**Im not making any money off of this. JE owns them all!

**Thank you to Xylia for kicking my butt into gear to finish this! Luv ya girl!

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Chapter 31

Rangers POV

Its been a little over a month since I sent the teams out into the unknown. Along with a few of my colleagues Ive been keeping an eye on them. Both teams have been able to reach their markers on time so far. Stephanie is a natural leader and has her team eating out of the palm of her hand.

We were about to intervene and brief them before they began their final phase of training.

The soldiers were currently camping for the night. I wasnt supposed to be at the camp until morning, but I couldnt help wanting to see Stephanie before the others. I havent been able to think of anything but our make out session a month before. I was hoping it would take care of any cravings I might have, but her touch, her kiss, even her smell made me want more. My body demanded her presence.

I walked in the shadows near their camp and only could make out one figure leaning up against a tree.

My babe. Her eyes were closed as her head leaned back against the tree. Her long legs were stretched out in front of her and hands resting at the side.

I approached her quietly, and as I was about to sit down next to her, a gun was pressed to my side. I jumped back in surprise.

Fuck. Ive never been so UN aware of my surroundings.

Gotta be more aware of your surroundings Babe.

I chuckled. You nearly gave me a heart attack babe. How did you know it was me?

She gave me a soft laugh. Give me more credit than that Ranger. I could sense you were close about fifteen minutes ago when you stopped by the clearing beyond the trees.

I guess I shouldnt be so surprised. She always seemed to know when I was near.

She put her gun down beside her and looked over at me. Whats with the late night appearance?

Final phase begins in the morning, Im here to brief you on what to do.

Youre kind of early arent you? Why would you come tonight? You could have slept in a bed tonight instead of the ground.

She looked bewildered.

I smiled. But my bed doesnt have you Babe.

I could see the blush forming on her face, even in the darkness.

Im willing to bet your bed smells a whole lot better than me. I havent showered in a month!

It was my turn to laugh. Ive smelled worse, dont worry about it. I leaned down and kissed her hair.

Anyone not going on to the next phase? she asked, face serious.

Im really not supposed to give that information, but I doubt Stephanie will blab it to anyone.

Were having serious thoughts about letting Thompson go. Shes been holding back the group. Her piss poor attitude is making it hard for the group to work with her. Its hard to trust someone to watch your back when theyre bitching the whole time.

She nodded her head in agreement. Im just glad shes not in our group. She might not be alive right now if I had to listen to her shit.

She shivered involuntarily. Are you cold babe?

Just a little chilly, no big deal.

I put my arm around her. Better? I asked.

Much. She answered.

I couldnt resist and I leaned closer and brushed a soft kiss to her lips. She hesitated at first but deepened this kiss. My hands found their way under her shirt and I felt her toned stomach. Her hands came around my neck and she ran her fingers through my hair.

Suddenly she pulled away. Ranger, we cant do this. My men could wake up at any moment.

As much as I hated to admit it, she was right. This was neither the time nor the place.

Rest your head on my shoulder babe. Ill wake you up in a few hours. Dont worry about the guys, if they wake up Ill get leave.

She seemed too tired to argue. She leaned up against me as I put my arm back around her shoulders.

Her breathing evened out and she was asleep within minutes. Some things never change; she can sleep anytime, anywhere.

I kept alert, but just enjoyed being close to my babe. Id have to go another month without being close to her like this.

in the camp.

That stupid bitch thinks I dont see whats going on. She ruined my life, now Im going to ruin hers. Its just a matter of time before I get my chance to do so. Shes snuggling up to that prick Manoso. It will be a plus to see him suffer after I kill her.

Review please!

**Note to Readers-- I'll be posting the remainder of this story on my yahoo group "RangeWoman Enterprise" before I post it here. It's a reward for a challange the ladies in the group took part in. If you'd like to read the last few chapters sooner, check out RangeWomanEnterprises.

.com/group/RangeWomanEnterprises/

-Liz-