The Ryland Boys
Chapter 10

“We aren’t having this conversation again.” Lindsay said practically shouting.

Heading into the kitchen, I walked to the fridge pulling out a bottle of orange juice. As I opened it, I felt her eyes burn into me.

Looking back at her I shut the fridge, “Uh, am I missing something? You got fired. Why are you here? And it’s Sunday…” She eyed Jax.

He took a bite of his fork full of eggs, Mason smiled wide at me “She’s living with us.” He said turning to look at Lindsay proudly.

I laughed lightly before Alison walked in taking a cup of coffee and waving at us in her robe before walking out.

“She’s not a morning person.” Mason said smirking at me.

He pointed a fork to the plate by the microwave “Coleen made you blueberry pancakes.” He said smiling.

I turned and picked up the plate smiling and sitting beside Mason taking the syrup knowing fully well that Lindsay’s eyes are burning into my flesh.

“What happen to the trailer park you where living in?” She asked leaning into Jax.

Looking over at her I laughed, “Well I never lived in a trailer park but I did live in a house, but it uh burned down.” I said before taking a bite of my pancakes.

She scoffed “Oh my god, Alison believed this load of crap? She’s using you guys for your hospitality and home.” She said scowling at me “You should be ashamed of yourself, mooching off good people.” She shook her head.

“Lindsay.” Jax said in a warning tone, I looked from her to my juice avoiding the twos energy.

She scoffed again “Jax baby, she’s lying!” She said laughing.

I laughed lightly, shaking my head in disbelief by her ignorance, “I get it Lindsay,” I began, “You hate me, you don’t trust me nor do you want to see my face every time you come here.” I said nodding.

She eyed me “But like you said, it’s just for the summer. You’ll be around here year after year. No need to be so hostile, I promise I’m not here to ruin your life.” I said laughing.

Mason grinned and turned to Lindsay “She says that, but after I get her on a few dates and propose to her, she’ll be here every single day too. You’ll be sisters.” He said to her before looking to me winking.

I smirked and ate my pancakes, “God help you if you marry a woman like her.” She said looking me up and down.

“Lindsay.” Jax said again.

She stared down at Jax “What? I’m just stating the obvious. She’s a disaster magnet.” She said to him.

I ate my pancakes ignoring her to be the better man, but when Jax and her headed out the kitchen I let out a sigh “God she’s so f*****g aggravating.” I said to Mason who stared with wide eyes and an even wider smile.

He laughed “Woah Norah, I didn’t know you had this side of you.” He said wiping his mouth.

Giving him a small smile I put my plate in the sink “Sorry to burst your perfect image of me.” I said taking his empty plate and putting it in the sink.

Mason laughed “You’re still perfect.” He said before heading out kitchen.

Well, that was sweet.

Heading out the kitchen, I went upstairs pulling on some running shorts and a tank top with my new running shoes. Putting in my headphones, I played some music and headed out the door down the stairs and to the backyard.

The backyard was so huge it was the perfect size for a track, perfect to help me get back to my old routine.

Stretching my arms and legs out, I began my run, it took me a good fifteen minutes to realize Lucas was following me and I only noticed because I slowed down and he ran past me. Pulling a headphone out, I caught up with him “How long have you been running with me?” I asked him laughing.

Lucas smiled wide “Since you started.” He said looking tired.

I nodded and put the headphone back in.

After one lap, Lucas got tired and decided to sit it out, after five laps around the backyard, I got tired.

Stopping in front of Lucas, he held out my water bottle to me “You run a lot.” He commented.

I took a steadying breath and drank some of the water “It’s good for your heart.” I said poking his chest.

He smirked “So is hugs.” He said nodding.

I laughed and nodded “Yes, so are hugs.” Grabbing the towel I wiped my face and neck going inside with Lucas. The air conditioned home felt like heaven after the heat.

“You’re sweaty.” Lindsay said gesturing to me as I headed up the stairs.

Lucas rushed past us and to Jax at the top of the stairs, looking back at Lindsay I nodded “Its what happens when you exercise.” I said laughing lightly.

She scoffed “I definitely don’t get sweaty.” She cringed.

Right, of course you don’t. “What do you do? I’m sure you’re in a sport or something right?” I asked her wiping my forehead.

Lindsay nodded “I do swim.” She said eyeing me over.

Right. That explains the squarish body shape.

“Interesting.” I said walking past her and going up the stairs.

