Chapter 39

 

 

They spent the morning at the veteran and soldier’s center, and Alex watched as Jack led his family and friends around the facility on a tour before they all chose a station to work at. Most stayed with Jack and came into the therapy and rehabilitation room, and she was struck by how similar Jack’s family was to her own. While Alex massaged Justin’s legs before their walk, she contemplated how well Ganymede had tried to balance her life for her in the days leading up to her transformation.

If ever there had been a mortal soul who could have given her a counter choice to what Gaius offered her, it was Jackson Campbell. Alex thought of her first glimpse into his London flat, and all the books she had seen lining his living room. They had so much in common, and she was so very grateful that the friendship they had established with one another had endured and actually grown, despite the discontinuation of their fledgling romance.

And knowing how much she loved Jack, only further strengthened her resolve to keep him safe.

Justin called to Alex a second time and she looked up into his eyes, as he studied her face closely.

“Hey, are you alright?” he asked.

“Yes, thank you, Justin,” she nodded. “I actually have to leave New York sometime in the next few weeks on business, and it has me preoccupied,” she told him truthfully.

He looked a little crestfallen and nodded once. “Are you coming back or remaining wherever you’re headed?”

Alex sought to reassure him immediately and sent a little more of her aura into the massage. “I promise, Justin, that I will be back in New York for part of November, before heading home to England for Christmas. Will you be with your family over the holidays?” she asked, hoping to redirect his acute focus away from her.

He brightened then and told her of his family and their traditional celebrations. Alex let Justin’s dialog pull her away from her thoughts of the upcoming Africa mission, so she could stay focused on the positive day.

 

After their morning’s work, Jack and his gathering of family and friends dined with the immortals and soldiers at the center. Jack and his fellow Marines walked around together after they had finished their lunch, and talked with many others who were there for the day. Gaius gently caressed Alex’s back as they both watched the camaraderie and meaningful exchanges taking place before their eyes.

Their afternoon was spent at the homeless shelter, and after Nathan conducted a tour for their guests, Alex and Gaius went together to work in the clinic. After her last experience there, Gaius had asked to stay by her side for future healings for a while and Alex had agreed. She drew strength from his nearness and aura, as her power opened her mind to behold what was truly ailing many of the downtrodden who came through their door.

Their work concluded with many of Jack’s family members congregating in the shelter’s large gathering room. Cara was well known by most there at that point, and she happily made her circuit around the room to greet both young and old. Jack’s grandmother and mother walked over to stand next to Alex and Gaius, and they both commented on the number of souls at the shelter that day. Alex nodded her head in agreement.

“It is a sadness and a blessing mixed together,” Alex sighed. “Though it’s heart-wrenching to see so many in need of a home, it’s also very uplifting and reassuring to know that they are all sheltered from the weather, and safe where they lay their heads at night.”

“It just makes one cherish the gift of home a bit more,” Brenda said quietly.

“Yes, ma’am, it does,” Alex agreed.

Brenda reached out and gently rubbed Alex’s back, and Alex smiled over the motherly gesture. Alex invited Brenda and Jack’s grandmother to walk with her, and she introduced them to many whom she had come to know and help. And once the shelter’s residences learned the ladies were related to Jack, they were more than happy to tell of the good that he had brought about since coming to work there.

They returned to the Fifth Avenue houses to shower and change for dinner after their day’s work. Sabina told everyone as they exited the SUVs that there would be dancing for anyone interested after they ate, and Alex noted that most of those close to her age took immediate note of the invitation.

“Sabina, I think the older souls in our party will most likely come back for a night’s rest, rather than go out,” Walton chuckled. “But, Jack, we want you to go and have fun with your contemporaries, and not let your parents or grandparents hinder the excitement Sabina is planning.”

Jack lightly squeezed his father’s shoulder, and then they all moved into their rooms to get ready. Once they were in their own space, Alex told Gaius she needed to shave and then shower, so she headed for the tub first. As she was beginning to take her place in the water, she saw him enter the room and move to join her. She angled her head at Gaius in question.

“What are you doing?” she asked playfully.

He said nothing, but sat opposite her and pulled her legs across his. Gaius took the razor from her hand and began to lather her legs.

