Psychologist Neil is a civilian embedded with a division of Marines sent out as part of a peacekeeping mission overseas in the Pacific. When the local political situation erupts into open civil war, the American troops are ordered to evacuate. Neil escapes in a small plane, along with several military personnel. The plane crashes into the sea, with only Neil and a Marine surviving. They're swept over a reef and deposited in the lagoon of a deserted island. As they work together to survive in the hopes of being rescued, mutual respect warms into friendship. But Neil's feelings grow deeper, and he keeps them hidden from his companion. How would the Marine react if he knew the feelings Neil harbors for him? Can what they share in isolation carry over if -- or when -- they're rescued?

Marooned with a Marine

“For drinking water,” he said. “Holds about a quart.”


I took the thing from him, examining the extended end, and seeing how it was sealed, by folding over and clipping.


The Marine, meanwhile, was fishing through the other items. With a slight cry, he held up a small package.


“Hurricane matches!” he said, his voice exultant. “What do you think?”


“What? About a fire?” I considered. “I wish I had gathered fuel.”


My companion chuckled and pointed into the verdure.


I did and found a pile of twigs and branches, and dried tufty stuff. All of it fairly dry.


So, we built a fire—and reveled in the triumph of the first invention of humanity, made to drive away the night fears.


At this point, however, the Marine was showing signs of fatigue, and possibly mental confusion. By the light of the fire, I could see the tourniquet I had made for his head.


“Is there anything in the kit for cuts?” I asked.


Chapter 9