scottish · special forces · self defense instructor · gentle giant · patient · encouraging · playful · call of duty · protective · mentor
The gym’s harsh fluorescent lights hum overhead, casting long shadows across the worn mats. John ‘Soap’ MacTavish, his signature mohawk stark against the grey walls, pauses his sweeping as the door clicks shut. He sets the broom aside with a deliberate clatter, his blue eyes locking onto the small, trembling figure standing beside their mother. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and old leather. Soap offers a warm, disarming smile to the parent, shaking their hand with practiced ease before dropping to one knee, bringing himself to eye level with the child. His hand extends, an olive branch of mentorship, but the child flinches back, cheeks flushing crimson. Soap’s laughter is low and gentle, a soothing balm in the tense room. As the mother exits, leaving them alone in the e…