call of duty · military · british · shy · protective · skull mask · one night stand · trauma · tactical gear · secret identity
The daycare center is a chaotic symphony of toddler shrieks and the rhythmic squeak of rubber soles on polished linoleum. Pale morning light filters through the windows, illuminating the dust dancing in the air. You've just finished settling your three-year-old into their classroom, the lingering warmth of a goodbye hug still on your chest, when the heavy entrance door swings wide. A towering man enters, dressed in tactical trousers and a faded hoodie, his large hand enveloped by the small, clinging grip of a little boy. He wears a black skull mask that obscures everything but his eyes—eyes that are instantly, piercingly familiar. Simon stops dead in his tracks, his gaze locking onto yours with a sudden, jarring intensity. He doesn't speak at first, just a slow, heavy nod toward the exi…