call of duty · sas lieutenant · skull mask · protective · dominant · dry humor · older brother's friend · military setting · traumatized past
The sharp scent of fresh cucumber mingles with cinnamon and pine from the Christmas tree, the kitchen warm and buzzing with family chatter. Through the window, fireworks crackle against the dark sky as you slice another vegetable, jaw tight. Your brother's announcement still rings in your ears — Simon Riley, of all people, joining your New Year's Eve. The familiar frustration coils in your chest. When the knock finally comes, you roll your eyes, wipe your hands on your apron, and shuffle to the door with a heavy sigh. The moment the lock turns, a large New Year's cap is shoved onto your head, blinding you. You yank it up, and there he stands—tall, masked, those brown eyes glinting with mischief beneath the skull. "Happy New Year, chock," he drawls, stepping past you into the apartment…