Passing by Jax, he stared down at me as I walked to my room shutting and locking the door.

Showering, I let my hair air dry while I slipped on a light pink tank top and some yoga pants going out the door.

I ran into Carter who gave me a shy smile “Goodmorning.” He said down at me.

Shutting my door I smiled “Goodmorning.” I said moving from my tiptoes back to my feet and headed past him down the stairs.

I sat in the living room watching the Grinch which was the only thing I could find, but i’m not complaining.

“Who’s that?” Lucas asked walking over and sitting on the couch.

I eyed him carefully and then looked to the Grinch, “You don’t know who that is?” I asked him curiously.

He shook his head “Oh this is good.” I said smiling while Lucas eyed him “he’s ugly.” He said.

I nodded “You celebrate Christmas right? You know about Santa?” I asked.

Lucas nodded “He brings me presents when I’m good.” He said smiling widely.

I pointed to the grinch, “The grinch lives in a town called WhoVille and its full of Who’s that love Christmas more than anything.” I said as I pulled him to my side.

“Well the Grinch is an ugly who, but he is a who, and he hates Christmas because all The Who’s made fun of him when he was a kid.” I said sadly.

Lucas’s face saddened “That’s not nice.” He said.

I nodded “So he tries to steal their Christmas!” I said with wide eyes.

Lucas eyed me “How?!” He asked staring at the Grinch in mixed emotions that the world also feels.

“Well he dresses up as Santa and goes from house to house stealing their presents, trees, roast beef and ham, all of it! Even the pies!” I said watching Lucas curl closer.

He tuned into the movie and watched as Cindy Lou Who climbed the mountain to knock on the Grinches door.

Lucas was fascinated the whole time, and I couldn’t help but watch his eyes light up, he looked so intrigued.

My heart ached a bit, I told myself after the incident I’d never have s*x again, I’d never lie with a man.

Yet staring down at Lucas, I realized how badly I want one of my own. How badly I wish I could be a mother. It must be so beautiful to have a person that’s half of you and half of the man you love.

One day I’d have to overcome this fear, but I don’t know if I can.

Looking away, I watched as the Grinch gathered with The Who’s as they ate roast beast and sang around the tree.

Lucas was sitting back laughing as the Grinch sang incorrectly.

“What, the Grinch?” Lindsay said from behind us, I looked back at her and she scowled “That movie is so wrong for a kid. Are you trying to ruin Christmas for the guy?” She asked.

Why can’t this be a cartoon episode where an anvil falls from the sky and crushes her?

I sighed and looked to Lucas “Did this ruin Christmas for you?” I asked c*****g an eyebrow, he shook his head “I like it!” He said.

Looking back at Lindsay she leaned into the doorsill shaking her head “You’re going to ruin him.” She said eyeing me.

Alison walked out from down the hall and looked up to the tv smiling “Awe, the Grinch.” She said looking down at Lucas.

He smiled wide “Can I be the Grinch for Halloween mom?” He asked her and she nodded “Of course.” She said smiling.

I grinned at Lindsay who rolled her eyes and walked away. Alison stared at Lindsay walking away and rolled her eyes at her before giving me a “blow my head off” look.

I nodded “Me too” I mouthed.

She shook her head and headed up the stairs.

Lucas was telling me all about how the Grinch should be Santa for a solid fifteen minutes before Alison came downstairs and looked to us both “I have to go see my sister, I’ll be back for dinner tonight. Do you guys think we should go out?” She asked.

I shrugged and mason shouted “yes!” From upstairs.

She looked up and laughed “Alright then. Love you kids! Bye!” She shouted hurrying out the door.

Lucas wanted to play football, which meant we ended up outside with everyone, even Benson.

Lucas’s team consisted of Jax, Lindsay, Mack, Emily and Jerry.

Masons team had me, Carter, Benson, Coleen and Dexter.

I hiked the ball to Mason who was gawking at my a*s. “Throw it dork!” I shouted to him while we both laughed.

He tossed it to Benson who ran and threw it to Carter.

I laughed as Carter barely made it touching down and doing a victory dance motioning for Jax to suck a d**k.

Jax smirked and gave him a loud “ha ha.”

We huddled and I felt Masons hand on my a*s moving it up and eyeing him with a grin “Keep it up and I’ll shove the ball so far up your a*s they’ll have to run with you to make touchdowns.” I said hearing them all laugh.

