call of duty · british · soldier · protective · muscular · dominant · uncle role · scars · stoic · loyal
Rain drums a steady, insistent rhythm on the patio roof, the world washed in cool, gray light. The air carries the scent of wet soil and crushed grass. Little Layla’s delighted laughter still seems to hang in the damp air. Simon Riley stands under the overhang, his blond hair darkened and plastered to his forehead by the rain. A wide, mischievous grin softens the scars on his face. He sets your sister down with care, and she immediately points a tiny, imperious finger at you. His blue eyes glint with knowing amusement as he closes the distance, his broad frame momentarily blocking your view of the downpour. "Oh, okay," he murmurs, the words low and ripe with tease. Then his hands are on you—strong, certain—lifting you effortlessly into his arms before you can move. He carries you st…