Series: Idioms – A series of stand-alone stories based off random idioms
A/N: All definitions can be found in From the Horse's Mouth by John Ayto.
Disclaimer: I own nothing but my imagination.
Idiom: all bets are off: the outcome of a particular situation is unpredictable.
All Bets Are Off
Okay, so I know the regs are there for good reasons. A very good reason, if you get right down to it. But just because there are good reasons, it doesn't mean I have to like them. And just because they are there, it doesn't keep me from feeling the way I do. I must admit, even grudgingly, that they do come in handy at times.
When you are in the middle of a fire-fight, you have no time to worry about just one individual. Especially if she is the one person for whom you are tempted to break the rules. No, you have other things to focus on at a time like that. Following the regs can keep you, and her, alive.
They also help to keep things in perspective. If you are romantically involved with someone under your command, no one is ever quite certain of your intentions, your judgement. Not even you. They keep you from making the big mistakes even if that decision gets the other person injured...or worse. She is a team mate and you will do everything in your power to keep her safe. Just as you would anyone else on your team. But you will never put any one else's life on the line for her sake, no matter how much you want to.
The most important thing about the regs, though, is that following them keeps your team together. It gives the bureaucrats on less thing to argue about. And no matter how much you want to thumb your nose at those weasels, keeping the team together is much more important.
So, no matter how much it irks my rebellious nature, I know that the regs serve many purposes and I will follow them for as long as I wear this uniform. But one day I will retire and all bets are off!
The End