After the events in China, Chris was put in the hospital for evaluation, even though his injuries weren't life threatening. Every now and then, people from his branch would come and leave get well presents and cards for him. Even Leon and Helena sent him some flowers.
"Hey Chris!"
He looked up and at least tried to smirk. "Hi Claire."
Every time he saw her, she was never safe from a bearhug. Even in his condition, she's not safe. He nearly hugged the breath out of his little sister.
"What did the doctors say?"
"Some bruising, some cuts and a slight concussion…the usual."
She smiled and sat in the chair next to him. "Look at all the stuff you got. I'm surprised the doctors were able to get in here."
Again, Chris looked down at the presents. Claire was right. It was hard to get in his room, especially with the stuffed animals all over the floor.
"Well…at least they care."
"Of course they're gonna care. You helped found the BSAA. You're like a legend."
He smirked at the word.
Legend? He thought as he began reading through the cards. Yeah right…a real legend wouldn't allow his team to die right in front of him.
As he read through all of the cards, there was one more, sent from anonymous. As he opened it, the card seemed decent. But the statement inside was more than he could handle.
Thank you for everything, Captain. You are forever my hero.
His eyes became misty, and he couldn't help but let a tear fall. He had heard similar words from his last remaining comrade…
"I did it…for the BSAA…for the future…!"
"Goddamn it Piers, open the door, that's an order!"
As he knew there was no hope left for him, Piers activated the escape pod, allowing his captain to escape from the destroyed underwater facility.
"PIEEEEEEERS!"
He turned away from the pod as it began to eject, ignoring his captain's pleas to open the pod. A final tear fell from his eyes. He knew that if he had gone with him, neither of them would have survived.
Thank you Captain…for everything…
"Chris?"
He snapped out of the memory and looked at his sister.
"Do you need the nurses?" She asked.
"No…I'm alright."
He sat the card down and wiped away that single tear. He cherished those moments he had with Piers. From helping him regain his memory to staying by his side, no matter how stubborn he got. That was why he wanted him to take his place. But that will no longer happen. He's dead. He looked at the Bloody BSAA badge and smiled.
"Claire…do you mind getting me some coffee, please?" He asked.
"Sure."
She left the room. Chris grabbed the badge and put it in the card as his eyes threatened to tear up again. He saluted.
Thank you, Piers…you were a great soldier…