Happy sat in the first seat on Chibs' right-hand side tapping his fingers on the strong redwood table in front of him. They were slowly starting to piece their club back together, heading more towards a legitimate industry then they'd ever been before. Gone was their deal with the cartel, and Chibs was working to rid himself of their Irish gun connection. The only lucrative businesses they had left were Diosa and RedWoody. Happy didn't count the shitty ice cream shop they currently called home; that was just a front for their clubhouse. It was rare anyone dared to wander in looking for ice cream. Rarer still that they stayed after encountering Chucky behind the counter. Still, the occasional middle school group wandered in after school, fascinated by the MC world and by the weird man with the prosthetic hands behind the counter. Chucky always gave them a good deal with extra toppings. Teller-Morrow Automotive and the original clubhouse were being rebuilt and remodeled, but the process was slow since money was tight.

He looked around the table, noting the empty chairs at the end of the table. If he stared long enough, he could almost picture his lost brothers there. Koz, Juice, Piney, Opie...the seats they'd sat in during the club's heyday were vacant in an almost haunting way. The main subject of their Church meeting was how to fill those vacancies, but Hap knew whoever did wouldn't measure up to the people they were replacing. In all honesty, he wasn't very interested in who filled the seats and probably wouldn't be until they'd earned a prospect's cut. He didn't give a shit about recruiting nor would he ever deign to sponsor a prospect. It was too much work. He'd much rather watch his brothers torture whatever poor sucker wanted to be one of them only participating if they got in his way.

"What d'ya say, Hap?" Chibs asked, pulling him from his thoughts. "Boys want to have a party with the rest of the Grim Bastards. See if they're worthy of full patches. T.O.'s ready to vouch for some of 'em."

T.O. nodded exaggeratedly. "Hell yeah, I am. Got some of my best guys ready to patch over."

He shrugged a shoulder. His eyes passing over Tig and Quinn who sat across form him filling what used to be Jax and Bobby's seats before falling on Chibs in what he would always think of as Clay's seat. More brother's he lost. More brothers that had to be replaced. "Let's do it."

"Not tonight, though," Tig put in quickly. "We got shit to do. Helpin' Ang pack up her shit."

"Why?" Montez asked on a scoff, still bitter she'd given him the slip a few months back.

Quinn elbowed him, hard. " 'cause she's Hap's cousin. She's family."

Chibs nodded in agreement, an act that irked Happy more than he thought it would. "Aye, Angie-girl helped us all out a time or two."

Happy's jaw ticked a bit. The Scot had a lot of nerve to say something like that. He wasn't innocent in Juice's supposed death. Though it'd been done on Jax's command, Chibs had done nothing to fight it. Tig cleared his throat, tapping his finger on the table looking annoyed himself. "Yeah," he agreed, rubbing at his eyebrow. "Was thinking we could throw some cash her way. For the kid at least. Startin' all over again ain't easy."

Quinn was the first to go for his wallet, Rat following soon after. To Hap's surprise, T.O. went for his wallet. "Didn't know her, but I knew Juice. Know he's the reason I get to wear this cut. Dunno what he did or why he ain't here, but I gotta thank him somehow."

Chibs opened his wallet and handed Tig a sizable wad of bills; clearly the President's guilt was weighing heavily on his shoulders. "Good idea, Tiggy. Get the little one somethin' nice." He turned to Hap. "Where they goin' anyway?"

"Away," Hap answered curtly. Chibs didn't seem pleased with that, so he elaborated a little. "Found a place with no charter. She's out. Not comin' back."

The SAMCRO president let out a lengthy sigh as he nodded. "Guess that's all we deserve to know anyway. Wish her luck from us." He banged the gavel on the table. "Get out! The lot of ye!"

They all filed out, Hap closing up the ranks behind stopping only because Chibs called his name. He turned, eyebrows raised as he set his hands on the back of his chair. "Pres?"

"Ye think Angie-girl'd be willin' to talk? Think I should apologize."

Happy shook his head, his grip on the chair tightening a bit at the idea of Chibs talking to his cousin. She'd probably punch him as soon as he was close enough. No way would she ever be patient enough to sit and listen to his apology without causing him physical harm. "Not a good idea."

Chibs nodded, rubbing a hand over his beard. "Feels wrong what we did, don't it? Know Jackie-boy wanted it done, but...I still dunno why it had to end that way. Didn't even bring it to the table, poor Juicy."

"Still happened. Sayin' sorry ain't gonna bring 'im back."

"Aye, if only..." He clicked his tongue and shook his head, frowning a bit. "She gonna be okay?"

Happy raised an eyebrow wondering where Chibs' sudden regret was coming from. He contemplated telling him that Juice was alive and well in Texas, but decided against it; better he not know just in case. It was easy to say he regretted it after it'd already happened; it'd be a lot harder to reconcile knowing he and Tig had gone behind his back to save the idiot's life. That knowledge could land Juice back at the table for a Mayhem vote, a risk Happy wasn't willing to take. "Yeah."

