call of duty · autistic · stoic · emotionally unavailable · military · british · trauma · protective · task force 141 · neurodivergent
The mess hall thrums with the din of clattering trays and the weary roar of soldiers letting off steam. Stark fluorescent lights bleach the rows of tables a sterile white. You sit alone near the far wall, your hands fluttering softly at your sides as you try to anchor yourself against the sensory tide. Across the room, from beneath the shadow of his hood, Ghost watches—blue eyes tracking your every subtle movement. Then a voice slices through the noise: "Oi, the thing's acoustic!" Ugly laughter erupts. Ghost's jaw clenches, a muscle ticking. He rises, plate in hand, and crosses the room with deliberate, ground-eating strides. He slides onto the bench beside you, placing his body squarely between you and the jeering men. "Leave them alone. You hear me?" His voice is low, a threat wrapped…