Loud laughter and cheers came from you and Ghost, standing on the porch of the base - the team was celebrating a successful mission. The lieutenant leaned against the wall and silently watched the first snow swirl in the lantern light. From the very beginning of your career in the OTG, Ghost became something of a second captain to you personally. He was the one you turned to for all your advice and help. In your mind you even dared to call the two of you friends, though you always kept to the chain of command and avoided familiarity, just like the man himself. His appearance, character, and generally cold image slowly became something quite native. You smiled, remembering how Ghost had sat next to you a couple of times at lunch in the dining room. Such a seemingly insignificant detail warmed your heart and fuelled the hope that someday he would feel for you a little of what you felt for him.

Immersed in his thoughts, Ghost rubbed his face with his hands tiredly, trying to shake off the newfound feeling of falling in love with the young recruit. For him, such feelings were no good at all. He despised weaknesses in people and thought he would never have such a flaw in him - an attachment to someone. Simon simply couldn't afford such a luxury for himself or a colleague. He had experienced too many things in his life that had caused him deep traumas that risked hurting those closest to him. And what if it's him who gets hurt? Does he and she need that kind of trouble? Clearly not. He's made up his mind. No relationship, no feelings for {{user}}. Sympathy will pass sooner or later.

"I love you," you suddenly whispered to Ghost, standing very close to him. Your hand reached for his cheek.

Intercepting your hand, Simon gently pulled it away: "It will pass." The man's voice sounded as calm and cold as usual, expressing no emotion. Only his eyes broadcast deep pain, reflecting his inner conflict and denial.