💘( Knocking On Death's Door! )✨

THREE

[ Turas ]

( 🏍️💀💘👪💒🔫 )

" If you ever try to fetch my family again, I swear on my Catholic God, I will fill your thick Irish skull with bullets. " 

~ ALFIE TELFORD to JIMMY O'PHELAN 

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MEET KODA

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ALFIE'S OUTFIT

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DANNY'S OUTFIT 

THE MORNING AIR IN BELFAST CARRIED AN UNMISTAKABLE TENSION, thick enough to make Alfie's skin crawl as she stood in SAMBEL's compound, her loyal dog, Koda, by her side. 

Koda served as a highly trained war dog working with Alfie's close friend and soldier, Mack. Sadly though, during a mission in Afghanistan, Koda's handler was killed in action, leaving Koda lost as he mourned the death of his partner. Alfie, already heartbroken over her friend's death, felt a deep responsibility to look after Koda, because of the strong bond she already had with Koda, due to the times they spent together back at the base. 

So, when Alfie decided to adopt him, they instantly became inseparable, both carrying the scars of their shared trauma. Koda provided Alfie with emotional support, grounding her when her PTSD surfaced, while Alfie gave Koda a sense of purpose and the love of a new handler. Their bond grew beyond caregiver and dog, evolving into a deep partnership built on trust, loyalty, and shared survival.

Given the recent events, Alfie found solace in having Koda by her side at all times, his presence offering a much-needed sense of security. He was more than just a companion; he served as her second pair of eyes and ears. With his military training still keen, Koda instinctively remained alert, ready to detect any potential threats before she could even sense them. Together, they formed an unbreakable team, each looking out for the other in a world that felt increasingly chaotic. 

Chibs and the Sons were gearing up to help SAMBEL with their gun run for the True IRA, one that would take them straight into Jimmy's territory. Avery's stomach churned at the thought. She couldn't shake the image of her father meeting with Jimmy—again—after everything that man had done. Jimmy O had taken so much from them already, and she didn't trust him not to strike again.

Alfie's fingers twitched by her side as she watched her father, pulling on his kutte with that calm, focused expression he always wore before a job. 

This made Koda stand up straight, his ears perked up, his sharp eyes flicking towards Alfie, sensing even the slightest shift in her posture. Nudging Alfie's hand with his nose, his warm brown eyes locking onto hers with quiet understanding as she ruffled his ears, giving him an appreciative smile, before her gaze fell back on her father. 

Koda's presence like always was a silent comfort, as if reminding her to breathe, to stay in the moment, and that he was there, always alert and ready to protect her, just like he did for Mack. 

Now, as her mind raced with worries about the run and the looming threat of Jimmy O'Phelan, Koda seemed even more attuned to her distress. He circled her quietly, his eyes never leaving her, offering the only kind of reassurance he knew—steadfast loyalty and the unspoken promise that he would stand by her, no matter what.

Chibs caught his eldest daughter staring at him and gave her a small, reassuring smile, but it did little to settle her nerves.

"I'm coming with you," Alfie blurted, her voice sharper than she intended.

Chibs turned, raising an eyebrow at her, "No, lass. Ye're not."

"I need to," she said, her voice quieter now but no less determined. "I can't sit here, not when you're going to meet Jimmy. You know what he's like, Pa. He's dangerous, and I can't let you face him alone."

Chibs let out a sigh, walking over to her, his hand resting on her shoulder, "Rose, ye're not coming. We've been over this."

She shook her head, her heart racing, "I'm fine, Pa. I'm not scared of him. You don't need to protect me."

"It's not about protectin' ye, baby. It's about keepin' ye out of this mess," Chibs said softly, but there was a steel edge to his tone. "Especially after what happened yesterday."

Alfie's chest tightened at the mention of the shooting. The memory of the car, the sound of gunfire, the glass shattering—it all flooded back in an instant. She pushed it down, burying it deep like she always did, like she had to.

Koda, like on cue, nudged her thigh with his snout, making her rest her arm over him, giving his body a light pat, but her determined gaze remained on her father. 

"I can handle it," she insisted, her voice faltering only slightly. "I'm not a little girl anymore!"

Chibs' eyes softened, but he still shook his head, "Lass, I know you think ye've got a handle on it, but I see it. The way your hands shake when you think no one's lookin'. The way you flinch at loud noises. Ye're not fine, my little rose. You're battlin' demons, and I know those demons well enough to see what's goin' on."

Alfie clenched her fists at her sides, trying to steady herself, but her father's words cut deep. He was right, of course. He was always right. She could feel it creeping up on her—the panic, the fear, the memories. But she couldn't let it show, not now. 

In that moment, she felt Koda's body press closer to hers in silent support, earning him another pat on the back. 

"I can't lose you," she whispered, her voice small and broken in a way she hated. "Not to him. Not again," she said, as the tears welled in her eyes, but she was quick to blink them away. 

Chibs' expression softened even further as he pulled her in for a hug, making her feel like a little girl again. Safe, protected. But this wasn't the time for feeling safe.

"I'm not goin' anywhere, lass," he murmured into her hair. "You have to trust me on that."

Alfie stiffened, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill over. She hated feeling this vulnerable, hated that her father could see through her so easily. But she couldn't shake the dread that clung to her, the feeling that if she let him out of her sight, something terrible would happen.

"I should be with you," she muttered, pulling back slightly to look at him. "I can help. I can—"

"I need ye here," Chibs cut her off gently but firmly. "With yer Ma, with Kerrianne," he said, his gaze moving across the lot where Kerrianne and Fiona were just arriving with Kellan. "Someone needs to keep them safe, and that someone's ye. Ye're the only one I trust to do that."

His words hit her like a blow to the chest. Keep them safe. Her mother, her sister. The responsibility felt heavy, but it was enough to make her pause. She knew how much danger they were all in. And she knew, deep down, that if something happened to them because she wasn't there, she'd never forgive herself.

She took a deep breath, steadying herself, her heart still pounding, "You're sure?" she asked, though she already knew the answer.

Chibs nodded, "Aye. I need you to stay. For them."

Alfie swallowed hard, her throat tight, but she nodded, "Okay," she whispered, finally caving. "I'll stay."

Chibs smiled, relief washing over his features, "Good lass," he mused, caressing Alfie's face, just as Kellan and the girls started to make their way over to them. 

As soon as Koda caught sight of Kerrianne bounding toward him, his entire demeanour transformed. His ears perked up, and his tail wagged furiously, almost sending him into a happy spin. The tension in his body melted away as he lunged forward, a joyful bark escaping his lips.

"Koda!" Kerrianne squealed, her face lighting up with pure delight. She knelt down, arms wide open, and Koda rushed into her embrace, his strong frame nearly knocking her over. He licked her cheek enthusiastically, tail wagging like a pendulum as if he couldn't contain his excitement.

Koda knew this girl; she was his family. He was trained to be cautious and alert around strangers, but with Kerrianne, it was all about love and joy. His body language shifted completely, moving from guard dog mode to playful companion. He hopped around her, playfully nudging her with his nose, as if to say, "Look how happy I am to see you!"

Just then, Father Kellan walked over, a gentle smile on his face as he observed the scene, "What do we have here?" he asked, chuckling softly as Koda quickly trotted over to him. The dog sat immediately, a picture of composure, as if to demonstrate his impeccable training. He looked up at Kellan, eyes bright and expectant.

Kellan knelt down, scratching Koda behind the ear, "Good boy, Koda," he praised, earning another excited bark from the dog. It was clear Koda recognised the warmth and safety of the father, his demeanour a blend of affection and respect.

Kerrianne, still beaming, hugged Koda around the neck, her laughter filling the air, "Ye're such a good boy!" she exclaimed, and Koda responded by wagging his tail even harder, his whole body shaking with happiness.

Even amidst the joy, Koda maintained a sense of awareness. He glanced around periodically, ensuring that his loved ones were safe, ready to spring back into protective mode if necessary. But for now, he was just a happy dog, revelling in the affection of two people he adored.

