Wanting to Remember; Wishing to Forget

I stood outside with the older siblings of the group, watching. My heart was in my throat, and I was sending up prayers to unknown deity on behalf of her. If I lost her...Is what popped into my head, but I couldn't finish the thought because right at that moment, she came running out of the building scanning the crowd. I nearly jumped out of my skin trying to get her attention, and then she collided into me. I wrapped my arms around her, not able to get her close enough.

"Rhye, I'm so glad you're okay." I whispered with my lips pressed against the top of her head. Then a wave of love and affection washed over all of the gang, as they went around hugging everyone they could get a hold on. Finally, Scarlett met up with us, and we drove home together. I was so happy to have my girls near me, and safe. If I were to chose anything to live for, Rhyan and Scarlett would be it. When we arrived home, I let them pick a movie and I went off to get some snacks from the kitchen. I returned and plopped down between the two of them to watch Brave. I draped my arms on their shoulders, and enjoyed spending time with them.

By the time the movie was over, both of their phones were buzzing relentlessly and they disappeared to their rooms to speak privately. Shortly after, Rhyan ran out of the house yelling something about going to get Audrey. I knew at that moment not to expect her back anytime soon. Especially since Audrey had just been released from the hospital early that morning, only to return to a school shooting. I went upstairs, and popped my head into Scar's room.

"Hey, Rhyan is gone, and I'm hungry. You wanna go get some food?" I asked sweetly. I must've scared her when I walked in, because she nearly fell off the bed trying to close her computer.

"Not right now, Owen!" She screamed.

"What? You tryna watch porn?" I laughed.

She glared in response, "No! If you must know, I'm on Skype. We can go when I'm done." She softened her tone, realizing that I just wanted to spend time with her, so I nodded my head, and left the room. As I was closing the door, she opened her computer and I heard her say, "Okay babe, I'm back."

I paused for a moment, curious to know who she was calling "babe," but I left it alone. I went to go watch The Walking Dead on the DVR while I waited for her.

About an hour later, she emerged from her room and we set off to the nearest fast food joint. As soon as we were finished laughing and eating, my phone went off. "Rhyan wants us to go to the Curtis'. You wanna party?" I asked, knowing that she was a girl after my own heart so her answer is always yes.

Upon walking through the door, we were handed a beer, and throughout the night our drinks were never empty. I found Bre at some point, and crept away from everyone else to be alone with her. That's when the door flew open and Steve, Soda, and Pony filed in. Bre and I quickly separated and left the room. I suddenly found myself next to Leo and Hunter right before we were alerted that Hunter would be fighting tonight.

"FIGHT NIGHT!" Leo bellowed across the room. Everyone dropped what they were doing, and took off to the fight.

When we arrived, shots were taken, punches were thrown, and drugs were passed around. I didn't realize how trashed I was until Scarlett had to drag me out with the help of some random guy. They tried to take my car keys, but I refused, grabbing the guy by the neck and slamming him onto my hood. "I'm pretty sure I don't have to tell you who I am. Now piss off before I break you in half." I growled through gritted teeth only centimeters from his face. He stood up, and backed away slowly before sprinting away. Scarlett was hurling hateful words in my direction, but I didn't hear a thing.
"If you don't want to walk, stop yer bitchin', and get your uppity ass in the car!" I slurred, as I put the key in the ignition. "I don't care what you say.. I'm fine, and I know how to drive, skank." I retorted. I guess she didn't like what I had to say, because she punched my arm. I'm pretty sure I laughed, but I couldn't be sure because I started blacking out. When I thought that we were almost home, Scarlett let out a blood-curdling scream, "OWEN! LOOK OUT," was all I heard before I heard tires screeching, and metal clanging against metal.

I was then reliving some of the best moments of my life in the most lucid dream until I heard an all too familiar voice calling my name.

"Mom?" I asked as my eyes flickered open, and I saw Gemma hovering over me looking concerned.

"I'm here, baby. You must've been having a bad dream or something. You were yelling." She stated, sitting back down in her chair to the right of the hospital bed that I was lying in.

I lifted my hands, and attempted to sit up, but all of my muscles ached.

"What happened?" I questioned, my mind completely blank, providing no explanation of how I wound up in the hospital.

"You wouldn't remember would you? You had a lot to drink, and you were in an accident. Why the hell did you get behind the wheel?"

"The wheel? I don't drive a car. What happened to my bike? Did I wipe out?" All I could think about was my beautiful baby in shreds.

"Your bike? Owen you were driving your vintage Mustang, honey." Her voice was dripping with worry, and she didn't give me the opportunity to respond.

"Do you know where you are baby?"

I cocked my head to the side, and she saw how confused I was. "Charming? Gemma, what's goin' on?" I started trying to sit up again, this time achieving my goal despite the pain.

She wouldn't meet my gaze for a moment, and then took a deep breath. "Owen, what year is it?"

"It's 2012. What kind of a question is that?" I snapped.

She simply stood up, and left the room. My head was throbbing, and I was having trouble thinking. Gemma returned with the doctor behind her. "Owen, do you know who I am?" He asked softly.

I shook my head, and looked at Gemma. "Owen, I'm Dr. Winston. I'm Jelly's father." He said, and again I was drawing a blank.

"Your mother here said you think its 2012. Is that true?" He asked, and I nodded my head.

"What the hell is going on? Am I in Charming in 2012 or the fucking Twilight Zone?!" I yelled at them, irritated with what was going on.

"Owen, you are in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Today's date in July 31, 2013. You've been unconscious for a week. I think it's best to run some tests. You are showing signs of amnesia, and if that's really the case then we have to talk about some things." He walked out, only to be replaced by nurses ushering me out to have my head scanned. Hours later, after tests and a lot of waiting, the doctor and Gemma returned to where I sat all too patiently.

"Owen, from what we have gathered you have severe damage to your temporal lobe, which is the area of the brain that controls your memory. It seems that you have entirely forgotten the last year of your life, since you were entirely unaware you are in Tulsa instead of Charming, California. You even passed your friends in the hallway and didn't seem to recognize any of them. What is the last thing that you remember?" The doctor poured out.

I thought for a second, "Um, I was with Jax and Op, at..."  I glanced at Gemma, not wanting to say where we were. But she raised her eyebrows, "Go on. Where were you?" She asked.

"We were at Cara Cara." I said, avoiding her gaze.
 She slapped the back of my head. "You were at that God damn porn studio?! Jesus!" She yelled.

"Gemma, he already has brain damage, don't make it worse." Dr. Winston lectured.

"I'm sorry ma, but can we please go home! I don't want to be here anymore!" I pleaded, but she ignored me.

"Will he ever remember?" She asked the doc.

"It's difficult to say. In cases like this, it is possible that he could remember, but its also very unlikely. Every case is different. All you can do is try to help him, and be patient." He stated, and they talked for a few more minutes, and were finally on our way back to "my house."

When we walked through the door, I saw Rhyan sitting on the couch with her left arm in a sling, her faced bruised, and tons of pillows surrounding her. My cousin Scarlett was next to her, looking just as battered.

"Wait, what happened to them?" I asked Gemma.

Rhyan could barely turn around, and Scarlett yelled at me. "Are you fucking kidding me?! You're telling me you don't remember?" She was on her feet moving toward me in a rage. "You are what happened to us. You got fucking trashed at the fight, and insisted on driving home. YOU hit Rhyan's car, and almost killed all three of us." She squealed, and slapped me across the face. Then, from out of nowhere, a random guy hit my right side, taking me to the floor. He didn't skip a beat, and began throwing punches at my face. "Son of a bitch!" He yelled at me.

"Gemma! What the fuck?!" I whimpered. I had no idea what was going on.

Maybe I slept with his girlfriend.I thought, completely unsure of why he was beating the hell out of me.

I could hear Rhyan screaming at him, and that's when Gemma grabbed him by the ear and pulled him back.

"Look here, what the hell do you think you are doing jumping on someone like that in their own home. Where the fuck are your manners?" She chastised him as he winced from her tugging on his ear.

"Dude, who are you? Did I sleep with your girlfriend or something? If I did, she put the moves on me, man." I said smoothly while getting up from the floor.

"I'm his girlfriend, dumb ass. Why are you acting like you don't know him?" She snapped.

"Because I don't know him, Rhye! Who the fuck is he? You're his girlfriend?! What about Jax? You complain about him cheating, but yet you do the same?! That's fucked up!" I yelled back at her.

She stopped and stared, and Gemma let go of Dallas' ear. Everyone but Gemma, gawked at me.

"Bullshit, Owen! Fuck you! I tried to tell you not to drive!" Scarlett screeched in my ear, and slapped me again.

Gemma then stepped between the two of us. "Scarlett? I've never liked you very much, but because you are related to my two babies right here, I tolerate you. I don't care if you are his cousin or not, if you lay your grubby, slutty hands on my boy again, I can guarantee that no man will ever pay more than two cents to get in those nasty pants of yours again. Now, do us all a favor, and leave. We have some family matters to attend to." Gemma swiveled around to Dallas. "And as for you, young man, I'm going to assume that you're the new boyfriend, but regardless of who's bed you're slipping into at night, this is my son, in spite of blood. And I can promise you, that you have never met a mother like me before. So if you ever pull some shit like you did today, I will shove my fist down your throat, and pull your sad little ball sack out through your mouth. Got me?" She asked. His eyes wide, he nodded, and she smiled her charming smile. "Good, I'm glad we are all the same page." He turned to leave but she grabbed his arm before he reached the front door. "Oh, and honey, thank you for sticking up for my girl, here. I'm glad she has some one that's willing to beat the daylights out of someone who hurts her, and that includes her brother." She smiled genuinely and he reciprocated.