"Figured as much. Tough as nails that girl," he mused with a little smile. He rubbed at his jaw a bit, right where her fist had smashed into his face. "Strong arm she's got too. That your doin'?"

He knew from experience just how hard a punch Angela could throw. His cheek was still bruised from when she'd hit him a few days before. "Me 'n' Koz."

Chibs shook his head with a frown. "Another brother we lost. Good men, all of 'em."

Happy ran a hand over his head, checking out the clock discreetly. He was running late for Angela's going away party; his Ma was going to kill him. "Yeah. We'll get the numbers up soon."

"Hope so," he murmured distractedly. Putting a cigarette between his lips, he dug into his cut before producing his money clip. Peeling a few more bills, he handed them over to him. "Would ye buy Evie somethin' nice? From me?"

He took the money, staring at the two fifties for a brief moment before tucking them back in his cut. "She ain't gonna take it."

"Ye don't have to tell her its from me. Jus' give Evie-doll somethin' pretty from her Uncles at SAMCRO."

Happy snorted, shaking his head. He'd buy Evie something with it, but he sure as hell wasn't going to tell Angela it was from Evie's "Uncles" at SAMCRO. She'd kill him and then destroy whatever it was he got for her. "Thanks. We done?"

"Yeh. See ye later, Hap."

Happy nodded, heading down the stairs and out into the parlor. He caught Quinn and Tig's attention, jerking his head as a signal that it was time to go. Tig showed him the wad of cash with a big grin. "There's gotta be a couple hundred in there," he said, swinging his leg over his bike.

"Plus this," Quinn said, handing him a check worth more than Happy, cheap as he was, was comfortable with accepting. He went to hand it back when Quinn shook his head. "Tig 'n' I sold Juice's tools from the shop. He had a bunch of fancy techie shit he used to do God only knows."

Tig nodded emphatically. "Guy practically creamed himself when he saw it all."

Happy chuckled, handing the check back to Quinn. "Give it to her."

Quinn handed it over to Tig. "Go 'head, Tiggy. Was your brain child. I just did the negotiating. Give it to her with the cash"

Happy hugged Tig then Quinn, thankful to both of them for what they did for Angela. He knew they didn't have to do so much. Even the cash was overboard. Hap wasn't one to accept charity, but he liked the idea of the club that had taken so much away from his baby cousin, giving her something back. "Thanks."

" 'course. Family takes care a family. Tell 'er its from Kozik, her fairy godfather," Quinn replied on a wink. "You ready to let her go, Hap?"

He took in a deep breath, considering the question for a moment. Selfishly, he wanted to keep her there with him, but he knew that'd only make her miserable. He'd seen the change in her himself; Juice made her happy. There was nothing more rewarding to him than seeing her so genuinely happy. It meant he was fulfilling the promise he'd made to her father so long ago. As long as the move made her happy, he would let her go. The second that changed, he'd be prepared to make the trip down south, put a bullet in the idiot's skull, and bring his kid and the brat back home. "Yeah. Think so."

------------------

Angela sat on the front steps of the funeral home, smiling as Rigor danced back and forth in front of her, his tongue lolling out of his mouth in excitement. She laughed lightly, bending over to tie up her sneakers, a brief image of Juice's sneaky smile flashing through her head making her smile even bigger. He'd been so cute that morning, trying to hide her shoe so she'd stay. God, she loved that man. Rigor licked her cheek impatiently, whining a bit. "I know, boy, I know. I'm ready," she replied, running her fingers through the German Shepherd's thick hair and kissing his head. "C'mon, handsome. Let's go see Uncle Kozi."

She stretched a bit as she let Rigs run in front of her. He paused, looking back at her and letting out an impatient bark. Chuckling, she headed his way. Together, they followed the same path they always did on their runs, weaving between the rows and stopping every so often to clear some dead flowers off older graves. She loved this trail, loved the quiet tranquility of the cemetery. It was a little bittersweet to think this might be the last time she ran through it. She had a feeling wherever she ended up in Texas wouldn't be so happy with her using their cemetery as her very own track. A lot of people thought it was disrespectful, which she thought was bullshit; half the graves out there were abandoned. She was the only person who ever stopped to visit. On days when she wasn't feeling like running, she often brought a bouquet of flowers along with her, laying them on the older graves as a sign of respect. She hoped she found a place that'd let her run through it. As much as she enjoyed running through the neighborhood with Juice when she was in Texas, it didn't compare to the quiet, solitary runs she went on in the Charming cemetery.

Rigor stopped a few graves ahead of her, and she smiled knowing exactly where he was. "Good boy, Rigs," she cooed, a little out of breath as she stroked a hand over his head. She pulled a treat out of her pocket, tossing it to him before heading for the water spigot nearby to get him some water. Setting the bowl in front of him, she made sure he was content before taking a seat beside him in front of the beautiful white headstone. "Hi Kozi. Guess who's moving to Texas?"

