A Soldier's Life

Chapter 26 - It's just three weeks

Y/n's POV:

Walking into camp this morning, something felt off. I had an uneasy feeling and I just couldn't shake it. I had gotten into the office early today. Sophie was talking Ava to school so I could focus on the shit show that is currently my work life. I hadn't long made my first tea of the morning when I had a knock at my office door.

"Enter." I called out and I instantly smiled as I saw Jimmy walk in. "Good Morning Sir." I greeted, but my smile suddenly dropped when I saw his sunken demeanour. I knew instantly something was wrong. "There's been another attack hasn't there?" I stated as he took the seat the other side of my desk. He nodded and I dropped back into my chair.

"IED planted in the barracks. A miracle that no one died." He explained. I nodded along, neither of us looking at each other. "There's more isn't there?" I asked, knowing where this was ultimately going to lead. Jimmy sat upright in his seat and placed his hands on his lap, now looking directly at me. "I had a meeting with the Brigadier this morning. He's ordering myself and you to go to support the delegation that we sent last week." His words hung in the air as I took them in. Shit.

"We both speak Pashto and have the knowledge of the area. We'd be gone for around 2 weeks. 3 weeks absolute maximum." I sit there slightly shell shocked. All I could think about was leaving Ava. Noticing I wasn't responding, Jimmy carried on. "The Brigadier believes that we can go and take control of the disaster that has been the delegation. We'll observe for a week and hopefully get to the bottom of the issue and get some resolutions in place." I nod along so he knows that I'm hearing him.

I know that there is no choice in this matter. This isn't a polite request, this is a pack your bags you're going. How do I tell Ava? How will it impact her if I'm away for 3 weeks? "I know you're worried about Ava. I've spoken to Missy and if Sophie is unable to help, she is more than happy to look after her for the three weeks. Even if Sophie can, Missy will be there to support her. She wouldn't be on her own." He offered.

This is why I considered Jimmy and Missy family. They have always been there to support me when it comes to Ava. "Thank you. I appreciate that. When do we go?" I ask knowing that it'll be soon. "Thursday." He states, his voice slightly deflated. "Wow, so soon. I need to talk to Sophie." I said slightly panicked. "Take the rest of today. Tomorrow you only need to be in for the briefing. I'll send you the email with all the details. Focus on sorting out Ava and if you need anything let me know." He instructed.

I was grateful I had time, even if it was short notice. Jimmy gets up and gives me a sympathetic look before he headed out. I need to speak with Sophie, let her know what is going on. So I grab my things and make my way back to my car so I can go to the café.

The whole journey there, I'm anxiously tapping the wheel. This week really couldn't get any worse. Once I've parked up, I walk at a fast pace to the café and see a smiling Sophie behind the counter. It's busy but she still notices me, giving me an odd look. Which isn't surprising considering it's only 10am and I should be at work. I indicate that I'm going to take a seat and let her know that she doesn't need to rush.

Whilst I'm waiting, I decide to drop Robert a message so I can let him know. Since I saw him on Sunday, he's checked in on me every day. We've text and chatted which has been great. It's nice that he's stuck with me, regardless with what's been going on.

Kid Solider:
Morning Rob, I know it's short notice, but could we meet up either today or tomorrow? It's kind of urgent.

I fire off the message and hope that he doesn't panic too much. The bigger support network I have for Ava whilst I'm gone, the better. I know how well she got on with Robert's kids and having them around whilst I'm gone would help a lot. I was surprised at how quickly my phone went off just as I placed it on the table.