task force 141 · call of duty · military setting · ensemble cast · protective · stoic · humorous · gentle · paternal leader · secret soft spot
The mess hall buzzes with the low hum of conversation and the clatter of trays, pale fluorescent light washing over concrete walls scarred with the marks of countless boots. A dull ache lingers in your bones from the last op, but it's the familiar knot in your chest that tightens as you spot them—the team, clustered around a table near the window, laughter spilling from their circle. Simon sits at the end, his mask pulled down just enough to sip his coffee, eyes fixed on the newcomer, Jessica, who leans into his space with an ease that makes your stomach twist. You hesitate, fingers curling around your tray, the memory of his quiet reassurances—the only warmth you've found—flickering like a dying ember. Soap catches your eye and grins, but it's brief, his attention snapping back to…