Finishing my coffee that I dragged down with me earlier when heading toward the stairs for RED's Intel room, I leaned back into my chair carelessly. The first thing I did this morning was get dressed and look over the enemy's Intel from a couple days ago. Since I was kidnapped, the duty of scrutinizing BLU's briefcases was delayed. However, I have returned for some time now, so perhaps RED can get back on track with deriving important information from the enemy team.

I was planning on visiting Spy in the infirmary today but now I feel that I should let him rest. He most likely needs it and I'd hate to be a burden. Nobody wants a sick puppy following them around all the time, now do they? Besides, I have other things I could occupy myself with. Since I've completed my one and only responsibility for the time being, I might just catch up on my reading now.

The chair creaked as I got up from my seat with my empty mug in hand, patiently climbing the steps that leads to RED's courtyard. I found myself musing over some things as I went. The things that have been bothering me as of recent.

I truly hate to admit that I'm quite groggy this morning since I could barely sleep last night. For some reason, this new feeling I have encountered is harder to expel from my mind than any other before. It's consuming. The academy and my previous job taught me well to keep true intentions to myself, emotions included. The training I received was strict and somewhat forceful. Following their directions has never been a challenge until now. Confound my riley female hormones…

A stiff, large object knocked me backwards as I dazedly lingered towards the kitchen. I landed on my buttocks, dropping the coffee cup in the process. Impacting against the hardwood floor outside of the infirmary, the mug shattered into fragments. I grumbled in dismay, soon realizing I had unconsciously ran into our Soldier as I turned the corner. My stature straightened instantly, briskly picking myself up from the dusty ground so not to appear feeble. It is better to save one's self-respect than pout or whine from losing a simple glass cup. Also, I did not want to listen to Soldier rant and rave over my attention span and how I'm a Spy and can't bother to focus on what's in front of me because I'm too busy plotting against others; so on and so forth with his ridiculous stereotyping. Then again, we Spies are quite the deviants.

The belligerent man before me simply flinched from our impact, fixing the helmet on his head, agitated, as I rose to my feet. "And just what on God's green Earth are you doing? DO YOU RITUALLY RUN INTO PEOPLE OR ARE YOU JUST DUMB, DEAF AND BLIND?" His tone went from a low growl to an ear busting bark. I should have seen this one coming. I may not see my teammates often but I know how they tick in general. And in Soldier's case… He may just be the most predictable of them all.

"Vhat iz going on out here?" Medic frowned in annoyance as he hurriedly paced out of the medical bay. He probably stopped everything he was doing just to see what all the shouting was about. I actually felt my eye twitch. This only adds to my own irritation being that this useless scolding is only becoming more of a bother since Medic just had to get involved. The older man adjusted his glasses and folded his arms, waiting for an explanation.

I restrained myself from speaking out. Mainly because I knew the second I tried to explain myself Soldier would interrupt me, call me a 'commie', or something along those lines, and then throw more simple-minded insults at me. As I predicted, Soldier stood stiffly before Medic, obviously ready to 'report'. "FRENCH FRY HERE CAN'T WATCH WHERE SHE'S GOING." This made me drop my collective demeanor for a second. French fries are not from France, imbecile.

Medic stayed silentfor a moment, looking quite skeptical. "…Und?" He circled his hand in a winding motion as if to tell Soldier to continue.

"And what?" Soldier lowered his tone, his loosened posture hinting that he could be thinking about his rash behavior. In a stubborn, subtle manner though. I doubt he will ever realize that his awful temper gets the best of him.

"Iz zhat all zhere iz? I vas haff expecting to see you screaming at Scout since he's zhe most suitable candidate for zhis kind of treatment." Medic was pretty forward with that statement, though it is true. I heard Soldier grind his teeth after that. Doing such a thing is a sign of vexation or torment. Seeing Soldier struggling with justifying his obvious wrong is… strangely entertaining.

"I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR TALK, HERR DOCTOR. THERE IS A WAR TO BE WON!" Soldier blurted out rather randomly, redness decorating his face from under his helmet. He abruptly saluted afterwards, marching off towards who knows where. I simply stared after him with restrained amusement. By his body language I could tell he was upset and uncomfortable as he stormed off towards our chambers. Yes, he has actually noticed his wrong. Though I didn't show it, a small part of me was glad to see the unstable gentleman lose in his own battle.

