MIDNIGHT Ep. 063: BARrage

Caretaker Sheriff's Department! Jail! 6:30 PM!

Caprice Comstock pulled into the cop shop lot and shut off her car. Parking next to Opal Savage's big black van called Black Box she climbed out as naked as the day she was born and literally admired her reflection in the gleaming metal. Awful shined up for this late in the afternoon. Puzzled by it she checked herself out further by caressing her body in a full reflection. Sweet curves she thought, ego settling in. Just as she posed like a model the driver's side power window rolled down without any inhabitant.

"Right on time, Blossom! Good to see you kept your word on my dare." Cackling arrived over an interior speaker thanks to the radio. "Your boyfriend is ETA three minutes. He can help you carry in the cuisine."

"I can't get rid of you can I, Eloise."

"Nope! I'm attached to that sweet reflection of yours. In case you're wondering the exterior shell on this bulletproof baby is coated with a miraging agent to keep it clean. Black is a bitch as you know. Just ask Opie!" Dyson cracked herself up. "Oh! And don't be using my name unless it's just you and I. I need to protect myself. I make certain that the wavelengths on your cell and on my end are jammed but you never know who might be listening in if I let my guard down. I'm pretty good at not doing that but obviously if Cybercock swindled Nicky I'm not perfect. At least I tracked her down and got his moolah back."

"You called yourself, ShadowBitch, right? I'll just say Shadow from here on, seeing as I'm feeling like you are my shadow."

"Sweet ass like yours I don't mind tailing that. Yeah, I'm into the ladies. No worries, I'm not hitting on you, Blossom. I'll tell you another secret if we're considered best buds."

"Why not! It makes me feel like I'm a secret agent." CC snickered! "Go for it."

"No legs! I'm wheelchair bound for life. Nicky has me set up so well I don't require much. Cozy home! Caregiver on tap with the legs I wish I had. I won't indulge much further, but I know I could use another buddy like Opie. Hope you don't object but I'm adopting the gal who kicked her assets."

"Ouch! That sucks, I'm sorry to hear that. Concerning my kicking her ass, I barely got a punch in. Lucky at best. I was just pissed at her for drugging not just me but all the ladies. Dolan for that matter."

"Girls just gotta have fun! She has no family, no real friends. When you go Black Ops most of your adult life you tend to live a lonely existence. Take my word on this Blossom, Opie would die for anyone Nicky calls family. This includes you. Just a heads up, like I know you like 'em, Opie could have taken you out with her toenail polish. Her combat skills are off the charts. Thank the U. ASS of A for those moves and grooves! Just like Nicky, he's a born warrior as well as one of the smartest fellas I know. Here's your Sheriff Mayberry RFD, I'll hush up for now. Chat again soon my new bestie."

"Night, Shadow. Thanks for leveling with me."

"Anytime, Hoochie Coo!"

That made CC chuckle as she watched the window rise. Turning to face the opposite direction Dolan Roster shut his squad car off and vividly yawned. Long night, long day! Another couple probably. Walking over to his car she posed like a playmate in her nudity and jiggled her amazing breasts before crushing them into his driver's side window. If this didn't wake him up, nothing would. What he did was precious, he simply laid his head on the glass over her pillows.

"Awww! Poor baby!" Looking as if he actually dosed off, she sneered at him and stepped back to beat on the window. That jarred him awake.

"No place like home! No place like home!" Dorothy Gale style! Revived, he opened his car door and stepped out. Her titties still fluffy he quickly gravitated to hug her and them. "Pay no attention to the boobs behind the curtain." He chuckled! "Sorry Caprice, I'm just worn out."

"I know you are. You could have just gone on home. I can get Stacy Bell to help me haul the food in. You're not even going to get after me for streaking?"

"Nope! Those days are done. Darcy has Violet Murphy on her way here while she's on patrol for Herb DeWhitt. I told her to divvy up the food and take some out to the Shoals. The local towns pitched in a few guys to cover my boys. I sent Clinton Biles home to catch a few Z's, Randy Koones too. Officer Violet Murphy from Abingdale caught her second wind earlier today so she's on the road now. Oh, she's joining our team, I'll be coordinating her transfer here soon."

"Two women with badges on the force now. Still uneven, but it's a start. Think I'd look good in a POPO uniform?"

"Better out of one. You just be yourself beautiful."

"Oh, I plan to. I told Olan at the diner I was going to start waiting tables in a micro bikini. Matter of fact, Violet and I might go shopping here soon for some. Darcy of course, if they ever get a day off."

"After the FBI situation I'll pencil them off together. Micro, huh? Won't hide much, might as well join Midnight and Bearpaw in the nudie business. You're already off to a good start."

"Don't tempt me, I will." She winked as their hug ended with a kiss. "Let's go nuke this food. Bad enough the team at the Shoals will be getting cold food. I'm pretty certain Nick doesn't have a microwave out there yet."

"Power is on! Electric stove they can heat things up in."

"How did I forget that?"