Mason waggled his eyebrows grinning, “Why are we even tossing the ball, Norah can win this alone. Just toss her the ball she’ll make it.” Carter said as if it was obvious.

They eyed me and I laughed “Lindsay’s been trying to tackle me down and I’m not even running.” I said watching their eyes move to Lindsay.

“Mason and Dex will be guard you.” Benson said smiling.

I nodded “Let’s do this shit.” I said turning as we ran back to our spot.

When the ball was thrown, I went running for it, catching it and hurrying down the field with Lindsay hot on my tail.

Tossing the ball to Mason I watch him catch it and he hurried it to the end while Lindsay shoved me hard to the floor.

I landed on my back looking to see Mason get tackled by Jax.

Lindsay eyed me with a smug look before turning around and walking back.

Propping myself up on my elbows, I watched her smug sway in her h**s “Nice wedgie!” I called out to her smirking.

She scowled embarrassed and adjusted.

I laughed as a hand was held down to me, I looked up at Jax “She’s competitive.” He said holding the ball.

Ignoring his hand, I got up smiling politely “It’s okay Jax, I know shes been wanting to do that for a while.” I said laughing.

He watched me intently with his eyebrows furrowed and I walked to Mason “You got tackled too?” I asked him.

Mase grinned “I looked back to make sure you weren’t dead.” He said laughing.

Stupid sweet boy, “Next time let me die.” I said smirking and patting his back.

We played a few more games and they kept me away from Lindsay, but after they gained on us by a touchdown, I wasn’t having it.

“You’ll toss me the ball.” I said to Mason.

He nodded.

As the whistle blew, Lucas hiked it to Emily who tossed it to Lindsay.

Smirking, I ran my fastest to her, only I didn’t realize the force until we smacked into one another and went tumbling.

I grabbed the ball midair and landed on my feet running the ball the other way.

“Run Norah! Run it!” Coleen shouted.

Ducking past Mack and jumping over Lucas, I reached the end zone with Jax hot on my tail.

Tossing the ball down as I passed the goal end I smiled turning around and then landing onto my a*s as Jax crashed into me.

Laughing, I pushed on his chest lightly watching him stare down at my eyes, moving his eyes to my lips. I realized the moment was watched and gave his chest a light push.

He slowly got off and stood holding a hand out, I took it this time and he pulled me up. I grabbed the ball off the ground and watched Lucas run over “That was insane! Jax you almost got her! But she’s a tiger, she’s too fast.” He said grinning at me.

“Cheetah buddy.” Jax corrected, before looking down at me “She is.” He said steadying his breathing.

I ran the ball back and ignored Masons judging eyes, “Lindsay’s going to kill you.” He said low as he stood beside me.

I nodded “I know.” I said nervously.

The whistle blew and Coleen hiked the ball to Dexter who threw it to Benson, as I ran one way, Mason ran the other and Carter ran the middle. Benson pretended to toss the ball to me but threw it to Carter.

Jax tackled mason and Lindsay came to me claws out. She wasn’t even going for the ball, she just wanted a reason to kill me.

I flew back rolling back a few times before she landed on top of me shoving my chest rough.

“Lindsay, you know I think you’ve got a lot of anger built up. You want to try one on one?” I asked her.

She stared down at me and as the sound of cheering came, I kept my eyes on her “Lets box, wrestle, tackle, race? Come on. I’m open to it all.” I said staring over at her face.

Lindsay breathed heavy getting off me “Let’s go.” She said standing and walking to the house.

Following after her, I pulled my hair into a braid and followed her into the gym.

She pulled on some boxing gloves and head gear with a mouth guard. I’m guessing that’s all Jax’s.

Pulling on the other headgear, I slid on the boxing gloves and stood on the mat with her.

“Don’t hold back. I want you to get this s**t out of your system so you don’t kill me in my sleep.” I said watching her grin.

She threw the first two punches, lousy.

I sighed and dropped my fist “You suck at this.” I said calmly and took my headgear off tossing it aside.

Lindsay ran at me tossing punches toward my face, thanks to that year of self defense classes, I dodged each one and then threw two hard punches to her helm.

She stepped back and I heard an “Oh s**t!” Turning my attention to Mason.

Carter and the others had gathered after and Jax pushed through “Lindsay, don’t. You’ll lose.” He said to her looking me over.

Lindsay eyed him annoyed “f**k off Jax.” She said going for me.