Medic pinched the bridge of his nose, his fingers pushing his glasses up; sighing after Soldier left our field of vision. "I am sure you are not used to Soldier's outbursts (being zhat you are usually hiding avay). He usually takes his insanity out on Scout, Demoman or I. Bitte, do not ask as to vhy." I noticed Medic's subtle murmur in between his clear statements as he spoke.

I snorted with a smirk as a response, folding my arms with a cursory shrug. "Eet's nothing new, Monsieur. I 'ave dealt with more troubling issues after all." I was about to make a cocky remark about Medic's subliminal mentioning but decided to ignore it. But only because it's true. I always keep to myself and only talk to Spy, really. I sighed and then relaxed, remembering the broken mug I fumbled with earlier. Medic noticed its presence though and reached for it for it first before I could. He leaned down to gather up the shards, strangely engrossed with scrutinizing the fragments. I raised a curious brow at him as he retrogressed back into a standing position. "May I ask as to why 'ou are inspecting zhat?"

The slightly agitated glare that was plastered onto Medic's countenance contorted into one of mild astonishment. "Oh je…" Medic whispered. He then glanced over at me like I was plagued with the Black Death. "I do hope you underztand zhat zhis iz Herr Sniper's cup."

I paused in disbelief and shock. Sniper's mug? Oh… merde. I had been too drowsy to realize what I was grabbing out of the cupboard this morning so I must have been drinking out of the convict's grail… Everyone here knows that he treasures that cup. Even me. It's all you see him lugging around when he's not fighting… and I busted it. Medic carefully placed the shards into my leather gloved hands like it was a motion sensitive bomb. It was then I saw the bits and pieces of what used to read on the mug. '#1 Sniper'

At a loss for words, I suppose, the man of science silently nodded at me with concern, turning on his heels towards the medical bay's entrance. The hairs on the back of my neck rose from, what I'm guessing, foreboding. How will Sniper react? He isn't known to be the aggressive type but that particular dish was important to him. For all I know it might be one of his most prized possessions. I know I would be outraged if someone broke something precious of mine. The most important part is how am I going to go about this? Walk right into Sniper's nest and tell him I destroyed his coffee cup along with drinking out of it beforehand? Non! That's out of the question.

I found myself wandering towards Sniper's roost, a small shack he built out of wood on the battlements. I can't just hide this from him. I would if I could, but eventually the bushman would find out anyways. Making enemies with teammates is not something to encourage. I froze outside the open doorway that leads inside the hideout, closing my clothed palms around the shards in my hands. I took a reassuring breath and rapped my foot gently against the wall. He should be able to hear it since this shabby shack isn't at all a large structure.

The sound of shuffling, a grunt and then the noise of boots against hardwood was heard on the other side of the wall. He's approaching me. I'll play the cool card. That's what I'll do. I changed my demeanor so suddenly that I managed to get into character before the sharpshooter managed to get a glimpse of me. After realizing that Iwas the one at his doorway, Sniper gave me a curious leer, leaning against the frame whilst folding his arms. "Can I help ya, sheila?"

I slightly clenched my hands together, ensuring nothing would fall out of my grasp. I smiled amicably at Sniper, trying to make it out to seem like I'm just clasping my hands in front of me to appear professional. "May I come in?" I made sure to add a 'convincing', feminine tone to my voice. I'm sure this doesn't work on some men but I do enjoy throwing it out there if there's a chance of getting my way. Their reactions are also entertaining.

Sniper's mouth twitched and his posture loosened, but nothing else. A signal that he will submit to my duplicity, perhaps? Standing away from the wooden frame, the convict took an inviting step back for me. "'Can't see why not." He surrendered with an unsure smile.

"Merci." I gave a grateful nod and stepped into his creaky shed. The strong scent of stale urine and gunpowder hit me hard as I stepped into the nest. I did my best not to gag or complain but, dear lord… This is just repulsive. Does any Sniper who applies for this war understand the meaning of the word 'cleanliness'?

"So Spoiress," Sniper casually tucked his hand away into his pocket and gave me an inquisitive stare. "Yer usually not one ta hang around me or any of the other blokes. Wot's on yer moind?" I noticed him glimpse at my hands. It was then I knew I had to quit stalling and get to the point. Also, why is everyone pointing out I am so distant today? They don't seem disappointed or angry about it, but do they really want a Spy hanging around them- I'm a female. I almost forgot. Of course they wouldn't mind my company.

