Tolerance Book III

Chapter One Hundred and Five: Contemplations

Two hours later the Unit had arrived at the picturesque hotel with its' log frontage. Jack had explained the men would have the place to themselves as Tourist season was still some time off. Before Jay could voice an apology for intruding the insightful older Tucker sibling had pointed out their sons, especially Logan, were eagerly awaiting seeing their new friend again. Initially the distracted young man did not realize he was the 'new friend' in question but when he did he blushed unsure of what to say. Luckily with Adam on hand an uneasy silence didn't develop as he chided his friend for always showing them up by being the favourite amongst children. That statement had Billy asking for more information and it soon became evident both men were chatterboxes. Voight had met Jacks' eyes and gratefully acknowledged his treatment of the injured man. The recovering man would never acknowledge it but he needed to be reminded of his worth. To those who knew him he was priceless.

Although the hotel had plenty of rooms ready for Guests Jack had offered the former Ranger his previous cabin and Jay had gratefully accepted relieved he would not bother anyone if nightmares came calling. The rest of the men had been shown to their rooms on the first floor of the building. For once everyone had the luxury of their own room. Voight had taken Jack aside after everyones' gear had been brought in and deposited in the various rooms. Seeking to pay the fortnights' fee in advance he was shocked to find the other man insisted there was no payment due. Jack had quietly explained it was the least his family could do given what Jay had been willing to risk for them. Upon seeing the older mans' frown the congenial Host realized he was unaware his Subordinate had been willing to face King alone while the Tuckers headed to the safety of the Ranger Station. The Sergeant had confirmed wrily his Detective had not imparted that detail then confirmed he was not in the least surprised.

It was at dinner that night as the Unit shared the long food laden table with the Tuckers that Jays' natural gift with children was again displayed. Once the main dishes had been cleared away by Antonio and Kevin, at their insistence, and coffees had been served Angie and Jack had disappeared momentarily before returning with one toddler each. Carefully setting their charges down just inside the door the room fell silent as everyone waited to see how the little guys would behave. Jay was sitting at the far side of the table so expected the two boys to be fascinated by the other Visitors. As the little boys held hands and tottered towards the table however it soon became clear they had a goal in mind. Although returning smiles to the watching strangers the duo kept walking with their parents slowly shadowing them in case they faltered. Rounding the head of the table one child squealed in abject delight while the other positively beamed in sheer happiness. Jay looked down at Junior and Logan with a smile that rivalled the toddlers. That sight gave the Unit members a great measure of relief. Coming here was the right decision.

"Well hey there," the injured man greeted the little boys and immediately both raised their arms.
"Here let me," Jack hastily advanced and lifted Junior up onto the surprised mans' knee then placed Logan on the other knee.
"I think it's his aftershave," Adam advised Billy in a mock stage whisper, "it smells like chocolate."
"Yeah sure," Kevin put in sarcastically, "you're just jealous."
"Didn't see them running to you either," Antonio helpfully added innocently.
"They just go for the quiet ones," Kevin decided in mock chagrin as he eyed the joyful reunion.
"Well that's you out Ruzek," Voight deadpanned from where he sat beside the pale man who was engrossed in his unexpected cargo.
"Hey I can be quiet!"
"When you're sleeping," Al put in but then frowned, ".... actually nope you're not quiet then either. You snore like a freight train!"
"What's this pick on Adam day?"
"Nah, we'll save that for another time," Antonio stated with a wide grin.

As the good natured ribbing was being exchanged Jay was preoccupied with the toddlers who were eager to play with their friend again. Junior held onto the Detectives' good hand and brought it up to his mouth, teething required something to chew on after all and those fingers would do nicely! The forever silent Logan had fisted a handful of the green eyed mans' jumper and then rested his sleep tousled head against the convenient chest, getting comfortable.