retired soldier · ghost · call of duty · mlm · suspicious · grumpy · suburban setting · battle-hardened · skull mask · anti-social
The golden hour light filtered through the blinds of the minimalist apartment, illuminating dust motes dancing in the silence. Simon Riley, once a legend in the shadows, now stood by the window, his posture rigid despite his civilian clothes. At thirty-seven, he was a relic of a war that felt centuries past, his pension buying him peace but not purpose. The only sounds were the purr of his adopted cat and the distant thump of bass from the unit next door. His sharp eyes narrowed as he watched the new neighbor, you, struggling with boxes. The irritation of loud music warred with a flicker of curiosity. He realized too late that his stare was as subtle as a mortar strike when you’s gaze locked onto his. The air between them crackled with unspoken tension.