I glanced down at my feet, thinking about the outcome and how it will affect me depending on my performance right now. There really is no right way to tell him I broke his cup. Sniper still waited for my answer, now looking suspicious from my hesitance. "Monsieur Sniper." I began softly, taking a couple steps towards him. I raised my arms forward at the tall bushman as he leaned forward to get a better look at what I was displaying. Slowly, I split open my hands to reveal the white and red shattered fragments that used to be the marksman's cup. "Pardon me…" I wistfully apologized with more sincerity in my tone than I'm used to.

I saw something spark behind those yellow tinted shades the Sniper always wears. I couldn't tell what it was but it was only there faintly for he slowly changed his demeanor to a blank, unreadable one. He cupped his hands below mine so I dropped the tiny pieces of glass into his palms. He glared at what resided in his grasp, his expression softening with a melancholy sigh after a couple seconds of standing in dead silence.

"I didn't know eet was yours when I went to get coffee zhis morning. When I finished I went to return eet to zhe sink. Zhat iz, until I ran into Soldier and-"

"Ya don't have to lie, sheila." Sniper's sorrowful attitude subtly withered. He gave me a half-hearted smirk as he walked over towards a piss-jar covered table, placing the fragments onto the unoccupied section of the surface. "I know yer just tryin' ta keep that rocket hoppin' simpleton outta trouble."

At this point I was taken aback by the rugged man's assumptions. He thinks I am trying to be modest? I would leave it at that but… What if Soldier finds out? I don't really want to imagine that scenario. Trying to collect myself and seem calm and innocent, I took a couple steps away from Sniper and lit up a cigarette, looking away from him and instead gazed outside his supposed sniping window. "I'm afraid not…"

I was wary at this point, struggling to keep my attention on the scenery outdoors but felt a sudden looming gloom drape over me. Shuffling from across the room turned into the loud clomping of footwear. It was heading straight towards me. I inhaled my drag carelessly, trying to appear cool even though I felt intimidated by the change in atmosphere. A low, gruff voice emitted only a couple feet away from me, sounding much closer than it actually was. "You mean ta tell me you smashed me mug?"

"… Regretfully, oui." I whispered audibly enough for him to hear. Now what will he do? He has a bad history with Spies, right? Does that mean he'll tear me apart with his kukri? Was that how the last Red Spy died? More anxious than anything else, I briskly glanced over at Sniper.

I was expecting a rifle to be aimed at my forehead when I peered over at the convict. But no. His jaw clenched, eyes fixated on me in a sort of hypnotized state. Not even I could read his features. Either he's an emotionless husk or he's better at hiding his exterior feelings more so than I. After staring back at him for so long our eyes finally locked, both of us remaining silent the whole time. Sniper, after a few moments of surveying me, stepped closer to the point where he was merely inches away. More wary now from the lack of space between us, I started to slightly bristle, deeply inhaling my nicotine stick, trying to soothe myself from going on the defensive. "I think it's best ya leave now, Spoiress." Sniper gruffly advised me with a monotonous tone. I could see his blank expression even from under the shade of his akubra and behind the barrier of his glasses. He is obviously hurt and perhaps, fuming. "I can forgive ya, but I need me time alone…."

At least my hypothesis is correct. Sniper truly held that cup dear, for whatever reason. For a minute there I thought he was going to aggress me, however I composed myself and peered up at the bushman apologetically. "My apologies. I'll leave 'ou be zhen." I then treaded for the door, Sniper still standing where he was but now gazing out the window. "Au revoir, cher…" My mouth twisted from guilt. Had I really affected the Sniper that much just by breaking something that small of value?

Returning to the hallway, I decided to check up on Spy. I know I told myself I'd leave him be today but I certainly do need something positive around me after this morning's troubling events. Selfish, selfish, selfish, I know. But, surely he must feel lonely after spending so long in the infirmary, right? After peeking inside the medical bay I realized with a visible frown that it was completely empty. Every cot residing in here has no occupiers. In other words, Spy is missing. Wanting an explanation, I sauntered into Medic's office next door. He is also gone. What is that madman doing letting his patients wander away? I suppose now isn't time to name-call and point fingers. First things first, I have to look for Spy.

I checked the kitchen first only to find Heavy and Scout playing cards. Two sets of eyes shot up at me upon entering the room. I simply nodded in acknowledgement, the two mercenaries now more focused on me than their card game.

"Oh hey, Spyress!" Scout piped behind his hand of cards, a goofy grin plastered on his confident face. "Me and tons-of-fun here are playin' Old Maid! Ya wanna play? I pretty much have dis game in the bag so we dun need to restart."

