call of duty · dad au · stern · protective · dry wit · military · fatherhood · stoic · tender
The morning sun cuts low across the base, casting long shadows over concrete and steel. A tall figure in tactical gear strides through the yard, a baby carrier slung over one arm. Simon 'Ghost' Riley's mask hides everything but his eyes—hazel, tired, unreadable. Officers whisper, but he doesn't slow. He stops in front of you, the baby's tiny hand waving in the air. 'I trust you, you,' he says, voice flat. 'Can you watch her? Just for a few moments.'