WHITEOUT: Above And Beyond (Beauty 0f Life Book 10)

by Laura Acton

  Paying It Forward

  12

  October 8

  Dan’s Apartment – 5:30 a.m.

  Used to waking early for work and unable to fall back to sleep, Dan rolled over and pushed up off the ground. He bent over to retrieve the blanket, folded it neatly before tucking it under one arm and picking up his pillow. He shuffled from the living room area to his bedroom. He stopped at the entry and stared at his bed, which remained a no-go zone because memories of lying there with Lexa invaded his thoughts, reminding him of what he lost.

  He put the bedding articles in their proper places, snatched a clean pair of boxers from his bureau, and headed for the bathroom. After a quick shave and lengthy shower, Dan dried off and dressed, selecting comfortable jeans and a long-sleeve maroon Henley shirt. As he pulled it over his head, raising his arm, his stiff shoulder caused him to wince. Allowing hot water to cascade on it for several minutes had not loosened his muscles as much as he hoped.

  After tugging on socks and his comfortable soft boots, Dan sauntered into the little kitchen, opened the cabinet, grabbed a bottle of ibuprofen, and shook out two pills. He poured a glass of orange juice and downed the tablets. The team would be surprised I’m willingly taking a painkiller, but I don’t want to worry Caroline like I did the first time I volunteered.

  Although Lexa gave him the coffee machine, he still used it daily. As he filled his mug, Dan sighed as the memory of Lexa’s reaction to his instant coffee came to mind and brought with it an unanticipated grin. She couldn’t believe he didn’t own a coffeemaker and drank the disgusting instant crap. Her stealthy addition late one night touched his heart.

  Dan peered the ceiling. “Brody, I make stupid decisions when I’m drunk. I hurt Lexa by singing that damned song, and I don’t know how to fix it.”

  Unseen by Dan, Brody sat on the kitchen island and sighed. “Yep, and not the only dumb decision. Remember when we drove the tanks? Oh, and the time you challenged what’s his name to the rope climb and ended up knocking yourself out. As for Lexa, things will work out, don’t worry. She is your beauty, and one day, you two will figure out how to be together.”

  Wishing Brody was here to talk to, well, more like respond to him, Dan opened the fridge and took out fresh veggies, eggs, ham, butter, and shredded cheese. He chopped up the peppers, onions, and spinach and whipped up an omelet, thankful his mom taught him how last summer.

  Taking his plate and mug into the living area, Dan settled in his swivel chair. He set his coffee cup on the table, then leaned back and put a forkful of eggs in his mouth. After swallowing, he said, “Hey, Brody, it’s Thanksgiving again, another one without you, brother. Thanks for everything you did for me, and for always telling me about the beauty of life.

  “Things might not be perfect, but I accept it exists for me. I have brothers, family, friends, and a job where I make a real difference in many people’s lives. Although I still take lives, that is not the primary objective. We try to save everyone, including the aggressors. I wish you were here with me.”

  “I am, Danny. I’m right here. I always will be, brother.” Brody settled on Dan’s couch and peered at the brother of his heart.

  Dan took several more bites and a sip of his black gold as he stared out his window into the pre-dawn darkness. “I like Caroline Bennett. She possesses a kind heart. I’m still a bit surprised we figured out you volunteered there.

  “Last time I was there and refused a meal, she said I reminded her of a young man who used to volunteer all day before he would eat. When Caroline said she wondered whatever happened to Brody, my jaw about hit the floor. I asked if she knew Brody’s last name, and I think I scared her after I laughed when she answered Hunter.

  “You certainly made an impression on her. I shared with Caroline how we met and became brothers. She cried when she learned you died, and hugged me after she told me I was not responsible. I didn’t contradict her, but I am.”

  Floating over to Danny, Brody squeezed his brother’s left bicep. “I was there … and no, you are not to blame. I was shot twice before your bullet hit me. I would’ve died a slow, agonizing death. If anything, you prevented my suffering. My death was quick and painless, like Shy’s. Another mercy killing, though you won’t know that until you join me here, which I pray won’t be for many decades.”

