Chapter 14
Jordan
Over the next week, Jordan and Alex settled into an unexpectedly comfortable routine, their days filled with a mix of early morning runs, fulfilling work at the clinic, and evenings spent together.
They ran together daily on the scenic coastal trail and down the beach. One morning, they were lucky to see a pod of gray whales from the shore. The beautiful spring weather added to the beauty of their runs each morning, with the wildflowers blooming around the trails.
They changed the trails they used several times to keep the runs interesting. They liked the trails that were secluded at the end so that they could finish the run with some fantastic kissing.
Jordan got annoyed at Alex one day when he left a hickey on his neck, complaining that they were not teenagers and never to do that again. People asked Jordan why he wore a turtleneck on the beautiful spring day. He knew Brenda and Lisa suspected something but never got the proof they desperately sought.
At the clinic, Jordan watched as Alex spent time doing his volunteer training, taking care of Shadow, and fending off unwanted advances from the staff, owners, and even a very enthusiastic husky named “Hershal” who apparently liked to hump muscle guys.
Jordan was impressed with his dedication and quick learning as a volunteer.
Alex was assigned to lead the fifth-grade student volunteers mid-week, and his patience and logistical know-how amazed the parents and staff alike .
Now and then, Jordan would catch him taking his breaks, sitting next to Shadow, and reading books to him. Alex said that Shadow loved biographies of Ben Franklin. Jordan thought it was an excellent way to save money for the clinic for sedatives as it put all the dogs to sleep. He liked that Alex was an extensive history nerd.
Another day, Jordan had a severe surgery that took up most of the day, and it was late at night, so Alex went and got them some chicken Pad Thai, and they sat and ate it on the floor of the recovery room because Jordan didn’t want to leave the dog in case something happened.
Jordan thought restaurants would start opening all over town now that Alex had moved there. He was amazed that Alex ordered double entrees whenever they went out together. The night after their incredible sushi date, he ordered a T-bone steak and the Bistro Burger with sides at the restaurant. The next night, he ordered a full entrée dinner of salmon and grilled chicken. Jordan had never seen anyone put away as much food as Alex did.
Jordan saw him bring a backpack of food to the clinic daily. The staff started referring to it as ‘The Protein Pantry.”
He knew that Alex left the napkin under his cinnamon roll last week as a joke, but he had a serious conversation with God about why he made it so that deaf people could smell farts.
Jordan even had to accept a complaint from Mrs. Winston because Alex has cleared the breakroom a couple of times since starting here because of his protein farts.
Jordan watched Alex get all choked up one afternoon at the clinic—Rebecca, Brenda, and Lisa had gotten together and salvaged as many of the shirts Alex had used for bandages on Shadow the night he burst through the window as they could. All of the shirts were stained in blood, and some had to be cut off of Shadow during the surgery and were not salvageable.
Rebecca remembered Alex's story about the wife of a fellow soldier making these shirts for Alex. Hence, she and the other girls got together and talked to every grandmother on our patient list about the best ways to remove blood from clothes. A couple of the t-shirts disintegrated, and it was a rumor Jordan heard that they tried something they shouldn’t have with gasoline and seltzer .
Jordan was in the breakroom with Alex, eating lunch one afternoon, and eight staff members walked in the breakroom wearing his oversized shirts over their clothes. Alex was so touched that he choked up. The staff hugged him and gave him back his newer-than-new t-shirts after the grandma brigade got all the blood out and even sewed a few holes.
Jordan thought that the shirts were hysterical, and he saw how much they meant to Alex when he saw him delicately folding them up and placing them in his bag. It seemed to be a peaceful moment. Jordan didn’t want to pry, but an emotion was attached to those shirts.
The t-shirts that were saved were ‘Meat shield who better protect my husband’, ‘Say Eye , Spell Map , Say Ness ’, ‘Don’t need a permit for these guns’ with arrows pointing to both biceps, ‘No better friend, No worse enemy’, ‘Don’t Fart’ written in nine different font sizes all over the front and back of the shirt, ‘Superhuman’, ‘This is my first time at the gym’ and Jordan’s favorite of them all, a black t-shirt with white letters that says ‘Should I take this shirt off?’.
