Chapter Fourteen

 

Jamie sat on the picnic table bench at the rear of the vet clinic, watching a German shepherd puppy sniff around in the snow lumps while Cade walked a Border Collie named Sophie, a regular guest.

“Do you think Chris would take it wrong if I asked for a dog?”

Cade’s attention turned to him. “Why haven’t you asked him?”

“Because of…” He gave Cade a raised brow. “I didn’t want to insult him, either.”

“You could never do that,” Cade said.

“Oh, I’m sure if I tried I could.” He grinned, full of playful mischief. “But no, I don’t want to. I’ve just always wanted a dog. None of the animals here seem to be affected by you guys when you’re around,” he offered, sounding a bit hopeful.

“We don’t have an affect on other animals like this, not the way you’re probably thinking. Could you see us all being vets if that happened?” He moved closer and sat beside him, letting Sophie and the pup nose at each other. “The wolf is another story.”

“I know Bear and Biscuit aren’t scared of him.”

“They’re used to him. A wild wolf? Don’t count on it.”

Jamie nodded, keeping one hand in his coat pocket. He bit on his lips, probably warming them in the cold. “So, should I?”

“Do you want one?”

Jamie tilted his head, watching the puppy paw and then bump against Sophie. “The house gets so quiet when he’s here and I’m at home. I was also thinking about talking to Duncan, maybe doing something with SAR here.”

“Do you think he’s going to be around for it?”

Jamie gave him a knowing smile.

Cade laughed. “I swear, I’m going to start calling you yenta, or something.”

Jamie burst out with laughter, a billowing cloud appearing on the air. “What, because I’m right about them? Because I told Chris after meeting Dean the first time that we’d be seeing more of him?”

“Don’t look so smug.” Cade pushed on Jamie’s shoulder.

“I think it’s worth the effort, that’s all. Search and rescue,” he quickly pointed out. “Not finding all of you your mates. Not taking that up as a second calling.”

Cade huffed, but smiled. “You are, and shall always be, a brat.”

“Thank you!” He tipped an imaginary cap.

This was one of the many reasons Cade liked having Jamie not only as a brother-in-law, but as a friend. Jamie wasn’t afraid of any of them, of asking for advice, of talking, of anything, really. He was a genuine kind of guy.

“If you think it’s something you can devote yourself to, then ask him. I can tell you this, he’ll expect you to adopt or rescue.”

Jamie gave him a stern look. “Like I’d buy a dog. With working here, treating them—”

Cade quickly raised a hand, cutting him off. He hadn’t meant to rile him. “Could be another way Duncan could help you find the right nose.”

Jamie scowled at him, but faced forward after. “True. I do like working here, but I want to do more.” He scratched at a doggy head and floppy ears. “I’ve also been thinking about those cooking classes I talked about over Christmas. I’m going to do a summer program. I don’t want to be the next big name, but I enjoy feeding people.”

“You realize you’ll never get rid of us,” Cade joked. Jamie had received so many compliments on his ham, Chris will have to fight off guests for next year’s party.

Jamie’s face lit with pleasure. “I’m good with that.”

The back door of the clinic opened and a bundled up Quade sauntered out. “You two ready to call it done?”

They stood and guided their charges inside. A quick rub down with a towel, fresh food and water, and they were done for the night.

Cade smiled when he neared his home and spotted Dean’s car at the curb again. The other man stood from the car when he turned into the drive.

“Where are your parents?”

“At their hotel, at least for now.”

Cade nudged his head toward the house, a signal to follow. He doubted Dean would disagree.

Once inside, they hung up their coats.

“Honestly, I’m trying to convince them to go home.”

“Not working?”

He groaned audibly and plopped down onto one of Cade’s living room chairs. He put his hands into his face. “Mom is shredded. I hate reminding her of Daniel’s dying.”

“You’re not responsible for his death, or for her tenacity.”

Dean sagged into the chair, gazing at Cade with some of the saddest eyes. “No, but I’m not leaving. I have my life here. Friends.” He stood after staring deeply for several seconds at him to clear the gap between them. “You.”

Cade simply wrapped him up and held on. “You’ve been reliving that night, haven’t you?”