Leaning back in the grass, she tilted her face into the sun. "I'm nervous about it, Koz. I've never done normal. Ever. Between Hap and the Alvarezes and you and Juice...there's never been a time where I was normal. What if I get bored?" She scoffed at the thought, feeling incredibly guilty for being so selfish. "Wow. That was a really stupid thing to say. I'm sure you're laughin' up there and wonderin' how the hell I'll get bored when I've got Eves and Ken and Juice there. Actually being safe will take some getting used to, that's for sure. Juice practically jumps out of his skin at the sound of a Harley, and I won't lie, the sound makes me nervous too."

She smiled a bit as a memory hit her. "Remember that time you bought me those cowgirl boots? You heard me listening to Garth Brooks once and wouldn't let me live it down. Took me to a country bar and everything. Asshole. But I'll get good use of them now, so thanks, I guess." She closed her eyes, taking in a deep breath as she felt a lump rise in her throat. "Fuck, Texas is far from here. I hate that. Hate that we can't come back. I mean, I guess I can, and I probably will with Eves and Ken just for my Aunt and Ma's sake. Brings Eves to come visit you too. God, I miss you, Kozi. So much." She stood with a grunt, kissing her fingers before pressing them to the headstone. "Love you, dude. Say hi to my Dad and Cheeks for me."

Rigs got up beside her, nuzzling her hand with his nose as if he sensed her sadness. "I'm okay, Rigs," she murmured, leaning over to kiss his head. She started walking back towards the funeral home, enjoying the fresh air and California sunshine as she cooled down from their run. Before her, she could see the long line of graves she and Bones had deemed SAMCRO row. It was where the Winstons, the Tellers, Dawn, and other SAMCRO members were buried all neatly in a line. The only ones missing were those that served in the military and were in the veteran's cemetery. Without warning, Rigor took off, sprinting towards the lone figure standing right in front of one of the graves.

"Shit," she cursed under her breath. From their distance, she couldn't make out who was standing there, but she hoped like hell it was one of the SAMCRO men who hadn't wanted to kill her husband. Relief washed over her when she saw a head full of crazy dark, curly hair.

Tig messed with Rigs, a real grin on his face. "Hey kiddo. Heard you were out here," he greeted without looking up.

She raised an eyebrow. "You lookin' for me?"

Tig stood, shoving his hands in his pockets as he shrugged. "Kinda. Wanted to get some shit outta the way just you 'n' me."

Angela crossed her arms over her chest, wondering what he could possibly want. "Sure. What's up?"

"Wanted to say I'm sorry, doll. For puttin' you through all that shit. Makin' you think you'd lost your Old Man. Know the kinda pain that musta caused," he explained, scratching at the back of his neck. "Just wanted you to know it came from a good place, sweetheart. Hap wants you to be happy. We both do."

She smiled a little as she glanced up into his crystal eyes. "Thanks, Tiggy. For everythin'. Means a lot to me, to Eves, even Kenny."

A look of relief crossed his face upon hearing the youngest Winston's name, almost as if a weight has eased off of his shoulders. He shrugged again. "Yeah, well, someone around here deserves a happy ending."

She laughed a little, moving closer to him and leaning her head against his arm. He lifted his arm and draped it over her shoulders, giving her a one-armed hug. "The club suspect anythin'?"

"Nah. Me 'n' Hap made it look legit. Chibs believed it at least," he answered, squeezing her arm. "Got bigger shit to handle anyways. Just lost our Pres. Feds are on our ass about Gem and Unser. We're scrambling, doll. Tryin' to find a way to get back to normal. That idiot is the least of our worries."

Angela sighed, her eyes falling on the grave in front of him. Jax's. A big black stone standing tall next to Tara's with a Reaper etched into the marble. "Where are the Teller boys?"

"Gone. Nero 'n' Wendy took 'em. Some farm up North. Jax was the one that pushed 'em to leave before he..."

"Plowed into a semi?" she filled in, shaking her head. "Selfish asshole. Those boys need him, and he just...bailed. How could he do that to his kids?"

Tig shrugged a shoulder. "Sometimes it's best that you're not in their lives. Look what happened to Dawnie. Wouldn't a happened if I'd a kept my distance," he explained, his eyes filled with grief. "Wasn't long ago your man thought it was a good plan too."

Angela grimaced, remembering the way Juice had brought it up after the clubhouse went up in flames. "Yeah, I know. Didn't work. Had my own problems with the feds 'n' I couldn't leave." At his curious look, she elaborated, "Mel was reported as a missing person. That Patterson lady hinted me and Juice might be suspects."

"Look at you, gettin' tied up with the feds," he exclaimed, pride in his voice as he elbowed her side. "Was proud of you that night. Wasn't my place to be, but I was."

Her heart felt heavy when she thought back on that night. She'd lost a piece of herself when she'd put that final bullet in Mel's skull, a piece of herself she didn't think she could get back. Everything that happened to her after was karma for that singular moment when she'd taken his life. She knew it wasn't a big deal to Tig or Hap, but it was to her. "Thanks, I guess."

Tig scowled, shaking his head at her. "Don't let it get you down, doll. You ain't a killer. Was self defense. Even a judge couldn't indict you for that hit. Was either him or you and Evie. You had to protect her. That was brave as fuck."

"Still hurts."

