Chapter 42-3

I'm wearing my best training uniform. I'm even wearing a little make up, and I haven't worn make up in weeks. My extensive collection is gathering dust and my gel eyeliner has become as hard as rock. It's difficult to maintain a face full of make up when you spend most of your time in the rain and mud. Even a setting spray can't save me. "You look good, squirt." Uncle Jerry grunts. "Very...clean." Aaron sniggers from the back of the van, and I reward him with a slap. I'm squashed between Gomez and Eddie, with Raj, Omar and Aaron sat opposite. The Tingham posse were the only ones who happened to be at the recruit house. The rest had taken a trip to the bar, or gone for a bite to eat. Talk about making the most of their spare time.

I never got a chance to talk to Gomez about his off-key behaviour. He's been so closed off this week, and with good reason. I'm a bad friend. I've been letting him skip a heart to heart, so I make a mental note to speak to him after this.