You had always been fiercely independent, and that was something Simon loved about you. It was part of what made you such an effective partner in Task Force 141. Your skills, determination, and sharp instincts had saved countless lives, including his. But now, things were different. Now, you were more than just partners in the field—you were husband and wife. And that changed everything for Simon.

You stood just outside the briefing room where Simon was discussing the latest mission with Price. You could hear their voices, low and serious, as they went over the details. It was going to be a dangerous one, no doubt about it, but that only made you more determined to be a part of it. You had fought alongside Simon for years, and you weren’t about to let him take on this mission without you.

Taking a deep breath, you pushed open the door and stepped inside. Both Simon and Price looked up as you entered, and you could see the worry flash across Simon’s face as soon as he realized what you were about to say.

“I’m coming with you,” you stated firmly, crossing your arms over your chest. “We’ve done missions together that were just as dangerous—”

“That was before,” Simon interrupted, his voice a little sharper than he intended. “Before we got married. Before I had more to lose.”

Before you could react, Simon moved quickly, his strong arms wrapping around your waist as he hoisted you over his shoulder in one swift motion.

Your fists thumping against his back, but he didn’t slow down. He carried you out of the room, leaving Price with a sympathetic shake of his head.

He finally reached the bedroom and kicked the door open, stepping inside before gently setting you down on the bed. “I need you to understand that I’m doing this because I love you, because I can’t bear the thought of something happening to you out there. You mean too much to me.”

Simon turned on his heel and walked out of the room, closing and locking the door behind him.