Dean nodded. “I— There was nothing I could do. I was inside. He was outside. The shot was point blank. And now…” A shuddering breath rocked him against Cade’s chest. The heat blasted against his neck when he released it. “They never blamed me.”

“But you do,” he said quietly. Dean didn’t deny it.

“Now that the bar is gone, she is determined to get me home.”

Cade threaded a hand through Dean’s hair. “But this is your home,” he said, hiding the twinge of panic. If Dean left, Cade would follow. There was no other option for him. It was a future he didn’t want to think about, though. Too many decisions he didn’t want to have to face if it came down to it.

“Have you eaten?” Cade asked, changing the subject.

“A late lunch with them.”

“I have something to make here, if you want.”

“Okay.”

Dean disentangled himself from Cade, and he reluctantly let him go. Staring at the man he’d held, he knew if he chose to go north, Cade would follow. He had no idea about packs, jobs, or how he’d deal with being away from his brothers, but if Dean needed his parents, Cade wouldn’t hold him back. He didn’t know when it happened, when Dean had taken priority, even over his own family, but he had. It wouldn’t matter how difficult it would be, it would have to be done.

After changing clothes, Cade rummaged in the kitchen to make dinner.

While he was doing that, Dean’s cell phone rang. “Hey, Jamie.” Cade caught his gaze and Dean smiled from where he leaned on a shoulder out of Cade’s way. “Yeah, they’re here for a couple more days probably. Why? Oh. I’m sure they’d love it. What time? Bring the… I am not saying that!” Dean burst out with laughter. “He’s standing right here! Yeah, yeah. Okay. See you tomorrow night. Thanks.” He disconnected the call, swallowing more of his laughter.

He tipped the phone in Cade’s direction, saying, “Your brother-in-law is a menace,” then slid it into a pocket.

Cade shook his head in answer. “Repeat after me, brraaat.”

Dean chuckled.

“What’s the plan?”

“Dinner at their place, tomorrow night. He said about six thirty.”

Cade nodded. “Not surprised.” He knew having family, being part of a family that cared and supported each other, was very important to Jamie.

“Let me call them so they don’t make other plans.” He turned away for the living room to make the call.

Once they were seated to eat, Cade asked, “Did you find out anything else after going to the station?”

“No, not yet. I tried to call the detective on the way here, but he didn’t answer. I wanted to know who this guy is and why he’s connected to Daniel’s shooting.” Dean grimaced. “What did I ever do to him? It was my brother who died.”

Cade reached and encircled Dean’s forearm.

Dean leaned over his plate, confusion marring his features. “I just don’t get it. The fire, the roof, this…” He motioned to his neck. “Daniel’s murderer is in jail. He’s not even up for parole for another fifteen years.”

Cade wondered the same. It could be anyone, and the knowledge that it was possibly someone tied to Daniel was eating at Dean. “When did it happen?”

“Six years ago. I don’t think I ever said. I’m thirty-four.” A hint of a sheepish grin appeared.

Cade snickered lowly. “I guessed you were older than me.” That didn’t matter to him. “So, if it’s connected to Daniel, but his killer isn’t a possibility, who?”

Dean frowned. “Family? A friend wanting revenge? And why now?” He used his fork to stab at food, pushing it around. “I honestly have no fucking clue.” Absently, he rubbed at his neck. Cade didn’t doubt he’d be forgetting that anytime soon.

“What are you doing next?” Cade asked a few minutes later.

Dean glanced up from a nearly empty plate. “The insurance has finally closed the claim. They’re issuing funds next week. I just need to decide what to do with them. Buy, or build, and where.”

“Where?” Cade echoed softly. “Would you be willing to bring it to Silo? Or at least closer?”

Dean shrugged. “I would need to apply for serving licenses with the city. That wouldn’t be an issue. But… It’s a heck of a nightly drive to Cassan,” he said with a leading hint in his tone.

“Who said anything about you staying in Cassan?” Cade retorted with mock severity. They slowly grinned in mutual understanding.

“So I guess that’s your way of saying I’m moving in?”

“Unless you don’t want to,” he said, sitting away a fraction, hoping he wasn’t pushing too hard. They’d come a long way since Christmas, but he didn’t want to give Dean more to stress over.

