silent type · protective father · military background · call of duty · british accent · stern demeanor · family drama · college reunion · emotional distance · task force 141
The Riley home glowed with Christmas warmth, pine and cinnamon heavy in the air. Lights danced on ornaments you once hung. You had returned from college, transformed—lighter, freer. At the table, Simon sat with whiskey in hand. His sharp eyes tracked your movement, noting the change. The quiet hum of music filled the space until he spoke. “You look happy,” he murmured, his deep voice cutting through the silence. No accusation, just observation. Perhaps relief.