OK, we've finally reached the epilogue! I'm sure that TC has to stand for something, but I haven't been able to find out what, and I've definitely done more than a few Google searches. So I'm inventing a name.
I don't know if I can really call this an epilogue, actually. It's just as long as/longer than every other chapter. Oh well. Enjoy!
One more side note here: some of the inspiration for me when I write about anything involving soldiers, is a quote from the TV show Leverage. I don't know if any of you watch that show, but there's an episode where two characters get captured by a militia group, and one of them says how the difference between a real soldier, and their group is that 'you'd kill to protect your rights; a real soldier would die protecting someone else's.'
Disclaimer: I don't own The Night Shift
TC looked incredibly uncomfortable, as he stood at attention on the small stage at the front of the crowd.
Facing him were several rows of chairs, each one filled, attention focused on the man standing at the podium.
President Barack Obama appeared to meet each and every pair of eyes looking at him as he spoke about the man they were all there to honor.
"As a President, I have been impressed by the men and women who serve in our country's armed forces. As a man, I have been humbled by the actions they have carried out, the risks they have taken, the duties they perform, all in the name of protecting other people's rights. Every man and woman who makes the choice to serve deserves our recognition. And every so often, a soldier comes along who truly embodies every core value of our United States Army: Respect. Duty. Selfless service. Honor. Integrity. Courage. When a soldier distinguishes him or herself in such a manner, we are bound and honored to recognize their heroic actions."
TC was barely holding in his grimace. It wasn't all for the fact that he was currently the recipient of a whole lot of attention either; it had been eight months since he had returned from Germany, and though he was mostly healed, and had returned to work a few weeks earlier, his back and right leg still gave him some trouble every now and then. Standing at attention like this was giving him a few painful twinges, but he was mostly able to ignore it.
So honestly, most of his annoyance right now was for the fact that this whole ceremony was about him.
No one else seemed to share his disdain, much to his consternation. His family and friends had all claimed seats in the front row, and were not even trying to hide their grins as they watched the ceremony.
Jordan was sitting in the center of the front row, Kayla on her lap; Topher, seated next to her, had Mattie. Jordan and TC felt they had gotten pretty lucky with the twins: Mattie and Kayla were remarkably easy babies. They rarely cried, they were sleeping pretty regularly, and they were such happy kids that it just made everyone around them smile. It showed today as both babies were content to sit on the adults' laps quietly, without making any fuss.
On either side of Jordan and Topher, Janet, Lynn, Drew, Rick, Scott, Michael, Krista, Paul, Kenny, Gwen, and Molly were all watching with rapt attention. Janet and Topher's twins were on Janet and Lynn's laps. Everyone was wearing appropriately formal attire, with Topher, Drew, and Rick wearing their own military dress uniforms, and everyone else in suits and dresses.
They had all been surprised when the planning for this ceremony had revealed that the Army was supplying them with a private plane from Fort Hood, so that all of them could attend. Usually it was just family, but TC had been adamant that the night shift crew was his family. If he had to suffer through this, he wanted them there.
From the second row and back were many Army officials and government officials. Multiple Senators and Congressmen were in attendance, as well as more than a few Majors, Colonels, and Generals. Representatives from the soldiers TC had saved were scattered amongst the crowd, including as many men from the 3rd Battalion and specifically his unit as could make the trip, in addition to soldiers who served in Special Forces and Intelligence, that had been in the camp when it had been attacked.
At the back of the crowd stood reporters from nearly every news outlet.
President Obama continued his speech. "The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor that this country currently bestows. A man or woman who receives this medal has performed acts of gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. 'I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade.' Ordinarily, awarding this medal can take in excess of eighteen months; however, when the bravery is so great, the acts so magnanimous, the heroism so apparent, a lengthy timeframe is not needed."
He glanced over to where TC stood, hoping he didn't look as uncomfortable as he felt. Obama smiled and turned back to the crowd. "Captain Theodore Caleb Callahan joined the army at eighteen, and qualified for the Rangers almost immediately, one of the youngest ever."
Drew couldn't keep his snort in when the President said TC's name. Jordan, sitting next to him, immediately slapped his arm, knowing why he was laughing. Sure, he had known TC had to be a nickname, but he had never been able to find out what it stood for. At least now he knew why T didn't use his full name, though he supposed he should have expected something like this, considering his parents had named his brother 'Thaddeus'.
Though he couldn't have heard the snort, TC still managed to glare at Drew from his spot on the stage, his expression warning the doctor of retribution to follow, as well as pain should he make fun of the name.
"He completed Ranger School with the highest scores recorded in nearly twenty years. At nineteen, he passed the qualifications for Special Forces, again, the youngest ever. It was shortly after that, that the Army recognized his aptitude for medicine and offered him the chance to attend one of the top Medical Schools in the country, where his experience as an Army medic allowed him to be accepted without even attending an undergraduate program first. He graduated at the top of his class, and continued to serve as a Ranger and Army doctor through multiple tours in the Middle East.
