After five years and twenty-three missions under their belts, Charlie and the team became more of a family. Spending almost every day together between work, training, and the occasional family-style get-together on their downtime.
They were being dropped into Laos. During the flight, some of the guys were joking about this mission, saying it was Friday the thirteenth. Charlie wondered what could go wrong; she tried to prepare herself for the worst. Glancing up, she could see that Jim was looking her way. With a sly grin on his face, he gave her a wink of encouragement. While watching carefully to be sure no one else was looking, she did the same in return.
This particular mission was very crucial to many governments; important information was needed, and the Wildcats were assigned to take care of a Laotian General, named Thi An Nguyn. The only problem was that war had been raging for the last six years between the Laotian military and the French colonists who wanted to regain control over the area. The only way for them to cause as much damage as possible to the Laotian military was to make continual bombing runs, which occurred every six hours.
They located a cave in the hillside above Nguyn’s encampment, where they could see but not be seen. Jim sent Jose and his team down on recon, while the rest stayed behind for support and communications. With Rob and Grant on guard duty, Charlie maintained the compound's communications while Jeff slept until his shift. Team Two reported that Nguyn was not anywhere to be found within the camp. Jim ordered them to hold their position and wait for further instructions.
Hours seemed to have passed; everyone was quiet and impatiently waiting for the next step. Jose, Lee, Gabe, and Andy were positioned a few feet down the hill, keeping a close eye on the camp. They were cracking jokes in an attempt to fill the quiet void that night had befallen them.
“Hey, Char, what’s for dinner?” Jose whispered over the comms.
Pissed off at his comment and knowing everyone was listening. Calmly, she said, “Whatever your tiny mind and grubby hands can scrounge up. I suppose you can manage that all by your little lonesome.”
The roar of De’s laughter was almost enough to give away their location. Everyone else followed with their own chuckles. She guessed the thought of her finally giving a response to Jose’s bullshit was enough to even make her start laughing.
“Enough chatter.” Jim announced as seriously as he could, “Get your asses back here, now! The bombing runs will be starting soon.” Then, turning to Charlie, he asked, “Did you...?”
Charlie completed his question with an answer, “Yes, the bugs are in place and functioning. I guess that little lady thought that four months' wages was worth the risk.”
The guys had just barely made it back when the explosions began all around them. Jim and De went over the plan for the General’s extraction. Charlie stayed at her post, listening to all of the conversations that occurred around the camp. The guys grabbed some rations from their packs and joked with one another as they ate while a few others tried to sleep despite the thunderous noises outside.
She began to shake with a mild fear that one might find its way to them. So, she shrugged it off as best she could, knowing that she was tough enough not to let it get the better of her.
An hour after the bombings had ceased, Jeff took over, relieving Charlie so she could get some rest. Jay and Rob were now standing guard by the cave entrance. Charlie went towards a far unoccupied corner to try to sleep for a while but was restless and couldn’t quite doze off. She felt she needed some fresh air; she made her way back towards the entrance. Passing Jim and De, who were sleeping upright with their backs against the hard, rocky wall, she thought they must like being uncomfortable.
Stopping to let Jeff know where she was going, “Hey, I am going out for a short stroll and get some air.”
“Here,” he replied, “you’ll need this, and keep your line open just in case, okay?”
Taking the rifle from him, Charlie checked if it was loaded and put the safety on, then thanked him before stepping out into the humid Laotian night air. Making her way down to a good spot just above the camp, but not too far from the hideout. Keeping a close distance and within easy reach should there be any trouble.
She settled down near some bushes, leaning against a rock; then reported her position to Jeff, so if something were to happen, they could get to her easily. Using the starlight mode on the rifle’s scope, she watched closely for any changes. She was just about to pack it up and head back up the hill when the entire camp sprang to life with activity. Getting into a prone position for a better and more stable look at what was happening. Soon a few men came running out of the buildings, towards the gates and opened them so a small convoy of trucks and cars could pass into the compound.
“Falcon Two to Nest.” She called in, “Nest, this is Falcon Two. Do you copy?”
“This is Nest; go ahead, Char, what’s up?” Jeff responded.
Charlie began reporting what was happening, “Nest, I spot that the Lion has returned to the Den. I repeat, the Lion has returned to the Den, over.”
She could hear Jeff relay the message to Jim, waking him. His ranting was loud and clear in her ears. “Who the hell is down there?” He asked.
Jeff answered, “Charlie.”
“How did she get down that far? Shit, tell her that Jose and I are on our way down.” He said angrily.
“Charlie, Jim said that…” Jeff began.
Softly, she interrupted, “Don’t bother, Jeff. I heard him.”
“Roger that.”
Charlie could still hear Jim raving as they approached, about having been woken up for a possible false alarm. Ripping the scope from her grasp, “This had better be worth the damn trip down here.” He grunted, peering through the lens.
Zooming in for a closer look, he confirmed Charlie's suspicion. Standing in the middle of seven armed guards was Nguyn, shouting orders to his men. Being so far away, his words could not be made out. The excitement in the camp was enough to make them suspect that something big was about to go down. Cars were being rerouted to different locations on the grounds; guards hurried about like confused children who had lost their parents in a crowd.
“What’s going on?” Jose asked.
Turning to the two of them standing there, “You two stay here; report any changes you see.” He ordered, passing the scope back to Charlie. His hand brushed hers when she accepted the return of her equipment, causing her body to shiver from the sudden envelopment of warmth. She looked into his eyes to see if he had felt anything too. Jim just smiled at her as she quickly yanked her hand away from his.
Charlie shook in an attempt to rid herself of the sensation after Jim had left. She held her position, watching the camp as all the activity began to calm down slowly. Her concentration was suddenly broken when Jose began to speak.
“Char, what's up with you and Jimbo?” He asked.
Innocently, she responded, “What do you mean?”
“You know damn well what I mean. How he always seems to actually show signs of being human whenever you are around.”
Getting really pissed at the inquisition, “Are you implying that Jim and I have something going on? Well, there’s no chance of that ever happening.”
“How is that?” Jose began again, “He's always getting mushy when you walk into the room. He's acting as if you belong to him; he seems to be very possessive.”
Sassing back in hopes to end the line of ridiculous questions, “Maybe it would seem that way to you, because I am not a disobedient asshole whenever he gives an order and I don’t mock him behind his back.”
