Not Alone

Summary: Mitch is reigned in before he can do himself damage.
Warning(s): Mentioned Canon death; Spanking; AU; some violence
Pairing: Ronnie/Mitch
Authors: Cat2000 and Hope1iz

###

Mitch had grieved the loss of his fiancé.  He'd grieved long and hard; some would say he still was, that he was in the anger stage of his grieving. Most would say you shouldn't make life altering decisions when so emotionally distraught. It hadn't taken him long at all to decide to join the agency so he could go after the terrorists that killed Katrina. He grabbed his bag as the recruitment bus pulled up to the training facility, standing and exiting immediately when it had stopped. He looked around, moving to where he saw a group of what appeared to be trainers.

Ronnie was standing next to Hurley, next to his father, although their relationship was more of an open secret. He noticed the recruit... the kid who looked twitchy. On edge. While Hurley gave his normal speech to the rest of the recruits, Ronnie moved towards Mitch's side, eyeing the younger man. "You're gonna have to do a better job of staying calm if you don't want to flunk out."

"This isn't a lack of calm... and I'm not trying to keep my curiosity hidden." Mitch shrugged.

"I'm Ronnie," he said. "What brings you to the end of the line?" The question was asked with a certain amount of dry humor. Most of the recruits were here because they were past the point of no return. They'd end up getting themselves killed eventually. Ronnie had been like the others, once upon a time.

"I need to be better. Fight harder. Search quicker. Kill easier..." Mitch didn't offer why.

Ronnie nodded in acceptance. Really, the two of them weren't that different. Ronnie remembered his own attitude when he'd first come here and met Stan Hurley. Glancing at the man who'd adopted him, Ronnie turned back to Mitch. "So, you got a name I can use? Or would you rather I just call you Runt?"

Mitch blinked in surprised indignation. "Would have thought you'd know who you recruited already... but you can call me Mitch."

"Oh, I'm a recruit, same as you," Ronnie replied easily. "But there's a lot you can tell about someone, the way they say their name." He stood at Mitch's side as Hurley finished his speech and then directed the recruits to pair up and spar, so that Hurley could see where they were at.

Ronnie turned to Mitch and arched his eyebrows. "Partners?"

Mitch shook his head slightly and snorted softly. "I'm guessing you’re a higher-level recruit. Since you've obviously been here a while? And yeah. I'm game." Pairing up against a higher-level recruit would let him prove himself.

"Yeah, higher level." Ronnie dropped into a fighting stance. "Hurley's a great teacher, if you listen to him."

"Yeah?" Mitch dropped into a stance mirroring Ronnie's. "Which one is he? They don't assign individual teachers to each recruit, I'm assuming.... It isn't like an apprenticeship, is it?"

"If you're as good as you think you are, you won't need me to tell you who's the one in charge." Ronnie grinned at Mitch before feinting and then coming at him from the other side.

Mitch reacted to the feint, managing to avoid being hit, barely. "Hurley is the one in charge? And he still trains?" He couldn't help being surprised. In his experience, those who had reached a certain level didn't normally like being in the trenches.

"You stop training, you're dead," Ronnie responded. He came at Mitch from the front, then abruptly dropped, sweeping his leg towards Mitch's own.

Mitch allowed the leg to catch him, knowing he couldn't jump away in time and jumping over would be impossible. As his legs were knocked out from under him, he dived slightly to the side and rolled, landing back on his feet in a defensive crouch before making his own move to tackle Ronnie to the ground. "I meant that he still trains the recruits..." he huffed. "...I'm not stupid. I know personal training never stops!"

Ronnie dropped into a crouch and darted to one side, like a spider, circling round behind Mitch. "Hurley's the best at training recruits. He trains you, you're among the best." He spoke with more than a hint of pride in his voice. Normally, he would have been more reticent about showing his true feelings. But he felt a draw to Mitch that was different to any of the other recruits. Not enough to be completely open, at least not yet, but less likely to hide.

Mitch heard the underlying pride. "So, you're the best? That what you're saying?" Mitch turned to keep Ronnie in his sights.

"Among the best." Ronnie kept his stance casual, but at the ready. His eyes were constantly scanning Mitch's form, looking for an opening. "Always could be someone better than me. Maybe even you." He lunged forward, jabbing quickly at Mitch before darting to one side.

Mitch was good. But he was also impatient. He dodged the jab, but instead of waiting for a better opening, waiting a few more moments to learn of his opponent and make an effective attack, he immediately made a strike toward Ronnie after the dodge. It had always worked on regular opponents.

Once again, Ronnie ducked the strike. While Mitch was slightly off balance, he aimed another sweep at Mitch's legs, moving quickly to pin the younger man against the ground.

"Shit!" Mitch yelped as he landed on his stomach and he suddenly found himself pinned under a hard, strong body that he couldn't get away from.

Ronnie pushed down gently on his back. "You're good, Runt. But you're too impatient."

"...Na... name's Mitch!" Mitch grunted as he felt himself pressed more firmly into the mat.

"I'll keep calling you Runt till you best me," Ronnie stated, letting his hands rub lightly over Mitch's shoulders.

"A challenge?" Mitch stilled at feeling his shoulders rubbed.

"Yeah," Ronnie replied. "You need to learn patience when you fight. Get to know your opponent." He gave a gentle squeeze to the other's shoulders.

"Noted..." Mitch cleared his throat. "Can I get up now?" He was beginning to feel slightly uneasy, for reasons he couldn't identify.

"Yeah." Ronnie rolled off Mitch and offered a hand to help the younger man up. Glancing around at the rest of the recruits, noting that they were finishing up their training, he spoke to Mitch. "Want to see the barracks?"

"Yeah. I would... thanks..." Mitch took Ronnie's hand and stood. "So other than patience... any other recommendations?"

"Be prepared for anything." Ronnie slung a comradely arm around Mitch's shoulders, heading towards the barracks. "Being woken in the middle of the night. Sudden alarms blaring. You'll get more points the quicker you react."

"That's going to be a thing?" Mitch asked in surprise. "That's like boot-camp... or training for special forces."

"What did you think this was?" Ronnie asked, stepping into the barracks. "My mat's over here." He gestured towards it.

"Didn't think it was military..." Mitch said in a defensively sheepish voice. "Figured there'd be training, but not... 2am drills."

"Hurley's ex-military," Ronnie replied. "He believes we all need to be prepared for anything and he's not wrong."

"Okay, then. Sleep in something I don't mind wearing outside... got it." Mitch snorted softly, but he was grinning.

"Or keep something next to the bed you can put on quickly," Ronnie commented. "You got a preference for where to sleep?"

Mitch glanced around the barracks, immediately going to a bunk within sight of all doors and windows and still far enough away he wouldn't be the first one 'attacked' if something went down. "Here...."

Ronnie nodded. "When you get settled in, I'll show you where the mess hall is."

"Don't have much to settle..." Mitch said, stuffing his duffle into the locker he'd been provided with and securing the lock. "If the mess is open right now, let's go eat."

