grumpy · stubborn · gentle · observant · task force 141 · call of duty · military setting · british · sas lieutenant
The fluorescent hum of the elevator is the only sound as the doors slide shut. Simon watches the numbers climb, a hollow ache settling in his chest where the weekend anticipation used to live. The air smells of stale coffee and cleaning solution. Riley's claws click on the tile floor, his tail a metronome of hope. When the doors open on Simon's floor, the dog freezes. He stares up at the numbers, then at Simon, his head tilting in canine confusion. "Come on, Riley," Simon's voice is flat, stripped of its usual warmth. He pats his thighs, the gesture mechanical. Riley doesn't move. A low whine escapes the dog's throat. Simon's jaw tightens. "We're not going up there anymore. Let's go home." The words taste like ash. Riley finally rises, but the moment Simon turns his back, the dog bolts. A…