It was quiet for a second until, “You know, she does have a point there, Jo.” Jose’s face had begun turning a bright shade of red from Brian’s interruptive agreement with Charlie.
He was being so arrogant about the very idea of her and Jim that he had completely forgotten everyone was listening to their conversation through the comm-lines, including Jim.
Two hours passed with no change; calmness engulfed Nguyn’s camp. Charlie guessed the sheer boredom had overcome Jose when he began to move around restlessly, making all sorts of noises.
“Would you knock that shit off? You’re going to give away our position.” Charlie demanded as his behavior really started to tick her off, “I swear, Jo. I will fucking shoot you if you don’t settle down.”
Jim burst over the lines, “What the fuck is going on now, you two?”
By now she was completely pissed; she responded, “Dipshit here doesn’t seem to want to keep his bodily noises to himself. He’s gonna compromise our location.”
At that moment, she heard a pop. Seeing blood had begun trickling down Jose’s right arm, just below the shoulder. Another shot whizzed past her head, missing her by just a few centimeters. Jose began screaming in pain, just as a panicked Charlie radioed in to the Nest.
“Nest! Nest! We are under fire! Hang on, Jose! Repeat! We are under fire! Eagle Three is hit!”
“Two,” Jim called out, “get your asses back here, now!”
Charlie hoisted the now unconscious Jose over her shoulder, grabbed their gear, and ran like hell up the hill towards the cave. She had gotten three-quarters of the way up when she felt a painful, burning sensation pass through her left leg above the knee. Falling to the ground, almost dropping Jose, she could feel the blood begin to saturate her uniform.
A faint feeling rushed over Charlie, then she shook her head to regain focus on the situation. Adrenaline rapidly flowed, forcing Charlie to lift both Jose and herself from the ground, regain possession of the equipment, and continue to run towards the others, who by this time were returning fire onto the Laotian army. Relief came abruptly when Jose was lifted from her shoulders, and she felt Jim’s strong arms yank her into the now darkened cave.
Everything was so black; Charlie didn’t know if she was even still alive. 'I have to be.' She thought. The pain in her leg was intense; she couldn’t stay conscious. She could hear Rob’s voice fading in and out; he told Jose that he was giving him something for the pain while he patched up the wound.
Charlie sensed Jim kneel beside her. Gently lifting, he began to cradle her head in his lap. He spoke to her, “Charlie, just keep still. You’re gonna be fine. Jeff will be over soon to help with your pain.” Some tension began breaking through his voice. “They can’t find us, and we’ve closed off the entrance,” Charlie asked about Jose, if he was still alive, but passed out before Jim could answer.
After Nguyn’s guards gave up their search, passing them off as local farmers protecting their fields. Charlie began coming to; Rob was standing over her, checking on the bandage that covered her wound.
“Do you think, with help, you can try to walk on that?” He asked.
Hoarsely, she answered, “Yeah, I guess so. Does it look that bad?”
“I can’t say for sure.” He replied.
That was when Jim announced, “We’re moving out! Now!” He was standing at the cave entrance, barking orders at everyone who was able to pack up and prepare to move out within the hour.
Charlie regained a clearer picture once her eyes were able to focus; she noticed a body slumped over in the corner just a few feet away. Her mind flooded with thoughts that it had to be Jose. She was relieved when Jose knelt beside her, his arm bandaged and in a sling. “Thanks for covering my ass out there.” He said painfully. Charlie looked into his eyes, gesturing towards the lifeless body in the corner. “It’s Nguyn.” He answered, “Jim and some of the others went in after him, just a little while ago. That is why we have to leave before the guards discover he’s missing.”
Charlie asked, “Why is he sitting like that? What’s wrong with him?”
“After Jim got the information we needed out of him,” Jose paused to gather his words, “he slit Nguyn’s throat. He seemed really pissed off that we had gotten hit.”
Jim suddenly heaved Charlie up from the cold stone floor, bracing his strong arm around her waist, supporting her; they began to leave. Then ordered two of the guys to help, so he could take point to keep them on the right heading. Just before walking away, he asked Charlie if she was doing well enough to walk on her wounded leg for a while.
“I’m a tough girl. I can handle it for a while.” She answered painfully with a smile. He told Rob to give her another injection of anesthetic for some extra help with the pain.
Walking for more than three and a half hours, Charlie limped on her still numb leg, trying to keep up with everyone's stride. She figured that they must have covered bout thirty or so miles by this time. Jeff was on point while Gabe and Andy helped her walk, Jim constantly asking about her condition.
Jeff suddenly stopped and signaled to Jim. It couldn’t be heard what they were discussing until footsteps could be heard. Charlie listened as closely as she could. “Sounds like maybe fifteen; their footfall is heavy. They must be in full combat gear.” Getting closer by the second, their voices could now be heard: “French.” She stated with a shaky voice as a twinge of pain pulsed abruptly through her wounded leg.
Charlie glanced at Andy as he and Gabe attempted to help her keep balanced. Her leg began to spasm when he asked, “Do you think we made it inside the Vietnamese border?”
Gabe responded, “We have to be.”
De came to check on Charlie, then added, “They are just a patrol unit, not an S&D.” He and Grant took over for them, helping Charlie balance on her good leg.
When the unit got closer, Jim notified them of his team’s presence. In French, he explained to them that his unit had gotten misled and ended up running into some Laotian snipers, who opened fire, wounding two. He signaled their attention towards Jose and Charlie, then proceeded to tell them they were trying to make it to their transport at the airbase in Vinh. The French unit made the point that they too were heading to Vinh, that it was only another five kilometers up the road.
By the time they reached the base, Charlie had collapsed from the blood loss and walking for so long. Jim carried her until they reached the medic station. Gently, he laid her on a stretcher, then stepped back to allow the medics some room to work on prepping Charlie for transport to an American Evac hospital. Charlie opened her eyes briefly to see Jim and the others standing there, hovering with concern and fear on their faces. She thought she saw tears building in Jim’s eyes just before everything went black.
When she came to, Jim was sitting in the chair next to her bed. He brushed the hair from her eyes, smiled, and began to speak with a soothing voice, “Welcome back.”
