The only outward reaction I had when the commander rested his hand on my shoulder was allowing my eyes to close.  My inward reaction was different I felt my heart rate increase the slightest bit.  I knew that he approved of me in those moments.  I did not stir,  simply allowed him to remain in contact with me.  I didn’t jump in surprise as his hand shifted sliding down my form coming to rest on one of my arms.  I could feel the warmth of his body beneath his glove,  and wonder briefly how much different the world would be without touch.<br/><strong><br/>“Of course Commander.”</strong>I was not jealous of the other girl,  though the commander adding the statement about her not being as important as me said he feared I would.  It would be foolish of me,  we were all cogs in the machine…  No, perhaps the representation was incorrect.  Performers perhaps,  all playing different tunes that only The Commander was capable of directing into controlled harmony.<br/><br/>I was to force her into compliance?  I was not used to the idea,  I took orders. I allowed myself to be manipulated.  To attempt to control another was a foreign concept to me,  yet…  it was The Commander’s orders.  I was compelled to carry them out,  was it a paradox to be ordered to be less complacent.  Even if it was,  it would not matter as long as I could complete the task that was assigned to me The Commander would be happy. When he handed me the files I nodded,  slipping them into my school bag.<br/><br/><strong>“I will do as you command Sir.”</strong>I said bowing my head ever so slightly.<br/>