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.

“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

“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.”

JT smiled and nodded his head to look behind him, making Chico follow his gaze. Chico turned and looked at the storage building, it's present appearance not gracing it's future merits. He didn't seem to be as impressed as the others were, so JT walked him over. One thing Jake had given him in the office, was the keys to the building and a key to the lock on the gate. JT knew the trust bestowed on him, as he opened the door. They walked in and JT walked him around, taking care not to stir the dust on the floor up too much. He used his hands to describe the ideas they had for rooms and other uses and Chico could start to see what was planned. JT told him of the plan to get materials from Oswald Construction and use the site truck to get it to the clubhouse. Lenny was going to make sure he had what they needed put aside, so they could load it and get out of there quickly and get the truck back on the lot. By the time they walked out of the building, Chico was flashing his smile and pleased with what he had learned.

True to his word, Lenny was working on his bike and draining the oil, as Jake began cutting the old muffler and pipes away. Piney had all the new pipes out on the floor beside the car, in the order they would go on, clamps and hangers, as well. When Jake had everything off, he put the torch away and Piney hauled the rusted metal to the bin. It was a movement of people in a small space and what was being done, that JT watched and studied, understanding what Jake was talking to him about earlier. One by one, the pieces of the exhaust system went back on tightened into place.

Lenny had the old oil and filter out and the new ones in, just topping up the oil to the right level, as Piney started lowering Wally's car. Jake used the roll up and the air hose was neatly stored away, then put the impact gun and sockets away. JT took a rough guess at the time, but figured it was close to fifteen minutes to do, maybe a little more. Jake's idea of so many cars per hour started making sense and dollars began flashing in his eyes. Once an idea hit the right spot with him, JT was tenacious in making it happen.

When Lenny finished, he took him, Wally and Chico over to the building and opened it up completely. Once again, roiling clouds rolled out into the sunlight, to show their true volume of dust. JT told them where the brooms and rags were and gave them their jobs. At first, they were almost going to refuse, then JT gave them a look that let them know his position with them. He said he'd be back with Piney at lunch and they'd pitch in as well, after they ate something, of course. Jake had the hood up on the old Chev, making some adjustments and checking the filters. He changed out the gas filter and it instantly ran smoother at idle and revved up easier. Piney shut it off again and looked at Jake.

“What's next boss? We have two brake jobs, a distributor to put in the Dart, that part for the Lincoln hasn't come from the dealer yet, I can call on that and see. The Fairlane needs that electrical done under the dash and no one has said anything about that old pick up down at the end, looking all lonesome by itself.”

“The pick up is mine. It needs some work to get it running. The engine is done, that needs replacing. Second gear is gone in the transmission and reverse may or may not work. The seat won't be much good to you, the springs will be sticking in your ass, you try sitting on that thing. Have to say there's more wrong with it, than right with it, I just like the looks of the thing, has nice lines.”

“Yeah, me too. Looks like a forty something, Dodge.”

“It's a forty. Has a 201 six in it. I've been looking for another six and transmission to come up, but I've given up spending time and effort on it.”

“What about another engine and tranny? Does it have to be the exact same?”

“I would have liked it to be, just makes it easier in swapping out that way. Why, you interested in it, Piney?”

“I wouldn't mind putting another six and tranny in, that would fit. Not hard to go to the wreckers in Lodi and find one and a seat out of a wreck. Take it over to Otto's work and he can fix any body work and get some paint for it.”

“So what do you want an old pick up for, Piney? Thought you guys were all about the bikes and riding?”

Piney looked at Jake and then around him, for anyone close to them.

“I'm all for the bikes, Jake, I love riding. I said it to JT, the very first mention of getting bikes. One thing I do know, is how fucking heavy they are to push, when they break down and damn it, they break down. Now who do you think all those guys are going to be calling, when those bikes break down? Me and my pick up truck, that's who. When it's pissing rain and someone needs to go somewhere? Piney's pick up to the rescue again. Food, booze, parts, you name it, Piney and his pick up. You wait and see, that pick up will make me money.”

Jake laughed, looking at Piney in a whole new light, yet again.

“You're a smart man, Piney. At the very least, you'll never have to pay for gas.”

Piney pointed at his head and winked at Jake, letting him know he was thinking ahead.

“It's yours, Piney. I have no real use for it and it just takes up yard space, to me. I'll help you put whatever engine and tranny you get, in it. Just a matter of brackets and linkage fitting. Mess around with the drive shaft and make it fit.”