Charlie attempted to straighten up in her bed to look around the room. Jim placed his hand on her shoulder to keep her still as he attempted to explain, “Charlie, you are at the 121st EVAC in Seoul. I need you to stay calm while I explain what has happened.”
“What?” She interrupted, starting to become fearful, “Did I lose my leg? You can tell me, Jim, is it gone?”
Trying to calm her down, “No, you still have your leg. They were able to reconstruct the damaged tissue; the wound was deep but easily fixed. You are very lucky to be here right now after having lost so much blood. You had to be transfused, and your type was not something they had a large supply of. They had to find a donor for a direct line just to get you through surgery.” He smiled, gazing into her eyes.
“Who did they find?” She asked before noticing the bruising on his left arm. “It was you?”
He just smiled after looking at his arm. “You’re welcome.”
She breathed a sigh of relief as Jim went on to explain that with some rehab, she would be as good as new and back to work within a few months. Until then, they were assigned to Intel service on Yong San.
“Jim,” she asked, “how's Jose and everyone else?”
“Jose had a clean wound; he and the others are all doing fine, aside from worrying about you for the past few days. That must have been one hell of an adrenaline rush you had when you carried his sorry ass up that hill with a leg wound like that. It’s no wonder you’ve been out of it for so long.”
They kept talking until Charlie fell back to sleep; she could sense that Jim was still sitting there watching over her. Refusing to leave until he knew for sure that she was going to be okay.
Later that evening, they talked while she tried to eat some of her dinner the nurse had brought. “You know, we all were pretty worried about you. We don’t know what we’d do if we had lost you.” Jim said.
Watching him closely, Charlie asked, “What about you?” Taking another bite of some mashed potatoes.
He began stammering his words when the nurse returned, “You… You’re such a big part of all… All of us, like a mother. You keep us together and strong like a family.”
“Well, that’s good to know, I think.” Charlie said, “I didn’t realize everyone felt this way about me. I thought I was just in everybody’s way.”
“Nonsense!” He exclaimed, “You are what keeps us going. We all see how much more determined you are, more than we could have imagined. It just makes us work harder, just to keep up with you. Even I have more to look forward to every morning, since you came into my life.” He realized what he had just said as the nurse walked out of the room, hoping Charlie caught his meaning.
They talked a while longer; Charlie told him how she had been tinkering with the development of a new communications system. Showing how proud she was of the design and explained how it worked, including the range it had for transmissions. “I really would like the chance to try it out sometime in the field.” She said excitedly.
“That will be something to look forward to, but first you need to rest and get yourself up and walking again. That’s an order.” He said, moving closer to kiss Charlie, but quickly placed it on her cheek when the nurse came back into the room to do some ordering of her own. She took the empty tray and said that visiting hours were over.
He softly caressed her cheek, causing a sensation that forced her to jolt slightly in the bed, causing a painful rush to her leg. Sensing her sudden nervousness, he said goodnight before he walked out of the door.
He was walking through the hotel lobby when a few of the guys caught sight of him heading towards the elevators. Getting in with him, they began to inquire about Charlie.
"How is she doing tonight?" De asked.
"Better; she woke up finally around 1400. I sat with her until the nurses booted me out."
Grant asked, "When is she gonna get to bust out of there?"
"Looks like a few months of rehab before she will see the outside of that place. But as determined as she is?"
De said, "I bet she will be out sooner than they think." They chuckled as they walked down the hall towards their rooms.
Charlie’s rehab took a long, grueling two months. Every day, she would have to attempt to relearn to walk, first with two aides assisting, then crutches, until finally, no assistance whatsoever. She was determined to walk in less time than what the doctors said and unaided out of those hospital doors. Jim and the others were constantly visiting, encouraging her during therapy; their support made her more determined to get out as quickly as possible.
When Charlie walked out of the hospital doors, she was overjoyed to see the guys waiting in the parking lot. Jim and De assisted her down the steps to the car. While they drove around, Charlie was looking out her window, taking in the sights. They passed places she remembered from her teenage years.
“Where are we going?” She asked Jim.
He explained they were going to the hotel located on the base. It had been their home until the new orders were cut for their next assignment. Jim then announced that they were supposed to begin prepping for a mission in three weeks; they’d be shipping out at the end of the week.
Once they reached the hotel, the guys made sure she got safely to her room. Before walking down the hall towards their rooms, Jim looked into her eyes and said, “We already put your gear away. Why don’t you rest for a while? We’ll be back to pick you up for dinner at 1830 hours.”
“Where are we going?” she asked.
“We made reservations downstairs. See you later.” He finished before joining the others.
Securing the door, she turned to look around the room. It was quaint, with a small kitchenette and a door that adjoined her room to the one next door. She figured one of the guys must be in that room. Charlie then noticed something lying on the bed. She walked over and picked up the bouquet of yellow roses, inhaling their sweet scent deeply. Smiling, she opened the card that was lying with the flowers. Inside, it announced, “Happy Birthday!” All of the guys had signed it with a little birthday wish, even Jim.
After a few moments, she realized that she had nothing to wear to dinner. Charlie decided to sneak off to the PX for a little shopping, then to get her hair done at the salon. Hoping no one would see her before it was time.
Charlie had just finished putting on some make-up when there was a knock at her door. She leaned out of the bathroom, opened the door, then quickly ducked back to finish up. She called out, “Come on in! I’ll be ready in a few more minutes.”
“Char, I told you, we have a reservation at 1830; let’s get a move on…” Jim began to bark orders when Charlie stepped out into the room wearing a short black lacy dress. Her hair had been done up so the full length of her neck was visible.
She looked at them, puzzled by their expressions, standing around with their mouths gaping as though they were in shock. Charlie asked what was wrong.
Jim then shook his head before saying, “Huh? Oh, nothing. Well, it’s just that we’ve never seen you in anything like that before. You know we are used to you being in street clothes or in uniform, not ever anything fancy like a dress.”
“Well,” she began, “since training, you’ve all seen a little more than your fair share of me. Why should this be any different?”
With Jim dumbfounded, De interjected, “It’s that you look more... Well, you know…”
Brian finished De’s thought, “You look more like a woman, not a soldier, and if I may say, damn girl, you are HOT!”
