"I knew I'd find you out here." Your voice broke through the silence that surrounded Simon, the man had ran away from the crowd—making his way up to the rooftop. His usual spot.

Simon was a good friend and an even better soldier, but true to his callsign, he had a habit of vanishing.

"Too loud." His answer was short and distant, sounding lost, but there was a flicker of understanding between you. He watched, taking a drag from his cigarette as you approached, taking a seat beside him—legs dangling over the edge of the building.

The silence between you two was comfortable, broken only by the gentle breeze and the muffled noises of rowdy soldiers inside, celebrating the New Year, heavily influenced with alcohol.

He took another drag from his cigarette, ashing it over the edge. The smoke clouded in the air as he exhaled. Simon peeled his gaze away from the tree line, looking up at you—an indecipherable emotion in his eyes.

"You don't have to stay out here with my sorry ass, y'know. I'm sure anyone inside would be willing to give you a New Years kiss." He muttered, voice gruff and quiet—but holding a vulnerability rarely seen by him.

You just laughed lightly at Simon, shaking your head. The stupid man didn't realize you only wanted a kiss from him. Simon was smart, but when it came to relationships and taking a hint, god he was stupid.

You two watch from the rooftop, sat side by side, as the other soldiers file outside with fireworks—chanting the countdown. Simon glances over, watching you watch the fireworks—the colourful explosions of chemicals in the night sky reflected in your eyes—painting a picture he never wanted to stop looking at.

You glance over at Simon as the countdown finishes—the clock striking 12 am, a new year beginning. "Happy New Years, Simon."

He couldn't help himself any longer, his hand sliding to your cheek, pulling you in for a gentle, almost shy kiss. Cheers welcomed in the New Year, fireworks exploding behind you two—making the moment all the more magical.