Tailspin, page 27
She frowned and went back to her bag. “Good ole lip balm?”
“Worth a try,” I said, and I let her apply that too. When I felt it, I also knew that was no normal lip balm. “Enhanced?”
“Pink suits you.” She laughed but nodded. “How else is a girl to get her bling on and still have extra healing on hand?”
I rolled my eyes. “Had to be, didn’t it?”
“I have a little.” She smiled. “I’m not a girly girl at all, but I do like a hint of pink for my lips.”
I couldn’t help it. I laughed too. In the next movement, she handed me some pills. “Fresh from the medical unit. These are slightly stronger, so hopefully they last a bit longer at keeping any fever away.”
“I appreciate all of it.”
“Lunch?” she asked.
“I need to eat,” I said. “I’ve been borderline underweight as is, with all the training.”
“I noticed your body fat is at zero. Even while eating my dessert.”
“Jealous?”
She glanced down. “Yeah, I could do with losing a percent or two. I just—I just love my food.”
“Not a pick on you,” I replied, and when she handed me a packet of sandwiches, I took them. “You’re mostly muscle.”
“Mostly—crap, wait,” she said, got a towel and spread it under my chin. “Hate crumbs in bed.”
I opened the packet and took a bite: cheese, chicken, and salad. Fake probably, but it still tasted good. “Anyone miss me?”
“No,” she said. “No one has said anything. You’re not down for mandatory training, just extra if you want it.”
“Good.” I chewed the food and swallowed, asking her for the bottle she’d put at the side.
“You’re not up for training, though,” she noted.
I shook my head. “I don’t want to sleep all afternoon, either.”
She kicked off her boots and put her feet up on the bed. “Shit,” she said. “If I wasn’t going out, I was thinking of just curling back up and drifting the afternoon away.”
“Well, data pad, then bed and sleep when we’re tired?”
She grinned. “That sounds fab. I can run you through some mock tests.”
“You think I’m ready for testing?”
“You’re ahead of everyone out there, trust me. You’re ready.” Then she pulled out two dessert pots.
“Both for me?” I asked, and her face fell. But she gave me only one, and I laughed.
After dessert, Malaki went off for a shower, and I let my head rest for a bit longer, knowing it was going to work as soon as she came back.
And work we did; she worked me hard. The first test, I was two points below the passing score. So, we studied for a while, and the next four tests I took, I passed—the last one with a ninety-five percent score.
“That okay?” I asked.
“More than okay.” She smiled, and then promptly yawned.
I checked the time. “How did it get so late?”
“We’re both workaholics.”
“Yeah,” I said. “I should get up and walk, do something.”
“Maybe a swim?” she asked.
“I think I can handle that. Any idea who might be in there?”
“Nope, I don’t even have a swimsuit,” she said. “Think we’ll get away with underwear?”
I shook my head. “It’s military grade, but no.”
“You have much money?” she asked.
I shook my head again. “No, nothing at all.”
“Yeah, I thought so after your story yesterday. We can stop by the shop. They’ll have something for us. I’ll get you something.”
“I—” I started to protest, but she held her hand up.
“No bother at all,” she said. “It will be nice to do something other than run or weights.”
“Can’t hide the bruises in there, though.”
Malaki lowered her head. “Rus,” she said. “I had to tell my CO.”
“You said no one missed me?”
“They didn’t,” she said. “But they would have missed me this afternoon.”
I cursed. “Wha—”
“I’m sure it will go up the chain of command, but your safety is more important to me.”
“What about me being here?”
“I told her it was somewhere you felt safe, and it was better you stayed here.”
“She agreed?”
“They know how focused I am on my career,” she said. “She knew there would be nothing between us, but as I said—”
“They don’t allow relationships, do they? Here or on Ocean Oil Fields?”
“Not really.” She smiled, though, because I already knew of Niko and Lacy, and Trevor and Casey.
“Good, cause you snore,” I said.
“Thanks,” she said, rolling her eyes and moving. “Come on, or my brain’s going back to sleep.”
The base was quiet again. Few people were out walking around. Sundays were nice. Walking, though, hurt a bit, and I knew the next few days were still going to suck. Any amount of jarring, including lifting off or landing in a helo, was not going to help.
“What about my tests?” I asked her as we reached the pool.
“You’ll still need to do them. I made a good case for you, even showed them my results for you, but Ocean Oil Fields requires practice too. You need to get up in a helo and show them you can do it.”
