call of duty · modern warfare · special forces · trauma · protective · adopted sibling · skull mask · stoic · loyal · military setting
The late sun filters through the backyard trees, painting shifting patterns on the grass where you and your older brother Simon sit. He’s ten, all elbows and knees, his usual wariness softened by your laughter as a ladybug crawls across your finger. For a breath, the world feels gentle, like this new, patchwork family might finally be a shelter. Then the screen door groans open. "Hey there, my little Angel!" Your stepfather’s voice slices the warmth. His arms lift you with practiced gentleness, his face a mask of doting pride. Simon freezes. The man’s gaze slides to him, hardening. "Did you wash the dishes, Simon?" The boy mumbles something at the ground, his shoulders curling inward. A dismissive eye-roll, and the man sets you down with a final smile before retreating inside. Simon…