“Randy has agreed to help with the mentoring program we want to start here at the shelter, in conjunction with the community center. He’s already taken it upon himself to help kids after school who not only need extra assistance but ones who get teased for liking school and doing well.”
Wanda’s eyes took on a new light. “You have to be a special young man to want to do that.” She took Randy by the hand and sat him down in the chair in front of her desk, taking the one opposite him. “Tell me, why did you choose to do this? I get the feeling it’s kinda personal for you; am I right?”
To his shock, Randy answered her. “Yes. I believe the best way to live your life is paying it forward. All my life, my heroes have always been my teachers. I found my escape in school and books. They helped me through rough times.”
Wanda took his hand in hers. “You had some rough times, honey? But you’re strong because you didn’t let it break you. And you took what you learned, and it made you stronger and now you’re helping others.”
Tash watched as the older woman and the young man gazed at each other, forging an understanding he knew he couldn’t be a part of. He hadn’t had a rough life. He’d always had whatever he needed. But that was his reason for giving back. He wanted to give as many people as he could reach the opportunity to climb out of their own personal hells, to make it in the world.
“Tash, you hold tight to this man. He’s a keeper.”
He chuckled as Randy’s face flamed. “Ahh, Wanda, we aren’t together. He’s here to help. He’s a friend.” Randy’s eyes burned into his with a desire he knew matched the one Tash had in his heart. It was no use, though. The two of them were at different points in their lives, and Tash recognized it, even if Randy didn’t. “I knew he’d be perfect for the mentoring program, so I wanted him to meet you, and then I’m going to bring him to the Center tomorrow afternoon. He met Drew last month, and Jordan and Luke need to meet him as well. Luke’s been working like a fiend since he came home from Paris and Jordan’s recuperating from a cold. They even asked Mike and Rachel to keep Sasha because they didn’t feel like they could watch her properly until now. Tomorrow is the first time they’ll both be able to go to the Center and Jordan said they’d be over in the afternoon.”
“Sasha? Is that their daughter?” Randy asked.
Tash laughed. “No, she’s their dog, although they spoil her like a baby.”
Wanda slipped her arm through Tash’s. “You gonna hang around for dinner? Both of you. It’s turkey night with candied yams and cornbread.” She shifted her attention to Randy. “Real Southern style.”
Tash nodded. “I’ll help. How about you, Randy?”
“Of course. Sounds great.” His smile wavered slightly as Wanda continued to stare at him. “Is something the matter, Wanda? Did I do something wrong?”
There was a sadness to her smile. “Oh no, honey. I was remembering back to the time when Luke showed up here all hungry and skinny. We were serving turkey dinner that night too, and he ate so much I thought he’d get sick.”
Randy said nothing further until they approached the kitchen. “I didn’t know Luke had lived in a shelter. I thought he worked on Wall Street and was one of those rich hedge fund guys.”
“He works there now but lived in the system for years. He’s a real inspiration. I know you two will hit it off.” Tash opened the door to the heat and bustle of the enormous kitchen.
Randy shrugged. “I doubt it. I mean, I’m a poor schoolteacher. I don’t travel in those kinds of circles or, to be honest, even your circle.”
Surprised, Tash stopped short, just inside the doorway. “Don’t be ridiculous. There are no circles. You’ve no reason to think anyone would look down on you or treat you differently because you aren’t a doctor or a lawyer or don’t make a ton of money. These people aren’t like that, and you shouldn’t prejudge like you don’t want them to do to you.”
Randy’s face fell, and he kicked the floor with his sneaker. “You’re right. It’s that I get a little nervous meeting all these new people at once.”
Wanda slipped her arm around Randy’s waist and gave him a hug. “You’ve been alone a long time, haven’t you?” Her troubled face searched Randy’s. “You remind me so much of my Luke when he first came. He was also scared and nervous but so determined.” She gave him another hug. “Don’t you worry, honey. Everything will work out fine. Let’s get something to eat, then serve the others.”
