Chapter Text
Stanhope P/O/V:
***
I smile at Madge awkwardly "Sorry about that kiss." she grins
"Don't worry about it, anything that stops my parents finding out about..." I nod slightly
"I know." she smiles brightly pointing behind me
"Susan and James are coming." I smile and turn.
Sure enough Raleigh is walking towards us Madge's girlfriend next to him. "Sorry we're late Susan's mother was anxious about walking in the woods." I smile and wrap an arm around his waist
"Don't worry about it," I turn to the two girls "Are you sure your both alright on your own?" They both nod and Madge smiles
"See you both in a few hours."
They walk away and I kiss Jimmy's cheek "Ready to explore for ruins?" he smiles and nods
"Let's go." we walk through the trees following a well trodden path through the trees and fall into a steady rhythm the peaceful quite of the forest surrounding us.
"Did you read the paper this morning?" I nod slightly
"Doesn't look good does it?" he shakes his head and I smile squeezing his side gently
"I'll protect you Jimmy, always." he grins and leans his head on my shoulder.
***
I sit up with a start and look around trying to see my surroundings in the gloom. After a minute the dreary interior of the dugout comes into view. Scowling I grope around on the table in-front of me for the matches, finding them I re-light the candles. The light flickers of the walls casting shadows over the various papers on the table.
Shuffling forward slightly I grab the whisky bottle from where I left it and take a swig. I promised to protect you Jimmy and this is the only way. I take another swig the alcohol burning my throat, scowling I lean back against the dugout wall the cold damp earth helping me stay awake.
If only Jimmy could see me now. A broken drunk who's a bloody coward. Finishing the bottle I prey that he and Madge are safe. Away from the trenches and the horrors they hold. I stopped writing months ago ashamed of what I've become. Hoping that Jimmy would find someone worthy of his love and affection. Sighing I stand pulling my helmet onto my head and slinging my gas mask over my shoulder. I step outside hoping the cold air will clear my head a little before I go on duty.