  Brody grinned as Dan glanced at his arm. He recalled the first time Dan reacted to his touch when he nudged Danny in the direction of Mayfield two years ago. “Hamon laughed and thought I was downright crazy when I did a happy dance and whooped it up when you turned to find out who pushed you. Eat up, you have a long day ahead.”

  Park – 7:15 a.m.

  Dan enjoyed his early morning ride through the park, but this year he had a specific destination. He wanted to arrive at Mayfield early to help prepare the food and do whatever heavy lifting Caroline might require. In the afternoon, he planned to take a four or five-hour break and go to Bram’s home for a Thanksgiving meal with his chosen family and partake in their pie contest. In the evening, he would head back to the soup kitchen to assist with clean up.

  Relaxed and relishing the brisk wind in his face, Dan coasted down the hill. Peering up at the brightening sky of the new day, a smile grew as a shape of one puffy cloud reminded him of Sara’s favorite stuffed animal. “Sara, happy Thanksgiving. See the rabbit? It looks like the one you dragged around for years and who always had a seat at your Queen’s tea parties. I still remember your last Thanksgiving, where you insisted Mom set a place for your bunny at the table, and she obliged. Thanks for giving me his piece of cherry pie.”

  Dan grinned as he recalled that year. His cousin Jeff was older than him by five years, and the newly minted teenage Jeff tried everything in the book to change Sara’s mind to give him the extra piece. But Sara wouldn’t budge and insisted her rabbit said her brother deserved the pie. Dan remembered gloating his victory over Jeff by making loud and long mmm sounds as he ate each bite. “Not the smartest idea to taunt Jeff. He chased me around so much afterward, I almost puked.”

  Sara smiled as her older brother pedaled, wishing she could be right next to him, but beaming because her Danny seemed genuinely happy today. She loved riding with him. They were an unstoppable force when they partnered up as kids, and they had loads of fun together doing silly things. Noticing he was not paying as much attention to his path as he should, Sara said, “Brody, talk to him,” as she pointed to the sidewalk.

  A buzzing in Dan’s ears caused him to rub his earlobe, and to move his eyes from the splendor of the sunrise to the path … just in time to avoid a deep puddle which would’ve soaked him. He was glad he drove his truck to work yesterday because the heavens opened up right before they left, and the downpour drenched the city.

  The predicted colder and wetter fall and winter boded well for him and Loki, taking a few ski trips. If snow came early, they might go in November. Their proximity to Blue Mountain, only a couple hour drive from Toronto, and their rotation schedule, which gave them two to four days off in a row, would allow them to take overnight trips without depleting hard-earned vacation days.

  Noting the exit across from Mayfield, Dan recalled the sensation which sent him there two years ago. “I’m not sure how you did it, likely only wishful thinking, but thanks for nudging me in the right direction, Brody.”

  Dan grinned like a loon realizing his team would likely think him absolutely nuts for chatting to his dead best friend and little sister. But talking to them kept Sara and Brody alive in his heart … the only physical place they resided. And though it might be crazy, Dan believed it was okay to be a little daft if it helped him cope with his losses.

  Mayfield Soup Kitchen – 7:30 a.m.

  Entering the building, Dan scanned the area, noting a lot of set up needed to take place before they would be ready to open the doors at ten-thirty. Still early, only a handful of volunteers were here, the ones who arrived at five this morning to start cooking the turkeys, rolls, and deserts. The majority
of the helpers would show up closer to ten to prep for serving. Spotting Caroline, Dan waved as he moved forward.

  “Morning, Dan. Happy Thanksgiving. You are very early.” Caroline gave Dan a warm smile as he approached.

  Dan came to a stop and took the bulky box from Caroline. “Kinda late for me. I’m used to starting my day at four-thirty, so sleeping in until five-thirty is being lazy. Where do you need this to go?”

  “Over here.” Caroline inclined her head, indicating the direction and moved towards a long table.

  Following her, Dan said, “I’m sorry I won’t be here all day. I’m gonna take a break for a few hours in the afternoon to have dinner with the team. I’ll be back to help clean up, though.” Dan set down the box, which contained metal serving utensils, donated boxes of plastic spoons, forks, knives, and holiday-themed napkins.

  “We appreciate all your help, Dan. There is no need for you to return. Enjoy the time with your team.”