"Humph." Heavy sneered behind his cards, his enormous hands covering their backs. The giant fellow held the cards protectively to his chest with a determined glare, almost as if he was afraid that Scout had cameras set up all around the kitchen. An amused smirk pulled at the side of my mouth at the thought. "Leetle man is full of self. I am not finished vit you yet."

Scout leaned over the table with his cards in one hand, his other waving around in a taunting manner. "Yeah, yeah. If you'd been payin' attention, I have more pairs than ya! That's four against two. Yer done!" The young man then leaned back in his chair, his almost empty hand folding behind his head along with the other, revealing to Heavy and I his cards.

I groaned and shook my head. This made Scout look at me inquisitively, Heavy scanning over the boy's hand and looking at the ones in his own in the process. Deciding that the outcome was now predictable thanks to Scout's naivety and that staying was just a waste of time, I came to the realization that I have better things to do than stick around for a petty card game. I turned for the exit and waved a lazy hand farewell behind me. "I must go now. Per'aps another time."

Scout's disheartened whine could be heard from the hallway as I strode towards the lounge. I know I acted sort of impertinent but this may be an emergency. Besides, I am usually not the one to participate in such activities, according to the others. I anxiously entered the lounge, my brain refusing to register what I was witnessing before me. At first I was in dismay over the fact that Demoman was in there, burping and making a mess of the neatly piled books I organized a while back. Not to mention the countless empty bottles scattered around the room. With his scrumpy in one hand and his elbow messily settled onto a stack of books, the black Scottish Cyclops eyed me heartily and pumped his whiskey in the air as a greeting. "Aye lass! Yer… lookin' mighty fine dis mornin'!" a flirtatious grin once again peeked through his drunken gaze.

I rolled my eyes and prepared myself for the amount of scolding I was about to lie out until I noticed a familiar, slouched silhouette residing in my chair. Now ignoring the slurring Scot, I stepped closer towards the comforter so I could reveal the shadow's identity. Almost all of my questions seemed to be answered as I affirmed my suspicions. There lied Spy, holding a near empty whiskey bottle with a disordered air about him. His one arm hung limply over the chair while the other, with the booze, rested on the arm of his seat. He dizzily glanced up at me, bearing the same smile the Demo wore when I walked into the room. "Why 'ello zhere, ma cheri." Spy greeted in a sing-song tone. He hiccupped before continuing. "When did 'ou get 'ere?"

I pursed my lips together, not too sure what to say. Spy looked at me in a daze, his half lidded eyes and smirk still apparent. I sighed; ignoring Demoman's bantering in the background, I offered a hand towards my suited comrade. He stared at it before recognizing my gesture and took it quite sloppily. He slung an arm around my neck, a sheepish grin complimenting his boozed up state. I shook my head in dismay. I want an explanation for this. "Spy… Why are 'ou drinking in zhe lounge? I thought 'ou were 'urt." A hint of concern was evident in my voice but I was trying to be more inquisitive than supportive. I could still see the purple bruise under his mask, a couple stray scabs striped here and there across his face.

"The laddie was hurtin' perty bad dis mornin'. I offered 'im sum'a my booze… n'ere we are." Demoman informed me, slurring more-so than before after a few more swigs of his alcoholic beverage.

I heard the man but refused to acknowledge his reply. After all, I was asking Spy. I gasped in surprise when the masked gentleman suddenly began to caress my hair, demeanor unchanging. I couldn't help but stare back at him, bewildered. "You're 'air iz so soft." Spy observed with great interest, swaying back and forth a little.

I gently pulled my locks to one side, out of his reach, trying to keep a stern face after his compliment. As admittedly flattered as I am, I kept a straight-forward mind. "Spy," I called for his attention successfully. "What 'appened? Why are 'ou drunk?"

The suited man slumped slightly in thought, weighing me down momentarily, before giving me a garbled reply. "Drunk? Ahohohoho! Ma petite, I do not get drunk. Je suis tout simplement assouplissement ma douleur!"

"'ou are still hurting?" I cooed, trying to pry out more information.

"I was zhis morning." Spy started to curl a strand of my hair with his index finger, somehow managing to take a thick handful of hair from the other side of my neck. "Demoman came by, gave me some… thing, and I… can't remember what happened after zhat."

Seeing Spy in this undignified state worried me, but his sudden affection slightly deterred my concern. "I think eet's time I got 'ou back to zhe sick bay." I asserted gently, leaning forward slowly to give Spy the hint to walk along with me. Why didn't Medic offer the man some pain killers if he was in so much agony? There is going to be Hell to be had unless that coated man can make up a good excuse.

