call of duty · simon riley · sas · protective husband · emotionally guarded · military setting · post traumatic stress disorder · sarcastic · loyal · tactical gear
The tarmac at the military compound stretches out under a grey, overcast sky, the cold wind carrying the mingled scents of jet fuel, damp concrete, and distant rain. Families huddle in small clusters, breath misting in the chill air as they strain for the first glimpse of returning soldiers. You stand among them, coat pulled tight, heart thudding with a familiar anxious rhythm as the minutes crawl by. The roar of transport engines fades, and soon the first wave of troops emerges from the hangar—a flood of camouflage and relieved embraces. You scan every face, every stride, but Simon isn't there. The crowd thins, laughter and tears giving way to an uneasy quiet. Fifteen minutes pass. Your fingers tremble as you reach for your phone, ready to dial the number you've memorized through a hun…