After he left, Rhyan screamed until someone told her what was going on. So Gemma decided to sit her down and explain. Rhyan sat there dumbfounded, when Gemma finished.

"Owe? You really don't remember anything about our last year here in Tulsa?" She mumbled, her eyes full of tears.

I shook my head, and reached out for her arm that wasn't in a sling.
"Rhye, I'm sorry I hurt you! I swear, I wouldn't have done it on purpose."

She nodded, "I know..." Her voice trailed off for a moment. "But dammit, Owen! You did hurt me! You could've killed me, and Scar! I feel like I shouldn't be mad at you considering your mental state, but I am. Fuck it! I'm pissed!"

"I understand. I'll leave if that's what you want." I murmured.

She stared at me long and hard, as if she were trying to decide what she wanted.

"No, stay. I need you here, and the gang will miss you. Give them a chance to help you remember." She said quietly, as she got up and hugged Gemma.

"It was good to see you, mom. I'm going upstairs now. I'm tired." She slurred and trudged upstairs, leaving Gemma and I in the living room.

I looked at her, and said, "I know what I need to do."

A Day to Remember

Storm clouds gathered outside of my window, and the first sign of rain was made evident by the small droplets landing quietly on the glass. It soon began to pour and of course thunder and lightning followed. The sound comforted me. It made me think of a time and place when life was good, and all was simple. I rolled over in bed to find Rhyan curled up in my blankets fast asleep, once again. For the past week or so, I made sure not to bring anyone home with me, because somehow I knew that she would wind up there, in my bed, curled up in my blankets, asleep. She was far more important than getting laid anyway. Not to mention that I had been planning something very special for the day, and I didn't want anything to spoil it, whether that be girls in bed or a lack of sleep due to nightmares. I leaned over to gently kiss her forehead, and check the time. I knew she hadn't been sleeping well, so I didn't want to wake her. It was still early but I wanted to get our day started the right way, so I thought I'd make breakfast. I slipped out of bed, out of my room, down the hall and into the kitchen without a sound. All those years of sneaking out and breaking in sure came in handy. I promptly decided that pancakes was the way to go, and began making them from scratch, the Thatcher way; meaning they were impossibly delicious and full of chocolaty goodness. As I got started, I figured a little music wouldn't be a bad thing, so I turned on the radio in the kitchen; keeping the volume down to where only I could hear it. I was singing along to Mumford and Sons, as well as dancing when I heard Rhyan sit down at the bar behind me. I placed her coffee mug in our Keurig and pressed the button for it to brew.
"I like hearing you sing. It's been so long since I've heard your voice that I almost forgot what it sounded like." She said softly, and so, I put on a show. I started dancing wildly and singing louder as I flipped pancakes. Finally they were finished and I topped them off with whipped cream and busted out our favorite syrups, strawberry and chocolate. I handed her the plate full of decadent chocolate chocolate chip pancakes and her coffee mug with an enthusiastic TA-DA! She giggled and clapped her hands like she was a kid again, and seeing her smile made my heart soar. I would give anything to see my sister smile.
"My favorite!" She squealed as she poured on the chocolate syrup.
When she took a bit she started to talk with her mouth full, "Oh. My. God. You've out done yourself. Just when I thought the famous Thatcher pancakes couldn't get any better- you proved me wrong!"
I laughed and let her continue eating, filling her plate with more per her request until she slumped over on the bar.
"Full?" I laughed.
She nodded in response and sat up to take a sip of her coffee.
"What are your plans for today?" I asked.
She was still drinking her coffee, so she shook her head slightly.
"Good, because I declare today to be....." I began to drumroll on the bar, "Thatcher Siblings Day Out! When you're done go get dressed, but be advised. It is raining " She simply smiled and began to clear her dishes.
"No, no Miss Thatcher," I said, taking her dishes from her. "I said go get dressed. "
She gave me a funny look and then headed off to her room.
Half an hour later she emerged, and we were off.
Since it was indeed raining, I decided on bowling for our first stop. Now, if there is one thing to know about the Thatcher's , specifically about Rhyan and I, it's that we are highly competitive. Highly, meaning that things could get ugly, fast. However, seeing that I planned the day for the sole purpose of making my sister happy, I went prepared to swallow my pride and throw a few games, but not so many as to create suspicion. I was, after all, the champion Thatcher.
The bowling alley that I chose was far enough away from all Soc hangouts, and this bowling alley had just been renovated and was now decked out in neon and black lights. It reminded me of a club I would frequent in Cali.
I let Rhyan choose the lane, and it became obvious very quickly that we were both rusty on our bowling skills. So I put up the bumpers on our lane, telling her it would be our little secret. Even with the bumpers, she still beat me 3/5 times.
I finally decided I had had enough, and we moved to phase 2, indoor go-karts. This was something I was extremely confident about. I had been racing for as long as I could remember, so I had to make sure I got the best kart possible. Apparently, Rhyan didn't like that it took me so long to decide, because she started yelling at me to hurry. I made my decision, and we got ready. When the light turned green, I was off. She was nowhere insight, I was so far ahead. We went around the track a few times, and I had to let her win twice to even the score. Poor thing, she tried so hard. On our last go around, she told me she was done, and began to pout.
"Putt-Putt?" I asked and she nodded enthusiastically.
At that point, we were both tied 5 and 5, but I knew that we were both exceptional putt putters and this would make or break the score before lunch time. We decided on 1 game before lunch, because the indoor course was huge. It was like none I had ever seen before. It took us a good hour and a half to get through it, and it was close, but she won. So during lunch, she talked trash about winning, while I kept a big smile on my face. I hated losing, but if this was making her happy, I didn't care. When our lunch was finished, we made our way to laser tag, because pretending like its a real life call of duty where you get to shoot at your sibling and snotty nosed kids is the way to go. Despite the fact that Rhyan was tiny and good at hiding, I was even better at being sneaky and finding her. Causing me to win all three games of laser tag, putting me ahead by two. Now 8 to 6, the only thing left to do was play arcade games. At some point we overheard a group of guys hovering over a pool table talking trash, so we decided we would go for a joint effort and do a bit of hustling. They didn't seem to like that very much, but it was a definite win for us. That's when I told Rhyan to pick a place to eat, call in what she wanted and we would get it to go. She hesitated, but obeyed. When we got the food, I drove her out to the lake. I had a picnic blanket in the trunk of my car, and I laid it out on the ground, cranked up the radio in my car, and presented Rhyan with the "reigning Thatcher" award before eating dinner.

The sun was already starting to set by the time we finished up, and I got an idea. I cleaned off the blanket and put everything away, then I turned the radio up even louder. A song she knew was playing, and she began to hum along. I grabbed her arm and started to swing dance with her. It had been a while since I had done a more formal dance but I got the hang of it fairly quickly. She just laughed and smiled. Then I decided to ask her what I had been meaning to for a while.

"So, about you and Dallas." I said
She looked down and grinned sheepishly.

"Yeah?"

"Is that an official thing?"

She laughed, "Well, yeah."

"For how long?" I inquired.

"Since you disappeared with Audrey and wound up in the hospital." She got quiet., and I knew why. I felt guilt and shame come over me.

"Oh... Were you ever going to tell me?"

She thought for a moment. "I guess I just didn't really think about it. It all happened really fast. I, I really like him, Owe." She was looking down, and I could hear her voice cracking. I placed my finger under her chin and tilted her head back so I could see her eyes.

"No, it's more than that.... You love him, don't you?"

She met my gaze, eyes welled up with tears, and nodded. I didn't know what else to do but smile.

"I just wish I didn't have to find out from Jax," I laughed. "I have to admit though, I didn't like it at first, but after seeing the way he reacted with the .... Bob, thing..... I realized how much he cared for you. He earned my respect, and what you need is someone to take care of you because we both know that I've done a shit job so far..." I paused, choking back tears. "Rhyan, you're an amazing person. I'm sorry I haven't paid you the attention you deserve. I'm happy that you're happy, and that you finally have someone to take care of you instead of the other way around. However, if he breaks your heart I will gladly kick his ass." I stated. She said nothing, but threw her arms around my neck. I just stood there, holding my little sister tightly in my arms, cherishing the moment.
"I love you, Rhye."
"I love you too." She whispered.
That's when the sound of a motorcycle grew louder and Dallas appeared. She just looked at me. When he came to a stop I greeted him. "Right on time." I said. I turned to Rhyan. "Enjoy. The house is all yours."
She eagerly jumped onto the back of his motorcycle, but before driving away, said said thank you and hugged me again.

Once they were gone, I sat alone on the hood of my car for a bit, listening to the radio. I was content and reveling in my successful endeavor to please my sister.
Then, my phone interrupted my deep thoughts, when a text from Two-Bit came through inviting me to their house. I thought it might be nice to spend some time with everyone, so I got in my car and drove to the Mathews'.

I had just arrived and walked through the door when everyone was heading into the kitchen. That's when I saw what everyone was gawking at. Audrey was yelling at Soda, who had apparently just told her about Hunter and Jelly. She started to bawl, pushed her way out of the room and ran upstairs. Everyone quickly left, but I wanted to make sure she was okay.