She left, barking orders at the kitchen staff. Tash remained with Randy. “She’s right, you know. These people will never judge you. They’ve all been through so much in their lives and will be eternally grateful for your help.” A mischievous smile broke out across his face. “Knowing them is like getting sucked into this enormous family of well-intentioned but nosy brothers and sisters. If you’re around, maybe they’ll get off my back and find someone else to bother.”
Randy shuddered as they walked side by side to the table set with trays. “God help me, but no, thanks. I’m happy to meet them and be a part of this project, but that’s as far as it’s going to go, trust me.”
Tash grinned to himself. That’s what you think. “Let’s eat, then serve the others.”
At one o’clock the next afternoon, Tash pushed open the door to the Keith Hart Community Center and was greeted with a heartwarming sight. Kids of all ages sat in the library area, ensconced with books, either lying on the sofas or curled up in the armchairs. Teenagers sat at the computers, hopefully doing their homework or studying and not on social media, while in the arts-and-crafts area, little boys and girls played at the tables with some of the adult volunteers, coloring, painting, or simply making an overall mess like they were supposed to do at their age.
Sitting at one of those tables with a little girl on his lap was Dr. Jordan Peterson. It warmed Tash’s heart to see the man so well rested and clear-eyed. He’d gained weight and despite his recent bad cold, looked stronger and healthier than he did when he was dependent on Xanax. Gone was the emotional and physical wreck of months earlier. Though he’d be continuing therapy, Tash knew Jordan had passed the most difficult part of his recovery.
At his approach, Jordan looked up, and a smile broke out across his face. “Tash!” He bent down to the little girl and whispered in her ear. She nodded and slipped off his lap and went to sit next to one of the other volunteers. Jordan wiped his hands with a wet wipe and tossed it into the trash before jumping up to give Tash a hug.
“Great to see you. Did you get our e-mails and pictures?”
“Yep. You guys looked like you had a great time.”
“We did.” He and Jordan continued to walk toward the back where the offices of the Center were located. “Lucas met my parents, and they hit it off. We spent one night in Switzerland; then the rest of the time was in Paris.”
“Sounds like a honeymoon.” Tash opened the door and turned on the light, then walked to the large wooden desk dominating the back of the office.
“It will be the next time we return. I don’t see the point in waiting around for years or even months.” The light in his eyes dimmed for a brief moment, then brightened. “I plan on living my life to the fullest every day. Making it count.”
“That’s a good philosophy.”
“Maybe you should take a page from my book. Or at least listen to yourself when you talk to me about moving forward.” Jordan leaned a hip against the desk Tash sat at, those pale blue eyes piercing right through him. “It’s hell being alone. It took almost killing myself to understand it, but you deserve so much more than you’re willing to allow yourself, and for no reason.”
“So you’ve given up orthopedics and decided to join me in practicing psychiatry now?” Tash ignored Jordan’s remarks about moving forward with his life. Simply because they cut too close to home. For one brief moment, he returned to his kitchen and the kiss between him and Randy that nearly stole the breath from his body. Ruthlessly, he squashed the rush of desire that flooded through him at the r
emembrance of Randy’s slick tongue sweeping through his mouth.
Jordan, ever the perceptive bastard, must’ve seen something in his face, no matter how neutral he sought to keep his expression and pounced. “Son of a bitch, you have met someone.” Jordan leaned on the desk, looming over Tash. “Who is he? Come on, tell me.”
“Don’t be stupid. I haven’t met anyone.” He fumbled with the keyboard. “What’s the damn password to this thing anyway?” He banged a bit harder.
“Liar,” said Jordan, his voice annoyingly cheerful. “But I’ll find out.”
“Shut up. If you don’t stop annoying me, I’ll call Ash and have him come over.” Tash knew that Ash still annoyed Jordan, even though the two of them had basically made their peace once Luke and Ash reconciled.
“Call away; he’s already coming over with Drew. We all decided to meet here this afternoon.” That smug smile on his face was pure Jordan. “They’re even bringing Esther. She missed me.”
“Someone has to,” Tash grumbled, then caught Jordan’s eye. “It’s good to see you happy and healthy, my friend.”
