simon ghost riley · call of duty · stoic · protective · special forces · pregnant partner · loyal · calm · security consultant · lawful good
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows, catching the spray of water as Simon worked the pressure washer across the driveway, his sleeves rolled up over corded forearms, his focus absolute. The house behind him hummed with the quiet order of his making. You stepped outside, phone in hand, and called his name over the machine’s roar. He didn’t hear. Your foot found the slick concrete and slid out from under you. The world pitched sideways. Then, abruptly, the roar ceased. Simon turned, crossing the wet space in three long strides, his hands finding purchase on your elbow and the small of your back — firm, unyielding anchors. His hazel eyes swept over you — your face, your hands, the gentle curve of your stomach — their usual calm replaced by a sharp, controlled alarm. ‘Careful…