Sword, Shield and Guard - Book Two

by Im Not Telling

Copyright 2019 by Im Not Telling

Introduction by ahorsewithnoname: Im Not Telling was a member of my writing website for a five year span. He wrote the following story, which was well-received. A year and a half ago, he stopped logging in to our website. As per the site rules, we're publishing some of his work here. As an editor, I went through and scrutinized the grammar like nobody's business. You can't get everything, so forgive mistakes that you find, please. As for Im Not Telling, we can only hope for the best. If this is even somewhat of a true story, perhaps you should heed the warning. I didn't, because I edited this. Oh crap! I hear people outside . . .

Chapter 15

Jason looked on as Selena bounced around. She hadn't even argued with him when he said she was going with him. She got more excited when he said they were going by helicopter. She kept watching the sky and making comments that suggested she thought he was kidding, at least right up to the point when three helicopters came into view, and two landed a short distance away. Eight people got off each one. He led her toward them, cautioning her about the downdraft from the blades. She was expecting a quick change of mind or a dumb April fool's prank of some kind right up to where they reached the helicopter.

He took her school bag and set it inside, along with the new bag he had got from Martin. Almost in a childlike fashion, her eyes lit up. She had never been in a helicopter and only flew twice in her lifetime. Her parents preferred to drive when possible, even when it was cross country. He gave her a headset and made sure she was belted in. One thing that he made sure of was to have her call her parents and tell them what she was doing. He had sent Astrid a text, but considering the news would be getting out soon about the school going into lockdown, he thought it better she called them as an assurance she was okay.

She busied herself by looking out the window. That lasted about half the flight. The rest, she cozied up to Jason, though he didn't respond as he normally did. Just about every ounce of him wanted to push her away. There was that minute part that didn't, and it won out. He even realized he was tightening his fingers in between hers when she took his hand, despite having seen what he saw.

He should have pulled away. It would have been the right thing to do. More to the point, he shouldn't have got her or any of them involved. He should have stuck to his plans. But no, he had given in to the nagging in his head that day he met her. No, it wasn't that day. It was before they had met. He had seen her only briefly. He nearly walked into a wall.

That thought put Selena's social life aside. It was a problem to best deal with later. There were bigger concerns. It only lasted a few minutes. He felt that tinge of something deep inside when she shifted. He had no skills that would help him figure out if it was something to deal with or let go of. His mind was shifting despite the need to concentrate and focus on the bigger matter.

Again, he was thinking. He messed up. Not just with her, but with a lot of things. He needed a distraction. He took the laptop from his bag. He had started the report before the helicopters had arrived. He could just get it finished before they landed. Maybe not. Considering the kind of day it had been, it could have taken some time.

He made it with only a few minutes to spare. Reports of that nature were not easy. It was that much harder with Selena there watching and correcting his grammar and spelling, even though the system already did. He could feel her there as he wrote things out and read what he wrote. As could be expected, she would tense up at some point. For a small woman, she had a tight grip. He told himself he had reasons for letting her read over his shoulder. Reasons other than the way she made him feel just with the simple closeness, the simple touches, or even the way she smelled.

He took a few extra minutes as the pilot shut down to connect and send the report. It would be there when he reported to the General. He could have done it at any time, but he wanted to let the blades stop before they disembarked. Selena hadn't flinched when they got on with the blades going full speed. She just followed him as if it was a daily event for her. He had a feeling she wouldn't be bothered with them going slower. But there was more to it. Time had passed. Maybe the adrenaline had worn off, or a new mindset had kicked in. One could never be certain about the many possible variables affecting the outcomes.

Jason took his time taking several long and deep breaths as he stored the laptop again. He wasn't looking forward to the meeting. He didn't dislike the general, he just disliked having to deal with officers. The temptation to shoot most of them always crept in somewhere along the line. Fortunately, he was rarely ever armed in those moments.

A lieutenant was waiting patiently when they finally disembarked from the helicopter. Both pilots had already left and Selena, though edgy hadn't said anything, patiently waiting beside him.

Selena pushed into him when he pulled his hand away. She quickly sidestepped when they walked up to the car and the man in uniform there. He stood very rigid and saluted. She knew what it was about but didn't remember what it was called.

"Lt. Carlson, sir, of the General's staff. He apologizes for not sending a higher-ranking officer, sir, but Captain Ostara has been tasked with other duties. I have been instructed to inform you that the General has been called for a security meeting and must delay your meeting until tomorrow morning."

Jason saluted back, half-assed but still a salute. He wasn't in uniform. He didn't even have one with him.

"When was the meeting announced, lieutenant?" Jason asked.

"About thirty minutes ago, sir."

"I see. If you could please find a car and driver to take Miss Lopez home."

He heard the protest start in her throat. She barely opened her mouth to voice it when the Lieutenant spoke again.

"The General said you may want that, but his orders are that she remains with you. He has written orders for you as well. I have them waiting in the car, sir. If you will allow me," he reached for Selena's bag first, which she gladly let him take, giving him a smile and a curt thanks. He didn't bother with asking for Jason's. Lt. Carlson waved them toward the car. The young man skipped aside and ahead of them to get to the trunk to put the bag inside, and to open the rear door. Jason and Selena followed as Jason considered the General's orders. They made a little sense but not enough to keep her there.

Selena did a quick step to the car as they approached and got into the back seat. Lt. Carlson came around and stopped at the door as Jason put his bag onto the seat, noting how fast Selena moved it to the floor. "It will be a while before the captain calls sir. If I may suggest, it is still early enough for lunchtime."

Another delay. Again, he should have been expecting it. Considering what happened. His mind was elsewhere and he needed to refocus. Such mindsets could get one killed.

"I guess you get to buy lunch after all," Selena purred as he slid into the seat beside her.

Jason held his breath as she closed the gap between them. He felt that slight apprehension to her touch creeping back. It shouldn't be happening. He wondered why the General would insist on her staying. There was no purpose she could serve. It would have been better for her to be home where her parents knew she was safe.

"I don't know why I can't send you home," he said softly as the Lieutenant got into the driver's seat. "You will miss school tomorrow. If you want to go, I'll find a way to get you home tonight."

She shook her head. "Professor Pride canceled his lecture. Now I know why. Professor Zeller is just doing a review for the test if anyone shows up. Professor Teton hasn't done anything I didn't already know. I can do most of it in my sleep. Honestly, I don't know why they made me take that class." She paused and looked out the window. "Do you want me to go?"

He couldn't stop it. It was almost instantaneous as he shook his head. That earned him a tighter embrace as she laid her head on his shoulder and smiled. "I want you to do what you feel you need to do. Your schooling is important to you. I can deal with this if you want to go back for studying or just downtime with your friends."

She rubbed her face on his arm, clasped her fingers into his. "I like this and I can't think of anything I want to do besides this. And you did promise me a trip and lunch."

"You may find that the food in the mess isn't what you are used to. Since it seems I can't send you home and I have no transportation to get elsewhere, it will be dinner as well."