  “I gave my word. I’m honor-bound.” Dan flashed a lopsided grin as he added, “Four teenage volunteers will be here from eight until noon. They lost a wager while playing basketball with Jon and me.”

  “The more willing hands, the merrier. Jeff and Max will be here sometime today. Though I’m not entirely sure when.” Caroline beamed. Dan connects so well with teens and helps them understand how to achieve their dreams.

  “Been wondering how they’ve been doing since returning to school, we haven’t crossed paths in the past few months.” Dan began unloading the items and stacking them on the table.

  “They are doing fantastic. Both continue to volunteer monthly to increase their community service hours for their university applications. Jeff still wants to become a constable, but Max is now considering the coast guard. Max talked Jeff into applying for the coastie cadet program next summer.

  “Both are still college-bound, wanting to ensure they have a degree to fall back on if their chosen career paths don’t pan out. Those boys have good heads on their shoulders. Thanks for setting them straight.”

  “Didn’t do much … only listened.”

  “Listening is half the battle, but you did more, and you know it.” Caroline giggled as Dan blushed. The man before her was quite humble and never took credit for the things he did to help others.

  To deflect from unnecessary praise, Dan changed the subject. “I might be able to talk Loki and Ray into coming back with me after dinner. That is unless they are comatose from all the pumpkin pie we are going to have to eat.”

  Confused by the phrasing of his words, Caroline tilted her head and scrunched her brows together. “Have to?”

  Dan explained about the pie contest as they finished unloading the carton and strolled towards the kitchen. His first assignment was to carry out the boxes of fresh turkeys from the walk-in fridge and unwrap them so the cooks could prepare them for the oven. Dan didn’t do any of the cooking, but he did assist by carrying heavy items, peeling and chopping vegetables, and washing dishes. As he worked, more and more volunteers began to arrive.

  A young woman strolled in, dressed casually in jeans and sneakers, unlike the typical business attire and high heels she wore to her job. Brandi spied one of her most favorite people in the entire world. She made a beeline straight for the golden-haired man who held a special place in her heart.

  Brandi came up beside Dan as he dropped a gigantic sack of potatoes on the prep table for the volunteers to begin to peel. “Hey, Dan.”

  Dan turned and noted Brandi was all smiles. “How are you doing, Brandi, and how’s Dillion?”

  She whipped out her phone and pulled up a picture to show Dan. “Me, I’m doing awesome, and Dillie is doing fantastic too. Mrs. Graham is babysitting him for me today while I volunteer.”

  Brandi hugged Dan, then stepped back and beamed at him. “Thank you so much for pointing me to Pastor Noble’s church. They helped me find a terrific job as a receptionist at a busy mortgage firm. I like working there because I meet many amazing people and my boss is so kind.

  “I’m earning enough to afford a decent place for Dillion and me. And Dillion’s toy box is overflowing now, but the car you gave him is still his favorite. I managed to save some money, too, and plan to do the Christmas angel thingy for a kid who needs a toy. Paying it forward, so to speak.”

  “Excellent news.” Dan’s WOW smile appeared. Brandi worked hard to make a life for her and Dillion without her family’s support. Her continued success validated his decision to suggest she seek out Pastor Noble’s assistance when he and Brandi happened to volunteer on the same day last January.

  Some might consider their encounter a coincidence, others an act of providence when he worked with Brandi that day, and she called his name twice to gain his attention. The ‘Dan Dan’ made him think of Charlie Noble, and then he recalled the pastor and his congregation assisted young people striving to make a better life for themselves under challenging circumstances.

  Initially, Brandi declined, wanting to stand on her own two feet. Dan took the opportunity to share with her that strangers made a difference in his life when he was her age. He explained the pastor’s program was a hand-up, not a hand-out, and one day she would discover she would be able to turn around and provide assistance to someone else and thus enrich the lives of others. She reluctantly agreed, and he wrote down the address of the church.

  Although from time to time, Dan wondered what became of his first and only girlfriend besides Lexa, he had not thought about Charlie in ages. After high school graduation, while Charlie traveled to Europe to participate in missionary work, he spent an action-packed summer with Wilson, Dutch, and Buzz as they helped him prepare for the police academy.

