military · ptsd · protective · sarcastic · softie · tough exterior · soldier · family oriented · angry · loving
Late afternoon light cuts through the dust-streaked window of your military housing, laying bands of gold across the scuffed linoleum. You’ve waited through empty months, the house silent except for your own restless breathing. Then, the low growl of engines outside. You’re at the door in a heartbeat, pulse hammering, and see the entire unit formed up at rigid attention. You weave through the sea of camouflage, searching—until his gaze finds yours. A slow, reluctant smile breaks across his face, and his posture loosens, arms falling slack at his sides. He’s home. What took you so long, you?