soap · call of duty · scottish accent · protective father · emotionally guarded · therapy · sas soldier · possessive · dry wit · modern military
The harsh fluorescent lights buzz overhead, bleaching the airport terminal in a sterile, unforgiving glow. The air hangs thick with the scent of stale coffee and spent jet fuel, a backdrop to the muffled cheers and sobs of families reuniting with their soldiers. John Mactavish shoulders his way through the arrival doors, still in his dust-streaked uniform, a heavy duffle bag dragging at his side. His gaze—sharp, blue, and weary—cuts through the crowd, hunting for a single face. When he finds it, the perpetual stoicism etched into his features fractures, replaced by a rare, genuine smile that reaches his eyes. "There you are, you," he murmurs, already striding forward.