“Even injured?”
“Yes, in some sense, that’s even more important. There are many things in the field that can happen.”
“So they’re testing me on more than the exam.”
Malaki nodded. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s not your fault,” I replied, “You did what you thought was right. I know you have our best interests at heart.”
“I hope so,” she said. “I really don’t want to ruin this before we even get going.”
“Nothing is going to ruin this.” I smiled. “Seriously.”
“Trust is hard,” she said. “I want to give everything to you, and I mean that.”
“I talked to you about things I’ve never said to anyone else last night, just so you know. I get it. That was hard for me.”
“Just like it was sleeping with me?”
“That was easy.”
“Not one stray thought?” she asked, her eyebrows raising.
“You might be used to changing in front of others, and you’re comfortable with it. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have any stray thoughts,” I answered with honesty. “I’m not used to being around almost naked beautiful women, and you are most guys’ dream girl. Fit as fuck.”
“But?”
“I will learn to not look, and I can control myself. A deal is a deal.”
“I guess I was testing you as well, then,” she teased. “You passed on all fronts. I would have been upset if you lied.”
“You do have a little extra padding,” I said and added, “Stunning curves.”
“Ugh,” she groaned. “That sucks.”
“Not for me. You look amazing, even if you don’t feel it.”
“You’re right,” she said. “It’s hard to take that as a compliment, though. Especially knowing that my body’s fat ratio has gone up a bit.”
“Honesty, even if it hurts.”
“Will you help me get rid of it?” she asked, and I saw the genuine emotion there.
“Give me access to your diet and activity level. When we’re on the base together, we’ll do everything together. We can watch out for each other’s fitness, training, everything, okay?”
“I eat way too much dessert,” she said. “But yes, I will agree with that.”
“Then I’ll help in everything I can, too. I have to keep on top of myself, and I’m in no way as fit as you are. Even with less body fat.”
“That’s an issue in itself, isn’t it?”
“Yes,” I said. “That beating and even a couple of days of pain relief, sleep, and less food, and I’m struggling, not just to walk but to focus. We have to be in peak condition for body and mind, and a little extra is not an issue.”
“We’ll work it out together, right?”
“Yes, I’d like that.”
“Battle buddies,” she said and held her fist out to me.
I liked that even more and bumped her fist with mine. “Battle buddies.”
***
The pool was pretty empty, with only one person swimming up and down the lanes. This was, however, the first time I’d been partially naked in front of a girl I’d just spent the night with. I was first out of the changing rooms, though, and got into the water. Malaki soon joined me, and we matched each other for pacing, slow and steady, back and forth, up and down.
Talking to her like this was easier than forcing myself to stay awake the night before. This time, I tried to direct the questions, but she was great at evasive maneuvers and redirected them back to me with ease.
We swam for an hour, and then she swam to the side to get out. Of course, I had to go first. Heaven forbid, I stare at her ass.
Instead, she got the full view at my battered body. “Holy shit, Rusty,” she said.
I got to the top step and turned around. “It isn’t as bad as the accident, but it looks it.”
Malaki followed me up, and she stood dripping, her eyes on me. “You’re not going to class tomorrow,” she said. “And you’re not staying on your own tonight, either.”
“Two nights with you is not a good idea.” I groaned. “I’ll be fine on my own.”
“No,” she said. “I’ll request a twin room. Give me a few minutes.”
“Mal—” I tried to protest again.
“We’re going to be living in each other’s pockets at some point. I don’t mind starting out now. We’ll share bunks, tents, all things. Heck, even sleeping bags in the field if we need to, you know it.”
I nodded. “Okay, I just want you and them to be sure. I’m a friend. I—”
“I get it, they’ll be sure. My CO knows me and my plans well. Trust me.”
I stepped to her. “I never felt like this over anything. I never felt as comfortable with anyone before. I like this a lot.”
“Good.” She smiled. “I do, too. Go get dry.”
I moved off, and within a few minutes, she was out front.
“We’re good,” she said. “They have a room in the same building we can use tonight.”
“Those who did this are going to think you’re all just closing rank around me,” I moaned. “I’m not going to hide.” I pointed to the clock on the wall. “It’s dinnertime, prime time. Let’s go eat.”
“In the main halls?”
