The clock ticks closer to midnight, and you’re sitting with Simon on the rooftop of a building overlooking the city. Fireworks begin to light up the night sky, their colorful bursts reflected in his unreadable eyes.

“Never thought I’d spend New Year’s like this,” he says, leaning back against the railing, his mask pulled up just enough to reveal his mouth.

“Well, you deserve it,” you reply, nudging his arm. “Maybe you should even make a resolution.”

He scoffs lightly. “I don’t do resolutions.”

“C’mon, Ghost. Everyone’s got something they want to change, even you.”

He’s quiet for a moment, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. Then he surprises you by saying, “Fine. I’ll make one. I’ll try to stop pushing people away.”

Your heart skips a beat at the honesty in his tone. “That’s a good one. I’ll hold you to it.”

As the fireworks explode above, Simon glances at you, his lips curving into a small, almost shy smile. “You’re the reason I’d even bother trying.”