page about it all. For a town of only nine thousand plus people, they were seeing more action than places with over a hundred thousand people. Their little town was making the front pages of too many newspapers and bringing negative publicity to them. 

JT and the club left the farm to teary eyes and numerous kisses, the thought of them leaving them alone again, not something hearts could accept easily. The gate was locked again and they stood there listening to the sound of the club riding away, the rumble fading in the distance. Slowly they went back inside, looking around at the gorgeous day that nature had provided. Some smiles came out, partly because of the weather, partly from the sexual interlude they got to share with their men.

JT and the club rolled into Charming and saw many people waving and smiling hello to them. They returned the greetings with equal enjoyment, shouting out names of people they recognized, but leaving no one out of their focus of attention. The ride seemed more like a small parade, as they rode slowly, enjoying the show of support to them and hearing words of encouragement shouted out.

Two hours after the club left, Chico's cousin showed up to take Marietta to Oakland, so she could start her classes. She was given a teary farewell and several keepsakes to remind her of everyone. She said she didn't need keepsakes to remember everyone, they were so dear to her heart. Manuel drove away with her, waves continuing until they were out of sight. Marietta couldn't help but feel a bit sad, despite the dream she had desired for so long, was finally coming true.

They made it into the compound and locked themselves in, feeling the familiar agony of being trapped. Unser was at the gate in minutes of their arrival, the club not even in the clubhouse yet. JT ran up and let him in, then jumped in Wayne's cruiser and rode down. The clubhouse was opened and everyone went inside for safety and privacy.

"I got some news when I got back, figured the sooner you knew, the better."

"What's up? Looks like it's bad news you have."

"Well, it sure as fuck ain't good news. When I got back, the Chief was telling me these guys got their hands on some big guns, assault rifles, machine guns and shit like that. No idea where they got them from, but some informant that San Joa has, told them he seen them unloading them out of a van. All this don't look good for us at this end. We don't have guns to match theirs and that's making the chief real scared about what could happen."

"Holy shit, Wayne. This is getting out of hand. How are we supposed to go up against that kind of hardware?"

"Well, the chief feels your friends need to be brought in and help out with it."

"He actually wants them fighting in this?"

"It's either that, or he's ready to call the National Guard in and have them take them on, but that's going to bring a whole heap a shit down on us all."

"So, what's better? A whole heap of shit, or a heap of dead bodies?"

"Neither is good, JT, that's why Grant wants your guys in on it. All of them, whoever they are. He says to start phoning them up and getting them on board with this."

"My guys aren't soldiers, Wayne. They're guys like us, that just want to make ends meet and have a life. You're asking me to put them in the middle of a fucking war, for crying out loud."

"I know, JT, but what else choice we got?"

JT couldn't reply with an answer, nothing at all coming to him to counter the inevitable. He looked at Wayne and saw the pleading to agree to his suggestions, then at his club and the faces of desperation on them. If he didn't call in everyone, they faced a deadly battle with the Disciples and they were outgunned and out-manned by them. 

"Okay, I'll start making calls, but you better make sure your guys are prepared to fight, because these fuckers are gung-ho on taking this to the end and that means a lot of blood and bullets."

"I know, everyone knows. Our hands are tied by the law, JT. We can't act until they do something and then it's too late. Your people can act ahead of time, because they haven't sworn an oath like we have. You want to go at these bastards, you got everyone's blessing. No one is going to come at you for it."

"This is fucked up. I have to wage a war against assholes who can't abide by the law and the law can't help me, until they start killing us."

Wayne couldn't rebuke the statement, knowing it was the truth. He saw the frustration and helplessness in JT's eyes and felt for him, knowing the decisions being forced on him to make. One small act of civil kindness, in dealing with an issue, had turned into a full-scale battle for him. Wayne knew enough not to say anymore and excused himself to get back on duty. JT went up and let him out, but couldn't find words to say, just a look in their eyes that said lives were in the balance and they needed to prepare to say goodbye to some of them.

In Stockton, Stink and some of the others, loaded the guns into the trunk of a Plymouth Belvedere, closing it and leaving his hands on the trunk lid. He looked at the members and saw the faces of his men acknowledging their devotion to carrying this through. He slammed his palms on the trunk lid and knew he had revenge, worthy of what the Sons of Anarchy needed for interfering with them. It was time to play war like soldiers and not like bikers. The losses were heavy, but they weren't going unavenged in them.

Walter sat in his truck and blew the horn, wondering why the gate was locked. Moon came out to open it and let him in, Walter driving by with a confused look on his face.

"What's going on, Moon? Why is the gate locked?"

"Trouble, Walter. Just keeping us a safe from it as best I can."

"What trouble is that?"

"You might as well come in and sit down and let me explain the whole thing to you."

Walter followed Moon inside and they poured coffees for themselves, then sat on the porch together. Moon began explaining how everything happened and what was on their plate to deal with now. Walter shook his head, partly in disbelief, partly in disgust. He was shocked to hear what was happening in the world, outside his territory of knowledge and sat in wonderment at what had happened to change the way people behaved. 

"They better not show their faces around here. People don't take kindly to those going ons in their back yards."

"Walter, I couldn't agree with you more. All we want is to live peaceful lives and enjoy what nature provides us. I told the club they couldn't live here anymore, because they were bringing too much trouble our way, but the others voted me down and said they could stay."

"Well, it ain't their fault, Moon. Not from what you told me anyway. They're good boys and don't mean anyone any harm. You can't blame them for it happening, those other guys are doing all the trouble causing."

"I just thought, if we remove the source of the trouble, it wouldn't come here and get anyone hurt. I don't see any other way."

"I know you care about everyone and only want what's best for them, but the guys want the same thing. I never once heard them talking like they want trouble and I sure don't think they go looking for it. Just happened to them and they are doing what they can to end it. Where are they now?"

"They're back in Charming again. They were here earlier and then the Deputy Chief showed up and then they left not long after. They agreed to stay there, at least until the danger is over and then they'll be able to come back and stay here. I'm just scared, Walter. I see what guns do and we're sitting ducks out here."

"No guns, eh?"

"Of course not. You know the rules here."

"Yeah, leaves you in a bad situation all right. Well I got a shotgun and my hunting rifle, so I can keep watch on things and make sure they know this place ain't such an easy target."

"Walter no, I don't want you getting involved in all this."

"I'm already involved, son. That little girl in there is like my daughter and I'd go to my grave happy, knowing I did everything to keep her safe."

"I know, but we can't ask you to do this."

"No one is asking, I'm telling. I'm coming by later tonight and bringing my guns. I'll keep watch on things and make sure no one comes knocking, that isn't supposed to."

Moon saw that anything he said, wouldn't change Walter's mind, a small part of him glad that he wouldn't. His objections to guns was firm, but at this point in time, he was glad somebody he trusted had some.

"Okay, but I don't want you taking any risks. Just warn us and we'll head to safety, make sure no one is involved in any shooting."

"I won't, but I won't hesitate to shoot, if I see trouble happening."

"Oh God, Walter, I hope not."

"First time I heard his name used since I met you folks."

"Who's that?"

"The Great One upstairs, the one who made all this."

Moon realized what he had said and who he spoke of. He had turned against religion of any kind, the hypocrisy of it turning them against any of their teachings. Many had grown up with different faiths as children, but they were all found to be the same, once they came down to it. They practised the basic principles and tenets of treating their fellow man, but any relation to religion ended there.

"Do you think God wants this to happen, Walter?"

"Don't know. Don't know why he let's a lot of things happen, but there's always a reason for it."

"Please, explain what the reason for this is to me, because I can't see how it helps us in any way."

"Can't answer that, Moon. Same as I had to come to terms with Lindsay and Eloise getting put in a home. Same as my Jessie leaving me. Just things we have to understand, that it's all part of life."

"I just can't believe that, Walter. It just makes no sense."

"Not much does these days."

Moon heard that and knew Walter was right. The world was in a state of flux, one that was swinging wildly in all directions. It could stop anywhere it wanted and no one had any idea of what they would be left with to live by. The idea of it being like this, a constant state of threat, was one he couldn't bear to think of living.

Moon and Walter sat for a while longer, sipping on the coffee and just looking at nature in its glory before them. It seemed so strange to think that such beauty could hold the elements of danger in it, but it did.

Otto lay on the clubhouse roof, looking through the scope for any signs of movement. He was back in his element, the soldier he once was, now back in service and following orders. He began moving the scope around, continually checking every possible source of attack. He looked at the hydro towers and scanned each one thoroughly from top to bottom, then moved around to check the building and streets behind them. As calm and serene as the setting was, he remained alert and attentive to his duties.

The trap door opened and Keith came up with one of the M60 machine guns, then Lenny was pushing a box of ammo for it out the top. Keith grabbed it and helped Lenny onto the roof and then the three of them surveyed the roof and the best place to set up the gun. The roof was curved and had very little flat space to work on. The front was the most heavily protected, by them and the police, so the back end was chosen to guard with automatic fire.

Stink and three others waited for the Stockton watchdogs to trail their members on bikes, letting them get far enough away, before he started the Plymouth and drove north out of Stockton, the cover of darkness aiding them in leaving undetected. They were taking the longest way to get to Calaveras, but the trip was enjoyed with talk of the killing they would be doing.

Dinner at the farm was eaten without any words spoken, the uneasy feelings still present between Moon and the rest. Walter sat silent, knowing it wasn't his place to interfere in their business, then took some good scraps of meat and food out to his dog, Chase. The old hound dog was wagging his tail happily at the treat offered and gobbled down the plate of food. He looked at Walter for any more and Walter took a nice bone out of his pocket and handed it to him. Chase took it gently from his hand and made his way to a comfy spot to gnaw on it. He looked back at the house and the people inside, then headed to his truck and took his rifle and shotgun from the rack behind the seat. 




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 09



He sat and watched the sun go down, the final slivers of light fading into darkness, as he loaded both guns and pocketed ammunition for both. He reflected on his time in the war and the horrors he'd faced, knowing what he'd seen, wasn't something he wanted the gentle people inside to ever have to face. He set himself up comfortably, relaxing and letting his meal digest, but the underlying tension made his stomach growl with unrest.

10th line was deserted, not a vehicle to be seen for miles, as the Plymouth pulled to a quiet stop about a mile down the road from the farm. The trunk was opened and the guns brought out, then Stink closed it quietly, not wanting to disturb the peacefulness and alert anyone to their presence.

The girls had decided on taking baths to relax and take their minds off the trouble. With only three tubs, they decided to go in pairs, the first six taking turns washing their partner and then switching. Marlene had cut up straws so they could draw them and pick partners. Short straws went first, the long ones after. They each picked one and then saw who was going first. 

Marlene, Suzy, Poppy, Azure, Gloria and Cindy got to go first, so they began filling the tubs with water, while Marlene cut two more straws at a different length to decide who were partners. Marlene held them up so they looked even and they picked one each. Marlene and Suzy were paired up, while Poppy was with Gloria and Cindy and Azure shared the last tub. The first six went into the bathroom and began undressing, the first ones to bathe, getting in the tubs. 

The other girls went up stairs, along with the guys and decided on a hookah of hash to enjoy while they waited. Moon tried to ease up and apologized to everyone about his decision, but they wouldn't let him explain and assured him they still loved and respected him. He took the love presented and tried to let the trouble go out of his head, as the euphoria of the hash did it's best to help him.

Chase was finished with his bone and laid down by Walter's feet, finding it easy to go to sleep there. Walter was leaning back in the chair against an oak tree, his shotgun laid across his lap. He had closed his eyes, not to sleep, but to remember times past and people no longer with them. Despite his need to be alert, he faded into sleep and the world disappeared.

Silent footsteps made their way onto the property, keeping as quiet as they could, to not arouse any suspicions they were there. Walter continued to sit as he was, unaware of the bikers now fifty feet away and looking at him. With his hearing not as good as it used to be, he had no idea of the man standing feet away with a rifle butt ready to smash the side of his head. Chase opened his eyes, finally smelling the strangeness in the air. Walter stirred and moved to get up, but before he did, the rifle butt smashed the side of his head and sent him over sideways. Before Chase could manage a bark, the same butt came smashing onto his head. All that came out was a whimper of pain and the old dog went down hard.

The four moved in closer to the house, listening to the sounds inside to see where they might be and heard the girls in the bathroom enjoying themselves. They took positions to cover the ground floor and readied their weapons.

Marlene was sitting back, languishing in the attention Suzy was paying to her legs. The others were enjoying much the same treatments, as their partners bathed them with fragrant oils and loving hands. 

"I definitely love this. Suzy, you are just the best. I could stay in here until I'm wrinkly all over."

"Well, don't get too used to it, I want my turn soon."

"Oh Baby, I am going to treat you to a wonderful bath and maybe we can all enjoy some fun without the guys tonight. I'm in the mood for some wet tongues and hot kisses, how about you girls?"

They all agreed, having spent a good part of the day being with the guys and they had a chance to love one another the way only they knew how. Suzy took Marlene's foot and began sucking on her toes and Marlene sighed loudly, expressing herself openly to the attention given.

"Mmmmm, now that's what I'm talking about. Damn, Suzy, my pussy is already getting wet from that."

Suzy ran her tongue along her entire foot, from heel to toe, then sucked on her big toe like a cock. Marlene tilted her head back and groaned in bliss at what she did.

The first bullets shred the siding of the house like paper. One went through the back of Marlene's head and straight into Suzy's, killing them both instantly. Cindy was bathing Azure's breasts, enjoying the sensuality of her large mounds, when the bullets entered her body and sent her flying sideways. Azure sat up in shock and never felt the bullet enter the back of her head and remove most of her face. Poppy stood up to run and was cut down by the spray of machine gun fire and landed close to where Cindy was. Gloria ducked under the water in the tub, hearing and feeling the bullets hitting the tub. She held her breath as long as she could, terrified to come up for air and be shot dead. The dull sound of the bullets kept coming and she couldn't hold her breath any longer, finally having to breathe. She tried raising her head only enough to get her mouth out of the water and take a breath and went under again. She fought against screaming and crying out for help, knowing the entire place was under siege, bullets bouncing off the steel tub. 

Upstairs, the first bullets blasted them straight out of peaceful euphoria and right into the battle. Bullets were shot at every angle, hoping to find a body inside to hit. They quickly pulled mattresses off the beds and held them against the wall for protection, but the high powered projectiles tore straight through them and into the ceiling above. The girls screamed at the top of their lungs, as the barrage of gunfire kept going and going. 

The bikers reloaded twice and emptied every bullet they had into the house. The roar of blasts finally ended, the echoing refrain still heard in the distance. The bikers laughed at their accomplishments and lowered their weapons to their sides and turned away. They didn't see Walter standing beside the tree, his shotgun aimed at them. The first blast roared loudly and took Flash with it, sending him backwards several feet with a gaping hole in his stomach. The second took out Pigboy and did much the same to him. Stink raised his rifle, but had no ammunition left to fire. He threw the rifle down and reached behind him for his gun. Walter came out from behind the tree and walked up quickly, keeping the barrel trained on his head.

Stink looked up and saw him five feet away and the trigger clicking. The roar was the last thing he got to know of this world, as his head exploded in a shower of bone and grey matter. Walter pumped the action to load the last shell and pointed it at Frankie. The fear on his face was an exact contradiction to the face he had a moment ago, as he used the machine gun on the house. He dropped it and fell to his knees and pled to be spared. Walter just looked at him with pure hatred in his eyes, clearly seen in the dim light.

"God spares people, I don't."

The blast took his head off as well and then Walter dropped the shotgun and hobbled into the house. He called out to anyone, hoping someone was still alive inside. The sounds of moans was heard from up stairs, so Walter slowly made his way to where the sounds were coming from.

Blood was seen everywhere, where the bullets had tore through flesh and bone. Walter made his way through the mess of beds and furniture, trying to get to them. He found more dead than alive and started doing what he could to keep them alive. He tore clothes and used the strips as tourniquets and bandages, stopping the flow of blood from taking any more of his friends. 

He shifted a mattress and found two more girls under it and knew one was Golden. He gently picked her up and saw the gaping wound in the side of her head. He brushed the blood-soaked hair away from her face and held her to him, comforting her in grief. He looked around at the loss of life and the loss to himself and wailed loudly at the sky, screaming at God for an answer why.

Hours passed, before emergency personnel arrived and began taking care of the wounded. The sheriffs in Calaveras were beside themselves with the scene of carnage and mayhem committed. A call to Charming had Unser scrambling to his cruiser and racing to the clubhouse. He stopped at the gate and waited, then drove down with Wally and stopped by the door. The guys all came out, while Lenny, Otto and Keith stood on the roof above and listened.

"JT, there's been some trouble out at the farm. Just got a call from the sheriffs out there. It ain't good."



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 10



Chapter 10: King of Pain

JT couldn't believe what Unser had said, none of them could. They stood there in disbelief, hearing about the shooting at the farm. 

"We gotta go, now!"

That was all JT said and headed for his bike. The others made their way to theirs, Otto, Lenny and Keith all scrambling down the ladder and getting on their bikes. The heavy rumble of engines warming up was short-lived, as they rode past Wayne and sped off to Calaveras. Wayne jumped in his cruiser and even with the lights and siren going, he was hard-pressed to keep up to the club. Stop lights and stop signs were ignored, as the club blasted through town and out into the country.

Faces were long and held in suspense, as they wondered who had been hurt, or possibly killed in the shooting. By the time they got to 10th line, they could see the line of cars and other vehicles at the side of the road. They roared past the sheriff at the beginning of the lane and headed for the house. The gate had been broken off its hinges and lay on the ground, dozens of enforcement personnel were everywhere, scouring the ground and picking up any kind of evidence they could find.

The sheriffs saw the club and immediately stopped them as they got off their bikes and made for the house. Shock grew on every face, as they saw the bullet holes riddling the sides of the house everywhere. Bodies were coming out in bags and the club pushed part the sheriffs to see who they were. Unser finally pulled in and ran up to the sheriffs, who were starting to use force to subdue the club.

"Hey, hey, leave them alone. These are the guys I went and got. They live here and know these people."

The sheriffs eased up, but still prevented them from seeing who was in the body bags. The club strained to get past and once they were cleared, the sheriffs let them get to the coroner's van. The back of it was piled with body bags, one on top of the other. JT pushed the coroner's workers aside and looked at the bag hesitantly before opening it. The face came into view and it was Cindy lying there. Otto pushed his way in and saw her and screamed out his agony.

JT looked around, searching for any signs of Suzy and then began calling her name in vain. One sheriff came to him and put a hand on his shoulder.

"If you're looking for a girl, the only one left alive is in hospital. I don't know her name, but she's in critical condition and probably in surgery right now."

"What does she look like?"

JT was hoping the description would match Suzy's, but it wasn't. It sounded like Spirit from the description and JT's hopes sank at seeing her alive again. He became emotionally distraught, trying to come to grips with what was. The thought of Suzy being dead was unacceptable to him, denying it to himself that it could be so. He looked at Otto, completely lost in grief, as they loaded Cindy into the back of the van. 

Wayne stood there helplessly, knowing he couldn't do anything to stop the bleeding of the club's hearts over their loss. He looked at the house, casting his eyes upward to the bedroom he was just in hours before, enjoying himself with several of the girls. He himself was in shock and disbelief that the bikers had come after innocent people like this.

JT grabbed a sheriff and asked him where the bodies were going. He told them they were going to the high school in Calaveras, where they had room being set up to handle autopsies on the dead. His face cringed at the thought they would be cutting his constant, his soul mate apart, opening her up and destroying all that she was. 

"We gotta get to that high school before they do anything to our girls."

The sheriff understood and told his superior on site what he had to do and he led the club to the small hamlet southwest of them, about twenty five miles away. The club parked and ran inside, getting stopped once again by sheriffs overseeing the situation. The sheriff told them who they were and needed to identify the victims. They let them in and cautioned them on how to proceed. The guys walked up slowly to the line of body bags laying on the floor, as people hastily set up folding tables to serve as autopsy tables. 

One of the assistants from the coroners office knelt down and opened the first bag. He peeled it back to expose who was inside and Lenny screamed loudly, seeing Lorraine inside, bloodied to the point she almost wasn't recognizable. He identified her and knelt with her, placing his hand on the bag.

The assistant moved to the next one and Wally saw Azure's white hair. Her face was almost gone from the bullet's exit out her face. Tears came fast and he too wailed out in misery. One by one, the bags were opened and they knew the truth of what had happened. The bag with Suzy was opened and JT fell to his knees and wept like the rest, looking at the love of his life lying there. The large bore bullet had entered cleanly through her head, but little was left at the back. The echoing refrain of misery was all that could be heard, as the guys looked at their loved ones.

"Where did they take the ones who lived?"

"They're over in Charming at St. Thomas. They're the only ones equipped to deal with this kind of thing."

Wayne thanked the attendant and knelt with JT. 

"We need to let these guys do what they need to do, JT. There's people still alive and they're in Charming, I think it would be best to go there and do what we can for them."

JT's face was torn by emotion, his ability to think, or reason was gone. He looked at Wayne and felt him lifting him up. He turned his head to look at what remained of Suzy and watched them zip the bag closed again. Wayne gently tugged at him to move and eventually, JT took the first steps away from Suzy. When he got JT outside and sat him down, he went in and one by one, brought each member out to join JT. 

"I'm real sorry for the loss, I am. This ain't right and it's going to bring the heavies out to deal with it."

"What heavies?"

"The National Guard, JT. The chiefs said if innocents got hurt or killed, they were bringing them in."

"No way. These guys are not going down that easy. These fuckers are dying by our hands only."

The news was enough to stall the grief in them, for the power of revenge. Guys wiped away tears and steeled themselves from thinking any more on what they saw. It was over and nothing could bring them back. They got on their bikes and Wayne went to JT.

"I take it you ain't going to St Thomas, are you?"

"No, we're going to get what we need to finish these fuckers off once and for all. They don't deserve to live, not after this."

Wayne was at a loss to argue the point, feeling much the same way and rushed to his cruiser. He was going as fast as he could drive, trying to lead the club, but they passed him doing close to a hundred MPH, disobeying every rule of the road. Cars pulled to the sides and let them fly past them, Unser in close pursuit behind them. To the people seeing it, it looked like they were being chased, as every bit of roadway was used to get to Charming. Wayne followed them to the Holiday Inn and went to go inside with them, but JT told him to stay outside. 

Wayne knew they were going to talk to the guys that had done the hits and their identity was to be kept a secret. He waited by the bikes and ten minutes passed before they came out again and got on their bikes. 

"Wayne, stay here. You can't be a part of this."

"Where you going?"

"To finish this and make sure it doesn't happen again. You better call your friends in Stockton and let them know some more bodies are going to drop and leave us alone to do it."

Wayne understood and despite knowing how criminal their actions were, he couldn't bring himself to try and stop them. He saw two Cadillacs come from the parking lot with two guys in each one and knew they had to be who was doing the hits. He went to his cruiser and asked to be patched through to the sheriffs in Stockton.

"You guys have some visitors coming your way. Let them do what they need to do and this shit will finally be over."

"We called the National Guard already."

"Call them back and say it's being handled."

"I can't just call them off now."

Wayne quickly explained the recent events and the deaths, getting silence on the other end.

"Okay, we'll call them off, but this better not spill out onto the streets, or we'll take down whoever we have to to end this."

"Trust me. These guys are going to be quick and thorough about it. They don't want to waste anymore time on this."

"You better be right, D.C. Unser."

"I am. Just leave them be, like the chiefs said to."

Unser signed off and headed over to St Thomas. He wanted to know who was still alive and who could talk to him.

The club rolled into the same parking lot they had used before, when they first met Jimmy. They parked the bikes and the trunks of the cars were opened. The bazooka and shells were taken out, along with the assault rifles. The mobsters sat up front, while JT and Lenny sat in the back, preparing the M60. In the other one, Otto and Chico readied the bazooka for firing and once ready, the cars pulled out with the rest of the club riding behind them. 

They drove down the street the Disciples clubhouse was on and saw all the bikes outside and knew they were inside celebrating the hit. They drove down in the cars and turned around, stopping several businesses down from it. The club was waiting at the top of the street and would race in once the action started. Sheriff's cruisers appeared on the scene, but held back and just observed what was in progress, stopping anyone from going down the street. 

Once all civilians were out of the area. JT motioned to go up slowly. Chico shouldered the bazooka and lined up the smashed window of the clubhouse in his sights. He pulled the trigger and the whoosh of the projectile went straight out the back window on the other side. The shell took only a second to pass through the window and explode inside into a fireball. JT pulled the bolt action and squeezed the trigger, sending a torrent of bullets screaming inside after it. Disciple members who ran out of the burning building, their clothes ablaze, were cut down almost in half, as JT kept firing at the door. The guys raced down and used the assault rifles to storm the building, taking out anyone left alive. Shots were fired from every window and door, leaving no means of escape from their wrath. 

Five minutes of attack passed and the guns stopped firing, leaving an eerie deadness in the air. The smell of cordite and gunpowder wafted about the scene, as the guys drew pistols and went inside, shooting any of them in the head, if they were still alive. They tucked their guns inside their cuts and headed back to the cars and bikes. They slowly drove away from the scene, passing the sheriffs and received nods from them, acknowledging their thanks in dealing with it and not causing any collateral damage. A distinct look of fear was on every one of their faces, seeing the ruthless killing done by them.

The drive back to Charming seemed unreal, knowing what they had back there was more or less over. What they had established themselves as, would no longer thought of by people. The cars pulled around back and the mobsters wasted no time in packing up and checking out. They knew their stay in Charming was over and so was their mission. The four expressed their own sadness and condolences to the club, doing what they could before leaving. The club thanked them for all they did and said they'd be in touch with Gianni and let him know about Marlene.

Luigi assured JT that they would still be mentioned in the highest regard to Gianni, for all that they did for them. The club and the mobsters hugged and said their goodbyes, as they got in their cars and pulled away, ending a brutal chapter in their lives.

The call came to head to the hospital and deal with the living, so they did a slow cruise through town, getting looks of disbelief from people. They couldn't understand what had happened in their town and wondered what the Sons of Anarchy had to do with it. JT and Lenny stopped and looked at the spot in the parking lot, where days before, they were looking at death in the face. Walking into emergency, they asked about the people who were brought in from Calaveras. The nurse looked at the sign in chart and read off the names. Moon and Spirit had survived and were in recovery, while Star was still in surgery and the outcome wasn't positive from the initial assessment. Walter was in a ward, with severe head wounds and was resting comfortably.

They headed in to see Walter, hoping he could shed some light on what had happened. They let JT and Piney go in only, while the rest waited in the waiting area. They opened the door slowly, peeking their heads in and saw he was awake, his turned and looking out the window. They went in and Walter turned to look at them. His face crumbled instantly into despair, the pain of his loss still consuming him.

"Walter, how are you? We heard you were whacked in the head, or something."

Walter fought back the tears and the hitching in his breath, as the guys came in and stood on either side of him.

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry, boys."

"I know Walter, so are we. This should never have happened."

"I know, it's all my fault. Should have been paying more attention."

"What do you mean, Walter?"

"I told Moon I would stand watch and make sure no one came on the property. I dozed off or something and then before I knew it, I had my lights turned off by a gun butt. They shot them all, JT, every one of them. My little girl is gone, she's gone and this time I'll never see her again."

Walter's face squeezed tightly, as he began sobbing hard, remembering the loss all over again. The guys laid a hand on him and let him get past it. Walter steadied himself again and got his emotions in check.

"I heard it was you that took out the four shooters, then went in and began rescuing who was inside. Walter, you saved lives and that's a great thing you did. If it wasn't for you, no one would have survived."

"I couldn't do a thing for her, boys, not a thing. She looked to me for safety and security and I let her down. Shit, they even killed old Chase, smashed his head in, they did. I lost everything I truly loved and cared for, I got nothing now."

"You still have us, Walter. We're still your friends."

Walter looked at them both and held their hands tightly, securing a bit of peace to his troubled heart. 

"You boys lost your girls too, didn't you?"

"Mary's okay. She was staying with my folks in Charming when it happened. Christ, she doesn't know yet."

Piney's realization had him thinking on how to tell her the news, while JT stood looking at Walter, sharing in the grief.

"I did lose her, Walter. I lost the best girl I ever knew. We lost the best people we ever knew."

Tears came to them all, the vivid memories of times just past, coming at them hard. Acceptance was difficult, coming to terms with such a horrific loss of life. 

"What about the rest of those guys? They still after you?"

"No, it's done, Walter. We finished them off, every single last one. We wiped the name Satan's Disciples off the map."

The news gave Walter a modicum of satisfaction, that some sort of justice was done. He stiffened his lips against the sorrow and looked at both guys squarely.

"I need to get out of here and take care of Christi. Got to see she gets a proper burial and such."

"Don't worry, Walter, she will. We have to make arrangements for all of them. The cops are calling all their families and we're going to see the folks at Dubrowski's and have it done right. Christi will have a good ceremony, all of them will."

"Thanks. Thanks for coming boys. You best get going and deal with what you got to. I'll be here a while yet I'm told."

"We'll be in to see you soon, Walter. You just get better and we'll help you take care of things."

"You boys could do me a big favour."

"What is it, Walter?"

"Find out what they did with Chase and take him home and give a good place to rest at my place."

"For sure. I'll get on that right away."

"It would ease my heart a might better, knowing he was where he's supposed to be."

"We'll make him a nice resting spot. Anywhere you think would be good?"

"There's a big oak tree beside the house, I'd like it if he was there someplace."

"We'll make it happen, promise."

"Thank you boys, thank you and bless you all."

Walter squeezed their hands as he spoke, confirming to himself that respect would be paid on his behalf. 

"You just get better soon, okay Walter."

He nodded, but they could see there was little commitment to it and worried about him. Walter turned his head away and looked out the window again, looking just as he had when they came in. The guys left and told the others what they had heard and the request. No one denied the importance of the request and it became a priority to accomplish. Piney pulled JT aside and told him he had to go to his parents.

"Shit, Piney. You want us to come with you?"

"No, I'll be okay, just going to be hard telling them."

"Yeah, not something you can just say in passing. Look, you hang back with your folks and be with them. They'll want you there, just to know you're safe."

"Yeah, mom won't let go of me and will want to tie my ass to the bed or something."

That made them both chuckle a bit and lessened the heaviness of their hearts some.

"Okay, we'll come by after we take care of Chase. We'll come back here and see how Moon and Spirit are doing later."

"Okay, take care riding."

"We will, brother, we will."

JT and the club started to leave and Piney called to JT. He came back and looked at Piney's face, struggling with something to say.

"What is it, Piney?"

"I think you should be the one to write to Clay and let him know about Poppy. You have a way with words and all and he's closer to you than the rest of us."

"Shit."

JT realized he had completely forgotten about Clay and nodded his head.

"Thanks Piney, yeah, I'll see what I can come up with."

Piney patted his shoulder, comforting him as he turned and walked outside again. The guys sat on their bikes and before they started, Lenny asked JT what it was Piney had said.

"Reminded me that I have to tell Clay about Poppy."

"Oh shit. The poor guy. He loses his grandad, Jake and now he's lost the one person in his life that meant something to him."

"Yeah. How do I write and break that news to him gently?"

"We'll think of something. He's a brother and we stick by our brothers, always."

"Yeah. We do. Let's go see about helping Walter now and put one thing to rest, out of this whole fucking mess."

The bikes roared to life and pulled out of the parking lot. Faces showed the knowledge of loss, as they rode through town. News travelled fast and they had heard of the tragic loss of life and the ones no longer with them. They pulled into Charming P.D. and JT asked for Wayne to come and see them. The desk sergeant rang Unser's office and he came out, seeing the club and hurried down.

"Heard about what went down in Stockton, you guys okay?"

"Yeah, we're whole, Wayne. Look, I need to ask a bit of a favour. Can you get a hold of the sheriffs in Calaveras and find out what they did with Walter's dog, Chase? He wants us to take him to his farm and bury him there, lay him to rest in a nice spot."

"Yeah, sure, I can do that."

Unser went to the sergeant and told him to get a hold of the Calaveras sheriffs, then came back.

"Anything else I can do? You guys are going to need a lot of help and the chief says we should do what we can. I don't need him telling me that, but just so's you know."

"Thanks, Wayne. Right now, I don't know shit about what to do. This is just the first step."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 10



"Deputy Chief, Calaveras on the line."

Wayne excused himself and took the phone. He had a short conversation and hung up.

"They got the dog in a freezer at the vet's. They're holding him there."

"Thanks Wayne. We're going to take care of that first and then we'll be back. Any shit come your way over what we did?"

"Actually, they think I'm a fucking hero. All this shit is done and we came away clean. Stockton is dealing with the bodies and such out there, Calaveras is dealing with the ones in their area, so we have nothing landing on our doorstep."

"Well, that's a bit of good news. Bad enough we had to deal with it, without you getting involved more than you were."

"Can't disagree with you there, JT. No one was looking for a gun battle on our streets."

"Yeah, I'm glad that never happened. Okay, we're on our way there. Let us know if there's any changes, when we get back."

"I will. Take care, okay."

"You too."

Sombre faces walked rode out of the station and on to Calaveras, where the first of many holes would be dug, to lay to rest the loved ones of the tragedy. Wally drove his Chev and brought blankets to wrap Chase in. The vet was a bit surprised to see so many bikers enter his place and asked what he could do for them.

"We were told that you have a dog here, he was killed in last night's shooting. Name is Chase."

"Yes, he's here. Walter send you?"

"Yeah, he's a friend of ours. He's in the hospital and asked us to take him and bury him at his place."

"Walter is going to be okay, is he?"

"You know him?"

"Oh yes. I look after his herd. I saw Chase come in and it broke my heart to see what they did to him."

"How did he die?"

"They smashed his skull with a gun butt from what I can see. Poor fella died in seconds after. At least he didn't suffer much."

"Yeah, guess that's a good thing. Can't say the same for Walter. He's taking it all pretty hard."

"Yeah, guess he would be. Chase and him were together a lot of years."

"So, can we take him home now?"

"Yeah, yeah, come on around back and we'll get him loaded up for you."

Wally went out and drove around the back of the building, while the others followed the vet into the back. The vet opened the freezer and Chase was lying there, a sheen of frost covering him. Blood stains ran from his head, down his brown coat, marking his injuries. It saddened them to see him like that and reached into the freezer and lifted him out carefully. They laid him on the blanket and wrapped him in it, swaddling him like a baby. They carried him to the back seat of the car and gently laid him down. They closed the door and thanked the vet for all he could do and he had them sign for the body and sadly said goodbye. 

The repercussions were fanning out like ripples in a pond, as the killings became public knowledge. It seemed to affect everyone, even if they never knew any of those involved. Those who were closer to it, felt the impact harder, having come to enjoy the club and having them in town.

The ride out to Walter's farm was more like a funeral procession, as the guys rode down 12th line. Many of the farmers and others in the area, heard the bikes coming and went to see what was going on. Tractors and pick up trucks began pulling in behind them, eager to know some news about their friend and neighbour.

JT gave them all he knew about Walter and the commune, letting them know the outcome of the raid. Tears were running down faces of men, who usually showed no emotion to things, but this hit home too close and too hard for them. JT told them of Walter's wishes for Chase and where he wanted him buried. Men went to the shed where Walter kept his tools and brought back shovels to the spot JT picked out. 

They dug down and cleared out a good hole, so Chase could be laid flat out. The dogs in the trucks started howling as soon as Chase was brought out of the car and laid beside the hole. They sensed what was happening and whined out their own loss of him. JT was at a loss for words to say, so Henry Wiggins from the farm across the road, stood and said what was needed to say. The club picked up the four corners of the blanket and began carefully lowering the frozen stiff body into the ground.

Faces stared at it, the remorse of losing Chase wasn't as heartfelt, as the remorse of knowing one of their own had suffered such a loss. 

"You boys did right by Walter. He'll be right pleased to see this. Chase loved lying under this tree and he'll be happy knowing he's resting there. If I can ask, what's going to happen with the old MacDonald place?"

"Henry, I haven't got a clue what's going to happen with it. Golden... Christi was the owner and I guess her parents are going to get it now. They wanted it sold before, so I guess it'll be up for sale soon, I don't know."

"Oh yeah, those people. Never much liked them."

"I don't think anyone did, from what I heard."

"True. Not a body around here, didn't find them heartless, selfish people."

"Yeah, heard what they did and that was pretty low in anyone's book."

"No argument there. What are boys planning on doing now?"

"No idea, Henry. Right now, we're just trying to do what we can to put all this to rest and take care of everyone. As I'm seeing it, it's up to us to come up with all the money to bury them all properly and I don't think we even come close to it."

"Look, you boys need any help, or anything, you let us know. We take care of our own out here. Always have."

"That's real nice of you, Henry."

The others standing and listening, voiced their agreement to help, giving the seven men something to feel good about. As they stood talking, several took the shovels and began back filling the hole, finishing the deed for them.

"You guys wouldn't mind if we took off? We have some people in town to see and need to get so much done."

"No, no, you boys do what you have to, we'll finish up here. Just let us know what we can do to help."

"We will, thanks Henry, thanks to all of you for everything you're doing, Walter will be happy knowing this is done and give him at least a bit of peace. I feel so bad for him."

"Yeah, loved that little girl. Talked about her like she was his own."

"She felt the same. Treated Walter like her own family."

"Yeah, gonna miss her."

"We all will."

JT and the others shook hands with everyone and cracked the solemn air with the sound of their bikes. They pulled around and headed out of the farm, making their way back to Charming. The faces watched them go, voices quietly wishing them well on their journey.

Charming was cast in a pall, the news coming to them and the people talking about it openly on the street. Hats were taken off heads as they passed, the club acknowledging the respect shown. They made their way to the clubhouse and sat in silence, each reflecting on their loss. The speaker blared out the ringing of the phone and JT ran over to get it.

"Hello."

"JT, it's Art. I just got the news. Is everyone alright?"

"The club is whole, but almost everyone in the commune was killed."

"Oh my God, no. Everyone?"

"Walter took a real bad hit to the head, Moon and Spirit are out of surgery and no one's sure if Star will pull through."

"Jesus fucking Christ. What the hell happened?"

JT was stunned to hear Art's use of language.

"You know we were having trouble with the Disciples, right? 

"Yes, I heard."

"We thought they were pretty well finished after the last attack on them, most of them dead, or unable to ride. We found out they had some heavy guns come in and were planning a raid. We were locked down here and had everyone keeping an eye out for them. No one even knew they knew where we lived out there. They opened fire with assault rifles and machine guns and tore the place up with bullets. No one stood a chance. It was a slaughter house."

"Suzy?"

"Gone. Bullet right through her face. Went through Marlene first and into her."

"Mar too?"

"Afraid so Art. Gone, all of them, wiped out in ten minutes."

JT could hear Art cursing under his breath, coming to grips with it himself.

"So what happens now?"

"Now? We start burying everyone, Art. Nothing left to do."

"JT, I'm so sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Yeah, empty the bank of all our money and hopefully we can put them all to rest with some decency."

"Don't worry about that, JT, I can help you there. I'll talk to some people and see what we can put together."

"Art, I remember how much it cost for my mom and Jake when I buried them. This is tens of thousands we're talking about here."

"I know, just leave that to me, okay?"

"If you say so, Art. Look, I have to start making some calls and let people know what's happened. They need to know and I sure as hell hate to be the one to have to tell them."

"I don't envy you there, JT, that's a hard row to hoe."

"Tell me about it. Okay, you start doing what you need to do and I'll get busy making people's lives shitty."

"Okay JT. I'll be in touch shortly."

"Okay and Art, thanks, really. I appreciate anything you can do to help."

"I gave you my word, didn't I?"

"Yes you did and I can't tell you how much that means to me right now."

"I can imagine. Take care son."

The phone clicked off and JT hesitated making his next call. He took the slip of paper out of his wallet and looked at the number and dialled.

"Cacuzza Enterprises."

"Hi, it's JT, I need to speak to Gianni right away."

"Okay, one second, hang on."

The line clicked and Gianni answered.

"JT, what's up my boy? Everything settled?"

"Yeah, I guess. Look, Gianni, I have some bad news to tell you."

"I hate bad news, but tell me what it is."