The Lieutenant made a turn. "I'm sorry sir for listening in," he handed back a small envelope. "From the general, sir. I do know that he and his wife had plans for dinner tonight. A gathering of sorts that he does once a week. He was telling his wife that you and Miss Lopez are joining them. He was on the call before giving me my orders. I am your assigned duty driver and will pick you up. I'm available any time."

"That is generous of the General. However, please pass along our regrets. This was not a planned trip, and neither of us has a change of clothing." Jason opened the envelope and looked through it.

The Lieutenant laughed as he came to a stop. "The General must know you well, sir. He said that he would not take no for an answer and to assure you that what you have will be appropriate, as the location is not a dress code kind of place. However, a uniform has been requested for you, sir. It will be waiting in the housing unit. Just basic fatigues, sir. He even joked you could have a set sent over for Miss Lopez if you thought it would be beneficial. He also pointed out that the base PX is open, and perhaps Miss Lopez will be able to find items there to change into."

Selena got excited at the mention. "Could you?" she asked. "I could change clothes if we go out to eat. Even if it's not formal, it is with a general and your boss."

The Lieutenant choked but didn't say anything. He kept his concentration on the road.

"On this base, there are more than a few that outrank me," Jason explained to her. "That does not make them a boss. Just senior officers who may, under some circumstances, issue orders. The general, being the highest of the ranks on the base, is only here short term, as you may recall. Although technically, you are correct in a fashion, many military people like to say they only have one boss, and that is the president, whoever he or she may be at the time. Everyone else is just following orders of some kind." He looked at the time on the car dash. "Since we seem to have the time, and I did say we could, we can go eat. Then, we will take you to the PX. They should have something in your size, even if it's just jeans and a tee-shirt."

Selena leaned on him and pouted. "But he said I could get a uniform too. I've always wanted to wear one."

Jason had to chuckle. The feel of her beside him, the soft scent of her shampoo wafting in the air as she moved, was eating away at the memory of recent events. Another time, in another place, he could have just stayed there like that. "You are aware that the fatigues are not the fancy suit-looking outfits. They are basic wear camouflage outfits, and they don't form fit. I think you will prefer the jeans we find at the PX." He felt a disappointed reaction. He ignored it until he saw they were coming into a parking area. By then, he had felt it several times.

The Lieutenant pulled up into a spot and tried to park quickly. Selena had the door opened and was getting out before he could get to the door. The Lieutenant was looking a little worried.

Jason looked around at where they were. It wasn't where he thought they would be going.

"One of the few restaurants on base, sir, kind of an unofficial officer's mess. They will take the meal cards."

Jason nodded. "She is not accustomed to being catered to Lieutenant. She's very independent when it suits her," Jason smiled as he looked at the young man. "In fact, we can dispense with all the formalities. Just relax. Unless the doors don't open from inside, I think one of us can manage to get it open." Jason saw the expression of surprise. "Yeah, I know. Most senior officers can't find their ass with both hands."

The Lieutenant nodded, slightly unsure. He had dealt with senior officers before. But this one was not acting like one of them. Or was it a test?

"Have you eaten already, Lieutenant?" Selena asked.

"Yes, ma'am. Just shortly before you arrived, the General made sure of it. He wanted to be sure that you had a driver ready should there be a need to take you anywhere on base. I will wait, sir."

Jason noted the slight tonal change with the latter part of that statement. Again, it was being ensured that they stayed on the base. He thought he may have to try to walk off just to see what would happen. Something he needed to talk to the general about.

Before closing the door, Jason fished in the envelope the General sent. He stopped Selena at the door. He slipped the ID badge lanyard around her neck. "While we are around the base, you will need to wear this. It's a security pass issued by the General's authorization. It will allow you to go where I go without any issues from the security checkpoints, should we pass any. Don't lose it. Don't forget it. Just in case we get separated somehow."

He then handed her a meal card. The fact they had all this ready gave him some concern. It was that it wasn't a temporary issue that gave him more to worry about. "This will allow you to eat here or in one of the mess halls." He nodded at her look. "Yes, there is more than one. It is a large base. Officers and civilians don't tend to eat in the same mess halls as noncoms." He shook his head and turned her to the door. "It is not something that you need to be concerned about. It is how it is."

Jason had yet to eat anywhere on the base, opting to leave whenever possible or bring it in with him. They were taken to a table, and menus were already out.

"Coffee with milk, please," Jason said as the waitress stepped over to them. She hadn't asked, but it was the common first question.

Selena smirked but waited until she was asked. She ordered iced tea. Jason watched and saw a look in her eyes. He hadn't seen that twinkle in them for a while. And only twice before. Strangely enough, both times were around other women.

"What would you recommend?" she asked before the waitress could hurry off.

The waitress pivoted back around and looked at her, smiled, and then laughed. "I have been doing this for three years. No one has ever asked that question." She was looking at Selena just as Selena was looking at her. Like a cat ready to pounce. "Me personally, I always go with the pasta dish. I pay for it in the end as it means more crunches or more tread time later, but I have yet to have a bad dish, here at least. Today we have penne in creamy garlic sauce with broccoli rabe and sweet sausage. We also have salmon cakes served over spaghetti in a vodka sauce which is good. If you're not looking for a heavy meal like that, then I suggest the burgers. For dessert, we have a nice warm, moist honeypot cake as well as a tiramisu that I love. Of course, we have other cakes and several types of pie and ice cream."

"I don't know about fish. It can be overpowering and take away from the rest of the dish. And we all know that garlic can be bad on a date. Might not be getting any kisses after this if I do."

"He looks like a smart one. I am betting you will, one way or another," the waitress laughed with a glance at Jason. Obviously not military.

"Maybe. That moist honeypot cake sounds nice. I haven't heard of it, but it sounds like something that I could take my time eating and savoring. Maybe it is something to be shared?"

"Always possible. Might have it heated up a bit more. Why don't you give the penne a try? Some don't mind the smell of garlic or the taste on the lips. I'll tell them to ease up just a bit on it just to give it a lighter flare."

"Sounds good to me. But don't worry about the garlic. We love garlic."

Jason was looking over the menu but could hear the two speaking. The flirting tone wasn't lost on him. Nor was the fact that Selena was going along with it, just as hard.

"Do you know what you want sir? Or do you need more time?" the waitress asked, though she was still watching Selena. He couldn't blame her. He had done it many times.

"I will have the chicken croquet over garlic mashed potatoes with gravy and corn for the vegetable." He looked up. "I don't think I will be able to eat such a delectable dessert after. We may have to arrange for something to be eaten later. Hopefully, you have a few wet naps. Someone likes to get her fingers sticky and lick them clean."

It wasn't intended, but that made the waitress shiver, perhaps subconsciously adding to their banter. But he knew that Selena would probably not wait long to eat anything sweet and would have sticky hands from it. He would not have guessed that Selena would have taken an interest in a woman. Or to lead on, she might. It added to the list of things he learned about her. Of course, he probably should have suspected it, given her mother's recent actions. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, as the saying goes. Be it male or female.

"I see garlic is not an issue, after all, perhaps there is hope yet," the waitress spun on her heels to look at him. She wrote down what he ordered. "I'm name is Crystal. I'll put this in and be right back with your drinks."

