One of them scrambled upright, saluting. The others followed. But Ivan just stared at me, eyes flickering like he wasn't sure whether to brace or run.
"Captain Grayson," I said flatly. "With me."
The others didn't need to be told twice. They scattered like birds from gunfire, leaving us alone with the hum of distant gunships and the crackling tension between us.
Ivan fell in beside me without a word.
We didn't speak as I led him across the compound, past the rows of tents and the curious eyes of other soldiers trying to pretend they weren't watching. I didn't stop until we reached a canvas tent tucked toward the back, shielded from view.
I pulled the flap open and let him in first. Then I followed, letting it fall shut behind us.
Silence.
Then, finally, my voice, sharp and low broke out.
"Why the fuck are you so damn stubborn?"
Ivan smirked like I'd just complimented him. "Missed me already?"
I stared at him. Not amused. Not charmed. Just barely holding myself together.