"During his four tours, Captain Callahan saved countless lives as a doctor and as a soldier. He has been recognized with a Distinguished Service Medal, a Soldier's Medal, a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart and several oak leaf clusters to commemorate the six times he has been injured in the line of duty, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, a National Service Medal, and a Valorous Unit Citation, for his actions and bravery over the course of his service. Upon his return home, Captain Callahan continued to persist in demonstrating his considerable selflessness and sense of responsibility; he currently works as a doctor at the San Antonio Memorial Hospital in Texas.
"Sixteen months ago, Captain Callahan was simply a doctor on his way to work, when he received a call to action. Though he had not expected it, he understood the need to return to his Battalion, and without hesitation or fear, he took up the mantle of Army Ranger once more."
TC had to bite the inside of his cheek to not show anything at those words. He had definitely hesitated. More than once, he had considered just tearing up the damn letter and pretending it had never arrived. But then, what was it Jordan had told him just a few weeks ago, when he had been complaining about this ceremony for probably the hundredth time? Bravery isn't about having no fears. It's about being terrified, and doing it anyway, for no other reason than it's the right thing to do.
Damn, TC loved that woman.
"Nine months ago, it was a normal day. Captain Callahan and his unit were stationed at an Army camp in Afghanistan while working a joint operation with Special Forces and Intelligence units. When a series of explosions took out the camp's communications and satellite array, Captain Callahan recognized the distraction for what it was, and organized the evacuation of two hundred and ninety seven soldiers. When his vehicle was struck, Captain Callahan pulled both himself and the two other occupants to safety. And despite being injured, he rallied the soldiers and pulled them into a defensible position. In pulling a fellow Ranger out of the line of fire, he was shot three times. And still, he managed to get the soldiers to punch through the enemy lines to make it to the nearest Army base."
The President allowed himself a conspiratorial smile. "When we were going over Captain Callahan's service record, more than one person asked for the facts to be checked again. It seemed impossible that one man could have done so much."
Jordan was crying now, so proud of her fiancé. Kayla looked up at her mommy and giggled, and Jordan took her small hand and helped her wave to daddy.
"I have a quote here, from Lieutenant General Manning, who was the first to meet with Captain Callahan in Germany." TC winced briefly, before he controlled himself, and Obama continued. "General Manning informed me that when Captain Callahan was told of his consideration for this honor, he tried to claim that it 'wasn't necessary,' and that he 'didn't do it to get recognized.' That he was 'just doing his job.' That Captain Callahan doesn't believe he deserves this medal only speaks to his overall character. He is a credit to his country, The United States Army, his fellow Rangers, and above all, to himself. He is someone I believe we could all aspire to emulate.
"His colleagues at San Antonio Memorial Hospital say that he is the best ER doctor on their staff, and his first instinct is always to save lives, whether it be in the deserts of Afghanistan, or during the night shift in Texas."
TC raised an eyebrow, looking down the line of friends in the front row. He hadn't been aware that they had been interviewed. He wished they would have told him. And he wondered which of them had told the President that.
He never would have guessed that when each of them had been asked for their opinions, every single one of them had said the same thing. Even Scott and Michael. They could admit that even when they hadn't gotten along with him, and they were only too willing to state it now that they saw him as a good friend. TC really was an irreplaceable member of their team.
"Captain Callahan, when asked about his actions, continues to deny that he should receive any special treatment. He has cited the Ranger Creed several times, believing adamantly that anyone in his position would have done the same thing. 'Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of the Rangers.' 'I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster, and fight harder than any other soldier.' 'Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight, and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.' 'Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country. Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission though I be the lone survivor.'"
Jordan sniffed lightly, her eyes filled with tears of pride and joy for her fiancé. The Ranger Creed was a set of standards and beliefs that the Rangers learned backwards and forwards during training, much like regular soldiers did with the Soldier's Creed. Those values were something TC had always strived to maintain throughout his service and in his everyday life, believing in them wholeheartedly.
"Captain Callahan continues to uphold these ideals every minute of every day, and we are proud to honor his actions, his merit, his valor, and his integrity." The President turned to face TC, who copied his movements, so that he was facing the Commander in Chief.
A man in military dress approached the President and held out a velvet box. Obama flipped the lid open and pulled out the medal, grasping it by the ribbon. He moved silently across the stage until he was standing in front of TC. He slipped the medal over the doctor's head, and settled it around his neck, before offering his hand, which TC shook firmly, trying to keep his expression neutral.
Obama smiled. "Congratulations, Captain, and thank you for your service."
TC nodded slightly. "Thank you, sir."
On the far side of the stage stood the flag bearers and a brass quartet. When President Obama raised his right arm to salute TC, the musicians began playing the national anthem.
TC returned the salute, and a moment later, both men dropped their arms and turned to face the audience.
Everyone was on their feet for the national anthem, and as the last notes were played, they were all clapping and cheering.
TC was off the stage as soon as he was able to do it without making it look like he was running from the attention. He quickly reached his fiancée and greeted her with a kiss, before he took Mattie from Topher's arms, his expression relaxing noticeably as he held his son.