Alex laughed incredulously. “Are you really going to see to the task for me?”

“Lie back and close your eyes,” he whispered, and smiled playfully.

She still watched him, not believing he was serious, until finally he paused.

“Please relax, sweetheart. Trust me,” Gaius said gently.

Alex did as he asked then, and she lowered herself in the water and closed her eyes.

With each pass of the blade, she felt his aura travel along the length of her leg as the fingers of his other hand followed in the razor’s wake. She had never felt anything quite like the sensation and she was fascinated.

“You’ve been holding out on me,” she whispered.

“Alex, we’ve not been married a full year. I have to save some surprises for the future,” he chuckled.

Alex hummed lightly, letting her head roll to the side. “Well then, I’m looking forward to your next disclosure.”

When finally he had smoothed the full length of both her legs, Gaius released the water and stepped out first to start the shower. He held her hand as she moved from the tub to the stall, and she noticed that he brought his razor in with them.

“Do you feel comfortable shaving my face?” he asked, but Alex hesitated.

“Gaius, I’m afraid I will hurt you,” she breathed and shook her head.

“Sweetheart, if you can cure cancer, you can most certainly heal a small scrape from a razor,” he said and smiled indulgently down at her. He handed it over to her. “I trust you completely, love.” Gaius leaned forward and braced his hands against the tiles on either side of Alex, and waited for her to start.

Alex inhaled deeply then went about lathering his face. She was slow and not very effective at first, but he placed his hand over hers and demonstrated the angle and pressure to use. Alex began to imitate his movements, until he released her hand and closed his eyes. As she reached his throat, she slowed her touch and Gaius once again used his hand to show her the way.

When at last she had him cleanly shaven, he leaned in to match his lips to hers. Leisurely he savored her and she him, until she sighed heavily.

“We do not have enough time to love one another at the moment, but I am looking forward to returning home later tonight and holding you,” he whispered against her ear, causing her to shiver.

Alex wrapped her arms around his waist and laid her head against his heart, savoring the peacefulness and privacy with her husband. She craved such simple, honest, and true moments.

 

Once their party convened in the home’s formal entryway, Alex assumed the role of hostess again and led everyone out to their vehicles for the drive to Sal’s. Alex had rented the entire restaurant, as Gaius had for her, and Sal was more than happy to accommodate their large party. Once they were greeted and everyone had taken their seats, Alex walked with Jack, Sal, and Estella around the room, so they could meet all of his family and friends.

Sal once again took note of those who had served in the military, even Jack’s grandfather, and he promised them that they would eat for free. But Alex whispered to Estella to please not take anything away from the bill they had agreed to.

Sal heard Alex though, and he shook his finger at her. “Now, Alexandria, I am still in charge of my own place. I can honor whomever I choose,” he fussed.

She could only laugh and answer, “Yes, sir.”

Food and fellowship soon were flowing, and Alex leaned against Gaius as she chatted with Rohan and Iain, who were seated across from them. Mike sat to Alex’s left, and he joined their conversation with ease and grace, just as his brother most often did. Alex asked Mike to tell them of his aspiration to become a veterinarian, and she listened attentively as he described the rigorous program he was working his way through.

Shelby started to chat with them, praising Mike’s efforts and the years of dedicated study it was taking him to achieve his goal. He blushed slightly from Shelby’s words, but Alex noted the tender way he gazed at her while she spoke. Alex smiled inwardly, happy to see another content couple.

After they presented Jack with a birthday cake and presents, he stood and thanked each and every person for their care, love, and friendship. He was working hard to keep his emotions from spilling over, and Alex shared her aura with Jack to strengthen him as he spoke. As soon as he felt the contact, his eyes met hers and Jack nodded in her direction. She smiled and laced her fingers through Gaius’ until Jack was finished with his remarks.

Glasses were raised and toasts began. But they soon became a bit too revealing, as Jack’s male friends and cousins decided to tease him while he was a captive audience. They told a few embarrassing stories until, eventually, Jack asked Sabina if it was not yet time to move on to the dancing she had promised. Everyone had to laugh at Jack’s unease, but they soon took pity on him and began to take their leave.

