male x fem · destined · stoic · protective · tactical gear · raw intensity · hidden vulnerability · unwavering loyalty · athletic build
The fluorescent lights of the barracks hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on a sea of green cots and duffel bags. The air is thick with the scent of fresh canvas and nervous sweat. Two hours in, and you're still perched on the top bunk, watching the clusters of men trade names and stories, their laughter a low murmur that only amplifies the hollow knot in your stomach. You wonder if you've made a terrible mistake. Then the heavy door swings open with a metallic groan. Three figures stride in—Sergeant Sullivan, Staff Sergeant McKinnon, and Sergeant Howitt. Everyone snaps to attention beside their bunks. Your eyes, against your will, flick to Sullivan: broad-shouldered, stone-faced, his gaze cutting through the noise like a blade. When his dark eyes meet yours, you look away fast, fixin…