My Soldier - Missing Home

Hard At Work

A/N ~~ Little bit of a Time Skip.. And a longer Chapter to enjoy!


~~Thursday Morning, London~~

Normal POV

I come to the end of my morning run, jogging up to my room as my music still fills my ears. I stop outside the barracks and stretch out my burning legs before going inside for a shower. I can't believe how quick the days have passed, thankfully the group have been great to work with so we have managed our way through most of the work at this point. Just some final points to cover before some written tasks to be done later today and tomorrow. Unfortunatley for me, that means a lot more paper work, but if it means I get finished on time to be back in L.A by Friday night I will take it willingly. I can't wait to get back to Lizzie, I have missed her more than I could have imagined being in London without her. Even though I have been busy with work, as has she over in L.A, I can't help but think about her more than I want to admit. Even though we have been able to talk most days on the phone, one of us has always been tired or busy with some sort of work as we have been talking. I can't wait to have her back in my arms again. And knowing I will be with her for her birthday means so much to both of us, so I can't wait to get on that flight tomorrow. I take out my headphones as I head inside and go straight for a shower. I make it quick before coming out to get dressed for the day. I manage to get into my combats and t-shirt before getting interupted by a knock on my door. I quickly call them inside, not knowing who to expect, and to my surprise it is Charlie letting himself in. I stand to attention, which he waves off like always when it is just the two of us. "Good Morning Sir. I wasn't expecting to see you until tomorrow." I say as I continue getting ready, slipping into my boots and tying the laces. "Morning Lane. I have a meeting later today which the Brig wanted me to be apart of so I am here a day early." Charlie explains as I notice a box under his arm. How did I not see that when he let himself in? Long week I guess. "Anything interesting?" I joke as I slip into the rest of my uniform. "You know I can't say anything until afterwards Lane." He shoots back, making me laugh as he brings the box over to my bed. "This arrived for you this morning so I thought I'd bring it through on my way." He adds and I smile and nod in reply. "Thank you Sir." I reply as I peek over at the label, seeing it has been re-directed by Dad. Strange..

After Charlie and I caught up briefly, he left me to finish getting ready before deciding on opening the box from Dad. I have no idea what to expect but as soon as I open it, I find a letter sitting on top, so I take it out and sit down on my bed the read over it. My eyes widen in slight surprise as I do, seeing it is the first of my Endorsement packages to arrive. I can't help but get a little excited to see what they have sent so I go back to empty the box, finding all kinds of clothing sitting on top of some brand new running trainers. I can't help but admire how nice they are, wishing I had got them sooner for my morning runs so I could have an excuse to use them before looking over the clothes. A couple of hoodies, some running shorts and a few different t-shirts. And some socks. Obviously. I lay them all out on the bed so I can take a picture to send to Lizzie and Maisie, wanting to share this with them before packing it all up to sort out properly later. I finish getting ready for the day and then start heading towards the conference room. I dump my stack of papers on the desk, sitting down and looking around the room seeing everything already ready for the day. It doesn't take long for my quiet moment to be interupted as the group begin to filter in. I greet the few early arrivals, making small talk before the rest get into their seats. "Alright let's get started shall we?" I suggest as I get up from my seat and address everyone. I get a chorus of replies as I remind myself of where we got up too yesterday and then pull myself into focus. "So, as we covered yesterday, CABC. Catastrophic Bleed, Airway, Breathing then Circulation. These are your initial vital checks as you reach your wounded Soldier. And you only move towards the wounded when you are safe to do so yourself, and not before then. The last thing anyone needs is a dead medic when you have other people bleeding out.." I pick on where we left off in re-capping everything ready for tomorrow, making sure no one is going to fail the written side of the course. I'm pretty confident in this group, but then again, I don't think anyone has managed to fail this course as far as I'm aware.

"Alright everyone, we'll leave it there for lunch. Back here for 13:00 hours." I announce, dismissing the group for an hours break. They are all up and gone from the room almost straight away so I sit back at the desk to finish off some paperwork before I go to grab something to eat myself. Thankfully, I've managed to stay on top of most of the paperwork so I don't end up with mountains of the stuff by tomorrow. But then again, no doubt I will end up with a full nights worth to get through tonight so I can leave for my flight tomorrow on time. I get started on the papers infront of me, hating the headache creeping up on me already from the day without any coffee so far. I get lost in the words before hearing a small knock on the door. Expecting it to be Charlie or one of the group, I call them inside without looking up from the paper infront of me. They do so, letting themselves inside as I finish what I am doing. I suddenly get a whiff off fresh coffee as the door closes, and instantly my attention is pulled away from my work as I look towards the door. But to my complete surprise, I am met by someone I never expected to see so soon. "Afternoon Captain." She greets with a beaming smile and a coffee in each hand. I quickly jump to my feet, excited to see a familiar face. "Good Afternoon Jones, I have to admit, I was not expecting to see you so soon." I joke as she comes in to hand me a coffee. "Well, I thought you might need this, and I have some news I wanted to share with you." She replies easily as I nod in thanks for the much needed caffeine. "Consider me intrigued." I return as I sit back at the desk, gesturing for Natalia to join me at one of the desks close by. "I wanted you to be the first to know after my meeting with Captain Summers and the Brigadier.." Natalia begins and I lean forward, hugging the warm cup between my hands on top of the desk as I give Natalia my undivided attention. "I feel privileged.." I joke, making her laugh lightly before continuing. "I was offered a permanent place with 7 Section, which I accepted without hesitation." She finally tells all and I can't help but smile widely at the news. She deserves this so much after Nepal and I couldn't be any prouder.

