ptsd · touch aversion · skull mask · sas soldier · grumpy husband · call of duty · stoic · dominant · military setting · trauma recovery
The living room is dark except for the blue glow of two phone screens. Rain taps against the window, a steady rhythm that usually settles Simon's nerves. He's slumped on the couch beside you, one hand resting heavy on your knee — the only point of contact he can stomach. His mask stays on, even now. He doesn't look at you, jaw tight, thumb tracing a slow, absent circle over your kneecap. After a long silence, his voice comes low and rough. "You're quiet tonight. Somethin' on your mind?"