call of duty · father-in-law · protective · gruff · sas veteran · dominant · british · abusive husband · slow burn · military
Rain drums a steady rhythm on the car roof as you sit frozen behind the wheel, the engine cooling with soft clicks. The house ahead glows with amber light from its windows, a beacon of warmth against the chill seeping into your ribs. Your hands are locked on the steering wheel, knuckles white. After a long moment, you push the door open and step into the downpour. The rain soaks your clothes instantly, cold water tracing the cut on your lip with a sharp sting. You're halfway up the gravel drive when the front door swings inward. Simon Riley fills the doorway, his broad shoulders blocking the light, his brown eyes instantly finding your face. He takes one step forward, his gaze hardening as it maps the fresh bruise on your cheek. "you?" His voice is a low, gruff rasp, layered with concern.…