I heard her screaming as I walked up the stairs to her room. Upon opening the door, she stopped. An uncontrollable desire to hold her and comfort her arose, and before I could stop myself, I had my arms wrapped around her tightly. That's when I saw the empty syringe in her hand.
She left it fall to the floor as she turned to face me.
"Audrey, where did you get that heroin?" I asked, now supporting all of her weight because her knees buckled.
I managed to hear her muffled answer before she began to cry into my shoulder. "You." She said.
She must have taken it from my room. I was concerned for her. Heroin could be extremely dangerous and while I reckless threw away my life, she had a lot more ahead of her than I did. Suddenly, she kissed me. I jerked back in surprise, but she persisted, placing her mouth forcefully against mine and slipping her tongue into my mouth. She had a fist full of my hair and pressed her hips into mine. How could I resist? So, I picked her up and eased her down onto the bed. I didn't waste any time. It almost felt like a dream. I slid off her pajama bottoms and lacy underwear, then pulled off her sports bra. Leaving her naked in front of me. When I tried to step back and admire her, she pulled me by the belt loops of my pants, back on top of her. She shifted her weight and flipped me over to the bottom. Soon I was naked as well. She straddled me on the bed, and at long last, I received that which I so desperately wanted to possess.

Fight or Flight

Boredom, thats all that was waiting for me back in Tulsa. Despite the fact that my trip to California was more or less forced, I had now seen all that I was missing back home. However, Bre did sate my misery and keep me a lot of company. She was a feisty one, and she kept me more than satisfied, but I still wanted more. Somehow, I think she knew that, but she said nothing. In fact, I believe that she needed whatever was going on between us, just as much as I did.  So just because I could, I bought her whatever the hell she wanted, and took her anywhere her heart desired, within reason, of course (for now). She seemed to enjoy having the royal treatment, and she did deserve it. Even though she was a spit-fire, my mind was elsewhere, thinking about those pretty, blonde curls and deep blue eyes. That girl hadn't talked to me since we returned, and she had been really friendly with Hunter. They both showered each other with affection, and everyone in the gang was wondering what was going on between them, but they said nothing because they liked the two of them together better that she and I. How could I blame them?

After a slow couple of weeks, all the guys decided to go to the rodeo, and the girls were having a "No Dicks Allowed party." So I accompanied the guys, and it was indeed my first rodeo, and I had no idea what to really expect. I thought you had to dress up like a bonified cowboy to go, but that was a bit out of character for me, so I opted for a simple black Stetson hat. When I showed up, the guys erupted in laughter. "Take that shit off!" They all laughed, as they threw my hat to the ground. 

When we arrived back at the Curtis', I saw Darry holding Rhyan in his arms, and she was half naked. Dallas reached her before I did, and I could hear someone explaining what happened in the background, and to this day I still have no idea who it was. I was so focused on getting to Rhyan and making sure she was okay. 

Sons of bitches are gonna pay! I thought. 

 I really don't remember much about that night, but I know I just wanted to hold Rhyan in my arms like I used to when we were younger and she was scared or hurt. She was my responsibility, and for some reason that I couldn't quite  explain, I felt that it was entirely my fault. I wanted to right this wrong. I wanted vengance. It was the least that I could do, considering all of the hell I had put her through up to that point. So after it had been determined that a rumble would be happening, I felt my ruthless, rage, begin to swell inside of me. I could feel myself give over to a side of me that was so dark. All I could do was think about what I was going to do to Bob Sheldon, the pussy. 

One night in particular, I forget which, because I had long since been inebriated, I over heard Soda and Darry talking about the lack of man-power we had for the rumble. I spun around quickly on my bar stool, and patted Darry on the back.

"Don't worry. I got it covered." I said, and then walked out of the bar. 

I pulled my phone from my pocket as I began walking home. 

It rang a million times, until finally I heard the voice I needed. 

"Yo Owe, What's up, man?" He asked.

"I got a favor to ask man." I replied.

"Name it."

"Can you be in Tulsa on Friday?" I inquired.

There was silence.

"Why Tulsa? What's going on?" He was now concerned.

"Some fucking Soc tried to rape Rhyan and some of our other girls. There's gonna be a rumble on Friday, but we need some back up. You in?" I knew that telling him about Rhyan would fuel his fire. 

"Say no more. We'll be there. See ya Friday." He hung up.

I smirked to myself while walking through my front door.

Oh those dumb-ass Socs have no idea what's coming for them. I thought, making my way up the stairs to my room. I quickly passed out on my bed, and woke up Friday morning with a pounding in my head. I had slept a lot longer than what I thought I would, either that or I got drunk again. I had faint memories of Dawn, and Jelly in a dank house, and waking up naked on a stained couch, but I think it was a dream, or at least that's what it felt like. Either way, I was finally awake, and I wasn't going to miss that rumble. 

When I arrived at the Curtis' house, everyone was there. Everyone but my reinforcements. I had no doubt in my mind that they would show. Everyone was warming up like it's the fight of their lives for the world champion heavy weight title. That's when the whole house began to shake, the windows rattled, and the loudest sound you had ever heard echoed throughout the neighborhood. 

"What the hell is that?" Soda and Darry both asked me.

I just grinned, "I told you I had it covered." 

Jax and the other Sons pulled up and watched us. I greeted Jax, and Darry explained how things were gonna go down. I swear, Darry should be a policeman, laying down the law like he does. 

The next thing you know, we were all lined up watching our enemies. Adrenaline flooded my veins, and when the first fist was thrown, Dal and I headed straight for Sheldon. By the time he passed out, Dal and I were nowhere near finished punishing or inflicting pain upon that leech, but we stopped because all of those Soc kids were running away with their tails tucked between their legs. Then there was a deafening cry of victory that erupted from all of those on our side.

"Party at my house!" I yelled, and everyone followed us there.

All I know is that Bre was dancing suggestively, grinding her hips into mine, while there was some commotion with Soda, Jelly, and Hunter. I wasn't quite sure what it was all about, but with Bre <i>misbehaving</i> like she was, I could no longer stand her teasing. I took her into a room somehwere and buried my worries inside of her. Steve walked into the room, "Hey guys can I join?" He asked laughing.

I whipped my head around and glared at him, "Go home, Steve!" I bellowed. He threw his hands up as if surrendering and backed out of the room, closing the door as he left. When Bre and I sought to retire to my room, I walked in, the bed covers were all rustled up, and it smelled like some serious pussy, but I didn't pay it any mind. All I wanted was Bre, alone, and I had exactly that. For once, she was the only girl I could think about.

Part Two: Higher Ground

A bright light suddenly appeared, and I could hear this beeping noise and people talking. I thought "Oh shit, this it it. I'm dying, and I'm going toward the light."

I was anxious; fear gripped my heart. The steady beeping sound in the background sped up. I was so confused and I didn't understand. I was praying that this wasn't the end. That wasn't the way I wanted to go out. Although I didn't believe in God, that was My mom and Rhyan's thing. I was just releasing a prayer into the universe hoping that somehow it would work. Suddenly, without any notice the light grew brighter, and my eyes flew open as I let out a loud scream. Then I realized where I was and I saw Bre standing next to Hunter. Both just stood there absolutely terrified and staring.

"What the fuck?!" She exclaimed.

"Dude are you okay?" Hunter inquired.

I tried to move my arms, but only one flew up freely because the other was handcuffed to the arm of the bed. I touched my face and chest with my unrestrained hand. I kicked my feet, and blinked rapidly.

"HOLY SHIT! I'm alive!" I laughed.

They looked at each other totally confused.

"Uhhh... I'll go get the doctor. You stay here." He said to Bre.

 She approached the bed and sat down in the chair next to me, placing her hand on mine.

"Owen how do you feel?" She asked.

I thought about it for a second as I was slowly coming down from my shock of being alive. My head was kind of cloudy and I had a slight headache.

"Uh, I'm alright." Then I remembered. Audrey.

"Fuck! Oh fuck! She's dead isn't she! Bre, where is Audrey! What happened to Audrey?" I was suddenly panicked all over again, but this time for a completely different reason.

"Owen, calm down. Audrey is fine. She has a broken wrist, but she's alright." She stated calmly. "Breathe. It's alright." She looked at me funny, then looked over her shoulder at a police officer posted outside the door.

He was talking to Hunter and the doctor behind him. The policeman opened the door and allowed only the doctor into the room. Hunter yelled and cursed at the officer as he entered and asked Bre to leave.

"Hmphf." She said as she walked outside to join Hunter.

He approached the bed as the doctor began checking my vitals and asking me how I felt.

"Son, do you know where you are?" The doctor questioned.

"Well, I'm pretty sure this isn't a strip club considering the lack of half-naked girls. Lemme guess... I'm in a hospital and you're a doctor?" I replied sarcastically.

He looked at me for a moment and replied sarcastically, "Well you certainly seem to have your wits about you " He looked at his clipboard. "You seem to have overdosed on heroin. It was more than enough to kill you, but yet here you are. Your pretty little friend, and the good doctor got there just in time. Lucky you."

He wrote me a prescription and released me into police custody. They took me down to the station and I sat lightheaded, not to mention hungry, in an interrogation room. That was all too familiar. That's when an over sized detective that was bursting at the seams of his over-starched police uniform entered the room.

"Owen Thatcher, It's been a long time." He said as he took a seat at the table.

"Umm.. I'm sorry. Do I know you?" I asked.

He laughed, "Aww come on Owen. It hasn't been that long since the last time we saw one another. Take a guess."

Immediately, I began going backwards through my run-ins with cops. Then it hit me.

"You're that ATF bastard who put me in jail the first time because you believed that skank over me..." He looked shocked. "What? Did she give you a blowjob in your shiny, black SUV? A lapdance? Either way, I still got out, you got a demotion, you look like you ate Shaq and his mother, and you probably got chlamydia. Yeah, asshole, I remember you."