"It's open." Ronnie strode towards the door and slipped outside. He noticed Hurley a few feet away and walked over to his father, giving a smile that didn't quite hide the fondness he felt for the older man. "You coming to eat with us, sir?"

"I'll get something to eat later," Hurley replied, glancing towards Mitch. "You're good, kid. Learn a bit more patience and you'll be taking Ronnie down in no time."

Mitch straightened up in surprise at the praise. "Thank you, sir," he finally said, uncertain how to respond.

Ronnie snorted softly. "You looking to replace me already?" He spoke in a teasing tone to Hurley.

Hurley didn't smile, but there was a trace of amusement in his voice as he said, "You two working and training together will help both of you to improve. Go and get something to eat. It'll be a long day tomorrow."

Mitch slanted his head curiously, wondering if Hurley would give any clues what the next day would hold. "Long?" he asked.

"Yeah," Hurley replied mildly. "I hope you've got a good sense of direction, kid."

"It's not bad..." Mitch said hesitantly.

"Good to know," Hurley replied. "You'll get more info tomorrow." He left to join one of the other instructors.

Ronnie slung his arm around Mitch's shoulders. "Let's grab some food, Runt. Tomorrow's probably gonna be a survival mission. We can team up."

"Yeah. Okay..." Mitch watched Hurley walking away, even as he let himself be led by Ronnie.

Ronnie led Mitch to the mess hall and went to grab some food before finding a seat.

Mitch quickly loaded his plate and joined Ronnie. He forced himself to eat- he knew he'd need the energy- but it was perfunctory. He hadn't had an appetite since Katrina was murdered.

"You'll be worked hard here," Ronnie said, between mouthfuls of his own food. "I know this feels like the end of the line to you. It does to most of us, at least to begin with. Some of us can get past that. Know that those we've lost wouldn't want us to join them so soon."

Mitch looked up at that. "I can't join her till things are made right."

Ronnie took a few moments to answer. When he did, a slightly sadder note slipped into his voice. "Vengeance means you dig two graves. You think she'd want that for you?"

Mitch didn't answer, stabbing his food with his fork instead. Which was an answer. "What time we need to be up?" he finally asked.

"It's going to be early," Ronnie replied. "You need to shower or anything, might want to do so before bed. I'll grab a pack or two from the supplies, so we're at least prepared."

Mitch nodded. "Thanks.... why help me so much? I got the idea most of these exercises are a competition...."

"You remind me of me," Ronnie answered. "Besides. Learning to work as a team is just as important as learning to work solo."

Mitch wrinkled his nose. They'd just met. How did he remind him of himself? He didn't say anything, though. "So... partners?"

"Partners," Ronnie agreed. "Not to say that we won't be competing at all, but there's a difference between training together and stabbing each other in the back. I won't turn on you or use you to get ahead."

"That will be great. I was expecting more back-stabbing, to be honest," Mitch said. Of course, he was assuming he could trust Ronnie; but given the other man was higher rank and was close to one of the trainers, he'd have no reason to betray Mitch. Not like the other recruits (who were already giving him sideways glances).

"Yeah, that's actually not encouraged here," Ronnie commented. "Friendly competitions, yeah. Like Hurley gave you advice intended to help you take me down." He flashed a smile. "They want the people here to be the best. But that means everyone. Even the weakest member of a pack can rise in the hierarchy."

"That's a very healthy way of looking at things..." Mitch nodded. "Are they very strict here?"

"Pretty much," Ronnie answered. "You won't be cut any slack. You'll be expected to push past your natural limits, until those are extended. But it's in a safer environment. Not to say there's no risk of injury, but it'll be a while before you need to go out into the field."

"Yeah... okay." Mitch smiled. He wasn't sure it would be as smooth as all that, but he'd take one day at a time.

Ronnie finished his food, then stood to clear his plate. "I'd suggest we turn in early. I'll show you where the showers are, then go and grab a couple of packs."

"Great. Appreciate it." Mitch noted where Ronnie said the showers were and went to grab his toiletries while his new friend went to get packs.

Ronnie quickly washed up and then grabbed a couple of the survival packs. When he got back to the barracks, he stashed one pack under his sleeping mat and the other under the one Mitch had claimed.

Mitch didn't take long to clean up and returned to where they were bunking, storing his belongings, including the pack, where they'd be secure. He crawled into the bed. He fully expected to be woke in the middle of the night and wanted to get as much sleep as possible before that happened.

More than used to falling asleep fast, Ronnie closed his eyes and drifted off.

***

About an hour before dawn, an alarm was blaring through the barracks.

Ronnie quickly scrambled to his feet, grabbing the pack he'd stashed, all before even waking up properly.

Mitch had jumped out of bed into a defensive position. It took a few moments for him to realize they weren't under attack. Luckily, he'd deliberately worn sweats and a T-shirt to bed, so once he became aware of what was occurring, he shoved his feet into his shoes and grabbed his own pack, following Ronnie's example.

The instructors quickly arranged for the recruits to leave the barracks and enter helicopters. Ronnie made sure he and Mitch were in the same helicopter and then it was lifting off.

Mitch looked out the window of the chopper they were in. "Any clue as to what we'll be doing?" he asked in a whisper.

"Fairly sure this is a drop and leave us to find our way back," Ronnie replied, his voice just as low. "That's why I grabbed the packs. They've got a compass and rations in."

Mitch glanced around at the other recruits who were in the chopper with them. About half had packs. About half of those looked like they hadn't been thrown together at the last minute. He let out a soft huff of air, thankful he'd followed Ronnie's lead and promising himself he'd always have a pack ready to go at any moment.

Ronnie was quiet and watchful as the chopper made its way, though the number of twists and turns they made ensured it was impossible to tell exactly where they were headed. Or even if they'd backtracked.

Mitch tried to orient himself, but the flight was smooth, so feeling turns for direction wasn't effective. It was dark outside also, plus they'd closed the chopper doors, so seeing potential landmarks was difficult as well.

Eventually, the chopper was just hovering. The trainer in the chopper with them handed out parachutes and gave them quick instructions. "Find your way back to the barracks by the time night falls tomorrow."

Mitch gave the instructor an incredulous look (shouldn't they have put the chutes on before they needed to jump out? And were they even high enough up that the chutes would open in time? Why hadn't they just got on a plane?), but he took the chute and quickly put it on, thankful he'd trained in parachuting prior to this moment. Shaking his head, he shifted toward the now open door and giving Ronnie one fleeting look of 'what the hell?' he jumped out.

Ronnie was quick to follow Mitch in jumping out of the chopper, more than used to the way they did things. The other recruits followed too, and Ronnie aimed for a clearing he could see, not wanting to risk the parachute tangling in the branches of the trees that surrounded them.

Mitch had aimed for the clearing too. It wasn't as easy as when he'd jumped out of planes- there was less time to open the chute and then guide himself- but he managed to clear the trees by a few scant feet and land without hurting himself. A pained yell from the dark indicated one of the other recruits hadn't been so lucky and he suspected a rescue team would need to be sent in shortly if the recruit wasn't able to get himself out despite being wounded.

