AN: Alright- final stretch of this fic- I hope it was worth the wait :)
Anyway it's good to be back- keep the reviews coming :) thanks! On to the show!…….
While I was asleep I was unaware of the happenings around me. All I could see was Sora's loving face smile at me. A glimpse of a bright and happy future with Sora at my side was all I noticed. But in reality the future came into question.
During the operation several enemy bombs began an air raid close to the med tents. In the past few days the raiding of the surrounding areas had grown more intense. Even with the liberation of France within sight, the Germans still had resistance fighters combing the countryside. The bombings had become very dangerous, and talk of evacuating the area was high. This round of bombs had sealed that idea. And once Sora had made sure I was safely put back into our room she was called into the main office to be briefed with the other nurses and personnel.
I slowly began to wake up. I had no clue how long I had been asleep. My whole body ached. But then I noticed what was cuddled up by my side. Sora. She was back in her nightgown and I could finally look at the hidden curves she had. She looked so peaceful as she slept close to me. I couldn't help but smile. Her face was close to mine as I lay on my stomach. I could feel the weight of bandages on the area operated on. That must mean the surgery was a success. I pulled a hand out from underneath the covers and pulled Sora closer to my body. This picture seemed to right, and yet something was a miss. I didn't know what it was, so it was shrugged it off and I returned my concentration on Sora. I don't know how long I just laid there looking at her. But suddenly she gave a cute little whimper of a sound and began to open her eyes. She smiled at me as I planted a sweet little kiss of her forehead.
"Taichi.. You're awake… how long have you been up?" She asked me as she sighed happily in my arms.
"Not long, you must be tired. I'm sorry I woke you up." I said. She smiled at me and began to get out of bed. "No, Sora. Relax for a little while, you can go back to sleep." I tried to get her to take a break. But it was no good.
"Taichi, I'd love to, but I have so much to do."
"Let some of the other nurses do them. You need a break, I mean you've been through a lot as of late."
"Taichi.. I can't.."
"Where are the others? I mean doesn't that one head nurse always come in and yell at me about this time every morning." I smiled. Ever since we had been moved into the same room, the one lady nurse made it her business that I didn't try anything. She knew I wouldn't push Sora into anything she didn't want to do, but it was more of a game between us. But today she wasn't there to make sure I was awake early.
"Taichi.. You've been out for two days now and well…"
"Sora. What's wrong?" I asked as she came back and sat on the bed.
"The bombing has gotten worse and well, the med station was relocated to a more secure area. You were in no shape for travel, and you still aren't, so I stayed behind. It's just us here." She told me.
"Sora, that's dangerous. Why? Why didn't you go? It's not safe here." I told her.
"I couldn't leave you here." She said as she straightened my hair. "I'd never leave you Taichi… and we're alright. The village is not that far if we need anything." She tried to convince me, but I was worried. "Besides, now it's just you and me, and we can work on that leg." She smiled. "I got the shrapnel out, I'm so sorry we missed it the first time, oh Taichi, you could've permanently damaged your leg- I'm sorry."
"It's not your fault." I told her.
"Well, I better go and get us some breakfast if we're going to get any therapy done today." She once again stood up and walked out of the room. She came back in a little while with a plate of food. She helped me roll to my side. It hurt to lay on my lower back, but Sora slipped a few pillows underneath, and they felt better. I had to admit the special attention I was getting because we were the only ones was nice. Once breakfast was over she took the plate and set it aside.
"I need to change out of this, and then we'll work with that injured leg." She told me as she went to her closet and pulled out an outfit.
"You don't have to change." I said as I smiled. I did like that nightie she had on. I looked up to her and saw her faint blush. She shook her head and smiled at me.
"I don't think so private Kamiya. And NO peeking." She said as she walked into the closet and shut the door. I just smiled to myself. Her playful tone of voice was quite exciting. But I knew she didn't have 'that' in mind. Our first priority was to get me walking or at least able to be moved without so much pain. Sora came back in the room wearing her normal nurses outfit, except her hair wasn't up in the usually bun. She left her silken strands flow freely around her face. The sun's rays were now coming in the room's only window. We had a long day ahead. I knew it was going to be painful, but I would endure it for Sora.
She walked back towards me and managed to prop me up near the headboard of the bed. She then went and knelt near my feet. Gently she took the sore leg and massaged it until I was fully relaxed. We tried several of the bending and extending exercises slowly. Boy did it hurt, it hurt way too much. So we stopped after a short while. But I had to admit, while we were actually working the little rewards of kisses from Sora made the work worth it.
"Taichi, you can do it, come on. Just a few more, I'm sorry it hurts, I know… but you have to do this. If not for you, do it for me…" She kept saying. I was exhausted. I just couldn't move it that much. And Sora knew it too. She wiped away the sweat I had on my face, and kissed my forehead. "I'm sorry." She whispered into my ear.
"Sora, it's ok, I..I'm just not use to the pain, I'll get use to it soon. And then we can get out of this place, and to somewhere safer." I told her as I took her hand and squeezed it reassuringly.
"I know, but you're in no condition to move. Especially since you just got out of surgery and you need to recover. We're still safe here- in battle we wouldn't have this luxury of not moving you, but since we have…"
"Sora." I stopped her from continuing by placing a finger on her lips. "If the krauts come, or the shells increase, I want you to leave me… I don't want to see you taken by those bastards…. I"
It was sora's turn to shush me. She kissed me and my thoughts were instantly interrupted.
"It's dinner time silly, don't talk, just rest. I'll be right back with something to eat."
