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Chapter Text

Dearest Mavis 

Me and the lads are doing well, Louis is keeping us all fed. I’m pretty sure you’ll be right glad to know my old china Andrew —---------. Neither Burkhalter (that old sod) or  Hoschstetter knows what happened. Old Klink, bless him, is as clueless as ever. I hope you and everyone else on the lane  are faring well. Be sure to write back soon, Peter

Mavis felt the blush forming on her face from the mere mention of her brother’s chum. She couldn’t bloody help it! At least she could blush in peace in her kip without Annie pointing it out to the other six Newkirk siblings. Annie picked up an uncanny ability to notice even the slightest pink flush on her sister’s nose. Which was why young Mavis Newkirk locked her bedroom door behind her and hid under her quilt as a precaution before reading Pete’s letter. She only wondered what the bloody blazes Andrew did now, the censors were a regular irritant to Peter’s letters. 

Mavis tucked the letter back in its envelope and got out from under her blankets. She thought of what to write to her brother when an absolutely barmey idea came to her: why not write to Andrew too? She was certain he wouldn’t mind a letter from her and Peter did mention her to his mates more than once. 

Once Mavis was certain neither Annie or one of the other Newkirk siblings wouldn’t barge through the locked door she went straight to her writing desk. Mavis took a deep breath and retrieved her fountain pen from its ink well. She got a precious blank page from her paper stack and began to write. 

 Dear Andrew

‘Ello!  It’s Mavis, Peter has told me all about you in his letters so I finally decided to write to you. I’m sorry to say I’ve never been farther than the Tower Of London so I  don’t know much about Bullfrog or North Dakota in general-

Mavis stopped, taking another deep breath. Come on Mavis. you can do it, Lass, she thought to herself. She plucked up the courage to continue the next few lines. Andrew, if I’m going to finally get to why I wrote this letter is.. I fancy you, I really do. Everything I hear of you makes me think you’re clever and brave. I wouldn’t care a lick if you had one eye and like a frog. 

Cor blimey.. Mavis felt light headed after finishing the line. As soon as the feeling passed she finally continued. 

I know I may sound like a lovestruck schoolgirl but Peter does say you’re twenty-two, only a year older than me so you can’t hold that over my head. I do hope you plan to write back.

–Mavis 

With that letter done, Mavis went to answer Peter’s letter. She got his letter from its envelope and began to write on the back. 

Dearest Peter

I’m glad you and your mates are well. Those krauts don’t know anything anyway so I’m not surprised about that at all. We’re all carrying on here in Stepney. As irritating as he is we have Lord Haw Haw playing nonstop in case anyone we know is captured, no one yet thankfully. You better write back, Big Brother, and stay safe

with love, Mavis                      

Mavis placed the letter into a fresh envelope, doing the same with Andrew’s letter. Once the proper adresses were written on the backs with the appropriate stamps Mavis got up from her desk. She was headed to  the door with both clutched to her chest. But before she did, Mavis peaked out of her door to make sure the coast was clear of gossip obsessed sisters. After a few minutes she was finally comfortable enough to step out of her room. 

The fresh spring air greeted Mavis when she opened the front door. Despite the near constant bombing raids East London still found a way to carry on as normal. Women leaned on the railing of their porches gossiping and discussing the newest Archers episode beside massive heaps of rubble. “Afternoon Mavis, off to the post?” one woman, with faded red hair tied back with a bandanna and brown eyes greeted from her window while holding a cup of tea. 

“Afternoon Mrs. Jones. Indeed I am! Me bruv Peter sent me a letter and I’m off ta send my reply.” Mrs. Jones leaned out her window, squinting as she looked Mavis over. “Oh but dearie, ye ‘ave two letters. ‘Oo is the second letter for?” Mavis blushed a light pink and cleared her throat. “Ye promise ye won’t tell Annie or her gosspin’  flock of hens?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. 

Mrs. Jones crossed her heart and raised her right hand in silent promise. Mavis nodded, trusting the older woman. “Right, so Peter ‘as a china named Andrew Carter. ‘E’s a Yank from North Dakota. ‘E’s a Bombardier and a regular Einstein if ole Al was ‘alf Lakota and a POW.” A soft smile formed on Mrs. Jones’ friendly face. “It sounds like you’ve come to fancy ‘im” she said. 

Mavis swallowed nervously, “I-I ‘ave.. I wrote ‘im a letter to introduce meself. And tell ‘im to be sure to write back. And.. I did admit to fancyin’ ‘im.” Mrs. Jones smiled again, “rest assured, your sister won’t ‘ear of it from me, darlin’” she promised, getting a sigh of relief from the young woman. “Thank ye, Mrs. Jones.” Mavis said gratefully, Mrs. Jones only shook her head with a light chuckle. “It’s nothin’ dearie.” she replied. 

Mavis bade farewell and continued on her way. She was grateful for the peace and quiet that came before tea time. It gave her an excuse to wonder what her overprotective brother would think of Andrew’s letter. If he saw it, Mavis thought with a chuckle. 

The familiar red Victorian mailbox came into view. And the light headed feeling came back as well. But this time Mavis wasn’t nervous, she actually felt excited. And with a giggle, she ran the rest of the way to the post box. 

“Stay away from my brother, alright?” Mavis told Andrew’s letter. She then looked at Peter's letter. “And you. Distract ‘im.” Mavis took one last look at both of the envelopes before sliding them into the mailbox. “You both get to Stalag XIIIc safely.” She said lastly, turning around and heading back to the flat for tea. 

Chapter Text

Sergeant Shultz apprehensively walking into Barracks Two, practically hugging the wall meant only one thing: Mail Call. If it was to call the prisoners out for Roll Call he’d barge in shouting “ Raus! Raus! Raus!” Even if he knew what the answer was going to be,  Andrew still asked “Whatchya need, Shultzie?” meanwhile throwing  his legs over the side of his bunk and readied himself to jump down. 