Ronnie landed and quickly moved over to Mitch, even as he scanned their surroundings. "No injuries?"

"I'm good..." Mitch said, quickly disengaging the chute and rolling it up to stuff in its pack. Within moments, he had it slung on his back along with the pack Ronnie had given him. "Can't use the sun for direction yet. Would probably be better to wait a bit... less likely to step off a cliff in the dark..." he muttered.

Ronnie nodded, settling both on his back as well. "There's a water flask in each pack. Once the sun gets high, we'll need to make sure we conserve it. There might be water sources, but it's best not to rely on those being safe to drink."

"Yeah. Makes sense," Mitch agreed, glancing around to see what everyone else was doing. Which direction they were going.

Ronnie frowned as he noticed many of the other recruits beginning to head off. "Hey!" he called out. "We'd be better off sticking together. Strength in numbers and all that."

"Yeah, cause we really oughta listen to a brown-noser," one of the recruits scoffed.

Mitch frowned at that but didn't say anything. To the recruit, at least. "If he's too stupid to listen to good advice just because of who it comes from, he needs to be weeded out." He shrugged. He tended to ignore or reject lots of advice, but it was only because he didn't trust authority and often had his own ideas of what was best; not because the person giving it was liked by the authority he didn't trust.

Ronnie shrugged casually. "Do what you want, but you'll have a better chance of getting back in one piece if you stick with a team."

The recruit snorted and waved a hand, turning and walking away, followed by some of the other recruits.

Ronnie looked around those who were left. "Does anyone need medical aid?"

"I do..." one of the smaller recruits said, in a pained voice, limping toward Ronnie. "I landed on an animal burrow... twisted my ankle. I'm not walking out of here without help." He sounded disappointed but resigned. "If you can call an extraction for me, it'd make everyone else's chances better."

Mitch wasn't particularly eager to help a potential rival, but he also didn't like the idea of winning due to an unfortunate accident. Plus, the only options were help the wounded recruit complete their mission, stay with them until help arrived and potentially lose themselves, or leave them alone to wait for help. The last option wasn't really an option; too much could go wrong, and he wouldn't have an innocent's death on his conscience. "We could take him with us..." he whispered to Ronnie.

Ronnie nodded his agreement to Mitch and addressed the recruit. "I have some first aid training. Plus, we have some supplies. I can strap up your ankle." He turned to Mitch. "If you can find a thick, sturdy branch, I can use it as a splint."

Mitch nodded, quickly heading back to the trees to find a branch. In the dark, it was difficult, but he finally found one and returned to Ronnie's side within ten minutes.

Ronnie took the branch with a nod of thanks and then began to work on creating a splint for the recruit.

Mitch helped as needed, taking the parachute pack off his back again and jerry-rigging it so that it made a travois. "You can rest on this when we're in suitable terrain. Lessen the chance of permanent damage..." he said to the recruit.

"Thanks... I'm Sam," the injured recruit said.

"I'm Ronnie." Ronnie finished up making the splint. "If we find a large amount of water soon, I'd suggest soaking your foot in it, boot and all. It'll help to keep the swelling reduced."

"Mitch..." Mitch nodded at the two. "Sun should be up soon. We can more safely move then."

Ronnie nodded. "Our packs have ration bars and water in them, but we'll need to portion everything out. No telling how hot it might get here."

"Yeah. When we find water, if it isn't a lake, we can follow it out," Mitch suggested. "Soon as we come to a road, crossing it should be easy to get back."

Ronnie straightened up and scanned the clearing, noting those who had stayed behind and those who had followed the other recruit. He looked thoughtful, taking in everyone who had thought to bring a pack with them...and who might be willing to share with those who hadn't brought anything.

"Don't think many plan to form a team. I was given the impression we were meant to compete against each other. Pretty sure they all felt the same..." Mitch whispered to Ronnie.

"Yeah. Pretty good way of weeding out those who aren't willing to play nice with others," Ronnie murmured.

"So... we aren't meant to compete against each other?" Mitch asked, somewhat confused. Not that his actions would change either way; he felt confident in his ability to move forward without leaving his humanity or conscience behind. There was no good reason not to help his fellow recruits in a situation that could be dangerous.

"It's more about seeing how we all react and interact with each other," Ronnie replied. "This isn't the only way the instructors will use to test us, but it'll give them a good idea of those who are team players and those who aren't."

"Makes sense." Mitch checked on Sam again, making sure he was strapped in and stable for when they began their trek.

Ronnie kept watch, knowing that they might be facing other dangers from the forest around them.

An hour later, the sun peaked over the horizon and began casting shadows on the ground. It wasn't perfect sight, but they could now get a better idea of direction and decide which way to go. All the recruits who had ignored Ronnie and left immediately had gone in the direction that looked easiest, like a path. When Mitch triangulated coordinates using the sun as a guideline, it turned out they needed to go up and over the mountain to get to the camp. Waiting had likely saved them a lot of time.

"What happens if they don't get out?" Mitch asked.

"They should get out," one of the female recruits that had stayed responded. "I looked at maps last night, memorized as much as I could. I recognize that landmark." She pointed toward a mountain in the distance. "If the coordinates we figured out are correct, the only difficult trail is the one we have to take. All the others lead to ranger buildings, or towns that work with the camp."

"So, they get there and have an easy ride back?" Mitch sounded disappointed.

"Not exactly..." The woman looked at Ronnie. "I'm Irene, by the way."

"I'm Ronnie," he replied, nodding to her. "I figure we can leave now. Take that mountain route." He looked towards Sam. "Why don't you try walking with the splint? See if you think you can make the trail with it." He didn't comment on the fact it would be easy for the recruit to head to one of the towns.

Sam bit his lip, looking indecisive. "I don't know if I can make a hike like that... and if I can't, I'll slow you all down. Maybe it would be better if I went with one of those groups..." He pointed toward a few of the recruits that were beginning to head to the 'easy' path. "That way, I won't slow you down."

Mitch shook his head. "You're in my team now. No man left behind if I can help it."

"It'll be doable to take you with us," Ronnie said. "The trickier terrain, we can help you over."

"If you're sure..." Sam said uncertainly.

"We are. If you're willing to try, I'm willing to help," Mitch asserted.

Irene nodded. "We should probably get moving, then."

Ronnie nodded in agreement and reached out a hand to help Sam to stand.

Once Sam was up, Mitch rolled up the travois he'd put together. He had a feeling they'd need it later.

They began moving out, going as quickly and carefully as possible, given Sam's injury.

***

Two hours later, they had crested the mountain and were beginning to head back down the other side. They'd regulated their water and food, so they had enough to hopefully last. Sam had kept up as well as could be expected. He'd only needed to lay on the travois once on the trip up, Mitch and Ronnie carrying him up over some areas that were too rough for him to navigate without further potential injury.

"From what I remember," Irene began, "the camp is between this mountain and the one over there. It is still a good 20 miles, so we might not make it before nightfall. But we should make it before time is up."

