Tactical Destiny

by Kiri Asakura

After a bleak stay to military service in Afghanistan, Dr. John Watson back to London to continue to live a civil life trying to forget the past that now has terribly afflicted him. Trying to overcome the fact that he can never again regain the great romance that inescapable fate in the desert made him live beside the tenacious Sergeant John Porter.

3. Separated paths

Chapter 3—Separated paths

... ..

It had been an exhausting day; it had been the first day of moving to live in 221B Baker Street and it had already been his first day solving cases with the prominent private detective Sherlock Holmes who just had just met the day before. John Watson had certainly enjoyed this strange new beginning of a new cycle expecting to improve the emptiness of his lifestyle since the death of Sergeant John Porter. Perhaps the words the same Holmes had told him a couple of hours ago were true, perhaps after all Watson did not fleeing war and instead he missed it because despite his passive personality he had always been attracted to the adventure because it was something that lacked and needed to feel complemented, being next to an audacious person who provided him of it. John Watson needed to be complemented by an antithesis of himself, needed someone who would not mind getting into danger... and John Porter had died.

Two hours had passed since they had returned to the newly acquired flat, the same as from now on would be his new home. Early morning John Watson would go to his former flat that had been rented for weeks to pick up his belongings and bring them to the new flat at 221B Baker Street. And although he would not admit it, he was greatly excited about it.

"I guess it's been really an exhaustive night for you, Dr. Watson, although that was what you really wanted, as I already mentioned, but I bet you'd almost unaccustomed to it," Sherlock said to the blond when and it was midnight.

Watson looked at him with some seriousness, but inside he felt embarrassed because he could not get used so quickly to his new roommate always sensed his true intentions and always had the audacity to tell him boldly, plus every time Sherlock guessed something John felt vulnerable to him, it was uncomfortable, but that was also something that intrigued him and appealed to him somehow like war and uncertain situations.

"Not exactly, but I admit that was quite exciting," said the blond in response, but a little laconic.

"I guess it's been exciting enough for you to realize that keep using that cane was something merely driven by a psychosomatic issue" Sherlock said while leaning over the back of the sofa where he was sat. The room was lit dimly, Mrs. Hudson had gone to sleep over an hour ago and both men were completely alone for the first time.

"Maybe, I guess, maybe there was a sudden improvement in my leg in recent days but I did not realize it," Watson said seriously and with a slight frown to denote rigidity "but I swear that makes just one week I really needed that cane for support. You cannot underestimate lightly a gunshot wound of war that has been shot in the leg, much less to reduce it as a simple sensation caused by the mind" concise Watson said.

Sherlock analyzed his expression for a moment although Dr. John Watson tried to sidestep the gaze for a brief moment as if he was searching the cane that now was lying against the wall.

"Afghanistan must have made you pass a terrible time; you should see many more deaths than you saw before leaving from England, death is something that physicians should be painfully accustomed anyway. But something tells me that what happened in Afghanistan was not something that has recently been just a few weeks ago, John" Sherlock said calmly.

John looked at him for a moment, the expression on his face turned slightly austere to hear him say that, he was a bit annoyed because again Sherlock insisted inquire about him and his past that Watson was determined to leave behind and then approached to the another sofa to sit as well.

"The truth is, it's not something that I want to speak about now Sherlock, no offense but it is something very personal," John said succinct.

"You're living a grief John, a major loss in your life. But this time I will respect your desire not to talk about it, especially because it is something recent. You lost more than stoicism and pride in war," Sherlock said.

John was more than uncomfortable upset due to the successful deduction of Sherlock, he had given him no sign of it yet but Sherlock had guessed again. For a moment John began to suspect that live beside with someone skilled as he would not allow him live in peace, especially because he being a military doctor had been raised to be more introverted than he had ever been because of the insecurity that his homosexual inclination still caused on him, but after all nothing had the same sense as before because nothing had remedy. He was alone.

"Yes, and especially because we just met yesterday. Doesn't matter what you say, you are still a damn stranger to me. And if you'll excuse me I'm going to sleep, good night Holmes" he said the blond and rose quickly from the couch to go into the room that from now on it would be his bedroom.

And while John was walking to the bedroom, Sherlock smiled wryly but the blond could not notice it.

"Good night, John" muttered the dark haired to hear the bedroom door slam when Watson closed it. Sherlock inferred that John Watson was upset about his deduction, but it was something that usually used to provoke in people. He was accustomed.

... ..

Being within which would be his new bedroom, John Watson took from his pocket the pistol he had brought from his previous home that was now about to leave and placed it in the drawer beside which would be his bed from now.

"Surely that cretin also deduced that I brought this weapon but maybe he forgot to comment about it, or maybe just did not have the opportunity," he said to himself, still a little upset, "I do not know, maybe his brainpower also include telepathic ability or some damn thing like that," he thought satiric and then sat on the edge of the bed and then removed the shoes he was wearing, he was really tired.

When he was stripped of his shoes, he chose to lie on the bed and stared at the ceiling while thought about everything what had happened that day. He thought about the case that they had managed to solve, he thought about what agent Donovan had told him of Sherlock a while ago after they finished to solve the case, "he is the kind of men who are bored easy, because he is a sociopath." Maybe she was right, but despite all John Watson simply did not feel regret having made the decision to move in with him. And he also thought of everything Sherlock's brother had told him and how he had questioned. His life was giving too drastic a change in a very short time.

And then he remembered the real reason of his emptiness and sorrow, what really hurt his soul, Sherlock was right, his grief was recent, Sergeant John Porter, the man with whom he had shared wonderful moments of his life had died just a few weeks ago and it was also true that everything what had happened in Afghanistan had occurred only a few months ago.

... ..

FLASHBACK ON

British Military Camp.

Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan,

Just over a year ago.

"Good morning, Sergeant Porter" said the blond greeting the dark haired sergeant who still was a little convalescent in bed. Dr. John Watson outlined to him a big smile caused more by emotion that caused him seeing him, more kind than he should usually was with his patients recurrently. And remember the warm embrace that had occurred between each other the previous night in his bedroom almost made him blush. All night he had been unable to forget the pleasant sensation of being enveloped in his arms, and had not been able to stop impatient to see again Sergeant Porter early in the morning.

"Good morning Dr. John" Porter replied to his greeting, also returning an affable sincere smile. The smile of the sergeant was even bigger when the blond doctor approached him closer to the bed where at that time he was still lying, because though the improvement of Porter was considerable and he was allowed out of bed at that time it was still very early in the morning, outside the sun had not yet finished out.

"How have you woken up today?" he asked the doctor as any routine question, actually despite the feelings of excitement caused by the strong sergeant, Watson did not want to lose his professional ethics, his relationship with Porter remained only as doctor-patient after all.

"Much better doctor, I do not know what makes me feel better, to have you here saying me good morning from as early or not being able to forget the fact that yesterday I hugged you that way," said Porter without blurring the big smile on his face and still looking at the doctor with affection.

John Watson this time really could not help blushing, he did not imagine that for Porter it had also been too emotional that hug that they had given each other the night before when Porter offered him consolation.

"Porter, you are very affectionate" said the smiling blond nervous and walked to the end edge of the bed to sit beside him. At that time suddenly he felt one of Porter's hands on his back caressing a little and then going down slowly to his waist. Watson felt filled of inner emotion, an emotion that coursed through his body like an electric current. And Porter would not stop stare at him with rapturous, almost could not hide it.

"A man of war cannot be?" Porter asked with low and sensual voice, his gaze seemed increasingly intimidating for Watson and that almost distracted him enough not to notice at all that Porter's hand was stroking him with more intent.

"Well, the truth is that thanks to you I found out that a strong man of war can be," Watson muttered with a sincere smile affable, almost inexorably lost in the bluish eyes of the sergeant. Their bodies were getting closer and closer, Porter did not stop to caress his back with his hand and both seemed to get lost in the each other's look. Suddenly their faces were almost in the vicinity of a kiss, Porter looked so still dominant even with all those scratches that were still visible on his face. For Porter, Watson looked peaceful, almost heavenly. They both knew that almost could not avoid give in to their own impulses, but maybe it was still too early for this.