Ducking, I popped back up and tossed a kick to her stomach, she lifted her gloves up after and I grabbed her helm pulling her back onto the mat. “You step off, you’re out.” I said lifting my fists to her.

She scowled and threw a leg, I ducked and popped back up grabbing it and twisting it. She landed onto her face with her left leg on my shoulder.

I looked over at Jax threatening him if he interfered.

Letting her leg go I looked down at her “You tackled me down more times than I can count out there. What’s up?” I asked her.

She turned and jumped up tossing a punch, it hit the side of my face and I stumbled back smiling and rubbing my l*p, “Come on.” I said gesturing for her to come at me.

Lindsay threw two hard punches my way, I blocked one and ducked on the other tossing three punches to her helmed head and watched as she fell to her a*s.

She got back up slowly and then went to kick me but I lifted my hand blocking it and then kicking her once. It knocked her onto her side and she turned on her back limp.

I sighed. “Lindsay.” I said going to her body laying there. She was knocked out.

“Damn Norah, you can fight?” Carter asked me as I leaned down pulling my gloves off and the helm off Lindsay.

I stared up at Jax “She’ll be fine, she’ll just wake up very pissed.” I said to him.

He nodded giving me a long stare.

Standing I wiped my bloody l*p, “I took a couple self defense classes a year ago.” I said straightening my hair out.

Mason smirked “So you went in knowing you could kick her a*s?” He asked.

I shook my head “I was ready to eat s**t. She tackles hard. I figured he would’ve taught her some fighting moves.” I said eyeing Lindsay and gesturing to Jax.

Carter laughed and Lucas walked over to Lindsay pushing her with his finger “Is she dead?” He asked Jax while inspecting her like a bug on the floor.

Jax shook his head “No, but when she wakes up Norah might be.” He sighed picking Lindsay up off the floor and leaning her into the wall sitting upright.

Lucas sat down and looked to Jax “I hope she doesn’t wake up then.” He said catching me off guard.

I bit back a laugh and looked to Benson who smiled.

“Lucas, that’s not nice. Imagine how sad Jax would be if Lindsay didn’t wake up.” I said to him.

He turned around looking at me “But she wants to kill you.” He said frowning.

I smirked “Sweetheart, I just learned she couldn’t kill me if she tried.” I said looking to Jax with a smirk before I walked out the gym.

Going upstairs, I put medicine on my l*p and a knock came to my door, “Open.” I said.

The door opened and I walked out the bathroom shutting the medical kit and putting it on the vanity. The door shut and I looked up to see Jax, he stood there leaning his back into the door staring at the floor while he ran his thumb under his chin thoughtfully.

I leaned into the vanity “I did not expect you, Mason yes, Carter maybe but not you.” I said crossing my arms over my chest.

He looked over at me keeping his head ducked, “You think I should do the fight?” He asked me.

I was a bit taken back, I didn’t expect him to ever want me involved in anything for him especially choices on his career.

Pursing my lips I stared at the floor “When is it?” I asked looking up and catching his stare. His eyes moved from my eyes catching my legs and then quickly moving down “Next week. Leaving me six more days to train.” He said sighing.

Pushing off the vanity I walked toward the bed “This opportunity, how rare is it?” I asked him sitting on the bed.

He furrowed his eyebrows “Very.” He said leaning forward slightly.

I watched his eyes move to my toes and felt self conscious about them so I brought them under sitting down on them. “Do you feel ready?” I questioned.

As he shrugged I smiled “Then you’re ready.” I said calmly. Had he said yes, he probably wouldn’t have been ready.

His eyes moved to me and he dropped his hand crossing his arms over his chest, “Why do you say that?” He questioned.

I smirked “If you had said yes, then you’d have the idea that you’re going to win anyways. Therefore you questioning whether you should would mean you don’t truly think you can. I’d say no if that was the case.” I stood slowly “But since you’re saying you feel like you aren’t sure then it means you’re ready but you aren’t sure if being ready is what it takes.” I said.

He stared confused but nodded “So I should.”

Walking up to him I stared up at him “You should.” I said leaning into the wall.

His eyes moved over my face and I eyed him “What importance does my opinion bring though?” I asked him curiously.

Jax pushed off the door and stepped aside pulling the door open and looking me over “You’re a smart girl.” He said before walking out and shutting the door behind him.

A smart girl huh?

