“Reporting, Commander! I can do it! I don’t want to slow everyone down!”
Aiden’s answer came sharp and unwavering. His back instinctively tried to straighten—but the weakness in his core made the movement stiff and strained, only making his frailty more obvious.
Grant Mason frowned. “Aiden, this isn’t the time to act tough. Training won’t magically soften itself because you were sick.”
“Reporting, sir! I understand! Please give me the chance to prove myself!”
Aiden met Grant’s gaze without the slightest hint of hesitation.
There was something in those eyes that froze Grant’s next words in his throat.
It wasn’t the reckless heat of a teenager—
It was the cold, merciless resolve of someone willing to break himself to achieve a goal.
Isaac Powell and Grant exchanged a brief look.
Fin
