#alex-caulder

[nativexhaole]

[text] Happy Birthday, Man! I hope it's everything you deserve.

[text] Mahalo, brother! So far, it’s been beautiful. Spent it with Danny and the kids.

[nativexhaole]

[text] How did that go? His birthday and all? I meant to check in with you and we ended up getting an assignment, so I've been offline for a minute. [text] He's a real cocky son of a bitch, for one thing. Acts like he belongs here, that he wasn't just an assigned fill in for a man who DOES belong here. [text] I don't like this guy at all...

[text] An assignment? NICE! Exciting shit, buddy! I’m happy as hell to hear it, I’m not even mad you went ghost. Bet it felt good to be back in action, hu?

[text] It was... interesting. Something you’re going to learn, actually. Birthdays get.. not exactly easier? But less painful. I guess eight years in, it makes sense that it’s not agony, but it’s still hard. I spent time with his wife and his daughter, then Danny and I went to the beach where I first met him and we lit lanterns. It was nice... I don’t know why I never let Danny in on this before. 

[text] He’s the one that stepped into Buckley’s place, right? If he’s cocky, isn’t it Graves’ job to correct him? He’s unit lead, right? Hard as it is to accept his attitude, you have two choices, really- you can step back, lead by example and trust Joe to do his job as lead... or you can confront him yourself, and risk being bounced out for insubordination and defiance. It’s fucked, it’s not fair... but he’s not worth your career, Alex. Trust the process, buddy. I know it’s not what you wanna hear, but I’ve been there. I know from experience. 

[text] You don’t have to like him. I served with people in my eleven years that I couldn’t fucking stand- it’s not about liking him. It’s about understanding that he’s there, and that he’s got his job to do, same as you. Emotions are hard to ignore in a close situation like a team, but... your boys need you. The new kid doesn’t get the chance to take you from them. That’s not how this works, you know? You’re stronger, you’re smarter, and you’re better than to let a punk ass interloper challenge you for your spot. You’re the beta here- he’s a fucking omega. Don’t let him forget his place in the pack. 

[text] It’s YOUR pack. Not his.

[nativexhaole]

[text-Alex] I did finish out the program, they wouldn't let me return until I did and got the clearance from the doctor. I'm still seeing her twice a week and you're right... it's frustrating but I realize that it's necessary. [text] Trevor is... different. We got off to a rocky start. I guess we'll see. [text] Bear and I are officially together, yes. We just haven't really told anyone about it, we're leaving it out of work, especially with the new kid around. [text] I hope it brings her comfort

[text] It’s the most frustrating thing in the world. And that’s coming from someone who went back voluntarily. They mean well... but they always want to push the topics you are most reluctant to discuss. Reminded of that one last week... we talked about Freddie and his birthday and how it ‘affected my sense of calm’. 

[text] What did do that made it rocky?

[text] Haha, nice. I know you were nervous about that. It’s probably smart, more so since Bear’s the unit lead- could be seen as favoritism. It’s why Danny and I wouldn’t be able to tell anyone on our team. 

[text] I’m positive it would. It’s gonna mean a lot to her, Alex.