Separating, Dolan found her dress and draped it around her. CC started to button it up when Dolan stopped her. A smirk he insisted it remain unbuttoned, along with a comment about meeting her halfway. With a giddy smile Caprice opened her station wagon's back end. "Let's feed the babies." Sighing, he recalled holding his daughter Ali moments after her birth. If only she was as innocent now as she was then. He had to shake off that memory. Those days were long gone.

"Blender?"

"Nick blends the girls food. I'll take care of that once he tells me what I'm mixing. I watched that Opal earlier, so it's not rocket science."

"I'll feed that crazy bitch personally."

"Question! Now that I think about it all. You punched her earlier so shouldn't you be locked up for assault like Nick?"

"Me? You punched her too. You want to spend the night in jail?"

"I will, if you will." She bumped his shoulder playfully.

"As tired as I am that cot would suit me just fine."

"It would show Nick our loyalty."

"And letting him get away with shit like Midnight and Bearpaw running around indecently, isn't loyal? Sooner or later this bullshit could kill my career. Election is only a year away and I'm certain I'll have competition who would gladly use all of this as a surefire win."

"Nick won't allow that."

"So, what? Nick buys off my campaign?"

"My gut says he gets whatever he wants."

"Don't remind me. Let's get this dinner and a show on the road. My belly is crying as much as my eyelids are."

Agreed! Hauling in boxes and bags they were met by dispatcher Stacy Bell. Her daughter Hannah had dropped by so it was a whole lot easier. Using a conference room table, they sorted out containers of Gimbap, Kimchi, and Ox Bone soup. Blender plugged in, Stacy heating containers it was a buffet paradise.

Just as Dolan began to haul food into the lockup area Violet Murphy arrived to pick up her orders. A quick meet, greet, and street Violet left with her portions and drove on out to Harbinger Shoals. After seeing CC's opened dress from neckline to twat her appetite was ravenous. Darcy Grainger was going to be dessert! In hiding, of course!

"Dinners on Sanchez." Dolan, followed by CC entered with the Korean menu. CC bulged her eyes at seeing Midnight and Lillian Dawn Bearpaw cuffed widespread to the cell bars. Her heart sank for a moment until she saw both girls smiling. Eyelids closed out of respect they simply stood with feet outstretched. Their body posture was pretty perfect.

"Evening ladies!" CC reached over to pat Midnight on her left cheek. "Beautiful as ever sweetie. Love the glossy skin! How do you think I'd look all shiny Dolan?"

"Sexy! Can Caprice borrow some of your sunshine Sanchez?" He unlocked the cell door and noticed Nick in only his boxers in a meditative state on the floor. "Uhhh? You become a monk since I saw you last?" No answer on the borrow.

"Relaxing my mind! Tibetan practice. No monk, just a fan of the methodology. It works; my energy level is spiking right now."

"Riiight! You catch any sleep since I locked you up?"

"None! I can go days without if necessary." He inhaled vibrantly! "Kimchi?"

"Gimbap and Ox Bone soup." CC related! "What am I feeding the girls, Nick?"

"Semen soup!"

"Uh? Was that in a container we overlooked?" CC chuckled! "We have a blender out there if you tell me what I'm mixing. The Uber driver brought pie tins to use as their plates."

"If I give you a fork, you're not going to hold any hostages, are you?" Dolan found it amusing as he passed a serving takeout container down to him. Claimed Nick inhaled the Gimbap and smirked. It had been a while since eating any form of Asian food. "No chopsticks!" Utensils were nothing to argue over. Fork claimed, Nick took a bite.

"Korean!"

"Blame your lackey, Shadow." Caprice giggled! "She's rubbing it in because you assaulted that Korean photographer."

"She's gifted like that."

"What about Tigger over there?" CC eyed Opal snarling, saliva dripping from her lips. Her eyelids refused to even blink, so she looked ready to pounce.

"I wouldn't go near her." Nick sighed! "I dosed her with an entire bottle of T16R355. Tigress! She's at her most primal so she might eat you for dinner. At the moment she's resisting but in a few more hours she's going to be rattling the bars to escape. This is her punishment for how she treated the two of you. After tonight a new leaf gets turned over."

"I'm not so forgiving, Sanchez." Dolan sat down on the bunk behind Nick. "No word yet from McDaniel or anyone FBI. I have reinforcements from the surrounding towns helping guard your property. Darcy is out there in charge so it's close to home. Violet Murphy just headed back out with dinner so she's backup. Can't recall if I told you but Vi is joining the Caretaker team here in a few weeks."

"So, is Opal."

"Excuse me?" That woke Dolan up. "You don't make those kinds of decisions, Sanchez."

"She repays you with community service. I'm the one paying her checks. Her experience is invaluable. Suit her up and put her to use." Dolan did recall her hatchet skills from Winston's bar. Even CC thought it over after knowing the woman's fighting prowess. "Tigress will be tamed!"

"Yeah, right!" CC frowned! "She's too dependent on that."

"Sex addict in general. I need you to trust me on this, Dolan."

"Not happy one bit!"

"Not happy one bitch!" CC added!

"We can discuss it further on better terms. Caprice? Skip the pie tins until morning. The slaves will survive on me."

"You? Oh! Thus, the semen soup. Are we intruding?"

"Roster needs rest. Take him home and treat him like a King. I'll have Dyson throw money on your credit card for your attentions."