Shultz swallowed audibly and stammered “M-mail call!”. That was the signal for absolute pandemonium. And lanky Andrew was the first to stumble over for his mail before the rest of the crowd. He escaped the tangle of limbs with a bound worthy of his name. 

Andrew got himself settled back up on his bunk and looked over his letters. As expected, he got an envelope decorated with his Ma’s immaculate cursive. And the other caused him to do a double take. The second letter was from Mavis Newkirk of all people. “What in blue blazes?” He murmured, putting it down on the mattress. No matter how curious he was about what on earth his buddy’s little sister wanted with him, Andrew was a good kid who read his Ma’s letter first. 

My Dear Son,

I pray you’re still doing well since your last letter. As I said in my last letter, you stay safe. Willow can now sit up! She should be babbling and toddling about before Big brother Andy gets home. Your cousins, bless the little dears, have all been trying to pronounce their Lakhota names. Lola, or Little Doe to your Gramps is the only one who can pronounce hers. Tahcawin fits her perfectly, she’s exactly like you at that age. She can’t wait to show her Cousin ‘White Tail’ when you get home. I only hope that happens soon. The twins, Macawi and Iktomi have gone back to calling each other ‘Trickster’ and ‘Spider’... 

Give the other boys love from Auntie Carter

With love

Ma

Now Andrew had to open Mavis’ letter. If he could pluck up the courage to do so. “Okay, you can do it Andrew.” he whispered to himself before finally opening the envelope. And by the time he reached the third section, Andrew had blushed to the whites of his eyes. Which much to his chagrin, caught everyone’s attention. “What’s got ya in such a tizzy, Carter?” Hogan asked, to which Andrew answered by clearing his throat. 

A knowing grin formed on Lebeau’s face. “Is it a jolie fille, André?” he teased. The question was answered when Andrew’s big blue eyes somehow got even wider and his ears turned scarlet. “Aw now, Louis. Leave ‘im be.” Newkirk chuckled, nudging the Frenchman playfully. Andrew sighed in relief, thanking his lucky stars Peter didn’t ask who the letter was from. 

But golly! Andrew had Mavis, a girl who thought he was clever, brave and definitely not a hyperactive spaz sent him Andrew Carter a letter . That single thought made him all giddy and caused his heart to jump and beat like his Grampa’s drum. So much in fact he read the letter over one more time just to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. 

After reading the line where Mavis said to write back a third time Andrew kissed and hugged the letter to his chest. He only hoped Mavis liked hugs and kisses because a letter would never beat the real thing. Andrew quickly bounded down from his bunk , going straight to the stationary drawer for pen and paper because he wanted to keep the physical proof the letter wasn’t a dream. 

“What’s the rush, kiddo?” Hogan asked, laughing. “Well she asked me to write back as soon as possible, I’m doing just that.” The young Sergeant answered, settling down in a chair at the table next to Kinch. He popped the cap off his trusty ballpoint pen and started to write.

Dear Mavis 

I’m writing right after reading your letter, is that soon enough?

Could you be the one to break it to Peter?

I’m scared I might get pommeled if I tell

Andrew

Once he looked over the letter a few more times Andrew moved onto answering his Ma's letter. Letters from his Ma were too precious to send back so he was willing to get another piece of paper from the drawer. "Blimey Andrew, 'ow many girls are you answerin'?" Peter chuckled. "This is for my Ma, Newkirk. Not just some girl." Andrew replied before starting the second letter.

Dear Ma

I'm doing well and am safe in the barracks with the other guys. That's swell to hear everyone's trying out their Lakhota names!  Gosh, Willow is growing up fast!

I'm pretty sure Auntie May hopes that Tahcawin doesn't explode the barn like her cousin White Tail that's for sure. 

Be sure to tell Iktomi and Macawi that Little Deer Who Goes Swift And Sure Through Forest heard they were calling each other names again

I better not hear them calling each other names when I get back!

Lots of love 

Andrew

Chapter Text

Mavis wouldn’t deny she was sweating bullets ever since her letters disappeared into the red post box. She had almost paced a trail into the floor earlier before Annie and Martha coaxed her into having a cuppa. Even little five year old Kit knew her older sister was nervous about something. Enough so that she went and retrieved her dolly Lizzie for Mavis to hold and serve shortbread biscuits to. 

“Liz says she finks the biscuits are loverly, Mavie.” Kit said, popping one into her own mouth. “Oh she does? Well I’m glad ta know yore not the only one who enjoys me an’ Annie’s biscuits.” Mavis said, patting the doll in her lap and Kit both on the heads. She was just reaching for a biscuit herself when someone knocked on the door. Annie got up from her seat before Mavis or Martha, “I’ll get it.” she said with a smile.

Mavis had reached for a second biscuit when Annie came in looking over an envelope in her hand. “Mavis? ‘Oo’ve you been writin’ to?”  Ya ‘ave a letter for ya.” Cor blimey . Either Peter discovered she had written to his best mate or Andrew answered her letter. “Thank ye, Annie. I’ll see to answerin’ it then.” Mavis said hurriedly, taking the letter and rushing straight to her room.

Mavis looked the letter over to see who the letter was from. Two little words written by an obviously steady hand stood out, Andrew Carter. Mavis stood dumbfounded for a minute before a squeal exploded from her. Unfortunately, Annie had apparently evolved superior hearing and Mavis had forgotten to lock her bedroom door. 

“ Mavis! I ‘eard ya scream an’ thought somefin’ was-’ Annie went silent when her eyes fell upon the letter in her sister’s hand. “Who is that letter from, Ducks?” Mavis looked up at her sister, her green eyes widening in shock. “Annie!” she gasped, hiding the letter behind her back. Annie knit her eyebrows together in suspicion. “Mavis? Is that from a boy?” she asked. Mavis squared up her shoulders. “What if it is? I’m not gonna let ye poke yer nose in it. You know ye’ll tell yore friends.” 