TC's friends all crowded around, congratulating him, and TC really just wished he was allowed to leave. But first he would have to meet with what looked to be nearly a hundred official representatives, all of whom would want to shake his hand personally. Not to mention take pictures with him. He wondered how many times he would have to pose this afternoon.
"So…" Drew smirked and dug his elbow into TC's ribcage. "Theodore, huh? How come that never came up in regular conversation?"
TC winced at the physical dig – Drew couldn't have known that he had inadvertently hit the exact spot to send a flare of pain up his back. He hid it quickly, and glared as he slapped the younger doctor upside the head, causing his hat to fly off.
Drew quickly dropped down to pick it up, and mock-glared at his fellow doctor. "Not cool, man."
TC rolled his eyes. "Use that name again," he threatened. "I dare you."
Drew winced. "That medal's made you meaner."
It was Jordan who slapped him the second time, and he rubbed his shoulder exaggeratedly. Any form of retribution, however, was interrupted when the President approached them.
Obama smiled genially as he held out his hand for TC to shake once more. "I just wanted to thank you again for your service, Captain," he said, before moving his gaze to the child in TC's arms, and the group of men and women around him. "These must be the twins," he commented, glancing over at the girl Jordan was carrying. "As I understand it your fiancée was pregnant when you left?"
TC inclined his head slightly, gesturing for Jordan to stand next to him. "They were born the same night I returned to Texas, sir."
Obama nodded. "Congratulations."
Jordan smiled. "I think it was the shock of seeing him again, with no warning. He didn't even let me know he was coming home."
TC rolled his eyes. "I left you a message."
"It was a very vague message," Jordan shot back, glaring at him in exasperation. "In which you did not in any way tell me that you were actually on your way home."
TC sighed. "Of course dear. I humbly apologize and offer my deepest sympathies. In fact rmf –" He was cut off as Jordan slapped a hand over his mouth to shut him up.
"Don't ever talk like that again," she admonished, before turning back to the President, who was watching them with obvious amusement. "I apologize, sir. I'm still trying to house-train him, but until that kicks in, he's just not fit for polite company."
The President laughed, taking pleasure in the obvious love this couple shared. "That's quite all right," he said amiably, as they all ignored TC's indignant expression. He held out a hand to Mattie, who just looked at it in confusion.
TC grasped Mattie's hand and pulled it forward gently. "Can you say hi to the President, Mattie?" he asked the eight-month-old child.
Mattie just giggled, but Obama wasn't deterred, and grasped the baby's hand lightly. "It is very nice to meet you, Mattie."
He then turned to Jordan, who fidgeted slightly at the undivided attention of the most powerful man in America. She repositioned Kayla in her arms, and held out the little girl's hand in the same way TC had done with their son. "Makayla, do you want to say hello to the President?"
Like her brother, Makayla just giggled, but Obama shook her hand gently, and then stepped back. "It was a pleasure to meet you all," he nodded regally. "You have a beautiful family, Captain."
TC smiled down at his fiancée, while Jordan blushed deeply, leaning into TC's side.
As soon as the President moved away, the space was filled with Senators, Congressmen, and Army officials. Every one of them wanted to shake TC's hand, and a significant portion spent ample time cooing over the twins. It was amusing, the way all these powerful men seemed to melt in the presence of the babies.
TC had to keep fighting the urge to blush, as he really wasn't used to all this recognition.
Eventually, he got pulled away, and had to surrender his son to Gwen, before the two Senators from Texas claimed his attention.
Jordan watched him from across the lawn, knowing how much he hated this, but so incredibly proud of him, and wanting the entire world to recognize him. He deserved it.
She and TC's friends were mostly removed from the spotlight, so they had nothing to do but watch as he mingled with all the important guests. Their observation was interrupted many times as some of TC's Ranger buddies and other soldiers who had been in the attack stopped by, offering their congratulations and thanks for what he had done to save their lives.
"Are you Jordan?"
She turned quickly, seeing two men in uniform standing in front of her, and nodded, shifting Kayla so that she was more stable against her shoulder.
The man on the right smiled, holding out his hand for Jordan to shake. "I'm Lieutenant Conway, ma'am. This is Lieutenant Holtz. We just wanted to tell you how grateful we are for your fiancé's actions."
Jordan furrowed her brow, and felt Topher, Scott, and Drew, all clustered around her, step forward slightly. "Did you serve with him?" she asked curiously.
Conway shrugged with one shoulder. "Not officially," he admitted. "We were both part of the Special Forces team stationed at that camp. Captain Callahan saved our lives when our vehicle was hit."
Jordan's eyes widened. She had known that there had been two other men in the car with TC, but she hadn't gotten all the details, and had just assumed they had been fellow Rangers and friends. Somehow, it made it an even more selfless act, to hear that he had saved two strangers.
Studying the two men closer, she caught the hint of scars across Conway's neck and Holtz's cheek, evidence of the explosion they had been caught in.
Holtz smiled slightly. "We had never met him before his unit arrived at the camp, but everyone who goes through training learns the records; Captain Callahan's the youngest ever to pass the Special Forces qualifications, and he broke a few records while doing it. He's kind of a legend, ma'am."
