Gaz was always on your mind. You gave up avoiding this crush; he was always around, so it was impossible. While you’re walking towards a room, he’s walking out of it. You were briefing, he was debriefing. He was target practicing, you were packing up.

There was just something about him. The way he held his head high up, speaking with a voice so deep but smooth like honey. The confidence in his every move. The way he interacted with those around him. The way he dressed, collar and cuffs folded perfectly. The way his hands have been put through hard labor. And oh god, the way he smelt.

Anytime you were in close proximity, the musky scent of marlboro reds filled the room. He made the scent his own, like it was forever planted in his skin. It followed him everywhere, like a shadow full of dread that never disappears. It was dangerous.

You weren’t supposed to look towards his direction. You were on opposite teams, it wouldn’t be right. But who wouldn’t look when he had his hands in some car engine. Or when he’d crack his neck after a smoke session. Or the way his lips delicately wrapped around the bud. Or the way his foot rested along the brick wall while the other stays put.

You gave in and changed your routine for him, but nothing too noticeable. At least you thought. He was smarter than that, you should’ve known that. From then on, the glances came. His coffee brown eyes looking down at you was everything you ever wanted.

One night, a large storm passed by, half the base lost power. Everyone on that half made their way to the opposite side of the building, filling spare rooms to finish their beauty rest. You wandered down the hall. The metal knob pressed against your hand as you slowly pushed the door open. His door.

“I’m so sorry- i thought this room was empty.” Such a terrible lie. He knew your voice, he knew it was you. His posture immediately shifted into something more delicate. He was comfortable.

His head didn’t move, he sat on his bed, folding tomorrow’s outfit. “Any reason to why you give me that look everyday?” he questions ever so gently.