Piney looked at the truck, imagining it in his mind.

“Think a V8 would fit in it, auto tranny?”

“Sure. Hardest part is getting all the linkage to work from the steering wheel to the casing.”

“What about a floor shifter? Like in the Mustangs and Corvettes. Just need a hole in the bell housing then, right?”

“That's right, nothing more than that and get the linkage to line up. Is that what you're thinking of?”

“Maybe. Just keeping my options open.”

“Go over and have a look at it, see what you think. Take a tape measure with you, see what space you have to play with in the engine bay.”

Piney went to the tool chest and took the tape with him, looking over at the dust billowing out from the big bay door, as the guys worked at moving the filth from one end to the other. JT came out of the shop with an order and got in the car. He started the two year old Thunderbird and warmed it up. He played with several of the power features, including the seat, until it warmed up and he put it in drive. He slowly pulled out of the spot and turned towards the bays. He chose the second one and aimed the nose of the car for it. When he went to brake, the pedal sank to the floor and he kept going. Just as panic was about to set in, he remembered and jammed his foot on the emergency brake and the back tires locked up, screeching to a halt. He put it in neutral and looked around to see if Jake had seen it happen, then noticed he was standing right in front of him. He kept his hands up to stop JT from moving and went to the window.

“Sorry JT. I should have noted that the brakes were completely gone on it. Mrs. Portman is notorious for driving with her foot on the brake and she goes through shoes faster than kids go through underwear. Just use the E brake to ease on in and leave it in neutral. The drums and the shoes should be here soon with Dennis, along with the other brake job and the distributor. Might as well get the other brake job in here in the third bay and put the Dart in bay one. Piney's up having a look at the old pick up for a minute, but he can give you a hand pushing it in.”

JT saluted and eased the car into the bay, stopping it, shutting off the engine and getting out, then setting the hoist. He brought the Plymouth Fury in the centre bay and got it ready to go up on the hoist as well. He opened up the doors to the Dart and then walked over to Piney at the front of the lot, looking under the hood of the truck.

“What do you want with this piece of shit?”

“This piece of shit my friend, is our new club truck. Jake will help me get it running again. This engine is pooched, so I'm trying to see what will fit in the space it has. I asked Jake if a V8 would fit and he says it might, so I'm thinking of getting the 312 V8 and tranny out of that '56 Ford Fairlane wreck, just down from my parents. I noticed it yesterday when we were there and it's got to be ten years or more that thing has sat there. I told you I like bikes, but I hate pushing them. This little thing is perfect for hauling one. We still have to find a way to get my dad's bike here.”

“Who's bike?”

“My dad's.”

JT smiled and motioned for him to think about what he was saying.

“Who's bike?”

Piney caught on and smiled.

“My bike.”

They walked back over to the Dart and pushed it into the first bay. Jake already had the wheels and drums off the Thunderbird, shaking his head, as he looked at what was left of the brakes on it. The guys came and looked at it with him, shocked to see such a great degree of wear and the damage.

“And she calls to say her brakes seem to be making a noise.”

“A noise?'

“Yeah, a noise. They also seem to be not working as good as they used to.”

JT and Piney looked at the shoes on the vehicle and they were devoid of any braking material left. The rivets were rattling on them, she had worn them out so badly. The drums were scored deeply and Jake just shook his head and continued tossing the parts into the garbage can.

Jake looked at the jobs lined up and then the dust clouds coming out with every broom stroke.

“Guys, I'm good with the brakes, if you want to give the guys a hand over there. Once they get the bulk of that dust out, a good mopping will take care of the rest. Shouldn't be so bad to be in there then. Mop and bucket are in the store room over there”

They thanked Jake and JT went for the mop and bucket, while Piney went over to the building and looked inside. Lenny, Wally and Chico were sweeping together, moving a large line of dust towards the door. Piney grabbed a shovel and put it down by the line for them to sweep into it. Chico pushed everything he could onto the shovel and Piney carried it out to the bin. He came in and told them the place was looking great and they were doing a good job, then JT rolled the mop and bucket in, already filled with water.

“Jake said if we got rid of the major stuff, mopping would clean up the rest, so we can take turns mopping and I think it's time for a joint.”

That was something the guys could all agree on and Wally was quick to get set up and start rolling. JT took first crack at mopping and cleaned a large area of the floor, then rinsed the mop several times and continued. Once Wally had the joint rolled and lit it up, JT had the entire front area mopped and left it to dry. They stood around the old office desk and smoked it, enjoying the reprieve from doing such menial work.

