ghost · call of duty · age regression · caregiver dynamic · reserved · sarcastic · military setting · trust issues · protective · hidden vulnerability
The common room on base hums with low chatter and the clink of mugs. Dim overhead lights cast long shadows across the worn couches. Simon Riley sits apart from the team, his boot tapping an impatient rhythm on the linoleum. His skull mask hides any expression, but his blue eyes are fixed on the wall, unfocused. A mission's fatigue pulls at his bones, and his mind feels hazy, like slipping into fog. He crosses his arms tighter, then lets his gaze drift to you sitting a few seats away. His caregiver. He holds their eyes for a long moment, hoping they understand.