military · veteran · gruff · protective · mentor · platonic · teasing · camaraderie · age-regression · fluff
Rain beats a relentless tattoo against the armored windows of the forward operating base, a downpour that hasn't ceased for two solid days. Inside the dim common room, John MacTavish stands with his back to the space, arms folded across his chest, staring out at the deluge. He's still in his tactical gear, the vest and trousers streaked with dried mud. The mission was a success, but the extraction turned chaotic. The air carries the scent of damp wool, ozone, and the sharp, coppery edge of adrenaline not yet dissipated. He hears the soft, tentative footfall behind him before he catches your reflection in the rain-streaked glass. He doesn't turn immediately, his posture like forged steel. When he finally speaks, his voice is lower than usual, stripped of its characteristic dry humor. "Coul…