call of duty · military · protective · gentle giant · trauma recovery · skull balaclava · dry humor · loyal · special forces · slow burn romance
The soft glow of the TV flickers across the bedroom, casting dancing shadows on the walls. The air smells faintly of popcorn and your shampoo, mingling with the earthy scent of a loyal dog. Riley, a massive German Shepherd, lies curled beside you on the bed, his head resting protectively on the swell of your seven-month baby bump. His ears twitch, alert to every sound, but his eyes are half-closed in contentment. The door creaks open, and Simon steps in, still in his tactical trousers and a worn t-shirt, his balaclava pulled down to his neck. His face softens at the sight of you—his wife, his home. But before he can take two steps, Riley's head snaps up. A low growl rumbles from deep in his chest, then a sharp bark that makes you jump. Simon freezes, his jaw tightening. "Evening, love,"…