"Yeah, I know. It'll always hurt too, but you gotta focus on the good and move on. That's all in the past and its staying there. Patterson got her ending. She's not gonna give a shit about you any more."

"Hope so."

He looked down at the headstone again before clearing his throat. "You ah...you gonna come visit ever?"

"Once a year, I hope. Just so Eves and Ken can see their family. Just me and the kids, of course," she replied on a frown.

Tig nodded, toeing the grass with his boot. "Am I included in that?"

Angela grinned; how could he not be? "Of course. Uncle Tiggy did a lot for our family," she answered, nudging his side with her elbow. "Maybe Aunt Venus too. Think Eves would have a lot of fun with her."

"Yeah, we'll see how long she puts up with me," he muttered bashfully. "Was gonna invite her over to your place tonight. Think she'd like that I have more family than just SAMCRO."

"You should. She's family now too," she told him with a grin.

He chuckled, digging into his cut and handing her a folded up piece of paper. "From me and Quinn."

Angela pushed his hand away when she realized it was a check. "Nah, I can't take anything from you guys. You've already given me my husband back."

"Nah, take it. 's a lot of money. Got it from selling Juice's tools, anyways. Didn't want to funnel it back into the club."

She took the check putting it in her bra with a smile. "Thanks. I'll tell him to put it in his new bike fund. Know he misses riding."

Tig grinned, nodding his agreement. "The bike or you?"

Angela snickered, elbowing his side. "Probably a little of both. Can't say I don't feel the same way."

"Goddamn, you two are gonna have a litter of kids out there in Texas, I just know it."

"We'll see," she sang, not at all opposed to the idea. She wanted at least one more. Maybe a little boy this time.

He dug into his cut once more, handing her a big wad of cash. "And that's from SAMCRO."

She wrinkled her nose in disgust, pushing his hand away again. "Fuck that shit. Don't want their pity money."

"Why the hell not? 's a grand at least in here," he said, unfolding the wad and leafing through the bills. It ain't pity, its guilt money anyway."

"That's even worse!" she shouted around a laugh.

"Aww, c'mon, doll. Just take it," he coaxed, holding it right under her nose. "You don't 'n' I'm just gonna go shoppin' for Ken and Eves with it. Send a buncha shit to Texas for you to sort out later. Loud shit too. Get Ken a drumset. Buy Eves those singing toys made to drive ya insane."

Angela had no doubt he'd do it too. That was the last thing she and Juice needed. Toys that made way too much noise. She grabbed the cash with another roll of her eyes. "You're the worst."

He chuckled, giving her another one-armed hug and kissing her temple. "Take care of those two, all right? Let me know if you need anything. Know you got Hap, but I'm here for you too, doll."

"Thanks, Tiggy," she said, standing on her toes to kiss his cheek. "Love you."

He smiled a bit, ducking his head as he ran a hand through his wild hair. "Love you too, kiddo."

------------------

For the first time since Evie's baby shower, Angela's small house in Charming was filled with people. Angela spotted Bones and Ellie on the couch, sitting too close together to be just friends, their hands intertwined in a sweet way that made her heart happy to see. Kenny was on the floor with Evie in his lap, Rigor at their side, as he played a game of Dominoes with Tessa, the older boy clearly letting the little girl win while doing his best to keep Evie from putting the little ceramic tiles in her mouth. Chloe, Jo, and Venus were all chatting in the corner, laughing about something or other while Tig and Happy were deep in discussion with Lino, Skeeter standing awkwardly by them doing his best to keep up with the conversation. Her Ma and Aunt were standing in the kitchen with Dia comparing recipes while they prepared cooked dinner.

It was the first time the idea she was leaving this place actually made her sad. She loved their small little home in the small town. Loved having her family and friends close by should she ever need them. She would've tried to make nights like these a regular thing. Something she knew Juice would've loved despite Marcus and Dia Alvarez's presence. He would've just loved to be surrounded by family.

Thinking about him make her heart ache. Now that she knew he was alive, being apart from him hurt that much more. She was convinced that at any minute, she'd wake up from this perfect dream to find he was still dead, and she was alone again. If it wasn't for his constant texts and phone calls reassuring her that he was alive and waiting for her to come back to him, she wouldn't be able to go through with it all.

Her phone went off with one of those texts, and she grinned at the series of emojiis in the message. Smiley faces, dancing girls, little guys with their hands up, hearts, and an eggplant with the message: "Can't wait to see you, beautiful". She shook her head, going to the backyard to call him just to hear his voice.

She realized as soon as she stepped out she wasn't the only one seeking some peace and quiet to make a phone call. Marcus Alvarez was currently pacing the deck talking on the phone in rapid Spanish. His cologne filled the air; the same one Esai had worn. The smell alone took her back to her teenage days. She studied Marcus's face, noting the similar features she'd once seen in his son's face.

He acknowledged her presence with a nod, ending the call and tucking the phone back into his cut. "Sorry. Club shit."