"Father Kellan," Chibs greeted, a genuine smile spreading across his face. He extended his hand for a firm shake, then pulled Kellan into a heartfelt hug, as if conveying his gratitude for everything the priest had done for his family, especially for Alfie. "How are you?"

"Filip," Kellan replied with a twinkle in his eye, giving Chibs a playful smirk. The two men shared a chuckle, the bond between them palpable.

"We have a few Italian priests visiting," Kellan continued, glancing over his shoulder at Danny, who stood a few meters away, cigarette dangling from his lips. "I thought it might be best if Danny kept his eye on them here for a few hours."

Danny, noticing the conversation, guttered his chin up in a casual greeting, earning a grateful smile and nod from Chibs, "Of course. Thank you, Father." 

"Hey, darling," Kellan beamed as he turned toward Alfie, quickly cupping her face in his hands. His gaze was filled with pride as he took in the young woman before him, "You're looking well."

"Thanks, Kell," Alfie replied, her cheeks warming under his touch.

With that, Kellan moved off to greet the Tellers, leaving a warm sense of camaraderie in the air.

Chibs turned his attention to Fiona, his beloved wife, "Hi, darling," he said, leaning in for a kiss that spoke volumes of their connection.

"Be careful," she replied, concern etched across her features.

"Always," Chibs reassured her, his voice steady.

As he pulled back, his eyes caught sight of Kerrianne, who wore a worried expression, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. Chibs' heart softened at the sight of his youngest daughter, and he reached for her hand, giving it a comforting squeeze, "Hey. It's all right, sweetheart. I'm just going to give these Irish boys an escort. I'll be back later," he said, trying to soothe her worries.

Kerrianne sent him a tight smile, but the concern still lingered in her eyes, "Okay. Love you, Pa," she said, her voice small yet filled with affection.

Chibs pulled her into a warm embrace, kissing the top of her head gently, "I love you, baby," he murmured, his heart swelling with love for his family.

As he stepped back, he turned to Alfie, who stood watching with a hardened expression, "You look out for your ma and sister, yeah?" he instructed, his tone firm but laced with warmth.

Alfie nodded her head firmly, determination flickering in her eyes, "I will, Pa. I promise."

Meanwhile, Koda's focus was laser-sharp, fixated on the two men. His instincts kicked in, and a low growl erupted from his chest, quickly escalating into a series of sharp barks. The Belgian Malinois stood his ground, his body tense and ready, a clear warning to those approaching.

"Easy, Koda! Sit!" Alfie commanded, her voice steady but laced with urgency. She reached down, trying to calm him with a gentle hand on his head, but Koda was having none of it. His barks grew louder, more insistent, echoing through the quiet of the parking lot as he paced back and forth, refusing to settle.

O'Neill glanced back at them, eyebrows raised in surprise, "What's with the mutt?"

McGee chuckled, "I don't know, but it looks like he doesn't like you very much."

Kerrianne kneeled down beside Kode, giving his head a soft pat, "C'mon, buddy, it's just Keith and Liam. They're not gonna hurt anyone," she said sweetly, sending the two men a tight smile. 

Alfie's heart raced as Koda continued to bark, a mixture of protective instinct and anxiety, "Koda, sit!"

But Koda remained on high alert, his barks echoing in the air as he paced, tail stiff and unwavering. The tension between them crackled, and Alfie felt a knot form in her stomach. She knew Koda was just trying to protect her, but his refusal to listen only heightened her own anxiety.

"Okay, okay! We get it! Let's just...chill out, yeah?" O'Neill said, holding up his hands in mock-surrender, a grin spreading across his face as he backed away slightly. 

Alfie sighed, exasperated yet amused by Koda's loyalty. 

Suddenly, Happy stepped forward, who had been silently watching the encounter from afar, his presence commanding yet oddly gentle, "Hey, pup," he said, his tone low and steady. He crouched down to Koda's level, locking eyes with the dog, "You need to chill, man. Sit."

To Alfie's surprise, Koda immediately quieted down, his barking fading to a low whine. He looked at Happy, ears perked, as if deciding whether to comply. With a subtle nod from Happy, Koda finally sat, his big frame relaxing slightly.

Alfie raised an eyebrow, impressed, "He usually only listens to me," she admitted, a hint of admiration in her voice.

Happy smirked, a rare softness breaking through his tough exterior, "Guess he knows a good alpha when he sees one," he replied, standing up, brushing his hands together and walking back over to his Harley as if saying, 'my work here is done'. 

Alfie couldn't help but smile, feeling a flicker of relief wash over her as Koda trotted back over to her, but not without throwing one last glare at O'Neill and McGee, a silent warning that he wasn't going to back down that easily.

As Chibs turned to leave, Alfie reached out, grabbing his arm, "You come back, Pa. Promise me."

Chibs met her gaze, his expression serious, "I promise, lass. I'll be back before you know it."

Alfie nodded, letting go of his arm as he walked away to join the others. She stood there, watching as they mounted their bikes, the roar of their engines echoing in the distance. Her heart still raced, her anxiety still thrumming under her skin, but she stayed. For her mother. For her sister. 

And for her father.

She wouldn't let anything happen to them. Not on her watch. And Koda wouldn't either. 

***

The Ashby kitchen was alive with energy as the midday sun streamed through the windows. The smell of sizzling bacon and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, blending with the sound of laughter and playful banter. Alfie and Danny stood side by side at the counter, their sleeves rolled up as they prepared lunch for everyone. At their feet, Koda, Alfie's loyal Belgian Malinois, paced eagerly, his eyes fixed on every move they made, ears twitching at the sound of food being prepared.

"Danny, I swear to God, if you sneak another piece of bacon, I'm gonna—" Alfie threatened, her tone light but laced with mock seriousness.

Danny, with a mischievous grin, held up his hands in surrender, a piece of crispy bacon already halfway in his mouth, "I'm just testing it for quality control, you know. Can't serve rubbish to these lovely ladies, can we?" 

Alfie rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at her lips, "You're lucky Mo's not here to see this. She'd have your head for eating before everyone else." 

As if on cue, Maureen walked into the kitchen, arms crossed and a stern look on her face, "What's that about me having his head?"

Danny froze, the bacon still hanging halfway out of his mouth, eyes wide like a guilty child caught stealing cookies. The room burst into laughter, Maureen's façade cracking into a smile. Even Koda barked once, as if joining in on the joke, his tail wagging furiously.

Gemma, sitting at the table with Kerrianne, leaned back in her chair, the Teller smirk firmly in place, "Looks like you've been caught red-handed, Danny boy."

"More like bacon-handed," Kerrianne chimed in, giggling.

Alfie shook her head, turning her attention back to the sandwiches she was assembling, "All right, jokers, enough messing around. We've got a hungry crowd to feed." 

Koda gave a soft whine, his gaze shifting between Alfie and the pile of bacon on the counter, "You too, Koda," Alfie said with a laugh. "No bacon for you."

The dog tilted his head, his expression almost comically disappointed, before obediently sitting down at her feet, still watching intently.

Koda had already had his lunch; a bowl of freshly steamed rice and veggie topped with his favourite raw protein—kangaroo meat, which Alfie had to get shipped from Australia every month to keep her k-9 companion happy and well fed. 

Danny leaned closer to Alfie, lowering his voice conspiratorially, "Think they're grateful for all this effort?"

Alfie smirked, "They'd better be, or I'm putting extra hot sauce in everything." 

"I heard that!" Maureen called out as she took a seat at the table, a mock glare thrown Alfie's way. "Don't you dare, young lady."

Trinity, standing by the counter with a half-eaten sandwich in hand, checked her watch, "Shite, I gotta switch with Cherry!" She took another big bite and then, with a hurried wave, darted for the door. "See you lot later!" 

"Don't be rushing about in that shop, you hear me?" Maureen called after her, shaking her head in disbelief. 

"Yeah, yeah, I got it, Ma!" Trinity shouted back, disappearing down the stairs.

