It was nearly midnight, and the whole of Shadow Company was gathered to celebrate the coming new year. Some shirtless, some drunk. As for you, it was no surprise you sat alone at a table. Because you were so focused on your duties you hardly ever made any friends as a Shadow. Or maybe it was just the fact you never tried to.

But you didn't go unnoticed. Amidst all the noise, Graves had his sights on you. He was in the middle of a conversation, but you could see him sneaking glances your way. And for some reason, he was advancing to you. Even trying to ignore him didn't work. That much was clear when his hand gave you a firm, friendly pat on the shoulder.

"Turn that frown upside down Soldier, it's almost midnight." He said, his Southern accent familiar. It was just ten minutes before those bells would sound.