"We've made good time," Ronnie commented. "If any of you need to, we can stop and rest for a few moments. But I would suggest we don't linger for long."

"I think we should go until it starts getting dark. Then get shelter till tomorrow morning," Mitch said.

"That's fine by me," Ronnie commented, glancing towards Irene and Sam to see if they had any objections.

Sam nodded. "That seems like the best plan."

"Ready to go now?" Irene asked.

"I think we all are," Ronnie replied, reaching to help Sam up again so that they could continue moving.

Sam was able to make it several more hours before he had to lay on the travois and let Mitch pull him. "I hate being like this..." he muttered softly.

"It's okay. Someday, I'll need help. You can pay me back then..." Mitch smiled crookedly.

"Given your injury, you're doing very well," Ronnie commented. "Don't worry about needing help. We all need that sometimes."

"I'm slowing you down..." Sam sighed.

Mitch snorted. "If the only way I could pass this test is leaving behind a wounded teammate, when national security or other innocent people's lives aren't on the line, then I wouldn't want to pass."

Ronnie nodded his agreement. "Leaving someone behind when there are other options isn't an option at all."

Sam smiled. "Thanks. Don't think many, if any of the others, would feel the same."

"Well, luckily, you fell in with us." Ronnie smiled, then addressed his question to all of them. "Anyone need water before we move out again?" They'd made sure to ration both the food and the water; at the same time, if it was needed, he wasn't going to prevent anyone from taking some.

"I'm good." Mitch prepared to move again.

Irene nodded. "Me too."

Ronnie just nodded and moved to help Sam to his feet again, so that they could resume moving.

"He can stay in the travois a bit longer. The path is smooth now, so it will be easy to pull. And he should probably rest his leg a bit more. Don't want to risk more damage because of using it too long when wounded," Mitch said.

"Yeah," Ronnie agreed. "When we get back to the camp, one of the doctors can look. Give better treatment than what I've been able to. Plus, they'll have strong painkillers that'll take the edge off," he added.

"If you're sure," Sam said, settling back onto the travois.

"I am," Mitch quickly asserted, picking up the end closest to Sam's head and beginning to carefully make his way back down the trail.

Ronnie picked up the other end and followed, picking his way along carefully.

They made fairly good time, even carrying Sam. Still, they had to slow and stop before reaching their destination, because it was too dark to safely walk. Mitch quickly began making a lean-to shelter.

"You learn that in the military?" Sam asked curiously.

"Naw. Was in scouts when I was a kid. My troop was really interested in survival training, so we learned a few basics... it stuck with me." Mitch smirked.

"Useful skill to have," Ronnie commented. "Pretty sure we made the right decision in all sticking together."

"Yeah. It was a good plan," Mitch agreed.

Soon, the shelter was complete, and they had a small fire to keep warm.

Ronnie portioned out some of the remaining rations and water, making sure to keep enough back so that they'd have some for the following morning. "Anything else stick with you from the scouts?" he asked Mitch curiously.

Mitch smiled crookedly. "Can't think of anything right off-hand, but it tends to come back to me when I need it, so...."

"Well, be sure to let us know when it does," Ronnie commented.

"Of course... but I'm hoping we'll get back early enough tomorrow, it won't be needed..." Mitch laughed.

"Oh, I think we're all hoping that" Ronnie replied. "But I'm not just talking about now."

Mitch nodded. "Well, if I pass to the next level, I'll make sure to do that."

"Good to know," Ronnie replied. "I'd suggest we all turn in after we've eaten, so we can make as much time as possible tomorrow."

"Sounds good." Mitch grinned in amusement toward Sam and Rene, who were already asleep.

Ronnie stretched out. "Try not to wake me suddenly unless there's an emergency. I'm liable to come up swinging."

"Okay..." Mitch acknowledged. "Um...I sometimes have nightmares. You may need to wake me up if I get too loud.... Kinda surprised I didn't wake anyone up last night."

"I'll wake you up if need be," Ronnie promised. "Anything else you think might help if you have nightmares?"

"Naw. My nightmares are memories. Not anything anyone can do unless you've figured out a way to erase those completely from someone's brain." Mitch's smile was weary. Sad.

"Wish I could," Ronnie said sympathetically. "But if you need to talk, to have someone listen to you and who won't judge, you can reach out to me."

Mitch nodded. "Maybe. I spent months talking to a therapist... still dream."

"Sometimes it's easier to talk to someone who has firsthand experience," Ronnie commented softly.

"You lose someone to terrorists?" Mitch asked quietly. He didn't disagree, but it was clear he didn't think talking would help.

"Yeah," Ronnie replied softly. "I know where you are. I've been there. I had help. Someone who had my back. Someone who made me care about what happened to me again. I'd like to help you the same way. If you'll let me."

"Why?" Mitch asked, genuinely confused. "You hadn't even met me until yesterday. But you've been helping me all along, like you care and have a personal stake. Why?"

"You ever meet someone and feel a connection to them?" Ronnie asked. "Cause that's what I felt when we first met. I've been taught to listen to my instincts. They've never steered me wrong."

"Yeah..." Mitch's voice took on a sad tone. "I felt that with my fiancé...." He swallowed, before softly whispering, "Thank you."

"You can thank me best by letting me keep you alive and healthy," Ronnie commented. "I wasn't kidding when I said I've been where you are. I know you don't really care what happens to yourself right now. That's okay, cause I'll look out for you and keep you safe."

"I... I'll try." Mitch said hesitantly. He wouldn't actively try and stop the other man, but that was a big promise, and he didn't know what the future held, or how he would react to it.

"Trying is a start," Ronnie said. "We'll deal with problems as they arise."

"Yeah..." Mitch settled down, preparing to try and sleep.

Ronnie closed his own eyes, falling into sleep quickly.

It took Mitch a little longer to fall asleep. He was nervous he might have a nightmare, and despite Ronnie's assurances, he didn't want that. He was also confused at Ronnie's quick attachment and his own response to it. Still... it had been a long day and he was tired. He eventually fell into a deep sleep.

***

Ronnie woke early, just as the sun rose. He began to pack up their stuff before moving to wake the others.

Sensing Ronnie moving around, Mitch woke up shortly after and began to help pack.

Rene woke and checked on Sam, to be sure his leg hadn't developed complications.

Soon, they were ready to leave, Sam bundled into the travois again, though he'd made a short protest about walking. Rene had vetoed it, saying his leg had swollen to the point he couldn't get his boot back on (they'd removed the boot the night before to alleviate discomfort) and it was highly likely he'd broken it.

Mitch quickly moved to take the back of the travois, intending to let Ronnie lead this time.

Ronnie moved quickly to take the lead, going as quickly but carefully as he could.

"How far do you think we are?" Mitch asked quietly.

"Once we get over this next mountain, we should have a clear run to the barracks," Ronnie answered.

"Good. Guess we'll see how good we did. How many of the others beat us back..." Mitch snorted.