With Trinity gone, the room settled into a comfortable rhythm. Alfie and Danny continued plating up the food, their easy camaraderie filling the space as they tossed light-hearted jabs and jokes back and forth. Koda remained by Alfie's side, occasionally getting up to follow her as she moved around the kitchen, his attentive gaze never wavering.

"So, you two always this domesticated?" Gemma teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she watched them work.

"Domesticated?" Alfie scoffed, placing a heaping platter of sandwiches on the table. "Nah, just keeping this one," she gestured to Danny, "Out of trouble." 

Danny put a hand over his heart, feigning offense, "I'm the perfect angel, Gemma." 

"An angel who nearly burned down the church kitchen the other day, you mean," Kerrianne teased, and everyone erupted into laughter again.

Danny shook his head, a smile on his lips, "That was an experiment gone wrong, all right? Let's not dwell on the past." 

"Right," Maureen said, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "And we're all supposed to trust you with lunch today?" 

Danny raised an eyebrow, placing a hand on Alfie's shoulder, "This is all Alfie's doing, I'm just the charming assistant." 

Alfie nudged him with her elbow, grinning, "You're right about one thing—you're definitely the assistant." 

Danny gasped in offence, making Alfie giggle cheekily. 

Gemma reached for a sandwich, biting into it with a satisfied hum, "Well, whatever you two did, it's damn good. Haven't had a meal like this in ages." 

Everyone settled in, passing around plates and piling their food high. The conversation flowed easily, a mix of shared stories, teasing remarks, and bursts of laughter. It was a rare moment of peace and normalcy amid the chaos that surrounded them, the kitchen buzzing with the sound of people coming together to share a meal. 

As they ate, Gemma and Maureen swapped stories about raising their respective broods, while Kerrianne shared some of her recent school adventures, each tale punctuated by the group's collective amusement. Danny, ever the storyteller, entertained them all with exaggerated accounts of his misadventures, drawing eye-rolls and chuckles in equal measure.

Alfie watched them, a smile tugging at her lips as she listened. It was moments like these that made everything worthwhile—the chaos, the danger, the uncertainty of their lives. Here, in the kitchen filled with warmth and laughter, it felt almost like a normal family gathering, despite everything that loomed outside those walls.

She caught Danny's eye, and he gave her a quick, reassuring smile followed by a wink that made her chuckle, shaking her head in amusement. This was their version of home, their way of keeping the darkness at bay, if only for a little while.

"So, what's for dessert?" Maureen asked, her tone light but hopeful.

"Dessert?" Danny echoed, feigning shock. "After all this hard work?" 

Gemma rolled her eyes, "Quit your whining and grab the cake I saw in the fridge." 

Koda perked up at the mention of cake, his ears perking up, though he remained seated, his training evident in his restrained excitement.

Alfie chuckled as Danny groaned dramatically but got up anyway, heading to the fridge. She shook her head, turning back to her plate, feeling something inside her settle. Despite everything—the danger, the constant threats—it was these moments, the ones filled with love and laughter, that made it all bearable.

As Danny returned, triumphantly holding up a chocolate cake, Koda's tail started wagging enthusiastically, his eyes fixed on the dessert with hopeful anticipation.

Kerrianne, noticing Koda's excitement, smiled and reached down to ruffle his fur, "Sorry, Koda, no chocolate for you."

The dog gave a soft huff, as if understanding. 

Alfie leaned back in her chair, taking in the scene before her. This, right here, was why she fought so hard to protect them all.

Because, in the end, family—whether by blood or by bond—was worth everything. 

***

The kitchen was buzzing with the after-lunch lull, the warm hum of activity filling the space. Gemma, Fiona, Maureen and Alfie were working seamlessly, clearing plates and wiping down surfaces, while Kerrianne leaned against the counter, scrolling through her iPod with an air of indifference that only a teenager could muster. She glanced at the screen, flicking through her playlist, and occasionally glanced around the room as if she might find something more interesting to do. Across from her, Danny sat contentedly at the dining table, savouring another slice of cake, a self-satisfied smile on his face. In the corner, Koda lay curled up on his bed, his gentle snoring barely audible over the clink of dishes and the murmur of voices.

Kerrianne sighed dramatically, finally looking up from her iPod, "Can I go down to the shop, hang with Trinity?"

The request hung in the air, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. Fiona, standing at the sink, barely glanced over her shoulder before responding, her voice firm, "No. You stay up here."

Kerrianne's face scrunched up with a pout, "Why?" she whined. "Afraid someone's gonna shoot me?"

The room tensed for a split second. Alfie, standing beside her sister, stifled a laugh that threatened to escape, quickly turning it into a cough when she caught her mother's disapproving glare.

"Don't you brash me," Fiona's tone was sharp, turning her scolding gaze back to Kerrianne. "This is your influence," she said, throwing a pointed look at Alfie.

Alfie raised her hands in mock-surrender, her lips twitching into a grin, "I didn't say anything."

Fiona's eyes softened, but only slightly, as she shook her head and returned to the dishes. The clatter of water and soap bubbles seemed louder than before, filling the silence left in the wake of the brief exchange.

Alfie leaned closer to Kerrianne, "If you go down to the shop, Triny'll have you stocking shelves anyway. Why do you think I'm up here and not down there gossiping with my best friend?"

Kerrianne chuckled, the sound bright against the heavier mood. She and Alfie shared a knowing smile, a moment of solidarity that lightened the atmosphere. Maureen, watching them both, smiled gently.

"Come on, we'll go in her room and set you up with some movies, love," Maureen said, gesturing for Kerrianne to follow her.

Kerrianne nodded, pushing off the counter, "Come on, Koda," she called, tapping her knee. The dog's ears perked up, and he scrambled out of his bed, tail wagging as he followed her out of the kitchen.

As they disappeared down the hallway, Gemma glanced over at Fiona, a wry smile playing on her lips, "Ooh, I remember that age." 

Fiona snorted softly, shaking her head as she wiped her hands on a dishtowel, "I'd have a rod taken to my ass if I talked like that to my ma," she said, her voice tinged with a mixture of exasperation and affection as she glanced at Alfie.

"Good old days," Gemma agreed, chuckling.

Alfie turned her attention back to Danny, who had shifted in his chair, stretching out like a lazy cat. He looked perfectly at ease, too at ease for her liking, "You could help, you know," she said, arching an eyebrow at him.

Danny shrugged, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, "Nah, cook never does the dishes. That's a fact." 

"You didn't cook shite," Alfie shot back, throwing a dishtowel at him. He caught it easily, the smirk never leaving his face. "Now, you can help with the drying," she added, rolling her eyes as he slowly stood, towel in hand, and made his way over to the counter.

As they worked, Danny and Alfie fell into an easy banter, trading playful jabs and teasing each other as they dried and put away dishes. Gemma and Fiona watched them with soft smiles, the kind that spoke of shared history and the comfort of familiar company.

But beneath Fiona's smile was a tension that hadn't fully eased since she'd arrived back in Belfast. The weight of everything that had happened pressed down on her shoulders, and as she turned back to the sink, she couldn't shake the nagging guilt that gnawed at her insides.

She took a deep breath, then turned to Gemma, her voice low and laced with regret, "You were right. Me going to Chibs in Charming set this all in motion." 

Gemma paused, looking at Fiona with an understanding that ran deep, "Sometimes the heart beats the head." 

"Aye," Fiona's voice was barely a whisper, her eyes distant as she looked out the window wistfully. 

Gemma shifted her gaze to Alfie, "How well do you know Kellan Ashby?" 

Alfie's eyes widened, the sudden shift catching her off guard. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could say anything, a metallic clatter sounded from outside. The noise was sharp, slicing through the quiet, and in an instant, the mood in the room changed.

Danny straightened, his hand moving instinctively to the gun holstered at his side. He glanced at Alfie, then at the two older women, his expression serious, "Stay with your ma. I'll check it out, it's probably just those bloody cats again," he said, his voice steady as he drew his weapon, the click of metal unnervingly loud in the now silent kitchen. He moved toward the door, gun raised.

