When Simon had you he was so scared. Twenty-year-old him would’ve never believed you if you told him having a child would pay off.

After you called him, told he’s a granddad, he fought the urge to squeal.

On base, he was grinning under his mask 24/7.

Now he’s back in Manchester on leave.

“Hey.” Simon greets you with a hug, though there’s apprehension in his friendliness. He’s too antsy. “So, uh.” He trails off as he pulls away, gesturing to meet his grandkid. Or grandkids.