“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’d had a rough start in life, there remained an aura of innocence and sweetness about 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. In the back with Jordan and Luke.
“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 his attention was fixed on the young children in the library, and a small smile flickered 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 last night 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 last 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 dark 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. Tash was captivated by Randy’s face; his eyes so bright with hope, his mouth full and curved in a sweet smile. Those earlier 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 from 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.