"No worries," she answered on a shrug, looking out over the dark backyard. She loved their small yard. Loved the lush grass, the deck, the matching Adirondeck chairs, and hammock. It was the perfect size for Rigs to run around in and big enough for a garden she'd always planned to have. She breathed in deeply, closing her eyes and enjoying the smell of jasmine from their jasmine bushes that lingered in the cool night air. "I'm gonna miss this place."

"Nah. You belong in Texas, mija. Con tu marido," he said nonchalantly. Her eyes widened in shock; how could he know about Juice? She hadn't even told Dia about him! The Mayans were business partners with the Sons now, who was to say Marc wouldn't go straight to Chibs with the information if it helped him. He smirked in response, setting his hand on her shoulder. "You sister-in-law has a big mouth. Guess it runs in the family." (With your husband.)

She scowled at the subtle jab at her husband. Juice may have been willing to trade intel on the Sons in an act of desperation so they could get out of Charming, but he hadn't actually given up any information. "It was just an offer."

Marcus looked amused as he bobbed his head. "Was a bold offer. Showed he had some balls. He put his family first. That's somethin' I could never do. Gotta respect him for that."

She smiled, proud of her Old Man. He had more balls than anyone ever gave him credit for. "I love him. A lot. We've had our ups and downs, but at the end of the day, he's the one I want to go home to. He is my home."

"He's a lucky man. Always told Esai his biggest mistake was letting you slip away, sabias?" (Did you know?)

Angela laughed but nodded her head. The few times she'd seen Esai since their break up, he'd always mentioned how his dad wanted them to be together again. Sometimes she thought Marcus wanted them to get back together more than Esai did. "We weren't good together, Marc. Me 'n' E would never work out. It just wasn't meant to be. Juice is...he's everything to me," she explained, trying to find a way to describe it. "Dia once told me she felt this...pull towards you when she first met you. That's what happened when I met Juice. I felt this incredible pull. Its...inexplicable, y'know? He smiled at me, and I was done."

"Just like that, huh? All it took was a smile for you to fall in love with that poor excuse for a Latino."

She shrugged, rolling her eyes at the dig. "Hey, he's learning Spanish! Don't hate 'cause he was a Son, not a Mayan. I'm sure your club coulda used his hacking skills a time or two."

He chuckled, raising his arm and draping it over her shoulders. Drawing her closer, he kissed her temple. A fatherly gesture that made her smile. He nodded his head in agreement. "That's true. We don't got much of an intelligence officer. Usually just Lino bangin' around on the keys. He's the only one who knows how to use that computer shit. Morrow always had the best info the fastest. Guess Juice isn't much of an idiot after all."

"He's not. Never was."

Marcus nodded before letting out a long sigh. "Gonna miss you, Angelita," he said his mustache twitching with a sad smile. "Feels like we just got you back."

"Right? Funny how that works out." She leaned her head against his shoulder, sighing deeply. "When I thought he was dead, I would've given anything to get out of this place. Now, I..."

"Don't want to leave?" Marcus filled in.

Angela raked a hand through her hair, nodding. "Yeah. After all the shit that happened, I thought it would be easy, but its not. Make me feel just a little crazy."

"No, mijita. 's not easy to just leave everything you know and love." He squeezed her shoulder reassuringly. "Pero you can do it. I know you can. Give it time. Few months in, you might be able to come back. Stay. Teller's gone. They got bigger shit to deal with than your old man. Just focus on you y tu familia right now. Eva's gotta get used to her ugly ass old man."

She laughed a bit, elbowing his side with a roll of her eyes. "Don't be like that," she scoffed. Dia called for dinner from the house behind them, her stomach gurgling at the idea.

He chuckled, pulling her into a tight hug. "Me 'n' Dia love you, Angelita. Don't forget about us this time. Knew back when you left E, you had to separate yourself pero ahora no es necesario. We got used to havin' you 'n' the kids around. Felt like you were part of the family again. 'm not ready to give that up." (but now its not necessary)

"Yeah, of course," she replied, kissing his cheek. "Despite everythin' that's happened, te quiero mucho. You and Ken can have whatever relationship he wants since he's old enough to decide, but I want you in Evie's life. She needs at least one abuelo, after all." (I love you a lot...grandfather)

Marcus pulled her into another hug, kissing her temple again and giving her a tight squeeze. "I'd be honored. Now let's get inside 'fore Abuela Dia goes loca." (Grandma Dia...crazy)

------------------

Angela stared up at the moving truck, mentally taking stock of all the boxes crammed in there. For such a small house, they sure had a lot of stuff. A lot of it was Evie's toys, some of them still in the boxes they'd come in from her baby shower. They hadn't gotten into much of the baby stuff after she was born. Mostly because so much had happened after she was born that they hadn't had time to spend building the different toy sets and accessories. Now, they'd have all the time in the world to set Evie up with a fully stocked playroom. Grinning, she reached for the pull on the trucks handle, grabbing it and jumping off the truck's bumper to slam the back shut. "Think that's it," she told Jo, locking the back door with a grunt. For some reason, she felt exhilerated. She'd gotten over her sadness from the night before and was ready to close the Charming chapter and start a new one in Texas. "Holy shit! This is actually happening!"