"It's Mar, she was killed last night in that raid on the farm."

"What? Mar is dead? How?"

"Those assholes went out to the farm to get us and we didn't even know they knew about it. They came with machine guns and rifles and shot the place up bad. Only four survived and one is clinging to life as we speak."

Silence was all that JT heard, as Gianni took the news in.

"Everyone else is dead, even your girl?"

"Yes. Bullet went right through Mar and took Suzy out as well. One girl, Gloria, she tried holding her breath in the tub and was so afraid to come up, she drowned. It's all fucked up out here, Gianni. I just had to call you and let you know about Mar."

"I will see you soon. I'm coming out there and see to this personally. This is a very bad thing, very bad."

"The worst, Gianni. I don't think it gets any badder than this, at least I hope not."

"Did my guys do their job like they were supposed to?"

"Oh yeah, they were awesome. Even the two chiefs decided to let them do their thing and left them alone to do it."

"Good, that's good. Look, you guys do what you have to do, I'll be there tomorrow and start handling things for you."

"Oh Gianni, I could use all the help I can get right now."

"I'm sure you do. Take care my friend and I will have Jimmy accompany me as well. We need to take care of things, so they can get back to normal."

"Normal is not something I see happening, not after this."

"Do not worry, JT, we'll make it so it feels that way, as best we can."

"Thanks Gianni, I don't have a clue on what to even start doing."

"See you about this time tomorrow, JT. Take care my friend."

"You too, Gianni. Thanks again and sorry to have to tell you the news."

"That's okay, someone had to and I'm glad it was you and not some fucking cop."

"Yeah, okay. See you tomorrow."

"Ciao JT."

JT hung up and sighed deeply, the worst phone call over with and thought on the next. He tried to think of how to get a hold of Free and his people, knowing they had to know what happened to the commune. Everything had gone shit side up on him. Nothing of what it was a year ago, was happening now. Their desire to be an honest club that just rode together, had turned into a club that was no different than the other ones people despised. Crime had tainted them and made sure the stain was permanent. There was no chance of going back and starting over, it was what it was and dealing with it was all they could do.

JT hung his head in his hands and wept. The tears poured easily from him, the loss of loved ones and the loss of a dream tore at his soul. He felt all the blame landing on his shoulders, to bear the weight of that burden and it was more than he could take. Too much had been lost, too much taken away. He was left with an emptiness inside and the only thing willing to fill it, was regrets. Regrets about his decisions, regrets about actions taken, regrets about lives ruined.

Piney pulled into his parent's driveway and stopped his bike. Despite objections from everyone to riding, his stern face and determined will to deal with whatever pain he had, told them he would ride, or die. He got off and rubbed his shoulder area, the ache of holding the throttle and steering, giving him a cramp he had to work out. Mary dashed from the door, racing to him, holding her large breasts from bouncing around too much.

"Piney, Piney we heard it on the news. What happened? Who got hurt?"

He held Mary to him and comforted her, as he looked at the door and saw his parents, tears streaming down their faces. It tore at him to know he had to tell them almost everyone was dead, but in consolation, at least they already knew. Out on the street, people walking on the sidewalk passing by, stopped in surprise, as wails of agony came out of the Winston house.

No matter what part of Charming you lived in, the news struck a sad chord in every person's heart at the loss. Not a person had forgotten what the club had done for their town and its people, trying their best to keep trouble away and keeping it the town they had grown to love. Some remembered times together, meeting them and getting to know them. Small boys cried in their parent's arms, ones that the club had shown personal attention to and taken them for short rides in their laps. Four girlfriends gathered together and personally wept for the guys they spent one day of being lovers with. They felt like real women after being with them and gained the confidence to be who they wanted to be.

By the time the evening news came on, the events in Stockton came to them and nary a soul could deny who had done it, despite the newscaster saying they had no leads. It was done and in their hearts, they thanked the club once again for taking care of their town. 

The chief was talking to the mayor and they both agreed that a terrible loss had occurred Neither could deny the cost paid by the club, was of their own doing and felt the need to repay them in kind for it. They hung up and calls were made by both of them, their decision beginning to reach out and be put in place.

JT woke from an uneasy sleep, nightmares haunting him throughout the night. He walked to the shower naked, not caring about his state. He felt the hot water soak him and begin to wash away the horror. He let himself go, urinating on his own feet, as he leaned against the wall for support. Every second seemed to add to the misery of loss, as he knew their time was growing farther apart. Another memory, another moment in time to remember. More and more kept adding up and he wondered if it was possible to remember them all. That gave him a moment to think and he wanted to go back to the farm and find all the pictures he could. He had no idea if the house would remain standing after a strong wind, the framework so badly damaged. 

He sat at the table silently, the rest of the club taking turns getting washed. Chico put a plate of eggs and toast in front of him and a coffee to the side. He patted his shoulder and JT smiled woefully at him in thanks. He thought of Marietta out at Berkeley and if she had heard about it all. At least some of the people survived. He thought of Star on life support, holding on to whatever threads remained between here and there. Life and death were so close together. He used to think of them at vast distances, but events had changed his perception. They seemed to go hand in hand at times now.

He had everyone gather around and told them of the need to go to the farm to collect what they could. Wally patted his bike and got in the Chevy, knowing it was the vehicle of preference for their needs. JT saw the waves and recognition to them, looks of sympathy clearly on everyone's faces. All them of them seemed to want them to know they were with them, sharing in their pain. The hearts of the club members felt a surge in spirit, feeling the love being shown. 

Love, how beautiful a feeling to enjoy. JT remembered feeling it with Suzy. How he felt at one with her, someone who cared about him and his happiness. He loved making her happy, his heart felt so much better when he saw how happy she was, her smile bright and wide on her face. Love, just another memory now.

They pulled down the lane and a sheriff was there in his cruiser and got out. 

"You must be the club that was involved."

"Yeah, we are. We're just here to pick up a few things. Pictures and stuff like that. Make sure no one comes and takes it from us."

The sheriff nodded, knowing how many friends they had lost.

"Sure, just be careful, not sure how safe it is to walk around. Hey, I just wanted to say sorry and express my condolences to you. This was a tragic loss for you all, I can well imagine. I heard through the grapevine how things went down after, good for you. Bastards deserved what they got and more. I have a daughter about their age myself. I'd be looking to put a serious hurt on them too, if it was her they got. You guys take your time, I'll make sure no one bothers you."

"Hey that's real nice of you, thanks sheriff."

Just then, Tinkerbell came out of the barn, hearing the voices she knew. The guys looked at her eyes and they knew she had felt the loss as well. She came over slowly, nudging at the guys with her head, like she was taking stock of who was left in her herd.

"What you going to do with her?"

"Don't really know, Sheriff.?"

"I can go over and see if one of the farmers over by Walt's can come look after her."

"Hey, do you know Henry Wiggins? He lives across the street."

"Oh yeah, I know Hank. You think he'd take her?"

"Yeah, I'm sure. He said he was going to look after Walter's stock for him, until he was better."

"Then I'll head over there now and talk to him. I could hear her mooing in the barn and she sounded sad. She seems to like you guys."

"Oh yeah, she's sort of like the family pet. We let her roam around freely and do her thing. She doesn't go far, because she loves being with us. Gives the sweetest milk too."

"Yeah, I heard they do that when they're happy cows."

"She's a happy cow alright, well, used to be. Not sure how sweet her milk will be now. She's going to miss the girls and sitting with them in the circle."

"The circle?"

"Oh, it was a circle of love they used to do over there in that circle of daisies, just over there."

"Oh yeah, I see it. Sat and did some love thing, did they?"

"Yeah. They would sit and meditate on love and bring it here and surround us with it. It worked, asked any of the guys."

The sheriff looked at the other members and they were nodding and agreeing with him.

"No kidding? That's one of those hippie things they do these days, isn't it?"

"You could call it that, but it's just people getting together and wishing nothing but peace and love to be with everyone."

"Yeah, not such a bad thing. Don't know much about that stuff, just what I see on the news. Make them out to be radicals and troublemakers, but from what you're saying, sounds like the opposite."

"Just have to get to know people, before you judge them, I guess."

The Sheriff looked at the club and realized they didn't hold true to the image the media created about them.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 10



"Yeah, got a point there. Okay, I'll get around to Hank's and let him know about this cow."

"Oh, her name is Tinkerbell, she likes being called that."

As a show of agreement, Tinkerbell shook her head and made her cowbell clang. 

"Okay, Tinkerbell. I'll let him know that."

The Sheriff backed out, the guys waving to him, then they walked with Tinkerbell to the house. 

"I guess you miss them like we do, don't you, Tink?"

Tinkerbell nudged against JT and mooed lowly, then stood at the steps, as the guys went inside. The place was a complete disaster zone, the bullets shredding the chairs and furniture, anything that stood in their path. Bullets had destroyed the case of albums, as well as the stereo, all of it in pieces on the floor. They went into the kitchen and every cupboard was shot, the contents of canned goods and their preserves that they made, dripping into sticky puddles on the counter. The floor held clues of someone dying, possibly two, so much blood now drying on the tiles.

They left the kitchen and went into the addition. The scene was too ghastly and gruesome to walk into. So much blood and brain tissue was splattered everywhere and they knew six of the girls had died there. Keith looked to the tub without blood and knew Gloria had drowned there, trying not to get shot. They left the bathroom, the image burned into their minds, as they went upstairs to collect what they could. They went into every room and gathered up anything of a personal nature and used a pillow case to put it in, keeping each person's belongs separate. Pictures were gathered, as well as paintings and artwork. Crafts of all kinds were brought down, adding to the list of memories. The flag that hung from the staircase was taken down, The sheet with a large Peace symbol painted over a pot leaf on top of the American flag, added to the significance of what the commune meant, was folded carefully. Posters were taken down and they went through the albums to see if any records were spared. The bullets had managed to go through every one and they tossed the crate down. 

They looked around at everything, seeing if there was anything else, then Chico came out with a couple of jars of preserves from the kitchen.

"Still got some of these. Four more in the bottom cupboard."

Otto went in and grabbed the jars and he and Chico shared the load. The hash and hookah went into a pillow case, as well as any pot or LSD they found. If anyone did a check now to see what went on, the commune would be spared any darkness to their memories. There was nothing left to take, everything gone over twice or more to make sure. They walked out and saw the Sheriff and Henry Wiggins trying to get Tinkerbell to go into the cattle hauler.

"Let me give you hand with her guys, hang on."

The guys loaded the stuff into the trunk and came over to them.

"She's not that easy to get her to do things. Let me try."

JT went and took Tinkerbell's collar, soothing her and talking to her softly. The cow nuzzled him, feeling safe with him.

"We have to take a ride, Tinkerbell. Come on, you'll like where we're going."

JT tugged gently to get her to move, then she followed him into the hauler and tied her up. He walked out and Henry closed the gate behind him.

"You made it look easy."

"She just likes to be treated gently and spoken to. Like I said, she's sort of the family pet, more than a cow. Better take the chickens, ducks and geese too. Don't want them to just be left behind. They're sort of like pets too."

"You sure do some strange things here, but they sure are good things."

"Yeah, that's kind of what it was all about, Henry."

"Say, call me Hank, all my friends do."

"Okay, Hank it is. So yeah, when you get her home, just talk nice and be gentle, she's been through a lot."

"Yeah guess you're right there on that. I'll be as gentle as I can, JT. I'll take extra good care of her."

"That's all I can ask for. Okay, we're about done here Sheriff and thanks again for all your help."

"My pleasure. You boys take care and hope to see you out this way some time."

"Maybe. Going to come and see Walter often, make sure he's okay, so we might see you there."

"That's real nice of you. I think he'll need all the help he can get, adjusting to everything."

"Yeah, we think so too. Alright, we're heading back now and see to more things that need doing."

Sad smiles were shared and handshakes given and accepted, then they rode away and back to Charming. The realization that would probably be their last run to the farm, started setting in, knowing there was nothing left to go there for. They pulled into the lot and rode down, then began unloading everything into the clubhouse. They were going through things, when a horn blew outside. They went out and saw the glossy, black Cadillac Fleetwood limo pulling up. The driver got out and opened the door and held it, then Gianni Cacuzza stepped out, followed by Jimmy. Jimmy immediately went to JT and hugged him, then introduced everyone.

"JT, this is my father, Gianni Cacuzza. Dad, this, is JT Teller."

"Gianni, a real pleasure to finally meet you."

JT held his hand out to him and Gianni looked at it. He stepped past it and took JT into his arms like his own son. 

"My boy, you have gone through too much. We are not here about our business arrangement, we are here to help you conclude your business. This, and I mean this, is a terrible thing to happen. You are like one of our own and we will take care of you as such. You are not to worry about the cost of anything, That will be taken care of. Whatever you decide to do with your people, we will see that it happens."

Gianni was as big as Marlene had described, but she had never mentioned how caring and loving a man he was. He couldn't believe he was hearing how they would be taken care of, the comfort of the man's hold of him, making him believe his words.

The show of kindness made JT get a bit weepy, his emotions still hard to keep in check.

"It is good to cry about these things, JT. No one can fault a man for showing his love of family like that."

"Thanks Gianni, thank you so much."

The two hugged strongly and then JT went to Jimmy and did the same.

"Hey, we're like brothers now. Told you, you'd make a good paisan. We will put this right again. Trust me, trust my father. When we say it will be so, it will be so."

They were just about to head into the clubhouse, when Unser came into the lot and drove up. He got out and looked at the well dressed men and knew they had to be mob related, but had no idea who they were.

"Wayne, what's up?"

"Just came to tell you, that Star is going to make it. He made it through the night and he's off that machine."

"Aw Wayne, that's great news. Thanks, Buddy."

"You're welcome, JT. So, are you going to introduce me to your friends?"

JT looked at Jimmy and Gianni, letting them decide to release their identities.

"You must be Deputy Chief Wayne Unser, am I correct?"

"Yeah."

"JT has spoken very highly of you to us. I'm Jimmy Cacuzza and this is my father, Gianni Cacuzza."

Wayne's mouth dropped open at knowing who he was standing with. The reputations of them was commonly known, but nothing of a personal nature was.

"A pleasure to meet you, Jimmy, Mr. Cacuzza."

"Please, call me Gianni. Would you care to join us? We were just going inside to talk about making arrangements."

Wayne was going to decline and then remembered what the chief was wanting to do.

"Yeah, yeah, I got something to share with you guys about that. Let me call in and let them know I'm here and staying for a bit."

Wayne went to the cruiser and radioed in, while the club led their guests inside. Gianni was given JT's chair and he sat beside Jimmy on the couch. Coffee and tea were offered, but declined, as Gianni made himself comfortable and lit a cigar. The pungent smoke filled the air, when Wayne came back in.

"Geez, that's a strong smell. I kinda like the smell of what you guys usually smoke."

"What is that, Deputy Chief Unser?"

"Oh hey, while we're here, just call me Wayne, makes it easier. The smoke I was talking about is the pot these guys like to do. Getting used to it, kinda."

"By all means, gentlemen, if you wish to partake, it's your house."

That made their faces perk up a bit, having a chance to mellow out a bit and tone down the agony inside. It didn't take long for nimble fingers to start rolling and passing out several joints. They lit them and passed them back and forth, getting looks from Gianni."

"You share them to smoke it?"

"Yeah, it's kind of what it's all about. It brings people together and we share with them and become friends. It's why they call it the Love Drug."

"Interesting. I myself am not overly fond of the aroma, but please, enjoy."

"Thanks Gianni. So, how are we handling the arrangements then?"

"Maybe I should go first here and let you know what's going on."

"By all means, Wayne, share with us your news."

"The chief and the mayor were talking last night and they feel it's the town's duty to help you guys, for what you done and all. They're putting something together to help you guys out with everything and taking care of everyone, proper like."

"Really? That's great. What do they want to do?"

"Not sure, but when I heard you was talking about arrangements and stuff, I thought I better tell you what's happening already."

"Still, that's really great, Wayne. This makes things easier to deal with. I'm still waiting to hear from the parents that have been told. You here from any of them yet?"

"Yes, Suzy's parents are in town and Lorraine's mom is coming in soon. Most of the others will be here tomorrow. Haven't been able to get too many of the commune's parents yet. It would help to know some real names.

"I can help you there. We had a big tell all night and shared their names with us."

"Great, great, I'll get those from you later. I believe Gianni was wanting to talk about his stuff, so I'll let him finish."

"Thank you, Wayne. Yes, as I was saying outside, whatever you need to have done, it will be done. Now, where is your best funeral parlour, I wish to make sure the best caskets are bought for these people."

"That would be Dubrowski's, they handled everything for Jake and my mom. They do a real good job."

"About your mother, I wish to express my condolences on her passing, I heard it wasn't so long ago that this happened."

"Yeah, last fall. Thanks Gianni, nice of you to mention her."

"A mother is a terrible thing to lose."

Wayne was totally amazed at who he was sitting with, hearing such heartfelt words and the generous benevolence towards the club. It seemed to contradict with all he thought he knew about them and what they were known for doing. It became a lesson in knowing who was on both sides and who were the real bad guys. They sat for an hour discussing things, reminiscing about some as well, then Gianni said they had to go and would be staying at the Holiday Inn. It seemed the mob enjoyed being there and wondered how often their hotel had played host to such people.

Unser left as well and the club enjoyed the quiet moments to relax into the blessings of the herb's power to calm the spirit. JT walked over to the office and sat at the desk. He knew he had to accomplish one more thing, but he was finding it hard to come up with words, without the emotions racing in to haunt him. He did his best to pull himself out of the depths of despair and took some blank paper from the drawer. He picked up a pen and looked at the blank sheet, then wrote two words and stopped. He looked at them and knew it would tear at him to continue writing and put the pen down and walked out of the office back to the clubhouse. The sheet would sit for two more days, before he picked up the pen and continued from, Dear Clay.



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 11



Ch.11        Goodbyes



Lenny grabbed the phone, as the guys worked on the compound, taking down all the extra enforcement measures they put up. 

"Can I speak with Mr. Teller?"

"Sorry, Ma'am, he's out right now, can I take a message?"

"Yes, when he comes in, could you have him call Dubrowski's Funeral Home. My name is Anna Dubrowski and he can ask for me when he calls."

"Hey, uh, Anna, he's on his way there now to talk to you folks."

"Oh, okay, I'll see him shortly then. Thank you."

"You're welcome. Goodbye."

Lenny hung up and looked at the phone, the coincidence of them calling, as JT was on his way to see them. He went back out and the guys asked who it was.

"That good looking chick from Dubrowski's, the owners daughter."

"Oh yeah? She's pretty hot looking, for a chick that messes around with dead people, I mean."

"Hey, she can mess with me anytime, Wally, dead or not."

The mention of the word dead had the thoughts of their loved ones come back and kill any thoughts of a sexual nature. The memories were still vivid and graphic in depiction in their minds, the open body bags leaving a horrifying impression in them. Anyone who had seen the results of the attack, were finding it hard to deal with the reality of the violence that occurred. 

JT pulled into Dubrowski's and went inside and announced to the staff behind the desk who he was. 

"Yes, Mr. Teller, Miss Dubrowski is expecting you. Let me page her and let her know you're here."

JT was surprised by that, not having called ahead to let them know he was coming in. He imagined that the news had forewarned them of what was coming and that was the reason. Anna came out looking very prim and proper, as well as sedate, in her navy blazer, white shirt and grey skirt. Despite her attire, it was hard pressed to disguise her figure and how good looking she was that way. Her blonde hair was wrapped tightly to her head and the lack of make up did nothing to take away from her beauty.

She ushered JT into her office and closed the door with a barely audible click. The common silence held in the place was an eerie feeling at the best of times, but it seemed to add to the atmosphere about her. She sat at her desk and smiled at JT and took out a file folder, containing many pages inside. 

"Before we get started, I wish to express my deepest sympathies at the recent loss of so many of your friends. All of us here have felt the loss."

"Thank you Miss Dubrowski, that's very nice of you to say."

"Please, you may call me Anna."

"And you may call me JT. Mr Teller seems weird to me."

They shook hands and the softness of her skin impressed JT.

"Before we get started, Anna, I have to ask, how did you know I was coming?"

"Actually, I didn't know you were coming in. I just called you about five minutes ago and a gentleman said you were coming in."

"Why were you calling me?"

"If you'll give me a moment to explain, I think I can answer any questions you may have."

"Please, go ahead then."

"I had several calls recently and they were all about taking care of the arrangements for your friends. One was from the mayor himself, telling us that city council was taking care of the cost, another from a Mr. Cacuzza, who also said he was paying for the cost and yet another, a Mr. Johannsen I believe, who said he represented a group of people who were willing to take care of the costs."

JT was stunned by the announcements.

"I know the first two, but I've never heard of the last one, Mr. ...."

"Johannsen."

"Yeah. Never heard his name before."

"He stated that he represented a group of citizens who were collecting money for this."

"Really? Wow, this really blows my mind, oh, sorry, it takes me by surprise."

"That's okay, JT. It seems many here in Charming are reaching out to assist in your time of need."

"All these people want to pay for everything?"

"Yes, it seems that way. This is why I called you and needed to talk to you about it."

"So, what should I do, Anna?"

"Frankly, I wouldn't worry about the cost of the arrangements and we can get down to the next part and decide how you would like to do it."

"You mean like caskets and services, like when I took care of my mom and Jake last year?"

"Yes. I know it's going to be quite the ordeal for you, to arrange for so many at the same time, so let's go through each one separately and I'll do my best to assist you in any way I can."

JT sat back in the chair and shook his head in disbelief. Yesterday seemed so daunting a task, thinking of the money needed to properly say goodbye and now he was told all he needed to do was come up with whatever his choice was for service.

"Anna, could I ask a big favour right now?"

"Of course, what is it?"

"Could we just hold off on choosing, until I've had a chance to talk to some people. They need to be in on this too. I don't think it should be up to me only, to say what should be done."

"That's quite understandable, JT, of course. Please, talk to whoever you need to and call me when you're ready. Oh, your friends were released to us and we have made arrangements to bring them here and do what we can to present them for you. I understand from the reports, that some will have to have a closed service, I'm so sorry about that."

"I understand, Anna. I know there's only so much you can do, to make them look okay."

"Yes, I'm afraid make up and embalming techniques can only do so much. I wish we could do more, but some of the damage was quite extensive and we're unable to do much to correct it."

"I saw what happened and I understand that. Thanks for doing what you can, I'm sure it'll make a difference to some of them, the others, well, not much you can do about that."

"No, like I said, there's only so much we can do. So please, take some time and talk this over with whoever you need to and give me a call. Here's my card and my direct line to contact me."

Anna held a card out for JT and saw how beautiful her hand was, the finely manicured nails shining from the clear coating on them. She placed it in his palm and held her hand in his for a moment, their eyes meeting and the compassion was sincere in them.

"You have my deepest sympathies, JT."

"Thanks, Anna. I...we all truly appreciate what you folks do."

"Thank you for the compliment, JT. My father believed in doing his best for loved ones and making their final moments here the best they can be,"

Her bright smile and the twinkle in her blue eyes, gave JT a sense of calm and serenity in an otherwise turbulent time. They rose and Anna walked him to the door and out to his bike.

"Give me a call when you're ready, JT and we'll do our best to follow your wishes."

JT found a smile hidden deep inside him and smiled back and nodded to her. He started up and headed back to the clubhouse, anxious to tell the guys the news. The gate was open wide, the feeling of 'normal' seeming to come back to things. The guys were inside, discussing how they thought their loved ones should be taken care of. When JT walked in, they stopped talking and wanted to know what went on at Dubrowski's.

"You guys are not, and I mean not, going to believe this."

JT's smile was disarming, letting them know something good had happened. 

"So what's got you all worked up?"

"Well, let me tell you, Tom. I was just at Dubrowski's, right?"

"Yeah."

"I was talking with Anna Dubrowski and she was telling me that everything is paid for, more than once."

"What do you mean more than once?"

"I know, Lenny, sounds crazy doesn't it, but get this. Gianni called them and said he'd cover the costs, we knew he was going to do something, so no big surprise, but then she tells me the mayor called and city council wants to pay for everything. If that isn't enough, some guy I don't even know called and said they were paying for things."

"You're shitting us."

"No fucking way I'm shitting you guys, it's true."

"What guy called?"

"Never heard of him, some Johannsen guy. Anna said he represented a group of concerned citizens."

The news had them shaking their heads in disbelief, that so many were reaching out to them and sharing in it all. 

"So what does this mean, that we don't have to pay anything for this ourselves?"

"I think it does, Otto. I think it means that whatever we want to do for them is going to get done and we won't have to worry how much it costs. Well, maybe, I don't know how much they're willing to pay, but I know Gianni is willing to cover a huge chunk of it and if the others are kicking in a few thousand here and there, we might not have anything to pay."

"Shit, this is great news, man. Fucking awesome."

"Yeah, it is, isn't it, Chico."

The guys sat back and began talking again about what kind of service they wanted for each of their loved ones, this time sparing no expense in their minds as to costs. JT listened to them and all that could be expressed, were the most loving of thoughts. The contradiction to everything was fracturing to him. Days before, they were fighting for their lives, killing with pure revenge and the greatest of malice towards the Disciples. Now, just in a short span of time, they were the greatest guys ever, so much thought to the respect of a life, their commitment to honouring their love of them.

Art pulled into the lot in his Studebaker and parked across from the clubhouse. He got out and looked around, noticing the bullet holes in the shop and the bus. He shook his head, the possibility any one of those holes could have been in a club member. He walked over to the door and knocked, catching a whiff of what was being smoked inside. He heard the door unlock and open, then smoke billowed out and engulfed him. He waved it away and JT had to laugh at the face he made because of it.

"Sorry Art, we were just discussing the arrangements and didn't realize we smoked so much."

"Smells different than the stuff we tried when we were younger."

"Oh yeah, Jake mentioned you guys tried it down in someplace, I don't remember."

"Santa Fe. Smelled like burning rope and didn't do much, but give me a headache."

"Yeah, Jake said something like that too. I guess they're growing better shit these days."

"Good name for it."

JT laughed at that, then Art decided it wasn't as smoky inside and went in. He received a warm welcome from everyone and they brought him a coffee, as they sat at the tables and at the bar.

"I heard you boys were talking about the arrangements and that's what I came about actually."

"Art, you're not going to believe this, but everything is paid for."

"Yes, I know. I told you to let me take care of it and I did. I called a friend of mine, Koleg Johannsen. We got the businessmen together and we raised twenty eight thousand dollars for you. That should help pay for a decent funeral for all of them."

"Oh, that's who Mr. Johannsen is, I was wondering."

"You know him?"

"No, but Anna Dubrowski does. She called here to have me come in and I was almost there when she did. She said he donated a lot of money. But get this Art, I heard the mayor called city council and they agreed to cover the cost as well."

"Oh JT, that's great, between what we raised and they cover, you can do up something special for them all."

"I'm not finished yet Art."

"What do you mean?"

"Guess who's in town?"

"I have no idea, JT, just tell me."

"Gianni and Jimmy Cacuzza."

"You're kidding? Both of them are here? Where?"

"At the Holiday Inn."

"Could have guessed. Hotel of choice."

JT could see how stunned Art was by the news.

"Art, he's agreed to pay for everything, too."

"Yeah, I can see him doing that."

"Yeah? Why?"

"You're in bed with him, JT. You do business together and that means you guys are a part of his family. He's taking care of you like that."

"Wow, never thought of it like that."

"Well start thinking of it like that. I told you boys what was happening if you joined up and Mar did too. You guys are in for life with them, you know that?"

"What, we can't stop doing business with them?"

"Correct. They're the mob, you guys. They exist to do business and they only way they can exist is to have those businesses make them money. Do you really think they'll just let you quit and walk away?"

The guys let that sink in and make them ponder their situation more. Doing what they were doing was their thing to begin with, but he realized how much profit was coming from Nevada. The runs were bringing in great cash flow, but stopping it looked like a bad thing to do and that didn't leave a good impression. Hardly a mind couldn't help but think of the four visitors that paid a visit and how efficient they were at handling problems for the Cacuzza's. They knew it was a bad thing to become a problem for them.

"Okay, Art, but nothing's wrong between us. Nothing's going to happen to start any trouble between us."

"Not now. You don't know what's going to happen down the road."

"No, but let's not talk about that right now. The fact is, we got a chance to really do something for everybody and we're thinking of things to do. Between all three, we can do something special, something to really show they meant something to us."

Art backed away from the mob talk and realized his visit was about helping with arrangements. 

"Well, you want something lasting, like their headstones. Caskets cost a fortune and just end up getting buried in the ground. Jeff Hilbourn makes monuments and headstones, go see him and he can help you design something for them. That's the one thing that will help everybody to remember them. That's my thoughts for it."

"Makes sense, Art. Maybe one big one to commemorate the commune, have all their names and something about them engraved on it."

"That is a great idea. Not sure where you can put it, but something can be worked out. I can call around and get the where's and why's of doing it."

"Thanks, Art."

"What have you boys thought up so far? Let's hear it."

They explained all their thoughts on what to do and Art made a list for each one. He made another list for the commemorative piece and some other things as well. He finished his coffee and thanked them, then he said he was going to start making calls to get things in motion. They all walked him outside to see him off and thank him for everything. Art hit the fresh air and breathed deeply.

"Damn, fresh air again."

"Didn't like that, I take it?"

Art made another face at them and that brought laughter out and the lightness of the moment made hearts that little less heavy feeling. As Art pulled away, the speaker blared out the phone ringing. JT jogged over and answered it and found Jimmy on the other end.

"Hey Jimmy, how are you?"

"Good, I am well thank you. My father sends you his regards."

"Tell him thanks, so I heard what he did already, tell him thanks for that too."

"You can tell him, yourself. He would like for you guys to come and sit down and share your wishes with him. Whatever you would like to do, he will take care of it. How does lunch sound? He said the guys told him Giovanni's is okay to eat at."

"Giovanni's for lunch sounds great. I recommend the angel hair pasta and marinara sauce and their cannolis are superb they said. They have a great Chianti too."

"Whoa, look at you, fucking paisan talking food here with me. I will personally select the meal and give you my opinion on how they cook. You tasted mama's cooking that day and you should that's how it should be done."

"You know what, it's pretty close. Not as good as hers, but pretty close."

"Okay, I'll see. So, see you about one o'clock then."

"Sure, one is good. See you then, Jimmy."

"See you soon, JT."

JT was smiling again, as he went back out to the guys.

"We have another lunch at Giovanni's to go to. That was Jimmy and we're invited to join him and his dad for lunch there and they want to know what we are planning to do. You guys ready to feel stuffed to the gills again? I sure am."

No one complained about feasting on the rich foods awaiting them and they cleaned up and made a better showing of themselves.

The bodies began arriving at Dubrowski's and removed from the body bags, then placed in coolers to hold them until they were ready. Golden was first to be prepared and the senior attendant, an elderly lady of sixty three, began using the rinse hose and cleaned away the blood on her. Her hair was washed and rinsed, then she scraped any traces of dirt from under Golden's nails and manicured them. She stopped to look at how beautiful the girl was on the table, then ran her hand over her head and caressed the golden blonde hair.

"You had so much going for you and a wonderful life ahead, didn't you. Such a pity to see it taken from you, dear. Okay, let's take care of things and make you beautiful again, shall we?"

The attendant began drying and combing out the long, golden hair, taking care how she ran the comb through it. Softly, she began humming a tune to herself, as she went about removing the signs of the killing and bringing Golden closer to who she was. There would be no need to hide the diagonal line of bullet holes running across her body, no one would ever see them again.

Piney sat with Mary and his parents, instead of staying with the club. The news had taken the life out of them all and he needed to be there for them. They themselves were talking about the arrangements and what could be done, when Mary gave her thoughts on how the girls should be presented to everyone. She began telling everyone how the best moments in all their lives together, was when they were in their circle of love. At first, the thought of them all naked sounded disgusting to Lorelei, until Mary began explaining why they were like that. The understanding of it was far from understood clearly, but the reasoning sounded like something acceptable to her. One thing she really liked, was the wreath of daisies on their heads. 

Gianni and Jimmy were already seated and had appetizers on the table, as well as wine.

"JT, Sons, welcome, please be seated my friends. I took the liberty of having a few things to eat, while we talk and decide on the menu."

Gianni and Jimmy shook everyone's hand and then sat down. He raised his glass of wine and the others took theirs and raised them as well.

"To friends, the ones here and the ones we miss. May God hold us in his hand and take us gently when we go. Salut."

"To friends, Salut."

Everyone drank to the moment and memory and Gianni continued by asking how they were coming with things. Gianni heard about the commemorative memorial and was impressed by it. He said that would be his personal contribution to everything, over and above whatever else was needed to pay for.

"Luigi was correct, this isn't too bad a place here. So you recommend the cannolis, do you? You know they must be done just right, or it's just some contraffaro." 

"A what?"

"Contraffaro, a fake, phony, you know?"

"Okay, I got it. I tasted your wife's cannolis and these ones are pretty good too. Like I said, not as good, but good."

"You're a good paisan. You boys agree? Good cannolis?"

"Oh yeah. They were awesome."

The same as Lenny's sentiment, was voiced by many.

"You're all good paisans."

"Say, Gianni, what is a paisan anyway?"

"A countryman, a friend, one of us."

"Cool. Hear that guys, were Italian now, Salut."

Everyone toasted and acted like Jimmy and Gianni, making the mood merry and upbeat. Death was permanent and brought a grinding halt to everything, but life had to be lived and enjoyed. The meal was well enjoyed and Gianni asked for the chef to come out so he could thank him. They spoke in fluent Italian and shared a few minutes about where they grew up in Italy. With the meal over, there was still more to discuss about details, so they headed back to the Holiday Inn and Gianni had the manager open a conference room for them and refreshments to be served. 




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 11



The guys were easing into the friendship with the Cacuzza's, but Art's words kept echoing to JT, making him ponder the outcome of their friendship ending and how differently things would be. As details of what to do were bantered about, the door opened and Piney and Mary walked in.

"Hey guys, hope you don't mind if we join you? They said at the desk you were in here."

Piney and Mary were greeted with open arms and made comfortable like the rest. After condolences were given to Mary, she asked if she could offer her thoughts on how things should be done. The group of men sat silent and listened to her soft voice explain how her friends should sent off.

Walter stared out the window constantly, as though there was a way to see his golden haired girl. Food went uneaten and the nurses were worried about his recovery and health. He lay there alone, the way he felt inside, a tear hanging precariously from his cheek. Walter could do nothing more than reflect on the past and feel the emptiness inside him, as well as the agony of feeling he let her down.

Miriam Kozlowski finished Golden's make up, bringing a lifelike colour back to her pale skin. She smiled at her work and slid Golden into her spot in the cooler. Opening the next one, she pulled Suzy out and transferred her to the table to begin preparing her. After washing her down completely, she went to brush her teeth and was taken by surprise to find a big toe lodged in her mouth. 

"What have we got here?"

She looked at the toe and the finely polished nail and wondered who it belonged to. She placed it in a tray and set it aside, as she hummed the same tune to Suzy, bringing a semblance of life back to her.

No one thought the idea of the girls being naked in their caskets was appropriate. If it was just the commune present, it could be accepted, but the idea of loved ones seeing them, who didn't know the practices at the farm, could never accept such a bold display of them. The guys liked the idea of the wreaths and Piney said he'd drive Mary out there to pick daisies and make one for each of them. They were discussing what they should be dressed in, when a knock at the door was heard and the manager excused his intrusion and went to Gianni and whispered in his ear.

"By all means, please, show them in."

The guys watched the manager go to the door and opened it, allowing a small group of adults to come in. They looked at the club and the two well dressed men who were greeting them and confusion was written clearly on their faces. Gianni had the manager go and get more chairs for them and waited until everyone was seated and served beverages. The manager and staff left them and Gianni began introductions off. Lorraine's mother, Suzy's parents, Cindy's parents, Gloria's mother and new husband, Poppy's parents, Flower's parents, all said hello and waited to hear what they were doing and what their own wishes were.

Pictures were passed around of the girls in younger days, some being chosen to place around the casket. Not a parent disagreed with the daisy wreaths, in significance of the girls circle of love. Hours passed and more of the loved ones' lives were shared and known. Flower's parents wanted to know where their daughter had lived with the others, making the others want to know as well. JT was beside himself to want to share that knowledge, knowing the state of the house and the evidence of their children's brutal end. Faces looked at one another, considering the outcome of seeing it and those that had seen the scene, weren't happy about going back and seeing it again.

Gianni listened to both sides of the story, understanding the one need for closure, to see where that life ended. He looked at the club and knew the sight of so many memories there and the closeness of family they had with the departed, was already enough to bear witness to it.

"Please, might I make a suggestion to make everyone happy?"

Gianni didn't wait for approval and continued, getting everyone's attention.

"It seems these fine, young men have had to endure enough of the horrors that others have committed against them, which can be understood, am I correct?"

Gianni received nods of understanding and some hushed agreements, then continued again.

"I also understand as a parent, as you can see from my son sitting beside me, I am also one and a loving one as well."

Gianni kissed Jimmy's cheek and Jimmy looked about and nodded, "He is."

"I also know that a parent must know where their bloodline ended. I understand the need for closure in this matter. If I may, I have a limo and my friends at the back here, have a lovely Cadillac with plenty of room for everyone. It would be my pleasure to escort you to their place, if I may have directions on how to get there, from one of our friends here."

Gianni looked at JT for directions, then JT looked at the faces of everyone of the parents and their need to know. He looked at Gianni and nodded.

"I'll come with you, but I'll wait on the road, if you don't mind."

"That would be fine. No one can object to that, am I correct?"

Gianni looked at the parents and they all nodded, then thanked JT profusely. Gianni made the decision by standing and everyone took his cue. They left the conference room and headed out to the parking lot to Gianni's vehicles. The large limo held most, while several rode in the Sedan de Ville comfortably. JT sat with Gianni and Jimmy in the back, looking at the parents looking at him. He wondered what they were thinking of him, what they thought about him. If he was judged by his dress and appearance, or who he was as a person. The luxurious ride did nothing to calm JT, as he looked out the window and told the driver to turn right and stop at the fourth lane on the left.

The driver stopped and JT got out and told them he wasn't sure if the sheriff was still there or not, but the house was open, but to be careful of where they stepped. That would be enough he thought, to what lay before them at the scene. Gianni and Jimmy decided to stay with JT and keep him company, truly not wanting to be introducing themselves to the law and get involved in any way.

The parents understood and agreed, becoming wary of the reasoning. They got out and began walking down the lane and rounded the bend, then the gasps and cries began happening. JT looked at Gianni and Jimmy and shook his head.

"The place is barely standing, it has so many holes in it. If they go in and see the new bathroom, I don't want to hear it. I hope this was the right thing to do, Gianni?"

"They need to say goodbye, John Teller. You are not a parent yet and don't understand that connection yet. I would need to know where that connection between Jimmy and me ended, no matter how bad it is. That's their last moment alive and you need to know where that is. Yes, it will be bad to hear them go through that, so I suggest we sit in my car and relax and wait. It's very soundproof."

JT nodded and agreed, following the Cacuzza's inside the spacious cabin. He stretched out and looked off into space, the memories so close he could almost smell them. He had never seen the actual massacre, but he envisioned it in his head over and over, knowing where his friends were when they died and where the bullets were coming from. He saw where they bled out in their final moments, the stains in his mind, as strong as the ones left at the scene. He wondered if the faces coming back would look as thankful as before.

Hank Wiggins poked his head in the door and gave Walter a psst to get his attention. Walter rolled his head over and looked at him. 

"Hey Hank, come on in."

Walter sat himself up and raised the back of the bed straighter. He shook Hank's hand and offered a seat on the edge of his bed. 

"Hey old buddy, when you coming home? The girls are getting restless and miss you. Got Tinkerbell back there again, she seems okay with the girls, they know her."

Walter heard the name and his face went sad at that memory of her. Remembering when he brought her over, how she took to being with the girls and the guys coming in with their bikes. It saddened him to think she had lost that, even though she was a cow and considered dumb.

"What about all the other animals?"

"I have them in with mine, They're okay."

"Did you see where the boys put Chase?"

