Chapter 4: Love Is The Best Rehabilitation

When Brigham awoke he was a nice warm shed and his injuries had been bandaged and taken care of. The shed had its own fireplace and two rooms that were connected. In all logic, it really was not a shed; the owners had made it bigger and basically turned it into a small house. The shed was not a large building; it was about the size of a well-made tree house. He looked around at his surroundings but it was hard to focus with his splitting headache. How did I get here? Even with his headache he could still hear the snow beating the shed and the howling wind. He knew that if he had not been brought here, he probably would have died.

 “Wha?... what happened to me? All I remember is fighting Treagan and then nothing.” Brigham, who thought he was alone, got his answer as it walked in from the other room. “You passed out tiger, right on the snow and the weather was starting to get really bad.” Brigham was surprised to see her, but when he saw her she warmed even more than the fireplace. She was standing in the opening smiling. The light from the fireplace danced around her body and sparkled in her eyes. Those eyes, they were so captivating that one could just lose themselves in them. In fact, Brigham did exactly that and just kept admiring her. She noticed that he was staring but and she looked away embarrassed. Why is he staring at me?... but he isn’t staring, I feel like he’s looking into my heart….. get a hold of yourself, don’t go falling for him!

 “You gonna speak? Or are you just going to keep drooling?” Brigham shook his head and in embarrassment cleared his throat. “Uh…. Yeah sorry, so you saved me?” “Yeah, I told you I could take care of myself.” “I guess we’re even now.” “Sure.” Her voice had a certain coldness to it and Brigham felt it. Why is she like this to me? What have I done to her to deserve this frigidness? She saw that she had been too harsh with her tone and felt bad. “Sorry, I’m Akira.” Akira…. such a beautiful name. Brigham once again gazed at her, now because of the beauty of her name. Oh geez, again? Am I really that pretty? Akira cleared her throat, and once again Brigham snapped out of it. In a flustered kind of tone he said, “I’m really sorry I just…. Well never mind. So where am I?” Akira did not actually mind his attention, but she liked giving him a hard time. She smiled as she looked at him. He’s cute when he’s embarrassed. Brigham smiled back awkwardly.

“You are in the town of Taylor, located on the north west of Alaska. It’s not a big town or city like the capital, but we like to think so.” Brigham chuckled, “Cuuuute.” Akira could tell he was joking on her, “What’s that supposed to mean?” “Nothing, ‘we like to think so, haha.’” “Whatever, you know I could just kick you out. Then we would see who’s laughing.” “Ok ok, I’m sorry. Thanks again for saving me.” “It’s fine, so where are you from?” “Well I’m from Nome.” “Nome? Wow, you’re a long way form Nome.” Brigham’s happiness faded away at the memory of leaving his home, twice. “Yeah….” Akira noticed his change in countenance, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you upset.” “No, its alright, I need to be able to talk about it and not bottle it up inside.” “Well, you can talk to me if you want too.” Brigham looked up at her beautiful face. Her eyes were still sparkling in the fireplace and as soon as he looked into them, all his pain vanished. All he had to do was look at her and all his troubles would disappear.

He smiled and was about to speak, but before he could, a boy came in through the door. As he opened the door a huge gust from the blizzard came into the shed and he struggled to close the door. He was a short little boy who was bundled up from head to toe. At the sight of him Brigham quickly got up and backed into the corner. Even though the pain of his injuries was still severe, the fear of the human overpowered it. Akira didn’t know what was wrong, “It’s ok, he’s my owner, he is really nice.” But Brigham did not hear her. His ears were pressed back against his head as far as they could go. He was hunched up in the corner cowering. The boy saw that Brigham was scared and slowly took off his winter cloths. “Its ok boy, I’m not gonna hurt you.” He slowly walked forward towards Brigham. Brigham was whimpering at this point; his experience with humans hadn’t been the greatest so he feared any of them. He never really hated humans, except for the miners who kidnapped him. Even then there were those who helped him, but he was constantly afraid of them.

“It’s alright” the boy said. “My names Anthony and I was the one who bandaged you and took care of you.” Brigham began to calm down but he still was scared. Akira looked at Brigham with compassion and sadness, what happened to him to make him so afraid of humans? Anthony continued to slowly get closer keeping one hand outstretched. “I sorry many people haven’t been nice to you but I promise I will.” Brigham suddenly stopped, how does he know that? Maybe he is different; he is Akira’s owner. Brigham moved out of the corner and relaxed his body. “That’s it boy.” Anthony then moved closer and started to pet Brigham. Brigham enjoyed Anthony’s petting; it made him feel comfortable and safe. He knew he could trust him now and licked Anthony’s face. Anthony laughed, “Ok boy, see, I’m not gonna hurt you.” Brigham barked and licked his face again. “Haha, alright alright, I brought some meat and water.” Anthony put the bowl down and started to put his jacket back on. I can’t stay long because if I do my father will get more suspicious.”

