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She raised her gaze to a pair of blue eyes, bright beneath a bandage and intense as the summer sky.
‘Thanks for the save.’
‘Can’t let the prettiest nurse this side of the Black Stump get lost, can I.’
From somewhere behind, Pat raised her voice. ‘Corporal Flanagan, I’m not sure whether to tell you off for being cheeky to Sister Dorset, or take umbrage that you ignored me, who’s put up with your shenanigans through all the hours of night and day.’
Flanagan’s grin grew wider. Ah, but you’re the prettiest head nurse, Sister.’
‘And you’re a rascal I should have discharged this morning.’
‘Maybe you’ll be glad to have an able-bodied man around.’
Flanagan’s sling and bandaged head belied his comment, but his cheery, cheeky flirting made the terrible morning bearable. And when he reached awkwardly into his breast pocket and drew out a small open packet of chocolate and offered it to Meg, she was glad he was aboard their transport.
‘I shouldn’t take your rations but thank you.’
‘Sister, I’ll be offended if you turn down my gift. Besides, I got a wonderful night’s sleep thanks to you.’ He winked, making sure she took no offence.
Her stomach growled and her mouth watered at the scent of chocolate currently wafting beneath her nose. Flanagan held it close and gave her a small nod. Reluctantly, but unable to keep from refusing his offer, she took the packet and broke off a single piece, offered a quiet ‘Thanks’ and popped it into her mouth. Closing her eyes, she let the chocolate melt on her tongue.
A swiftly indrawn breath nearby forced her eyes to open.
‘What is it? Danger?’ She scanned the skies over Darwin and the surrounding bush before looking for an explanation from the corporal.
Flanagan’s gaze was fixed on her. His Adam’s apple bobbed up and down before he gave her a lop-sided smile. ‘I haven’t seen anyone enjoy chocolate more, Sister.’
‘It’s the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten.’ She held out his precious bar of chocolate. ‘Thanks.’
‘Keep it.’
‘But—’
‘I’m watching my weight.’ He winked, and, in spite of the carnage they’d left behind, Meg’s day brightened.