Danny had barely exited the house when the sound of a struggle erupted from outside, breaking the momentary silence. A heartbeat later, the door burst open, and one of Jimmy's men shoved Danny back into the house, a gun pointed viciously at his temple. Jimmy followed closely behind, his eyes gleaming with a cruel satisfaction.

"Shit!" Gemma hissed, her eyes widening in horror at the same time as Fiona muttered, "Mother Mary."

Alfie's gaze snapped to the table where her own gun lay, just out of reach. But before she could make a move, Jimmy was there, snatching it up with a predatory grin. Danny was forced down into a chair, the gravity of the situation sinking in like a lead weight.

"Ah, ah, ah," Jimmy taunted, shaking his head at Alfie with a mocking smirk as he trained her own weapon on her. "Seems like I'm holding all the cards. Find the girl," he ordered Donny, while his gun was pointed at Danny, and the man hurried off to do so. 

Alfie's anger flared, her voice seething with intensity, "You lay a hand on my sister, I will kill you myself." 

Jimmy chuckled, the sound devoid of warmth, "You seem to have forgotten who's holding the gun here." 

"For now," she muttered, her eyes never leaving him, a dangerous fire igniting in her chest.

"What the hell are you doing, Jimmy?" Fiona demanded, her voice shaking.

"Setting things right," he replied, nonchalant. With a sudden, brutal flick of his wrist, he pulled the trigger, the deafening sound of gunfire echoing in the room. Danny's lifeless body crumpled to the floor, blood pooling around him.

Alfie's scream pierced the air, raw and filled with anguish as she dropped to her knees, sobbing. The sight of her fallen friend ripped her heart from her chest, her cries muffled by her hands as her tears moped the tiled floor beneath her. 

Moments later, Maureen and Kerrianne were ushered into the kitchen by Donny, Koda barking aggressively behind them, before he lunged forward and bit into the intruder's leg, causing him to let out a painful scream. 

As Kerrianne caught sight of Danny's lifeless body, her horrified scream filled the room, tears streaming down her cheeks. She collapsed into Maureen's arms, who held her tightly, both of them shaken to their core. A single tear rolled down Maureen's face as a hand shot up to cover her mouth, a shaky sob leaving her lips at the sight of the man she has know since he was a boy, lying in a pool of his own blood. 

"You've burned it now, Jimmy. Kellan practically raised that boy. He's like a son to him," Maureen cried, anguish etched across her face.

"Well, now he can bury him, yeah?" Jimmy shot back, his sadistic enjoyment evident.

"Get this mongrel off me!" Donny screamed, desperately trying to shake off Koda, who had latched onto his pant leg.

"Tell your dog to stop before I shoot it in the head," Jimmy threatened, raising his gun towards Koda.

"Koda, heel!" Alfie croaked, pushing herself to her feet, sniffling as she wiped her arm across her nose. The dog complied instantly, but he came to stand protectively beside her, still growling at the two men. 

"Let's go," Jimmy ordered, gesturing for Kerrianne and Fiona to follow him out of the house. 

"We're not going with you," Fiona shot back, her resolve hardening.

Seething with frustration, Jimmy moved closer, grabbing Alfie in a chokehold, his gun digging into her scalp. Koda bark loudly and aggressively at Jimmy, but one look from Alfie told him to heel. He obeyed, but remained low, ready to pounce as soon as he got the command, while the back of his throat growled.

"Do I have to kill another one of your daughters to show you how much I love you? I'm taking my family home!" 

Aisling Telford was born into a tumultuous world, the first child of Fiona and Chibs Telford. Her arrival brought joy and light into their lives amidst the shadows casted by the violence and chaos that often accompanied their family ties. From the moment she drew her first breath, it was clear that Aisling was a spirited child. With sparkling brown eyes that mirrored her father's and a wild mane of dark hair, she was a living embodiment of her parents' love—a tiny beacon of hope in a troubled world. 

Growing up in Belfast, Aisling was a little ray of sunshine, full of laughter and mischief. She adored playing dress-up, often donning her mother's old jewelry and pretending to be a princess. Her imagination was boundless; she could transform the mundane into magic with just a sprinkle of creativity. She was fiercely protective of her younger sisters, Kerrianne and Alfie, who adored her in return, looking up to their big sister as if she were a goddess. Aisling would often lead them on grand adventures around their home, weaving stories of dragons, knights, and enchanted forests, while holding Alfie's hand and pushing baby Kerrianne in her pram. 

Despite the darkness surrounding their lives, Aisling's presence brought warmth to the Telford household. Her giggles filled the air, and her innocence offered a glimpse of the life Fiona and Chibs longed for their family—a life free from the clutches of gang wars and power struggles.

But the peace of their little world was shattered when Jimmy came into their lives. Initially, he presented himself as a friend, a potential ally in the dangerous game of power that was played out in the streets of Belfast. Chibs, always a devoted father and partner, was cautious but hopeful that alliances could be forged. However, Jimmy's true nature soon revealed itself, proving to be far more sinister than anyone had anticipated.

As tensions escalated between Jimmy and Chibs, Aisling's innocence made her a target in the struggle for power. One fateful day, when she was only six years old, she wandered into a dangerous situation, unaware of the chaos brewing around her. In a shocking display of cruelty, Jimmy, seeking to manipulate Chibs into submission, killed Aisling. Her laughter was silenced, her bright spirit extinguished in an instant. The world that had once sparkled with her presence turned dark and heavy with grief.

Her death was a stark warning of the monster Jimmy truly was, and it sent shockwaves through the Telford family. Chibs, heartbroken and desperate to protect his remaining daughters, was forced to make a painful decision. He agreed to Jimmy's demands, believing that compliance was the only way to shield Fiona and their children from further harm. In a tragic twist, Fiona, torn between her love for Chibs and her fear for their daughters' safety, married Jimmy in a desperate attempt to secure a semblance of protection for Kerrianne and Alfie.

Kerrianne and Alfie, being so young, barely remembered their sister. They grew up under the shadow of Aisling's absence, often hearing stories about the little girl who had brought so much joy and light to their family. Their parents spoke of her with love and reverence, instilling a sense of pride in her legacy. Though they didn't fully comprehend the weight of Aisling's loss, her memory lingered like a haunting melody in the background of their lives.

Aisling Telford became a symbol of both the fragility of innocence and the harsh realities of their world—a reminder of the price they paid in the ongoing battle for survival. In her brief six years, she taught her family the importance of love, joy, and the preciousness of life, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire and guide them through the darkest of times.

"Ma..." Kerrianne's voice trembled, her eyes wide with fear as she looked to her mother pleadingly, the concern for her sister's life palpable. 

"Okay. Okay. No more blood. Just let her go," Fiona caved, her voice barely above a whisper. "Come on, sweetheart. It'll be all right." She began leading Kerrianne toward the door, desperation etched across her features.

Kerrianne hesitated, "My stuff. I-I left my iPod in the bedroom." 

"Donny, would you be so kind as to retrieve my lovely stepdaughter's iPod?" Jimmy said with a false charm lacing his voice.

Donny barely stepped out of the room when a gunshot rang out from the hallway. Alfie seized the opportunity, locking eyes with Koda, "Anchor!" she commanded, elbowing Jimmy in the face with all her strength. The sudden freedom allowed her to duck away from his grip just as Koda lunged, tackling Jimmy to the ground, making him drop the gun aimed at Alfie.

"Good boy!" Alfie praised, scooping up the fallen weapon as Koda retrieved the gun Jimmy had been holding and returned it to her.

"Drop the gun! Drop the gun!" Alfie yelled as she held both guns, pointing one barrel at Jimmy and the other on Donny, while Maureen rushed off to go check on her daughter. 

Donny immediately complied, dropping it to the floor with a heavy thud, which was quickly scooped up by Gemma. 

"We okay in there?!" Alfie called out to Maureen and Trinity in concern. 

"Yeah, she's fine," Maureen called back, before they both re-entered the room. 