"That is amazing news Natalia! Congratulations." I cheer as I get up from my chair and come around the desk to greet her with a hug. "Thank you Captain, I couldn't have done it without you." She replies as we pull away. "It was all you Natalia. You should be very proud of yourself." I add and she beams back before suggesting we go grab some lunch as we continue to talk about the good news, as well as catching up from last seeing one another. We grab some food before finding a table to sit at, sitting opposite each other as we carry on catching each other up since coming home from Nepal before an idea comes to mind when we talk about what happened with her meeting earlier. "How about a few drinks tonight to celebrate? There is a small pub not too far from here that we could meet up at once I am done for the day?" I suggest and instantly her smile beams brighter at the idea. "I like your way of thinking Captain. Count me in." She quickly agrees and I nod my head with a huge smile on my face, looking forward to getting out of the barracks for a couple of hours. "Great. I will need a drink after getting through all that paperwork today." I joke before we fall back into easy conversation over our food. Charlie joins us when he comes for a coffee, and we talk about the good news, as well as Charlie mentioning that Jake will be starting his medical assessments soon so he can be cleared for the next Tour. Our team is only getting stronger by the day at this rate. After Charlie heads back and we finish our food, I walk Natalia out of the barracks since she has a few things to do before we meet up for drinks later. "Don't work too hard Captain." She jokes as we reach the main gates of the Barracks. "Unfortunatley, I will have to if I want to make it out of here later." I shoot back, making her laugh as I wave her off and she heads for her car. I head back to the main building, replying to a few messages on route before I reach the conference room and get everything ready for the second half of my day to get going. The group begin to filter in from lunch and thankfully they are eager to get started so I waste no time in picking up on where we left off an hour ago.

"Alright guys that gives us a good place to finish for today. Tomorrow we will have some time in the morning to go over any last things before we get the majority of the written work done before lunch. Anything your unsure of, make sure to ask me about it in the morning. But other than that, I will see you all in the morning." The group thank me for the day and then filter out of the room. Instantly the pile of paperwork staring back at me from my desk. I don't waste anymore time and get started, diving in as my mind begins to wander to Lizzie and how much I am missing her. Today is officially Valentine's Day and as much as I hate we are spending our first one apart, I hope we will have so many more that we can make special. Luckily, the work doesn't take as long as I was expecting to get through so as soon as I am finished for the day, I jog across the training field and head straight for my bunk. I pull out some clothes to iron out before getting into a quick shower and get myself ready for tonight. I get dressed into some jeans and a t-shirt before finding a jacket to wear since it's a little cold still outside. I slip into some trainers and make sure my hair isn't a complete mess, spraying on some aftershave and putting on some rings before grabbing my phone and wallet ready to leave the barracks. Thankfully, I managed to catch one of the guys earlier and arranged a lift from the barracks as they are heading out on a pick up run in the truck so they dropped me off outside the pub. I thanked them before heading straight inside, glancing around the pretty crowded room to find Natalia. I spot her at the end of the bar and as soon as she sees me, she waves me over and greets me with a quick hug as I reach her. "Your here sooner than I was expecting Lane." She jokes as we pull apart before she turns slightly and gestures towards a guy standing to her side at the bar. "Christian, this is Captain Lane. Lane, this is my boyfriend Christian." She introduces me to a tall, dark haired guy with a beaming smile as he reaches out his hand for me to take. "Pleasure to finally meet you Captain." He greets kindly, with a hint of nervousness as we shake hands. Why is he nervous?

