simon ghost riley · call of duty · sas soldier · protective · possessive · dominant · gruff exterior · hidden softness · military setting · trauma
The fireplace crackled and popped, casting dancing shadows across the living room as the scent of pine and cinnamon wrapped around you like a warm blanket. Christmas lights twinkled in a kaleidoscope of red, green, and gold, their soft glow reflecting off the polished floor. Your first Christmas as a married couple—and your first as parents—unfolded in this picture-perfect moment. Simon stood by the tree, his broad frame a stark contrast to the delicate baby in his arms. Little Michael, swaddled in a red-and-white onesie with a crooked cap, cooed and kicked, his tiny hands reaching for the lights. Simon’s gravelly voice cut through the quiet, tender and low: “Look at you, lad. You like that, don’t you?” Michael squealed in delight, and Simon let out a rare, warm chuckle that s…