"She seems nice, pleasant, and fun," Selena commented when Chrystal was out of earshot.

"As you know, that is the nature of the business. The better the service, the better the tip," Jason reminded her. "Too bad you won't be here long. The two of you could have hooked up. Got to know one another."

"I'm open to making new friends. You do come here more often. I could come with you sometime," she said with a point-blank flare.

He wished he had the coffee. At least he would have something to do during the awkward moments.

"I don't think your mother would want you hanging out on a military base. Considering what happened today, I am thinking she may just keep you locked away for safekeeping."

"I only know what I was seeing you write. It is bad, but I doubt that she would do anything of the like. After all, there was a gunfight and an explosion not very far from where we all were not too long ago," she teased. "Anyway, I doubt her thoughts include imprisonment. Well, maybe for some, it could be, but I don't think it is of that kind at least." She grinned. "Besides, where would I be safer than with you?"

Jason had been wondering that himself. The answer was clear, but he didn't want to make a scene there or have the possibility of one. "You know more than most, currently. More than you should. It was never supposed to be this way. As for where you would be safer, that is something to be considered. Perhaps you should go to visit your family. You and your parents can go early to your brother's wedding. It could mean missing your graduation ceremony, but it would be away from the danger that I seem to be bringing."

She didn't like that. "You want me away from you?"

Crystal brought them the drinks with a basket of warm rolls. Fortunately, she had to run off right after for another table.

So much for avoiding that, "Selena it's not about want. We still don't know what the full situation is. What we know for sure is that I seem to be connected to it somehow. So, in likelihood, they will come at me again. I cannot control the when the how or if, so your best place is as far from the possibility of getting hurt or worse. If that means away from me, then that is how it should be."

That mollified her temper a little, very little. "You don't know a lot. That is the issue. As for being hurt, I can be hurt just by getting out of bed in the morning. People are hurt every day in car accidents, some even in drive-by shootings. It's not always the one that they are gunning for. That and more can happen if you are around or not."

Jason calmed himself as he prepared the coffee. She had a point, but she wasn't grasping the reality. "That can be said of anyone. The helicopter we came in on could have malfunctioned, or the pilot could have passed out due to illness or something worse. We could have crashed in the car or choked on a chicken bone. They could have stumbled getting out of the hospital, twisted an ankle, or worse. Yes, there are thousands of possibilities that could lead to anyone being hurt. And yes, I can't stop it all. You were there, Selena. You heard the doctor and what he told us. Whoever these people are, they are targeting me. That means anyone, anywhere, that's connected to me can be targeted to get to me. You and your family have enough to deal with. To be dragged into this, it's not right or fair to you. I couldn't accept it if anything happened to anyone because of someone trying to get to me."

She stared at the table, presumably thinking about what he had said. He hoped it was clear. Everyone's safety depended on her and her parent's understanding the danger. He had things to do once they got situated. Diner with the General was something he could have done without.

"I am not as helpless as you think," she finally said. "I can take care of myself."

He nodded in agreement. "I have little doubt about that. Under normal circumstances, even slightly unusual ones. This is not normal for most people. What we don't know about the situation makes it a hundred times worse. You will have to follow directions without question. Someone will be with you consistently. Even going to the bathroom at school. We can still pull you out, but you would miss more than they allow. I know doing so would impede all you worked for. If this is still ongoing after graduation, then we may need to find alternative measures. I don't want you to worry about any of it."

Selena reached for a roll and gave a slight shrug. "I'm not worried about anything. It doesn't pay to worry about what we can't control. What happens happens. I think you are making it out to be way more than it is, trying to scare me. Maybe you're making it all up. Well, all but the airport stuff. That was intense."

Jason felt the hair on his neck rise. "You haven't seen the news yet. I'm not sure if the blackout is still able to contain it, but social media is a bit harder."

"No, I couldn't get a signal at the school. It was odd. I always have cell service there. Even the Wi-Fi was down. Made for a crappy half-hour break between classes. Everyone was griping. Then the lockdown made it worse. You come in the way you did, and then taking me off on some chase didn't give me time and cell service was down after that, too."

He didn't have to choose between suggesting she look or not. Crystal brought the food. "Do you have alcohol here?" he asked her.

"We have a small bar section. Mostly, it's a beer and wine crowd that comes in here."

"Could you bring us two good Long Island ice teas, please?"

Selena was looking at Crystal's bare legs but shot Jason a look. They had gone out to eat plenty of times since they met. She had not known him to drink alcohol besides beer, or to order anything for her, ever.

"I think that can be managed. I will be right back."

"Okay, now you have me worried." She was reaching for her phone.

Jason reached over and took her hand. "You already know it's not good. Eat first. Let yourself be as oblivious as possible. You will find out soon enough."

His hand was very warm on hers. The touch sent a shock into her hand that she would swear she felt into her toes. It was an unusual feeling.

"Your choice," he told her as he released her hand.

Given what had happened at the airport, and what she read her mind was racing with what-if scenarios when Crystal brought the drinks.

"Sorry, the guy that normally makes them was out on break. I made them myself, and I just hope I got the right mix." More people were coming in, and she waved at them. "Just shout if there is anything more you want."

Selena didn't see any distress in Crystal. If it was all real, how was it that she acted as if it was any other day? "More of these delicious rolls if you can," she said after grabbing the last of them. A different shiver ran through her as Crystal winked and leaned over to get the basket. She gave Selena a nice side view into her shirt. That hadn't been opened before, Selena was certain.

Selena grabbed the drink and swallowed three large gulps as she wondered if it was intended for her to see or Jason. She soon regretted the action as the alcohol burned down her throat. Her mind was now on something new but just slightly less disturbing. Crystal. But she was also wondering why this woman's presence made her body react as it was. She had never had an intense interest in women. She barely had any interest in the boys.

She saw Jason staring as she coughed slightly. "I may not be a lush Jason, but I have had a few drinks."

He rolled his eyes. "Never said you hadn't. I just wasn't expecting you to guzzle it. Take it easy; these drinks are the sneaky kind. You won't feel the effect until you stand. We still have dinner to attend to. It may be a casual invite, but odds are there will be more to drink then."

He saw the light coloring in her face. Either embarrassed about drinking so fast or the drink had that quick of an effect. He hoped the former. He wanted her relaxed, not drunk. He tasted the one in front of him. He had hoped he had taken her comment wrong. He hadn't. Crystal had a heavy hand in her drink-making.

Jason took the papers from the envelope the Lieutenant had given him. It was the orders from the General for the most part. There was a card with the lieutenants' name and a cell number. Presumably, so he could call or text if he needed to be somewhere. The orders had the Lieutenant as an aid for Jason. He didn't like that. Something the Lieutenant had not mentioned. He had no issues with having assistance, but he wouldn't be needing any for the limited time they would be there.

The general wanted to discuss all the events that had happened since Jason came to California. He was looking for a connection between them, supposedly. There was a suggestion to bring his journal with him.

