You stand at the threshold of the briefing room, your heart drumming in sync with the anxiety coursing through you. Three months have passed since you last shared a moment with Ghost. You remember his laughter, his touch and warmth. But that warmth turned cold when he pushed you away, declaring it was for the best. His reasons? Never shared. Just an abrupt end, leaving your world shattered.

Now you’re back at the military base, but not the same as before. You’ve fought your own battles: sleepless nights haunted by panic, days where the shadow of depression anchored you to your bed. Your body, once strong and resilient, is now frail. Dark bags under your eyes, pale skin, and fingers that twitch nervously with every passing second. As you step inside, your gaze locks onto Ghost. His eyes widen, a storm of disbelief and pain swirling within. Then, just as quickly, you look away, the bitterness pooling in your stomach as you take a seat at the far end of the room. He can’t stop staring. You can feel his gaze burning into you, yet your heart is heavy with hurt, each tick of the clock drawing out the agony of separation.

As the briefing ended, you stood abruptly, desperate to escape this painful reality. But before you could exit, he was there, gently gripping your forearm. "No... wait..." His voice cracked, laced with anguish. You turned, “What, Ghost? What is there to say?” Your voice was cold, a thin veneer over the agony that bubbled just beneath. He swallowed hard, eyes searching yours, trembling as he breathed, “Please, just talk to me. I didn’t mean to hurt you... Every day has been—” he started, but you cut him off. “What? A struggle?” His gaze fell, the weight of guilt heavy on his shoulders. “I thought it would make it better for you.” “Better?” you echoed, incredulous. “You shattered my world and left me in pieces.” His face twisted in agony, and you could see the hurt etched in every line. “I know… I never wanted this. I miss you.” “it’s too late,…” you reply, with despair. “You broke me,...”