FF_5/18/2009
Disclaimer: I don't own Flashpoint.
Sam finally took a long breath of relief back at HQ in the lockers with no one around. Today had scared the crap out of him. When he closed his eyes, he saw it again: the shotgun pressed to Jules' body; the terror on the young girl's face; everything hanging on Jules' words. And they'd been the right words; thank God they were the right words.
Sam leaned his forehead against his closed locker and fought back the sick feeling in his stomach. Everyone was ok. And he hadn't had to… to end that fragile, strong, naïve, yet no-longer innocent young girl. He took another deep breath. His heart hurt for what had happened to her. He was glad Gerald Duglin had ended his own life. The rage he felt at what Duglin had done to those two girls… Sam pushed those thoughts away when he realized he was clenching his fists so tight they hurt.
A small smile came to his face when he thought about Jules leaning in to him, depending on him to keep her safe while she spoke with Penny. He didn't remember the Sarge ever getting that close. His smile faded as he remembered the fear he felt when she stepped from behind him. And yet… he'd never doubted her. Somewhere inside, he'd known Jules would do it. Behind the fear for her safety was an unwavering confidence in her ability, her empathy, and her heart. Jules' heart was so big.
"Sam?" it was Jules' voice that shook him from his thoughts. "What, you're not changed yet?"
Sam looked down at his uniform as if surprised to see he still wore it. "I…" his voice faded as he realized he didn't have a good explanation.
"Come on, it's drinks on me," Jules smiled brightly. "Too good an offer to pass up, right?"
"Right," Sam replied firmly. "I'll catch up." He couldn't help but watch her as she left the lockers, an obvious bounce in her steps. He smiled and began to change.
