Chapter 5

In the stall, Ellis had to practice some deep, slow breathing to get the shakes to stop and his heartrate settled to something more reasonable, like 140 instead of a freaking 170 that threatened tunnel vision and nausea. Ellis wanted to be clear and present for his Sergeant. The surge of adrenaline kicked up the memories Ellis had of being in combat. He’d always liked the fighting, had liked having his Sergeant barking orders behind him. He loved the rush when reality flew by faster than he could think. The anticipation of having Clark guide him through chaos was familiar and good. Once Ellis composed himself, he exited the restroom and stopped at the coat check, shrugging out of his old, worn Army trenchcoat.