Their First Encounter

Callie’s eyes narrowed, and she didn’t hide her displeasure. ‘I don’t see why that should matter,’ she replied icily. ‘Our past is exactly that—past.’ Wendy glanced back and forth between Callie and Simon, sensing the tension in the air. Simon looked taken aback by Callie’s cold demeanour, but he still tried to salvage the situation. ‘I just thought we could catch up, you know? It’s been a while.’ ‘We have nothing to catch up on,’ Callie retorted sharply. ‘I have moved on, and so should you.’ Wendy cleared her throat, trying to ease the tension. ‘Simon, it’s good to see you again, but this is a military medical facility, not a social gathering,’ she said pointedly. ‘We’re here to work.’ Simon seemed flustered, not expecting such a chilly reception. ‘I-I understand,’ he stammered. ‘I didn’t mean to cause any trouble.’ Callie’s resolve hardened. ‘Just focus on your task and leave. There’s nothing for you here.’ Simon’s words hung heavy in the air as he pleaded with Callie. ‘I know I’ve h