Jordan blushed, her gaze flickering to her fiancé, who was currently surrounded by what looked to be three Senators, a Congressman, and two Generals.
Scott had to control his expression at yet another piece of evidence that he really had been completely off the mark when he had judged TC upon first meeting him.
How was it possible for someone to be so perfect?
"Anyway," Conway cleared his throat awkwardly. "You're all very lucky to have him as a friend. And congratulations," he nodded at the baby in Jordan's arms, his eyes glancing over at the other kid that Gwen was holding a short distance away. "We might have only known him for a couple of weeks, but he talked about you a lot. It didn't take much deductive reasoning to figure out how much he loves you, and how excited he was to be a dad."
Holtz snorted amusedly. "Every time you sent him a new picture, he would show the entire camp. He was thrilled."
Jordan was pretty sure she resembled a tomato now, and couldn't think of anything to say as the two soldiers walked away.
"Don't tell me you ever doubted it?"
Another pair of soldiers immediately slid in, both grinning impishly.
Jordan rolled her eyes, but smiled at the two, as Doug quickly moved forward and plucked Kayla from her arms. "OK, either you have no idea how to dress kids, or this is Makayla. Hey cutie!"
Kayla giggled, and Jordan sighed exasperatedly. "Yes, that's Kayla." Arnold moved forward to take charge of Mattie, and returned to Doug's side, as the rest of TC's friends followed. "The one Arnold just kidnapped is Mattie."
Neither Ranger replied, as they focused all their attention focused on cooing at the kids in their arms.
"It's nice to finally meet you in person," Doug eventually looked up, grinning at Jordan. "I mean, I feel like I already know everything about you, after four tours of TC never being able to shut up about Jordan this, and Jordan that, but oof –"
He cut off as Arnold elbowed him harshly, glaring at his friend. "Congratulations on the kids," he said, speaking over Doug's muttering. "They're adorable. Which one's peanut, and which is blueberry?"
Topher snorted, while the rest of them started laughing. Jordan tried to glare, but couldn't keep the stern expression on her face.
After a minute of listening to them, she just sighed and turned away. "If you'll excuse me, I think I need to go rescue my fiancé. I'll be right back."
Indeed, TC looked about to bolt, when they all turned to find him. He also looked pretty close to collapsing, and they were immediately concerned.
Topher and Jordan knew that he was still experiencing some pain, but the rest hadn't been aware. He really was good at hiding it.
Jordan slipped away quickly, knowing that the kids would be fine with their extended family for a few minutes, and hurried to TC's side.
He looked incredibly relieved to see her, but of course, neither of them could walk away without Jordan needing to be introduced to three Generals, the Senators from New York, a Congressman from Georgia, and one of the Senators from California.
"Thanks," he muttered as he finally managed to say goodbye and let Jordan lead him back to their friends.
Jordan frowned minutely. "We're probably almost done, right?" she asked worriedly. "I'm sure if you need to get out of here, we can make excuses and leave."
TC shrugged, glancing around at the crowd. By his count, he still had quite a few important figures to meet and take photos with.
"How's your back?" Jordan asked softly.
TC immediately smiled reassuringly. "I'm fine," he promised. He knew she didn't believe him, and she probably had every reason not to, but he didn't want her stressing herself out worrying about him.
Jordan did know that he wasn't being honest, but she didn't call him out, as they reached their friends and TC immediately took Kayla from Doug. "I don't trust you not to corrupt my kid," he said by way of explanation, when the Ranger protested.
Jordan snorted and took Mattie away from Arnold, though he was much better about hiding his disappointment. Those kids really were adorable.
They made small talk for a few minutes, before the two Rangers gave TC a handshake and a one-armed hug, and walked away.
The rest of their friends backed up a little, giving the small family a moment alone.
Jordan sighed as she leaned into her fiancé's embrace. "You're doing great," she whispered, smiling slightly.
TC grimaced, holding Kayla closer and taking comfort in his family's presence. "How much longer do we have to stay?" he asked rhetorically.
Jordan rolled her eyes. "You said you were fine. You know that it won't go over well if we duck out."
TC grinned cheekily. "Maybe they'll just assume we're going to celebrate privately in the White House. There's probably lots of empty rooms in there."
Jordan slapped him lightly on the arm, but she was smiling.
TC sighed wistfully. "It was worth a shot."
Jordan rolled her eyes and reached up to touch the medal around his neck. "I'm so proud of you, T. I've heard so many soldiers today talk about how wonderful you are, what a great leader you are, how honored they were to serve under you." TC blushed and looked at the ground, but Jordan refused to be deterred. "It's true," she insisted. "While you were busy mingling with all those officials, we got to talk to men in your Battalion, and soldiers you saved that day. They're in awe of you." She chuckled. "The soldiers you pulled out of that car say you're a legend."
TC groaned pathetically. "I was just doing my job," he protested, but Jordan silenced him with a kiss.
"And that attitude is why they look at you that way. You don't do anything to be a hero; you did what you did because it was the right thing to do. Don't get me wrong, it terrifies me to hear of you putting your life in danger like that, but I am so proud of you. I love you, T."