Jordan’s smile grew brilliant. “It’s good to feel it. If I haven’t said it before, thank you for giving me back my life.”
“It wasn’t—” Tash’s protest was cut short by the door opening.
“Hey. Tash. Good to see you.” Luke Conover entered the office, a broad smile on his once usually solemn face. Finding love with Jordan was only a portion of the equation for Luke’s happiness. Equal time had to be given to the reconciliation with his foster brother, Ash. Gone was the dark withdrawn man Tash had met who lived behind shadowed eyes. In his place was the man Luke was meant to be: calm, able to enjoy life, and above all, magically in love with Jordan, who loved him back so intensely and with such passion, it was an almost visible force between the two of them.
“Luke.” Tash stood and hugged the man. They’d worked through their initial mistrust when Tash believed Luke wouldn’t stand behind Jordan because of his addiction, and Luke thought Tash was out to break Jordan and him apart. Both of them wanted only what was best for Jordan, and in this case, it was a life with Luke. “Good to have you back. Both of you.”
“Paris was amazing but I’ve been working so hard since I came back it’s like I never left the office.” Luke sat, stretching his legs out in front of him. “And I’m stoked to see how well this place is doing.” He let out a huge yawn.
“Tash met someone and won’t tell me who it is.” Jordan stood behind Luke and began to knead his shoulders. Tash watched as Luke closed his eyes and groaned, leaning back against Jordan’s stomach. “We’re going to have to get it out of him.”
“Leave the man alone, Prep School.”
“Thanks, Luke, especially since there is no one.” After glaring at Jordan, who grinned back and mouthed liar, Tash checked his watch. “The guy, Randy, who is going to be working with us on the mentoring program, is going to meet me here in about ten minutes, so I’m glad you’re both here.”
“Remind me of who he is again?” Jordan finished Luke’s massage and went to the coffee machine to make himself a cup.
“A teacher friend of Gage’s.”
“Oh, right.” Jordan filled up the carafe and pushed the button. Instantly, the aroma of cinnamon filled the office. “Damn, that smells good.”
“He’s a little shy around new people, but I brought him to the shelter last night and he and Wanda hit it off.”
“Well, that says enough to let me know he’s a good fit.” Luke’s phone buzzed, and he checked the text message. “That was Ash. He, Drew, and Esther are on their way over. They should be here in about ten minutes, so I guess the new guy will have to learn to be a little less shy.” He stood and joined Jordan at the coffee machine.
Maybe shy was a little too broad of a term. Tash pondered this thought as he sipped his own coffee. Even though Randy had a rough start in life, an aura of innocence and sweetness surrounded him. His gentleness with people was assuredly what attracted the children to him.
Tash’s phone vibrated.
I’m here, but don’t see you.
Tash texted back.
I’ll come get you.
“Randy’s here. I’ll go get him and bring him back here to meet you two.”
Luke and Jordan were busy looking at something on Jordan’s phone and didn’t bother to respond. Tash walked out and immediately spotted Randy, standing off to the side. Not meaning to spy, Tash nevertheless stood and observed the man, enjoying the sight of his lean body in faded jeans and a battered leather jacket. The teacher in Randy showed as he concentrated on the young children in the library, a small smile flickering on his lips. He raked his hand through that marvelous head of hair, which Tash remembered smelled like a combination of lemon and honey.
Once again, Tash was reminded how far out of his league this man was, not only in age but also in looks, and vowed that what had happened in his kitchen would never be repeated. Then Randy spotted him and smiled, visible relief spreading across his handsome face, and Tash’s body struggled with his good intentions.
Down boy. He gritted his teeth and willed his traitorous cock to remain neutral. There was only one head he needed to be thinking with right now. The sight of all the young children worked immediately, and he smiled and joined Randy in the center of the room.
“Glad you found it.” They smiled at one another, hyperaware of what had happened between the two of them the previous night, but Tash knew if he didn’t mention it, Randy most likely wouldn’t bring it up.
“Yeah, it wasn’t hard. This is a great place. I love what you’ve created here.”
