Daughter of Mayhem

The Path to Hell

[A/N: Well, readers, it has been a hot minute since my last update. I do apologize for that but, you know how life gets in the way. I have been periodically working on this chapter throughout these last few months so, I promise I have not forgotten about this story. As always, please forgive the typos and misspells that you might come across. I'm an okay writer but not the best editor until I have to reread this story to make sure I am keeping Jax and Charlie's relationship on track. Please let me know what you think. I love seeing the comments you guys leave. Now, on with the story. Happy reading!!]

--Charlie--

I don't know how long I sat there, dozing on Jax's shoulder as they were all talking among themselves. It couldn't have been too long because my side began to ache more insistently. Before I could say anything, the loud rumble of a multitude of Harleys was heard pulling into the lot. I slowly opened my eyes and saw all the guys who were still around stand up. Jax pressed his lips to my hair.

"I hate to do this but, I need to get up, Babe."

"Oh," I whined but sat up and gave him a grin before I kissed him softly. "Go be the VP. I'll keep your spot for you."

"You move to where I'm sitting and when I get back, I'll sit on your other side." I couldn't stop the smile from growing on my face because by doing what he asked, he was protecting my injury and therefore preventing other people from accidentally hurting me further. I wanted to melt into a puddle. I loved him so much for always looking out for me and for much more.

"Okay. Hurry back."

He pulled me into another soft kiss and, with a teasing smile on his face, said, "yes ma'am." He stood and made his way outside with the rest of Samcro to greet the other charters as they arrived. I did as he asked and scooted my butt over to his spot on the couch, flinching and gasping as it tugged on my ribs. I squeezed my eyes shut and forced myself to take deep breaths, gently touching my right side where the pain radiated throughout half my body. A hand gently touched my left shoulder and I opened my eyes, looking up to see Gemma's concerned face.

"Where is your pain medicine, baby?"

"It's in my bag. I think I left it in the chapel."

"No, I moved it behind the bar with mine. I'll go get it for you."

"You can just bring the medicine. I don't need the whole thing."

"Okay," she said and disappeared behind the bar. I relaxed against the couch, forcing myself to take deep breaths as I listened to the noise of the men outside. Only a few minutes passed when Gemma brought the medicine and some water to me.

"Thank you," I said as I opened the bottle and put one in my hand. I switched the pill bottle for the glass of water and she stood there as I took a long drink. I returned my head to the back of the couch, closing my eyes. Seconds later, I felt Gemma's hand running through my hair and I peeked at her through my lashes.

"How are you feeling? Honestly?"

"Honestly, everything hurts. I didn't sleep well. At all."

"Couldn't get comfortable?"

"No, I couldn't. It hurts to take deep breaths but I have to take deep breaths because I don't want pneumonia."

"Pneumonia? What does that have to do with anything?"

"It is one of the complications that can happen with broken ribs. If I don't get enough oxygen in my lungs, fluid can start to build up and lead to pneumonia."