Jo laughed from her spot on the sidewalk, Evie perched on her hip. "Your Mama's crazy, Eves," she told the baby girl, kissing her temple. "Just like your Daddy. You sure you got everything?"

"Think so. El, are there any more boxes inside?" she asked the younger girl who was sitting on the curb petting Rigor.

Ellie looked up quickly, her hand never leaving Rigs' head. Rigs was totally enjoying the attention too, leaning his head into her hand, his tongue hanging out of his mouth. "Bones and Ken are grabbing the last two."

"Awesome." She turned to Chloe, wondering what on earth had possessed the nurse to take the week off to chaperone Bones, Ellie, and Ken on their trip from Charming to Austin. "And you, lady? You ready for this long ass trip? Gotta take care of these crazy teens."

"Yeah, Wonka said that ride sucked. Was walkin' bow legged for days," Jo put in on a chuckle.

"Somethin' you know a lot about, huh, Ang?" Chloe teased, elbowing her friend's side. "I swear to God, this girl has more sex than anyone I know. Its a wonder she only has the one kid!

Angela grinned, unashamed. She never would be. A lot of people told her their "honeymoon" phase would fade, and she'd be pushing him away preferring to sleep instead, but she couldn't see that happening any time soon. "What can I say? I'm a lucky girl."

Jo laughed loudly, making Evie smile along with her. "Were they just as bad here as they are over there? I thought they were makin' up for lost time or somethin'! Caught them in the laundry room one day!"

"Oh no. Catching Ang and Juice goin' at it is pretty normal. Seeing Juice's naked ass is like an initiation into Club Ortiz or something," Chloe explained as if it were no big deal.

Angela grinned widely at the thought of her husband's butt; it was one of her favorite features of his. "He's got a great ass. You should consider yourselves blessed."

"Seriously? All y'all have seen my brother's ass?" Jo asked in disbelief.

"Yeah. Funeral home bathroom for me." Bones grimaced a bit as he shoved one last box into the Mazda's hatchback. The back seat was left open so Rigor had space to move around on the long ride to Texas.

"Clubhouse dorm room. The lock was broken," Ellie chimed in on a shrug.

"I didn't see anything," Kenny stated, closing the Mazda's backdoor, "but I saw the hearse rocking and didn't go a-knockin', if you catch my drift."

Bones chuckled as he nodded emphatically. "Yeah. Never open a rocking hearse. Its either zombies or Angela and Juice. Learned that the hard way."

"The hearse?" Chloe repeated in disgust. "Really?"

"Only once or twice. It freaks Juice out," Angela stated on a shrug. "Surprisingly, that's probably not the weirdest place we've done it."

Ellie's eyebrows raised in surprise as she stood, opening the back door for Rigor to get into the Mazda. "What is the weirdest place?"

Angela blanched in response, realizing she'd spoken a little too openly in front of the teenage girl. "And that conversation will be saved until you're like thirty."

"By then she'll be married to Boner and they'll be doin' it all over the place too," Kenny teased, ducking out of the way when Ellie swiped at him.

"Hey, hey! Enough!" Chloe shouted, getting in between them.

Angela stepped back to let her play referee, her gaze going down the block where a Harley just appeared. She smiled to herself, heading away from the bickering kids towards the motorcycle, bracing herself for yet another goodbye.

---------------

Happy could see the group crowded around the large moving van as he neared the Ortiz house. It was early, way too early for his liking especially since he and Chloe had stayed up half the night making sure to give each other enough steamy memories to hold them over for the week they'd be apart. As he slowed, he could see her laughing as she tried to keep the Winston kids from killing each other. Her head was thrown back, her short, jet black hair brushing her shoulders. It was strange to him how seeing her happy made him feel the same way seeing his Ma or Angela happy did. That same warmth, same peaceful feeling always came over him when Chloe smiled. But he wasn't here for her. Not really. This would be his last chance to say goodbye to his little cousin, and he knew this was going to hurt.

Angela had already walked a ways away from the group, clearly wanting the same privacy he'd been seeking. He didn't mind the rest of the group, but there were certain things he wanted to say to her without eavesdroppers. It didn't surprise him that she'd known to move away, that she'd seen, or more likely, heard him coming. His kid had been able to recognize the particular sound of his motorcycle since she was three years old. His Ma would always say as a kid, she would listen for the loud rumble and then sprint towards the door, screaming his name in excitement. He loved that little girl. Still loved her now that she was older and smarter. Loved how strong she'd become and hated how it had led to some other guy falling in love with her and taking her away. It wasn't fair. He'd loved her first.

Pulling his bike to a stop in front of her, he swung his leg off, taking off his helmet and setting it on his handlebars. Angela moved closer, setting her hand on one of the grips. "Hey Hap," she greeted, a sad note to her voice. She realized it was the last time they'd be seeing each other for a long time too.

"Hey kid," he replied, leaning against his bike. "You ready for this?"

She shrugged, looking over her shoulder at the house behind her. "Yeah. Still trying to convince Ma and Lena to move into this place. It's already paid off and everything. No mortgage. 's a shame to sell it. Just need to pain over the cheesy mural in Evie's bedroom, and it'd be perfect."