"But this war is what made me meet you, Doctor" muttered Porter in response and gently, with his still bruised hand, stroked a bit Watson's cheek with the back of it. The blond blushed even more, he sidestepped eyes and tried to sit back on the bed "Well John, by the way I thought you would not be my doctor assigned anymore, although it is really nice to have you as my own personal doctor in the middle of the desert" Porter said with voice softened and provocative, did not stop to stare at him.

"Err ... well, the truth is that ... I wanted to come here to see you from early..." said the blond doctor, internally embarrassed.

"Well, it's a surprise that this time has been too early, not yet dawn" Porter said smiling, admiring Watson's face in profile while the blond doctor again sidestepped the look.

"Ha that's true, it is very early, maybe I've been too reckless sergeant...I apologize" the blond muttered nervously.

"No, not at all doctor, your presence is never imprudent for me, quite the contrary, I feel privileged that you prefer to wake up early just to come here to see this simple patient even if you are not in charge here anymore," Porter whispered trying to approach gently to Watson's face little by little again, talking softly to somehow provoke him but also because he did not want to wake the other patients who were near his bed.

/oh please Porter stop talking to me like that, stop looking at me that way, everything in you causes me lots of excitement / John Watson said to himself in his mind, but his thoughts were so strong, exalted by his growing excitement that he almost feared that at any time they could out of his mouth.

"What's wrong, doctor? You have been silent too long," said Porter speaking with seduction in his voice. In fact he had noticed perfectly that his compliments made that the blond felt embarrassed more than he was before. Porter was perfectly aware of that because he had learned to read every expression of the blond doctor because Watson really aroused too much interest in him. The blond doctor just smiled nervously again, Porter was getting closer to him and now Watson dared not face him again. Watson smiled more, when he suddenly felt again how the sergeant caressed subtly his cheek with the back of his hand "I wonder what you have in mind, doctor," muttered Porter provocative, he almost had the urge to start nibbling the ear of the blond but he didn't because then Watson finally decided to leave his own trance and speak more clearly.

"Hmm ... sorry, maybe is that I have woken up very early and I also should sleep a little more but I had some sleepless last night" Watson excused himself with that quick explanation and continued "but...the truth is that ... I wanted come to thank you for what happened last night," said the blond, back fiddling irresolute and vacillating the fingers of his hand over the edge of the bed where he was sitting.

Porter gave a brief sigh before answering, and could not help but smile at him more, he always was fascinated looking closely the nervously of the blond.

"You mean the embrace we had in your room?" He said the dark-haired, smiling funny, looking at the blond with alienation.

"Yes, indeed...to do that comforted me greatly. I appreciate it and I thank you so much for your support and comfort. It was sudden but it could ease my emotional crisis. I've been quite some time here, always with the same routine, in this precarious situation in the desert in the midst of this relentless war, so far from home," Said Watson lowly and shy "I had not felt bodily contact with another person that way in a long time, I think I've also had to get used to loneliness, to pretend be stoic always though inside there are many things that frustrate me, so ...that embrace of last night was..." he explained the blond with more nervousness but in the end he could not finish to express his gratitude, perhaps because again he filled with shame or maybe because actually he was not too much used to express his feelings, he suddenly felt stupid because he had said it, but Porter inspired him safety.

"As I said last night, John, you have lived very hard situations here... besides I worried about you, I just want to help," said Porter, then suddenly came back to him, and hugged him in the same emotional way he had done the night before, despite his ribs they were hurting pretty again. Watson was surprised by the sudden act, but it was something he already was expected to happen and really he wanted to pass as soon as possible, because feeling back in the arms of that man made him feel full, something that even he could not properly express in words, Porter still could be a strange but somehow made him feel complimented.

But soon Watson felt greatly ashamed and moved away from Porter's arms and then took a tougher stance again.

"Well, it is true that here there are very hostile situations, all the time there is tension but nothing I've spent can be compared to what you have done John, you're so brave, you face the danger ahead, you face enemies highly dangerous, I really admire you..." said the blond staring determinedly, and then inadvertently he put one of his hands on Porter's arm and squeezed a little.

"Yes, strong enemies who want to kill me," Porter said between low giggles, feeling the hand of Watson that way excited him.

"Tell me a little more about that John, I'm not entirely sure how was this dangerous mission that brought you here and why exactly you end up falling into the ravine," he said the blond a little hesitant, but interested to know.

"Well, I was sent to this mission here in Afghanistan, in Helmand province with the aim of finding and ex leak to a British man named Gerard Baxter, an expert on missile launchers, who had been the cause of many deaths and who had fled from United Kingdom since 2005. I had to pretend to be a fake arms dealer to get it. When I found him he took me to the hideout of a Taliban bastard called Zahir Sharq who just was just using him for his own purposes. So the best thing for Baxter was escape, return to England and thus I ended up taking care of him but Zahir was not going to sit idly by, especially because Baxter knew many of his secrets that then he revealed all them to me. Then I learned the true instigators of all this crime, people who are currently in command of high political powers in the UK and the US. At the end the Taliban managed to catch up and they killed Baxter, before my eyes and I had to flee on my own. A former teammate, also a soldier of war, called Hugh Collinson came to Afghanistan to help me with this, but plus for pay off some bills with me, but that's a long story John, I will tell you later. Things ended badly for him, but I could run away in the jeep with the purpose of reaching the Iranian border but more than that to take refuge here in this British camp, but the bastards hit me and then shot me. I could kill several of them using a pair of machine guns, but then other bastards hit me and hurt me besides damaging my Jeep and make it unusable. After, I could hide in a cave, but when I came out of hiding a burst of bullets was dropped on me. At that moment I heard the helicopters approaching and the bullets stopped, but I was wounded and I fell down into the cliff and no longer knew more. Until...I vaguely heard your sweet voice John. You had saved my life," Porter said looking at him sweetly, gently stroking his cheek with his fingertips. Watson, who had been listening intently to Porter narrating all the events blushed to feel the subtle touch of his skin stroking his, and his pale blue gaze determinant transformed back into tenderness just for the sake of observing him, the doctor that had saved him.

"Oh John, you're so courageous. But I was not the only one who saved your life. At that time, I was not even going on one of those helicopters. In fact I must say that I avoid getting into them as much as possible, helicopters cause a lot of vertigo" muttered the embarrassed blond, still feeling the sweet look of Porter staring at him.

"But I remember your voice, and your silhouette... your blond hair lit by the reflection of light in the room where you all probably were healing me" Porter said with softened voice, again stroked his cheek.

"Well, it's true that once you came I rushed to assist you. You came very badly hurt, your whole body and face were full of scratches and your skin was dyed red almost entirely due to your multiple injuries. And I took care of you from that time until finally you woke up. I'm glad to have done a good job for you, Sergeant" Watson said, smiling for him.

"I thank you so much for taking such good care of me, Doctor Watson" said Porter outlining a more pronounced smile. Watson felt blushing again.

"Really I admire John, you just have to face all those damn terrorists. You are the most tenacious sergeant I ever met in person, and that's not adulation" Watson gave a short giggle.

"Thank you so much for all your compliments doctor, but better stop talking about me," Porter turned slightly stroking the shoulder of the blond "at least I can do my work outside, you should instead resist the routine of to be almost most of the time within this camp, witnessing traumatic wounds of the soldiers who come here, often on the verge of death, away from home as you mentioned. I miss home, in England, though my absence there does not compare to yours because you have been in the wilderness for a long time."

"Well that's true, but I guess I must endure life I chose. I always had in mind to be a military doctor," Watson explained, a little timid.