“Yes,” I said. “I’m not going to hide. They think I’ll squeal; they think they can break me. They won’t, and I’ll show them they won’t, either.”
“Fair,” she said. “We’ll eat, then grab your stuff.”
“I don’t have much, but thanks. I will be in class tomorrow, even if I can’t go into the pods, okay?”
She scowled but relented. “Okay, but you’ll clear yourself for the exams with a doctor.”
It had taken a slight turn to a place I wasn’t happy with, but she really did have my and her best interests at heart. “Okay, okay. Food, though,” I said. “I’m starving now.”
“Same,” she said and walked off.
I could do nothing but follow, the cool air outside making me feel cold.
“We need to get you some thicker clothes too. The weather here isn’t getting hot yet, by any means.”
“I’ll get some jobs and start to upgrade everything as soon as I can,” I said. “I don’t come from a wealthy family, so this is all a lot for me right now.”
“I’m not going to spoil you, if that’s what you mean. I’m not rich either. But I do have money. My family has money. A lot of those at Ocean Oil Fields do, but don’t let that put you off.”
“I won’t,” I said. “I get that I’m coming up against the wealthy, those with upgrades that help, not like mine. Au natural.”
“Most of those with money aren’t as smart as you,” she said. “You have nothing to worry over.”
We reached the canteen, and she pushed the door open. I stepped through with her to a very busy room. We both got in line for dinner, and I got a lot of odd looks. I followed the line and then stood before Don.
“Shit,” he said. “Last night?”
“Maybe we should have locked ourselves in here.” I laughed at him, trying to smile.
“I’m sorry,” he said and started piling food on a plate for me.
“Not your fault,” I replied.
I caught the young man’s glance at my side. He was shaking his head too. “They really shouldn’t have.”
“Thanks,” I replied. We found a spot in the back to sit and eat, and I made sure I sat facing the room so everyone who could, would see me.
“You okay?” Malaki asked.
“I’m good,” I replied. “Tell me about your schooling. Let me know what I’m up against with you, crazy smart lady.”
“I’ve tried not to talk about me all day.” She rolled her eyes. “I don’t like it much.”
“You’ve done a great job, but now I want to hear it. Talk, please.”
“I just don’t want to brag. I hate my upbringing.” She stabbed her food, following it reluctantly around the plate.
I nudged her foot with mine under the table till she looked at me. “Okay, I get it. Not here. But will you talk to me about it later? I want to get to know you.”
In return, I received a reluctant nod, but it was a nod, and she nudged my feet back. “Like that, is it?”
“Game on.”
32
“You know”—I cut up some of my food, and Malaki took a drink—”you’re the annoying sister I always wished I had, aren’t you?”
Malaki nearly spat out her drink, covering her mouth just in time. “That is…that’s just mean.”
“Got ya, though,” I said and then started to eat properly.
It was but a moment later when I saw the four young men that collared me in here last night walk in. I watched as, to my surprise, they came straight to me. The table opposite ours cleared fast. Two of them sat while their friends remained standing behind them.
“What do you want?” I asked.
“It shouldn’t have gone this far. No one should have touched you—” His face was pained. “Have you seen the doctor?”
“No, not yet, but I’m going soon,” I said. I couldn’t understand this. Why was he here? I glanced at Malaki, who just shrugged.
“Look.” He wrung his hands out before me, clearly stressed. “This wasn’t us. I don’t know who it was, but it wasn’t us. After last night, I—I needed you to know that.”
“I didn’t see who it was,” I told him. “I’m sure the CO’s checking all the cameras everywhere to find out who it was, though.”
“If they find them, they will be punished,” his friend said, the one who had threatened me last.
His words ran through my head. We’ll be waiting. Don’t you worry, Korolyov.
“Why are you even interested, Harbor?” Malaki asked and folded her arms under her chest.
“Kuri knew a good thing when he saw it. He wouldn’t have taken Airman Korolyov out there if he didn’t think it was worth showing him a few things. I don’t want last night to tar us, our…fuck,” he groaned. “It already has. I can see it in your face.”
“Even through the bruises?” He looked so genuine. Distraught, even. “No,” I said, and I held out my hand for him. “You came to me. Let’s start over, yeah?”
“Declan Harbor,” he said, and he shook my hand. I could feel his nerves in his slightly sweaty palms. “This is my cousin, Nansa Sroo, and my friends, Karal Loh and JR Frost.”
