Don't Leave Me

Chapter 4

   The next morning Riza walked into Roy’s office. Upon entering she was greeted with a rare sight, Roy had gotten there before her. “Good morning Lieutenant Colonel.” she said saluting. “Good morning Lieutenant. Don’t get too comfortable. We are leaving once you read and sign these papers.” Roy responded and held out a few papers. Riza took the papers and starting reading them. “We’re being sent to West City sir?” she questioned raising an eyebrow. “Correct. According to the higher ups there has been some activity that needs to be investigated.” he replied nodding his head. “I see. I’m going to go and pack a bag for the trip. I suggest you do the same sir.” Riza said and turned exit the office. Roy got up and followed behind her. After packing for the trip they met up at the train station. “Here Lieutenant, I’ve got our tickets.” Roy said handing her one of the tickets. “Thank you sir. Looks like we barely made it, here comes the train now.” Riza said taking the ticket. They boarded the fifth train car and made their way to the back of the car and sat down. After more people got on the train departed the station.

   Riza pulled out a book and started reading before letting out a faint yawn. That caught Roy’s attention and he looked over at her. “Did you sleep last night Lieutenant?” he asked concerned. She looked up from her book and at him. “I did sleep last night sir, just not well.” she said remembering the nightmare she had. “I suggest you get some rest. I want you fully rested when we get to West City so you’re fully alert.” Roy said worried about his Lieutenant’s wellbeing. “Lieutenant Colonel, you know I can’t do that. What if something happens on the train? You would be completely useless on here because using your alchemy would be dangerous.” Riza protested. Roy cringed at the very thought of being called useless and then pulled a gun out from his belt holster. “You’re not the only one who carries Lieutenant. Now get some rest and that’s an order.” He said firmly. Not wanting to argue with her commanding officer she sighed, closed her book and shut her eyes. Roy shook his head and chuckled at her pigheadedness. “You can lean against me Lieutenant. I don’t bite you know.” he said softly. Riza couldn’t help but laugh lightly and smile as she rested her head against his arm and fell asleep.

   Roy soon drifted into a light sleep only to be disturbed by sudden movement. He opened his eyes and saw Riza tensed up in a cold sweat, almost like she was having a nightmare. He frowned at seeing his most precious subordinate like that and hoped it would soon pass. Out of nowhere she shot up, eyes wide. She buried her head in her hands when she realized she had the exact same nightmare as the night before. “Are you alright Lieutenant?” Roy asked placing his hand on her back. “The nightmare… The nightmare came back.” Riza mumbled. “Care to tell me about it?” he questioned. “It’s nothing. I’ll be fine” she said sleepily and laid her head back on his arm and fell asleep. Roy decided to let her sleep so he stayed quite but told himself if she has it again he was going to make her talk. The rest of the train ride went without any incident.

   Roy looked out the window and seen West City off in the near distance. “Lieutenant, wake up. We are arriving at West City.” he said softly. Riza started stirring and opened her eyes. “Was I asleep the entire time?” she yawned. “Yeah, you slept the entire ride.” he said. “Why do I feel so tired still? I guess I didn’t sleep as well as I thought.” she said stretching a bit. The train finally came to a stop and they made their way to where they would be staying. Before entering their rooms to rest before going out on their mission Roy stopped Riza. “Look, Lieutenant.” he said turning her to face him. “You gave me a scare earlier on the train. You said you had a nightmare and that it was nothing, but I have had enough to know it was no ordinary nightmare. Lieutenant, please don’t hide anything from me. If something is bothering you tell me.” he practically pleaded. “I’m sorry for worrying you sir. You’re right, these nightmares aren’t normal. They always involve you dying in front of me and me unable to do anything. I feel so helpless in them and I’m afraid that one day they might turn into reality.” Roy frowned and put his fingers under Riza’s chin, moving her head up so she was looking right at him. His soft, black eyes stared into her now tear filled, brown eyes. “Lieutenant, I promise you, I’m not going anywhere. Now do me a favor and get some restful sleep. I can’t have you tired tomorrow and something happen to you.” Riza wiped her eyes and nodded. “Yes sir. See you in the morning.” she whispered and walked into her room. “Good night, Riza” he mumbled under his breath and he walked in his room.