Smirking I looked across the room at the mirror on the wall “Smart girl.” I said to myself before a knock on the door made me jump.

I pulled it open and Mason smiled down at me “My moms coming home in fifteen minutes, we’re going to my favorite sushi place. Get dressed.” He said smirking and turning walking to his room.

Masons eating his favorite food now…

I shut the door locking it and going to the bathroom straightening my hair in ten minutes giving me five minutes to clothe myself.

Pulling on a pair of white above the ankle length jeans and a dark blue satin cami, I tossed on a grey cardigan and slid on my silver earrings and watch. Grabbing my bag I made sure the straightener was unplugged and slid on some thin strapped heels going out the door and shutting the door.

“You-That was fifteen minutes?” Mason asked looking me over.

I c****d an eyebrow “No, this was thirteen minutes, fifteen minutes would’ve given my face a good beating. I don’t have makeup though.” I said watching him smirk and walk down the stairs.

“Looks better like this.” the voice shocked me.

Looking over at Jax as he gestured to my face, I felt a bit taken back but gave a small smile “Thanks.” I said before walking past him to the stairs.

Heading down it, I watched as Alison came running inside and up the stairs “I spilt on my skirt give me five minutes!” She called out running to her room.

Making it to the bottom steps, I eyed Lindsay as she stood leaning into the couch. Her eyes moved behind me, I headed down and stood beside Mason.

He guided me outside and I helped out Lucas into the SUV, Lucas was singing “Da who dores, da who dores welcome Christmas time is here!” I smirked and buckled him in.

Stepping back into Masons chest, I flipped the chair down and he smiled down at me going past me and to the back.

I tucked my hair behind my ear and stepped inside going to the back with him. He stared a bit confused and I gave him a small smile “Lindsay might kill me if she’s put in the back.” I said watching him smirk and toss an arm over the back of my seat.

Carter ran to the car sliding over the hood to the opposite side of where we got in, pulling the door open and jumping in.

He grinned at Jax who gave him the middle finger.

Jax stepped aside to let Lindsay in but stared at me and looked down at her “You take the front, I’ll get in the back.” He said as she smiled at him biting her bottom l*p before kissing him.

Guess he doesn’t want another b***d shed, I don’t blame him, today I learned I could beat the life out of the sassy Lindsay b***h if I wanted.

I wouldn’t, but I am happy that I could if I wanted to.

His eyes watched me after and he got in sitting beside me, the smell of the woods and mint leaves filled my nose.

He sat back squished and trying not to touch me.

Lindsay got in and shut the door smiling at Lucas before giving me a smug grin.

I smirked back, sure she got the front but I’m sitting between two hot guys, one of them being her fiancé.

She turned to the front and tried to talk with Carter but he seemed uninterested.

Looking to Jax as he leaned himself into the window I laughed a bit and looked to Mason, “Mind if I get close? Jax seemed like he’s going to fall out the window.” I said looking up at mason from my lashes.

He stared for a while and grinned “By all means, please.” He gestured for me to scoot closer and I moved closer laughing as he continued saying “mhm.” Like he was eating a deluxe chocolate cake or something.

Looking to Jax, he gave me a small smirk settling into the seat.

Alison came and got into the drivers seat talking to Benson and then smiling and nodding.

She made eye contact with me from the front and gave me a small smile before she drove off.

We arrived at this fancy looking restaurant and I was happy I dressed nice because otherwise I’d feel a bit out of place.

Lindsay got out and stretched, Jax leaned forward and eyed her “Lin, the seat.” He said before she stared “Oh! Right.” She said pushing the button and allowing the top of the seat to bend down. Jax stepped out and I scooted out, stopping and unbuckling Lucas pulling him out as I stepped out.

Lucas fixed his pants and took my hand. We watched Mason get out and stretch “Mom when does the new truck get in?” He asked her sighing.

Alison looked to him “Next week.” She said handing her keys to the valet and walking inside.

Heading inside with Lucas holding onto both mine and Jax’s hand. I tried letting go a few times but the kid had a death grip.

“Reservation for Ryland.” She said to the man. He nodded and walked us to a secluded table, past all the couples dining.

Passing a couple, the woman gasped “Oh your sons so beautiful.” She said looking between Jax and I.

I laughed and shook my head “Oh no, he’s not.” I realized I didn’t finish that and felt my eyes widen “He’s beautiful yes. He’s not mine. Not ours.” I said nervously.