Jordan couldn't help but notice the remarkable bond that was forming between Alex and Shadow. It was a heartwarming sight to witness, and Jordan found himself silently celebrating the connection that was growing stronger with each passing day.
He watched as Alex always approached him with calm and reassuring movements and talked to him about his injuries, daily events, and living in Brookings, and one time Jordan caught him gossiping to Shadow about Brenda’s date the night before with the guy that everyone now refers to as “Toupee Guy.”
Jordan watched the trust build between the two. Daniel taught Alex a lot about canine care, and the first time Shadow ate food out of Alex’s hand, his smile was enormous. Jordan watched Shadow regain strength, and he had to fight with Alex and Shadow about keeping the ‘cone of shame’ on him.
One day, he saw Alex with a tug toy and said, “You can’t play tug with Shadow—he’s too weak.”
Alex laughed at him and explained that it was a bicep exercise strap he uses when sitting and reading. Embarrassed, Jordan walked down the hall in the other direction .
Jordan loved the nightly goodbyes. He and Alex decided to take things very slowly because there was still so much going on in their lives, but Jordan had never felt this safe with anyone. The kissing has been so passionate and sincere that it has become the best part of Jordan’s day.
Entering the breakroom, he saw Alex sitting with Brenda and Lisa at the table. The room buzzed with conversation and the clinking of dishes. Jordan approached the group with a broad smile. "Today's the day. Are you ready to take Shadow home with you?"
Alex looked up from his conversation with Brenda and Lisa, his eyes lighting up at Jordan's words.
"Terrified," he replied, his voice wavering. "I think I have everything ready. I made the mistake of giving these two my credit card yesterday, and they bought everything I needed. When they brought it over last night, I was shocked they could fit so much stuff in a Subaru.”
Brenda laughed. Lisa looked at Jordan and said, “We love spending other people’s money.”
Alex shook his head and rubbed his belly. “I think I can only afford one meal tonight, Jordan. You’re going to have to spot me.”
“There is no way I’ll ever take responsibility for feeding you—I know horse ranchers with cheaper feed bills than your grocery budget.” The entire table laughed.
Jordan continued. "Shadow's made incredible progress under your care, Alex. He's healing physically and emotionally, and I have no doubt he's found the perfect caregiver in you. I was thinking, during his rehab, bring him here with you when you volunteer. He can rest here, be with other dogs, and the staff can help keep an eye on him.”
Alex looked so relieved. “Thank you, Jordan. I was worried that my volunteer time here would have to be reduced because I needed to be home with him. This means a lot.”
Brenda and Lisa clapped their hands together. “I love this idea,” Lisa squealed.
Alex nodded in agreement, his gratitude evident. "I'm honored that Stephanie entrusted me with his care. I promise to give him all the love and attention he deserves to get better."
"It's heartwarming to see how animals can bring people together,” Lisa chimed in. “Alex, you've not only made a difference in Shadow's life but also here at the clinic. We're lucky to have you.” She looked up at Jordan with puppy dog eyes. “Aren’t we, Jordan?"
Jordan blushed, sighed, and walked away from the disruptive duo that plagued his dreams at night.
Brenda yelled after him as he exited. “Have a good day, Jordan!” The three of them laughed happily and loudly.
Walking away from the table left him in a great mood. He was still taken aback at how Alex had brought out so much confidence in him. His thoughts drifted as he walked, and he knew he had better clear his head to get caught up on charting.
Jordan was in his office, focused on paperwork when he noticed Alex entering the room. Their communication now felt comfortable, and there was a silent understanding that had developed over the past week. Jordan didn't reach for his hearing aids as he looked up, ready to listen to whatever Alex had to say.
Alex met Jordan's gaze and spoke, his words easy and thoughtful. "Do you mind if we eat at my place tonight? I don't want to leave him alone once I get him home."
Jordan's lips curled into a gentle smile as he nodded in agreement. "Of course, that sounds great."
“I’ll make salmon for you. I still don’t understand how a person doesn’t eat red meat—it seems unnatural.”
Jordan laughed. “As much red meat as you eat, there simply isn’t enough left for me.”
Jordan was looking forward to Alex cooking dinner tonight. He was becoming more and more a figure in Jordan’s daily life. It was so weird that they didn’t even know each other nine days ago. It felt as if he had known Alex for years.
