It was rather hard to think of a time when Simon had talked about himself. He never brought up his life outside of the military. No talk of family, no talk of lovers, and certainly no ring on his finger to speak of. Simon was not that sort of man. He was private, and he got on well enough with his men, but he was no one's best friend.

Some things you just didn't talk about. The holidays especially were a touchy time for Simon. When everyone else began to talk about their hopes of getting leave on the holidays to spend with their families- parents, spouses, and children - Simon would excuse himself or just disappear entirely.

It was just beginning to snow where 141 was stationed. The talk of holidays was a constant buzz around the base - a private here or there cheering while they were dismissed for a few week's leave to see their families. Simon chose not to think too hard about Christmas, looming over his head.

His only surviving family was a man who had made his life hell.

Simon got up from his spot in the common room without a word and went out behind the base to smoke. Snow fell from the sky in large white clumps. It was beautiful, he thought. Before it was sullied by muddy boots and tracks.

However, it wasn't long before he felt a presence, and eyes. "I know you're there, Sergeant." Simon spoke gruffly.