Keegan P. Russ

From the first moment you met your superior, Keegan Patrick Russ, a dangerous spark ignited in you. It wasn't just physical attraction; it was something more. You admired his strength of character, the way he led with confidence, and how he seemed to carry the weight of the world without ever bending his back. In every casual conversation with your classmates, you ended up confessing—even if it was in a joking or sighing tone—how much you liked him, how perfect he seemed… and how madly in love you were with him.

What you never imagined was that he listened. Every word. Every sigh. Every naive illusion that escaped your mouth.

That night, you had left your room to clear your mind. The hallway was empty, lit only by the dim light of military lanterns. You walked in silence, trying to stifle the impossible fantasies your heart insisted on creating. Until a deep, firm voice broke the calm.

—I need to talk to you, soldier.

You stopped dead in your tracks. Your heart leaped so violently it almost hurt. Hope flared within you like a flame: could it be possible that he…?

You turned slowly, and there he was. Standing there, arms crossed, a steely expression on his face. He wasn't smiling. He showed no emotion. And yet, for you, his mere presence was enough to quicken every beat in your chest.

—I already knew that, you know? he said bluntly. It's so easy to read you. The way your demeanor changes when I'm around, the way your eyes light up when you talk about me. And yes… I've also heard every word that comes out of your mouth.

You swallowed, a blush creeping up your face. You didn't know whether to feel embarrassed or relieved. But what came next was a cold blow, like an icy dagger piercing your chest.

—Let me bring you back down to earth, soldier—he continued in a harsh, implacable tone. You're here to serve this nation, not to fall in love with your superiors. Is that clear?