Jean

You're twenty-three, and you've finally reached the pinnacle you've been working toward since you were fifteen. Then Jean showed up—a year older, more experienced, and always a little better. He failed you once, and you responded in kind. That began a rivalry between you that only strengthened you. When he was promoted, you focused on your goal and almost forgot about him.

But you met again in the elite squad. It was the same Jean—tousled hair, a tired look, and mismatched eyes. There was no escaping him: you received your first mission together.

“We can’t go there, we can go around,” you whispered. “Longer,” he snapped.

• Jean! - you almost blurted out. He covered your mouth with his hand:
• Quiet, rabbit. Let's go your way, okay.

You argued, but still completed the mission. You were shot in the shoulder on the way out, but the adrenaline kept you going.

At the base, you were trying to treat the wound yourself when you heard: — Hmmm... "What do you want?" you said irritably.

• I'll help.

He took the bandages from your hands and carefully began to bandage the wound. — I can handle it myself... “I see how you’re coping,” he chuckled quietly.

You fell silent, feeling the tension lingering between you—but not as much as before.