My Soldier (Brittana fan fiction)* Discontinued*

33

I swallow unconsciously with my jaw clenched shut as I stare at myself in the mirror. My uniform feels different it feels heavier than before and I don't like it. I smooth over the non-existent creases in my ACU jacket and let out a breath, I'm ready. I'm ready to go and live In 38-50 degree temperature, I'm ready to train hard and push myself to limits that one could never imagine, I'm ready to go and fight for my country but I'm not ready to leave Santana.

I woke up earlier with dread and a slight hangover that was not long cured by my pop's amazing healthy smoothie. Santana woke up not long after that and joined us for breakfast but she was quiet throughout. I know that it's hard for her, it's hard for everyone. Time was getting on so I had to go for a shower, yesterday whilst Santana was preparing the party I was ironing all of my gear and packing everything. The army is strict on appearance and if they see one crease on your uniform you have to iron there's for a month. With me being a sergeant I've had some experience so I know how to fold properly and make sure that there is no creases anywhere. I was expecting to see Santana once I got out of the shower but she was downstairs talking to my pop.

I'm not sure if it feels good to be back in my uniform I haven't decided yet. Exhaling, I heave my military combat 45l patrol rucksack over my back and double strap because this shit weighs a lot with all my belongings in it. That's not even it I bend down and grab my large black duffel back with more clothing and necessities. Coming down the stairs I exhale and automatically my face becomes stoic because wearing this uniform is a reminder of what I've had to do out there. Santana and my pop were talking but when I come into the living room they stop and stand up as to greet my like all soldiers do. It's not like that though, I can tell Santana is shocked because her eyes can't stop at one place she's looking all over me. Her eyes run from my tanned combat boots that I scrubbed so hard to get the dried blood off up to my patrol cap with my rank on it.

"All ready Britt?" My pop asks breaking the silence and I glance at him with a strong nod and a small smile. I'm ready. If I keep reminding myself then it will come true right? My pop goes to grab my black duffel bag but I move it away and shake my head.

"I'll carry it" I shortly snap and walk to his black range rover. Behind me I can hear my pop whispering something to Santana but I don't say anything, I just put my bags in the trunk and take a seat in the back where I can sit with my girlfriend. Santana comes in after me and sends me a smile, it's reassuring and I smile back as I reach over and grab her hand. "You okay?" I ask sincerely and she nods with a breathless chuckle.

"I'm fine, it's you I'm worried about" She states and I frown, why is she worried about me? "Stop snapping at your pop, this is hard for him to" She gently reminds and I sigh as I duck my head. I'm not used to feeling sad and guilty for leaving him behind because we were never that close. When I used to get deployed all the time I would be excited and eager to go, my pop would offer to drive me to the airport but I always declined, but now that's all changed.

"I'm sorry. I'm just stressed because I'm leaving two people who I care and love the most behind" I croak out and Santana shakily sighs like she's trying to hold in her tears, they'll come out soon because I don't think I'll be able to hold mine in. Santana rubs her thumb over my hands and nods understandingly.

"I know baby… I know"

The car ride is quiet and slightly tense just because time is ticking away and we don't have much of it left together. I glance at Santana who is looking out of the window at the moving traffic whilst my pop clenches his hands on the steering wheel with his eyes planted straight ahead. Clearing my throat, I bite the bullet and decide to make some conversation.

"So what's everyone doing after this then?" I ask and Santana slowly looks at me with raised eyebrows and a look as to say "Seriously?" I nod and cluck my tongue. "Okay then…" I hum and look at my pop who shakes his head with a little smirk on his lips. "Guys it's too tense in this car, I'm considering throwing myself out of it!" I joke with a little sternness to my voice and hear Santana let out a little sigh.