We ate dinner just chatting. And spent the rest of the day in our little room. It didn't even seem like there was a war on, well except for the occasional shell that would drop in the near by area. I think Sora was use to it more than I was. She didn't even flinch, as what was left of the med station shook. We weren't able to watch the sun set, the only window faced the wrong direction, but we were content just being together. The only light source was a small oil lamp Sora brought in from one of the operating rooms. I wouldn't have minded the dark with Sora laying there in my arms. Neither of us spoke. It was a comfortable silence. Then we both let out a sigh at the same time. This caused us to laugh. Her light giggle was so cute. I stared at her face for a few moments until she noticed me just looking at her. She blushed. I was so amazed. There I was half way around the world from home and with the girl I was destined for. Fate was actually kind enough to get me injured where I was. Because I was now embracing my angel.
"What are you thinking about Taichi?" Sora asked as she cuddled up to my chest, always careful of my injuries.
"Not much, just that I'm the luckiest guy in the world…."
"And why's that?" She smiled.
"I found my soul mate, of course. I never thought when I signed up for this war that I'd find you." Saying this got me another blush on her beautiful face. I smiled.
"So… what are you going to do when you get home, Taichi?"
"Well I have a few months of high school left, I just turned 18 before training. I wanted to help so I was one of the first in my hometown… I suppose I'll end up back at home. And then go to college or something… what about you?"
"Me?…. Going home?… I…I never really thought about it. I mean, I have always lived on an air base… but now… I don't know where I'm going to end up…."
"Sora."
"Yes Tai, what's wrong?" She asked. "Are you in pain again?"
"No, no. Sora, it's just that… would you come and live with me after all this is over? I.. When I said I wanted to be your family, I was telling the truth… I know this is sudden and all, but would you… will you stay with me forever?" I know it wasn't a good proposal or anything too romantic, but it was genuine and sincere. I really wanted Sora to be with me forever.
"Taichi…. I don't know what to say."
"Say you'll marry me." I smiled as I caressed her cheek. Her fiery eyes sparkled more intensely all of a sudden.
"Yes, Taichi, I will." Tears began to roll down her cream skin. I reached up and brushed them away. A gentle kiss sealed it, we were going to get married. I don't remember being any happier up to that point in my life. That gentle kiss led the way for more passionate kisses. We were both lost in the intense heat that was being created and we both gave into that flame. Sora's nightgown was on the floor in a few seconds. My range of motion was very limited but I was aided in removing my shorts by Sora. And soon I rolled on top of my love and we went to new limits of pleasure and happiness. The pain in my body went away as we molded together. The lamp flickered in the background as we moved together. After we were both exhausted we fell asleep. I never felt so contented in my life as I slept soundly for the first time since I enlisted.
The sun's rays once again greeted me as I awoke. I was expecting my angel to still be laying by my side, but I was alone in the soft bed we had shared. I was a little saddened, but then I remembered she was the only one here and had to take care of herself and me. But instead of hearing the peaceful silence that I was now accustom to waking up to, I heard muffled cries coming from the other room.
At first I was alarmed. Had someone come in the early hours of morning? Were they the Germans? And most importantly where was Sora?
The latter question was answered when Sora tried to quietly enter the room. She was in her nurse's outfit and it was stained with blood.
"Sora?" I called for her.
"Taichi? You're up. Here, I can't stay and help you eat today." She said as she set a plate of food on my lap. She stroked my hair lovingly.
"What happened? Are you hurt? Who's where?" I questioned her. But before she could answer my questions a small French girl peeked into the room and called out for Sora.
"Taichi, a bomb exploded right over the little town again. There were a lot of fatalities. The survivors and injured have come here and I have to go and help them. I'll be back in when I get things under control, I promise.."
"It's ok, Sora. I'll be right here. Go and help those people." I told her. "I just wish I could help you."
"Don't worry Taichi, I'll be fine." She placed a quick kiss on my forehead and grabbed another nurse apron, replacing the blood drenched one and was out the door.
I could hear the commotion out there, I couldn't understand much because they all shouted in French, but it sounded bad. I felt so bad for Sora. She was out there and alone. Damn these wounds, I wanted to be out there by her side. I didn't eat the food she gave me. I just sat there and picked at it for what seemed like an eternity. The bombs were getting closer and closer. Every time one hit the people in the next room would scream in fear. I knew Sora would have her hands full so I decided to take a nap and not be any more of a burden on her.
I was awoken from my nap by the sounds of Sora changing. The sun was setting once again. I pushed myself up on my elbows to see what Sora was doing.
"Taichi.. I woke you up, I'm sorry." She said as she finished undressing and then pulled her nightgown over her nearly nude fame. "You didn't eat your dinner." She said as she came over near the bed with a plate she must have brought in with her. "Well, neither did I." She smiled. "We can share. You have got to be hungry." She was right; my stomach felt empty.
"Sora, I don't need anything. You had a hard day, you eat it all." I told her.
She sat down on the bed and looked at me. She somehow was able to tell I was hungry. After a little convincing we shared her supper. The plate was set aside, empty. And Sora just snuggled into my chest, as I wrapped my arms around her.
"So how bad where things out there? I really wished I could be of more help."
"Taichi, it wasn't all that bad. I got all of the injured treated. We have a lot of guests staying here. The town was really hit bad.. This is the only med station in the area now, so they had no were else to go. And besides, you would only have been in the way- you need to get better before you can help others. In any case you getting better is helping me. I don't want an invalid for a husband." She smiled. "The husband is suppose to take care of the wife, don't you know." She said sweetly. It got me to laugh and it took our minds off the troubles of the present.
"I love you Sora."
"I love you too. And you know what?"
"No, what?"
"You're my favorite patient." She winked.
"Well, what if I say I want some more of that 'therapy' we did last night my gorgeous and skilled nurse?"
