Chapter 3 Teaser

Jasper entered the garage with a dozen donuts from Krispy Kreme, Edward’s one true indulgence. The two friends chatted briefly before getting back to work. Both were lost in their own projects, trying desperately to get the bikes finished before the weekend. When they heard the telltale ring indicating someone had walked into the shop they both glanced at each other. They quickly did a round of rock/paper/scissor which Edward won. He chuckled and went back to his work as Jasper stood.

“You always win, you know that, right?”

“Go answer the door, loser,” Edward laughed as he motioned his hand in a shooing manner towards the door.

Jasper flipped him off with a grin and then ran his hands along his coveralls before exiting the bay. He was still chuckling as he entered the waiting area to see a huge man standing there. He was African American with a bald head and a fierceness that spoke volumes. Jasper peered around him and didn't see a motorcycle parked out front.

“Can I help you?” Jasper asked hesitantly.

“I’d like to speak with Edward Masen,” the man answered in a deep voice.

“He’s working. Can I ask what this is about?” Jasper inquired, his need to protect Edward emerging.

The man grinned, “Tell him Felix would like a word with him.”

Jasper nodded and turned. The name sounded familiar to him but he wasn't sure why. He hurriedly approached Edward who looked up. Edward was about to say something sarcastic when he saw the panic on Jasper’s face. He stood up. His mind and body alert for whatever was happening.

“What’s wrong?”

“There’s a guy named Felix out there. He’s a big black dude.”

Edward furrowed his brows, “My old P.O.?”

“That’s why the name sounded familiar.”

“Why would he want to see me? Shit! They can’t revoke my innocence can they?”

Jasper immediately started shaking his head, “No way. My dad cleared you.”

Edward glanced over his shoulder towards the waiting room, “Alright, umm, I’ll go see what he wants.”

“Do you want me to call my dad?”

Edward shook his head, “No, I didn't do anything.” He turned back to Jasper. “I’m sure it’s nothing.”

Edward ran his hand nervously through his hair. He knew he had done nothing to warrant a visit from his probation officer. He breathed out, my ex-probation officer, he thought. He was perplexed by the situation and being perplexed often frightened him. Usually, when things did not go according to plan some form of chaos would ensue, a chaos that often left him in ruins. He stepped inside the waiting room and saw the familiar face.

“Masen,” Felix said simply.

“Felix,” Edward replied, quickly getting into his old pattern of interactions.