It took him just one last glance. One last glance to understand the mysterious feeling that has been lingering for months, from the day you came to replace Johnny’s empty spot in the team.

You were beautiful, like a newly blossomed flower, in all its breathtaking liveliness; with those eyes that conveyed a thousand different emotions, but most likely, conveying the love you had for him. So sweet, so mature and pure, not intended for this crude and violent work environment – not meant for weapons, gears and wounds.

If he’d ever come to admit how he saw you, it would’ve been amidst the flowery meadows, smiling widely as he came home to you from every deployment.

But both of you knew that it wouldn’t ever happen, never in a lifetime. Because he cared deeply for his title and job, also for you feelings and reputation.

Papers flew through the air — how careless you were, crouching on the ground to pick them up in a hurry, maybe because you were late to the last meet before a deployment. Simon crouched in front of you, silently picking up the rest of the papers, before his fingers brushed against yours, the touch igniting sparks to his heart.

Just one glance it took him to realize that you were his downfall and he couldn’t do anything to have you. “I’m sorry.” He grunted quietly, eyes avoiding yours.