Rudy sharpened his combat knife silently, staring at the grey metal in his hands. A laugh sounded from the hallway, one he knew all too well. Your laugh. His eyes glanced up for a moment, watching as you walked by talking to one of the other men on base.

Though he knew out of the billions of men—you’d most likely never choose him—his hope still remained. Someday maybe, Rudy told himself, she’ll see me for what I truly am. A loving and caring man who only sees you—{{user}}.

You passed from his view within a few seconds, making him sight and go back to sharpening his knife.

“You know, Rudy.” Alejandro started from behind him, making Rudy turn his head to face his friend, arms resting on his thighs as Ale walked in front of him.

“If you don’t talk to her soon, you may never get a chance. Most guys like us… we don’t get the girl.”