Dean reached and curled a hand behind Cade’s neck, stopping his retreat, tugging him close. His lips touched Cade’s. “I’m kinda happy with the guy I’m dating right now. Let me think about it. Closer does sounds like a good idea.”

“Just kind of happy, huh?”

Dean nipped at his upper lip, giving Cade a jolt to his spinal nerves. “We’re good,” he said.

Relief flooded Cade. Maybe someday he’d even be mother approved.

 

* * * *

Cade opened Jamie’s front door the next evening. He smiled when he snagged on Dean’s gaze. The return gaze was a little drawn, weary. Cade tilted his head in question, but Dean just shook his head.

He opened the door. “Come on in,” he invited. Dean’s parents trailed him. “Let me put up your coats.”

They all gave them to Cade and he carried them to the bedroom, putting them with everyone else’s. Cade turned to discover Dean slipping into the bedroom and quietly shutting the door.

Cade didn’t hesitate. He opened his arms and Dean met him halfway.

“Bad day?”

“One word: Mom.” Dean nuzzled into his throat.

A tense Dean almost melted into Cade, relaxing against his frame. “What does your dad say?”

“He thinks I should go back with them, but he’s at least willing to let me make the decision. Mom…” He groaned, burrowing harder against Cade. “She’s all or nothing, and the alternative isn’t an option.”

“So she’s not going to relent?”

“I really don’t think so.”

“Where does that put you?”

Dean grumbled. “Honestly, at odds with her, because I’m not leaving.”

Cade held on a little tighter. “How about if you promise to see them in a few months? When did you last visit?”

“About three years ago.”

Cade’s thoughts circled. “So if you make plans to see them more often, would that help?”

“If it will get her to let up, I’d promise almost anything,” he grumped, though jokingly. “Just can’t promise to move.” He kissed Cade’s neck and straightened. “Better get back out there. Come over tonight?” As worn as he looked, Cade knew he couldn’t say no.

Cade nodded and after a final quick kiss, reluctantly released him.

“There they are,” Maya teased, the first to spot them. “Did you boys get your hello kiss out of the way?”

“Quade,” Cade said with as much suffering as he could pour into his voice. “She’s not wearing her muzzle again.”

Maya laughed. “Ah, you know you love me.”

“No, he loves you.” He motioned to his brother. “I think you’re a pain in the rump.”

“I thought I had that privileged spot,” Jamie piped up from the kitchen.

“Can’t win, can you?” Dean asked. Amusement was making his eyes glitter now. Cade knew Dean was already accustomed to their familial bickering. He was just glad to see the strain he’d carried walking in the door had faded.

Chris handed them both filled glasses. “Try this.”

“Is it loaded?” Cade asked. He’d willingly try it if it were.

“No. Just drink it. It’s tea.”

Cade took a sip and Dean copied him. “Wow.” He licked his lips and took another big drink. He spotted Jamie watching them expectantly. With Cade’s approval, he smiled huge.

“See? I told you,” Chris said to Jamie. “I wasn’t being biased.”

“Yes, you were, and I expect you to be,” Jamie informed him. He carried two more to Dean’s parents, offering them with smiles. “Thanks for coming.”

“Thanks for inviting us,” Ann replied, accepting the glass. “Is it sweet?”

“With fruit juice, and only a little. No added sugar.”

She seemed surprised, but nodded, taking a small sip. That led to a much larger one, which had Jamie smiling broader. After making sure they were comfortable, he returned to the kitchen. Cade was grateful to see Maya talking to Ann, while Chris and Quade were talking with Trent. Jamie was working on something in the kitchen.

“I’m going to see if he needs any help,” Cade said.

“Okay.” Dean squeezed his hand before he walked away.

“Need any help?” Cade asked, wondering how he could. The table looked nice. It was already set, and Jamie had decorated with a hollowed log with small candles for a centerpiece. He had no idea where he got it, but it looked good.

“Thanks,” Jamie replied, adding butter to a dish. “It’s almost ready.” Jamie surreptitiously gazed at Dean’s parents, then said, “They’re nice people.”

