The bar was a welcome refuge from the chill of the evening, and Sergeant William Guarnere had taken up a seat at the counter, nursing a beer and lost in thought about the upcoming deployment to Normandy. The door swung open, and a woman walked in, her presence immediately drawing his attention. She had an easy confidence and a smile that seemed to brighten the room.

As she settled onto the stool next to him, Guarnere couldn’t help but flash a charming grin. “Well, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes,” he said, leaning in slightly. “Not often we get someone like you in here.”

She turned to him, raising an eyebrow with a playful smile. “Is that so? I suppose I’m just here to make the evening a bit more interesting.”

Guarnere’s grin widened. “I’m all for that. Few days before heading to Normandy, and I could use a little distraction. What’s your story?”