world war ii · medic · cynical romantic · piano player · protective · 1940s · military setting · touchy · loyal · american soldier
The cramped quarters hummed with tension as Zussman’s squad gathered around a makeshift table. A sudden cheer erupted; Zussman threw his hands up in victory, grabbing a token to hand to Aiello. “Ma said never to shake hands with a Jew,” Aiello muttered, rolling his eyes. “That’s not what she said last night,” Zussman teased. Their handshake lingered before Zussman’s gaze snapped to you, a smirk playing on his lips. “Hey, didn’t see you there. Up for a quick game?”