Brigham was confused but he was even hungrier. As Anthony left, Brigham swiftly ate the meat he had brought. “Don’t eat to fast or you’ll get a stomach ache later,” Akira said smiling. “Thanks, I’m just starving. So what did he mean when he said his father will be suspicious?” Akira knew shed have to explain sooner or later. “Well when I brought you here I didn’t know what to do, you had lost a lot of blood and weren’t looking too good. I ran and got Anthony who took you to this shed. His father is allergic to dogs so he made this shed so I could stay here and Anthony could still be with me. He usually sleeps here, except for nights like tonight. But anyway, his fathers the town doctor and Anthony took some of his supplies to treat your injuries. So his dad is a little suspicious considering the fact that he is missing some of his stuff. He doesn’t want to attract too much attention that there’s another dog, let alone a wolfdog.”

That term struck a soft spot. Ever since he was born, Brigham’s breeding made him the outcast. He always had his parents and his cousins but all the other dogs didn’t like him because he looked a lot like a wolf. The humans even treated him differently. He never understood why, his father was the hero of Nome, at least that’s what everyone called him, and he even looked like a wolf too. Akira could tell Brigham was sad. “I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have said it like that.” “It’s fine,” said Brigham passively. However, Akira was feeling differently. “No, it’s not!” Brigham was surprised by the force, but at the same time compassion. “It is not fine, no one deserves to be treated like you have, no matter what you look like. I can’t stand when people treat those who are different badly…. especially someone like you…” Brigham was caught off guard by her enthusiasm and compliment.Frankly, Brigham wasn’t the only one caught off guard; Akira was also surprised. They both blushed and looked at the ground.

He really is a great guy, not to bad to look at either.

She is complimenting me? I really have to pull myself together and say something.

I really need to shake out of it and say something.

 They both looked at each other and for a moment they looked past the exterior; they looked into each other’s heart. Akira was the first to speak, “Sorry for the rant.” “It’s perfectly fine, if only everyone felt the way you do.” “Yeh, well so do I.” “So…. Wanna get to know each other?” Akira gave him a shocked and offended look in jest. “I…. I didn’t mean it like that, I… uh.” Akira laughed and in a kind tone said, “I was just giving you a hard time, I know what you meant and I would be happy to get to know you more Brig. Can I call you that?” Brigham chuckled, “You can call me whatever you want.” “You probably shouldn’t say that to anyone, what if I decided to call you weirdy-beardy-chicken-speardy?” Brigham laughed, “Wow, well if you did call me that I think people would think you’re the weird one, not me. Forget me being a wolfdog, you’re the on calling people weirdy-beardy whatever’s.” They both laughed, “True, true,” she said.

 “Let’s start with your family, parents and siblings.” They both started to share the basic information about themselves. The conversation included favorite color, favorite food, favorite season and most importantly Balto, Brigham’s father. Akira was really interested in Balto and all he did because she had heard about the Diphtheria scare in Nome and how Balto saved the whole town. They talked late into the night and shared many stories, but they both grew tired. The blizzard was getting worse and they knew Anthony would not come back because of it. The fireplace was still active, keeping the whole shed warm in the storm. Even though Akira wanted too, she decided not to sleep next to Brigham. If I’m actually going to fall for him, I’m going to do it right this time. As soon as she thought that, Brigham spoke to her, “I don’t think we should sleep in the same room tonight, I mean I just, I’d be kind of too soon. Not like we’re together…. Not that I wouldn’t like too be, but I just…” “I know what you are trying to say and I’m glad that you said that, I was hoping that you would be ok with it.”

Brigham sighed, he was relieved she didn’t think he was a bad guy; he already cared about her more than she ever could imagine. He already loved her, he loved her from the moment he saw her in his dreams. And now he was beginning to fall in love with her. That night even though they slept in different rooms, it felt as if they were right next to each other. They both dreamed of the other and they both thought the same thing as they fell asleep, finally, the one I’ve been looking for, for so long.

