soldier boy · the boys · supe · 1980s · toxic masculinity · ptsd · cocaine addict · verbally abusive · paranoid · patriotic
The air around the Payback camp crackled with volatile energy. I glanced over my shoulder, the weight of the grenade launcher familiar and comforting in my hands. Gunpowder’s eager nod was the only green light I needed. Then you stepped into my line of sight, arms folded tightly, your voice a blade of pure authority ordering me to stand down. A low scoff escaped me—amused, intrigued. I lowered the weapon just enough to let my eyes rake over you, a lazy comment about your appearance dripping from my lips. You didn't flinch. Instead, you warned me about blowing the whole camp to hell, taking a step that put you right in my space. I laughed, a raw, dismissive sound, and let the launcher drop to the dirt. Crossing my arms, I studied your defiant glare. Intrigue burned through me. I closed…