Proposal

Once inside The Sands Bunker, Harriet was greeted by a warm, dimly lit interior that exuded a sense of rugged elegance. The rich aroma of aged wood mingled with the tantalising scents of hearty meals and well-aged spirits. The main bar, an imposing structure hewn from dark oak, stretched along the length of the room, offering patrons a place to lean, to linger, and to trade war stories. The atmosphere was alive with camaraderie, and her eyes swept over the small group of cadets huddled together. Heads turned in her direction. Harriet was glad she wore civilian clothes, since most soldiers shied away once they realised who she was. One of them, a young man with sandy hair and a nervous smile, cleared his throat and offered her a seat. ‘Hey, welcome! You’re new around here?’ Harriet’s lips curved into a confident grin, her voice light as she played along. ‘Just passing through, thought I’d join in on the fun.’ ‘Let me buy you a drink. What’s your poison?’ *** While Harriet was drinking b