Page 38 of Forever Fascinating

I never expected that and guess I should have assumed, or at least mentioned, that I was flying out. It’s like fate put us in the same place again, though we were at opposite gates. If I hadn’t had a gate change at the last minute, I would have missed you completely.

And boy did I look like a slob…

Wow… my comfy clothes do not impress anyone.

I wish I had known or thought about asking before, because I would have attempted to look nice. I really didn’t want to go from bridesmaid gown to leggings with a T-shirt - in one fell-swoop. I mean, ‘princess’to ‘pauper’isn’t hot on anyone.

By the way, Emily took a few more photos at the wedding that I will try sending you via text. If they don’t go through on my end, I will email them.

Let me know when you get settled back in – okay?

Safe travels,

Jana

* * *

Jana hit send and hesitated.

She was going to send the photos to Matthew for certain, but should she send any to her parents or her brother? No, it was better not to poke the bear when there might be a chance of just a really good friendship eventually between them.

Keep telling yourself that, Jana…she thought wryly.

Opening another email, she smiled.

* * *

Hey X-Ray,

It was nice to meet you and I’m so glad we had a chance to talk. Emily sent me a few photos from the wedding and if I get more, specifically of you-know-who, should I forward a few to you? It was great seeing everyone in uniform and playing dress-up for a little bit.

Can I ask you a question?

And you can tell me to go ‘pound sand’ if you want, my friend… but could you tell me a little bit about Vapor? What’s he like? I know you said to take things slow. I appreciate your words so much, so this is me researching things, as you said…

Chat soon!

Have a safe trip,

Jana

P.S. if you need info on Emily, I will happily reciprocate, my friend!

CHAPTER9

VAPOR

Ghazni, Afghanistan

Matthew arrived backat the base at nearly two in the morning and was glad that it was so late. He really wasn’t up to being questioned about the wedding by the rest of the team and exhausted beyond belief. One of his flights was delayed and he was stressed the entire time that he wouldn’t make it back by seven when he had to muster.

Opening the door to the barracks, he dropped his bag and collapsed on his bunk, fully clothed. Closing his eyes immediately, he let a heavy sigh escape him as visions of Jana danced in his mind.

* * *

His alarm went offand he jumped, startled, to see several curious eyes on him. He could imagine why, too.

“Rough night, Vapor?”

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