Page 33 of Twins for the Secret Prince
So, too, did Pete’s squad. She was keeping a close eye on their progress, of course, partly because she was interested inallof the new recruits and wanted to ensure they all had the same highstandard of basic training. Also, her competitive edge meant that she wanted to make sure her squad wasn’t being outpaced by Pete’s.
When the relentless rain caused flash flooding and several landslides in the area, causing many local residents to be evacuated from their homes, Eva saw a chance to help the community. She approached Lieutenant Marshall to suggest that her squad help out in the local community center, which was being set up as a rescue center.
“That’s an excellent idea, Sergeant Bailey,” he said, smiling at her. “Not ten minutes ago, Sergeant Billings was in my office, suggesting his squad could do the same. I’ve given him the green light. Both of your squads will report to the rescue center ASAP.”
Eva’s heart sank. Why hadn’t she come to see Lieutenant Marshall at first light? Being beat to it by ten minutes was a slap in the face. “Excellent, sir. I’ll round up my squad and we’ll head out.”
As soon as she stepped out into the corridor, Eva saw the tall, broad figure of Sergeant Billings walking ahead of her. Hearing her footsteps, he turned and saw her approaching.
“Good morning, Sergeant Bailey. How are you today?”
“Good morning, sergeant. I understand that you have volunteered your squad for the rescue center. I just did the same. It looks like we’ll be heading there together.”
“Great minds certainly do think alike.”
Eva was uncomfortable with the way he was looking at her, like he was trying to commit every part of her to memory.
“We shouldn’t waste any time,” she said. “Let’s go round up our squads.”
“Yes, sergeant,” he said, smiling at her warmly.
“And stop looking at me like that,” Eva muttered under her breath. “You’re making me uncomfortable. I’m not a box of bonbons.”
Pete bit his lip to stop himself from laughing. “I apologize. The last thing I wanted was to make you feel like a box of bonbons.”
“We’re going to be working in close quarters until this storm lets up,” Eva said sternly. “Let’s keep this professional.”
“Of course. I can do that. But I can’t help the way I look at you.”
“Then maybe it’s best if you don’t look at me.”
“Ouch. That stung. And anyway, I don’t think that’s possible, but I’ll give it a try.”
“Sergeants! I’m glad I caught you.”
Eva turned to see the imposing shape of Major Aston walking quickly towards them.
“Major,” they said together, saluting him.
“At ease. Lieutenant Marshall just told me about your plans to take your squads to the rescue center. Good plan. I’ve just had news that the western bank of the river is about to burst. We need to get boots on the ground there as soon as possible to sandbag it.”
“Yes, sir,” they said in unison.
“And you need to operationalize a search and rescue mission for anyone who might still be in their home, whether trapped or refusing to evacuate. Coordinate some lifeboats with other rescue services. Let’s do our best to make sure everyone is safe and accounted for.”
“Yes, sir.”
“You know your squads best. Sort out who should be deployed where. I trust both of you to make this a success.”
“Thank you, sir. We won’t let you down,” Eva said.
For the second time in the space of ten minutes, her heart sank. Here was just the kind of mission she’d been waiting for, but now she had to not only share it with Pete but also work with him to coordinate the activities.
“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but let’s use my office to plan this out,” Eva said with a sigh.
“Can I look at you in there?” Pete asked.
“I guess so. But don’t stare.”