"I'm not a hooker, Nick. You know I'd baby Dolan without any cash. Although, I did miss a bit of work recently. Big tipper earlier helped. Some guy who works for the FDA."

"So, I hear! Shadow checked the guy out. He has a vile of T16R355 that Opal dropped at the diner. I need that taken care of before he breaks down the contents and comes back asking questions about my supplier."

"How do you know all of this?"

"Eyes and ears! Shadow monitored his phone calls. Nothing to worry about, but I protect my investments."

"Are you telling me that you're a drug dealer now?" Dolan shook his head. "You want to live in this cage longer?"

"Out by dawn! I agreed on 24 hours, but I have better things to do. You can cover my tracks. Shadow can fudge camera footage with a loop that shows I'm still in this cell until that 24-hour limit. In case the FBI checks into that. For the record, I do not sell T16R355 or any other stimulant. I do however utilize it. Case in point the glow on my slaves, the missing hair. Savage does not sell it either, she just uses it. Likely shares it."

"You don't say!" CC rolled her eyes recalling losing her mind and fucking Dolan's next-door neighbor, Alexis Roster taking the virginity of the man's son. The insanity never stopped!

"You really do give me a migraine, Sanchez. I have a meeting with Mayor Topsail in the morning to fill him in on your new roommate at the Shoals. Preliminary stuff to keep him in the know. It's sad that today is the first time I've talked to him since you arrived here in Caretaker. He hasn't even bitched about your taking the girls streaking." Pondering that Dolan sneered with suspicion. "You've already dealt with Horatio, haven't you."

"I have! He will never be a problem. No threats! He has baggage like anyone else, but I'm not like that. Nor will I relate as to what that baggage involves. I protect him, he protects me, I protect you."

"Sounding dirty, Sanchez."

"Clean as a freshly laundered body bag. You have my word, I am not, nor will I ever be your enemy Dolan. I value your friendship and alliance." Dolan sighed, oddly he felt the same. "I will deal with the populace on a case-by-case situation. My future here makes Caretaker all the better. Jobs will be welcomed. Things will be overlooked. Yes, I have that much power. I'll have Mayor Topsail begin processing papers on new builds that I intend to get started once my home is completed."

"You move at lightning speed."

"My people do as well. Your new patrol cars should arrive at the beginning of next week. Seven in total! State of the art additions."

"Meaning what? A flamethrower feature, like in James Bond?"

"Do you need one? It's not too late to order that." He continued eating.

"Unbelievable!"

"Gift horse in the mouth?" CC posed the question.

"Nope! I'll take the gifts. Let's get out of here Caprice. I need a soft bed and your body against mine. All this and dealing with Ali, I'm mentally drained."

"Your mouth does not leave his dick until daylight." Nick looked up at CC. Eyes flaring she shrugged.

"I can do that. So much for sleep."

"She will not do that, Sanchez. I override that. You do not own her like these two, three." Alluding to Opal in her heavy breathing across the room. "My girl! My rules!" Now he buttoned her dress up. CC watched every button being attached with a warm smile.

"Until daylight!" Nick insisted as the only thing diverting her attention on Dolan's grooming. FUCK! CC shivered at his gaze. Dolan was correct, Nick did not own her, yet, telling him no always felt wrong. She would compromise and put Dolan to sleep then commit to comfort. Yes, Sir!

"Cocky bastard!" Dolan marched CC out of the cell. Backing her up as he locked the door Caprice was pressed back into Opal's cell by accident. The second she touched the bars Opal Savage pounced. Charging the bars the ebony goddess dropped to her knees and nuzzled her face up under CC's skirt. A tongue licking at her anus, CC yelped and grabbed the back of Dolan's shirt. Realizing the attack Dolan drew out his nightstick and slapped the bars.

"HEEL!" Nick bellowed! Backing away with a pissed off look, Opal threw herself on her bunk with a bitter glare. Dolan as much as he hated Opal did enjoy her tight ass body. "Have a good rest, Sheriff."

"Dammit! Now I'm all kinds of horny." CC chuckled! "Until daylight on my part. You just snooze." She nudged Dolan out.

Sanchez always got his way.

********

Across town! The home of Matilda and Sheldon Cooper.

"Irene? I'm going to step outside and call Will." Veronica Redmane stood next to Irene Amador's bedroom door. "If you need anything just yell."

"I require nothing from you, nor my other."

"Right! Sorry, Zera." V rolled her eyes at the split persona that had suddenly overtaken Irene. So weird! Kind of scary! "Get some rest."

"Do not tell me what to do child. It is I, that rules here."

"Gotcha!"

Veronica gave up and stepped outside the back door to a sizable yard with a garden and a bench swing. Garden gnomes seemed abundant. Kind of scary in itself. Dialing her boyfriend William Gullivant who at the time, had just picked up his father Niles to go grab a beer. Will finally got to use his new trucks capabilities without it being work related. Her call showing up over his radio he used his steering column control to answer it.

"Why are you calling? I told you not to."

"I might need your help."

"Relax!" Niles pointed at William to chill out his new attitude. "This is Niles. What's wrong, V?"

