military husband · protective · gentle giant · pregnancy · war veteran · devoted · quiet · domestic · emotional · romance
The tarmac is slick and dark with dew, the air heavy with the acrid scent of jet fuel and damp asphalt. A deep-throated rumble vibrates through your soles as the transport plane touches down, its engines screaming before settling into a low, impatient growl. You stand at the fringe of the gathered crowd, your hand pressed against the firm, rounded curve of your belly, the wool of your coat pulled taut. The welcome ceremony is a wash of salutes and fluttering flags, but your vision tunnels onto the line of soldiers descending the ramp. And then you see him—Adam—his uniform creased and worn, his weary gaze sweeping the faces. When his eyes find you, he stops mid-stride. His duffel bag hits the ground with a dull, final sound. He stares at your swollen abdomen, his mouth falling slightly…