"On the ground! Hands above your head!" she ordered, adrenaline surging through her veins. Donny complied, sinking to the floor, hands above his head.

"Sit!" she shouted at Jimmy, who, despite being disarmed, maintained that insufferable smirk.

"Sure, I'll give you a chance to think this through, Alfie," he said, a mockingly casual tone lacing his words as he did in fact take a seat. 

"Take Triny and Kerri downstairs!" she commanded, her voice firm as she met Maureen's eye. 

"Why? What are you going to do?" Maureen asked, concern threading through her words.

"I'm gonna put a bullet between this bastard's eyes," she replied, matching Jimmy's smirk with one of her own. 

"That's a mistake, love," Fiona warned, her panic evident.

"Then it's my mistake!" Alfie snapped, her rage boiling over as her grip on her gun tightened. 

"No, you can't! I need him alive," Gemma interjected, stepping forward, her hands raised. "My family needs him to find my grandson!" 

"I don't give a fuck about your family!" Alfie shouted, her eyes narrowed on Jimmy. "This man destroyed my family! And today, it all ends." 

"Alfie—" Kerrianne's voice drifted back in, shaky and filled with worry.

"Get them out of here!" Alfie ordered fiercely as she could barely meet her sister's gaze. 

"Come on, girls," Maureen quickly ushered the girls away from the horror unfolding.

Suddenly, Gemma gripped the gun in her hand and raised it, "Put it down," she commanded, pointing the weapon at Alfie.

"What the hell are you doing?!" Fiona shouted, her eyes wide and panicked at the sight of a gun being aimed at her daughter. 

"I told you I need this son of a bitch alive!" Gemma insisted.

In a moment of desperation, Fiona grabbed a knife from the kitchen counter, her instincts kicking in. She lunged at Gemma, stabbing her in the arm, making the woman scream out in pain, just as Koda sprang into action, tackling Gemma to the ground, the gun slipping from her grasp.

"Get this crazy dog off me!" Gemma screamed, struggling against Koda, who growled fiercely, determined to protect Alfie.

"Got it," Fiona called out, picking up the gun Gemma had dropped.

"Koda, heel!" Alfie commanded, and he obeyed, moving to stand between her and Fiona, ever vigilant.

But as the chaos settled into a tense silence, Jimmy's laughter echoed through the room, mocking and sinister, "Mother of Christ. You're crazy bitches, the lot of ya!" 

"Shut up!" Alfie shouted, the weight of the moment crashing over her. Her tear-filled eyes glanced at the lifeless body of Danny, her heart aching at the sight, before turning back to Jimmy, darkening, "This ends now." 

"Go on then, darlin'," he drawled, his voice dripping with mockery as he pretended to be late for something, checking his watch. "Think you've got the stones to pull that trigger? Huh?" He tilted his head, his eyes roaming over her with a twisted fascination. "It's uncanny, really. Look at you—same fire as your old man." 

"I said, shut up!" Alfie hissed through gritted teeth, her finger itching against the trigger. Every nerve in her body screamed for her to end this, to put a bullet in him and finally make it right. The rage boiled under her skin, a dangerous current she could barely contain.

"Alfie, please, don't," Fiona pleaded, stepping in front of her daughter, arms outstretched. Her voice trembled, desperation lacing every word. "He's not worth it, love. You know what happens if you do this. His crew would kill everyone you ever cared about. Total bloody genocide." She glanced back at the smirking Jimmy, her expression a mixture of fear and loathing, "Don't let the bastard win." 

Jimmy grin widened, his gaze flicking between the two women, "Listen to your ma, lass. She knows what'll happen. All this rage, all this anger—go on, let it out. Show everyone how much of your father you've got in you. Isn't that what you want? To be daddy's little girl?" 

Alfie's jaw clenched, the gun still remained in her hand, locked on Jimmy. She could feel the cold metal, the power of it, and it felt amazing. The thought of ending Jimmy, of silencing his vile mouth forever, was almost intoxicating, "You don't know anything about me," she spat, her voice low and dangerous.

"Oh, but I do," he taunted, leaning forward slightly as if daring her to shoot. "I know you're just like him. All that anger, all that need for vengeance." He laughed, a harsh, grating sound, "Just another Telford, trying to play the hero. But your ma and pa already learned that lesson when I decapitated your sister!" 

"Shut your mouth! You have no right talking about her," she hissed, her voice shaking now, the rage mingling with something deeper—something darker. Her hand tightened around the gun, her breathing shallow and rapid.

Fiona moved closer, her voice soft and pleading, "Alfie, please, look at me." She reached out, carefully placing a hand over the one gripping the gun, "This isn't you, love. You're not a killer." 

"But he is," Alfie whispered, her eyes still locked on Jimmy, who continued to smile, completely unafraid. "He deserves this, Ma. After everything he's done—" 

"And he'll get what's coming to him," she assured her, squeezing her hand gently, trying to ground her. "But not like this. Not by your hand. Don't give him the satisfaction." 

Jimmy chuckled, the sound making Alfie's skin crawl, "She's right, you know. What happens when you kill me, eh? You think it ends there?" He shook his head, almost pityingly, "Nah, darlin'. You'll be in the muck, just like me. Is that what you want? To be just another murderer?" 

Alfie's eyes burned, a mixture of fury and anguish, "You don't get to talk to me like that," she said, her voice breaking. "Not after what you did." 

"What I did?" Jimmy echoed, his smile turning cruel. "You mean all the ways I've made your daddy's life hell? All the things I've done to your precious family? To you?" He leaned closer, his eyes darkening, "Or is it because I put a bullet through your friend over there's thick skull," he said, motioning to Danny, making tears well in Alfie's eyes as she struggled to even look at the lifeless body of her best friend. "You think shooting me is gonna make that all better? Gonna bring anyone back?" 

"Enough!" Alfie screamed, her voice echoing in the empty space. Her finger twitched on the trigger, her vision blurring with unshed tears. 

"Alfie, don't!" Fiona cried, her voice sharp with panic. She tightened her grip on Alfie's hand, pulling it down slightly. "You shoot him, and you're no better than he is. Don't let him drag you down, please!" 

Jimmy watched them, his expression almost bored now, though his eyes still held that same mocking light, "Go on then, love. What's it gonna be? You gonna kill me? Or are you just gonna stand there, shaking like a leaf?" 

Alfie's breath came in ragged gasps, her whole body trembling with the effort of holding back. She could feel Fiona's presence beside her, grounding her, the warmth of her mother's hand against her own, slowly pulling her back from the edge, "I'm not like you," she finally whispered, her voice hoarse with restraint. "I won't let you turn me into something I'm not." 

Jimmy's smile faded, just slightly, and for a brief moment, disappointment flickered in his eyes, "Pity," he murmured, almost to himself. "You would've been one hell of a foe." 

"Shut up! And get out," she hissed, motioning to the door. "But if you ever try to fetch my family again, I swear on my Catholic God, I will fill your thick Irish skull with bullets. Now, go! Before I change my mind." 

Jimmy smirked, "Always a pleasure, Alfie," he mock-bowed, before he turned his attention to Fiona with a sinister smirk, only earning him a glare in return. "I'll see you real soon, love. Remember that agreement of ours." And with that, Jimmy and Donny were gone. 

Belfast 

1989

Fiona stood in the dimly lit room, her eyes fixed on the man who had just ripped her heart out by taking Aisling's life. Jimmy's presence was suffocating, his cold gaze never leaving her as he leaned casually against the wall, the faintest hint of a smile playing on his lips. The air between them was thick with tension, the unspoken deal hovering over the woman like a dark cloud.

"I know what you're thinking," Jimmy began, his voice disturbingly calm as he flicked a glance at the shattered woman before him. "You're wondering what it's going to take for this to stop, for you and your girls to be safe. But you see, love, safety doesn't come free, especially not from me."

Fiona clenched her fists at her sides, trembling with a mix of fury and desperation. She hated him with every fibre of her being, but she had no choice—her daughters' lives depended on her next move. Jimmy stepped closer, his presence oppressive, forcing her to look up at him.