Annie looked affronted even if Mavis was telling the honest to God truth. “Mavis, dear sister. I would never .” she said, still trying to catch a glance at who the letter was from. “Mind your own business, Annie. Unless ye want Peter to know about you seein’ that Welsh boy at the pub.” Annie looked even more affronted than before. Mavis smirked, knowing she had her sister in a trap. “Don’t want Peter to know about your Darlin’? Then keep yore gob shut.” Annie huffed and walked out, finally relenting. 

Mavis locked the door behind Annie with a relieved sigh. She ran to her bed and opened the envelope. And not only did Mavis squeal like a schoolgirl half her age once again, she giggled like one too. “Oh, bless ‘im.” Mavis murmured, “I’ll tell ‘im writin’ after readin’ somefin’ is as soon as possible.” Which honestly was not a bad idea, Mavis hopped off her bed to her desk and went straight to answering the letter on the piece of paper already laid out on the desk. 

Dear Andrew

Yes, I’d say that’s soon enough! Cor blimey, I forgot about Peter. I’ll write him as soon as possible. If he does pommel you I’ll see to travelling to Germany meself and pommel him back! I want you to know you have no reason to be shy. Pete says you love to talk. I don’t bite, I promise. I hope you’re faring well. Peter says you really enjoy Gin Rummy, I still haven’t quite yet got the hang of it yet. Although I had won my sister Annie’s chocolate stash in a game of Blackjack. (Ask Pete about the time I flipped our table in a game of Dutch Blitz) I enjoy a good game of checkers and I’m hoping we can play any of those in the future. 

Don’t let Peter scare you, I’ll come right over if he gives you any trouble after I write. Take care until then 

XXX

Mavis

Mavis hoped the little kisses weren’t too much. Nah, putting a lipstick kiss on the paper would be too much she thought, giggling to herself.  She put the letter in a fresh envelope and addressed it. Now she had to deal with Peter and telling him not to kill Andrew, she wrote the first letter. 

****

“Newkirk, if you don’t mind me askin’, I wanted to know if you had a picture of your sis. I mean, she always writes you and I’ve always wanted to put a face to the author of all those letters you tell us about.” Andrew said from his perch on his bunk, holding Mavis’ letter and reading it for what was possibly the fourth time that day. Andrew could’ve sworn he saw suspicion flash in his buddy’s eyes. But Newkirk only shrugged and reached over for a piece of paper from Kinch’s scrap pile. 

“‘Ere, This is ‘ow she looked when I was on leave before I got shot down.” Newkirk said, handing Andrew the picture. A young woman with her dark hair done up in a bandanna and a round face smiled up at him. “Gosh..” was all Andrew could say, “just as pretty as her-” but he cut himself off by clearing his throat. He could still feel Newkirk’s green gaze bearing down on him from the card table. 

“As pretty as the letters she’s sent ya, I mean.” Andrew said, hurriedly putting the picture back on the table. He sighed in relief when it looked like Newkirk believed him. If he didn’t, well, at least he went back to his Solitaire game instead of questioning Andrew. “Why are you asking how Mavis looks if you’re reading your belle fille’s letter, André?” Lebeau asked, settling down at the table with a cup of coffee. “I-uh..” Andrew stammered, his ears turning red. “Leave the kid alone Lebeau, you still haven’t explained why two letters from your lady friend have two different scents of perfume.” Kinch pointed out as he and Hogan climbed up the false bunk’s ladder. Now it was Lebeau’s turn to sputter “touché” and clear his throat.

Andrew quickly hid Mavis’ letter in his coat as Hogan closed the trap door. “Newkirk, I need you to go and make sure the Stump Tunnel exit hasn’t been blocked by last night’s snowfall.” Hogan said. Newkirks eyebrows knit together. “Gov?” he asked, slightly perplexed. “It’s not a suggestion, Newkirk.” Hogan said firmly. Newkirk finally relented and scurried down the ladder. 

Kinch was whispering something to Lebeau, whose eyes kept flicking to Andrew. That was how he knew whatever was going on involved him. Andrew swallowed audibly when Kinch stopped whispering to Lebeau. Hogan’s expression softened, “Hey, Andrew, hey kid, it’s okay. You’re not gonna be demoted or court martialed. I just wanted to ask you about something.” Lebeau slammed his hand against the false bunk. “I’ll go and keep Pierre company and make sure he doesn’t barge in.”

Once Lebeau disappeared into the tunnel Hogan settled down in a chair at the table with Kinch and gestured for Andrew to the one across from him. Aw geez… Despite the fact his stomach was doing nervous flips Andrew sat down nonetheless. “Kinch got word from one of the Underground agents in London that Mavis sent a letter to you.” Aww GEEZ.. Andrew had been caught. “Uh-uh hoksila-boy I mean sir. Anagopta- listen! Mavis sent a letter first-” Andrew was too flustered to string a coherent sentence together and after rambling in a string of English and Lakhota he clamped his mouth shut. He shoved his cap over his eyes when he felt the blush creeping up on his face. 

Hogan instantly got up from his seat and laid a hand on Andrew’s shoulder. “Whoa hey! It’s alright, Hakakta, you don’t have to worry, Andrew.” Hearing his Colonel call him “Junior” in Lakhota convinced Andrew to peek out from under his cap. “When did you learn Lakhota, sir?” Hogan chuckled and patted the kid on the back. “I knew a few code talkers once upon a time and picked up a few words here and there.”

“As I said, it’s alright Carter. The Underground handles our mail. The two Censors in camp are some of our guys.” Hogan said assuredly. “Wait Colonel, what if the Krauts get ahold of one the letters? Mavis or Carter could get hurt.” Kinch said, concern etched on his face. “Already taken care of, Kinch. Barracks Two mail gets first class delivery from here to London.” Hogan said, getting a relieved sigh from Kinch and Andrew. 