"Hi, Daddy!" Niles frowned again pointing at Will not to retaliate. "Forgive me Will, I mean Master. I wouldn't call if I wasn't worried. Irene is acting like a totally different person. I think it's a delayed effect from her accident in the fire. I'm serious, she's got a whole new bad girl attitude going on. She refers to herself as Zera."

"I already know this V. I was at the diner." Will grumbled! "Just deal with her."

"She's getting worse. Will, she bought leather and whips and stuff over in Cordoba. I'm afraid she's having a nervous breakdown. She says she's my boss and I'm the servant."

"You are her servant until the Cooper's get back. I'll deal with you after Nick gets out of jail."

"Jail?" That part Veronica hadn't heard. Only that Will and Lucas Porcupine were babysitting Midnight and Bearpaw. "For what?"

"Nick assaulted a photographer." Niles chimed in! "The FBI demanded 24-hour lockup even after the photographer refused to charge him with it. Nick agreed to that. All work out there at the Shoals is pending on the FBI for now. Just stay calm and let Irene be herself. If it gets violent then call the Sheriff. Only as a last resort."

"Okay! Should I call Tilly?"

"Up to you, Kid. They are on vacation so ruining it is not smart."

"Yes, but I am her current guardian, Daddy Niles."

"HE IS NOT YOUR DADDY!" Will erupted and ended the call. Niles stared at his son with a stressed look.

"Are you sure that you're not having a nervous breakdown too?"

"I'm fine, Pop. I'm trying to be more like Nick with V. She's coming along slowly. I already know what you are going to say but... "

"V needs disciplined! Keep it up."

"You support me on this?"

"Yeah! You need to man up more. Haven't I told you that for years now?"

"I guess so!" Will exhaled with a faint chuckle. "It was fun as hell dominating Midnight Amador. V was going crazy over it."

"Virgin ears!" Niles placed a finger in one ear canal.

"Whatever! You know what dad? If I need to man up, so do you. Ever since mom died you've been single, not one date that I recall. It's time you get out there too. I fucking dare you."

"Dare me, huh?"

"Yep! I see how you react around V when she gets all slutty around you. I get why you don't take her up on it, but what if I asked you to."

"To have sex with V? Now! Now! Let's not go there. She's a hoot now and then, but going all the way, no. I refuse to do that, you love the girl."

"Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Fucking Midnight was a gamechanger. I met a girl on the REZ earlier too. She's gorgeous and I'm giving her a massage tomorrow, well, if she can get away that is. Her dad is a local Pastor."

"Hold up! Mordecai Sage's daughter? Which one?"

"Nancy! Lucas said she's the youngest of her sisters. Over 20 I think."

"Be careful. Mordecai is Tilly and Irene's brother."

"Whoa! I actually did not know that. Crap! Too close to home, isn't it?"

"You make your own decisions just be careful. Mordecai is a mean one. Godfearing in question, in my eyes. Akin to REZ mafia, I hear!"

"Great! Dang it! I really want to get Nancy in bed. She knows I'm with V even and she's alright with it. Crazy! Now I really need a beer or ten."

"Which means I'm designated driver."

"Just make sure I'm sober if I have to go pick up Midnight in the morning."

"If you're not I'll go get her and bring her to you. You're crashing at my place tonight, so I'll know."

"That's cool! Thanks, Pop!"

"I've got your back son."

"There's Loaded up ahead. I've never been over here before."

"Place looks busy tonight, live band I think."

"Hope they're good." A glance in his rearview mirror Will noticed the traffic behind him. "Oh, crap!"

"What's wrong? Forget your ID?"

"No! I think I've been followed from the Rez. Those are the bikers I saw outside the civic center when I dropped off Lucas. They were fighting though, I guess they sorted things out. Awww, maaan! Turn signals, they're going to the bar too."

"Like I said, I've got your back." Will hoped so!

********

Back at the Cooper residence!

"Hi, Tilly! This is Veronica, I'm sooo sorry to bother you." Voicemail! "Call me when you get the chance. I'm worried about Irene, she's acting like a whole different person. She made me take her out to her old house, what's left of it. I guess her husband is living out there on a boat. Irene vandalized it. I had help getting her home from Crimson Merrick and her friend Jasmine.

"Oh! Don't blame me, but Mister Cooper's car might need a new transmission. An employee of Mister Sanchez had it towed to be fixed on Nick's money so don't let Sheldon panic. I'm really sorry, I couldn't stop Irene. She calls herself Zera now! I swear I won't leave her side, but I wanted you to know."

"I am fine!" Irene stood behind Veronica and took her phone away. "Enjoy your vacation, Sister." Wait! Had Irene returned? V was wide-eyed, uncertain of the identity. "Take lots of pictures. Bye!" Once the call ended Irene shook her head as if clearing cobwebs. "My other has been most destructive it seems. Forgive us, Veronica." Call intercepted by Shadowbitch the voicemail was deleted. Under no circumstances were the Cooper's to be stressed out. Nick's orders when they left the state. Whew!

"Irene?" V hugged her tightly. "Welcome back!"

"Did I hear correctly? Mister Sanchez is in jail?"