"Walter, they did a fine job of taking care of Chase. Put him right where I know you'd like him. Lots of us showed up and we had a little service for him. Pinky Perkins said he would make a nice piece for him to mark his spot."

"Pinky's going to do that is he? That's right nice of him. He makes fine work with a hammer and chisel."

"Sure does. So old timer, I got the board still sitting there waiting to finish. When you gonna let me finish beating you?"

Walter found a small reason to chuckle and slap Hank's knee.

"Beat me? I got you in six moves, if I remember rightly."

"Got me in six? I got you in four. You best see if you got too big a conk on the head. Look, you just rest up, Walter. Let me know when you're ready and I'll come get you, take you home and get things back to normal."

"You think there'll ever be a normal again, Hank?"

"I just don't know myself what goes for normal. My normal and their normal seems to be two different things. Your normal and mine jibe along pretty good, so you know what normal is to me. I miss you, buddy, gets lonely on the other side not seeing you over yours."

"Yeah, best get myself out here and get back to what needs doing. Bang on the head will go away soon enough on its own. I'll see what the doc says today and give you a call, Hank."

"That's the spirit. So, feel like getting out that bed and sitting in the sunshine? Nice day for it."

"Yeah, let's set a spell, find a bench or something and jaw a bit, help me take my mind off of Christi."

"Sure. I'll wait in the hall until your ready, take your time."

"Alright, be there in a minute."

Hank went out to the hall, while Walter began getting out of bed and putting hospital slippers and robe on. He passed the mirror and he had to turn and look, seeing himself. He looked at the reflection in it and saw the blame, the shame and disgrace of failing. He steadied himself and turned away, a slump coming to his shoulders. He walked with Hank and went down to the ground floor and went outside, the sun bringing back moments with Christi. Tears welled in his eyes and grief wrenched his face, as the loss engulfed him totally. Hank steadied him and helped him sit on the garden wall they were beside. Hank held onto him, while Walter wept hard into his hands.

No one heard the horrified screams inside the limo, just as Gianni had said. The parents tread about carefully observing the gruesome scenes of blood and death, but the bathroom horrified them beyond comprehension. The multitude of streams of sunlight shone through the bullet holes on the scene, highlighting fractions at a time. After seeing it and fixing it in their minds, as to the final moments of how their babies left this world, they walked back outside into the sunlight and looked about the property. The scenery was a complete contradiction to the house. It was idyllic, peaceful, very serene in context. They looked at the circle of daisies where Mary had said they would be, imagining their girls sitting there enjoying themselves in the best moments of their young lives. They took solace in knowing they had raised loving and caring children, ones who understood love and kindness to others and shared it openly.

The somber ride home was hard for eyes to meet and share what eyes had seen and hearts felt. JT was most thankful for it to be over and got out of the limo and stood in the fresh air, feeling the sadness of everyone inside overwhelming. They went back into the conference room and joined the club, who were noshing on appetizers and drinking beer. JT noticed a few missing and asked where they were. 

Moon and Spirit were awake and talking, so Piney and Mary went to see them. The other two had stepped outside and would be back in shortly. JT understood and knew the aroma would meet the noses of the parents and make them wonder. 

Moon and Spirit were sitting together on the bed in Spirit's room, when Piney and Mary came in. There was an immediate need for the girls to connect, but Piney saw the look on Moon's face and didn't approach him, knowing the blame in his eyes was directed at him and any words could release a torrent of regrets he'd rather not hear. He bowed his head and turned, then went back to the hall, not waiting for anything to be said to him. He looked out the window at the end of the hall and tried to imagine Moon's pain, trying to understand his feelings and why he detested the club. It wasn't hard to imagine living through such an ordeal and then seeing the aftermath of death, to make him realize anyone and anything tied to the massacre was guilty in his eyes. Because of his club, directly or indirectly, Moon had lost the one thing that was beginning to define who he was. He lost a large part of his life in a blinding flash, shearing away people who were helping him to become that person

No matter how Piney tried to look at it, he could not remove him, or his club out of the equation. They were the primary reason and the hurt went deeper and stronger inside him. He stamped out his butt on the floor and walked past the closed door of the room, the muffled voices inside to him, were agreeing with the thoughts in his head.

Once everyone was over the vivid depiction of death in their minds, there was a move to turn the talk back to the arrangements. JT looked at Suzy's parents, the Simpson's, sitting across from him and felt their looks cast at him. It wasn't hateful in intent, more of a need to know about all the unknowns that existed in their daughter's life. He had no idea what they knew of him and his connection to their daughter, but the looks were coming with a need in them and he felt answers being asked for. As though getting a silent agreement to their silent request, Suzy's mother looked at JT, her eyes telling of her struggle to ask certain questions.

"Did you love my daughter?"

The question stopped all talking and everyone looked from JT to Suzy's mom, Jennifer. They looked at each other and JT never faltered, as he stated clearly he did. That made her lips curl slightly in happiness.

"I loved her very much. We were thinking of getting married soon. I thought your daughter was the best thing that ever happened to me. She was a really, great girl and she really loved me too, I know she did."

Jennifer got up and walked across the short expanse to JT and held her hands out to him. JT looked into her face and saw she was accepting him to her, wanting to make another form of connection to her child. He rubbed his hands on his jeans and took her hands, standing a closeness to her that brought his heart to intimate levels, he felt soften his already battered heart. She looked into his eyes for a moment, studying him and looking at his face, smiling a bit more with a dose of sadness mixed in. 

"You would have had a beautiful baby."

JT was at a loss to respond, not able to comprehend where Jennifer was coming from.

"I guess. Suzy and I talked about having kids and we used to joke about who they'd look like, me or her, or maybe both."

"You didn't know, did you, dear?"

"Know about what Mrs. Simpson?"

Jennifer let go of JT's hands and placed her palms softly on his cheeks, the tears welling in her eyes as she found the words to speak to him.

"Suzy was three weeks pregnant. You were going to have a baby together."

The news floored JT completely. His mind raced in a million directions at once, feeling the joy of knowing he was going to be a father with her and then the crushing pain of knowing he'd lost them both. The room held a hushed sadness of tone, no one wanted to break the moment for them.

"You were going to be my son, JT. You would have given us our first grandchild."

JT saw how torn in feeling she was and felt it himself. The realization of who they would have been, endeared him to her and he felt the tug of her hands to come to her. Slowly he accepted and they carefully hugged and felt the joining, then gave in completely and shared it all together. They wept and cried, holding each other tight, knowing what was and could have been between them. Don came over and held the both of them, knowing that was what would have been his family one day.

Eyes were cast about the room from parents to the club, wondering if their child was thinking the same way with them. They weren't opposing forces on the other side, they were young men, who despite appearances, could have been the start of their next generation. Looks given to them softened, in their attempts to understand who their children were and how these men fit into their lives and made them better.

Parents looked at them, wondering which one their daughter had chosen to share her love with. Club members looked back at them, wondering who had given birth to the young woman they loved. When Otto said he was the one who loved Cindy, looking at her parents and seeing that connection made, everyone shared who they were with and began sharing the lives they had lived with their daughters, filling in all the time between last seeing them and today. Gianni and Jimmy saw there was nothing for them to be there for and quietly excused themselves to JT and went into the lounge and ordered drinks. The smiling, blonde bartender made it easy to take their minds off the sadness in the other room, as they sat down and ordered. She became a very good distraction for the pair, as father and son vied for her attention.

Miriam took Marlene out and began washing her down and noticed the missing toe and went to the tray and retrieved the one she found in Suzy's mouth. She saw it was a perfect match and stood looking at the beautiful mature woman in the prime of her life and wondered what the two were doing before they were interrupted by bullets. Thoughts came to her and she looked at Marlene with a knowing smile, one that said she realized what taboo loving they had been up to. She put the toe back in the tray and finished washing her down carefully. One thing that caught her attention, was the aroma of the oils coming off her and took note to mention it to Anna later.

Time seemed to pass unnoticed, no one caring how many seconds and minutes ticked by, as lives were opened and shared between the club and the parents. Once more a knock came and the manager ushered in another pair of parents. They stood looking at the mix of people, trying to make sense of the situation, then a few went and introduced themselves, letting them know who was who and what had been going on. Heavy tears were shed over and over again, as the last minutes were shared once more, the need for their closure being honoured. Phoenix and Ann Marie's parents now felt the same aching loss as the others did and shared in the memories and plans.

Poppy's parents looked about for the man who was with their daughter, wanting to know more about him and their daughter. JT explained about Clay being in Vietnam and didn't know about it all yet. They could see writing that letter was something he would keep putting aside for as long as he could. Poppy's real name was Denise Warburton and both her parents looked happy knowing their daughter had chosen a good man to be with. They wanted to know more about Clay and JT had to stop and think of what he knew about Clay and still shine a light on him. Clay had many good traits, but there seemed to be an equal number of bad lurking in the shadows of his life. JT sat with them and gave as glowing a description as he could and left all the unsavoury things out of it.

It was a time to reflect. Not only on the loss of the moment, but the loss of an era, a time when values, standards and habits were being altered and re-evaluated, Society wanted to keep what they had and were refusing to accept the new dawning to come. Try as the might, they had to accept what had been and what was about to become and adapt and change to it. Safe, secure lives were no longer being felt that way anymore, the world now at their doorstep and knocking hard at the door. It was hard to brave the challenge, of twisting the knob and opening their homes to it.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 11



Hank and Walter waited in the room for the nurse to come back in. Walter said he needed to get out of there as soon as he could and Hank understood why. The nurse popped her head in and said he was cleared to leave and just sign the release forms to go. They went to the desk and Walter quickly scribbled his name down and thanked them for taking care of him, then Hank pushed Walter down the hall to the elevator and the freedom of outside. Hank stopped his truck and Walter got out of the wheelchair and hopped in slowly.

"Take me home, Hank. I need to be where my head feels right about things."

"Have you there soon, old buddy, have you there soon."

Walter stared out the window and watched the world pass by without thought of it. For him, time ended that night and there was no more time he wanted to know about. To him, he felt like he died that night too. Hank looked at Walter and showed concern on his face, seeing the division of his friend happen before his eyes. Each minute seemed to be taking away another fraction of him. They arrived at the farm and Walter got out and looked around at his place. It seemed empty, lifeless to him. Tinkerbell came as close as she could and mooed out to Walter. He went over and stroked her head, the two sharing a moment of loss together. Hank stood by and watched him and waited for him to finish and come back, then walked him over to where Chase lay under the oak tree.

Hank finally got Walter inside and settled in his chair with a sandwich and a glass of milk. He said he'd be over in the morning to help with the herd and then get back to their game. Hank shook Walter's hand and felt the lifelessness in it. His friend wasn't dealing well the grief and loss and he worried about him pulling through it. He went back to his own place and tended to his own duties of the night and secured his property.

Walter put the sandwich and milk down and picked up two pictures that sat on the table. He looked at Jessie, sitting there in the prime of her life, remembering how he took the shot himself one day. He wanted her to smile and she wouldn't, so he told her she was the only woman who ever got him stiff and horny. Just as Jessie looked in surprise and a latent hint of knowing added in, Walter had taken the picture. He weakly smiled at the growing blush on her cheeks. He liked that Polaroid camera she bought and used it often to take surprise pictures of her. He stuck it in a frame to keep it clean and safe, even though it looked out of place in it. He kissed the glass gently, the image the only way to express his love that he felt. He looked at Christi, another smile coming at her chosen name Golden. She was truly a golden souled child, inside and out. She was standing just outside on the porch and had come out to say lunch was ready when he turned and snapped the picture. Her smile was so natural on her face, she was so truly happy in her life at that time. Thoughts of what she would be like when she grew up, were more of a reason to be sad and he carefully set them back down on the table. He took a bite of his sandwich and a drink of milk and got up and walked to his gun rack and took his other single barrel shotgun from the case. He opened the drawer and opened the box of shells for it. He loaded one shot in the chamber and closed it up. He only needed the one for what he wanted to do.

He walked outside and looked around at everything, smelling and listening to his world. He looked over at Hank's and saw him closing up his barn. He walked off the porch and went to the tree and knelt down at Chase's grave. He put the stock on the ground and rested his chin on the barrel. He happened to catch Hank looking at him, wondering what he was seeing and the dawning coming to his face. He closed his eyes and put his thumb on the trigger. He heard Hank calling his name frantically, as his mind held images of Jessie and Christie, his thumb slowly getting to the release point of the trigger. 

Hank heard the blast and stopped dead in his tracks. He knew he didn't need to go any further. Walter was thrown back from the blast and the amount of blood and brains that sprayed out behind him, was more than enough to call it a death. He turned and went back in to call the sheriff and let him handle the remains. All Hank could do was bid his friend goodbye, as he looked at the unfinished game of chess on the small table they sat at. He reached over and laid Walter's white king over and listened to the far off sirens, screeching out in the peaceful country night.

Dinner was had in the hotel restaurant and parents sat with the boyfriends of their daughters, getting to know them and feeling like a part of her living on. The room seemed to grow quiet for no apparent reason, then eyes were cast to the entrance and a couple was being shown to their direction. They were fashionably dressed and walked with an air that didn't come from anything more than appearances. They waited to see which parents they were and who they had lost. JT and some of the other guys knew from the description Walter and Golden had given of them, that it was Golden's parents. They still seemed as cold as the description of them. Neither smiled, nor showed sadness. 

"We heard from those people at Dubrowski's, that you were planning something to bury our daughter, Christianna. Don't bother, she'll be coming with us back to Los Angeles and buried there. I knew it was a stupid idea for her to live there like that. I suggest you take whatever things belong to you and leave. The place will be sold like it should have been, years ago."

Her face barely broke composure the whole time she spoke, but the cold hearted indifference of every word was felt. They turned and the husband, Fredrick James Barnett II just stood quietly by her and escorted her out. Kelsey MacDonald hated being a country girl and liked the glamourous life of L.A. She changed Kelsey to Katrina and married someone with money. She was happy playing her part and this was just another thing to gain sympathy and social status. She could do a grieving mother if she needed to. Freddy was only to happy to have a beautiful woman for a wife, despite the accidental birth of her daughter, with a man of lesser character than him being the seed. It served him well that Golden was out here and not have any responsibility for her. Money was just something to spend to Freddie, but he didn't want to have to spend too much on this occasion. He had his eye on a Jaguar XKE roadster and the farm would cover it nicely.

They looked at her in stunned awe. Even Gianni and Jimmy were speechless at the lack of humanity they showed to anyone. The couple left as they came and disappeared down the hall, leaving an aroma of disgust, along with their perfume and cologne behind. No one knew what to say about it, the parents in their right to handle Golden's affairs, but that callous nature in which it was being done, was in such contradiction to who Golden was.

The rest of their time spent over dinner, was cast with a sadness that some couldn't sit easy with and a protest of sorts came about to challenge Golden's parents. They felt the girls needed to be together for the last time and they were going to make sure it happened. The viewing was at eight, so the dinner broke up and people went about getting ready for the service. 

Miriam Kozlowski looked at all the coffins and their prostrate occupants, then called for the staff to come and wheel them into their viewing rooms. She smiled at each one, saying goodbye as she closed the lids on them, humming her tune softly, then went and washed her hands thoroughly and went to get a cup of coffee and a sandwich to eat in the staff kitchen. It had been a busy day for her and she needed a rest and some food. She pulled a tiny cross from under her sweater and kissed it, then tucked it back under again. Anna and her might attend the same church, but no signs of religious attire were to be seen. Money was money and every faith had members to die at one time or another. Their money was just as good as anyone else's. There would be time later in the chapel to show it properly and light a candle for each soul she prepared. She'd lit many candles over the years, but this year seemed to be brighter as she looked at the cluster of rows. So many dying in the war, but too many were dying at home as well. Her father was right, death is a good business to be in. It will never end. At some point, everyone had to say their goodbyes. 



Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 12



Ch.12       Mutationibus



The funeral service was attended by many, some just to pay their respects. The coffins were lined up in a row, a freshly dug hole beside each one. Chairs were set out for family members only, as so many were needed. The Charming marching band played sombre tones to echo in the background, as limos and cars began pulling up and unloading passengers.

Tears were hard to contain and hold back from spilling down cheeks. The gleaming wood of each casket reflected the sunlight, making them seemingly glow. Flowers were in abundance beside each casket and a wreath of daisies placed on top them. The display was as elaborate and heartfelt as the loved ones could put together. Phoenix's father placed a couple of eagle feathers and his baby toy rattle.

JT and the guys were dressed in their new suits and looked every bit as groomed as the other mourners. Rev. Madock was starting on the first service for Poppy, when JT spotted Hank walking towards them. JT could see he was in a sad state of affairs, his face long and drawn out. He looked like he had already spent some time grieving and JT wondered why. Hank didn't really know the commune or its members and couldn't understand his grief.

Hank stopped short of the group of people and motioned for JT to come to him. JT excused himself and walked over to him. Hank walked him further away and had JT's curiosity peaked. Finally Hank turned to him and his eyes couldn't hold back the hurt he felt inside.

"What is it, Hank?"

"It's Walter, JT."

"Yeah, I was wondering why he wasn't here already. He's still coming, isn't he?"

"I'm afraid not, son."

"Why? Why isn't he coming?"

"Walter took his own life last night. Blew his head off with a shotgun. Saw him do it from across the road. I yelled for him to stop, but he just looked at me and pulled the trigger. Did it at Chase's grave."

"No. No way. You're not serious?"

"I'm afraid so, son. Wish it was all just nonsense, but it ain't. He's with those he loved, now. I guess the loss was too much for him."

"This can't be happening. This is so fucked up right now. What the hell is going on?"

"I wish I had an answer for you, JT, but I don't. I sat all last night trying to make sense of it myself."

JT was beside himself with the news. Piney saw him pacing frantically and knew something was wrong. He excused himself quietly, as Rev. Madock gave his final blessings to Poppy. Others watched Piney go to JT and became interested in what was happening. Piney stopped JT from pacing and had him tell the news. Piney was in shock at hearing it and looked at Hank, getting a nod in confirmation. Piney and JT began talking about it, while Hank silently drifted back into the shadows and got in his truck. 

He had done what he had to do and it was time for him to tend to the living parts of Walter's life that remained. Lorraine was next and Lenny looked at the Reverend, knowing his words brought a finality to everything. He looked at Lorraine's mother and saw that she had forgiven him for taking her from her so young in life, but gave her a life where she was still loved. He reached for her hand and after looking in his eyes, she took it in hers and held it tightly.

JT and Piney rejoined the group and wanted to know what Hank had said. Neither said anything and said they'd tell them after the ceremony. Both knew enough pain and loss had to be dealt with already, without having to add that news to it all. No more questions were asked of them and the ceremony continued without any further interruptions. 

By the time Marlene's service was done, no one had the strength to hold back tears, not even Gianni and Jimmy. They had bought flowers in abundance for her, their own show of appreciation for who she was to them. JT looked over and saw Gianni put his arm over his son's shoulders to comfort him, even though he himself was distraught with grief. Reverend Madock concluded the service and consoled those who needed his words of comfort.

A silver/grey hearse slowly pulled up and stopped by the grave sites, a black Lincoln Town car stopping right behind it. The attendants got out and opened the back door of the hearse and then walked towards the group.

"Excuse me, but which casket holds Christianna Barnett?"

People looked at them in questioned stares, wondering why they wanted to know, when the doors on the Lincoln opened and Golden's parents stood beside it. Everyone knew at that point what was going on. JT and Art, along with the club and several parents, blocked the attendants from going any further.

"I'm sorry, I don't have any idea which one she's in. They were all given their final benediction by the Reverend and now they're all going to be buried together, just as they wanted to be."

"We have orders from her parents to take her body and transport it to Los Angeles."

"Not going to happen. Unless you can identify her casket, we have no idea who's in what one."

The attendants looked at the row of caskets and knew they couldn't just open them up and look inside. They went back to explain and the Barnett's were livid and demanded they find their daughter and put her in the hearse. The attendants relayed the orders again and were given the same answer, stumping them from carrying them out. The Barnett's marched over and faced off against the group.

"Where is our daughter? You had no right to do this. We told you we had our own plans for her funeral."

Art took a step forward and introduced himself and his title. The parents looked at him and knew legalities now had to be adhered to.

"I'm sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Barnett. I'm afraid there's really nothing you can do about what's been done. Christi's wishes have been adhered to and carried out. You may be her next of kin, but she has the final say in her own interment, not you."

"I don't give a God damn about her wishes. She's coming with us, or I'm calling the police."

Wayne heard the call for police and stepped through the crowd.

"That would be me. I'm the Deputy Chief of Charming Police, Wayne Unser."

"Officer, I want whoever is responsible for this arrested."

"Well, Ma'am, that might be a bit hard, considering she's in one of those coffins back there. Mr. Lowen has explained the legal side to you and I can only enforce the laws of this state and this town. According to those laws, nothing wrong has been committed, as far as I can see."

Mrs. Barnett looked at everyone with fury and spite in her eyes, knowing she was at odds to get what she wanted. Mr. Barnett was eager to go back to the car and leave and not cause any more of a scene, but his wife wasn't finished. 

"I want my daughter's body in that hearse, or I'll make some calls and it won't be pretty for any of you."

"Is that a threat? Did you just threaten an officer of the law?"

"You can call it what you want. I just want her in that car now and that's final. Do I make myself clear?"

She stood defiantly before the large crowd of people and saw she was alone, not even her husband supporting her. 

"Lady, if I was you, I'd get my ass back in the car and go home. This ain't the time to be stirring up a hornet's nest."

"What part of what I just said, isn't getting through that dumb, hick brain of yours?"

"Oh, it got through alright. I guess what I said and Mr. Lowen said, didn't make it through yours."

The redness of Katrina Barnett's face got deeper and deeper, a she felt the conflict of force take away any chance of dealing with this here.

"Now, before you go opening your mouth and saying something you shouldn't, it's best you just leave quietly and let everyone go about their business."

Katrina started walking towards Unser to square off with him, but her husband held her back and turned her towards the car and made sure she got in. The yelling and screaming from her finally stopped, when the doors were closed and the two vehicles departed. 

Art turned to the group and shrugged his shoulders.

"That was uncalled for, but at least Christi's wishes and those of her friends have been met and that's what matters here. Let's just let it go and continue with what we were going to do. Lumpy has an entire section waiting for us, so we should head over and we can talk more there."

No one disagreed and everyone climbed into cars and headed down to Lumpy's restaurant, for a social gathering of mourners. The caravan of vehicles pulled in and Lumpy greeted everyone at the door personally with condolences. The hostess had everyone seated in the section reserved for them and waitresses were ready to take orders and pour water in glasses. Once that was done, the group rehashed the situation at the cemetery. Smiles came to faces, knowing they has succeeded in thwarting Golden's parents from ruining her final wishes. Art casually leaned over to JT and whispered his burning question.

"This is what she wanted, right? If it wasn't, all of us could be in a heap of crap for it."

"Oh yeah, Art. Ask Mary, or Marietta, they'll tell you."

"It's okay, just want to get my ducks in a row. I don't see that being the end of those two, especially that woman. I heard the stories, but seeing it for myself, that woman doesn't deserve to bury that poor girl."

"No one else thought so either, Art. Listen to what you're hearing and that says it all."

"Yeah, got a point there, JT. Sure knows how to take the wind out of the sails, that's for sure."

"Oh yeah."

They left it alone and joined in on talks about the commune and what went on. No one wanted to broach the subject of free love and nudity, but questions were coming in a way that had to be answered, silence not a resolve to the issue.

Mary and Marietta looked at each other and knew it would be their place to say something. Mary started off and Marietta helped fill in spots, giving the parents and townsfolk an inside look at what a hippie commune was all about, as well as the concept of free love. Some of the more graphic details were left alone, that not being something they needed to know. By the end, people seemed to understand and some even accept it, while some were staunch advocates of the old ways of doing things. The food came out and that solved the problem of talking anymore about it. Lumpy stood by and waited to make sure everything was good and acceptable, then went to the front desk and sat.

There was little in the ceremony for the dead Disciples, as no one was left to claim them. A few rows of plain wooden coffins were lined up in the pauper's area and the groundskeepers were lowering them in as fast as they could and covered them back over. No last rites were given, no mourners paid their respects, as the final one was laid to rest and the crew left the scene. A small stone plaque would designate the final resting spot for each of them, the least the county could do to put their scourge to an end. 

Once the club got back to the clubhouse, JT went over to the office and closed the door. He sat down and looked at the sheet with two words on it and sighed heavily. He picked up the pen and began writing to Clay. It was hard at first to find a way to tell him, but once he wrote the words, the ink flowed on paper in heartfelt words of sympathy. Once he finished the third page, he read it through and took it into the guys and read it to them. No one could think of a thing to change or add, JT covering all the bases and stating how the club felt for him. JT put it in an envelope and sealed it, putting stamps on to post it. It sat beside him for two more hours, before he had the nerve to get up and walk down to the mailbox and slid it through the slot. He stared at the box and knew he had just sent off the worst news he could imagine telling anyone. He walked back to the clubhouse, his head filled with thoughts of how Clay would take the news.

The letter was collected and sorted, making its way into a bag and began the journey to Vietnam. It would be over a week, before Clay came back from a mission and heard there was mail for him. He grabbed his letters and headed to his bunk to read them, opening Poppy's letter first. He read it through twice and looked at the Polaroid picture of Poppy completely naked, except for a wreath of daisies on her head. He kissed her picture and slipped it into his jacket, then folded the letter and put it in the envelope again. He picked up the one from JT and sliced open the end and pulled out the three sheets inside.

The members of his unit were sitting around talking and reading their own mail, when the calmness of the tent was broken by Clay's frantic screams. They looked at him and he was beside himself with grief and anger, a rage quickly turning him into a raving madman. He jumped off his bed and began screaming and yelling at the top of his lungs, making no sense to the other guys. They tried to console him, but that infuriated him more and he lashed out at them.

The ruckus brought attention to the tent and the sergeant came in and shouted an order to stop immediately. He was ignored by them, still occupied with dealing with Clay. He waded in and began breaking up the melee. Clay was out of control and the sergeant grabbed him, slapping him twice across the face. At first, Clay wanted to retaliate, then saw who it was through the red vision of anger in his eyes. He looked at the sergeant, who's concern for him began coming out.

"What's the deal, Morrow? What the fuck is going on?"

Clay didn't know how to express himself, or relate the news in the letter, finding the helpless feelings sweep over him. He sat on a bunk and the tears flowed fast and hard, his sobbing taking him past the anger and into a solid grieving moment. The sarge cleared the tent and sat on the bed beside Clay and put a hand on his back.

"Want to tell me what's going on? Is it news from back home?"

Clay nodded and pointed at the pages of the letter on his bed and the ground. The sergeant went over and picked them up and began reading the first page. He didn't even need to finish, to know what had disturbed his best fighter. He came back and sat down again, patting his back and realizing no words could relieve the crushing pain. 

"You going to be okay now, Morrow? Let me go tell the Captain and see what he can do about this."

Clay just nodded in agreement and sat there sobbing in sorrow at his loss, while the sarge went to the Captain's tent and went in to talk about it. He was back fifteen minutes later and helped Clay walk over there. The Captain had them left alone and looked at the letter in his hands and knew the news would crush any man, no matter how strong his resolve was. He looked at Clay sitting before him, a man broken to the core with grief and knew it would jeopardize any mission he went on. 

"Morrow, I know how bad this is hurting you, son, but you have to get yourself together. I can't send you home, even though I think it deserves the time. Look, I'm going to grant you some leave time, okay. Maybe go to Seoul and help get your mind off of it. I'm the closest thing to a father here and I'll do what I can to help get you over this. Maybe talk to the chaplain and see if he can give you some comfort."

Clay looked at his commanding officer and knew what the score was. Death was all around him and nothing of life existed, here, or at home. The club lost its appeal to him, not caring if he went back or not and joined them. All he wanted was for the pain in his heart to end and only one thing seemed to make that go away. Killing the enemy. He took the letter and held it in his hands, the feel of it almost uncomfortable to hold.

"Thanks, Captain, I'll go see the chaplain and see what he can do. A little time off might help me, who knows. I'm sorry for earlier, it won't happen again, sir."

"That's okay, Clay. I understand. Not an easy thing to have to read, especially being here and nothing you can do about it."

Clay lowered his head as he turned away.

"Yeah, nothing I can do about it. Thank you sir."

Clay slumped out stoop shouldered, heading back to his tent. The guys gave him space and didn't say anything to him, in hopes they didn't set him off again. Clay looked at the letter and put it in his footlocker, then took the picture of Poppy out and looked at her smiling face. Tears came again, but the rage didn't, as he dwelt on the moments that made his memories of her.

The club was sitting around, a state of lethargy holding on to them, as they listened to Blowing in the Wind on the radio. A noisy car pulled in and stopped by the door, then a knock came. No one knew who it could be, so they got up and went out the roll up door to find Free and his girlfriend, Sky standing there. Free was smiling happily as he approached and every member's face tried to find one. 

"Hey, I see the bus over there, that my new one?"

JT saw a chance to hold off telling him the news and decided the bus would be a good diversion and maybe a segue to the murders.

"Oh, yeah, it's almost ready, just a couple of things to set and tune and it's a driver."

"Can I go and check it out?"

"Yeah, come on, I'll start it up and you can hear it, get a feel for it. Just need to fix a couple bulbs and adjust the carb, but that won't take long."

"I thought you said it would only take a few days, guess things got ahead of it, but that's cool man, it's better than I thought it would be. The size is great, lots more room."

"Oh for sure. We gutted it like you said and made the back into beds and an eating area. Should be able to sleep six, maybe eight people and have seats for everybody."

JT opened the folding doors through the driver side window and they went in. The club stood at the clubhouse and watched in silence, wondering if their president would be able to explain the deaths of their friends. Free was amazed at what the guys had done inside and checked it all out with excited delight. He sat behind the wheel and looked it over and looked to JT about starting it. JT went through everything and Free started it up and the radio was blaring. JT quickly turned it off.

"Sorry, Man. Guys had it cranked up while they were working on it."

"Hey that's cool, man, no sweat. Fucking awesome dude, you got us stereo too. Man, you guys are the best. This thing is way more than cool. So we're ready for a paint party now? Gotta tell Moon to get his creative juices flowing. I want this thing psychedelic man, like colours everywhere."

"Yeah, we did our best for you, Free. About the painting party, I don't know any other way to tell you this. The commune was attacked a few days ago and we lost almost everyone."

Free couldn't quite comprehend what JT had said, the concept foreign to him.

"What do you mean lost, like they split?"

No, Free, like they're dead. Some shithead bikers came and shot the place up."

"When? Who? How? What the fuck, JT, who's dead?"

"Easier to tell you who's still alive. Moon and Spirit are healing from their wounds. Star is out of his coma, but still in critical condition. Mary and Marietta were both somewhere else, but everyone else, dead."

"No, no, this can't be real, man. They're all dead? How come no one told me sooner?"

"Didn't know how to get a hold of you. We didn't have your number and anyone who did, was either dead, or shot."

"Fuck!"

Free sat at the steering wheel, his hands clenched tight around it, making his fingers and knuckles turn white. He looked at the club standing together, their faces speaking to him as much as JT's words.

"Your girls too?"

"Yeah, all but Mary and Marietta, like I said."

Free looked at JT and knew the news was killing him inside to have to repeat it again. He got out of the seat and hugged JT tight, JT doing the same back to him.

"I'm so sorry, man. I know how hard this is to hear."

Free began sobbing on JT's cut and let the biker comfort him. Sky was in tears herself and Free let go of JT and held her tightly to him, her tears darkening the buckskin of his fringed vest. JT left them alone in the bus and stepped down and went back over to the club members. They saw their president shaking off the sorrow and composing himself, knowing how hard it was to keep re-living the details over and over with each telling. They patted his back and said nothing, as words had no way of relieving the pain.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 12



Free and Sky came out and slowly walked over to the guys and were ushered inside to sit and talk. Joints were lit in hopes the effects would ease the pain in their hearts and souls. No one spoke until Free did, letting him have a chance to collect himself. 

"How did all this happen? Who killed them and why?"

JT bowed his head in shame, knowing they were to blame for the loss and explained it all to him, right from after they left with the bus that day. Free tried to understand the reasoning of it all, knowing it started with an act of civic duty to save his town from a deadly drug, but the repercussions were unbelievable in scope. Free gave the club a welcomed pass on blaming them, knowing it wasn't their fault for it happening and that they had suffered greatly in the loss as well. It was decided to take Free and Sky to the cemetery and let them pay their respects and say goodbye. 

The club sat on their bikes, as Free and Sky walked from grave to grave. Even from thirty feet away, they could hear the crying and muffled words of parting they spoke. When they finished going to each site, they sat together, facing each other and held hands, praying for their spirits. The club looked on, giving them all the time they needed to take to say their last goodbyes. Saddened eyes finally looked at each other, all of them expressing the same grief in loss. Words were hard to find, no one able to seek out the right ones to say, so they headed back to the shop and went inside the clubhouse and sat around. 

JT knew everyone was getting uneasy with the unspoken feelings and knew a change in focus was in order.

"Hey, want to go to the hospital and see Moon and Spirit? They should be getting released soon and they'd be real happy seeing you guys. They're not thrilled by us showing up, Moon blames us for everything and honestly, I can't blame him. I know he's hurting real bad and maybe seeing you will help cheer him up a bit."

Free was all for the idea, he too feeling awkward in the silence. JT gave them directions to the hospital and their room numbers, as well as Star's room, hoping he had made it out of critical condition. He invited them to come back afterwards and they'd take care of the bus details. Free thanked him and the club for all they had done for them and the commune, knowing the hurt was compounded by blame. Free knew the blame wasn't accountable to the club, once again, Fate deciding the outcome of events.

The guys watched the pair drive away and went back inside. JT looked at the state of mind the guys were in an hated what he saw. They had sunk to a Nadir in their life as a club and he knew that was the last thing he wanted his club to be like. He knew a decision needed to be made, but a vote had to be taken unanimously, to be put into effect. He yelled out loud to get everyone's attention and pull them out of the morbid remorse of loss.

"Hey, listen up. I'm looking at you all and thinking, 'This isn't what we signed up for. We never became a club to have shit like this happen to us' and I know why it did."

That had attention given to him instantly, an answer being the thing they needed. It was obvious to them all that the Sons of Anarchy weren't to be messed with, but their size didn't warrant respect out of fear. Love and peace and all that the commune stood for was good, for them, but it had no place in a motorcycle club, especially one that was involved in criminal enterprises and needed protection to stay in business and stay alive.

"If we're going to continue being a club, we need more numbers, just like the Disciples had, just like all of them do. I think it's time we started recruiting new members and going on some road trips and starting some new chapters."

The guys knew what JT was saying was the answer and the way to stay whole. Piney asked about Clay and his standing and JT assured him he was still going to be considered an original member. The mood in the clubhouse took a swift turn and headed into a different mindset. JT walked over to the bar and took the map out, then brought it over to the large, round table. He opened it up and spread it out, the guys gathering around it. 

"Brothers, we need to set up shop in some of these places. Don't forget, some of these places are already taken, so they might not like us moving in with them. I'm thinking we start finding places close to us here, so if we need to use strength against strength, we got our guys here quick and hopefully outnumber them first. Sound good?"

The guys all agreed and started marking off known areas spoken for already and who they were. California looked like a tough place to take up space, but several places looked ideal to them. The adjoining states to California looked interesting and more areas were picked out. As the hours passed, the past was being left behind for a new beginning. The Sons of Anarchy were no longer a bunch of friends hanging out and riding, they were now becoming an enterprise of criminal entrepreneurs, ones who lived with a gun and a knife and the commitment to kill for the patch on their backs. 

Tom discussed the new possibilities of the retail operation expanding to the new areas picked and said he'd train a few new members to acquire the skills to bypass alarms and pick locks. Wally said he could put together a transportation and distribution plan to handle the increase in merchandise, but that left a need for buyers and JT slapped his hand on the map and looked at the guys.

"Sons, it's time we took a ride to Palm Springs and say hello Jimmy Cacuzza. I do believe he was saying he wanted to expand his business up here and I'm pretty sure anywhere else he'd like to. Gianni would certainly be happy with an increase in his area as well and set up further points of call to stop in."

Chico got JT's attention, before anything else was said.

"Prez, what about our trade down south? If we have more clubs down near the border, we can have more spots for my cousin to ship the grass over. We don't have to do the long runs and avoid getting caught. Not to mention but, my fucking ass kills me doing that fucking trail after all these years. Let some loco jinete on dirt bikes do it."

"A what?"

"Crazy dude on a bike. Harleys ain't built for that shit man, they're built for long, smooth roads. Member Jake giving me chit that time for pulling up to the shop, he checked my bike and the chain was almost off? Member that, JT? That's from doing that trail so much, fucks it up, you know, me too."

"Yeah, I got your point loud and clear, Chico. Okay guys, who's in favour of handing off the border patrol to a new chapter, of course getting a cut from each chapter that hauls?"

Every hand went up fast, including JT's knowing that was an affirmative and a priority to do.

"Settles that issue and I'm in agreement. I really don't like doing that to Jake's bike. My bike, Still feels like he's riding it sometimes. I want to put it away and keep it nice. I want to get Willy to build me a bike and see if he wants a Riviera named Rosa Lee. I know he'd dig that car. His wife loves the convertible, so now he'll have his own wheels. It's time to put the past where it belongs and move on my brothers. We have memorials in play, so they're never forgotten and if I have my way, I'd buy that land off that cold hearted bitch and do something out there for us. Fucking Walter's place is going to be sold off and he has tons of shit we could use. Wouldn't mind having Tinkerbell with us, I miss that cow."

That had all the guys thinking of her and how she would meet them in the barn when they parked their bikes. The loud rumble of the pipes never seemed to bother her, like she knew that meant her friends were back. She would make sure every guy was nudged, as her way of making her connection with them. JT saw how it took them back again and shook his head.

"What the fuck are we going to do with a cow? Come on, what's done is done, it's over. My mistake, I shouldn't have gone there. Let's just start getting this club whole and expanded. We got money to travel, so I say we travel and make some new friends. Right now, lets see who we have in town that we might want to prospect. Add three or four more guys and we have a good crew to ride with and have some strength on the road. Vets are coming back and looking for work and money, so there's no shortage of like-minded individuals like ourselves out there. We just need to know who can ride, or wants to."

Heads were nodding before JT even called for a vote on new members. Possibles to approach were talked about and where others could be found. Joints were rolled and beers opened, as ideas were put forth and voted on. Lenny went over and turned on the radio, the announcer just introducing Jimi Hendrix doing, If 6 was 9 after the short commercial break and turned it up. He reached into a cabinet and grabbed the hookah and the lock box with the hash in it. He opened it and took out the hash and put the box back in the cabinet, then brought it to the table and poured JT's fresh beer in to filter it. 

"Let's just get wasted and listen to music and let all this shit just sink in. We got lots of time to sort it all out. It's on paper, so let's chill and mellow out. We need to do that. Prez, do the honours please and score us a nice slice or two off that chunk, it's time to give our heads some space, cuz I know mine is getting pretty full of shit. I gotta sort it all first, before I can put more in and make it all work right. I can't believe any of you guys don't feel the same way too."

The guys quietly acknowledged Lenny's thoughts. JT finished slicing off two thick slices off the reddish square and chopped them into tiny pieces. He loaded them in the bowl and matches were struck. Everyone took a good hit and passed their hose to the left. They took their hit and passed it back to the right. Hendrix was singing words that expressed the same feelings they were having and tuned in, as the hash glowed brightly in the bowl. A loud knock came and then the door was tried to open. Piney went over and unlocked it and Free and Sky were back. They came in and saw the hookah and smiled.

"Dude, I completely forgot when I got here. I brought you guys some more hash. It's been sitting in the glove box all day."

Piney looked at Free and put an arm around his shoulders and led him in. He took Sky's hand and brought her beside him.

"Lenny, turn that down a bit."

"Just wait, it's almost over."

"Fuck you. Free has something to say asshole."

"Alright VP, don't get your panties in a twist. I like the fucking song, okay, so does everyone else."

"Quiet you two. Turn it down Lenny, we have guests, show some respect, it's only a song."