"You do not know how much I would love to be right now in London or anywhere in the UK to enjoy a good afternoon with you, doing various activities like anyone could do every day in a pleasant environment, away from war and the misery it leaves as a result, being happy in London...with someone like you," muttered Porter serene, with whispery voice and staring at him sweetly. Porter felt he couldn't hide his feelings for Doctor Watson anymore.

Meanwhile Doctor Watson had not really expected the sergeant told him that and it was hard to assimilate, was too good to hear someone like Porter could say him that, but that filled him with much emotion.

"That...would really be fantastic," said the blond after a nervous giggle, it was the first time someone said him something like that and before he could realize, Sergeant Porter took him back in his arms and hugged him effusively again without wincing, nor even slightly, due to the pain it caused him. The reward for embracing the blond always comforted him greatly.

"Let's do it when we get back to London, let's pass a good evening of fun together there John, a good day full of camaraderie just you and me," Porter said enthusiastic and Watson nodded as he smiled, still nervous but certainly eager to do so.

It was still too uncertain to know if that could happen soon though.

"Oh, of course! But hey Sergeant Porter, after this pleasant conversation I think you should rest a bit, it's still very early and there are patients who need to sleep and recover, like you," the blond said softly but directly.

"Haha don't worry Dr. Watson, a man of war must always be alert early on," Porter said with a suggestive whisper.

"There is no discussion in this case sergeant. Remember to follow the instructions of the doctor, and in this case the doctor's me. Also I have some other business to attend to. But I promise I'll see you soon later," the blond said with authority and for enormous surprise of Porter, Watson moved closer to him to lean his face and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek while was squeezing a little one of his biceps. Porter could feel the lips of Dr. Watson very close to the corner of his own, if it had not been for the annoying plaster that still prevented him from moving quickly he would certainly have tilted up to steal a kiss on the lips of the doctor who had also acted quickly to get away from him immediately after he had kissed his cheek.

"Okay doctor, as you say" Porter said coyly, still enjoying the sensation of that sudden timid kiss of Watson had caused on him. Meanwhile the blond doctor had rushed to sidestep the look, and had walked quickly towards the exit door without saying anything more, much less that he regretted having done something as unusual and daring as that kiss. Porter almost went crazy for it internally, Watson was daring, for Sergeant certainly also seemed that Watson had always intended to provoke him, and he succeeded.

"Well now I must go Sergeant Porter, besides I do think that no longer take to get the doctor in charge," said the blond doctor with authoritative voice again, but looking at him with more serene way. Porter thought his gaze was the sweetest.

"Doctor, could you at least inspect my wounds? Now I feel much better but they still hurt some, well and I cannot stand having to wear this annoying plaster" Porter said softly but feigning a bit a childish tone. Watson smiled. Then the blond Dr. obeyed his request and began to inspect the wounds superficially over the torso of the sergeant. Porter's shirt was open and Watson without avoid it gingerly touched his skin. Porter felt that as sensual caresses.

"I think you had a marked improvement John, but I would revise it better to know if the fracture has welded well to take off your plaster, but honestly I doubt it because the fall you had happened just a few days ago," said the doctor with more coquetry, still touching his well exercised and marking abdomen and suddenly he could feel the hand of Porter again caressing onto his back, stroking slowly throughout its length. The atmosphere was becoming increasingly strange, but too gentle for both.

"Anyway, I would like you to review the fracture now, Dr. Watson," Porter said seductively in his voice.

"mmh okay Sergeant, please extend your leg toward this side," he said the blond doctor's looking at him more flirtatious.

"I think I can handle that Dr. Watson, I mean I can review the fracture of the patient right now," said suddenly a strict feminine voice just behind the blond. It was the doctor Judy who was coming to the bed of Porter, on her face almost anyone could notice the displeasure she felt of having to find a scene like that one more time, she couldn't resist the closeness of the blond doctor and the manly Sergeant Porter. That really disturbed her and she filled with too much jealousies.

Listening to pronounce that, with a start, Dr. Watson got up immediately from the edge of the bed where he was sat. The presence of the doctor Jud always intimidated him, especially because truth was that she was now assigned to serve Porter and not him.

"Sorry, you are right doctor Judy" the blond excused himself quickly, avoiding the eyes and settled a little the white coat he wore. Inevitably he felt a little embarrassed for being caught again for her, next to Porter in the midst of their mutual flirtation. Porter sat up in bed and turned serious as he buttoned his shirt again that until then still had left exposed a little a part of his nude torso that was still bandaged, the same torso that the blond Dr. Watson had fondled just a few seconds ago.

"I wonder what you are doing here Dr. Watson, so early, the sun has not even appeared" she said a little severe, Watson felt more intimidated and tried to find a quick answer. He feared to do an awkward trying.

"Ahh well is that ..." whispered the blond before finishing the sentence, trying to clear his voice a little. The doctor Judy did not stop looking at him accusingly at all the time, even she would crossed arms if it were not because her hands were busy carrying some materials healing.

"This is not your area anymore, and plus there are many other patients who should be attended by you. Oh and again you were with the Sergeant Porter, that's quite strange..." she said a little satiric and then left the healing materials on a small table near. Watson was annoyed but also felt cornered, and his pride would not allow him to give false explanations to a person like her.

"Sorry but I have to say that I was who called Dr. Watson," said Porter suddenly serious and looked at her a little inflexible. This time it was she who felt intimidated and ashamed, but Watson felt more embarrassed internally.

"Fine but..." she stammered, Watson tried to sneak out quickly from the room because in addition to the embarrassing situation he did not want to unleash controversy or some kind of unnecessary discussion in the middle of the room where the rest of the patients were still asleep, but suddenly he was stopped by Porter who took him very gently by the arm. It was not necessary a sharp movement and be insistent for Watson obey him to stay a little longer with him, besides Porter was unable to be rough with him.

"Sergeant, I must go now, I do not want to cause troubles," muttered the blond to him, a little self-conscious, feeling Porter's hand stroking his back again, the big warm hand of the sergeant who always made him feel protected. Porter also kept looking at the doctor Judy with a slight frown, as with the intention of letting her know that her presence was not too pleasant for him especially after stopping once again his good company with Dr. Watson.

"Don't worry about it John, you're my friend and I like that you're here," Porter said this time turning to see the blond doctor who still was disconcerting for the situation.

"Yes, but anyway it is better that I go out now, I must attend to my own activities," said Dr. Watson in response, finally controlling his shyness.

"Well that's right. Okay, I'll see you later doctor" muttered Porter dedicating an affable smile just for him and then the blond headed for the exit of the room without saying a word and without turning to see the doctor Judy.

"Oh then was that sergeant, I did not know you and Dr. Watson are such good friends," she sarcastically said and stepped closer to the bed of the sergeant who saw her seriously, the truth was that Porter was really upset because she had come to disrupt the peaceful moment he was having with the blond that aroused too much interest in him.

"It's more than that doctor Judy, but hey don't you think it's wrong that a sergeant and his doctor have managed to get along well from the beginning," Porter said laconically, trying to get back to lie in bed and show no interest in her.

"Well that's true ..." she pronounced with sensuous intonation in her words "but now I'm your doctor, Sergeant..." to say that she posed rashly one of her hands over the torso of Porter, although he had already buttoned his shirt again.

"You don't need to repeat it," replied the sergeant brief, hoping that somehow it will be clear to her that not that in fact it was not quite nice for him.

She could not help feeling uneasy, but continued to make an inspection of the wounds of the sergeant on her own. For Porter the process was not as pleasurable as it had been when Dr. Watson had done the same just a few minutes with his wonderful hands.

…..

A couple of hours later, when all patients had eaten breakfast, Dr. Watson was walking in the hallway while he was reviewing some reports on the status of patients who were in the settlement. Suddenly he could feel the presence of someone close to him to realize that it was Dr. Judy who looked at him with disdain, and then she approached him while imposed her sneer.

"What's wrong, Doctor Judy? Can I help you?" asked the blond doctor, surprised by her attitude, because although the feeling of contempt was mutual he always knew how to separate his work from his personal affairs, Watson would never show his jealousy or something like that before his colleagues.

