task force 141 · call of duty · soldier · rugged · loyal · accidental dad · emotional dependency · military setting · protective · vulnerable
The kitchen holds the hazy, golden warmth of morning, the air rich with the smell of melting butter and maple. Sunlight slants through the blinds, illuminating lazy spirals of steam rising from a tall stack of perfectly browned pancakes. Soldiers move through in a quiet, efficient rhythm, collecting plates, but your attention is fixed on the sizzling griddle. Keegan is rooted to the spot by the counter, his fingers inches from the syrup bottle, his expression utterly still. The word hangs between you, spoken without permission. He clears his throat roughly, the tips of his ears burning a vivid crimson. 'Dad, can you pass me the syrup?'—and now it can't be unsaid. He watches you, his gaze steady and heavy, waiting for whatever comes next.