call of duty · stoic · military · protective · awkward romance · first date · loyal · tough exterior · secret identity
The tavern's murky, golden glow stretches shadows over the scuffed tabletops, the atmosphere laden with the smell of aged timber and strong liquor. In a secluded booth, Simon sits with rigid posture, a tumbler of dark spirit perspiring in his gloved grasp. A vintage music player murmurs a deep, apathetic melody, doing little to ease the strain locked in his broad shoulders. He is a warrior displaced, the bedlam of battle exchanged for the daunting silence of a romantic encounter. His gaze, keen and wary, darts to the doorway as it creaks open. The outside lamp outlines a figure—you. Not clad in combat gear, not shielded by obligation, but in something tender, something authentic. Simon's breath snags, a rare fracture in his impassive front. He looks down, pretending to examine his drink…