I hear it lock and curse under my breath. I really didn't think today could get any worse.
Riley laughs.
"That woman …" I stand and pace. I grit my teeth to keep from saying more, in case she's standing at the door, listening. "Fucking A!"
"Never seen anyone get the drop on you, Captain Mathis." Riley stands and claps a hand on my shoulder. "Fuck her or leave her. Otherwise, she will drive you mental before this is over. I've got a lock pick set. Wait here." Grinning, he heads back to his barracks leaving me fuming in front of mine.
Fuck her or leave her. I honestly don't know which I'd prefer. Something tells me all this shit would be worth it for a night in her bed, if only for the sense of satisfaction in seeing her melt beneath me, but fuck. I'm not looking to get laid and especially not from a woman trying to make my world hell. It'd be easier to walk away. For good.
Except that Petr wants me to work with her. I don't fully understand why, unless he's hoping I can change her attitude enough that she no longer drives him crazy.
Don't think that's possible. I take a few deep breaths and do a couple mental relaxation exercises, like counting to ten and reciting the Marine Corps honor code. By the time I've regained my calm, Riley is on his way back.
He passes off his lock pick set. I use it to get in the front door then hand it back.
"Good luck," he whispers.
"You, too." I reply and motion to the two preteen boys that are darting out of his barracks and racing around the square.
Riley grimaces and starts towards them.
I close the door and wait a moment for my eyes to adjust to the dark. The whir of the air conditioners keeps any of the noise from outside from disturbing the sleeping kids. Walking quietly through the bunks, I approach the door to the room I share with Katya. The edges are outlined by the light from inside.
One day down. If I can handle back-to-back tours in Iraq, I can survive a week with her.
I open the door and walk in.
Katya drops something and whirls, staring at me. She's in shorts and a tank top for once, and if I'm not mistaken, she's not wearing a bra.
Not that I'm looking. She's got nice breasts, and it doesn't take a genius to notice.
"Figures," she snaps. "Couldn't knock?"
"It's my room," I reply calmly. Realizing I'm watching her, I close the door and enter the room fully.