12.2 Honesty

We have a problem," You begin cautiously, trying to keep your voice low and even. "The craft's weight capacity is fairly small."

"What are you saying?" Boyd questions, his tone sharp and pressing.

"With the amount of fuel and supplies we'll need," You explain slowly while subtly trying to pull out of his grasp. "I don't think it can safely carry more than two people."

His expression darkens at your words and you find yourself able to slide out of his grip. Biting the inside of your lip, you watch him warily. You nervously run a hand along your slightly sore shoulder while waiting for Boyd to react. To your surprise, his face somewhat softens before he reaches out and places his hand over yours.

"Did you think I might choose James over you?" He inquires, the hint an amused smile tugging at his lips.

Blushing slightly, you sheepishly nod in agreement. After all, it's better to have him believe that than the truth. Boyd scoffs lightly while sliding his hand up, gently grazing your neck before it stops under your chin. Your brow furrows in confusion at the unexpected touch. He tilts your face up towards him while keeping his gaze locked into yours.

"I would never leave you behind." He states directly, his coarse thumb brushing against your jaw. "Not as long as you remain useful, that is."

He abruptly releases his grip and turns back towards the engine. You're aware of an odd feeling of disappointment following his caveat. It shouldn't come as a surprise that he only views you in terms of your adequacy. Still, it seems you had subconsciously been hoping to hear something more reassuring. Trying to brush the thought aside, you also busy yourself with work. You assist him silently until you're both too tired to continue.

Wiping your sweaty brow, you move stand under the shade of the craft. Boyd joins you after taking out a flask of water and having a long drink. When done he wordlessly hands you the container and leans back against the metal frame.

"I trust you won't speak of this to James." He finally speaks after a moment.

Quickly turning to face the man, you shoot him a questioning look. Though it's far from an ideal situation you had assumed it would still be discussed with the man.

"You're not going to tell him?" You ask doubtfully, crossing your arms over your chest.

"Do you think he'd react well to that news?" Boyd replies bluntly while glancing over at the hangar. "It's not worth the risk."

Realizing he may be right, you sigh softly before nodding in agreement. The man's gaze returns to you, the exhaustion on his face beginning to show. It's been hard work getting the plane back in working condition. The **** heat and your inability to perform certain tasks certainly hasn't helped. Without Boyd around to assist with the more laborious jobs, you would have been unable to complete the project. In spite of his often unfriendly demeanor, you're relieved he will be joining you.

"So," You begin softly while unconsciously tightening your grip on the flask you're still holding. "When do we leave?"

Boyd leans over and takes the item out of your hand, his fingers brushing against your own in the motion. The sensation of his touch lingers after he's pulled away. A light blush quickly covers your already flushed face. You're familiar with the concept of Stockholm syndrome and are sure you must be suffering some form of it. After all, why else would you be experiencing this nagging feeling of want.

"I'm not sure yet." He replies before drinking the last of the water.

You find your eyes drawn to his broad and tan neck as his Adam's apple rises and falls with each sip. Quickly tearing your eyes away when he finishes, you run your fingers through your messy hair. Now is not the time to become distracted by such thoughts. Getting out here and hopefully back to some form of civilization should be your sole focus.