Somewhere between Crystal leaving the food and coming back with more rolls, Selena had managed to snake away one of the croquets from his plate. In its place was sausage from hers. He ignored it and continued to read. It was the same boilerplate papers he had seen varied a dozen times over. It was just something to keep him busy. He didn't want to have the opportunity to talk about the real issue on his mind. He had to mentally slap himself over it again as the vivid image came to him. He had no right to be upset or angered. He should be happy she had someone. Someone normal.

"It is impolite to ignore your guest," Selena whined a few minutes later. "Whatever it is, I'm sure you have read it twice at least. Eat before it all gets colder."

Chapter 16

Jason set the papers down. He had read them. Three times. "It is orders. It is always best to read them multiple times. Less the chance to doing the wrong thing and angering some senior officer." He took a bite of food and then picked up the coffee. "You will find similar instances when you try to have working lunches once you get a job as a big-time lawyer. You'll be going out regularly with clients and coworkers and maybe a few friends. Knowing you, you will sneak in work as much as possible."

Selena was chewing but cutely held her hand up in front of her mouth. "I don't think that happens to you until you are established. I don't even know what section of the law I want to apply to. Who knows, it may be a while before I get hired. If I graduate at all."

Jason huffed. "You forget I have seen your classwork. Your grades. Unless something happens between now and then to drastically changed things, I don't see how you won't graduate. Maybe not top ten, but top fifty at least."

Selena was playing with the last bite of the croquet. "You know, Dad was upset when I took law and not culinary."

Where did that come from, he wondered. "Well, that is understandable to a point. It's his life's work. As I understand it, many parents want their children to be independent but secretly want them to be like them. You do seem to enjoy it."

"I do. But I wanted to do something that could make a difference. Can't do that quick-cooking for people." She looked up. "Did you follow your father?"

He saw now what she was doing. He had kept many details of himself to himself. It was just easier that way.

"My father was happy I did anything that didn't involve him paying for it. Not sure if it counts, but yes, he was military. Was he happy about me going into it? Who's to say? He never did. Can't ask him now."

She hadn't expected an answer. She had asked before about his family. He avoided it most times, or just gave generic answers. She wondered what changed. She wanted to keep asking, to see how much he would answer, but she wisely decided to take what she got and not press.

"I'm guessing, but since you have an officer's ranking, you must be good at what you do. I'm sure he was."

Jason picked up the drink. "My primary job is pilot. But I have trained to do other specialties. Some are tied to aircraft, and others are not. It is always a good idea to take training when it's available. Never know when you will need to know something. Even in law, there is more potential for you to learn. There are so many different types of laws. Even just on the level of the law. City, state, federal. A lot of similarities but a lot of differences. You can spend a lifetime learning it and not know it all."

She sipped her drink this time. "I'm not sure I should finish this," she giggled.

Jason looked at her glass and compared his. She had barely touched it, compared to his half-full glass. "Perhaps. We will get you a cup of coffee before we leave. I'm sure your new friend can find a cup to go." Of course, he knew that there was no evidence that coffee helped with the buzz she was feeling but the mind did work wonders if you believed something enough.

Selena fidgeted. Just the mention of the girl made her tingle. She had to get her thoughts under control. More to the point, she needed to know why it was happening.

Jason noticed the discomfort and again thought, "Like mother like daughter." He had a sudden image of Selena and Crystal kissing and giggling. Sadly, both had clothing on.

"Okay. I feel as if I must ask you again. Are you sure missing classes tomorrow won't cause any issues?"

She sipped her drink while nodding. "Relax, worry wort. I haven't missed a class yet. Besides, under the circumstances, I think the professors will be understanding. As I said, there isn't much going on in any of them. Whatever they cover, I can catch up on. It's only a day, and you can help since you are missing it all, too."

"I should have sent for your books." He tapped on his coffee cup as he thought about her being there. "You didn't lie to the shore patrol or the officers that questioned you afterward?"

She feigned a hurt look and then pouted. "I thought you knew me better than that. Besides, why would I need to? As far as I see it, there wasn't anything done that didn't make sense. It was kinda cool to be a part of it. It's freakishly scary but cool. I never thought I would see anything like that, but to be a part of it was never a possibility."

That was not the reaction he was expecting. She was calm and understanding and unquestioning. It was like it was part of everyday life for her. "I'm just trying to figure out why the General wants you to remain here."

"Not a clue. Maybe he wants to recruit me," she laughed.

Jason sat silently as he considered that.

"I was kidding," she said. She had reached out and taken his hand. "If I wanted to join the military, I would have gone into the Navy," she grinned at the poke but was disappointed with no reaction," instead of college," she continued. "Besides, I have you. If I want to learn anything, I'll have you teach me. During all the years you have been in, to get the rank that you have, you should be perfect to teach. I don't need to join up."

He couldn't pull his hand away. Even as the image of her and the boy kissing flashed in his mind again and repeated in slow motion. There was that ever-present feeling that this young woman was meant for better than him. He felt that there was more for her. If he pursued the feelings… NO! He calmly pulled his hand away. There was more to this girl, and he wouldn't stand in the way of her achieving it.

"There are many aspects of military life I couldn't. The branches of service have excellent legal advocates. I know little about any of them. I can't say not to join. That is an option that you could still explore. One thing I do know is that you could make more in the private sector." He didn't look at her. He already knew that look he was getting. It was one he had seen several times when he brought up money. Of course, she wanted it, what normal or everyday kind of person didn't. Not too many lived a life of poverty voluntarily. Money wasn't her main drive. She proved that over and over in the past few months.

"I know money is not everything. But you need to consider things. College loans will come due soon. You may want to leave your parent's house, so you need an apartment and maybe a car. Things that cost money. I believe that you will do well enough and not have to worry once you are settled, but who knows what life has in store for you. Maybe more schooling. Maybe your own business. There are a lot of maybes. All I am saying is you need to think about what comes after school." He had picked up his drink and started to finish it off.

Selena had mimicked him just slightly. She only took a few large sips.

"I will make you a deal. I will think about it if you do. I believe that you are graduating as well."

He shook his head. "I am short a half dozen credits for any major. Besides that, I am only auditing. No credits are given. This is your graduation. As it should be."

She sat back. She had forgotten he wasn't getting credits for the classes, coming in a day past the added time. It seemed unfair to pay for a class like everyone else and not get the credit for the work done, but that was how it worked.

"I am not sure what the housing will be like. I haven't taken any since coming here. It can be just a set of bunk beds in a house. There is a small motel just off base." he held up a hand, knowing the comment to come. "No, I am not. I was going to say if it is not ideal, then I will arrange for you to go there. It will be more comfortable for you. The Lieutenant then will pick you up in the morning for breakfast."

Crystal came walking by. "I know you are not yet done, but I'm heading for the dessert case if either of you wants to. Or refills?"

"I'll have another coffee for the moment," Jason scooped up the last of the food on the plate. "And depending on the kind of tiramisu cake it is, I may take a nice piece of that to go." Selena was fidgeting again, slightly. "I think my companion here is itching to get a taste of that sweet honeypot you mentioned." He added and grinned as she got bugged-eyed and her mouth gaped open. "I'm sure she will enjoy the cake as well." He chuckled as she hid her face in both hands.

