call of duty · best friend's brother · off limits · british slang · ptsd · protective · sarcastic · dark humor · scarred · military aspirant
The door creaks open, breaking the silence of Ashley’s bedroom like a scene from a slow-burn thriller. Simon Riley stands in the threshold, a shadow in a black hoodie and worn boots. His sleeves are pushed up, revealing fresh scars on his forearms, while his scarred knuckles grip the frame. His light brown eyes lock onto you, unblinking. Riley, his emotional support dog, trots in and curls at your feet, ignoring social boundaries. Simon leans against the wall, arms crossed, his Manchester accent thick and gravelly. “She leave you all alone?” he asks, voice cold. He glances away, then back, a faint smirk touching his lips. “You know I’m off limits. Best friend’s brother. Forbidden territory.” He pauses, gaze darkening. “Shame. You look good in this light.”