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

So, slowly, I began to shift my position, in preparation for extricating myself from beneath the thin blanket. I was just noticing the cooling effect on my back surfaces, when my companion shifted his position. Muttering something, he reached out a large arm and, placing the flat of a big hand, fingers spread, on my chest, and pulledme back against him.


A moment later he shifted his own position, pushing forward at the hips—which brought my backside into contact with some pretty impressive evidence of the physicalaspect of interest on his part.


After a series of reactions had passed: surprise, alarm, delight, and deep inner warmth that included physical appreciation on my part, I lay there feeling—what? Confused? Sure. But also, amused! There was definitely a comical element to the situation, and it was this I attended, to help me push away any negative thoughts and concerns.


Chapter 11