TC immediately bent down and captured her lips with his own, kissing her passionately. Kayla was transferred to one arm so that he could use the other to pull his fiancée closer, his hand snaking around her waist.
Jordan shifted Mattie over so that she could put her free arm around his neck, deepening the kiss.
Several people clapped and whistled, while Topher and Gwen immediately moved in to take the kids away, just in case.
TC and Jordan barely seemed to notice, except to use their now free second arms to hold each other even tighter.
They had to pull apart a few minutes later, or pass out from the lack of oxygen.
Fortunately no one teased them too much, as several more officials descended.
With an inaudible sigh, TC was swept up in the formalities once more.
XXX
Finally, finally, it was over.
It was early evening by the time they were allowed to leave, and they all rushed back to their hotel – a rather lavish set of suites at one of the best hotels in the city, paid for by the United States government, of course – to freshen up before dinner.
TC immediately dropped down into one of the comfortable sitting chairs with a groan, as he absentmindedly rubbed his leg.
Jordan was immediately at his side, kneeling next to him worriedly. "Are you sure you're up for dinner?" she asked, concerned. "We can make an excuse and stay in."
TC shook his head wearily. "It's fine," he assured her. Jordan looked about to protest, but TC reached out and cupped her face gently, smiling softly. "I promise, if I need to leave early, I'll tell you."
Jordan didn't look entirely convinced, but agreed, and helped him stand up. She really wanted him to be better, but after all the injuries he had accrued, she understood that it would be a slow recovery. He was getting better, and she knew that it was annoying him to no end, that he was still experiencing pain, but TC was stubborn as hell, and he refused to give up. Everyone had been relieved when his doctor had cleared him to go back to work a few weeks ago. TC was not a good patient, and everyone around him knew it. He was mostly able to get through a shift without incident, but when it got really busy, sometimes he needed to sit down to catch his breath. But considering how close he had come to being paralyzed, none of them were complaining – too much, at least.
Jordan forced her mind to focus on the present as she gathered her purse and the bag that held all the necessities they would need to take with them for the twins.
TC wanted to change, but knew it wouldn't go over well; they were going out to eat at a five star restaurant, paid for by the government, and the military uniform was really the only appropriate suit TC had with him – Jordan had made sure of that. He really did look good in that uniform.
He did, however, refuse to wear his new medal, placing it back in the velvet box and snapping the lid shut.
Jordan sighed as she straightened his jacket, her hand ghosting over the other commendations he had pinned to his chest. "I love you, T, so much. And I am so proud of you. I just wish you could be proud of yourself."
TC quickly grasped her shoulders, leaning down to kiss her gently. "I am proud," he assured her. "You know I don't like attention. I just…" He shrugged lightly. "I don't like getting recognized for something that is part of my job. Anyone else would have done the same thing."
"No they wouldn't have," Jordan quickly cut in. "Not everyone is able to shove their own fears aside the way you do. Not everyone believes in duty and honor the way you do. You deserve to be recognized, T. You did an amazing thing."
TC sighed, but knew that no one else would ever see it the way he did, so there was no point in arguing. It just seemed wrong to him; he had become a soldier to protect others. He had recited the Ranger Creed with three hundred other men at the end of training, vowing to uphold the ideals and duties of a soldier and a Ranger. So really, he had just been doing what he was supposed to do. It wasn't anything to get excited about.
A knock on the door interrupted them, and the couple quickly picked up the two carriers holding the twins, and rejoined their friends out in the hall.
XXX
"So, you guys ready for tomorrow?" Topher asked, handing TC a drink as he sat down next to his friend.
The restaurant they were eating at had reserved a private back room for their group, since there were too many people for a sit down dinner.
TC nodded and smiled, leaning back in his seat as his gaze flitted over to his fiancée across the room. "We've been ready for this for years, really," he admitted, turning back to Topher.
They would have to leave tomorrow afternoon, but before they headed back to Texas, TC and Jordan were going to get married. When they had been talking about this trip, they had realized that they didn't want to waste any more time. They didn't need a huge ceremony and celebration, as neither of them had much family anyway. It was really just their friends that they wanted to be there, and since they would all be in DC anyway, they might as well get it done while everyone had the time off.
So they had set up the small ceremony to take place on the Mall; it would be attended by their friends from Texas, and several of TC's Ranger buddies, along with a few of the soldiers from other specialties that he had gotten close to in those two weeks before the attack. Drew had jokingly asked if they were going to invite the President, but TC had just shuddered at the thought of his wedding turning into a media circus.
All he wanted was to be married to the love of his life. Sure, it could be cool to have the President show up, but he just wanted a small ceremony.
Topher grinned and clasped him on the shoulder. "I'm really happy for you guys," he said quietly. "I know you've been through a lot together, and you've faced more than your fair share of obstacles; if anyone deserves to be happy, it's you two."
TC blushed slightly, and looked down at the drink in his hands. "It's taken a lot for us to get here," he admitted. "I keep feeling like something's going to happen before tomorrow."