Cade did the same. “They seem to be,” he offered.

“Oh?”

“Nothing,” he muttered. He wasn’t about to say it. He knew Ann didn’t think he was good enough, but geez. When was the last time he’d had that problem? He really didn’t know why Ann was so against him. If she thought disapproval would pressure Dean to return with them, he honestly didn’t know.

Jamie patted his arm. “Don’t worry about it. They’re having a good time.” He turned and put the bowl on the table. “Soup’s on!”

“It smells wonderful,” Maya said when she stopped at a chair.

“Thank you.” They all sat. “I actually owe Dean.”

“You do?” he asked, surprised as he paused in loading his plate.

“Chris knows I want to cook better, but it was your suggestion to check out the internet courses. I did.”

“And?” Quade asked.

“I’m going to enroll for the summer semester at the community college in Stiller Springs. I’ll also see if there’s anything else that I can take in the same window, maybe something vet tech related. Might as well make it work for me.”

Chris had reached over and covered one of Jamie’s hands as he’d spoken.

“That sounds great,” Dean said.

Everyone dug in and ate, complimenting Jamie between bites.

“How long have you been together?” Ann asked Jamie a few minutes later.

“Only since the spring,” Jamie explained. “Dad kicked me out and Chris found me about a week later.”

“Why would he do that?” Ann exclaimed.

“Because I told him I was gay. There was a guy I wanted to ask out back where I grew up, but I couldn’t because Dad would want to know who he was, why he was around. So I told him. He assaulted me.” He smiled at Chris. “It was a good thing I was found, too.”

“I will never understand parents, anyone, who can treat another like that,” Trent grumbled. “Being gay is no more a decision than what color your hair is when you’re born.”

“The only problem with being gay is no grandchildren.” Ann sighed despondently. “I really was hoping for them.”

“Mom.” Dean rubbed into his eyes with stiff fingers. “Don’t do this. Not right now.”

“It’s okay,” Cade offered, noticing how everyone else had mostly stopped eating, giving Dean all their attention. He doubted that was helping at all. He slid a hand under the table and rested it in comfort on Dean’s thigh. “We’ve already talked about that.”

Ann faced him, surprise pitching her voice a little when she asked, “You have?”

“It was more a case of I explained what I hope for, and to see if he was agreeable, but, yes. So that makes it ‘not a problem’.”

“But… How?”

“Surrogacy or adoption. I lean toward adoption because someone out there, hundreds of thousands really, already need a loving home.” He faced Dean and caught the softest gleam of understanding in his gaze. “There are things we need to talk about, but we can’t. Not yet.”

“Why not?” Ann asked. He almost replied, but Dean cut him off.

“Because you want me to come home so bad,” Dean remarked testily. He twisted on the seat to face his parents. “If I come home to make you happy, I lose Cade. I lose this family. I lose everything I’ve spent the last eight years building.”

“But the bar is gone,” Ann pointed out. “You can do the same at home.”

“Yes and no. It can be rebuilt, and I can start over, anywhere. That much is true. But there’s more here than just the bar.” He turned enough to catch first Cade’s gaze then those around the table. “I like being here. I love this crazy family.”

Cade’s heart tripped hearing that.

Facing his mother, he scowled in clear displeasure. “And I’m very tired of deflecting your conniving to change it. I don’t appreciate you bringing it up here, tonight, either.” He withdrew from the table. “I’m sorry. Excuse me?” He spun and vanished down the hallway. Cade knew he was probably going to hide in the spare for a few minutes.

Ann put a hand to her face, then covered her mouth. “I’m sorry,” she finally gasped. Trent put an arm around her until she calmed.

Cade released a slow breath. He wanted to follow so badly, but he waited a few seconds. “Please understand Ann.”

“I’m trying. I know I haven’t done that well enough.” She smiled shakily at her husband and sat easier on her chair. An air full of apology settled around her. “I haven’t been fair to you, either. You have a wonderful family. I’m sorry, to all of you. He’s right. I just want him to be happy.”

“Then give me the chance to do that. Give him the chance to make up his own mind,” Cade said.

When she didn’t continue, Cade guessed it was up to him to make everything right again. He excused himself and went hunting for his man.