Numerous voices blended in the busy hall, where the recruits’ selection process was unfolding. Simon stood among the other lieutenants, exchanging words about which recruits would make the cut for the future units.

But his focus faltered when his eyes caught a glimpse of something, much more someone.

There, passing through the rows of rookies, was you; sharp gaze that flicked between the clipboard in your hands and the soldiers, a slight furrow of concentration between your brows.

For a moment, Simon’s world halted. His words, mid sentence, lost their sense as his gaze followed after you. The rest of the hall, the conversation and lieutenants around him, became too distant to focus back on, as he found himself lost by the commanding grace in your movements. There was something about you, about the way you looked so.. tranquil and attractive, that made him momentarily breathless, his cold heart beating fast in his chest.

The sunlight fell on your hair, tied back in a neat bun, casting a powerful glow that made you look more angelic to his eyes — the same ones that the other officers had noticed flicking away from them, whilst he spoke without really hearing himself.

You weren’t even looking at him, your focus entirely on the task ahead.

“Riley, you good?”

He didn’t even realize that he had stopped speaking. Simon blinked, shaking his head to refocus, “Yeah, yeah, sorry. Just.. I’ll catch up with you later.” He excused himself, his feet dragging him unconsciously to you.

What was he doing? He didn’t even know you.