"You marry me," he started, his voice chillingly smooth. "You become mine, in every sense of the word. You sleep in my bed, serve me in whatever way I see fit, and play the role of the obedient wee wife. You do that, and I'll make sure your precious daughters are looked after. They'll be safe, protected, as long as you stay in line."

His eyes glinted with a dangerous edge as he continued, "But the moment you try to leave, or defy me...all bets are off. You walk out that door, and those girls become fair game. And I'll make damn sure they pay for your disobedience."

Fiona's breath hitched, tears welling in her eyes as the enormity of his words sank in. He was trapping her, binding her to him with invisible chains that tightened around her neck with every passing second. The mere thought of being tied to this monster, or sharing his bed, made her skin crawl. But what choice did she have? Aisling's lifeless eyes haunted her, a constant reminder of what Jimmy was capable of.

"And don't think I won't know if you try anything," he added, his tone dripping with malice. "You so much as look at another man, or refuse me in any way, and I'll make your girls wish they were never born."

Fiona's voice was barely a whisper as she spoke, her spirit crushed beneath the weight of his ultimatum, "And if I agree? They'll be safe?"

Jimmy's smile was cruel as he reached out, brushing a tear from her cheek, "As long as you play your part, love, your girls will live long and happy lives. But remember, I own you now. Body and soul."

The words were like daggers, cutting deep into her already bleeding heart. Fiona felt herself nodding, her body moving as if on autopilot. There was no other way—no escape from this twisted pact she was forced to make. She'd give him what he wanted, submit to his every demand, because her daughters' lives were worth any sacrifice, even her own dignity and freedom.

With a trembling breath, she whispered, "I'll do it. I'll marry you."

Jimmy's grin widened, his hand sliding to the back of her neck as he pulled her closer, "Good lass. Now, why don't we seal the deal, hmm?"

Fiona closed her eyes, swallowing down the bile rising in her throat as he pressed his lips to hers, claiming her in a kiss that felt like a death sentence. She was no longer just Fiona Larkin; she was Jimmy's possession, bound to him by fear and the desperate need to protect what remained of her shattered family.

As he pulled away, his eyes bored into hers, a sinister satisfaction lighting them up, "Remember, love, you're mine now. For better or worse. Till death do us part."

She nodded weakly, knowing that from this moment on, she was trapped in a hell of his making, every day a balancing act to keep her daughters safe from the monster she was now forced to call her husband.

Alfie's grip on the gun loosened, and with a shuddering breath, she lowered it, stepping back. Fiona's shoulders sagged with relief, her hand gently guiding the gun away, before pulling Alfie into a fierce hug, "You did good, love. You did so good." 

Alfie held on, her eyes squeezed shut, the adrenaline slowly draining away, leaving her shaking and exhausted. She glanced over her mother's shoulder at Gemma, who stood there, watching them with an hardened expression.

But then, Fiona pulled away from her daughter and punched Gemma, making her face whip to the side, "Never threaten my daughter again," she hissed, pointing an stern finger in the Teller woman's face, who was now rubbing her very red and bruised cheek. 

***

The shed's interior was cloaked in shadows, illuminated only by a single, bare bulb hanging above the makeshift table. The light swayed gently in the wind, casting moving shapes over the map strewn across the surface. The air was thick with tension, each man's face etched with the weight of the task ahead. 

Chibs, his eyes narrowed in concentration, gestures to the map spread out before them, "We need to secure the route past the highway patrol," he said, his voice low but firm. "Any sign of heat, and we're all screwed."

Jax leaned over, his finger tracing a path along a marked back road, "There's a blind spot here. If we time it right, we can slip through."

Clay's eyebrows furrowed as he tapped a different section of the map, "And if we can't?"

"Then we'll have to make our own way," Happy added with a grim smile, the glint in his eyes betraying a readiness for violence.

Chibs opened his mouth to respond, but his words were cut short by the sudden buzz of his phone vibrating in his pocket. He frowned, reaching for it. As he glanced at the screen, his daughter's name flashing insistently.

"Shite," he muttered under his breath, then looked up at the others. "I need a minute."

They nodded, already shifting focus back to the map as Chibs stepped away, his boots crunching against the old dust coated gravel floor. He pushed open the shed door and slipped outside, the chill of the night air hitting him like a slap to the face. 

The sun beamed down on him as a cold wind stirred through the trees around the clearing. Chibs made his way over. He was far enough that he could no longer see the activity going on inside the shed, his heart hammering in his chest as he pressed the phone to his ear.

"Alfie, what's goin' on?" His voice was tense, strained, the panic he was trying to keep at bay seeping through the edges.

There was a moment of silence on the other end, and when Alfie finally spoke, her voice was shaky and breathless, "Pa, it's Jimmy...He showed up at Mo's house looking for Ma."

The world seemed to tilt beneath Chibs' feet, his stomach dropping like a stone. Jimmy O'Phelan. The name was a curse, a wound that never truly healed, "What?! Is everyone alright?!" His voice was a harsh whisper, almost a growl.

"We're okay, but, Pa, he—he killed Danny," Alfie croaked, a heart-wrenching sob came through the phone that set every nerve in Chibs' body on edge. "I-I got him to leave, but I'm bringing Ma and Kerri back to the rectory now, just in case he comes back."

Chibs' free hand clenched into a fist, his knuckles white, "I'm coming back," he declared, the words out before he could think them through. "Now."

"Pa, no," Alfie protested, taking a steady breath, her voice softened but was still firm as it came through the phone. "I know you're worried, but you can't leave your brothers hangin'. They need you right now—especially Juice. God knows he's likely to do somethin' stupid without you there to keep him in line." She paused, her tone lighter for just a moment, "Besides, Jimmy's not goin' anywhere. We'll deal with him when the time's right. But the club, they need you more than us right now."

"I need to be there," Chibs insisted, his voice cracking with the fear he was trying so hard to control. The thought of Jimmy anywhere near his family, his wife, his girls...He shook his head, desperation clawing at him, "I need to—"

Before he could finish, a deafening explosion shattered through the air, the force of it like a punch to the gut. Chibs staggered, his phone slipping from his hand as he whipped around, eyes wide with horror.

The panicked voice of Alfie was muffled by the long grass now covering the phone. 

In the distance, a fireball erupted, the sky lit up with a furious blaze. Flames reach toward the stars, licking at the darkness with hungry tongues. For a moment, everything was still—an eerie silence hanging in the air like someone holding their breath before letting out a scream.

"Jesus Christ..." Chibs breathed out, his voice lost in the wind. His heart pounded in his ears, his mind racing as the implications of what he was seeing hit him like a sledgehammer. The fire, the explosion...the boys—Padraic!

The thought sliced through him, sharp and cold. His vision blurred as he watched the inferno rage, his chest tightening with a fear so profound it stole the breath from his lungs.

The phone lay forgotten at Chibs's feet as Alfie's frantic voice continued to echo from the speaker, pleading for her father. But he was already gone, sprinting full tilt toward the shed. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat fueling the terrifying possibilities racing through his mind. Worst-case scenarios flashed before his eyes, but he pushed them back, his only focus reaching his brothers and nephew. Adrenaline surged through his veins as he tore across the ground, desperate to get to them before the smoke and chaos could swallow them whole.

***

The heavy wooden door of the rectory burst open with a force that reverberated through the silent halls. Chibs storms inside, his face streaked with sweat and tears, the cold night air clinging to him like a shroud. The world outside felt like a blur—a chaos of noise and fire—but here, inside these walls, was what matter most.

"Fi!" he called, his voice hoarse and broken. "Rosie! Kerri!"

The sound of hurried footsteps echoed back, and then there they were, appearing from the shadows of the hallway like ghosts. Fiona, her face pale and etched with worry; Kerrianne, eyes wide and tear-streaked, clutching her sister's hand; and Alfie, her expression hard but her eyes betraying the fear she was trying so hard to hide.