Lenny clicked the off button and gestured at them in protest. Everyone laughed at him and threw beer caps at him, making him duck behind the bar.

"Alright guys. So, welcome back Free, Sky, how was everything with them there?"

"Moon and Spirit are getting out soon. They still have to take it easy and rest, but they'll be okay. I can keep this car a couple days, so it would be great to have the bus by then."

"Oh yeah, no problem. Could drive it home tomorrow if you wanted to. Like I said, just a few more things and it's ready. You can see why it's taken a bit longer than we expected."

"Oh man, hey, it's cool, brother, I can dig how fucked up shit got around here. Moon was telling me what went down out there and man, that would have freaked my ass out bad. That's worse than a bad acid trip dude, that shit is real, but like, fucked up acid real."

"Yeah, I get you, man. We saw what happened, but only Mary knew what happened when she talked to Spirit. Piney was made, well, unwelcome by Moon. We'll call it that."

"Yeah, he hates you guys. He blames everything on you. I told him he was wrong, that you guys did nothing wrong, but were trying to help instead. I even tried to reason with him. I asked him if he thought it was better if you guys did nothing and let people get hooked on that shit. What was the right thing to do? Spirit was sitting right beside him and I said, 'What if Spirit got hooked on it and you knew the club did nothing about it, but could have, what then?', and he couldn't answer me. He just looked at Spirit and looked at me and then stared at the floor again. I don't know if he'll ever change the way he feels, but I don't hold it against you, any of you. Star isn't talking yet, but he held my hand. Still pretty weak, but he's going to get better, so that was really good news. I told him he can come live with us. No fucking idea where everyone is going to sleep and shit, but I have to take care of my friends. Speaking of which, as I was saying to Piney when I came in, I totally fucking forgot what I brought you. Baby, want to reach in that magic bag of yours and whip out a surprise."

Sky grabbed her large satchel bag and pulled the drawstring open, then took out a large rectangle covered in tinfoil and handed it to Free. He put it on the table and unfolded it carefully. Everyone looked at the three different types of hash and the requests to pass it around were called for. Each one was checked out carefully, noting the aroma of the oils particular to that type. The last of the bowl was burnt off and emptied out. Everyone started calling out for the one they wanted and JT hushed them. He took out his combat knife and backed everyone from the table and moved the three blocks apart in the middle. He held it by the tip and flipped it in the air and it landed in the Moroccan Blonde bar. He took his knife and sliced off a healthy chunk and passed it to Otto.

"Do it up nice, slicer dicer."

Otto smiled and took out his buck knife and stabbed the chunk out of JT's hand and put it on the table. The blade went through the dense thickness easily, Otto barely using any effort. He gave JT a smirk, then smiled at his boldness.

"You're just lucky I trust you."

"Any reason not to, you let me know."

"Alright, now get that thing busy and cut us up some hash. Free, my friend, you most wonderful of people, thank you so much. Our chunk looks puny to all this and I was thinking we still had quite a few more sessions before we were out. We'll be smoking on that for months. I guess your buddy sent you a package from wherever."

"Oh yeah. Gets the stuff one place and sends it from another. Just says it's spices and stuff on the outside."

"Yeah, it smells like that. Nice job, Otto, load that in and lets see what this is like."

Otto used the blade to scoop it up and poured the tiny chunks into the bowl, then JT welcomed Free and Sky to draw first with him and Piney. They took their hoses and lit matches, drawing on the hoses and getting the top chunks to glow like coals. They all took enough to fill their lungs and passed the hoses. Every guy tasted the savoury smoke and felt the effects wash through them. Everyone went twice and JT was already cutting a piece off the next one and passed it to Otto again, who made short work in sizing it down for the hit.

By the time all three were sampled and a couple more beers, no one wanted to do anything more than sit back and mellow out. The music was all encompassing to them and lulled them into a sense of euphoria. Nights in White Satin echoed about the room, making minds drift away with the song.

They talked later of new things to come, what the world was like now and what changes could be. Minds moved forward, leaving the past where it was, as life went on with the living. Sleep became a necessity and Free was eager to try out the bus and see how it slept. They grabbed a couple of pillows and a blanket and went out, JT showing them the interior light switches and fold down bed. Sky tossed the blanket down and threw the pillows on the bed, then casually began stripping off her clothes until she was naked.

JT just looked her over and admired what he saw, making Sky giggle.

"I love fucking when I'm this high. Now we can christen the bus too. Come on Free, fuck me Baby."

Free smirked at JT and got one back.

"Have fun you guys, see you in the morning."

Free walked JT out of the bus and said goodnight and began stripping his clothes off, as he made his way back to Sky, now lying back and spreading her legs wide for him. JT looked back at the bus before he closed the door and saw it bouncing up and down, making him think of his own situation and that of his brothers. They were in need of women again. Once the loss was over, sexual urges would take over and be the driving force to move forward emotionally. The squeaking springs put it in his mind, that for now, sex would be the only real need for him. Loving a woman was big commitment he wasn't prepared to invest his heart in again, not just yet.

The guys were already starting to crash out and sleep where they were, so JT started shutting things down and headed to bed. He lay there thinking of the changes coming, to him and his club. He wondered how it would all play out and if they would become a national club. Nine guys seemed hard before, keeping them safe and whole, now he was thinking a hundred and how he would handle being in charge of all of them. As the founding father of the club, it was his conception of what he had envisioned and wanted, now morphing into something totally different and foreign to him.

Moon and Spirit sat in the lounge together, talking about what Free had said and the right to blame. Spirit helped guide his thoughts to ones of reason, ones where her man could focus the truth of his beliefs. Moon knew the hate in his heart was eating away at him and the club was easiest to blame. He knew nothing of who the other bikers were, but the reasoning of who caused what to happen began falling on them, getting his mind away from the club and back to the real world that existed outside the gates of the farm. 

Moving back to San Francisco was a bittersweet thought for them both. The regression back to where they started seemed like a failure to him. Spirit comforted him, seeing that emotion engulf him. Loss was much more consuming to him, more than just losing some friends. He had lost a dream, one that had taken root and grown. He had put so much of himself into it and nurtured it to grow, only to have it all wiped out in a moment. A moment not of his own doing, or causation. The dead bikers seemed to balance that blame in his mind and death once again seemed to be a solution to a problem. Changes to the tenets in the commune philosophy were now in play. To protect what one has created, one may protect it at any cost, even with taking another's life. 

Mary sat with Piney's parents, no where else for her to be, or live. Lorelei was happily teaching her how to knit, but Mary found her large breasts got in the way. Stan happily sat and watched the beginning of Dragnet, until he found out the episode was about a criminal bike gang, then looked in the TV guide and checked for another show. Mary became frustrated with manipulating the needles and continually poking herself with them. Stan put the guide down, annoyed there was nothing else on and turned off the TV. Lorelei saw the mood deteriorating and put her own knitting down.

"Let's play cards. I love playing Rummy and games like that. You know how to play, don't you Mary?"

"Yes, we played it all the time and I actually won a bunch of times. We loved playing card games, so I know a few."

"Wonderful. I'll go make some tea and put some cookies on a plate. Stan, could you get the cards and a pen and paper? Come, let's have a nice night as a family and have some fun. We need a bit more of that."

Mary went with Lorelei into the kitchen and got a plate and cups out, while Lorelei put the kettle on and readied the pot and got tea bags out. Stan started whistling a happy tune and Mary looked about at where she was. The change was drastic from where she was, but one thing was consistent, love. She felt at home here and loved the Winston's, sleeping in Piney's room and being with him physically in a way. She felt a sense of blessing, a feeling of being watched over, knowing she could very easily have fresh earth lying above now. If it wasn't for the Winston's insisting she stay with them, events could be different, but it was a higher power in play that she felt. She put her arm around Lorelei and stood with her waiting for the kettle to finish boiling.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 12



"Thank you, both of you."

"What for, Dear?"

"For saving my life. I was just thinking how I could be with my friends right now, if you didn't ask me to stay."

Stan and Lorelei looked at her and then to each other, realizing the truth to that reality. Both of them hugged her and made her feel loved, as the kettle started whistling. Mary and Stan sat at the table, while Lorelei brought the plate of cookies, eating a creme centred one herself. She put the plate down and hummed a tune of her own, as she readied the tea pot and cups on a tray, along with milk and sugar.

In less than a year, Charming had seen a change like no other time before in its history. So many of its citizens affected by events, ones of noted importance. Minds were opened to threats to the stable lifestyle they enjoyed. So many of the changes involved the club in one way or another. A change was needed, one to end the state of affairs the whole world was in. The U.S. had the winds of change blowing and San Francisco was its epicentre. People devoted to change were gaining support in rallies and demonstrations, making speeches and winning the new voting generation's support. The old guard had their time and it was over. This year was for the young, the future of mankind and they wanted a prosperous future to look forward to. 



Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 01



While I wait for word from the show about the story, let's get Season 4 going and hope you enjoy it.

The whine of the jet's engines grew louder, as the wheels touched down and burnt off puffs of rubber. It slowed and taxied back to the base hangar, the engines screaming out the whine. The ground crew chocked the wheels, as the pilot shut the engines down, bringing an end to the wait. The mobile stairway was rolled up and the door opened.

The club stood and watched, as soldier after soldier came out, their faces not showing the happiness they thought they'd have coming back home. The rear loading ramp was lowered and the first things to come out, were the line of caskets. The club looked over at the group of grieving parents and family members, remembering they once stood there to claim Lester. Hearses and transport vehicles collected the coffins and began the trip home to lay them to rest, while those that weren't collected, were lined up in rows in the hangar to await claiming of them. 

The guys watched each uniformed man exit the plane and then saw the familiar face come out and look around. He spotted the club and a smile came across his face, as they waved and shouted at him. He made his way to the tarmac and came over, hugs given with great affection and relief. After a brief time to talk, they collected his gear from the back of the plane and tossed it in his pick up truck. He was introduced to the new prospects and before he jumped in the truck to head home, they stopped him and led him to his new bike.

The guys had picked it up the day before at Little Willy's shop and Greg rode it to the airport. He was in awe of it, admiring the paint and chrome, the detail to everything capturing his attention to it. He sat on it and held the handlebars, getting the first feel for it.

"Guys, what can I say? Thanks, it's fucking gorgeous."

"Fire it up, brother. It's time we got you riding again."

Clay flicked the kill switch and jumped down on the kick start, the engine starting easy and ran smoothly. He twisted the throttle a few times and grinned widely, sensing the power between his legs. The guys got on their bikes and Clay noticed JT was riding a chopper and not the blue Harley.

"Hey, JT, where's the Harley?"

"Back at the shop, I'm riding this while we do runs now."

Clay looked over the chopper and saw it didn't have the same flash and style as his and looked at the other bikes, noticing the damage to them. He looked at the guys and they said they'd tell him everything, once they got back and had some time to celebrate. JT motioned for the club to roll out and the line of bikes moved as one, Clay riding like he had never stopped.

The compound still held the signs of the attack, bullet holes still marking the walls and bay doors of the garage, the fresh paint unable to remove the scars, just the blemishes. Clay stopped and looked at them all, taking a quick count of the number and knew his brothers had faced as much gunfire as he had. Vietnam was half a world away, but the same violence and loss of life was happening in small town America, that he thought of as safe and quiet.

Inside the clubhouse, thoughts of violence and death were banished from minds, as Clay was treated to beers and joints, as well as a hit on the hookah and his first taste of hashish. Music was loud and upbeat, making the welcome home party one of great joy and happiness. Talk of the garage business had Clay feeling assured a part of his past was living on and said he liked the make over and new signage.

They walked outside and let Clay get a feel for everything again, letting him see what was and what the future would be. Greg, Chunk and Louie wore new work uniforms with the company logo on them and Clay felt his business interests in the garage were well expressed. Talk of the attack eventually came up and the club knew they had to share the event with him. JT could see the assault on their clubhouse had an effect on him, bringing about an inner rage at the defilement to their sanctuary. 

JT knew they had to face the entire event once more, every detail exposed in blatant exposure. Clay deserved to know the whole truth of what happened, knowing it as well as if he had lived it himself. Sparing him the goriness wasn't needed, as he'd already faced enough in the last three years. It was a short stay outside, before they headed back in and laid the events before him from the time he left.

Two hours later, after a multitude of emotions expressed. Clay was up to speed with everything and shared the same feelings as the club, knowing the past was where it belonged and the future was their only focus now. A call came for another hookah of hash, but Clay said he'd rather go for a ride and be with them on the open road. JT agreed it was where he would rather be as well and the crew left the clubhouse and mounted up. They started their bikes and Piney suddenly halted anyone from moving, then ran back into the clubhouse. 

He came out with Clay's cut, bearing the club logo and all the badges to mark his location and status. Piney called for everyone to shut down for a second so he could speak. Once the quiet came, Piney stood by Clay and talked loud enough for everyone to hear.

"Clay Morrow, I'd like you to wear this cut and be called brother by us. As your V.P., I welcome you to the Sons of Anarchy, so say us all."

Clay took the cut in his hands and looked at the front and back, seeing he had been recognized as one of the first nine members, just as JT had promised he would be. He folded the cut and hugged Piney tightly, thanking him for his sponsorship and honour of acceptance. He went to each member and hugged them with pride, then slipped his arms in the cut and zipped it up. The guys cheered him, as he turned around and showed it off, then got on his bike and waited for his president to call out to ride.

JT gave the command to ride and the bikes were fired up, one by one following JT to the gate and heading to 88 and the highway. JT ran the middle of the road, while Lenny and Clay rode behind him. Far at the back, Piney rode as Road Captain and watched the club, the prospects in front of him and his best friend and leader taking the road and guiding them forward in pride and confidence. He could see how he rode and knew JT was at peace with himself when he was riding, the past unable to catch up and haunt his mind. It was a single focus, one that distractions of any kind led to trouble. The road was theirs when they were on it, but it was fraught with traps of all kinds waiting to snag them and diminish that control.

The ride to the hills held twists and turns, blind spots and hidden obstacles, much the same as life did. Despite all of that, the road was where they lived and breathed freely. There was no one place that life could be lived in peace and relative comfort, everywhere held its own troubles, but the road held ones they could handle and find a sense of control. 

Ten miles of no where passed, before they headed back and parked again. Clay was thrilled with his new bike and thanked everyone for what they had created. JT told him about Little Willy and Mutt and everything they did to make his bike as special as it was. Little by little, the present and future helped put away the hurt of the past and gave hope for a life, one as a brother and a Son. 

The welcome back lasted all of two days, before the need to take care of business took over again. There was never a time to sit back on their laurels and feel at ease. With so many new charters, the need to stay on top of everything, demanded most of their time. As much as they were independent of the mother charter, it was still JT's responsibility to help each charter make a start and keep them moving forward.

He was once the president of a local motorcycle club, but now, after a few years of promoting and signing up, a dozen charters were established along the west coast and neighbouring states and he was a national president now, one with over a hundred members and more willing to become one. 

Bobby showed up two days later, a U-haul trailer carrying his bike and other belongings. He drove down and unloaded his bike and parked it in his designated spot, then unhooked the trailer and the guys helped him push it into the clubhouse. It was unloaded and stacked in a corner out of the way, then the trailer hooked back up to the '60 Chev Impala, Bobby had used to get there. 

Clay and Bobby were happy to see each other and shared the memory of his last days before 'Nam. Bobby brought him up to speed on his life and it wasn't hard to find a reason to enjoy a beer and a joint. Wally and him drove back to Reno and dropped the car and trailer off, then Wally and Bobby had a moment to get to know each other better and share some past and a few joints of the latest import from Wally's long time friend who travelled. 

Bobby had already found an apartment suitable for his needs, but he stayed at the clubhouse for another week, until the previous tenant left at the end of the month. The house warming party Bobby threw was a precursor to how good Bobby was in the kitchen. He made a sumptuous dinner and dessert, everything cooked from scratch. The guys were amazed by how delicious it was and had to ask how he knew how to cook so well. Bobby said that when you have a Jewish mother like his, one that always worried about him and if he was eating right, you had some peace and quiet when you cooked for her and she approved of how good it was.

Cooked homemade food and baked goods became a staple at the clubhouse and the guys were happy being well fed again. The biggest reason they had to thank Bobby for, was the serious decline in eruptions from Keith's ass. The food Bobby made, seemed to agree with Keith's digestive system well and that was thanks enough for them. Bobby spent the day going through the books in the morning, singing in the afternoon and then cooking up something interesting for everyone. No one questioned whether he contributed enough, as he kept everything square with the house and its money, entertained them daily with music and fed them better than they had since leaving the commune.

That subject had to come up one last time and everyone knew they had to join Clay and let him say goodbye to the farm. Gianni's explanation of why made sense and they rode out, hearts hardened against the hurt of memories ready to take them again to the past. They started at the cemetery and made their way out of town and out to Calaveras. The day was warm and friendly feeling, a calm and peace in the air. The turmoil in their spirits didn't roil up as bad this time, knowing it was the last time. 

Clay stood after getting off his bike and saw the carnage of the attack. He was only interested in seeing where Poppy's last moments were and stood looking at the spot in the bathroom by himself. The guys could hear him moving throughout the house, saying goodbye to the moments he made there and letting them become memories like the others had done. He walked back out and JT saw the same look on his face, as he had at his grandfather's funeral. He never questioned it, nor brought attention to it, knowing the fragility of strength and emotion were in conflict. He wanted to do one more thing and everyone agreed they wanted to as well.

The ride along 12th line was met with looks and waves by farmers along the way, watching the club head to Walter's. They pulled down the lane and stopped by the house, getting off and looking around. A familiar mooing was heard, then Tinkerbell made her way around the barn and up to the fence. They went up and jumped the fence and stood with her, getting bumped by her head and nudged to have her neck patted by them. The happiness in her big, brown eyes had their eyes fill with tears for her, seeing and feeling the affection she had for them. 

Hank walked up the lane way and came over to them and stood by the fence. The guys said hello and to come join them, but Hank declined and said they were just what she needed to be with. Since coming back, her milk had dropped off and was soured by her return to the farm there and nothing he did could help her get past it. He hoped their visit would help her and get her spirits back up. They looked at Tinkerbell and she was nodding with Hank and they had to laugh, feeling she was agreeing with everything he said.

They spent an hour with Hank, walking around the place with Tinkerbell close behind, seeing where Walter had taken his life, then went in and saw the pictures of Jessie and Golden, then surprisingly, a few of them that they didn't know he had taken. It touched them to think they had become that important to him to join the ranks of loved ones to him. Hank told them Walter was laid to rest with Jessie, farther down 12th line, where the community cemetery was. They all took a moment of silence and prayed that the poor man had found a peace, knowing the guilt he felt that he had caused it to happen. 

The time came to say goodbye and Tinkerbell stood with Hank, as they watched the club ride down the lane and down the road. Waves were given until they lost sight, but each heart felt the gentle tug of Tinkerbell, well out of Calaveras.

Coming home was bittersweet to say the least. Clay felt at odds with himself and all about him. So many goodbyes, yet few hellos. The innocence of youth was laid to rest along with everything else, as his heart hardened against the tender heartstrings of youthfulness that were cut. They were all men now, ones who had grown up with hardship and now there was no place for youthful games and thoughts. It was replaced with daily toil and gain and a means to stay alive at any cost. 

Clay slid his gun into his cut and packed two extra clips in the slots designed for them. The weight felt good, knowing he was back in control of firepower and a chance to put bullets in people who needed them. His time served, had steeled his soul and made it impenetrable to softer feelings of compassion and caring, his only goal to kill at will. The long months of confinement on base had been hard to endure, the constant need to see death by his hand denied and left him aching to be the Reaper of Death. His cut was that cloak and the gun in his cut was his scythe. He was ready to lay waste to any and all who defied him and his club to live. One envy had never left him though and brewed continually since he left.

Clay had wanted the power of control and had a taste of it in Vietnam. Now that he was back, his ranking had dropped again and he was a follower, not a leader. That tore at the fabric of his being, knowing his place was to lead and he would never be able to have that power. He knew there would never come a time for him to lead, unless he made a time and took the reins of leadership himself. For now, he was content to follow and build himself up in his brother's eyes, so if that day came, they would look to him to be their president. He looked at the one man who had befriended him more than any, knowing the love he felt from him. Despite any deep feelings he might have for JT, they wouldn't stand in his way, if he felt he had a chance to lead. 

The monthly run with every charter, introduced Clay to everyone and he wasted no time in trying to establish some authority over them. He was last in line of the original charter, barely above the prospects, a couple of which were coming up to their probation time and a vote to accept them, would put him at the same status as him. Clay wasn't going to accept that rank and the others felt his push. They gave him leeway to adapt into club life again, knowing the Army was still in him and it would take a long time before that left him. Those who had served, remembered what the transition was like, returning to civilian life after serving and the time it took to adapt to being who they were before.

Clay was enjoying the benefits of the outlaw life and all the perks. The loss of Poppy had faded enough, that sexual urges took over again and he began bedding every girl in Lenny's stable. He had three he regularly sought sexual favours from and every time he did, Lenny would hear of the rough abuse he gave them and show the bruises to him. Lenny cautioned him on how he treated them and he complied, but there was nothing in the way of affection from him, it was purely sexual and a sense of control. 

The charters were coming along well and holding their own, with little outside interference and the discreet movement of goods and product, gave everyone a good income. Locations were coming in from the mid-west and east of the Mississippi. Bike clubs were a dominant drive for returning vets and radicals who rebelled against authority. More local clubs became swallowed up and patched over to a larger club, in the expansion of power among MC's. 

Clay and Lenny were driving into town on the food and booze run, when they saw a fight taking place outside the Hairy Dog. Two men were beating upon a man, but despite the uneven odds, the lone man was holding his own. At first, they were going to drive by and let it play out, until Clay recognized the man and yelled at Lenny to go back. Lenny swung a U turn and stopped in front of the fight.

"I know that guy, Lenny, he just got back from 'Nam."

That was enough for Lenny to jump out with Clay and began breaking up the fight. The two locals saw who was holding them back and calmed down, knowing a harsh beating would result if they challenged them.

Clay helped the guy up to sit and checked him over and saw the wounds to his face were superficial and easily healed.

"What's going on, brother? What's all the fun and games about?"

The man finished spitting blood out of his mouth and looked up. He recognized Clay and smiled, his bloodstained teeth making for a gruesome look.

"Hey, how's it going? Didn't expect to see you again, brother."

"This is my town, the one I said I was coming back to, to be with friends."

"Can't say it's all that fucking friendly, at least from the welcome these two assholes gave me."

"What's the gripe over?"

"Just trying to find a job, you know? Stopped in for a drink and then these two started in on me, because I'm wearing this."

The guy tugged at his army jacket and Clay looked over at Lenny holding the two back. He got up and walked over and without saying a word, drove his fist into the first local's face and then again, into the stunned look of the other one. Lenny held Clay back, surprised with his sudden attack. Clay looked at the two young men, now nursing bloodied mouths themselves.

"Show some respect for guys who serve. They put their lives on the line for this country and deserve to be treated better than that."

The two guys looked at Clay and Lenny and knew both had served tours in Vietnam. Their status in town and the history of violence, had fear struck in them and they stood and listened.

"I see either of you two disrespecting anyone who served, I'm going to personally make you serve so you understand, got it? Now, get the fuck out of here, before I decide I didn't warn you enough."

The two took off running down the street and Clay helped the guy up.

"You alright brother?"

"Yeah, yeah. Hey, thanks for stepping in. I got cold cocked by one of them and then they were all over me. Saved me some unnecessary hurts I didn't need, thanks."

"I remember you from the trip back, Marines, right?"

"Yeah, you were Army, parachuting shit, right?"

"Yeah. Hey, Clay Morrow, this is my buddy Lenny."

"Alex Trager, everyone calls me Tig."

"Nice to meet you Tig. What brings you to Charming?"

"Looking for work, brother. Not finding too many friendly faces willing to hire me."

"Yeah, know how that feels. Say, any good with a wrench and know cars?"

"Yeah, I know a bit about them. Fixed my dad's car all the time, fucker doesn't take care of shit."




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 01



"Look, I got a shop I own with my buddy JT and we might have something for you. Lenny and I are just doing a grocery and booze run, so if you want, you can come with us, or hang out here and we'll get you on the way back. Come to the shop and see what you think."

"Really? Hey, that's awesome brother. If it's all the same, I was really looking forward to a couple of beers, before those assholes jumped in, so pick me up after, if that's cool?"

"Sure. Come on, let's go in and see Will, he's a friend of ours, make sure he takes good care of you until we come back."

Clay went in with Tig and walked up to Will, who was wondering what the outcome of the scuffle would be.

"Will, this is a buddy of mine from 'Nam, name's Tig. He'd like a couple of nice cold beers on me. See he doesn't get disturbed again."

Will was opening a beer before Clay finished speaking and handed it to Tig. Tig held it up to Clay and Will.

"Thanks brother, this is right decent of you man."

"Enjoy, we'll be back in about a half hour and get you."

Tig took a healthy drink and then shook Clay's hand and sat at the bar, as Clay left and got back in with Lenny. They left and drove into town to the Save-A-Lot and began shopping, while Tig sat quietly and enjoyed his cold beer. 

While they shopped, Lenny asked more about what Clay knew of Tig. Clay said they sat across from one another on the flight back from 'Nam and were on the same plane back to the States. They had talked about where they were and what they did, enjoying stories of down time and partying with local women and smoking the local herb. Clay felt he was a decent enough guy and was willing to take a chance on him. If he vetted out okay, he was willing to sponsor him as a member. Lenny had no objection to Tig being considered and they finished shopping and headed to Charming Wine and Spirits, to restock the bar.

With everything acquired, they headed back and stopped at the bar to get Tig. Lenny went in, while Clay sat outside waiting. Tig recognized Lenny and swallowed the last half of his beer down and thanked Will for the drinks. He followed Lenny back out and the three crowded into the small cab and they headed to the shop. Clay, Lenny and Tig picked up all the groceries and headed into the clubhouse. Tig was impressed with the entire set up of shop, clubhouse and location. Clay introduced Tig to everyone and had him sit so they could get to know him, while he and Lenny put everything away.

JT came in from the office, catching a glimpse of the new arrival. Clay introduced Tig to him and explained their past acquaintance and recent reintroduction at the bar. JT looked at Tig cut face and blackening eye and knew another veteran had come back to the same mentality as they had. He made Tig feel welcome and Clay explained his thoughts on hiring him as a mechanic. 

After a round of twenty questions, JT had a better sense of the man before him. Alex Trager was an ex-con, who had served a couple of years in Chino for beating a man half to death. He understood his reasoning to protect a friend from any further harm, but his lack of control took it too far and he was convicted of assault causing bodily harm and given the maximum sentence. The judge didn't like his attitude and the lack of remorse for his crime didn't sit well with his Honour either.

Overall, Tig seemed genuine enough a person and just wanted to prove himself that he was useful and could contribute. Motorcycles and riding became the next item to discuss and Tig said he had ridden a small bike in the past, but he hadn't ridden for years and never on a big bike like a Harley. The topic of the club came into play and Tig was more interested in that part of things. More of his sordid past came out, hearing he had committed numerous break ins and thefts, all in the need to eat and survive.  

Overall, his past wasn't dissimilar to anyone else's, just getting by any way you could, legal or not. Tig was happy to get the nod as a prospect and thanked JT and the others, but hugged Clay in bond tighter, thanking him for the chance and his sponsorship. Piney went and got a cut for him and the rules were repeated clearly once more, before he handed him the cut and let him get a feel for club life. Beers and joints were passed out and the tunes cranked up. They celebrated the bond with a new brother of the club and made him feel welcomed. Before crashing out on the couch, Lenny handed him a couple of new work shirts and laughed. Eight am tomorrow morning, he had to start work and earn his keep.

The motel was a multiple use building. For the most part, it served as a residence for any member to sleep in, as well as provide safety for the girls using the first six rooms. A prospect party was held and the club's charters had them clean and repair everything, then give the entire place a fresh coat of paint. The vacancy sign always showed full on the street sign, so no one ever bothered to come in, unless they were there for the girls. Lenny used the manager's suite to live in and personally enjoyed his girls regularly. His enterprise was bringing in a large amount of cash each month, but even during slow times, the fringe benefits more than made up for the shortfall. Large amounts of cash paid for taxes and utilities, as well as making some in city offices happier with some extra personal cash to keep quiet about the title. A couple of city staff enjoyed coming on 'inspection tours' that lasted a good hour in a room, before declaring it fit and everything in order. 

Almost every chapter was into prostitution and operated facilities much the same way. The mother charter controlled the importation of marijuana and each club that picked up at any one of Louis' points of call, paid up to them and counts were always kept, so trust was always a factor. Renaldo made regular trips north of the border to pick up the cash and he was happy to never have less than was expected. His dual citizenship papers allowed him easy passage to come and go, making it easy to transport the cash back. The twin engine Cessna made it a very quick trip and the fly by over the drop zone made it fast to unload and land at the airport, appearing completely normal in his flight plan from Stockton.

A simple and fun thing, one of going for a nice long drive and back, had become an enterprise that required constant surveillance and monitoring. Chico was in control of the transportation and control, making sure all charters were square with him, so he could report his end to the club at meetings. Every member was working at something to make money and be an earner for the club and those that didn't, were making sure debts were paid and rules adhered to. Trust was one factor, but making sure the idea of greed never entered their minds. Bobby was working the books for every enterprise and kept them all in check. Every meeting, he was happy to sign off on the bottom line with the club and proceed with the minutes. 

Bobby had a gig to do in Lake Tahoe in late August and many of them went along. The trip down was fun, heading across the mountains and riding as a large club. The prospects were very happy to being treated to a freebie run and were happy to hear they earned it. Tig made a deal with Little Willy for a bike and was paying it off doing some work for him and money he earned with the club. The number of patched members and the number of prospects continually showed everyone how many were committing to the life of an outlaw. 

The resort staff was taken back by the number of bikes and what to do with them, the car jockeys not sure to even offer parking the bikes. The guys rolled around back and parked in a line along the lane way, leaving plenty of room to get by. They walked through the hotel to the desk and picked up their room keys, then heard a familiar voice call out. They turned and saw Jimmy Cacuzza coming through the front door with a stunning blonde on his arm.

"My friends, good to see you. What brings you to Tahoe?"

"Come to see the back up act here tonight and check out the headliner after. How about you?"

"My little princess here is part of the headline show, aren't you baby?"

Jimmy fawned on her and she sucked it up playfully.

"This is the lovely, Brandi and she is one of the back up singers for Mr. Anka. You really come to see some guy do Elvis shit?"

No one said anything at first, then Bobby began singing and took a bow. JT and the others laughed and then he introduced Bobby.

"Jimmy, meet the back up who sings Elvis shit. This is Bobby 'Elvis' Munson. Bobby, this is Jimmy Cacuzza, he probably runs this place I bet."

"Nice to meet you Bobby, sorry about the Elvis remark, no disrespect, just not my thing, you know. My dad's place actually. You will notice the fine furnishings in your rooms look familiar. Munson, you're not related to Bernard Munson are you?"

"Fast Fingers Bernie in Reno?"

"Yes, you're his boy?"

"Sure am."

"No shit. You're little Bobby. I know your dad, met him a couple of times."

"Not so little now. Yeah, he was always telling me all the big shots he got to meet. I remember him dropping your dad's name a few times."

"Most likely. We wanted to acquire your dad's services and made and very nice offer, but Jewels Bonello wouldn't let him go. I don't blame him, very hard to find a guy that works the books as good as your dad."

"Yeah, always loved adding and subtracting and moving numbers around."

"A very simple explanation of his magic, but that is what he does, yes."

"Yeah, two sets of books to keep straight isn't easy."

"We'll keep the details quiet and just say he is good at what he does. So you like singing, better than numbers?"

"Yeah, numbers bore me after a while and I need to have a bit more excitement, let's just say."

"Too bad you didn't follow in your father's footsteps, I would make you a very nice offer to work for me."

"Thanks, but I have enough bookkeeping to do for the club and that's about as much as I like doing. I get more time to do gigs and I like doing it more, plus I get to ride more often and that, I really like."

"To each, their own, Bobby. Anyway, it is good to see you and say hello to your father for me, next time you see him. Look forward to seeing your act."

"Thanks Jimmy, I'll let him know we talked. Nice meeting you."

"Likewise. Gentlemen, I would like to spend a little time with Brandi and help her with her singing, so I shall see you later on."

"Sure Jimmy, we have tables up front."

"Is there any other place to sit?"

"Nope, best seats in the house."

"I shall come see you at your table before the show."

"Great Jimmy, we'll have your favourite drink ready, Salut."

"Such a paisan. Ciao."

Jimmy walked off with Brandi and every eye was eating her up from head to toe. The brain seemed pretty empty of anything substantial, but she made up for it with her face and body. In their minds, she just had sex in more positions than she could imagine. For Jimmy, he was going to have all the sex he could imagine.

Bobby came to the tables and greeted people, then welcomed everyone to the show. He went through his set and ended with great applause from the audience, then did a couple of encores and announced the headliner, Paul Anka would be coming up shortly. The lights came up and that's when everyone saw the numerous federal agents standing in certain areas, talking to their wrists and touching their earpieces. The club had no idea what was happening, when they began converging on the tables. At first, the guys just put their hands up, but they knew shortly, it was Jimmy that they were after. They stood him and his men up and read off the charges, then handcuffed them. Because of their contact with him, the FBI agents herded the club to a conference room and began questioning them for information.

No one gave them anything that tied them to the mob, nor did they give up anything about themselves that was incriminating. They stated their connection to Bobby and that was enough to throw them off their backs and let them go. Regardless of their innocence, they were now on the radar and under watchful eyes. 

JT went to a pay phone and called Gianni's number the first chance he had. He let Gianni know the score about what went down and what the feds were asking them. Gianni was calm and collected, no signs of stress showing in his voice, as he thanked JT with a certain amount of affection, for showing his concern about his son and him. JT asked for instructions on anything they should do, or watch out for and Gianni assured him there was nothing to worry about between them, but to halt the next run until he was told by him to bring it.

Gianni knew he was under the protective eye of law enforcement and had gotten word of a RICO sting. He also knew who had tipped the feds off to bring it about as well. His sources knew who had ratted him out and he was biding his time for the FBI's arrival, getting everything in order for them. The arrest of his son was expected and their lawyer was already on the way to the district's headquarters before JT hung up. Gianni looked at the phone and thought of JT and his instincts to protect him. It sat well and very highly with him that he had done that. Gianni patted the phone softly and voiced his thoughts on JT. 

"A good thing. A very good thing indeed. I must show my appreciation to you JT Teller, you are a very good connection to have. Very good indeed."

Two minutes later, another team of FBI agents were at his door and ready to arrest him.

Jimmy barely spoke a word, as his lawyer fielded almost every question the Feds asked. No matter what they had for evidence, it wasn't enough to hold him on and just over an hour later, Jimmy was being driven back to the resort. He walked back to a completely stunned club and sat down in time to catch the last fifteen minutes of Anka's performance. Paul made a friendly gesture to him on his arrival, never breaking a beat in the song. Jimmy was almost laughing. Nothing was said for the rest of the night about what went on and whispered to JT to watch what they talked about at the table, or anywhere else in the place, because he had a good hunch the place was wired with bugs everywhere. 

JT whispered the news quietly and the word was passed around discreetly. Paul came and greeted everyone after the show and made his way to the special tables to talk with noted guests. Jimmy had everyone leave afterwards and drove to a remote part of the lake. They walked away from the vehicles and looked about for any signs they were followed. Jimmy told JT and the club all about the Rico case they were trying to build against them. Gianni had caught wind of it and Jimmy had everything secured and stashed that could incriminate him. When they carried out their warrant, all they had were suspicions and no evidence to prove it. Jimmy told them his father had passed along a great deal of thanks to the club through the lawyer. 

Jimmy put his arm over JT's shoulder and talked a bit quieter to him.

"You really called my dad right after I was arrested, letting him know about me?"

"Yeah, I figured he should be the first person who should know, right?"

"That was very right of you, JT. That put you in very good standing with us. We were expecting that visit to come, I just didn't think the assholes would do it here in Tahoe. Guess they thought I was making some big deal or something and all I'm doing is watching a show and my alibi was on stage singing. My father has expressed very deep feelings about you, JT and I want all the club to know that includes them as well, when I speak like this. He will want to pay his gratitude for this love of his family. You cared about me like a brother would, JT and I know you guys would have done the same. Fucking paisans, I fucking love you guys."

Jimmy and his men hugged and kissed the club, the cheek kissing now something accepted and returned. 

"So look, as much as this is all bullshit that they done, they're looking at us through a fucking microscope and you guys slid under the lens now. You'll need to be extra careful and warn every charter about it. They get one, they'll try and tie every charter in and do a fucking RICO on you. My apologies for this, even though it's not my fault. I didn't even know you guys were going to be there."

"Jimmy, hey, it's cool man. We know what's happening now, so we'll get on top of it quick and make sure no one does anything stupid. Make sure they increase surveillance and precaution before doing anything. Knowing is the biggest part and hey, honestly, who's to say those assholes haven't been watching us for a while too? We might not be anywhere Hell's Angels big, but we got some presence. They let us do our thing and they do theirs, but we get noticed by cops. We might have come across as those who have too much money for what they do for a living and want to know more."

"Very true, very true. So that says it there, my friends. Times they are a changing and we must turn, turn, turn. We should look at the distribution a little closer too and make sure we change that up, so they don't catch on to a routine."

"Yeah, good idea. Mark that down Bobby and we'll look at what we can do at the next meeting."

"So it's been great seeing you guys and we will be in touch shortly and I do mean shortly, but I got a tall, blonde with a body I can't wait to get back into."

"No shit, Jimmy. Fucking hot looking, but total space cadet upstairs."

"Brains was not the first thing on my mind when I saw her, you know what I mean, capice?"

"Oh, we capice all right. Have fun and we'll wait for your call and set a meet."

"Very good. Enjoy your evening, gentlemen."

Jimmy waved and got back in the limo and the driver closed the door. The guard and the driver waved and got in, then drove away back to the resort. JT and the guys took the time in solitude to smoke some joints and talk about the news and what to do about it. Security was a must and what was in place needed improving. The prospects would have to be put on alert to be wary of strange customers, especially ones who asked too many questions. The charter runs would give them a chance to inform all the top members of each charter and give them a run down of what was in play. 

New legitimate businesses would need to be created to dispose of one income, in pursuit of another, one with legal means of making it. Bobby knew his talents were going to be put to a test, while the prospects knew their final months of probation, just became ones of increased threat. 

JT said it was time to visit their friendly townsfolk and start making business loans to them. It gave the store owners some liquid assets to balance the books and look good, while staying off the books where the money came from. The economy was still hurting in the early 70's, making fast cash to stay alive, a needed commodity. The interest would make up for the lack of immediate purchasing power, as well as a constant source of support from them if troubles arose. Despite assurances, everyone knew trouble came into Charming, it didn't start there and the club was there to stop it. 

American muscle had come into its own and the manufacturers were turning out performance for pennies, compared to the exotic imports. Complaints of drag races taking place on public roads became a concern, so to make everyone happy, the club held races on the outskirts of town and made money on the betting. They shut down the road at both ends and turned it into an impromptu business, selling beers and joints, as well as mechanical assistance due to breakdowns. Unser wasn't thrilled about it, but it was better than having something go wrong on a city street and an innocent get injured, or killed.

Unser was getting comfortable working with the club. Where solutions to things were out of his hands to do something about, the club was there to fill that need. Laws were bendable and some were bent to breaking, but overall, the town went about its business and no one knew the seedy underbelly of Charming and how it was thriving unnoticed.




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 01



It was four months after the commune murders, when a call came to say the memorial was ready and could be delivered to the site when they were ready. Once again, ties and bonds were made, as all those who had lost a loved one, came to pay homage to that life. A small part of the corner on 10th line was set aside and a concrete platform was raised. The crane slowly eased the tall marble spire into place and gently set it down in its final resting place. Marble tiles would cover the bare concrete and then the gold plated wreath of daisies would be secured on top. The stone faces were covered in the commune's beliefs and some personal motto's. Every name was beautifully carved and filled with black enamel, making them stand out against the white of the marble. Lumpy's played host to the memorial dinner after and Gianni and Jimmy never made any slight to the cooking, even if it did look the farthest thing from Italian they'd ever seen.

