Dragon Spirit [D.O.A. 3]

CHAPTER 1 “No, I will not do it again and there is nothing you or anyone else can do or say to make me change my mind.” Rylee snapped. Mr. Nork sat back in his chair, steepling his hands together, crossing his legs, saying, “Mr. Haney, you will do this, or you will be without a job.” Rylee sneered, “Then I guess I’m out of a job, because I refuse to represent a sleazy scumbag slug like Hank Daluca again. I did it once, knowing the son of a b***h was guilty as sin and I will not do it twice. I told you and him that very thing when I got the not guilty verdict last time.” Turning around and walking to the door, Rylee stopped long enough to say, “I’ll have all my things out of the office by Monday.” Rylee left Nork’s office and quickly made his way to his own. He was beyond pissed. The fucked-up thing was, when he got this angry, he always cried. Everyone always thought it was because he was so sensitive and mistook the tears for despair. Yes, he was sad. He had come to this firm thinking he could change the world—save the small guy. Instead, he had been forced to defend the lowest forms of life time and time again—all because they had money. Get caught with eighteen thousand pounds of coke—Rylee to the rescue. Cook your books and steal hundreds of thousands of dollars from the elderly—Rylee to the rescue. Anyone wants to sell a gun arsenal to enemy countries or gangs, so they can kill thousands of people—Rylee to the rescue. However, when he had been forced to defend Hank Daluca, when the man had been drinking and driving—killing a mother and her three small children—Rylee had just about had enough. When the trial was over and Daluca got off with a small fine and nothing more, Rylee felt so dirty and sleazy, no shower could erase the black stain on his very soul. It wasn’t only because Daluca was let off with little more than a slap on the wrist, but because of how he had cross-examined the three children’s father, who had been driving and had got the man to admit he too had been drinking and could have been falling asleep behind the wheel. It didn’t matter the man only drunk one beer three hours before the accident, or the fact he had little memory of what took place at the time of the accident. Nope, none of that mattered. Rylee had gone after the man and the s**t of it was, the prosecutor never once objected. The jury had no choice but to come back with a not guilty verdict and all Daluca had been charged with was driving on a suspended license. Daluca had tried to thank him, but Rylee refused to shake hands with the creep and told him then and there, he would never defend the man again. Rylee had then gone back to the office and told both Lark and Nork the same thing. It seemed they didn’t care about Rylee’s feelings on the matter. However, Rylee did, so they could all kiss his ass goodbye. Rylee angrily swiped the tears that fell down his cheeks. Damn, he hated when he did this. Ignoring his secretary, Rylee flung his door open and slammed it shut behind him, plopped down in his office chair and covered his face with his hands. Three years down the shitter. But damned if he cared. Shit! Okay, he cared. However, not enough to blacken his soul even more than it already was. Rylee’s phone buzzed, out of pure routine Rylee answered, “Yes, Catrina.” “Mr. Haney, Mr. Billman is on line one.” Catrina replied. Bren was like a brother to Rylee, as was their other friend Jude. They had known each other since they were practically out of diapers. When Bren was kicked out of his house for being gay and Rylee lost both his parents in a fire, it was Jude and his mom Clara who didn’t hesitate to take them in. There wasn’t anything Rylee wouldn’t do for his little family. Rylee snorted, thinking, “Not so little anymore.” Six months ago, Rylee’s family grew by the dozen—literally. That was when Bren met Rene “Pit” Telkin and his merry men and boy, did that ever change all their lives. Rylee had seen these guys around town and did his best to steer clear of every one of them. He always thought they were a large biker gang since they drove around on Harleys, dressed in leather, and looking big and badass with D.O.A. written on the back of their vests with a large dragon head surrounding the letters. It was a shock to find out that Pit and his men were really part of a special detective agency called Dragons of Anarchy. They were looking into a serial murder case involving young boys. Bren started dating the man and when he was about to break it off, a huge secret was discovered. The biggest shock of all, was when Pit was brought to them on the verge of death because of something called “Dragon Heat”. Rylee and his brothers were told that Pit and his gang were men born in the fifteen hundreds and shared a soul with a real dragon. The D.O.A. members called them Maharishis and Bren was Pit’s Sentience. |Shifters would refer to them as their mate. Within