As expected he followed sluggishly, slightly resistive as we made our way through the doorway and into the hallway. We left Demoman behind in the lounge, but I suppose I can wait to shoo him away later. He's not off the hook yet. "Please, stop." Spy inquired rather huskily, his head lowered onto my shoulder. I slightly craned my neck to see his expression. It was rather blank and flushed, or perhaps sobered up? I paused and stared at Spy in silence, waiting for a reaction. "I-I think I'm…"

The suited man flew out of my arms, dashing towards the medical ward only several feet away with speed that could rival Scout's. I raised a brow in wonderment until I heard a huge heave followed by the sound of liquid filling a garbage can. Don't tell me Spy ran into Medic's office… I twisted the knob with posthaste, witnessing before me Spy visibly shaking as he stayed seated in Medic's desk chair, groaning and holding his forehead with his hand. The disposal I suspected he used was behind him, a sour odor finally rising from the waste basket. Ignoring the utter most disgust I was experiencing before me, I walked up behind Spy and lightly rubbed his back. He didn't even flinch, his breaths deep and labored.

It was then Medic rushed in the room, his appearance quite fatigued. "Zhere you are!" The doctor's eyes widened at the scene before him. "Und vhat happened to you? Mein gott!"

Medic gently brushed me aside and placed a hand on Spy's back. Even though he was trying to treat our ill comrade, I wanted information on exactly what happened this morning. "Docteur, where were 'ou zhis morning? I saw 'ou rush out of zhe infirmary when Soldier 'ad 'is small tantrum earlier today." The question was stern and serious.

Visibly defensive, the man of science faced me with a questionable expression. "I know vhat you are zhinking. Und yes, I vas in und out of zhe medical bay a lot today. Zhe first time vas vith you und Soldier, as you already know. But zhe second time I heard Heavy cry out for me somevhere in zhe base. I vasn't going to just ignore him, so I rushed over to see vhat vas wrong. A medical emergency, I thought. Nein, it wasn't at all." Medic paused with a sigh, rubbing his temple. As he did this, I looked past his shoulder and saw Spy laying his head down, unconscious, on the desk. "Spy vas asleep zhe whole morning. He must haff voke up vhen I vent to see vhat Heavy vanted, because by zhe time I came back Spy vas gone."

Curious as to what took so long that there was enough time for Spy to wake up and have Demo come along to offer him scrumpy, I questioned Medic further. "Exactly what did 'eavy want?"

"To play Go Fish or somezhing like zhat." Medic shook his head and rolled his eyes as he turned to handle Spy. He whispered something into the man's ear, probably coaxing him awake. The suited gentleman flinched, noticeably sobered up but in a very poor state. I can't say the excuse I recieved was very good but I suppose I could imagine Heavy and Scout urging him on and causing him to draw out his stay in the kitchen. Spy was fully awake and half dazed as Medic helped him out of the chair. He was standing straight up, slightly flimsy, but almost composed as he regained consciousness. Medic looked over Spy to note his condition, which in my opinion wasn't so good. "Zhe only prescription I can offer iz ibuprofen und water. Rest vould also help."

"Oui…" Spy groaned as he clenched his head grimacing. "Zhose things would be nice to 'ave right about now."

Medic nodded at me. "I'll handle zhe rest, Spyress. You may take your leave now."

Oh why yes, Medic, I think I will take my leave. I'm always so hasty to be on my way, aren't I? I waved back at the doctor in affirmation, leaving him and Spy behind as I strutted into the hallway. I suppose I should be around the others more often. I do imagine that at any other base having a Spy around for company is something to avoid. I'm assuming I'm the exception though, because I am the one thing these men have been deprived of for months or even years. The company of a woman.

"What are 'ou doing 'ere at zhis time of night, cheri?"

I sat on the edge of the bed Spy laid upon. He wasn't quite asleep when I snuck in but he recognized me all the same. "I wanted to know eef 'ou were okay enough to discuss zhat plan 'ou had a few nights ago." That was a lie. I knew we needed to talk about that plan of his soon, but honestly I just wanted to see him again. And to see if he was alright. "We're alone and everyone else iz asleep, so I figured now would be zhe appropriate time unless… 'ou are still 'urting in any way."

