Response

Markka sighed and looked into Leahcim’s caring eyes. She searched them for any sign of doubt, fear, or disappointment. She found nothing but strength and confidence. He meant what he said.

“Okay, I’ll put my doubts aside.”

He smiled, winked at her, and said, “Great. I need the confident lieutenant I’ve come to rely on.”

Markka returned his smile and assured Leahcim she would give her usual one hundred and twenty percent.

“Good,” he said. “Now let’s finish our meal and get some sleep before we rendezvous with the fleet tomorrow?”

“You got it, boss.”

“That’s the lieutenant I know.”