Blushing, Charlie responded, “That’s nice of all of you to have noticed, but I am starving. Let’s go eat.” Jose offered his arm and escorted her out to the hall and down towards the elevators.
Jim continued to be silent. Even as they walked into the restaurant, he did everything he could to keep his body and emotions in check while they were around the guys. The hostess had seated them at their table. Charlie began looking around, taking in her surroundings. She broke the silence, “This place hasn’t changed a bit.”
Gabe was holding her chair for her when he asked confusingly, “What do you mean? You’ve been here before?”
“I thought you all knew; my father was stationed here when I was younger. I went to the High School just across the street; even saw when they were building this hotel. That was before I was sent to the D.” Charlie explained.
They hung onto Charlie’s every word throughout dinner, cake, and plenty of margaritas. Telling stories and laughing at each other’s jokes, suddenly all came to an abrupt end when a gentleman approached from the shadows, seeing the guys' faces become fixed on an intruder at their party. Jim gave the stranger a glare of disgust.
Placing a hand on her shoulder. “Charlene?” He asked.
Recognizing the voice, she jumped out of her seat and began hugging the shady character along with a short kiss to the lips.
Pulling back, Charlie asked, “Oh, Goddess. How in the hell have you been?”
The stranger replied, “Doing good, and you? It’s been a while; I wasn’t sure if it was you with that tattoo.” He realized, “Shit, I’m interrupting. Happy Birthday.”
“Thank you. I just got out of the hospital today; got shot in the fucking leg. Where are you stationed?”
“Right now, I’m at Camp Red Cloud; we lost our CO a month ago in Thailand. What's left of my unit and I are down for the weekend to celebrate receiving our new orders. We head back to Rucker in a few days.”
Jim blurted, “Ahem!”
Charlie gave him a slight glance, his face still holding a stern glare at the not-yet-introduced stranger. “Oh, shit,” Charlie smirked, leaning her face into the gentleman’s shoulder. Looking again at her dinner companions, she said, “Sorry. Major James Thorn and guys, this is Alex Markum. We grew up together.” Looking at Alex, then back to her table, “We even went through basic and officer training together.”
Alex added, “Not to mention the D.”
Introductions went around the table; Jim’s facial expression never changed. It seemed as though Alex was treading on his turf. Jim’s look got even more defensive when Alex pulled up a chair and sat down next to Charlie.
Holding her hand so they could all see his affection towards her, Alex started, “I can’t believe you actually made it through that training; a Captain, nonetheless.”
Jim interrupted, “She was top of her class; she’s the best there is.” In sync, the guys agreed with Jim’s statement. He began to interrogate Alex, asking him what unit he was with, how many missions he had been on, a lot of other bullshit, just to put Alex on the spot in front of everyone.
“Well, sir, I have been with Delta team and nine missions since training. Meaning, no disrespect, but we were nothing compared to you all. Word has it that you’re the best team. Actually, as fate would have it, since Major Bailey was killed, I have been transferred to you as of next Thursday.” Alex cheerfully explained.
Jim tensed more in his chair; so did the others when Charlie made her joyful expression loud and clear as to Alex joining the team. Such news seemed too much for them to handle.
The rest of Alex’s team approached the table as Alex stood up to excuse himself. He told everyone how nice it was to have met them. He was turning to leave, then asked if they would like to join his team off base for the remainder of the evening. “We are hitting the clubs down in Itaewon; you all are welcome to join us. Maybe catch a glimpse of what this little vixen was like when we would sneak down there on school nights.”
Charlie looked at Jim, begging, and said, “Come on, you guys. Please?” She batted her eyes until they all caved in and agreed to go.
“Since it is your birthday.” Jim said, “I guess we all could use a real night out on the town.”
Club after club they went, drinking and dancing as if morning would never find them. Charlie managed to dance with everyone on her team and a few from Alex’s. Even Jim slow danced with her a few times. During their last dance, she could feel his breath against her skin as he held her close, whispering into her ear.
“Goddess, you smell good. You really do look beautiful tonight.” At that moment, when she pulled back, looking into his deep blue eyes, she began to feel something intensely building inside; for him was just about to burst.
The group was walking through the maze of back alleyways, led by Charlie and Alex, to get to the main street, attempting to make it back to the base by taxi before the gates were closed for the night. They had just turned the corner when Charlie stopped dead in her tracks and began to stare at the ground below a poorly lit sign that read, 'Rooms rented by the hour.'
De broke the silence and asked, “Char, are you alright?”
She tensed up when Alex grabbed her hand tightly, then she spoke, “I can’t believe, after all these years. It’s still here.” She placed her head on Alex’s shoulder in disbelief. What they had discovered was the painted outline of someone who had died at that site, along with a makeshift memorial.
“Come on,” Alex said, redirecting her attention, “just one more block to the taxi stand. We can talk more when we get back to base.” They continued walking quietly out of the darkness and remained that way until the taxi reached their destination.
Back at the hotel, Jim had begun to offer his hand in assistance to Charlie getting out of the taxi, but Alex beat him to the punch. Jim shot him a hateful glare when she thanked Alex for being such a gentleman.
Charlie invited Alex up to her room as they headed in towards the elevators. On the ride up, she could sense the tension, but in her intoxicated state, she really didn’t care.
When they reached her room, Charlie glanced over her shoulder just as Jim gave Alex another evil glare. It was then she noticed that Jim was entering the room adjoining hers. She smiled at him before going into her room, closing the door behind her.
While they had a little visit to catch up with each other, Charlie left her side of the adjoining door open, just in case Jim wanted to check up on what they were doing.
Standing in the kitchen area, trying to make a small pot of hot water, she asked, “How do you take yours these days?”
“None for me, thanks.” He said, “You haven’t told them, have you?”
“No, I have not. I don’t think the timing has been right yet for them to know any more than they already do. Jim knows a bit more than my record shows. He noticed the holes.”
“Funny, no one has said or noticed anything. I was never questioned about the D. I can’t believe they were that sloppy, or is he really that clever?” He claimed, patting on the cushion next to him, “Come over here.”
Playfully, she inquired, “What do you want?”
“I just want to catch up on what’s been going on in your life. It has been a while since we’ve seen one another, nothing more.” He replied, “Let me see your hand.”
“Why?” She asked.
