Page 30 of Bear Creek Father's Day
“I think you’re right. He’s one of a kind.”
Orrin simply nodded his head while Knox headed for Wilkes-Barre where the nearest dealerships were located. It was fortunate that they had a few minutes together, as he had something to share with the man anyway.
“I was going to call you and Levi with some good news, but since you’re here… two of my recent arrivals might be the perfect match for you and your mate.”
Now it was Knox’s turn to be flummoxed, and he huffed a few times before responding.
“Already? The addition is nearly finished, but I thought it would take longer to match us up. Tell me about them.”
Knox and Levi had been contemplating adoption for some time, and Orrin knew they’d added on to their small two-bedroom cabin to make room for a future family. The timing was nearly perfect.
“Scout and Birdy are littermates and going on six years old. They’re attending Kindergarten classes with two of our other cubs at the elementary building and doing great so far. Their sow kept them longer than most do, which made it harder when she left them to fend for themselves. They weren’t alone for long and should be ready to adopt out by the time the school year is over. They’re sweet, friendly, and are learning new skills every day, but I think they’d do best in a home where there’s a good mix of country and city living.”
Knox nodded, pondering the possibilities.
“That sounds like what we were hoping for, and we’d have the summer to get them settled before school started again in the fall. When can we meet?”
Orrin already had a tentative plan in place.
“How about joining us for lunch on Saturday, and if they feel comfortable with you, they can spend the afternoon at your place.”
Knox smiled.
“Sounds good. I’ll text Levi to see what he thinks, and then get back to you when he responds.”
As they neared the dealership, Orrin remembered what he’d wanted to ask.
“I’m glad the addition is nearly done, but did you remember to soundproof your bedroom as I suggested? You don’t want little ears to hear what goes on during mating season.”
Knox blushed, knowing exactly what Orrin was talking about.
“No worries. We did that part first, including the bedroom door. Cubs learn fast that it’s just part of life, but Levi and I know we’ll have to be more careful with kids in the house.”
Family changes always meant some sort of adjustments, and Orrin realized he’d need to consider those same issues if he and Zak mated one day. Poor little Rayn might not understand that her daddies were loving and not fighting!
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Lunch break, Bear Creek Medical Clinic
The Monday through Wednesday soft opening had gone well, though Crew had purposely scheduled a lighter load to allow for adjustments and glitches. There were a few, as expected, but their patients voiced no complaints. Today was a little different in that Dixy had joined them and both Zak and Jessica were booked solid. With only a thirty-minute lunch break, Zak had a delicious meal delivered from the Honey Bear restaurant to celebrate the clinic’s official opening.
“Everyone is doing a fabulous job so far, and I’m quite pleased. Our patients are smiling when they check out, so I take that as a good sign, too. There’s nothing we can’t do if we work as a team, which means issues should be brought to my attention so we can solve them. The same goes ifI’mthe problem, so don’t be afraid to talk to me. End of speech—now, let’s enjoy our lunch.”
Light conversation and laughter dominated the meal as they got to know one another better. There was a little shop talk,though Dixy fielded several personal questions as the newest arrival. Crew brought up the weekly snacks coming from the Red Barn, which excited everyone and started a discussion of who offered the best sweets in town.Deliciouswas declared the best for chocolate (no surprise there), and aside from the Red Barn, other sweets and goodies from Bella Vita, the Bread Basket, and Bears & Beer were all mentioned.
For the most part, Zak let them talk as he listened and observed. After the first few minutes, his mind began to stray towards not something sweet, butsomeone. This was Thursday, and he couldn’t wait to pick up Orrin for their evening together. They’d kept in touch via text since Tuesday, respecting one another’s schedules, but needing the connection. If he were a shifter, he’d be growling by now, and Dixy had evidently picked up his amorous thoughts—giving him an inquisitive glance from across the table.
His personal life was no one’s business, especially this early in the relationship. Eventually, his staff would catch on, either through the grapevine or being seen together about town. Nothing of interest escaped attention in Bear Creek, and while Orrin was well known, people were already busy gossiping about the new doctor. As a couple, the tongues would wag even faster and there was nothing either of them could do about it. Oddly enough, the thought of Orrin being his and off the market gave him a thrill he hadn’t expected.
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Late that afternoon
Zak’s workday ended later than he’d planned, leaving him frustrated and behind schedule. He’d skipped the shower and change of clothes in order to reach Orrin sooner, and arrivedat ten minutes past five. Two things grabbed his attention—a maroon sedan parked in the back, and a collection of odd-looking snowmen in the yard: tall ones, short ones, some with hats, others with crooked branches for arms. One was nothing more than a big snow pile, dotted with two dark rocks for eyes. Obviously, the cubs had been playing outdoors and created the menagerie using more imagination than skill.
After knocking on the door, he heard sounds from inside—shushing, giggling, and little footsteps—alerting him that something special had been planned for his arrival. He assumed a neutral expression as Orrin partially opened the door with a wink.
“It’s good to see you. Come on in.”