"Dr. Watson, I would like to have a quick chat with you," she said abruptly and certainly arrogant.

"Speak, please, is about patients? Or maybe about any order of the senior officer?" questioned the blond seriously as he turned to be right in front of her, she was taller than him. At that time Watson realized that the color of the lips of the woman was highlighted by some lipstick. That morning Judy was wearing a coral-colored lipstick, a faint but perceptible form to the naked eye, something unusual in that camp especially because they were in command of the militia in the middle of the desert. Watson simply could not explain why she had her lips colored, but he would not question it.

"No Dr. Watson, is something more personal," she said in response.

"Well, then I fear it's not the time or the right place to chat, doctor Judy. But if you wish we could have this talk in a while in a more suitable place," said the blond concise. She certainly felt exasperated at his indifferent response and slightly frowned.

"This is very brief indeed, Dr. Watson, I do not want to take too much time," she insisted, Watson was intimidated by the attitude that the conceited doctor was taking towards him.

"Okay ...be brief, please," said Watson formal.

"Dr. Watson, it's no secret that you are gay," she said directly, tactless. Watson fretted much more, but she seemed to be hurry to finish expressing what she wanted to say.

"Is this a sign of homophobia or something? I'm not saying that I'm, but I think your comment is irrelevant and it's disrespectfully the way you're expressing" Watson managed to say, also frowning by disgust.

"It's not about moral values, Dr. Watson; frankly I do not care if you say you are not, although it has always been an open secret. Everyone guess it. You're homosexual. You have a preference for men. But that is not what is beside the point, what I mean is don't you think I have not noticed the interest you have in Sergeant Porter" she exposed conceited.

Watson felt embarrassed by what the doctor was saying at the time, but he just wanted to think it was due to damn heat always felt in this very deserted country, especially since just before noon.

"It's not your business, Judy" said Watson annoyed "and if you will to take my time telling me that kind of nonsense I ask you please do not, because I will ignore you. And if you insist I'll have to report you with authority."

"Oh of course it's my business Dr. Johnny" she uttered in a tone of righteous mockery when Watson had turned his back to leave the place "because the sergeant and I... already had sex, believe it or not. Porter and I we are lovers."

Listening to her say that, Watson could not help feeling internally petrified, even though much of his conscience told him that she was lying, it seemed even too absurd, like an immature childishness, but almost could not help hear her say him that will affect him. The blond paused for a moment and then turned to her slowly; she continued staring at him with great rigidity and crossed her arms.

"You are insane, in addition none of that is allowed here," the blond said, pursing more his expression.

"Please Doctor Johnny, do not be stupid. The sergeant Porter is a real macho; he would not have interest in another man and much less in such someone as squalid and foolish as you. I did not want to come to this, but seeing the way in which you have been trying to flirt him harassing him every chance you got, exasperated me to the point that I could not resist more to warn you to stay away from him. He's mine. Just look at the kind of woman I am with which you insist on competing. Please don't be ridiculous, you look so stupid doing that," she said with a cruel impudence and before Watson could answer, she turned to the other side and walked down the hall, then suddenly stopped and turned back to Watson for a moment "Oh by the way, I left a small sample of my love on his shirt. Surely the sergeant still should wear it on, a small sample of the fun he and I had a while ago" and after that she left, leaving Watson alone, without speak anymore. Watson knew that he should not to believe her, he knew he should not fall into the children's provocations of a damn woman like her, but somehow he almost could not help being invaded by intrigue. He felt almost petrified to imagine that everything was true.

…..

"Johnny, how good you came! I was getting bored a lot and especially missing your good company" Porter exclaimed when the blond Dr. Watson entered his bedroom shortly after 2pm. Porter was sat on a folding, old rigid chair at the time. He immediately took his crutch and hurried up to walk to Watson. If it were not for the damn plaster that always prevented him from moving more freely he would have pounced quickly toward him to take him into his arms and give a great show of his affection.

"Sergeant..." muttered the blond doctor very serious, without turning to see him too much, which greatly surprised to Porter.

"What's wrong? You're not very friendly as you were a while in the morning," said Porter and despite the seriousness of the blond he did not hold back to hug him briefly when he finally could reach him, but even so he could feel the elusive way in which Watson was acting. At that time Watson seemed unwilling to correspond to his embrace too.

"I'm sorry, I'm just concentrate with my work right now. It's been a strange day," the blond excused himself and moved away a little from Porter to put his attention on some drugs he had in his hand and had to be administered to some patients.

"That's fine, doctor, and what do I have your welcome visit then if it is not for chatting pleasantly?" He inquired Porter trying to sound sweeter to provoke him.

"Mmmh I came to check your broken bones, Sergeant Porter, I wanted to review them personally although it is not my task now I'm not assigned to this room anymore. Also a while ago I could not do it," muttered the blond a little crestfallen and told Porter to take a back seat. Again, Watson was avoiding as much as possible the look. The sergeant smiled wanly, the way the blond spoke also fascinated him, although it might not seem the same as always.

"Okay, Doctor" muttered Porter outlining a big smile on his face and sat for then raise his leg to Watson could revise it.

The doctor seemed to really focus on his work, he was more elusive and that intrigued more the sergeant, but he preferred better not question it and just enjoy the way the blond touched and inspected his broken leg.

"It seems that the fracture is healing well, though perhaps it would be better do a surgery to insert rods inside and strengthen the re solidification of the shinbone, but that I fear, will have to be when you can be back in London, Sergeant" he said the blond, still bypassing the look.

Porter could not understand why the blond was dealing with such circumspection, but dared not ask why.

"John ...is really everything all right?" Porter asked finally.

"Yes, I said that your leg is healing well," said the blond concise, looking at him just for a moment.

"No, I'm not talking about me but you, you are very rare," Porter said. Watson then rosed again the look but not to focus it on Porter's face but to look at the back of his shirt peeked behind his neck. He knew it was stupid to try to prove that what had said that annoying woman was not true, but he did not want to let doubt ant that disturbed him forever so Watson dared to raise a little the collar of Porter's shirt with his fingers and to take a quick look immediately he realized it was true that the cloth had clear traces of red lipstick. Seeing that, Watson felt dejected, especially because the fact check also hurt his pride. Watson could immediately infer that the color of the stain was the same tone that Dr. Judy was wearing strangely that morning on her lips, the damn woman was right after all and could boast about it.

But Watson did not say anything; he was a man of militia, a military doctor trained and accustomed to hide his emotions as a defense mechanism. Porter sensed immediately that something was wrong, but he could not guess why Watson had raised the collar of his shirt and why after that now he seemed even more upset.

"Well, I have to go Sergeant Porter, I'll see you later" Watson said hurried and rose from the seat immediately, then struggled to turn to see momentarily Porter to show a brief feigned smile to pretend that none of this affected him and then headed to the exit, to find a place to be alone, even if it were a damn corner where he could berate himself for being enough idiot to believe that what doctor Judy had boasted to say was a lie, because It was not. She had left a small but clear sign that Porter would accept her as a lover.

"Wait John!" Porter shouted to the blond. Awkwardly he reached his crutch and walked hurriedly as soon as he could to the exit but when managed to reach the hall he could not see Watson nearby.

…..

Shortly after 4 pm, all medical personnel was called to meet to hear the instructions of the commander of the camp was due to he had to be absence few days to be in Kabul and for to meeting with the military camp of the United States.

"Soldiers, I congratulate you once again for your great dedication to saving injuries and health that unfortunately our soldiers suffer in this inhospitable place," said the commander heading the camp medical staff that was gathered in a small room that served as office. Watson listened carefully to everything the commander told them and congratulated them, took little notice of the fact that Dr. Judy was also there and just next to it, though internally neither of them could feel comfortable being next to each other. But personal matters should be put aside while they were in fulfillment of their mission.

