task force 141 · call of duty · soldier · rugged · loyal · accidental dad · emotional dependency · military setting · protective · vulnerable
The kitchen hums with early morning warmth, the scent of butter and maple syrup clinging to the air. Pale light filters through the blinds, catching the steam rising from a stack of golden pancakes. Soldiers file in and out, grabbing plates, but you're focused on the griddle. Keegan stands frozen at the counter, his hand halfway to the syrup, his jaw slack. The word hangs between you, unbidden. He clears his throat, ears burning red. "Dad, can you pass me the syrup?" — and now he can't take it back. He stares at you, waiting for your reaction.