In an effort to take her mind off Ross, June buried herself in work, throwing herself into every task with relentless focus.
She did extra shifts, stayed late in the control room, and reviewed reports long after everyone else had gone left to rest.
Unfortunately, avoiding Ross was nearly impossible.
He wasn't just another member of the base—he was its most valuable asset, perhaps even the most important individual in the entire U.S. military, solely because of his terrifyingly useful ability.
What made it even stranger was that he wasn't even an enlisted soldier.
He operated outside the usual chain of command, untouchable, irreplaceable, and always present.
Ross was just a very helpful volunteer.
June saw him almost every day, and each encounter made things worse.
His casual confidence, the way he spoke to officers without a hint of deference, and the ease with which he carried himself all gnawed at her composure.