“Ruslan Korolyov,” I said and shook all their hands. “Pleased to meet you.”
“What are you doing tomorrow?” Declan asked.
“Class and study,” I said. “I can’t do practical stuff; I won’t get clearance. But I will be in class.”
“Good, you sleeping in B Block?” Nansa implied. “We can watch out for you there.”
“No,” Malaki said. “He’s with me.”
He raised an eyebrow at us. “Smart,” he said and nodded to the other three.
They left, going to join the line for food.
He held out his wrist. “Please, if you need anything.” I put my wrist to his and accepted his comm number. “Call me.”
“Thanks,” I said, looking at his number log in my HUD.
“Words flying around already that you’ve been nailing Bitchin’ Betty.”
“Bitchin’ Betty?” I asked.
“Betty, the helo AI,” Malaki confirmed. “That’s the not-so-friendly term for her.”
“Oh.” I frowned. “She’s not that bitchy, right?”
“She is,” Malaki said. “She took a shine to you, that’s for sure.”
“No,” Declan said, mocking shock. “Really?”
Malaki laughed. “Yes.” Then she frowned at him. “I’ll feel better if he had someone in class watching his back tomorrow.”
“No one would dare do anything now,” Declan affirmed. “But yeah, I understand. We’ll watch out for him, even if he can’t go out.”
“Thanks,” she said.
Declan stood, wiping his hands down his jacket. “Tomorrow, yeah? Sleep well. Both of you.”
Malaki rolled her eyes but nodded at him. “We will. Don’t you worry.”
Declan gave me a second look, then walked away.
“He thinks—”
“Yes, he thinks we’re together already.”
“Ha. Fast, I am,” I said. “Heck, we were in bed on the first night.”
“So irresistible, and I’m easily pleased.” She stared at me. “Right?”
“So easy.” I snickered. “All I needed was to rob you of your heat and your meds.”
“Prick,” she quipped.
I went back to my food and kicked her under the table. I’d never felt more comfortable with anyone.
***
Malaki walked to my room with me, and I packed up all my stuff, making sure I left nothing.
“Is Declan at Ocean Oil Fields, too?” I asked.
“Not yet,” she replied, opening her door and moving to pack her own things. “I’m sure he will be in the next year, though.”
“Worth a try,” I said, and I let her apply that too. When I felt it, I also knew that was no normal lip balm. “Enhanced?”
“Pink suits you.” She laughed but nodded. “How else is a girl to get her bling on and still have extra healing on hand?”
I rolled my eyes. “Had to be, didn’t it?”
“I have a little.” She smiled. “I’m not a girly girl at all, but I do like a hint of pink for my lips.”
I couldn’t help it. I laughed too. In the next movement, she handed me some pills. “Fresh from the medical unit. These are slightly stronger, so hopefully they last a bit longer at keeping any fever away.”
“I appreciate all of it.”
“Lunch?” she asked.
“I need to eat,” I said. “I’ve been borderline underweight as is, with all the training.”
“I noticed your body fat is at zero. Even while eating my dessert.”
“Jealous?”
She glanced down. “Yeah, I could do with losing a percent or two. I just—I just love my food.”
“Not a pick on you,” I replied, and when she handed me a packet of sandwiches, I took them. “You’re mostly muscle.”
“Mostly—crap, wait,” she said, got a towel and spread it under my chin. “Hate crumbs in bed.”
I opened the packet and took a bite: cheese, chicken, and salad. Fake probably, but it still tasted good. “Anyone miss me?”
“No,” she said. “No one has said anything. You’re not down for mandatory training, just extra if you want it.”
“Good.” I chewed the food and swallowed, asking her for the bottle she’d put at the side.
“You’re not up for training, though,” she noted.
I shook my head. “I don’t want to sleep all afternoon, either.”
She kicked off her boots and put her feet up on the bed. “Shit,” she said. “If I wasn’t going out, I was thinking of just curling back up and drifting the afternoon away.”
“Well, data pad, then bed and sleep when we’re tired?”
She grinned. “That sounds fab. I can run you through some mock tests.”
“You think I’m ready for testing?”
“You’re ahead of everyone out there, trust me. You’re ready.” Then she pulled out two dessert pots.
“Both for me?” I asked, and her face fell. But she gave me only one, and I laughed.
After dessert, Malaki went off for a shower, and I let my head rest for a bit longer, knowing it was going to work as soon as she came back.