"The woman in me would say yes, but Taichi, I can't wake up tired and sore again… another night?"
"Alright." I said in a mock hurt voice. I knew that all she wanted was sleep right now. And I wasn't going to push myself either. "Sleep tight love." I said as I kissed her closed eyes.
"Night Taichi.." She mumbled into my chest. I laid awake for a few hours just watching her sleep, but soon sleep called to me once more.
The next morning I awoke similar to the day before. Sora was already up and out of the bed. I let out a sigh and opened my eyes. The day was overcast outside and it looked like rain. For some reason my mind went to my friends on the front lines. I had no clue where my squad of Rangers was at the moment. Long gone, I assumed. Knowing Matt and the others they were already on Hitler's ass by now creating mayhem like usual. I had been reflecting on the past more often as of late. I figured that was because I wasn't able to do anything but sit and sleep. That and cause worry for my angel of a nurse. My Sora.
Load crashes and shouting abruptly pulled me back to reality. A round of gunfire echoed on the walls of my small room as screams erupted. The men's voices didn't sound French, and they were definitely not American… that only left the possibility of the intruders being German. I didn't know what was going on, but I was scared. Not so much for me. I knew if they found me, I was dead. But what would they do to the civilians and more importantly were was Sora….
It sounded like the intruders, who ever they were, were trying to communicate with some of the citizens, but weren't having such a go at it. Until a voice called out to them.
My heart skipped a beat when I recognized the voice to be that of my Sora's. She was talking to the Germans. It seemed that one of them spoke French, because I could make out a few words here and there.
Not to long after the shouting stopped, it sounded like the Germans were looking around. I feared when they would get nosey and look in this room. But those fears were thrown to the back burner when I heard Sora cry out. They were hurting my Sora. What did she do to disserve being harmed by those filthy krauts? I thought as I struggled to get out of the bed. I had to help her. I couldn't let any of them put a single hand on her. Luckily Sora had a gun on the bed stand. I grabbed it and weakly hobbled over to the door. Remembering my stealth training I pressed my ear up to the door to see if I could hear where they were.
From where I was it sounded like Sora was trying to keep them out of this part of the med station. A loud thump rattled the wall. They had backed her up against a side of the hallway that led to the room. She was trying to save me. She kept telling them to stay out of there, an that a wounded man was in there, nothing more. Suddenly her cried were cut short as it sounded like someone was strangling her. I was enraged. I had to move. I was about to jump out of the room and shoot them when someone suddenly opened the door I was leaning on. I came falling to the floor.
All eyes were on me as I moaned in pain from the fall. I had on only my pants, and my chest was exposed to the coldness of the floor.
"Taichi." Sora cried as she got free from the soldier's grasp. She ran and knelt by me. She held my upper body in her arms as she asked me if I was alright and why I was out of bed.
Realizing I was an American solider the Germans pulled all their weapons up and were ready to fire. Sora saw this and defiantly got in front of me.
"Sora, what are you doing?" I cried afraid they would open fire on both of us. But they didn't.
Sora quickly shouted out to them in French. It was so fast, several words were exchanged between Sora and the officer who spoke French. Their conversation ended with the officer laughing at Sora, who stood her ground. He motioned for his men to leave us alone and go outside.
Sora turned around and helped me to my feet once they were all gone. She didn't say anything as she guided me back to my place on the bed.
"Sora?" I said. But I got no answer from her. She went on checking my bandages and stuff, not looking up at my face. I couldn't stand the silence. I grabbed her hand and stopped her from working on my wounds. "Sora. What did you agree to? Please tell me." I pleaded with her.
"Taichi, it's nothing. I can handle it." She said with a fake smile as she finally looked down at me face. She looked like she was holding back tears, she fought to keep up a brave front.
"Sora… please… what's going on? What do they want?"
"Taichi… I am going to operate on one of their wounded officers and then.. Well I won't be back till tomorrow morning ok. I talked to a girl from town. She'll check in on you for me until I get back… I will be back. Ok?" She told me.
"What?"
"I have to go, I..I just want to know you love me, because I love you so much Taichi."
"Sora, of course I love you. But tell me what's wrong. I can help…"
"No Taichi, I've got to go" She placed a kiss on my forehead and left the room.
I was very concerned. She was acting very weird, when it hit me. She was going to operate on the wounded man, and then she would be spending the night with that other officer.
"NO!" I yelled. "Sora! Sora come back." I cried over and over. I tried to get out of bed again, but this time my legs failed me and I fell. I felt so weak, and the thought of those men touching Sora made me feel sick. I couldn't even drag myself to the door. What would I do? What could I do? Nothing at all. If I crawled out there, I would only get myself shot or worse get Sora shot. She was doing all this for me, but I didn't feel any better knowing that.
The day went on, it was horrible. I was plagued by worry and pain. I knew Sora was still in surgery with the wounded officer because the French girl had mentioned it. She knew a little English, so I was able to get some information on what was going on. It seemed that fifteen German soldiers had brought wounded men here thinking the med station was still open. They must have been desperate to come to an American station for help. But that wasn't the point. The fact of the matter was that they had my Sora and she was risking her life to keep the people and me safe.
The sun had drifted off into the horizon and I feared the worst. I had never felt so utterly helpless and cowardly. I was powerless to stop the unthinkable torture that was about to happen. I just didn't want to think of that things Sora was willing to do for me. I heard horror stories of soldiers destroying and plundering citied in Europe, the women were raped and abused. The opening of the door caught my attention. I wondered if this was it- the end. What if Sora's deal wasn't going to be up held. Was this a Nazi trooper coming to kill me? The suspense ended when Sora crept into the room. Her last clean nurse's uniform was again stained with the red hue that seemed to be shed in abundance through out this war.
