WINGS

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The slightest ounce of fear no longer had any power over him and Mason couldn't have been happier. The day had turned from worse to one of the most memorable days he wouldn't ever forget. He turned from the window to see Brent leaned against the wall with his arms folded, looking content in his own silence, chewing away on a toothpick like a thief about to hatch a plan. And each time his fiancé winked, it still made him smile uncontrollably. Smart man.

Brent had tried talking Mason into going back to the base right away, but he wanted to stick around a while longer and have drinks to celebrate. And since he didn't have any friends to speak of, he took advantage of Crenshaw's and Pennington's presence to celebrate with him. Mason could go out on a limb and say, Crenshaw can't be all bad if he was willing to play along to help Brent. Even off the base, soldiers were just as loyal to each other as they were on the battlefield. Although, Mason had his money on the fact that Pennington had him wrapped around her little finger. But he was grateful regardless of their reasons. Overall, it was probably the only engagement party they might actually have.

Mason knew just how much work it took for the man to keep his hands to himself. And lucky for Brent, putting up a casual façade was an act of strategic disguise he'd been skilled at performing. Admittedly, it only escalated Mason's sexual anticipation and was secretly dying to make love with Brent all night long. However, after what they put him through today, he decided it would teach Brent a lesson and wouldn't hurt to make him suffer a little a longer.

He conversed with Crenshaw and Pennington after a congratulatory hug and a handshake. The three of them stood offside, somewhat at a distance from the Sergeant. Mason, remained discreet in saying, "So, I'm guessing you two aren't far behind us?"

"Mason," Pennington, shoved at him after a stern hard look at the Sarg. "Shh. What is wrong with you?" she said, shushing him.

"Hey now, let the poor boy speak," Crenshaw jumped in. Pennington darted a look. "Well? He's not completely off base. I would like to take you to dinner, but only if you feel the same way of course. And it's okay if you don't want to, I'll understand. Just say the word and I'll drop this whole thing and never speak about it, ever, again."

Pennington couldn't argue, knowing she feared worse things. And who was she kidding?She knew damn well, for a while now, the both of them had been teetering on not crossing the line. But after what she witnessed today, she was romantically inspired and could see herself having dinner with Crenshaw. "You two better behave yourselves. Besides, even if I did agree," she said with a glare directed at Crenshaw, "you know the first thing they'll do is transfer you. Do you really want to risk that?" 

Crenshaw wiggled his brows at Mason, then grinned at her, knowing it was now or never. "So, that's a yes?"

Pennington knitted her brows in surprise with a heartfelt smile. "You'd do that? You would really transfer for me?"

It was as if she could see his red loving heart, pumping through his chest when he spoke, adoring her with everything he could give. "You honestly can't be surprised. I'd be a fool not to." 

"Aw. That's sweet," Mason mocked in a quick breath and punched Crenshaw in the ribs. 

"Hmph," Crenshaw grunted. 

"My work here is done. You can thank me, later." Mason smirked. 

Crenshaw hated that he would now owe the kid one day. "Yeah, okay. Not bad kid."

"Hey, what are you three whispering about over there?"

Heads perked up. 

"Uhm, nothing sir. Airman Pennington and I were just ready to leave," Crenshaw belted out.