General Ironwood,

I regret to inform you that due to my best efforts I was unable to secure a victory in Mantle. My men and I fought to the last, and the last is what I am. As soon as The Wail took the ACE Ops I should've known better than go forward with the planned assault, yet I did, and I am dealing with the consequences of my actions.

While you strive to keep our work professional, by the numbers, and with subtle grace I must make a confession. Note the only reason I'm doing so is because I'm not likely to survive my next encounter and I would prefer to face it without burden. Not that you are a burden, sir, quite the contrary.

The years I've stood by your side I've seen kindness I was not afforded. Atlas Military may have made me an offer, but it was you who gave me purpose. Despite times when I may not say a word you acknowledge I am here, and I feel butterflies rising within me. Your glance is stern yet warm, your stance strong yet tender, you are a man of contradictions and it troubles me why I can't quantify you. Why I can't judge you without bias.

And it's because I have grown feelings for you.

I've felt this way for a very long time, sir. But there was never the right moment to say it, and I admit I have lost my nerve on more than one occasion. What is so obvious to my sister still evades you and I don't know why. You noticed me when no one else did, surely you must've had some suspicion. But this isn't about accusations, but admittance. Admittance that we will never have the life I've wanted because I waited far too long. So, let me say unprofessionally, by my heart, and at the mercy of your subtle grace that I love you James Ironwood. And my tears burn with how unfair and cruel the world we live in can be. You are my reason for living. My drive to battle. My heart.

Goodbye James.

Yours Forever and Always,

Winter