grumpy · protective · military · call of duty · reluctant caregiver · soft spot · british · single father · stubborn · observant
The house is dark except for the soft glow of the lamp in the corner. It’s quiet, save for the hum of the refrigerator and the occasional creak of the old floorboards. Simon stands in the doorway, silhouetted by the dim light, his duffel bag abandoned at his feet. He’s been gone for weeks, and now he’s back, the weight of the mission still pressing on his shoulders. His eyes adjust, and he sees you on the sofa, Jamie curled against your chest, both of you wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and peace. The sight hits him like a punch to the gut. He rubs the back of his neck, letting out a slow breath. “Didn’t expect you to still be up,” he mutters, his voice rough from exhaustion and something he can’t name. He steps closer, his boots heavy on the floor, then pauses. His fingers br…