"Please, we aren't on duty, call me Harley. Both of you." I begin as I try and ease his nerves. "And it's great to meet you Christian." I add and he seems to deflate slightly as the bartender comes to where we are standing. "What's your poison Harley?" Christian asks a little more relaxed now. "I'll have whatever your drinking." I glance down and see a nearly empty pint infront of him, knowing it's larger by the colour. He nods his head and orders us all a drink before Natalia quickly finishes the last of her drink then turns to me. "I hope you don't mind about this one tagging along, he wanted to meet you after hearing all about you after Nepal." She teases as she nudges her boyfriend playfully, making me smile at seeing this side to our not so new recruit. "Not at all, although I feel like the third wheel right now." I joke back and they both wave me off laughing. "Nonsense, we've been out for a meal already to celebrate both the good news and Valentine's Day already so no need to feel that way Harley." Christian quickly defends, making me smile and nod my head as our drinks arrive. "In that case then, cheers you two." We clink our glasses together and instantly the drink goes down far too easily as I practically down half the pint in one go, making both their eyes widen when I place it back on the bar. "That was impressive." Christian comments and I shrug it off with a laugh. "Northern Soldier, what else do you expect?" I shoot back, making them both laugh before I spot a pool table across the room. "How about a few games?" I nod over to the table, and instantly they both nod and smile widely in return. "Great idea Harley." Natalia beams as she leads the way and gets us set up. We soon decide on winner stays on the table, so Christian lets us go first. I make sure to make the effort to get to know him as he watches the game between us, already he seems like a great guy. He does the same, asking me questions and quickly we find some common interests, the first one being we both love Marvel. His eyes nearly pop out of his head when Natalia drops that I am dating Lizzie, and we share a sly high five as he is still shell shocked. I can't help but laugh as he takes a minute to let it sink in before we also find out we are both big on Rugby and Football too.

After a couple of games and somehow I am still on the table after beating Natalia twice and Christian once. We are a few drinks in at this point before Christian gets us started on a few rounds of shots to go with them. I'm actually impressed at how Natalia is keeping up since he opted for some stronger shots rather than what I was expecting. The Fireball is still burning my throat as I decide on taking a break and let the lovebirds play each other. It's been a nice break being here, especially being here with someone from 7 Section. I got close to Natalia in Nepal since we were on our own in the Medical Centre a lot of the time. Shared trauma has a way of bonding people in a way no one can explain. And knowing she is staying with us means that we are no doubt going to become even closer as we share more Tours together. Christian seems great too, a perfect fit for Natalia. They seem so happy together. I keep finding myself just admiring them together laughing and teasing each other, a part of me missing Lizzie even more seeing them together. I can't wait to get on that flight tomorrow night. I just want her back in my arms. "You okay Harley?" Natalia suddenly pulls me from my trance, sitting beside me as she has a drink from her glass whilst Christian is up taking his shot. "Yeah sorry, just zoned out a little.." I quickly smile and see her searching my features for something. "You sure?" She checks and it makes me chuckle seeing her pull her eyebrows together slightly in an attempt at being all serious. "Very sure Jones, I hope your kicking his arse up there." I tease, gesturing towards the table. "Pft, come on Cap, what do you think?" She shoots back, nudges my shoulder playfully. We both share a laugh but suddenly we are interupted by my phone ringing in my pocket. I put my glass down and slide it out of my pocket, seeing Lizzie's name flashing on the screen before it goes off. "Shit.." I huff out, seeing some unread messages to go with it. "I'm just going to head outside for a second." I look back up and tell Natalia, who just smiles knowingly and nods her head. "No worries Cap." She jokes as I stand up and head out the pub, silently scolding myself for not hearing my phone sooner.


~~Thursday Morning, L.A.~~

Lizzie POV

Being in L.A. for the last 10 days without Harley have been weird. I have got so used to her being with me that now she isn't here at all, it doesn't feel right coming home to an empty house. I miss walking in and seeing her cooking or just relaxing outside reading a book or catching up with work on her laptop. I miss falling asleep in her arms at night, feeling so safe and secure. I hate being so attached, but I can't help but hate being apart from My Soldier. I have been busy during the day with work thankfully, filming most days between meetings and seeing my Mom. But as soon as I get finished for the day, I am quickly reminded that Harley is half way across the World. I can't wait to pick her up from the airport tomorrow. Knowing she is going to be here for my Birthday is what has got me through the last couple of days. I can't wait to be able to wake up next to her again. To feel the small touches she leaves over my skin to remind me she is there and with me. I get so lost in my thoughts that I nearly forget to finish my coffee before needing to get my things together ready to leave the house. I have no filming today, but I do have a meeting to attend with Ashley about doing some work with The Row again. We are both meeting with Rachel and a few of my team to go over some details since I have already pretty much said yes. Ashley is due to pick me up soon so I make sure I have everything I need before sitting down to finish my breakfast, checking my phone at the same time to see if I can catch Harley before I leave for the day. I haven't heard anything since I woke up to a message from her and that was a while ago now. I normally get a few texts before I ring her when I am having my breakfast as soon as she lets me know she is done for the day. I wonder if she is just busier today and is still catching up? I get completely lost in my thoughts before deciding to text her, asking if she is still working. But half way through writing a message, I decide to just try and ring her when I realise how late it actually is in London. She should be done for the day by now..

