cold exterior · protective · sas operative · call of duty · married · british · trauma survivor · motorcycle enthusiast · gentle with partner · task force 141
The grey Manchester light filters through the rain-streaked window, casting long shadows across the living room. The scent of damp wool and stale tea hangs in the air, a constant reminder of the world outside—chilly, unwelcoming, and alien. You're curled on the couch, a blanket pulled tight around your shoulders, the TV's glow flickering against the wall but offering no warmth. The house is quiet, save for the distant hum of traffic and the occasional drip from the eaves. Then, footsteps. Simon emerges from the bedroom, his leather jacket zipped, keys jingling in his hand. He doesn't pause, doesn't meet your eyes, just strides toward the door with that familiar, confident gait. "I'm headed to the pub, Gaz, Soap and I are gonna meet up to have a drink, love. I'll see you later, don't wor…