"Oh, no. Actually I'm feeling fine, surprisingly enough." He rubbed the back of his head uneasily. I noticed his baklava was still on, which wasn't surprising. I usually take my mask off when I go to bed, but I suppose he left his on since he's in the infirmary. It's forbidden for us Spies to remove our masks in public, or to reveal our identities to anyone for that matter. The still suited man looked at me with a concerned demeanor. "'ou know I, ah, don't drink like zhat on a daily basis. Eet's just zhat when I woke up I 'ad a splitting 'eadache. Not to mention zhe cuts and bruises throbbing and stinging. I sat up, looking for our Medic but 'e was with 'eavy, I imagine, at zhat time. Demoman stumbled in not too long afterwards, offering me 'is booze. I knew eet would probably lead to trouble but… Something was better zhan nothing." He finished with a shrug.

When I was badly bruised up I just waited until the next battle to rid of my injuries by respawning. Today was cease-fire so I suppose getting drunk as a temporary cure for pain was the best he could do to make it tolerable. I mean, as embarrassing as it is to admit, I may have done the same thing. "I understand, Monsieur." I reassured softly. "No matter what training we endure pain iz pain. Eef zhere iz a way of ridding eet, we take eet, non?"

Spy muttered an agreement and slid his feet off the bed. We sat side by side, Spy looking at me with those magnificent green and brown eyes. "I suppose we should discuss what to do with zhe BLU Spy."

"Oui, zhat does seem to be in order."

"I was thinking of penetrating zhe BLU base after zhe day's battle ends." Spy hesitated as I shot him an astonished glance. He went on, nonetheless. "We can use our cloak and daggers, 'ide away from zhe BLU mercenaries, collect information from zhem, and zhen escape before zhe break of dawn. We'll be tired for zhe rest of zhe day and we'll probably be of no use to zhe team because of our utter exhaustion. But, think of zhe intelligence we can retrieve from just one night at zhe BLU base. Risky, yes. However eef zhis means we can remove zhe BLU Spy permanently and stop zhose ridiculous experiments of 'is, eet's worth a shot. Zhe most we could do while we're over zhere iz to assassinate zhe BLU Spy in 'is sleep. But I wouldn't make zhat an ambition for eet would be a foolish one. Respawn shuts down after battles end, remember, and one mistake would most definitely be our last. My only question, Mademoiselle, iz eef 'ou are up for zhe task."

When he spoke, I could see that confident side of him. The side I liked the most. When silently thinking the offer over to myself it was hard to reject. The plan was a good one. Then again, if I mess up the mission I'd be dead and stay dead. Spy's life would also be at stake. I'd hate myself forever if I let another teammate die because of me…

"Spyress?" Spy rasped with a raised brow. "Are 'ou alright?"

"Of course." I snapped out of my reverie. "We'll do eet. Eet's just I was thinking of how to go about zhis. When will we infiltrate zheir base, and what are zhe times for breaking in and then sneaking out?" I need to stop fibbing. Then again, I am a Spy and I suppose I do have an excuse because of it.

"Tomorrow. We'll leave once we've affirmed everyone 'as gone to bed. And as for zhe time we return, roughly around four-thirty." Spy was very serious about this. Then again, he always seems to get serious when it has anything to do his job. If there's anything outside of it, he reverts to that hurt, unsure Spy I've been seeing every now and again.

"Bonne. I'm assuming we keep zhis a secret from our teammates?" The question was an odd one, in my opinion. But I was curious in case someone was to ask me why I was so tired that day. The team does have a right to know things, to a certain degree.

"We can tell zhem about our reconnaissance after zhe day's battle and we're all in zhe rec room. As for now they don't need zhe burdening thoughts of our safety, assuming zhey might care." Spy formally informed me.

I sat up from his cot and pulled at the end of my shirt to straighten it out. "Well, eef we're done 'ere I suppose I'll be going now." The farewell was awkward to say the least, but I felt there was no other way around it in order for me to take my leave.

I only just turned on my heels when I heard Spy's low, apprehensive voice. "Spyress, juste un instant s'il vous plait…"

I wasn't really expecting him to keep me behind just a moment longer for something other than the plan for tomorrow night, so my stomach twisted itself nicely into a pile of knots. As my chest tightened I could tell something out of the ordinary was going to happen.

When I looked back at Spy he responded by shifting uncomfortably on his cot. "Surely we understand zhat we may or may not get out from zhe BLU base alive tomorrow night. And I can't help but feel zhat zhere iz something zhat we must discuss before proceeding with our actions. It may just be me and my suspicions but, you see I…" He faded off towards the end, staring at his clasped hands in his lap with uncertainty.