"I'll have coffee," she mumbled.

Crystal seemed unaware of the moment. She just said, "I'll be right back," and hurried off, with Selena turning her head to watch her vanish around the counter.

"Are we coming back here for breakfast?" she asked, avoiding eye contact.

Jason shrugged but paused before saying anything to finish the coffee before Crystal brought more. "It's here, or one of the few fast food places, or there is maybe sneaking into the enlisted mess if you get up early enough. The meeting with the General is early enough, so we may make it out in time to go off base somewhere. I still need to find out how we are getting back."

"Anywhere but here, please," she said softly. It was hard to tell if she was serious or honestly wanted to go elsewhere.

"We can talk about it in the morning. But if you want to try the regular mess, it will be early. They only operate from five-thirty am to about seven am."

Crystal came back, and Selena tried hard to keep from looking at her. There was something there, he laughed to himself. He almost felt sorry for her. Thrown into the moment at the airport, all the drama at school, and now this. No, sorry, wasn't the term for it. He was envious.

Crystal brought back the coffee and a small sliver of cake. "Give it a try and see if it's what you like,"

Jason looked over the sliver and nodded. He took a fork and cut into it. It looked right. He took the bite. "Sweet and delicate, not bad. Better than those that take the shortcut to make it."

"They are brought in by a local bakery," Crystal informed him.

"That's fine. I'll take a couple of slices to go. It's nice to have something sweet to eat from time to time. Especially at night, don't you agree, Selena?"

She groaned, and Crystal chuckled. "Cute pair. It's odd but cute. Did you want some cake or anything? Or do you want to try the honeypot?"

Selena felt the need to melt into her seat to hide. She felt the heat rise in her face as Crystal recognized the connection between her and Jason, even if he still hadn't.

"She might need more time to eat the honeypot, but I think you may be able to talk her into it," Jason pressed as he made up the coffee. "She's had a bit of a day, and maybe that is what she needs. Something warm and dripping with sweetness to get her lips on."

Selena kicked out at him under the table only to miss and get more frustrated. It also gave strength to what he was implying.

"I am sure I can find a couple. I know at least one that is very moist and I believe very sweet," Crystal added a wink and walked away.

"You enjoyed that way too much," Selena sulked.

"An old guy has to have his amusements," he shrugged. "But to be serious. You will meet the general tonight. You can stay wherever it is we are sleeping tonight until my meeting tomorrow is over. Or I could have the Lieutenant or someone else take you around the base or maybe off to do some things. I don't know what time we will be done."

"That doesn't sound like a lot of fun," she frowned. The ride in the helicopter was great but she had been hoping that there would be more time away, alone time.

"Don't think anyone said this trip was going to be fun. Given the things that happened just before we came here, I would have thought you would have known better."

When Crystal returned, she had two boxes packed. "Got them nice and warm from the oven," she said as she again made a point of leaning down in front of Selena. Her unusual attention to Selena had Jason thinking. Was she very determined to get her point across and get a reaction? Or was there something else? Maybe. He studied the woman a little more as she hovered exaggeratedly over Selena.

"I'm sure she will appreciate the extra attention," he tried not to add to the moment, but it just came out that way. "We are here for another day, are you here in the morning?"

Crystal got a wide grin and shook her head. "No, I'm off."

"Well, who knows, maybe she will come back in the future. The two of you can get better acquainted then. For now, we do need to go. We still have a few things to do before attending dinner plans."

Crystal was disappointed but pulled out a pad of paper and scribbled quickly. "My cell and address," she said as she set the paper in front of Selena. "Sometimes it's not easy being the wife or gf of a military guy. Some, like me, are just siblings or brats of military personnel. You never know where they will be going or when they will come back. It helps to have people to talk to and turn to. People who understand. There is a group of us that get together and talk and have lunch. We even organize events for the base from time to time. Our biggest is the Christmas drive. We have just started getting into it and can always use more to help. New people, new perspectives, maybe some new ideas."

Jason picked up the meal card where Selena and set it and held them up to Crystal. She took them to charge the account. They were standing and waiting when she came back. She handed Jason a tray of to-go cups.

"She has you pegged," Selena laughed as relief washed over her not being the center of the woman's attention.

"Oh, just about all have a coffee addiction. It's cheap, and the army provides it in gallons. Just be thankful that it's not a worse addiction. I can't stand a smoker, personally. The smell is horrible. And drinking just makes most men mean. Even the best of them."

Crystal walked them out and saw the Lieutenant there waiting. She knew him. He was a fun guy when he finally let loose. It also gave her more information about her newest recent customers.

"I'll see you around," she waved.

Selena shivered as she sat close to Jason in the back seat. "That girl was odd," she said when the Lieutenant had closed the door. She draped herself over Jason, getting as close as possible. It was short, but she felt a slight tension, and it went as fast as it came.

They were out of the parking lot before the Lieutenant spoke.

"I got the information on the housing for you, sir. We should have a short drive there, not much traffic. Also, the General called. He wants me to relay that dinner is at eighteen thirty. It will be his wife and two daughters, a son-in-law, and four children and several others."

Selena reacted before he could. "Sounds to me like we will be intruding on a family dinner."

"I wouldn't worry too much, miss. The General's family is mostly military themselves. The younger children are even in military academies or ROTC to get themselves ready. The General's youngest just finished up her advanced training. She is about your age, miss. Besides, military people are all family, related or not. Give it some time you will get used to it."

"We need to head to the PX Lieutenant. We need a few odds and ends. Last-minute trips make it hard to pack an overnight bag."

"Of course, sir. Sorry, sir, I forgot about the PX. The captain said she had everything ready. I am used to people being ready to get settled in."

"No need to apologize. Easy to forget uncommon details. Just to clarify, you be the only driver we have?"

"Yes, sir. For as long as you are on base, per the General's orders. So far, I have been told that it will be in tomorrow afternoon or late evening. I will be the one transporting you back to LA. Unless something changes."

"So, a helicopter ride here and a car ride home," Selena teased. "Talk about a downgrade."

The Lieutenant glanced back through the mirror. "If that is a problem, miss, I will let the …"

Jason grunted, holding his hand up. "She is teasing. If she had her way, she would take a bicycle back."

"Well, that would take a while to get back. We may be able to get a couple of bikes if that is the route you wish. I have heard that it has been done before," Lt. Carlson offered as if it was a normal request.

"The car is fine," Selena grumbled, her little game cut short.

"Yes, miss. But do let me know if you change your mind," he replied. He didn't even break a smile when she stared at him to see if he was being serious.

Selena put her hand into Jason's and just watched out the side window. Short of the trips with her parents, she had not left LA much. Things were the same, yet somehow different. There were more trees, but it seemed to be more than that. She sighed and leaned on Jason's shoulder. The scenery didn't stop her from noticing Jason's reactions to her. Or the lack of them. It took a week for him to sit with her, a month more to get him to hold hands. He would always pull away. Not in disgust, though she had thought that at first. It was more out of fear of doing so. It had hurt her feelings all those times he pulled away.