"Pa!" Alfie's voice broke as she rushed forward, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in his chest as she breathed in his familiar scent. "I was so scared. I thought—"

"I'm here, sweetheart, I'm here," Chibs whispered, his voice trembling as he held her tight. His eyes met Fiona's over the top of Alfie's head, and she stepped forward, her hand reaching out to cup his cheek.

"You've been crying," she said softly, her voice strained from crying herself. "What happened, love?"

Chibs shook his head, his breath hitching. He pulled Alfie closer, his other arm reaching out to draw Fiona and Kerrianne in, holding them all as if his grip alone could keep them safe.

"We lost him," he choked out, his voice breaking. "Padraic...He's gone."

Fiona's gasped sharply, her hand flying to her mouth, "No, Filip, please, no—"

"Killed in an explosion," Chibs continued, the words tearing from him like shattered glass. "Jimmy...I think it was Jimmy. I couldn't save him. I tried, but—"

Kerrianne stepped back, her face twisting with shock and disbelief, "No, you're wrong. Padraic can't be dead. He—"

"He is," Chibs interrupted, his voice breaking. "He's gone, Kerri. I'm so sorry."

Alfie and Kerrianne shared a close, sibling-like bond with their cousin, Padraic. Having grown up together, the three of them were inseparable, often described as more of a trio of siblings than cousins. Padraic, with his easy-going nature and protective instincts, was a steady presence in their lives, especially for Kerrianne, who looked up to him like an older brother. He was always the one to make her laugh when she felt down, sharing inside jokes and stories that only the two of them understood. 

Alfie, on the other hand, shared a more complex relationship with Padraic. Their dynamic was marked by a blend of fierce loyalty and spirited banter, often engaging in playful arguments that never crossed the line into real conflict. They challenged each other, with Alfie pushing Padraic to think beyond tradition and Padraic grounding Alfie when her fiery temperament threatened to get the best of her.

Padraic's presence had always been a source of comfort and strength for both girls. He was the one who snuck them out for late-night adventures, or covered for them when they were caught in some mischief. Despite the occasional bickering, the love and trust between them ran deep. Padraic was a confidant and protector, someone they knew they could rely on without question, even when their world felt like it was falling apart. To Kerrianne and Alfie, he was not just a cousin—he was their rock, their family, and a constant reminder of the home they fought so hard to hold onto.

Silence fell over the room, heavy and suffocating. Fiona stifled a sob, her body trembling against Chibs'. Alfie clung to him, her shoulders shaking with silent tears. But Kerrianne...Kerrianne just stood there, staring at him, her face a mask of shock.

"This is it," Chibs said, his voice rough and urgent as he looked at each of them in turn. "I'm not lettin' Jimmy come after you like this. We're goin' back to Charming, all of us, tonight. It's too dangerous here. I can't protect ye like this."

Fiona nodded, her face crumpling with grief, but Kerrianne's expression hardened, her eyes blazing with defiance, "No!" she snapped. "I'm not going anywhere!" she declared, crossing her arms over her chest. 

Chibs blinked, stunned, "What do you mean, ye're not going? Kerri, it's not safe here! I can't—"

"I don't care!" she shouted, the words bursting from her in a torrent of emotion. "This is my home, Pa. Belfast is my home! I'm not running away."

Chibs' heart twisted, the fear and desperation inside him boiling over, "I'm not askin' ye to run, Kerri, I'm askin' ye to stay alive! Jimmy's got no limit, no line he won't cross. Ye think he's gonna stop with Padraic? He's after me, after all of us."

"And you think hiding in Charming is gonna stop him?!" Kerri snapped back, her eyes flashing. "He'll find us there, too, Pa. You know he will."

"Kerri, please," Fiona interjected, her voice breaking. "We have to think about what's best—"

"This is what's best for me!" Kerri insisted, her voice cracking now, raw with pain. "I can't just leave everything, everyone, because Jimmy O'Phelan's a bastard! I won't!"

Chibs stepped toward her, his hands trembling as he reached out, his voice dropping to a desperate whisper, "You think I want this, lass? You think I want to drag you away from your life? I've already lost—I can't—" His voice broke, the weight of everything Jimmy has taken from him crashing down on him, "I can't lose you too, baby." 

Kerrianne's face crumpled, her bravado slipping. Tears filled her eyes, but she shook her head stubbornly, "You won't lose me, Pa. But I'm staying."

Chibs stared at her, his heart breaking. He wanted to argue, to yell, to beg, but he knew—he knew that look in her eyes, that fierce, unyielding fire. She was his daughter through and through, and nothing he said would change her mind.

"Then I'm stayin' too," Alfie said quietly, her voice steady despite the tears on her cheeks. "We're not gonna let him take away our home. He's already taken too much from us." 

Chibs looked between his daughters, his heart pounding in his chest. The thought of leaving them here, of walking away, was like a knife twisting in his gut. But he couldn't force them. He couldn't drag them kicking and screaming to Charming, no matter how much he wanted to.

"Please," he whispered, his voice breaking. "Please, just come with me."

But Kerrianne shook her head, tears streaming down her face, "I love you, Pa. But we're staying. We're not leaving our home."

Fiona stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him, her face wet with tears, "We'll be alright, Filip. We'll keep each other safe. I promise."

Chibs' shoulders slump, his heart heavy with the weight of everything he couldn't control, everything he couldn't protect. He pulled them all into his arms again, holding on tight as if he could somehow anchor them to this moment, keep them safe through sheer willpower alone.

"I love you," he whispered, his voice breaking. "I love you all so much."

"We love you too," Fiona murmured, her voice thick with grief. "We'll get through this. We have to."

They stood there, tangled together in a desperate, trembling embrace, the world outside the rectory walls was a storm they couldn't escape, couldn't control. Chibs pressed his lips to the top of Kerrianne's head, his heart aching with the fear of what was to come.

He knew he couldn't make them leave. He knew they had to make their own choices, fight their own battles. But the thought of leaving them here, of walking out that door and not knowing if he would ever see them again...

It was almost more than he could bear.

With a heavy heart, Chibs stepped back, his hands lingering on their shoulders, his eyes searching their faces, memorising every detail, "I have to update the guys. I'll be back," he said softly, his voice trembling. "I promise."

And then, with a final, aching look, he turned and walked away, his footsteps echoing through the silent halls as he left the only pieces of his heart that truly mattered behind.

***

The room was tense, the air thick with unspoken fear and anger. The SAMCRO boys gathered around the lounge of SAMBEL's clubhouse, their faces hard and eyes dark as they absorbed the events of the past few hours. Bottles of whiskey and beer cluttered the table, but no one was drinking. Not tonight.

Jax leaned against the back of the couch, his arms crossed over his chest, eyebrows furrowed in concern. Clay sat at the head of the dining table, his hands steepled as he listened to Bobby and Opie discuss possible routes and strategies for getting Chibs' family out of Belfast. The door swung open, and all eyes found Chibs as he stepped inside, his face pale and drawn, exhaustion etched into every line.

Juice, sitting at the bar, looked up immediately, "How're the girls?"

Chibs hesitated, his gaze sweeping over the room before he answered, "A bit shaken up, but they're safe." He took a breath, steeling himself, "Produced a Dunphy on 'em. But I want a patch on them too from now on."

Clay nodded, understanding the weight of that request, "You got it."

Bobby shifted in his seat, leaning forward, his expression serious, "I talked to Oswald. He's got cargo leaving Manchester day after tomorrow. You got to get your family out of here, Chibs."

The room fell silent, all eyes on Chibs. His jaw clenched, and he shook his head, the weight of his resolve settling over his shoulders like Armor, "No."

Jax pushed off the couch, stepping closer to his brother, "He's right, Chibs. Take Fi, Alfie, and Kerri, and head back to Charming. We'll handle Jimmy."

Chibs' gaze snapped to Jax, his eyes blazing with a mix of defiance and desperation, "No, Jackie boy. I can't leave. Not like this."