"Sora! Oh God Sora- they didn't hurt you did they?" I asked in urgency.
"Sh… Taichi." She said as she came over to the bed. "I can't stay long. I'm just getting changed out of this blood soaked dress. You need to sleep now- you shouldn't push yourself."
"No Sora, I'm not worth it. Nothing is worth what you are willing to endure…. Please don't do this for me. I don't want you to! I don't…."
"Taichi, I can save you. I can't live without you. And I have the power to save you and the others, I'm going to do anything to keep you safe."
"Even letting them rape you and hurt you? NO! I won't let you."
"I'm sorry Taichi, but I can't let anyone else die! I lost my only family so far and I just can't sit back and watch you die- you mean so much to me… you're all I have left Taichi- can't you see that I want to save you. You'd do the same for me… hate me if you must… but I cannot let them harm you." She said as she broke down in tears.
"Sora… I'd never hate you. I just don't want to see you put through that kind of stuff. God I love you so much… I wish I was stronger. Then none of this would have happened."
"Tai, I'm not sorry for anything that has happened between us- we're together now and forever." She gave me a passionate kiss before she grabbed a set of cloths and left the room.
"Sora! Sora! I love you Sora!" I called out to her. I knew no matter what I said she was going to go through with this. She was willing to give up so much… As the time went on, my stomach got worse and worse. I felt horrible not knowing where Sora was and if she was ok or not. I hated that feeling.
Not even a half an hour since Sora had left the room I heard another loud commotion. At first it sounded like jeeps and trucks were coming from down the road. Then the German soldiers that were here started to go crazy. They were shouting. Shots were fired. It sounded like doors were being broken down. More shots and yelling. Suddenly the door to my room burst open. I looked and saw Sora running towards me. I had enough time to open my arms to her as she jumped into my embrace. She sobbed and shook terribly.
"Sora, Sora, it's ok baby…. You're safe it's ok." I tried to sooth her by saying loving words into her ears as I stoked her hair.
Out of the blue an American officer entered our room. He looked shocked.
"Sir, we've got two in here." The officer called back into the main area. Several more officers came in the open door.
"What is going on here?" A high-ranking officer asked. "and who are you solider?"
"Taichi Kamiya of the 83rd Rangers, sir." I said as I saluted him the best I could with Sora still hanging on to my chest for dear life.
"Looks like we got here right in time, those Krauts looked like they were going to hose this place." The officer informed us.
"Sir." A officer called from the other room. "I think you should come and look at this."
"What is it solider?"
"I've found two dead kraut bodies in this room. They look to be high ranking officials."
While the American troops took control of the situation, Sora still held on to me. I was able to loosen her hold and pull her off a little so I could look at her. She had blood all over her cloths. It wasn't her blood, I was thankful for that.
"Sora, what happened?" I asked worried that she was hurt.
"I… I just couldn't go through with it Taichi. I couldn't stand them touching me….I…I…killed them…. Both of them…" She cried. "I've never taken a life before….I…"
"Shh, it's ok Sora. You had every right to- it's not your fault." I said as I rocked her in my arms.
Soon the American troopers, who turned out to be reinforcements had things under control. The injured citizens were taken by truck to the closest town for help.
We spent the rest of the night and next day in the company of friendly faces of allied troops. It was once again morning. I awoke with Sora laying by my side for the first time. Today it had been decided that I would be heading back for England and then stateside. As for Sora, well we really didn't know what was going to happen. I didn't want to leave her side, but we couldn't do anything about it.
As I was being loaded on to the truck, Sora was getting teary eyed. We would have to say our goodbyes after all. After all we had been through this was good-bye. I was going home to a nice and safe home, where as Sora was going to be sent back into the field. I could see the pain on her face. I think the commanding officer saw it too. He approached us as we were about to say farewells.
"You know, we will probably never be able to find your original nurse squad, Miss Sora. And well, this here fella' needs a special caretaker. Isn't that right?" He winked at us. "So maybe it would be best to have someone experienced help him on his way home and through therapy. I was wondering if you would like to take that job miss?" He smiled.
Sora's eyes once again sparkled as all the sadness on her face went away. "Yes sir." She smiled. "I would love to take that job." She immediately hugged me tightly. I was so happy also. It felt like a huge burden had been taken off my shoulders. We were going to stay together after all.
It was a long road back to England and then back to New York, where Sora and I stayed in an Army base hospital for therapy on my leg. But I was determined and with my angel at my side the entire way, it went by fast.
Before either of us knew it, I was walking down the street in old hometown. I could see my house down the next block. I had my army pack swung on my back, my dress uniform on with several medals glistening in the sun as I walked home. It felt a little weird when I got to the front porch of my family's home. I knocked on the front door. I looked around and a flood of memories came back to me. My little sister Kari opened the door and screamed as she saw me standing there. Soon my mom and my dad were there too. We were all hugging each other. My mom of course was teary eyed. After the hugging was over with and as we were about to enter the house I stopped them.
"Guys, I want you to meet someone." I motioned for Sora to come up to the house. She was standing in her dress uniform as well on the sidewalk at the bottom of the porch. I went over and took her hand. "Mom, Dad, Kari, this is Sora… my wife." I smiled as my mom instantly pulled Sora in for a round of hugs and kisses.
"Welcome to our home Sora." My dad smiled. "And welcome to the family."
"I've always wanted a big sister!" Kari smiled as she too hugged Sora tightly. Sora smiled and returned all the hugs and such.
"Well what are we doing out here?" My mom said. "Come in! Come in and relax you two." Everyone filed into the house. Sora and I entered last. I squeezed her hand and smiled at her.
