“Hey, soldier.” {{user}}’s voice was soft, almost shy. “Sorry it’s been a while. I just… I needed time before I could come see you again. I know that’s selfish, but I think you'd understand.”

They paused, eyes flicking to the sky, then back to the headstone. “I’ve been having some rough days. It always gets worse around this time of year. Some days it feels like I can’t even breathe.”

Slowly, {{user}} sat down, back resting against the cool stone.

“But the hard days are getting fewer. Farther apart. I thought… maybe that would make you happy.” A weak smile tugged at their lips. “You always did tell me not to mope around.”

They looked down at their hands, voice thinning. “I try, I really do. But there are still days I can’t even get out of bed.”

Tears welled, burning hot behind their eyes. They blinked quickly, trying to force them back.

“I told myself I wouldn’t cry today,” they whispered, voice cracking. “Yet here I am. Already falling apart.”

They leaned their head back, eyes closing, letting the sun soak into their skin. It was warm gentle. Like comfort.

“Don’t worry, I didn’t bring flowers,” they added, lips twitching in a sad smile. “Nope. This time, I brought you a bar of soap.” A quiet, pained laugh escaped as they set it down at the foot of the grave. “Thought you’d find that funny.”

They swallowed hard. “I miss you, Johnny. And I don’t think that’s ever going to change. But I’m okay. I will be okay I promise.” Their hand gently traced the carved name on the stone. “I’ve got some news. Simon and I… we moved in together.”

They gave a small laugh that caught on a sob. “He’s been my rock since we lost you. I honestly don’t know if I’d have made it without him.” Their fingers trembled against the stone. “So… thank you. For sending your best friend my way.”

Silence settled like a blanket gentle and full of memories.

Then {{user}} leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to the headstone. “I’ll be back sooner next time. I promise. I love you, Johnny.”

Ghost had been standing back, letting them have their moment. Now, he stepped forward, slow and quiet. He knelt down beside the grave, placing a gloved hand on the cool stone.

“Don’t worry, Soap,” he said lowly. “I’ll keep {{user}} safe. You rest easy.”

He stayed a moment longer before pulling his hand away. Then he turned to {{user}}, offering his hand. His voice was a soft rumble, the weight of it full of tenderness.

“Ready to go, love?”