"And how many of them haven't made it back," Ronnie commented. "And won't before the deadline."

"Most of them went what should have been the easiest way. You think they won't make it?" Mitch asked curiously.

"I think that what seems like the easiest way really isn't," Ronnie replied.

"You know something the rest of us don't?" Mitch asked in amusement.

Ronnie smiled. "I know how Hurley's mind works."

Mitch blinked at that. "That's... that's a useful advantage to have," he finally settled on, with a laugh. "Considering we're the only ones who came this direction, now I'm worried we're the only ones who will pass. It will be a very small class."

"This isn't the only route it's possible to take," Ronnie commented. "We're not likely to be the only ones who get back before the deadline."

"Hope so. I may want to come out on top, but I don't want to be the only one to come out either..." Mitch smirked.

"Well. You wouldn't be the only one coming out even if no one else does get through," Ronnie said.

Mitch chuckled. "Of course."

Ronnie fell silent, continuing to lead the way even as he kept a look out for any visible dangers.

Mitch kept an eye out as well, Ronnie's comment about Hurley making him paranoid that the old man would have some last-minute obstacle hidden that would thwart them.

As they crested the mountain, it was obvious that getting to the barracks wouldn't be as easy or straightforward as a clear run.

There was a line of soldiers between them and the barracks, armed with what were clearly paint guns. A group of recruits, clothing splattered with bright paint, were being led dejectedly away.

Ronnie quickly shrank back out of view and looked at the others. "Looks like we need to find a way around."

Sam swallowed. "Let me be a distraction. They focus on me and you slip by.... you got me back safely. It's the least I can do."

"Didn't rescue you just to throw you to the metaphorical wolves." Mitch frowned.

"It might be the only way..." Rene said hesitantly.

"No man left behind," Ronnie said firmly. He took another glance over at the soldiers. "They don't go as far as the woods. We could go down this steeper path. The foot's at the tree line. Not many people look up, so we shouldn't be noticed...." He gestured towards the path.

"I should walk..." Sam whispered.

"You heard what Rene said. Walking on it could permanently maim you. We can make it carrying you," Mitch said calmly.

"We just go slow and careful," Ronnie said. "Which we should be doing anyway." A very faint grimace crossed his face, remembering just what happened when he wasn't careful.

"Exactly. You just keep still and quiet. But keep your eyes open. You see something, give me a hand signal... " Mitch directed Sam, before picking up the travois again and preparing to follow Ronnie.

Ronnie began to pick his way carefully down the path, keeping hold of the travois.

Somehow- things moved very slowly and yet so quickly it seemed like a blur in Mitch's mind- they made it around the soldiers and back into the camp. They headed straight for the infirmary to get Sam help. The doctor there would inform those administering the test that they'd arrived and succeeded. Especially since at least one trainer had to come to the infirmary to be told of Sam's status and what he'd be required to do while healing. No one had been told where to go after returning, so it was just as good a spot as any, though Mitch was tempted to sneak into the main offices of the trainers and let his presence be known.

It wasn't long before Hurley was stepping into the infirmary, having received the message about Sam and that the others had made it back. When he stepped into the infirmary, he didn't give anything away about the type of relationship he and Ronnie had. He only acknowledged the others with a nod before listening to the doctor's report about Sam.

Mitch listened as well. After everything, he hoped that Sam hadn't lost his chance at training. Even if he had to postpone and return once he was healed, which seemed to be what would need to happen, if what the doctor was saying was any indication.

"I'll have to have surgery? And then take it easy for the next six months?" Sam asked, in disappointment.

"Recovering from injuries can sometimes take time," Hurley said. "But once you're fully healed, you can return and pick up from the same point you left off."

Sam relaxed at that news. "Thank you, sir. Thank all of you..." He looked around at Ronnie, Mitch, and Irene. "If you hadn't stayed with me, took me with you, I would have had to walk on it, and it might have been a lot worse...."

"Like I said. Wasn't leaving you behind. Just glad I could help you," Mitch said quietly.

"No one left behind." Ronnie's comment was given with a kind of half-smile.

Hurley just nodded, looking around at each of the three who hadn't been injured. "Lunch in the mess hall in twenty minutes." His eyes lingered on Ronnie's, just for a second, before he left.

Ronnie turned to the others. "I'm going to go get washed up. You need anything?" He addressed Sam.

"If someone could bring me my trunk? The rest of my belongings are in it," Sam said hesitantly.

"I'll take care of it." Irene smiled, leaving to do just that.

"I'll check in on you later," Mitch promised, heading to shower and change before lunch.

Ronnie went to wash up and then joined Hurley in the main house, sitting down with the older man and picking up one of the sandwiches. "So how many of the recruits made it back?"

"Just under half," Hurley answered, taking his own sandwich. "What do you think of our live wire?"

"He didn't seem inclined to go against the group majority," Ronnie commented. "But then, we didn't have any instances where he wanted to go a different way. Could be he'll argue more if he thinks there's a better way."

***

Mitch had showered and then gone to the mess, noting how many recruits were missing. He breathed a small sigh grateful he was among the successful group. He frowned when he realized both Irene and Ronnie weren't in the mess eating, but then decided Irene likely had gone back to Sam and Ronnie had indicated he was close to Hurley, so he was probably with him.

***

"You like him," Hurley commented, eyeing Ronnie's expression and body language.

"Yeah." Ronnie saw no reason to hide it. "I do like him. He reminds me of me. When I first came here." He drank some water and finished his sandwich. "I think he needs someone in his life. Someone to pull him back from getting himself killed."

***

Mitch sat at an empty table, quickly eating, then looking through his email. He wasn't being obviously off-putting, but he wasn't welcoming either and the other recruits left him alone. He read through one email with interest, becoming agitated the further he read. Two of the terrorists who'd killed his fiancé had been sighted; and they weren't that far from where he currently was. The urge to go after them and make them pay was too strong to resist; but if he left without notice, he could be thrown out of the program.

***

"I've taught you to follow your instincts. To follow your gut," Hurley said. "But I can tell you that teaching someone to start caring about their own safety is a full-time job. And you have other responsibilities, too."

"You think I can't do it?" Ronnie wasn't offended by his father figure's comments. After all, Hurley could see a lot of things Ronnie couldn't.

"No. I think you can. But I also know it's a huge amount of responsibility and work you'll take on with the live wire."

Ronnie smiled. "Well. I'm counting on you for help, of course, Dad. You're so much stronger-willed than I am."

***

Deciding that he had to at least let someone know he was going off campus for a short while, even if they didn't know why, Mitch went in search of Ronnie. He hoped he wouldn't be given an ultimatum between his revenge and training, because he knew he'd give up training, even if it ruined his future. His fiancé’s killers had to pay.

Ronnie had finished eating with Hurley and excused himself, planning to head back to the barracks. So, he came face to face with Mitch and paused, noting the purposeful way the younger man was moving. "You heading somewhere?"

