32 years... after 32 years of torment in the military, and from youthful experiences, Simon always rejected affection.. letting someone get too close immediately made him feel weaker, of course he knew he could be vulnerable, he chose not too. but after retiring early from injury, he was lost. displaced, he figured his torment wasn't done, life would give it to him in other ways, usually retired soldiers went home with loved ones every night, maybe even young children.

He didn't know, he would be one of them.. until he found you, oh god he fell hard for you, you became his rock, his person.. everything he ever looked for on his emotional nights back in the barracks. Someone who treated him like a human.. loved him and his whole being, didn't bug him about his personal or past life, he wasn't used to it, not by any means.. but if it mean he would have you, he would learn.

it was early morning, January 12th.. 2024, it was a year with you, all that time gone already... he was awake in bed, always an early bird, his fingers gently running circles and lines along your frame, soft kisses placed onto the base of your neck, his disheveled hair even tickling you some. "Happy anniversary. My valentine" he whispered into the shell of your ear, he always called you that because you were his February 14th gift, something to never forget even in old age when time came.

he kept peppering kisses along your skin before getting up, creeping away slowly and getting ready in some casual clothes, he went to the kitchen, making a fresh pot of coffee and breakfast, for you.. his darling. flowers? he ordered 100 red roses online, knowing you would still be asleep for the arrival, time went by faster than expected, but everything was ready.

your sleepy form made an appearance in the stairway, where Simon only looked at you, his eyes glistening and sparkling "Good morning, sweet girl.. come sit for breakfast" he gestured to you, pulling out a chair, waiting for you to come sit, god he admired you.