A friend of hers at school pointed it out to her. Things changed after that. She started to see what her friend did. She found it cute. She then started to notice the slight squeeze just prior as if in hesitation. She traced the tips of her fingers over the top of his hand as her eyes looked at his face. There was nothing but a cold distance look. It was as if her touch, even her presence there, meant nothing. It started to hurt worse than rejection.

The lot they pulled into was busier than the restaurant. There were all types of vehicles and people coming and going. Jason was reaching to open the door when his phone went off as did the Lieutenants. Jason was reaching for his when the door opened.

"The media blackout has been lifted. It's being aired as domestic terror and gang-related with copycats. It won't be long before they find otherwise," the Lieutenant informed Jason as he got out and stood to the side.

Jason still looked at his phone. If they just lifted what had Selena looked at earlier? "Are you seeing the same message?" he asked as he scanned the estimates.

"Yes, sir. Any messages being sent will be copied to me just to be certain. I am cleared through top-secret priority. I will make some calls as you and Miss Lopez shop. I will get a more accurate report for you before you come out."

Jason looked around wondering how many knew and how many didn't. What would come of it all? Terror affected people so differently. Putting fear into the fearless and bring out the courage in the timid. But it also brought out those that would take advantage.

"Okay, let's find out what the military is doing. Get the names and contacts of those in charge of responding. Let's get a representative to contact the mayor and the governor and get whatever plans they have in place or working on." He looked over the numbers again. The damage done was not as bad as he had thought. Mother nature had been known to do more. It was the number of dead and injured that would affect people most. He decided it was a good thing to get ahead of.

"Correlate with the general's office. I think we need a press release of our own. We need to pass along any assurances we can and make it known that the government is doing everything it can to aid in the situation. I think it is probably best to lower the HSAS to level yellow. It would keep people calmer."

"Yes, sir. I will pass it along. Do you think it is over?"

Jason started walking toward the building. "For the moment. But we have not heard the last from this group." The big question remaining was what they would do next.

Selena followed him at a pace behind and just to the right. He could see her just barely. She was getting back to old habits that he had thought she got rid of. Still, it may be innocent enough. There was a nagging feeling that it was not. It would have to wait to be dealt with.

Inside Jason stopped short just inside, causing her to bump into him. Her lack of response told him he was right. The timid girl he met at the library was back. He turned just at the waist and looked at her as she held her breath. No, she wasn't back completely. He felt the thickness in the air and knew part of that was his doing. But he also saw the old Selena as the two personalities fought within the beautiful girl before him.

"So, take your time, look around. Try not to go overboard but get what you think you will need. And don't look at the prices. We have time but we don't have enough for you to look for the bargain prices like you enjoy doing."

Selena was looking down but not completely as she was looking around the store. It wasn't as big as some department stores in the city, but it was a lot bigger than she expected. She glanced at him and saw something she had not seen before. Pain. It wasn't physical pain. It was one of loss like one saw at a funeral.

"Jason is there…" she reached out to him, but he started walking toward the front of the store.

"Just find what you need," he said over his shoulder. "I will find you."

She watched him until she saw where he was going: the restroom. She took a few steps to follow but stopped and turned back toward the main floor. She started to walk around, looking at the various things she passed until she got to the clothing racks. Again, not much was there, but she did find a few things as she moved through the racks. She was looking over a rack of shirts when her phone buzzed. When she read the text message, she grinned. That wasn't good, but it worked well for her. It was an opportunity she hoped she could use, though how remained the question. Jason found her several minutes later.

"I was beginning to think you left me here or got stuck and needed a plumber or something," she griped when she saw him. "Maybe you need to see a doctor if you're spending that much time in the bathroom."

He ignored her tirade. He had to take care of a few things. "I'm guessing that you got that message from the college," he said, waving his phone.

"I did. I am surprised it took this long. Something like this, you would think that they would have done that hours ago."

He took a breath as he looked over what she held. "Unfortunately, they would have had to wait until the official release of information to justify it. Calls would need to be made. The governor declaring the emergency helped, I'm sure. In all likelihood, they were probably hoping it was not as bad as it was. At least it will cover your absence tomorrow, and your parents will enjoy having you home for a few days; I'm sure they can use the help anyway. Have you found what you need?"

Selena continued to look at the rack of clothing she was at. She had been through it three times already, but she wanted to make the moment last as much as she could make it. He was at least being somewhat normal. Almost like before all this happened. "I'm not sure. Do we have time still?" she asked picking out a shirt examining it once again and wrinkling her nose at it before putting it back.

"You have what time you need. Though I don't think even you will need hours to pick out a simple outfit. Keep in mind you will need time to clean up and relax. It's been a very busy day."

She nodded and moved to another rack, smiling a little as he followed. "It has. Oddly enough, I don't feel tired or much different from how I do most other days. It's like it was a final test day. Anxious. Nervous, yes. Afraid, for sure. But then it is over before you realize it. Now it's all about the results."

Jason started to point out that it was a bit different when she threw the clothes that she held in her arms at him.

"Yes, mister smart ass, I know it is not the same, and it was dangerous, and there are dead, dying, and injured all over. I know that we could have been one of them as well." She came around and took his arm and, before he could protest, dragged him along to the one section she knew he disliked.

She grinned when she felt him slump as they made their way through to the makeup. It wasn't a big section, but it was big enough. He growled or grumbled under his breath at just about everything she picked up. That was a good sign to her. She walked around looking at just about everything. He would have preferred to stop following her down every section and just wait for her to come back around, but she only let his arm go for a few moments. She wasn't sure what was wrong, but she was taking the opportunities presented. After about thirty minutes, she finally walked toward the checkout.

"Do we have time to do anything else?" she asked as casually as if it was any other day.

Jason drew out his phone and glanced at the time. He found himself thinking about how every store he had been in never had a clock anywhere for customers. Perhaps it was because most had a watch or phone that could tell the time world around if needed.

"What is it you want to do? You have time. Depending on how long it takes for you to get ready."

She jabbed him in the ribs as they moved up the line. "Is that some kind of jab at me being female? I don't take that long to get ready."

"I can count four times that you took over thirty minutes to pick an outfit just to go to the food mart."

"I think you are imagining things. I can be ready as fast as you can."

He shook his head and coughed as he tried not to laugh. "Not likely, miss." He glanced at her and felt a warmth again.

He stiffened up. He had to remember that once it was over, he was planning to leave California and her behind him. She just had this way of making him forget things or just make things inconsequential, even if she didn't know she was doing it. Selena was busy putting the things she held on the counter to notice. Jason dropped what he held with it. He was reaching for his phone to get ready to pay when the cashier spoke.

"We are having some technical issues with the pin pads. We can't accept any electronic transfers for payment. Will that be a problem?"

Jason shifted and pulled out a small wallet. Selena stared at it. She didn't know he even carried one. He always paid in cash or with his phone.

"Only if you can't accept the actual credit card as well."

"No sir, that system is working fine. Just something with the banking system. Or the apps tied to them. So far they are not sure as far as I have been told."

Selena was watching this time as he opened the wallet and he fingered a gold one in contemplation. But then growled and pulled another.