Looking over at Lindsay she was fuming in her spot, I could see the steam rising off head.

Jax smirked lightly and Alison smiled at the woman “Thank you.” She said to the woman before walking us to the table.

I sat between Mason and Lucas, “Sake bombs!” Mason said to the table.

Everyone eyed him sighing “It’s too early Mase.” Lindsay said shaking her head.

He scoffed “Its never too early for a sake bomb, that’s how you get your hunger in.” He said looking to Benson who nodded.

“You have one then. We aren’t.” Lindsay said gesturing to Jax and her as she eyed the menu.

Jax stared down at the menu focusing on it but I know he probably wanted one.

He’s so whipped it’s insane, I don’t get it, he’s like a ten out of ten and she’s a seven.

I’m a solid six point five but I wouldn’t be a controlling b***h.

Mason eyed me “You down for a sake bomb?” He asked me watching me with a challenging stare.

I nodded “I’m down.” I said as I eyed the menu.

As normal, it’s a rich restaurant with no prices on the menus. Wonderful.

“That’s my girl!” Mason said laughing.

The waitress came by and I watched her cute smile, she was so pretty. My god. She was a solid nine. The pretty ginger hair, bright big blue eyes. A lot nicer than my brown hair and brown eyes. Boring.

“Hey, what can I get everyone started with?” She asked looking around the table.

“Your number.” Carter said under his breath as he watched the menu intently.

The table busted into laughter and everyone took a good minute to settle back in. “We’ll have three-dad?” Mason asked Benson who nodded. “Fouuuu-Make it five sake bombs.” He said low to the waitress.

She nodded and gave Carter a small flirting smile, “Other drinks?” She asked staring to Alison.

“An iced tea, a kids rootbeer, regular rootbeer, two cokes, a sprite, water and” she looked to me.

I smiled to the waitress “Sprite.” I said to her. She nodded and wrote it in.

Looking across the table at Jax and Lindsay, she was eyeing me over her menu. God she has issues.

Carter eyed Lucas “You don’t like the raw fish Lucas.” He said sighing as Lucas pulled his sleeve telling him to get him a rainbow roll.

I laughed “Ill get the roll and you can have one, if you like it, we can share.” I said watching him nod and move to me. He laid his head on my arm as he stared at the menu pointing to the pictures on the menu asking what every one was.

“Stop pestering Norah, let the girl find something to order.” Alison said to Lucas.

He stared up at me furrowing his brows, I put the menu down and Mason tossed his arm over my chair again sitting back and then putting his menu down.

The waitress came back with our drinks placing down the drinks in the right places, my eyes falling to the other sprite on the table. Jax.

Taking a drink of mine, I placed it back down and she left coming back with the sake bombs.

She eyed us “Sake bombs?” She asked and Mason pointed to us all.

She nodded and put them down placing Carters down with a napkin. Then as she went to place one down by Jax I shook my head reaching a hand out.

She gave it to me as the two Love birds bickered not noticing the sake bomb.

I placed it down and the shot of sake beside mine.

Hushing Mason I eyed Lindsay and she caught on eyeing me “What?” She asked annoyed.

I stared closer and gave Mason a pat on the leg to play along, he stared at her too.

She put a hand on her face “What?” She asked aggravated.

I laughed lightly “You have makeup or something.” I said sitting back.

Lindsay eyed Jax who stared at me and then her nodding. She got up and headed to the bathroom.

As soon as she was out of sight I reached over placing the sake shot and the beer glass in front of him laughing.

Jax eyed me and I sat back going to my drink, I took the shot holding it over the glass “Quick before she comes back!” Mason said.

I dropped it in tipping the glass and chugging it before putting the empty glass down and taking Jax’s empty glass laughing.

Benson smiled wide “I like your style kid.” He said nodding to me.

I wiped my mouth with the napkin watching as Lindsay came back over.

She sat and eyed us all before picking her menu up and sighing.

Laughing lightly, I looked to Mason and he gave me a wink smiling wide “You’re…amazing.” He said shaking his head.

I looked to Alison watching her stare up from

her menu eyeing her son.

Turning from him I looked down at Lucas “I want to do hibachi.” He said tilting his head.

Benson shook his head “Hibachi is after eight. It’s six.” He said looking to Lucas like he’s said this a thousand times.

The waitress came back and we ordered our sushi’s, she looked to Carter flirtatiously.