forty-eight hours of scenting his mate, the D.O.A. agent’s blood starts to become hotter and hotter until they claim their Sentience to become one with both the man and the dragon. This is referred to as dragon heat. Then it was discovered that Jude was Casper’s Sentience, and Rylee was a Sentience to Taj— Pit’s second in command and vice president of the ‘biker gang’. Bren and Jude had both made their matings official, but Rylee had not done so with Taj just yet. He and Taj had agreed to get to know each other properly first. Rylee was concerned about the Dragon Heat until Taj said he had a way to keep it from taking over. Taj had introduced Rylee to Spirit, Taj’s Maharishi, and they had all gone out together almost every night—except those times Rylee was forced to work late. Even though Spirit had not come close to him, or talked to him like Bren and Jude’s dragons did with them, Rylee knew the dragon cared. Rylee just figured Spirit was getting used to him like Azul did with Bren and Smoky did with Jude when they all first met. After all, when a person became Sentience with a D.O.A. member, it was a two for one deal. You got both the man and the beast. Rylee just hoped Bren and Jude were telling him the truth about not having to mate with the dragon to become Sentience, because that was something Rylee knew would never happen and quite honestly, it made him queasy just thinking that Bren and Jude… No! Bren and Jude swore it hadn’t happened. “Mr. Haney are you there?” Catrina asked with concern. Rylee knew that if he spoke to Bren, he would know something was wrong with him, and right now, Rylee wasn’t in the mood for questions. He just wanted to be left alone, to have his little pity party, maybe get drunk, and when all that was finished—figure out what he was going to do for the rest of his life. “Sorry, Catrina, tell Mr. Billman I’m much too busy to talk right now. I’ll get back with him sometime tomorrow or the next day.” “Yes, Mr. Haney.” Catrina answered. Rylee let out a deep breath and stood to gather his coat and get out of there, so he could start his pity party, when the door opened and Boris Lark walked in. “Rylee, what is this I hear about you leaving us?” Rylee started walking towards the door, “Yes, sir. I am.” “You’re really willing to give up your career because of one silly case?” Lark asked, then scoffed, “Come on, Rylee. You’re smarter than that.” Rylee moved to walk past Lark, but the man stepped in front of him. Rylee sighed, “Mr. Lark, please step aside. I’m trying to leave.” Shaking his head, Lark replied, “Rylee, I will not accept your resignation. Now come with me. We’ll talk with Peabody, tell him you’ve changed your mind about the Daluca case, and we’ll get you back to work.” Rylee snapping, “That isn’t going to happen. Now if you will excuse me. I have a party to get to.” Rylee shocked himself when he shoved past Lark and went to the door. Mr. Lark rapidly made his way to the door and placed his hand over Rylee’s on the doorknob, caressing him with his thumb. “You know that if you walk out of here, you’ll never work in this or any other town for the rest of your life.” Rylee jerked his hand out from under Lark’s. The feel of that man’s hand on any part of his body, even his hand, made Rylee’s skin crawl. Lark had made overtures to him since the day he had started working for Nork and Lark as an associate attorney. Rylee had done his best to be professional with the man, but he just wouldn’t give up. Well. At least now, he wouldn’t have to be so nice. “Mr. Lark, I have no worries about my future employment, but you will have plenty of concerns coming your way when I obtain a writ for s****l harassment and sue your slimy ass for every penny you have. Now step aside or I will step you aside.” Lark’s eyelids raised as he stared at Rylee. His lips were thin and tight and Rylee knew Lark was pissed, but he couldn’t give a s**t. Just as Rylee was about to shove Lark aside, Catrina knocked on the door, “Mr. Rylee, I’m ready for lunch.” Rylee quickly called out, “I’m coming.” Grabbing the doorknob once more, Rylee turned the handle, opened the door, saying, “Like I told your partner. I’ll be back on Monday to collect my things.” Rushing past Catrina, Rylee made his way towards his car, ignoring everyone who called out to him. He knew they just wanted him to help them with any problems they were having with one case or another and since he was no longer employed, they were no longer his problem. Getting in his car, Rylee turned the key and took off out of the garage. Looking up, Rylee could see the prism colors and knew it was Taj’s dragon, Spirit. Spirit was almost glasslike. This caused the sunlight to bring out the colors of a rainbow. His tail was yellow, the edges of his wings were orange, then pink, red, and green. His body was blue and damned if he wasn’t absolutely beautiful. Rylee had noticed the beast always followed him, no