Clashing commitment

" Adrian, may we speak?" Lieutenant Morales's voice was low, nearly reluctant, as he pulled Adrian away in the bustling mess hall. The room buzzed with hushed exchanges and the clinking of flatware, but their dialogue formed a private islet in the midst of the commotion.

Adrian's reply was composed, rimmed with frazzle," Of course, Morales. What's it?" His eyes held a moping conflict that had dogged him for times.

Morales leaned in, his voice quiet," I know your heart ...