"I love you Sora. My dear angel you're home."
Anyway it's good to be back- keep the reviews coming :) thanks! On to the show!…….
While I was asleep I was unaware of the happenings around me. All I could see was Sora's loving face smile at me. A glimpse of a bright and happy future with Sora at my side was all I noticed. But in reality the future came into question.
During the operation several enemy bombs began an air raid close to the med tents. In the past few days the raiding of the surrounding areas had grown more intense. Even with the liberation of France within sight, the Germans still had resistance fighters combing the countryside. The bombings had become very dangerous, and talk of evacuating the area was high. This round of bombs had sealed that idea. And once Sora had made sure I was safely put back into our room she was called into the main office to be briefed with the other nurses and personnel.
I slowly began to wake up. I had no clue how long I had been asleep. My whole body ached. But then I noticed what was cuddled up by my side. Sora. She was back in her nightgown and I could finally look at the hidden curves she had. She looked so peaceful as she slept close to me. I couldn't help but smile. Her face was close to mine as I lay on my stomach. I could feel the weight of bandages on the area operated on. That must mean the surgery was a success. I pulled a hand out from underneath the covers and pulled Sora closer to my body. This picture seemed to right, and yet something was a miss. I didn't know what it was, so it was shrugged it off and I returned my concentration on Sora. I don't know how long I just laid there looking at her. But suddenly she gave a cute little whimper of a sound and began to open her eyes. She smiled at me as I planted a sweet little kiss of her forehead.
"Taichi.. You're awake… how long have you been up?" She asked me as she sighed happily in my arms.
"Not long, you must be tired. I'm sorry I woke you up." I said. She smiled at me and began to get out of bed. "No, Sora. Relax for a little while, you can go back to sleep." I tried to get her to take a break. But it was no good.
"Taichi, I'd love to, but I have so much to do."
"Let some of the other nurses do them. You need a break, I mean you've been through a lot as of late."
"Taichi.. I can't.."
"Where are the others? I mean doesn't that one head nurse always come in and yell at me about this time every morning." I smiled. Ever since we had been moved into the same room, the one lady nurse made it her business that I didn't try anything. She knew I wouldn't push Sora into anything she didn't want to do, but it was more of a game between us. But today she wasn't there to make sure I was awake early.
"Taichi.. You've been out for two days now and well…"
"Sora. What's wrong?" I asked as she came back and sat on the bed.
"The bombing has gotten worse and well, the med station was relocated to a more secure area. You were in no shape for travel, and you still aren't, so I stayed behind. It's just us here." She told me.
"Sora, that's dangerous. Why? Why didn't you go? It's not safe here." I told her.
"I couldn't leave you here." She said as she straightened my hair. "I'd never leave you Taichi… and we're alright. The village is not that far if we need anything." She tried to convince me, but I was worried. "Besides, now it's just you and me, and we can work on that leg." She smiled. "I got the shrapnel out, I'm so sorry we missed it the first time, oh Taichi, you could've permanently damaged your leg- I'm sorry."
"It's not your fault." I told her.
"Well, I better go and get us some breakfast if we're going to get any therapy done today." She once again stood up and walked out of the room. She came back in a little while with a plate of food. She helped me roll to my side. It hurt to lay on my lower back, but Sora slipped a few pillows underneath, and they felt better. I had to admit the special attention I was getting because we were the only ones was nice. Once breakfast was over she took the plate and set it aside.
"I need to change out of this, and then we'll work with that injured leg." She told me as she went to her closet and pulled out an outfit.
"You don't have to change." I said as I smiled. I did like that nightie she had on. I looked up to her and saw her faint blush. She shook her head and smiled at me.
"I don't think so private Kamiya. And NO peeking." She said as she walked into the closet and shut the door. I just smiled to myself. Her playful tone of voice was quite exciting. But I knew she didn't have 'that' in mind. Our first priority was to get me walking or at least able to be moved without so much pain. Sora came back in the room wearing her normal nurses outfit, except her hair wasn't up in the usually bun. She left her silken strands flow freely around her face. The sun's rays were now coming in the room's only window. We had a long day ahead. I knew it was going to be painful, but I would endure it for Sora.
She walked back towards me and managed to prop me up near the headboard of the bed. She then went and knelt near my feet. Gently she took the sore leg and massaged it until I was fully relaxed. We tried several of the bending and extending exercises slowly. Boy did it hurt, it hurt way too much. So we stopped after a short while. But I had to admit, while we were actually working the little rewards of kisses from Sora made the work worth it.
"Taichi, you can do it, come on. Just a few more, I'm sorry it hurts, I know… but you have to do this. If not for you, do it for me…" She kept saying. I was exhausted. I just couldn't move it that much. And Sora knew it too. She wiped away the sweat I had on my face, and kissed my forehead. "I'm sorry." She whispered into my ear.
"Sora, it's ok, I..I'm just not use to the pain, I'll get use to it soon. And then we can get out of this place, and to somewhere safer." I told her as I took her hand and squeezed it reassuringly.
"I know, but you're in no condition to move. Especially since you just got out of surgery and you need to recover. We're still safe here- in battle we wouldn't have this luxury of not moving you, but since we have…"
"Sora." I stopped her from continuing by placing a finger on her lips. "If the krauts come, or the shells increase, I want you to leave me… I don't want to see you taken by those bastards…. I"
It was sora's turn to shush me. She kissed me and my thoughts were instantly interrupted.
"It's dinner time silly, don't talk, just rest. I'll be right back with something to eat."
