21
Trisha spotted Lola Maloney on the deck of the Peleliu as soon as she stepped off Dennis’ helo. Billy nodded to her and turned for his quarters. Trisha thanked Dennis and met Maloney halfway across the deck.
“Hot as a b***h here, Chief,” she called out when they were close enough. After New England, it was scorching. They traded salutes.
“You’re back?” Maloney came up to her.
“Yes, ma’am.”
Maloney held out her hand and Trisha shook it, the relief coursing through her body. Hoping this was going to work, though how she still wasn’t totally clear, she’d rather feared this moment. Lola gave her hand another squeeze before letting go, making it okay.
“I’m glad. You know, you’re more of a pain in the ass than I was, and that’s saying something.”
“You were?” Trisha suddenly felt out of