Alex settled the bill with Estella, and left a larger than normal tip to cover the difference from what Sal had cut from the final price. Estella hugged her and thanked them all for coming again. John and Archimedes offered to take those who wanted to go home for the evening back to Fifth Avenue, and the rest followed Sabina’s itinerary for a little more fun.

Sabina had selected the same club they had gone to before, with the swimming pool positioned under the dance area, and reserved the upper floor so they had a place to privately congregate. Once their Escalades were driven away by valets, they all began to filter in, bypassing the long line of potential patrons. Jack’s friend, Carter, commented on their VIP treatment, and Sabina playfully looped an arm through his as she assured him it was their pleasure to take care of their guests.

Gaius held Alex’s hand in his as they climbed the stairs, not wanting her too far from his side in the midst of the crush. Once on the second floor, he led her over to a sofa in the spacious lounge area. She watched Sabina and Ahadi take the lead, removing their coats, and revealing tiny party dresses underneath that had all the single men turning in their direction.

Ahadi snagged Carter’s arm without delay and Sabina laid claim to Branden. Tomoko was right in the thick of things, shocking Alex when she took Logan’s hand in hers and led him below to the dance floor. Alex looked across the lounge and arched an eyebrow at Jack. He shook his head at her and rolled his eyes. Alex chuckled and looked on as Jack began to laugh too.

She sat and talked with Shelby, Mike, and Ethan for a while. But eventually, Alex wanted to dance too. She stood and began to slowly unbutton her coatdress, and she realized that many in their party had begun to glance her way. She turned slightly so she was facing Gaius, and smiled down at him as she finished freeing all of the buttons. He angled his head at her and bit his lower lip, and she knew he was trying hard not to laugh. Alex winked at him and then shrugged the coat off her shoulders, revealing the tiny silver dress Sabina had helped her purchase in London before her transition.

She turned and folded her coat gingerly, laying it across the cushion she had been occupying, and then extended a hand to Gaius. He stood gracefully, and lightly kissed her before he took her hand in his and led her downstairs. As soon as her heels were upon the clear dance floor, he spun her around quickly and pulled her back against his chest, and Alex felt her smile grow.

Gaius winked and then really started to move with her. She laughed aloud and told him she loved him so. He voiced his love in return, and then asked her to let go for a time while he had her in his arms. And Alex did just that, setting all other cares to the side.

No one else intruded on their time together, and she stayed in his arms for over thirty minutes, just soaking up the happiness and bliss. When Gaius did lead her back upstairs, Alex did not get the opportunity to reclaim her seat.

Branden came forward and smiled at them both. “Gaius, can I have permission to steal Alex away for just one dance?” he asked expectantly.

Gaius smiled at the young man. “Thank you for your consideration, Branden, but you will have to ask Alex and not me. It will be she who will have to agree.”

Branden turned to her then and bowed with exaggerated flourish. “What do you say, pretty lady? You up for one more turn on the dance floor with me?”

“Lead the way, Branden,” she chuckled, and took the hand he was offering her. “Did Sabina abandon you?”

“Naw,” he chuckled. “Logan stole her. But I’ll get her back,” he added conspiratorially.

He took her back down to the glass floor and Alex let him have the dance he was so eager for. She laughed at his playfulness and enjoyed the moment, though she noticed several of the immortal men watching Branden a bit too closely. As soon as the music morphed to another mix, she was approached by Ethan, and Branden stepped away to let Jack’s young cousin dance with her.

Ethan took Alex’s hand in his and she realized quickly that he had frequented such places often enough, that he certainly knew his way around the dance floor. She was careful to keep a little distance between them, knowing that his youthful infatuation did not need to be inflamed. And to her relief, Jack stepped in when the song changed to another.

Alex exhaled and mouthed her thanks, and Jack inclined his head. Knowing she could hear him perfectly, he spoke to her in a normal tone of voice.

“Alex, I’m sorry for my cousin’s instant crush on you,” Jack said, shaking his head in chagrin. “He’s got it bad.”

She laughed loudly, and then motioned for Jack to lean closer. He placed his ear in front of her lips so he could hear her over the loud, pulsating music.