“I just wanted to see if your scar still shows.” Taking her right hand into his, he looked closely at her palm. “Yep, there it is. See, mine hasn’t faded either.”
“What’s your point, Al?” She asked.
Alex proceeded to explain, “My point is that nothing has changed between us. I know we tried to be more, but that just didn’t work out. We are the only family the other has; that is how it will always be. Do you remember the night we made these at the D, when we sneaked out and made our pledge to one another?”
“Of course I do, but why are you bringing this up?”
Alex smiled, looking deep into her eyes. “Char, amuse me.”
Pressing their right palms together, with their fingers interlocked, they recited in unison, “Blood for blood, I solemnly pledge my eternal bond of friendship, until the day we are taken by betrayal or death.”
Charlie laughed, “I can’t believe we did that.”
They continued talking about their missions and arranging Alex’s move to the team. Charlie told him how she felt about the team, especially her feelings towards Jim. After an hour, Alex looked at his watch. “Shit, it’s 0130. I had better get my ass to bed. The bus back leaves at 0800.” They walked to the door. “Are you sure that it’ll be okay if I stay at your place?”
“Of course, why shouldn’t it be? I have plenty of room, and you don’t know your way around Norfolk. It would be my pleasure to have you as my roommate.”
“Okay, if you’re totally sure. Besides, I don’t think your team likes me a whole hell of a lot.”
“You just have to give them some time. Hell, I got through to them.” Charlie laughed.
After they reached the door and he stepped out, Alex kissed her cheek before saying, “You know, I’ll always care about you.” He paused, sighed, and said, “I guess I’ll see you at the airport in a few weeks. Goodnight.”
“Goodnight.” She called to him as he began his way down the hall towards the elevators, then turned back into her room. Not realizing she hadn’t closed the door completely, she walked across the room, turning off the lights before falling onto the bed.
Charlie tried, but couldn’t sleep. Still feeling the effects of the many drinks she had during the evening. Along with an underlying need to talk to someone, she wondered if Jim was still awake. Making her way through the darkened room towards the adjoining doors. Slowly, pushing his side open, she peered into his room, trying to get a glimpse of his conscious status.
“Can’t sleep?” Jim’s voice softly cut through the darkness.
“Just anxious,” She answered, stepping further into the room, “very anxious, actually.”
“Come on in, sit and talk if you like.” He suggested. “Do you want me to turn the lamp on?”
“No, I can find my way. I’m ready to be getting back home and back to work.” Charlie used the sound of Jim’s breathing and a small beam of light, which was spilling in from a slit in the curtains, to aid her in reaching his location.
Sitting down next to him on the bed, she could see his bare chest glistening in the moonlight. They began talking; Charlie explained what had happened when they were in the alley a few hours prior. That it was the very reason why she and Alex were sent to the D. Also, that Alex would be living at her place when he was transferred. She did not want him to be upset at her and Alex’s arrangement.
“Charlie, why would I be upset? You are a big girl; you know what's best.”
“Alex figured that you would not approve of him staying in one of my spare rooms.”
“Is that all?” He realized, “I just figured that the two of you were going to get back together.”
“Get back together? How did you guess that we had ever been together?”
“Char, I saw how he looked at you; it was very obvious. But tell me one thing and don’t lie. Was he the one you told me about? Did the two of you, you know?”
“Yes, he was, and he knows nothing of the result of that night, nor will he ever. That is in the past.” She turned away. “He knows that we can only be friends, nothing more; he is the only family I have left.”
“Babe.” He said to regain her attention, then scrambled to say, “So, am I. Well, all of us are, you know. We’ve been like a family all these years, haven’t we?”
Charlie relaxed. “Yes, we have; it’s just that…” That suddenly it all changed when Jim leaned up towards her.
Cupping her chin in his hand, he said, “Charlie, I have tried everything to keep my distance. I've been wanting to tell you for the longest time that I have fallen hard for you.” Then pressed his lips to hers; she could feel the passion that had been building inside him all this time.
Charlie’s entire body quivered; his hands softly pulled, guiding her to the pillow next to him. She felt an intense heat flush over her as she began maneuvering her hands up and down his body, exploring every single muscle she touched. He was gently undoing her dress when Charlie’s mood quickly changed. Fear rushed through her mind when she felt Jim’s hardness, throbbing against her.
“Stop! Wait, Jim.” She cried out, pushing him away and running back into her room.
Following behind her. He stood there, confused and out of breath. Jim asked, “Did I do something wrong?”
Confused herself, standing next to her bed, she said, “Jim, you know that I… I haven’t in a very long time.”
“Charlie, you know that I would never hurt you, or do anything that you do not consent to me doing to you. It’s just…” He paused to gather his thoughts. “I have longed to feel you this close, from the first time I laid eyes on you. Hell, since we kissed that first time and every kiss after that. After all these years, I only want to show you how I truly feel about you. That I can be much more than just a fellow soldier; that is only if you’ll allow me to.”
Tears flowed down her cheeks as she began kissing Jim. Charlie allowed herself to feel his affections towards her, in the one way that she would have never allowed any other man. Kissing along her neck, he continued to remove her dress, guiding her softly onto the bed. The more her skin became exposed, the further down his kisses went. His entire body became more excited and aroused when Charlie let out a soft moan of pleasure.
They both were so caught up in the moment; neither heard someone knocking at the door. Nor did they realize that the knocker had entered the room, calling out.
“Charlie?” It was Jeff. Noticing her door was ajar, he entered. “Char, some of us are going downstairs for a nightcap; you wanna join us?” He squinted, looking around the dark room. He was just about to speak again when Charlie let out a pleasure-filled moan. Assuming that she was with Alex, Jeff quietly left, securing the door tightly.
“Well?” Asked Grant. “Is she coming?”
Jeff smiled. “From the sounds she is making? I’d say she just might be about there.” He laughed as they walked down the hall, towards the elevators.
Jim was eagerly kissing and suckling the top of her exposed breasts, caressing his left hand down along her side. He felt her body shiver when he began removing her panties, exposing her fiery mound. The warm, moist heat made his arousal harden even more. He was just about to make his way down to taste her juices, when the pager on his bedside table came to life.
“Fuck!” Jim exclaimed, “What the hell could they want at this hour?”
“Do you have to answer that?” Charlie asked.