And work we did; she worked me hard. The first test, I was two points below the passing score. So, we studied for a while, and the next four tests I took, I passed—the last one with a ninety-five percent score.
“That okay?” I asked.
“More than okay.” She smiled, and then promptly yawned.
I checked the time. “How did it get so late?”
“We’re both workaholics.”
“Yeah,” I said. “I should get up and walk, do something.”
“Maybe a swim?” she asked.
“I think I can handle that. Any idea who might be in there?”
“Nope, I don’t even have a swimsuit,” she said. “Think we’ll get away with underwear?”
I shook my head. “It’s military grade, but no.”
“You have much money?” she asked.
I shook my head again. “No, nothing at all.”
“Yeah, I thought so after your story yesterday. We can stop by the shop. They’ll have something for us. I’ll get you something.”
“I—” I started to protest, but she held her hand up.
“No bother at all,” she said. “It will be nice to do something other than run or weights.”
“Can’t hide the bruises in there, though.”
Malaki lowered her head. “Rus,” she said. “I had to tell my CO.”
“You said no one missed me?”
“They didn’t,” she said. “But they would have missed me this afternoon.”
I cursed. “Wha—”
“I’m sure it will go up the chain of command, but your safety is more important to me.”
“What about me being here?”
“I told her it was somewhere you felt safe, and it was better you stayed here.”
“She agreed?”
“They know how focused I am on my career,” she said. “She knew there would be nothing between us, but as I said—”
“They don’t allow relationships, do they? Here or on Ocean Oil Fields?”
“Not really.” She smiled, though, because I already knew of Niko and Lacy, and Trevor and Casey.
“Good, cause you snore,” I said.
“Thanks,” she said, rolling her eyes and moving. “Come on, or my brain’s going back to sleep.”
The base was quiet again. Few people were out walking around. Sundays were nice. Walking, though, hurt a bit, and I knew the next few days were still going to suck. Any amount of jarring, including lifting off or landing in a helo, was not going to help.
“What about my tests?” I asked her as we reached the pool.
“You’ll still need to do them. I made a good case for you, even showed them my results for you, but Ocean Oil Fields requires practice too. You need to get up in a helo and show them you can do it.”
“Even injured?”
“Yes, in some sense, that’s even more important. There are many things in the field that can happen.”
“So they’re testing me on more than the exam.”
Malaki nodded. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s not your fault,” I replied, “You did what you thought was right. I know you have our best interests at heart.”
“I hope so,” she said. “I really don’t want to ruin this before we even get going.”
“Nothing is going to ruin this.” I smiled. “Seriously.”
“Trust is hard,” she said. “I want to give everything to you, and I mean that.”
“I talked to you about things I’ve never said to anyone else last night, just so you know. I get it. That was hard for me.”
“Just like it was sleeping with me?”
“That was easy.”
“Not one stray thought?” she asked, her eyebrows raising.
“You might be used to changing in front of others, and you’re comfortable with it. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have any stray thoughts,” I answered with honesty. “I’m not used to being around almost naked beautiful women, and you are most guys’ dream girl. Fit as fuck.”
“But?”
“I will learn to not look, and I can control myself. A deal is a deal.”
“I guess I was testing you as well, then,” she teased. “You passed on all fronts. I would have been upset if you lied.”
“You do have a little extra padding,” I said and added, “Stunning curves.”
“Ugh,” she groaned. “That sucks.”
“Not for me. You look amazing, even if you don’t feel it.”
“You’re right,” she said. “It’s hard to take that as a compliment, though. Especially knowing that my body’s fat ratio has gone up a bit.”
“Honesty, even if it hurts.”
“Will you help me get rid of it?” she asked, and I saw the genuine emotion there.
“Give me access to your diet and activity level. When we’re on the base together, we’ll do everything together. We can watch out for each other’s fitness, training, everything, okay?”
“I eat way too much dessert,” she said. “But yes, I will agree with that.”
“Then I’ll help in everything I can, too. I have to keep on top of myself, and I’m in no way as fit as you are. Even with less body fat.”
“That’s an issue in itself, isn’t it?”
“Yes,” I said. “That beating and even a couple of days of pain relief, sleep, and less food, and I’m struggling, not just to walk but to focus. We have to be in peak condition for body and mind, and a little extra is not an issue.”
“We’ll work it out together, right?”
