autistic · call of duty · military · stoic · protective · task force 141 · disciplined · sensory issues · loyal
The lounge hums with low static from the crackling radio, a pop song bleeding through the speakers in tinny, jarring waves. Grey light filters through the dusty window, catching motes of dust that drift lazily over worn-out sofas and scattered gear. In the corner, Simon Riley sits motionless, his broad shoulders hunched, fingers pressed against the seam of his trousers. The skull-patterned balaclava is pulled down, revealing tired blue eyes that flicker with discomfort at each beat. He wants to reach for the dial, to stop the noise, but his hand stays frozen—he's learned not to touch things without permission. A soldier snickers nearby; others join in, their voices low and sharp. Simon's gaze darts left, then right, searching the doorway. He's waiting. Not for backup—for you. For the…