The call goes to her voicemail after ringing and ringing, instantly my chest begins to tighten a little at the thought of something happening to her. I try and quickly snap away from my negative thoughts, wondering what could be keeping her. But the more I try to not worry, it happens anyways. I decide to try again, hoping she hears it a second time and when I bring the phone to my ear, it rings a couple of times but then she answers. As soon as the line picks up, there is so much noise, which is not Harley's voice. They are all muffled voices and music playing before I hear a heavy door open then close and the noise drowns out and Harley finally says something to let me know it is actually her on the phone. Where the hell is she? "Hey you!" She greets excitedly, but instantly I hear something different behind her voice. "Hey.. I finally managed to catch you." I reply, wanting to see if she tells me why she hasn't been in touch since earlier. "Sorry I had my phone on silent whilst I was teaching earlier." She explains but something is screaming at me, telling me something is going on. "Are you still working?" I question, hoping that is what all the noise was, even though my gut is already telling me different. "No, no, I'm not at the barracks right now.." She says, and suddenly my heart is pounding in my chest at the thought of her being out with someone else. "Where are you?" I catch myself snapping a little down the phone, my guards slowly building up not wanting to hear what she has to say already. "Down the road at the local bar." She adds happily, but my smile has gone by now. "On your own?" I ask harshly, a part of me not wanting to know. "No I'm here with Natalia an-" She begins but I cut her off as soon as I hear that name. My blood boiling instantly. "Seriously?" I snap. "What?" Harley asks confused. Is she joking right now? "With her? Why didn't you tell me?" I feel my heart in my ears as my voice begins to get louder. "Woah.. Why are you being like this baby?" She asks surprised but my anger is already so far gone that I barely hear her words. As much as I know I am jumping to conclusions right now, I don't know what else to think about the situation.

"Because I was worried about you Harley! I haven't heard from you and your sitting in a bar with another girl, a girl who tried to kiss you not too long ago, and to top it off, your with her ON VALENTINES DAY!" I rant out loudly before a horrible silence falls between us on the phone. Instantly I regret shouting at her, again. "Wow, Okay." Harley pretty much whispers down the phone, her voice alone enough to bring me back to reality. "Why are you with her?" I ask a little more calmly but my body is still trembling. "Not that there has to be a reason since she is a FRIEND from work, but she got some good news today and we are celebrating.. With her BOYFRIEND." Harley's voice snaps at the end, the word burning into me. "What? Boyfriend.. I-I" My voice betrays me as I can't find the words I want to say. "Yeah Lizzie. Her boyfriend is here. The one she has been with for over 4 years and lives with. We're having a few drinks to celebrate her getting a permanent position with 7 Section after she did so well in Nepal." Harley explains and it hits me that I have done it again. Hurt her with my insecurities. Not being able to trust her before I jump at the first thing that comes to mind. "Harley I'm-" I try with a whisper but she cuts me off mid sentence. "Save it, I don't want to hear it. I'm going back inside.." She snaps with a harsh but hurt tone and instantly my heart begins to break. "Harley please-" I try again but she cuts me off again. "I'll talk to you tomorrow." She adds and by her tone of voice, she really doesn't want to be on this phone call anymore. "Harley.." I begin to say but the line cuts off and she's gone. I bring the phone down from my ear as my eyes stinging with tears, I fucked up again. Why do I keep doing this to her? Why can't I just let her explain before I react like this. I feel the tears already rolling down my cheeks as I look down at the phone in my hand, her picture on my screen. I really fucked up. "Liz? What's wrong?" As if out of no where, Ashley's voice snaps me from my spiralling thoughts as I quickly look up and wipe away the tears that have fallen down my cheeks. "Nothing I uh.. I just.." I try and come up with an excuse as she makes her way to where I am now standing in the kitchen, fumbling with my empty cup. "Liz.. Talk to me." She asks softly and I stop my movements, knowing I can't hide anything from her.

"I fucked up.. Again." I admit softly, turning to face where Ashley is standing not too far away now. "Okay, come talk to me." We both sit back down at the kitchen table and I let out a sigh as I lock my phone and put it on the table before looking up at where Ashley is already watching me carefully. "I tried ringing Harley since I hadn't heard from her, and she is at a bar near the barracks. I jumped to conclusions and she hung up on me." I tell Ashley and she looks at me with a confused expression. "Why did you jump to conclusions?" She asks softly and I let out another sigh, knowing she will scold me for doing this again. "Can you remember that girl, Natalia I told you and MK about, the trainee medic in Nepal?" I check and she nods her head gently. "Yeah?" She questions and I take a shaky breath before continuing. "Well, she was at the barracks today and told Harley she has been given a permanent place with 7 Section, so they are out celebrating.. With her very serious boyfriend of 4 years who she lives with." I explain properly this time and instantly I see Ashley sigh and pinch the bridge of her nose. "Oh Liz.." She groans and I know what is coming next. "I can't help it Ash, after what Robbie did.." I try and defend but she just shakes her head and looks back at me. "Harley is not Robbie! Liz, that girl fucking adores you!" She raises her voice a little, and I understand why but I still jump a little. "I know she does. I'm a fucking idiot." I huff as I drop my head in my hands. "Yeah you are. But we have a meeting so we need to go so get your stuff and we can deal with this later." She adds and I look up and nod my head softly, knowing she is right. If I sit here all day I will just dig myself into a hole. "Give me a minute and I'll meet you outside." I ask softly and she nods and stands up from the table. "I'll wait in the car." She offers with a comforting smile before walking out the house. I get my stuff together, giving myself time to calm down as more tears threaten to spill. I search for my keys to lock up behind me, the guilt already eating away at me as everywhere I turn, I am reminded of Harley. I really don't deserve someone like her, but I can't lose her. Not like this. I need to make this right..