“Jackson Campbell, I thought you knew better. There is no apologizing between us anymore,” she played, and grinned as he straightened. He tweaked her nose and nodded his agreement, then spun Alex away before bringing her back to his arms.

Alex savored those moments with Jack, and it was only when he asked her if she wanted to remain below or go back upstairs that she agreed to leave his side. She pointed up and he nodded his understanding. Jack kept a firm hand on her back and secured her left hand in his, so that no one else had the opportunity to steal her away before he could get her back to Gaius’ side. Alex hugged Jack and thanked him for the dance and his rescue before she took her place on the sofa.

“Hey, I’m still a pretty decent guard when I need to be,” he chuckled.

“That you are,” Alex smiled.

Alex leaned into Gaius’ side and he lifted an arm to settle her against his chest. They remained together there, talking with various people in their party and did not leave the lounge area again until their group was ready to call it a night. Alex folded her coat dress over her arm and placed her free hand in his as they made their way outside.

Throughout the drive back, Alex reflected on the day she had spent in the company of Jack’s family. They were just as rowdy and loving as the Groabans, and Alex was more grateful than ever that she had initiated the trip for them all. For now she could clearly see who had shaped Jack into the loving and brave soul he was.

Archimedes greeted them in the foyer and told Alex he had already seen to Cara’s nightly outing and meal while they danced. She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek in thanks, and then headed upstairs with Gaius and the puppy. Cara needed no prompting, but went straight to her bed and stretched her little body out.

“I love having her as part of our family,” Alex said quietly and smiled.

He draped an arm around her shoulders and gazed at Cara for a moment with her. Gaius lightly kissed her temple. “Alex, you can have as many animals as you want throughout our years together.”

“Hmmm, I will never forget that you just made that promise to me,” Alex playfully whispered, and he chuckled slightly.

“I need to change for bed,” she said, as she turned to face him.

But he slowly shook his head in denial. Alex’s brow furrowed a bit, as he took her hands in his and led her over to the bed.

“Are you too tired to be loved?”

“I am not,” she grinned.

He nodded his understanding, then gently cupped her face and brought her lips up to meet his. He mentally asked her to wear her silver dress a little while longer for him. Though she blushed terribly, Alex indulged him, happy to see that such a simple thing could bring such a smile to his face. It gave her ideas for the future, as she shaped her ever-emerging picture of what made her husband fulfilled.

 

Throughout breakfast the next day, Lauren and Jack talked about the sights they were going to see that day with Jack’s family and friends. Alex listened quietly. She smiled and occasionally let her eyes meet Gaius’, but continued to eat her breakfast.

Ethan addressed her as the meal came to an end, and asked Alex if she, Gaius, and some of Jack’s other colleagues were planning to come along. Alex smiled at him indulgently and answered in the affirmative. His entire face lit up, and Alex let her eyes drift over to Jack’s. He slowly shook his head, but his wide smile and dimple told her that he was also humored by Ethan’s exuberance.

The immortals drove Jack’s party downtown, so the older members of his family would not have such a great distance to walk. They parked and began a sedate walking tour. Jack’s parents and grandparents paused frequently to take photographs and remark about famous landmarks they were viewing. Alex had Cara along, and she held the puppy in her arms on the bustling sidewalk, not wanting to see her trampled under the heavy foot traffic.

As they were walking along a stretch on Broadway, Alex felt a slight twinge of familiarity and she stopped for just a moment to look up at the building on her left. She took a few steps and noticed the next street sign. Her eyes immediately settled on Gaius.

He had stopped walking as well, and was watching her face closely as he waited for Alex to realize where she was.

Alex pulled her bottom lip in with her teeth in a nervous gesture. “Can we walk down this side street for a few minutes, Gaius?” she asked quietly.

Gaius said nothing, only placed his hand on her lower back and guided her down the sidewalk.

Together, they turned onto Prince Street and as they walked away from the group, Alex noticed that Rohan, Heath, Elrick, and Iain fell into step with them. There were less people on the sidewalk as they moved away from Broadway, so Alex lowered Cara to the ground and held on to her leash until they intersected with Crosby Street. As they turned left and made their way forward, Alex felt a small amount of Gaius’ aura begin to flow into her in an effort to help keep her steady. She whispered her thanks aloud, and saw his eyes crinkle at their corners as he smiled slightly.

