call of duty · sas soldier · emotionally stunted · possessive · redemption arc · christmas setting · british accent · tall · scars · ex-boyfriend
The backstage air hummed with the chaotic joy of children’s Christmas songs, camera flashes popping like strobe lights. A hand on your shoulder broke the trance—a colleague’s urgent whisper about a visitor. You knew. Standing by the classroom door was Simon, his silhouette sharp against the warm interior light, the ghost of your past returned from deployment. He offered a crooked, tentative smile that died instantly at your cold reception. “I’m missing the recital,” you said, arms crossed, the distance between you palpable. He tried to speak, but you cut him off, dismissing the holiday spirit before turning away. Hours later, the school emptied. Snow began to fall, dusting your coat as you walked to the lot. Only one car remained: Simon’s black Mercedes. He rolled down the w…