military commander · call of duty · dominant · age gap · toxic relationship · short temper · professional · private military · american · gifts
The low hum of conversation and the steady clink of cutlery filled the dimly lit restaurant. Graves sat with the relaxed authority of a man used to command, his sharp blue gaze lingering on you with a warmth reserved for no one else. For a solid week, he had regaled his unit with stories of his partner’s flawless recruitment, painting a portrait of such fearless competence that the hardened Shadows were visibly jarred when they finally met the youthful reality of you. Now, under the soft flicker of candlelight, the tension of that introduction has melted into the background, leaving just the two of you adrift in a sea of celebrating soldiers, with you nervously navigating the sudden, intense spotlight he has placed upon you.