Le's Soldier

Part 29

The sunlight peeked through the blinds, cutting across Lilly's bed in streaks of gold and shadow. Three days had passed since the pub, since the fight with Leah, since she'd almost lost herself entirely. Every muscle ached, but not from sleep—the ache was in her chest, her stomach, her skull. She felt raw, stretched thin across fear, guilt, and anticipation.

Leah was already up, moving quietly around the kitchen. Her hair was pulled back in a loose ponytail, makeup minimal, eyes puffy from crying but resolute. Katie hovered nearby, coffee in hand, and Tommy leaned against the counter, expression serious but controlled.

"Morning," Leah said softly, voice catching slightly.

Lilly swung her legs out of bed, trying to straighten herself. "Morning," she whispered, her throat tight.

Leah stepped forward, placing a hand on Lilly's shoulder. "Lil... are you sure about this?"

Lilly inhaled slowly, chest expanding, trying to ground herself. "I'm sure. I have to go. It's what I do. It's what I am. I won't let... what happened—" she gestured vaguely, "—keep me from doing my job. It was weak. It'll never happen again."

Katie, frowning, shook her head. "Boof, it's not weak. It's real. And that's why we're scared as hell. You've been through hell, and we can't... we can't watch you do this without losing it."

Tommy crossed his arms, stepping closer. "Lil... look. We get it. You're one of the best. You are this mission. But we've seen what you've been through. And we don't want another fight, another... pub incident, another meltdown. We just... we don't want to lose you again."

Lilly softened slightly but didn't back down. She walked up to Leah first, cupping her face and pressing her forehead against hers. "I'm not going to be weak. I promise. I'll come back. I'll see you tonight, I swear."

Leah swallowed, eyes wet, and kissed Lilly gently. "Just... don't forget we're here. We're never letting go."

"I won't," Lilly whispered.

She turned to Katie, looping an arm around her neck. "Boof... you too. You're always here, and I love you for it. I'll be careful. I promise."

Katie gave a small nod, squeezing her tightly. "Just... come back to us, boof."

Finally, Lilly faced Tommy. "You too. I know you'll be worried, but... trust me. I got this."

Tommy grunted, placing a hand on her shoulder. "You better. I'll be breathing down your neck if you fuck this up."

Lilly laughed faintly, leaning in to kiss his cheek. "I'll be fine. I promise."

⸻

The drive to the base was quiet, tense, but not uncomfortable. Lilly focused on each breath, each mile, mentally preparing herself. Tommy rode shotgun, checking gear and glancing at her periodically. Mara followed behind in her car, giving a thumbs-up when they passed.

When they arrived, the helicopter's rotors whipped the air into a frenzy, mixing the smell of fuel and sweat with anticipation. The Captain was already there, clipboard in hand, scanning the team.

"Lilly, Tommy," he said, voice sharp but with warmth beneath it. "Glad you're both back in the field. Remember your objectives. Precision, control, teamwork. Lilly... stay focused. You've got your demons with you, I know, but I also know what you're capable of."

"I'm ready," Lilly said firmly, checking her weapon again. "Nothing from the past will stop me. Not today."

Tommy gave her a small nod. "We've got your back, Lil. Let's bring this home."