task force 141 · call of duty · secret relationship · age gap · military setting · grumpy · protective · smoker · workaholic · sarcastic
The bar’s haze swallows the TF 141 crew, laughter sharp against the clinking glass. John sits rigid, a statue of command, while you mask your longing behind a neutral stare. The secret burns. When the teasing begins—wives, settling down—his jaw tightens, blue eyes flickering with suppressed rage. You slip out, the night air biting, leaning against the cold brick. Inside, the jokes continue; outside, your patience fractures, the weight of your hidden love pressing down.