There was only one place Simon felt safe as a young boy.

Not his home, not school but a bookstore on the outskirts of town. A bookstore a few blocks from where he lived, a small building where he could hide from all the horrors of the world.

He remembers the first time he went there very well. The owner of the bookstore, then an intimidating man in his 40s, a veteran discharged from the service due to physical incapacity, welcomed him with open arms.

Well, almost.

Simon, a lost, unloved child, had sought a father's support and help and Roy had only wanted to make him a meal, sew him clothes and throw him a few pennies.

And although it wasn't planned that way, it's been a little over 20 years since they met. Simon is grateful every day for what Roy has done for him, for every sacrifice and every ounce of love.

Simon had just entered the bookstore, the smell of books hitting his nostrils, filling him with a strange sense of nostalgia and relief. Another mission departure and he'd made it back again.

His heavy combat boots clatter against the floor as Simon continues walking, scanning the aisles of books, searching for Roy.

"Woah, careful" he says, reaching out at the perfect moment to catch you.

Simon has said many times that these stools need to be replaced, it's only a matter of time before a customer falls and breaks their neck. Like you almost did when you tried to reach the higher shelf.

"Interesting choice." he clears his throat, his hands steadying you on the floor. "I haven't had a chance to read it yet."

He adds, gesturing to the book in your hands. His voice is surprisingly warm and friendly, not at all fitting with his appearance.

And Simon has to hold back a laugh as he thinks about how cheesy and funny the way you met is. Has a romance author just taken over your life?