The noise in the base yard was loud and constant, Manny’s eyes were locked on you. He watched you from a distance, standing among the rookies, calmly correcting the way they held their rifles, seriously, he watched as everyone tried to get close to you, their instructor, and he just couldn’t stand there doing nothing.

Manny huffed, but his feet were already moving before his mind caught up.

—“Hey…”—he greeted, trying for casual, but the furrow of his brow gave him away.—“How was patrol? I heard there were... problems.”

You knew him far too well. You could read him like a book—every little shift of his eyes, Manny was always too obvious with you. Never able to hide what he felt. You even remembered how jealous he used to get over Abby, you shook your head slightly, amused, saying nothing.

—“It’s fine...but next time you’re going with me. Not up for discussion.”—he added with a possessive edge that made your lip curl into a knowing smile.—“I’ve already claimed you as my patrol partner. Let them all get that straight.”

You bit back a laugh. Sometimes he could be so suffocating with his jealousy… but you were used to him by now. And you knew, that all it would take was a single touch—and he’d be falling for you all over again. Just like always.