“All things aside, Mavis sounds like a sweet girl, Andrew. I think you honestly deserve someone like her.” As hard as he tried to hide it, the blush already on Andrew’s face creeped up onto his ears. “Aw geez, boy..” Carter mumbled, hiding under his cap once again. “Speaking of,” Hogan began, “This arrived addressed to you.” He reached into his pocket and handed Andrew an envelope with Mavis’ familiar handwriting on it.

“Shucks, she wrote back!” Andrew exclaimed, taking the letter. “Thanks sir.” he said, hurrying to his bunk to read the letter. “I’ll get Newkirk and Lebeau.” Kinchloe said, tapping the false bunk and climbing down the ladder. 

“All clear, Gov. That entrance ain’t gonna get snowed over for a while” Newkirk said, looking quite proud of himself. “I second that, mon Colonel.” Lebeau said, climbing up the ladder after his buddy. A smile spread across Lebeau’s face when he saw Andrew. “That letter from your belle fille, André?” Despite the blush heating his face Andrew laughed, “Yes it’s from her and no you can’t read it, Lebeau.” After he finished reading the letter to Mavis’ signature Andrew finally saw the little X’s adorning the bottom of the page. 

“What’s got ya so flustered, China?” Newkirk’s voice brought Andrew out of the shocked fog. “Carter, yore ears are as red as yer face, mate” Andrew cleared his throat and folded the letter up. “She-she uh, sent me kisses. She.. She put little X’s, kisses- ” Andrew giggled, his nose red as a flare now. “She put kisses on the letter.” he finally stammered, clearing his throat a second time. 

“Well you better put X’s on your answer, kid!” Hogan exclaimed, his dark eyes twinkling. Andrew nodded enthusiastically, “Oh I will, boy-Colonel!” he answered. Andrew got up to get his pencil and paper to write the answering letter. For good luck he hugged and kissed Mavis’ letter. 

“Don’t you guys go thinking I’m gonna tell you what she wrote or what I’ll write.” Andrew said, knitting his eyebrows together and pointing his pencil in Hogan and the others’ direction. To make sure no one looked over his shoulder Andrew grabbed one of his ASE copies of Zane Grey to press down on instead of getting up from his bunk. 

Dearest Mavis

Boy. Did Peter tell you that in a letter? I’m usually the quietest one in the Barracks! Nah, not really I’m joshing. Whoever told you that wasn’t lying. The only reason I didn’t talk much in the last letter is I had no gosh darn idea what to write about! 

I mean I know you and Peter are from Stepney and you really really like Vera Lynn but that’s it. 

I’m from Bullfrog, North Dakota of course. I’m half Lakota Sioux on my Ma’s side, she and I were actually born on the Rez (Reservation). I can teach you some of the language if we ever meet my family. For some reason my cousin Angry Rabbit (Full name: Angry Rabbit Who Has Thorn In Cotton Tail) likes to quiz everyone not in the family on their knowledge of Lakhota.  

Are you and the rest of your siblings okay? I hope the bombings have finally stopped.

Quick question, do you like comic books? I have a collection of Marvel Mystery Comics and Archie you could read some day. 

In that vein, I hope you won’t mind hugs and kisses when I finally meet you. A letter never beats the real thing. 

Take care until then

Andrew 

XXXXOOO

The door to the barracks opening followed by heavy footsteps brought Andrew’s attention away from the letter. He hoped and prayed the blush he felt burning on his face wasn’t noticeable. He couldn’t believe he just put four kisses and three hugs under his name. And he knew what was going to happen the moment he heard the barracks door close followed by those steel toed bootsteps. Andrew still nearly jumped out of his hide when Shultz hollered “Maiiiiil Caaaaallllll!”

Andrew folded up his finished letter and took Mavis’ out from his jacket to read it again. He tucked it away once more with Mavis’ first letter and peaked out from his bunk. Everyone else seemed busy answering or reading mail. A chuckle bubbled up from Andrew’s chest when the perfume from Lebeau’s letter wafted past his nose. Newkirk was perched on his bunk like a hawk. His green eyes were staring intensely at the letter clutched in his hands. 

“Hey Louis, which lady sent you a letter today?” Andrew teased, big blue eyes twinkling. Lebeau looked up from his letter and wrinkled his nose but the annoyance disappeared when he caught another whiff from his letter. “This one is from ma belle Marie-Benard. She’s from Épernon.” Lebeau said with a wistful sigh. Andrew now looked over at Peter. “What about you, Newkirk?”  Newkirk looked up from his letter and he didn’t look like a hawk already, he certainly did now. 

“I gotta letter from me kid sister. She says you and ‘er ‘ave been exchangin’ letters.” was the answer. 

Chapter Text

Ever since Newkirk found out Andrew was sending letters to Mavis, Andrew was surprised the Englishman hadn’t arched his back and hissed. He certainly was bristling like an angry tomcat. Andrew shrugged, figuring out what was irking Newkirk would open a whole new can of worms. So instead of poking a very cranky Cockney bear who was glaring at him from the bunk across the room Andrew sighed a big “ oof da!” and decided to write Mavis a letter. 

Hogan and Kinchloe were kind enough to give Andrew his own supply of ink bottles and stationary. The paper and envelopes were stashed safely in Andrew’s pillowcase away from grabby hands. Mavis’ letters on the other hand, were tucked away in the inner pockets of Andrew’s jacket in the one closest to his heart. 

If he was being completely honest, Andrew was curious about what exactly in Newkirk’s letters piqued Mavis’ interest in him and started the whole thing in the first place. “Numpty” and “Little Bugger” must mean something different in the Newkirk household. 

Andrew’s fountain pen was in the cup on the table alongside the other pens. Hogan was alright with him keeping his paper and envelopes on his bunk but he was not going to run the risk of Andrew getting ink on his sheets. And that went for the other men too. Klink would have a fit if the sheets ended up like a bunch of Rorschach  tests. 

