Xavier flushed, which had no doubt been Gavin’s intent. “Dick.”

“Second,” Gavin said with a grin, “your sister’s a girl, and she scares me. No way I’d ever insult women by lumping your sorry ass into the pool. I was knocking the fact that it’s been a while since your royal highness has graced the gym with your majestic presence.” Gavin sighed. “It’s like, now that you’re a civilian, you’ve lost all sense of discipline.”

“Oh, please. It’s been ten years.” Xavier huffed. Gavin had served time in the Marine Corps, as had his brothers. If Xavier wasn’t mistaken, the youngest Donnigan was still on active duty. “Speaking of discipline, how’s Theo doing?”

Gavin’s smile widened. “Little shit is just fine. Sergeant Donnigan has been kicking ass and taking names.”

“Hell, man. That’s terrific. How long does he have left on his contract?”

“I don’t know. I’m not sure if he’s gonna re-up or not, but he’s doing well so far. He’s got some leave built up. I think he’s coming for a visit in the fall. We’ll have a big party. You’re invited.”

“Well, you kind of have to invite me, don’t you?” Xavier smirked. “Because if you don’t, Auggie will throw a fit. She’s all about us jarheads sticking together.”

Gavin shuddered. “I know. I already admitted she scares me. You trying to give me nightmares? I’ve had enough of those to last a lifetime.”

Xavier saw Gavin’s teasing for what it was, innocent jesting. Not the call for help he’d once had. Xavier worked with Gavin’s therapist at MYM Counseling, the practice from which Xavier was currently on a break. Though the therapists didn’t share patient information, Xavier had spoken with Gavin at a group session a few years ago, sharing stories and embracing the service they’d all given to Corps and country. Auggie and Gavin’s older brother had been there too, all of them bonding and becoming friends. That networking had in fact landed Auggie a job at the gym where Gavin managed the other trainers.

“Hey, don’t tell loudmouth I asked, but how’s my sister doing? She seems pumped about some exercise competition coming up.”

“Your sister’s a kick.” Gavin laughed. “She’s been talking a lot of trash to the other trainers entering the competition. I wouldn’t be surprised if she wins it. Talk about driven.” Gavin shrugged. “I’m an old married guy with another kid on the way. I can’t keep up with you youngsters.”

Xavier refrained from rolling his eyes. Gavin looked like he ate weights for breakfast and had no lack of attention at the gym from anyone and everyone needing advice on how to get huge. “You’re like, forty, right? That’s not too old.”

“I’m thirty-eight,” Gavin snapped back.

“Oh, my bad. The gray in your hair threw me.”

Gavin immediately put a hand to his hair, which caused Xavier to laugh.

After slugging him and calling him something Xavier would never repeat in front of his mother, Gavin stalked away with threats about setting Auggie on Xavier’s tail.