All the Money in the World

Chapter 25

"The saga that started nearly three weeks ago at Saint Thomas has officially ended. Seven deaths, multiple injuries but no charges are being filed by local or federal authorities and many Charming residents are wondering if we are as safe as we all thought."

The TV clicked off and Tara huffed, annoyed by the news anchor but also dismayed by the negative press circulating over the last few weeks.

"Still bad?" Jax asked, slowly making his way to the kitchen table.

"Yeah," Tara sighed. "Why can't they just lay it out?"

Jax huffed. "They don't want to put the Irish in the headlines. Another case or just to save face. Can't imagine having the IRA running around is a good look for local law enforcement."

"And besides without cameras or witnesses, thanks to the club, it's all hearsay." She watched Jax grimace as shifted in his seat. "Still in pain?"

Jax pursed his lips and shook his head. "My whole side just feels tight."

"Normal," she assured him. "Gem have any bring ideas on repairing things with the town?"

"Nothing solid," he shrugged. "Between the shit at the hospital and Katie going away for prostitution we're looking at a lot tension. Love swings both ways, always has, but never like this."

"I'm not sure why they expect the old ladies to be saints," Tara mused. "They know you guys aren't."

"What we do is for the good of Charming," he said, half sarcastic and half serious. "And we don't do shit in town."

"I have an idea," Tara said, her forehead creased as her mind worked on he details.

"What?" Jax loved that Tara was so eager to help.

"Margaret Murphy, my boss, she could right an op-ed boosting you guys and fundraising always helps." Tara was excited, more so than she'd been in weeks, and it made Jax smile cheerfully. "What?"

"I love you," he said. "And that sounds like a great idea."

"It's the same tricks," she said humbly, "But the op-ed could probably help where the fundraising falls short. Some people might not be impressed because it's not rare that it happens."

Jax nodded slowly. "We'll make it bigger. Do it up this time."

"Yeah, we will," she smiled. "Jax," Tara reached across the table and took his hand in hers, "I'm sorry. I was scared, I was stupid, but I'm here now and nothing is gonna separate us again."

With a small smile he nodded and leaned over to kiss her softly. "I know."

"I love you, Jax," she said with a peaceful smile.

"I love you too, Tara."

--

In the gym's office, Nathaniel sleeping in her arms, Katie sat quietly doing some paperwork, casually keeping an eye on how many members were coming and going.

Alec announced himself with a sharp knock before entering the office. "Hey," he greeted her with a kiss to the top of the head. "How are you?"

"Tired," she chuckled, "But good. You?" Her chair squeaked a little as she turned to face him.

"Good," he nodded. "I want to apologize, Katie. I stepped back from the club and, because of your proximity, you, Charlotte and Nathaniel. I shouldn't have done that to you three."

"You're forgiven, not that you have anything to apologize for in my opinion. I get it. It's intense and I even needed some space from them after the baby was born."