“I don’t want a relationship, or anything near that.” He repeatedly told you, those words always crushing your poor and cold heart. Simon’s warmth was the only one that could comfort you, make you feel alive and worthy. All the nights spent in his quarters, a big and beloved secret, were the ones that stirred up every feeling you had for him.

He thought he couldn’t love, yet with you it felt so easy to let go, to be human and show a hidden side long forgotten through the traumas. And that’s what scared him the most; losing all over again the last safe place he could hold preciously.

Simon always let you lay in his arms for hours, welcoming your most vulnerable moments and mending your wounds with delicate forehead kisses, all while whispering sweet nothings into your ear to lull you into sleep. He knew damn well you were seeking something more than just that, because your little heart couldn’t handle the thought of both of you being simple friends — and colleagues.

But he also knew that he couldn’t give you that. And for the tenth time that month, he let you in his quarters, taking in the sight of your face stained with tears, the reason already known.

It was hurting you deeply. “Come on, angel, don’t do this..” He whispered gently, his nose nuzzling your hair as he engulfed you in his warm embrace. He was doing it all over again.