Topher knew that he had legitimate reason to be concerned, given everything they had been through over the years. TC going off to war, getting injured, Thad dying, PTSD, feeling like he was ruining Jordan's life and breaking up with her, Jordan dating someone else, TC screwing someone else, and then finally getting back together only to once more have to go back to war. The universe just seemed to be conspiring against them at times, but Topher would make damn sure nothing would keep them from finally standing up and saying their vows tomorrow.
"Nothing's going to happen," he promised his friend, shifting in his seat so that he was facing TC head-on. "You and Jordan are going to get married. Now," he stood up and downed the last of his drink, "if you'll excuse me, I think it's my right as best man to kick off the toasts."
TC snorted, shaking his head in amusement as Topher headed to the front of the room. Since they had to head back to Texas pretty quickly after the wedding tomorrow, tonight was acting as the reception, and that meant that their friends had planned speeches for the happy couple.
Jordan made her way over to her fiancé, grateful that Gwen and Kenny had taken charge of the twins for the moment. Both kids were fast asleep in their carriers, and as it was a low-key evening, she didn't feel too much apprehension that they would wake up. Even at eight months old, both babies were pretty sound sleepers. Similarly, Topher and Janet's twins were asleep in their stroller.
Topher quickly grabbed another drink as he reached the front of the room and cleared his throat. Everyone stopped talking and turned to face him.
Jordan sat down in TC's lap, trying to keep as much of her weight off of his right leg as possible as she leaned against his shoulder and they focused on their friend.
Topher smiled. "I thought I'd take the opportunity to start the toasts," he informed them. "So, everyone here knows that T and I have been friends for a long time. The first time I met him, I had no idea he was a doctor. He was hanging out with a group of Rangers, and he looked so comfortable and relaxed with them, I just assumed he was another soldier I was going to have to save on a battlefield someday. And then we were attacked." Several people's eyes widened, and Topher grimaced. "He pulled me down and told me to take cover, before he went to work trying to stop the bleeding on another soldier. He didn't even flinch. Idiot was bleeding from his arm, cuts all over his face from flying shrapnel, and he just kept going, cool as ever, trying to save another guy's life."
Topher glanced over at TC and smirked at the exasperated look the younger doctor was wearing. "I'm not completely ashamed to admit that I was in awe of him for a while after that. Don't worry, T, I got over it pretty quickly." Several people chuckled, and TC rolled his eyes. "From day one, T was pulling my ass out of the fire, making sure I would get back to my wife and daughter."
Janet smiled at TC in thanks, and he nodded slightly. Lynn moved over and gave her uncle a one-armed hug.
"I didn't meet Jordan until after I got back, but by that point, I had heard so much about her that I felt like I knew her."
TC blushed slightly, looking down. Jordan reached out with her hand and tilted his face up, leaning over to give him a kiss.
"He spent months telling anyone who would listen about how he was going to propose, how much he wanted to marry the most beautiful woman in the world."
TC glared at Topher. He wasn't supposed to tell people that.
Topher rolled his eyes, but then sobered slightly as he remembered what had come next. "Unfortunately, circumstances prevented him from carrying out his plans, and for a while, I was sure it was over. It truly seemed to be over, and I told him at one point to just let it go." He snorted. "I should have known better than to doubt them like that.
"I've worked with these two for over half a decade; I've seen them together, and I've seen them apart, and I can honestly say that I have never seen anyone overcome the obstacles they have faced to be together."
TC looked at Jordan and leaned forward to kiss her gently. Pulling back, he smiled softly. "I love you," he whispered.
Jordan beamed and leaned into his chest, sighing contentedly.
"Fortunately, those two are just too stubborn to quit," Topher concluded. "And I truly believe that as long as they have each other, they can survive anything. So, TC and Jordan, the two best friends I could ever have, besides my own wife, of course," he smiled at Janet, who rolled her eyes back at him, though she was smiling as well, "congratulations. You two deserve every happiness the world can offer."
He raised his glass and took a sip, and everyone else followed suit, before Topher quickly made his way back to his wife's side, and Scott stood up next, to their surprise.
Scott cleared his throat awkwardly, and fiddled with the glass in his hand. "OK, I guess I'll go next." He looked at TC and Jordan. "It's no secret that TC and I didn't exactly get off to the best start. Mutual hatred sound about right?" he asked, smiling slightly.
"Worse," TC called back, grinning as the rest of the room laughed.
Scott nodded slightly. "Yeah. We didn't get along, mostly because I was dating Jordan, but I also saw him as a cowboy doctor who felt entitled and acted like he owned the hospital." TC grimaced, but brightened when Jordan hugged him gently. "But then something changed. I mean, after Jordan dumped me to get back with him, and I suddenly realized I had moved hundreds of miles to be with a woman who was in love with someone else."
Jordan glared, but Scott was chuckling amusedly, so they all knew he harbored no ill feelings. "When TC got that letter recalling him to active service, he asked me to do something for him. He wanted me to take care of Jordan while he was gone; he trusted me with the most important thing in his life, and that's when I realized that if he could do that, he couldn't be all bad."