“Argh!” He grunted, “Yes, I have to. Please, just hold that thought; don’t go anywhere.” He kissed her passionately on the lips. “I’ll be right back.” Then jumped up and ran into his room to call his page back.
Charlie lay back briefly, but her frustration got the better of her. Wearing only her bra, she got up and crept into Jim’s room. Standing quietly behind him while he spoke on the phone, “Yes, sir. I understand, sir. Departure is at 1300 hours. See you then, sir.”
As he hung up the phone, Charlie approached him, wrapping her arms around his waist. Kissing and nibbling at the tattoo on his right shoulder made him shiver slightly, bringing up his diminished arousal.
“What’s going on?” She asked.
“Nothing, we just have a meeting coming up, is all.” He said, turning to face her, smiling, “Now, where were we?”
Charlie looked deep into his eyes, stepped back, smiled, and removed her bra. Tossing it across the room, she said, “You missed a spot.”
Without missing a beat, Jim rushed towards her, picked her up from the floor, erotically forcing her back against the wall. Charlie wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. Their lips were interlocked and their tongues entangled in one another’s moist mouths.
Charlie forced him back, causing him to stumble towards the bed. Once she had him pinned, she hurriedly assisted him out of his shorts; then started flicking her tongue. Beginning at his earlobe, then working her way down. Tracing his muscular torso until reaching his throbbing erect tool of pleasure. Softly, she kissed the tip, then she suckled up and down along his length.
His muscles tensed from the sensation she was causing. "Oh, shit, Char." He moaned, running his fingers through her hair.
Jim could not resist the urge any longer and forced her to stop by overpowering her, switching places. Enabling him to return the intense favor. Once he got down to her moistened petals, he began to lap at the warm juices that had again begun to flow. Tasting every bit of her, his tongue plunged deep inside her, tormenting each muscle of her secret cavern. While, listening for his cue to take matters to the next level of her induction to his love.
Jim suckled on the hardened kernel of her clitoris, causing her back to arch, legs to tense, and for her to cry out his name in relief. That was his cue. Carefully, he slid up to the starting position.
Lovingly, brushing her hair from her face, he again kissed her mouth. Looking deep into her dark green eyes, “Babe, are you ready for me?” He whispered.
Out of breath, she answered, “Yes.”
Steadily, he slid his hardened shaft inside. Starting with slow, long strokes until she was accustomed to the sensation inside her. Charlie’s hands caressed Jim’s back as he continued thrusting into her, causing her to call out his name and continually thanking the Goddess for sending him into her life.
Every moment that passed, their momentum increased. Charlie pushed against him, rolling him to lie beneath her, making her able to work her body over him. Holding her tightly by the hips, he moaned from the pleasure it gave him. Sitting up, he ran his lips along her breasts. Eagerly, she kissed him in return.
"Goddess, Char." He moaned. He rolled her gently back onto the bed.
Charlie grunted, "Oh, Jim."
Finally, Jim lifted her left leg off of the bed slightly, gaining a better advantage to his depth. A sensational burst of pleasure caused Charlie to dig her fingernails deep into his back. Thrusting harder and faster, he was on the verge of exploding as her nails ripped down his back, peeling the skin. With a final push, he could feel his release flowing into her. She let out a long sigh of release, loosening her grip from his torn flesh.
Tenderly kissing her, he pulled away, then curled his body next to hers, holding her in a tight embrace. Just before they drifted to sleep, Charlie said, “I love you.”
Jim kissed the nape of her neck and replied, “I love you, too, Charlie.”
In the morning, she woke with the sun and an extreme hangover. Looking around, seeing clothes that were not her own, thrown all over the place. She then realized that she was not in her own room. It all came together when she saw the reflection in the mirror across from the bed.
Jim was asleep next to her. Naked except for the sheet that covered him from the waist to his knees. She began to blush upon the realization of her own nakedness. Remembering everything that had happened over the past several hours.
He looked so handsome, lying there in innocent slumber. Grabbing his shirt from the floor, she inhaled his scent before putting it on. Slipping out of the bed, she headed into the bathroom to take a shower before he woke or anyone showed up for breakfast.
The rush of hot water over her body brought her to a state of relaxation. She was rinsing the conditioner from her hair. Her train of thought was broken by the cold, yet strong hands beginning to massage her shoulders. She tensed up from the chilly sensation, but quickly warmed up when she heard Jim’s voice from behind.
“Good morning.” He said, softly kissing her tattoo. “Hey, when did you get the other tat? I didn't notice it last night- a phoenix. I like it.”
Charlie turned around, looking down. “About two years ago.”
Starting with his feet, she tried to look into his eyes, but didn’t make it up that high. She couldn’t help herself from concentrating on his muscular endowment below the waist. Needless to say, she was impressed.
“How are you feeling?” He asked while continuing to rub her shoulders.
Charlie’s body began to tingle from his touch; she began to babble, “Huh? What? Oh, fine, I guess.” Feeling even more embarrassed, she broke her gaze to look into the oceans of his eyes.
“You know,” he began, “I’ve never felt like this about anyone.”
Charlie continued babbling, “I’ve never felt like this either.”
He became confused by her statement. “What do you mean? What about Alex?”
“Oh, Goddess, Jim, I told you last night. Alex and I are just friends. We tried dating and stuff. It never went beyond anything like what you and I are now. It just didn't work out between us; we were just children at that time.”
Pleased with her answer, he pulled her close. They started kissing as the hot water from the shower still flowed over their naked bodies. Jim hoisted her up, bracing her back against the cold tiles. Causing her to shudder, he then gently allowed himself to enter her loving folds.
Their passion was lifting them higher; when the water began to flow ice cold, their rhythm remained unbroken. Their muscles tensed as their bodies reached their peak. "I love you." He grunted into her ear. She was just about to call out his name when someone began rapping on the main door.
“Shit!” Jim complained, “Not now!”
Charlie begged him, “Don’t answer it. Stay here with me; maybe they’ll go away if you don’t answer.”
Then De's voice bellowed from the hallway outside, “Yo! Jimbo! Time for chow, buddy!” He continued pounding on the door.
“Jim, do you have to?” She asked, shutting off the water.
