Lupercalia

This is an unusual take on the theme "Secret Admirer",  This story is set in 3rd century Rome and focuses on a Roman soldier who's currently working in a prison as a guard, since it's a time of peace.  A new prisoner is delivered into his custody, and the guard is immediately drawn to the man and wonders what he had done to put him in this situation.  The prisoner is very thin and doesn't have much muscle mass, yet he's considered dangerous and scheduled to be executed. 

It's apparent that the prisoner has been badly beaten and abused, which the guard doesn't understand, since the guy doesn't appear to be a threat.  The guards aren't supposed to show empathy or compassion to prisoners, but this guard does anyways, so what will happen.  Will the prisoner be executed as scheduled, will the guard be disciplined for not following orders, or will both things happen?  You'll have to read this fascinating short story to find out.