Page 34 of High Velocity
“No, she’s not set up for the track.She’s for pure enjoyment.But I won’t say no to being the pace car for a race or two.”
“Don’t be surprised to have some of the guys ask for your expertise at the track.Cruz couldn’t stop gawking at your car, wondering if you do custom work on commission.I told him to simply ask you.So tomorrow you might get inundated with car talk.”
“I don’t mind.I love car talk.”
Roark held her hand and led her into the Brewery where he introduced her to the lead manager, Barbie Nettles, who was Tech’s sister.
“Pleasure to meet you, Charli.You two can head up to the deck.There’s a table for you with a reserved sign.Patti will be with you shortly.I’ve got to call in another server since we had a call-out.”
“Thanks, Barbie,” Charli said.
They walked up the curving stairs that led to the open deck, part of which was covered, and another part that was completely open.The view of the Canyon was spectacular.Charli walked to the wrought iron guard rail, taking in the scenery.
“This is amazing.”
Roark stood behind her, placing his hands on either side of hers, and whispered in her ear.“It sure is.”
She leaned her head to the side, giving him better access.He latched onto her neck, suckling.Charli squirmed and pulled away, giggling.“Tickles.And will no doubt leave a hickey, you stinker.”
Roark laughed and moved some of her hair over her shoulder to cover the spot.“Fixed it.”
“Uh huh.”She took his hand and walked them to their table.“Are you hungry?Because I could definitely eat again.”
“Then we’ll eat.Order whatever you want.”
For mid-June, the weather was pleasant, and a light breeze blew in across the deck.Patti arrived and took their drink and appetizer order.When she walked away, Roark broached the subject of getting Charli certified with a handgun.
“I’ve never shot one before.Never crossed my mind.”
“I want to at least get you trained so you know how to use one.Whether you carry is completely up to you.”
“I think that’s a perfect idea.If I’m going to be around them, I should know how to handle one.”
Roark nodded.“Just let me know when you want to head to the range.”
“What time are we expected at the compound tomorrow for the cookout?”
“Anytime, really.Mom and Dad will no doubt start food prep in the morning.Grill usually gets fired up at noon and goes all afternoon.Kids from toddlers to teens will be there, so this year, Mom’s organized a variety of games.She’s even having a freaking bouncy house brought in.”
“That’s fun.Is it limited to only the kids?”Charli winked, causing Roark to laugh.
“I’m sure there’s always an exception to the rule.”
Patti arrived with their drinks and appetizers, and they dug in.Music played through the speakers, and Roark informed Charli earlier that live music was scheduled for later tonight.
“This is a really great place, Roark.”
“Thanks.I’m pretty proud of it.”
“So, you own a brewery, you contract jobs for the SoS’s excavation company, and what else?”
“Jax, our Enforcer, runs the gun shop, and both of us run the range.We offer classes and certification.”
“Anything else I need to be aware of with the Club?”
“Not really.We haven’t turned to the dark side, engaging in anything illegal.Many of the members work at the excavation company, the gun shop, or the track.Few have jobs elsewhere.And like Stacks and Marlo, me, Mom, and a few others, there are those of us who have our own businesses and employ members or their family if we’re able.Like Barbie.And not just because she’s family, but because she’s damn smart and a terrific manager.Her husband is a Twin Falls police officer.
“A portion of the income from our privately owned businesses goes to the Club.We expanded the compound to twenty acres with plenty of living quarters for those who want it.We’re a smaller chapter compared to others, but our principles are the same.Brotherhood.Loyalty.Freedom.A bit rebellious but still law-abiding.A place for those who want our lifestyle, who need a family.Not sure how much Liam told you, if anything, when you were younger, about SoS history?”