I didn't command my muscles to, but I felt a smirk develop on my lips as I took a seat next to the RED Spy. My thoughts went foreign suddenly. Almost like the things I was doing was somehow being mechanically controlled by someone other than myself. Without really thinking or understanding what exactly I was doing, I gently took Spy's hands and held them between us. I felt fluid-like. The things I am doing are things I have never done by sheer feeling, and deep down, past the part of me that was so unfamiliar with emotions, I found a warmth I've never knew. It was not the warmth you'd get from being around family or friends, but from something else.

Spy glanced down at our hands in slight shock, then up at me. I don't know how my face looked when he stared at me, but it sure made his demeanor change from astonished to seductive. And for whatever reason, my clouded mind did not care. Actually, it derived pleasure from it. I derived pleasure from it. He then took his hands into mine, our fingers intertwining with each other. I noticed Spy's head slowly lean towards mine so I did the same. Our foreheads connected, our faces merely inches apart. He ran a hand up my arm and smiled, his expression the softest I've ever seen on him. "'ou do know zhis iz forbidden, don't 'ou cheri?"

I playfully smirked back at him and giggled quietly. "I do. I've known since joining zhis war. But I really don't care. Besides, zhat rule iz only directed towards 'omosexuals, oui?"

Spy paused for a second, squeezing my bicep as a response. "'ou are quite zhe deviant, Mademoiselle." He chuckled. "But zhen again, zhe 'igher ups never expected a woman to join a team of men, now did zhey?"

"A loop'ole iz a loop'ole, Monsieur." I cooed, taking my empty hand and using it to trace Spy's jawline. "Zherefore, what we are doing iz not against zhe rules."

"Touché." Spy grinned mischievously. I noticed by now that my controlled movements had ceased. I was actually doing all of this on my own terms. I'm walking into territory I've never crossed and yet here I am going along with it so well. I would be surprised had I not been preoccupied with Spy. Speaking of Spy, I noticed him lean away from me, throwing an arm around my shoulders and pulling me close into his warmth. I felt my face grow hot but thankfully the mask covered most of it. I don't think Spy noticed when he took my chin into his hand, gently making me look into his eyes. Something about this seemed familiar but I decided to ignore it and enjoy his gesture. "'ow I ever fell for 'ou I'll never know." He joked lovingly.

"Per'aps eet's because I am zhe only woman 'ou 'ave seen since 'ou signed up?" The comment was slightly bitter, I admit. But this did not throw him off.

"Non… In Dustbowl I could 'appily leave zhe area and go to nearby towns and such (even in zhe middle of a desert wasteland). I 'ad woman at my disposal, but yet zhey never caught my eye. 'ou are different, and eet's not just because 'ou are a Spy like me. Absolutely not. Eet's because 'ou are strong willed and visibly intelligent. You're beauty iz also to be noted." He continued with half lidded eyes. I felt myself blush once again but retained my spicy composure. "When I first saw 'ou tied down in zhe BLU base I knew something about 'ou was attractive. Zhe scream not included." He teased.

I shoved him playfully, a behavior I was not familiar with in the field of war. "Zhat's not funny, mon ami."

Spy gave me a fake, hurt expression. "Mon ami? And 'ere I thought I was something more."

Once again something I was never familiar with around here or anywhere for that matter, I snuggled into the man's neck and smiled. "You're right. Let me correct myself, mon amour."

After a few seconds of staying in that position, I heard a disappointed sigh emit from my Spy. I pushed myself away from him only to see his sorrowful face. "Eet's funny 'ow we just technically confessed our feelings when tomorrow night might be zhe night we… perish. I can almost feel zhat zhere's dark foreboding 'idden somewhere in all zhis."

"Are 'ou afraid lady luck iz going to jeopardize our mission?" I smirked, trying to cheer him up. "So long as we are careful, cher, we'll be fine. Thinking pessimistic thoughts only increases zhe chances of failing. 'ou do know zhat, right?"

Spy seemed puzzled. Perhaps by my 'words of wisdom', I wasn't too sure. But he grinned back at me shortly afterwards and shook his head. "I suppose."

I snickered and elbowed his chest, eliciting a smile from him in doing so. I then lowered my eyes to his tie, now finding it more interesting than anything else. "But 'ou do know we should keep our relationship a secret from zhe others, correct?" The thought came through my lips before I could register it through my mind.

As I stared back up at him, Spy tilted his head in wonderment and then replied. "Since we don't know eef we're, well, allowed to do zhis, then I'd 'ave to say oui." The man's eyes fell upon mine once again as he brushed my hair away from my eyes. "Better to be safe zhan sorry."

