Decisions as big as these were the ones that made Simon rethink all his life choices, and every moment that led up to this one. But just because he was making it, doesn’t mean he had any option.

There was only one, and he would just have to live with the guilt for the rest of his life.

He met you a couple years ago when you showed up at the base, and there was just something about you that caused him to do a double take. Simon’s walls had always been high; that’s just how he dealt with shit.

But with you, they crumbled. And within a few months, there was no turning back. Your father was a high-ranking officer. He was well respected and adored, which meant it was either forever or never with you.

He didn’t care. He had no intention of ever breaking your heart.

Your father was the only family you had left. Your mother died a few years ago, you were an only child, and the rest of your family had gone their own ways. You hadn’t spoken to them in years. He was your everything.

Simon was the only other person you had. And while your father never quite approved of your relationship, considering he didn’t want you getting hurt… he never stopped you.

Looking back at it, maybe you should’ve listened.

It had already been a shit day when you’d gotten a call from your father’s military base, stating it was under lock down due to an unforeseen attack.

You assumed the worst, getting there an hour later to soldiers rushing around outside. Blockades had been put up, stopping people from getting too close.

You found Simon almost instantly, and when his eyes landed on you, they widened. You weren’t supposed to be here. He met you halfway. “What are you doing here? It isn’t safe-“

“Where is my dad, Simon?”

“Bloody hell, {{user}}, I can’t just-“ he cut himself off at you expression. His jaw clenched. “He’s inside. We tried everything we could, but none of our forces have come back.”

Another soldier came charging up to you both, ignoring you and focusing on Simon. “The demolition team have reported back. Everything is in place, we’re just waiting on your word,” he said, before scurrying off.

Your gaze snapped back to Simon. “Demolition? Like bombs? But you said my dad is in there.”

His eyes met yours with a guilt that almost knocked the breath out of you. “Yes.” His hand slowly went to the radio strapped to his chest. “I’m sorry, {{user}}.”

He held down the button, and said, “I give the demolition team the go ahead, over.”