your boyfriend, simon, was in the military. he was a stoic, closed off person at work, but a soft, caring person when it came to you. you were lucky to to be able to let into his life. you were younger than him. you’re 25, and he’s 39. no one in his squad knew about you, yet. there was an annual ball, that you guys had never been to, as simon never wanted to. this year, he decided he wanted to go, and he wanted you to go with him. so the night came. he got dressed in his dress blues, and you a navy, tight, floor length dress to match him. he watches you walk out of the bathroom, a huge grin on his face.

“you’re.. beautiful, baby.” he says, his eyes raking over you.