I fight the urge to tell her what I'm thinking. Friends isn't good enough, come back home, you belong here, not out there. I love you, I miss you, I hate the idea of you being with anyone else.

"Told you I'd never give up on you, Kid." I smile at her, as best I can. "I wasn't lyin' to you, either."

Her eyes are sparking with fire and tears, how is that even possible?

"If Russia was," I frown. "If it was a mistake and this is what you really want...I'm not gonna stand in your way. I want you to be happy. And I don't wanne lose you, either."

I really do. I'm angry, I'm jealous and bitter, but it doesn't matter. I'd do anything to keep her happy and safe. If that means letting her leave, and letting someone else look after her, than that's what it means.

I need a beer. No, something strong than beer. Wonder what they have in the storeroom? Though I saw some real Absinthe in there the last time. That should do the trick.