Jordan rolled her eyes, and TC gave a one-shouldered shrug. "I knew I had no shot," Scott admitted. "I've seen them together, even before Jordan and I ended it, and I knew it would never work between us. Every now and then, you meet a couple who aren't just two people, they're two halves of a whole. And that's TC and Jordan. They can operate without the other, but it's not the same." He raised his glass to the couple. "TC, you told me once that without Jordan, we probably could have been really great friends. I'm hoping that we've managed to find that even with the awkward elephant in the room, not that you're an elephant, at all," he hurried when he saw Jordan's arched eyebrow. "Anyway, congratulations you two, I am so happy for you, and I wish you all the best. You deserve it."
He quickly took a sip and sat down.
Gwen immediately moved in. "All right, when TC and Jordan got back together, I told him that if he hurt her again, he would have to deal with me. Jordan and I have been best friends since college, and as honorary sister, it's my job to protect her. I never felt like she could see clearly when it came to this guy. Sure, he told me that he wouldn't hurt her, but call me a skeptic. I didn't think it would work out, because I didn't trust him." She shrugged apologetically in the couple's direction. "I just have to say, I've never been more happy to be wrong. So TC, you be good to my girl, because my promise still stands. You hurt her, I end you."
Several people laughed, while TC nodded slightly and turned to look at Jordan. "No worries there," he whispered softly. He would do everything in his power to make sure she never experienced any more hardships for the rest of her life.
There was a brief pause before Drew took Gwen's place in the front of the room. "Well, I don't think I have any deep stories, but I'll still take a pass at this." He grinned at TC and Jordan. "I met Doctor Callahan on my first shift at the hospital about three years ago. He quickly dumped me on my ass and told me to stop acting like I was still an Army medic because it was going to get someone killed in a real hospital. Toph, I don't think you should be embarrassed about your hero worship, because T kind of seems to inspire that in everyone," he grinned self-deprecatingly, as TC blushed and Topher shrugged. Rick just laughed loudly, knowing it was true. Drew tended to talk about TC a lot.
"T, you were always a great teacher, an amazing doctor, and probably the best friend I've ever had. I learned more from you than I ever did as a medic in the sandbox." He turned his attention to Jordan. "I didn't know Jordan too well at first, considering she worked the day shift and we didn't interact much. The first shift we worked together, she caught a mistake I had made, and definitely made me feel like an incompetent doctor. Don't worry, T was quick to defend you. Said that you were the one he'd trust with his life."
Jordan chuckled lightly and gave TC a kiss.
Drew shrugged. "Even when they weren't a couple, TC was always defending Jordan, looking out for her, doing everything in his power to make her life easier. I didn't even know they had ever been a couple back then, but I could still see how much he cared for her. And I don't think anyone was surprised when they got back together. You guys are amazing, and I am so grateful for everything you've done for me." He took a deep breath and focused on TC, who was watching him knowingly. "T, you knew about me and Rick for months, and you never said anything. You listened to me whine about how much I missed him, you hung out with me when I didn't want to spend the day alone, you spent months quizzing me for the test I had to take to get into Ranger School, and you never once complained."
Drew had to collect himself as he thought about everything TC had done for him. Several people were tearing up as the young doctor spoke. "I just want to say that I love you guys, in a totally nonsexual, manly way of course," he grinned cheekily as everyone laughed. "Thank you for being amazing, I couldn't ask to be part of a better family."
As soon as he sat down next to Rick, Doug and Arnold bounded up to the front of the room. Both Rangers grinned at the suddenly apprehensive look on TC's face. "We could probably stand up here for hours and tell you all sorts of embarrassing stories," Doug said, "but it's getting late, and you all will probably want to get some sleep tonight."
Arnold nodded his agreement. "When I first saw T, I immediately dismissed him. He was this eighteen-year-old kid, younger than everyone else in Ranger School, and I know I wasn't the only one who thought it was some publicity stunt or something. I don't think anyone found out that he had gotten the highest score for admittance into the Ranger program in several decades, until years after the fact, because T really hates to talk about himself. Actually, it was Thad who spilled the beans. He really was proud of his brother. He talked about you constantly while you were studying to become a doctor," he informed TC, who looked down somberly at the mention of his brother. He wished Thad could be here for this. Thad had loved Jordan, once he had gotten over the idea that TC had found someone else who could take care of him just as well as he could. He had constantly joked with TC about how she was too good for him, but had always told him that she was an amazing woman, and how glad he was that TC had her in his life.
"Anyway, I remember this one time, we were in the mountain phase of training. It was towards the end, and the instructors dropped our group off in the wilderness with no instructions, to see how well we could use the skills we had learned over the last few weeks." Doug grinned, remembering the incident. "We were all at each other's throats within a few hours, no one could decide on a course of action. And then T stepped up and got us all to shut up long enough to listen to each other; he got us to figure out a plan to get back to our camp. That's when most of us realized that he was the real deal. I mean, this kid was at least three years younger than the rest of us, and he still managed to knock us on our asses and make us listen to reason. T's always been a leader, and I know I've been willing to follow him ever since training, because there's no one I trust more."