I smirked because he said nothing. We sat there for a moment as he tried to think of something to say.

"Awww," I laughed, "Seem to have suddenly lost what little balls you had to begin with? Look if you don't have anything productive to say, take these fuckin' handcuffs off of me and bring me some damn food. Then maybe you'll find your balls on the way back in. Got me?"

He rose slowly from the chair and exited the room. A few minutes later he returned with a cheeseburger, fries and a drink. He unlocked the handcuffs, and allowed me to eat in peace. When I was finished, he approached.

"So what's the deal, Detective Ardwell?" I belched.

"You act like such a hard ass, but we both know that you aren't. You're one weakness in this life is a pretty little girl who lets you into her bed. Now if you make any more smart-ass comments, I'm sure we can dig up some old charges for you and send your pussy ass off to prison. What do you think, Owen?"

I laughed, "I think I like it when you're feisty. Talk dirty to me Ardy!" I howled.

He slammed his fists down on the table. "Owen, shut up. You have no reason to laugh. You're in some serious shit!"

"Yeah, that's what they all say. So what is it this time?"

"Um, how about reckless endangerment to a minor, 2 accounts of capital murder, possession, and they are tying you back in with the cartel that you so eagerly became involved with."

"Ooooh, I'm so scared. Hold me Ardy. Whatever shall I do?" I began laughing uncontrollably, and he was obviously beyond frustrated.

"You'll be under police surveillance for the next 48 hours, then you'll be heading back to California to stay with your father, meet with your attorney and the FBI. I thought you'd like a little visit with your dear old dad. Especially considering how fond you are of him. See you around Owen." He said as he left me sitting in the room.

It wasn't until they released me, and I was back at my lovely little home that it hit me. I was going back to California.That thought was sickening, because it meant that I had to face my father. So I decided to spend the next few days high. I popped pills like candy, and got a little more than shit faced. Rhyan didn't even want to be in the same house with me, and I don't blame her. Then, I got a call in the middle of the night. It was Dawn asking me to go get Hunter. The next thing you know, I'm at the hospital because he got shot, and I'm paying off the nurses so they won't report it. After that everything was a blur, and I was on my private jet heading back to California with Dawn, Bre, Rhyan, Audrey, Hunter and Two-Bit. I knew Audrey was in the bedroom of the jet, and so I crept off to see her. I crawled into bed with her, fondling her breasts. I liked the way she responded by backing up into me.

"Hunter, what if someone comes in?" She asked, and my heart dropped.

I was beyond furious. I knew I was screaming, and I punched my best friend, but I couldn't stop my rage. Then suddenly everything was fine, and I was high as a kite. I sobered up right before we landed, said hello to Daniella, made one phone call, and I was off. It had been a while since I was able to ride my motorcycle down the highway in the Californian air. I soaked it in, and when I saw the sign that read 'Welcome to Charming' I knew I was finally home. I pulled up to an auto compound with a chain-link fence keeping people out. I rode down the concrete drive, parked it next to all the other bikes, and made my way inside.

The moment I opened the door, I was bombarded with a hug only a mother could give.

"Owen, baby! When did you get back?" She squealed.

She loosened her grip and kissed me on the cheek before stepping back.

"About 20 minutes ago." I said. She looked surprised.

She asked all kinds of questions about life in Tulsa, how I was doing, and why I hardly ever called. We sat down in the office, and I began to fill her in on everything.

"Shit, honey, you're in deep." She said, and that's when I heard him.

"Where is he? Gemma! Is he in there with you?" He yelled as he burst through the door and upon laying eyes on me, stopped dead in his tracks.

He simply walked to me, pulled me up from the chair, and gave me a hug.

"Good to see ya, Jax." I replied to his nonverbal hello.

"Are you here because of that Marco shit?" He inquired.

I nodded.

"Fuck! And Rhyan?" He raised his eyebrows. I knew that she would be one of the first things he asked about.

"At the house."

"She coming around?" Gemma asked.

I shrugged, and her face dropped. It was like you could literally see her heartbreak.

"We are having church tonight. You need to come." Jax stated. It had been so long since I sat at the table with the other sons. Technically, I had patched in a long time ago, right along side Jax, but that was a fact that not very many people outside of the club knew. We ventured out of the auto shop and into the clubhouse adjoined. Most of the guys were sitting around drinking when we entered, and then all eyes were on me. They all stood. Clay emerged from the chapel due to the silence and froze. He stared at me for a moment, almost like he was trying to decide if it was really me.

"The prodigal son returns!"He shouted, as he ran to me and picked me up. The room was then filled with cheers of excitement. In that moment, I could no longer remember why I chose to leave this place. What could have possibly prompted me to leave the only real family and brotherhood that I had ever known to move to fucking Tulsa?

That's when she walked in behind me. Again, the room stood still and silence lingered. I turned to see what they were staring at, and it was like a slap in the face. She hadn't changed at all. We just stared at one another. I think everyone was wondering the same thing I was, is she gonna stab me or will I stab her first?

"Hi..." She whispered and looked at the ground.

"Lillah." I said in acknowledgement, entirely unsure of any other appropriate greeting.

"Let's get to work ladies." Chibs demanded, and all of the sons cleared the room, but not before patting me on the back one at a time.

"How've ya been?" She asked darting behind the bar and grabbing a bottle of scotch.
She began taking long swigs of the brown liquid, barely taking a moment to breathe.

"Alright, I guess." I replied, sitting down on the other side of the bar, also grabbing a bottle and imitating her. We drank in silence for several moments, until she finally spoke up.

"Is it weird, that I miss you?" She asked, finally looking me in the eyes.

I stood up and made my way to her. I was inches from her face, when I placed my hand on her throat. I squeezed a little, causing her face to twist in pain. All of the emotions that I thought I had gotten over suddenly hit me like a ton of bricks. I hated her, but I wanted her all at one time. Thats when I slammed her back against the wall, and kissed her as hard as I could. She bit my lip, and I grabbed her tightly. We moved through the clubhouse going from wall to wall, breaking glass, stumbling over bottles, knocking things off of the walls and shelves until we reached the pool table in the middle of the room. I threw her onto it, and began tearing the loose fabric she had draped on her. I could feel her hands on my zipper, and seconds later we were naked. She liked to be on top, so she shifted her weight and flipped me over. Grinding and rocking her hips in perfect rhythm, I grabbed her breasts hard. I wanted to be rough with her. She reached down and slapped me across the face as hard as she could. I'm sure to anyone within 3 miles we sounded like two crazed animals with the noises we were making. At some point we rolled too far and fell in the floor. We stayed there for a fleeting moment, and then managed to make it to the table in the corner. I'm not sure how, but we broke that too, and finally landed on the couch. I turned her around, ass facing me, pushed her head down onto the cushion, restrained her hands behind her back, and went as hard and as fast as I could. I knew she was probably still on the pill, so I didn't pull out. I fell backwards on the couch, desperately trying to catch my breath. I pulled up my pants, and stood to my feet. She was trying to cover herself, when Tig, one of the sons, walked in. He stood there, laughed, and then continued to do what he came for.
I finished buckling my pants, and left her in the clubhouse to go find Jax.

I stayed until late that night, long after the meeting was finished, and sat on the roof in my favorite spot. Everything was different from up there. It was peaceful, and calm. I was above all of my problems, because they all stayed below me, weighted to the ground. But I knew that I should go home, so I made the drive back to my house, and crept in the window to my room. I went straight to my bed, and collapsed. It felt so nice to be here, despite the circumstances, and my father. So I closed my eyes, pushed everything from my mind, and drifted off to sleep.

The next day I awoke to the sound of shrieking girls running through the halls of my typically quiet home. I decided that I wanted something to eat, so I made my way to the kitchen, trying, and succeeding I might add, to avoid everyone. Suddenly, I heard a knock on the door. It was unusual to have visitors without having to buzz them through the front gate. When I opened the door, Jax Teller stood before me.

"Hey Owe. I just came to invite you all to a party at the clubhouse tomorrow night." He said.

We stood there and talked for a minute, and I informed him that he would have to convince Rhyan somehow.
"Oh don't worry. I know just the thing." He said slyly.

I learned to never underestimate Jax Teller. He was a sneaky son of a bitch, and that will never change.  But before the party I went for a ride on my bike- just enjoying being back in the best place on earth. That is, until Rhyan cut me off in the middle of the street, damn near killing me because she had just run to to Jax.

"What! The. Fuck! Did you do?!" She screamed while lunging from her car and running toward me.

"What are you talking about! You just tried to kill me! Have you lost your fucking mind?" I argued back. I picked up my bike to check for damage as she jumped on me. Slapping and hitting me wildly.

"Do you know who I just ran into? No! Let me rephrase that! Do you know who just basically had me kidnapped so he could say 'hello!'" I restrained her hands, and she fought back, pulling away from me. She began waving her finger in my face.

"I saw him at the house! You were there last night, weren't you?! You told him I was here!" She spun around, hands on her head grabbing fistfuls of her hair. "You ass! God! Why? Why did you do that? Are you trying to hurt me?! Is that what you're doing?" She gazed at me anticipating some sort of heartfelt response, but I didn't know what to say.

"Nevermind!" She said as she slapped me in face. "Get your ass in the car." As she motioned the car, a cop pulled up behind us.

He got out, and asked some questions. Rhyan told him what a prick I've been, and, of course, the cop took her side. Therefore, I was forced to get in the car with my emotionally unstable sister, because he impounded my bike.

When we got back to the house, she was still ranting and raving, all of our friends stared. That's when our father came downstairs and I made myself scarce. I didn't care to talk to him or even hear his voice.