~~Thursday Evening, London~~

Normal POV

As soon as I put the phone down on Lizzie, my chest tightens as I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding onto. Why can't she trust me? I know she has been hurt in the past but that is not me. I would never hurt her. I thought we were past all this, I thought I had proven to her that she is safe with me? I don't have time to spiral too much as I feel a hand on my shoulder as I am no longer on my own outside. "You okay Harley?" Natalia checks as she squeezes my shoulder comfortingly whilst Christian appears on my other side. "Yeah, yeah, I just. I had a spat with Lizzie over the phone.." I add, not wanting to get into it too much. "Oh.." She replies softly before I see Christian dig into his pocket and suddenly he is holding out a cigarette infront of me. "Thanks.." I gladly accept it, taking it gently from his hand. "No problem." He quickly returns as he digs out a lighter and offers me it first. I nod my head as I light up my cigarette before handing the lighter back so he can light up his own. I'm not the biggest smoker, never have been, but tonight is an exception. "Want to talk about it?" Natalia offers as she shares Christian's cigarette but I just shake my head softly. "She'll calm down eventually, the distance is never easy for her." I offer and they both nod their heads in understanding. "I'm sure once you both have some time to calm down, things will be okay Harley." Christian comforts and I smile at his words before hearing my phone ringing again. Instantly I cringe at the thought of Lizzie trying to ring back so soon but as I slide if out from my pocket, I see Ashley's name flashing on my screen. "We'll leave you too it.." Natalia smiles softly and they give me a little space as I take a shaky breath and answer the call, a part of me worried that something is wrong with Lizzie. I turn back around and lean forward on the railing, bringing the phone up to my ear as I use my free hand to hold the rest of my cigarette. "Hey Ash." I greet softly down the phone, not knowing what to expect from her right now.

"Hey Harley. I'm going to be quick because Lizzie will be in my car in a minute, but I wanted to let you know my sister is an idiot for that phone call and as much as I don't want to defend her, she is still struggling with the whole cheating and trust thing. That's not on you, it's on you know who. And because it will take her a lot to ring you again, please just let her know you don't hate her when you've calmed down, or else you know as well as I do she will beat herself up all day about this." I listen closely as Ashley rambles but her words are spot on. I know Lizzie will already be in a spiral about what was said. I let her words sink in before saying anything in reply, choosing my words carefully with the slight anger still bubbling in my chest. "I know, I just, I wish she would trust me. I understand why it's hard for her but I'm not him and I never will be." I exhaustedly say in reply, hating how many times this has happened. "We all know that, and so does Liz, but she has her moments.. Same as everyone else. Like I said, I'm not excusing her behaviour but I don't want to see you both upset over something that can be easily fixed." Ashley is right. Things like this can be easily fixed. But with the distance, it can be hard. I wish I could be there to comfort her rather than having to do it over the phone. But I don't want her to be worrying until I get there. "Thanks Ash. I'll call her soon and talk her when I'm calmer and back at the Barracks." I add and I hear a sigh of relief down the phone. "Okay I'll keep an eye on her until then." She replies in a much calmer and more relived tone of voice. "Thank you Ash.." I quickly add and I can practically hear her smiling down the phone. "You too Captain. Have a drink on me tonight." She teases and I can't help but laugh lightly. "Will do, take care Olsen." I tease back, making her laugh before we say goodbye and I put my phone back in my pocket. I let out a huge breath again before finishing my cigarette and turning to head back inside. Maybe more drinks right now might not be the best decision, but I need something to help me relax before I go back to the barracks.

