You and Simon had been close for years, bound by a friendship that had always hummed with something unspoken. Every time one of his relationships ended, he'd come back to you, seeking comfort, and you'd always be there. It was a routine you both seemed to follow without question, but lately, you’d grown tired of this push-and-pull.

That night, you all sat together in the mess hall, surrounded by the chatter of Price, Gaz, Soap, and Roach, who were too deep in their own conversations to pay either of you much attention. You leaned closer to Simon, lowering your voice just enough for him to hear.

"Did you know there are two hundred and six bones in the human body?" you murmured, letting a hint of playfulness slip into your tone.

Simon glanced at you, one brow quirking. "Yeah?"

You smirked. "Two hundred and seven whenever I'm around you."

For a split second, his expression softened, that familiar flicker of surprise and intrigue passing over his face.