Mates in Disguise

Chapter 5

SKY

“When I read your name, stand by the next vacant bed. Starting from my left!” The lower ranking soldier orders.

As we got to the barrack, soldiers with boards came up and made us stand in formation again. My eyes wondered around. It’s nothing special about this place. Floor made of simple concrete. Metal walls with no windows. Well, almost. Those three window-vents on the roof can’t be taken as windows, but the little evening light still emerged from the outside. To the both sides stood row of bunkbeds. Beside them one single metal locker for each soldier. In the middle was an open space, which now was taken by our formation.

“Mathew Archer!” The soldier called.

A slender guy my height stepped out of formation, walked to the bed nearest the exit and turned to face us.

“Rob Ashton!” Another man, this time a golden hair muscular man walked and stood beside Mathew”. The first bunkbed taken.

I guess we are going alphabetically.

It went on for a minute or so. Then...

“Noah Lewis!” I don’t know why but something jerked inside me, hearing this name. I frowned a bit. It must be just hunger, right? I didn’t eat since morning. Too nervous.

I saw movement on my right and twisted my head to take a look. Stepping out of formation was the gorgeous guy, who gave my hat back. I couldn't help myself gawking at him again. The muscles on his back were visible even through the uniform as he moved. When turning to face us, the slim waist seemed even smaller. I moved my eyes to the stern jawline and those lips...

“Liam Logger!”

“That’s me!” Liam beamed from my side, taking me out of my trance. I should probably see a doctor. Something is seriously wrong with me. Why am I so distracted? This is no place for distraction. Especially as a girl.

“Skyler Lovett!”

A little murmur could be heard around. I doubt it was an approval. It’s not like I’m not used to it, but a small part of me was disappointed. I showed them what I can. They shouldn’t make me feel out of place like that.

I took a step and stood by the bunkbed next to Liam. At least I will have him close.

I don’t want to think about the closeness to another man, who stood looking in space yet making the place seem like it’s his own. The way I feel around him means nothing good, so it’s best to stay far from him. Of course, it won’t be as easy, considering sleeping just a step apart.

Dividing the bunkbeds lasted for another couple minutes. I got to share mine with Aaron Morrick. A tall, well build man around his twenties. Similar age to me. At the first glance, he seemed more than displeased to share space with me. I felt a little uneasy noticing that. But the reassuring smile I got from Liam definitely made me feel better about this awkward situation.

Looking around I see cadets heading for dinner. The soldier that divided bunkbeds announced that we are expected there in 5 minutes. We will get our rations and head to bed. We have a new day of challenger tomorrow. I guess no shower today. Perfect. Not like crawling in dirt made me dirty. I grimace.

“So, comrade! You want to take upper or lower bunk?” Aaron asked.

I checked the bed, trying to decide. Lower bunkbed makes it easier to run in case of any assault. I don’t think it would happen, but I need to stay prepared. I don’t believe those men realize I’m a woman. Well... except my stunning neighbor. But I did hurt their egos down at the track. I look smaller and yet I beat them at their own game. I don’t think it will end well.

Then I stared at the upper bunk. It could be harder for the theoretical attacker to get me. But also harder for me to run. Or rather jump. Although I proved today - I’m good at jumping.

While making my mind, Aaron stepped closer to me.

“Can you choose any slower?” He snarled.

“What’s your problem?” I ask, annoyed.

“You’re a waste of space anyway. What’s the difference where you sleep.” He shrugs and jumps on the lower bunkbed. “You take that one.” He points up. “You could do with some training and getting there.”

I can feel his gaze travel up and down my body. I am so angry I can’t even say anything. Normally I would probably come up with some kind of retort. But I’m worried it will come to a fight. And I really, really don’t want to make more enemies on the first day.

“Careful man.” I turn to find Noah standing next to me. If looks could kill, I bet Aaron would be dead at this second. “I wouldn’t taunt him, if I were you. He proved something today”.

“Proved s**t. He’s fast. So, what?” Aaron shrugged again. “There will be other trials. It’s not like he will stay here for longer.”

I swear to God, if he doesn’t stop talking, he won’t have chance to slip a word again. I’ll rip his tongue out and make him swallow it. He is such a f*****g douche bag.

Me not staying for long? You will be surprised.

“You could be surprised, man.” Noah says. “He may look weak, but is stronger than you think. That could be a great thing.”

I stare at him again. This time in shock cause by his words. I would never expect him to stand up for me. Maybe he could be trusted after all.

“Great thing, my ass.” Aaron snaps, standing up. “What could be good about twig like him? He is nothing.” He says as he walks past us.

“Ever heard of spies or scouts?” Noah says after him.

Aaron acts like he didn’t hear anything. Acting all grown up. I thought with sarcasm.

“You have to man up, if you want to keep this thing undercover.” I hear Noah say in low tone. “A men would punch him to shut his mouth.”

He looks me in the eyes.

“I hope you know what you’re doing.”

I stare at him without saying anything. Cause the ugly truth is quite scary.

Do I know what I’m doing?