We ate dinner just chatting. And spent the rest of the day in our little room. It didn't even seem like there was a war on, well except for the occasional shell that would drop in the near by area. I think Sora was use to it more than I was. She didn't even flinch, as what was left of the med station shook. We weren't able to watch the sun set, the only window faced the wrong direction, but we were content just being together. The only light source was a small oil lamp Sora brought in from one of the operating rooms. I wouldn't have minded the dark with Sora laying there in my arms. Neither of us spoke. It was a comfortable silence. Then we both let out a sigh at the same time. This caused us to laugh. Her light giggle was so cute. I stared at her face for a few moments until she noticed me just looking at her. She blushed. I was so amazed. There I was half way around the world from home and with the girl I was destined for. Fate was actually kind enough to get me injured where I was. Because I was now embracing my angel.
"What are you thinking about Taichi?" Sora asked as she cuddled up to my chest, always careful of my injuries.
"Not much, just that I'm the luckiest guy in the world…."
"And why's that?" She smiled.
"I found my soul mate, of course. I never thought when I signed up for this war that I'd find you." Saying this got me another blush on her beautiful face. I smiled.
"So… what are you going to do when you get home, Taichi?"
"Well I have a few months of high school left, I just turned 18 before training. I wanted to help so I was one of the first in my hometown… I suppose I'll end up back at home. And then go to college or something… what about you?"
"Me?…. Going home?… I…I never really thought about it. I mean, I have always lived on an air base… but now… I don't know where I'm going to end up…."
"Sora."
"Yes Tai, what's wrong?" She asked. "Are you in pain again?"
"No, no. Sora, it's just that… would you come and live with me after all this is over? I.. When I said I wanted to be your family, I was telling the truth… I know this is sudden and all, but would you… will you stay with me forever?" I know it wasn't a good proposal or anything too romantic, but it was genuine and sincere. I really wanted Sora to be with me forever.
"Taichi…. I don't know what to say."
"Say you'll marry me." I smiled as I caressed her cheek. Her fiery eyes sparkled more intensely all of a sudden.
"Yes, Taichi, I will." Tears began to roll down her cream skin. I reached up and brushed them away. A gentle kiss sealed it, we were going to get married. I don't remember being any happier up to that point in my life. That gentle kiss led the way for more passionate kisses. We were both lost in the intense heat that was being created and we both gave into that flame. Sora's nightgown was on the floor in a few seconds. My range of motion was very limited but I was aided in removing my shorts by Sora. And soon I rolled on top of my love and we went to new limits of pleasure and happiness. The pain in my body went away as we molded together. The lamp flickered in the background as we moved together. After we were both exhausted we fell asleep. I never felt so contented in my life as I slept soundly for the first time since I enlisted.
The sun's rays once again greeted me as I awoke. I was expecting my angel to still be laying by my side, but I was alone in the soft bed we had shared. I was a little saddened, but then I remembered she was the only one here and had to take care of herself and me. But instead of hearing the peaceful silence that I was now accustom to waking up to, I heard muffled cries coming from the other room.
At first I was alarmed. Had someone come in the early hours of morning? Were they the Germans? And most importantly where was Sora?
The latter question was answered when Sora tried to quietly enter the room. She was in her nurse's outfit and it was stained with blood.
"Sora?" I called for her.
"Taichi? You're up. Here, I can't stay and help you eat today." She said as she set a plate of food on my lap. She stroked my hair lovingly.
"What happened? Are you hurt? Who's where?" I questioned her. But before she could answer my questions a small French girl peeked into the room and called out for Sora.
"Taichi, a bomb exploded right over the little town again. There were a lot of fatalities. The survivors and injured have come here and I have to go and help them. I'll be back in when I get things under control, I promise.."
"It's ok, Sora. I'll be right here. Go and help those people." I told her. "I just wish I could help you."
"Don't worry Taichi, I'll be fine." She placed a quick kiss on my forehead and grabbed another nurse apron, replacing the blood drenched one and was out the door.
I could hear the commotion out there, I couldn't understand much because they all shouted in French, but it sounded bad. I felt so bad for Sora. She was out there and alone. Damn these wounds, I wanted to be out there by her side. I didn't eat the food she gave me. I just sat there and picked at it for what seemed like an eternity. The bombs were getting closer and closer. Every time one hit the people in the next room would scream in fear. I knew Sora would have her hands full so I decided to take a nap and not be any more of a burden on her.
I was awoken from my nap by the sounds of Sora changing. The sun was setting once again. I pushed myself up on my elbows to see what Sora was doing.
"Taichi.. I woke you up, I'm sorry." She said as she finished undressing and then pulled her nightgown over her nearly nude fame. "You didn't eat your dinner." She said as she came over near the bed with a plate she must have brought in with her. "Well, neither did I." She smiled. "We can share. You have got to be hungry." She was right; my stomach felt empty.
"Sora, I don't need anything. You had a hard day, you eat it all." I told her.
She sat down on the bed and looked at me. She somehow was able to tell I was hungry. After a little convincing we shared her supper. The plate was set aside, empty. And Sora just snuggled into my chest, as I wrapped my arms around her.
"So how bad where things out there? I really wished I could be of more help."
"Taichi, it wasn't all that bad. I got all of the injured treated. We have a lot of guests staying here. The town was really hit bad.. This is the only med station in the area now, so they had no were else to go. And besides, you would only have been in the way- you need to get better before you can help others. In any case you getting better is helping me. I don't want an invalid for a husband." She smiled. "The husband is suppose to take care of the wife, don't you know." She said sweetly. It got me to laugh and it took our minds off the troubles of the present.
"I love you Sora."
"I love you too. And you know what?"
"No, what?"
"You're my favorite patient." She winked.
"Well, what if I say I want some more of that 'therapy' we did last night my gorgeous and skilled nurse?"
