Two

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“MA’AM WE UNDERSTAND what we are asking.” I was shocked to see that Mallory had sent her second in command, Captain Herrera to the transport to deliver us to Earth. “We need to reach Colonel Valentine before he launches.”

“He’s already launched.” Herrera replied. “Lieutenant, I cannot help you, please secure your crew. You need to eat and get inoculated.” She held up a hand to forestall my next comment. “We are going to push the theoretical maximum of our new drives. We are going to reinforce Colonel Valentine as fast as we possibly can.”

I sighed and nodded. “Yes ma’am, thank you, ma’am.” Herrera nodded and Stevins walked up to me, pushing magazines of ammunition into the pouches on his combat vest.

“There are five hundred Night stalkers here.” He said. “Not even originals like you. This is not enough, Lieutenant.”

“Yeah, I know.” I replied, blowing out a breath.

He looked at the deck, then back up at me. “I know you have feelings for him.” He said softly. “I understand that. But he’s married to Mallory now. I saw a video of the ceremony. Councilor Moore did it, it was lovely.” He seemed to realize this wasn’t working and changed tact. “You need to put it out of your head, Lieutenant, or you need to stay with transport, so you can go back to Vandor. We need clear heads on this mission, you are being touchy feely won’t help the Colonel avoid interrogation.”

I nodded, feeling like he’d slapped me in the face. “You’re right, Sergeant.” I paused. “On all counts. I am happy for our Colonel, and for Commander Valentine. She was extraordinary as a young recruit, even for a Navy officer.” I sighed, forcing myself to shelve my feelings for good. “Let’s go save the task force.”

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