"Yes! Only for 24-hours though. He will be out mid-morning."

"I see! And what of my daughter?" Irene spoke with worry, then just as fast growled with a hiss. It was obvious that Zera was fighting to be free.

"She's not with Will." V hesitantly guessed! "I think she must be with Nick at the jail."

"Serves the wretch, right! She should be in a cage." Zera spoke out. Again, just as rapidly Irene resumed control. "So, should you my other! My other is difficult. I am trying to maintain control. My burns are healing. I do not know what to make of it all." She lowered her bathrobe to touch her burnt flesh along her shoulder.

"Neither do I. Maybe Zera is healing them. She scares me, Irene."

"I will protect you."

A palm rose to caress Veronica on the cheek. A warm smile fading she clutched Veronica by her hair and went face to face with the poor girl. Spitting into her mouth as V stood in awe, Zera took over.

"My other is weak. You will obey me, not her. Cage? A very good idea."

With unbelievable strength Zera marched Veronica backwards out into the yard. A garden shed opened Zera forced V inside and closed the door. A padlock on the door left undone was implemented and locked. "I will release you when you come to understand who your Mistress is." Turning away as Veronica screamed and beat on the door's interior, the Santee beauty froze.

"Oh, fuck! I'm going to die here." Darkness and uncaring neighbors were not in her favor. On her way back to the house Zera plucked V's cellphone up from the grass and sat it beside a garden gnome.

"It is for you."

Inside Zera went. The bathrobe stayed outdoors with Gnomeo.

********

The town of Londale, South Carolina! The parking lot of the combination bar called LOADED and connected hotel named The Firing Range. The owner Winston Richard's, a former Marine retired here to live the good life between the best of both worlds.

"Let Heavy Feather go inside first." Niles Gullivant told his son. "Long hair is Oliver, the bald one is his brother. I think his name was Kerwin, no, Calvin."

"They look awful chummy now, patting one another on the back. I guess their fight cooled down."

"Sibling rivalry. Everything I've been hearing about those two and the Sheriff's daughter is pretty daunting. I feel for Roster; he's losing his kid to those nutcases. Well, Oliver is I know, Oliver and Alexis are now a full-fledged couple."

"That sucks! The Sheriff is probably ready to pack it in."

"Or commit a murder. Speaking of Sheriff's... " Niles nodded to their left. "Well, I'll be! Ole' Albert is on a date."

"Learn from him, Pop." Will chuckled! "If he can date, so can you."

"Olive Longtree! Albert likes his dark meat."

"Are you really going there, dad?"

"Naaa! Olive is a sweetheart. Good for the both of them. Come on!"

Opening his passenger side door Niles stepped down and closed shop. Rounding the front of the truck Niles waved at Albert Roster. "Look at you! Swinging with the hottest old bird in Caretaker. How you been Olive, long time."

"Niles? Hello! Yes, it has been a while. Have we seen each other since your missus passed?"

"I saw you once walking uptown. Matter of fact, I think you were close to Al's antique store that day."

"Oh!" Olive blushed! "Yes, I picked up an antique." A sly point at Albert she winked.

"Best one in that junkyard." Niles chuckled, ribbing Albert! "Are you two an item now?"

"Sewing our oats on the down low, Gullivant. Keep it under your vest."

"Weren't you the one with the bulletproof vest? I can't afford one."

"Albert? Maybe it is time we stopped sneaking around." Olive pouted! "Niles? I'm his girlfriend." News to Albert, but he did mull it over.

"I'm good with that. No more hidden hookups." Albert hugged her from the side. "Brought your boy in his fancy new ride I see. Dolan said Sanchez bought him a pickup."

"Hey, Mister Roster."

"Willy! That truck is sharp. Maybe I should work for Sanchez and get me one."

"You are retired and have enough on your plate, Al!" Olive patted his belly. "The store and me are a handful."

"My turn to close my virgin ears." William laughed! "Hey, Ms. Longtree. I didn't recognize you at first. I mowed your yard when I was a kid."

"I remember. It still needs mowed. Old timer here is slacking."

"Hey! Old timer thought you wanted secrecy. That's why I seldom drop by your home."

"No more of that. My home is your home, Albert."

"Vice versa! Can I buy a dog?" He knew she was a cat lover.

"You will not! But again, we are not technically living together."

"I was joking! We could remedy this you know. Go down to one household."

"I think we should go inside before Al drops to one knee." Niles laughed! "It's good to see you two happy." As Niles walked away William inched closer to the couple and pointed at his father.

"Set dad up! He needs a girlfriend too."

"I HEARD THAT! I'm not buying the first round now." Niles paused! "Hey, Albert? I heard your woes over the Heavy Feather's. Just a heads up, Oliver and his brother are in the bar."

"Winston carries a gun. I'll borrow it."

"No violence! I am half-Santee; I will deal with the boys. I knew their mother, Esther. They will respect me."

"Who needs a guard dog!"

"Careful!"

"What? I was joking about the dog, not calling you one."

"I heel for no man." She jabbed Albert in the ribs. "I will lead the way."

Albert shut his mouth.

********

"Two beers and four shots of Wild Turkey."