"I see that all patients have been having remarkable improvements" said the commander in chief to review the reports that soldiers in charge of the medical staff had just given him in the hands.

Doctor soldiers thanked him with respectful reverence.

"Doctor John Watson ..." spoke the man, giving him the look the blond who was right in front of him.

"Yes, tell me, sir," replied the blond firmly.

"Can you tell me please how the health condition of The Sergeant John Porter now is? Tell me about his improvement, it is really important," he questioned the commander, looking at Watson determinedly awaiting his response. In his hand had a table with reports that doctors just had given him about the Sergeant John Porter.

Watson internally felt uneasy about that, although it was the first time that something like that was happening to him. He knew he was nervous because of his interest he had in the sergeant, although it not was something wrong. Doctor Judy to hear the commander asking Watson those reports felt greatly jealous, but her professional ethics prevented her so impudent prove to everyone.

"Ah okay, his improvement has been progressively successful" Watson explained briefly.

"According to the report he has finally regained consciousness during my absence. So is he in good neurological condition?" He asked the commander.

"Yes, after several unconscious days he is now totally conscious again, although still quite convalescing from his physical wounds," he said Watson "his fractures actually require more sophisticated methods for full recovery but I think that what we have done for him has been good enough."

"Then I can go and talk to him," said the soldier in chief. Watson felt intimidated internally, he looked with some rigor. He knew he should control his nervousness.

"Of course. He is now fully conscious. Now his wounds are just physical, as I said, but not serious, only the fracture of his tibia and fibula is what prevents him from moving" Watson formally presented.

"Soldiers, I must speak with you," said the commander with a much more serious and authoritarian attitude, surely what was about to say was really important.

Doctors waited attentive to what the officer would say, with rectitude that they had learned to since their formation in military school.

"Sergeant John Porter is one of our most outstanding soldiers. A very important elite soldier of high special forces of the British army, as you know, and during his last mission he was involved in a highly secret alibi, hiding from a high control probably located in the same United Kingdom, that is we know that in London there is an accomplice with the extremist group that Porter has faced near the border in Iran. That's why the sergeant Porter should be sent back immediately to London, he is still in danger here and all of us also, especially now that he's badly hurt. We could be a direct target of this group of Taliban at any time, they want to kill Porter at all costs."

"Do you want me to help you in anything?" asked Dr. Watson.

"No, it will not be necessary doctor; you already have done enough to take care of him with special attention. I will who will report to Sergeant Porter about his return to London as soon as possible but it will be within a couple of days when the plane comes. Meanwhile I ask you all not comment on this. It's a secret that should be kept strictly hidden for the moment, remember that Porter is the true goal of this extremist group," said the commander. And after explaining some other points on the situation in the camp and their alliance with the US military camp, doctors they returned to their activities in order stealthy.

But thereafter, Dr. John Watson could not help feeling uneasy, he would have to be separated from Porter much earlier than he had expected. But it was the best.

…..

"Good afternoon Sergeant Porter" said the commander when he was entering the room where Porter and other patients rested to recover. Porter sat up in his bed as he could, even if he was much better still had difficulty moving freely. Porter showed a demeanor of seriousness and respect to the person who addressed him and that was the authority. Although Porter had not seen that officer before, seeing his uniform and the insignia he had on it, Porter could guess immediately that he was one of the top command managers of the camp.

"Yes sir, good afternoon. An honor to meet you," Porter said in response. The military maintained his serious stance and looked at Porter carefully.

"The honor is mine, Sergeant Porter. I want to actually offer my sincerest respects to you. You have been very tenacious and I admire know that you only managed to fight against all those men. I could not talk to you before because of your unconsciousness. After that, I have to leave this camp for a few days, but finally I can talk to you directly. "

Porter briefly smiled solemnly. He could not help lamenting the fact that Collinson and Baxter had died before his eyes.

"I appreciate your words, sir" sensible Porter said, "but I must tell you something very important. Collinson and Baxter died at the hands of the Taliban, so this cannot be called a successful mission. In addition to the end I was persecuted by the radical group" he explained. The commander had expected to hear this news of his own voice, because they had just managed to recover the remains of two men for a couple of days ago and they had sent them back with their families in England, but despite the shock of hearing him say of Porter's own voice, the commander did not flinch as any soldier.

"I'm sorry it had to end in such appalling consequences and the fact that we lost the soldier Collinson and our goal Baxter. But fortunately you are now safe in our base without serious injuries to regret" the man said "So do not worry sergeant, we have recovered the bodies of both. Now they must be coming to London with their families."

"So MI6 know what happened?" Porter asked.

"They are waiting to hear your own testimony, sergeant. Besides we cannot communicate something like that from here. That's important information that could leak out and benefit the enemy."

"Listen sir, we are in imminent danger. Zahir Sharq, the bastard is who is behind all this and his men are who have been chasing me. They want to kill me. I suspect thy guessed that my goal was to reach the border with Iran. They were not wrong. That was why just before reaching the base, which I must admit I did not know its exact location, I was attacked in an ambush by which I fell off a cliff and...then I did not know anything else. I think they believed I was dead, although due to my convalescence I could not be sure. I do not know if the damned are still looking for me. I do not know if they know I'm still alive..."

"Sergeant, you learned the secrets of Zahir Sharq ... probably that's why they want to neutralize you, they want to disappear you from the map. Baxter was totally linked to them."

"I know the secrets of that bastard Zahir Sharq and his disgusting connection with certain matters infiltrated in the United Kingdom and the United States," Porter said more quietly, in his eyes there was a lot of determination.

The commander took a slightly tougher stance and continued listening to what Porter was explaining him.

"That's why you should return to London as soon as possible sergeant. We cannot risk having you here too long, especially now that you're badly hurt and you cannot cope," said the commander "soon an airplane will come for you to take you there where you will recover from your wounds and MI6 will decide what to do then."

"Agree sir," muttered Porter considered but irresolute because he regretted the fact that sooner he would separate from the blond Dr. John Watson.

"Although I fear that it will not be until within a couple of days, Sergeant, when our plane comes back with cargo to re supply and with several new relay soldiers. Meanwhile you must stay here still, hidden from those damn extremists" explained serious commander. Porter inevitably felt excited to hear him say that, it gave him the chance to enjoy the company of Dr. Watson at least two days more.

"Yes sir."

…..

Near the 7pm the evening was at its peak point. Sundowns in the desert of Afghanistan used to be much hotter than the hottest summer in his native England, in addition to dye the sky a more vivid red.

Not be long until night would fall adorned with stars, when Dr. John Watson had finally been able to take a break after having to treat patients who have just arrived badly wounded to the military base. He had been terribly disruptive having to attend them urgently especially one who had unfortunately lost his legs to explode a bomb close. Those were the kinds of things that spoiled sleep for days and that definitely would mark his mind for posterity. But he had to endure and treat the wounded with total dedication, in his hands was saving their lives and make them feel that everything would be fine. But sometimes he really felt he could not take it anymore, Watson often wished fervently end this martyrdom and return to England away from the war zone.

"Oh finally I find you Dr. John" said Porter suddenly approaching to the doctor to see him sitting and thoughtful on a long bench in the middle of a corridor that connected the rooms of patients with clinics, it was reduced anyway space but always full of badly wounded soldiers and military doctors doing their duty.

"Sergeant John" Watson replied with a quiet voice, just turning to him. Porter noticed his restless hands linked together and immediately he felt worried about him. Besides, his bad appearance indicated that maybe just a while ago Watson had been performing his doctor functions hastily. Watson seemed really disrupted.

"Is something wrong? I heard you all were very busy just a while ago, I think there was a lot of movement around here while I must be in my room without doing anything," Porter said, lamenting again his injuries made him feel useless. The sergeant placed his crutch on one side of the bench and sat beside the blond. Watson remained immersed in his own dismay, but at the same time he was relieved to have Porter there with him to feel a little better, but he did not say.