Piney took up the mop after and went to work doing as much as JT had done and then took the bucket and emptied it, filling it again from the shop's water supply. He rolled it back in and looked at the guys, to see who was going next. Lenny took the mop and put a scowl on his face, as he looked at his friends.

“Arr, ye scurvy dogs, it be time to swab the deck.”

Lenny dunked the mop in the water and began mopping the next section, continuing his portrayal of a pirate, until he finished. He left the mop in the bucket and stood looking at Wally and Chico, to see who would go next. Chico shrugged his shoulders and picked up the mop.

“Ain't done no mopping before, man. I always avoided doing this shit. Okay, just push it over the floor and rinse it out, right?”

The guys had to laugh, such a simple task, being made out to be such a difficult procedure.

“Yeah. Just wring it out, so it isn't soaking and clean an area, rinse it out, wring it dry, repeat. Clean down to the line in the floor and then Wally can finish it up and we're done. I'd like to get to building, as soon as we can. Lenny, how are things looking at the job site?”

“They want me back tomorrow and I'll be there the rest of the week. I'll have things we need, sorted out and put aside by tomorrow night, if you want to make a run?” JT looked at the others, seeing if there was any objection to the timing and announced that things were a go for tomorrow night, to do a supply run at the site. JT showed them the keys to the gate and the building, guaranteeing them the ability to work under the cover of night. Handshakes and pats on the back, had them focused on the task and the bond between them. Wally danced around with the mop, to finish up the last of the floor, then laid the mop back, like he was dipping a dance partner. Once he put the mop away in the bucket, Chico got their attention.

“Hey Amigos, got some news, almost forgot. I talked to my guy in Oakland about running more pot up to them and they like the idea. They can't keep up with the demand that's growing and want to meet. If they like what they see, they'll talk to the guys down in TJ and set it up. I said I'd talk to you and get back to them, when we can meet up.”

“Fucking excellent, Chico. Hundred bucks a run each and we're going to be living in style here, guys. Look, Chico, you go tell your guys that we're almost ready. My bike is almost ready to do it, I hope and once we get Piney's bike going, that'll make five hundred per run coming up. We do that three times a week and we won't be hurting for money anymore. I'm trying to think of ways to get more business for Jake too, so it won't be long before we can make this club legit and get our patches.”

“Holy shit, JT, when you dream, you dream big, man.”

“Go big, or go home, Chico, that's the way I look at it. Why have something half-assed, when you can have so much more, if you try a little harder at it?”

Chico, as well as the others, could see that JT wasn't going to just be happy with the guys just riding together. He had ideas and plans for making this a club of note, one to make an impression on people. One thing they knew in their hearts, as they stood in the empty building together, the Sons of Anarchy was now a brotherhood, one that would soon take to the open road and claim their place in the world they lived in and the road they rode on.

The deep rumble of a motorcycle came through the walls and the guys went out to see who it was. Keith rolled up to the entrance of the building and stopped, getting off his bike and coming over to the guys, just inside.

“Morning gents. Grand morning, so it is.”

They welcomed Keith and asked how things went with meeting Marlene and if he got a job or not.

“Aye, she a nice lady, once you get past the nasty attitude. We all sat and had a cup of tea and she told me of the things she wanted doing. I told her aye, no problem, I can do that, just need the tools. She said she'd supply everything, as long as I did a good job. Gave me a room of my own, too, so she did.”

The guys were pleased with Keith's success at finding work and the money situation just continued to look better for them, at every turn. JT asked about the girls and what was happening with them.

“Aye, that. Well, Mary and Gloria are back at their places now. They weren't interested in doing housework and would rather dance at the club in Lodi. Ann-Marie is staying, so is Suzy and as far as I know, they're going over the manual Marlene gave them. If it works out like the rest of us, you'll have a room to stay in, Lenny. I have to go over and see Jake now, pass along a message she wanted me to give him.”

“What's the message, Keith?”

“That's for his ears, Lads.”

Keith winked and smiled at them and walked out and over to Jake, now doing the brakes on the Fury. JT looked at the guys and couldn't help but smile at their good fortune. As much as he saw a rainbow arcing towards his goal, he knew that there were many things that could wipe away those bands of colour and leave them with storm clouds instead.

From all that happened over the last twenty four hours, JT felt a sense of purpose to himself, one that meant something, to more than just himself. From the death and ashes that had been presented to him, a life was taking hold. A life that would bring forth a new era, a new order, a new purpose for being.