Chapter 5: It’s Not a Big Town, But We Like to Think So

The next day, it was still snowing, but the wind had stopped and the weather was bearable. However, after battling through the demented snowstorm, Anthony managed to get into the shed. The fireplace was almost extinguished when he opened to the door. As he took off the many layers he was wearing, he occasionally let out a brief cough. Now that it was day, it was easier to see what Anthony looked like. He was a short boy of no later than 7, with blonde hair and greenish blue eyes. The moment he was inside Akira and Brigham both jumped on him. Anthony laughed as he was bathed with nuzzles and licks, “Guys, come on…. Ha,  ok ok ok.” The dogs relented and let Anthony get up. “I’m glad to see you both are fine. The storms are supposed to get really bad again, that’s what my dad told me. And he still wont let you I the house Akira.” Even though she rarely ever got to go into the house, during weather like this Anthony wasn’t allowed to sleep in the shed with her and it made it lonely in there. However, like last night, she would be happy to sleep there because Brigham was there. Akira looked at Brigham and smiled. Brigham smiled back, she’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my life. I would do anything just to sleep in the same house again.

Apparently their flirting and attraction was so obvious that Anthony noticed. “Aww, you guys are really cute together.” They both blushed and looked down at the ground. Anthony laughed and said, “if you are going to be a part of the family boy, we need to get you a name… let’s see, I think ill call you Garrison.” Brigham and Akira both gave a whimper and looked sad. Anthony was not a dumb kid and picked up on their ways of communicating their dislike for the name. “You don’t like it?” Brigham nodded his head and wagged his tail. “I guess that’s not your name… hmm, how bout Brigham?” Both Akira and Brigham barked and started to lick Anthony’s face. While he was being attacked by their affection her managed to speak, “I guess that’s your name, haha.” However, while they were licking his face their mouths met for a quick moment. They both pulled away instantly and both became red in the face. Even though their lips touched but for an instant, the effect was instantaneous. Brigham had never kissed anyone in his life but this really was not a kiss. Nonetheless, Brigham enjoyed every millisecond of it. Akira had more experience than Brigham, but even after the many kisses she had experienced, the one she had with Brigham was the most invigorating one ever. Our lips only touched for a second, yet it was the most I’ve ever felt kissing anyone. I’m thinking I’d be fine to fall for him…. wait, we have to see if we can trust him first. Don’t go getting your heart broken again.

 While Brigham was still feeling the effects of the kiss, Akira sobered up. Anthony had missed their kiss and continued talking. “I wish you could leave the shed Brigham but I’m scared that when my dad finds out about you, he will kick you out.” Brigham understood, he knew that many people don’t look kindly at his wolf appearance. But he just wished that the people he met could be more like Anthony. Akira looked sympathetically at Brigham, why does he have to deal with this? Today I’m going to take him out of this prison and let him enjoy his life. After Anthony left to go get more food and water, Akira turned to Brigham, “I think we should sneak out today after Anthony brings back the food. I’m sure if I’m your guide, we wont be seen. Besides I want to give you a tour of Taylor.” Brigham was a little nervous but the spontaneity that she showed made him forget being nervous. Brigham smiled, “well I know I’m stealthy because I’m part wolf, but you seem like you’d be a little loud.” Akira laughed, “oh ok, well I’ll try not to get us caught.” Anthony soon returned and brought them more food and new water. After they ate Anthony spent time petting Akira and Brigham by the fireplace. After he left, Akira decided it was time to set her plan into motion. By this time, it was beginning to get dark and the snow was still falling steadily.  They had both eaten and got their fill, when they decided to set out. “Ok, Anthony wont be back till tomorrow and I think we will be fine for tonight.” “Where are we going anyway?” “Oh, you’ll see, but don’t go thinking you can make a move on me cause it gets all romantic.” Brigham was not actually thinking about that but he still blushed. Make a move? I mean I would love nothing more than to kiss her, but I can’t just make a move. Maybe that was a hint that she wants me too. Girls are way to confusing.

They soon left and began to tour the town. Akira showed Brigham many of the alleyways and back streets so that if he ever wanted to explore on his own he would know where to sneak. During his tour of the town, Brigham could not help think about something that had crossed his mind before. Why am I still here? I want to be with Akira for the rest of my life yes, but I can’t live in a town where no one likes me. I can’t just stay inside the shed all day everyday, even if it’s with Akira. What are you planning grandmother? Akira continued the tour and showed him the doctor’s office where Anthony’s dad worked, the town hall, and the other key parts of the town. “Ok, well that concludes our tour of the town itself. How bout we take this show somewhere else?” “Well let’s just hope that you’re brave enough for the outskirts and forest. I’m really scared.” Akira laughed, “Oh, don’t worry, I know that you’re not the greatest fighter so I’ll take care of you.” As they began to exit the city limits, the snow was steadily falling and the moon was shinning brighter than Brigham had ever seen it.