"There she is!" Christian cheers as I walk back inside, seeing them standing at the dart board with some darts in his hand, Natalia at the bar ordering some more drinks. "You okay Cap?" He asks as I reach him, slipping off my jacket and putting it on the back of the chair. "Yeah, but I need another drink!" I shoot back, making him laugh as he pats the back of my shoulder. "Well luckily for you, I am always one step ahead Lane." Natalia teases from behind me. I turn around and see a tray of drinks and shots in her hands, instantly making me chuckle at her beaming smile as she places it on the table beside the dart board. "You good?" She walks over and checks in with me as she pulls me into a hug. "I will be." I reply quietly, making her nod her head softly before she pulls away and gives me a small smile before grabbing a drink and placing it in my hand. "Cheers you two!" She cheers and we all throw back the burning shot in one go. Fuck that was strong. "Holy shit!" Christian coughs up as he puts the glass down, making me laugh as I grab my pint and get rid of the burning with it. "Alright, who's up?" I ask and Christian hands me some darts to get us started as Natalia chalks up the board with our names. I can't help but laugh as she is up on her tip toes to reach the top of the board, which she quickly makes me regret as she stabs me with the end of her dart in the top if my arm, making me jump. She giggles as I rub the spot before throwing my darts, hitting 120 straight off. "Is there anything you can't do Harley!?" Christian jokes as she chalks up my score in surprise. "Not that I can think of.." I tease back with a cocky wink, making them both laugh as we carry on the game laughing and drinking with each other. I lose track of how many times we all went up to the bar to top us all up. Then after finishing another game, Christian suggests heading outside for another smoke. So we all head out and he hands us all one before we light up and laugh at the now pretty crowded bar spilling out with smokers. "How you been since coming home from Nepal?" Natalia asks softly, a glint in her eyes as we stand leaning back against the railings behind us as Christian is stuck in conversation with someone asking for a lend of his lighter.

"The Holidays were rough.. I ended up meeting Lizzie's family and her Dad was not my biggest fan." I explain and Natalia quickly leans in closer to listen to what I am saying. "Then when I got back to London, I found out my Brother was threatening Maisie for money so I ended up sneaking away and going to Newcastle to confront him." I add and she quickly looks up in surprise. "Fuck Harley.. I'm sorry, you should have called.." She offers and I smile at the gesture but softly shake my head. "It's alright, it's all settled down now. Well, expect from Lizzie's Dad but that's just something I need to get used too." I ramble and she smiles softly. "Let me guess, he doesn't want his daughter with another women, especially a Soldier?" She asks and I nod my head instantly. "Nailed it." I reply and she just scoffs and shakes her head. "Your one of the good ones Harley, don't let someone like him get you down." She comforts and I smile thankfully at her words. "Thanks Natalia." I quickly add and she leans into my side again, the drink deffinently going to her head. "How you been since coming home, it was pretty rough out there?" I ask and she nods her head softly in agreement. "It was.. But I've been okay. I've had my bad days but he is great with helping me through it all." She gestures towards Christian as he is still in friendly conversation with a group not too far away, but his eyes care constantly glancing back to check on us. "He's a good one. Hold onto him, they are hard to find." I admit and she giggles softly as she nods her head lazily. "Yeah, not many people get it when it comes to being a Soldier.." I can't help but chuckle at her words. "You've got that right." I add, but my thoughts float back to Lizzie. As much as we have these arguements, I can't deny how amazing she is at understanding my difficulties when it comes to being a Soldier. She has been amazing at not judging me and taking the time to understand me. And for that I am so thankful for her. I just wish we could get all these small arguements under control. "I'm glad I got you as my mentor Harley. I couldn't ask for anyone better to learn from and to have my back out there." Natalia says out of no where, making me smile again. "Don't go soft on me Jones.. Come on, I need another drink." She giggles as I put my arm over her shoulders and head back inside with Christian hot on our heels.

"YES! Double 10 all day baby!" I cheer as I throw my final dart and win another game. We all burst into laughter as we come back to our drinks. "I am so glad you are the one looking after my Natalia whilst your all out there travelling the World making it a safer place Harley!" Christian shouts over the music, making me chuckle as I nod my head and pat his shoulder. "I'll take care of her, don't worry." I assure him, and see a genuine smile of thanks before Natalia comes back with one final round of shots for us all. We throw them back without hesitation, my throat is numb at this point after so many shots and whiskey's. "I think it's time we called it a night." Christian announces as Natalia nearly misses her seat next to him. "Your right, I have a group to teach in the morning." I add and he cringes as he gets his phone and calls a taxi. We finish our drinks, talking about random shit between laughing at nothing in particular. When Christian gets a message to let us know the car is outside, we take our glasses to the bar and make sure to thank the staff behind it. They all thank us and tell us to get home safe as Natalia puts her arms over both mine and Christian's shoulders as we make our way outside. We climb into the car and I give the address of the Barracks since they offered to drop me off first before going to their hotel. It doesn't take long until we reach the main entrance of the Barracks and the car pulls in to let me out. "Well, tonight has been one to remember. You two get home safe alright!" I say my goodbyes to Christian and Natalia, being pulled into a three-way hug before attempting to get out the car. Fuck I can barely see anything. "Stay safe Captain!" Natalia calls out, making me laugh as I turn back, holding myself up on the door. "You two too.. Don't do anything I wouldn't do!" I tease with a wink before waving goodbye and closing the door. I wave them off then stumble over the main gates. I struggle to get out my I.D, but eventually I manage and they let me in so I can stagger my way through the barracks towards my bunk. I haven't been like this in forever, I can barely see my hand out in front of me. And in my slightly drunken state, I decide it's a good idea to take out my phone and ring the one person that plagues my thoughts, drunk or not. Well, I will when I find her number through my blurry vision..


