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“Cause the government is buyin’ that janky, cheap-as…”
“ENOUGH!” Logan roared loudly. “Do as I say, and you’ll stop itching. If you have other medical issues, such as cuts, sores, weeping…”
“Ohhemmgee. I’m gonna weep,” Selkirk whimpered, causing a new round of laughter from several people.
“Or other concerns,” Logan continued, ignoring and speaking over him, “Other concerns that will require attention? Then you can remain, but the rest of you should return to your barracks immediately.”
* * *
A few hours later,Eric was washed up and in a pair of jeans he’d worn in Texas that hadn’t been laundered yet. Surprisingly enough, no one said anything about being out of dress code… but then again, his jeans were nothing compared to what some of the guys were wearing. One guy was wearing swimming trunks, another was wearing his PT gear, another man was wearing his boxers only, and hadn’t left the barracks.
They had all been pretty miserable and it seemed to be focused squarely on their groin area, so maybe Logan was right. The only thing he’d had laundered since coming back was his socks, underwear, and gym shorts… which is what he’d been wearing.
Sitting down at the computer, he couldn’t wait to see if Madison had written him… and was rewarded by seeing two emails.
Hi Eric,
I guess you do need the address to put it on forms or anything, don’t you? I’m really glad you got back safely. I’ve been trying to keep busy and handling a few things on my end – like my new driver’s license!
Madison Morrison… does that make me an M&M?
I’m curious when the confrontation will be coming, you know? I might need some information from you, like proof of employment for the courts. I’m sure it will be ugly before it’s all over with – but I’m glad.
I have our marriage license and put it in a frame. I know it’s silly, but it’s the single best thing that anyone has ever done for me…
This is me, hugging you, and remembering the basics.
Always,
Madison & Max
* * *
Eric drewin a shaky breath and began to type, hoping that he didn’t sound too corny or emotional, but her words really got to him. He thought about ‘the basics’ all the time. The smell of her perfume, the way she tasted, how good she felt holding her close and hugging her.
… And surprisingly enough?
He thought of her with Max. Their smiles, hearing their laughter, and recognizing what a beautiful pair of souls they were – and how lucky he felt to have met her.
My sweetest M&M,
Your name looks mighty good, and the nickname is going to stick in my mind. Anything you need and I’ll send it to you. I’ll email you a pay stub today. Did you contact the base in Killeen? What did they say?
If you are in danger from your ex-husband, you say the word and it will escalate immediately… but if you are worried about him mouthing, saying things, or getting nasty about it? I’m certain that is coming, because one thing bullies hate is to be stopped when they have found someone to pick on.
I don’t know Asher, but he sounds like a bully to me. Let him say what he wants – they are just words. While it might hurt your feelings or be cruel, that is just a symptom of what is going on in his own mind. I honestly feel bad for the guy – because he was dumb enough to let you get away.
I think of ‘the basics’ all the time, and miss holding my friend in a hug, the taste of your lips, and the way you look at me when I’m holding Max. There’s something in your eyes and I can’t describe it, but I also can’t forget it.
Can you give my new son a hug for me? Make sure to tell him to hug you back hard so you can pretend it’s my arms that are there.
I miss you.
Eric
Clearing his throat gruffly, he opened the second email from Madison… and hesitated.
Dear Eric,
