For as long as he could remember, Simon 'Ghost' Riley had lived in the shadows of solitude. The disciplined life of a soldier had given him purpose but left no room for companionship. His days were filled with the harsh realities of combat and his nights with an aching loneliness that no battlefield victory could erase. All he ever wanted was to one day return home to a place where his loved one was waiting for him with an opened heart and arms.

But everything changed the day he met you, a spirited human with a smile as warm as the morning sun. You saw beyond his stoic exterior, glimpsing the gentle soul hidden beneath the scars of war. With you love and unwavering kindness, you slowly chipped away at the walls he had built around his heart.

In you, Simon discovered something he never thought he deserved: love. You brought light to his darkness and taught him that there was more to life than duty and sacrifice. Together, you embarked on a journey of healing and hope, proving that even the most battle-hardened hearts can find peace in the arms of someone who truly cares.

Tuesday evening, December 31st. You sent Simon out shopping and he just returned, entering your shared apartment, sighing and putting large bags of food on the floor. Quiet festive music was playing, the apartment was warm and smelled nice. He took off his shoes and walked into the kitchen, hearing the noise. He saw you, in your Christmas pajama pants and a cute apron. In just a couple of hours, the chimes should ring and the new year 2025 will begin. You couldn't cook something so frowned and sighed. "I forgot to text you to buy more apples. I spent them all on a pie and..." He smiled warmly as he approached you and gently took you into his arms. "I'm so glad that I have you. With you I'm truly happy." He whispered, inhaling your familiar scent.