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Dog’s face lost its smile. “At least I’ve got the satisfaction of knowing Nate’s on the hook, too, for hitting you and suspected of that rape here in Asheville. Hopefully, he’ll go away for life. But, of course, he’s walking around on bail like he didn’t do nothin’. Don’t know who he paid off for that to happen.”
Gabriela exited the courtroom and crossed the hall to them. “It’s almost time to go in. Here’s how it will go down. Your charge will be read, and you’ll be asked how you plead. You will say guilty, no matter how hard that is. Then the judge will deliver your sentence. You ready?”
“Let’s get it over with.”
Dog, Charley and Gabriela entered the wood paneled courtroom. Dog and his attorney took their places at the ornate defendant’s table, and Charley sat behind them. The DA was at her table, having already worked through several cases on the docket while Dog and Charley had waited in the hall. She gave Dog a onceover and shook her head.
The judge also looked Dog over and took a folder from the bailiff to his right. “Case number 102919-4, the State of North Carolina vs. Jason McGuire, a.k.a Mad Dog, is now in session. Will the defendant please rise?”
Dog and Gabriela stood behind their table. “Gabriela Martinez on behalf of Jason McGuire, your honor.”
The judge opened the folder and scanned the contents. “Have you and your client reviewed the pre-sentencing report, and do you have anything new to add before I deliver sentence?”
Gabriela nodded. “Yes, your honor. We have reviewed the report and find it factually accurate. We have nothing to add.”
The judge looked up and caught Dog’s gaze. “Mr. McGuire, on the charge of one count of misdemeanor battery, how do you plead?”
Dog gritted his teeth for a moment before he replied.Absolutely not guilty. The bastard deserved it.
“Guilty.”
The judge returned his attention to the folder. “I have reviewed your case and the needs of the community. There is a 30-day minimum jail term for this crime, but I will defer jail in return for a five thousand dollar fine, one-year probation and five hundred hours of community service to be completed over a six-month period.”
The judge’s lips tipped up for a moment. “The community service will be done at the Asheville Obedience Club. In case you are unfamiliar with the organization, you will learn how to train dogs for the public. It seems like a proper place for you to do your time.”
The judge’s expression turned stern. “I expect you to conduct yourself like a model citizen. You will clean up your appearance—wear your hair short, remain clean shaven, and wear clothes that cover the tattoos. No biker wear while doing your service.”
The judge dropped the folder and pointed directly at Dog. “And stay away from Nate Burgess. Stay out of trouble in general, Mr. McGuire. I will have no problem putting you in jail if you don’t adhere to these terms.”
“Thank you, your honor,” Gabriela said, and pulled Dog’s arm toward the courtroom exit.
Once outside, Dog heaved a sigh. “Dog training. Bet he’s laughing his ass off about that one. Could be worse though. At least I like dogs.”
Charley wrapped her arms around him. “And you don’t have to go to jail. I’m so glad.”
Gabriela pulled her phone from her briefcase. “I’ll text Cutter to bring in the fine. I’ll pay it and file the paperwork and you’ll be free to go. Contact the Obedience School pronto. The number is in the paperwork. I don’t want the judge to think you’ve dawdled in getting started.”
“I got it. I have plenty of time these days.”
Gabriela left to meet Cutter, giving Charley and Dog a private moment.
“I’m glad you’ve quit fighting,” Charley said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I would have tried to support you whatever you decided, but I hated the thought of it.”
Dog threw an arm around her shoulder. “It was getting to be time anyway. I’m not as young as I used to be. The legal problems just put a fine point on it.”
“And you did what you set out to do—earned enough money to pay off Jessie’s bills. Luke and Sophie are so relieved. Jessie is doing much better now that she’s getting treatment. Such a sweet little girl. I’ve enjoyed getting to know her. And her parents.”
Dog squeezed her shoulder. “And how ‘bout you? You breathin’ easier now?”
Charley’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”
Dog quirked a smile. “You don’t have to go on the run with me.”
Charley laughed. “There are days when that sounds like a fine idea. I’m going to keep it in reserve just in case.”
Dog pulled her in for a deep kiss. “Anytime, anywhere, baby. Just say the word.”
Epilogue