That night I stayed with Jax. We reminisced about the old days and Opie, our other friend we grew up with, came over to visit. I felt a little out of place considering the two of them both wore their cuts, and had grown out their hair and beards. While I was clean shaven, and had short black hair. My cut was in Jax's closet, because he always knew I would come back. However, around one or two in the morning we had to go handle club business, and part of that meant cleaning up after Lillah.

The next day, I hung around the shop, and did whatever Clay asked. I was no prospect, but it had been a while since I had been there, and I wanted him to know that I still cared. That night was the party. Rhyan and some of the gang arrived. I saw them come in while I was joking around with some of the guys, and one girl in particular caught my eye. She was wearing the smallest leather mini skirt I had ever seen, torn fishnet stockings, combat boots, and a loose white shirt that hung off of her shoulder exposing her black lace bra. Her blonde hair fell in loose curls down to her elbows, and as she continued to take shots, she flicked it back off of her shoulders. The guys seemed to like her and she was a big hit. She danced and swayed slightly out of time to the music, and held a cigarette in her hand. Memories flooded my mind, but I pushed them out making room for only her.

To be honest, I had never paid her much attention. She was simply there. However, over the course of the last few days, I began to notice things about her. Like how pale her skin was that it almost matched her hair, the translucent, electric blue of her round eyes which was magnified by the black eyeliner she caked on. She was so thin, but in a way that still made her extremely attractive. Other than her physical appearance, I think it was her wild personality that really drew me to her.
As I took it all in, she met my gaze and held it. Finally, she sauntered across the room, and pressed her body against mine.

"Dance with me." Was all she said. I let my hands roam, and she didn't stop me. We continuously ground our hips together, and exchanged a few laughs. She finally faced me, with one hand on the back of my neck, I looked into her eyes, but I noticed she wasn't looking into mine. She was staring at my lips as she licked hers. Out of all my experience, that was a sure fire way to tell when a girl wanted to kiss you. So I did. At first I was gentle, but then her kiss grew hungry. She wrapped her arm farther around my neck, and with the other she held my face. I grabbed one of her legs with my hand as I pushed her gently against the closest wall. I heard whistles, laughter and applause erupt throughout the room, and I knew it was for us.

She continued to kiss me even though she was laughing, and I could feel her smiling. Then she pulled away for just a second, because she could no longer be serious.

"Bre, I don't think I have ever told you this, but damn you're hot." I said, and we both continued to laugh for just a moment.

"Let's go do some more shots." She demanded, grabbing my shirt by the collar and pulling me over to the bar. Just as soon as we sat down, and poured our drinks Rhyan came bursting into the room dragging Audrey across the floor. Her eyes were barely open, and her head lulled to the side. Jax followed behind them, and I immediately knew what had happened.

Rhyan whirled some harsh words directed at Jax, but he handled himself. I could see his obstinance at work, and he gave her a cold stare. He was attempting to hide the the things he was feeling. Rhyan shouldn't talk to him like that. I knew she hated when he did stupid stuff, but yelling at him, and saying cruel things to him doesn't make it better. It only fuels his fire. He finally succumbed, motioning for Gemma to help them. The two of the carried Audrey out to the car, all the while assuring Rhyan that she would be fine. The few people we brought with us from Tulsa scurried out of the room and piled into the car. As they drove away, and peeled out of the compound. Jax came up behind me and slapped his hand on my right shoulder. It was something we all did as a part of our brotherhood. It signified our unity and that your brothers were behind you. I turned to face him after Rhyan and the gang were out of sight. He had a strange expression on his face.

Somehow, he knew that He should've done something different with Rhyan. Regret seemed to fill his eyes.

"Did you know?" He questioned

I cocked my head to the side. I had no idea what he was talking about and he could see that.

"That she is pretty much in love with someone else?"

Still nothing.

"Uh, I think his name is Dallas? Gemma told me." He stated. I knew there was a wild look in my eye because he took a few steps back. "You didn't know?"

"I need to go home." I started walking to the gate.
Then something slammed into the back of my head making me dizzy. I staggered forward, almost falling down but I managed to catch my balance. Her guy wrenching cry echoed off of the metal walls and I turned just in time to dodge her attack. She skidded across the concrete upon hitting the ground. Her blood staining the clean surface. She pulled herself up onto all fours slowly, and Jax joined my side.

I was expecting her to try again but she stayed there, weeping. I was a jerk, and considering her behavior I was sure she had seen Bre and I.

"I hate you." She whispered through her tears, and began shaking. She curled up into a ball there on the ground.

"You have no reason to. I only treat you that way you've treated me. " I stepped around her and waved to Jax. I figured a long walk home would do me some good.

When I got there most everyone was I'm bed, or in their room, everyone except for Hunter and Bre. They were sitting in the theatre room, whispering. Upon entering the room, their murmurings came to a cease. Bre jumped up as I drew nearer.
"You're bleeding!" She cried. Then she rushed off to get something to clean the wound that Lillah had caused and left me there with Hunter. I took a seat on a plush chair across from him. The last time I talked to him, I dang near knocked him out. We glanced around the room awkwardly, unsure of what to say to the other.

"I'm sorry man." I stated.

"Me too." He replied, and with that we shook hands, smiling.

Hunter soon left to go check on Audrey, and Bre returned. She patched up the wound, and wrapped her arms around my neck from behind. She unbuttoned the top three buttons of my shirt, and lightly touched my skin. Her warm hands slid further beneath the fabric as she placed her mouth on my ear and nibbled lightly. I knew she wanted to finish what we had started earlier. I reached up and grabbed her hair at the base of her neck, pulling gently. That's when she climbed over the chair and into my lap.She was straddling me, and I noticed that she was no longer wearing the same outfit as before. Now it was just this loose over sized t shirt that hung off her shoulders. I knew that I needed to be gentle. I knew Bre, and I liked her. She was just as haunted as I was, and she masked her pain with a coldness, and attempted to wash away the pain in the form of a bottle or a drug of choice. I think more or less we understood each other, but I was in no way ready to settle down. I knew she wasn't either, so this would do. No complications, just simple understanding of the other, and sex. Always sex.
I lifted the shirt to reveal nothing underneath, and she unbuckled my pants. I pushed her backwards on the soft pillows of the theatre room chairs. I went soft and slow, and kissed her til she was breathless. As I finished, so did she. I stopped and looked at her, still on top of her.
She slid her hand through my hair, kissed me on the mouth, and pushed me aside. She was at the door before I could figure out what happened.
She giggled and batted her eyes at me from the doorway.

"What are you waiting for? Let's go." She said, so I followed. Needless to say, I kept her entertained all night.

That morning, I went to meet with my attorney, and they set up a six week period in rehab back in Tulsa. They had nothing really, so they let me off easy. So after a long day of legal bullshit, I entered my house just as there was a knock on the front door. Dawn followed me into the entry way, and that's when I found Gemma, Jax, Chibs and Lillah on my door step. I would have been more than eager to invite them in had Lillah not been with them, but I decided to anyway. We all went into the living room, and just as we did, Rhyan walked in. Immediately, her and Lillah were at it while the rest of us stood in awe at how well Rhyan was fighting. The last time they got into it Lillah pulled a knife on Rhyan, but no one really won because Chibs stopped them. This time, Rhyan showed Lillah up big time, and summed it all up to "being a greaser."

I knew the reason Jax came to the house; he wanted to apologize to Rhyan, but when Gemma instructed him to escort Lillah home he knew that his apology would just have to wait. I knew eventually he would wind up in Tulsa to see her. When they left Gemma apologized on behalf of both of her children, and both her and Chibs wanted to make sure they got to hug us before we took off again.

Finally, Gemma and Chibs left, and Dawn had gone to bed, leaving me and Rhyan alone. Tears streaming down her face, she broke down and begged for us to go home. Somehow I knew that bringing her back here would be too much for her. So I agreed, kissed her on the forehead, and we left for Tulsa  the next morning. Audrey was still passed out, and Hunter was glued to her side. It was odd to see him like that with her. I knew he was, and always had been, overly fond of Audrey, but the way he was acting was something entirely different. I didn't know that I liked it though. I mean, Bre and I definitely had a mutual thing going, but I wanted Audrey desperately. No matter how much my best friend felt for her, I would have done anything to get what I wanted. So as I sat talking to Bre and Dawn, while Rhyan talked to Tibbs, because let's face it: he wasn't my biggest fan, I began to scheme. I revamped my original plan, and knew exactly what I needed to do to possess Audrey.

When we landed in Tulsa, I moved my plan into Phase Two.

Part One: Redwood Originals

Is it strange that as I was unconscious, all I could hear was the song Clocks by Coldplay? It was like all-of-the-sudden my life was summed up into one song. I couldn't think about anything, because that song clouded every thought process, and enveloped my mind. I felt like I was singing myself right into the hands of the reaper. I knew immediately that just like the song said, no matter how much I begged, no matter how much I tried... I couldn't be saved. I would never be saved, because despite the hatred I harbored for myself and the things I did... I didn't want to change. This life, this constant high, was all I knew... all I wanted. I didn't care how that affected anyone else, because it sated the pain and kept my demons at bay. In the midst of my mental confusion, I had never seen so clearly, and I knew that this was all I would ever be. That's when images from the past flashed through my mind, like a blinding light, and would slowly dissipate, burning around the edges, fading from sight. All I could see was every mistake I had ever made; including becoming involved with the reaper... the Sons of Anarchy that is, SAMCRO or whatever you wanted to call them. I can trace everything back to my best friend Jax, and his younger sister Lillah. She was a plague, a cancer, an incurable disease, and a curse upon the world and everyone who knew her; simply because she existed. She was the cause for everything I had become.