  By the time he entered the academy, both Charlie and Jett were attending classes at the University of Alberta, where they received full scholarships. Their lives rolled on in different directions, preventing him from connecting with either Charlie or Jett, so they drifted apart and lost touch.

  He thought perhaps he should look her up and find out where she was at in life now. Dan hoped she was happily married to Jett, and they had kids. Those two were meant to be together, or at least that is what he believed in school, which is why he stepped aside so Jett could date Charlie. At prom, Jett presented Charlie with a promise ring since both planned on completing college before committing to a lifelong relationship.

  Dan’s thoughts stopped when Caroline came over. “Brandi, how wonderful to see you.”

  Brandi hugged Caroline. “I got about three hours before I must go home to Dillion. I’m cooking my very first turkey today.”

  “Then let’s set you to work,” Caroline said drawing Brandi away before calling over her shoulder, “Dan, can you check with Gavin out front, he might need a hand carrying the fully cooked birds delivered by the Fire Stick Grill. Jarmal offered to cook what the firefighters from D’Ante’s station donated.”

  “Sure, not a problem.” Dan hustled to the dining room, pleased the Tate brothers decided to help out Mayfield this year. More people would receive a hot meal today because his friends went above and beyond in their charitable efforts in the last month. As he approached the table loaded with turkeys in heavy-duty foil pans, loud laughter from several young male voices entering caught Dan’s attention.

  “You made it, guys,” Dan said as Kent and his three buddies approached.

  “Yeah, Dad rousted me outta bed at six and fed me crunchy eggs and burnt toast ‘cause Mom’s gonna be cooking all day. He tried, but next time, I would rather eat a bowl of stale cereal with sour milk than pick eggshells out of my scrambled eggs.”

  Dan chuckled. “The one thing I can make without fail is an omelet. Perhaps I should teach your dad.”

  “Nah, Mom’s tried. I mean reaaaalllly tried. Dad’s a lost cause when it comes to cooking. He’s set the smoke alarms off so often Joey used to yell beeeeeep when Dad got anywhere near the stove. Mom essentially banned him from using the oven again.” Glancing around, Kent asked, “So what d
o we do?”

  Learning something new about Jon caused Dan to snicker. “First off, taking these turkeys back to the kitchen. There are a ton of veggies needing to be washed, peeled, and cut up. And we could use a few strong bucks to arrange the serving tables and move the benches and chairs into place.”

  “I’m up for veggie duty.” Kent grinned. “I can cook, unlike Dad. I help out with dinner when Mom is running late with a client.”

  Roger offered, “Moving duty for Sean and me. We’re not allowed around knives … or so our mom says. Last time she let us help dice up tomatoes for tacos little brother nearly cut his fingertips off.”

  “I did not,” Sean responded, irked by his brother’s superior attitude.

  “Did too,” Roger retorted.

  Sean gave his fraternal twin the evil eye. Roger was born first by less than five minutes but liked to act like he was older, wiser, and in charge. “Well, I wouldn’t have, but you kept distracting me with your constant, unwanted advice before you tried to grab the knife from me when I didn’t do it your way.”

  Kent rolled his eyes. “They are always like this. The Frick and Frack twins can’t go a minute without picking at each other.”

  Dan clapped his hands once and grinned. “Okay, then. Roger and Sean are on heavy lifting and moving things far away from anything sharp. Let me introduce you all to Ms. Bennett, and she can assign you two specific tasks, but Brent, you can help Kent and me peel and chop the veggies.”

  Each picked up a turkey and followed Dan. After introductions, the boys split up with Brent and Kent staying with Dan at the prep table while Sean and Roger went with Caroline to be put under the direction of Gavin.

  Kent enjoyed the next couple of hours as he, Dan, and Brent joked around with one another and the other volunteers while making a hefty dent in prepping the mountain of potatoes, celery, carrots, yams, and onions. He stopped a moment to grab a drink of water and glanced at Dan. Though he called him Uncle, Dan was more like a cool, older brother. His friend Brent’s eldest brother was fourteen years older than him, so feasibly, Dan could be a brother, that is if Dan wasn’t only ten years younger than his dad.