It didn't matter that he wasn't in rut, wasn't possessive by protectiveness anymore, but damn he just couldn't help but feel happy to be back with Gabriel again. As gorgeous as he was naked and sex drunk, he was just as attractive clothed and put back in order like when they had first met.

Yeah, it wasn't as intense, but Jack fully admitted that he had feelings for the older man, though if it was unwanted, he wouldn't let it interfere with their work and friendship. They had been through a lot together, and they would be through a lot more in the coming days and weeks as they returned to the war effort in small teams that would either work independently or with other military units.

He brought the tray of food over and settled himself on the bed near Gabe, leaving room between them for the tray so they both had even access to it. "From what I learned today, that shouldn't cause an issue. They are doing weapons training and getting debriefs on the hotspots most likely to receive us in the coming weeks."

He cracked open a bottle of apple juice and took a drag from it, shrugging a little. "Bit sore and groggy, but otherwise, I feel good. How about you?"