Rhyan and I met Jax and Lillah in preschool. Rhyan and Lillah became best friends immediately. They were both dancers and loved to play with their dolls. Even though she was the same age as my sister she always had my attention and from that young age I called her my girlfriend. She however, didn't care for that label or any other label that people put on her as years went on. She paid attention to me when she wanted something or when she was bored. Most of the time it was both. She was always so bored, so reckless and so manipulative. She needed danger, she craved it, and while post people said she was a free spirit it was just a nice way for them to say she was way too wild. If she ever got in trouble, she would bat her big blue eyes, and begin to work her magic on you. She was good, and she knew how to get what she wanted.

 Rhyan, who is the most loyal person I know, didn't care about all of that. She loved Lillah, and defended her relentlessly. It was this loyalty that caught the attention of my best friend, and Lillah's older brother Jax. He and I didn't care for each other at first, but when some older kids were picking on our sisters we both came to their rescue, and tag-teamed their asses. From that moment, we were brothers. We did everything together, and usually that meant we were in some kind of trouble. We were so alike that many people often thought we were indeed related, or at least until they met our parents. Clay Morrow was your typical biker, and his wife, Jax and Lillah's mom Gemma, was the hard ass biker's tough old lady. They were hard core bad asses. Both had a criminal record and Clay was the Pres. of The Sons of Anarchy, a criminal organization under the guise of a motorcycle club, and they ran the town.

My parents, however, were the clean cut rich people. Wyatt and Susan Thatcher seemed like the perfect couple but under their lovely little masks was a deep pit of issues. My father was the adulterous, alcoholic, junkie who had everyone fooled. My mother, on the other hand, was the sweetest, most tolerant and kindhearted woman you would ever meet, but my father no longer cared for her or my sister and I. He lived his own life, so when our mother died, Lillah and Jax pulled us closer because they knew what we were going through. Their real father had died around the time that we met. Eventually, Rhyan found that Gemma and Clay welcomed her with open arms treating her like another daughter and me like another son, so she bound herself to them, Lillah, Jax and in turn, the club.

Jax, soon decided that he liked her, and from the time that she was 9 and he was 11, they were a couple. When they became pre-teens, they began to date on and off again. Jax didn't purposefully try to hurt her, but because he was raised around the club and he saw the way the men treated women- it formed the way he treated the women in his life despite his loyalty and devotion. Lillah was just the opposite. She was detached and a habitual liar. She cared nothing for most people, and those she did care for could rarely tell the difference in her affection. Yet, Rhyan and I stuck with her, and Jax took care of her. She was the promiscuous type, and lived her carefree lifestyle going after older men- even those within the club. This was our wonderful little fantastic four. Growing up in a world of crime, drugs, sex, alcohol, and motorcycles. We were just as much a part of them as they were of us.

4 YEARS AGO

There she stood right underneath the street light outside her step father's auto shop. She had her back against the tin siding, and a cigarette in her hand. Her long, messy, platinum blonde hair hung in her face. Black clad, ripped fishnets, and worn out combat boots; typical. I stood at the entrance of the lot, hidden by the fence, just watching her. I loved the fluidity of her movements, and the ferocity that made her blue eyes shine. Looking at her you wouldn't believe she was only 13, because she possessed a maturity not only in looks but in action as well. She was a slut. Plain and simple. Just recently she had slept with a prospect who was trying to patch in to the club, and Jax caught her and beat the shit out of the guy. Who then in return got Jax sent to Juvi for assault and fled town. Since I knew what she did and the experience she had, I had one goal. I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Especially considering that I had gained a lot of my own experience.

After having watched and waited until her cigarette was almost gone I finally stepped out from behind the fence and began making my way down the long entrance to the shop. I passed the line of parked Harleys and I knew immediately that tonight the Sons were having a meeting. She looked up at me, dropped her cigarette on the ground crushing it with her boot. Glaring, she made her way to me.

"What the hell Owen?! Where the fuck have you been?" She demanded.

I just grinned and shrugged. Then we heard deep, bellowing laughter and whoops and hollers seeping through the walls of the clubhouse.

"Shit!" She yelled, running toward a ladder on the side of the building. "Hurry up asshole. Do you want them to catch us?"

I still said nothing, and followed her up the ladder to the roof. You could see the entire compound from there, and as the Crows and Crow-Eaters came pouring out of the clubhouse, we sat in silence. 

After a few moments of watching the Sons party it up, Lillah reached around me and grabbed a box sitting nearby. I knew by the sound of clinking glass that the box contained alcohol of some sort. She must have stolen it from the clubhouse bar. They would never miss it, and she knew that. She then opened it up, pulled out a few forties and a small wooden case that looked similar to a cigar box.

"Now this," She said holding the wooden box up,"This is the real party right here."
She unlatched the little gold hook that held it together, and inside was half a key of coke already in bags. I knew it was Colombian pure, because of who her stepfather, Clay, did business with.

"Where the fuck did you get that?!" I yelled.

"Shut up! What's wrong with you?! Do you want them to hear?" She looked down at all of the men running around in their leather cuts chasing the drunk, half-naked girls.

"Lie, won't Clay be pissed that you took that from him?" I whispered.

She just laughed. "What makes you think I stole this from Clay?"

I didn't understand. She began setting up her tray, and putting her drug of choice into lines.

"I got this from Galindo, and I'm gonna sell it." She bent down and did two lines. She leaned back, eyes closed, and let out a sigh of relief and ecstasy.

"And you're gonna help me. It's your turn." She stated.

I didn't object, because it hadn't been the first time I had helped her deal. Nor was it the first time she and I got high. We had been doing it for years, even before my mom died. I liked the thrill, and seeing the surprised looks on peoples faces when they say the two of us deal. Except now that my mom was dead, we did it a lot more often, dealing and getting high that is. I loved it. It gave me an edge, or so I thought.

So I did my two lines, and she pulled me in to kiss her. Somehow, I knew that tonight was the night.


ONE YEAR LATER....

Lillah and I had been dealing for the Galindo cartel. Splitting the profit off of everything we made with the cartel. We had no idea what we had gotten ourselves into until we had set up a meeting with our contact, Alvarez, who was a leader within the Galindo cartel, and the feds had caught wind of it. They came in guns blazing, and placed Lillah and I under arrest. The next thing I know, I was sitting in an interrogation room waiting for my father and his lawyer to arrive. Except my father wasn't the only one on his way to the sheriff's station... Clay was coming too. Suddenly the door flew open, and I immediately saw two familiar faces.

"Son of a bitch! You're blinded by that goth slut's pussy! You should've known better than to listen to Lillah!" He yelled as he entered the room.

"You little shit! What the hell were you thinking?" The smaller one scorned as his fist met my jaw.

I fell backwards into the concrete wall, and immediately police officers rushed into the room to pull my father away from me and prevent him from striking me again.

Clay, Jax and Lillah's step-dad, grabbed my father by the shirt collar.

"Wyatt, you fucking cunt, if you ever touch that boy again I will rip your testicles from your body with my bare hands. I don't give a shit if he is your "son," the boy is not your god-damn punching bag." He threatened and then looked at the officers.

"Get him the fuck outta here, and let me talk to Owen." He demanded.

The cops exchanged a look, escorted my father out of the room and into a holding cell because he was on a drunken tirade.

Clay made his way to me and helped me up. We both took a seat at the table in the middle of the room, facing each other. Clay rubbed his face with his hands and then looked at me.

"Fuck. You know that she pinned this all on you, right? She told those pigs out there that it was all your idea, and you forced her to help you."

"BITCH! That's a god-damn lie, Clay!" I stopped yelling and began to whisper. "She got that shit herself, and asked me to help her. You know good and fucking well that you can't force Lillah to do anything."

He laughed, "Shit, don't I know it. Look, Owen, even though your dad has a damn good lawyer... You still got caught and they are charging you with possession."

"What? You've gotta be joking..." I murmured putting my head down on the table.

"I'm sorry Owen, but they will probably send you to the same place as Jax, so you don't have to worry about being alone in that gang shit that we are always involved in."

So a few days later, I was sentenced to a year in juvi with my best friend and brother.


6 MONTHS LATER...

Jax and I had somehow made it through 6 months of violence and looking out for ourselves. They tried to keep us separated but they soon realized it was impossible. Jax and I both sported some new scars from being jumped by some of the Mayans sons that were inside as well. One day, the warden came into our cell with four guards, two for each of us.

"Alright boys, it's time to go?" He grumbled

"What are you talking about? Where are we supposed to be going?" Jax questioned.

The warden slapped Jax across the back of the head and I quickly jumped up to hold him back.

"I don't have to answer to you. But you little assholes made parole. It's time to go." He yelled.

The guards entered the cell and ushered us out one at a time. They escorted us to the front where they gave us our belongings and we were allowed to change. Then they walked us to the door where Gemma, Rhyan and our parole officer were waiting for us.

Gemma approached the two of us and wrapped her arms around the two of us, kissing us on the forehead.

"Hi babies. I'm so glad we can go home now." She said looking at both of us.

We just smiled and Rhyan came to hug me.

"I missed you." She said moving to Jax.

I knew she was still hurt. She made that very clear in some of our visits. She also told me that she and Lillah got into a fight and were no longer speaking to each other.

