Today I know I have no excuse for being at the trial. Most people who see me there will think it’s because Z and I were close, and while that’s a small part of it, it’s the same as yesterday. I have to make sure Drew’s okay.
The sun is bright as I walk out the door, squinting my eyes as I make my way down the steps. Turning the corner by the house and into the driveway, I pause, tilting my head as I look at my truck.
The laughter echoes out as I shake my head. Walking over to the back tire and squatting down. Shaking my head at the puncture hole as the rim sits on the ground, knowing what happened.
Pulling the back door open and lifting the seat, grabbing out the jack and spare.
It only takes me a few minutes until I’m getting back into the truck and cranking the engine.
Looking at the clock, I tilt my head again, even more confused before I pull out my phone, glance at it, and shaking my head.
For most people, having someone break into their house and adjust all the clocks an hour ahead would set them on edge. It would kill any sort of feelings they have for her. But somehow it makes me smile.
She took a chance, and she was right. I’d pay more attention to the clock next to the bed than to my phone that early in themorning.
By the time I get the tire fixed and back home, I will have just enough time to get ready for work. Fixing my clocks before heading out.
The station is in a somber mood. Everyone glares at me and Collins as we walk through.
“Go figure, we’re the bad guys for bringing him in.”
“Isn’t that how it always is?” shrugging and asking him. “Told you good guys are just a myth. The important thing is figuring out who you’re okay with seeing you as the villain.”
Matthews blocks me as I try to walk outside.
“The fuck do you want?”
“You’ve had it out for him for years.”
“No, I think he’s a shit person, but keeping him from strangling her was what did it.” I laugh. “And it’s apparent he framed Z. Are you proud of supporting a cop killer? Or is it only loyalty to people you deem important enough?”
Matthews hesitates because he has no way to justify how he’s so defensive of Sherman.
“He told me what you are?” he finally stumbles over his words.
“What am I?” I ask, stepping into him.
“A traitor.”
“So, prove it.” Shoulder-checking him as I walk through the doors and to the car.
“Oh, I will.” He shouts back at me.
Slamming the door behind myself as I crank the car and pull out of the lot.
My radar goes off, glancing over, but I’ve never cared about some speeders… or really anyone for that matter.
Finding myself out near the compound, I tap the steering wheel to the beat of the song playing. I wish I could just roll up there like I used to.
It’s been lonely the last 9 years without everyone. I just wish things could be like they once were.
The dispatch radio starts; the piece of shit always cutting in and out, but I hear a couple of bits of info. The address, I already know it’s the gym the club owns, and where Kyle died. And how they’ve gotten calls about a loud ‘explosion-like’ sound, but no one can see any flames.
Swerving around, heading back in the direction.
I’m almost to the turnoff when I see Axe and Jag pull out onto the road, followed by Spyder and the remaining of the club.
“Where the fuck are Z and Zeke?” I whisper to myself as I make another u turn, pulling up after them. The van speeding past me makes me nod my head.