"Yeah. You remember those nightmares I mentioned? Discovered that two of the ones who caused them are the next town over. Gonna make sure they don't give anyone else nightmares." Mitch didn't sound like he was looking for permission. "Just need to let one of the trainers know so they don't do a manhunt if I miss early morning training."

Ronnie's smile was sympathetic, and his tone matched as he said, "Before you take off, I think you should come with me to speak with Hurley."

"Yeah, sure. He's head trainer, so prolly better if I tell him instead of one of the others," Mitch easily agreed.

Ronnie turned quickly to head back into the house, making sure that Mitch was following him.

Mitch followed, giving the house a curious look.

Hurley glanced up from his paperwork, raising his eyebrows as he saw the two of them enter the room. "Is there something wrong?" He stood up.

"No... I just wanted to let you know I’m leaving for a few days to take care of something. It didn't feel right to just take off..." Mitch said, not exactly hesitant, but not sure how much to share about the actual situation.

Hurley frowned, eyeing Mitch closely. "What's so important that you would abandon the training?" he asked directly.

"I don't plan to abandon it... not exactly." Mitch winced. "Two of the terrorists that murdered my fiancé and numerous other people are in a city not more than two hours from here. I can't let an opportunity to get to them... make them pay... go without at least trying. And if they give up where the others are, even better."

"You go after those terrorists the way you are right now, you'll end up getting yourself killed," Hurley said. "Maybe not right away, but from what I've heard, you don't care about what happens to you in your search for revenge."

Mitch gave Ronnie a slightly hurt look that the other man had talked about him to Hurley... but he wasn't surprised, and the hurt was negligible. "I would be careful. I want to get all of them. Can't do that if I die too soon," he said flippantly.

"You're not going," Hurley stated firmly. "Not at the moment. Not until I'm sure you won't be running off to get yourself killed."

Mitch paused before a mulish look crossed his face. "Look... I know if I go now, when you've ordered me not to, that I probably lose my chance at remaining a recruit and training. And that would suck, because this is likely the best training I can get, short of rejoining the military and going special ops.; which wouldn't help, because they're all about following orders and are stricter than this place could legally be... but if it's a choice between training and taking out the bastards that murdered Katrina, I'll take my chances. I'll train myself if I have to...." Pausing again, Mitch gave Hurley a challenging smirk. "Why'd you care, anyway? You ain't my daddy. I was orphaned when I was in the single digits and have taken care of myself just fine without one, so you don't need to get parental or caring on me...."

"Ronnie cares about you," Hurley said. "And he's right. You'd get yourself killed, going after them now. You think they won't be expecting someone to come after them? If they're visible enough to draw attention to themselves, they'll be expecting someone to come after them. Even if they don't know it's you. Your best chance of living through your quest for vengeance is to stay here and get trained."

"Trained by the best," Ronnie said softly.

"If I leave them alone, I might never get a chance again. They're like that house mold... you don't know they're there till they're hurting or even killing you." Mitch tilted his chin up stubbornly, as if testing or daring Hurley to try and stop him.

He wasn't actively attempting to be openly defiant; he truly believed he needed to take his chance now, or possibly never get another one. If he had realized how confrontational and defiant, he was being, he would have toned it down. But as he'd said, he'd been taking care of himself for a very long time; and that often resulted in an absurd over-confidence that manifested as obstinate defiance.

Hurley looked towards Ronnie. "You mind giving us a bit of privacy, son?"

Ronnie heard the acknowledgement of their relationship. Knew that if Hurley was putting voice to it, that meant he was accepting Mitch as part of their family. He simply nodded and slipped out of the room.

Mitch's nose wrinkled in confusion as Ronnie just left without any argument; either to convince him to listen to Hurley, or to convince Hurley he needed to stay. It also didn't escape his notice what Hurley called Ronnie. "He said he and you were close..." he acknowledged, after Ronnie had left. "Guess he meant closer than just mentoring, if you're calling him that...."

"Ronnie feels a connection to you," Hurley said. "I've seen enough of your behavior and attitude to know that you're very similar to how he used to be. I stepped in to stop Ronnie from doing something stupid and dangerous. It seems like I need to do the same thing here." He walked towards Mitch.

Mitch blinked at that. "You're going to step in because Ronnie feels a connection to me? Or because I remind you of him and you stepped in with him, so figure you should step in with me?" If he sounded confused, it was because he was confused. Very confused. Why would Hurley feel the need to step in at all? Even if Ronnie felt a connection, it didn't mean Hurley did. If Hurley was afraid of Mitch's actions hurting Ronnie, the easiest thing to do would be to help Ronnie break whatever connection he felt so it didn't grow stronger.

"You could say it's a combination," Hurley said. "You are very similar to Ronnie. From what I've seen of you, I can understand the connection he feels to you. I can understand it because I feel a similar connection, though it's not entirely the same." Reaching Mitch's side, he grasped the younger man's shoulder.

"You feel a connection to me?" Mitch asked in surprise. "I didn't think you'd even noticed me..." He tensed up uncertainly as Hurley's hand landed on his shoulder. It was a level of closeness he wasn't used to and the only reason he didn't pull free and back away was because his gut told him he was safe with Hurley. Even if the older man was making him nervous.

"Of course, I noticed you," Hurley replied. "I pay attention to all of my recruits." He gently gripped Mitch's shoulder, using that hold on the younger man to guide him through to the main room.

Mitch let himself be led, though he was becoming increasingly more nervous. He wasn't sure what Hurley was up to. "Ronnie did say you were the best... I guess I shouldn't be surprised you'd notice. Still surprised you'd care...."

"Yeah, well, you carry on like this, you won't be coming back. Or if you do, you'll be damaged beyond any hope of repair." Hurley walked to the couch and sat down, quickly pulling Mitch over his lap and pinning him in place with an arm wrapped around his waist.

Mitch had followed Hurley to the couch and had planned to sit beside him, or across from him... he hadn't expected to be pulled over the older man's lap. As a result, he hadn't put up a fight against it. By the time he realized what was happening, it was too late. He was over Hurley's knee and being securely held. "What are you doing?!" he asked in alarm.

"You need someone to take you in hand, kid. You need someone to step in and prove that what you do and who you are matters." Hurley moved one hand to Mitch's neck, rubbing and squeezing the nape. He bared the younger man and then lightly rubbed the naked backside before bringing his hand down firmly and then rubbing the spot he'd just smacked.

Mitch thought he should fight what was happening, but the words and actions were so unexpected and shocking, he did little more than squirm, yelping at the swat. "That stung!" he blurted, before turning bright red at the fact he had stated the obvious, and that he was just lying there while the older man alternately punished then soothed his bottom. He squirmed a bit more forcefully.

"That's the point of a spanking, kiddo. Of course, it's not only about the pain." Hurley continued to smack, rubbing each spot between, pulling Mitch tighter against his stomach.

"Ow!" Mitch yelped again, whining softly as he failed to squirm free and felt himself drawn closer and tighter into Hurley's grip. "I... if it's 'sposed to hurt, why you keep rubbing the sting out?!" Mitch couldn't help sounding affronted. Part of him was grateful for the soothing reprieve; the other part felt like the action indicated that Hurley thought him too weak to handle the pain of a spanking.