"The woman in me would say yes, but Taichi, I can't wake up tired and sore again… another night?"
"Alright." I said in a mock hurt voice. I knew that all she wanted was sleep right now. And I wasn't going to push myself either. "Sleep tight love." I said as I kissed her closed eyes.
"Night Taichi.." She mumbled into my chest. I laid awake for a few hours just watching her sleep, but soon sleep called to me once more.
The next morning I awoke similar to the day before. Sora was already up and out of the bed. I let out a sigh and opened my eyes. The day was overcast outside and it looked like rain. For some reason my mind went to my friends on the front lines. I had no clue where my squad of Rangers was at the moment. Long gone, I assumed. Knowing Matt and the others they were already on Hitler's ass by now creating mayhem like usual. I had been reflecting on the past more often as of late. I figured that was because I wasn't able to do anything but sit and sleep. That and cause worry for my angel of a nurse. My Sora.
Load crashes and shouting abruptly pulled me back to reality. A round of gunfire echoed on the walls of my small room as screams erupted. The men's voices didn't sound French, and they were definitely not American… that only left the possibility of the intruders being German. I didn't know what was going on, but I was scared. Not so much for me. I knew if they found me, I was dead. But what would they do to the civilians and more importantly were was Sora….
It sounded like the intruders, who ever they were, were trying to communicate with some of the citizens, but weren't having such a go at it. Until a voice called out to them.
My heart skipped a beat when I recognized the voice to be that of my Sora's. She was talking to the Germans. It seemed that one of them spoke French, because I could make out a few words here and there.
Not to long after the shouting stopped, it sounded like the Germans were looking around. I feared when they would get nosey and look in this room. But those fears were thrown to the back burner when I heard Sora cry out. They were hurting my Sora. What did she do to disserve being harmed by those filthy krauts? I thought as I struggled to get out of the bed. I had to help her. I couldn't let any of them put a single hand on her. Luckily Sora had a gun on the bed stand. I grabbed it and weakly hobbled over to the door. Remembering my stealth training I pressed my ear up to the door to see if I could hear where they were.
From where I was it sounded like Sora was trying to keep them out of this part of the med station. A loud thump rattled the wall. They had backed her up against a side of the hallway that led to the room. She was trying to save me. She kept telling them to stay out of there, an that a wounded man was in there, nothing more. Suddenly her cried were cut short as it sounded like someone was strangling her. I was enraged. I had to move. I was about to jump out of the room and shoot them when someone suddenly opened the door I was leaning on. I came falling to the floor.
All eyes were on me as I moaned in pain from the fall. I had on only my pants, and my chest was exposed to the coldness of the floor.
"Taichi." Sora cried as she got free from the soldier's grasp. She ran and knelt by me. She held my upper body in her arms as she asked me if I was alright and why I was out of bed.
Realizing I was an American solider the Germans pulled all their weapons up and were ready to fire. Sora saw this and defiantly got in front of me.
"Sora, what are you doing?" I cried afraid they would open fire on both of us. But they didn't.
Sora quickly shouted out to them in French. It was so fast, several words were exchanged between Sora and the officer who spoke French. Their conversation ended with the officer laughing at Sora, who stood her ground. He motioned for his men to leave us alone and go outside.
Sora turned around and helped me to my feet once they were all gone. She didn't say anything as she guided me back to my place on the bed.
"Sora?" I said. But I got no answer from her. She went on checking my bandages and stuff, not looking up at my face. I couldn't stand the silence. I grabbed her hand and stopped her from working on my wounds. "Sora. What did you agree to? Please tell me." I pleaded with her.
"Taichi, it's nothing. I can handle it." She said with a fake smile as she finally looked down at me face. She looked like she was holding back tears, she fought to keep up a brave front.
"Sora… please… what's going on? What do they want?"
"Taichi… I am going to operate on one of their wounded officers and then.. Well I won't be back till tomorrow morning ok. I talked to a girl from town. She'll check in on you for me until I get back… I will be back. Ok?" She told me.
"What?"
"I have to go, I..I just want to know you love me, because I love you so much Taichi."
"Sora, of course I love you. But tell me what's wrong. I can help…"
"No Taichi, I've got to go" She placed a kiss on my forehead and left the room.
I was very concerned. She was acting very weird, when it hit me. She was going to operate on the wounded man, and then she would be spending the night with that other officer.
"NO!" I yelled. "Sora! Sora come back." I cried over and over. I tried to get out of bed again, but this time my legs failed me and I fell. I felt so weak, and the thought of those men touching Sora made me feel sick. I couldn't even drag myself to the door. What would I do? What could I do? Nothing at all. If I crawled out there, I would only get myself shot or worse get Sora shot. She was doing all this for me, but I didn't feel any better knowing that.
The day went on, it was horrible. I was plagued by worry and pain. I knew Sora was still in surgery with the wounded officer because the French girl had mentioned it. She knew a little English, so I was able to get some information on what was going on. It seemed that fifteen German soldiers had brought wounded men here thinking the med station was still open. They must have been desperate to come to an American station for help. But that wasn't the point. The fact of the matter was that they had my Sora and she was risking her life to keep the people and me safe.
The sun had drifted off into the horizon and I feared the worst. I had never felt so utterly helpless and cowardly. I was powerless to stop the unthinkable torture that was about to happen. I just didn't want to think of that things Sora was willing to do for me. I heard horror stories of soldiers destroying and plundering citied in Europe, the women were raped and abused. The opening of the door caught my attention. I wondered if this was it- the end. What if Sora's deal wasn't going to be up held. Was this a Nazi trooper coming to kill me? The suspense ended when Sora crept into the room. Her last clean nurse's uniform was again stained with the red hue that seemed to be shed in abundance through out this war.