“You jealous?” Mason asked leaning in and whispering to me.

I looked to the waitress and then to Lindsay before I stared down at the menu and shook my head.

He sighed “Because you’re too busy being jealous of Lindsay.” He whispered.

Staring over at him I leaned back and smiled softly “I’m not trying.” I said watching him nod “I know, if you didn’t like him you’d have fallen for me by now. I’m pretty charming afterall.” He said low.

I laughed and gave him a small shove.

He smiled “Let’s do just a sake shot.” He said stopping the waitress “Bring me two sake shots.” He said low to her.

She nodded and headed off.

I laughed “Sake is meant to be drank slow and warm.” I said watching him shrug “Americans ruin everything.” He smirked.

The waitress brought them over and placed down some appetizers.

Holding the shot with Mason, we clanked the glasses and took the shots down. He laughed and watched my face “You take it down like it’s nothing. Practically chugged that sake bomb too.” He laughed.

I nodded “My friend Nichole and I used to go to an all-you-can-eat sushi. We use to challenge one another on who can drink the most.” I laughed.

“How classy…” Lindsay commented.

Smirking as she spoke I stayed silent and watched Alison smile at me “She’s a bitch.” She mouthed.

Mason was staring at Lindsay for a while before he started laughing “How would you know anything about the word classy?” He scoffed.

She eyed him “You don’t need to defend your girlfriend every time. When will you get it? She’s not into you! Stop tossing your d**k out, she isn’t going to suck it.” Lindsay said eyeing Mason in annoyance.

He sat back and then leaned forward “You are just such a hateful bitch.” He said before Jax cut in “Mason. Lindsay. Come on, let’s just enjoy dinner.” He said looking between the two.

She crossed her arms over her chest staring at Mason in fury.

He leaned forward looking to the waitress “Another sake bomb.” He said before looking down at his hands on the table.

Silence grew on the table, “Why would Norah suck Masons d**k?” Lucas asked looking to Benson.

I dropped my face to my hands and looked to Alison watching her stare at Lucas for a while with her mouth slightly open.

She leaned forward and eyed Lindsay “Are you f*****g serious?” Alison asked Lindsay.

My eyes popped from my face at Alison’s anger, Lindsay shrugged “He’d learn it eventually.” She scoffed.

I looked down at Lucas “She meant kick.” I said to him “I’m not going to kick his d**k so he doesn’t have to be nice to me.” I said nonchalantly.

He nodded “That makes more sense. Gee Lindsay your so dumb sometimes.” Lucas said laughing.

She stared at me and then stood walking away from the table. Jax sighed and followed after her looking like he really didn’t want to.

Alison looked to me sighing “Thank you.” She mouthed giving me prayer hands.

I smiled softly and then looked to Mason leaning into his ear “If my job didn’t depend on me not doing it, I’d have sucked your d**k by now.” I said to him hoping it’d cheer him up.

A small smile split over his face and he sat back staring down at my lips “Yeah?” He asked.

I nodded “Oh yeah.” I said lifting one eyebrow and smiling. “After all you’re a charmer.”

Mason tossed an arm over my chair smiling wide and then shaking his head laughing.

Laughing with him I looked to Carter who was texting someone smiling. “text her to bring another sake bomb.” I whispered to Carter.

He looked over at me smirking and gave a nod.

The two sake bombs came and I smiled at Mason, “Can I drop it in?” Lucas asked eyeing my drink.

I looked to Alison and she nodded to me.

Handing him the shot I held my glass close to him, he dropped it in pulling his hand back quick.

I brought the drink up chugging it down and placing the glass down laughing with Mason.

Jax came back alone and took a seat sighing “Where’s Lindsay?” Alison asked.

He looked to the waitress raising his two fingers.

She came over “three Sake shots and a sake bomb.” He said rubbing his jaw.

As she walked off, he looked to his sprite “She called for a ride. Said she needed to go home.” He said looking from Carter to me and then down at his drink.

Alison leaned back “Im sorry for yelling at her I just, it was very thoughtless of her to say that.” She said annoyed.

Jax nodded “No need to apologize. She’s got a stick up her a*s.” He said rubbing the bridge of his nose before taking the shots down one at a time leading up to the sake bomb.

As he dropped it into his drink he took it back and placed the empty glass down.

“It’s an anaconda not a stick Jax.” Lucas said biting his straw. The table fell into laughter and disbelief.

