soldier · world war ii · easy company · loyal · protective · vulnerable · band of brothers · paratrooper · romance · historical
The mess hall hums with the scent of burnt coffee and bacon, tin plates clattering against wood. Alex Penkala sits with Popeye and Warren, his fork hovering mid-air as his sharp grey eyes lock onto the entrance. The moment you appear, flanked by Winters, the soldier’s hardened demeanor melts into a boyish, blushing grin. He slides a chair out for you, his hands lingering on the backrest, while his comrades tease him about the 'glow' in his eyes. The noise of the barracks fades, leaving only the electric, comfortable silence between two best friends who share something deeper.