She had her arms around Jax, and he kissed her on the top of her head. She missed him a lot too. He had been inside longer than I had, and she had only seen him in their visits as well. They had also had a few fights in those meetings too. She had a new friend. His name was Adam and she told me quite a bit about him. I knew she liked being around him because he was so normal. He wasn't involved in the life that we were. She also made sure to let Jax and myself that she had no feelings for him whatsoever. I knew she was telling the truth, and so did Jax, but it still made him pretty uncomfortable.

By the time we got home, Gemma and Rhyan had filled us in on all of the things we missed that happened since the last visit we had with them. We pulled up in the driveway of Gemma and Clay's house and went inside. When we walked in the whole club and their families were there to surprise us. They had cooked a meal and we all say down to eat and talk together. We were one big happy family.

Suddenly, the back door flew open and Lillah stormed in.

"What the fuck is this?! You send me on to fucking rehab so you can have a god- damn party to welcome these two pussies back from juvi even though they were too fucking stupid and got caught. And you! You little bitch! Get the fuck out of my house!" She screamed and directed the last bit to Rhyan.

Gemma and Clay rose to their feet moving toward her, but before they could get to her, one of Gemma's glasses flew across the room and hit Lillah in the face. She staggered backwards, her face already cut and everyone including Gemma and Clay whipped around to look at the person who threw it.

Rhyan was standing up and was glaring at Lillah. I had never seen her look at anyone like that before, especially Lillah.

"GASH! You're gonna pay for that!" Lillah shrieked as she ran past her parents and jumped over the table toward Rhyan. Before anyone could react she had tackled Rhye to the floor and began wailing on her. Immediately everyone was on their feet and moved to pull Lillah off of my sister, but Clay stopped them.

"They need this." He whispered and everyone stopped.

The girls' screams were all you could hear. Rhyan finally bested Lillah by doing an arm bar. From there she pinned Lillah on the floor, one hand around her throat, and the other dishing out deadly blows to the face. Everyone's eyes were on Clay. One of the guys, who was originally from Ireland, spoke up.

"Clay, are you just gonna let them do that? I think Rhyan has proved her point... We should do something." He was concerned, but not for Lillah. He loved Rhyan like his own daughter, and he knew Lillah would do something crazy. He was right.

The next thing you know, Lillah shifts her weight around and kicks Rhyan right in the stomach with her steel toed combat boots. Rhyan flew back like a rag doll, and Lillah pulled out a knife.

"Come on bitch!" She smirked feeling like she now has the upper hand.

"Lillah!" Jax yelled.

"Clay!" Gemma shrieked.

Lillah lunged at Rhyan while she was getting up, but she jumped back just in time to avoid the blade. Clay nodded to Chibbs who then wrapped his around around Lillah from behind. She started to fight so another Crow, Tig, jumped I'm to help restrain her. She was screaming something but Gemma told her to shut up.

"Get her out of here! Take her junkie ass back to rehab!" She said as she turned her back and walked to her bedroom.

Rhyan was gone when I turned back around.

"That was quite the welcome home party." Jax laughed and then stated he was going after Rhyan. I followed along as everyone started to clear out.

It took us about thirty minutes to find Rhyan, but she wasn't alone. Her new friend Adam had his arms wrapped around her as she cried on his shoulder. That was all it took for Jax to snap. He took off toward them. When he reached them, they both jerked around to face him. Jax grabbed Adam, and threw him in the dirt. He started punching and kicking him. Everything that he had pent up on the inside and from his fights with Rhyan began to show as he wailed on this scrawny kid.

Rhyan, who was terrified because she knew Jax would wind up killing him, jumped on his back and continued to screech. I finally stepped in and got between Adam and Jax. I pushed him back and Rhyan ran to Adam's side.

"So this is who you chose? This wimp?!" He demanded.

She looked up at him, "If this is who you've become- then yes."
With that she helped her friend to his feet and they walked away. Unbeknownst to us, a cop had been watching the whole thing. He approached and arrested Jax for assault. This of course, was a violation of his parole, and was sent back to Juvi. He wrote Rhyan numerous letters, apologizing, begging her forgiveness and professing his love for her, but she wouldn't have it. She responded once and only once.

"Jax, to say that I don't love you would be a lie. I devoted myself to you, heart and soul, and found nothing but despair. I forgive you, but I can never be with you. You've changed and the life you've chosen is that one that I don't want to be a part of. I'm sorry, but this is it. It's over.
-Rhyan"

He called me in for a visit the day after he received her letter. It ripped him to pieces and fueled his anger. I knew that this would only push him deeper into the life and the club. Jax, was lost, and I was no better.

6 MONTHS LATER...

I had finally turned 16, and I got my license. I had several cars, but Clay had gifted me with a bike for me to work on and make better. Lillah spent so much time of the back of that thing, and Rhyan hated it. Her resentment for the club grew as time went on, and she slowly withdrew all the while breaking Gemma's heart. I knew Rhyan longed for her, but she just couldn't stand seeing Lillah, or hearing about Jax... It hurt her too much. She hated that her best friend had done such awful things like manipulating me, and that her childhood sweetheart did the things that he did. She was sweet, but she wasn't a doormat. She had to remove herself, and sometimes that meant she would remove herself from me as well.

The sad truth of the matter was that I was so much like Jax and Lillah that I knew she secretly resented me too. I was a mixture of them both, and I wanted nothing more than to be a part of the Sons. I longed for danger just as they did, and I relished the thrill and the adrenaline it provided. It was a drug within itself. So Lillah and I looked for something new to get involved in. She was being supervised to make sure she didn't do drugs, but she would get high at night and sneak out with me. The two of us decided to roam around, hit the bars, break into places, and steal cars. We did whatever felt good at the time, and that included sex. She was quite the exhibitionist. I loved her sexual appetite. When she wanted it, she wanted it. She would do anything to get, and she would go wild. That being said, I didn't love her. Despite the attachment that I had to her, I got over calling her my girlfriend and wanting anything remotely serious. She liked to be objectified, so that's what I did. She really didn't mean a whole lot to me at all anymore. She was just... around. I remember the day that she realized that.

I was no stranger to promiscuity myself. I knew how to work girls to get what I wanted. Although Lillah did the same thing, she was stupid enough to believe that I was exclusively hers. So one night she kept calling me, trying to figure out where I was because she wanted to hang out. I finally told her that I was at a party with some friends, but what I didn't mention was the fact that I was in a very private room with a "lady friend." She convinced some people to tell her where the party was, and she showed up. I knew it wouldn't be long. She walked through the house calling my name, and everyone was too afraid to tell her where I was. By the time she had gone through every room to find me I already had the other girl naked and on her knees. I was laid back on the bed, propped up on my elbows anticipating her bursting through the door. When she did, she stood there for a second. The expression on her face proved that she was caught off guard and completely surprised.

She turned around like she was going to leave and then paused. Slowly, she turned back to face me, and the girl that I was in the room with ran out before anything could happen. Lillah stood aside to let her out which was usual for her.

She just stood there glaring at me. That's when she did it. She drew a gun from her pocket; holding it with a piece of cloth to keep her fingerprints from being on it. I immediately recognized it. I had given that gun to her just a few weeks ago because she liked it so much, and it was still registered in my dad's name. I knew my prints were on that gun, but I had no idea what she was going to do.

"You can't be with anyone else. I won't let you." And with that, she turned the gun on herself. She fired two shots. One into her right thigh and the other into her stomach. She threw the gun across the floor toward me and began to scream bloody murder. As people started running to the door to see what happened she dropped to the floor. A few guys ran at me, grabbing my arms.

"Call an ambulance!" Someone yelled

"You sick bastard! You're worse than she is." They chastised.

I just laughed. I laughed to keep from crying, because they had no idea.

4 MONTHS LATER....

I sat in my holding cell anxiously awaiting what would happen next. I had been charged with attempted murder and manslaughter on the account that Lillah was pregnant and when she shot herself in the stomach she killed her baby. Our baby.
The little bitch set it all up. She had been keeping evidence and scheming just in case the day came when she realized I wasn't truly hers.

Jax, Gemma, Clay and Rhyan had been to visit a few times. At first it was only Rhyan because the others didn't want to see me. They thought I did it. That was until the doctor told them that they looked self inflicted, especially considering how far away I was standing. Of course my lawyer presented this to the court, but that didn't stop them from locking me up for months. In fact, I'm pretty sure they enjoyed it.
I knew all too well the sense of abandonment that it made me feel. My father had long since established that feeling within me. As much as I hated him, I missed him just as much. I knew he would be at the trial today when they presented their verdict, and I wanted to see him. Hot tears began to stream down my face as I thought about how simple things used to be. My dad would play catch with me and Rhyan in the yard, wrestle with us, kiss my mom, give us hugs. I honestly couldn't remember the last time I heard him say he loved me. In fact, I couldn't remember the last time I heard anyone say they loved me. Was this why I acted the way I did? Because I wanted someone, anyone to just pay attention. Even though I knew Gemma and Clay loved me like another son, I really wasn't. They knew it and I knew it.

An overwhelming sense of grief flooded me. I was alone. I had been for a long time, but I couldn't just blame others. It was just as equally my fault.
Just then, the bailiff walked up to the cell door. He opened it smoothly, and held out his hand. I stood, and out my hands behind my back, allowing him to cuff me. That was the longest walk of my life, because I knew that in just a few moments I would know my fate.

We entered the court room and I was placed behind the table with my attorney. I looked around and saw all of those smiling familiar faces. I waved slightly to acknowledge them. I could see the nervousness in their eyes. I kept looking though. The one person I thought would be there was my father, but I quickly realized he wasn't.

Bastard. I thought. You would think that he would've at least come hoping I would go to jail and be out of his hair for good.