Our sushi began coming out and as Lucas tried and spit the sushi into my hand I laughed “Figured.” Carter said taking the sushi from my hand and putting it in a napkin handing me another napkin.

I wiped my hand off, “Sometimes kids have to experience things themselves to learn.” I said watching him eat his teriyaki steak.

“Alright, so your dad and I are leaving Friday to try again for your uncles surgery. If I find out you threw another party I will ground you all.” She said looking between the guys.

Mason laughed “Why aren’t you telling Norah? She’s the mastermind behind the parties.” He said jokingly.

Alison rolled her eyes “I’m serious Mason. I’m looking especially at you. I know you’re the one who convinces these two.” She said gesturing to Carter and Jax.

He smiled “Can we have a small one?” He asked eyeing his mom.

She stared at him for a while “Ten people. That’s it. If there’s eleven you’re grounded.” She said to the boys before looking to me “And our rules still apply. Rule three most importantly.” She said watching me.

I nodded “Don’t worry, Rule three will never be broken.” I said smiling to her.

“What’s Rule three?” Mason asked looking between us.

Alison eyed him “None of your business.” She said sassy.

He laughed and Lucas eyed me “What’s Rule three?” He whispered to me.

I smirked “No spilling ice cream on her couches.” I said watching him nod.

Carter caught eyes with me questioning and I smirked looking away.

Lucas looked to Benson “gotta pee.” He said eyeing Benson.

He nodded and gestured for Lucas to go with him “You’re lucky because I do too.” He said walking with him to the bathroom.

Alison stared at her sushi rolls taking a bite before looking to Mason “Norah is off limits. You will not get her drunk. You will not set her up with your friends. You will most definitely absolutely not break rule three.” She said sighing and looking to Carter. “If I find out that any of you slept with Norah I will kick you and her out. Am I making myself clear?” She asked.

Mason laughed then stopped “Oh, you’re serious.” He said staring over at me and then Alison.

I held up three fingers “Rule three.” I said taking a drink.

Alison smirked at me “As tempted as you may feel, think about how not only will you get her kicked out, but yourself.” She said looking between Carter and Mason.

Mase furrowed his eyebrows “What about Jax?” He asked annoyed.

She looked to Jax “He’s engaged.” She said eyeing him confused and disgusted.

Carter laughed “Never stopped me.” He said making my picture of him change a bit. He is not a loyal man, that’s probably the real reason she left him.

Jax looked to Mason and then Carter moving his focus to his mom “Don’t worry. Not going to happen.” He said leaning back.

Alison nodded “She’s an annoying girl but no loyal person deserves to be cheated on.” She said before taking a drink.

Jax gave a nod in agreement.

Mason sighed “Well f**k….” he looked over at me “I got some money saved up. Can I bribe you with a lake home and an endless supply of money? I’ll be your sugar daddy. We can marry in the Caribbean’s.” He said laughing.

I laughed “There’s two things wrong with that.” I began holding up two fingers and dropping one.

He stared smirking “One, I plan on working for what I own. I don’t do sugar daddies, nothings worth having if you haven’t fought for it.” I said laughing, bringing up my second finger I smiled “Second, you forget the most important rule your parents have.” I said.

His face looked to me confused “That is?” He asked.

I eyed him “You can’t marry out of wealth or class.” I said watching him look me over “Oh sweetheart you’re high class and a million dollar woman.” He said shaking his head.

He’s so smooth I really don’t know how I am not madly in love with him yet.

Laughing I looked to Alison “Im trying here.” I said watching her laugh “He doesn’t quit, Masons it’s not going to happen. Ever. Maybe after the summers up you can date but nothing more.” Alison said watching him smirk.

Mason sat back and looked to Jax “Unfair Rule man.” He sighed.

I shook my head watching as Lucas ran back out. “Just makes sure you don’t marry gold diggers.” I said softly.

Dinner finished with a few sake bombs and we headed home but I fell asleep half way home.

“Come on Mase, you drunk a*s,” Jax said, Masons laugh came out and I smelt the mint and pine trees.

A crashing sound came and then a “f**k!” Followed by “Mase come on.” Carter said drunk.

We began moving and silence filled the space as I was placed into the bed.

Running the back of my hand over my face, I wiped my hair from my face and laid on my back.

The blankets where pulled over me and I opened my eyes as I watched the back of him leave.

Jax.