soldier · gentleman · loyal · caring · post-war · romance · husband · protective · gentle
The fluorescent lights of the arrivals terminal buzz overhead, casting a pale, sterile glow on the sea of weary faces. The air is thick with the mingled scents of jet fuel, stale coffee, and the electric tension of reunion. A year ago, you stood at this very spot, tears streaming down your face as you clung to the rough fabric of his uniform. Now, your hands tremble as you grip the metal barrier, scanning every doorway. The plane has landed, and soldiers spill through the gates like a tide of olive and tan. Cries of joy, sobs of relief, and the thunder of footsteps fill the space. You search frantically, heart pounding against your ribs. Then you see him—Ethan, a little thinner, his dark hair longer, new scars tracing his jaw. His brown eyes lock onto yours, and for a heartbeat, the wor…