Wrapping a towel around his waist and dripping water everywhere, “I told the guys to wake me for breakfast.” Kissing Charlie passionately, “Let me get rid of them. You hide in here, then we can have a little more time to ourselves.” Then he stepped out of the bathroom to answer the door.
Charlie quickly closed the door, hearing the guy’s voices pass the bathroom. With great haste, she began to dry herself off, putting Jim’s shirt back on, in case anyone should walk in on her.
Pressing her ear against the door, Charlie could hear the tension in Jim’s voice. His tone made it almost obvious as to not wanting them to know what was going on all night in his room. “So, what are you guys up to today?” He stuttered nervously.
De answered, “We just tried Char’s door, but she didn’t answer. We guessed that she and Alex must be sleeping off last night. Never seen anyone drink as much as her; it still amazes me.”
“Really? Yeah, but what makes you think he spent the night?” Jim questioned.
Jeff added, “Some of us were going to the bar downstairs after we got back. Since you didn’t answer your door, we stopped to see if she and Alex wanted to join us. But from all the moaning that flooded from her room, we figured that they were too busy. You are right next door; I can’t see how you didn’t hear.”
Jim laughed, trying very hard to play off that he didn’t have any knowledge regarding that remark. “Huh, I didn’t hear anything; slept like a baby. Well, now, why don’t you all head down and I’ll…”
“Jim?” De spoke, causing the entire room to freeze. “What the hell is going on here?”
Jim began stammering again, “What do you mean, De? Nothing is going on except for you guys going down to get us a table and me getting dressed to join…”
Once again, De interrupted, “I mean, Jim, what in the hell happened to your back?”
“What is wrong with my back?” He questioned while trying to see his reflection in the mirror.
De went on the offensive, “Jimbo, your back is ripped to shit, and what is with this? Is there something you've been keeping from us?”
Baffled, Jim shot off, “Well, not that it's any of your business. I was spending the rest of my evening with a lady. Is it hard for any of you to believe that I was getting some? Charlie was the only one of us that could get laid last night?”
Charlie cautiously popped her head out to see that everyone, except Jim, had their backs to her. Jose moved to the left just enough for her to see De standing in front of Jim. In his hand was the black lace bra she had been wearing last night. Jim spotted her when she stepped out further. Unable to make any gestures for her to remain in the bathroom, not while everyone’s attention was on him.
De began, “Jim, I never figured or even knew you to pick up a lady of the eve…?" De was soon dead on his words.
Charlie had crept up behind them and said, “It’s mine, De.” Forcing the group to turn their attention to her as she passed, stopping toe-to-toe with him before ripping the bra from his grasp.
Everyone, including Jim, was standing there dumbfounded by the situation. Silence had filled the room until Charlie made her way to Jim. Giving him a deeply passionate, wet kiss before saying, “I am going to get dressed. I’ll meet you all downstairs to eat before running some errands.”
Leaving them in shock by her sudden and brazen display. All knowing how out of character this was for her and Jim, both. Once she entered her room and closed the door, she finished getting dressed, listening to De begin to give Jim the third degree.
“What in the hell happened here last night, James?” He angrily asked.
Jeff interjected, “What the fuck does it look like, De?”
“Look,” Jose jumped in, “this is none of our business. This is between Jim and Char.” Several mumbled in agreement with him.
Forcing De to firmly state, “Hell, it’s not; we are a team, a family. What happens between two of us affects the rest. You, Major Thorn, sir. What was that bullshit you dished out about women in combat units would be nothing more than a distraction. I’d never have guessed that you’d be the one to get so distracted that you’d actually have to go and fuck her.”
Jim bolted forward, shoving him hard against the dresser. “Dietrich, you’re out of line!”
Without breaking his stare-down with Jim, De asked everyone to leave. “Guys, I need to speak privately with our fearless leader; wait for us down at the restaurant.” That was Charlie’s cue to depart her room and head down to the elevators.
She stepped out to leave, only to find everyone was standing in the hall. De and Jim started yelling at each other when she closed the door. “So,” Jose broke the silence while they walked into the elevator, “you and the Big Guy. I told you so.” He smirked.
“What?” She asked.
“Back in Laos, I told you that something was going on between the two of you.”
Just after the doors closed, Charlie asked, “So, are you all okay with this?” Everyone answered yes; the only thing she said in return was, “Thank you.”
Meanwhile, the argument continued. “Damn it, Jim! You of all people know how this will end. This is exactly how your sister got sidelined. The four of us could have remained a team if she and Tag hadn’t…”
“De, things are different now. Cassidy was not as strong-willed as Charlie; she never really wanted to join. She only did, so we wouldn’t be separated. Goddess, she barely made it through training.”
“That’s not my point! Tag almost lost his commission over the whole affair. Cass ended up resigning, putting his career first, and look at how things ended for her. We lost her, then Tag. Is that what you want for Charlie? You want her to put you before her life; this life, the one she busted her ass for? You don’t even know how she feels about you. Are either of you prepared to lose your careers over the chance of getting a piece of ass?”
“It’s not like that.”
“Then what is it, Jim?"
“I love her! De, I love her."
Jim's words caused De to question their relationship. "Just how long have you two been sneaking around?”
"It started after we lost Tag. Last night was the first time we. You know, took things that far."
“Really, five fucking years you two have been at this?"
Then he looked at his friend. "You know I would never have allowed any woman to interfere with my duty to the team. I have put honor and country before myself all this time. Never have I allowed myself to feel anything towards anyone but Charlie. Charlie is different. I know we can handle this and keep it under wraps until we and I mean, our team can figure something out.”
"Jim, don’t let this fuck things up. Get dressed; your team is waiting. I don’t want to discuss or hear of this matter any further.”
At breakfast, everyone ate in silence, just to keep De from exploding again. Not one single whisper, burp or anything that could set off the ticking time bomb that sat across from Jim. Aside from a brief announcement from Jim that their orders had changed and they were to head home the next day. By the time the check came, Charlie couldn’t stand it any longer. She grabbed the ticket. “I’ll take care of this. I’ll see you all later tonight, maybe.”
Excusing herself from the awkwardness of the situation. She moved past Jim; he grabbed her hand, asking where she was off to. Why was she being so secretive? They all agreed, wanting to know why she suddenly was not including them.