They came to a stop in front of the bookshop, and Alex stood back and looked at the storefront, now repainted and bearing a new name. She inhaled deeply and looked first to Gaius, and then to their friends. Heath’s eyes tightened a bit, but he gave her a small nod of encouragement that helped propel her forward. She looked back up into Gaius’ eyes, and he also nodded his agreement. With that final vote of confidence, Alex lifted Cara in her arms and stepped inside.

The same chime greeted them as they entered, and Alex moved forward cautiously to take in her surroundings. The entire décor had been changed since she had last been inside the bookshop, when it was known as Cadman’s Books and Such. Now, there were people walking around the store that Saturday afternoon, drinking coffee, talking, or perusing the stacks. New chairs and a sofa were positioned to her left in front of the windows, and bright navy and yellow paint abounded throughout the space.

Alex continued to walk forward until she was within the book stacks, and she drew the scents of the room into her lungs. There was still a slight aroma of peppermint lingering in the air, and it made her smile sadly. She left the stacks then and found the door which led to the shop’s back office. It, too, had been redecorated and was now covered in a shiny coat of navy paint. Alex’s aura traveled forth and she felt it permeate the door, searching for danger.

And there was none to be found.

She turned then with Gaius, and began to make her way back to the front of the shop. With her right hand, Alex reached out and lightly touched the books’ bindings as she passed by them, until they left the stacks altogether. When they were once again facing the door, Alex looked to her left and saw the image of Hauras lying on his back, staring defiantly up into her face. She looked down for a few moments, as her mind replayed him losing his head to her blade.

Gaius wrapped an arm around her shoulders and held Alex a little closer, sending more of his aura to her. When she came out of the memory, she looked around again and saw that the space around her was safe, tranquil even. Shoppers were none the wiser about the danger and evil which had once lingered there. And she found a small smile on her lips, despite the traumatic memory, knowing that it had been their willingness to enter the shop that day which had brought about what she now saw before her eyes.

Things were indeed better, because of their sacrifice.

Alexandria smiled up at Gaius. “I’m ready to go now, sweetheart,” she said.

He nodded his approval and led her out of the shop. Once they were back on Prince Street, Alex stopped and turned to look at Gaius and the other immortal men.

“Thank you, guys, for walking back in there with me. And for always being willing to help when I need your support.” She blew out a heavy breath as she looked around. “It’s just going to take me a bit more time to come to grips with all that we’re asked to do and bear witness to. But I know I can get through it, with all of you by my side,” she admitted truthfully.

Gaius drew her gently into his arms and slowly rocked her for a moment. “I love you, Alex, as do all of our brethren. And I promise you, that you are not alone; nor will you ever be through any of the challenges which might lie before us,” he vowed.

“I know, Gaius,” she smiled, and then lightly kissed his lips before she turned to hug each of their friends. She voiced her appreciation again before they walked back to Broadway.

After another ten minutes they caught up with the rest of their group, and Alex held Cara in her arms again to protect her from the crush. Jack made his way over to stand beside her, and his eyes roamed over the small group that had walked away briefly.

“Are you alright, Alex?” he asked, while his eyes searched hers.

“Yes, Jack, I’m fine. We detoured briefly to venture back to where Cadman’s used to be. It was cathartic to see the store filled with people and redecorated,” she told him honestly.

Jack pressed his lips together and drew in a deep breath. But a small smile began to lift them, as he patted her back. “I’m so proud of you. Do you know?” he asked her.

Alex winked and nodded. “Yes. And I’m getting stronger each and every day,” she chuckled. “So, where are we going next?” she asked to redirect their conversation.

Jack knew her well enough to know that Alex would not speak of the bookshop anymore at that time. So he answered her question and led them forward, letting the sights of New York distract them from the unpleasant memories of old.

 

Late in the afternoon, the immortals drove Jack’s family out of the city to Nathan and Elizabeth’s home for dinner. Gaius lifted Cara and talked with her for a few minutes after they arrived, so she would know just what her boundaries were and how far she could safely stray. He took her harness off when he was satisfied she understood, and let her run free while they socialized with their friends.