An urge suddenly came to me. I mimicked the masked man's alluring expression and clenched at his suit jacket, slowly leaning forward. It took a second for Spy or even I to understand what was happening, but soon he began to lean forward as well. Ever so slightly, our heads tilted. He was so close now I could feel his breath against my cheek. I closed my eyes, his lips nearing mine-

A clank and then a snort. Spy and I must have jumped three feet in the air; I literally threw myself off of him and landed on the foot of his bed. Next door was Medic's office. He must have woken up! Spy gave me a fearful glance before eyeing the door that we expected the doctor to enter from. No doubt he'd be confused and irritable about my presence at this time of night. We waited, both of us faking a cool demeanor. After a few minutes we noticed that he man wasn't coming out after all. I gave Spy a confused stare, quietly getting up off the bed. His eyes told me to be wary as I moved towards the door. Luckily it was ajar, giving me the opportunity to peek inside. There Medic was asleep on his desk, medical papers scattered all across it. I then noticed his desk lamp on the floor, which most likely caused the noise after his arms shifted and caused it to fall.

After silently slipping out of the doorway, I tiptoed back towards Spy, giving him the hint to whisper as I spoke. "Zhe docteur iz still asleep. I really should go." I sighed with disappointment.

I could tell Spy had something he wanted to say but bit his tongue. I chose not to pry since I was eager to leave. Though, it's not like I honestly wanted to. The distinguished gentleman just nodded in agreement. "Yes, I'll see 'ou tomorrow morning, ma douce."

My heart jumped after hearing his husky voice, but I had to go then and no later. I blew a kiss as I sauntered off, looking back just long enough to see him catch my invisible smooch with a charming smile. I smirked before quietly closing the door behind me, my skin crawling with powerful emotion. I had a lot to process just then. It was almost overwhelming. I have to head off to my room though. It would be rather weird if someone saw me in the middle of the night standing in front of the medical bay, simply thinking to myself.

I closed my door behind me as silently as I did when I shut the infirmary's door, aware of my neighboring teammates sleeping in the same corridor as me. I ripped the mask off my head and threw it on the vanity, opening up my window afterwards so I could light my cigarette without causing my room to reek. I inhaled a long drag of the stick, exhaling a cloud of smoke into the starry sky. Faking seduction and love is one thing. Feeling it is another. Can I say I really care for Spy? Is this what real infatuation is like? I feel so dull for not understanding such a simplistic feeling. But who can blame me for be raised the way I was? After my mother left, my father restricted me from being with anyone other than himself. I was home schooled almost my whole life. When I grew up and joined a secret French agency they trained me to trick others into relationships. Real ones were forbidden. The only difference here, I guess, is the fact there isn't anything strictly keeping me from developing a relationship. Maybe now is the time to experience what I was deprived of, dangerous or not.

I flicked the cigarette butt outside and closed the window. I strolled over towards my bed and lied down, resting my arm over my head. But what if all this is wrong? If Spy and I are truly restricted to be together, what would become of us? Better yet, if one of us was to die, how would the other carry on? In his case, would it even matter? Now that I think of it, what if someone finds out about us? They might report us. The enemy team can't find out for sure. We'd be doomed. Now completely flustered, I turned on my side, facing the wall and curled up on my bed. We'll be careful, I suppose. We'll make it work. I'll make it work. For the first time I'm actually happy to be in another's company. Well, an affectionate company.

I just realized I'm still in my work clothes, aren't I? Swiftly I got out of bed to change just to get back on again. I threw my sheets over me, still cold from exposing my room to the cool night's draft. I need to stop thinking like a teenager. I'm a grown woman. I must focus on the war. On Spy too but… The war is why I'm here. And right now I only have two missions. Keep anyone from knowing of the intrusion of BLU's base tomorrow and… the other thing. I can't think about it now. I need to sleep. I shook my head as I reached over to turn off the lamp on my nightstand. Tonight happened, I can't pretend it didn't. I just need a clear mind. Everything can be taken care of in the morning. I yawned, checked if my alarm was set, and then laid down on my pillow.

Chaque foisque jevous regarde
J'oublietoutes mes pensées
Ettout de suite etil
c'est toique moncœuracherché,
Chaque fois queje l'espère
ilse transforme enquelque chose de mal
Doncpour le momentje vaisarrêter de penser
Etpeut-êtreles chosesne finiront pastriste.

I can't apologize enough, guys. I've been busy for a few months with birthdays, holidays and then midterms- ugh! Like I said though, this story is far from dead. I'm still writing, and until I say I'm done I'll keep on writing. Peace!