“There is a lot you all don’t know about me.” She said, “However, I have some personal business to attend to before we head for home tomorrow. I’ll be back later." Seeing their faces grow curious, "Fine, I have to visit some friends of my parents; it would be rude of me, being in the country, not to drop in before I left.”
Charlie knew that it was best for now to keep her distance from the guys, under the current circumstances. She needed to tend to some family matters and get her thoughts and feelings under control before the situation got out of hand.
Sitting at her father’s desk in his former office, Charlie was reading some papers while speaking with a shadowy man who stood before her. “Now, are you positive that this is everything?” She asked, “The accounts now transfer to me? The designated properties were sold as instructed?”
“Yes, Miss Shore. According to your parents' will, you are the sole heir. Everything was done as instructed, and the funds are listed here.” He explained, pointing at the papers on the desk. “You do realize that this is a very large amount; are you sure you want to do this?”
“Yes, William. I want the Kims to be compensated for their service. The remainder is to be wired between my accounts in Vegas and Norfolk.”
“Of course, Miss. I will have the check for the Kims ready within the hour.”
“Fine, now leave me until everything has been finalized.”
“Yes, Miss.” Once William exited and secured the door, Charlie read the paperwork further. Upon signing her name, she stood up from the desk and walked over towards the window. Looking out, taking in the view of the river below. She sighed, showing a sign of how drained she was feeling.
“You know, Charles would do that same thing whenever he needed to pause and regain some perspective.” A voice approached from behind.
“I can’t believe that it’s been this long since they’ve gone.” She responded.
“They aren’t gone, Charlene. They were stolen from you.” Hugging her, “It’s been ages. How are things going for you since you made the teams?”
“It’s been good, Uncle Joe. Been keeping myself busy.”
“I bet.” He answered, “We heard about the Laos job. That commander of yours is one hell of a guy. He managed to take out Nguyn in a matter of hours, whereas we couldn’t get a solid fix on him for the last four years. How’s the leg?”
“It’s doing well. I still have a bit more rehab to do before going out again. Did you hear? Alex is transferring to Alpha.”
“Yes, Dan mentioned it this morning. Both your parents would have been so proud of you two. Have you been considering my offer to be brought into the fold? You know they wanted you to be part of this once you both were old enough.”
“I know; it’s just that the time is not right. I told you before, I can’t leave my team. It’s either all of us or none of me.”
Joe simply stated, “I’ll pass your demands along for consideration.”
With the check in hand and the money transfers completed, Charlie stepped from the taxi outside a gated drive blocking the entrance to the base, walking the short distance from there to an alley which led to the apartment of Mrs. Kim and her family. When she entered the quaint home, very simple in its decor, she looked along the wall at the photos. The sight of how much things and people had changed made her feel old. Mrs. Kim entered from the kitchen, carrying some tea and snacks. Speaking in Korean, “Nuna, you are an Army girl now?”
Charlie smiled at being called big sister before answering, “Yes, but my unit is shipping out in the morning; we were just passing through.”
“You must stay for dinner, Nuna. They would like to see you before you go. Dinner is almost ready; please stay.” Charlie couldn't refuse; home cooking is best after you’ve been eating out of an envelope for weeks on end.
After a wonderful meal, Mrs. Kim walked Charlie to the front door. Before leaving, Charlie presented the Kims with her generous gift. Shocked by the amount of the check. Mr. Kim asked, “Nuna, are you sure to give such a present?”
“Yes, I am. My parents wanted me to be sure your family would live well from now on. You all became part of our family over the years; you have earned this. Thank you for a lovely meal.”
Everyone bowed to one another before Charlie finally was able to depart for the base. She was partway down the alley before turning around to wave goodbye one last time. It was getting late; Charlie had just managed to make it through the gate just in time before its closing curfew.
She passed Jeff and Brian in the lobby, then Gabe and Jay at the elevators once she reached her floor. Walking into her room, she could hear Jim speaking with De, very loudly. Quietly, she set her things down on the table and finished packing for the trip home. She had barely stepped into the bathroom when De left in a rant.
Gathering what needed to be packed, leaving the rest for the morning, she stared momentarily at her reflection in the mirror to see if she had changed in any way. Shaking her head, she turned to step out only to see Jim sitting on the couch, waiting for her. His hands were clenched tightly together; his knuckles had turned white.
“Running late?” He asked with an angry undertone, “How did your business go?”
“Fine.” She answered, “I'm sorry I took off like that, but I did have some family business to take care of and see some friends of my parents. Did you have any dinner yet?”
“No, I just couldn't put up with De's bullshit any longer than I had to. Why do you ask?”
“I was thinking you'd like to go for a walk with me outside, then get a late snack.”
“Sounds good to me; I would love to accompany you for a stroll.”
They walked silently around the campus of her old High School, neither knowing just what to say to the other. Before long, Charlie just could not stand it one more minute. Stopping at a bench just outside the JROTC building.
She said, “You know, you shouldn't let what De says get under your skin like that. Last night would never have happened if we didn't want it to. We are all adults and still a team. Everyone needs to push past this; if not, then we are not as close as we all thought. Whatever happens between me and you is our business. We won't let our relationship get in the way of the job. Right?”
Jim agreed, “Do you mean that last night was not just a one-time alcohol induced mistake? That you do feel for me the same way I feel about you? You are willing to keep this relationship going?”
“Oh, Jim, why would you think that I wouldn't? In the last five years, ever since that first kiss and all the times after, you patiently waited for me. I can't see my life without you in it.” She began to tear up with happiness. “But when we are on a mission, that comes first?”
“That’s the only way to keep De happy, but if that's what you want.”
Charlie just smiled. Jim could not bear to tell her the consequences if headquarters were to find out about their relationship, which one or both of them would lose just to be with one another.
Later on, they sat together at a small table in the hotel’s mezzanine, discussing how things were going to have to be from now until De finally calmed down. She made it clear that the living situation between her and Alex; so Jim would no longer have to feel threatened when the two of them were in the same room. When a staff member expressed how late it was getting, and the area was closing for its nightly cleaning. They kindly departed back to her room for the remainder of the night.
Lying next to one another on her bed, their conversation continued. Charlie felt at home and safe in Jim's arms; she couldn't bear to end the evening, even when she had begun to feel sleep start to take over. She nestled closer until they both had finally drifted to sleep.