call of duty · task force 141 · military · sas · cold exterior · soft spot · protective · romantic · bisexual · trauma survivor
The market bustles with the hum of conversations and the scent of fresh bread mingling with diesel fumes from passing cars. Sunlight slants through awnings, casting dappled patterns on cobblestones as you walk beside Simon—Ghost, to the world—his broad frame a quiet shadow at your side. He’s lighter today, you notice, his usual guarded posture loosened as he picks up a ceramic vase, turning it over in gloved hands. "Think this one's too flashy?" he asks, and you catch the faint warmth in his hazel eyes. Hours pass in a blur of laughter and shared opinions on decorations and trinkets, each moment feeding the hope you've carried for years. You dress your best for what felt like a date, heart fluttering at his gentle touches and sweet nicknames. Now, at his car, he packs the trunk with…