“Yes, I’d like that.”
“Battle buddies,” she said and held her fist out to me.
I liked that even more and bumped her fist with mine. “Battle buddies.”
***
The pool was pretty empty, with only one person swimming up and down the lanes. This was, however, the first time I’d been partially naked in front of a girl I’d just spent the night with. I was first out of the changing rooms, though, and got into the water. Malaki soon joined me, and we matched each other for pacing, slow and steady, back and forth, up and down.
Talking to her like this was easier than forcing myself to stay awake the night before. This time, I tried to direct the questions, but she was great at evasive maneuvers and redirected them back to me with ease.
We swam for an hour, and then she swam to the side to get out. Of course, I had to go first. Heaven forbid, I stare at her ass.
Instead, she got the full view at my battered body. “Holy shit, Rusty,” she said.
I got to the top step and turned around. “It isn’t as bad as the accident, but it looks it.”
Malaki followed me up, and she stood dripping, her eyes on me. “You’re not going to class tomorrow,” she said. “And you’re not staying on your own tonight, either.”
“Two nights with you is not a good idea.” I groaned. “I’ll be fine on my own.”
“No,” she said. “I’ll request a twin room. Give me a few minutes.”
“Mal—” I tried to protest again.
“We’re going to be living in each other’s pockets at some point. I don’t mind starting out now. We’ll share bunks, tents, all things. Heck, even sleeping bags in the field if we need to, you know it.”
I nodded. “Okay, I just want you and them to be sure. I’m a friend. I—”
“I get it, they’ll be sure. My CO knows me and my plans well. Trust me.”
I stepped to her. “I never felt like this over anything. I never felt as comfortable with anyone before. I like this a lot.”
“Good.” She smiled. “I do, too. Go get dry.”
I moved off, and within a few minutes, she was out front.
“We’re good,” she said. “They have a room in the same building we can use tonight.”
“Those who did this are going to think you’re all just closing rank around me,” I moaned. “I’m not going to hide.” I pointed to the clock on the wall. “It’s dinnertime, prime time. Let’s go eat.”
“In the main halls?”
“Yes,” I said. “I’m not going to hide. They think I’ll squeal; they think they can break me. They won’t, and I’ll show them they won’t, either.”
“Fair,” she said. “We’ll eat, then grab your stuff.”
“I don’t have much, but thanks. I will be in class tomorrow, even if I can’t go into the pods, okay?”
She scowled but relented. “Okay, but you’ll clear yourself for the exams with a doctor.”
It had taken a slight turn to a place I wasn’t happy with, but she really did have my and her best interests at heart. “Okay, okay. Food, though,” I said. “I’m starving now.”
“Same,” she said and walked off.
I could do nothing but follow, the cool air outside making me feel cold.
“We need to get you some thicker clothes too. The weather here isn’t getting hot yet, by any means.”
“I’ll get some jobs and start to upgrade everything as soon as I can,” I said. “I don’t come from a wealthy family, so this is all a lot for me right now.”
“I’m not going to spoil you, if that’s what you mean. I’m not rich either. But I do have money. My family has money. A lot of those at Ocean Oil Fields do, but don’t let that put you off.”
“I won’t,” I said. “I get that I’m coming up against the wealthy, those with upgrades that help, not like mine. Au natural.”
“Most of those with money aren’t as smart as you,” she said. “You have nothing to worry over.”
We reached the canteen, and she pushed the door open. I stepped through with her to a very busy room. We both got in line for dinner, and I got a lot of odd looks. I followed the line and then stood before Don.
“Shit,” he said. “Last night?”
“Maybe we should have locked ourselves in here.” I laughed at him, trying to smile.
“I’m sorry,” he said and started piling food on a plate for me.
“Not your fault,” I replied.
I caught the young man’s glance at my side. He was shaking his head too. “They really shouldn’t have.”
“Thanks,” I replied. We found a spot in the back to sit and eat, and I made sure I sat facing the room so everyone who could, would see me.
“You okay?” Malaki asked.
“I’m good,” I replied. “Tell me about your schooling. Let me know what I’m up against with you, crazy smart lady.”
“I’ve tried not to talk about me all day.” She rolled her eyes. “I don’t like it much.”
“You’ve done a great job, but now I want to hear it. Talk, please.”
“I just don’t want to brag. I hate my upbringing.” She stabbed her food, following it reluctantly around the plate.
