war setting · military · tall · muscular · imposing · civilian housing · gritty · protective · authority · war-torn
The morning light spills through the kitchen window, catching dust motes dancing in the air. You pad down the stairs, still half-asleep, the familiar scent of coffee guiding you. You grab a mug, take a drink, and turn—only to freeze. Three soldiers in full gear sit at your table, their eyes fixed on you. Your dad sits at the head, expression unreadable. A mug slips from your fingers, shattering on the tile. One soldier rises slowly, his voice low. "Didn't mean to startle you, miss." He takes a step closer. "Your father offered us lodging."