"Like Topher, we had to hear all kinds of moping and bragging about this angel," Arnold took over, gesturing towards Jordan as he rolled his eyes exaggeratedly. "Every frickin' tour, he was complaining about being separated from Jordan. You should have heard him last year. And when it wasn't about Jordan, it was 'peanut and blueberry'." Arnold ducked the wadded up napkin TC threw at him.
Jordan just laughed and kissed her fiancé.
"We all knew this day would come, though it does seem like the odds were always stacked against them," Doug said, completely serious. Then he grinned. "But you know, Jordan, in case you change your mind, I'm still available."
Arnold slapped him on the arm and shook his head. "In all seriousness, T, you're one of the best people I know, and I'm so happy for you two." He raised his glass. "Congratulations." He took a sip, and then dragged Doug back to their seats.
That seemed to be the end of the speeches, and people turned back to their meals once more; TC picked at his plate a little, but was too tired to keep eating.
Jordan watched him for a few minutes, before she sighed. "Come on, T, let's go back to the hotel."
TC tried to protest, but she gripped his hand tightly. "You promised you'd tell me if you needed to leave. Can you honestly say you're not in pain right now?"
TC bit his lip, but shook his head hesitantly, sighing in defeat. "Fine," he admitted softly.
Jordan smiled slightly, and stood up. "I'll get the twins," she informed him, before disappearing into the crowd.
She returned a few minutes later with both carriers. "Let's get out of here," she said.
TC made to stand up and then paused, slumping slightly. "I might need some help," he admitted ruefully.
Jordan was immediately concerned as she set Kayla's carrier down and grasped TC's arm tightly, helping him pull himself to his feet. "Should I be worried?" she asked, wondering if she should drag him to a hospital.
TC shook his head quickly, and gestured for her to pick Kayla back up. "Just tired and sore," he assured her. "I'll be fine. I think I might have overdone it today."
Jordan forced herself to calm down, realizing that he had spent most of the day on his feet, so it was only logical for him to be sore. He would be fine with a good night's sleep.
They said goodbye to their friends and quickly grabbed a cab outside. It had been a long day, and they were ready for bed.
XXX
Jordan looked beautiful, TC thought to himself as they stood underneath a blooming cherry tree in a secluded corner of the National Mall. In front of them was General Miller, the man who had informed him that he had officially been selected to receive the Medal of Honor, when he had returned from Germany. Surrounding them were all of their friends.
TC was wearing his military dress uniform, while Jordan had donned a simple white dress; it had a halter-top and fit her snugly to the waist, before flaring out and coming to an abrupt halt at her knees.
There were crowds all around them, but for all they cared, they could have been the only people in the world.
General Miller beamed at the pair. "All right, I know you have to catch a plane in a couple of hours, so we'll make this quick. Theodore Callahan, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife? Do you promise to love her, through good times and bad, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"
TC smiled softly. "I do," he vowed.
Miller turned slightly. "Do you, Jordan Alexander, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband? Do you promise to love him, through good times and bad, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"
Jordan grinned. "I do."
Miller nodded to Topher and Gwen, who both passed the rings forward. TC slipped Jordan's ring on first, sliding it up her finger until it rested snugly against the engagement ring. TC had had Jordan's wedding ring designed specifically to match her engagement ring; it was a white gold band, with alternating sapphires and diamonds set in an infinity style all the way around.
When her ring was in place, Jordan did the same for TC, squeezing his hand gently as she slid the wide white gold band onto his finger, beaming happily the whole time.
Miller glanced around at the crowd. "I present to you all, Mr. and Mrs. Callahan. You may kiss the bride."
TC didn't need any more encouragement, and quickly leaned forward to capture Jordan's lips, snaking his arms around her waist as he pulled her close. Jordan threw her arms around his neck, and they were oblivious to the cheering of their friends.
Not just friends, several tourists and visitors to the Mall had stopped to watch, and were also clapping.
TC and Jordan pulled apart a minute later, smiling widely as they seemed unable to look away from each other.
They were quickly surrounded by their friends, who all congratulated them happily. Drew passed Kayla to TC, and Kenny gave up Mattie when Jordan held out her hands.
TC felt like his smile would split his face, but he couldn't stop. It had taken years of hardship, years of struggle, of feeling sometimes like it would never get better. But finally, he and Jordan were married. They had two amazing kids, a family in their friends and colleagues, and most importantly, each other.
No matter what else life threw at them, TC was done letting it win. He was finally fighting for what he wanted, and he would do anything for his family.
He would likely always carry the scars, both physical and mental. He would have bad days and worse days. He would wake up shaking in the night. He would wonder sometimes if it was really worth it.
But then he would look at his wife, his two perfect children, and he would know that it was.
Life was tough. It could really suck sometimes; it could kick you when you were down and then go grab a truck and back up over you a couple dozen times.
But that didn't mean it wasn't worth it, and as long as he had something to fight for, he knew he would win.
I'm so bad at endings. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed, and please let me know what you think!