~~Thursday Afternoon, L.A.~~

Lizzie POV

Thankfully, the meeting with Ashley and my team didn't take too long. I felt my mind wandering at some points as I tried to not worry too much about Harley. The last thing I want is for her to drink too much and hurt herself because of what happened on the phone. I know she is sensible, but things can happen. I haven't heard anything from her yet but as soon as the meeting finishes, Ashley quickly comes to my side and invites me to lunch with her and MK to take my mind off things. We get back in the car and arrive at where MK is already waiting for us inside. "There you are!" MK cheers as she pulls me into a comforting hug before we all sit in the booth away from everyone else. "How did it go?" She asks and I let Ashley catch her up on what was said, my head still not completely with it as my thoughts are clouded with worry about Harley as I check my phone for the millionth time today. "Liz, she'll be fine, she can look after herself." Ashley quickly comforts me with a gentle hand on my arm. "I know she can, I just, I wish I could apologise so I know we are okay." I admit sadly. "You'll be fine, Harley doesn't scare off easily. We all seen that at Christmas." MK adds and I nod my head gently but we are interupted by someone coming to take our order. I don't feel like eating, but the twins make sure I order something before we are left alone again with our drinks. "I know it's hard to forget what has happened in the past Liz, but Harley is not going to hurt you like they did. She is too good to ever treat you that way." Ashley tries to reassure me, and I know she is right. But it is so hard to forget sometimes. "Ash is right, Harley is amazing and one of the sweetest people I have ever met. She adores you Liz. We all seen that when she came to surprise you for Christmas, I mean, how many people do you know would have done that trip after being gone on Tour for 11 weeks?" MK rambles and I can't help but smile at the thought rushing through my head. They are both right. I just need to work on not falling into old habits with Harley. Then suddenly, we are all interupted again by Ashley's phone ringing on the table.

Instantly, I look over at MK with a confused look as we hear Ashley laughing down the phone without even saying anything yet. MK shrugs her shoulders before we both turn to see Ashley shaking her head, giggling at whoever is on the phone to her. We wait for her to explain as she looks up and holds out her phone across the table infront of me. Now I'm really confused. "Liz, I think this is meant for you." She giggles and I just look up at her completely lost at what is going on. "What do you mean?" I question as I look between her and the phone in her hand. "Just take the phone.." She gently nudges as she tries to not laugh anymore. I glance over at MK before taking Ashley's phone and bringing up to my ear, not knowing what to expect. But as soon as the phone reaches my ear, a very familiar voice washes away all my confusion instantly. "Helloooo? Anybody there?" Harley asks, and by the sounds of it, she has had more than a few drinks tonight. "Harley?" I ask, stopping her from her from rambling and instantly her voice gets higher when she hears my voice. "Hey! There you are! Hello baby!" She cheers down the phone, making me giggle at how happy she sounds to hear it is me. "Are you drunk?" I ask teasingly, making her scoff down the phone. "Who me? No! Your drunk.." She defends and I can't help my laughter at her voice. She is so adorable.. I look up and see MK and Ashley watching me closely so I put the phone down on the table and put it on speaker so they can hear Harley before asking where she is. "Harley.. Where are you?" I have to cover my mouth as she hums down the phone, fuck she is so cute right now. "Walking to my bunk. Where are you?" She finally answers as I hear her walking so at least I know she is telling me the truth. "In L.A. with MK and Ashley having some lunch." I tell her easily, the twins giggling behind their hands at the sound of Harley drunk. "Mmm.. I could eat a pizza right now." She rambles adorably. I wish I was with her to see this in person right now. "Harley, are you at the Barracks?" I check hearing her still walking. It can't be that far can it? But then again, from the pictures I have seen, the barracks are huge.

"Yep.. Where are you? Oh wait, your angry at me.. Are you angry at me still?" She rambles again but this time I can hear the slight change in her voice. My chest tightening at the thought of her hurting because of me. I glance up at the twins, who both give me a sympathetic smile before I clear my throat and reply to Harley. "No I'm not angry at you Angel." I reassure her as best I can, hoping she remembers this in the morning. "Are you sure? Because you sounded angry earlier?" Fuck that hurt. "Harley, I'm not angry at you. I'm sorry about earlier.. I shouldn't have said what I said." I start to ramble a little, but I stop myself as I feel tears building in my eyes. "I love YOU baby girl.. No one else! Not Natalia, not Frankie, not Florence, no one! Just youuuuuu.." She gushes but her words mean more to me than she probably realises right now. I hope it's true what they say, drunk words are sober thoughts. "Okay Harley, I believe you. And I love you too my adorable drunken Soldier." I tease, not wanting for either of us to get upset right now. "I'm not drunk!" She defends adorably, whining like a child. "Your cute." I say instantly, making her chuckle down the phone. "Your cute. Especially when you do that adorable nose scrunch that everyone on the internet loves but I love it more than any of them!" She argues with herself and we all struggle to hold back our laughter. "I know you do. How long until your at your room Harley?" I ask, wanting to make sure she gets back to her room safe. "In about..... Now." She announces proudly, but almost immediately after we hear the door open, we all jump as we hear a bang down the phone. The twins then burst out laughing as they seem to realise what has happened when we hear Harley groan down the phone. Has she seriously just fell over drunk.. "Harley, are you okay?" I check in with her, hearing some muffled shuffling around down the phone. "Yep.. I'm good.. Nope, Ow that hurt." She says laughing at herself, making us all laugh with her as we hear her door close. "What happened?" I ask, hearing her walking around her room finally.

