John liked you, he did. He really did. As one of the newest recruits to team 141, he had his doubts at first. Thinking you wouldn’t be able to keep up. Thinking you didn’t have it in you. He will admit, part of it was due to your age. You were an adult, but also the youngest on the team. Some of the others had their doubts too. Some just made it more clear than others.

But over time, it was clear you weren’t meant to be underestimated. You had proved yourself through various test and missions and therefore earned your spot in the team. And maybe even in John’s heart. But maybe not. Because John was your captain. Your superior. You were younger than him. It would never work out. Would it?

“Seems you’ve improved a fair amount,” his hand on your shoulder squeezes slightly, John’s gaze lingered on your form, his piercing blue eyes studying you closely, as you continued your firing down-range.

John leaned in a bit closer, his large silhouette practically right behind yours. His thick scent of cigar and natural musk mixed into one, surrounding you, swirling around you like a pack of hyenas with John so close to you. His voice was close to your ear, low and gravelly, “Hmm, if you keep your sight aligned just a bit higher, that’s it… keep still… and… fire.” John nudged your arm and directed your aim slightly. “There. That’s it, nice and steady. Let ‘er rip.”