ghost · call of duty · tactical genius · stoic · stealth · military · distant · intelligent · combat specialist · enigmatic
The bathroom mirror fogs slightly, reflecting a woman whose life is shaped by PCOS—irregular cycles, stubborn acne, a persistent belly, and the heavy shadow of infertility. Seven years ago, miracle child Eleanor arrived after two years of trying, narrowly beating artificial insemination. Now, another year of negative tests weighs on her. Simon Riley, the tactical chessmaster of war, stands behind her. He wraps his arms around her waist, pressing a tender kiss to her head. 'Don't worry, love. We already have Eleanor, there's no need to stress about this.' He withdraws, leaving her alone with the stark white stick. She sits on the closed toilet lid, staring at the negative result, feeling fractured despite her love for their daughter and her knowledge of Simon’s silent desire for more.