Page 102 of The Originals

“Let’s get outta here.”

“Okay,” she whispered.

“You hungry?”

“Yes.”

I know the perfect place.

*

They could’ve gone any place to get a burger, but the small diner in Ghosttown was his usual go-to spot. If he was spending money, he’d be investing it back into his town. While Jack and the club didn’t want to see further growth in Ghosttown, they were all about sustaining the businesses in place. They had a good thing in their small town, and everyone knew it.

Jack and Colleen had been at the diner for thirty minutes when the bell sounded from the door, and a couple walked in. Just the sight of the man changed Jack’s whole demeanor. While the club tended to keep to themselves, they were mostly respectful to the townspeople. But this guy? Jack had zero tolerance for holier-than-thou assholes, and Arnett Collins fit the bill.Everything is a problem with this motherfucker.

Jack grabbed his napkin, wiped his mouth, and tossed it on his plate. Arnett and his wife were passing their table when he glanced down, glaring at Jack. There was a history. Arnett madeit known he wasn’t happy with the club making their home in Ghosttown, even though they’d been there just as long as him.

Jack had always given strict orders to the club that townspeople were off limits. There weren’t many people, a few older folks and a handful of families. For as rough and ruthless as their reputation had been, they didn’t mess with any locals. In a sense, Jack felt a responsibility for them. They weren’t a part of the club, but they were a part of Ghosttown. Most respected the club and were decent. They kept their distance but didn’t welcome trouble.Except this motherfucker.

Arnett took every opportunity to complain, bitch, and rant to anyone who would listen. Most brothers ignored it, but on occasion Jack enjoyed riling him up.

“Everything okay?” Colleen asked.

Jack nodded and watched the couple sit down. Every so often, Arnett would look over, scowling in Jack’s direction.

Once they ordered, Arnett started. Jack knew it was coming and smirked at Colleen as he started complaining about the noise motorcycles made and mentioning an ordinance.

Colleen cupped her mouth, trying to cover her smile and rolling her eyes. Jack merely shook his head. Everyone in the club knew about Arnett and his antics. And it seemed his wife had had enough.

“Arnett, please.” The woman’s voice was hushed.

“I’m just saying, they ride their bikes all over town, making all that racket. Some of us like to enjoy the quiet without those damn bikes ripping up and down Main Street.”

Jack glanced over and watched the woman grab Arnett’s hand, caressing her thumb over his knuckles.

“And all I’m saying is that it’s our anniversary, and I’d like to enjoy it with my husband. How about you take all that energy you have for complaining about the motorcycle club and use it totell me how wonderful the last fifteen years have been with me as your bride.”

Jack watched Arnett’s complete demeanor change staring at his wife. Jack had to hand it to his wife, she knew how to calm Arnett. It was a gift to be that person for someone.

“Best thing I ever did was marry you.” Arnett said.

His wife smiled and hiked her elbows on the table, leaning closer and wiggling her brows. “Tell me more, sweetheart.”

Jack’s lips twitched. He may despise Arnett, but he had a good woman.Motherfucker probably doesn’t deserve her.

The waitress stopped at the table. “Anything else?”

“Just the check,” Jack said, but when she started walking away, he held up his hand and pointed to Arnett’s table. “And I want theirs too. Add on two desserts.”

The waitress looked over at their table and furrowed her brows. “You want to pay forArnett’smeal?”

Jack snickered. He was sure this was a first.

“Yeah, I do.”

She raised her brows and sighed. “Okay.”

A few minutes later, two checks were delivered to their table. Jack slid out from the booth, waiting on Colleen. When she stood, she inched closer and lowered her voice.

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