It felt like the last honours had been paid, relieving them of any burden to their memories, now able to leave the past completely behind and move on. Weak promises of staying in touch with the parents were made, but they all knew that would be the last time they might ever see each other again. The bond they had made was shared well, as farewells were made, then as parents left the town, it all came back to the club and how things went from here on in. The club sat with the Cacuzza's and talked out all the details from both ends and put things in place to make everyone happy. A new transport company they had started up was going to make things look legit for the retail stock coming to the warehouse and hopefully put off any suspicion to it. 

Gianni went for a walk with JT alone and talked like a father to him. JT felt in awe of the love shown and how close he was to being a made man. To the passersby on the street, it was the oddest sight to see, two men in complete contradiction to how they looked, hugging as only family would. JT could see how touched Gianni was by his concern and caring thought to reach out. He never mentioned a thing about paying back his gratitude, but he knew if he felt that way about him, it would be a grand gesture. 

Sam Crow Transport and Delivery became a steady user of the highways, all six trucks bought and painted in company colours and logos for them. The warehouse was renamed and made more legitimate, as JT and Gianni worked at keeping the FBI off their backs and made a steady flow of money on both ends. Benny and Lamont were riding high on their end as well, now driving newer cars and dressing with more flash. Their crew was working daily most of the time keeping up with the orders for products. They had stopped stealing what was available long ago and were only taking orders for higher end merchandise. Household goods had moved down to the new crew members and they had to earn their way up to the big money. Cars had become the newest stock to move, as the pair had recently acquired a plate making alliance for new identification plates for any kind of vehicle. Put together with an insider in the DMV, titles were easy to change over and make the cars legitimate.

Reports came in from the Vegas charter that a body had been found by workers in the sewer system. It was extremely hard to determine by facial recognition who it was, the rats feasting on the body for days had removed most parts used for identification. A partial print off a finger gave them their ID and enforcement knew right then, that their informant was no longer providing any more information to them. They couldn't even determine the cause of death, so much outer flesh was eaten away. The Cacuzza's had indeed liked the club's method of disposal, using nature's scavengers to make short work of the evidence.

Every week, at least two of the trailer runs heading to Las Vegas, contained sport and luxury cars ready to sell. The push to make money spread to every charter and every ally. Helping each one grow and earn, made their end easier to do and provide a security factor. Police were on board and happily taking bribe money from them, the pittance for pay they were getting just making ends meet. The pay from the club and Benny made their lives a lot easier to enjoy and less problems to handle, the reports never making it out of the phony notebooks they used sometimes. Crime was paying and the economy seemed better because of it. Where government offices looked to pay little to hold their control of the laws, criminal enterprises were willing to pay far more to break those laws and hold a greater control over things, letting more hands get hold of the dollar and enjoy its benefits. 

The hardest part was keeping all parties involved happy. One screwed up and it was a chain reaction of problems waiting to happen. Every club member had several healthy bank accounts each, as well as what the club itself had and the shop made. It was easy to look after and lucrative, most covered well by legitimate surroundings. The club employed many of the town's people in jobs and that made it hard for any one to point a bad finger at them. The shining armour of their white knights might have some chinks and dents and some signs of battle on it, but they were ready to battle anyone who dared do wrong in the town. If the police didn't deal with trouble, the club did in a timely fashion and permanently.

Questions to the whereabouts of some past troublemakers came up a couple of times, but it never got anywhere and no one really cared. The club knew what had happened and how it was handled, making sure the memory was short and quickly forgotten. Charming was theirs and no one else's. It wasn't big, but everyone knew them and respected them. Most offered services to them for free and most always sent gifts. The club was never on the Charming P.D. radar, but city council always had to have a discussion about them at most meetings. 

As much as they were good for the town in many ways, supporting local business and sponsoring a softball team, the steady coming and going of hundreds of bikes was annoying to many citizens. The other side would counter with the fact they had so many bikers, no one would dare start anything in Charming again. Quite a few thought of the monthly runs as an impromptu parade and enjoyed seeing all the bikes and the noise they made. Many a young boy was thrilled to no end, if one of the club took them for a short ride. Their faces would be frozen in the widest grin and excited to go again. Parents found it hard to fault their image, but headlines and newscasts kept the ugly side of their lifestyle in their faces.

No matter how many debates and discussions they had, the monied members of Charming were voted down by the common man, in the battle between good and evil. The Sons of Anarchy did more good than bad and that kept settling the issues. The one thing everyone did know, was if the Sons did cause serious trouble to come to Charming, it would be hard to support them and keep defending their existence in town.

Back across the states, the other coast had grown a need for prospecting and charters sprang up there. The prairie provinces of Canada began a northern distribution and supply network, with Calgary, Alberta moving everything west, while Winnipeg, Manitoba handled everything going east into the bigger market of Ontario. By 1976, the Sons of Anarchy had become an international club and JT found leading his members was more as a boss delegating jobs and responsibilities to, than sitting around sharing ideas and voting on if they wanted to do them or not. 

He was feeling severed from his own past and began feeling he was now living a different life. What this life had to bring was still unanswered, but the efforts in it so far made it look like a good road to travel on. Fate had found good travel companions and enjoyed turning over surprise cards and seeing how it played out. No one could ever be sure what would happen that day or the next, but they were living well and enjoying life better than most. Neighbourhoods in town had at least one member living in a house among them. Ears were always listening for any signs of trouble, it too becoming a constant companion in life and having its fun tossing its problems into the mix. Sometimes Fate and Trouble had moments of doing things together and life was a turmoil of emergency measures to be taken and repair the damage, before they bled out and died. 

For the most part, the club was thriving and doing well across the board. Challenges were met and squashed without incidence, most realizing the error of their ways and causing no more problems. Others required further negotiations to resolve issues and the club had the muscle and firepower to quell anything that came at them. Growth was steady and the trials and tribulations to maintain it was a daily grind that never ended. Shit was going to happen, that was a fact of life. JT and the club were always ready to wipe that shit away and keep things clean and smelling good. A new resource was proving very profitable to obtain and a new way of getting it was developed. 

The oil embargo had caused nationwide panic for gas, as pumps ran out and rationing began. Highway robbery of tankers was easy to do at gun point, drivers stopping and giving up their loads willingly at that insistence. Black market sales were a booming business until the supply ran out and another tanker was required. Cops were people too and needed gas for their own vehicles. Getting it at discount prices made the sale of bootleg gas another co-operative venture.

The past was gone, severed cleanly and completely from them. There was never a moment of going back to something in it, nothing of it remaining for them to go to. Memories were all that remained and even they were fading into fuzzy moments of thought. It was an era of growth and transformation, eyes only looking at what the future held for them, The present was all they lived in with any clarity, as the past faded away and the future always a murky mist of possibilities.

1978 was another year of change. Fate had decided to toss another card back in the mix for the club to play with. Coming back from a meet with the Aztecs, they were stopped to get gas and a rest stop. While everyone sat around waiting, two young and hot looking females exited the convenience store, drinking a bottle of pop from straws. JT looked at the leggy brunette and felt the urge to know her better. The girls walked to the road and began hitchhiking, heading north to who knew where, but it was the direction the club was going and JT didn't mind the idea of a travelling companion like her pressed up close against him. 

The club was ready to ride, so JT had them pull up beside the girls and asked if they wanted to ride with them. The pair looked at the club and the brunette looked more at JT leading them, as she raised her sunglasses. Both began putting a hair band on before saying yes, the brunette walking closer to JT.

"What's your name?"

"JT, what's yours?"

"Gemma."

"Feel like riding with me, Gemma?"

"I like riding, as long as you don't go too fast."

"Baby, just hold on to me tight and it doesn't matter about how fast we're going, it's always fun."

Gemma smiled at JT, as she climbed on the back and put her arms around his waist. Her friend Luann climbed on the back with Lenny, making herself cozy with him. Clay looked at Gemma and lusted for her body, feeling the pangs of jealousy eat at him. JT turned his head and asked Gemma where they were heading, as he put a hand over hers.

"If you can get us to Stockton, I'll find a way to get to the shit hole I need to get to."

"What shit hole is that?"

"Doubt you ever heard of the place."

"Try me, I know California pretty good."

"Ever hear of a place with a stupid name like Charming?"

"Going there ourselves."

"You're going to Charming?"

"It's our town."

Gemma laughed and lowered her sunglasses, then laid her head on JT's back, as he moved out and felt her hands holding him. He knew she was interested in getting to know him better, as her hands left his stomach and rested lower in his lap, her thighs pressed tighter to his hips. The long ride held a sense of promise between them, a closeness forming that was going to at least lead to some great sex, but something more was between them that deserved exploring and both felt a desire to do that.

Fate smiled, whether in happiness, or whether in a sneer, only It knew what it wanted to see happen and watch it unfold.



Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 02



It was the first time JT had ever been in this area of Charming. The people here were the ones who wanted him and his club out, so he knew he wasn't a welcome sight riding through their streets. Gemma pointed out the driveway she wanted to stop at and JT looked at the name on the box. He saw it and looked at Gemma and tried to imagine if there was a connection. Gemma saw the look and knew what it was for.

"Yeah, my dad is Reverend Madock. You didn't remember me, did you?"

"I thought you looked familiar, but I couldn't place you."

"Yeah, yeah, sure. Anyway, I remember you. I was with my dad that day you buried your mom. I felt so sad for you, you know that?"

"Really? I don't remember much about that day, just looking at her casket and thinking I was alone."

Gemma's look softened and a caring tenderness showed. She reached her arm around JT's shoulders and hugged him to her.

"I wanted to hug you, when I saw you sitting there by yourself. You looked like you were alone and I knew how shitty that feeling felt."

"Your mom die?"

"No, I wish. I hate that woman."

"No way, you can't hate your mom?"

"If you knew her like I do, you would too."

JT saw her look at the house and knew she wasn't thrilled with coming home.

"So how long you staying in town?"

"Not sure really. My little brother is sick and that's why I came back here. If he wasn't sick, this is the last place I'd be hanging around."

"What's wrong with him?"

"Bad heart. Gets it from my mother's side. I'm supposed to have it too, but I'm not going to stop living because of it. Not like she wants me to."

"Bummer, sounds like a hard thing to deal with."

"Yeah, I hate seeing him get sick like this. They're talking about doing some kind of operation to correct it, but it's a scary operation and he might die from it."

"Shit, no way, that's a hard one to decide on."

"Look, JT, I don't feel like hanging around here too long, feel like staying for a little bit and take me into town after?"

JT saw her shift her feet and thrust a hip out, accentuating it to him. He looked in her eyes and saw a desire to be with him, more than being where she was. He wanted to know her better and she was giving him a chance.

"Sure, I can hang out here for a bit. How long are you going to be?"

"Fifteen minutes tops. I just want to say hi to daddy and see how Nathaniel is doing. Any longer and I'll go mental."

JT had to smirk at the emotional antics and said he'd be there when she got out. Gemma kissed his cheek and wiped the lipstick off with her thumb and smiled at him. His smile came out wide and happy to her, as she walked with a little extra wiggle in her ass, tossing a quick look at him to make sure he noticed. He caught her eyes and smiled, then she disappeared past the wall of roses lining both sides of the path. All he could hear was the sound of the heels on her boots on the walkway and it sounded like sex.

He sat and lit a smoke, looking at the lavish flower gardens about the property and knew what her parents enjoyed doing most. He looked at the sprawling ranch style home and knew the townsfolk had paid for this place with contributions to the church. The good reverend wasn't hurting for anything, not like some of his flock. The Cadillac wasn't knew, but it was well appointed and a top of the line model. He walked back to the road and stepped on his butt to put it out, keeping any signs of litter out of sight. He was sitting on his bike relaxing, when he heard yelling from the house and then the front door slamming.

Gemma came storming out and told JT to get her out of there fast. He started his bike and backed it out of the driveway, then Gemma slung her leg over and sat behind him. Gemma's mother was coming out and calling out to her, but Gemma told JT to go and he put it in gear and rode away. Gemma looked back at her mother, standing at the end of the driveway calling to her still. JT could see a look of great worry on her face and wondered why.

He rode into Charming and Gemma was surprised to see the recognition he received from everyone.

"You weren't kidding when you said this was your town. Everyone seems to know you."

"Would I lie to you? Charming is a great place, if you know how to have fun."

"I wouldn't mind some fun right now. You wouldn't happen to have a joint we can smoke, would you?"

"Your wish is my command, my queen."

JT smiled and twisted the throttle, making Gemma hold on tighter and laugh, enjoying the thrill. JT was happy about her easy going attitude and very much enjoyed feeling her breasts and thighs pressed against him tightly. They rode to the clubhouse and went in, finding Luann happily being the centre of attention to the guys. 

"Oh Gemma, I like these guys, they sound like fun."

"Yeah, so JT tells me. Seems like fun central is right here in Charming."

JT put his hand around her waist and pulled her to him.

"Ready for that joint, or would you like to try a hookah of hash? Your choice."

"My choice, huh? What kind of grass are you smoking?"

JT smiled broadly in his reply, as he went behind the bar and took out the lock box.

"We have Mexican, three different kinds, Acapulco Gold, Panama Red and some kick butt stuff our friends grow. We have some Jamaican stuff and some Colombian Gold. Plus, we have this."

Gemma and Luann sat at the bar, looking at the tinfoil wrapped square. JT carefully unwrapped it, holding the suspense, but the aroma wafted out and caught their noses.

"Oh wow, that smells fantastic, is that the hash?"

"Baby, we have three different kinds of hash, check this out."

Gemma was excited to see it and leaned forward more, her vee neck exposing more of her large breasts to JT. Gemma caught him looking and smiled lasciviously at him, making him blush slightly. JT went back to opening the last fold of tinfoil and showed her the three large chunks. He picked up the blonde hash and let her hold it and smell it, then she passed it to Luann. Both of them were impressed by the scent of its intoxicating smell. JT handed her the reddish one and it too made her sigh out, inhaling the fragrance. She passed it to Luann and JT handed her the black slab. Gemma smelled it and closed her eyes, inhaling the fragrant oils.

"So, what would you like, Baby? Grass, or hash?"

"Wow, you guys have everything, holy shit, I've never seen so many different kinds, have you Luann?"

"Nope, never even heard of some of this stuff."

Gemma and Luann looked at all the choices laid out before them, trying to decide on what to try first. JT picked up the Panama Red and started rolling a joint.

"You said you wanted to smoke a joint, so let's start with that and then we'll try whatever you want next."

"I like that idea. I like you too, you're alright."

"Well, let's smoke this and maybe you'll like me even more."

JT licked the glue strip and finished rolling the joint, smiling at Gemma. He carefully put it between her lips and enjoyed watching Gemma take it. He took his Zippo out and lit the end, as Gemma took a toke and inhaled it deeply. She began coughing hard and passed it to Luann, who inhaled and began coughing as well. 

"Good shit, huh?"

"Wow, that shit is strong."

"No sense in smoking bad crap, when you can smoke good shit."

Gemma caught the joke and started laughing, her breasts jiggling playfully before JT's eyes. JT's smile played on her and she played back, her eyes telling him some of her deeper feelings she was having. They took another hit each and then JT motioned with his hands to choose what they wanted to try next. Gemma took a hold of JT's cut and pulled him to her, so their faces were inches apart.

"I really want to try that black hash, that smells like sex to me."

"Cool, smells like sex to me too."

Gemma gave him a hard, quick kiss and sat back. JT felt the intent in his lips and licked them, bringing that same lasciviousness out again in Gemma. JT looked at Otto and pointed at the hash.

"Mr. Slice and Dice, would you do the girls a favour and put a bowl of this together for them."

Otto quickly had his buck knife out and twirled it in his fingers for a moment, before grasping the handle and stabbing the black hash slab. He took the slab and sliced off a thick piece and then cut it into thin strips, turning it sideways and slicing it all into small chunks. JT took the ornate brass hookah out from behind the bar and placed it in front of the girls. They marvelled at it, touching it lightly as they examined it.

"You guys are all set for a party, aren't you?"

"Hey, who knows when a party can just happen? Didn't know we were going to have one right now, but we're ready, aren't we?"

JT could see both of the girls were ready to have some fun and wondered what areas of interest they had in having it. 

Otto scooped the hash into the bowl and did a fancy flip with his knife and slid it back in his sheath. JT passed them a hose each and took one himself. He offered the final hose to whoever wanted in on it and Lenny was fastest to take it. 

"Okay, when I light the matches, start sucking in slowly to get the hash to light."

Gemma shot JT a quick look after hearing 'start sucking' and smiled. JT lit a couple of wooden matches and they all drew in a long slow breath. Gemma and Luann were immediately taken by the taste and enjoyed it in moans. The hash went on fire and they let it burn for a moment, then blew it out and let it smoke on its own. The girls held the toke in and both blew out at the same time. They looked at each other and smiled, nodding in agreement of how it hit them. Gemma looked back at JT and smiled.

"Yeah, smells like sex, tastes like sex and feels like sex."

She took another long haul on the hose and passed it to a hand behind her. JT looked at Gemma and saw the sexuality coming out, knowing the hash was turning her on. He thought he stood a good chance of playing on it and made her an offer.

"You know, we can always come to my room and have some sex, if you want the whole experience."

His smiling offer brought out a playfulness in her and she acted coyly towards him.

"Tell you what, biker boy. Let me try some of the red one and we'll see about the whole experience thing."

JT tossed the red slab to Otto and he sliced off a piece and chunked it up quickly. The new pieces were added to the glowing coals and the girls began sucking on the hoses, taking large tokes of it. Gemma held on to the hit and her eyes became slits, the whites turning redder and redder. A stoned expression came over her and JT smiled, seeing the effects take hold.

"Ready for the whole experience now?"

Gemma looked at JT with her hazy mind and smiled weakly.

"Oh yeah, let's fuck, Baby."

Hoots and hollers came out from the guys and Luann knew she was going to enjoy the company of the eight that were left. The hoses were picked up and puffed on, as Gemma got up and straightened herself out, stretching and thrusting her breasts out. She looked at JT and smiled suggestively, then held her hand out to him. JT came from behind the bar and took Gemma's hand, then began leading her to his room. He turned back and saw the looks on the other guy's faces and smiled back, before disappearing down the hall. Gemma flopped back on the bed and lay there looking at JT, then opened her arms an invited him to her. JT laid down over her and held his face just above hers.

"Damn, you sure are a sexy chick."

"Think I'm sexy do you? Wait until you see how much I like to fuck. Let's get naked."

Gemma pulled him to her face and kissed him hard, evoking what she was feeling. JT felt the passion and responded with his own. Without moving their lips apart, they began undressing each other, a need to be flesh on flesh taking over. JT looked over Gemma's naked form, her large breasts flattening down, but the dark, pink nipples were hard and erect to him. He saw the dark triangle of hair and the parting of her thighs, then looked back up into her dark, brown eyes and saw the liquid lust shimmering in them.

Gemma wrapped her legs around JT's waist and kissed him, tongues writhing sinuously around each other, as he slid his erect member inside her velvety wetness. They held onto each other and Gemma wanted him fast and hard, using her legs to pull JT into herself. It didn't take either of them long and they were both in the throes of orgasmic satiation. 

Over an hour passed, before JT and Gemma reappeared, both looking sexually gratified by each other and holding hands. Lenny looked at them and laughed.

"I guess the whole experience thing was worth it?"

"Oh yeah, well worth it."

Eyes turned to Gemma and waited for her opinion. She looked at JT and put her other hand over his and smiled at them.

"It was worth it and more."

Cheering and hollering rang out and Luann got up from between Keith and Lenny. She came over to Gemma and searched her eyes, looking for the truth in them. She could see straight off the happiness was real and not just the hash.

"That good, huh?"

Gemma smiled broader at her.

"Yeah, that good."

Luann looked at JT and sized him up better, knowing how choosy Gemma was about her men. She gave him a sly look and went back to sit between the guys again. 

"So what have you been doing with all these guys, since I was enjoying the whole experience?"

"Wouldn't you like to know?"

"I can only imagine. You can be such a slut, Luann."

"Haven't had any complaints so far. You guys got any complaints?"

The guys quickly agreed that there was nothing to complain about, as they fawned over her.

"Been entertaining them with your stories, I bet?"

"Well, we have to talk about something, don't we? The weather is just boring."

"I guess they want to know if it's all true."

The guys looked at Luann and then to Gemma, wanting to know if the sexual creature in their midst did indeed possess the talents she spoke of.

"They're true, I've seen her do them."

The guys were in awe immediately, knowing the sexy woman sitting with them did things that even the commune girls would have had a hard time doing. 

Gemma turned back to JT and put her arms around his waist, giving him a soft kiss on his lips.

"So, other than riding a cool bike, smoking the best shit around and knowing how to fuck like a god, what else do you do for fun around here?"

"I guess the other thing I do well, is make money. Clay and me own the shop and we have several small businesses we run in town."

"Sound like quite the catch, JT Teller. I'll have to keep my eye on you."

"That all you want to keep on me?"

"For now. I'm only here for a couple of days, but I think I know where I'll be spending my time while I'm here. That's of course if you want to see me again, that is."

Gemma knew how to put the bait on the hook and reel them in, her coyness and subtle sexuality always in play.

"What if I don't?"

"Your loss. You only got a taste of what I like doing and don't even know a fraction of the fun I like having."

"Is that right?"

"Mmmmm, hmm."

Gemma's sauciness came out and she ground her hips into JT's pelvis and held his ass tight in her hand, then pressed her lush breasts into him and kissed him with greater passion. She felt him succumbing and backed off, looking at him with a sense of control.

"Like I said, just a fraction, Baby, just a little fraction."

"Did I tell you I was good at fractions? Take two halves and make a whole,"

"Very good. So, still interested?"

"Of course. Still interested in knowing all my other little bedroom secrets?"

"I'm intrigued. I wouldn't mind seeing what else those lips and fingers can do. Yes, Baby, I'll have to keep my eye on you, yes I will."

JT flashed a big smile and hugged Gemma to him, then kissed her as new lovers enjoy doing. 

"I think someone has a new boyfriend."

Gemma spun her head to Luann and gave her a snarky look.

"Fuck off, Luann. All we did is fuck and have some great sex, who said anything about being my boyfriend."

"Don't tell me to fuck off. I know when you got the hots for a guy and you got the hots for JT."

"I won't deny that. JT is a fucking great lay, of course I got the hots for him that way. I just met the guy like hours ago and now you're saying we're going steady, as if."

JT stood there listening to them talk about him and silently boasted as he heard mention of his sexual prowess. 

"Hey, Luann, Gemma's right. We just met and had some fun. That doesn't mean we're dating or anything. I dig her, she's cool. Like she just told me, she's only in town a couple of days, so how do we do the dating thing? Drive to L.A. every time we want to get together?"

Gemma spun JT towards her and looked at him up and down.

"What? Don't think I'm worth the drive to L.A.?"

"Did I say that? I'm just saying, it's a really long distance to ride."

"How about I make it worth the trip?"

JT saw the look in Gemma's eyes and the suggestive smile, seeing the offer of great pleasure awaiting him, should he decide to make the trip.

"I guess I'll have to see if it's worth it then. If it's anything like the preview, I'm game."

The others watched the playfulness between them and knew they were going to hook up, despite them acting towards each other with indifference. The guys knew JT and knew he was enthralled with Gemma and Luann knew Gemma had swallowed the bait and wouldn't let JT out of her grasp for a second.

The clubhouse door opened and giggling came in before the girls did. Gemma and Luann looked at the girls and then to JT and the guys, as the four hang around Crow eaters came in and looked back at them. Possessive daggers shot back and forth between Ronnie and Gemma, the former feeling she had laid claim to JT herself. 

"Who's this?"

"Uhm, Gemma, Luann, meet Ronnie, Lydia, Jessie and Judy. Girls, this is Gemma and that's Luann."

The tension continued to grow between the girls, with Ronnie acting like she had claim to be with JT exclusively. JT stood between the two and felt the thickness of the tension. He felt Gemma's hold on his arm tighten and then felt Ronnie moving closer and acting possessive. Gemma got his attention away from her.

"Want to tell me who they are?"

"Oh, these are friends of ours, they come by and hang out with us."

JT tried to downplay what the real purpose of their visits were, hoping it would ease some of the animosity between them. Gemma looked Ronnie over well, sizing her up.

"Could have picked a better class of friends, JT."

Ronnie went livid at the remark and shot back her own.

"Like you're anything special. Look like a tramp slut to me."

That brought out the claws and JT felt them in his arms, as both girls squared off against each other.

"Tramp slut? That's the best you got? Girl, why don't you grow a pair of tits and try again when you reach puberty. With a name like Ronnie, I guess it's because you look more like a boy, than a girl."

Ronnie looked at the large breasts Gemma was displaying and knew hers were no match for them. She was at a loss to retort anything back and flustered, her anger bringing small tears to her eyes.

"Fuck you, bitch."

Gemma laughed at her and held JT's arm to her breasts tighter.

"JT already did and he was fabulous."

Ronnie looked at JT and he shrugged in embarrassment, unable to deny what he had done. The truth was a hurt to her ego, knowing she wasn't as special to him as she thought she was. She stood and fumed, trying to come up with a comeback to Gemma. Gemma was smirking in triumph and making Ronnie riled up.

"Yeah, well JT likes the way I fuck him, don't you JT?"

Both girls looked at JT for his answer, watching him squirm under the scrutiny. The guys were almost laughing at this point and Luann was equally rapt to see how it played out.




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 02



"Hey, don't stick me in the middle of this."

"Too bad, JT. You're in the middle already, so answer her. Do you like fucking her better than me?"

JT was almost sweating at this point, truly not wanting to end up in the middle of a cat fight. He knew one wrong word and he could end up alone and neither girl fucking him. He looked at Ronnie and then to Gemma, seeing the need for an answer from them both. He looked at the ceiling and sighed.

"Okay, look, yes, I really like making out with you Ronnie, I do, but I kind of like making out with Gemma more."

That brought tears to Ronnie's eyes, hearing she hadn't won him over like she thought. Gemma smiled smugly at her and twisted the blade in a bit more.

"I guess he likes fucking real women, instead of little girls. Now take your hands of my boyfriend, if you don't mind."

Ronnie looked at JT with pleading eyes, hoping he would relent his comment and accept her. He saw the puppy dog eyes and knew Ronnie was an eager lover, always ready to please him, but Gemma had experience and talent that outshone her by miles. He looked at Gemma, hearing how she called him boyfriend and knew the charade was over and she really wanted him. When JT shrugged his shoulders to Ronnie, she knew she had lost the battle.

"No, please JT, let me stay with you. I'll fuck you better then her, I promise, please."

It was almost pathetic to watch, as Ronnie fawned over him, almost begging him. JT felt terrible, looking at how hurt and upset she was getting. 

"Ronnie, I'm sorry, I really am. What do you want me to say, or do?"

"Don't leave me, please."

JT looked from her to Gemma and saw that the decision was his to make, a fine balance on the knife's edge starting to cut at him.

"But Ronnie, you heard Gemma say I was her boyfriend, right? We're not going steady or anything, so I have to chose Gemma."

Ronnie's tears flowed harder, streaming down her cheeks. The other girls saw how distraught she was and came to her, walking her away in tears and disappointment in how she was treated. The guys looked at JT with a sense of being let down. Lenny voiced those feelings openly for all.

"You do realize none of them are going to come back here to have fun now, JT? It's nice you have Gemma now, but we just lost our Crow eaters. What are we supposed to do for fun?"

"Guys, I'm sorry, it's not my fault. I can't help it if Ronnie wants me. It was supposed to just be fun and no serious shit, right? You heard her yourself, she thinks I belong to her. So, what, I don't get to chose anymore?"

The guys could understand JT's reasoning, but it didn't solve the loss of sexual pleasure they were looking forward to. Luann saw the atmosphere change and become soured by the events.

"I have an idea that might help."

The guys looked at her standing amongst them, her smile suggesting something. Lenny asked what she was thinking.

"You guys are looking for a little fun in bed, right?"

"Yeah, we were hoping to have some fun."

"How about I show you some of my favourite things I can do?"

"What are you talking about Luann?"

"There's what, one, two, three, four..."

Luann counted off the eight guys in need.

"I can do two, or three of you at a time. One thing I do like, is being filled with hot cock, so who's interested?"

The guys looked at the petite blonde and sized her up. Lenny wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close.

"You think you can handle two or three of us at once?"

"Done it before. So, who wants to go first?"

To confirm her offer, Luann began stripping off her T shirt and unhooked her bra, tossing both on the chair behind her. She undid the button on her jeans and lowered the zipper, exposing the pink panties underneath. She cupped her pert breasts and tugged gently on her nipples, as she looked about at the guys, seeing the desire mounting in them. Lenny didn't waste any time and grabbed her hand, leading her to the bedrooms. Keith and Otto were close behind them, as Piney went and locked the door and came back.

"I'm so glad I have Mary at home waiting for me. I couldn't handle dealing with that shit, JT."

"Yeah, no kidding. I had no idea she was that into me, man."

Gemma's hands found JT's chest and stroked him softly.

"Want to get back into me, boyfriend?"

JT looked at the sly look Gemma gave him and then looked at the others.

"Wouldn't mind that in the least, girlfriend."

"Let's go and have some more great sex then and show me more of your talents and I'll show you more of mine."

"Deal."

JT cupped Gemma's ass cheeks and lifted her up to him. She wrapped her legs around him and kissed him passionately, as JT began walking towards his room. The rest of the guys sat back and knew their turn would come soon enough, so another round of beers and joints were started. They were laughing about how the day had turned out so far, when the door opened and a head poked in. The guys looked and it was Jessie.

"Ronnie went home, but is it okay if we can still come in?"

In seconds, the guys were welcoming them in and making them feel very wanted and desired. The young women were soon being kissed and fondled and soon after, undressed and ready for an afternoon of fun and games. As Ronnie sat at home crying in rejection, her friends were enjoying many more moments of sexual exploration and forgetting about possession, as every guy took them a little bit closer to nirvana. The clubhouse was rife with sex in every usable place, as the club enjoyed their women. 

In the shop, the three prospects looked over in yearning, knowing their time would come and they could enjoy being with any woman they wanted. Heads went back under hoods and engines worked on, as minds pictured what it would be like over there with five sexually charged females. The patch meant everything and that's what they wanted. Tigs finished his car and put it in the lot, then before getting his next one, he looked through the window to see what was happening.

He grabbed his crotch and squeezed it, watching the guys double up on Jessie and Lydia, while Judy was fucking one and sucking happily on another. Greg and Chunk looked over and saw him and yelled out to him. Tigs motioned to them to come over and see for themselves. It took no hesitation for the pair to rush over and sneak up to the window. Three faces looked on in jealousy and admiration, knowing they would soon enjoy the standards the club were setting for them to follow.

Being a Son had its privileges and they went back to work with firmer resolve to earn that patch and prove themselves worthy to be a member. Tigs brought his next car in and opened the hood and then voiced his thoughts openly to the other two.

"I am definitely patching in and getting me into some of that. Did you see that one chick, sucking on Lenny and Otto fucking the shit of her, or the other two, one up the snatch and one up the ass at the same time? Fucking right I'm making the grade on this. I'll earn that motherfucking patch, if it kills me."

The other two looked at him and then to the clubhouse, nodding their heads as they went back to work on the cars. Two months seemed like forever to Tigs and Chunk, while Greg knew he still had almost a year to go, before he was old enough to join. He looked over at his Harley at the end of the row and saw the rewards for his efforts and knew he was well thought of. It still ached to know he had another year of waiting, until his cock was being treated to as much pussy as he could stick it into.

At the next calling of church, Bobby was happy to announce a good return on the last month's performance. Despite the FBI putting them under watch, they had been able to increase their trade east and all factions were making lots of money. The hardest part of making all that money wasn't doing the job, it was finding new ways to spend it and launder it, so it wasn't noticed too much. Bigger businesses could easily hide the cash, but put them more under scrutiny to operate. The next order of business came up and that was the patching in of two new members. JT called for a vote to accept them and both were received with unanimous ayes. Tigs and Chunk were called in and told to remove the prospect patches, then Piney handed them their new patches to sew on. They were hugged with affection as brothers and Bobby called for an end of meeting, as all business old and new was over. JT pounded his fist on the table to bring it to a close.

Greg saw them come out and started opening beers for everyone, then brought the lock box out and put it on the bar. JT looked at Greg and saw the pride of being a member being shown and he could see the ache on his face, wishing it was him getting patched in.

"Greg, just so you know, that even though you weren't patched in like the others, you'll get to enjoy what they do. Whenever the girls are here, or you want to go down to see Lenny for some ass, feel free brother. You've earned it like they have. You'll be wearing that patch in what, six, seven months?"

"Six months, three weeks and four days."

"Just counting them off, are you? Cool brother, look forward to that day and see you wearing them."

Greg came around from behind the bar and hugged JT tightly, knowing his greatest wish and desire was coming true.

"So, I was wondering, JT, can you guys call me by my nickname?"

"What's that, Greg?"

"Razor."

"Razor, cool, I like it. Razor Jensen, bad ass biker."

"Thanks man, I always wanted to be called that."

JT quieted everyone down and got their attention.

"Guys, from now on, Greg is to be known as Razor, Razor Jensen."

They all cheered out his new name, while Piney opened a beer for him and they all toasted and saluted one another. JT saw his charter growing and enjoyed the mix. Chicano and Jewish, Irish and German, but all Americans, all brothers under one common banner. The town wasn't reeling over the violence anymore and things were quieting down again. The club was as welcome anywhere anyone else was and more. Other clubs knew them and knew to stay out of their territory, that the same respect would be shown to them.

JT was in the office doing paperwork and talking it over with Clay when the phone rang. JT picked it up and heard the soft voice on the other end. He motioned for Clay to leave the office and sat back and replied.

"Hey Baby, how are you? Been thinking about you."

"Really? I've been thinking about you too. I really liked being with you and not just because of the great sex. I like who you are, JT Teller, I really do."

"Cool, because I really like you too and not just because of the great sex. I really like your style and how you handle yourself."

"I can say the same about you too. I dig you, JT. Luann won't shut up about it and keeps bugging me all the time. She knows I don't put out for guys, unless I want them and that's not very many, or very long for that matter."

"I don't really sleep around. I mean, Ronnie was just, you know, there to take the edge off, that's it. I never thought she was into me that much, that she thought we were something."

"Should find out about these things, before you go sinking your heart into somebody. I kind of feel sorry for her actually. She seems like she's nice and probably puts out for you willingly, so I can see why you fucked her."

"Well, yeah, she enjoys what I do to her."

"Does she do anything like I do for you?"

JT was smiling broadly on his end, knowing Gemma was pressing to hear how much he liked her.

"You know, I don't think another woman, well maybe one or two, but that's something else, I don't think anyone has sucked my cock with so much enjoyment."

"Like that did you?"

"Oh fuck yeah and hey, I can't forget how you said you like to fuck. You know how to do some fun things inside you."

"My speciality. I like feeling it myself. I like feeling you inside me, you fit real nice."

JT was grinning really big and trying hard not to make any sounds. 

"I like how we fit too. So, we need to get together and fit the pieces again. We have a run coming up on the sixteenth and if you're not busy, I can swing by and pick you up, spend the weekend in my apartment this time."

"So you don't live at the clubhouse with all the guys then?"

"No way! We just like hanging out there all day and fix cars and take care of business. When we aren't doing that, we go for rides up and down the coast, or east over the Nevada's and see some friends in Vegas, have some good food and drinks and all the entertainment we want."

"You make that much money to go to Vegas and piss away a grand or two?"

"No, no, Baby. When we go, it's all on the house, we don't pay a dime, unless we want to."

Gemma sat at her end, listening to connections and knew her new boyfriend had a dirty side to his badness. How dirty was yet to be seen, but it made her lust for him all the more. There was a wild responsibility to JT and she found it appealing. All the good parts of life she liked to have and a bad side that always had her ready to enjoy herself with him. She crossed her legs and squeezed her thighs tightly, feeling the tingle and throb and knew she wanted JT right then and there.

"Okay, come and get me and we'll have some fun at your place and maybe the next time, you can take me to Vegas and show me a real good time. I want to know what 'on the house' feels like. That's like V.I.P. stuff, right?" 

"That's V.I.P. stuff, Baby. You want to play something, eat, drink, see a show, we'll have front row seats waiting for us, without even asking. I told you, we have friends in Vegas."

"What kind of friends?"

"Good friends, they like us and we like them. Really good people."

"What's their names?"

"How about we save twenty questions until after we go and ask them then?"

"Okay. So what time do you figure you'll be here, just so I can be ready."

"If all goes well, figure around two in the afternoon. The guys will head straight back, so we can take our time and have a nice ride together."

"I'd like that. I liked the ride I had with you last time. I like holding on to you and doing what you do. I like how you're in control and I feel safe with you. I was so scared when we were going really fast, but I could feel how calm you were and knew you knew what you were doing."

"I'm totally alive and at one with the bike. We know what we're doing together, like it feels me, as much as I feel it."

"I sort of get that. I know what you're talking about. I liked something else more about it though."

"What's that?"

"I liked how the vibration felt between my legs. If I sat a certain way, I could have an orgasm if I wanted."

"No way? Cool, so why don't you then?"

"What, have an orgasm while riding? Yeah and my panties will be soaking by the time we get there."

"So bring lots of panties with you in that big bag of yours."

"You are so bad, JT Teller. I think I could fall in love with you."

"Wow, already up to love. Better keep up the good work then. How bad do you like me?"

"Hmmm, how bad? Let's just say I like the bad that gets me all hot and horny for you, that kind of bad."

"I like that kind of bad. It would be nice to know what that bad is, so I can work on it."

"When I want to fuck your brains out, you'll know it's the kind of bad that I like."

"Damn, I'm getting a fucking hard on right now just thinking about you."

"Good, because my panties are already soaking, you bastard. Fuck, you turn me on."

"Right back at you, Baby. I want you to give me a call tomorrow Gemma, about the same time, I should be here. I need to hear your voice before I leave the next day to come down. Damn, I can't wait to see you again."

"So, you agree I'm worth the drive to L.A.?"

"Shit yeah. You agree I'm worth waiting for?"

"I've been wanting you with me since you dropped me off. I hated seeing you ride away and thinking we'd never see each other again."

"Really, Why would you think that?"

"Because every time I've given myself like that to a guy, he always screws up everything and all he wants is the sex."

"Trust me, I want you for more than just the sex. I think we're really good together. I really want you as my girlfriend and maybe even more, I'm not sure yet, but that's where my feelings are at about you."

"Honestly? You want to have like a relationship with me?"

"Yeah, I can dig it. If we feel like we want to do that, we can move into my apartment and make it ours. I got all new stuff in the place, so it's really nice."

"I'm looking forward to seeing it now. I had all these crazy thoughts of something like the clubhouse and how that looks."

"Hey, give me some credit. I think my place looks really awesome. They had some pictures in the magazine that looked cool, a cigarette ad or something, maybe it was booze, I can't remember, but I liked how the room looked, so I did it the same sort of way."

"Wow, I'm impressed. I suppose you know how to cook too, I take it?"

"Damn straight, I do. No one else making dinner, unless we go out, so every guy knows how to cook a decent meal for all the rest. Sometimes we pitch in and help a guy, but mostly each guy can cook enough for a dozen."

"This I got to see. Make me a dinner when we're there and we can eat with the guys, is that cool?"

Gemma's leg was rocking back and forth over her other one, enjoying the subtle erotic feelings as she talked to him. She twirled a long tress of hair, looking far off to no where.

"Sure. You want me to, or one of the guys?"

"You, I want to see my man in action and see what he does."

"You got it, Baby. One fabulous meal coming up. Anything special you'd like me to make for you?"

"Anything?"

"Well, I'm not a chef, I just know how to put shit together and make it taste good."

"Okay, I'll think of what I'd like and I'll even show you how to make it, maybe even help a bit."

"Cool, I'd like that. You like the club, don't you?"