"Yes, just a while ago we had to attend two war wounded soldiers of high rank, who came with limbs amputated due to a bomb that exploded very near them. The explosive was hidden in a car while they made a raid. One of them he suffered a... much more severe trauma and no matter how many times this kind of things happen before my eyes, I can never get used," said Watson, sidestepped and noticeably restless. Soon Watson felt one hand on Porter rest on his back to provide him some of emotional support.

"I know it is always hard no matter who is involved. I also have had to witness war and violent death caused by it before my eyes, but I've never been able to save their lives healing them, as you do Dr. Watson" muttered Porter with calm voice ant then he took the hands of Dr. Watson between his so to express that way his affection. Dr. Watson hands felt a bit rough, just a few minutes ago they yet had been stained with the blood of the serious wounds of the patients. Watson felt stupidly excited by the action of the sergeant, because he was in love with him and he always managed to make him feel safe and full of pleasant emotions but was aware that he must not fall into rapture in the midst of an austere and dramatic situation as the war.

His hands felt so good that way, warmly sheltered by the big hands of Sergeant Porter, his hands were now clean and enjoyed the feeling of that subtle emotional contact, hands that only a few minutes ago yet had been stained by the blood of traumatic wounds of a soldier and never again would be the same.

"Thank you very much for your support and your words, John" Watson said softly and looked at the sergeant with serene eyes.

"Have you already managed to control the situation, doctor? Patients can be recovered despite the tragedy that just suffered?" Porter asked worried, but looking at the blond doctor with sweetness that he could not hide.

"Yes, less than an hour ago we managed to control bleeding, heal the wounds as much as possible and they are now sedated but they really lost a lot of blood and it would be best that they be transferred as soon as possible to a real hospital," said the blond "now my colleagues continue to observe them, but I asked permission to take a short break."

"You need it John, do not beat yourself too much, you did everything you could, you gave your best effort," he said Porter calmly, and then he made Dr. Watson recline and put his head against his chest and then surround him with his arms.

"I know... but I can hardly help it, I always feel I could have done much more for them," he whispered the blond with a thin voice, almost could not resist show his dismay, and be well supported against the sergeant's strong chest. Porter comforted him greatly, and the friendliness of Porter made him feel protected but also vulnerable and fragile to his own emotions.

"But the worst is over, and soon everything will be over John" Porter said whispery and dared to kiss slightly the blond hair of the doctor just with a subtle touch of his lips, but Watson could feel perfectly and filled with emotion.

"Well, we have already asked that one of the military aircraft take them back to London with extreme urgency. In just a few hours it can get here and then they will recover in a hospital with the necessary equipment" he said Watson moving away from Porter's arms gradually, should maintain his stance serious and professional ethics in place despite how good it felt being that way with him.

"That sounds good," muttered Porter, a little ashamed because Watson again tried to maintain his seriousness.

"Yes, they will take the opportunity to also take other patients to finish recovering there. I think it's the best because also here we are almost full. It is even dramatic this situation," he said Watson seriously and then turned to see the Sergeant "I think it would be better that you also go with them back to London at once."

"Well John, the truth is ... the senior officer of this camp just told me that actually I have to get back to London as soon as possible, but he told me it would be within a couple of days," Porter said showing a little more solemn. Watson also looked at him seriously, first he had heard of the matter and knew he could not even try to show his dissatisfaction for to be away from him, because it was the best.

"I know. The commander himself told us today at noon. But now they have asked that the plane come sooner urgently, is better get back to London as soon as possible taking advantage that it have been sent for come. Here you are in much danger, also because we know the terrorists who attacked you still are seeking you. You are their main target and they will not hesitate to come for you. Also here you cannot carry out any mission and much less as you are now with all those wounds and that broken leg. In addition... just a few minutes ago the senior officer tell us that you will return as soon as possible on that plane" Watson muttered, and then dare to squeeze a little Porter's leg, the leg that was not hurt, but trying to smile a little. Porter felt internally excited to feel the hand of the blond doctor touching him that way.

"You're right, but ...actually I was excited because of the idea that I could stay here in the camp for at least two more days, just to be a little more with you," Porter said, bringing his hand gradually to the hand of the blond doctor who still clutched his leg a little. Watson smiled briefly shy.

"John, surely with this the senior officer will give you at any time the order to return as soon as possible to London. We have informed him that your improvement has been gradual and you had not been unconscious since some days ago, but as yet were convalescing and there was no hurry to send you he had not given the order you go back before but now with these unfortunate events that happened with these wounded who really need urgent help it has decided that it is an opportunity to take advantage of the plane to return" Watson said "in fact, I hesitated to tell you because I thought maybe the commander or doctor Judy should inform you first."

"I know this sounds stupid but...I would not want to return to London...without you, John," said Porter and took back gently Watson's hand between his as he stared at him to make him understand that he wanted to be at his side. Watson almost blushed, he was carried away by wonderful feeling of the hand of Porter again taking his, but soon remembered what Judy had said that Porter was her lover.

"And that...why?" Watson asked dryly, fearful, but dying of emotion internally. There was a huge duality in his feelings.

"Because I enjoy your company John, because I want to have placid experiences of peace to your side ...in London for the first time," he said whispery Porter, almost felt the urge to take the hand of Watson and raise it up to his face to kiss his fingers.

"I'm sorry, sergeant, but here there is no peace, there is a bloody war and I have been sent here to do a job. My mission here is to serve as a doctor, your mission here has been completed and you cannot commandant for yourself. Nor I can decide what I please. Your duty now it is to return to London, use the trip on the plane and recover completely there. Maybe later, sometime we can meet again" said the blond but dodging away, eluding a little the rough hands of the sergeant that were trying to contact with his.

At that time suddenly Watson felt the hands of Porter take his face and bring it to his, Watson felt his breath close to his, his blue eyes looking at him with seduction, subtle touch of his lips with the corner of his in a tender caress.

"Dr. John Watson" whispered Porter, barely touching his lips to the astonished physician who expected to happen once and that both had been craving since his relationship with the sergeant had become closer and closer, Watson was waiting for happened once, he was hoping the tremulous but burning lips of both join in a kiss, and he was enjoying the moment that seemed so eternal and ephemeral at the same time. But nothing happened suddenly, someone shouted a sudden desperate emergency call and Porter and Watson had to interrupt the moment.

"Quickly, soldiers! We have new wounded!" He shouted the voice of the commander in chief of the medical service, and Watson had hurried up quickly and ran down the hall to attend the call, leaving Porter anxious and frustrated, sat on the long bench. He even wanted to could do nothing but wait as a useless injured soldier sitting there with the bloody and heavy plaster placed around his broken leg. And suddenly the wounds and bruises suffered in his body came back to hurt like hell, he should take a strong painkiller for pain, the damn cold night in the desert always provoked it.

…..

Dr. Watson had to again face the difficult task of suture the enormous wounds had that been caused by explosives of war. Again, his hands were covered with the patients' blood gushing in spurts of seriously wounded skin that would never be the same. But the patients still had the fortune to be alive, but there was always the risk that their body will not resist and heavy blood loss will cause a shock result until death. Watson could not allow it, he would alienate the death of that place at any cost, he should heal them with the help of his colleagues to continue living.

With the help of other doctors service partners to help the war wounded, Watson managed to apply a convenient tourniquet to the patients to prevent bleeding continue to bleed them to death. But the material to cure completely in this inhospitable place was insufficient, they really needed to be immediately transferred to a real hospital since failure to do so would risk their wounds became infected and they became even necrosis. It was very bad to realize that the camp had had to receive several injured in this way in only one day. But the plane sent from London would arrive soon, they just wanted it did not delayed too much.

The patients were now sedated and out of immediate danger, Watson and his colleagues still felt the impact of caring for the wounded, as he had said could never get used to it and being in the desert in a war zone only disturbed them more . Watson finally sat for a moment, unbeknownst Porter had been in the hallway trying to investigate what happened inside the room that served as a sort of makeshift operating room. Porter had been there, he watch what he could find out if that were not enough because the view is obstructed behind curtains and because he could not interfere, he felt useless for being unable to help, the damn plaster will not even allowed to move freely, but he was worried about Watson at all times, rather than for the rest of the soldiers, he had to admit, because Dr. Watson aroused a growing interest in him in all respects, he had discovered. For Porter, Dr. Watson eclipsed everything else.

