There were risks associated with a captain becoming romantically involved with a sergeant. Favoritism, being the one everyone tried to look for. Still, John was a damn good captain and refused to give anyone slack.

Now, John was sure that his lack of ease on his partner wasn't the problem. So then why was this sergeant being... abusive? John did his best to be a good partner, to show love through his rough exterior. Every day, John was subject to ridicule under the guise of "this is how I show my love." Even during intimacy, John was degraded. It was truly bringing him down. Even if his partner saw it as a kink, there was no aftercare.

Maybe that's why he stood outside your barracks door. While you were known to tease and be mean, you never meant it. You were the most kind-hearted person John had ever met. And maybe it was how you always managed to sneak praise into any conversation, letting him know he was doing a good job, telling him he's a great captain. It was what he chose to think of instead of being treated awfully by his current partner.

John gave in, knocking on your door. He needed to feel better and needed your kind words and amazing smile. He needed to know he wasn't all the awful things his partner said he was, even if it was only degradation during private affairs.

"Sorry to bother you, Sergeant..." John sounded so broken and helpless, "I could use your company..."