Brothers in Arms

Keep your friends close and your roommates closer

"What did you do when you saw Private Maraston packing?"

"I didn't do anything."

"Did you see what he packed?"

"No. Maraston and I were roommates, sir, but we weren't friendly, really. He was... he was kind of a psycho, sir."

Captain Albertess looked at his XO; they both nodded slightly.

"How so?"

"Sir, what's all this about? Am I in trouble for something? Because I didn't do anything. I'm up for promotion, and I want my Good Cookie, too."

"No, son, you're not in trouble... not exactly." Albertess considered, then went on.

Slotski looked from one man to the other, waiting for the other shoe to drop. "But...?" he prompted.

Leiutenant Pickers took up the dialog. "Did you say anything to him before he left? Argue with him?"

Slotski shook his head. "No, sir. Whatever made him go UA, it wasn't me. We weren't friendly, but I wasn't a jerk to the guy."

Pickers looked at the captain, who nodded. "Might as well tell him, Tom." His voice was quiet, and it made Slotski feel a bit uncomfortable.

"You might be in danger, Slotski. Maraston managed to heist his personal weapon when he took off." Pickers paused. "His car was found just off base with a seabag full of ammo and a list. No weapons."

"A list...?"

"Of names. And yours was at the top."

Slotski felt faint. "Can... Can I use the head, sir?"

They nodded for him to go.

"Semper Fi, 'buddy,'" he heard someone growl as he left the Captain's office. Before he could react, Slotski heard the gunshot and felt the blast against his back. As the light drew down to a point, he had time to think ironically: "I wonder if I'll get a purple heart to go with that Good Conduct medal? Posthumously."

NOTES: ▶︎

Word Count: 300
Submitted for "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge" 
Prompt: Use the phrase "I didn't do anything"