Author: Sam

Story: I Spy With My Little G.I.: 2 of 17

Series: The War Within

Feedback: Yes, please? Especially constructive. samwise_baggins@yahoo.co.uk

Webpage: http://www.geocities.com/samwise_baggins/index.html

Opening the shower tent door, Frank Burns could hear water running. He frowned hoping it wasn’t Pierce or MacIntyre. Those two liked to play pranks on him or make odd comments. Frank just didn’t feel like trading insults with the pair, he was in too good a mood after that brief stint in Post-Op with Doctor Standish.

The man had been remarkable with the patients. He had also set a fine example for the enlisted men by giving Major Burns the respect he felt he deserved. It was rare indeed in this backward camp to get the kind of treatment due someone of his rank. Frank hoped that between Margaret and himself they could prevent the young man from getting warped by those drunken deviants.

Warm air coursed out to wrap around Frank as he stood debating about going in. The voice, young and husky, that wafted to him reassured him that all would be well. After all, it was Doctor Standish himself in there.

“Could whoever opened the door please close it? The draft is horrible... Thank you.”

Yes, polite and well spoken. This boy will someday make a very fine surgeon. Odd that he’s got a Captain’s bars so young. Perhaps he saved a General’s life? With a nod, Frank decided that sounded perfectly reasonable.

“I apologize. I’m just coming in now.” And Major Burns put action to words. He stepped into the shower tent and firmly shut the door, starting to strip down in preparation for his shower. With a smile, he called out loudly enough to be heard over the water, “It’s Major Burns, Captain Standish. I trust you found everything you need?”

“Yes, thank you.” The other doctor sounded withdrawn, though still polite. Probably didn’t like to share his shower time.

Frank shrugged and moved to get into the empty shower stall. He paused, smile turning to a puzzled frown. Why was Doctor Standish bathing in his shirt and shorts?

The lad had his back to Frank and it was hard to see in the water and steam, but there was no mistaking the green T-shirt and boxers he had on. Frank pulled the chain in his stall to turn on his own supply of water, trying not to look again at the doctor next to him. He didn’t want to be labeled a pervert, after all. Despite the rhythmic comfort of the hot water, though, Major Frank Burns couldn’t relax the way he wanted to.

The puzzle of Emil Standish filled his mind.