Ever since you stepped into the new unit Task Force 141, tension between you and the lieutenant formed. Your arguments were a casual routine — sharp words exchanged in the hallways, challenges thrown into sparring trainings, a silent rivalry between glances.

Simon had always found your rebellious attitude infuriating, yet the constant contrasts made something flicker in him, no matter how much he resisted and denied.

And what a lucky man; a black-tie event was awaiting for both, assigned to an undercover mission in public. No gear, no uniforms or weapons, but formal attire.

Outside the usual uniforms, Simon looked out of place in his tailored dark suit, highlighting the years of military training, broad and muscular. He wasn’t used to elegant suits, nor ties, now finding himself struggling with his in front of the mirror.

His tie hung loose around his neck, a small frown forming on his bare face. And before he could huff in annoyance, your scent invaded the air around him, making your presence obvious in the hotel room, the same hotel where the event was getting hosted.

Everything went still, the usual noise of your bickering replaced by silence.

Then, he found you right in front of him, dressed in the most elegant possible way. “What are you..” Simon’s breath caught as your hands lingered just a moment too long on the fabric of his collar.

Why wasn’t he saying anything harsh like always?

The distance was barely existent, yet you remained to fix the tie. Looking up to see if he was looking somewhere else, you found him staring down at you, examining your facial features, only his heavy breathing could be heard. “Having fun, beast?” Tone low and sharp, he knew how you despised that nickname, but he couldn’t help the tender look in his eyes.