He knew she was skirting around how she was really feeling. It wasn't just the money that kept her from selling the house; it was the memories held within its walls that she wasn't ready to let go of. His Ma and Aunt were actually thinking about moving there, though. It was a smart move, a money saver. They could use the money they'd be putting towards the mortgage to pay for his Ma's meds, they'd be close him if they ever needed anything, and Chloe even offered to help Graciela find a job at St. Thomas. It was a good idea even though his Ma and Aunt were not very pleased with the idea of packing up everything they had and moving out of their little community. But he'd have his brothers help with that. His Ma and Aunt wouldn't have to lift a finger, just come along for the ride. "I'll work on 'em."

"Let me know. Otherwise, I gotta get a real estate dealer or somethin'. Don't know the first thing about selling houses," she muttered on a grimace. "You worried about Chloe being all by her lonesome on the road?"

Happy shook his head. "She's got the three amigos 'n' your kid is armed. Knows his way around a piece."

Her brow furrowed in confusion. "Woah, woah, woah. My kid is armed? I didn't give Ken a gun. Ever."

"I did. His dad's old piece. 's meant for him anyway."

Angela pinched the bridge of her nose in annoyance. "You can't just give a fifteen year old a gun, Hap, especially without telling me!And how could he not have told me?"

"You weren't much older when you got your first one. Remember?"

She sighed, rolling her eyes as she moved to lean against the motorcycle beside him. "Please tell me you didn't give Boner one too."

"Nah. Idiot said he's got a shaky hand. Don't trust him not to shoot himself," he explained on a shrug. Jo had given him Juice's number, and he'd used it to call Juice to ask about the boys' shooting skills before he entrusted the guns to them.

"Thank God," she breathed. The fact she didn't comment on him mentioning Juice meant she knew he'd called him. He liked that. It meant Juice wasn't trying to hide anything from her. Except the gun thing but that hadn't been his secret to tell. "They'll be fine. Armed or not. All of 'em are cautious drivers and they got Rigor there if anyone should mess with them. He's good on his commands. Knows when to attack if the people he loves are in danger."

"Good dog. Me 'n' Quinn are followin' 'em out for a bit, anyway. Least 'til they get outta Cali. Make sure there ain't no other MC tailin' 'em or anything."

Her gaze lifted to meet his, her head tilted to the side in curiosity. "Makin' sure your Old Lady stays safe?"

He knew the question was a trick. A subtle way of finding out just where his relationship with the nurse stood. If she wasn't leaving in a few hours, he would've contested the title just so she wouldn't bother him about it. But she was leaving in a few minutes, and she'd be so preoccupied with the craziness of the move, she wouldn't have time to give him shit for it. Not until much, much later. "Somethin' like that."

Angela grinned, her dark eyes sparkling with excitement. He groaned inwardly, already regretting saying anything to her about it. She nudged his arm with her shoulder. "Aww, Hap. Really? She's your--"

"Don't start," he cut her off quickly, his lips twitching a bit as he fought off a smile. "Your flight leaves soon, don't it?"

"Yeah." She let out a long breath, playing with her rings as she stared at the old house.

He was pleased to see the ring he'd given her so long ago was back in its rightful place on her finger. It meant they were good again. That she'd forgiven him. He hadn't been totally sure before. Despite his happiness over the ring, he could sense the nerves coming off of her in waves the closer they got to her departure time. "You okay?"

"I don't know. It's just...I haven't been this far away from you since...well, ever. Even when you were locked up, I got to see you. Texas is far. You're not just a drive away anymore. This is...its gonna be really, really weird."

He couldn't agree with her more. The girl hadn't been out of his sight since she was born. It was going to be strange not having that one on one time with her. Those moments where he'd listen to her spill her guts out about what was worrying her, and he'd tell her his transgressions in hopes she'd reconcile some of them. He'd been her crutch, the one person who always swooped in to save the day, but she had Juice for that now. She didn't need him, anymore. Especially not in her new civilian life in Austin. She was going to be just fine with the idiot, he was sure of it. "You'll be okay, kid. Ya don't need me anymore anyway."

She scoffed at that, shaking her head. "Bullshit. 'm always gonna need you, Hap."

He knew it wasn't always going to be true, but he didn't want to tell her that. Slowly, he moved an arm around her shoulders. "Just a phone call away."

"Right," she agreed, leaning into him. He could tell she was biting the inside of her cheek, contemplating her next question. "Will you...will you be okay?"

Happy smirked and nodded. "Yeah, kid. I'll be good. Gotta help rebuild the club and shit."

"Just stay safe, okay? Stay away from landmines and crazy people, please."

"Promise."

"You'll call me, right? Or at least get a personal cell or a home phone or somethin' so I can call you? Please?"

Happy sighed, rubbing a hand over his head. He nodded towards Chloe. "Call her. She'll give you my number."

"That's so weird," Angela murmured, more to herself than to him. Jo called her name, shouting out that it was time for them to head to the airport. She shifted on her feet, sniffling a bit as she looked down at her feet, reluctant to move away from him. "I don't know how to say goodbye to you, Hap," she rasped, her eyes glassy with tears when they finally met his.