Andrew reached into his pillowcase and got a new blank sheet of paper.     He jumped down from his bunk straight to his chair at the table. Newkirk grumbled something from his bunk that Andrew couldn’t understand. The Englishman had been a lot more huffier than usual. Ever since Mavis had told her brother she was sending letters to Carter. The youngster huffed, maybe he’d ask what had Newkirk in such a tizzy. But right now? He had a letter to write. So Andrew put pen to paper and started on the letter. 

Dearest Mavis

I hope you don’t mind me writing an extra letter this week. I couldn’t write just one! Because guess what? Colonel Hogan gave me my own supply of stationary and ink. Although I still can’t bring my fountain pen onto my bunk and write from there. The Colonel says I might get ink on my sheets, the old grouch Klink would have a field day if  the sheets in our Barracks ended up looking like ink blot tests..

Andrew looked up from his writing and tapped his chin with his pen, thinking of what to write next.  Oh! He knew exactly what to ask. 

I hope you don’t mind me asking, but what inspired you to write in the first place?  Do 'numpty’ and ‘little bugger' mean something different at your house? Because I’ve heard Peter call me those once or twice here so I’m certain he’d do the same in his letters. 

Gosh, what caused you to ‘fancy’ me in the first place? I mean.. The last girl I was going steady with sent me a Dear John letter. I’m sorry if I’m rambling  but I don’t know what to write about. I hope you don’t mind but I asked Pete to sketch a picture of you, and you’re honestly killer diller inside and out, I love reading your letters! I might as well do a self portrait. It’s nowhere near as good as Pete’s drawing but I did my best. 

On the bottom of the page Andrew drew a small cartoon of himself. Next to the cartoon version of himself, he put a little speech bubble saying ‘Hi Mavis! It’s Andrew!’ When he was satisfied with the cartoon, Andrew put the finishing touches on his letter. 

Well, I hope this letter gets to you safely, and I hope you’re staying safe too, Doll. 

With love,   Andrew

XXXOOO

“Well, here goes…” Andrew said quietly to himself, folding the letter up and slipping it into its envelope. He wrote out the address to the Newkirk flat, or at least the one Mavis wrote on each of her letters. He got a stamp from the Barracks’ stationary box on the table. The stamp itself was picked out specifically, it was a silouhette of Big Ben in front of a dark blue evening sky. Right when Andrew put the stamp on the envelope, Newkirk grumbled again from his bunk. Only this time Andrew understood him. 

“‘Scuse me, Newkirk?” Andrew said with a raised eyebrow. He wanted to make sure he didn’t mishear anything. “I said, ye troublesome tin lid, are ye harassin’ me kid sister again?” Andrew blew through his nose in annoyance. That’s what he thought Peter said. Newkirk was already a grouch but since Mavis told him she and Andrew were sharing letters he was as grouchy as the badger sow whose set Andrew disturbed on a trail ride. 

Andrew didn’t want to start an argument and huffed a big “Oof da” once more. It was just his luck that Cockney Peter Newkirk was around Midwesterners like him, Kinch and Hogan long enough that he knew exactly  what that meant. 

“Oof da. Oof da!? Did ya just oof da me, Carter!?” If Newkirk didn’t look like an aggravated  badger poking out of his set then he certainly did now.   Andrew just nodded in response. “Yes I just oof da’d you, you cranky badger.” he muttered under his breath. Newkirk finally shot up out of his bunk and caused Andrew to hop out of his chair.

“She’s a sixteen year old girl, Carter! How could you start writin’ to ‘er behind my back? You scoundrel!” Andrew huffed and stopped short of oof daing Peter Newkirk for the second time in three minutes. “For one thing Newkirk, she wrote first. I was just answering. And um… She's not sixteen.”

“Of course she’s sixteen you bugger. Are ye tellin’ me I don’t know ‘ow old me own kid sister is?” Newkirk shot back, his eyes blazing. Andrew startled at the outburst but just as quickly stood taller and squared his shoulders. He knit his eyebrows together for good measure, but that didn’t stop his voice from stuttering. “Uh-um, yes?”

Newkirk shouting “You twister!” was the only warning Andrew got before the Englishman lunged at him. Somehow Andrew’s reflexes were quick enough for him to reach inside his jacket and pull out Mavis’ first letter in self defense. “Look. Look. It’s right here is black and white.” Peter stopped short of bowling the kid over. 

“That’s blue ink, mate.” Newkirk growled, crossing his arms. Andrew huffed, “It sure is pal, you got me there.” he snarked back, tapping a certain section of the letter. “See? She says she’s a year younger than me. Heck, I’m certain if I ask here she’ll say she was twenty at her last birthday.” Andrew paused, he couldn’t help the slight blush on his face. “Good gosh, ain’t that cute?” he admitted. Newkirk immediately shot back with “ She’s not twenty one!”

“Uh-umm.. I-I guess she could’ve made it up-” Andrew stuttered, putting the letter down on the table next to his. He regretted saying that sentence in the blink of an eye. Because Newkirk  closed the distance between them and twisted Andrew’s arm behind his back. “Ya callin’ my sister a liar?” Newkirk roared, green eyes blazing. 

“No. No! That was you actually! OUCH that smarts! But boy you sure implied it! Ow that’s my elbow!” After struggling to get out of Newkirk’s grasp unsucessfully, Andrew sighed in relief when Newkirk let go. “Do you really think Mavis would make that up, Peter?” he asked. Newkirk didn’t reply right away. He sat down heavily, staring at Mavis’ letter. He recognized the loopy penmanship but the romantic sentiments? Not so much. Mavis, it seemed, was keen on one Andrew J. Carter. 

“Maybe you lost track of how old she is.” Andrew said softly, causing Peter to lose his train of thought. Looking again at the letter, he finally said “Cor.. She was barely just a tyke when I went off, Carter.” Newkirk sighed, “It’s been a bleedin’ long war, china..” He looked Andrew right in the eye. “ You say one wrong word, one. You do have a last will and testament, right?”