"Yeah, they're a bunch of nice guys. Fucking Luann just adores them. She fucked six of them on her own that day and then joined the other three girls and showed them some stuff. You think I like fucking, Luann isn't happy, unless she has a cock or two in her at all times. Talk about a fuck freak."

"The guys liked her too. They keep bugging me to know when she'll be coming again."

"If someone can pick her up, she's game to come along. She'd be on a bike in a second and telling him to go faster."

"I'll let them know then. I'm sure they'll be drawing straws or something to see who gets to ride with her on the back."

"If she knew she could have sex on the bike, without crashing, she'd fuck whoever it was all the way back."

"You really make her out to be quite the slut."

"I guess she never told you guys what she does. I know I didn't tell you, I figured it was up to her."

"What does she do?"

"She in porn movies. I guess you guys don't watch much porn, or you'd know who she was."

"No fucking way? She does porn? No wonder she fucks as much as she does. So, she doesn't get enough at work, or what?"

"Actually, she doesn't. She gets all frustrated doing a shoot, because they always cut and stop and then start and she doesn't get off. The guy does, but she's dying to have a good fuck and enjoy it, so she meets all kinds of guys on the set and some auditioning for a part. She can go through close to a dozen different guys in a week."

"Wow, that's some serious fucking."

"I've watched her lots of times and been asked to try out, but that's not my thing. I have thought about doing a couple of the guys though. God, they're hung, but stupid as shit."

"Need a little mental stimulation to go along with the rest of it, I gather?"

"Yeah, I need to feel that connection, like we're on the same wavelength. I mean, there's no shortage of hot looking guys with big cocks around here. Just try to find one that knows how to do more than get it hard and cum and that's near impossible."




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 02



"Yeah, I know what you mean. Like Ronnie, pretty and everything like you said, but she wasn't paying much attention in school, or in life for that matter. I agree, we're on the same wavelength and want the same things."

The pause in conversation had them both thinking of what their hearts were feeling. JT could feel Suzy's memory slipping further back into his thoughts, as Gemma's fresher and intriguing moments came to fill the space she once had. 

"JT."

"Yes Gemma?"

"I think I'm falling in love with you."

The words hit him like a shot to the chest. He felt his heart swell, knowing those same feelings of love he once treasured would be felt again. 

"I think I am too, Baby."

"What?"

"Falling in love with you."

"Good. I like to hear you say the words and not just agree with me. I like to know you really mean what you say."

"I do mean it."

"I know you do, Baby. I better go, this is long distance and it's going to cost me a fortune on my phone bill next month."

"Hey, don't worry about it. I'll pay for the call. It's worth every penny they charge."

"You are so sweet, JT."

"The sweetest."

"God, I can't wait to see you, so I can kiss you and then fuck your brains out. You drive me crazy, JT, you really do."

"I'm glad, makes two of us then. So look, call me tomorrow and we can talk for a bit. I got to get back to doing shit here anyway. I am so happy you called, Baby."

"Me too. Talk to you tomorrow, about the same time right?"

"Yeah, I shouldn't be busy with anything."

A small pause came again, then Gemma's softness came back to her voice.

"JT."

"Yes?"

"I love you."

JT paused before answering, knowing what he was committing himself to if he responded.

"I love you."

That finalized everything in their hearts and both knew that life was going to be lived as one soon and looked forward to the moments they would have, to make some lasting memories. Gemma said goodbye and hung up, then JT put the receiver down and looked at the phone. A knock came from the shop window and he saw Clay standing there looking impatient. JT waved him in and he came back to the desk and sat on it.

"Look, JT, I know you're president of the club, but I'm half owner here and this is company time we're on. It's nice your girl called and everything, but I wanted to get this shit done, so I could go down to the motel and get my dick sucked."

JT looked at Clay and knew he was right. He glanced at the clock and noticed an hour and a half had gone by in a flash. 

"Hey, sorry brother, I lost track of time. You're right, company business on company time. Oh, on a good note. Luann wants to come back and see you guys. You'll have to draw straws and see who gets her on the back."

"No shit? Right on, that girl can put a serious fuck on a guy. I'll let the guys know about it and do a draw or cut cards or something."

"Thought that might make you happy."

"What would make me happy is finishing this shit and getting out of here. So, where are we with suppliers and shit? I thought we had that locked down?"

"Yeah we did, but times being like they are, fucking prices for everything are going up because of the gas."

"Why don't we cut them in on the cheap stuff we get. Diesel is just as easy to get as regular gas, ain't it?"

"Yeah, we can see if they're into that. I know Eight and a Half will go for it, probably Sam at East Bay would too. They must use a shit load of diesel every week. I bet Wayne would love to have some for his business with his dad. They must go through a ton just themselves."

"I don't know about bringing Unser into it. He's a cop and we don't know which way he'd swing on that. If he wanted to be the business owner, or the D.C. and bust our asses."

"Yeah, true, but he's got a bottom line he has to meet and his dad's treatments take a huge bite out of it. If he had a chance to put more money in his pocket, I'm sure the business man would be the one dealing with us. As long as it's outside Charming, he's not in his jurisdiction, so he couldn't really do anything anyway."

"Yeah, that plays out. If you think it can work, you talk to Unser and I'll ride over and talk to Sam and Eight and a Half and see if they're into it."

"Sounds good. We'll run it by the club later and take a vote. I don't see any problems with it, I like it."

JT got up and the two hugged and Clay went out to his bike, happy with how things went for him and the few minutes it would take before he was slapping flesh with one of the chosen ones at Lenny's. JT sat in the office trying to think of how to approach Unser about it, but Gemma's proclamation of love for him had him diverting to that thought instead.

He searched his heart and wanted to know if he could move that part Suzy held and begin with a clean slate with Gemma. He took out his wallet and pulled a picture of Suzy out. He looked at the still image, but he could see the life in it. The smile on her face was one of pure love for him. He remembered taking it and how she was thinking of him. She was standing in the circle of daisies, the tops of them coming to her waist. Her hair was barely covering her breasts, her head adorned in a wreath of the white flowers. He thought of what her mother had told him at the wake and knew she must have been pregnant when he took it. It was that love, that glow that Spirit and Golden saw from her. Suzy was the happiest she had ever been at that moment and JT felt tears coming to his eyes.

For all the promise that Gemma held, he couldn't put Suzy out of his heart. She earned that place in there and she deserved to be honoured for it. He kissed the picture lovingly, then tucked it back in his wallet, locking that part of his heart so Suzy would always have her place there, but she would never come out to interfere with what was ahead. The past had to remain in the past, but JT knew days would come, where remembering would be held in honour of those special days and nothing could take precedence over them, not even Gemma. He thought about how to bring that part of his past up to her and let her know what he and the club had just been through. He was sure that bad wasn't what turned her on, but it was a part of him and he had just agreed to share himself with Gemma. He wondered how she would react to the news of his first true love and wonder about the life he lived.

Two days later, JT and Tigs were pulling up to the address Gemma gave him and they didn't even have to shut off their bikes. Gemma and Luann were out the door and scooting down the walkway to them. JT received a very passionate hello kiss, while Tigs got a less affectionate kiss, but a hug that said she was ready to enjoy the ride with him. The girls stowed their bags in the saddlebags, then slung a leg over and sat on the jump seats. They hugged the guys tight, before they pulled away and headed to the highway, ready for the trip back to Charming and a weekend of sexual pleasures desired by all.

The girls enjoyed teasing the guys and playing with them as they rode. Tigs was surprised at first, but had no objection to Luann unzipping his pants and giving him a fresh air stroking. Drivers and passengers in cars were treated to a sight of open road sex, that left Tigs staining his new cut and smiling about it. A new era of living had come to the club and the guys were avid to be a part of it. It was turning out to be a great year for everyone and deep in their hearts and minds, the guys hoped nothing like the events of before, would ever happen again.



Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 03



Otto was in search of a new tank for another bike he was building and told the guys he was headed over to see Gus and see what he had. He tossed the unrepairable tank in the bin and got on his bike. He waved and took off, heading to 99 south and cruised down to north-east Stockton. Pulling into Gus' place, he stopped by the area he had set aside just for bikes and parts. With motorcycle riding becoming popular, it also brought about many mishaps and accidents that made for a steady supply of newer parts.

Gus waved at Otto and let him go about picking what he needed. Otto looked at every tank available and couldn't see what he wanted. He went over and asked Gus if he knew of any Harley tanks from big cruisers and Gus didn't know of any off hand at his usual haunts, but said he knew a guy down in Merced that he ran into had lots of them. Otto got the directions and rode south along 99 again, until he hit Merced and began following the directions. It wasn't a very nice part of town and somewhat remote. Land was cheap and this was as cheap as it got, as far as Otto was concerned. The fenced in yard wasn't put up very well and security didn't look too high on the list of things to take care of.

The sign above the entrance didn't do much to help raise any thoughts of intelligence. Otto looked at the wording and saw spelling mistakes, the name Bubba boldly written in and smirked to himself. He pulled up to the old trailer that was used as an office and shut his bike off. He went into the office and a young woman was sitting twirling her hair, her feet up on the desk. She saw Otto come in and immediately sat up and smiled far too prettily for the occasion. Otto looked her over and saw her massive breasts bulging out and the prominent cleavage showing.

"Hi, I was told you had some motorcycles tanks here."

"Yea, they're out back. What kind you looking for?"

"A Harley, one of the big cruiser tanks."

"I think we have one, or two. Go check with Bubba, he knows where everything's at."

"Thanks, I'll head back there."

Otto saw the overtly flirtatious behaviour and smiled, then headed back outside and around into the yard. He wandered down a row of stripped down bikes, some worth taking note of for Big Willy. He was looking over one, when a booming voice rang out.

"I help you, boy?"

Otto turned and saw a mountain of a man and knew Bubba had been an aptly chosen name for him.

"Yeah, girl inside said you had some Harley tanks and to see you. I take it you're Bubba?"

"Yep, this is my place and I got tanks."

"Can I have a look at them?"

"Yep, down a piece at the back. Got a shed with shelves and they's in there."

Otto thanked him and had to give him a once over to take in his size, then walked down to the end. Bikes of all kinds were more or less lined up in make. Lots of Harleys and Indians were spotted, but most looked like write offs, the rider probably dying in the accident from the look of them. He found the shed and began picking through the tanks stacked three deep on some shelves. He came across the exact tank he was looking for and very carefully pulled it out of the pile, the shelves rocking slightly. He looked it over and dusted it off, checking the state it was in.

Bubba came over and asked him if that was what he was looking for. Otto smiled and said it was, then asked how much it was. Bubba looked him over and said it was fifty dollars. Otto looked at him like he was crazy and looked at the tank.

"You want fifty for the tank?"

"You heard me boy, I said fifty. That long hair making you deaf?"

Otto wasn't happy with the slight and let it go, hoping he could talk him down to twenty, which he knew it was worth.

"Twenty? I ain't giving the things away. Fifty, take it or leave it."

Otto tried to negotiate, but Bubba was steadfast and showing a dislike for Otto's appearance. Otto saw the crew cut hair and the greasy bib overalls and knew a prejudice existed between them.

"Come on Bubba, the tank is worth twenty tops, no matter what yard I go to."

"They got the tank you want?"

"No, that's why I'm here looking."

"In this yard, that tank goes for fifty dollars, boy. You find it in those yards, you can buy it for twenty."

"Fuck that shit. Keep your fucking tank, it isn't worth the money."

"What you say to me boy?"

"I said keep it, you fat fuck."

Otto tossed the tank back on the pile and made it all come falling off the shelves. Bubba was fuming and Otto smirked at him.

"Oops."

"I kick your ass for you boy."

"Yeah, sure. Have a good day, fat fuck, I'm out of here."

Otto turned to go and then felt his head get yanked back hard. Bubba had grabbed a hold of his hair and spun him around. Before Otto could react, Bubba's fist smashed his face and stunned him. He just got some clarity and focus back, when he was punched again. In a moment, Otto's mindset changed and he was in action. He drove his fist into Bubba's underarm and weakened the arm, them grabbed his wrist and bent it back hard, making him let go of his hair. Otto ducked and spun, twisting the huge arm around to its limit. He brought his elbow down hard on Bubba's elbow and heard the crack and then the scream of pain.

Otto stood back and looked at his opponent and waited to see if he would retaliate anymore. Bubba reached into his pocket and took out a knife and flicked it open, then looked at Otto with only one thought in mind, payback. He swung the blade wildly back and forth, trying to slash Otto, but he was too fast and avoided the blade's razor edge. Otto danced around to keep the huge man off balance and found an opening. He kicked out with his heel and squarely hit the inside knee joint and the howls of pain soon followed. Bubba hobbled on one leg and nursed his broken elbow, but his rage wasn't going to let up, not until he had his revenge. 

Otto kept out of reach of the knife and looked to just leave at that point, that enough damage had been caused already. Bubba lunged forward, trying to stab him, but Otto sidestepped him and punched him fast several times, hoping to break some ribs, but the massive fat took the force and it felt no more than hitting a bag of flour. Bubba knocked Otto backwards with his elbow and weight, then slashed at him.

"I'm gonna fuckin' kill you, boy. Fuckin' long haired freak."

Bubba hobbled at him and slashed back and forth. Otto ducked down to a squat and kicked out at the other knee, hearing the sharp crack and another howl of pain. Otto knew how to use Bubba's size against him, his training in basic, as well as special combat training coming back to him clearly. Bubba tried to walk, but the first step he took, his knee snapped loudly and he went down hard. Otto used that opportunity to jump on his back and put his arm around the thick neck. He grabbed Bubba's head and brought it around quickly, snapping the spinal cord and felt the massive weight he held, knowing it was now deadweight. He let him go and Bubba's head slammed off the dirt. Otto looked for any signs of breath in the dust, but not even a tiny puff of it appeared.  

Otto stood up and looked around. He knew he was alone back there and no one had seen him do it. The only other person who knew he was there was the plump brunette at the desk and he suspected she was related. He walked away from the scene and then stopped. He went back and grabbed the tank he wanted and walked back to the office. He acted as calm as he could and went inside the trailer. The brunette had done some prepping and he noticed the additional make up and lip stick, her hair put up in and attempt to look prettier. Otto played it to his advantage and played up to her.

"Hey darlin' your brother got me the tank I was looking for. Had to dig through a pile of them to get to it, so he's putting all the tanks back on the shelves. Sure is a scary looking pile he has, those things could come down anytime. Anyway, he said the tank was twenty bucks, so here you go, sweetness."

Otto took out his roll of money and peeled off a twenty and put the roll back in his pocket. The brunette was impressed with the size of the roll and adjusted herself so her breasts stood out more and looked up at him.

"Thank you so much, handsome man. Anything else you'd like?"

Otto heard the come on and almost choked back a laugh.

"No darlin', but I know where to come back to if I do."

"I'll be waiting for you. Hope to see you soon."

"You too. Gotta get back, so I'll see you later."

"Bye."

Otto heard the disappointment in the word, as he headed out to his bike and strapped the tank on. He started up and turned around, looking at the window and saw her looking at him. He knew she was remembering him and now his bike and how that would play out once the body was found. No matter what had happened, he knew it was trouble and trouble was high on the priority list of things not to do. 

Otto rode back, feeling the tank behind him to see if it was secure, but the touch held more of a sense of foreboding to him, something dire in consequence was with it. Trouble was coming to Charming with him in a tin can. He rode into the lot and stopped by the door. He shut it down and rushed inside, finding some of the guys there.

"Where's JT? I gotta talk to him fast."

"What's up, Otto? What's going on, brother?"

"Some bad shit went down Wally, at a scrap yard just now and I need to tell JT and figure out what to do."

"He's in town, talking to some of the store owners about loans. Tell me and maybe I can help, or any of us."

Otto came over and sat with the guys and told them what had gone down. He told them about the girl in the trailer and what she would know about him. The guys sat back and knew it didn't look good for Otto. Self defence or not, a death had occurred and he was accountable to it. Not only had he killed the man, he left with the tank and paid what he wanted to pay. It was looking worse and worse for Otto the more he related.

The sound of bikes coming in, had them jumping up and heading outside. JT was backing in with Lenny, Piney and Bobby, when the guys were ready to tell them. The instant that quiet hit the air, Otto began telling them the news of what happened. By the time he was finished, JT was looking at him with a mix of agreement and disgust. It was a situation none of them needed to be in at this point. The event itself couldn't be blamed on him, but the witness was something they had to consider. It hadn't been that long since it happened, so time might be on their side to do something before it ran out.

It was a hard call to make, but a dead witness, was better than a live one causing more trouble for them. JT had everyone go back in to the clubhouse and voted on it. It was agreed that it was better, but killing a woman didn't sit well with them. Tigs saw the displeasure and casually said he'd do it. They looked at him and wondered where his moral line was, but Clay was all in agreement and offered to do it with him. JT looked at them both and knew it was an approved hit, but the agreement to do it sounded too much like something they had no problem with, almost looking forward to it.

Otto said he'd show them where the place was and hoped the cops weren't already there. If they weren't, it was an out of the way place and no one would see them. JT slapped his hand down and looked at the three of them.

"Make it fast and make it clean. Don't leave anything to point a finger at us. Leave the cuts just to be safe."

They took their cuts off and handed them to JT and received hugs and handshakes from the others.

"It'll get done right, JT."

Tigs agreed like Clay, to make sure it was done properly and Otto looked like he was walking to the gallows, as they headed to the bikes. The guys watched them go and hoped for everyone's sake that Fate hadn't yet played another card. The ride was made as fast as they could get to Merced and slowed down considerably, as they hit the secondary road to the yard. The closer they got, they could see there was no signs of police any where and sighed in relief. They pulled into the lot and before they stopped the engines, the brunette was standing at the window, smiling as she looked at them.

Bigger sighs of relief came, knowing she hadn't bothered to check up on Bubba. Otto went in and greeted her with familiarity and relied on her attraction to him. He asked if his friends could look for some parts and she was eager to say yes and it was more than she could ask for, when Otto asked if she'd like to walk with him and he could get to know her better. She was bubbling with enthusiasm at the idea and told Otto to give her a minute to freshen up. He smiled broadly and said sure, then went back out to Tigs and Clay on the bikes.

"All set guys. Head down to the very back and hang a right. Fat boy should be a little ways down. I'll play up to the chubby one in there and bring her down to you. Let me get away and do what you have to, but I can't watch that happen. She's an innocent and all she wants is some attention."

"She's paid too much attention, brother. You want to stay out of trouble and not see what jail time is like, we gotta do this."

"Yeah, I know. Fucking, stupid asshole. All because he didn't like me. What the fuck, man?"

"People do stupid shit, Otto. So you fucked this guy up with just your bare hands?"

"Yeah. Fucking guy is huge, too. I remembered the shit from training and it just kicked in."

"I gotta see this guy. Really big, eh?"

"Yeah, three hundred easy."

"Holy shit, guy could have just fallen on you and you'd be squished to death."

"Yeah, well, he didn't, anyway go on back, I hear her coming."

Clay and Tigs walked to the back of the yard, as the girl came out. 

"That your friends?"

"Yeah, I told them to go back and see Bubba and see if he knows if he has what they want. I thought we could hang around here for a minute and get to know one another. I'm Otto."

The brunette blushed and giggled, then she became playful with him.

"Hi Otto, my name is Bernice, but you can call me Bernie if you like."

"Hi Bernie, nice to meet you. So Bubba is your...?"

"Brother, my big brother."

"Yeah, he's a pretty big boy. So is it just you two here?"

"Yeah, we live together here in the trailer."

"Cool, don't have far to go to get to work."

Bernie giggled and sidled up to Otto, glancing her breasts off his arm. Otto took her arm and held on to it with his, letting his fingers play with the sides of her breasts. Bernie giggled even more at the attention, then Otto led her into the yard. Bernie laid her head on his shoulder and Otto gave her hand a squeeze, making her giggle again. They reached the back and rounded the corner and she stopped.

She looked at Clay and Tigs standing in front of her brother's body and didn't know how to react. She looked at Otto and then to the guys, wondering if they played a part.

"I told you those shelves were rickety. He must have fallen down and got hit on the head, or something."

Bernie looked back at Otto, remembering he had just mentioned it before. She went over and bent down to Bubba and checked to see if he was breathing. She never heard the guns coming from behind their backs, as Tigs and Clay took aim at her head. Otto walked back out of sight of the scene and made his way to the front. He had only taken a few steps, when the first bullets were fired. His heart lurched on hearing the first ones, but his soul was sickened to hear repeated shots from them. He kept walking, steeling himself from the feelings he had for Bernice, knowing she had died to keep him safe, nothing more.

Lives were used as collateral, to be used for payment, or settle a deal. The value of a life as sacred was no longer in play. If you had to die to protect the club, or a member, you were expendable. The pair were putting their guns away as they ran and caught up to him. They saw his face and neither said anything about it. The ride back was made in silence, no one paying any recognition to the act. How hearts were feeling and the thoughts that haunted their minds, was up to each man to feel his own way about it. Where one might feel damned, another might feel accomplishment, while another a sense of enjoyment.

Pulling into the lot, the guys were all out waiting for them. Nothing was said outside, but faces expressed the job done. Once inside, Clay relayed the news on what occurred and how it was handled. Nothing tied the club to the scene in any way, other than one person, Gus. There was no question that Gus would stay quiet about it, if he found out about the death. Knowing it was the club that did it, he might be more so inclined to stay quiet. He could be implicated way too easily as a part of it, doing the introduction and all, past history and similar businesses, that might have a conflict going on. No, Gus would never say a word, no matter what. With the matter resolved to satisfaction, it was closed, until further news about it was heard.

No one wanted to talk about the hit and how they did away with her, so Tigs and Clay grabbed a beer and headed out to the picnic table. They sat on the top and openly discussed how easy it was to pull the trigger on her. Clay was still having an issue with Tigs feeling her tits after and getting off on it. When he said he'd fuck her if they had the time, he was totally grossed out. Tigs tried to explain a piece of ass, was a piece of ass, but Clay wouldn't hear any of it and that's when Otto came out. They stopped all talk of it immediately as he walked over.

"Why did you have to shoot her so many times? One from each gun was enough."

Clay spoke for them and answered plainly.

"Brother, we put five each in her and five each in Bubba. They'll figure it was some kind of payback and be looking for some angry business partners, or a jealous boyfriend, or something. Has to look like that, or they know someone killed him and then killed her to shut her up, which leads things back to you again."

Otto tried to buy the explanation, but it couldn't sit well with him, no matter how he spun it to his head. He walked back and left the two on the bench, wondering how things sat between them now.

The FBI was put off by the loss of their informant, but by no means had the Cacuzza's and now the club fallen off their radar. Four agents were working almost around the clock, compiling and sifting through everything they had on them both. Branches were contacted and anything they had on either was put into a central file for both in Los Angeles. Deaths played a big part in intelligence gathering and several unexplained ones were mulled over for connections. The car crash killing Clive Brock and Vinnie DeAngelo wasn't adding up properly, with another missing and apparently dead mobster. A fire out in Bakersfield still had a taint of club suspicion because of Chico and Marietta. Vague threads started sewing together a quilt of activity and the mass biker killing in Stockton that the Sons of Anarchy was involved in, as well as the massacre out in Calaveras, was making them see a picture of a club that was transforming to a gang with charters and that put more attention on them.

The nightly news was watched for any reports of the murders and nearer the middle of the broadcast, they were announced. The reporter on scene said the bodies were discovered by a person who came by to see the owner and knew both victims. A Goober Ditchfield had known the victims for years and said the couple were happily married. Otto looked at the guys and shook his head, knowing what he had heard Bernie say. The police had nothing to go on and were trying to find any clues as to why it was done. So far, Otto and the club were off the hook. They had no connection to them and the chance meetings were unseen.

Everyone breathed easier after turning off the TV and relaxed. The whole event was just confusing to everyone from every angle they looked at it. All of that mayhem over an ignorant hillbilly who didn't like the way Otto looked. Then it was the confusion over the girl being called Bubba's wife, after she told Otto she was his younger sister. Incest was bantered about as the answer and settled on that issue. 




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 03



America needed a boost in intelligence and the guys knew it. With the attitudes shown towards them, to vets and anyone unfortunate, being ones of disdain and animosity, it gave them little hope their country was changing, despite what Nixon was trying to do. The last century's mentality was still strongly adhered to and change, even if it was good, was still a change and hard to adopt. The recent oil embargo over, it slowed their gas business down some, but there were die hard customers willing to buy at wholesale price and keep the club in the hijacking business. 

Vietnam had finally seen the end of hostilities and despite putting forth the might of all its military might, America pulled out and watched the fall of Saigon, the country falling under the rule of Ho Chi Minh. The war on drugs and crime became the next battle the powers that be, wanted to get in to. More money was being allocated to fight the rise in crime and drugs, more power to the enforcement agencies to deal with it and little money to deal with the aftermath of users. Nixon wanted to look like the modern New Deal president, the way Roosevelt had done and brought the country back from the Great Depression. Ideas to deal with the money problem were being solved and the beginning to an end started. Taking the dollar off the gold market, solved one problem and started another in motion.

Change was happening, some good, some bad. The King had died of an apparent drug overdose and the era was losing more and more of its icons. Life was moving faster and faster and change was needed to keep up. No matter what the change was, one thing remained the same and wouldn't change. The need to make money and have power. Those smart enough were still in business and getting smarter and stronger. Those that weren't, got swallowed up, or put out of business. It was survival of the fittest and the Sons were lean and mean and prowling like a killing machine. As long as the apex predator didn't decide to come after them, they patrolled their areas with impunity. Local enforcement was easily bribed with cash and prizes and those further up the chain were willing to take a piece themselves.

Protection was costly, but it was better than paying the price for no protection and the loss of everything. As the guys started letting go of past events and tried to move on, others were beginning to look closer at those events and thinking the club should come to a grinding halt. The agents had put together two files that had many grey areas of interaction between the Cacuzza's and the club. Nothing was specific in nature, but the knowledge of their livelihoods brought a great amount of suspicion to the legitimacy of it. 

Two agents were assigned to watch the mother charter's movements and two were assigned to watch the charters closer to the borders of Mexico and Nevada. Scrutiny was needed to cross the T's and dot the I's and see if they had a good enough reason to come at them. Another team would be set up to watch Vegas for signs of activity between both camps. Eyes were watching and now had a focus of attention and intent. As apex predator, it was their domain and they guarded it carefully for signs of encroachment. 

Mob enterprise was an undesirable thing and the government declared a complete genocide and eradication of Mafia and gang members of any kind. The government was becoming more tolerant racially and accepting of them. Blacks, Italians, it didn't matter, all were despised equally. If you were making money and not passing the buck, you couldn't play the game and the government made and changed the rules to suit themselves. It became a game of 'Catch Me if You Can', as syndicates and gangs operated and tried to stay one or two steps ahead of the law. 

JT was looking forward to Gemma coming for the weekend again and taking her to Las Vegas. He had all the arrangements made and he was eager to impress her with his first class treatment. She and Luann had a ride up with a 'friend' of Luann's and would be in Charming in the late morning, early afternoon at the latest. JT was worried about Gemma being okay with going, knowing she had been sick the last couple of days and wondered what was wrong with her.

He spent the morning polishing up his Harley, making the blue paint gleaming bright. He did a thorough inspection of everything and declared it fit for the ride over. It would be a long ride, but Gemma was becoming an avid passenger and loved the closeness when riding. He glanced in to look at the time and saw it was just after eleven and hoped she got there soon. It was though Fate heard him and he turned to see a car come into the lot. The three smiling faces coming into view had his heart racing faster in excitement. 

The car pulled in and the girls stepped out, stretching and smiling happily, knowing a fun weekend was about to begin. The guys came out to greet them and Luann was immediately set upon by the guys to get started. JT noticed the driver and asked who he was. Luann freed herself from the groping hands and told him.

"That's Otto. He's a really good friend of mine, ours actually, 'cause Gemma knows him too."

"Oh yeah? How good a friend?"

Gemma sensed the tone of jealousy and played it against JT.

"You want to know if he's getting in my pants, don't you?"

"Is he?"

"Wouldn't you like to know."

The coyness was putting JT off and replied sharply.

"Well, is he?"

"No! Otto likes Luann, he's just a friend to me, nothing more. Wow, don't get all bent out of shape over it, Baby."

"Okay, sorry, just didn't like the idea of other guys making it with you."

"Don't you worry sweet boy, I'm all yours. I like when you get jealous."

Gemma cuddled in to JT, soothing him with her words and touches. JT relented any more thoughts of her cheating and went to the window of the car. Otto rolled down the window to him.

"Otto, feel like coming inside for a bit and relax? I know the drive can take it out of you."

"Really? Sure, wouldn't mind some time to stretch it out."

"I'm JT, I'll introduce you to everyone inside. Got a cold beer and some good grass to help take the edge off."

"Sounds awesome, let's go."

Otto stopped the engine and got out, then followed everyone inside and looked around. He was taken for a tour and was impressed with the interior and how well it was set up for fun.

"Cool clubhouse man. Looks like you guys have everything you need to have a good time."

"Pretty much. Still lots to do. One thing we're looking to get is a really, big table for church and some nice chairs. This set up we have now sucks."

"I don't get you, brother. What church? You belong to one or something?"

"No, our club church, when we have meetings. It's called church."

"Oh, I get you, man. So what are you wanting on it?"

"What do you mean on it? Like paint something on it, like our logo? That's not a bad idea, actually."

"No, well yeah, that's a cool idea to paint it, but I was thinking carving something into it, like your club logo."

"How the hell could you do that? That would take forever to do."

"Not really. Turn around, let me see your patch."

JT turned around and Otto studied the logo carefully. He turned JT back to him.

"If you had a table like, say maybe five feet wide, maybe ten feet long, I could carve a four foot tall logo in the centre of it and do it in maybe, I figure two months, three tops. Your thing there says Redwood Originals, so that would be a good wood to do it in."

"My patch. This is our chapter, this is of course who I am and this one is for something we did a while back and this blue diamond is in honour of a good friend and the ones on the back are evident."

"Cool, I like it, great logo. Yeah I could do that."

"Are you a carpenter or something?"

"Not really, I just like carving wood and shit. Table is easy to build. That I could do in a day or two. The carving is going to take some time and not fuck it up. Starting over isn't something I like doing."

JT looked at Otto and sized him up. Here was a total stranger who was offering to create a work of art for them and give them something unique and a lasting tribute.

"You have a business in the L.A. area?"

"Not really, man. I'm looking for work actually. Not much happening right now."

"Yeah, tell me about it. Tell you what, you want to hang up here while you're carving the table, we can put you up in a place and eat with us here. Do you know anything else to do, like repairing cars and shit?"

"Yeah, I can fix minor shit on them, nothing big like overhauling an engine or transmission. Tune ups and stuff I can do though."

"We're always looking for good mechanics, so after you finish the table, if you still feel like hanging around here, we can hook you up with a job."

"No way. So I get free room and board while I make the table and then start a job after?"

"Yeah, if you're into it. Know how to ride?"

"Not the best at it, but I've ridden a couple of my buddies bikes. Why, what do you want to know that for?"

"Just thinking down the road a bit. We're always looking for guys who we think might make good club members."

"You thinking I could ride with the club?"

"Maybe. We'd have to see after you did the table and worked for us, see what you're like."

"Brother, I fucking like that idea. I can pack my shit up when I get back and be back here in no time. When do you want me to start on the table?"

"Tell you what. You can hang here for the weekend and just enjoy yourself, then take the girls back. That'll give us time to get the wood and get you a place to get set up. How big a space are you figuring you'll need?"

"Not much. Twelve by fourteen is about the smallest I can do it in, bigger would be nicer."

"Okay, we'll find that space somewhere for you. This is fucking awesome, brother. We were just looking at a decent table to use, but this is incredible, to think we'll have this masterpiece sitting in our chapel to hold church."

"I'll do my best work on it."

JT called for a vote on Otto doing the table and being sponsored by JT to work in repairs, with the possibility of prospecting. No one had any objections at all and welcomed Otto into the fold. Luann and Gemma came from the bar and joined them, ready to celebrate and get the partying started. Beers and shots were opened and poured, while joints and the hookah were rolled and filled. The stereo was turned on and the music of the Kinks was playing on the radio. 'You Really Got Me' was a driving force to get into the mood and Otto had to watch, as Luann was monopolized by the club. 

JT was enjoying Gemma's playfulness, but caught the look on Otto's face, as he looked on at Luann being molested openly by the guys. He took a moment to think of what she meant to him and if the friendship he had with her was in fact more. He didn't say anything then, but he wanted to ask Gemma what the status of the two were and how close they were. The last thing he needed was a guy going off on a club member who didn't know the score. 

JT and Gemma had their things stowed away in the saddlebags and were about to say goodbye, when Piney and Mary rode up together. He stopped beside JT and Gemma and told them his news.

"JT, glad I caught you before I left."

"Hey, what's up, Piney?"

"Wanted you to be the first to know. Mary and I are getting married."

JT looked at him and then to Mary sitting on the back hugging Piney tight, her smile beaming widely in her happiness. He hit the kill switch and had Gemma get off, so he could. He hugged his best friend with great affection and then the same with Mary. 

"This is so cool. I'm really happy for you guys. When are you doing it?"

"Next month, on the eighteenth. We have the church booked and the Reverend said he'd do it for us."

Gemma heard her father mentioned and had to ask the obvious to her.

"Is my mother going to be there?"

"Yeah, most likely. She's going to be doing the decorations in the church."

Gemma's look soured and a frown came to her face. JT saw it and remembered the rift between her and her mother.

"Come on Babe, it can't be all that bad. You probably wouldn't even see her and we'd leave right after."

"As long as I don't have to face her and have her get on my case, then, yeah, I'd be happy to come to the wedding."

That was all it took to bring smiles back and joyous talk of celebration.

"You guys off to Vegas for the weekend?"

"Yup, going to show Gemma what V.I.P. treatment is like."

"Cool, you'll love it Gem. Mary is dying to go too, aren't you Sweet Cheeks?"

"Oh yes. I want to do everything there. See the shows and play some games. Try different places to eat and be served hand and foot for whatever I want."

Gemma heard Mary talking about all the things she wanted to do as well and spoke up.

"Why don't you guys come with us then? That would be so cool."

"Really? What do you think Piney? Want to ride with JT and Gemma to Vegas for the weekend?"

"I'd love to, but you guys are just leaving and we'd have to pack stuff up and that would hold you guys back."

"Don't worry about it, we can hang back for another hour, can't we JT?"

"Sure. Hey, I'd love it if you guys came with us. Lenny can run things for a few days till we get back."

"Are you sure?"

Gemma hugged JT tightly and let her hand fall to his ass and squeezed it. Gemma looked back at Mary and winked.

"I'm pretty sure JT can keep me amused for an hour until you get back, can't you Baby?"

JT saw the sly look and the inference to more sex.

"Yeah, go on brother, we'll be fine here."

Piney hugged JT in great bond, then pulled Gemma into a hug and she felt lost in his arms. Mary hugged them both as well and in minutes, the pair were heading back to the other side town to pack some things, while JT and Gemma went in and headed straight for JT's room. Clothes flew from bodies, as they wasted no time in getting down to more sexual fun between them.

They were coming out of the bedroom, straightening themselves out, when Piney came in to say he and Mary were ready to go. He had to shoot a look at the couple and show his thoughts on it.

"Couldn't wait, huh?"

"Can you blame me?"

Piney looked at Gemma, as she thrust out her breasts smiling, using her hands to comb back her long, dark hair and tie it in a pony tail. 

"Nope. Ready to ride?"

"Ready when you are brother. Let's do it up big. Vegas, here we come."

The pair rode off and headed east to ride over the mountains and then south towards Las Vegas. The girls were enjoying the ride and feeling free, as JT and Piney made their way along I-95. Gemma was sitting forward on the seat holding on to JT tightly, when Mary looked over at her. She could tell by the expression on her face that she was enjoying much more than just the ride. It wasn't hard to assume the vibrations of the engine were working their magic between her legs and Gemma was in the throes of orgasmic bliss. Gemma opened her eyes and looked around, wondering if anyone noticed her and saw Mary's eyes fixed on hers.

She smiled in embarrassment, but Mary smiled back, letting her know she wasn't the only one to enjoy that thrill. They laughed about it behind the guy's backs, as the skyline of Las Vegas loomed in the distance. The hot, dry desert air and even the wavering heat off the pavement, couldn't dissuade the pleasure of being out in the open. 

The girls weren't impressed at first, coming into the outskirts where the business area and low income residences where. The girls noticed how some residents made notice of their guys and took the time to wave and show recognition. For all they knew of their men, their was so much more they didn't. Questions turned into suspicions in their minds, as they saw the guys continue being recognized by all walks of life.

They were stopped at an intersection, waiting for the light to change, when a gold Cadillac pulled up beside them. JT and Piney looked over and smiled, as the well dressed man smiled back.

"You bringing your own in this time, guys?"

"Hey, Roberto, how's it going? Yeah, we brought our girlfriends this time. This is Gemma and that's Mary."

"Nice to meet you ladies, no offence to what I said, please. So, see you guys at Caesar's, or where you guys at?"

"Thought we'd stay at the Stardust, they have good shows and nice pools to swim in."

"Eh, Caesar's has Elvis tonight and better rooms. It's okay, we'll see you wherever you end up. See ya later guys. Nice to see you ladies."

"Later Roberto."

The light turned green and they headed closer to the strip and the hotels and motels started showing up. The sights weren't as impressive during the day, downplaying the hype of the place, as they pulled into the Stardust. They pulled up to the front doors and stopped the bikes, then helped the girls down. They walked inside the air conditioned lobby and felt the relief from the heat. Smiles were big from the pretty young desk clerk as they approached.

"Hi, need two rooms for the weekend, king beds of course."

"Let me see what we have for you, Mr. Teller."

The pretty, young Latina woman looked at the registry and picked out two rooms for them. She grabbed the keys for the rooms and held one in each hand.

"Here you go, Mr. Teller, and here you go, Mr. Winston. Enjoy your stay."

"Thanks, Maria. Say, how's your brother doing, he getting better after his accident?"

"Oh yes, thank you for asking. Doctor says his leg might not be as good as before, but he'll be okay."

"If he needs anything, let me know, okay."

"You have done so much already, we can't thank you enough. He loves his bicycle and races around on it pretending to be like you. he goes so fast sometimes, I get scared, but he rides well."

"That's my boy. You tell Domingo I'll see him and your dad soon."

"Si, I will. Muchos gracias Senor Teller."

"Eres bienvenido, Senorita Dominguez."

JT received a warm and friendly smile from Maria, as they walked away and headed back to the bikes. Gemma never said anything until they parked in front of their rooms and went in.

"So, want to explain what that was all about?"

"Maria? She's someone we got a job for here. The friends I was talking about, own the place."

"You know the owners of this place?"

"Yeah. They think of us like family."

"The owners are Mexican?

JT could see the confusion on her face, trying to put everything together.

"No, no. The owners are Italian, We helped Maria get a job here, so she could help support her family."

"Why would you do that? Is she like a girlfriend of yours, or something?"

JT could see the beginnings of suspicion in her eyes and knew she was jealous, so he quelled it before she thought the wrong things altogether and ruined any plans for a weekend of fun.

"Okay, I need to go back a bit and explain this better, so you don't get the wrong ideas."

JT sat Gemma on the edge of the bed and held her hand, then related how they met Miguel and Domingo, the day of the accident and what they did for them. Gemma was totally surprised by it and sat in wonder, as JT went on. By the time the whole story came out, Gemma's suspicions were gone and replaced with a sense of awe instead. She was truly impressed with JT's kind heart and giving nature.

"You just blow my mind with shit, JT. I get this one impression of you and think I know who you are, then you come out with something else and I get another. You're really a complex guy. You have so many sides to you."

"Oh yeah? So which side do you like better?"

"Right now, I like the side of you that has your face between my legs and then that nice cock of yours fucking me."

"I like that side too."

The pair started giggling and being playful, as they undressed each other as fast as they could. Once naked, the laughing stopped quickly and sighs of pleasure came out instead, as Gemma wrapped her soft thighs to the sides of JT's head. Faint moans of accompaniment were heard coming from next door, as Piney and Mary were engaged in much the same pleasure.




