Hellfire • L.A.

Intimidating

A/N: this chapter is kind of lighthearted because in the beginning because I wanted to try something a bit different and give a breather from all of the intensity of the past three chapters. Also: if I opened a google form where you guys could submit questions to me about the book or characters would you guys be interested in that?? Let me know!!

The letter is sitting on my desk, locked away tight in the office I was assigned here. Coincidentally, it's across the hall from Hanje's office and next door to Levi's. On the other side of my office, the side not next to Levi's, is an office for the new Commander of Phoenix Squadron. I haven't met him yet, but I suppose with all of the free time I suddenly have I should introduce myself.

I knock three times on the door in hopes that I'm not interrupting anything important on the other side. There's some shuffling and the sound of boots crossing the floor. Soon, the door swings open to reveal a bearded man. He's young, maybe around Erwin's age, and has a ruggedness around him.

"Hello, I hate to interrupt anything but I felt the need to introduce myself. I'm-"

"Lux Elton. Former commander of Phoenix Squadron. No need for introductions, the captains have been filling me in." He says sharply. His eyes are dark and murky, and I feel like he's judging me with the way he stares at my face.

"Um, well then," I shake off his bluntness with a fake smile and a, hopefully, convincing tone, "I'm right next door. I'd love to spend some time and chat if you have a spare moment."

"Miss Elton, that won't be necessary. I have all the proper documentation I need to fill your position."

I stare at him blankly now. So much for being polite. "Okay, then. I suppose I will see you around the headquarters."

He nods and grunts. "I hope your injuries heal quickly." Without so much of a "good afternoon" he slams the door in my face.

My mouth hangs open as I scoff. What an absolute ass! Guess I'll try not to be friendly to him anymore.

Behind me, I've been unaware of Hanje observing the entire exchange. It isn't until I hear her snort and maniacal laughter that I even realize she's there. I turn around to face her, shooting her a glare.

She shakes her head and wipes a fake tear from her eye. "Oh wow, someone should've told you about Masen! Really that was comical, Lux."

"Ugh, quiet down already." I roll my eyes in fake annoyance and begin walking down the hall as she follows me. "What's his last name?"

"Rodriguez. He's quite the rocky man if you ask me. I kind of like my men with a certain ruggedness to them." She nudges me with her elbow and I laugh.

"You're disgusting Hanje. Has anyone observed him in the field? How does he treat the members?"

"First of all it's not gross. You like a man that's rough around the edges, don't forget!" She cackles again and I shove her shoulder. "Second of all, if you're so curious why don't you find them and ask?"

Her suggestion makes my smile fall. "Honestly I'm afraid they are disappointed in me. I was a shit Commander, Hanje, lets be honest."

She makes a pfft noise with her mouth and looks at me. "Oh shush. The circumstances were out of your control. Things happen."

I sigh. The bandage on my nose feels itchy and I kind of want to scratch at it, but I know it's tender from the bruising.

"Where are you heading to, anyway?"

"I was thinking of going into town for a bit. I might see if Levi wants to join. I know things are slow so-"

"Like a date?!" She squeals, and immediately I regret letting her in on my plans for the day.