Gaius and Alex helped start the outdoor fireplace and smaller fire pits around the stone patio to ward off the mid-October chill. Alex moved inside afterwards and helped Elizabeth, Lauren, and Brenda prepare drinks for everyone and carry them back outside. She was just lifting a large tray, when she saw the surprise on Brenda Campbell’s face.

“Goodness, Alex! Be careful lifting that tray, it’s really loaded down,” Brenda remarked.

“Yes, you’re right. It is heavier than I first thought it to be,” Alex smiled at her. She set it back down on the island, and then stepped outside.

“Gaius,” she called, “would you please come here for a moment and help me lift a heavy tray?”

Rohan laughed loudly before he could stop himself, and began to choke on his beer. Several members of Jack’s family turned in his direction, surprised by his sudden outburst.

“Ignore me,” he coughed, trying to cover his laughter.

But Iain, Elrick, Titus, and Jack were all chuckling along with him, despite themselves. Alex walked out behind Gaius carrying a much smaller tray and she leveled a look at Rohan that made him lose control again. Alex could only shake her head, but eventually she was chuckling along with the men, too.

Walton and Brenda took seats near Alex and Gaius during dinner. As they talked with one another, Walton asked Alex if Jack would be remaining in New York for the foreseeable future or if he would be traveling again after Christmas, as he had earlier in the year. Alex understood their need for information, because her family held the same desire to know her itinerary.

Her expression softened as she patted Walton’s hand. “Mr. Campbell, it is truly up to Jack where he ventures within our organization. We have shelters and centers in almost every country in the world, and Jack is free to transfer to whatever location he so desires to live and contribute in. But because he is now with Lauren, I think there is a good chance he will make New York his home for a while,” Alex smiled.

“But,” she qualified, “Jack will always have my full support in whatever path he chooses for himself, for the rest of his days. I just want to see him safe and happy.”

Walton’s keen eyes studied Alexandria for a moment. “Alexandria, I can see that both you and Jack hold great affection for one another. More than I have ever witnessed between Jack and any friend he has ever had before,” he quietly said.

Alex nodded and felt her eyes cloud a bit. Walton took Alex’s hand in his and held it, while she cleared the emotion constricting her throat. When she knew her voice was stronger, Alex spoke again.

“Sir, Jack is indeed like a brother to me, and one of the best friends the Lord has ever blessed me with. There will never be a day, when I do not pray for Jack’s well-being, health, safety, and happiness. For you see, Jack and Gaius helped me make it through an extraordinarily difficult time in my life earlier this year. It is because of their guard and love that I am whole and at peace.”

“And for that reason, I will always try to safeguard Jack, just as he did for me when I needed him most. Mr. Walton, you have a brave, honest, and loving son, and I am so grateful that you and your wife raised him to be the man that he is,” Alex quietly confessed.

By then, Walton and Brenda both had tears in their eyes, and Walton leaned over to hug Alexandria tightly. Jack realized a conversation of great importance was taking place at the picnic table across from where he and Lauren sat, and he rose to come over to his parents’ side. He stood a little behind Alex and his father as they embraced one another, and he glanced down to meet Gaius’ eyes. The two men smiled at each other, and then looked back over as Walton and Alex ended their hug.

Walton’s eyes met Jack’s for a few unbroken moments. “We’re very proud of you, Jack,” he said sincerely.

Alex saw the familiar pink begin on Jack’s cheeks and she smiled, knowing how often she had the same reaction. He nodded at his father and then patted Alex’s back in silent thanks.

“Are you guys going to include me in your discussion?” Jack chuckled, and both his parents and Alex laughed, then shook their heads.

“We’re just hearing very good things about our eldest, and we’re glad to be given such a glowing report,” Walton simply said.

Alex turned to face Jack and she winked at him. “I promise to share the memory of it all with you sometime soon.” She knew he understood her meaning at once, and his smile grew in response to her offer.

“Well then, I’m looking forward to it,” Jack said, and then moved back over to take his place beside Lauren.

Alex smiled warmly at Jack’s parents again before turning to look at Gaius. They shared a knowing look with one another, and she patted his leg quietly under the table.