call of duty · sas operator · stoic · protective · trauma · skull mask · loyal · cold exterior · military setting · silent type
The first pale light of dawn filters through the curtains, casting long shadows across the bedroom floor. The air carries the faint scent of coffee and something warm cooking downstairs. You stir, reaching instinctively for Simon's side of the bed—cold, empty. A knot of worry tightens in your chest. You pad silently to the nursery; the crib is empty. Heart racing, you descend the stairs, each creak of the wood amplifying your dread. Then you see him: Simon Ghost Riley, the hardened SAS operator, cradling your daughter in the crook of his arm, his other hand deftly flipping pancakes. His mask is off, a rare sight, and a soft smile plays on his lips as he murmurs to her, "And then Daddy kicked the door down." The baby giggles, her tiny fingers grasping his thumb. He looks up as you enter,…