Redwood Nine: Season 04 Ch. 03



By the late afternoon, after a few hours of sexual bonding and a shower, both couples reappeared outside and decided on a bit of shopping for the girls. The guys sat patiently in boutique after boutique, letting the girls try on different dresses to wear. Gemma came out wearing a tiny, black mini dress with spaghetti straps and JT was floored with how she looked in it. He knew she had no bra on underneath, her nipples poking through the material making it noticeable she wasn't.

"You like this one, Baby?"

"I love it. You look totally hot in that."

"Good, I like it too. I feel so sexy in it."

"I like when you feel that way, so let's get it."

"Yeah right. It's like...almost eight hundred dollars, JT." 

Gemma showed JT the price tag and was surprised when he just shrugged it off like it was nothing to him to pay.

"You can afford to buy me this dress?"

"Piney, could you please tell Gemma that I can afford that dress, she doesn't believe me."

"He can afford it, sweetie. We wouldn't be in here if we couldn't."

Gemma looked at Piney and saw the truth in his words and then looked at JT with greater affection.

"You are just too much, you know that? Buy it for me then. I want to look hot for you and enjoy you looking at me."

"No problem there. You're hot with or without the dress."

Gemma straddled JT and sat on his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him with great affection. The sales clerk came over, seeing the dress get wrinkled.

"Excuse me, but we'd appreciate you not ruining the merchandize."

JT moved his head to the side upon hearing her.

"We'll take it. We like this one."

The clerk was surprised at hearing she had a sale and questioned the validity of it.

"You know this dress is almost eight hundred dollars, right?"

"Yeah, my girlfriend already pointed that out to me."

"Will that be cash, or charge?"

"Cash."

The clerk smiled wider and took a different attitude towards the guys and their girls.

"Is there anything else I can help you with, or show you?"

Gemma looked at JT for confirmation to buy anything else.

"I wouldn't mind some stockings and shoes to go with it, is that okay?"

"If they can make you look sexier than you already do, sure, why not."

JT looked at the clerk and gave his approval.

"Yes, please show my lovely lady some stockings and some shoes to go with it. When you're done, my friend would like you to assist his lady with her needs as well."

The clerk just beamed with happiness, knowing her sales were going to make her day profitable and get her percentage. Gemma gave JT a deep kiss and then climbed off his lap and went with the clerk to look at shoes. Mary came out in a dress that was a lot less revealing than Gemma's, but her large breasts precluded wearing anything with little, or no support for them. She turned around for Piney and showed it off. Piney wasn't really impressed with it and Mary could tell.

"It's all I can find that fits right, everything else, I'm hanging out all over the place."

"We'll find you something Sweet Cheeks, hang on, we'll get that girl over here to help you out."

"Okay, but my boobs are too big to go bra-less like Gemma is."

"So, we'll get her to find something to hold those beauties up and still look as sexy as her."

"Oh Piney, you say such sweet things to me."

"Hey, I want my woman, my wife to be, to look her best."

"My man. I love you so much, Piney."

"I love you, Mary."

They kissed and headed over to JT and Gemma looking at shoes. The clerk asked them if everything was okay and Mary quietly explained what she was looking for and needed her help. The clerk took her away and guided her to their selection of brassieres and picked out several that offered support, but were very discreetly noticed. Mary took them and headed over to Piney, dragging him with her to the change room.

She took off the dress she had and tried on the first bra and discreetly showed him what it looked like on. Piney's eyes went wide at the voluptuous display and smiled broadly.

"That I like a lot."

"Really? I like it too. Let me try that dress I didn't think would look good, the red one with the vee neck."

Piney knew which one she wanted and picked it out, remembering her size. He handed it to her and waited for her to put it on. When the door opened, Piney gasped in surprise. Mary turned around before him and heard him wolf whistle at her. She turned her head and smiled happily.

"Say, am I supposed to be able to see your panties through them?"

Mary checked the mirror and saw the outline spoiling the look. 

"Hmmm, maybe I better get different ones then."

"Hang on, darlin', let me get the girl and see what works here."

Mary watched Piney go to the clerk and pointed back at Mary, explaining what she was looking for. The clerk happily went and got several different style panties and handed them to him. He gave them to Mary and received a loving kiss, before she went back in to try them on. She came out and looked in the mirror at herself first and then posed for Piney. 

"What do you think, okay?"

"Yeah, I can't see a single line showing."

Mary leaned forward and whispered in his ear.

"That's because I'm not wearing any. They all showed through."

"Works good for me, darlin', if it works good for you."

"No one will know but you, so I'm good with it. I love this bra though, it feels so good on me."

"I like it too, those beauties look real nice sitting like that."

Mary was all smiles at the compliments. JT, Gemma and the clerk came over to join them and Mary showed off the dress to them. Eyes expressed their thoughts on how she looked and some jealousy was hinted at. Gemma didn't bother to go into the change room and took the pantyhose out of the package. She sat and slipped her legs in and then stood up, working them up her legs. She raised her dress discreetly and barely showed anyone anything, as she pulled them all the way up. She gave everyone a sly smile and turned around to look in the mirror.

"You're right, no lines at all, I like them."

Mary noticed it too and asked the clerk.

"You got any in my size? This thing shows every little line and bump, for cripes sake."

Gemma looked Mary over and shook her head, as the clerk went to get her some.

"Don't see any lines on you now, Mary."

"That's cause I ain't wearing anything under it."

Gemma smiled and winked at her.

"Works for me."

The guys just stood and enjoyed watching the girls have fun, glad to see them getting along. Gemma tried on the first pair of shoes and walked back and forth and turned her feet to the mirror. She slipped them off and tried the white go-go boots. She stood and looked and took those off, clearly not liking them. She put on a pair of stiletto heeled boots that hugged tight to her leg and zipped up the side to her knees. She walked back and forth and stood farther back from the mirror and struck a pose. The smile coming to her face was priceless to see, as her sensual nature showed. She knew she looked hot and showed it.

"I like them, how about you, Baby?"

"Look killer on you Gem. I like them too."

Gemma walked down the aisle and strutted her stuff, her hips swaying in her long strides. She turned and walked back, her eyes fixed on JT's, seducing him with her charms. 

"I think I'm ready to have some fun tonight. I'll take all of it."

"It's all yours. Go get changed and we'll wait for Mary to finish up, then we'll grab an early dinner before the show."

The clerk came back with three styles for her and Mary chose the ones she liked and went in to the change room and put them on. She came out again and turned around for everyone to see, eyes all on her hips.

"See any lines?"

"Just smooth ass cheeks, Baby."

"I don't see any lines either."

Mary was happy with the responses and hugged Piney.

"Think I look good in this, big boy?"

"Do ya right here in the store, you look so hot."

"That's what I wanted to hear. Okay, I'll take all of this and a pair of those red pumps, size 7 E."

The clerk looked at the two women and asked if that was all and received nods from them both. Gemma and Mary went back in to change, while JT and Piney followed the clerk to the sales desk. The girls came back with all their purchases and handed them to the clerk, who smiled happily, adding up her commission on them as she rang in the totals. It was hard carrying the bags on the back of the bikes, as they headed back the short distance to the Stardust.

The black Ford LTD kept a good space between them, the two occupants of the car keeping careful watch of their movements. A camera and a pair of binoculars sat on the seat between them, a notebook being quickly jotted in about anything noteworthy about their actions. The FBI was hard at work trying to build a case against organized crime and gang related activities and the Sons of Anarchy and the Cacuzza crime syndicate were two areas that came under scrutiny. Any and every activity they could see and make note of, might help them put pieces of it all together and make a big picture to look at. 

Once the picture was clear enough, they would be able to recognize who was in it and why. They watched the two couples go back to their hotel and go inside, as they sat in a discreet location in the air conditioned car and waited for the next location to observe them in. 

Dinner at the hotel was wonderful and the girls enjoyed tasting new dishes and fine wine to go with them. Suspicions aside, the girls were enjoying the taste of the good life and how it was paid for wasn't on their minds how it was done. The two agents on the other hand were concerned about the origins of their money and how it was made and hoped how they spent it, would lead them back to how they earned.

The guys had their suits pressed by the hotel, while Gemma and Mary began getting ready. They were outside the rooms on their bikes, discreetly smoking a joint together, but the far away clicking of a camera wasn't heard by them and caught the act with clarity. Little bits and pieces were added to the list of actions, taking away more of the innocence and adding to the puzzle of guilt. Like a jigsaw puzzle, the outer edges were complete, it was just a matter of putting the right piece in the right place and things would become easier to put together after that.

The guys finished the joint and went back inside, while the agent casually acted like a tourist and went back to the car, pretending to take pictures of things. The act was documented on the list and the Sons weren't looking to good on the win column. 

Next door to the guys, Gemma and Mary were sitting in bra and panties, looking in the mirror applying make up. Gemma couldn't help sneaking peeks at Mary's breasts.

"I know, big fucking tits aren't they? Made a lot of money off these things and met the man of my heart because of them, but trust me, they're a pain in the ass. My back hurts sometimes, it really does. God, I miss the girls for that."

"What girls?"

"Oh yeah, you don't know about back then, do you?"

Gemma looked at Mary with suspicion and interest.

"I guess you better explain it all to me then. So what girls and back when did all this happen?"

Mary looked at Gemma and held both her hands in hers, then looked in her dark brown eyes. She could see the need to know, but how she would take what she had to say, would put a much different look in them after. She started right back at the beginning and how they all met, then began dating. She told them of the hippies and the commune, how they got together and lived. Gemma was fascinated by it and wished she was there as well. Mary's face went from smiles of fond happy memories, to a look of despair, as she got to the point of the massacre and following events. Gemma was openly heartbroken by the news and squeezed Mary's hands tighter. Tears came to them both, once Mary finished the brief history of tragedy that had befallen everyone since meeting. They hugged in sympathy and bonding, understanding each other on a deeper level.

Once they finished. Gemma segued back to Mary's early statement. 

"Is your back hurting right now?"

"Yeah. I hope it don't spoil the evening, if that new bra don't hold me up good enough."

"Want me to massage it? I'm not too bad at doing it, so I've been told anyway."

"Really Gem? That would be so wonderful of you to do that. I really appreciate that."

"No problem my friend."

With no hesitation to thought, Mary released the four clasps at the back of her bra and bared her breasts to Gemma for a good look and then lay down. She smiled back at her, as a thought came to her.

"If you do a good rub, I'll let you play with them."

A small pause happened and then laughter broke out, as Gemma straddled Mary's ass and began working on her shoulders. Mary sighed loudly and enjoyed the aches of her weighty mass being relieved. Gemma spent a quiet fifteen minutes getting to know Mary intimately without words, rubbing and caressing her body. No words were needed to understand the concept of the circle of love and the expression of love through touch.

Piney and JT looked each other over and checked out how they looked. They tied their hair back and looked in the mirror, giving themselves a once over closely and left the room. They went next door and went in without knocking and stopped. Their jaws dropped, their mouths agape, as they looked at the two women on the bed fondling each other's breasts. Mary and Gemma laughed at them, the looks on their faces so comical in expression. Gemma broke the stunned wonderment in them.

"You want to come in and shut the door, or leave it open and let everyone see us like this?"

The pair came in and closed the door quickly and still just looked at them with questioning looks. Gemma explained what was going on, so they didn't get the wrong impression. 

"It's not like it looks, we weren't making out or anything like that, so stop that train of thought. Mary said her back hurts because her boobs are so big. The girls usually gave her a massage, but now that they're gone, no one does it for her."

That admission of the past made the expressions change rapidly to ones of surprise. Mary looked down with a sense of guilt, but Gemma calmed that feeling in her.

"Why didn't you tell me about all this, JT? All those people killed and everything."

JT felt the guilt now, knowing a trust in Gemma wasn't being given. Before he could answer, she went on.

"So anyway, I asked her if she wanted me to give her back a massage before we got dressed. I was just curious about what her boobs felt like. Mary wanted to know what smaller ones felt like, then you guys come in and that's all that was going on. Nothing else."

JT and Piney became flustered to respond, knowing they had thought otherwise JT tried to act casual about it.

"So, want big boobs like Mary's?"

"No actually. I mean, they feel really nice, but I can only imagine how hard it is on her back to have them weighing her down in the front."

Gemma casually reached over and hefted one of Mary's breasts, visually explaining why she felt like that. 

"Me, I really like my boobs the size they are. I wouldn't want them any bigger."

Mary cupped one of her breasts and hefted it an smiled.

"I like this size too. I wish mine were like this. You have really nice boobs Gemma, they're shaped really nice."

"Thanks Mary, that's so nice of you to say."

The guys stood and watched, seeing the casual way women interacted with themselves and nothing sexual was involved. 

"So, you girls going to sit there and play with each other, or are you getting dressed and ready to go out?"

Gemma gave JT a sly smile and a look to go with it.

"What if I want to sit here and play with Mary?"

JT went for a comeback.

"I guess we'll have to sit here and watch you then."

Gemma tested him to see how far she could go and kissed Mary's breast, then caressed it.

"Alright Piney, grab a seat buddy. Looks like we're watching some girly loving for a while."

The guys played her bluff and sat on the chairs, getting comfortable to sit and watch. Gemma looked at Mary and gave her a hidden wink and looked at the guys.

"You don't think I'd do it, do you? Mary told me what she and the other girls did, you know. I could do that."

JT and Piney continued going on with their end and acted like they didn't believe her. Gemma knew she had to prove herself or back down. She looked at Mary and cupped a breast in one hand and began kissing around the nipple and over it. She looked over at JT and he motioned for her to continue. Gemma looked at Mary and got a smile to continue, then looked at he puckering nipple and placed her lips over it and suckled on it. Maybe it was Mary's moan, or her own enjoyment, but Gemma suckled with more fervour for the pleasure of stimulation. Mary held her head to her and Gemma enjoyed the act of loving another woman. 

It got to a point it had to stop, or lead to more intimate interaction and Gemma relaxed on her endeavours. Mary was honestly disappointed sounding when Gemma stopped and sat back. She looked at JT smugly, showing she wasn't chicken to play out her threats. JT looked back just as smugly.

"You know, if this was back at the commune, Mary would be enjoying much more than that, wouldn't you Mary?"

Mary looked at JT and Piney and saw they were playing back and played along.

"Oh yeah. My panties would be off and a face and hands would be making me a very happy girl."

Gemma looked at Mary and then back to the guys and couldn't decide if she was being played or not. Mary reached over and softly slid her hand along Gemma's thigh slowly, inching closer to her panties. At the final instance of her sensing touch, Gemma stopped Mary and held her hand back from going any further. She looked into Mary's eyes and saw the boldness in them.

"You'd really touch me, wouldn't you?"

"Shit, yeah. You don't think I would? Sweetie, I've had my face between a lot of legs and yours is just another pair. What does your cookie look like anyway?"

Gemma was lost for a comeback and knew she was beaten. She couldn't bluff her way any further and Mary's statements totally threw her off balance. She gave up using facial expressions and the three laughed, knowing they won her out. Gemma looked at Mary with suspicion and doubt after thinking for a moment.

"Have you really gone down on another woman, or is that just bullshit?"

"Gem, eleven other cookies I've had the pleasure of eaten. I thought it was all crazy shit at first and then we did a few things and whamo, I'm face down between a girl's legs and loving every minute of it."

Gemma looked even more surprised.

"You really like it?" 

"Yeah, gotta try it I guess to know if you do or not. I swear, almost every one of us wouldn't have thought of doing that in a million years. Once we done it, it was like it was a normal thing. We'd have days when we'd just be with girls only and they were some of the best times I ever had there. Ain't nothing wrong with my big lug over there, but it's something I'm glad I tried."

Gemma saw the honesty in her eyes and looked at JT and Piney. Everyone's face said the same thing and she began to believe it. She was even more curious now to what her man had experienced with his former love and the girls of the commune. Whatever it was he had done, she couldn't hold fault to him for it, but inwardly she smiled, knowing what he had done, was providing her with all the sexual pleasures she enjoyed.

"Okay, you guys called my bluff, so give us ten more minutes and we'll be dressed, alright?"

"Sure, Babe. Piney and I will call a cab at the desk and wait for you, how's that?"

"That's a good idea. Okay, we'll be there shortly."




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 13



Chapter 13: Patches

Jimmy listened to JT's plans of expansion and how it involved him. The idea was sound enough, but the trust factor wasn't coming in to play like he would like. JT and his crew were one thing, but unknowns wearing the same patch, wasn't inspiring him to sign off on it and give JT his blessing. Heads thought on the situation and Lenny came up with an idea that seemed appealing to Jimmy. The problem wasn't the increase in retail goods, that was easy to deal with, it was the face to face that Jimmy wanted to be comfortable with. Lenny explained that they would be in charge of warehousing all the goods from the other chapters, then keep the same procedure in place so nothing changed on Jimmy's end.

Jimmy looked at Lenny and then the rest of the club, as they sat in his restaurant and talked after hours. 

"I think that will satisfy my needs, if it goes as you say it will. Like I said, it's not you guys I worry about, it's guys you bring in that don't have the same connection to us. This gives me the peace of mind, knowing my business isn't in jeopardy. You know how bad a thing like that can be."

JT reached out and Jimmy shook his hand, solidifying the deal.

"So, if this is good with you, is Gianni going to go for it too?"

"My father will be okay with this arrangement. As long as nothing changes on his end, only making more money, I see nothing he will be opposed to."

"Great. I think we'll make some good money out of this, Jimmy. We're looking at potential places to start new chapters and Nevada has some good spots to set up in. If we can get started over there, we can do our runs and start a warehouse somewhere where we can either ship direct, or you can pick up the goods. That would save time and money for both of us."

"If the warehouse is in a safe place, my father will be okay with that. Like I said, it's who's running it that matters to us."

"Tell you what, Jimmy. How about we have a couple of our new guys get it started with us and once you get to know them and feel good with them, then you'll feel better dealing with them."

"That sounds reasonable to me. I trust you'll make sure these people pass our standards."

"I'll make sure, Jimmy."

"This has been a very interesting meeting. To be honest, JT, my father and I had a feeling you would fold the club after all that happened."

"Fold? Why?"

"Most would look at that as a good reason to get out of that way of life. You and your guys are doing the opposite and expanding, that takes guts to do. You know what is out there to face, yet you're willing to do it anyway."

"Jimmy, we love our club and there's no way we're giving that up. We know that if we want to stay as a club, we need more bodies wearing a patch like ours and show some strength. If we can set up a bunch of charters, we have that strength and a chance to increase our financial outlook too. We aren't going to give up the money we're making, so the only choice is to make more."

"Very admirable. I respect that, JT. Our business operates much the same way. How are you on protecting your interests?"

"Until we get more members, it's still just the eight of us. We have our guns, but that's as far as protection goes at this point."

"We can help with some better guns, if you are in need of them. We can assist in protection if you require our services again."

"Yeah, I noticed the hardware your guys carried around. Not sure M60's and bazookas are what we need, but an assault rifle or two will make a noticeable statement if anyone wants to mess with us."

"Those can be arranged. We have access to military issue weapons and you are welcome to whatever you need to protect yourselves."

The guys looked at each other and agreed the rifles would make a difference going up against another club. Pistols made things close range, while rifles took that distance to one of comfort. With business concluded, Jimmy motioned to the bodyguard at the door to have food and drinks served and smiled at the guys.

"Time to celebrate our new arrangements."

The door opened and two waiters wheeled in carts loaded with covered trays, then placed them on the table and uncovered them for Jimmy's approval. Jimmy nodded and the waiters left them alone to enjoy the meal and drinks. The guys liked doing business with the Cacuzza's, every meeting more like a party of sorts afterwards. 

After fuelling up in Palm Springs, the club began the ride to their first destination, fifty miles north to San Bernadino. They had noted a number of riders that lived in the area and showed an interest in the club on past runs. Now it came down to how serious they were about patching in with the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club. Pulling into the parking lot, the guys noticed several riders already present, sitting on their bikes and talking. Heads turned when they heard the club pull in and got off their bikes. They greeted the club and went inside the dimly lit bar and sat apart from the other patrons.

Two beers and a couple of joints later, five guys had agreed to join the club and form a chapter in their area. JT told them they'd have to come to Charming to be fully indoctrinated and get their cuts and patches as a prospect. They had a six month trial period to prove themselves, after which, they would become full patch members and wear them on their cuts. It was decided to cut the probation time in half, so they could put some bodies on bikes. It was undecided who would assume which position and rank, but a vote would be taken on who would be the best leader among them, based on their abilities and devotion to the club. Wheezer Nelson was the only one to ask a question and JT took notice of him after that. He wanted to know if he was allowed to recruit more members and if so, how many. 

JT explained the need for an odd number of members, so a vote wouldn't be left in a stalemate of even votes. Wheezer knew of four other guys who he thought would be good prospects and JT said they should come with them and he would vet them himself. Arrangements for a run to Charming were made by the new prospects and JT and the guys welcomed them to the fold. They hugged and shook and in minutes, the bikes were fired up and one more stop was on the list for the day's meets.

Fresno was a two hour run north, about the half way mark to Charming and an ideal location for their retail business. The network of highways allowed good transportation of goods and warehouses were well stocked with items of value to them. The dusk was setting in and headlights were turned on, as they pulled off 99 and into the mall parking lot. To their surprise, there were more bikers there than they expected, some looking like club riders already. 

After a meet and greet with the dozen riders, they headed a short distance to a pool hall bar and parked. At first, the playing and drinking stopped, as eyes turned to look at the small army of bikers. The large, burly man behind the bar waved and pointed to the back area where no one sat and a prospect with them, waved back and smiled. Piney looked at the biker and then back to the man behind the bar, stopping momentarily to talk to him.

"You know that guy?"

"Yeah, that's my brother, he runs the place. We hang out here most nights."

"Cool, makes for a safe location. He has no problems with you guys becoming club members?"

"Nah, he's the one that said we should join up. Figures if we're going to ride around all day, might as well be something, if we do."

"I like him, smart guy."

"Yeah, he is. He'd be riding with us, except his old lady would kill him if he started riding again."

"I take it she hates bikes?"

"Oh, no, she doesn't hate bikes, she loves riding. She'd kill him if he gave up this place. They have two kids and a house to look after."

"Gotcha. So he rides?"

"He taught me and half the guys here how to ride. He's been riding a bike since he was twelve and our old man taught him, so it's like he knows riding real good."

"Cool. So your dad was a rider, or what's the story there?"

"Yeah, dad used to ride in a club, like ages ago. Used to ride with a club up north, but he was killed in an accident, along with a bunch of other guys."

The events sparked off bits of memory in Piney's mind, putting them together and he had to wonder if there was a connection.

"What club did your dad ride with?"

"Oh man, this was a long time ago, like back in the fifties, you know, so I doubt you heard of them."

"What were they called?"

"East Bay Riders."

Piney's eyes went wide in surprise at hearing the name.

"You're fucking shitting me? Your dad rode with the East Bay Riders?"

The young man looked at Piney with surprise as well, seeing his recognition of a now defunct club of yesteryear. 

"You know them?"

"Know them? Come on."

Piney walked the man to the back and joined the others, who were just settling in to a beer.

"JT, we have ourselves a legacy here. Seems this guy's dad used to ride with Jake and Art."

"Wow, you know Uncle Jake and Uncle Art?"

JT looked at the happy surprised look on him and smiled back with his own sense of familiarity.

"Yeah, we know them. What's your name?"

"Scott Forester, my dad went by his nickname, Geezer."

"You're Geezer's boy, no way?"

"You knew my dad?"

"No, but Jake told us about the day he died. Sorry to hear how he died, that was a shitty way to go."

"Yeah, but he went out riding and that was how he would have wanted it. Mom didn't want his bike back, but my brother Jerry did. He put it back together, I helped him and he's ridden it for years. It's still sitting around back, mom said he could keep it, but not to ride it anymore, but he still takes it for a ride anyway."

"This is so fucking bizarre. I have Jake's old bike and I'm riding it."

"No way, you have the blue Harley?"

"Yeah, I parked it for a bit, so it wouldn't get damaged, that's why I'm riding the chopper now."

"Far fucking out, man. I'd love to see that bike again. Uncle Jake used to take me for rides on it sometimes, when I was just a kid."

Everyone else sat there listening to the conversation, hearing the past meet the present. The prospects had known of Scott's past affiliation with club riding and was one of the reasons they were interested in joining up with him. To know the club they were contemplating joining, was familiar with Scott's past and shared history, made the new club more of one they wanted to be a part of. The past decided to blend with the present at that moment and Scott was the melding instrument.

"So, why did Uncle Jake give it to you? He loved that bike and said he'd never get rid of it."

JT looked at Scott and his smile faded, Scott's happiness fading as well at the change. 

"Hate to tell you this, but Jake was murdered last year. He left his bike to me in his will."

"What? Uncle Jake's dead? No way."

"Afraid so, man."

Scott was beside himself trying to fathom the news. He turned to his brother at the bar and caught his attention. Jerry saw the grief on his face and wondered what had happened. Scott waved him over and Jerry came from behind the bar and over to him.

"What's up, little brother?"

"Jerry, these guys knew about our dad and know Uncle Jake and Uncle Art. JT said Uncle Jake is dead. He was murdered last year."

"What? Is that true?"

"Yeah, sorry man, but it's true."

"Who murdered him? Why?"

JT could see the meet would be put on delay, knowing this news needed explaining and this wasn't the time or place.

"Piney, you want to go over things with the other guys, I better explain everything that happened to Jake, to them."

"Yeah, sure JT, I can do that."

JT walked with the brothers to the back office and sat with them. Jerry and Scott were on edge, wanting to know what had happened. JT gave them a brief synopsis of how they met Jake and Art and told them what they knew about the East Bay Riders. He went on to tell them how he and Piney worked for Jake and why he left them everything. Jerry and Scott were happy to know the two men they thought of as uncles, had remained good friends after the break up of the club, but wanted more than anything to know why Jake had been murdered. JT brought them up to speed on Marlene and her husband and what had transpired between them. When he told them he had been shot while lying in bed, the two wanted to enact revenge, but JT assured them that justice had been carried out. There was no mention of the club doing the hit, but it satisfied the pair that Clive Brock met an end that was fitting for his crime.

The three sat and talked about the old days and what they knew about Jake and Art, sharing the stories about those they admired, respected and loved. Jerry pulled a bottle of scotch from a drawer and took three souvenir glasses from a shelf behind him. He poured three healthy shots in each, then they began toasting and paying respects to the fallen. They shared memories and some thoughts on the future, getting a better feel for each other and who they were. JT was feeling right at home with them, the easiness of their rapport segueing from one topic to another. They would have talked longer, had it not been for the knock on the door. Jerry opened it and Piney was standing there, looking at them with a questioning look.

"JT, we're about done out here and the guys want to know if we're making it back to Charming tonight, or what?"

"Shit, sorry bro'. We got caught up talking about things and didn't realize the time. Yeah, we need to figure what we're doing. It's late and we have at least a two hour ride back. Maybe we should look for a place to crash for the night and head back in the morning, what do you think?"

"Yeah, I'm not keen on putting any more miles on my ass today and the guys aren't either. Guess we need to find a motel that doesn't mind bikers there."

Jerry listened and interrupted them.

"Hey, I can help you out there I know a place you can stay at. My old lady has a friend who runs a motel on the other side of 99. I can make a call and let them know you guys are coming. Not fancy or anything, but the beds are good and the sheets are clean."

"Sounds good, Jerry. Hey, you haven't met my buddy. Jerry, this is my best friend, Piney. Piney, Jerry."

The two shook hands and then Scott shook his hand as well. Jerry made the call and hung up.

"You're good for rooms, JT, Piney. Consuela said two guys to a room and no women, or pets."

"Well, we don't have any women and Piney might be a big, hairy motherfucker, but I'm sure he won't be mistaken for a pet."

Piney punched JT's arm hard and made him wince in pain and look at him.

"Like you look any prettier?"

"Sorry man, it was just a joke."

"Bad joke."

"Okay, sorry, I won't say that shit again."

"Thank you brother, apology accepted."

The four went back out to the table and told the guys about the sleeping arrangements and they quickly decided who wanted to sleep with who. Keith was upset that no one wanted to sleep in the same room as him and all the guys spoke at once saying he snored too loudly and farted in his sleep. Keith shrugged his shoulders in acceptance and said someone had to sleep in the same room, whether they liked it or not. The locals began laughing at how they acted towards one another, making them feel more friendly with them.

"I'll settle it. Keith, I'll share a room with you, but keep the farts down to a roar, will you?"

"Thanks, prez, I'll do my best. It's no my fault, it's the bloody food we eat. It gives me gas, so it does. I did'ne fart like that at the farm, we ate good food there."

That made things uneasy among the club, just another reminder of what was. Where JT used to wonder alone, more of the members were remembering what was and what was no more. The changes in their lives weren't always easy to accept, some being thrust upon them violently, some gradual, but still upsetting to the spirit. Hearts were getting covered with protective armour against the deep painful hurts of life and Fate was hurling as much as it could at them, letting them know it wasn't finished with them yet.

Farewells were made and arrangements to get together with the brothers was offered. Scott and Jerry were both eager to pick up where they left off and talk about the past and their father and his friends. The new recruits all came out to see them off and watched and listened, as eight bikes roared to life and moved as one, letting them know how a club rode. No one had any second thoughts about joining, more so, they were eager to patch in and be somebody, someone who would gain respect from just looking at them.

The club enjoyed a decent and well deserved sleep, even Keith's snoring didn't bother JT from getting a good sleep, although the farts upon waking made him shake his head and hurry up to dress and leave the room. They ate a good breakfast in the motel's on-site restaurant and thanked Consuela for everything, leaving her an extra fifty dollars over and above the charges. She was happy to welcome them back anytime and watched them go, as they headed back to 99 and the trip north to Charming. Consuela looked at the fifty dollar tip and stuffed it between her large breasts and patted them, as she headed to the rooms to strip the beds.

Sitting in the clubhouse, they talked about the new prospects and what they thought of them. San Bernadino still looked iffy, as some of the guys didn't seem ready to devote themselves to the club, but more what they could get out of the club by wearing a patch. If they had to, they'd drop those guys from the roster and look for new ones that were more about the club, than themselves.

Fresno became an interesting conversation topic, the guys agreeing that every guy that showed up, looked ready to commit to the club. JT held up the new cut to show everyone.

"I think the new guys will be happy wearing one of these. Skinny just finished making us thirty of them and has twenty more to go. I like the leather, feels good. My cut is getting pretty beat up from riding and these will block the wind better too, not to mention get the bug shit off after a ride and... it comes with a pocket to hold a pistol and ammo."

JT passed the cut around and continued talking about Scott and Jerry, wishing Jerry was joining as well.

"What do you guys think about Scott being the president of the chapter? I'm leaning that way myself and wonder what you guys think. He's young, but he's got years of knowing what a club is about, where the other guys don't."

The guys had no problem agreeing with JT's thoughts about him, all the prospects being good picks to join, but Scott had an edge to him that stood out. JT slammed his palm on the table to settle the vote and ushered in the first addition to their membership. Piney looked at the cut quickly and passed it to Otto beside him. JT saw he wasn't impressed by it and asked why.

"I like my denim cut, I don't want to switch over to leather."

"That's cool. If anyone doesn't want to switch over, the old cuts are still acceptable. It's not mandatory for anyone to wear the leather one, but all new members will have to."

That made those that liked their denim cuts happy and the decision passed quickly.

"Next item, our new prospects. Where are we with those?"

Three locals who were riding, had an interest to come out and see what being a member would be like. Two sounded hopeful, while one sounded interesting. Lenny said he was a bit young, but very enthusiastic to join. He took everyone back a couple of years and reminded them of the kid he raced on the bicycle, when they first went out to the lake and met Chico. He was only fifteen now, but ready to wear a patch if he could. He could already ride and had an old BSA Super Rocket, he had repaired and modified. He was turning sixteen shortly and wanted to be a mechanic, so he might be too young right now to join the club, but he could work the shop while they were gone and keep things running.




Redwood Nine: Season 03 Ch. 13



JT thought on it and knew the closures of the shop were hurting his main legitimate source of income. He had to keep things as normal looking as possible and maintain the image of the club in town. The frequent trips were becoming noticeable and drawing attention and there were only so many excuses you could come up with. He told Lenny to bring him around and shared his thoughts with the guys. If Greg Jensen could prospect as a mechanic, among other things, how many of the other prospects were mechanically inclined and could they run the repairs, while they ran the other end.

Wally said his buddy was okay with a wrench and knew his way around cars well enough. Otto said his buddy worked at the body shop, so he was already getting good money, so he'd have to be making the same, or better to leave. That brought about the cost of employing prospects and the idea of volunteering time to serve their probation came up, Tom taking a seated bow for his suggestion. Otto's friend Livio 'Louie' Vukovich, wouldn't have a problem bringing business in for repairs that the body shop didn't want to do, so that made his contribution quite lucrative and put him up the list for possibles. Wally said his buddy, Gordon 'Chunk' McLeary was looking for work, so he'd be happy getting whatever he got. He'd be able to work whatever hours he could and do whatever hours as volunteer. 

The prospects were looking better and better, as long as their hearts were in the right place. Chunk had come back last year from 'Nam and despite keeping a clean cut look, no one had a job for him. He was making money the old fashioned way and acting as a middleman moving contraband products between people. Wally's former stock in trade had been picked up by anyone eager enough to make fast money and watch for the law over their shoulder. Chunk wouldn't have a problem with getting his hands dirty.

Greg, although young, had the right attitude and desire to fit in and it wouldn't be hard to see if he was dedicated enough to become a member. The prospects seemed to be vetted on face value and it was up to them now to prove themselves.

The topic moved to the next direction to go and Reno was first, then they would be swinging south and heading to Las Vegas. Gianni would be waiting for them and wanted to be brought up to speed on the expansion. He was enjoying the retail trade both monetarily and personally and upgraded everything in his homes with new appliances, furniture, stereos and TV's. The high end articles were usually gifted out to certain people and made for good feelings between friends, ones who were looking to put the other out of business. Gianni was fighting to keep a hold of his business interests, many independent crews looking to get a piece of the gambling empire's money and these tokens smoothed out negotiations.

The three prospects showed up and sat with the club, hearing what was expected of them and what they had to do for the club. Greg was happier than any, hearing his conditions being more than the others, but understandable. Monday the next week, would see a steady business being run and a steady flow of work to make it viable and support itself. They were briefed on the rules and made sure they were completely understood, before JT had Piney hand out three new leather cuts with a prospect banner on the bottom. They all hugged and shook, made welcome to the fold and then partied to celebrate.

Before they left for Nevada, Lenny came in the clubhouse and quieted down the guys to tell them something. The traces of lipstick were evident and they knew it had to be about girls.

"Hey, hey, guys, listen up. I think you're going to like this idea. Remember last year, we had those girls show up and want to be our play toys, you know, Lydia, Jessie, Ronnie and Judy? When they were at the funeral home, we had a chance to sort of talk, you know, so they were telling me they were interested in hanging around if we would let them. I sort of told them they'd have to earn their keep and they got no problems with putting out. Seems we're guilty of turning them into little fuck freaks, because they want to do us all again. I was thinking, what if we get them to turn tricks and we all make money and get head, we keep them safe from assholes and everybody's happy, what do you think?"

No one could find anything wrong with constant sexual pleasures and no responsibility to a relationship of emotional consequence. JT wasn't keen on the idea of the clubhouse being used as a brothel and Lenny said the old motel still had rooms that could be used. Neither of the former owners were alive and no one was laying claim to it yet. It had the discretion in location and the set up to handle numerous customers, as well as supervision. Lenny asked if he could run the new enterprise and make it his contribution to the club's overall wealth. With free and constant sex, along with a share in the income, no one had any objection to Lenny's request. He was given a new title to have, Lenny the Pimp and he smiled happily at it, enjoying the new moniker. 

Things were changing along with the times and attitudes and beliefs were rearranged to suit them. Gearing up, they headed out for the next phase of the expansion and made the run over the Sierra Nevada's to Reno and another successful meeting. Not only did they get seven guys to join, they got wind of more guys that might be interested in Salt Lake City, Utah. Expansion was happening, but control was vanishing. The trade off was measurable in their favour, but variables made certainty a forgotten element. Las Vegas was next and Gianni was more than amenable to the expansion into his area. A greater share of the risk was being taken by the club, while his end looked easy to attend to and a sizable increase in profits. He also liked the added protection of a noticeable club presence involved, keeping his rivals a step behind and less likely to want a piece of the action. 

With two states locked down and an increase in bodies to rely on, the guys felt better about moving forward into their new enterprise, as outlaws with a friendly face. The drug trade was heating up with demands for it rising and Chico's cousins were operating at full production already. Money was being made by many and new charters were becoming prosperous. The new business signage was finished and the prospects had the duty of repainting the shop and making it look fresh and new. Teller-Morrow Auto Service was officially opened with a small ceremony, a few business owners and members of town council present. A reporter from the local newspaper, The Charming Times, was taking pictures and wrote a small article about them. During the barbeque festivities afterwards, JT mentioned to Art that there were some people coming and they would like to meet him. He left it cryptic and vague enough that Art's curiosity was peaked, but no idea who it could be. 

To say Arthur Lowen was shocked to see Scott and Jerry, was an understatement. More than a decade had past since he last saw them, their mother moving away after Geezer was killed. It was like a sense of family had returned, the past returning to them and remembered fondly. Art was worried about Scott getting involved in the club, knowing what was in store for him, but Scott assured him that they had no reason to worry about trouble, that they had no rival clubs in town. Art reminded him that that situation could change at any time. If he was making money, somebody else wanted to as well and didn't care if he took yours and killed you in the process. Scott reminded him that they had JT and the other charters to call upon and deal with them. Art couldn't find any more reasoning to put forth, knowing Scott was adamant about heading the new Fresno charter of the Sons of Anarchy as president. 

All over California, people were noticing the addition of charters in their towns and cities, the Reaper logo becoming a familiar sight. What that logo foretold was a subject in many of their minds. Law enforcement was taking note of who they were and their rise up the ranking of clubs on their list to watch. What amazed many, were the number of young men that were willing to adopt that lifestyle and side on the other side of society. Amazed or not, many sat back and thought of why and knew they had left nothing for their sons and taken it all for themselves. Quiet shame and disgrace was laid on by guilty consciences, as they took the blame for creating what was happening to their sons and what they neglected to do for them.

The west coast of California was rife with clubs, some big, some small, but the Sons of Anarchy was becoming one of the players to watch for. The Sons kept peace with the others and made sure those that tried to oppose them, know what they were up against. JT started a monthly run with all the chapters, showing the strength of their numbers and the unified force they had become. Other clubs paid respect to them and didn't try pushing into territories they controlled. The new phase of the club was established, but more was still to be accomplished. 

JT looked at an uncertain future, one that held unseen danger for them. He had committed himself to the club and had to see it through, no matter where it ended up going. His desire for a peaceful existence was gone, obliterated by the greed and avarice of others. What he had to look forward to in life, were things he had to fight for and fight to keep. Anything won or gained, was always in jeopardy of being taken away. He looked at what he had before the war, who he was and what he had before him to enjoy. Coming back, it was a shock to the system to see how drastic things had changed in such a short time. With the economy tanking and taking its toll, people were in survival mode and would break moral codes to achieve their desired needs.

With the prospects proving their ability to run the shop, JT and the club spent more and more time on the road, riding up and down the coastal highways and into small towns and cities. Freedom was felt by them all, but a freedom that came with regrets. Regrets that arose from the loss of important parts of themselves and their lives. No matter what they gained, it couldn't replace what was lost.

Clay had only wrote back once since receiving the news about Poppy, the disappointing news that he was re-enlisting for another tour. The guys wrote numerous letters to him, asking him to come back and ride with them, but all went unanswered. They knew he hadn't been killed, or the letters would have been returned. That alone made them have some piece of mind that he was still alive.

Clay was alive and lived with one purpose, to kill as many of the enemy he could, for him being there and not back with his girl. He wanted them to pay and he was pushing the boundaries of the rules of engagement. On several occasions, his unit had watched him gun down women and children as they ran for their lives, but he only looked at them with cold, stony eyes, ones without emotion or conscience. His reasoning was that those same women had given birth to the ones killing their soldiers and the children would grow up to be enemy soldiers, so they all needed to die. His fellow soldiers couldn't accept it, but never said anything to an officer to have it stopped. Clay was a killing machine and had unlimited resources to continue being one as long as he wanted.

