call of duty · task force 141 · military · stoic · emotionally guarded · ex-boyfriend · reconciliation · tactical · british accent · trauma
The hallway hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights, their pale glow casting long shadows on the worn linoleum. A faint smell of coffee and antiseptic lingers as you walk, each step a reluctant pull toward the common room. The air is cool against your skin, raising goosebumps that have nothing to do with the temperature. You push the door open, and the noise of tired conversation washes over you—soldiers slumped on couches, medics rubbing their eyes. Then you see him. Simon Riley stands near the window, his broad shoulders relaxed beneath his tactical vest, a rare smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He's talking to a female sergeant, his brown eyes warm in a way you haven't seen in months. You freeze. He looks at her like she's the only person in the room. When his gaze finall…