At the point I zoned out, focusing all of my energy on controlling my boiling rage. That's when I heard the words, "Not guilty, your honor."

I didn't react. I let the bailiff unlock my handcuffs and Gemma came to wrap her arms around my neck.

"Oh baby. I'm so glad! I love you baby boy. I love you." I started to cry into her shoulder. She pulled back and looked me in the eye. She knew. Gemma understood a lot more than people gave her credit for, and maybe I was wrong to think she didn't really see me as her son.

They took me home. Daniella greeted me at the door, and went to cook dinner. That's when I heard the sounds of laughter coming from upstairs, and the that rage, that blinding rage came over me, and I blacked out.

I woke up covered in blood and my unconscious father laying on the floor in front of me. I didn't even care.
So I packed some things, and left for Gemma's. I don't know why I had thought of this along time ago.
She met me at the door and welcomed me in. There I stayed with my best friend and my adopted parents until my graduation. That's when I packed up and headed for Tulsa with Rhyan. Hoping to give us a fresh start.

Unforeseen Circumstance

It didn't take long to arrive at the secluded. run down motel on the outskirts of Bixby. Audrey sat quietly in the passenger's seat of my car, anxiously chewing on her lip and ringing her hands in her lap. I stared at her for a moment. I knew she could feel my gaze, because she turned to look at me.

"Are you alright?" I questioned.

She laughed and smiled nervously, while nodding her head. She was a really bad liar, but what could I do? She agreed to go; I didn't force her. Although, I did strategically perform certain actions so as to play her emotions. I wanted her desperately. I needed to possess her. She was like that forbidden fruit. She's that one person that seems so off-limits that you cannot help but desire, with everything inside of you, to take her as your own. And she was playing right into my hand. I had a very specific plan, one that I had spent the last year setting up. Rhyan won't like it, but since when did that stop me? She would get over it and forgive me just like she always does. Audrey, on the other hand, would never be the same, and I welcomed that change.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a white, four-door sedan pull up in from of room 127, the room that Marco liked to make all of his "transactions" in. Three muscle heads climbed out of the car, and made their way to the driver's side. Standing guard, they looked around, and Marco emerged. He was quite the spectacle, with his narrow, blood shot eyes constantly scanning his surroundings, perpetually messy red hair, and tight jaundiced skin. He obviously hadn't shaved in a week or so, because thick, dark red facial hair made him look wild and scruffy. His clothes, however, were polished and clean- despite the dirt caked on his face and hands. He was thin, too thin. He looked worse than he did the last time I saw him. You could see every bone in his body painfully stretching his sickly skin.

He looked at my car, said something to the black muscle-head next to him, who then motioned toward us, and ushered Marco into the motel room. I opened my door and started to get out, but Audrey grabbed my arm. The fear in her eyes and the trembling of her voice betrayed her, and her internal turmoil became evident.

"Are you going to leave me here?" She asked quickly.

I laughed, "Well... Do you really want to come in?"

She looked around, "No! I mean, YES! Please? I'd rather be with you. I don't want you to leave me alone."

She looked like she was going to cry.

"I thought you liked being alone?" I teased.

"OWEN!" She shrieked.

"Alright, alright." I just couldn't help but laugh at her.

She got out of the car and ran to my side. As I stood next to her, she slipped her around through mine, enforced a death grip, and we walked to room 127.

Before I could knock, the same muscle head who called us over, opened the door and pulled us in. One of the others locked the door while the black guy searched me for weapons. Then he grabbed Audrey and she began to panic.

"Whoa! Whoa! Dude... don't grab her like that! It's not necessary." I looked at Audrey, "Bird? Calm down. It's going to be okay. He's just making sure you're not wired or carrying weapons." I declared.

The black guy looked at her and immediately softened his grip. I gave Audrey a reassuring look and I could see her try to relax. When he was finished he let her go.

"Go sit there." He said pointing to the empty chair at the table across from a fierce looking Samoan. She slowly made her way to the chair and slid into it.

At that moment, Marco exited the bathroom and immediately saw Audrey.

"Oh? And who might this lovely creature be?" He hissed, flicking his tongue suggestively.

"She's of no concern to you." I snapped.

He glared at me, and the overgrown frat boy in the corner moved closer, but Marco held up his hand to stop him. He then retreated back to his corner and crossed his arms over his puffed up chest.

"Fine. So I called you because I need more blow." He sneered, still staring at Audrey, who was now looking at the floor and fidgeting in her chair.

"Where's the money from last time?" I asked.

"Well you see Owen, you and I have some business to take care of." He smirked and motioned to the couch across the room.

Marco leaned on the arm, so I made my way to it and sat at the opposite end of him. The green, velvet fabric, now crusty and full of holes, gave off a putrid smell. The cushions were so flat I might as well have been sitting on the concrete outside, but I tried to stay focused on the present situation. We wouldn't be there much longer, or so I thought.

"Alright, so here's the deal. You and your SAMCRO friends cost me a lot of money. When you intercepted the Mayans shipment- you ruined a very big deal for me. Now, I'm being pressured to supply what I don't have. Since I know that you played a very important role in screwing me over... You're gonna fix it. Got me?" He was now standing, and raised and eyebrow anticipating my answer. I looked at Audrey quickly- she was antsy. I needed to hurry and get her out of here, this wasn't what I was expecting.

"Owen? You lost there, little buddy?" He patronized.

I turned to look at him, glaring. He got the point.

"Is that a no?" He asked, faking surprise.

"You know I can't do anything. SAMCRO is bigger than the both of us. There is nothing I can do for you. You want it that bad? Call Jax, and ask him yourself. I'm in no position to promise or give you anything. You know that."

I started to get up, but a the black muscle-head had crept up behind me and pushed me down by my shoulders. Audrey flinched.

"Fine. I'll have to force your hand. Armour?" And he nodded.

Suddenly, the Samoan across from Audrey grabbed he arm and pulled her across the table, holding a gun to her head. She screamed, and the black guy behind me held me down.

"What the hell are you doing, Marco?" I yelled.

"Such a waste," he said, "She's sch a fine specimen." He walked toward her. He then gently placed his hand on her cheek, stroking it lightly. Then Audrey did something unexpected. She bit down on his hand as hard as she could,  causing the Samoan to let go in surprise- dropping the gun somewhere on the floor. She then grabbed the back of Marco's head with both of her hands and brought his head slamming down onto her already raised knee. Marco dropped to the floor, unconscious.

The Samoan went after Audrey, while the frat boy, attended to Marco. Knowing that this was my only chance, I whipped around and stabbed the black guy in the gut with the switchblade I pulled from my pocket. I gave it a sharp twist, and he fell, holding his stomach, covered in blood.

I ran to Audrey's aid, but before I could get to her the Samoan broke her wrist. You could hear the crack reverberating through the room which was followed by her shrill cry of agony. I lost it. I jumped on his back, plunging my knife deep into his neck. I did it over and over again until he was on the floor, unmoving. Blood was everywhere- on my clothes, my hands, my face, the wall, and even on Audrey. I wasn't going to think about the fact that I had just killed two people, so I kept going. I turned to face the swollen, frat boy, but just as I did, I met his fist. It knocked me backwards over the table, and as I was attempting to get up I felt a sharp pain in my back, and then another. I was certain I had been stabbed, but everything got fuzzy. Just before I blacked out there were two gun shots, and I was sure that Audrey was dead. Then everything went black.

I AM

Her breath was hot on my neck. She pressed into me. I closed my eyes as she moved her hands lower.  I couldn't think of her name. Come to think of it, I'm not even sure she told me; not that it really mattered anyway. She was just another piece of ass, and this was just another lay. She pushed me down onto the plush red couch while she closed the curtain. I could feel the bass from the music in my chest. She straddled my lap, started to dance, moving up and down. Her sheer lingerie lay on the floor and she was exposed. I could feel the heat of her sex through my pants.

"What do you want me to do?" She asked breathlessly.

I didn't want to reply, so I placed my hand on the back of her neck and guided her down. On her knees, she unfastened my belt, and took me in her hand.

She whispered, "Tell me you love me."

I pulled her hair making her back arch, and I looked into her eyes.

"I'm not here for love, and that's not what I'm paying you for. Stupid bitch." I coldly stated.

She stared at for a minute trying to read my expression. Then, she smiled and winked. "I understand." She said, and went to town.

Eventually, I picked her up and threw her on the couch. I took what I wanted, and didn't think twice. Then again, neither did she. It was her job. When we were both finished she asked, "Want to go get a drink or something? I get off in 20 minutes."

I pushed her off of me, and zipped my pants.

"No." I replied as I threw what I owed her in her face.

With that, I left. I staggered through the streets with no place to go, and not a care in the world. All the shots I had taken left me dizzy with clouded thoughts. I had no idea where I was. I removed my phone from my pocket only to see 20 missed calls from my sister, Rhyan. She acted like my mother. I didn't need a mother, and I sure as hell didn't need a father. Not that he ever really acted like one anyway.

He was an asshole, and I hated him. Who was I kidding? I acted just like him. We were both womanizers, junkies and alcoholics, filthy rich and always too strung out to give a fuck.
Except he made one thing very clear to me. He had "made something" of himself, and he would always be better than me. HA! Despite the fact that I hated him, I couldn't help but follow in his footsteps. Like father like son.

My self-loathing was interrupted by my phone buzzing in my hand.

"WHAT?!" I yelled.
And then I realized who it was.

"Rhye..." I began to cry, "I need your help."

I laid down on the street corner, and closed my eyes; letting everything fade to black.