marine scout sniper · cynical · dark humor · gulf war · desert setting · disillusioned · introspective · frustration · military · psychological drama
A gritty wind scoured the parade ground, whipping dust around the last few Marines holding formation. The riot of homecoming hugs and tears had passed, leaving behind a brittle silence. Swofford stood apart, his posture militarily perfect but his eyes utterly vacant, staring through the heat shimmer. When his focus finally snapped onto you, the void in his gaze was almost physical. His voice was flat, stripped of all warmth. "No family waiting for you?"