"I figure it's not only punishment you haven't received much of; it's also care and affection," Hurley said. "And besides, nothing worth learning is taught through pain alone." He continued to smack and rub. Continued to grip the nape of Mitch's neck.

Mitch stiffened at that acknowledgement before shifting with another soft whine. His squirming was slowing, a small part of him thinking he'd asked for this. The scruffing of his neck, oddly enough, made him feel younger and more childish than the spanking. He couldn't deny Hurley's words either; he hadn't had much care or affection, outside of Katrina.

Hurley continued to cover the entirety of Mitch's backside, down to mid-thigh, with the smacks and the rubbing. "I know that you don't care about whether you live or die, but I care. And Ronnie does too, even if he's not likely to do this."

Mitch swallowed hard, blinking back sudden tears. "He wouldn't, but you will?" he asked, in a small voice, suspecting and looking for confirmation that this wasn't a one-time occurrence. That Hurley (and Ronnie) meant to keep him around.

"I will," Hurley confirmed. "As often as I need to. As many times as it needs to happen. Ronnie's my kid. Now you are too."

Mitch let out a tiny huff of distressed air, obviously fighting his emotions. "I need to stop them..." he whispered, in a broken voice. It was obvious that he wasn't arguing anymore; was hesitantly seeking permission, even though he knew he wouldn't get it. His bottom was sore, even if he suspected it could feel a lot worse if Hurley hadn't been rubbing.

"I know," Hurley replied. "But not yet. And not alone." He wasn't smacking hard by this point, really just patting, interspersing those with the rubbing. And he was still gripping the nape of Mitch's neck.

Mitch blinked back tears, his body going lax in acceptance of Hurley's decision and authority. "Feel like a screwed-up kid," he whispered in a tiny voice, not moving at all, the almost rhythmical patting and rubbing settling him in a way words couldn't. Easing him in a way he hadn't been at ease since before Katrina died. It was out of his hands. He was in Hurley's control and that calmed him.

"You're not screwed up." Hurley's voice was very gentle as he continued to pat, rub and scruff. "You've been hurt, deeply hurt, by what's happened to you. I've seen it before. You need someone to take care of you and believe in you."

"Been alone forever... dunno how to be helped..." Mitch's voice caught and then he was quietly crying, laying still, and accepting everything Hurley did.

"You're not alone anymore, kid," Hurley promised. "And even if you don't know how to be helped, it doesn't matter. Because I will still help you. No matter what."

"As a trainer?" Mitch sniffled. Hurley was meant to help him as a trainer. Or did he mean something different?

"As a father," Hurley replied. "The same relationship I have with Ronnie."

Mitch's crying became vocal at that point. "A father... n... not alone anymore... "

"Your father." Hurley moved Mitch into his arms, on his lap instead of over it, holding him close. "You're not alone anymore, kid."

Mitch pressed close, careful not to pull away from the gentle scruffing. He didn't care that his clothing was pooled around his ankles. It felt right to be vulnerable to the older man, now that he'd accepted Hurley's authority and new position in his life.

Hurley hugged Mitch tightly, scruffing his neck, stroking his hair and down his back. He wrapped his arm around Mitch's waist, almost possessively, as he continued to cuddle and scruff and stroke.

"I won't go after them... I'll stay and finish training and not go till you say I can," Mitch promised softly. He continued to cuddle.

"Good, son." Hurley pressed a kiss against the side of his head. "And when the time is right, I'll go with you. And I'm sure Ronnie will too."

"Okay..." Mitch swallowed again, pressing into the kiss. He felt helpless and out of sorts and the only way to keep his emotions from overwhelming him was to give in to his need for care and affection; and give in to his need to obey Hurley.

"You don't have to go to the barracks tonight," Hurley said softly. "You can stay here tonight. You and Ronnie," he offered.

"The other trainers won't care?" Mitch asked hesitantly. He still wasn't sure how to handle this newest situation but wanted desperately to believe everything Hurley said and offered.

"It's not as if they're unaware," Hurley answered reassuringly.

"I'd like to stay... I already packed my bag cuz I thought I'd be going after them..." Mitch said hesitantly.

"Then you don't need to grab anything else," Hurley commented. "You can sit and cuddle like this for as long as you'd like."

"Okay..." Mitch sniffed then swallowed again, pressing close. He wondered that it didn't feel weird or wrong, sitting half-naked on the older man's lap and snuggling, but didn't question over much. He wondered where Ronnie had gone; if the other man had heard him being punished. He found himself not caring if he had. If sitting on Hurley's lap felt right, Ronnie knowing he'd been taken in hand felt right too.

Hurley stroked his fingers through Mitch's hair and pressed a kiss to his head. He still scruffed his new son and used his other hand to rub Mitch’s backside gently but possessively.

Mitch let out a tiny sigh of acceptance and contentment. "What should I call you? Outside, I know I need to behave like you're just my trainer, but here, when it's just us? What should I call you?" he asked softly, squirming just enough to make it easier for Hurley to scruff and rub.

"You're my son now," Hurley replied, gently squeezing Mitch's backside. "You can call me any variant of Dad when it's just us. Or just us and Ronnie."

"Haven't had a Dad since I was little," Mitch said quietly, sighing softly at the squeezing.

"You've got one now." Hurley continued to gently rub and squeeze his new son's bottom; continued to gently scruff his neck.

"I got a dad..." Mitch let his head rest on Hurley's shoulder. "Thank you for wanting me... helping me... caring about me."

"You're welcome, son." Hurley kissed the side of Mitch's head. It took only a few moments' thought to pull the rest of his son's clothing free, allowing him access to every inch of Mitch's bare skin.

Mitch flushed slightly at being completely naked and snuggling on the older man's lap, but he didn't protest and relaxed further. Having Hurley so completely in control and being completely vulnerable felt right. "Are there any other actions that might get me into trouble?" he asked curiously.

"Lying, dangerous behavior, disobeying orders without a very good reason." Hurley gave Mitch's backside a firm pat and then rub with each action he listed off, even as he scruffed his son that much tighter.

"What if I don't lie and admit what I plan to do, and you think it is too dangerous?" Mitch asked curiously. "If you tell me no and I argue?" That was what had happened this time, after all.

"I'll do exactly what I just did. Put you over my knee for a spanking." Hurley gave a pat that was a bit firmer, nearly a light smack, then squeezed.

"So, arguing when I know it's something, I shouldn't do will get me in trouble too..." Mitch acknowledged quietly. "That's fair." He squirmed slightly, because his bottom was very sensitive by this point, but didn't try and get away. He was being taught and this was part of the learning process; at least he assumed so.

"Exactly." Hurley gave another light smack and gentle rub. "And as you'll be staying with me tonight, I can make sure you remember your place all through tomorrow."