 He looked over at Akira as they walked and almost tripped. She was so beautiful in the moonlight and the way it hit her coat left him in awe. She was the most captivating thing he had ever laid eyes on. As she turned to him, her eyes sparkled like sapphires in the moonlight. This could be reason enough to stay inside a shed all day. She saw that he was admiring her and turned away flattered. At least he isn’t drooling this time, but I kind of enjoy it though. Maybe I might let him stay around…. We’ll see what happens after tonight. They continued to walk out of town and towards the woods. Even though they had exited the town it had not taken long to get to the woods. There was little wind and snow was falling lightly. The moon shone off every treetop as they walked deeper into the forest. “Where are we going Akira?” “It’s not that far from here, trust me, it will be worth the walk.”

They began to climb up a steady incline in the terrain. As they got higher and higher the trees began to get smaller. There was a clearing at the top of the cliff that looked out over the forest and surrounding area. At the back of the cliff was a huge boulder that was slanted forward creating a natural shelter. The sky was perfectly clear even though the snow was still falling. The moonlight danced along the cliff edge as they both walked over and sat on it. Brigham took in the view, it was a lot like the cliff that overlooked Nome, but this one had a key difference. The Aurora Borealis filled the sky with colors of green, blue, purple, and white. The light show glistened off all the snow covered treetops and mountaintops. The light that was reflected off the trees and mountains mirrored the colors in the sky and created a Christmas light feel to the landscape. The landscape would blink different colors as the colors in the sky would ebb and flow. Akira had only been here once when she was younger and back then, was unable to appreciate the splendor. “Oh, it’s so beautiful…” Brigham had been looking at Akira the whole time. “Yeah… beautiful.” Akira looked at him. The moonlight was playing along his fur and accented many of his features.

 Ok, he is definitely really good looking. But its something about the way he looks at me. His eyes, I feel like… I feel like they are looking at my heart. I’m falling for him already and its only the first date. They stared at each other, gazing into each others eyes, but Brigham remembered what Akira had said about making a move. “I don’t know if you were just playing around like usual when you said not to make a move, but I feel it would be too soon anyway. Is that ok with you?” Akira was taken off guard by his chivalry and remained speechless for a second.  And who said chivalry was dead? “That’s perfectly fine with me, and I’m glad you said you brought it up.” Brigham wasn’t done though; he had more he needed to say. “There’s more though.” Akira was a little intrigued but still confused. More? She thought. “What’s up Brig?”

He loved the way she said his name, his heart was filled with joy every time he left her lips. “Well… uhh, the thing is that I really, I really like you….” Yeah, you’re not the only one feeling this way buddy “but, I just…. I just don’t know if I can stay cooped up in the shed all day. Have you ever heard of the great wolf spirit?” Akira thought the name sounded familiar but could not place it. “Well not really, who is it?” “Well it’s a she, her names Aniu and, well, she’s my grandmother.”

Akira did not know what to say. In all honesty what is someone to say when a person makes that statement? Akira must have felt as many people felt when Jesus came around and said, “oh by the way, my dad’s God.” However, instead of mock and torment Brigham, Akira could not shake the feeling that he was telling the truth, but all she could say was, “Ok…what?” Brigham laughed, “Well it’s a long story but it all started with Aniu..” Brigham then proceeded to tell Akira all about how Aniu gave birth to Balto and had to leave him alone on the planet and watch as he went through all he endured. He also explained how Balto had already had kids but wanted more and how Aniu granted his wish. “She watches over me wherever I go.” Akira was astounded; she believed every word and was now even more impressed with Brigham. Wow, his grandmother is Aniu, the Great Wolf Spirit and his father is Balto, the hero of Nome. Brigham is the definition of a catch. “I never would have guessed your family could be traced directly back to Aniu.” Brigham was delighted that she hadn’t laughed at him or mocked him in disbelief. No one has really ever believed that when I tell them. Akira is the definition of a catch. Grandmother, I’ll stay here with her because I feel called to do so and I will trust in your will. 

The night began to grow colder and the weather seemed to worsen. They both began to feel that they should return back to the safety of the shed. “Hey Akira, I think it might be time to go back to Anthony’s.” Akira nodded and took one last look at the scenery. Brigham had begun to walk away but turned and saw Akira. He walked over to her and stood at her side so that their bodies touched. She remained fixed on the scenery, but Brigham understood what she was doing. “You don’t have to try to memorize it, we can come back again, and again if you want.” “Thanks… I just love this spot so much, it so magical.” “Yeah I know, and you’ll see it again, but we do have to go, I have a feeling the weathers going to get really bad soon.” Akira laughed, “Is that the part wolf speaking?” Brigham laughed too, “Oh yeah, believe it or not, us wolves have a sixth sense for the weather.” “I’ll believe that when I see it Brig, lets go.”