Andrew swallowed audibly, “Wha-why would I need that?” he stammered, “I don’t have any property.” Peter just shrugged in response. “Ya ‘ave Felix and those Pep comics, right? There’s no tellin’ what could ‘appen to ya in the blink of an eye, Carter.” 

Chapter Text

“Felix! That’s an official document. Don’t step on it! You’ll get footprints all over it.” Andrew scolded the dust colored rodent making his way across the paper Andrew was currently writing on. Felix on the other hand, stopped in the middle of his trek and promptly started to groom his soft pink ears. Andrew huffed, scooping the little creature up. He lifted Felix up to look the mouse right in the eye. “I know it’s not ‘official official’ buddy, what else am I supposed to do? Ask Klink to pick up the proper documents on his next visit to Hamburg?” He asked, raising an eyebrow in question.

The little mouse wiggled his whiskers and scratched his face. Andrew took it as an answer to his question. “You honestly don’t know ole Klink, buddy.” He sighed. Felix looked at Andrew and blinked, who sighed in defeat and shook his head. The little mouse scratched behind his ears and padded up to rest his paws on his human friend’s wrist. Andrew chuckled, stroking Felix on the head between his ears. “I can’t wait until you and I get to see Mavis, pal.” He mused.

“Carter? You down here?” Hogan called from farther up the tunnel. Andrew slipped his furry buddy into a cozy breast pocket. It was already stuffed with cotton just for him. With Felix safely tucked away, stood up to greet the Colonel. 

Hogan smiled when he walked into Andrew’s hideaway. “Thought I might find you two in here.” He said when Felix poked his head out from Andrew’s pocket. The young Sergeant sat back down at his desk. “Do you need me for anything, sir?” He asked, cocking his head to the side. 

The Colonel shook his head and chuckled, “Nah, kid. I was just wondering where you were.” Hogan’s gaze turned to the document on the desk. “What’re you working on, Carter?” He asked. Andrew paled slightly, a look Hogan could only describe as ‘spooked’ also formed on the young Sergeant’s face. “I-uh.. Well, I’m actually making a will, sir.” Andrew stammered.

“A will, Carter?  Whatever for? Last time I heard and saw you’re as healthy as an ox.” Hogan questioned, raising an eyebrow. Andrew rubbed the back of his head, looking down at Felix. “Well.. sir, If the Krauts don’t get to me first I’m pretty sure Newkirk will pretty soon. Heck boy, uh sir, he’s the one who suggested I put one together in the first place.” Andrew answered, sighing heavily.

Hogan rubbed his chin in thought. “Hey uh, Carter?” He began, “What if Newkirk was just making sure Mavis was taken care of in case one of your missions did go sideways?” Andrew blinked, the thought causing gears to slowly start turning in his head. Realization finally hit him and his big blue eyes comically widened. 

“Oh. Ohhh . That would explain a lot, Colonel.” Andrew’s soft reply had Hogan seriously wanting to tug the kid’s flight cap over his eyes right then and there. The poor boy had been through enough harassment by Newkirk and teasing by Lebeau already. Hogan sighed, shaking his head. “I can only pray Mavis has enough sense for the both of you, kid.” He chuckled. 

Andrew grinned sheepishly, scuffing his well worn boots even more. A realization dawned on him at that moment. “Sir? Uh, how long does it take for the Underground to deliver our mail? And how fast can they make a second delivery pick up?” He questioned, absentmindedly picking at the cuff of his jacket. 

Hogan tapped his chin, “Well, Foster and that new arrival, Private Christopher are still taking and sorting deliveries, I’m sure they won’t mind taking a late letter. Why so?” The young Sergeant tugged on his collar and cleared his throat. “Well uh, Colonel.. I recently sent a letter telling Mavis my days were probably numbered and Peter would probably be the suspect if it wasn’t a Kraut. I explained that Felix and my comics would need a home if that ended up happening.”

“Oof.. da…” was Hogan’s exasperated reply. Andrew nodded in agreement. “Well Sergeant, Foster can send another letter straight to London through our line in Switzerland. It’s usually just for emergencies but I definitely consider this situation an emergency, Carter.” The young Sergeant sighed in relief, Mavis more than likely shared her brother’s fiery temper. He wouldn’t be surprised if she came raging up the tunnel after hearing Peter was going to kill her pen pal.

“Well then, you better get to writing, kid.” Hogan said, teasingly cuffing Andrew on the shoulder. “Foster and the others might still be accepting mail but they won’t for long, Carter.” Andrew jauntily saluted, helping Felix do the same. Hogan saluted back and walked over to the ladder. 

The Colonel laughed under his breath as he climbed up the ladder. “Heaven bless Ma for raising me. I only pray I wasn’t that much trouble as a kid.” He said to himself with a sigh.

Once Hogan disappeared up the ladder Andrew sat down and got straight to working on his emergency letter. 

Dearest Mavis

What is this? The third, fourth letter this week? My gosh. But it’s important so there no formalities. You’ll probably already have or are about to receive  a letter explaining Peter might have my days numbered. 

Well that was a big misunderstanding on my part. I’m not kicking the bucket anytime soon, I promise! I’ll write a longer letter explaining the whole fiasco but Colonel Hogan said to make this short and sweet. 

With love, 

Andrew

Andrew folded up the letter and wrote the Newkirk family address. He nodded to himself and said “alrighty.” The young Sergeant slipped the letter into his pocket not occupied by Felix. He scurried up the ladder into the barracks. 

“Got the letter done, Colonel!” Andrew announced happily, getting the letter out and waving it above his head. Hogan looked up from his game of solitaire. “Well go on, hurry!” He replied with a chuckle, “Foster isn’t going to be accepting letters for long.” He shook his head and got back to his game. 

