Chapter 231: Chapter 231

Chapter 231:

They exchanged a look, each reading the initial strategy in the other’s gaze.

Seeing that Harlee and Tonya were on the same page, Ritchie shook his head, pulled out his phone, and started to draft his own plan in response.

The following morning dawned bright and early at 6:30.

Harlee, having finished her morning exercise, strode home with a steady gait.

As she reached the gate, Kareem, who had also just wrapped up his workout, was waiting for her.

He lingered until she drew closer.

Quickening her step, Harlee approached and inquired, “Kareem? Do you need something?”

Kareem offered a wry smile in response.

“Must I have a reason to seek you out?” he teased, his gaze lingering on her vibrant, youthful features.

As he pulled out his phone to reply to a text, he added, “Remember, military life isn’t like being out here. It’s tough. It’ll test you in ways you might not expect. You might be worn out and become uglier.”

Harlee’s laugh was gentle and breezy, showing just how unbothered she was.

“Don’t worry about me. My beauty comes naturally,” she quipped confidently.

“What was that?” Kareem paused, taken aback. Quickly catching on to her jest, he burst out laughing.

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“You’re quite the narcissist, aren’t you? But enough with the banter. I’ve already filed my report with the military. Once you’ve handled Willis’ request, you can head to base with me.”

A bright “Yes!” escaped Harlee, her eyes alight with anticipation.

“Joining the military isn’t as glamorous as you might think,” Kareem stated, pocketing his phone and giving her a serious look.

“Once you enlist, you have three days to reconsider your decision.

During that time, you’re free to leave.

But if you decide to stay, I’ll enroll you in the latest training program. Just be clear, in my eyes, you’ll be just another recruit and I won’t cut you any slack.”

He continued, his tone firm, “Also, when you’re in the military, you have to be prepared to face life-and-death situations.

Do you understand what I’m saying?”

With a slow, thoughtful nod, Harlee’s expression turned serious.

“I know. I get it.” Her resolve was stronger than ever. Initially, her interest was casual, but now that Kareem had secured her a spot in a special program, she was all in.

“I have faith in you.”

Remembering a conversation Kareem had with Matteo at the recent banquet, Harlee couldn’t contain her curiosity.

“Hey Kareem, how did you know Matteo?”

Out of sight, Kareem’s ears turned slightly red.

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