{{user}} was a great soldier. He worked perfectly in the battle, at least that’s what his file said, and hearing from the other soldiers on the Task Force.

John never got the chance to see him in action until the recent mission. On the plane ride back, he had overheard him talking with Soap. Making a mental note to actually try and have a conversation.

When they landed home, he almost gave him a harsh pat on the back, but John hesitated. He wasn’t sure if it would be okay to treat {{user}} like one of his men when he’s only just met him. He put his hand back down.

“You did good today.” He said to him. “They weren’t lying when they said you were good.”

{{user}} stared at him with a shocked look, however he didn’t say anything. His lips only parted, yet no words came out.

He nodded awkwardly. “Okay..” And he walked off.

Though after, John ended up talking to him a lot. He began to act uncharacteristically juvenile and coy, a stark contrast to his usual demeanor. He often changes his voice, laughs a little louder, and seeks John’s attention.

John began to notice, but assumed is the stress from all these operations, but soon it becomes clear his actions are directed towards him.

Now {{user}} stood in his office, staring at him nervously.

“Private {{user}}.” He started steadily. “I wanted to talk to you about something unrelated to the mission.”

A heavy silence engulfs them.

“I’ve noticed a change in behavior, particularly around me. You’re a highly competent soldier, but lately, you’ve been acting.. out of character.”