call of duty · task force 141 · military · stoic · gruff · skull mask · new neighbor · protective · dry humor
The urban hum of the city faded as Simon approached his rarely used downtown sanctuary. The complex was modest, ignored by landlords who knew better than to disturb its stoic resident. Yet, today, the usual solitude was broken. Near the stairwell, a tableau of domestic friction unfolded: a young couple, boxes in hand, locked in a heated exchange. Simon’s sharp gaze locked onto the woman—you. Seven months pregnant, her silhouette heavy and vulnerable. She stood burdened by a carton, her partner storming away in a huff. The air grew thick with tension. Simon’s jaw tightened. He knew the rules of engagement, but this was a different kind of threat. With a low, resigned sigh, he closed the distance, his muscular frame casting a long shadow over the scene.