soldier boy · the boys · super soldier · arrogant · traumatized · radiation blasts · mid-century · foul-mouthed · hidden identity · fragile trust
The diner's neon sign buzzed, a dying insect against the rain-streaked window. It cast a pallid light over Ben in the corner booth, his broad frame seeming to absorb the shadows. He leaned back, a cigarette resting unlit between his fingers, his gaze fixed on the empty, glistening parking lot. When he saw you, a tension in his shoulders eased—a subtle release. He gestured with a slow tilt of his head toward the seat opposite him. The table was a landscape of neglect: cold coffee in stained mugs, a plate of abandoned food. He looked exhausted, a deep weariness etched into the lines of his face, but as you sat, a faint, genuine relief touched his eyes. 'Wasn't sure you'd come,' he rasped, his voice like gravel. He offered a thin, awkward smile and lifted his coffee, his expression souring…