The Navigator

17. Lazy Grace

Author's Note: I don't know about you, but I'm ready for more Jax and Gemma time!

Song Credit: Lapse, Black Math

Disclaimer: This Chapter contains some mature language and sexual themes. This story is rated mature so discretion is advised.

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Addy still half expected Jax to set Gemma down into her stroller on the way to Cal's Port for lunch, but to his credit he didn't waiver once. He was more confident with Gemma then he had been before, and she wondered why that was? Not that he had been insecure, but a nervousness had chased after each movement and that seemed to be gone. He was talking to her easily, asking about daycare and had a surprising amount of knowledge regarding the games and toys babies of her age played with. What was more bewildering was that their daughter, usually limited in her words, was answering him. Telling him in short bursts that the doggy was her favorite and that she was sad when her blocks fell down. He commiserated with her, letting her know he didn't like it when what he worked on fell apart either. It was oddly beautiful.

Why in all the worlds had she even considered keeping this sweet and gentle man from this child? It seemed so bizarre now, seeing them together, a lazy grace about their interactions. Like he had known her since her conception and that she had grown used to his voice, echoing through amniotic fluid to her tiny ears. The ties that bind clearly ran deep between them, as sure as the blood in their veins.

They walked along the boardwalk, harborside because Addy liked to keep the water in sight for as long as possible, until they were forced to cross the street. Being careful of the light traffic and up half a block to their favorite eatery. Jax again pushed open the door with a hip so she could enter with the stroller and she wouldn't lie and say she didn't enjoy the company if only for the convenience. She parked the device in its usual spot and looked up to be greeted by Teague's warm and familiar approach.

He was a large man, taller then nearly everyone he met with thick arms and torso, taking up much more space then seemed natural. His black hair and thick beard were salted with silver that weaved throughout the curls. The eyes were small but cheery and his cheeks and nose were creased with smile lines. He had been Addy's landlord for years, but was also a good friend, despite the eviction. That had been a hard lesson for them all.

"Jax! I had heard you were in town, how have you been sir."

The men shook hands as Teague clapped him on the back, grinning broadly. "I see the cat is out of the bag as it were." Teague gestured with his head to Jax's burden and the younger man laughed.

"Ah, yeah. I'll admit it was a surprise but honestly I can't imagine how I got so lucky."

Jax squeezed Gemma, running a finger under her chin, learning just then that it was a giggle point for her. Teauge patted the child's head lovingly for a moment before responding.

"Hmm, I think you're both pretty lucky, every child deserves a good father. One that is equal parts love and discipline, I think she will find both a plenty in you."

Teauge gave Jax a meaningful pat before escorting them to their booth where he gave Addy a quick hug before going to fetch a high chair for Gemma. Addy was careful to let Jax sit first, not wanting to get trapped between him and the wall, her head was still spinning and his warm body would not help. A few things were becoming clear to her, but she would need to face them another time.

They settled into a quiet conversation, Gemma at its center. Jax asking surprisingly thoughtful questions about the little girl's preferences like was she still in a crib, did she use a nightlight, and what kind of snacks she liked. Addy could see him running through a list in his head, carefully noting each answer before moving on to the next item.