"Sora! Oh God Sora- they didn't hurt you did they?" I asked in urgency.
"Sh… Taichi." She said as she came over to the bed. "I can't stay long. I'm just getting changed out of this blood soaked dress. You need to sleep now- you shouldn't push yourself."
"No Sora, I'm not worth it. Nothing is worth what you are willing to endure…. Please don't do this for me. I don't want you to! I don't…."
"Taichi, I can save you. I can't live without you. And I have the power to save you and the others, I'm going to do anything to keep you safe."
"Even letting them rape you and hurt you? NO! I won't let you."
"I'm sorry Taichi, but I can't let anyone else die! I lost my only family so far and I just can't sit back and watch you die- you mean so much to me… you're all I have left Taichi- can't you see that I want to save you. You'd do the same for me… hate me if you must… but I cannot let them harm you." She said as she broke down in tears.
"Sora… I'd never hate you. I just don't want to see you put through that kind of stuff. God I love you so much… I wish I was stronger. Then none of this would have happened."
"Tai, I'm not sorry for anything that has happened between us- we're together now and forever." She gave me a passionate kiss before she grabbed a set of cloths and left the room.
"Sora! Sora! I love you Sora!" I called out to her. I knew no matter what I said she was going to go through with this. She was willing to give up so much… As the time went on, my stomach got worse and worse. I felt horrible not knowing where Sora was and if she was ok or not. I hated that feeling.
Not even a half an hour since Sora had left the room I heard another loud commotion. At first it sounded like jeeps and trucks were coming from down the road. Then the German soldiers that were here started to go crazy. They were shouting. Shots were fired. It sounded like doors were being broken down. More shots and yelling. Suddenly the door to my room burst open. I looked and saw Sora running towards me. I had enough time to open my arms to her as she jumped into my embrace. She sobbed and shook terribly.
"Sora, Sora, it's ok baby…. You're safe it's ok." I tried to sooth her by saying loving words into her ears as I stoked her hair.
Out of the blue an American officer entered our room. He looked shocked.
"Sir, we've got two in here." The officer called back into the main area. Several more officers came in the open door.
"What is going on here?" A high-ranking officer asked. "and who are you solider?"
"Taichi Kamiya of the 83rd Rangers, sir." I said as I saluted him the best I could with Sora still hanging on to my chest for dear life.
"Looks like we got here right in time, those Krauts looked like they were going to hose this place." The officer informed us.
"Sir." A officer called from the other room. "I think you should come and look at this."
"What is it solider?"
"I've found two dead kraut bodies in this room. They look to be high ranking officials."
While the American troops took control of the situation, Sora still held on to me. I was able to loosen her hold and pull her off a little so I could look at her. She had blood all over her cloths. It wasn't her blood, I was thankful for that.
"Sora, what happened?" I asked worried that she was hurt.
"I… I just couldn't go through with it Taichi. I couldn't stand them touching me….I…I…killed them…. Both of them…" She cried. "I've never taken a life before….I…"
"Shh, it's ok Sora. You had every right to- it's not your fault." I said as I rocked her in my arms.
Soon the American troopers, who turned out to be reinforcements had things under control. The injured citizens were taken by truck to the closest town for help.
We spent the rest of the night and next day in the company of friendly faces of allied troops. It was once again morning. I awoke with Sora laying by my side for the first time. Today it had been decided that I would be heading back for England and then stateside. As for Sora, well we really didn't know what was going to happen. I didn't want to leave her side, but we couldn't do anything about it.
As I was being loaded on to the truck, Sora was getting teary eyed. We would have to say our goodbyes after all. After all we had been through this was good-bye. I was going home to a nice and safe home, where as Sora was going to be sent back into the field. I could see the pain on her face. I think the commanding officer saw it too. He approached us as we were about to say farewells.
"You know, we will probably never be able to find your original nurse squad, Miss Sora. And well, this here fella' needs a special caretaker. Isn't that right?" He winked at us. "So maybe it would be best to have someone experienced help him on his way home and through therapy. I was wondering if you would like to take that job miss?" He smiled.
Sora's eyes once again sparkled as all the sadness on her face went away. "Yes sir." She smiled. "I would love to take that job." She immediately hugged me tightly. I was so happy also. It felt like a huge burden had been taken off my shoulders. We were going to stay together after all.
It was a long road back to England and then back to New York, where Sora and I stayed in an Army base hospital for therapy on my leg. But I was determined and with my angel at my side the entire way, it went by fast.
Before either of us knew it, I was walking down the street in old hometown. I could see my house down the next block. I had my army pack swung on my back, my dress uniform on with several medals glistening in the sun as I walked home. It felt a little weird when I got to the front porch of my family's home. I knocked on the front door. I looked around and a flood of memories came back to me. My little sister Kari opened the door and screamed as she saw me standing there. Soon my mom and my dad were there too. We were all hugging each other. My mom of course was teary eyed. After the hugging was over with and as we were about to enter the house I stopped them.
"Guys, I want you to meet someone." I motioned for Sora to come up to the house. She was standing in her dress uniform as well on the sidewalk at the bottom of the porch. I went over and took her hand. "Mom, Dad, Kari, this is Sora… my wife." I smiled as my mom instantly pulled Sora in for a round of hugs and kisses.
"Welcome to our home Sora." My dad smiled. "And welcome to the family."
"I've always wanted a big sister!" Kari smiled as she too hugged Sora tightly. Sora smiled and returned all the hugs and such.
"Well what are we doing out here?" My mom said. "Come in! Come in and relax you two." Everyone filed into the house. Sora and I entered last. I squeezed her hand and smiled at her.
"I love you Sora. My dear angel you're home."