Unmasked (Simon Riley)

Chapter 25

*Brooklyn's POV*

I shift my weight slightly, trying to give my healing leg a break. The cast they have me in is quite large, but as least it's healing.

Ghost's hand brushes against mine softly, both of us keeping eyes on Price. He's giving a speech about everyone's good work from the previous mission, and letting us know the outcome.

"Our forces were able to locate Nikolai during the attack, but he was unfortunately killed in battle before we could capture him. His forces have since disbanded, and do not show any signs of regrouping."

The group of men hoot and holler happily in response, settling back down a moment later. "Nikolai's forces succeeded in setting off a bomb, but our efforts were not in vain. We managed to save many of the civilians within the building before time ran out."

More hoots and hollers. "We lost a lot of brave men out there, men who gave their life for a greater good, and they will be remembered."

I bow my head, eyes shutting gently as my mind trails to Milo. Price dismisses everyone, calling the task force into his office. I plan on staying back, until Ghost drags me in after him.

Soap closes the door behind everyone, Price turning to face us with a smile. "So, how we feeling?"

Soap and Gaz immediately start cheering, a smile creeping into my face. "You all preformed better then I could have hoped, you should be proud," he continues, proud eyes over looking the group.

"Brooke, it was an honor to have you with us." I smile at his words, "the honor is all mine. I'm extremely grateful to have had the chance to work along side you all," I reply, feeling a twinge of sadness creeping in as I know this is the end.

Ghost and I haven't talked about it yet, what happens when I go back home and he goes with the task force. I've tried to gently bring it up, but he always shushes me, stating 'we don't have to talk about that right now'.

"I think everyone here can agree that you were a valuable asset, and have definitely made an impact on the team."

The others agree, even Ghost speaking up. I smile wider, the sadness growing. I am truly going to miss these guys.

"And I think that nobody would object to me offering you a permanent spot."

My eyes widen, head snapping back towards Price. He's still smiling, arms crossed across his chest. "What?" I manage to squeak out, earning a laugh from Soap and Gaz.

"What do you say, Lieutenant Laswell?"

My heart jumps at the name, indicating what position he's willing to give me. "I would be absolutely honored," I finally reply. The others start cheering again, and I receive pats on the back and side hugs from everyone.

"Spend some off, everyone. We'll meet back at home base in a week. I'll send you the location," he says to me, knowing I've never been to their main base.

I thank him, embracing him in a hug, then leaving the room with Ghost. As we return outside, I turn to face him, noticing the grin under the mask.

"You knew," I say, poking his chest. He laughs, "yes, I knew."

I smile wider, resisting the urge to embracing him in public. "So, you going home for the week."

I nod, "and you?"

He shrugs, "I'll probably go to base early." I frown, "come with me."

I see his eyes widen a bit, so I push further. "Please, it will be relaxing."

He soon agrees, filling my entire being with happiness. My mind darts back to my other task at him. "We have to stop somewhere else, first."

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