Calvin Heavy Feather tapped the bar to get the attention of the barkeep. A beautiful barkeep at that. Nova Khar-Issawi was back to her normal self after yesterday's insanity. Smiling brightly at Calvin the girl set out to fulfill his order while Oliver watched the band on a small stage. Country music was not his favorite, so he frowned and took a seat at the bar to sulk. Calvin opting to join his brother sighed over the band for himself.

"Why do all of the white man's bars feel the need to make us cry in our beer." Obviously, Oliver knew There's a Tear in My Beer by Hank Williams, Jr. to know the term.

"Good question." Calvin paused as Nova poured their shots in front of them. "Do you have an answer to that?"

"I would not know. I am not a white man."

"You are not Santee."

"No. I am from Saudi Arabia."

"Far away place." Calvin puckered! "What brought you here?"

"My mother knows the owner. She died not long ago."

"I am sorry to hear that. I do not remember seeing you in here before."

"I only learned to bartend a month ago. Before that I merely cleaned hotel rooms next door."

"Very boring!"

"Yes, I suppose I am."

"I meant the hotel job. I am Calvin, my brother Oliver."

"Nova! Forgive me I have other customers." She accepted cash for the drinks and rang them up. Oliver waved at her to keep the change. His only gesture of good will today. With a warm smile Nova moved on.

"I intended to do that brother." Calvin sighed! "It was my money."

"I will let you tell her the same when I buy the next round. I do not even know why I did that."

"I believe I do. You are in love. Against my better judgment on the Sheriff's daughter and you, perhaps she has changed you."

"Untrue! I am simply tired of life as it was. Working for Merrick is not as fun as it used to be. If there is changes to be made it will be of my own mind, not any emotions over a girl." Oliver noticed Albert Roster enter the building with Olive Longtree. "The old sheriff is here."

"With old, Mrs. Longtree. I used to mow her yard when she lived on the Rez." Small world! First, William, now Calvin. "Since she moved into Caretaker and mother passed on, I have not seen her. She looks happy."

"I agree! Why I say that escapes me. The Roster's hate me for what I have done. Seeing me here will only create problems. We should leave."

"Or, and only a suggestion, Brother. You could buy them a drink and look respectable for once. Perhaps it will help their opinion of you."

"No number of free drinks will change their opinion. Ali's father wants me arrested and dead."

"Would you not feel the same if you had a child?"

"Let us not discuss children."

"Afraid Ali will get knocked up? If she does, it could be one of thirty fathers. Your fault I might add."

"Enough, Brother! I get it. Can we just not talk and drink."

"Buy their drinks."

Grumbling, Oliver turned in his seat and motioned for a waitress, one of two circulating the busy bar. Arriving, a young woman named Kristen by nametag smiled.

"See the mixed couple?"

"Mister Roster?" Kristen pointed! "Yes!"

"I wish to buy them a drink without them knowing it was from me."

"Okay! Let them find a table and I'll dive right in for their order."

A nod of approval she turned in her current order to Nova who had just ended another cashier run. While Kristen waited Niles and his son William moved to sit at the bar not far off from the brothers. Niles seemed absorbed by the band but William instantly spotted Nova. Dick hard at the sight he quickly waved at her. Mixing drinks, she smiled back at Will with a hint of blush. Kristen following her reaction flared her eyes.

"Will Gullivant?" Kristen sat her tray on the bar and stepped over to offer a hug. "Remember me?"

"Uh! Not really. I'm sorry!"

"Kristen Mayflower! You ran track against me when I was in High School. Dublin-Kramer High in Dublin."

"No way! Yes! You... blossomed. I recall a skinny girl all legs."

"Boobs grew! Financially speaking! I just paid them off." She laughed! "It's good to see you, even if I did dust you on the track."

"Not me! Maybe on the girl's side of things."

"True, but I did look into your run times. I beat you every time if we were to put our stopwatches together."

"Whatever!" He laughed! "So, what's new? Besides the fluffy hurdles!"

"Aw! Part time here, full time dancer over at Irish Eyes in Dublin. Yes, I strip. My parents only let me dance two days a week or they'll disown me."

"Can't blame them."

"You wouldn't say that if I gave you a lap dance." She bumped him with her hip. "Look me up sometime. Bring the cute guy." She nodded at Niles. Hearing her, Niles hiked his brows and grinned.

"Next boys' night out we'll stop by Irish Thighs!" Eyes!

"Might get lucky." She batted her lashes. "I need to deliver my order. I'll stop back by later."

"Good to see you, Kris."

"You too, Slowpoke!" Off she went collecting her tray of drinks and traversed the crowd.

"I think I might recall her from your track meets." Niles chuckled as Nova approached.

"Might I get you two anything?" William froze like a deer in headlights. Seeing his son stammer Niles shook his head.

"Seeing as the master just missed his train, give us two Bud's. Draft!" Nova found herself lost briefly staring back at William. "When you both escape the glitch in the matrix."

"Forgive me! You are very handsome."

"Thanks!" Niles chuckled! "Kris said the same."

"She means me, Pop! Kris is all yours. Hi, I'm Will."

"I am Nova. I will get your beers."