I nudged her foot with mine under the table till she looked at me. “Okay, I get it. Not here. But will you talk to me about it later? I want to get to know you.”
In return, I received a reluctant nod, but it was a nod, and she nudged my feet back. “Like that, is it?”
“Game on.”
32
“You know”—I cut up some of my food, and Malaki took a drink—”you’re the annoying sister I always wished I had, aren’t you?”
Malaki nearly spat out her drink, covering her mouth just in time. “That is…that’s just mean.”
“Got ya, though,” I said and then started to eat properly.
It was but a moment later when I saw the four young men that collared me in here last night walk in. I watched as, to my surprise, they came straight to me. The table opposite ours cleared fast. Two of them sat while their friends remained standing behind them.
“What do you want?” I asked.
“It shouldn’t have gone this far. No one should have touched you—” His face was pained. “Have you seen the doctor?”
“No, not yet, but I’m going soon,” I said. I couldn’t understand this. Why was he here? I glanced at Malaki, who just shrugged.
“Look.” He wrung his hands out before me, clearly stressed. “This wasn’t us. I don’t know who it was, but it wasn’t us. After last night, I—I needed you to know that.”
“I didn’t see who it was,” I told him. “I’m sure the CO’s checking all the cameras everywhere to find out who it was, though.”
“If they find them, they will be punished,” his friend said, the one who had threatened me last.
His words ran through my head. We’ll be waiting. Don’t you worry, Korolyov.
“Why are you even interested, Harbor?” Malaki asked and folded her arms under her chest.
“Kuri knew a good thing when he saw it. He wouldn’t have taken Airman Korolyov out there if he didn’t think it was worth showing him a few things. I don’t want last night to tar us, our…fuck,” he groaned. “It already has. I can see it in your face.”
“Even through the bruises?” He looked so genuine. Distraught, even. “No,” I said, and I held out my hand for him. “You came to me. Let’s start over, yeah?”
“Declan Harbor,” he said, and he shook my hand. I could feel his nerves in his slightly sweaty palms. “This is my cousin, Nansa Sroo, and my friends, Karal Loh and JR Frost.”
“Ruslan Korolyov,” I said and shook all their hands. “Pleased to meet you.”
“What are you doing tomorrow?” Declan asked.
“Class and study,” I said. “I can’t do practical stuff; I won’t get clearance. But I will be in class.”
“Good, you sleeping in B Block?” Nansa implied. “We can watch out for you there.”
“No,” Malaki said. “He’s with me.”
He raised an eyebrow at us. “Smart,” he said and nodded to the other three.
They left, going to join the line for food.
He held out his wrist. “Please, if you need anything.” I put my wrist to his and accepted his comm number. “Call me.”
“Thanks,” I said, looking at his number log in my HUD.
“Words flying around already that you’ve been nailing Bitchin’ Betty.”
“Bitchin’ Betty?” I asked.
“Betty, the helo AI,” Malaki confirmed. “That’s the not-so-friendly term for her.”
“Oh.” I frowned. “She’s not that bitchy, right?”
“She is,” Malaki said. “She took a shine to you, that’s for sure.”
“No,” Declan said, mocking shock. “Really?”
Malaki laughed. “Yes.” Then she frowned at him. “I’ll feel better if he had someone in class watching his back tomorrow.”
“No one would dare do anything now,” Declan affirmed. “But yeah, I understand. We’ll watch out for him, even if he can’t go out.”
“Thanks,” she said.
Declan stood, wiping his hands down his jacket. “Tomorrow, yeah? Sleep well. Both of you.”
Malaki rolled her eyes but nodded at him. “We will. Don’t you worry.”
Declan gave me a second look, then walked away.
“He thinks—”
“Yes, he thinks we’re together already.”
“Ha. Fast, I am,” I said. “Heck, we were in bed on the first night.”
“So irresistible, and I’m easily pleased.” She stared at me. “Right?”
“So easy.” I snickered. “All I needed was to rob you of your heat and your meds.”
“Prick,” she quipped.
I went back to my food and kicked her under the table. I’d never felt more comfortable with anyone.
***
Malaki walked to my room with me, and I packed up all my stuff, making sure I left nothing.
“Is Declan at Ocean Oil Fields, too?” I asked.
“Not yet,” she replied, opening her door and moving to pack her own things. “I’m sure he will be in the next year, though.”
