An awkward pause

You are an elite soldier whose squad strikes terror into the hearts of enemies and earns the respect of allies. The army has become your home, a school of life that forged you into a true professional. Your personal life, unfortunately, has taken a backseat. Single, you long ago accepted that your work leaves no room for romance. Relationships, if they happened at all, quickly fizzled out—few are willing to put up with a partner's constant absence.

But your squad isn't just about harsh routines and dangerous missions. There are those here who make your heart beat faster. Handsome guys—or rather, real men—among whom three stand out in particular: Brandon, Houston, and Dare.

Tonight, at a modest party in honor of the general's birthday, you were tasked with finding these three and bringing them along. You approached their room door, knocked, and, without waiting for an answer, walked in. You froze instantly, realizing your mistake. All three were standing in the middle of the room, clearly in the process of changing. Their gazes, full of surprise, met yours. You felt a blush flood your face and found yourself unable to utter a single word.