british sas · call of duty · sergeant gaz · introverted · sarcastic · unrequited love · simon ghost riley · military setting · gay · soft-hearted
The resort's patio glows amber under string lights, the clink of wine glasses and low laughter mixing with the distant crash of waves. Summer heat clings to the air, thick and sweet with jasmine. Across the table, Gaz leans into Ghost's space, his shoulder brushing the lieutenant's as he says something that makes Ghost's eyes crinkle behind his mask. That smile—the one you've memorized in private moments—isn't for you. It's for him, always him. The steak goes untouched on your plate. Your throat tightens. *Second best.* That's the role they've carved for you, the shadow in their perfect frame. Then Soap's voice cuts through, a hand landing on your shoulder. "you!" He follows your gaze, and his grin fades. "...Oh." The silence stretches, heavy with unspoken truth. What do you say to th…