The truth and opinions

“Hey you're coming over for dinner tonight right?” Turtle asked the younger portion of Foxtrot as they clocked out of their shift.

“Yeah.” They said in unison.

“Would you guys mind running to the store for a few things? I can send you a list.”

“For sure.” Hetz said and then made plans to meet Jack in civis outside the locker rooms in 10 minutes.

It evidently didn't matter how many times he saw Jack out of uniform, it still shocked him every time. She emerged in shorts and a hoodie with her hair loosely tied back.

They boarded the tunnel car with another young woman and sped off toward the west coast. As they shopped Hetz pulled the cart behind them and Jack snuck three or four energy drinks in before he noticed. The list was completed in about 10 minutes but the two stayed in the store for a while more, trying on stupid sunglasses, arguing about ice cream flavors and drifting the cart around the corner.

When they finally waited in the check out line Jack's phone dinged.

“What the heck is this?” She asked, showing him the text. He chuckled when he read the text that was a screen shot of another conversation.

“See thats a text between Cat and Par. So I'd dare say its not meant for you.”

“But did you read it?”

“Well seeing as its not meant for you, its sure as heck not meant for me.”

“But Cat evidently thinks that me and you are a thing and she told the group chat that she's on with Par in it and par told me.”

“Who told me.”

“Not the point. There are now at least 5 people that think we are a thing.”

“Eww I would never!”

“Exactly.” Jack said, setting the groceries on the conveyor belt, then she made her way forward to pay.

“Hello.” The cashier greeted her. “Are you guys together?”

“No!” Jack practically shouted. “We are JUST friends.”

“I ment are you paying together mam.”

“Oh.” Jack shot an embarrassed look at Hetz. “Yeah we're paying together.” She studied the floor for the awkward amount of time left as she bagged the groceries.

“Well that was awkward.” Hetz said as they walked back toward the tunnel car.

“Ya think?” Jack huffed.

“Don't get too caught up in what other people think, Jack. The truth is far more valuable than rumors.”

“Gosh I freaking hate it when you spout wisdom, you need to stop hanging out with Hawk.”

“Why when it works so well?”