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SHEATH YOUR BLADE.
The Operations Room of the Third Division was a hive of activity. Screens flickered with real-time data, and officers moved with purpose, each absorbed in their tasks. Farrah stood near one of the larger monitors, reviewing the latest updates from the field.
Her smooth brown skin glowed under the fluorescent lights, and her long dark curly hair framed her face perfectly, accentuating her sharp features.
Vice-Captain Hoshina strolled into the room, his usual foxy grin in place. He made a beeline for Farrah, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Busy as always, I see," he remarked, leaning against the console beside her.
Farrah glanced up, a smile tugging at her full lips. "You know how it is. Always something to keep an eye on."
Hoshina chuckled, his gaze lingering on her. "That's true. But even the best need a break sometimes."
Farrah arched an eyebrow, her smile widening. "Is that your way of suggesting I slack off, Vice-Captain?"
"Not at all," Hoshina replied, his tone playful. "Just making sure you don't overwork yourself. Can't have our best platoon leader burning out."
Their banter continued, light and easy. Farrah found herself enjoying these moments with Hoshina. His flirty demeanor and quick wit always managed to lift her spirits, even on the most stressful days. As they chatted, she noticed his gaze was more intense than usual, his eyes seemingly searching hers for something.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Farrah asked, a giggle escaping before she could stop it.
"Like what?" Hoshina asked, his grin widening.
"Like you're plotting something," she teased, her eyes narrowing playfully.
"Maybe I am," he said, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Or maybe I'm just admiring the view."
Farrah rolled her eyes, though she couldn't suppress the warmth that spread through her chest. "You're incorrigible, you know that?"
Hoshina laughed, a sound that was both infectious and comforting. "I've been called worse. But tell me, Farrah, what would it take to get you to join me for dinner tonight?"
Farrah pretended to ponder this, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, I suppose I could be persuaded... if you promise not to make a scene."
"A scene? Me? Never," Hoshina said, placing a hand over his heart in mock indignation.
Their laughter drew the attention of a few nearby officers, who exchanged knowing glances and whispered amongst themselves.
Farrah ignored them, focusing instead on the man before her. There was something about Hoshina that always put her at ease, made her feel seen and appreciated.
"Alright, Vice-Captain," she said, a teasing lilt in her voice. "You've got yourself a deal. But if you embarrass me, I'll never forgive you."
"Deal," Hoshina said, his eyes sparkling with delight.
Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Captain Mina Ashiro, her presence commanding immediate attention. She glanced between Farrah and Hoshina, a slight smirk playing at the corners of her mouth.
"Vice-Captain, Platoon Leader Farrah, everything under control here?" she asked, her tone brisk but not unkind.
"Absolutely, Captain," Hoshina replied smoothly. "Just making sure Farrah here takes a well-deserved break."
As Mina walked away, Farrah shook her head, a smile still on her lips. "You really are something, Hoshina."
"Just doing my job," he said, his tone innocent. "Now, about that dinner..."
The hours passed quickly, the operations room buzzing with the usual controlled chaos. Farrah and Hoshina managed to steal glances and exchange flirtatious remarks whenever they could, their playful banter providing a welcome respite from the constant pressure.
When the day finally wound down, Farrah found herself feeling both exhausted and exhilarated. She made her way to the locker room to change out of her uniform, her mind replaying the events of the day. The way Hoshina looked at her, the way he made her laugh—it all lingered in her thoughts.
As she emerged, she found Hoshina waiting for her, leaning casually against the wall. He looked up and smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Ready to go?"
Farrah nodded, her heart skipping a beat. "Lead the way."
They walked through the quiet halls of the base, their footsteps echoing softly. The city outside was bathed in the soft glow of twilight, the hustle and bustle of the day giving way to a more subdued energy. Hoshina and Farrah fell into an easy rhythm, their conversation flowing naturally.
They reached a small, cozy ramen shop, the enticing aroma of broth and spices greeting them as they entered. Hoshina held the door open for her, and she stepped inside, her stomach growling in anticipation.
"Smells delicious," she remarked, her eyes scanning the menu.
Hoshina grinned. "I promise you, it's the best ramen in town."
They ordered their food and found a table near the window, the warm light creating a cozy atmosphere. As they waited for their meals, the conversation turned to lighter topics—favorite foods, embarrassing childhood stories, and the occasional playful jab at each other's expense.
Farrah found herself laughing more than she had in weeks, her worries melting away in Hoshina's presence. His charm and wit were impossible to resist, and she felt a genuine connection growing between them.
Their food arrived, and they dug in, the rich flavors of the ramen making Farrah's taste buds dance with delight. Hoshina watched her with a satisfied smile, his own bowl nearly empty.
"Told you it was good," he said, slurping up the last of his noodles.
Farrah nodded, her mouth full. "You were right. This is amazing."
They continued to eat, their conversation flowing easily. As the night went on, Farrah couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment, for the chance to unwind and enjoy herself in such good company.
After they finished their meal, they lingered for a while, sipping on tea and sharing stories. Farrah found herself opening up to Hoshina in ways she hadn't expected, revealing parts of herself she usually kept hidden.
"You know," Hoshina said, his tone serious for the first time that night. "I really do enjoy spending time with you, Farrah. You're one of the most amazing people I've ever met."
Farrah felt her cheeks flush at his words. "Thank you, Hoshina. I feel the same way about you."
He reached across the table and took her hand, his touch warm and reassuring. "I'm glad to hear that. Because I'd like to make this a regular thing. If you're up for it."
"If you're lucky enough... Vice-Captain," Farrah said, giving a closed-eyed smile. Her plump lips curved upward, and her long eyelashes fluttered playfully.
Hoshina chuckled, his eyes twinkling with delight. "Oh, I intend to be very lucky."