She forced herself to work when she looked out to see Kristen talking to Albert and Olive. In her thoughts she found jealousy. "Mister Albert is here. Who is he with?" Her heart sank when a firm pair of hands gripped her bare shoulders from behind, the dress she was wearing without straps. Peering up with her head tilted back she saw her shirtless Godfather of a sort, Winston Richards. Only he could get away with that being the owner and showing off his muscular physique.

"Mind on the job!"

"Mister Albert is here." She pointed him out as Kristen returned.

"I got eyes. Less flirting, more serving."

Nova smiled at his terminology. Serving did sound fun. By working and living with Albert as planned in the future she had hoped too possibly be his submissive. The idea stemming from her bout with the drug T16R355 and how Albert restrained her was vivid in her mind. She wanted nothing more than to serve the elder. Yet, her eyes could not steer clear of William. Youth attracting youth. Again, Kristen followed her eyes as Winston departed.

"I used to run with, Will. He's fire, isn't he?"

"Fire?"

"Hot! Sexy! I'd so do him."

"Oh!" She poured their drafts then glanced at Kristen's order. "I do not know how to make a White Russian. No one ever orders them."

"Go flirt! I'll make it." She hopped up backwards on the bar surface and whipped her legs around to face Will and Niles. Her stretchy skirt short as it was hid nothing in her slow rotation. Winking at the Gullivant's both men swallowed at seeing a pierced cunt with zero hair. Dropping down Kris hurried to make Olive Longtree's drink. This led Nova back to Will and in her loss of insight forgot to charge them. That is, until Niles tapped his credit card.

"Yes! I so very much apologize."

"I understand. My boy is a stud. Takes after me."

"You too are very handsome." Nova giggled and took his card. Turning away Will found the energy to lift his upper body over the bar to get a look at Nova's gently jiggly butt, her short skirt revealing cheeks. Groaning over it, Will sat back down and sighed.

"Dad? I think I'm in love."

"Kris or Nova?"

"And Nancy Sage. Why do I need to be in a relationship with V? This sucks!"

"Train V! Live your life on the side. You know she's not as faithful as she led on. Look at what V does around me. That should tell you she's a wild child. So, tame her or ditch her."

"I don't know what I want. Maybe all of them."

"Your life, Son of Mine! I'll gladly hop on Kris there. I'm a piercing kind of afficionado." He sipped his beer, Nova returning with his card. "Hey, Nova?"

"Yes?"

"My son here is in love with you."

Her eyes sparkled in the moment, and she lost her nerve, turning away quickly. "Relax Son! She'll be back." Will looked frazzled! Watching the ladies further Kristen finished her drink order and again hopped back on the bar. Expecting another show, she flipped her tongue out at the Gullivant's and decided to shift her scenery.

Bringing her legs out and over the bar this time, she gave Oliver and Calvin a vantage point. They too puckered their lower lips at a pretty amazing cunt. Landing, she snatched up her tray and looked at Nova.

"Charge the longhaired country boy for these drinks."

Going! Going! Gone! Nova took cash and rung them up. Oliver actually took offense to the country boy moniker but let Calvin coax him into a grin. Delivered, Kristen informed Albert that the drinks were paid for. Looking to the bar Albert raised his beer toward Niles suspecting it was he who bought their first round. Niles catching on after Kristen's cashing in shook his head and pointed directly at Oliver. Seeing the Santee brother's Albert frowned and excused himself, leaving Olive to enjoy Watermelon Crawl from the band's perspective.

"Heavy Feather and Heavy Feather!" Albert stepped up to the brothers. "What in the hell possessed you two to think I'd accept a beer from my granddaughter's captor."

"Peace offering." Calvin posed his palms! "My brother is trying hard to regain respect."

"Never had respect for him, Cal."

Standing tall from his seat Oliver met Albert eye to eye. A short stare Oliver lowered his gaze. "I wish to apologize for my behavior. Not because of the Elder's wishes. If you do not wish to accept my drink I understand. There is no forgiveness for my actions. All I may offer is sorrow and the promise of treating Ali well."

"Treating her well will guarantee you lose her." Albert sighed! "Listen, Ollie! I don't condone, will never forgive, never forget. But I will say this, if my granddaughter ever ends up dead, even with a black eye I will hunt you down, Rez or not."

"Understood! If something should happen, I will kneel before you and accept your punishment." That took Albert by surprise.

"I'll hold you to that. I'll accept your drinks. You can buy the next two rounds too."

"I will start a tab."

"While you're at it you can buy the Gullivant's behind me a round too. Earn what little respect I can muster."

"You must think I am rich."

"Working for, Nodin Merrick? You're not poor neither. Don't you dare bring your occupation down on Ali."

"I will defend her to the end."

"As will I, Mister Roster." Calvin spoke up.

"Now you, you I respect." Calvin did help find Ali and get answers. "Party on, Gentlemen. Nova? They'll be buying my drinks the remainder of the night. Tip Nova well or I'll hold it against you."

"They have already tipped me, Sir." Nova chimed in.

"No chasing Nova." He pointed at Oliver.

"I was not." Ollie took pride. "Ali is my only."