Andrew saluted and returned Felix to his makeshift hutch. The little dust colored fellow nuzzled his human buddy’s fingers. Andrew scratched the mouse under his chin before Felix returned to the sugar cookie Lebeau had left for him earlier. After rubbing the mouse’s back gently with his thumb Andrew headed outside and toward the mailroom.

Thankfully, Lieutenant Foster was still there when Andrew walked through the door. He looked up and smiled when he saw who came in. “Sergeant!” He greeted, “I wasn’t expecting you today. I was just about to close up shop.” Andrew rubbed the back of his neck. “Excuse the late arrival.” He said with a sheepish grin. “But it’s an emergency,  I have a letter that needs to be sent right to London.” 

Foster’s friendly blue eyes twinkled mischievously. “Lady trouble, bud?” He teased, raising an eyebrow. Andrew gulped, his face turning a bright vermillion. “Ah -uh,  kinda. There might be trouble if this doesn’t get to her as soon as possible. He sputtered. 

Foster nodded and took the letter, placing it in a box with an “E”. “No worries, chum” he assured Andrew with a grin. “We’ll get the letter to your lady friend lickety split!” 

Andrew thanked the Lieutenant and was just about to head out the door when a voice that sounded like Newkirk started coming closer. “Cor blimey how much trouble can one yank cause?” It said breathlessly before Newkirk rushed in. “Foster!” He exclaimed, “I got an emergen-” he braced himself on his knees and held up a hand. “W-wait.. ‘old on a tick mate, lemme catch me breath.” He panted. 

Eventually Peter recovered and stood up straight. “Are ye still takin’ letters, Lieutenant? Because this needs to get to me kid sister, Mavis.” He said, holding up a hastily addressed letter. Foster nodded and put it in the same box as Andrew’s. “Huh.. both of you are writing to the same address, Is- OH .” Foster put two and two together, clamping his mouth shut when Newkirk shot him a look.

The glare disappeared from Newkirk’s face when he suddenly snorted and shook his head. “Oi.. I finally see why she fancies you, ya numpty. You’re both worth yore weight in trouble, you are.” He chuckled, giving Andrew a surprisingly brotherly pat on the back. 

Chapter Text

“Well, I’m off!” Mavis announced, waving to Annie before closing the door and hopping down the front stoop. The crisp air tickled her face as she wrapped her jacket tighter around her. It also honestly reminded Mavis of the day she sent the first letter to Andrew.

As if right on que, Mrs Jones’ favorite window opened as Mavis walked by the adjoining flat. The friendly woman herself popped out of the window with her favorite watering can for the new box of flowers she recently installed. “Mavis dearie! Almost didn’t see ya there. Off ta run errands this afternoon?” She questioned, watering her thirsty little seedlings.

Mavis nodded, returning the older woman’s smile. “I am, I’m to get the post.” A knowing look flashed in Mrs Jones’ dark brown eyes. “Are we expectin’ a letter or two from a certain someone today, luv?” She prompted, her smile scars appearing around her eyes. 

Mavis turned a light pink and giggled, nodding. “I am, I usually get Pete’s letters a week after I write ‘im. Andrew ‘as started doin’ the same.” She answered, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. Mrs Jones smiled gently, “Well don’t let me keep ya dearie” Mavis returned the smile and said her goodbyes, continuing on her way. 

The sound of clanking and laughing announced the Dalston siblings had finished their afternoon tea. A metal hoop from an old barrel led the little lad and his younger sister who both had wooden sticks in hand. “Mornin’ Miz New-Kirk!” Little Jonathan greeted as he rushed past. His tiny sister Polly wasn’t far behind. Mavis chuckled and waved, “Hi Johnny! Tell yore Mummy I said hi!” She said back.

Mavis wrapped her peacoat tighter around her frame when a particularly chilly wind  tousled her hair and scarf. “Cor.. Am I ever thankful for you, lil’ china. ‘Eaven bless Annie for takin’ the time ta teach me to knit.” She murmured, nuzzling into the warm wool fabric. 

The rest of the stroll to the post was peaceful and quiet. Mavis, if she was being completely honest, enjoyed the short time she had alone with her thoughts. Mavis relished the warmth that hit her face when she opened the post office door. The smell of aged paper and the Postmaster's fresh tea also gently greeted her nose. A little shopkeeper’s bell announced Mavis’ arrival when she closed the door behind her.

The Postmaster, a friendly man with a portly belly and frizzy, white mutton chops appeared from under the counter. “Miss Newkirk! I was wonderin’ when you would arrive. I got yore letters right ‘ere, luv.” He greeted cheerfully, reaching up for the mail slot labeled ‘Newkirk’ Along with a letter with Peter’s familiar hand Mavis recognized Andrew’s writing with a sudden thrill.

She must’ve shown that excitement on her face. Or maybe Mavis blushed, because the postmaster peaked at Andrew’s letter to see who it was from. He handed both letters over and cheekily winked. “Got a new beau, Miss Newkirk?” He asked, causing Mavis to turn a cherry red. She eventually recovered and waved the tease off with a chuckle. 

One of the other workers, a young girl close to Mavis’ age, peaked out from behind one of the cupboards. “Go on ‘ome, China. Don’t let ‘im keep ya.” she said with a laugh. Mavis sighed in relief. “Yore a right Treasure, you are.” She said with a grateful smile. The young woman just waved it off with a chuckle, “It’s nuffin’ dearie.”

Mavis bid them both goodbye and went out the door. She had almost stepped off the front stoop when she almost ran into a thin young man with unruly black hair. Mavis recognized him and avoided disaster when she called his name. “‘Enery! ‘Enery Bowling!” Henry nearly jumped out of his shoes at her shout. 

“Mavis! Cor blimey, ‘souse me luv! I didn’ see ya there.” Henry exclaimed with a slight blush. Mavis chuckled and patted him on the shoulder. “No worries, mate. What brings you ‘ere?” Henry dusted himself off and stood up straight. “Ah well, same as you really. Checking the post.”

