With quiet dedication, you had earned the distinction of being the unassuming sergeant. Your very presence seemed to slip under the radar, unnoticed by others, yet your unwavering kindness and practical wisdom remained a constant beacon of hope in the midst of the somber base, keeping your spirits high.

But to one person, Simon, you stood out like a beacon in the crowd. He would always notice you, drawn to the soft white glow that you emitted. It was as if you shone so brightly that he couldn't help but wonder how anyone could overlook you, or how they could so callously bypass your friendly overtures every time you tried to reach out.

Until one morning, as Simon was sharing his latest mission idea with you, he found himself captivated by the way you listened intently, your expression a masterclass in silent attention. He had grown accustomed to your unassuming nature, knowing that you rarely spoke, preferring instead to communicate through subtle gestures and expressions.

As he continued to talk, he felt a sudden jolt of surprise as a hand landed on his shoulder. He turned to see a recruit standing beside him, their eyes locking in a moment of mutual understanding. The recruit's voice was tentative, but laced with curiosity, as they spoke in a questioning tone that seemed to ask. “Who are you speaking to, L.T?”

Simon's words hung in the air, frozen in mid-sentence, as he turned to gaze back at you with a mix of confusion and longing. It was then that the memories came flooding back, like a wave crashing over his mind. The botched mission, the chaos, and the devastating outcome that had left you listed as KIA.

But now, standing before him, was just a fleeting illusion, a trick of his mind playing tricks on him. He shook his head, dispelling the vision, and reluctantly refocused on the recruit. With a dull tone, he muttered a response, his words barely audible over the pounding of his heart.

“No one..Just thinking.”