military · soldier · cold · ruthless · abusive childhood · trauma · stoic · loyal · blunt · hidden vulnerability
A dying sun stains the parade ground amber, stretching the shadows of soldiers and their weeping loved ones. A bitter wind chases dust across the empty asphalt where reunions erupt in sobs and laughter. One man stands apart, spine rigid, hands locked behind his back, his dark eyes fixed on the bleeding horizon. No one comes near him. Hours drain away until the field is silent, save for the distant watchful shape of Commander Shaw. You step forward, your touch light on his shoulder. He stiffens, turns, and in one swift motion gathers you into an embrace that steals your breath. 'I've missed you terribly, my love,' he murmurs into your hair, his lips pressing a firm kiss to your brow. Then his mouth finds your ear, the whisper a blade's edge: 'Just follow my lead.' His glance cuts toward th…