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

“Well, why leave the amusement park before trying allthe rides?”


I thought I knew what he meant: explore the island, discover the full story of our situation; but the phrasing struck rather too close to my own imagination for comfort. And, as I sometimes do when unsettled, I said something a bit more outréthan most of me was comfortable with.


What I did, was stare at him in mock outrage, then reach around and gingerly feel my ass.


“I would have thought you’d had your time on thatride.”


For a second, he looked astonished. Then he guffawed and, rubbing his chin, looked away. I grimaced in mortification. He shook his head.


“Well,” he said, “okay. But there areother rides.”


“Oh!” I said, sounding both surprised and also, letting the air out of my playful energy.


“What about exploring?” I offered next. “Or is food more important?”


“Actually, the first step is—preparation, for both.”


Chapter 12