matter where he went, since the day they were introduced. Rylee knew Spirit was there to watch over him and make sure he stayed safe. He just wished the dragon would stop in and visit when Rylee couldn’t make it to Drago, the home of the D.O.A. agents. Rylee hit the gas when he saw Bren and Jude coming out of their shared building, pretending he didn’t see them. He should have known better. His car phone started ringing within seconds. Knowing he couldn’t not answer the phone, Rylee pressed the button on his steering wheel. “Hey Jude.” “What the hell, Ry? Why’d you blow past us like your ass was on fire and you were rushing to find a hose. Oh! Maybe you were doing that very thing. How is that Sentience of yours? Finally decide to pull your head out of your ass and make an honest man out of our Myst?” Myst was the biker name Taj used, just as Pit was Rene’s, Casper was Rance’s, and so on. “My love life isn’t any of your business, Jude. Now what do you want?” “Oh damn, but you are cranky today. Maybe you need to get laid and I know just the agent willing to help you with that.” Jude said with a giggle. In moments like this, no one would know that Jude was the newest town doctor. However, no matter how immature Jude might act, he was one of the smartest men Rylee knew, the other one just so happened to be Bren. That’s why he knew he had to get off this phone fast. “Look, Jude, I don’t really have time right now to play s*x sparring with you. I’m really busy. What do you want?” “Rylee, what’s wrong?” Jude immediately asked. Rylee dropped his head down then lifted it once more, so he didn’t accidently hit and kill someone. “Jude… ” “Don’t try to lie to me, Ry. Bren said he tried calling you earlier and you blew him off. Then you blew past us and now you’re snipping and snapping at me. This isn’t like you, and we want to know what’s up.” Jude stated with a sternness rarely used by the man. Knowing he wasn’t going to get out of this, Rylee sighed, saying, “I quit my job today.” “You what? Rylee, did that sleaze bag Lark hit on you again?” Jude coldly asked. “Yes, but that’s not why.” Rylee quickly answered. Letting out a long breath, Rylee said, “Look, Jude. I’m really not in the mood to talk about it right now. Just go home and play loading the clown into the cannon and let me get on with what I have planned.” Jude snorted, “I prefer Casper practice his magic by putting his wand into my chamber of secrets or shooting his meat rocket into my sausage wallet.” Rylee couldn’t help but groan in derision and shake his head. Jude had a comeback for everything. Pulling into the liquor store, Rylee parked, saying, “Jude, I need to go. Tell Bren I’m fine. I just want to be alone right now and maybe we can get together tomorrow evening.” “Ry… ” Rylee hung up, got out of his car and made his way inside the store. Not knowing what he wanted, Rylee took his time, gathering some of the best vodka, rum, and even a bottle of Maker’s 56 Kentucky bourbon. Making his way towards the clerk, Rylee heard motorcycles passing, and looked out in time to see the new Tiger Shark biker gang pulling into the parking lot. “Damn nuisances. I wish the sheriff would get them out of our town. It’s as if Poconos Boulevard has turned into a bikers’ paradise.” The clerk said as he rang up Rylee’s purchases. “That will be two hundred twenty-three dollars and seventeen cents.” Rylee cringed a little at the cost, but handed the man his credit card. “Not all bikers are like the Tiger Sharks.” “Maybe not, but those bastards bring nothing but trouble to our town. I say just get rid of the lot of them and be done with it.” The clerk replied, handing Rylee the receipt to sign. Taking the paper and glancing at the clerk’s name, Rylee said, “Mr. Coldfield, people who belong to motorcycle clubs do so for several reasons and not all of them nefarious. They do so for the camaraderie and companionship, or even just to socialize. Also, there is always strength in numbers. Mostly groups come together because they share the same likes and beliefs. Just like you do when finding a friend. Now these people elect officers, pay dues, and many times have rallies so they can gather all the other clubs together and get to know each other. They are also really big on charity work. I can’t tell you how much money a MC has made for things like cancer, poverty, hunger, and things like that.” “Maybe so, but that doesn’t take away from the damage they can cause to businesses like my own.” Cornfield replied. Rylee handed the receipt to the clerk, saying, “Did you know that MCs have been known to guard women’s shelters? Or that they ‘pass the hat’ to give to someone who might be at risk from having their utilities shut off? Or hold special ‘poker rallies’ to raise money to help someone who’s life has been destroyed by some type of natural disaster or have suddenly found themselves struggling to pay medical bills? Mr. Cornfield, do not judge