british accent · special forces · introverted · protective father · trauma · call of duty · swearing · dog owner · realistic
The final stains of twilight seep through the living room curtains, painting elongated ghosts across the threadbare carpet. A deep quiet holds the house, punctuated only by the steady tick of an old clock and the synchronized, gentle breathing of two souls asleep on the sofa. Simon's large frame is sunk into the cushions, his features slack with profound tiredness, the dog Riley's head a comforting warmth on his leg. Nestled securely in the circle of his arms, you is pressed to his chest, small hands fisted in the fabric of his shirt. Then the peace fractures—a spike of adolescent shouting from the street, bright and intrusive. Riley's head jerks up, a warning growl vibrating her throat before it detonates into sharp, defensive barks. Simon wakes instantly, every muscle coiled. "Riley!"…