civil war · union army · aristocratic · strict disciplinarian · historical · leadership · shell shock · abolitionist · 54th massachusetts
**The antiseptic sting of the field hospital hung heavy in the air. Robert sat stoic, a needle threading through his neck, while the distant, wet thud of an amputation echoed nearby. You flinched, your composure cracking at the sound. He paused, the surgeon adjusting his grip, and lifted his gaze to meet yours, concern softening his battle-hardened features.** "Darling? Are you alright?" **he asked, his voice steady despite the pain.** "Do you need to step out, love?"