And while Watson finally rested a bit after the stressful time, he mused about what was going on. He tried to think more about the consternation caused by the injuries that in only one day he had to attend to, but inevitably his mind always was overshadowed by their own concerns. He tried to think about the impact of those horrible bloody wounds, he tried to concentrate on the plane would take to London back several soldiers who had survived the terror, but just could not concentrate because he always returned to his mind the fact that the same plane would take back to Porter included and especially he could not help but remember the annoying woman taunting him because of his homosexual interest in the sergeant.

"John ... you were very heroic, I really admire you more than I already did before," Porter said suddenly approaching the blond who to listen him to talk to him looked up to see him and smiled but without much encouragement, remained concerned and elusive by the situation, and remembering that damn woman had an interest in Porter.

"Thank you sergeant" Watson said certainly laconic, Porter sat beside him, left the crutch to the side of the bench and tried to be as close as possible to the doctor.

"I am glad that at least they are out of danger, although it is terrible that they have had to suffer such injuries," muttered Porter wisely, he could see that Watson was not in optimal mental state and could understand, he was always the doctor that tended the wounded. But Porter wanted to encourage him, approach him, make him feel the confidence to share his concerns, but he knew well he should have enough tact to do, but inside he really was dying of desire to start to woo him as already had planned for days. However, things with John Watson just seemed always difficult. This was the first time that Porter was with such difficulty wooing someone he liked, although he liked Watson in an odd way he simply could not explain. Watson always put a barrier between them, but Porter could not blame him, they were in a bloody war in the desert, in a camp where they could never be alone.

"Yes, soon the plane will arrive and they will improve in a real hospital. In a few hour everything will be much better for them. They will recover soon from their physical injuries, but I hope that the psychological wounds will not take too long," he said Watson tremulous, worried, taking some air to give a little sigh. He was not looking to Porter, it almost seemed he did not want to talk to him, but it was not that he didn't want to do but he had too many things on my mind. He just didn't know how he should feel about all this. Porter meanwhile also beginning to get used to his elusive attitude, but that did not detract in any way his interested in him.

"But they are lucky to be alive despite everything, and they're lucky thanks to you Dr. Watson" muttered Porter smiling affable, trying to cheer him up a bit. Watson almost looked pale at the moment.

"Thanks John, you're always so kind to me," Watson smiled for a moment "well, sergeant, sorry but it is almost bedtime and I'm really tired. Also I get some rest to be alert to this situation, the plane is going to arrive very early in the morning" Watson said apologetically.

"John...wait...I have to tell you something," muttered the sergeant a bit shy, Watson could always provoke that attitude in him. Porter stopped taking his hand, Watson felt nervous about it and stopped to hear him speak.

"What is it about?" he asked the blond quietly as Porter got up from the seat and stared at him sweetly. Porter moved a little closer to him, he would finally the right time to express directly that he had much interest in it, an emotional and sexual interest. Porter was determined, and he had to say him that before returning to London. Watson already guessed, but still was refused, the bloody evidence that Dr. Judy had left caused rejection of his own feelings, because if the Sergeant Porter really had an affair with her, it would be a mockery of his attempt to woo him. Watson was not about to let that would happen.

"John I think you are..." whispered hesitantly Porter, he could not remember when was the last time he had hesitated to express what he felt, perhaps that dated back to his teens.

"Please soldier, it's time to retire to their rooms. We are in the midst of a very dangerous situation and we must rise early," he said suddenly an authoritative voice, interrupting again the climax between the two men who were in love with each other.

"Yes sir" he said Porter obeying the request. Watson felt uneasy and nervous, hoping that nothing were misunderstood.

"I'll see you in the morning, sergeant before you and the others depart on the plane. Good night," said Watson serious and then headed down the narrow hallway to get to his bedroom.

"Sleep well, doctor," Porter said. Watson still managed to hear him.

"Sergeant Porter, please listen to me. The plane is going to arrive in about three hours but it will start back at 4 or 5 am. You must sleep now to be alert when we give the indication from" the official said and Porter nodded. Then the officer retired without further and Porter had to go back into the bedroom. Dr. Judy arrived at that time to assist him for the last time, and to take advantage of course the last moment that could have to be near him before he returned to London.

"Good evening, sergeant" she said with almost brazen flirtation and then she dared to caress a bit over the chest of Porter that was covered by his buttoned shirt.

"Good evening Dr. Judy" Porter greeted without much effort "I guess you already know that along with other soldiers I will depart very early," said the sergeant serious but looking at her a bit frowned.

"Yes, I know... it's a pity sergeant really, but...we still have enough time to have a fun time," she said with breathy and provocative voice. The doctor sat down beside him, at the edge of the bed while from her cleavage, which had exposed to unbutton slightly just a few seconds ago, she pulled a pair of condoms to show to Porter them disdainfully while licked her lips. Porter felt sickened by so bold and reckless attitude of the doctor and immediately rejected her. Although it was the first time he rejected such a sexual suggestion of a female. He always ended up sleeping with any attractive woman that insinuated him that way, especially with those who dared to take the initiative so reckless. But now everything was different, his interest was fixed totally in the blond Dr. Watson.

"Please keep that doctor, or I'll call the officer to suspend you for immorality and sexual harassment with a patient and superior in command. Remember I'm the first sergeant of elite of high British Special Forces, John Porter, and I will not to allow you to continue having that behavior with me just because I attract you sexually. Things do not work that way with me," said Porter rigid and frowning to show his dissatisfaction.

The doctor Judy felt really surprised by the reproach of the Sergeant Porter, and she felt frustrated because her feminine charms and seduction bold attempt had not worked with a man so strong and manly as the sergeant Porter who she liked too. She just could not believe he was rejecting her that way. Completely filled with shame, she got up back and stood to quickly buttoning her blouse and put condoms inside her pocket.

"I do not understand Sergeant, you have a terrible reputation as a womanizer, do not believe that is something that anyone does not know," she said, noticeably upset.

"It could be that simply I don't like you in the least, I just have no interest in you, and even I should do that your attitude bothers me because of your insistently" Porter said in response, strict in his eyes.

"Oh does that mean that now a faggot like Dr. John Hamish Watson may have more chance with you than me, a real woman?" she satiric said, mockingly.

Porter laughed scathingly but with sufficient caution to not be so loud.

"Haha, is not your business doctor. I do not want to be rude, just want to keep ethical and moral orders that everyone must follow, especially in a military center like this. Is it perhaps priority for you have some of sex with a soldier rather than see the situation precarious in which we all find ourselves? Have you even realized the current dramatic situation? Do you even care a little about it? Do not be selfish, your attitude is not right for a real soldier. Well, there is no more to discuss in this matter. I ask you please do not try to infer my business or affairs of the respectable Dr. John Watson who himself comes truly into his work. And please, let me sleep, I must wake up very early to go back to London, for the safety of the camp and throughout the United Kingdom."

"Goodnight Sergeant" she snapped irritated and left the place totally angry.

Porter decided not to pay more attention to the rudeness of that selfish frivolous woman and lay back on the cot that had served as a bed for the last days. The cold night in the desert was being austere as usual and Porter tried to shelter well with the threadbare blankets. Soon the plane would arrive, and then he could see John Watson again but at least tonight might have in his mind the fact that the blond doctor was still not far from it, in a nearby room, sleeping after a cruel day.

Before falling asleep, Porter wondered if Watson would also be thinking of him as he did, or if he was remembering the same way the moment they had been in the vicinity of a kiss. At least tonight Watson could be present in his dreams.

…..