The cashier rang up the clothing first and reached for the makeup. Selena stopped him. "I'm sorry. I changed my mind. All I need is this." She picked up one tube of red lipstick. "I'll put it all back if it's an issue."

That earned her a chuckle from the cashier. "No ma' me, not an issue it happens all the time. You would be surprised at how many military women think about using more makeup and then don't."

"I'm not military."

Chapter 17

"Neither am I. But I will tell you, if you hang out with enough of them, you will be as close as you can get without joining. I learned that being with my wife. Word of warning, the mentality tends to rub off."

"I have been told similar already today. We will see if it falls true."

The cashier turned to Jason." We are collecting for the veteran's fund. We even have a little contest between the cashiers to see who can get the most donations. Just follow the prompt on the pin pad. It should give you the chance to enter an amount, round up, or decline if you so choose. Total comes to 156.32 sir."

"How much have you collected, and who is winning?" Jason asked as he pulled the card.

The reaction was not subtle, but it wasn't very well hidden. "That would be Jermaine. He's the lead and makes the schedules, so he makes sure he is on during the busiest times. He has over fifteen hundred collected. In total, we have about three thousand. Some of us think he's messing with the totals, as we all have had some generous donations. We can't prove it, though. I'm almost sure he will win the two hundred dollar prize and the new laptop.

The rest of us agreed to just put it all back into the pot for the donation. All he ever talks about is how useful the cash will be when he goes out with his buddies. If you want to talk about non-military mentality, that guy is the perfect candidate. If it wasn't for this place, he wouldn't even have any affiliation for the services."

Selena leaned over as Jason slid the card into the slot. She saw the prompt and waited as he keyed in an amount. She stepped back and looked hard at the entry. He pulled the card and the prompt. "It is a worthy cause we can always give to. I dislike any that would take advantage for their own gain." Jason said as the cashier tapped several times on the screen, trying to make it work faster.

Whether it was the tapping or just the machine doing its job, the receipt came up, and the cashier grabbed it. He handed it over with one hand while waving the other. He picked up the hangers Selena had removed and left on the counter.

"Not much can be done. We may be able to get a couple more hundred before the end of the day usually most give a dollar or five. As I said we have had some give larger sums, but that is not as common. But thanks for the donation everything helps. If you are on base this weekend there is a community gathering where we will give the organization the check for what we collected."

Selena got a hopeful and longing look even with the possibility, but Jason shot it down just as quickly. "We are only here until tomorrow afternoon at best. I suggest that someone call the military police if you don't make enough. They can investigate and ensure the accounting is correct."

Selena started to gather her packages. "If that isn't enough, someone should contact me through the base command office. Major Myers. I will see to it the needed amount is covered."

All he got was a nod as the next customer became the point of interest. Selena silently walked ahead, glancing sideways at him, wanting to ask but unsure how.

Despite Jason's earlier suggestion, Lt. Carlson was out of the car holding the door open.

"I'll take that, miss," he quickly offered, taking the bags from Selena. "Sir, I received a message from Captain Ostara. She has everything set up for your residence. She believes she has taken care of all the details, but if there's something she has missed or you find a need, you should call her. She said to remind you to add her to your phone. She's tried calling twice. Her contact info should be in the envelope the general sent, or I can send it to you."

Jason rolled his eyes. "I do not need the general's aid …" he stopped as the Lieutenant got a huge smile on his face. "What?"

"She said that you may be against the idea but also have a message from the General as to why even his calls are not going through and he's made…"

"Just send the information, Lieutenant."

Another smirk and a nod as the Lieutenant came back from the trunk. "Yes, sir. Is there anywhere else you wish to go?"

"The airstrip so I can get the hell out of here, but since that is not likely, we should go and get ready for the General's dinner invite."

"Yes sir," he waited for Jason to get in while holding the door. He must have had the information preset because he just pushed a button and it was ringing through to Jason's phone. Reluctantly Jason added the Captain's and the general's contact.

"Since when do you need to have contact info to get calls?" Selena shyly asked as he typed a message.

"Limited service. It cuts back on the telemarketing calls and wrong numbers." He looked up but not at her. "Now, are you going to ask the question that you want the answer to?"

She feigned ignorance until he got a text that made him smile. She moved in closer and against him as she tried to see it but he closed it before she could. She wasn't going to complain since he wasn't moving because of her closeness. Not that he had much room to move. He wasn't pushing her away either. There was that special warmth that could be tolerated even on a hot California day and always felt welcoming.

"Lieutenant, I think we have time; make a detour to the base headquarters," he turned his attention to the window, but his head barely turned when Selena jabbed his ribs. He rolled his eyes at her as she mouthed a single word. With a short sigh, "please."

"Yes, sir. We have about enough time to make it, more so if you don't mind bending the limits a bit."

"Best judgment," Jason replied.

The car accelerated, not extremely but faster than it had been. Selena noted the rolling stops as well.

"So, you going to ask?" Jason said casually watching the scenery pass by. "You may not get another chance."

"I heard where we are going. But why so fast?"

He shrugged. "If that is what you want to ask about, fine. But don't complain to me about that question nagging at you to where you can't sleep. There is an event to happen shortly. It's not overly glamorous or filled with fanfare, but it's something anyone spending time on base should be aware of, even civilians."

Was that a slip? Did he mean to imply she could be there more? She waited for some other comment to counter or try to hide it, but he continued to look out the window. Finally, she lifted herself up and whispered in his ear. "The donation."

"That's not a question," he said as he continued to look out the window.

She and he had this game before too. "Are you sure you put in the right amount?"

"Why? Do you think it was too little?"

"Little? Jason, you donated five thousand dollars." She had seen him being generous, sometimes more than he should have when it came to tips and such, but not that extravagant. He never seemed to be broke, but he never seemed to go for high-end anything for himself, at least. Well, besides his phone and laptop, from what she had seen, those were not cheap. Then, there was his constant mention of the cost of things. She always felt bad when he spent more than twenty bucks on their outings.

He started off as if he was thinking back to the PX. "Perhaps you are right. Maybe we will have the Lieutenant pick us up earlier and go back and give some more. Maybe we can boost one or more of the other cashier's numbers a bit."

"I don't think your bank will allow that. I'm surprised there wasn't some red flag to keep that from happening even once."

"It's a specialized card tied to my military pay. It has a higher purchase limit. I can't have purchasing issues when I need to do something quickly. Since I have a direct deposit of a continuous check, the bank hasn't raised any concerns. At the worst, they would send a text if it went too high or was unusual in some way."

"Over five-thousand-dollar purchase isn't unusual?"

"Well, I can't say the last time I made that large of a purchase. But I've come close since coming here. But since the limit isn't reached, it won't raise any flags."

The car sped up a little more as the Lieutenant went around a curve. "Sorry sir, almost there. we should make it with a minute or two to spare."

"No worries, Lieutenant."

When they came to a stop, Selena looked out. They were in a parking lot. "Umm…" she started as she got out and joined Jason.

"Just watch and listen," Jason said as he and Lt. Carlson were watching a group of uniformed people off the side of the lot.

