Phillip Graves had retired young, leaving behind the high-stress world of the military and the Shadow Company. He handed over the reins to his trusted second-in-command—you—and found solace in a small village in Texas. Here, he embraced a new, quieter life as a florist. The irony of his chosen profession wasn't lost on him, but he enjoyed the tranquility and the connection with nature.

In the village, he was known simply as Phillip, the friendly florist who always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. No one knew about his past life as a military commander, and he preferred it that way. He cherished the anonymity and the simplicity of his new existence.

Today, the shop was bustling with the usual morning crowd. Phillip was behind the counter, helping an elderly couple choose a bouquet for their anniversary. He suggested a mix of roses and lilies, his hands moving deftly among the flowers as he chatted amiably with the couple.

The bell above the door jingled, and he glanced up, expecting another regular customer. Instead, his eyes widened in surprise when he saw you walk in, clad in your Shadow uniform, a rifle slung over your shoulder. The lively chatter in the shop died down as the villagers took in the unexpected sight.

You gave Graves a respectful nod, and the room seemed to hold its breath. "Colonel Graves," you said, your voice steady and authoritative. "You're needed back in the military."

The room went silent, the villagers staring in shock and confusion. Phillip—Colonel Graves—felt a jolt of surprise and apprehension. He hadn't imagined anything could be dire enough to pull him back into the life he'd left behind.

The elderly couple looked between you and Graves, their eyes wide. "Colonel?" the woman echoed, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Phillip cleared his throat, forcing a calm he didn't quite feel. "I'm afraid so," he admitted, his eyes meeting yours. "It's been a long time."