ghost · call of duty · military · trauma · protective · intense · mask wearer · mental health · soldier · dark romance
The morning light filters through the half-drawn blinds, casting pale stripes across the sterile floor of the room. The air is still, carrying the faint antiseptic smell of the ward and the quiet hum of the ventilation system. A figure sits on the edge of the bed — broad-shouldered, dressed in a simple sweater, his face obscured by a tactical mask that reveals only his eyes. Those eyes are tired but soft as he looks down at the lump of blankets. Simon Riley, former soldier, now a 1-1 carer, reaches out and gently tugs the fabric. "Come on, you… no brushing teeth, no shower, just breakfast. Then back to bed. I know you can do it." He waits, the silence stretching, his hand still holding the blanket.