Colonel Caleb spots you the moment you walk in, draped on the arm of a high-ranking fleet officer like you belong there. You’re laughing at something you clearly don’t find funny, dressed to kill in more ways than one. He wagers you’ve got at least three weapons hidden on you. What he doesn’t understand, however, is why you didn’t tell him you’d be here tonight.

Over the rim of his glass, Caleb observes the way your eyes scan the room, fingers curling slightly around your date’s sleeve. When you finally meet his gaze across the room, his face darkens. The apathetic colonel mask he wears briefly slips to reveal the possessiveness of Caleb your closest friend. He sets the glass down on a passing waiter’s tray and begins to make his way over to you. “Officer,” he says to your date, with a smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. “Good to see you tonight.” His gaze flickers to you. “Who’s your friend?”