“I had nothing to do with it. It was all Jordan and Luke. They got the volunteers from the shelter, as well as local community help. Follow me.” They walked together back to the office. “Luke and Jordan got here a little while ago. I told them all about you, and they’re looking forward to meeting you.”
Randy stopped. “Are you sure you want me? You guys are all so established, and I’m only a new schoolteacher—”
“With a huge heart and the vision we need.” He placed his hand on Randy’s arm. “Please don’t sell yourself short. You have no idea how much we need someone like you to help these kids.” Tash held Randy’s confused yet hopeful gaze.
After a moment, those green eyes lit up with a noticeable fire. Tash held his breath, hoping Randy wouldn’t once again bolt like a scared deer.
“Okay, yeah. I’m in.” He hefted his backpack onto his shoulders. “Thanks for making me see it’s not about me but the kids.” He bit his lip and moved closer to Tash. “You’ve been such a great champion for them and this project. I’m honored.”
They stood, their breathing the only sound audible in the narrow hallway. The background noise of the Center faded. Randy’s face captivated Tash with his bright and hopeful eyes, and his mouth curved in a sweet smile. Those earlier good intentions flew away as he placed his hand on Randy’s shoulder and leaned forward. Randy closed his eyes and moved closer.
The door banged open, and they jumped apart.
“Well, what do we have here?” Jordan’s amused voice rang loud in the narrow hallway. “Is this the man we’re going to be working with?”
If Jordan’s grin grew any wider, it would split his face. Tash personally would like to split his lip. “Yes. Dr. Jordan Peterson, this is Randy Gilbert.”
Even though Jordan had changed so much from the arrogant person he knew before, Tash hoped he wouldn’t be dismissive of Randy because of his youth and casual appearance. Of course, he needn’t have worried, as Jordan was interested in only one thing: Tash’s sex life.
“Randy, so nice to meet you. Tash has told us some wonderful things about you. I’m looking forward to getting to know you much better.” Jordan extended his hand, and Randy shook it after a brief hesitation.
Bastard. “Jordan, cut it out. Let’s go inside the office. He can meet Luke before the others come.”
Jordan opened
the office door, speaking over his shoulder. “Drew and his boyfriend and Drew’s grandmother. Don’t worry, Randy. After today you’re going to inherit a whole new family.”
Tash entered the office first. Predictably, Luke was pouring himself another cup of coffee. “Hey, put that coffee down and come meet Randy. That’s probably your fifth cup if I know you.” He moved aside and let Randy enter the office.
“I need it. Let me finish pouring this first,” said Luke as he glanced up. “What—” He dropped the coffeepot, hot liquid spattering everywhere.
“Lucas, are you all right? What’s wrong?” Jordan grabbed some paper towels while Luke stood frozen, shaking and white as death.
It took a few moments before Tash noticed that Luke and Randy couldn’t take their eyes off each other. Randy stood rooted to the floor, swaying slightly as if he was going to pass out.
“What’s going on, you two? You both look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
Jordan slipped his arms around Luke, but the man shook him off. Mumbling, “No, no, it can’t be,” he strode across the room to stand before Randy and reached out with a violently trembling hand to touch the other man’s face. “Brandon? Is that really you?”
Chapter Ten
He was hallucinating. Or drunk. It had to be one of the two because good things like this didn’t happen to him twice in a lifetime. Brandon had thought he’d used up his good wishes the night Gabriel found him in the rain. Perhaps he was wrong. But with Luke real and touching him, life was nothing short of a miracle.
“Luke?” His voice shook so badly he could barely get the name out.
“Brandon,” Luke cried. “Oh, my God.”
Like stone statues, they stood rooted in place, unable to move. Brandon’s mind whirled in confusion. How could this be? His throat closed tightly, and his mouth dried so he could barely speak. “Luke.” With shaking legs, he sank into the chair Tash pushed behind him, giving Tash a grateful smile. “I don’t understand. They said your name is Conover.” He looked to Jordan, then back to Luke. “Have you been here all along?”
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