As the day ended, it was time to send Shadow home with Alex. The clinic bustled with activity, ensuring everything was prepared for the big moment. Rebecca diligently cared for the German Shepherd in the kennel area, making sure he was comfortable and ready for his journey home with Alex.
In the corner of the clinic parking lot, Alex stood beside his truck, which was well-equipped and ready to transport Shadow. He had thoughtfully arranged everything he needed for the trip, from blankets and water bowls to some of Shadow's favorite toys given to him in the clinic.
Jordan and Rebecca approached Alex, offering to help with the final preparations. However, to their surprise, Alex effortlessly picked up the open-top kennel as if it weighed nothing more than a feather. His muscular arms flexed as he quickly carried the crate, showcasing his impressive strength.
With a nod from Jordan, the back door of Alex's truck swung open, revealing a spacious interior. The front seat was pushed forward, creating ample space for the kennel. Alex gently placed the crate inside, and it fit perfectly, securing Shadow's spot for the trip.
Inside the kennel, Shadow lay peacefully, wearing his “cone of shame.” Extra medication had been administered to ensure a calm and comfortable journey.
With Shadow settling safely in the truck, Alex carefully closed the door, ensuring everything was secure.
After everything was in place, Alex approached Jordan. “See you after you get off?”
Jordan touched his forearm, then reached up and kissed his cheek. “Yep, looking forward to it. I’ll see you there.”
Alex got into his truck, the engine already running, so it was cool enough for Shadow, and they drove off.
Rebecca, eyeing Jordan, didn’t say anything. Jordan turned to her, looked at her suspiciously, and said, “What?”
“That is the first time you kissed him publicly like that. You two have been sneaking around like polecats all week long. The gossip mill around this place knows your whereabouts at every moment of the day, just so you know. Don’t think everyone didn’t notice the two of you coming out of exam room three on Thursday with razor burns on your faces,” she said with a smile.
“It’s new, Becs—crazy new and crazy powerful. I don’t get it. What does a guy like him see in a dork like me? I keep waiting to fuck it up like I always do. I’m scared to get too comfortable, afraid the rug will be ripped out from under me.”
“Now you listen to me, Dr. Jordan Malachai Williams. You are the kindest, most loving, pig-headed son-of-a-bitch I have ever met. You keep fucking things up because you think you don’t deserve a happily ever after with someone of merit. I met that guy you dated last year—he was a loser from the get-go. Thankfully, you realized it before I had to step in and send him packing. Alex and you fit. We all see it. We all have known him the same amount of time you have and consider him family. Time is a number, dumbass. Souls know what souls know. The two of you work. So, stop self-sabotaging, or so help me—I’ll let Emily start giving you all of her reptile appointments.”
Jordan cringed at the thought of working with snakes. He did it, but he hated it, so Emily always attended those appointments.
“Okay, okay, you win. I’ll try to be more positive about him and us—if there is an us,” Jordan said.
“You’re a math guy, right?” she asked. Before he could answer, she continued. “one plus one always equals two to you math types. Well, I’m telling you, sweetheart, in your case, One plus one equals three. I see one walking fart machine with PTSD, I see a one-person war machine that wages war on his hearing loss, but together, Jordan, the ‘us,’ is what we all see. Together you stop waging your war on your ears, honey, and when he is with you, he smiles sincerely instead of that fake ass smile he wore when he first got here. So keep telling yourself over and over, ‘me plus you equals us.’ That is where your damn head needs to be. The ‘us’ that you two are creating isn’t some co-dependent crap that each of you has to think that the only reason you are getting better and happier is because of the other person. It is because when you’re together creating the ‘us,’ you intentionally left room for the healing you both are desperately looking for. It’s the most beautiful thing that I have ever seen, and I’m praying that you two dumbasses realize this soon and stop pussy footing around walking on eggshells together.”
She pointed at Jordan’s chest. “And darlin’ that ass on that boy. You could bounce quarters off that thing. Don’t you dare let that go without a fight.”
Jordan laughed, reached for his dearest friend, and hugged her tightly. She hugged him back hard, and she teared up a little. “Now stop this shit, I have work to do, and I don’t have time to redo my mascara, you little shit.”