Operation: Congo

- 24 -

Debs was as good as her word and stayed by Hynd all the way down the river, sitting up close to his back while he paddled, sharing his smokes and not speaking much at all. It was only when they reached and then passed the ruined WHO station and village that she showed signs of relaxing.

Up front of the canoe, the captain got out his sat phone and attempted a call to HQ in Scotland. After ten minutes or so of navigating farther down the river, he finally got through. Hynd knew that meant there would be a pick up and extraction somewhere in there near future, but for now, at least he could enjoy the river and the company.

“We’re home free now, aren’t we, Sarge?” Debs said, her arms reaching around his waist.

“Aye, I think we are at that, lass. Can I buy you a drink to celebrate when we get somewhere civilized?”

“You can buy me a bucketful,” she replied. “I think we all need it.”

“Amen to that,” Wiggins said from in front of Hynd. “It’s about time the sarge got a round in.”

Debs nudged Hynd in the back and when he turned, she pointed down the canoe.

“Like I said earlier,” she said. “I’m not the only one who made a conquest here today.”

Wilkins was paddling and the dark-haired Frenchman had his arms around the young soldier’s waist, head leaned forward to nuzzle his neck.

“Close your mouth, Wiggo,” Debs said. “You’re catching flies.”