It was as if she was watching a very small parade of six. They all marched up to the flagpole and formed around it. Just as they finished somewhere, music started to play, and both Jason and the Lieutenant came to attention and saluted. She tried to mimic what she was seeing, but she was unsure what else to do. As the music played, one of the six lowered the flag. It was all over once the flag was folded, and the men and women in the group marched off. It wasn't grand in size, but even Selena could see the respect and honor that was paid in that short time.

"A flag ceremony happens twice a day," Jason explained as they all got back in the car. "Civilians should stop what they are doing and stay silent while Retreat, which is what you just heard, or Reveille, in the mornings, is played. Military people will render a salute and come to attention, even if they are not by the flag. They will face the general area or the direction of the music."

He was a bit cold in his tone, but again, it was as if he was telling her something she'd only need to know if she was going to be there for it. The Lieutenant's voice helped the tension still in the air.

"However, there are no rules that say a civilian cannot salute and come to attention, is there, sir?"

"I haven't heard of any, but in my experience, it's not common, and most non-military don't. Few even know what is happening when they see it. Most civilians don't salute correctly when they try and can offend some more veteran officers when they see it."

"It wasn't that bad, sir," Lt. Carlson chuckled, and Selena blushed.

Jason had to close his eyes. From the first time he saw her blush it amazed him how cute it looked. Even with her natural coloring, it showed just right. "No, not too bad. Good effort," he admitted.

Selena glanced at him. That comment wasn't as cold, it was the exact opposite. She couldn't figure what was going on. He never ran cold with her even in the beginning. But to go from one extreme to the next was even more unusual. When she looked up front and saw the Lieutenant, she took a breath. Maybe it was all location and situation. She needed to figure it out.

Whether it was a short drive or she was just lost in thoughts, Selena shook herself as they came to a stop. They were at a small one-story building. It looked suitable for a single person or even a couple. Selena felt a sudden burst of excitement.

"We are not putting anyone out, are we Lieutenant?" Jason asked as they all got out.

"No, sir. The officer who was here was transferred several weeks ago, and I don't believe it has been used since. I'm guessing the Captain just needed to make sure it was cleaned up. She mentioned that there is also a basement and four bedrooms. The weather tonight is not bad. Just a light breeze, but the air conditioner does work, and each room has a television set up."

"I don't understand. It all seems a bit much for one night. It could have all been avoided with a reservation at the motel."

"Yes, sir. It would make more sense. It is all the general's orders, though. Privileges of rank."

Jason laughed and felt Selena tug at his arm. "It is his way of saying he agrees without actually disagreeing with the general. And he is right, the higher the rank, the more likely they will use it to make sure they get things how they want when there are possibilities of it not happening."

Lt. Carlson retrieved Selena's bags and brought them to the front door. "Captain Ostara sent the lock code and said she left the instructions on changing the code on the counter sir. It's currently six two one nine four." He took everything inside and set them on the sofa.

"How?" Selena asked as she followed him inside.

"It is not that hard to find information. This is the Army, after all, and they have the Army CID, which means its resources, including the multitude of databases used by law enforcement. Or, in your case, probably just the school records."

The Lieutenant seemed to ignore their conversation. "Well, sir, if there is nothing else that you need from me, I will leave you to do what you need to do. The Captain said she made sure everything was in order and you had everything you would possibly need. If not, please call, and I will do what I can to get whatever it is. I'll return in about four hours to take you to the restaurant."

Jason looked over the room as Selena went to her bags. The entire place was set up. There was even a fruit basket. What he expected he found beside it. A pen and pad of paper and an envelope. He went to it and tore off the top page and wrote something.

"If you could have this looked into," he said to the Lieutenant as he tore it off the pad and handed him the page.

"Yes, sir. Again, sir, I will be back in four hours."

Jason followed him to the door and looked out. When he came back in, he took his bag to the table. "You can rest a little. I'm sure you can find one of your programs on the TV." He sat and started setting up his laptop.

"Which room?" she asked, watching him for a moment.

"The Captain's note said she had some personal things for you in the room to the left."

He expected a screech or a scream or even just very loud, yes, but all that came was a very calm "Oh I see them. That was nice of her I didn't think about this stuff." Then she laughed. "she gave me the larger room."

Jason didn't react, mainly it didn't matter to him. He just set up in the kitchen with his laptop and started the work he needed to get done. He was accessing the system when she stuck her head around the corner.

"I'm getting in the shower," she announced. "Looks big enough for three of me in there," she bit her tongue a little. "Could save time and join me," she barely whispered. She jerked back when he answered.

"I highly doubt that would save time. Probably would take three times as long as you usually do" he said without thought.

"oh? I…" and she was gone, and the bathroom door was closing.

Had anyone asked him later what he had said, he wouldn't have been able to say it for sure. He was immersed in what he was doing. First, it was sending emails. He also started a search into the records to get some answers to what could have caused the issues they had during this incident. They got lucky with the arms dealer, and it was also an unlucky thing as well. They should have known there were such items and people in the city. At the least, they should have been aware of the possibility. Intelligence was lacking, and he wanted to know why.

Jason reached for the cup and took a sip, it shocked him a bit as he looked down at it in his hand. The coffee was hot.

"I've only seen you that intense on something a few times, usually when you're trying to help me with schoolwork or binge cram for a test. You didn't even notice me coming out or the coffee."

"There are things that need to be as close to perfect as possible. There is too much at risk if I make a mistake on this."

"Nothing can be perfect, Jason. I doubt we can even close to it. We can try, but there are always variables in all things that we can not account for. We can just do what we can, try the best we can, and hope what we do is enough to get through whatever it is." She smiled and twirled around. "How's it look? Is it appropriate?"

She was wearing one of the new sets of clothes she had picked from the PX. A nice pink and white top with sleeves to mid-arm and jeans with sneakers. She also had her hair pinned back with flower clips.

"You look like you always do," he said as he avoided the compliment she wanted. "It is fine," he added but looked at her, his eyes scanning her up and down. Something she noticed and stepped back to look herself over.

"What?"

He shrugged and went to type something.

"Jason?"

"I just thought you would have picked another outfit, that's all."

She looked concerned about his comment and looked at herself again. She went and changed. Each time he said the same thing and it made her go to change, all but her sneakers since it was all she had.

"Selena, seriously, wear whatever you like. As always, you picked out nice things. Things that look great on you. I should go shower. Why don't you relax some? Go play a game. That usually helps." He got up and shut the laptop. Normally, he wouldn't care if she got on it, but he was still researching things, and she didn't need to get involved in that.

"You got an hour left." She sighed. "This is everything we got," she said sorrowfully.

Jason was already in the room and looking for the uniform that was supposed to be there for him. He found it in the closet. It wasn't the only thing he found there. The dress uniform was not expected. It was in a clothing bag and even had all the ribbons and medals attached. He didn't understand why it was there, but he didn't have the time to think it through. He stepped out and took a look in the other room, telling him why he hadn't heard what he had expected earlier. The clothing was all over the bed.

That was a preview of Sword, Shield and Guard - Book Two. To read the rest purchase the book.

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