The change in government after the election didn't do much to resolve the state of affairs the country was in, Nixon talking of reforms and ways to change the country's outlook. The people were sitting back and waiting for him to make good on his promises, hoping with futility that the misery was over and prosperity would return. More and more, the criminals were getting the notice that crime was paying and paying out big. People saw that and wondered what had happened to making an honest wage for an honest day's work. 

Otto opened the books at the next meeting and confirmed that the expansion was paying off and money was coming in steadily. T-M Auto was keeping the prospects busy and young Greg was proving himself worthy every day he showed up. On his seventeenth birthday, he was totally taken by surprise to see a custom Harley come off the back of the truck and JT tossing him the keys. He rode it like it was a priceless treasure, grinning widely and threatening to split his face in two if it went any wider. As much as he wanted to act like the guys, he was still green about life and after three large drinks of bourbon and a couple of joints, he was kneeling and telling God he would never do it again. 

The sixties saw the masses at Woodstock enjoying one of the most historical moments in their history and the guys wondered if Moon and Free had actually made it there. A faint desire to see them again arose, but was passed by in the need to let the past remain where it was and not stir up old ghosts. They never crossed the bay again and made it into San Francisco to see them, instead, turning south and riding the coast highway down to Big Sur. 

No matter what was happening at the time, everyone sat glued to the TV and watched with great expectations, as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon and uttered the famous quote, 'One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.' That moment became pivotal to the nation, giving a great sense of pride and hope to the people. A hope that the same endeavour to go to the moon, would be put forth in saving their country.

The seventies ushered in an increase in the draft, Nixon sending more of the country's sons abroad to be used as fodder. Most came back alive, but in a scarred and broken condition. Those that had nothing to come back to, were happy to become bikers and ride for their living, choosing the anti-societal lifestyle of crime to make a living and find acceptance. 

JT looked at the map and the circles denoting new chapters marking out their territory. In two years, they had gone from a dot on the map, to having a presence from the north to the south of California, the western part of Nevada and a presence in two more states, Utah and Arizona. As many circles as they had, it always seemed other clubs were recruiting faster than they were. Every charter was trying to reach out further in the expansion, inviting possibles to meet with them and enjoy some hospitality and a peek at the possible future, showing off some of the wealth already accumulated.

The Sons of Anarchy were by no means one of the top motorcycle clubs in the country, but their presence was known and felt throughout. Bikers and wannabe's were lining up invitations for acceptance to start chapters, the club's performance making it something worth pursuing. JT sat with the other original members in Charming, looking at the empire they were creating and what it all meant. It was becoming a business empire, one with autonomy on one hand and steady cash flow in the other. The Cacuzza's had them out regularly for social visits and treated to numerous parties. 

Despite appearances, the club and their look and attire were accepted with respect. Any hotel, or casino they went in, they were treated to V.I.P. status, many patrons wondering why they were entitled to it and minded their presence when they were around them. Regardless of the time of day, if any of the club wanted some sexual entertainment, it was only a phone call away and their choice of girl would be there within the hour or less.

On one of their trips up to Reno, before crossing over to go back to Charming, they came into town and saw a marquee announcing a headline act, that didn't interest them, but the back up was none other than Bobby Elvis. After finishing up club business, they all headed to the hotel and ate dinner, before going into the nightclub and catching the last of the comedian's act. They were ushered to their tables up front and took the attention away from the show. The comedian began making references to being upset and slighted the club for the interruption. Piney and Lenny got up and jumped on stage and picked the comedian up by his armpits. Lenny grabbed the mic out of his hands and told the audience, 'That concludes this asshole's performance. Stay tuned for Bobby Elvis folks,' then the two carried him offstage and out of sight. A few cries and screams let everyone know he received some punishment for saying what he did. 

Bobby saw the club and went over to them and talked before the show. He shook everyone's hands and went back up on stage and began his act. He went through two encores, mostly at the club's insistence, but the audience truly enjoyed his act. After the show, Bobby came back out and talked to the club. By the end of the evening's performance, Charming had a new member aboard. Bobby loved riding and accounting just wasn't cutting it for him. Otto was totally in favour of giving up his Sec-Treas patch to him and cut it off at the table to prove it. Bobby called the waiter over and had all the drinks and food put on his tab. The rest of the night was a blur to them all, as over indulgence in everything led to melted minds of intoxication. Bobby's initiation was eventful to say the least.

Coming back to Charming, Greg came into the clubhouse and handed a letter to JT. He looked at it and knew immediately who it was from. Before the guys did anything, he had them gather around him, as he opened it. He read the first part quickly and smiled, then read out loud what was written on the single page. Clay was coming home and looking to get back with the club. He said nothing of Poppy, nor anything about his grandfather or grandmother. He said he had done what he came to do and now it was time to come home. What he never said, was the reason for his coming home. Command had heard enough of the brutality to innocents and it was making noise upstairs. Clay had five months left in his tour and he was serving it at the base camp, no more missions to partake in and no guns in his possession. He was for the most part, under house arrest for his actions, but his bravery and heroism stood in his favour to not confine him in a brig. Clay was a killer in the highest form. He had no emotion when he pulled the trigger, his targets always dropping from the need to kill, with as few bullets as possible.

Lenny now had six girls he controlled his prostitution business with and new girls were showing up frequently, to earn some money doing what they did for free already. The guys were always happy to vet the new prospects and that sorted out who was worth taking on as money makers and who would only make it to being a Croweater. The club had everything it needed and more, but one element was missing and only a couple were privy to enjoying it. Love of a woman wasn't something any of the single guys wanted anymore, not openly anyway. 

They had taken a third of the time it took other clubs to achieve what they had. What worried JT and the top men, was if it would hold together and not fall apart at the seams. What they had held promise, but time and Fate would tell if the Sons of Anarchy had a life of longevity, or just a flash in the pan and fade into history like other clubs.

*

To my loyal readers, this concludes 3 seasons of Redwood Nine. I am holding off starting on season 4, until I receive word from Kurt Sutter and if he accepts my story as a basis for his planned prequel to the show. As of Tuesday, Jan.14, the first 3 seasons will be in his agent's hands and we'll see what happens.

Wish me luck and if it falls through, I'll continue posting the next season of Redwood Nine. Thank you each and every one for reading, commenting and scoring to show how much you've enjoyed it.

RJ Connors 



Redwood Nine



"We should take it real easy from here on in, JT. We don't need the pigs busting us for speeding and then finding out we boosted it. That would make for a bad start to the day and a very long time to follow."

"Yeah, good thought, Piney. Love to hit a hundred though, feels like flying, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, after about six beers and a bunch of dope. I'll admit, I did feel like I was flying when we were riding the bikes. I used to feel like I could spread my arms out and just take off and fly."

"Imagine doing a hundred on a bike? Fastest I've gone is eighty five on Lenny's hog. I wanted to go faster, but I got scared that I'd fuck up and wreck his bike, so I didn't do it, but if it was mine, I would have twisted the throttle and gone for it."

"You went eighty five on Lenny's bike? And you're still alive? Amazing."

"Yeah, it was a bit dicey. He spends more time working on his body, than he does on his bike. See how big he is now? His fucking arms are huge! They're like the size of my legs."

"He was talking about entering some competitions. The guy he trains with, said he should go for it. I think so too. Fucking guy is all muscle, honestly. Makes me embarrassed to take my shirt off around him."

"Remember Hanoi? We just got back from that bullshit mission and Lenny's platoon was pulling in as well?"

Piney thought for a moment, as they came to the outskirts of Charming, the fields ending and small businesses dotting the road in places.

"Yeah, I remember, why?"

"Remember when we were in town, at that shitty little bar and Lenny came in, went to sit down at the bar?"

"Yeah."

"Fucking dumb grunt thought he was tougher than him and pushed him aside and took his stool. I'm pretty sure that was the last time he ever tried that. Lenny just picked him up with one hand and looked at him, before he tossed him towards the door. Fucking guy got up and was running down the street back to camp."

"Yeah, strong little fucker. Has that attitude too. Only takes so much and all the fun and games turns into madness and mayhem."

"Yeah, no shit, madness and mayhem."

Up on the left, the round, yellow sign with red lettering appeared and JT slowed down and pulled into the entrance to Jake's shop. A large Quonset building stood to the left, abandoned and derelict and a two bay garage sat at the back of the lot. Jake's bike was parked at the side of the office and he was bent over the fender of a 64 Plymouth Fury outside the first bay. JT pulled up behind the Fury and stopped, Piney and him getting out and coming up to him. A faint buzzing could be heard, coming from the giant hydro towers supplying electricity to Oakland, no more than a thousand feet past the back fence.

"Hey boys, everything go okay? You did that pretty quick."

"Yup, perfect. Thanks Jake. Working motor pool in basic helped a lot. Got your wrenches here, where should I put them."

"Just leave them on the bench, JT. I'll put them away later, thanks."

JT looked around at all the cars needing servicing as he went in, then bent under the hood with Jake again, when he came out.

"So how much for the belt and the loan of the wrenches?"

"Gimme five for the belt and we'll call it even."

JT and Piney reached into their pockets and started counting out the few dollar bills and coins they had. They made up the five and JT handed it over to Jake. He looked at the handful of bills and coins and smiled, scratching his head under his mechanics cap.

"Keep it. Looks like you boys might need it for gas. Don't worry, I won't say anything about you two and the car either."

"What do you mean, Jake?"

"Not going to try and tell me this fine, new automobile belongs to either of you, are you? Your daddy's maybe?"

JT and Piney had guilt written all over their faces, as Jake divulged that he knew the car was stolen.

"Gonna return it I hope? Hate to see a new fan belt go to waste like that."

"Yeah, Jake. We're going to return it. The owner is out of town right now and doesn't know, so it'll be back safe and sound and he won't know, except of course all the gas being gone and stuff."

JT made the lie sound convincing enough, despite it being the actual truth. Without knowing. Harlan had been in a hurry to go to Santa Barbra for the weekend and wouldn't know about his keys until he got back.

"I thought that's what you were doing."

JT looked at him incredulously, using his fingers to brush his hair back.

"You knew we boosted this car and you helped us anyway?"

"Sure. Not going to wreck it, or strip it down for parts, are you?"

"No."

Jake smiled broader, as he looked at them and stopped working.

"You aren't the only two guys that have ever boosted a car, to go for a drive. I've been known to go for a few rides myself."

JT and Piney chuckled, feeling a bit more at ease with a fellow criminal.

"You boosted cars, Jake?"

"And how do you think I ended up being a mechanic?"

That brought laughter from them all, creating a common thread to join among them. JT and Piney relaxed around Jake, the difference in ages no longer a barrier to oppose, but now a feeling of commonality, a kindred spirit from a generation earlier.

"I tell you what. Since I gave you the belt so cheap, you can buy me a soda out of that thing over there. Getting a might warm already."

JT fished out the coins from his pocket.

"What would you like, Jake?"

"Doesn't matter what button you push, they're all the same. I only drink cola."

JT laughed, so did Piney.

"So, fuck what anyone else wants, then?"

"See a line of people buying pop?"

That got them laughing more.

JT looked around the lot at everything, as he bought a pop, then spotted an old army bike up against the fence. He handed the pop to Jake and guided his attention to his interest.

"Hey Jake. What you doing with the old bike over there?"

"The old army bike? 

"Yeah. Does it run, or is it pooched?"

"It runs, but it needs a bit of work to make it a good running bike again."

"Mind if I go have a look at it?"

"Go ahead. Thinking of riding, are you?"

"Yeah. Love it. Did a bunch of riding over in 'Nam and some before we left. I was just saying to Piney, that we should start a club."

"A motorcycle club?"

"Yeah. Bunch of us riding together and living free."

Jake nodded, looking at JT with different eyes, as he walked over to the bike. He looked at Piney, sizing him up.

"You gonna ride?"

"Yeah, I'll ride with JT. He's my best friend. Had each other's six in "Nam, had it always. Been through hell together and made it out alive, because we were together."

"You're a good friend to have, Piney. You have a ride already?"

"Maybe. Dad has an old Indian out back, he hasn't ridden in years. Not even sure if it still runs. Thing could be seized for all I know."

"If you can get it in here, I can have a look see. Try and turn it over at least and see what we got."

"Yeah? Thanks Jake. I'm alright with a wrench, if someone tells me what I'm supposed to do, but I don't have the smarts to do it on my own. JT might, he's good at figuring it out."

Jake and Piney walked over to JT, sitting on the bike and checking out the feel of it. The front tire was flat, but overall, the bike was workable. JT wiped off the tank with his hands and bounced up and down, getting a feel for the spring-loaded seat.

"What do you think, JT? Interested?"

"I like it, Jake. Got a good feel to it. What year is it?"

"Forty four. Bought it an army auction when I got out of the service in forty seven. I rode one just like it all over Europe and loved it. Fucking back breaker though. Not really meant to take them, where we took them. This one seen action. Check out the bullet hole in the back fender."

The guys took a closer look and discussed the luck the rider had, in not getting shot. JT wondered about Jake's thoughts on war.

"What was it like over there?"

"Probably the same as it was where you boys were. Bombs and bullets going off, looking to send you home in a box."

"Yeah, a lot like 'Nam, man, a lot like 'Nam. What were you doing?"

"I was lucky to be running messages between posts, so it was it was more a test to see if I could make it to the post and back. Some times, it was like a cross country race and I was just riding flat out, other times, it was a matter of just surviving and making it out alive. Took a bullet in the shoulder once, that got me some hospital time. Gives me a bit of grief now, when it gets cold and damp. Got me some extra care from a lovely French nurse though. Made the Kraut lead worth taking."

"Oh yeah? Gave you the house special?"

"Oh yeah, blue plate special. One thing I know about the French after that, is that they know how to use their mouths, for more than just kissing."

The talk of foreign affairs of the sexual nature took over their attention. JT leaned over the handlebars and Jake placed his foot on the foot peg, as he readied to tell them about French oral sex.

"Not sure how good the American girls are these days, but they must teach this stuff at an early age over there. She was only twenty, but she knew how to work a man's cock like it was something she knew how to do all her life. She had me lie there quiet one night, the guy beside me was transferred out and I was at the end, so we were sort of alone. She pulled the curtains around and she slid up my gown. Her hands were so soft, I remember that. She took me in her hands and stroked me, like she knew what I was feeling and had me up like a fucking rocket, ready for take off. She kept putting her fingers on my lips to keep me quiet, but holy shit, I was out of my mind. I put my hand over my mouth and she went back to work and started with her mouth."

"She must have been loving it. I remember Janice Howard was like that, remember her, Piney? She'd get her hands on you and make you cry like a baby, it felt so good."

Jake laughed.

"Yeah, something like that. Don't remember crying, but I do remember how she would slowly just swallow all of me and never gagged. I swear it didn't take more than ten minutes and she had me humping and bucking like a son of a bitch and she never took her mouth off of me, until I was drained."

JT and Piney nodded their heads, understanding what Jake was describing.

"Yeah, sounds like Janice, alright. Man, you must have wanted to stay injured for the rest of the war."

"Yeah, don't I wish. I was gone next day. I have a feeling she knew and that's why I got the treatment. Might have been her way of sending soldiers back to battle. Not a bad memory to take with you."

"I know what you mean. It was like us, when we would get back from a mission and have some liberty passes. We'd head off to the little town close by and hook up with some slants. When there's nothing else around, they're still better than jerking off. There was a couple of them that knew how to put a decent effort into giving head."

"JT, when your dick is getting sucked and it's good, who gives a fuck what she looks like?"

"No shit, man. So tell me, how much are you looking for, for this?"

"I need to get what I paid and make a little, fair's fair, right? So let's call it two hundred."

"Two hundred? Shit, man. I was hoping you'd be looking at more like, fifty bucks or something."

Jake looked at JT and Piney, then looked over the bike and then at the line of cars needing repairs.

"Tell you what. Both of you are going to need some work done on your bikes and I know you're hurting for dollars. Here's an offer, see what you think."

JT and Piney paid closer attention, the chance to save money and get what they wanted sounded appealing. 

"I need a hand fixing all those cars over there. Most are quick, easy jobs, I just can't get to them, with the work I already have. I'll let you work off the cost of this bike and Piney, I'll let you work off the cost of repairs and parts for yours, if you get it."

"You're giving us jobs?"

"More, or less. Let's just get through those and we'll see if I have a job in the works. I'm willing to go that far. I have a young guy right now, that works part time after college. Name's Clarence, but he likes to be called Clay. Don't blame him really, not the greatest of names to have. Anyway, he's gone back to Oakland to see his grandfather, apparently doesn't have long to live, he told me, so he'll be gone a while yet. He'd be here now helping, so I'm stuck and the help would be appreciated."

"Deal. Thanks Jake, I really appreciate this."

"Me too, Jake. I just hope dad let's me have the bike."

JT and Piney both shook Jake's hand enthusiastically.

"If he won't give it to you, you can always try buying it. Money talks, bullshit walks."

"Yeah, dad's always griping about money."

"You can make enough working for me to buy it. An old Indian, you said, right?"

"Yeah. Thirty something, seven or eight, I think. Bought it before the war and never really rode it much after, not sure why?"

Jake thought about it a bit.

"If he doesn't give it to you, tell him fifty bucks tops to buy it. If it won't turn over, tell him you'll give him twenty. I know where I can get another forty five for it."

Piney looked at him puzzled.

"Forty five?"

"Engine. Comes with a forty five cubic inch engine."

"It's okay, Jake. I know engines. I'll make sure he puts the right parts, in the right cars."

JT laughed, so did Jake, but Piney took a mild insult to it. 

"Just because I can't remember engine sizes and stuff, doesn't mean I can't fix them. I know how to get an engine running."

"Sorry, Piney, you do, man. I'm just ragging you."

The three walked back over to the office and Jake signed them up as employees on time cards and showed them around, taking note of key items, like washroom facilities and how the hoist worked. As they stood in front talking about the hours of work. JT suddenly stopped talking and looked shocked.

"What is it, JT?"

"What time is it?"

"Clock on the wall inside is saying one forty eight."

"Shit, Jake. We have to go. We were supposed to pick up our buddies hours ago. Can I use your phone?"

"Help yourself."

JT went in the office and called Lenny, explaining their situation. 

"Don't sweat it, JT. Lorraine is keeping me occupied with her talents. How long are you going to be still?"

"We're leaving after I hang up, so like, fifteen minutes or so."

"Cool man. Gives me plenty of time for some fun."

"Are the other girls still coming?"

"Yeah, they're coming, but you better make it quick, or they'll be on some other dick."

"We'll be there, Lenny. Alright, see you soon, man."

JT hung up and didn't need to explain anything, as Jake and Piney heard everything he said.

"You boys take care now with that car and don't get caught. I want to see you both here at eight on Monday morning."

"We'll be here, Jake, don't worry. Great meeting you."

"You too, JT. You as well, Piney."

"Yeah, feeling's mutual. I'll find out from my dad what he's doing with the bike and let you know on Monday."

"Great Piney. I hope he lets you have it."

"Me too. I'm getting tired of boosting cars and gas."

That brought a quick laugh from them, then Jake brought it all home.

"A regular job and you won't have to, either of you."

JT and Piney climbed into the Impala and started it up. Jake leaned in and shook their hands, then JT smiled and put it in drive, flooring the gas pedal and leaving a streak of burnt rubber behind. Jake shook his head and smiled, waving at them, as they waved out the windows.

"So, how are we getting here on Monday by eight?"

"We got all weekend to worry about that. We'll figure something out, Piney."

They headed into Charming's east end where Lenny lived, keeping to the speed limit, so an old school mate wouldn't want to say hello to them. Wayne Unser had turned out better than most had given him credit for. Wayne and his father started Unser Trucking and Storage, as well as Wayne getting a job with Charming police after leaving the Marines. They had got along and knew each other, but how well now, wasn't about to be decided today. 

The commercial area started, any residential housing ending long ago, yet his bungalow was situated between two businesses. It seemed out of place, but it suited Lenny just fine for his purposes. The homemade, metal mailbox out front read Janowitz, if you could decipher it through the bashed metal and crude writing on it.

JT pulled down the gravel driveway and around the back, to hide the car. Lenny's bike was there, still looking like it was running, but in definite need of attention. Before they got out, Lenny was coming out of the house to greet them, with only his pants on. His muscles were bulging and flexing as he moved, having just been pumped up through a sexual work out. Standing only five foot eight, his mass made him look taller than he was. He kept his brown hair cut short, but was sporting a thick, Fu Manchu moustache.

"Holy shit, Lenny, do you have any more room for muscles?"

"Not bad, huh? I figure another good year of training and I'm going to try for Mr. Olympia."

Lenny began flexing and posing, as though he was in competition. Lorraine came to the door, wearing only a bed sheet and greeted them, her long, dark brown hair mussed up from Lenny's hands manhandling. 

"Hey JT, hey Piney."

Both of them said hi to her, but they kept their eyes on the sheet, threatening to expose her body, if she moved the wrong way. Lenny walked back to her and took her by the waist and lifted her up. Lorraine automatically wrapped her legs around Lenny's waist, baring her thighs and ass cheeks. She kissed Lenny strongly, wrapping her arms around his neck, the sheet dropping down to expose the sides of her large breasts. Lenny carried her back inside and shouted back over his shoulder to his friends. 

"Throw the beers in the fridge and roll some joints up. Shit's on the table. I'll be right back. C'mon ya little sex freak, let's get dressed."

Lenny carried Lorraine back into the bedroom and kicked the door shut, while JT and Piney went in and put their beer in the fridge and took two cold ones out and sat at the table. Lenny wasn't big on decor and most everything he had, was second hand. All the chairs were mismatched, the table's surface missing pieces of yellow with black speckled arborite in areas. The outer edge of the table had a steady line of burn marks from cigarettes being left on it, an ashtray too much bother to find. The floor hadn't seen a mop in a very long time, but it was swept, showing it was a blue and white floor at one time. The walls were bare of anything resembling art, except for a large, hand drawn picture of a M16 held by a skeleton soldier. They looked at it carefully, noting how well drawn it was. JT picked up the baggie of grass and smelled it, then took a good pinch of it out and passed the bag to Piney. Piney smelled it and raised his eyebrows.

"Smells different. What do you think it is?"

"Not sure. Let me finish rolling it and light it up."

While JT rolled the leafy material into a rolling paper, Piney yelled in to Lenny.

"Hey Lenny, what kind of shit is this?"

Lorraine's giggles stopped, as Lenny answered.

"It's from Jamaica. That guy I know that's coming, Wally, he picked it up. Pretty good shit."

Piney looked at JT, as he lit it up and took a deep draw, swallowing the smoke and holding it. In seconds, he broke out coughing heavily, expelling clouds of smoke. Piney looked at the joint in his hand and back at JT.

"Good shit, huh?"

JT could only nod, as he continued coughing. Piney took a large toke and held it, then his lungs exploded and he too was coughing violently. JT smiled and tried laughing, but ended up coughing some more. Lenny came out dressed and took the joint from Piney and took a good haul. He held it in and beat his chest like Tarzan, holding the smoke in without coughing. He blew it out and laughed at his friends.




Redwood Nine



"Pussies. Good shit, huh?"

"Fucking killer, man."

Piney was still coughing and just nodded. Lorraine came out of the bedroom, brushing her long, dark hair, her large breasts thrust forward. Her thick nipples were still erect and visible through her T shirt and it was evident, she wasn't wearing a bra. JT and Piney stared at her breasts, their large mass swaying as she brushed her hair. Lorraine noticed their stares and smiled to herself. If she wasn't with Lenny, JT was her next choice of mate. As a tease, she stood right between him and Lenny, making sure her breasts were in clear sight to JT, as she reached back as far as she could, making her nipples stand out even more.

"Fuck, Lorraine, if you want JT to suck on those nipples, lift your shirt up and let him at them."

JT was shocked by Lenny's request of Lorraine and looked at him.

"What? Don't like her tits, JT?"

JT stammered, as he looked at Lorraine's breasts and then back to Lenny.

"Yeah...I...sure, they're really great, but I..."

"Shit JT, they're only tits. I like them, Darlin', let me check them out."

Lorraine swished her hips salaciously, as she walked around the table to Piney. She looked at him with a big smile, as she raised her top up and over her breasts. They wiggled and wobbled about, as she shook her body side to side.

"Like them, Piney?"

"Love them, Sweetheart. Come here."

Piney grabbed Lorraine by the hips and pulled her between his legs. Piney's large hands cupped Lorraine's breasts, squeezing them gently, massaging them and feeling their heft. He moved his face forward and placed it between them, rubbing it with them. Lorraine giggled and held onto Piney's neck, leaning back. Her nipples came into view and Piney wasted no time in latching on with his mouth and sucking on both of them.

"Oh Piney! Do me, Baby."

JT looked at Piney enjoying himself and at Lenny, smiling, clearly okay with another guy doing that with his girlfriend. Piney suckled on the large nipples and Lorraine happily held his head to her, as he feasted.

"She's a fun girl, JT. Sure you don't want a taste?"

"That's cool, Lenny, I'll pass. Take another hit off that joint though."

Lenny passed the joint and JT took another good haul and held the smoke. He didn't cough as badly this time, but his eyes were showing the effects it was having on him. Lorraine got off Piney and looked at JT, sitting with his eyes closed, enjoying the high. She silently walked over to him and winked to the others to be quiet. She bent forward and held her breast, so her nipple was almost touching JT's lips. He opened his eyes and saw Lorraine's breasts in his face, startled at first, but seeing her smile, he leaned forward and took her nipple in his mouth tentatively. Lorraine gently held his head to her and let him enjoy himself, as he licked and sucked at her.

"Don't sweat it, JT. What's mine is yours, brother."

JT suckled a little bit longer, then let her go.

"Uh, thanks, that was, uhm, nice."

"You're such a nice man, JT. So polite."

Lorraine fawned on JT, caressing his cheek.

"Hey, I'm fucking polite, bitch. Don't forget who feeds you and takes care of you."

Lorraine turned to Lenny and left her breasts exposed to him. She smiled playfully, as she cupped her breasts to him.

"I know you are, Baby. You're very polite. You always say please and thank you."

"Yeah, I do. Now please, suck my dick, thank you."

Lorraine dropped to her knees obediently and began undoing his zipper.

"I was joking, Baby. Get up. Nice to know you remember where your bread is buttered."

Lorraine got up and pecked a kiss on Lenny's lips, lowering her T shirt.

"You make my bread very buttery, Baby."

Lorraine now fawned over Lenny, showing him how much she appreciated his lovemaking. Not one to appreciate the feminine subtleties, he pushed her away and sat on the kitchen chair, taking a swig of JT's beer and taking the joint from his hand. JT looked at him with a put out feeling written on his face.

"Hey brother, what's mine is yours, right?"

JT looked at Lenny and realized what had happened, he smiled and laughed.

"Yeah brother, what's mine is yours."

They clasped hands tightly and hugged, as best they could with the table between them, then JT remembered his new acquisition. 

"Hey, got some news, man."

"What's up?"

"Piney and I are getting bikes. Piney's going to see if he can get his old man's Indian and I found an old army bike at the service station, out on 88."

"You mean Jake's place?"

"Yeah. Great guy. He's even giving Piney and me jobs, so we can pay for the bikes. Gonna fix the cars he has on the lot and if he's good with it, he'll hire us on."

"No way, man, that's awesome. Jake's good people. Keeps to himself mostly. I take my Harley in and he fixes it for me. Great mechanic. Always at me to take better care of it. So when do you start?"

"Monday, eight in the morning. Now Piney and me have to figure on how to get there from Lodi every fucking day."

"No sweat, JT. Here's what I'd do. Jake's closed on Sunday's, so break in, get the keys for a car that runs okay and take that. Be there early Monday morning and drop it off again and shut the gate before he gets there."

"And I do that every night and morning?"

"I don't know, JT, you're the guys that need to be there, not me."

"I'll come up with something, I hope. Don't think Jake would be all that impressed with us if we got caught."

Nothing else came to them to alleviate the situation they were in, so it was relegated to less importance and not talked about. Piney was rolling another joint, but ripped the paper and the dope went all over the table. Lorraine slid a leg over Piney's lap and sat on him.

"Let me do that, Piney."

Piney looked a little stunned by the move and looked at Lenny.

"She's a good girl, Piney."

"Got my vote."

Lorraine smirked and took Piney's hands and put them on her breasts, as she went about re-rolling the joint.

"Yup, she's a good girl, Lenny."

Piney happily played with Lorraine's breasts, as she rolled the joint. JT sat back and drank a good swallow of his beer and continued.

"Yeah, we figured on starting a club, once we were up and running. There's a shitload of us around here that are in the same boat as us and hate what we came back to. We get shit on every time we try to get a job, like serving in 'Nam was something bad. Like, what the fuck, man, we didn't start the fucking war and decide to go over there. We did the same thing as our dads did, yet we come home as scum, not the heroes they were. This fucking country is beginning to suck, man. It really is."

"I gotta agree with you on that, JT. I had a shot at college, before I got drafted and could have been someone, you know. I came back and tried to get in and even the fucking government denied me. I know what you mean about the country going to shit, I see it happening too. Fucking slant imports everywhere, killing jobs for workers here. You seen those new Honda bikes they're trying to sell now? Piece of fucking shit. Fifty cc engine barely makes the thing move, but you see them everywhere on the roads. Did meet this one little honey on one. Pulled up beside her at the lights and checked her out. Had these little shorts on and this tight top, sweet little titties on her. She looked over at me and smiled, thought I'd have to do her right there, she looked so hot."

Lorraine had listened to Lenny talk about the girl and then took some offence to it.

"Don't ever cheat on me, Lenny, I hate that."

Lenny's demeanour changed in a heartbeat, from jovial to pissed off.

"I'll fuck who I want, bitch. Who am I fucking now, who?"

Lenny's voice was raised enough, she knew how serious he was. Lorraine could see she upset him greatly and lowered her head. Sheepishly, she replied.

"Me."

"Fucking right, you. If I don't want to fuck you anymore, I'll let you know."

Lorraine didn't reply, but nodded her head. She was afraid to look in Lenny's eyes, but she knew it would pass shortly and he'd be happy again. She knew Lenny had a short fuse and should have known better, her own doubts overshadowing her senses. Piney let go of her breasts, feeling very awkward at that moment doing it. He looked at JT, who looked at him back, sharing the same feelings about the situation. JT started talking about the club again, hoping it eased the tension.

"So back to the club, Lenny. We should come up with a name and set down some rules and shit."

Lenny heard JT and turned his attention away from Lorraine, his attitude changing with his heartbeat.

"Yeah, JT, we should get one going. I like that idea. Wally is coming by later, he's the guy I bought the dope from. He's a good head, he might want to join."

"Cool. I want to get a bunch of guys together, so we should make sure they'll be good for the club, or not. You, Piney and me should vet them out, make sure they'll be good members."

"So we have titles and shit?"

"Yeah. If no one objects, I'll be president and Piney the VP. I'd really like you as my sergeant at arms, Lenny."

"What do I do?"

"You're my right hand man. You're the guy who has my ass wherever I go."

"I can be that guy."

"Thanks man, I was counting on you."

"Always, brother, always. I'll never forget that I'm standing here talking to you, because you saved my ass in Hanoi. That debt can never be repaid in full, know what I mean?"

"I know you'd do the same for me, man."

"You got it. Lorraine, light that thing will you and when you're finished, phone Wally and see where the hell he is. Make sure he's still bringing the girls, too, or you're fucking all of us."

Lorraine's face showed how much she liked the idea, as she lit the joint and passed it to Piney behind her, then slid off his lap and went to the bedroom where the phone was. Piney inhaled the smoke and savoured it, letting it drift out his mouth and inhaled it again through his nose..

"This is damn good shit, Lenny."

"Thanks, Piney, want to let us have some now?"

Piney laughed and passed the joint to Lenny, who drew hard on it, lighting the end to a bright orange.

"Whoa, Lenny. Total Bogart or what."

Lenny chuckled out the smoke.

"Got a big set of lungs to fill, brother."

He passed it to JT, who looked at less than a third of the joint left.

"Nice roach."

He took a good hit and passed it back to Piney. Lorraine came back out of the bedroom and leaned against the door frame beside Piney.

"Wally is waiting on Gloria to show up and they're on the their way."

"Thanks, Baby."

"You're welcome, Lenny."

"See guys, lovely girl."

Piney smiled at her and wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close, as he passed the last of the joint to her. Lorraine smiled and took several small hits, her eyes closing to slits and the whites of her eyes going red.

"I am so stoned."

"I think we're all stoned, Lorraine."

The sound of a V twin came through the walls, the distinct thumping sound letting them know someone was there.

"That's gotta be Otto. Bike sounds good, like he got some new pipes on it."

The guys got up and went outside, leaving Lorraine by herself in the kitchen, finishing off the last of the joint. Otto wasn't very tall, barely five foot seven, but he was stocky. Otto and Lenny worked out at the same gym, but Otto wasn't into body building the same way. He slid the kickstand out and leaned the bike over, as he saw the guys coming out.

"JT, Piney, how the hell are you?" Otto went to JT first. "Good to see you man."

JT and Otto hugged, clapping each other on the back and holding tight. He went to Piney after and it was almost comical to see them hug. As short as Otto was, Piney was six foot four, making it hard for them to hug in a manly way.

"How are you, Piney. Great to see you, buddy."

"You too, Otto. Keeping well?"

"Yeah, staying fit. Otto here has me doing the weights with him, down at Lumpy's Gym. How are you man?"

"Good brother."

Otto and Lenny shook hands and hugged, then the attention turned to Otto's bike, a '56 Harley KH Panhead. They gathered around it, as Lorraine looked out the small kitchen window at them, smoking a joint by herself. Otto was proud of his bike, as he saw the guys looking it over with great interest.

"Not bad, huh? Did all the paint myself. My boss let me have any leftover paint and I saved up all these colours, over the last few months. The money I saved doing it myself, I was able to buy these new whitewall tires. I re-wrapped the pipes and I'm thinking of some new bars for it."

The white base coat was layered with bronze insets and a silver pinstripe, the frame was painted a gloss black. The large fenders were painted like the tank and the wheels had been given a fresh coat of black as well. On top of the tank, Otto had a semi-nude pin up girl airbrushed in, adding a finishing touch overall to the bike.

"Fucking sweet, Otto. Can I sit on it?"

"You drop it, you own it, man."

JT looked at Otto and knew he was serious, despite the friendly smiles, as he sat on the bike and balanced it between his legs. 

"Feels nice, man. It sounded great too."

"Thanks. It's taken a long time to get it to this state. Bit here, bit there. What do you think of the bars, JT? I think they're too wide, needs something shorter, or pulled back, I think."

"Pull backs might be hard to turn this thing. Need the leverage to turn going slow. Maybe just shorten these a few inches and see, or bend them back a bit, maybe."

"Yeah, that's not a bad idea, I'll try that. I can use the pipe bender at work. I just want to be able to sit back more. Fucking arms are too short and I have to stretch too far forward."

JT got off the bike and looked at it with the others, checking out the attention to detail that Otto paid, in putting it back together. Otto blurted out he needed to take a piss and it spawned a reaction from the other guys to do the same. Instead of heading inside, they lined up along the back fence and every guy relieved himself through the chain-link fence, onto the property next door. Lorraine watched them, noticing the wet trails running on the pavement, eventually making one river of piss. They finished and did their pants up again and started laughing about something, but she couldn't hear what it was about. The guys came inside and they sat at the small, square kitchen table, Lorraine taking her spot behind Lenny.

"Hey Lorraine. Still looking hot as ever, Darlin'"

"Thank you, Otto, nice to see you too, sweet talker."

Lenny saw her smiling at Otto, the way she had to JT and Piney.

"Careful Otto, she's liable to whip those melons out and stuff them in your face."

"That's a bad thing, Lenny?"

Otto looked puzzled, not knowing what had gone on before he arrived. The other three laughed and Lorraine looked as though she had been chastised. Piney saw the look on Otto's face and responded.

"We were given a sample of her...charms, earlier. Lorraine does possess some rather nice charms and Lenny had her show them off to us."

"Fuck and I wasn't here. I miss all the good shit."

Lorraine moved to the side of Lenny and smiled at Otto, then slipped her T shirt over her huge mounds and wiggled them at him.

"There you go, Otto. Just so you don't feel left out."

Otto stared transfixed at them, ogling them greatly. Lorraine rolled her fingertips over her nipples and they began standing out from her. Lenny enjoyed seeing his buddy in awe of who he was with, it being one of the ways he judged his women. The more they impressed his buddies and other guys, the better a catch he felt he had found. Lorraine finally slid the material back over them and cupped them in her hands, shifting them into a comfortable position.

"Damn, those are great tits, Lorraine. Great tits."

"Don't worry, Otto. Wally has some girls coming by soon and I'm pretty sure one of them, has as nice a set of tits, as Lorraine here."

Lenny reached up and cupped her breasts, giving them a good squeeze. Lorraine never seemed to take offence to anything Lenny said, or did, as long as he wanted her, she was happy and put up with all his crap. Otto stood up and took off his black leather jacket and slung it over the back of his chair. JT saw the back of Otto's denim vest and took notice of what was drawn on it.

"Otto, what's that on the back of your vest?"

"Dude, first thing, it's a cut, not a vest and it's something I drew last week. I was sitting around at lunch, doodling on a piece of paper and came up with it. I used a pencil to draw it first and then black marker to finish it."

"Did you do this one, too?"

Otto looked at the wall he had drawn the skeleton soldier on and smiled, nodding proudly, as he stroked his thick handlebar moustache. 

"It's fucking awesome, man! You're an amazing drawer, honestly. The work on your bike and now this. I know just what it would be good for too. Our new club logo."

"New club? What new club?"

Otto sat back down and listened intently.

"Piney and I were talking about it and we just told Lenny and he's in, right?"

"You got it, brother."

"So just the three of you right now?"

"Yeah, you'll make number four, are you in?"

"Ride with my buddies again and hang out together, what's to say no to. Hell yeah, I'm in."

JT looked at Otto with a touch more seriousness.

"Can we use your design as our club logo? It's fucking awesome man, it really is."

"Like it that much, do you? What about you guys, you like it enough to be the logo?"

Otto stood up and turned his back, so they could look at it closely. The Reaper holding a scythe made from a M16, blood dripping from the blade, holding a crystal ball in his left hand, seemed to appeal to the other two.

"I like the M16 bit. The blade looks wild, all nasty and shit."

"Yeah, I like that too, Piney. I'd wear that as a patch. Explain the crystal ball, Otto."

"It's about seeing the future. I was thinking about 'Nam when I did it and how death looked like the only thing around us, as a future."

"You know what I'd put in the crystal ball?"

"What, JT?"

"A big A, for anarchy. That the ball shows the future of our club and how death can't stop it."

The others thought about it and liked the idea of it, but Piney asked why he chose A for anarchy.

"Because we're all anarchists, Piney. We hate the system and they way society treats us. We want something different, right? We want to live by our own rules and not theirs, so that makes us anarchists."

JT smiled, happy Piney and the others shared his like of who they were. He lowered his head a bit and pondered over something, then looked at everyone, before he spoke.

"I've been wracking my brain, trying to come up with a great name to use and that kind of gave me an idea. When I was younger, back like sixteen or so, I was hiking along the Nevada border and came across something that was written on the wall of a tunnel under a bridge. Looked like a spot lots of people went to, to hang out and party and shit, so I sat there and checked it out. I can remember every word that was written, it made so much sense to me at the time. I think of how we are now, what it's like for us since we got back. No one will hire us for a decent job. Fuckers won't let me, or you, go to college on a vet bill, everyone looks at us like we're scum, so that quote I read really makes sense now. It's by a woman named Emma Goldman and she hits the nail on the head square with this one."

JT closed his eyes and thought on it, as everyone waited silently, knowing JT wouldn't say anything trivial or inane to them about something so important. Finally, he raised his head nodding, knowing the words in his head. He took a decidedly serious look and spoke in the same manner, feeling his words held lives in the balance.