"I tripped.." She admits a little shyly, making my heart race at her sudden tone. Fuck I love this girl so much. "Are you sure your okay?" I make sure, trying not to laugh too loudly. "I hit my door.." She says, and the twins are struggling to breathe with laughing at this point. "With what?" I ask, already having some idea. "My face.." I can't help but laugh at her whiney tone. "Oh god Harley." I say through giggling, loving her so much right now. "I'm good, I think." She adds as I hear her empty her pockets before she slumps down onto her metal bunk. Instantly I relax even more hearing that she is in bed safe and sound now. "Your adorable Harley Lane. Are you sure your okay?" I make sure and she chuckles cutely. "Yep, I'm good.. I want a cuddle though." She whines and I can't help but let my smile grow across my face. "You come back to L.A. tomorrow baby." I remind her and she instantly gets excited. "It's your Birthday when I come back!" She cheers. "It is." I say, giggling at her happy tone of voice. "I got you an awesome present, but shh, I can't tell you what it is!" We all burst out laughing, the twins faces bright red. "She's hilarious.." Ashley comments loudly, catching Harley's attention. "Who's that with you?" Harley asks sweetly. "I told you, MK and Ashley are here with me." I remind her. "Oh yeah.. HEY TWINIES!" She adds, making us all laugh as the twins say hello. "Hi Harley.. Hey Captain!" She huffs down the phone suddenly. "I want pizza!" She comments. "Get a pizza. Oh wait, it's like 3am in London, Harley you need to sleep your teaching tomorrow morning." Ashley adds, making my eyes widen at the realisation how late it is over there. "Oh shit.. I need to be awake in like.. 3 hours." She works out and I shake my head at the thought of how tired she will be tomorrow. "Harley, please go to sleep." I say a little sternly. "Okay bossy boots.." She whines like a child again. "Stop whining and get some sleep, please." I defend and we can hear her pout down the phone. "Fine.. Talk tomorrow?" She gives in adorably. "Ring me tomorrow?" I suggest in return. "I will.. I love you Elizabeth Chase." She says sweetly, making my heart race. "I love you too Soldier." I return before she ruins the moment. "BYE TWINS!" She yells down the phone, making us all laugh. "Bye Harley!" They call back before she ends the call, mumbling something to herself as she does.

All three of us are laughing as I hand Ashley her phone back over the table. "Okay, your girlfriend needs to get drunk more often, that was so funny!" Ashley comments as she puts her phone away. "I've never heard her that drunk before.. Actually, she's never been drunk with me before." I ramble a little, my thoughts rushing with My Soldier. "She's too cute. I want one.." Ashley adds and I'm quick to send her a warning glare. "Ash!" MK quickly joins me, slapping her arm. "What? I do!" She defends, making us all laugh as our food begins to arrive. My body is a lot more relaxed now knowing that Harley is safe in her bunk, and hopefully she will be asleep soon enough. As much as I am still dreading the talk we need to have tomorrow, I know I have things I want to say and more importantly, I need to apologise properly. I don't even know if she will remember the phone call tomorrow, but I want to give her a better apology either way. I still have so much guilt eating away at me and I won't be able to settle until I know we are okay again. I have missed her so much, and the last thing I want is for us to be in a bad place when she comes back to L.A. If she even comes.. I get lost in my thoughts as we all eat in a comfortable silence, and I let my mind spiral as I think about what I want to say and what I need to talk about with her. The thought of not picking her up at the airport tomorrow begins to creep up on me, the idea of her not wanting to see me becomes a little too much to handle. But thankfully, the twins begin to talk about work to distract me. We get into conversation about some new ideas they have and it works in keeping my mind occupied for a little while. But slowly thoughts of Harley start to creep back. "Liz, everything will be okay. Try not to spiral.." MK comforts as Ashley nods her head softly in agreement. "I'm scared of losing her.." I admit softly, and they both reach for a hand to hold onto. "Your not losing that girl anytime soon. We guarentee it." Ashley adds, and I really hope she is right. I can't imagine living my life without Harley being by my side. She means to much to me to let go..

Harley Lane.. The person I never knew I needed and now I can't live without..


A/N ~~ Do we think everything is okay between them..?