He smiled a bit, shrugging again. "Then don't," he stated simply. He pulled her into his arms for a proper hug, kissing the top of her head as he did so. "It ain't goodbye, anyway. Not really."

"Love you, Hap," she choked out, her words muffled by his shirt. He held on for a little longer than usual, his hand ghosting over her hair for a moment before he pushed her away. There were tears on her cheeks, and he wiped them away remembering the many times he'd done the same thing when she was a kid. She smiled a bit at the action. "Take care of yourself. Please. Make sure Lena and Ma are doing all right too."

He nodded. "I will. Love you too, kid. You take care a you 'n' the brat. Keep the idiot in check."

Angela laughed a little bit as she nodded. "Of course."

Happy looked over to where a huge Denali pulled up, its rims just as black as the illegal tint on its windows. It was their ride to the airport; that Mayan punk that was always smiling. He kissed her forehead again, giving her a gentle push towards the SUV. "You gotta go, kid."

She swallowed hard, taking in a deep breath. "Yeah, I do."

He pushed her a little harder, making her stumble forward. She glared back at him, an annoyed look on her face. He gave her a smirk in return, if she didn't get going now, she'd never leave. "Go."

"I'm going," she shot back on a scowl. After a moment, the scowl turned into a smile. "Love you, Hap. Be good."

"Love you too, kid. Be safe."

She nodded, her smile growing excited as she turned to head to the SUV. He followed after her slowly, moving to stand next to Chloe. The nurse leaned her head against his arm but otherwise didn't acknowledge his presence. He moved his arm a bit, his fingers going to play with the ends of her hair. She looked up at him with an excited grin. "You ready for a road trip, killer?"

He smirked, nodding to where the Bones, Ken, and Ellie were still bickering with each other. "You ready for that?"

"Oh, I can't wait."

He kissed her temple, tugging on her hair lovingly. "Keep me in your mirrors."

"Will do," Chloe agreed with a nod, pecking his cheek. "C'mon Scooby gang! Let's head on out!"

---------------

Angela gave Kenny one last hug, holding him tightly. "You be careful with that gun, Kenny Ortiz," she murmured into his ear, careful not to let anyone else hear her. "Its not a toy."

He pulled away, a huge smile on his face. "I know, Mama. Emergencies only."

"You two be good," she told Bones and Ellie as she moved to hug the younger girl. "Keep your hands to yourselves."

"Of course. My brother's gonna be right there," Ellie stated with a roll of her eyes.

Angela wasn't so sure that'd be a deterrent from anything. Chloe had promised her that she'd keep the two away from each other at whatever hotels they ended up at on the way over. Not that Bones would ever try anything, but Ellie was a little more pushy when it came to their relationship. "And you," she said, turning to Bones. "You take care a her."

"Oh yeah! Of course! Always!" Bones exclaimed, his eyes wide. "I'm gonna take care of all of 'em. We'll be good. Worry less, Mama Bear."

She hugged him tightly, ruffling his hair before pushing him towards the moving van. "Get outta here. All of y'all. I'll see you guys in Texas!"

Chloe laughed as she honked the horn of the gigantic moving van. And just like that, they were off leaving her standing by Lino's SUV. She smiled as Evie reached out for her from her place on Jo's hip. Angela took her quickly, kissing her temple and breathing in the comforting, lavender scent of her hair. "Say bye to Charming, baby girl. Bye-bye, crazy town," she cooed, waving to her house and smiling when Evie mimicked her. "We're gonna go be back home to Daddy. To Da-da."

"Da-da-da," she babbled back, her little fingers playing with her mom's hair.

"But for now, you get to hang out with Ma-ma-ma and Aunt Jojo."

"Da-da-da."

Angela sighed, frowning at her daughter. "You're killin' me, smalls. After all the shit we've been through, you can't say Mama? Just once."

"She'll say it when you least expect it. Probably the first time you leave her alone with her Daddy," Jo told her with a big grin. "That'll freak Wonka out real bad."

She couldn't help but laugh at the idea of Juice freaking out over something Evie did. He'd been in and out of Evie's life so much, he'd yet to experience any big firsts. Now, he wouldn't miss a single one. "He's going to be a great dad."

"That I don't doubt," she agreed, reaching out a hand to play with Evie's hair. "I told you the first time we talked in years was when he found out you were pregnant, right?"

Angela smiled a bit and nodded. "He was so excited."

"Excited and just gushing. Jojo, I got this girl 'n' I love her 'n' we're having a baby, and I'm gonna have a family," she said, mimicking Juice's voice with a bit more of a New York accent than he actually had. "You could hear that smile through the fuckin' phone. Swear to God. Know I said it before, but I'm thankful he found you. You're his dream come true, Angie. No lie."

"You're just as cheesy as your brother," Angela replied with a smirk. She looked down at Evie, feeling her heart swell with love when her baby girl smiled back. Her smile a carbon copy of her father's. She understood what Jo meant, though; Juice was her dream too.