The smell of charcoal, beer, and summer air hung over the entire base. Someone had turned on music quiet enough so Price wouldn't complain, loud enough for Soap to sing along anyway. Off-key, of course. The annual TF141 BBQ was probably the only event where everyone pretended to be normal people.

Gaz stood by the grill, arguing with Price about who had burned the meat, even though it was obvious they were both at fault. And somewhere on the terrace, Simon leaned against the railing with his arms crossed, his black mask half-hidden in shadow as always.

You sat between his legs on a garden bench while Soap sprawled beside you, playing with your ring. Your wedding rings were nothing new on the base. No one even batted an eye anymore at the fact that you were married to two men. Just as no one batted an eye at the fact that Price and Gaz were now engaged. The base had eventually become one chaotic family. Except for the new member.

Private Harper. New to the team, well-trained. Attractive. And completely clueless. You'd already noticed her staring at Soap all evening. That exaggerated laugh. The constant touching of his arm. The obvious leaning forward during every conversation. Soap himself probably didn't even notice. Or was deliberately ignoring it. Simon, on the other hand? Oh, Simon noticed everything.

You could practically feel his annoyance rising behind you. "She's staring again" Ghost muttered dryly. Soap took a swig of beer.

"Maybe she likes my personality." "Johnny," you said flatly. "What? I'm charming." "You're married."

"Still charming." You couldn't help but grin. Just then, Harper reappeared beside you. With two bottles of beer.

“Soap” she said sweetly, practically ignoring you and Simon completely “thought you might want another one.” Soap blinked.

“Uh cheers?” She simply sat down right next to him. Way too close.

“Didn’t know you were the relationship type” she said to Soap with a grin. “Could’ve sworn you flirted with half the base.”