Page 94 of The Soldier

So, someone trying to step in and question my decisions is not welcome. That and the alcohol are making me a whole lot sassier.

“Yes. Jesus. He’s my date.” Then I sign when Josh doesn’t even blink.Damn Navy SEAL.I sigh. “Look, he’s just dropping me off home. I’m not into him.”

“Then I think you should stay here. We’ll organize a ride home for you,” Josh replies, and it pushes my buttons all over again.

Bossy men.

Ugh.

“No thanks.” I try to go around him but he moves. “Josh. What’s going on? If this is some damn bro-code thing—”

“It’s not.” His dark gaze makes me hesitate.

This is about Roger. I know it is. I wish someone would just tell me what is going on. So, what if he’s a soldier? Aside from my own rule of not going out with men in uniform, why are they all acting so weird about it.

“Do you know who your date is?”

“Marshall said he was in the forces.”

“He told you?” Josh asks, sounding surprised.

“Yes.” I glance at Roger and spot his irritation.

“Is that why he left without saying goodbye to anyone? Did you get in a fight?”

“Look. Marshall and I aren’t dating.” I cross my arms defensively. “Josh, I need to go. I’m drunk, tired, and I’m going to call him tomorrow, okay. I promise I’m going straight home.”

Why I’m explaining myself I don’t know.

“Let me get someone to drive you. I don’t trust that guy.”

Jesus.

I shake my head. Honestly, I’m about done with all of them.

“This is ridiculous. I don’t need private security, Josh.” I roll my eyes. “Now please step aside.”

“There a problem?” Roger asks as Josh turns and props his hands on his hips.

It makes him look even bigger and I have to go right around him to see what’s going on. I wish Marshall hadn’t left. This is getting so out of hand.

“There will be if Trina doesn’t make it home safely.”

“Chill dude. She’s my date.” Roger laughs.

Oh fuck.

Josh’s face darkens and I see Aidan step closer.

“Okay, please stop.” I put my hand on Josh’s arm. “I know Marshall is your friend, but I need you to stop.”

Cole steps up beside Josh. “T, let me drop you off. I’ve had one beer. I can drive.”

I consider it for a moment, to stop this escalating further. But I do have to wonder why Roger isn’t backing off.

One look at the guys and you can see they are not the kind to mess with.

“Jesus fucking Christ.” Roger looks mad and I kind of don’t blame him. He hasn’t done anything wrong. Sure, he didn’t tell me he’s in the forces, but for all we know he’s left. Aside from Cole, no one has claimed to know him.

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