some by the few. There is a reason gangs like the Tiger Sharks are called the one percent.” With those words, Rylee picked up his purchases and made his way out to his car. He stopped short when he saw a few of the Tiger Sharks blocking his way to the driver’s door. Remembering what Taj had taught him if ever confronted by one of these men, Rylee stood tall, shoulders back, and although his insides were quaking in fear, he made sure his voice didn’t indicate that feeling, “Can I help you?” “Rylee Hanes, isn’t it?” The tallest and more muscular of the three asked. Taj had told Rylee that if he ever came across a one percenter, to always do his best to find out the man’s rank and check out the patch attached to his cut. Knowledge was power with any biker gang. The multitude of patches told Rylee a lot about the man. For instance, the guy was the vice-president of the Tiger Sharks, had no problem killing someone, and with the number twenty-two on his cut, meant the man had done time in prison. His rank meant respect was demanded by anyone who spoke to him and he would kill anyone who did otherwise. “Yes. Is there something I can help you with?” “We were told you work at Nork and Lark and we’re here to talk to you about one of our members who was taken in by the cops. He’s been accused of something he didn’t do, and from what we were told, you’re one of the best attorneys there is in this town.” The man stated. Rylee juggled his bag in his hands, saying, “I’m sorry. I no longer work with Nork and Lark. I can’t help you.” “Let’s kick his ass, Deak.” The shorter man said lunging towards Rylee. It took everything in Rylee’s power to stand his ground, but Rylee didn’t move. Unlike Deak who had patches covering his cut, this scrawny dweeb only had one, and that one told Rylee he was nothing more than a prospect—a wannabe. “I suggest you back the f**k off, asshole. I’m not in the mood for your s**t today. You touch one part of me and I’ll lay you on your ass. Now if you all will excuse me, I have some things to do.” Deak tossed the skinny s**t back, snapping, “Aces, get Bones the f**k out of here before I break every one of them in his body.” Aces grabbed Bones without saying a word and dragged him off, leaving Rylee alone with Deak. Deak turned back to Rylee, saying, “Look, I know people around here don’t like us much and maybe some of them have good reasons. I know you might find this hard to believe, but we’re not here to cause trouble. We know you’re with the D.O.A. crew, but I have a good friend sitting in a cell for a murder he didn’t commit, and he needs your help.” Rylee sighed, “Mr. Deak——” “It’s Deak.” Rylee moved passed Deak, opened his car door and set his bag down inside. Turning back to the man, Rylee said, “I just quit my job because I refuse to represent a man I know was guilty.” “That might be, Hanes, but I’m telling you Quack is not guilty. He didn’t kill anyone. I know that for a fact, because he was with me at the time of the murder. I can’t tell the cops because then they would want to know what we were, doing and I can’t tell them about it. Our actions are not something either of us would want to get out to anyone, let alone our gang.” Rylee was confused for a moment, when Deak’s words finally registered, “Are you saying you two are involved? If that’s the case, wouldn’t it just be easier to tell the cops and be done with it?” Shaking his head, Deak said, “If my gang knew what we were up to, Quack and I would both be dead now.” Deak stated. Rylee sat in the driver’s seat, saying, “Even if I want to help, I can’t. Like I said, I’m not working at the firm anymore.” “Then work the case without the firm.” Deak said, grabbing the door so Rylee couldn’t close it on him. “Look, Hanes, I thought that men were innocent until proven guilty?” Rylee hesitated a moment, then finally replied, “Yes.” Deak stood up, not letting go of the door, “And, isn’t part of being a lawyer about making sure both sides are represented by the best possible counsel available?” Rylee slowly nodded, “Well… yes.” “I was told the best man to do that is you. I’ve done some pretty shitty things during my life, and so has Quack, but this isn’t one of them. All I want is for Quack to get a fair shake.” Deak insisted. Rylee heard the sincerity in Deak’s voice. “Let me think about it and if I can’t I’ll make sure to give you the name of someone else who can.” Nodding, Deak let go of Rylee’s door, “That’s all I ask. When you decide, you can contact me at The Brand Bar and Grill.” “What is your friend’s real name, Mr. Deak?” Rylee asked before closing his door. “It’s just Deak, and Quack’s real name is Mallard Wilson.” Deak said, stepping back and turning to leave. Rylee watched Deak walk away. Rylee wasn’t sure what he was going to do, but right now, he was going to push it all aside. He had his party to get to, and he was losing sunlight. Deak and his friend were going to have to wait.