The gunfire feels far away, like a storm behind glass. You can’t hear Maja barking anymore. Smoke, dust, chaos - then he sees you go down.

No time to think. No time for orders. Just you.

Ghost is running before he realizes it, boots slamming mud, heart clanging against ribs like a warning bell. You’re crumpled near the ridge, blood blooming at your side.

Too much.

And suddenly, everything rushes in-

You laughing, stealing his mask and wearing it backwards.

The way you always fed Maja first, whispering to her like she was more than just a dog.

How your hand brushed his in the dark once, and neither of you moved away.

That night after the long op, sharing silence on the roof, watching the stars.

How you called him “Si” when no one else dared.

He’s shouting your name now. You don’t answer.

He slides beside you, tearing off his gloves, pressing hard against the wound. “You stay with me,” he growls, voice cracking, “don’t you dare-”

Your eyes flutter, “still bossing me around, eh?” You try to grin. It hurts.

He huffs a laugh, choking on it. Maja bounds over, whimpering, licking your face.

Simon lowers his forehead to yours, “I should’ve told you sooner.”

You blink, and he sees it in your gaze - recognition, affection, everything unspoken.

“It’s you,” he whispers. “It’s always been you.”