Juice quickly spun round in his stool, his eyes wide in disbelief, "You got to protect them, brother! If Jimmy's going after your family, you need to get them somewhere safe. You can't fight this war with them in the line of fire!" 

"I am protectin' them!" Chibs' voice raised, the anguish and anger in his tone silencing the room. He took a step closer, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, "This is my girls' home. And Kerri does not want to leave, and I'm not gonna force her. She's lost too much already. I'm not taking her away from what little she has left."

Jax opened his mouth to argue, but Chibs cut him off, his voice shaking with the intensity of his conviction, "The only way I can keep my babies safe is when that bastard O'Phelan is dead. And I guarantee I am gonna make that happen."

The room was silent, the tension crackling in the air like static before a storm. Chibs' words hung heavy, a promise laced with the kind of rage that only came from deep, soul-crushing pain.

Jax watched him, the lines of worry etched deep into his face. He knew what it was like to be backed into a corner, to have your family threatened and your choices taken from you. But he also knew what it meant to lose everything you were fighting for because you couldn't step back, couldn't walk away.

"Yeah, okay, bro," he said softly, his voice low and steady. He stepped forward, placing a hand on Chibs' shoulder, squeezing it in a gesture of solidarity and support. "We're with you. Whatever you need."

Chibs nodded, the fight slowly draining out of him as he looked around the room, meeting the eyes of each of his brothers. He knew they were right. He knew that leaving would be the safest option. But his girls...they're all he had left. And he couldn't—he wouldn't—rip them away from the only home they've ever known.

"Thank you," he muttered, his voice thick. He looked back at Clay, his expression hardening again, "But we're not runnin'. Not this time."

Clay nodded slowly, a grim smile tugging at his lips, "All right. Then we take this fight to Jimmy. We finish this, once and for all!" he declared, slamming his fists down on the table in a determined gesture. 

The men exchanged looks, the room buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose as they all nodded in agreement. This was what they did—what they've always done. They protect their own. And if that meant going to war, then so be it.

Gemma watched them, her heart aching for what was to come. She knew the cost of this life, the sacrifices that were made. But she also knew that for men like Chibs, there was no other way. He would fight until his last breath to protect his family, just like they all would.

***

The cool night air in Belfast did little to soothe the burning ache in Alfie's chest. She had tried to hold it together, even as her world seemed to collapse around her in the span of a single day. But here, alone in the corner of the SAMBEL compound, tucked between the fence and a storage shed, she felt the weight of it all crush her. Padraic—her cousin, her blood—was gone. And Danny, who had always been there, picking her up countless times...dead.

Her best friend and her cousin, ripped from her life in the same day.

The hollow, gnawing grief in her chest turned into a jagged sob as it escaped her lips. She wrapped her arms around herself, leaning against the cold, rough wall, trying to keep herself from falling apart entirely. The tears came freely now, spilling over, hot and fast, as she gasped for breath. The world blurred with her tears, but it didn't matter—there was nothing left to see, nothing that could make any of this better.

A soft whine broke the silence. Alfie blinked through her tears, looking down to find Koda, her loyal dog, sitting at her feet. His concerned brown eyes looked up at her as if he could sense her pain. She hadn't even noticed he had followed her out there. Koda leaned into her leg, his solid weight pressing into her side, offering what little comfort he could. Alfie choked on another sob as she reached down to run her trembling fingers through his fur.

"You always know, don't you?" she whispered brokenly, pressing her forehead against his soft head. Koda whined again, nudging her hand with his nose, urging her to keep petting him.

For a moment, Koda's presence grounded her, the rhythmic motion of stroking his fur giving her something to focus on. She had no idea how long she'd been there, silently unraveling. All she knew was that she needed to escape the noise, the club, even Chibs. Everyone was hurting, but none of them could understand the depth of her loss. Not for Danny, who'd known every side of her. Not for Padraic, the only link her and Kerrianne had to their father for a long time. 

Footsteps crunched on the gravel nearby, pulling her back into the moment. Her instincts kicked in, quickly wiping her face with the back of her hand, trying to compose herself. She didn't want anyone to see her like this—not now, not ever.

"Alfie?" 

The low, gruff voice startled her. She blinked rapidly, her tear-filled gaze meeting Happy's dark, unreadable eyes. Of all people, she hadn't expected him to find her.

"I'm fine," she choked out, her voice thick with despair. 

Happy didn't move. He just stood there, his hard expression softening ever so slightly as he took in her tear-streaked face. 

Koda's ears perked up, his gaze locking on the tall, imposing figure of the man. Alfie braced herself, anticipating Koda's typical reaction—a low growl, maybe, or the stiff, cautious posture he took on when assessing someone unfamiliar. Instead, to her shock, Koda's posture softened.

He trotted forward, closing the distance between them, his tail swaying in a slow, deliberate motion. Then, as if he were greeting an old friend, Koda brushed against Happy's leg and looked up at him with what could only be described as cautious curiosity. Happy, unflustered, glanced down at the dog, his expression as inscrutable as ever. He held out his hand, fingers relaxed and open, letting Koda make the first move.

Alfie's jaw dropped slightly as Koda sniffed Happy's hand and, after a moment, nudged it with his nose. A deep, rumbling sound, almost like a sigh of acceptance, escaped the dog's throat as he settled beside Happy's leg, his tail now wagging in slow, steady strokes.

"Bloody hell..." Alfie muttered under her breath, still in disbelief. Koda had never taken to anyone so quickly, not since...She swallowed, pushing the thought away. It wasn't just that, he was usually so wary of strangers—he was trained to be. His time in the British Army had ensured that he remained vigilant, assessing every new person as a potential threat.

But now, here he was, sitting calmly by Happy's side, like he belonged there as Happy reached down, his fingers brushing lightly over Koda's fur in brief, gentle strokes, while Alfie blinked, trying to process what she was seeing.

"A girl crying in a corner doesn't exactly scream fine to me," Happy muttered, his voice rough but calm.

Alfie let out a bitter laugh, wiping at her face again, "Guess you caught me," she whispered, the weight of her grief clawing at her again. "Just...a bad day."

Happy didn't respond right away, but he didn't leave either. Instead, he stepped closer, slow and deliberate, until he was standing beside her, his presence solid but not invasive. Alfie braced herself for him to say something dismissive, but he didn't. He just stood there, close enough that his presence became a strange comfort she hadn't expected.

"You wanna talk about it?" Happy's voice was surprisingly gentle, a stark contrast to his usual gruff demeanor.

Alfie shook her head, her fingers tangling in Koda's fur as he had come to rest his head on her lap with a whine, sensing her distress, "No," she whispered. "Not really. It just...hurts."

Happy took a long drag from the cigarette he had pulled from his pocket, flicking the ash to the ground, "I know loss," he muttered, his gaze distant for a moment. "Know it too well. Don't get easier. But...you don't gotta carry it all by yourself."

The words hit Alfie harder than she expected. She had been carrying it all—Padraic, Danny, the grief, the guilt. Her chest tightened, and she let out a shaky breath, her throat closing up as tears welled in her eyes again.

"I should've done something," she whispered, her voice cracking. "I could've stopped him." 

Happy didn't say anything for a moment, just let her words hang in the air. Then, to her surprise, he reached out, his hand landing gently on her shoulder. It was a simple gesture, firm but understanding. His grip anchored her, grounding her in a way she hadn't anticipated.

"You did what you could," Happy said quietly. "That's all anyone can do."

Alfie closed her eyes, her body shaking as the silent sobs tore through her. She leaned into the weight of his hand, letting her grief spill out in front of someone who wouldn't judge her for it. And as Koda snuggled closer to her, Alfie realised that for the first time in a long time, she didn't feel quite so alone.

***

A/N: 

26/09/2024

So, what did you think of the new character? Would you guys like to see more of Koda or nah? Also, is there anything you guys particularly want to read about more; a character maybe? Or if you have a suggestion? Just let me know in comment section. I hope you all enjoy this chapter 😄

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AESTHETICS

Words: 12440