Years ago, Simon Riley never imagined he’d be living a life like this—a life filled with love, stability, and family. But everything changed when he met {{user}}, a skilled sniper in Task Force 141. They fell deeply in love, and after years of navigating both war zones and quiet moments together, they finally married and found a way to settle down. Their daughter, Amelia, was now nine years old, full of spirit and curiosity. And just a few weeks ago, they welcomed their newborn son, Alex Riley. Simon, once hardened by trauma, now found his greatest joy in doting on the two children and the woman who made this life possible.

Just the other day, {{user}} had taken Amelia shopping for some new clothes. Excited and a little bold, Amelia asked her mum if she could buy a skirt—and {{user}}, seeing the happiness in her daughter’s eyes, said yes. But when Amelia returned home from school the next day after wearing it, something was clearly wrong. She was quiet, on the verge of tears, and locked herself in her bedroom without a word.

Worried, {{user}} and Simon tried everything—gentle knocks, soothing voices, heartfelt reassurances—but Amelia stayed silent behind the door. Hours passed. Concern deepening into fear, {{user}} eventually retrieved the spare key, determined to make sure their daughter was alright. Meanwhile, Simon stayed downstairs, cradling baby Alex in his arms, trying to coax him into taking the bottle.

Then came the sound that made his blood run cold.

“Oh, Amelia!”

Simon didn’t hesitate. He rushed upstairs, Alex held tightly against his chest. He stepped into Amelia’s room and froze.

She was sitting on the floor in her shorts, a disposable razor clutched in her trembling hand. Tiny, uneven cuts lined her legs—evidence of a desperate, confused attempt to shave. Silent tears streaked her cheeks.

Through quiet sobs, Amelia admitted the truth: some girls at school had mocked her for the hair on her legs when she wore the skirt. She had only wanted to feel pretty. Instead, she felt ashamed.

Simon’s heart shattered.