"We'll see how long that lasts." Albert drained his draft mug in one gulp and handed it to Nova. "Keep these coming, Nova." Returning to his table with a fresh mug Albert found Winston seated with Olive and flirting. "What the hell, Longtree! I leave you for five minutes and you pick up this shirtless fucker."

"Oh, Albert!" She giggled! "Winston just introduced himself to me. He said that you and he go way back."

"Uh huh!" Albert took his seat and fist bumped Winston. "How's Mazie?" A brief glance at Olive wondering what she knew of yesterday Win shrugged.

"Called off tonight! Lack of sleep I imagine." Winston at fault for fucking his young waitress into delirium over the drug T16R355 in both of their systems. "We'll see if she shows tomorrow."

"Who is Mazie?" Olive had to know. "Wait! Mazie Lomas? I was her neighbor as she was growing up. The only Mazie I know. Her parents were a piece of work."

"So was Mazie up until recently." Winston defended the girl! "She's growing up."

"Well, that is good to hear. Didn't you arrest her a few times, Albert?"

"Yeah! Shoplifted a bottle of booze and a can of Pringles if I remember correctly. Dolan busted her once too. I saw her yesterday when I came to pick up Dolan. Chipper!"

"I see. What was that with the Heavy Feather's?"

"Over Alexis. Neither of us were picking a fight. Just discussing ownership."

"That whole thing is so unfortunate. When Esther was alive, she struggled to keep them good boys. When she died, they lost their way."

"So did Alexis... " Al paused, realizing it was odd that they had all lost a mother. He choked up a bit and masked it with his beer. Al's own wife dying years ago only added to his silence. Olive grasping it, slid her hand over to hold his. Winston nodded at her with a smirk and tapped the table.

"The lady needs another Russkie!"

"I'm still nursing this one."

"Well, Russia is pretty far away so that one will be gone before the other one gets here. Looks like Nova might need a hand, I saw Kristen hop over and make that Russkie earlier. I might need to make that girl another bartender once Al moves Nova in."

"In? Excuse me?" Olive looked shocked.

"I haven't told you. I hired Nova to help me in the antique store seeing as I'm losing Alexis. Win here and I discussed her living arrangements. She'll be staying in my guest room and with Dolan on occasion."

"Oh! There goes my bright idea of turning your guest room into a crafting parlor."

"You really want to shack up?"

"I'm ready if you are. She can stay with us. I will have to rent or sell my home. She could live there I suppose to have a bit of independence."

"We have time to think about it all."

"Figure out what you need for rent and I'll pay that for her to get her started." Winston added then left it at that. Food for thought! Albert was kind of sad that Nova might not share his home. Olive furthering their relationship had caught him off guard.

"If things do not work out for Alexis, she can be this Nova's roommate."

"And corrupt, Nova? Are you crazy, woman." Al growled!

"I have to be, or we wouldn't have reached this landmark."

"Olive? Give me a minute. I'll be right back."

Getting up Albert left his beer and ventured back to Oliver Heavy Feather. Leaning on the bar to Ollie's right Albert sighed. "You don't have to buy us drinks all night. Olive told me about your mother Esther passing. I lost my wife a few years back, so did Dolan, mother and his own wife. You can see that losing Ali affects us all. I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt. If you fail me, I hope Esther's spirit turns you over her knee."

Swallowing dryly, Oliver nodded! "Our sympathies, Mister Roster. Our mother would have liked you. I will earn your trust. You have my word."

"Time will tell! It's Dolan you need to prove something to. Giving up on Caprice was a start. Don't get too drunk and crash your Harley." A pat on the warrior's shoulder Albert moved to Nova and Winston. "Showing her how to milk a Russian?"

"Kristen's busy."

Win nodded at Will and Niles; she had hopped into Niles lap just for giggles. The tips were just as good as they would be at Irish Eyes. Funny how the Gullivant's were Irish themselves. Will's eyes up Kristen's skirt were noticed by Nova even as she tried her hand at a White Russian.

Sensing her Will turned to look over at Nova. The boy was torn. He needed fresh air. Getting up he told his dad he was stepping outside for a minute. Niles presumed he was going to call Veronica back. He would hold the fort, and Kristen's upper thighs. Dad was finally thinking about dating. Winston put a cramp in his flirting, Kris was working, not dancing. Niles did get her number on a napkin though. Sadly, so did Calvin Heavy Feather!

Outside, William looked up at the stars and sighed! He truly had no idea what he wanted outside of a faithful slave. Well, one that only slept with others at his decision. Veronica might try but he knew that deep down she was only doing the obedience thing to keep him happy. Thinking of Midnight, he truly wished he had tried harder before Nick Sanchez claimed her. "I'd have lost her anyway. Why can't I find a slave that I know will follow my lead two hundred percent."

Talking out loud was both good and bad. Behind him without knowing stood Nova Khar-Issawi. After her lesson in Russian, she told Winston she needed to go potty. Her plan to say hello in private to William shied a bit. Hearing him gave her goosebumps. Turning, ready to go inside William nearly ran her over. Inseam directly over her face. Whoa!

"Nova!"

"Forgive me, Sir."

Knees sounded right!

Her dress M. I. A.!

Gulp!