"Yessir... Ronnie won't be upset or think less of me?" Mitch couldn't help worrying what his friend would think... even if he suspected Ronnie knew how Hurley would handle him when he brought him to the older man.

"Of course not," Hurley replied. "Ronnie brought you to me because he knew I was best placed to help you."

Mitch nodded gently, not dislodging his head from Hurley's shoulder. "Is he staying away because he thinks I'll get into more trouble?" he asked, with a hint of amused insecurity.

"No, he's staying away because I haven't told him he can come back yet," Hurley answered. "If you're comfortable with him coming back now, I'll send him a message." He let his fingers run through Mitch's hair.

"Will he mind if I'm still snuggling? Or that I'm naked?" Mitch flushed. "I don't want to make him uncomfortable."

"If you don't mind, he won't mind," Hurley replied.

"I don't mind... feel like I should, but I don't..." Mitch snorted quietly.

Hurley nodded and tapped out a message on his phone.

Seconds later, Ronnie was stepping into the room. He smiled at seeing Mitch on Hurley's lap and walked over to them. "You're staying, then? I'm glad."

"Yeah..." Mitch smiled almost bashfully. "Dad convinced me of the error of my ways..." he said quietly. He knew Ronnie would hear and see the remnants of his tears.

"I knew he would." Ronnie sat down on the couch next to Hurley, who freed one arm from Mitch to wrap it around Ronnie's shoulders.

Ronnie leaned into Hurley and placed a hand on Mitch's arm, squeezing gently. "So, you gonna be sneaking in here with me, then, I take it?" He grinned.

"We gotta keep it secret? If so, then I guess I'll get to practice my sneaking..." Mitch grinned.

"That depends on how comfortable you are with the other recruits assuming you get special treatment," Hurley commented.

Ronnie shrugged. "They accuse me of that anyway. It doesn't bother me."

"Given I don't really care what they think of me at all..." Mitch snorted. "To be honest, it caught me by surprise when I cared what Ronnie thought. I came here prepared to be on my own with no friends, so...."

"If you both are happy not hiding it, then we don't need to," Hurley said. "Which means you can both move in here officially."

Ronnie smiled and squeezed Mitch's shoulder lightly. "I felt an immediate connection to you, Runt." His grin widened.

"Runt!? I'm not that small!" Mitch laughed.

"Smaller than me, though." Ronnie gently nuzzled against Mitch's head.

"Yeah... kinda like that," Mitch admitted, shifting his head more toward Ronnie, quickly turning to face him and giving a peck on the cheek, before laying his head back on Hurley's shoulder.

Ronnie smiled at that and brushed a kiss against the side of Mitch's face he could reach.

Hurley let his fingers brush through Mitch's hair, keeping his arm around Ronnie's shoulders, though he made sure Ronnie and Mitch could still give each other affection.

Mitch almost shyly turned to face Ronnie again, hesitantly kissing him on the lips. "Thank you," he whispered. "Thank you for bringing me to Dad."

Ronnie raised his hand to Mitch's face, cupping his cheek gently, kissing him in return; a firm press of lips against Mitch's. "You're more than welcome," he murmured.

Mitch smiled. "So... uh... when do we have to be in class tomorrow?" He looked toward his new father.

"We'll be waking the recruits, the ones who remain, around nine," Hurley replied. "Figure that you can all do with a lie-in."

"If I get up early enough, maybe I can check in on Sam. It sucks to be taken out because of a freak accident." Mitch wrinkled his nose.

Hurley nodded. "I'll go with you to check on him. Reassure him that he'll still have a place here when he's fully recovered."

Mitch smiled at that. "How long have you both been a family?" he asked curiously.

"It's been about a year now," Ronnie said.

"A year since this defensive, antagonistic young man with a death wish showed up at the training camp with an attitude to rival that of any hormonal teenager," Hurley commented.

Ronnie grinned and shrugged. "Yeah, well. You soon set me straight."

Mitch blinked, a funny look crossing his face. "You said you could understand me because we were a lot alike. Does that mean I was behaving like a hormonal teenager?" He'd thought he'd done a better job curbing his smart mouth and obeying orders than that. Even if he usually did act like a grumpy, hormonal teenager.

"You were closed off when you first arrived," Ronnie commented. "But it was immediately obvious you had a death wish. Like I told you. I've been there. When you've experienced something yourself, it's easier to recognize it in others."

Mitch nodded. He'd felt a connection to Ronnie too, even if he'd been so narrowly focused on his goals, he didn't immediately acknowledge it. "Is that how you knew bringing me to Dad would work?" he asked Ronnie. "How you knew spanking me would settle and rein me in instead of sending me running?" He turned toward Hurley.

"Yeah." Ronnie reached out and brushed his fingers through Mitch's hair. "My instincts don't often steer me wrong."

"What Ronnie said to me fit what I'd observed about you myself," Hurley commented. "So yes. That's how I knew it would work on you."

Mitch smiled crookedly. "At the risk of not being able to sit for the next several days or weeks... I'm still feeling a strong urge to go after Katrina's murderers," he admitted quietly. "My need to obey you is stronger at the moment," he looked at Hurley, "but I know that will only last as long as I am in your sight and feel the results of planning to go in the first place."

Hurley gently squeezed low down on Mitch's back. "Sounds to me like I need to keep a tight rein on you, kid," he commented.

"You don't think it will be too much?" Mitch winced at how young and scared he sounded. He hadn't realized how much he needed people on his side, looking out for him, until he suddenly found himself being taken care of. He was positive his attitude would convince them to give up on him.

"Hey, Dad and me, we're in it for the long haul," Ronnie said. "There's no such thing as too much when it comes to a family." He brushed a kiss against Mitch's cheek.

Mitch nuzzled Ronnie's face in acknowledgement before pressing more tightly to Hurley. He'd have to trust Ronnie's words. Would have to trust that they were like Katrina and would stay, instead of like every other person in his life who hadn't. Given how Katrina had been taken from him, it made his need to take out the terrorists stronger.

Hurley let his fingers stroke through Mitch's hair and down his neck and back. "Family doesn't cut and run when it gets tough, kid."

"Even if family is a pain in the ass?" Mitch asked, with a tiny smile. He knew he could be a handful.

"Even then," Hurley promised. "You might get a trip over my knee, but nothing will cause either of us to give up on you."

"You have a place here." Ronnie smiled at Mitch, wrapping an arm around him, and pressing a kiss to his shoulder.

"So, if I'm a pain in the ass, I might get a pain on the ass, but I won't be sent away..." Mitch teased faintly, even as he shifted so Ronnie had easier access to him, while not removing himself from Hurley's grip. He was feeling affectionate and needy.

"Exactly right," Hurley said. "When it's necessary, you'll go over my knee. Bur you won't be given up on or sent away."

Ronnie kissed Mitch's cheek. "You belong with us now."

"That's good. Feels like... like a weight lifted..." Mitch admitted.

Hurley smiled and squeezed both his sons tighter to himself. He hadn't expected to gain a second son when Mitch had arrived at the training camp, but now that he had, he was happy. Content.

The End