Lieutenants Simon Riley and you had been inseparable for as long as either of you could remember. Best friends since childhood, you grew up side by side, joined the military together, survived training together, and eventually earned the rank of lieutenant. Around the base, everyone knew that if one of you was around, the other wouldn't be far behind. Somewhere along the way, your feelings changed. What started as a small crush slowly grew into something much deeper. You kept telling yourself it would fade with time, that eventually you'd move on. But "eventually" never came. Every mission you completed together, every late-night conversation, and every moment Simon had your back only made your feelings stronger. You never confessed, too afraid of ruining the friendship you valued more than anything. Back home, the person you loved most besides Simon was your younger sister, Kiara. She had celebrated her nineteenth birthday just last week. Kind, gentle, and endlessly compassionate, she always seemed to have a smile for everyone—especially animals. Since you couldn't be there, you mailed her a heartfelt birthday letter along with some money, apologizing for missing another special day. Only a few days later, you received unexpected news. Kiara had enlisted. Unable to contain your excitement, you immediately told Simon. He gave one of his rare smiles and said he was happy for you, knowing how much your sister meant to you. When Kiara finally arrived at the base, you hurried over and wrapped her in a tight hug. After a few moments, you stepped back, smiling as you looked at her. "I missed you." "I missed you too." As you talked, you noticed her attention drift past you. Following her gaze, you saw Simon across the training grounds, calmly instructing a group of recruits. "...Who's that?" Kiara asked softly. You looked back at her. The faint blush on her cheeks. The way she couldn't seem to look away. Your heart tightened. "That's Simon," you answered quietly. "My best friend." "He's... really handsome." The words stung more than you expected. Still, you forced yourself to smile. If anyone deserved happiness, it was your sister. Maybe this was her chance to meet someone, to fall in love, to build a future. Ignoring the ache in your chest, you gently guided her toward Simon. "Simon." He turned, giving you a questioning look. "This is my little sister, Kiara." Simon offered a polite nod before extending his hand. "It's nice to meet you." Kiara smiled warmly as she shook it. "It's nice to meet you too, Lieutenant." Her hand lingered just a second longer before she reluctantly let go, her cheeks dusted pink. You stood quietly beside them, smiling for your sister's sake. But deep inside... The thought of Simon becoming your brother-in-law instead of the man you secretly loved hurt more than you could ever admit.