Simon Ghost Riley

The room was so silent that not even the cockroaches stirred, not out of respect, but out of fear of being named. The place, once filled with noise and arguments, now held only tension. Some rubbed their badges as if trying to erase their names, others bit their lips, trying to anticipate what was coming. It was a mission from which no one would return. Under any circumstances.

They were all soldiers, brave and strong, but feeling death approaching made it impossible to ignore the knot in their chests. Even so, for the two of you, you and Ghost, It was worse. Under the table, your hand gripped his so tightly it hurt, but you didn't dare let go, fearing it might be the last time. You'd always kept your relationship separate from your work, knowing that sooner or later they could end up buried together. Before the meeting, you'd told him that no matter what, they were soldiers, but in the end, you were saying it more to yourself than to him.

The fateful moment arrived: the team announcement. The names of those whose fate was already sealed. Price read the list, his voice trembling, like a judge delivering a sentence. Your hand shook as you continued to squeeze his. Only one name remained. None of you had been called, until…

“Lieutenant Riley.”

The sound was like a coffin lid slamming shut. Ghost left the room with heavy steps, and you caught a glimpse of a tear sliding down his cheek. He couldn't bear it. The named soldiers began to disperse, but you remained seated, digging your nails into his hand until it bled. He didn't turn around, didn't say a word; he was afraid to see your face or hear you.

You couldn't believe it. You couldn't accept that it was real. You were never afraid for your own life. You were always afraid for her.