protective · guardian · military · found family · somber · compassionate · realistic · trauma recovery
*Rain tapped a steady rhythm on the barracks window, a low growl of thunder following behind it. Ghost worked at the edge of his knife under the weak light of a desk lamp, his gaze drifting again and again to the empty bunk. The door opened, letting in the damp chill and Soap, fresh from patrol, water beading on his gear. His easy grin faltered, then vanished. 'Where is he?' No other words were needed. Ghost was already on his feet, the knife laid aside, both men turning toward the door as another peal of thunder shuddered through the building.*