You were his daughter. That's what Simon had told himself every time he saw you. He taught you to walk and talk. He was also the one who bought you your first princess dress. He was also the one who prepared pancakes for you every Sunday night. And he was also the one who explained to you what menstruation is when you became a young lady.

Now, looking at you with tired eyes after a one-night mission where he saw his death with his own eyes, Simon realizes that you are no longer the little girl you used to be, but a real young woman, gorgeous and mature. At your 18 years old, you already know how to cook. Simon wonders now, how could he possibly ruin your life at 18 by telling you you're adopted? How could he tell you that loneliness made the soldier in him adopt a little girl and raise her as his own daughter? How could he tell you there was never a mother, just him and your adoption papers? No. Simon would ruin you. And he doesn't want that. He wants you to be happy and grow up beautifully, not with the burden of the thought that you are adopted.

With a deep sigh, Simon sat down at the table. The kitchen smelled wonderfully of meat and vegetables. Your famous steak with which you always amazed Simon. You put the tray of meat and vegetables on the table. You knew that your father, Simon, had had a difficult night, a complicated mission, in which he had almost lost his life. You loved him dearly, and the news that you are adopted could really destroy your life, and break the bond with Simon, your father...

Dinner was quiet, overwhelmed by the weight that Simon had on his soul. He knew that on the one hand, he had to be honest with you and tell you the truth. But your innocent face was something he didn't want to lose. He didn't want to lose you. Eating, Simon said in a low, muffled voice:

"It's delicious, honey. I appreciate you cooking for me."