Mavis nodded, even though Henry sounded like he was hiding something. “Well, don’t let me keep ya. “ She said with a grin. Henry mimed tipping a hat in her direction, “Do ‘ave a good day, Miss Newkirk. Tell yore siblings I says ‘ello, eh?” Mavis nodded and waved him goodbye before continuing on her way back to the flat. 

Now that she had the letters in hand, Mavis wrapped her scarf tight around her neck and took off into a jog. She made sure beforehand both Peter and Andrew’s letters were safely tucked away in her breast pocket. The crisp air from earlier was turning into a right chill that didn’t allow dallying anyway. Mavis hoped Annie had prepared a nice, warm cuppa for her back at home.

Just as she was turning the corner onto Albert street and home, Mavis saw Anne standing at their front stoop. She too was wrapped up in her own peacoat. Anne looked up the cobblestone street and waved when she saw her sister. “Oi.. there ya are. ‘Urry on inside luv. I got the kettle on.” Annie fussed, herding Mavis through the door. Mavis didn’t even complain, she was just glad for a hot mug of tea.

Soon enough, Mavis was settled on the couch in the common area with her mug. Annie had even pampered her with a plate of biscuits. “Any letters today?” Annie inquired, sitting on the cushion on the right of her sister. Mavis nodded, resting her mug and plate on the armrest and pulled out the two letters. 

“You can read Pete’s letter. It’s addressed to all of us. The others will be able to read it when they get ‘ome from school.” Mavis said, opening Andrew’s letter to read herself. She looked over and saw the curious twinkle in her sister’s eyes. “Annalise. No ya can’t read Andrew’s letter.” She said sharply, unfolding said letter from its envelope. 

Dear Mavis 

There’s something you might need to know… I think Peter’s gonna kill me. Of course you told him I’m writing to you. I explained that you wrote first. 

He asked if I had a will planned out a few days ago. That’s why I think my days are numbered. I do have a will now and I hope you don’t mind caring for little Felix, my little mouse pal. I’m sure the Colonel wouldn’t mind dropping him off at your place if- well, just in case. 

Andrew

“Cor blimey.”  Mavis exclaimed, shooting off the couch and scaring Annie half to death. On top of nearly knocking over her own tea and biscuits on the armrest. Annie composed herself as Mavis paced and mumbled to herself, shaking her head. 

Annie eventually recovered and shot up to stop her fretting sister from pacing. She held Mavis’ shoulders in a gentle yet firm grasp and waited until she finally calmed down. When she finally stopped mumbling, Annie quietly asked: “Mavis darlin’ what on earth ‘as you in such a state!? It’s alright!”

Mavis eventually regained her composure and took a deep breath. “It’s Peter. And about Andrew as well.” She finally said. Annie nodded, urging her sister to continue. “Anne. Pete’s gonna bloody kill ‘im! ‘E said in ‘is letter that Peter asked if  ‘e ‘ad a will planned out. I knew  it was a Cadbury ta tell ‘im.” 

Mavis shook Annie off and started to pace again. “Cor Blimey I knew I shouldn’t ‘ave told Peter or sent that letter. Because Peter would of course bloody overreact and bloody kill someone. What on Earth-” in the middle of her rambling, Mavis was interrupted by rapid knocking at the door.

Before Annie could even blink , Mavis was off once again and rushed over to answer it. She opened the door and was slightly taken aback. Because standing there looking quite winded, was Henry Bowling. He was bent over with his hands on knees.

“‘Enery!?” Mavis exclaimed, “what’re ya doin’t ‘ere?” Henry held up hand as he eventually started to recover. He stood up and dusted himself  off. “Mavis.. ya ‘ave two other letters that arrived. Apparently they’re urgent.”

Henry reached into his coat pocket and handed over two hastily addressed letters. Mavis took them both, relieved to see one was from Peter and the other Andrew. “I’ve been ‘opin’ for a letter or two. Thank you.” She said graciously. Henry tipped his hat to her with a grin. “Ah ‘tis no problem Miss Mavis. Just doin’ me job.” He said his farewells to both sisters and went on his way back to the post office.

Mavis quickly closed the door and opened Peter’s letter first.

Dearest Sister

It was only a few hours ago that I learned a certain yank got the idea in his blasted head  I wanted to do him in because he was writing to you.  Well, my darling kid sister, I very nearly did that. But not before said yank reminded me you’re not the little sixteen year old I saw before I left anymore. And he was quick to remind me you wrote first. 

Cor… He also sent a letter your way saying I was gonna do him in. Which is why I wrote this letter. I’m not gonna do him in for fancyin’ you, Mavis. I just wanted to make sure you’re taken care of if something does happen.

Anyway.. Either Romeo’s letter or mine should reach you soon. I can tell he fancies you and you the same. Do take care until then.

With love,

Peter

Mavis sighed in relief and opened Andrew’s letter. And promptly burst into a bout of unusually feminine giggles. “Oh dear, bless them both.” She murmured. “What is it? What’d  ‘e say?” Annie questioned, walking up to peer over Mavis’ shoulder. “Andrew said ‘e was overreactin’ about sommat Peter said.” Mavis chuckled. “And Pete says ‘e can tell we both fancy each other.” 

Annie laughed and ruffled her sister’s hair. A habit the entire Newkirk family picked up from Peter, Annie especially. Mavis playfully batted at her sister’s hand with an exasperated “ Oi!” Annie laughed and pulled Mavis into a hug, causing both of them to burst into a fit of giggles. “I think Andrew will fit right in, eh?” Annie enquired when they returned to the couch.

Mavis nodded and reached for a biscuit that she promptly stuffed into her mouth. After a swig of tea, she replied: “Yeah, I believe ‘e’ll be in fine company ‘ere.”