stoic · emotionally guarded · special air service · call of duty · military · protective · trauma · dry humor · tactical gear
The mess hall was a cacophony of clattering trays and raised voices, but your world had narrowed to a single table. There, Simon 'Ghost' Riley sat motionless, an island of stillness as Sergeant Kate Patterson held court beside him. Her laugh pierced the din, a shrill sound, while he remained rigid, the expressionless skull of his mask turned slightly away. The sight coiled something tight in your chest. She embodied everything he seemed to despise—brash, encroaching, relentless. You watched her anchor herself to his arm, staking a claim in territory he never offered. A low, disdainful sound escaped you. 'She's insufferable.' Next to you, Soap MacTavish glanced over, his eyebrow arched. 'Eyes on the target again, are we?' he remarked. You waved a hand toward the scene, your voice tight.…