At about 1 am, the transport plane/tanker multi A330 MRTT with configuration of 130 with stretchers and seating for 50 passengers arrived at the field that served as runway for landing the British camp. By that time only the night watching soldiers received the aircraft, which also came equipped with sufficient medical supplies and cargo as well as some weapons and other necessities. Inside the plane they came allocated several soldiers came from the UK who would relay the fallen soldiers and the wounded.

They had to hurry to download everything and to move with care to the most seriously injured inside the plane that was also internally equipped to do blood transfusions and connected to respirators. Dr. John Watson and his fellow medical team were awakened shortly before 3 am to begin the transfer of the wounded. Sergeant Porter and the other patients that would be transferred were awakened at 3:30. The plane was to leave at 4 am o'clock.

"Sergeant, please let me help you" said Dr. Watson suddenly when Porter struggled to walk on his own down the hall with the help of crutches. Porter smiled; he was extremely happy to hear the sweet voice of the blond doctor from early in the morning and was very happy also because Watson always had the full readiness to help.

"Thank you so much, doctor John" said Porter and allowed the blond help him. Porter smiled even more, he was very happy to see him, leaned a little on the shoulder of Dr. Watson, his short stature always fascinated him and at the same time admired his peaceful but determined face. Watson was not a soldier like him, strongly portly, Dr. Watson was certainly small and delicate. That morning Watson was not wearing his white coat, he wore his military medical uniform with a clear distinctive insignia of the Red Cross on the side of his sleeve. Despite his passivity, Watson was always willing to help and serve.

While Porter supported on Watson's shoulder, he couldn't resist to gently caressing a little over his waist. Watson felt blush, but that should not stop him. In addition, the time was too short, they had to hurry, and the plane could not wait any longer. The time together was running out but there was no turning back.

Amid the movement that all other soldiers were also made, Porter could reach the access of the aircraft with the help of Dr. Watson. They were together before the dismissal, but again they had been unable to be alone.

"Well Sergeant, it's time to leave. I wish you all have a good trip," muttered Dr. Watson watching the wounded sergeant with determination that hid his real anxiety, and his effusive desire to hug him, to tell him that in just a few days the sergeant Porter had become someone very special to him and he wish he could go with him to London. But he could not express his emotions that way, much less could do it in front of all the soldiers who rushed to do their duty.

Porter stared at him, he felt he must also avoid to show his effusive affection for the blond, was neither the time nor the right place to do even though but he was almost tempted to send everything to hell and take him in his still lacerated arms just in that place under the right wing of the aircraft, but he would not yield to his impulses by a mere product of his desire because he would not do anything to harm Watson. A soldier should always know maintain proper composure.

However, Porter did not contain to give him a farewell hug though his ribs still ached like a thousand knives stabbing.

Porter stared at the blond for a few seconds more, still outside was almost unbearable cold, lack of moisture in the desert always caused a climate such a contrast like that, and then he approached Watson and finally took him in his arms effusively.

"We shall meet soon, Dr. John, I promise" Porter said softly, whispering close to his ear. Watson was moved, the whispering voice of Porter always made him feel calm, being hugged by his strong arms made him feel protected, even if that only was momentarily. At that time two of the high command officers in charge of the mission to return to London had given the indication to everyone that the plane finally would take off in just a couple of minutes. John Porter and John Watson stopped to hug and looked back into each other's eyes for a moment, dedicating a mutual smile. Porter then held out a folded sheet of graph paper for Watson to take it. The irresolute blond took in his hand, the paper fluttered slightly due to wind generated by the engine of the plane that was about to takeoff.

"What is this?" Watson asked, looking up at the sergeant.

Porter smiled sweetly.

"It is my address in London, my number is also included. Please, if for some reason you come to London before I can learn, find me," Porter said smiling, he did not resist stroking a little the cheek of the blond with the back of his hand. Watson felt more excited.

"I will, do not worry" muttered the blond a little shy and kept the paper folded in his pocket.

"Anyway I promise I will return here as soon as possible to fight those damn bastards and then I will see you again," Porter said softly.

"Sergeant Porter please go up as soon as possible in, the plane is waiting. You're the last one. We are just waiting for you" said one of the officers a little strict.

"Come on John, and get better soon in London," said Watson.

"Take care John and please continue being as brave as you already are, never give up" said Porter and then climbed up inside the aircraft. The doors closed. The plane took off in some few minutes and Watson continued watching the flight until it disappeared into the clouds of the still night sky. He wouldn't see Porter in a while, but had to keep his own way.

FLASHBACK OFF

…..

London, present.

221B Baker Street

The Sun had finished out, but Dr. John Watson felt more tired than usual. He had spent his first night at 221B Baker Street. The previous night had had many new emotions. It had been exciting, new, but tiring. And in his dreams memories for his dead lover, the tenacious Sergeant John Porter had done peacefully revive much of what they had lived together in the desert Afghanistan and the busy streets of London.

"Good morning John" Sherlock suddenly greeted, opening the door of the doctor's room boldly. Sherlock stood under the door frame while the settled a little the sleeves of his long trench coat while also looked how John Watson opened his eyes slowly, trying to quickly wake up completely. John immediately noticed the presence of Sherlock calling him from the door frame. Then he remembered he was in a new home, trying to have a new life. But Sherlock still looked a moron for him.

"Good morning..." the blond whispered a bit annoying, still rubbing his eyes. Watson suddenly felt how the morning light coming through the window hurt him. Sherlock had entered completely and had traveled the curtains that uncovered the buildings that were right in front of the house.

"Let's, John, it's time to go to breakfast. After that we will go to a building that has a cultural exhibition. It has been unleashed several strange things there, just this morning Lestrade gave me notice of it, although I already had noticed that since some few days before" Sherlock expressed. John Watson thought that besides the cretin always spoke quite rushed, or probably was that he should get used to the effusive emotion that kind of things always caused in Sherlock, get in hands on a strange case to resolve.

"Hey, but why the hell dare you come into my room like that? It's not polite of you. We're just roommates" strict Watson said when he had just managed to get out of bed. Sherlock looked at him funny and ironic.

"I'm sorry John, the emotion. Besides I cannot always find as good a partner as you. Yesterday you show me that your tenacity can be very useful to accompany me to resolve these cases. I know how much you enjoy being in exciting situations, even if you deny. No matter, that's understandable; a man trained for war should always be instructed to learn not to show too much his emotion. Anyway, the bath is ready for you to take a shower. In the meantime I'll be waiting in the living room, reviewing some things online. Surely, for this time they have already been unleashed new tracks" Sherlock said excited, but not looking at the blond who finished get up and kept yawning too.

"Okay, you win" the blond muttered after another yawn. Sherlock smiled sharply.

"Oh by the way, do not you try to hide it, John. I know you have a gun in the drawer. Could you even bring it to this mission, it could even be useful" said Sherlock and settled a little his blue scarf.

Watson again was appalled and disturbed by the judicious inference of Sherlock; very arrogant as always hit the mark.

"Have you been snooping in my stuff?" John asked a bit annoying.

"I didn't, I just realized since last night, it is easy to deduce that what you brought in your pocket had the weight and the exact shape of a gun of that caliber," said Sherlock and then without more word he left the room "I will wait for you then John, you have half an hour," said Sherlock and soon John Watson was under the shower.

…..

Note: Oh finally I updated! xD sorry but I have had many other fics to write, as well some personal issues, college stuff and doing Richartin drawings that always require much of my time :v

Anyway I hope you enjoyed this chapter even a little ;) I apologize if I made mistakes, English is not my first language, I always try my best ;w;

This chapter was devilishly long XD is about the size of two normal chapters together, so I was considering a little split it in half but eventually I left it like this because things were better as I left at the end :v

The romance could not be consummated too much in this story yet, there is still tension in the plot but it is a matter of time to show some of the great passionate attraction to Porter and Watson feel for each other in the flashback :3

Thank you very much for all your kudos, comments and other signs of support owo

I hope to update much sooner this fic ;3