Civilians and soldiers shoot at one another on occasion as Mama updates us, “They’re close now. Wake him up.” I salute with a groan, “Already awake.” Damn I’m old. I feel like sleeping again already. Dave looks at me, “You said never forget?” “Remember the bastards that wronged the good men and women of this country.” Mama smiles, “You love passing on wisdom, huh?” I groan, “I do it when I got nothin' else to talk about.” Blondie butts in cheerfully, “I never asked- How old is your kid- Now?” I look at mama and she smiles back. Jon and Dave shake their heads and take another sip of beer. I grumble, “He’ll be about 30 now.” “Wow, what does he do?” I inhale as Jon calls her out, “He doesn’t wanna talk about it.” Mama makes a face at them, “Hey, all of you should get another beer.” Jon stammers, “Yes ma’a- I mean mama.” Dave and Blondie go with him.

Jack mutters, “C’mon, tell me.” I forgot about him. “Child, where’ve you been?” He mopes, “About.” “Why did you come running back?” He looks down at me, “Him, mama.” Me? “Why?” “He ran in to fight for us.” I shake my head, “I’m not that bold, kid.” “I want to be strong like you.” I smile, “Then train all you can. It’s a crazy world out here.”

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Mama just stares at me with a smile, somethin’s been on her mind. “Jack?” She does that face again, “Don’t go far.” He nods and walks off. “You want to ask me something?” “That boy likes you.” “So?” “If we survive this, take him in.” I shake my head, “I’m no father.” “This boy needs it. He lost both his parents and it shows. Boy barely listens, he’s a walking target and he still waltzed around like he owned the place.” I sit up, “He’s powered?” “I think.” “You think?” She press her lips together, looks up to the sky, “He’s tricky to read-“ She stops her tapping and as her hope wanes from her face. “They’re here. Good luck, Diesel.” I slowly get up and my heart just won’t do it. She looks up with eyes wide, “What’s wrong?” It would have boomed by now. “Did you lose it?” “I-“ “Did you lose it?!” I look at my palms, then at her. I shake my head, “I don’t know.”