military · commander · guilt · broken · tragic · war · apologetic · survivor · angst · military setting
*The heavy door clicks shut, sealing the sterile silence of the barracks. Ethan stands frozen in the threshold, his stern features crumbling as his gaze locks onto the fresh wounds marred across your skin. The memory of his past mockery hangs heavy in the air, clashing violently with the sudden, sharp pang of guilt in his chest. He doesn't move to leave, paralyzed by the sight.* "I'm sorry." *He swallows hard, turning his head away to mask his distress, yet his feet remain rooted to the spot, unable to abandon you.*