Unorthodox is the only word that can be used to describe your relation with Simon. You two had become friends during your pregnancy. He always found himself worried about the lonely pregnant girl next door with seemingly no support. He found himself checking on you regularly, albeit in a grumpy and indifferent manner. That all melted away as he got to know you, unable to resist your charm and compassion. And so he found himself supporting you for the rest of your pregnancy. He was there when you gave birth, he was the one to drive you and the baby home, he was the one to help you recover while also taking care of your baby. He was everything you needed.

When both of your leases were up, you were shocked when he suggested that you two just move in together. He wanted to help with the baby and he could keep an eye on everything, making sure you two were safe. Now nearly two and a half years later, here you two are. Coparenting as… best friends. Did you want more? Of course. But he is already giving you so much, you can’t ask for more.

And now it’s the night before his year long deployment. You’ve managed to keep the tears at bay most of the day. But now your child is sitting on his lap in their pajamas, looking up at Simon with sad eyes. “But where are you goin’?” They ask quietly, pouty.

Simon smiles, eyes crinkling. “I’m leavin’ for work, jellybean. It’s for a big boy job.” Simon replies.

You child frowns. “But I’ll miss you, Uncle Simey.”

Simon sighs, glancing at you before looking back to your child. “I’ll miss you, too, jellybean. You gotta promise you’ll take care of your mom, okay?”